Tonight, I just want to say a big THANK YOU to all of you - my readers, riders, who are sharing your stories, your comments, your hearts. I appreciate each and every one of you and what you bring to this blog, enjoying your life despite the stereotypes and prejudices that surround the aesthetically driven sport that we choose to engage in. I also appreciate those who are reading, and commenting, who are opening your minds and seeing things differently, even if you do not belong to the "plus sized" community. The tolerance, acceptance, and knowledge that you are equipping yourself with now will be appreciated by someone that you meet out there on your journey.
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On another note, I braved the cold at almost-dark to ride Bronwyn for about fifteen minutes. It was not long and not much of a work out but I did ride - and that counts for something. I am blessed to own a horse that does not balk at my harebrained schemes, riding at odd hours of the day, and asking her to do all manner of different and unusual things. She gladly went to work this evening as though she hadn't had a couple of weeks off. And it felt so fantastic to get into the saddle. Everyday that it is too cold or windy for riding outdoors, I kind of mourn a little. Granted, I have never used my summers to their full potential, but I feel like, as my passion has grown exponentially since beginning to write this blog, I will be much more committed to riding this summer. Since I have started to eat better, more produce and more protein, I have a lot more energy so I can see this being attainable.
I'm pretty excited about the snow going away!
I also longed my "not fat" horse, Rex, today. He needed some controlled exercise and I am going to fit and build him up for when I get on his back, finally. I am just a little over 25lbs away from where I told myself I would ride Ari (though I suspect I will cave and get on her sooner), so I figure that is a good weight to decide to ride Rex. He is turning into quite a big boy, and he has a beautiful, flat kneed extended trot - it makes me want to cry a little when I see it!
I can so relate to your blog 'cause I am also a plus size but happy rider. I also had a horse that was my "therapy" for everything. I unfortunately had to put her down this summer. Keep up the good work with your vlog... :)
ReplyDeleteHow did I miss your blog, I remember you discussed starting one, but never realized you did(kbel from the Free Speech boards). Just spent 2 hours reading everything.
ReplyDeleteI am a plus size(okay, I'm 190, but at 5 ft that is a pretty chubby rider as well, and have a hard time with that voice in my head that tells me I am too heavy for my horse. Not to mention the 13h pony I like to ride. though I think she(13h haflinger)carries me better than my spindly legged tbx mare.
My dear--- you are lovely and a beauty. I met..a follower of yours at the Pomona Equine affair and wanted to introduce myself to you.. I have brought a line of TRUE plus sized equestrian wear... I would love to meet you-- our website is new-- but I am at all the big shows-- jsut started.. I could go on and on.. as a plus sized rider.. and vendor - I want to say congradulations!!! send me an email if you get a chance! Apryl
ReplyDeletewww.thecurvycowgirl.com
ReplyDeleteHi! I am a lurker of COTH and the Womanly sized riders unite thread is my saving grace! I saw your post on it and clicked on your blog. I just recently started my own weight loss journey and was wondering if you are still looking for a weight loss partner, as I fit the requirements! If you are please e-mail me at taylorvk@appstate.edu I would love love love to be able to share our weight loss journeys. And you go girl, keep up the good work! (I am currently watching all your vlogs and reading all of your blog, it's going to take awhile!)
ReplyDeleteKatie
Okay so now that I've seen all of your vlogs I realize you do already have a buddy, which is great! I'll keep watching your vlogs and reading your blogs to help me on my journey! If you have any other turned down people, maybe you could match us up? ;) I'm right at 300lbs and getting started on this journey so anyone out there that is close to me and a rider... let me know!
ReplyDeleteKatie
Found you on the Chronicle forum. Thank you for being a positive voice for the plus sized rider. I am starting my own blog at http://bighorserider.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteI am a bit older than you and have other issues going on but in the end it is our love of horses that connect us.