Missing in Action

You never know how much you miss someone until they aren't there for you! I know everyone knows that but today was a classic case that was magnified because of the surgery.  I know I am not 100% even though I like to think I am and I have been VERY GOOD about not pushing my limits which is not normal for me. I like to test my limits. But this time I know where they are because of the pain. The co-riding instructor at the barn has been my best friend since 1994 (other than the husband) and we have worked very well together for years! If one of us gets sick and can't go to lessons it is no biggie...the other takes over and it is a bit more challenging but all in all life is good and we get it done. Today was an exception.

First, yesterday we started a new little girl who turned five and riding lessons were her birthday present. So I walked with her all hour lesson, then we worked with 7 in the second lesson and it was very active putting up knocked down jumps, etc, plus feeding and such. Felt ok yesterday. Then we added today with 3 hours of lessons, another new student plus all the horses out every lesson. The first lesson had a 4 year old as her first lesson and a 12 year old just learning to trot....the second lesson has an autistic boy who is just the best young man ever but have to keep a close eye on him and walk to help him keep his horse where he belongs....and the third lesson has a young lady who just started last week so she is still at the point where I am walking with her...ya not only did the tummy hurt but the LEGS WERE KILLING ME!  I walk tons every day with teaching science labs and lessons etc but I guess I am really out of shape with being laid up with the surgery.

This is what I mean with Missing in Action. There was so much action and there was no partner to bounce ideas off of for what to do next when the students mastered something faster than I expected....or slower for that matter. There was no one to take 1/2 the walking...lol There was no one to watch 1/2 the kids...well truth be told she watches more than half. If I have a beginner lesson then she has everyone else or visa versa. Yes I made a bit more money in lessons today but it sure wasn't worth it. On top of that my friend being home sick with a fever, sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, etc was no fun for her. She would have much rather been out with us at lessons too. Yep truly missed her today!