This spring I have been fortunate to take classes from a wonderful instructor: Andi Bill. She is an amazingly knowledgeable individual that will soon be president of the Hoofers Equestrian club. Due to some of her competitions throughout the Spring term, we had to make up some lessons on the 16th and 17th. Usually I ride once a week and feel very refreshed afterwards. But today I was "feeling the burn." I have always had weak ankles- I don't wear pointy high heels, or play sports that will cause undue stress to my ankles, I have also been wearing light ankle supports for the past couple of weeks. Recently I have been trying some exercises to increase the strength of both ankles without much success. I can usually make it through all but the last 5 or so minutes of the lesson before my right ankle looses its strength- but after yesterday's exertions, my ankles could only take the first half of the lesson, after that it was sitting the trot instead of posting and being a bit more careful. I like to think that I could never ride enough, but I think it is time for a stronger brace!

At the end of the lessons, Andi talked to us all about our improvements- which was really exciting. I had really improved- I hadn't ridden since I was 18, and that was Western. Looking back at the first couple of lessons, I am really proud of myself for making such strides. Andi says that I can move up to E2 lessons- I can't wait for the next session!