What a wonderful reminder that we CAN overcome our fears. I "got back on the horse " when I overcame the idea that I was too old to write and publish a book. The Great Pause of COVID opened up the time and my daughter gave me incentive and encouragement. So at age 72, I became a published author. Francene McDermott Katzen came to one of my first book signings!
Been scared of horses and horse back riding all my life. Every time my writing gets rejected ,I get back on the composing horse and try again. Writing rejection is my bucking horse that throws me off and I always get back on.
I have been a full time caregiver for my stroke survivor husband for the last two years. I just took a part time job two days a week at a small new bookshop that is opening in our rural town. I have to take my husband to work with me for my 4-hour shifts and the owner is fine with that as she has health issues of her own. I don't know how this is going to work. I have always loved books and am at home in libraries and bookstores, however, I haven't worked outside the home in over 20 years and I've never had to take a family member to work with me, especially one who is now mute with right side hemiplegia. This will be an experience and a learning curve for me. I'm excited but filled with trepidation. I'm going in tomorrow for an hour or so to help paint bookshelves. The bookstore opens on the 18th. Wish me luck.
In my memoir Craving Spring, I describe motherhood as an act of trust, like jumping out of an airplane. At age 19, when I went solo skydiving my chute didn’t open at first. Because I was dragged of my target, I almost came down in the middle of a 4-lane highway. It was frightening but I navigated myself into a nearby cornfield. I never went skydiving again but that experience showed me I could handle anything.
I actually went horseback riding recently in Cuba. It had been forever since I was on a horse. We were led by a kid who was probably 7 or 8! After the ride, there was no one around to help me get off the horse. Yes, I fell off! It was embarrassing and the kid looked terrified, but it’s another story for me to tell. We need adventures in our lives! Fortunately, I was fine.
I love this!! I have relied on “my inner cowgirl,” since hearing the words “saddle your own horse!” We all have cowgirl spirit, whether we ride a horse or not!
So glad you got back on, with your daughter cheering you!!
What a wonderful reminder that we CAN overcome our fears. I "got back on the horse " when I overcame the idea that I was too old to write and publish a book. The Great Pause of COVID opened up the time and my daughter gave me incentive and encouragement. So at age 72, I became a published author. Francene McDermott Katzen came to one of my first book signings!
Been scared of horses and horse back riding all my life. Every time my writing gets rejected ,I get back on the composing horse and try again. Writing rejection is my bucking horse that throws me off and I always get back on.
"...my muscle memory is just as bad as my actual memory." You are so right! Thanks for making me laugh out loud and ready to find a horse to climb on.
Hahaha!
LOVE this essay, all the great pics, & Sarah M. who was once my get-back-on-the-horse whisperer. x
Loved this essay! You are our inspiration for bravery. You are truly a fierce creature!!
xoxoxo and hugs, Lisa
I have been a full time caregiver for my stroke survivor husband for the last two years. I just took a part time job two days a week at a small new bookshop that is opening in our rural town. I have to take my husband to work with me for my 4-hour shifts and the owner is fine with that as she has health issues of her own. I don't know how this is going to work. I have always loved books and am at home in libraries and bookstores, however, I haven't worked outside the home in over 20 years and I've never had to take a family member to work with me, especially one who is now mute with right side hemiplegia. This will be an experience and a learning curve for me. I'm excited but filled with trepidation. I'm going in tomorrow for an hour or so to help paint bookshelves. The bookstore opens on the 18th. Wish me luck.
In my memoir Craving Spring, I describe motherhood as an act of trust, like jumping out of an airplane. At age 19, when I went solo skydiving my chute didn’t open at first. Because I was dragged of my target, I almost came down in the middle of a 4-lane highway. It was frightening but I navigated myself into a nearby cornfield. I never went skydiving again but that experience showed me I could handle anything.
I was brave enough to submit my writing.
Love your sentiments and that your shared them, and your grounding in family. Thanks Zibby.
I actually went horseback riding recently in Cuba. It had been forever since I was on a horse. We were led by a kid who was probably 7 or 8! After the ride, there was no one around to help me get off the horse. Yes, I fell off! It was embarrassing and the kid looked terrified, but it’s another story for me to tell. We need adventures in our lives! Fortunately, I was fine.
I love this!! I have relied on “my inner cowgirl,” since hearing the words “saddle your own horse!” We all have cowgirl spirit, whether we ride a horse or not!
So glad you got back on, with your daughter cheering you!!
Thanks, Barbara!!