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And handwalked Ariel over the wooden bridge across the stream. She’s been over it dozens of time. I, of course, was a wreck. She just sauntered over never giving it a glance. Next, to ride her across.....

It is very brave to do something that frightens you. Maybe next time you ride have someone walk beside her leading her. After a few times over the ole bridge it will be nothing to you two.

Good for you Paula!
I'm semi-looking forward to hand walking my crazy mare around the farm. It will be a bit frightening for me since most of the area will be new to her - but, I also look forward to her seeing more and being more comfortable with "new" places.

Let us know how it goes when you ride her across...

I often read and hear things that imply that fearlessness = courage. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Without fear, there is no courage.

I do agree with that point: "Without fear, there is no courage!"

Well done, Paula! I used to have to cross a high bridge without sides over a river. It made me a real wreck the first few times (and I would dismount and lead the horse). Eventually, it was fine. The trusty Arabian mare was fine the whole time---it was me who worried!

It's surprising how well horses deal with bridges, IME. I thought I was going to pee myself when I rode Maya over the high, narrow bridge at the trail challenge, and she barely hesitated.

Well done on working through your trepidation; it only gets easier from here.

When I was young I used to ride over the railway bridge because I was afraid of crossing the water due to crocodiles.

Chisamba wrote:When I was young I used to ride over the railway bridge because I was afraid of crossing the water due to crocodiles.

That's not being afraid, that's being smart!

Fortunately my area is free of large water based reptiles.

How familiar were you with the train schedule?

Good going, PaulaO! I agree with the groundsperson. Sounds like your horse doesn't need the guide, but you'd feel better.

PaulaO wrote:Fortunately my area is free of large water based reptiles.

Mine too, but looking out for them is so ingrained in my psyche that any time i cross water i still look for them . silly me