Aubrey and Horses

 Miss Aubrey just completed her first session of therapeutic horse back riding, and we a so very proud of her.  She had 12 lessons, and made huge progress from the first lesson to the last.  When we first made the decision to pursue this for Aubrey, we weren't expecting any miraculous outcomes.  We didn't think that after 12 weeks she would be speaking in sentences or riding independently.  We chose to do this so that she could have the experience of it.  We wanted her to have the opportunity to participate in something special that she could enjoy and that would make positive memories for her.  Any other skills she might gain from it would be considered a bonus.

Well, we were not disappointed.  This has turned out to be such a wonderful experience for our Aubs.  In the beginning she had a lot of anxiety about it.  In the end she would squeal and giggle with delight the instant we pulled up to the barn.  And she always found comfort in her horse, Torgan.  By the end it was so sweet to see the way she loved on him.  Whenever she was being asked to work or do something hard, or something that made her uncomfortable, she would reach forward and pet her horse's mane.  It made her feel better.

We may never know the specific benefits that Aubrey will receive because of these lessons, but I like to believe that she has gained confidence in herself, that she is learning how to trust others, and most importantly she is learning how to work through challenging things.  I would like to think that this experience made her feel special.  Because she is so so special.

I also have to mention the wonderful people who work at Courage Reins...most of whom are volunteers.  They have been such a treat to work with, and clearly care about the work they do.  And as a mother, I find great comfort in adding caring people to our "team".  And that is why we have signed up for another session this fall.

Smiles like that are why we will keep going back.