This is the last post before I leave. I kinda thought I'd never get to write that. I've been terrible about updating this blog, and I doubt many of you even read this anymore, but I just wouldn't feel right if I didn't sum this up somehow.
I would like to preface this with how I've done here, and point out that I've had a great couple days, so anything written in this part of the blog is written in complete emotional stability.
I am officially class Ironwoman. I wanted that award SO BAD, but had pretty much figured I wouldn't get it, because something always happens and lets face it, there's a couple females here who can out push me and that's worth more than seconds on the two mile run (14:15 thank you very much). Due to some events, some demonstrating my mental strength, some demonstrating the functionality of my fitness level, I have earned that award. The cadre chalked it up to my physical strength, mental strength, and working my butt off for it. I am finally proud of my accomplishments here, it almost makes the significant emotional events I experienced here worth it. My academic performance wasn't quite as strong, but I managed to demonstrate a capability above the average of the class, and while I don't really test that well, I do brief extremely well. Well enough to stand up in front of a Major General (two stars) and brief a product I developed.
Most of you know me well enough to know how goal oriented and competitive I am. That worked to my advantage and disadvantage here. To my advantage, I worked my ass off and got more out of this course than some people might. To my disadvantage, I was miserable out here. Its hard to work as hard as you can on something, then watch people who haven't get credit for the same accomplishments you've worked so hard to earn. I'm not naming names, but those of you reading this who were in my class, know who I am talking about. I've been fortunate though. I met a few really great people here, I've met a few I wish I hadn't as well...but that goes for some folks I met before I got here too. That's life I reckon.
Aside from what I just mentioned, there's been some issues with the class just getting along. Naturally in a situation like this there's going to be a few personality conflicts, but this goes beyond that. A member of our class, without the intestinal fortitude to behave like an adult, took extremely serious action against another couple classmates. That one action, taken by someone who didn't have the balls (sorry) to say anything to anyone, gave our class the nickname "Bad News Bears" our class has been so black listed that other classes have been briefed on "our" behavior. OUR?? No, I'll take responsibility for joking about making similar complaints, but I will not take responsibility for the stupidity and irresponsibility of that classmate's actions.
I should mention that we also had a group in our class get in a fight at the beginning of the course, and had another classmate make a pretty bad decision that I won't mention here. Long story short, as I write this I realize that we were pretty much a bunch of trouble makers. However, I resent being labeled a troublemaker simply because of the class I happened to join when I got here.
After what I've mentioned, it may be easy to see that Fort Huachuca is a suicide hotspot. There have been three suicides here in the last month. I challenge anyone who thinks I'm being dramatic about the mental challenge of this course to come try it, with my classmates, during a wildfire, get broken up with while you're out here, watch half your home state get ripped off the map by tornadoes, and make it through without ever being depressed. That said, it could have been worse...it must've been for the three soldiers we lost this month. The positive is not only that I learned a few new skills while I was here- from Site Exploitation (think CSI/NCIS stuff), to learning EVERYTHING about being an intelligence officer, to rock climbing- but I also got to see a good friend I haven't seen in two years, made some incredible new friends, the most important positive is how much closer I am to God now. He is the reason I got through this experience. He has blessed me with a capable body that not only is strong enough to allow me to be a soldier, but to be one of the strongest female soldiers here. He has blessed me with a capable mind, smart enough to get me through this course, and strong enough to handle the homesickness, pain of heartache and worry, and challenge of being accused of being a part of a bad class. With a little more work, I hope I'll get better at giving Him my worries and concerns, and trusting that He will give me what I need, not what I think I need.
To end I'll say that I'm glad to have this experience behind me. I'm lucky to have met the people I did out here that made the times that could be fun an incredible adventure (Thanks Robin and Garrett, and All you other folks...you know who you are), I'm thankful for the wonderful support I have through my family (all 60+ of y'all!!) and at my Unit, y'all have been amazing, and are the reason I could not give up, I'm thankful for the beauty of the mountains out here, and of all the fun places there were to go here (East and West Cochise Stronghold, Tombstone-even though Rick and I were hanged there, Phoenix, Tucson and Mount Lemmon) the people I went there with, Robin, Garrett, and our climbing crew.
This has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life, and I'm better for it.
Thanks to everyone who listened throughout the last 4 months!!!
The View
The view of Sierra Vista on the way to Carr Peak before the fire
Friday, August 19, 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Weeks 13 and 14 (11-24 July, Days 53-62)
Hi, I know its been a while since I've talked to y'all. Its been an INSANE couple of weeks.
I won't bog you down in the drama of what's been going on here. All I'll say about it is that we've had some LONG days, because naturally I was getting into a groove again...I'm beginning to think this is all on purpose. Either way, I've come to a conclusion. I don't care even the slightest about what's going on here besides what's going on in class. I've been here for 3 months now, and all I've been trying to do is get my job done (my job being doing well in class) despite distraction after distraction. I'm here to prove to myself that I can handle as much crap as life can throw at me! With the help of God I'm learning lessons about myself and pushing myself to follow my personal goals, even when most people would say its impossible (eh-hem, qualifying for Boston in October and making it to the Olympics one day).
I know I write one of these super motivated blog entries about once a month, I hope I'm not annoying anyone with them! I think though, that most of you will relate to the constant struggle to maintain that motivation throughout life's daily challenges, that motivation is a week to week, sometimes day to day, struggle, a rollercoaster that's obviously reflected in my blog.
My excitement about class is mounting, as we've started to be tested on the entire process of Intelligence production, versus learning and being tested on tiny parts. We can see the entire picture, and its so exciting! This past week has given me such confidence in my ability to take broad information and turn it into something that can be used for not only conventional military operations, but more importantly peace operations.
Aside from class, the past week (not the one before that) resulted in me getting all the little things that were stressing me out, out of the way, freeing me up for a weekend of relaxation and working out! I even got to lay out! If I do say so myself, I should have set a goal to LOOK healthier, because despite the time constraints and stress of the last two weeks, I've managed to eat much healthier than before, and it shows! :)
I finished an amazing book- Between a Rock and a Hard Place, by Aron Ralston (PICK IT UP!!!) and I've started a book called Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone, by Mark Goulston, M.D. The latter of which I plan on putting to good use when I work on starting my non-profit horseback riding program. It opens up the doors that cannot be opened with too much persuasion, arguing, and fighting. I hope that it eliminates the unnecessary conflict from my life, whether it be between me and my friends, future (and former) boyfriends, my brother, my family, and my current and future co-workers. I'm so exciting about learning how to get my point across to people without escalating it through emotion.
Anyways, I've got to get ready for tomorrow, so I'm signing out for now. Thanks for reading! I'll update again soon! Post if you have questions!
Natalie
I know I write one of these super motivated blog entries about once a month, I hope I'm not annoying anyone with them! I think though, that most of you will relate to the constant struggle to maintain that motivation throughout life's daily challenges, that motivation is a week to week, sometimes day to day, struggle, a rollercoaster that's obviously reflected in my blog.
My excitement about class is mounting, as we've started to be tested on the entire process of Intelligence production, versus learning and being tested on tiny parts. We can see the entire picture, and its so exciting! This past week has given me such confidence in my ability to take broad information and turn it into something that can be used for not only conventional military operations, but more importantly peace operations.
Aside from class, the past week (not the one before that) resulted in me getting all the little things that were stressing me out, out of the way, freeing me up for a weekend of relaxation and working out! I even got to lay out! If I do say so myself, I should have set a goal to LOOK healthier, because despite the time constraints and stress of the last two weeks, I've managed to eat much healthier than before, and it shows! :)
I finished an amazing book- Between a Rock and a Hard Place, by Aron Ralston (PICK IT UP!!!) and I've started a book called Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone, by Mark Goulston, M.D. The latter of which I plan on putting to good use when I work on starting my non-profit horseback riding program. It opens up the doors that cannot be opened with too much persuasion, arguing, and fighting. I hope that it eliminates the unnecessary conflict from my life, whether it be between me and my friends, future (and former) boyfriends, my brother, my family, and my current and future co-workers. I'm so exciting about learning how to get my point across to people without escalating it through emotion.
Anyways, I've got to get ready for tomorrow, so I'm signing out for now. Thanks for reading! I'll update again soon! Post if you have questions!
Natalie
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Week 12 (5-10 July, Days 49-52)
Can you believe it? I'm updating my blog on time!!!! -so you know it had to have been a pretty good week :)
Tuesday 5 July (Day 49)-
We worked on a Battle Update Brief, which is basically just an intelligence update for the commander. We will do 4 of these briefs, the first being presented on Wednesday, and the fourth on Monday. Tuesday was one of the longest days we've had since Module A. While I hate (HATE) cutting into my "Me" time, I'd rather cut into it while working actively on something than being beaten to death by powerpoint. Adding to that, my new TOC and I work really really well together, we all respect each other and think pretty similarly, making it easy to work on a bunch of separate products and put them together. We've been so much on the same page that we forget to break down who will brief what part of the presentation, so that could use some work. Our analysis though is spot on, which is a real confidence booster.
Tuesday 5 July (Day 49)-
We worked on a Battle Update Brief, which is basically just an intelligence update for the commander. We will do 4 of these briefs, the first being presented on Wednesday, and the fourth on Monday. Tuesday was one of the longest days we've had since Module A. While I hate (HATE) cutting into my "Me" time, I'd rather cut into it while working actively on something than being beaten to death by powerpoint. Adding to that, my new TOC and I work really really well together, we all respect each other and think pretty similarly, making it easy to work on a bunch of separate products and put them together. We've been so much on the same page that we forget to break down who will brief what part of the presentation, so that could use some work. Our analysis though is spot on, which is a real confidence booster.
Wednesday 6 July (Day 50)-
Our first day of combatives! We learned just the very basic moves, such as the fighter stance, getting up while protecting ourselves, and some simple ways to begin a clinch (when you close on your combatant so they can't hit you effectively). It was all really useful information, but I think the fact that we had to be at formation at 0445 won out when it came to my attitude.Class was the second day of the Battle Update briefs, once again another long day, but at least I was working on something again!
Thursday 7 July (Day 51)-
I'll bet you can't guess what Thursday was like! Ok, fine, yeah you can- combatives and BUB. Combatives was a little more exciting because we worked on clinches, but its still too early in the morning!!! After class I realized that I had finally heard back on an issue I've been having with getting reimbursed for the cost of living here, I found out too late to follow up...but that's for Friday's paragraph...
I'll bet you can't guess what Thursday was like! Ok, fine, yeah you can- combatives and BUB. Combatives was a little more exciting because we worked on clinches, but its still too early in the morning!!! After class I realized that I had finally heard back on an issue I've been having with getting reimbursed for the cost of living here, I found out too late to follow up...but that's for Friday's paragraph...
Friday 8 July (Day 52)-
Ohhhh Friday.... Its amazing how one week can go from kind of boring (to tell people about, not to be living-life out here is much more entertaining than is sounds on here! :P) to crazy as all get-out in a matter of hours. Friday began with combatives again, while it was a much more exciting (and PAINFUL) day, I was starting to feel the lack of sleep. It didn't help that we basically did clinch drills with each other...most of us wanting to beat the crap out of each other for various reasons-mostly friendly competition- and I ended up getting my shoulder popped in a not so good way. I think the way my classmate moved it ended up pinching a nerve briefly, which was really painful initially but has since worn off for the most part. We did actually get a workout Friday morning though, because we were so aggressive with each other (or at least me and Robin were).
After combatives I worked on following up on my pay issue...which ended up being an all day project. I feel terrible that I barely helped my TOC out, but the issue concerns my ability to pay rent, so I prioritized in hopes that I'd be able to work it out quickly. Those hopes were dashed as it seems no one can help me with this, we'll find out Monday how this issue will be resolved.
Friday evening was the highlight of the day...The Clinch Drill. The Clinch Drill involves our instructors donning 16 oz boxing gloves and swinging at us repeatedly until we achieve the clinch and stop them from effectively hitting us. Before anyone starts a riot about the Army allowing instructors to beat the hell out of us, let me explain its purpose. Achieving a clinch is extremely easy to do when you're not dodging punches...and also completely unneccessary. If we were ever in a situation where we'd have to clinch, it would be in a situation where someone was trying to land a punch or two-so what good would a clinch drill be if we couldn't prove that we are capable of clinching someone who is trying to stop us? So while I got the crap beat out of me, resulting in a really nice dead leg and a headache (not the concussion kind), I also gained the confidence in my ability to close with someone who is swinging at me. My day ended with a limp and a trip to my climbing friends' house for a birthday party, where I got some quality time with good people and their wonderful dog :)
Ohhhh Friday.... Its amazing how one week can go from kind of boring (to tell people about, not to be living-life out here is much more entertaining than is sounds on here! :P) to crazy as all get-out in a matter of hours. Friday began with combatives again, while it was a much more exciting (and PAINFUL) day, I was starting to feel the lack of sleep. It didn't help that we basically did clinch drills with each other...most of us wanting to beat the crap out of each other for various reasons-mostly friendly competition- and I ended up getting my shoulder popped in a not so good way. I think the way my classmate moved it ended up pinching a nerve briefly, which was really painful initially but has since worn off for the most part. We did actually get a workout Friday morning though, because we were so aggressive with each other (or at least me and Robin were).
After combatives I worked on following up on my pay issue...which ended up being an all day project. I feel terrible that I barely helped my TOC out, but the issue concerns my ability to pay rent, so I prioritized in hopes that I'd be able to work it out quickly. Those hopes were dashed as it seems no one can help me with this, we'll find out Monday how this issue will be resolved.
Friday evening was the highlight of the day...The Clinch Drill. The Clinch Drill involves our instructors donning 16 oz boxing gloves and swinging at us repeatedly until we achieve the clinch and stop them from effectively hitting us. Before anyone starts a riot about the Army allowing instructors to beat the hell out of us, let me explain its purpose. Achieving a clinch is extremely easy to do when you're not dodging punches...and also completely unneccessary. If we were ever in a situation where we'd have to clinch, it would be in a situation where someone was trying to land a punch or two-so what good would a clinch drill be if we couldn't prove that we are capable of clinching someone who is trying to stop us? So while I got the crap beat out of me, resulting in a really nice dead leg and a headache (not the concussion kind), I also gained the confidence in my ability to close with someone who is swinging at me. My day ended with a limp and a trip to my climbing friends' house for a birthday party, where I got some quality time with good people and their wonderful dog :)
Saturday 9 July-
TRIATHLON DAY!...not... I actually made the decision to not participate in the triathlon I entered (on Wednesday) the night before, because of the amount of sleep I've been getting, and our plans to go to Tucson to climb on Sunday. Further supporting my decision was a pounding headache, surprisingly not my leg or shoulder! Instead of swimming, biking and running, I went to the range to qualify on the 9mm for my German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge... which I have officially earned (Gold too, the highest you can get *smug smile*), can't say I'm sorry, shooting was awfully fun! Especially Garrett's .22 revolver! He has a holster for it that fit on my belt, I probably looked ridiculous but I felt so country it was worth it! Saturday afternoon was filled with Olive Garden and a cookout, as well as some quality time with a classmate who's a former boxer and a speed bag...and a pullup bar...its almost as if I forgot that I was going rock climbing the next morning...oh crap...Sunday 10 July-
Valuable lesson of the day- DON'T FRY YOUR SHOULDERS AND BACK BEFORE YOU CLIMB ROCKS. I am dumb, and I ended the weekend with frustration because I didn't plan ahead. I blew a shot at finishing my first difficult route because I worked too hard on Saturday. I feel that way because while I'm out here my priority is improving my climbing skill, while I love working on boxing, I can do that back home. Climbing when I get home is going to be challenging, I'll need a partner and lots of equipment that I can't afford just yet. I am glad that I still tried though, and managed to push myself to basically muscle failure, that's the best way to work on muscle endurance. Get your muscles tired, then keep training!! So while I'm pissed that I failed a climb I really really wanted, I'm proud of myself for trying something I knew was going to push my arms past their limit, and pushing hard enough to fail.
Next week is more combatives, more BUBs, and hopefully a solution to my pay issue!!
Love y'all and miss you!!!
Valuable lesson of the day- DON'T FRY YOUR SHOULDERS AND BACK BEFORE YOU CLIMB ROCKS. I am dumb, and I ended the weekend with frustration because I didn't plan ahead. I blew a shot at finishing my first difficult route because I worked too hard on Saturday. I feel that way because while I'm out here my priority is improving my climbing skill, while I love working on boxing, I can do that back home. Climbing when I get home is going to be challenging, I'll need a partner and lots of equipment that I can't afford just yet. I am glad that I still tried though, and managed to push myself to basically muscle failure, that's the best way to work on muscle endurance. Get your muscles tired, then keep training!! So while I'm pissed that I failed a climb I really really wanted, I'm proud of myself for trying something I knew was going to push my arms past their limit, and pushing hard enough to fail.
Next week is more combatives, more BUBs, and hopefully a solution to my pay issue!!
Love y'all and miss you!!!
Monday, July 4, 2011
4th of July Weekend!!!!
"An excellent weekend if I do say so myself..." ~Robin
A Little Background...
For a girl like me, there's little that reminds me of my blessings than a weekend with great friends, the great outdoors, a tent, and tons of rocks just begging to be climbed (is that a word?). This weekend was exactly what I needed; though the fire nearly ruined it for our class. Since we missed classes to "fight the fire," TRADOC decided to take away the 4 day pass we had for the holiday in order to make it up...two weeks out. Many of my friends had plane tickets bought (one to Hawaii to see his wife and 4 month old!) that they were fearing would need to be cancelled. They had to write a paper to the commander explaining why they should get to use the tickets they bought! I was a little disappointed in the Army for a few days. Luckily, two days before the weekend we were able to get the passes back and my friends with tickets were able to use them.
Since I couldn't afford a flight home, and Robin and Garrett's plans got cancelled we decided to go on a climbing expedition to Flagstaff, AZ.
Adventure Day 1:
Friday 1 July
Our adventure started with loading out backpacks (yeah, the backpacking kind) into the back of Robin's Subaru-how glorious is that? We stopped at Walmart and headed out on our way. I wasn't the most social thing on our roadtrip, I got the backseat and promptly made myself a nice cozy reading den. Turns out "Between A Rock and a Hard Place" by Aron Ralston is a great book to read when going rock climbing :)
We finally arrived at the meetup place around 6 Friday evening, waiting for our climbing buddies by sitting on top of the Subaru sipping iced coffee from the nearby Starbucks. Once we found our camping spot, and introduced ourselves to the other climbers we were camping with, we all settled down to get to know each other the way other outdoorsy people do. We didn't get to know each other really personally, but we got familiar with the important parts- hardest routes climbed, pets, other outdoor activities, favorite organic dishes, etc. It was glorious! The night ended with a look at the stars, a view of the Milky Way (yeah you read that right), and a lesson on constellations. I'm so in love with this lifestyle! A friend of mine once mentioned his goal to hike one of the three major trails across the United States straight through...the more I spend time backpacking, climbing, and day-hiking out here, the more I want to try that myself. I'll give myself some more time to think about it, and of course figure out the logistics to see if its important enough to me that I sacrifice other important things in my life, but I would say that its a possibility!!
Adventure Day 2:
Saturday 2 July
I woke up the next day around 7am, I blame that on the sun and the fact that I froze my butt off in my not-rated-under-50-freakin-degrees sleeping bag. Fortunately for me, I got to appreciate my favorite part of the day, in one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I've been to so far. I welcomed the day on a comfortable rock with my Kindle and a cup of coffee courtosey of Daryl. I wish I could start every day like that. One day, when I've earned enough to start Legends Farm, and have it up and running like I want, I'm going to do that. I'll wake up and watch the sunrise in a rocking chair on a wrap around porch in the company of several dogs, a few cats, and more than a handful of healing horses....and maybe a guy if I find one deserving enough to share that wonderful lifestyle with me ;)
We were hiking out to climb by 10:30, the hike nearly ruined my knees and hips after the 7.5 mile ruck the morning before. That's what I get for packing too much for a day by the rocks!!
*Just as a side note* As I write this, there's a thunderstorm brewing outside. This happens nearly every afternoon now, and I check the Coronado National Forest website everyday to check if they deem the moisture level high enough to re-open the Forest. So far I think they're absurd for thinking they need more rain, but then again I'm not the expert! For now, I just enjoy coming home after class to blog while it rains and thunders outside, with the door wiiiiiide open :)*
Ok, back to climbing (I should break this one up into two blogs!) Robin and I started out on a nice 5.8 route, might have been a 5.7, we're not really sure. Neither of us had much trouble finishing it though. After that we moved on to the next route over, not being quite sure what the rating was, but being pretty confident we could complete it. Since Robin went up the first route first, and I had the benefit of watching her scale it (I was able to do it just a tiny bit faster- but I'll readily admit that its because I didn't have to figure it out), I got the honor of scaling the second route first. I definitely did not climb the second route faster, in fact I got stuck twice and leaned on the harness for support a few more times than I care to admit. But I finished it! I was also successful in only sustaining one injury on the route, from shin-kicking the crap out of a ledge just before the anchors. I'm proud to say I finished the route with blood running down my shin! Robin, made my effort at the route look like crap, and she didn't even take notes from how I scaled it! Though I feel I could have done a bit better, and that I need to work a little harder on getting up more challenging routes, I'm still proud of myself, and even more so of Robin. As I was taking the rope off the route, a woman stopped by with a friend and was talking about the 5.9 route on the face I was standing next to. Shocked, I double checked that she was referring to the route Robin and I had just accomplished, finished wrapping up the rope (and getting filthy while I was at it) and nearly ran up to Robin to tell her the news. She and I had graduated up a level in climbing skill!
Brimming with confidence, Robin and I sat in intrigue as we watched our more experienced climbing buddies complete a 5.10 with a difficult start. The beginning of the route was over a small cave/overhang, requiring the climber to grasp two handholds (luckily they were easy to grip!) and step up with their right leg onto a less than ideal foothold while swinging the left leg up onto the top of the ledge while standing up and moving to a better handhold for the new foot positions. Lets just say it was a dynamic move that was a little difficult to master. After watching friend after friend complete the start and finish the climb, Robin and I had our chance. After several attempts, and Robin ripping a good chunk of skin off of her pinkie finger, we had both completed the start. Ending the day (for me) on a great confidence building note!
Robin climbed one more 5.9 route before we headed back to the cars. We found food at a local brewery where we enjoyed food and GREAT beer from the comfort of leather couches and end tables while watching SportCenter. A perfect end to the perfect day.
Adventure Day 3:
Sunday 3 July
Sunday was the close of the weekend, there was rain on the way so we weren't going to be able to climb. Robin, Garrett and I decided more time in Sedona was needed, so we spent the day shopping and exploring there. After meeting up with an old friend of Robin's, and some yummy coffee by a great view, and lunch out by an overlook as the rain came in, we decided to head back to Sierra Vista. Overall, it was a weekend centered around self-improvement and the beauty of the outdoors.
Post Adventure:
Monday 4 July HAPPY INDEPENDANCE DAY!
Monday was a nice relaxing day. I used the free time to clean my equipment and read, as well as catch up on this crazy blog I'm writing. I'm glad that we had a free day after the camping, it gave me a day to get my mind back to work and prepare for this weeks big activities- combatives and Battle Update Briefs!
A Little Background...
For a girl like me, there's little that reminds me of my blessings than a weekend with great friends, the great outdoors, a tent, and tons of rocks just begging to be climbed (is that a word?). This weekend was exactly what I needed; though the fire nearly ruined it for our class. Since we missed classes to "fight the fire," TRADOC decided to take away the 4 day pass we had for the holiday in order to make it up...two weeks out. Many of my friends had plane tickets bought (one to Hawaii to see his wife and 4 month old!) that they were fearing would need to be cancelled. They had to write a paper to the commander explaining why they should get to use the tickets they bought! I was a little disappointed in the Army for a few days. Luckily, two days before the weekend we were able to get the passes back and my friends with tickets were able to use them.
Since I couldn't afford a flight home, and Robin and Garrett's plans got cancelled we decided to go on a climbing expedition to Flagstaff, AZ.
Adventure Day 1:
Friday 1 July
Our adventure started with loading out backpacks (yeah, the backpacking kind) into the back of Robin's Subaru-how glorious is that? We stopped at Walmart and headed out on our way. I wasn't the most social thing on our roadtrip, I got the backseat and promptly made myself a nice cozy reading den. Turns out "Between A Rock and a Hard Place" by Aron Ralston is a great book to read when going rock climbing :)
We finally arrived at the meetup place around 6 Friday evening, waiting for our climbing buddies by sitting on top of the Subaru sipping iced coffee from the nearby Starbucks. Once we found our camping spot, and introduced ourselves to the other climbers we were camping with, we all settled down to get to know each other the way other outdoorsy people do. We didn't get to know each other really personally, but we got familiar with the important parts- hardest routes climbed, pets, other outdoor activities, favorite organic dishes, etc. It was glorious! The night ended with a look at the stars, a view of the Milky Way (yeah you read that right), and a lesson on constellations. I'm so in love with this lifestyle! A friend of mine once mentioned his goal to hike one of the three major trails across the United States straight through...the more I spend time backpacking, climbing, and day-hiking out here, the more I want to try that myself. I'll give myself some more time to think about it, and of course figure out the logistics to see if its important enough to me that I sacrifice other important things in my life, but I would say that its a possibility!!
Adventure Day 2:
Saturday 2 July
I woke up the next day around 7am, I blame that on the sun and the fact that I froze my butt off in my not-rated-under-50-freakin-degrees sleeping bag. Fortunately for me, I got to appreciate my favorite part of the day, in one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I've been to so far. I welcomed the day on a comfortable rock with my Kindle and a cup of coffee courtosey of Daryl. I wish I could start every day like that. One day, when I've earned enough to start Legends Farm, and have it up and running like I want, I'm going to do that. I'll wake up and watch the sunrise in a rocking chair on a wrap around porch in the company of several dogs, a few cats, and more than a handful of healing horses....and maybe a guy if I find one deserving enough to share that wonderful lifestyle with me ;)
We were hiking out to climb by 10:30, the hike nearly ruined my knees and hips after the 7.5 mile ruck the morning before. That's what I get for packing too much for a day by the rocks!!
*Just as a side note* As I write this, there's a thunderstorm brewing outside. This happens nearly every afternoon now, and I check the Coronado National Forest website everyday to check if they deem the moisture level high enough to re-open the Forest. So far I think they're absurd for thinking they need more rain, but then again I'm not the expert! For now, I just enjoy coming home after class to blog while it rains and thunders outside, with the door wiiiiiide open :)*
Ok, back to climbing (I should break this one up into two blogs!) Robin and I started out on a nice 5.8 route, might have been a 5.7, we're not really sure. Neither of us had much trouble finishing it though. After that we moved on to the next route over, not being quite sure what the rating was, but being pretty confident we could complete it. Since Robin went up the first route first, and I had the benefit of watching her scale it (I was able to do it just a tiny bit faster- but I'll readily admit that its because I didn't have to figure it out), I got the honor of scaling the second route first. I definitely did not climb the second route faster, in fact I got stuck twice and leaned on the harness for support a few more times than I care to admit. But I finished it! I was also successful in only sustaining one injury on the route, from shin-kicking the crap out of a ledge just before the anchors. I'm proud to say I finished the route with blood running down my shin! Robin, made my effort at the route look like crap, and she didn't even take notes from how I scaled it! Though I feel I could have done a bit better, and that I need to work a little harder on getting up more challenging routes, I'm still proud of myself, and even more so of Robin. As I was taking the rope off the route, a woman stopped by with a friend and was talking about the 5.9 route on the face I was standing next to. Shocked, I double checked that she was referring to the route Robin and I had just accomplished, finished wrapping up the rope (and getting filthy while I was at it) and nearly ran up to Robin to tell her the news. She and I had graduated up a level in climbing skill!
Brimming with confidence, Robin and I sat in intrigue as we watched our more experienced climbing buddies complete a 5.10 with a difficult start. The beginning of the route was over a small cave/overhang, requiring the climber to grasp two handholds (luckily they were easy to grip!) and step up with their right leg onto a less than ideal foothold while swinging the left leg up onto the top of the ledge while standing up and moving to a better handhold for the new foot positions. Lets just say it was a dynamic move that was a little difficult to master. After watching friend after friend complete the start and finish the climb, Robin and I had our chance. After several attempts, and Robin ripping a good chunk of skin off of her pinkie finger, we had both completed the start. Ending the day (for me) on a great confidence building note!
Robin climbed one more 5.9 route before we headed back to the cars. We found food at a local brewery where we enjoyed food and GREAT beer from the comfort of leather couches and end tables while watching SportCenter. A perfect end to the perfect day.
Adventure Day 3:
Sunday 3 July
Sunday was the close of the weekend, there was rain on the way so we weren't going to be able to climb. Robin, Garrett and I decided more time in Sedona was needed, so we spent the day shopping and exploring there. After meeting up with an old friend of Robin's, and some yummy coffee by a great view, and lunch out by an overlook as the rain came in, we decided to head back to Sierra Vista. Overall, it was a weekend centered around self-improvement and the beauty of the outdoors.
Post Adventure:
Monday 4 July HAPPY INDEPENDANCE DAY!
Monday was a nice relaxing day. I used the free time to clean my equipment and read, as well as catch up on this crazy blog I'm writing. I'm glad that we had a free day after the camping, it gave me a day to get my mind back to work and prepare for this weeks big activities- combatives and Battle Update Briefs!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Week 7-11 (31 May - 30 June, Days 26-44)
Hey All!
Its been a little while so I'll catch y'all up on what's been going on...
Memorial Day Holiday
Memorial Day weekend was good, and quiet. Something I very much needed since I spend most of my days here with 40+ people in a high stress environment. Of course the flight back to Arizona from home didn't help. Not only was I leaving my comfort zone to go back to a place I've had difficulty enjoying (c'mon its intense school and barely any time off, I'm miserable cause I'm trying!) but the flight back was less than peaceful. From Huntsville to Denver was alright, it was getting from Denver to Tucson that took a little work. I already felt like I was getting back too late, I had no idea what was going to happen. My flight was at first delayed about an hour for some routine work (why wouldn't you schedule that in?), then it was delayed another hour, pushing the time I was going to leave to after 8. Soon, after several more delays it became apparent that I wasn't going to get out of Denver without hopping on another flight. Fighting through throngs of people who had the same realization, and after a brief argument with the attendant about the bag I had checked, I got myself on another flight. I was told my bag would arrive a half hour after I got to Tucson (11:30pm). I waited until after midnight to find someone to ask about the flight, only to discover that they hadn't updated the arrivals television to reflect that my original flight was cancelled and my bag wouldn't be in until the next day. Needless to say, PT the next morning wasn't a party.
Class
As far as class goes, we recently began the third section of the school, so far its more interesting than the last two blocks. Unfortunately the lack of windows in the classroom tends to blur everything we do...they say its to help us focus, but honestly it puts me right to sleep, which brings me to my next explanation.
Healthy Stuff...or not...
Nutrition here SUCKS! I can do the best I can (which honestly still isn't very good) when I'm home, but considering I tend to only be home between 1730 (5:30pm) and 0430/0500 (4:30/5am) I find it hard to motivate myself to cook something healthy during that time...which means I take shortcuts which result in unbalanced meals. I also don't like taking the time to make myself a lunch, creating more issues when I need to eat on post. Add to that the fact that I have been drinking MAJOR amounts of caffeinated beverages to keep myself awake in class, and you get pure unhealthiness. I honestly think that's the biggest contribution to my lack of energy, motivation and general happiness while I'm here, and I still care about working on it. I keep waiting to get into a routine so I can better manage my time. Aaaand once again that leads into the next topic!
The Monument Fire
The damn fire.
http://azstarnet.com/news/local/wildfire/collection_3f9cf44c-96ec-11e0-8fb4-001cc4c03286.html?photo=1
I was finally getting to routine stage when a dumb fire broke out 10 miles from my apartment. Talk about distracting, its been literally 10 days, and its totally screwed up every schedule and routine I had organized for myself. Suddenly we have to report at odd times, PT is cancelled but maybe not, GAFPB is cancelled then it isn't and we find ourselves at a pool at 0500, oh and lets not forget the lack of weekends! I had already felt like I hadn't gotten any relaxation time since memorial day, lets add a fire to make things a little more stressful!!
The Upside of Arizona
I feel like I'm ranting here, and I guess I am. So lets dissect this, I LOVE the National Forests and Outdoor activities in this area, I LOVE my friends in class and my new climbing friends, so its not all that bad. The problem is mostly that I only have 4 hours in the evenings and hopefully the weekends to spend time doing the things I love. In fact, I would even go as far to say that I'd love what we work on in class (cause its getting pretty badass now, can't lie) except there are no windows here so therefore it sucks.
Being here has shown me more and more about myself than I ever imagined. I've learned that I'm useless without access to horses, particularly ones that like to jump over stuff as much as I do. I've learned that I hate being alone, not single alone, but alone with no dog or friend or family in my apartment with me. Luckily my friends, Garrett and Robin, have covered down on that and occasionally stop by to keep me company :) This is great from the perspective that I'm rarely alone to think and analyze myself to death, and also because the constant threat (are there good threats? cause this would be one) of someone stopping by, causes me to be slightly neater than I would be otherwise.
All Caught Up
As I write this, the 4th of July 4 day weekend is ending. I'm sad because the free time is over, and because that means I have to go back to the hectic day to day around here. There's an upside though, without an insane airport story like the one I had over memorial day, I've actually had time to relax and reflect (As well as work on my climbing skills, which I'll explain shortly). I have 8 weeks left here, and I swear they will change my attitude, my health, my body, and my life. Watch out Alabama I'm coming home a new woman!!!
PS. I love everyone reading this! And I promise my next blog will be more positive! (All this ranting is the reason I haven't updated in so long. I've struggled a lot with negative feelings in the month I haven't been on here, but those are behind me now, and I'm working to improve my confidence, attitude, and faith.) Thank you all for your patience!
Its been a little while so I'll catch y'all up on what's been going on...
Memorial Day Holiday
Memorial Day weekend was good, and quiet. Something I very much needed since I spend most of my days here with 40+ people in a high stress environment. Of course the flight back to Arizona from home didn't help. Not only was I leaving my comfort zone to go back to a place I've had difficulty enjoying (c'mon its intense school and barely any time off, I'm miserable cause I'm trying!) but the flight back was less than peaceful. From Huntsville to Denver was alright, it was getting from Denver to Tucson that took a little work. I already felt like I was getting back too late, I had no idea what was going to happen. My flight was at first delayed about an hour for some routine work (why wouldn't you schedule that in?), then it was delayed another hour, pushing the time I was going to leave to after 8. Soon, after several more delays it became apparent that I wasn't going to get out of Denver without hopping on another flight. Fighting through throngs of people who had the same realization, and after a brief argument with the attendant about the bag I had checked, I got myself on another flight. I was told my bag would arrive a half hour after I got to Tucson (11:30pm). I waited until after midnight to find someone to ask about the flight, only to discover that they hadn't updated the arrivals television to reflect that my original flight was cancelled and my bag wouldn't be in until the next day. Needless to say, PT the next morning wasn't a party.
Class
As far as class goes, we recently began the third section of the school, so far its more interesting than the last two blocks. Unfortunately the lack of windows in the classroom tends to blur everything we do...they say its to help us focus, but honestly it puts me right to sleep, which brings me to my next explanation.
Healthy Stuff...or not...
Nutrition here SUCKS! I can do the best I can (which honestly still isn't very good) when I'm home, but considering I tend to only be home between 1730 (5:30pm) and 0430/0500 (4:30/5am) I find it hard to motivate myself to cook something healthy during that time...which means I take shortcuts which result in unbalanced meals. I also don't like taking the time to make myself a lunch, creating more issues when I need to eat on post. Add to that the fact that I have been drinking MAJOR amounts of caffeinated beverages to keep myself awake in class, and you get pure unhealthiness. I honestly think that's the biggest contribution to my lack of energy, motivation and general happiness while I'm here, and I still care about working on it. I keep waiting to get into a routine so I can better manage my time. Aaaand once again that leads into the next topic!
The Monument Fire
The damn fire.
http://azstarnet.com/news/local/wildfire/collection_3f9cf44c-96ec-11e0-8fb4-001cc4c03286.html?photo=1
I was finally getting to routine stage when a dumb fire broke out 10 miles from my apartment. Talk about distracting, its been literally 10 days, and its totally screwed up every schedule and routine I had organized for myself. Suddenly we have to report at odd times, PT is cancelled but maybe not, GAFPB is cancelled then it isn't and we find ourselves at a pool at 0500, oh and lets not forget the lack of weekends! I had already felt like I hadn't gotten any relaxation time since memorial day, lets add a fire to make things a little more stressful!!
The Upside of Arizona
I feel like I'm ranting here, and I guess I am. So lets dissect this, I LOVE the National Forests and Outdoor activities in this area, I LOVE my friends in class and my new climbing friends, so its not all that bad. The problem is mostly that I only have 4 hours in the evenings and hopefully the weekends to spend time doing the things I love. In fact, I would even go as far to say that I'd love what we work on in class (cause its getting pretty badass now, can't lie) except there are no windows here so therefore it sucks.
Being here has shown me more and more about myself than I ever imagined. I've learned that I'm useless without access to horses, particularly ones that like to jump over stuff as much as I do. I've learned that I hate being alone, not single alone, but alone with no dog or friend or family in my apartment with me. Luckily my friends, Garrett and Robin, have covered down on that and occasionally stop by to keep me company :) This is great from the perspective that I'm rarely alone to think and analyze myself to death, and also because the constant threat (are there good threats? cause this would be one) of someone stopping by, causes me to be slightly neater than I would be otherwise.
All Caught Up
As I write this, the 4th of July 4 day weekend is ending. I'm sad because the free time is over, and because that means I have to go back to the hectic day to day around here. There's an upside though, without an insane airport story like the one I had over memorial day, I've actually had time to relax and reflect (As well as work on my climbing skills, which I'll explain shortly). I have 8 weeks left here, and I swear they will change my attitude, my health, my body, and my life. Watch out Alabama I'm coming home a new woman!!!
PS. I love everyone reading this! And I promise my next blog will be more positive! (All this ranting is the reason I haven't updated in so long. I've struggled a lot with negative feelings in the month I haven't been on here, but those are behind me now, and I'm working to improve my confidence, attitude, and faith.) Thank you all for your patience!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Week 6 (23-26 May, Days 22-25)
As I sit here, taking a short break from the monotony of the work that we're doing here, I'm reminded that its a 4 day week, and though its Thursday it might as well by my Friday. Augmenting my elation is the simple fact that tomorrow I will be surrounded by the familiarity of home. It may sound silly, but what I'm looking forward to the most is hugging my fur-baby Dixie. There's something about hugging your pet that just melts stress away. I also can't wait to meet Isis's new filly! A beautiful little coal-black Friesian, and she'll be barely more than a week old when I get to see her, I'm so lucky!! Of course there's endless other things I'm looking forward to, such as possible boat time with the family, seeing friends and former clients, and in general just enjoying Alabama. My only disappointment about this weekend is that EVERYONE I want to see just cannot be there, but such is life and abscence makes the heart grow fonder right?
This week has been a rollercoaster so far, likely because I'm barely still here physically (sooo burned out right now) and my mind is about 1700 miles away. It's been a push to motivate myself to do anything this week, but as always, I've gotten it done. After lunch is the worst, you're full, warm (its gettin hot around here), and you're tired of the work already. Luckily last night I got a chance to drive up to Carr Canyon, pictures will be up this evening. I can't wait to show y'all. It appears my lack of motivation is leading to a little bit of writer's block as I ramble on about how annoying the work is around here. I will post pictures soon, and hopefully pair those with a post that is a bit more exciting than this one.
Miss y'all!
This week has been a rollercoaster so far, likely because I'm barely still here physically (sooo burned out right now) and my mind is about 1700 miles away. It's been a push to motivate myself to do anything this week, but as always, I've gotten it done. After lunch is the worst, you're full, warm (its gettin hot around here), and you're tired of the work already. Luckily last night I got a chance to drive up to Carr Canyon, pictures will be up this evening. I can't wait to show y'all. It appears my lack of motivation is leading to a little bit of writer's block as I ramble on about how annoying the work is around here. I will post pictures soon, and hopefully pair those with a post that is a bit more exciting than this one.
Miss y'all!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Week 5 Part 2 (18-22 May, Days 19-21)
Hello again!
I believe I left you last week complaining of the boringness of class and all the homework. Good news! The oppression of the homework has been defeated! The workload is still enough to keep us busy, but not overwhelming. I've been able to find a way to manage my time well enough to get in some pretty good workouts last Thursday and Friday. Luckily there's a functional fitness room at one of the on-post gyms, so I can play around with some more crossfit-type workouts! Since I've gotten a chance to work out I've been MUCH happier! Everything seems to be a little more managable, especially my time. I'm much more motivated to do better in both my classwork and my heathly living habits.
Perhaps the only downside is that my classmates are finding me increasingly less social. In some respects I regret that, because there's a few people in my class that I quite enjoy hanging out with, at the same time though I'm not as interested in partying all night like I'm back at Auburn. It was fun, and still is when I'm in the mood for it and out with the right people...and when its not at Rendevous... It also works against my goals. Being sleep deprived not only wastes half of my weekends (the only time I have to do anything fun) and makes me grumpier and decreases my motivation to workout.
Since I had all kinds of free time this weekend...well kind of...I got some things checked off the ole bucket list. There were two significant activities that I took a part in this weekend, Rock Climbing and Horseback riding.
Saturday 21 May
Rock Climbing was my activity for Saturday. A friend of mine from class (Garrett) and I left the apartment complex (he's also my neighbor) around 1pm and headed out to a place a few miles outside of Tombstone. I should mention that Tombstone appears to be hilarious, and I very much look forward to spending some time there enjoying the kitschy Western "Wyatt Earp" atmosphere. The real joy of the trip however, was riding with the windows down on a dirt road for nearly ten miles leading up to the rock, getting lost in a herd of Angus cattle, then stumbing upon our destination and meeting several new (and very awesome) people.
I'll first mention that my first experience climbing went very well! Vibram Five-Fingers are not meant to climb rocks, so it's worth it to have some actual rock-climbing shoes, but aside from that it was a great way for me to get out of my comfort zone with my fear of heights, and a great workout as well! My forearms were cramping and shaking all throughout church the next morning-very awkward. I unfortunately failed to make it to the top on both of my climbs (started with a 5-8, then a 5-7 aka easy climbs) I couldn't figure out how to get the rest of the way on the 5-8, and then I was exhausted (well my fingers at least) for the 5-7. No worries, there's always next time!! There's great camping (great=free) in that area, so I think next time we go, Garrett and I will get a group together and we'll all camp by the rocks!
The folks we met- 2 british guys, one of the guys that bolted the rock, and a man with his three young sons, were just a pleasure to get to know. One of the boys-the middle one I believe- said that everyone who climbs rocks together is family, even if they have just met for the first time. I think that's the best way to describe how the dynamic was while we were there. One could argue that we're all members of God's family, which is true, but how often do we act like it? I've noticed throughout my experiences with outdoor sports, be it hiking, kayaking, rappelling, and now rock climbing, that the people you meet nearly always treat you like family, or at least a family friend. It is people being good to each other at the most basic level-sharing powerade, bananas, equipment- everyone's goal there is to have a great day, and to make sure everyone they are with or meet has a great one too. It was a refreshing experience, and I'm so glad I have the sunburn and bruised up knees to remember it by until next time!
Sunday 22 May
Now for the horseback riding...its an outdoor sport right, so I should theoretically have wonderful things to say about riding at Buffalo Corral...theoretically...
Horseback Riding is unfortunately, very very unfortunately, the exception to the rule about everyone in outdoor sports being good to each other. In particular the woman who runs the stables on Post. Yet another friend of mine from class and I went riding on Sunday after church, we were assigned a couple horses- I was on Linger, she was on Red, and we started walking towards the trail...I think... Here's were the problems started (oh yes, its that kind of story-please keep in mind that I've been riding for 17 years-it makes the experience funnier)
Problem #1- Red's ears were glued in the 'I freaking hate you' position, and he refused to walk forward and leave the barn, no matter how he was cajoled otherwise.
Problem #2-The trails are unmarked, we have no guide, and I've never been out on the trails here before.
Problem #3- Red still won't move, he alternates walking with as angry an expression as he can muster and stopping and kicking at my friend's feet.
Problem #4- We still don't know where we are going
At last relief! I found Wren Arena and decided that was a good place to see if we could get my friend and Red on the same page (preferably one of friendship, but we'll take tolerance)
After successfully aquainting Red and my friend, my confidence was up that we could now enjoy our trail ride...little did I know that would never happen...
Problem #5-The gate of Wren Arena, I couldn't latch it and hold onto Linger well, and Linger took this as an opportunity to head on home...
Problem #6- I am wearing cowboy boots and trying to run across sand with patchy grass (try it sometime)
Problem #7-Linger is now trotting (much quicker than I am running) towards a road...and I know what happens when horses and cars mix-its not something I want to deal with. Ever.
Problem #8- Linger now thinks this is funny, periodically stopping on the road long enough for me to think I might finally catch him, then continues to trot away-down the middle of a road I know people haul butt on
Problem #9-my friend is slightly inexperienced/rusty and I've now left her alone with Butthead Red
Another break in the misery! My friend catches up to me and asks if I think I can catch him if I ride Red up to him-I seize the opportunity! PS I also discovered that Red can go fast
Yet another bit of good news-I successfully caught Linger! Unfortunately that's where the relief ends.
Upon reaching the stable, the woman who runs the place asked us what happened-not "Are you ok?" or "Did someone fall off?" both of which would be my questions if two strangers rode out on horses they've never met and one came back walking on her own two feet...Instead we got lectured about switching horses and how she doesn't appreciate that I came back on the SAFER horse, because she put me on Linger and I quote "because you SAID you were the more experienced rider." Correct, I said that, and its true-its not like I fell off, or put my friend on Linger, I was on Red in order to CATCH Linger so he didn't get hit by a car. I could have continued to run, but there's also the question of whether or not it would have been a good idea to leave my friend on the trail alone with Red. Did I get lectured for letting him escape? No. I got lectured for about the only thing that day that I think was handled as well as possible.
Wrapping up my little soapbox moment here, I will definately not be returning to Buffalo Corral to ride, not because of the horses, but because of the unprofessional nature of how its run. Just be prepared to deal with a crazy girl when I come back-we all know 4 months without horseback riding can't be good for me...
I'll have more good news by Thursday! And for those of you in my hometown-See you FRIDAY!!!!!
PS- Congratulations to Robert's sister and the whole family on the new addition!!
I believe I left you last week complaining of the boringness of class and all the homework. Good news! The oppression of the homework has been defeated! The workload is still enough to keep us busy, but not overwhelming. I've been able to find a way to manage my time well enough to get in some pretty good workouts last Thursday and Friday. Luckily there's a functional fitness room at one of the on-post gyms, so I can play around with some more crossfit-type workouts! Since I've gotten a chance to work out I've been MUCH happier! Everything seems to be a little more managable, especially my time. I'm much more motivated to do better in both my classwork and my heathly living habits.
Perhaps the only downside is that my classmates are finding me increasingly less social. In some respects I regret that, because there's a few people in my class that I quite enjoy hanging out with, at the same time though I'm not as interested in partying all night like I'm back at Auburn. It was fun, and still is when I'm in the mood for it and out with the right people...and when its not at Rendevous... It also works against my goals. Being sleep deprived not only wastes half of my weekends (the only time I have to do anything fun) and makes me grumpier and decreases my motivation to workout.
Since I had all kinds of free time this weekend...well kind of...I got some things checked off the ole bucket list. There were two significant activities that I took a part in this weekend, Rock Climbing and Horseback riding.
Saturday 21 May
Rock Climbing was my activity for Saturday. A friend of mine from class (Garrett) and I left the apartment complex (he's also my neighbor) around 1pm and headed out to a place a few miles outside of Tombstone. I should mention that Tombstone appears to be hilarious, and I very much look forward to spending some time there enjoying the kitschy Western "Wyatt Earp" atmosphere. The real joy of the trip however, was riding with the windows down on a dirt road for nearly ten miles leading up to the rock, getting lost in a herd of Angus cattle, then stumbing upon our destination and meeting several new (and very awesome) people.
I'll first mention that my first experience climbing went very well! Vibram Five-Fingers are not meant to climb rocks, so it's worth it to have some actual rock-climbing shoes, but aside from that it was a great way for me to get out of my comfort zone with my fear of heights, and a great workout as well! My forearms were cramping and shaking all throughout church the next morning-very awkward. I unfortunately failed to make it to the top on both of my climbs (started with a 5-8, then a 5-7 aka easy climbs) I couldn't figure out how to get the rest of the way on the 5-8, and then I was exhausted (well my fingers at least) for the 5-7. No worries, there's always next time!! There's great camping (great=free) in that area, so I think next time we go, Garrett and I will get a group together and we'll all camp by the rocks!
The folks we met- 2 british guys, one of the guys that bolted the rock, and a man with his three young sons, were just a pleasure to get to know. One of the boys-the middle one I believe- said that everyone who climbs rocks together is family, even if they have just met for the first time. I think that's the best way to describe how the dynamic was while we were there. One could argue that we're all members of God's family, which is true, but how often do we act like it? I've noticed throughout my experiences with outdoor sports, be it hiking, kayaking, rappelling, and now rock climbing, that the people you meet nearly always treat you like family, or at least a family friend. It is people being good to each other at the most basic level-sharing powerade, bananas, equipment- everyone's goal there is to have a great day, and to make sure everyone they are with or meet has a great one too. It was a refreshing experience, and I'm so glad I have the sunburn and bruised up knees to remember it by until next time!
Sunday 22 May
Now for the horseback riding...its an outdoor sport right, so I should theoretically have wonderful things to say about riding at Buffalo Corral...theoretically...
Horseback Riding is unfortunately, very very unfortunately, the exception to the rule about everyone in outdoor sports being good to each other. In particular the woman who runs the stables on Post. Yet another friend of mine from class and I went riding on Sunday after church, we were assigned a couple horses- I was on Linger, she was on Red, and we started walking towards the trail...I think... Here's were the problems started (oh yes, its that kind of story-please keep in mind that I've been riding for 17 years-it makes the experience funnier)
Problem #1- Red's ears were glued in the 'I freaking hate you' position, and he refused to walk forward and leave the barn, no matter how he was cajoled otherwise.
Problem #2-The trails are unmarked, we have no guide, and I've never been out on the trails here before.
Problem #3- Red still won't move, he alternates walking with as angry an expression as he can muster and stopping and kicking at my friend's feet.
Problem #4- We still don't know where we are going
At last relief! I found Wren Arena and decided that was a good place to see if we could get my friend and Red on the same page (preferably one of friendship, but we'll take tolerance)
After successfully aquainting Red and my friend, my confidence was up that we could now enjoy our trail ride...little did I know that would never happen...
Problem #5-The gate of Wren Arena, I couldn't latch it and hold onto Linger well, and Linger took this as an opportunity to head on home...
Problem #6- I am wearing cowboy boots and trying to run across sand with patchy grass (try it sometime)
Problem #7-Linger is now trotting (much quicker than I am running) towards a road...and I know what happens when horses and cars mix-its not something I want to deal with. Ever.
Problem #8- Linger now thinks this is funny, periodically stopping on the road long enough for me to think I might finally catch him, then continues to trot away-down the middle of a road I know people haul butt on
Problem #9-my friend is slightly inexperienced/rusty and I've now left her alone with Butthead Red
Another break in the misery! My friend catches up to me and asks if I think I can catch him if I ride Red up to him-I seize the opportunity! PS I also discovered that Red can go fast
Yet another bit of good news-I successfully caught Linger! Unfortunately that's where the relief ends.
Upon reaching the stable, the woman who runs the place asked us what happened-not "Are you ok?" or "Did someone fall off?" both of which would be my questions if two strangers rode out on horses they've never met and one came back walking on her own two feet...Instead we got lectured about switching horses and how she doesn't appreciate that I came back on the SAFER horse, because she put me on Linger and I quote "because you SAID you were the more experienced rider." Correct, I said that, and its true-its not like I fell off, or put my friend on Linger, I was on Red in order to CATCH Linger so he didn't get hit by a car. I could have continued to run, but there's also the question of whether or not it would have been a good idea to leave my friend on the trail alone with Red. Did I get lectured for letting him escape? No. I got lectured for about the only thing that day that I think was handled as well as possible.
Wrapping up my little soapbox moment here, I will definately not be returning to Buffalo Corral to ride, not because of the horses, but because of the unprofessional nature of how its run. Just be prepared to deal with a crazy girl when I come back-we all know 4 months without horseback riding can't be good for me...
I'll have more good news by Thursday! And for those of you in my hometown-See you FRIDAY!!!!!
PS- Congratulations to Robert's sister and the whole family on the new addition!!
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