The Triple Bar
After riding one day, Jim tossed me a piece of baling twine and told me to use it to lead Freckles through the gate. Jim was always telling me that I was a wimp and so I didn't protest, I was afraid, but told myself it would be fine, you’re just nervous. I didn’t realize I was saying this to myself, it was a mantra I had been using for so long originating from my determination to be different than my mother. I followed Jim’s instructions. Freckles crowded me into Jack and the thin twine slipped out, as I maneuvered between the two geldings. In the momentary confusion, Katie, our mare, bolted free through the open gate. Jim called out to me "Get her". Freckles safely in the pen I strode after Katie. She hoisted her hind legs in the air and kicked toward my hip, I turned as her feet neared, so all she got was my wrist. I backed up cradling it, not sure of what had happened to my small delicate hand, making sure I was out of her way, and wouldn’t be harmed further, I sank down, stunned, searing pain focused me, as I sat on the cold spring soil. I didn't go to the emergency room, Jim didn't think I needed to. I waited 10 days, it was swollen, but not terribly black and blue. It was my right hand, I earn money drafting using auto-cad. I’m a professional ice skater. Finally I decided I needed to make sure it healed properly so I went to a Doctor. There was a small break, but nothing to be done about it, just wear a brace and keep it immobilized.
