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[RC] Preg/riding & baby/riding - FancyNite

Kristin & Patti,

Congrats to both of you!  Yippee....

When my husband and I decided to have another baby... my ONLY 2 replies were...   1. "Don't expect me to give up riding"!   and 2. Are you going to keep my horse in Shape?  Well, it has all worked out and I wouldn't change it for ANYTHING!

I rode up until the time when it became uncomfortable, I just felt like I couldn't fit in my saddle.. And having to pee every 10 strides, got old quick.... And with my horse having big withers, bare back was OUT of the question.  I hung my stirrups up at 7 1/2 months along.

My only advise, when labor starts... close your eyes and envision you and your horse as one galloping through a lush green meadow.... Awe... oh and don't forget to let the sun shine on your face!

My first son (Chris) took 23 1/2 hours to finally say hello (and now at 12 he is still a pain! <eg>) Why?  I honestly think it was because I stopped riding.  This time with Colton... I did what the doctor told me to do... Do what you NORMALLY do.  Well, for me that was RIDE!  Colton only took 12 1/2 hours, much easier... with the right mind set.

Colton and I came home from the hospital and I was TERRIBLY wanting to ride.  I held off for 4 days.. ONLY because my mother came and stayed... I couldn't fight BOTH her and Robert... One on One, I think I would have been OK!  lol
Granted all I did was walk!  

I did my first ride 4 weeks after giving birth.  I am NOT going to lie to you... It wasn't  comfortable, but it was tolerable.  Of course I heard about how CRAZY I was at the ride... but that's OK, endurance riders have to be a little crazy.  I got teased about giving Colton "Milk Shakes," as I would have someone hold my horse while I nursed.

Leave the baby with someone you trust, and go ride a few hours.... But be prepared for RUNNING age (toddler), you're going to need someone to stay the weekend with them, while you venture to ride camp.  (nice vacations)  OR have someone come to the rides with you and baby-sit.  Colton went to ride camp every time we went last year... but this year.... WHOLE NOTHER STORY.  Wow, them little buggers can be quick!

Good luck to you both!
You'll both do fine!
Jinnifer Plummer