| Kiknkowgirl's Story Page 2 |
| As a teenager growing up in Oklahoma, my summer's were very interesting. While I worked for McDonald's, I met a seventeen year old female bullrider who became a very special friend. Think my fascination with bullriding started when I met her. Just blew my mind that a female would climb up on one of those huge animals and ride. But she did. She and her family managed the Deer Creek Riding Stables just north of Oklahoma City. As a result of her friendship, I learned firsthand alot about country life and about horses. I, also, learned alot about horse troughs and how it feels to be thrown in one! lol (They really didn't throw me in it...just carried me over and dangled me over the slobbery, grass-filled dirty thang! Talked my way out of that one by telling them I was on my period. They changed their mind and set me free. LOL) Helped them shovel manure, spread fresh hay in stalls, and feed the horses. It was hard work, but very fulfilling. Of course they knew a gringo when they saw one. I was the brunt end of many a joke while in their company. My most memorable experience took place when I joined them on a group horse ride off property. My first mistake was trusting the stable manager to select my mount. And as we made our way along the gravel country road and the group of riders slowly forged ahead without me, and I into a barb-wired fence, I realized that I knew basically nothing about how to manage a horse. Thankfully the stable manager came to my rescue, gave me a few quick lessons on rein-control and heel kicks, steered my horse away from the fence and back onto the road. By that time, everyone decided to turn back around and head to the house. And as we made our way, my horse's gait picked up momentum, increasing with speed following each whinny to the horse back at the stables who seemed to encourage his faster trot. The closer we drew to the property, the faster went my horse. Until finally the stable manager informed me that my horse and the one back in the field had never been separated since birth. That was my last time to ride anywhere near that man! lol Instead, I rode double with my bullrider girlfriend and let her do the horse handling just incase something else went wrong. Grew up listening to the old-time country singers. Loved the song: Cool Water. Then went through my rock n roll stage and finally settled back into country music during my first marriage. Attended more country concerts than I can list here. Was a member of the Oak Ridge Boys Fan Club. Met Mel Tillis and was priviledged to meet with him privately on his tour bus following a concert. But my favorite country singer I met was Neil McCoy and his wife. I have found that country western singers are some of the most humble and hospitable people I have ever met. Love rodeos. Have great respect for the courage and the skill these riders and ropers have whether male or female. My favorite featured event though is bullriding. Not a buckle bunny here, have never had a cowboy's buckle given to me, but then I never slept with one to try and earn it. Recently had my hip replaced. I have not been able to ride a horse for over 10 years now as a result of the fracture I incurred in 1994. During my doctor visit in December 2003, he asked me what I wanted to be able to do with this hip that I had not been able to all these years. First thing out of my mouth was: ride a horse again! So, the doctor designed a special hip that would provide the agility and stamina required so I could once again ride. Still in the stages of recovery right now; but, I look forward to that day very much! |
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