We pulled up at the horse barn, I was 42. My very first horse was waiting patiently in the trailer to be let out. My sister walked her out of the trailer and handed me the reins. I cautiously took the reins from her.
“Now what do I do?” I asked.
“Whatever you want,” she said, “She’s your horse.”
That was the moment I realized I was on an adventure I knew nothing about. I was now a horse owner. So began an adventure with some of the happiest and some of the most heart-wrenching moments of my life.
An adventure is the exploration of unknown territory; places, people, and things. Adventures often include excitement and are inherently risky.
The idiom, “Nothing ventured, nothing gained,” holds true. To the one willing to embark on adventure, there is much to be gained.
New experiences keep you mentally sharp, even improve your memory.
Outdoor physical activities not only help grow your brain but research shows that getting dirty actually helps boost your immune system.
Overcoming challenges and facing fears helps you learn to cope and boosts your self confidence.
Regular outdoor adventures could help you prevent dementia and reduce allergies and asthma.
What kind of adventures have you taken?
When is the last time you set out on a new experience you knew little about?
I thought I had done my research about being a horse owner. It’s good to do your research before you embark on a new adventure but some things you just can’t know until you experience it first.
Stepping out into the unknown, taking a chance, trying something new, that is where the adventure begins. We had a little saying out in the country, “Life begins where the pavement ends.” Get off the well traveled path and create your own trail. It’s good for your physical and mental health and overall life satisfaction.
Today I handed in my badge, said goodbye to long time co-workers. Retirement plague in hand I drove away; no more work schedule, no more annual leave, no more regular days off. I handed in my parking pass then took my mother for a celebratory lunch.
After lunch we got in the car and for a moment I sat there, sort of lost.
“So now what to do we do?” I asked her.
“Whatever you want,” she said.
So the adventure begins…