a tribute

I finally gave in. After much protesting and debate over whether it was really worth it, I finally did it. I bought new riding boots. I got my old boots for my twelfth birthday and they have been through a lot. They've been stepped on countless times, survived three riding instructors, probably eight horses (at least), and did ten years of hard work. Most of all, though, it's just the memories. These boots helped me through the best and worst of riding. They were there and just right when everything else seemed to be going wrong.
You're probably wondering why it's such a big deal because all girls love new shoes, but this is different. These boots were the best. It's like when you find a pair of jeans that fits just right, you hate when they get that first little hole. You try and ignore it, but eventually, they get too worn to be seen in. It's the same way with riding boots. Once you find a pair that fits just right, you'll wait till the last minute to get rid of them.
The last thing you want in a pair of boots is for it to be too tight or for it to rub you the wrong way. You have so much other stuff to worry about when riding. The best boots are the ones that move right with your foot. They aren't too stiff, yet provide enough support for you. My boots did it all. So, here's to you, loyal friend, my old boots. It's been a good ten years of riding. Rest easy now. And to my new boots, you have a lot to live up to. I look forward to another ten years of great riding!