My first riding lesson!

I did it! I rode Frances today! I had such a good time, even though Frances and I spent most of the lesson figuring each other out. I am doing English riding; there is considerably less equipment in this style--less saddle, less reins, less stirrups, but it encourages horse and rider to communicate with body language, since the thin saddle lets me feel exactly what he's doing...or about to do. Like stop. He kept stopping, even when I was telling him to walk. :) Krystin says he sort of "tests" new people, but he was very gentle the whole time and by the end of the almost-two-hour lesson we were at an understanding. I understand that I need more lessons.
The teensy little English saddle really forces you to hold on with your legs. My thighs are totally sore! And, uh, horses are tall. It was surprising how high up in the air I was. I also realize why people ride in full seat breeches--riding pants that have the whole ass area covered in either synthetic or real suede--no slipping around in the saddle. Krystin said I had a naturally good "seat", though, which is the term for how one sits in the saddle. Hey, at least I got something right! (Gloves would be a good thing, too.) I'm also just riding in my plain old western-style boots until I have enough money for some paddock boots and half-chaps.
Wish me luck! I'll keep you updated.
Have a great week!