New boots are no joke

Several years ago I decided it was time for a new pair of riding boots. I had a well worn pair of Konigs that lasted me a good 15 years and probably could have done many more but I thought it time to get something that would last me the rest of my riding days. I seemed to forget how hard it was to break in new footwear. So I went to Dover Saddlery and was measured for a beautiful pair of custom Konigs. Nothing off the shelf for me... what was I thinking???? It has taken me two years and being backed into the proverbial corner with shows looming in the near future to pull the boots out and commit to wearing them every ride. I have to move my stirrup up to get on because I can not bend my knee -- they are so stiff and come up so high.... It is like a straight jacket for my feet and lower leg. Arghhhh.... I could not back down from this commitment so tonight I wore them during a lesson. I came out of it with an open blister on the inside aspect of my right heel. (How did I do that???) and at first it was quite distracting but oh what they did for my leg. I could not grip as much with my knee so my leg could then drop. ahhhhh.... owwwwww.... ahhhhh. What a vicious cycle combining the pain with the joy of a good ride. I have to take a picture of these things... They are so tall and stiff like any good German boot should be. They will eventually break in but in the mean time... Arghhhhhhhh P.S. Blu was spectacular tonight. We nailed the simple changes and Linda said it was one of our best rides. She was pleased with how we both looked and she was highly complementary that I did not wear out during the lesson. I kept up with the stiff pace she set so I guess we are both amping it up! Let the fun begin. I have got to remember that box of bandaids...