As V said, falling is pretty much a given in mountain biking. It's a matter of when, not if. For me, it's a two steps forward, one step back thing. I build my confidence, I fall, I lose a portion of my confidence, I ride, I build up the confidence, I fall...in an endless cycle. My falls usually teach me about something I need to learn or remember and I try not to make that mistake again. Your first fall! Welcome to the sisterhood! I'm glad you were able to get back up and ride back. There is a huge mental component to mountain biking. Doing exactly what you did--toughing it out and doing what you had to do--will make it easier to try again the next time. The old phrase "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" is so very true on the mtb.

Keep doing some easier rides as they will help to maintain and boost your confidence, but also ride that singletrack again and again. When you reach a section you are not ready for, walk. Some of the most important things someone taught me as a newbie were that it is okay to walk anything you are not comfortable with. Push yourself a bit, but listen to your gut and know when it's time to try something new or more difficult and when you just need to get off the bike and walk it. Respecting your limits helps you from getting hurt. As you ride the more difficult trails over and over, they will become more familiar and you'll gradually find yourself ready to try more and more. Remember, the bike is designed to go over all that stuff. Trust it in and you will be amazed at what it will do for you. I remember the first time I rode a narrow, rocky, exposed trail. I repeated over and over to myself: The bike will go over the rocks. Momentum is my friend.

Same thing is true for roots. Try to hit the roots with your tire perpendicular to them especially if they are wet. A little bit of mementum will help you. Just give yourself some time to acquire the skills you need, and you'll be amazed at how you'll be riding something that once seemed impossible. Ride with and watch as many different riders as possible and don't be afraid to ask for advice from them.

I usually say to myself that I will ride as well as I possibly can for that day. Some days I surprise myself. Other days I'd rather forget. But if you try your best each time that is all you can ask of yourself. The thrills come when you're riding along one day and you just finished a section of trail and think to yourself, "Where's the hard part?" It does gradually become easier and as your confidence builds so does your enjoyment. Think positively. Embrace the mental challenge. Give yourself time. Ride, ride, ride. Most importantly, have fun!