tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84595056223781424662024-03-18T20:10:09.416-03:00Journey with a Dancing HorseTeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.comBlogger1186125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-55806569029106546082024-03-14T14:02:00.002-03:002024-03-14T14:02:17.517-03:00Rejuvenation<p> In <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2024/03/regrouping.html" target="_blank">my last post</a> I shared about how Quaid's system was in an uproar and how I was trying to get him back on track. </p><p>I am happy to report that we are well on our way with that. While he was away I decided to put him on ulcer meds (in consultation with my vet of course). Because he was a distance away she phoned in the perscription to the vet near him so he could get started sooner. That vet used liquid omeprazole drawn up in to a syringe. He definitely improved but even on return he still wasn't eating enough to make me happy. I had ordered only 2 weeks of the drug and I'm really happy about that. Because when he got home I got the remaining weeks from my vet. They use a paste compound with Aloe Vera added. Within 2 days of transitioning to that compound his appetite perked right up. </p><p>Now I know it's not a perfect experiment because of all the variables involved: being home, adding vitamin e and flaxseed. But regardless he has gone from picking at his food disinterestedly to devouring his food and being quite excited at meal times. It does my heart good. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTCXypEPOKzDUvdPn13192GIy9vq0s4An5EBbhsEy-uTdDciSTzJjR7GFCTj8GEQHxDlXa5Vb6BNw93wUu1zWKoGnliP9Llq5rJNNYKoE4XNRm-khLz1X7n1tLfIYoW0itYDxEHhXF-R50saHgVbToW_v9ooGGi6BdP-vd4QWnq4wbsvSG_FyLQnXRrNE/s4032/IMG_6406.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTCXypEPOKzDUvdPn13192GIy9vq0s4An5EBbhsEy-uTdDciSTzJjR7GFCTj8GEQHxDlXa5Vb6BNw93wUu1zWKoGnliP9Llq5rJNNYKoE4XNRm-khLz1X7n1tLfIYoW0itYDxEHhXF-R50saHgVbToW_v9ooGGi6BdP-vd4QWnq4wbsvSG_FyLQnXRrNE/s320/IMG_6406.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">speaking of hearts, he has the most<br />adorable heart-shaped snip on his nose</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Julia has been able to come out the last two days which is exciting. Because Quaid just had 4 weeks of training I really don't want to ride him when I'm alone. I know I will at some point but it's important to me that we start off slow and build our confidence in each other. </p><p>Yesterday was a 'nice' day by March standards- it was sunny-ish (well okay it wasn't raining) but there was a sharp, cold wind blowing. We both were of the thought that we might end up just grooming (god so much mud) and lunging. But we prepared so that we could do more. </p><p>Carmen was a bit excited but settled in and Julia mounted and had a nice ride. I was working with Quaid and he had a fair bit of energy that felt more due to youth and feeling good, rather than spookiness. We did a lot of groundwork and I was happy to see that after some forward canter there wasn't a hive to be seen. I decided to put on his saddle and bridle to at least work in that. He stood quietly while I tacked him up in the ring, even with his pad blowing off. Lunging him in tack he seemed good and Julia was done riding so I asked her to help. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrMpx82LAeEa9_Cb93dhyhH_aR5EJ5Ki0PV5oitU_-if6V56VitoeE-jqX5LNdDxn0pTlVusmPAA5i38zoX2Ndp_c09oK9YVbIgvYn5YEwPyxpxYAPJsh9PFFldm5yugiWj7AmsoOjx-tvOlOI_1VoaPJFyoW8W7kD3dDUPpOaJcdUr4a2bvLdOsUzAg/s4032/IMG_6449.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrMpx82LAeEa9_Cb93dhyhH_aR5EJ5Ki0PV5oitU_-if6V56VitoeE-jqX5LNdDxn0pTlVusmPAA5i38zoX2Ndp_c09oK9YVbIgvYn5YEwPyxpxYAPJsh9PFFldm5yugiWj7AmsoOjx-tvOlOI_1VoaPJFyoW8W7kD3dDUPpOaJcdUr4a2bvLdOsUzAg/s320/IMG_6449.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>I mounted him and rode him with her being in the middle 'lunging' him. I simply walked him both ways for a few minutes and called it a day. I was quite happy with that. </p><p>Today was sunnier and no wind and both horses were quite mellow. I worked him on the ground and he was so connected. I put tack on and then, after a few minutes, mounted while Carmen and Julia worked in the ring. I walked him around working on steering and not falling into the middle. I halted him and we worked on some baby turn on the forehands. I just wanted to break down the idea that one leg means move away while two mean to go forward. It's been years since I've ridden such a green horse, it's hard because everything I do should mean something so I have to be careful. While we were working the neighbour started using a chainsaw and he didn't care at all. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiz38z97o90M5fwHBMa0SlyDslrsVG_vx8jWEWfSthk9rjb4rUKyyZlc_HZvsDSHTwdLzPcCbPqTsh_cfcN1h9E1dvsZuggmRzWI2QsW5VayI8-SWvG2C_cI7xHOTG5c2Yv6oIXbqFtWiRh6Xq7Y60ee1qyoeKBAdBGdyo_bn-DvqfgrId6RMcj7-iiS8/s4032/IMG_6460.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiz38z97o90M5fwHBMa0SlyDslrsVG_vx8jWEWfSthk9rjb4rUKyyZlc_HZvsDSHTwdLzPcCbPqTsh_cfcN1h9E1dvsZuggmRzWI2QsW5VayI8-SWvG2C_cI7xHOTG5c2Yv6oIXbqFtWiRh6Xq7Y60ee1qyoeKBAdBGdyo_bn-DvqfgrId6RMcj7-iiS8/s320/IMG_6460.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this view. </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><p>When Julia and Carmen were done working they stood while Quaid and I practiced trotting around them on a circle. After about 20 minutes I stopped and dismounted. I was thrilled. And on checking him there were no hives. </p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZR4-mwG9K5vIY6_2TeGle1NzJBfGUDwC9IQJ-L6Px48dZqdIByqQdHd1nfkAsaFOXGPxc6W9DOvCLhiAbY1HS1NN4XP_RRmvIDrpiY8Dt_I8ecseILkenWzWZxbSSvqVF0CkoDu26_cQa1HoGAiFuuHwHCkRJMLDvOG-OUCiNmi2GkcqC3AZ2_aay5XY/s4032/IMG_6474.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZR4-mwG9K5vIY6_2TeGle1NzJBfGUDwC9IQJ-L6Px48dZqdIByqQdHd1nfkAsaFOXGPxc6W9DOvCLhiAbY1HS1NN4XP_RRmvIDrpiY8Dt_I8ecseILkenWzWZxbSSvqVF0CkoDu26_cQa1HoGAiFuuHwHCkRJMLDvOG-OUCiNmi2GkcqC3AZ2_aay5XY/s320/IMG_6474.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cookies for the best baby genius</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Mike and Nikki have done such a great job with him. He understands about being ridden and, most importantly, he is curious not worried. There's a ton to do with him, of course but we will be able to pick away at it. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb5Jupp8ThHsfvA9sPcQSeOOEjHLEsgv4KicJD8GwklKu3t_e56C4nD7TqfvXfnwQPFXZqCce4cvKMG9sJyBdw4vVGY9Nf31CYH3LM7tM7q8dfm3AkVs8Hjxia5ahmtHcqxywYIzy9ZVniUjhxzcLTrUfL8JZT2xhyphenhyphenIf9GLejTP4t6hF806xZ3Z_q62vQ/s4032/IMG_6476.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb5Jupp8ThHsfvA9sPcQSeOOEjHLEsgv4KicJD8GwklKu3t_e56C4nD7TqfvXfnwQPFXZqCce4cvKMG9sJyBdw4vVGY9Nf31CYH3LM7tM7q8dfm3AkVs8Hjxia5ahmtHcqxywYIzy9ZVniUjhxzcLTrUfL8JZT2xhyphenhyphenIf9GLejTP4t6hF806xZ3Z_q62vQ/s320/IMG_6476.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: Hey, where are my cookies? </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6M_z8NId89Hj3vh9dmfoyXK9HWglmx97kNespJwThFV6j-77hllJw2LRFuul67PopBb3ngzJZyof74vOw85jwUBj07Z1sTj60ouUOhNBtz6Kt425DIqnefSItF6CqNvZ5qwrq6d4NePFV0Ci0hasudxfgjAqt3qxxD1ieE8wB5qMhLp-fXOg8pqZ5NqI/s4032/IMG_6478.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6M_z8NId89Hj3vh9dmfoyXK9HWglmx97kNespJwThFV6j-77hllJw2LRFuul67PopBb3ngzJZyof74vOw85jwUBj07Z1sTj60ouUOhNBtz6Kt425DIqnefSItF6CqNvZ5qwrq6d4NePFV0Ci0hasudxfgjAqt3qxxD1ieE8wB5qMhLp-fXOg8pqZ5NqI/s320/IMG_6478.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: don't forget kid, you may be a <br />genius but I'm still the magnificent one</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><p>I realised that he's outgrowing his bridle (at least the broadband part) so I have to figure that out. I think with the size of his head he can handle a thicker leather then his current one. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3sp7Ik8S3B1R6duG4GQ2g1lbTZAlW8uCvDGRjNlNzaJ9VmC9RUoaWsTC-mXmrHaKrY8Ke2C-wrSIJT-n9ocUo_I6PBFKAkj1GcNMAvHTJuUBcmDhc83ESQPxRKsDuKTTLXi0cfqiR-CkIA_QpBXlGjajioxNQlLFqTKAMJa9wNhc4CTfcCIGCrOeVcY/s4032/IMG_6459.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3sp7Ik8S3B1R6duG4GQ2g1lbTZAlW8uCvDGRjNlNzaJ9VmC9RUoaWsTC-mXmrHaKrY8Ke2C-wrSIJT-n9ocUo_I6PBFKAkj1GcNMAvHTJuUBcmDhc83ESQPxRKsDuKTTLXi0cfqiR-CkIA_QpBXlGjajioxNQlLFqTKAMJa9wNhc4CTfcCIGCrOeVcY/s320/IMG_6459.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hive free! (and handsome)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-73404122395483078202024-03-10T20:48:00.002-03:002024-03-10T20:48:32.723-03:00Regrouping<p> It's been a week since Carmen and Quaid have returned home. You may recall that while he was at the trainers he was not really eating so we started him on some ulcer meds. His appetite was definitely better when he got home but still not stellar. </p><p>He had definitely lost weight and it's hard to not worry. But I told myself that I needed to let being home and the medication do their job. Before he left he was a bottomless pit and was actually getting a little chunky. I was happy that I had sent him a little heavy. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjz4tRy9_CsfM3fL5ZP5jO6KIOyZ9OLNCaICK7VCqxLcl9MvYz2zYMT35Nb82uCJNVnS43GUDE9WC8Wp0py6PSQqYBJVKEcgJJjPFSE3U0fI_yJ0uX21Gf7-9JhjTCBrDPVlP2sJUqLwwTX1wTIbFEZ2JDVioc253FCCMxNYfp2zltCtDEmHvBxI9E8es/s4032/IMG_6394.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjz4tRy9_CsfM3fL5ZP5jO6KIOyZ9OLNCaICK7VCqxLcl9MvYz2zYMT35Nb82uCJNVnS43GUDE9WC8Wp0py6PSQqYBJVKEcgJJjPFSE3U0fI_yJ0uX21Gf7-9JhjTCBrDPVlP2sJUqLwwTX1wTIbFEZ2JDVioc253FCCMxNYfp2zltCtDEmHvBxI9E8es/s320/IMG_6394.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">not horrible</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEu9ga4FHkC7wvmokQrVODPnkMkDik8StvJ0tQmVOfZFLJQq50fTIz8qBmOCbAJ_7dAK9P9yGpM76d2RP3jwG31e9CveMvh0X3R0J0cHBlJzO8kzIjYldF1YLPs9bFXuYK7EZsdy-q8N-o1OHg4EmWywln8FyiBzpry_6GdTjZcbBMaiUBFPbJtzyfn0/s1525/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE%202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1525" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEu9ga4FHkC7wvmokQrVODPnkMkDik8StvJ0tQmVOfZFLJQq50fTIz8qBmOCbAJ_7dAK9P9yGpM76d2RP3jwG31e9CveMvh0X3R0J0cHBlJzO8kzIjYldF1YLPs9bFXuYK7EZsdy-q8N-o1OHg4EmWywln8FyiBzpry_6GdTjZcbBMaiUBFPbJtzyfn0/s320/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE%202.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Compared to him in December</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Every day he was doing a little better. Despite clearly not liking his medication he is so good about taking it. I don't even need to halter him. On Tuesday the vet came to do the annual examination and vaccines. The timing wasn't ideal but there's not a lot of wiggle room with appointments this time of year. She noted that, while he was definitely thinner, he still had a nice cover on his ribs and so looked worse than he really was. Both horses had their teeth done. </p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxJth3KJ944tit4K1IF1NUTZtASdxvMjyCKMytERqNdTNMf9SsbEVEmvADHLss9XhlPnEnfkgurTMyBBi1uE-HMY9WpU4XyrXl4yGdpxmXZ2_deDXdkuIQKChKEml9VIsahscVF32bzs9EtZMjgdyeo4YJq2L8H2vxEdAPDOGxrhe0hTzOSJS2D298M0/s4032/IMG_6426.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxJth3KJ944tit4K1IF1NUTZtASdxvMjyCKMytERqNdTNMf9SsbEVEmvADHLss9XhlPnEnfkgurTMyBBi1uE-HMY9WpU4XyrXl4yGdpxmXZ2_deDXdkuIQKChKEml9VIsahscVF32bzs9EtZMjgdyeo4YJq2L8H2vxEdAPDOGxrhe0hTzOSJS2D298M0/s320/IMG_6426.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guinness helping the vet assistant</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4yomF-ZBo-winYs8ZWaRXz-On7NwDDP1wo6Th_IgpkHxJXEKyxhtQYxWCaj9isow8p8ON1KF7BxRisuIQzQczL9_B1spd7iXkYDLBlBQ23r8_bDyFhSSGXGo8ATDPe93uTfwJyAjtrw2bzGXRK1J_O6dBNvTcmXJJahAYTzUjmubIhRSIG_CEQmVUqM/s4032/IMG_6424.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4yomF-ZBo-winYs8ZWaRXz-On7NwDDP1wo6Th_IgpkHxJXEKyxhtQYxWCaj9isow8p8ON1KF7BxRisuIQzQczL9_B1spd7iXkYDLBlBQ23r8_bDyFhSSGXGo8ATDPe93uTfwJyAjtrw2bzGXRK1J_O6dBNvTcmXJJahAYTzUjmubIhRSIG_CEQmVUqM/s320/IMG_6424.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">totally flying high here</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The vet was telling me about a new vaccine that had everything in one rather than two needles. I had also shared with her about Quaid starting to break out in hives when he was worked. We talked about it and I am flummoxed because he didn't have that last year. We decided to give Carmen the new vaccine but give Quaid what he had last year and didn't react. I let them out after the vet visit and that night everyone was fine. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, the next morning he was clearly unhappy and sore from the vaccine. So I gave him some banamine with his ulcer drugs and called the vet. She said to let him out and maybe give him more banamine that night. He definitely perked up but I wasn't happy with his appetite until I brought him in. I decided to not give him another dose of banamine because of its impact on his stomach. And he didn't need it because the next morning he was much better. FYI, Carmen had zero reaction. </div><div><br /></div><div>On Saturday the weather was lovely (for march) and I was able to ride Carmen and lunge Quaid. he was really good and then he spooked at something and cantered off. He wasn't trying to get away, he didn't even pull on the line but his tail was flagged and he was snorting. And then, within minutes he broke out in hives. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI87EsPRI1ZS7xwTzewo2yPGP-FdzC8EzpQVrUEZ3MZQICvjKmfp_0Pfm2YKs2hepecFlw3_AuSKKSopez4xgOeeNODGIzyvkv3fU9a1wZWELm380vWhSp151p6oYXwaT5rvckbxXUrmYnTEGY_f4e_zUAIpjUJNuy7iP18kgR-V7RT7GPLxG2OsNPDvw/s4032/IMG_6431.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI87EsPRI1ZS7xwTzewo2yPGP-FdzC8EzpQVrUEZ3MZQICvjKmfp_0Pfm2YKs2hepecFlw3_AuSKKSopez4xgOeeNODGIzyvkv3fU9a1wZWELm380vWhSp151p6oYXwaT5rvckbxXUrmYnTEGY_f4e_zUAIpjUJNuy7iP18kgR-V7RT7GPLxG2OsNPDvw/s320/IMG_6431.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Within 30 minutes of being put away they were 90% gone and totally gone by dinner time. </div><div><br /></div><div>I honestly think that he just dealt with a lot- the fire, training (even though it was so nice and gentle), not getting his normal turn out, new place etc and his immune system is overwhelmed. Ulcers can also have an impact. I have him on vitamin e but I'm going to get him some flaxseed and see if that helps boost his system. I will work him but not hard and let him settle into the routine. </div><div><br /></div><div>I realise that this recap make it sounds like Quaid is struggling. But he honestly seems pretty good and happy. The past few days he ate everything and is beginning to act hungry. Since we didnt' have any of these issues last year I've decided that he will regroup and be fine. Right? </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2u2V9zzAGh5Cl79E0cgit2speNz_QzCySqZUnWqB5QzzX4fZVMkqtL_Dh_A6yTAO3CcoQe90BBiBOyhC5TjsKFnR6dhdE5NhIiyk1N_Ct51yEVXq5vc0t9ZJ8qlnwcLbqlCgNY_U4hGC5iTK1V6-fwUjeFvES2XND3VstfFsqB1on66Vy9vZT__oBw4/s1920/IMG_6354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2u2V9zzAGh5Cl79E0cgit2speNz_QzCySqZUnWqB5QzzX4fZVMkqtL_Dh_A6yTAO3CcoQe90BBiBOyhC5TjsKFnR6dhdE5NhIiyk1N_Ct51yEVXq5vc0t9ZJ8qlnwcLbqlCgNY_U4hGC5iTK1V6-fwUjeFvES2XND3VstfFsqB1on66Vy9vZT__oBw4/s320/IMG_6354.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Also, puppy preparations. <br />So excited! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-74243170970046532772024-03-03T19:06:00.002-04:002024-03-03T19:06:53.435-04:00There and Back Again<p> In my last post I shared that I had arranged for someone to transport Quaid home. This eased a lot of planning and contingency planning. My plan was to go up on Thursday and get the update from Mike and Nikki and to ride Quaid. He was to be picked up at noon on Friday so I thought I might get another ride in that morning too. Once Quaid was home I was going to hitch up my trailer and go get Carmen. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8HkTD13FOIxb9moX3BbwyfJM-qEoz8FIdBxAtxc1wR_MrQXKKf30tuQP0Fn75c60pz_nW4okAjQmgdHvfQSXjdBULnC3Hb7X2EZUvtMssFywHENjldM6fqprkpfX6jv4Ockwj6-81OiHJY96Ru2BlxLwTwiEPeZua6shXsji1yIUa_FlktMIFHdDgTc/s4032/IMG_6341.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif8HkTD13FOIxb9moX3BbwyfJM-qEoz8FIdBxAtxc1wR_MrQXKKf30tuQP0Fn75c60pz_nW4okAjQmgdHvfQSXjdBULnC3Hb7X2EZUvtMssFywHENjldM6fqprkpfX6jv4Ockwj6-81OiHJY96Ru2BlxLwTwiEPeZua6shXsji1yIUa_FlktMIFHdDgTc/s320/IMG_6341.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Ride</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>As a plan it was solid. And things began to fall into place with the dealer accepting our offer on a 2018 Toyota Tundra. Ed arranged to pick it up Thursday. Of course, it being the end of February we had some weather- heavy rain followed by a drop in temperatures. There were so many warnings about driving and ice but in the end it was perfectly fine. Most of my journey was on bare pavement and even a few sunny skies. But the winds were high which meant my shipper had to cancel a transport to PEI (the bridge closes to high sided vehicles in high winds). He reached out to see if he could pick up Quaid on Thursday at 2. But I told him that that wouldn't work for me. If I went along with that there would be no way for me to ride. So we agreed to an early morning pick up on Friday. I figured that would be fair, because I know that he has to make a living too. </p><p>When I arrived on Thursday afternoon the winds were high and you could really hear it in the arena. Quaid was quite naturally excited. There were also cows in the arena for some penning practice later. Quaid was adorable checking them out. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ay17tu-gVDEbG8OtVK2_MoFy3z8tmIxVEtwa-z3GTaPssUZ7RCeLExdA6pEMpVBGtT6QhJOyC9XGPgJ73wylrA1bbOAeJ28BGec569zYEq4EpBbkrY6KURL8DQwGUoPqtQTJDB_3eHLqSMs5_34BaZr0DxP0WAe0Y1GzvdFt4B_LXxzepDk4Y-XXoQE/s4032/IMG_6376.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ay17tu-gVDEbG8OtVK2_MoFy3z8tmIxVEtwa-z3GTaPssUZ7RCeLExdA6pEMpVBGtT6QhJOyC9XGPgJ73wylrA1bbOAeJ28BGec569zYEq4EpBbkrY6KURL8DQwGUoPqtQTJDB_3eHLqSMs5_34BaZr0DxP0WAe0Y1GzvdFt4B_LXxzepDk4Y-XXoQE/s320/IMG_6376.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaid: hello do they ride you too?'<br />Cattle: "no they ride you to chase us around'</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Nikki watched us working through the ground work and gave me some excellent pointers about my body language. Then, when he was settled, we tacked him up and I got on. Not gonna lie, it felt wonderful to swing a leg over him. I tried to be cool but inside I was squealing like a 12 year old. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPO_C-sFUbI7NoxPpI5N7aQLZasgSHTxTZ0nJbYQiRiQOW1gQD3GsaK8iDqggc2be5gr6slepZ3TYriK48d3DBrs_CWatqkH1uxVztFKBul3PNf_FdkgXcHDywyfEBTfnhFvwGN9RwYP-WtIGx7s0ePBHjALaKLzEPM3xjFTabL0AhHrfxsjdlVG_BdY/s4032/IMG_6378.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPO_C-sFUbI7NoxPpI5N7aQLZasgSHTxTZ0nJbYQiRiQOW1gQD3GsaK8iDqggc2be5gr6slepZ3TYriK48d3DBrs_CWatqkH1uxVztFKBul3PNf_FdkgXcHDywyfEBTfnhFvwGN9RwYP-WtIGx7s0ePBHjALaKLzEPM3xjFTabL0AhHrfxsjdlVG_BdY/s320/IMG_6378.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Hy5Q_QehYeNVamlNze0L9Ci98IqpIOUISY8j-WVZZy3vZPEU4b_HscgFr8gKw2M3_S23o806jNVhhWn0HsuP-Oc05YcAMSoVnQGJFUDOCSv9KC1rRCk7W1rxk_MPfhiRqOHkxSZiFltvd3BffGZe5usZDcy5W7SeeaOlkiNKEi7b_JryqvEq7zbF3Bc/s4032/IMG_6381.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Hy5Q_QehYeNVamlNze0L9Ci98IqpIOUISY8j-WVZZy3vZPEU4b_HscgFr8gKw2M3_S23o806jNVhhWn0HsuP-Oc05YcAMSoVnQGJFUDOCSv9KC1rRCk7W1rxk_MPfhiRqOHkxSZiFltvd3BffGZe5usZDcy5W7SeeaOlkiNKEi7b_JryqvEq7zbF3Bc/s320/IMG_6381.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrx_t6bGu17Idx7oa5rvszbKKitUg-m7LEroDW9Tlj3IXSrVF0LMjGXFUEKlKIqm0UDmRPejboCKlabAnueH9tKNdE-IjuVdKZ-QlcReg_u7Ki4MGns8B_-j0JEGSXXtY2C3pG5RMy3Pzcrb7uR9qMKtxlfmZXrj_C9QLUnfmo9_yKyrU-rBuPQ-kFQoU/s1623/IMG_6385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1623" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrx_t6bGu17Idx7oa5rvszbKKitUg-m7LEroDW9Tlj3IXSrVF0LMjGXFUEKlKIqm0UDmRPejboCKlabAnueH9tKNdE-IjuVdKZ-QlcReg_u7Ki4MGns8B_-j0JEGSXXtY2C3pG5RMy3Pzcrb7uR9qMKtxlfmZXrj_C9QLUnfmo9_yKyrU-rBuPQ-kFQoU/s320/IMG_6385.jpg" width="222" /></a></div><br /><p> He was really good for a total green bean. It was definitely a lot to process to remember how to ride a green horse. But his gaits are very comfortable. You can see all the things around there that he just didn't care about. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wKWnKYh77h4" width="320" youtube-src-id="wKWnKYh77h4"></iframe></div><div><br /></div>While I was riding another horse came in for a vet check. The vet also had a baby in a stroller. He did take this all in stride but we were both getting a little excited. So Mike asked if he could get on and I hopped off. I'm glad I did because he was able to demonstrate that the issue was that I was being too wishy washy and Quaid had a bit too much energy still. Mike worked him down and it was great to watch him be 100% clear on what he wanted and to see Quaid go '<i>oh okay'. </i><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I got back on and did a little more riding before calling it a day. I spent a lovely night staying at Mike and Nikki's and meeting their wonderful daughter. The next morning the weather was sunny but so freaking cold and windy. It was impossible to walk outside without saying '<i>fuuuuck'</i>. It felt like your face was being peeled off. Quaid was not too happy in the morning. Nikki loaned me a blanket for the trailer because of the temperature and it was a stock style trailer. The shipper was right on time and we loaded Quaid on without issue. Once on he pawed a lot. But the journey was uneventful. The shipper told me that every time they stopped he was stomping his feet. But he unloaded quietly and as soon as he walked in the barn you could see him go '<i>oh I'm home. Great'. </i> The barn was empty but he seemed unfazed. </div><div><br /></div><div>I didn't want to leave him alone though so I was waiting for Ed to come home. I thought that while I was waiting I figured I would hook up the trailer and be ready to go get Carmen. The truck was really easy to line up with the back up camera on the huge screen. But when I went to plug in the electric the receptacle seemed a bit loose. I plugged in and check my lights. </div><div>No lights. </div><div>I unplugged and pushed it back in . </div><div>No lights. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was NOT happy. I called the dealership:</div><div><i>Hello how can I help you. </i></div><div><i>Hi, I am Teresa ____ and I bought a truck YESTERDAY and it is not working. I am NOT HAPPY AND I NEED TO SPEAK TO SOMEONE IN CHARGE NOW. (</i>I was not yelling but I was very emphatic). </div><div>I went on hold and then someone came no the line (turned out to be the owner). </div><div>I told him that I had bought a truck for the specific purpose of trailering. I was very clear on that. And I was trying to hook up my trailer and it was not working. He was to fix this and I was not driving back to the dealership (it was over an hour away). </div><div>To give him credit he agreed with me on everything and asked to have a few minutes to work a solution. IN the meantime I still had Jane's truck and literally no choice so I brought it down to hook up. </div><div><br /></div><div>While I was doing this (and Ed helping), I got a call back and asked to take my truck to the Toyota dealer in town and they would cover the cost of repairs. </div><div><br /></div><div>I had the trailer hooked up and left to get Carmen. By now I'm a lot flustered. I hate being flustered. Anyway I get to the barn where Carmen is and realise that I don't have the keys to the trailer. </div><div><p>*FacePalm*</p><p>I call Ed and ask him to bring them to me and to take the truck to the dealer. He arrives and gives me the keys. I unlock the trailer and go to get Carmen. </p><p>Now I have owned Carmen since 2015. She has never refused to load for me. Ever. </p><p>Except for this day. When she walked on the trailer and <i>flew</i> off backward with a wild eye. And she would not get back on. After about 10 minutes of her going sideways, pulling back and generally being a wild thing I was really starting to question my life choices. </p><p><i>Like I could be on a beach right now sipping margaritas, instead of this shit. What is wrong with me. </i></p><p>I called Stephanie but she was about 30 minutes away. I took a deep breath <i>do what you know</i> I thought. And so I worked with Carmen like she had never seen a trailer before. We rested on or near the trailer and every attempt to flee resulted in work. I got her on, back her off and then got her to go on her own. I took her off again and then the next time I closed the butt bar. </p><p>(I have done a lot of thinking about this. I think that I was not in a good place when I was trying to load her because I was flustered by the truck debacle. But I also think (and a sniff test confirmed later) that the trailer still smelled of smoke and I think it caused her to panic. )</p><p>Once on she was was fine and unloaded like the trained horse she was. I walked her into the barn to be greeted quietly by Quaid. They sniffed noses and then she gave a little squeal and I put her in her stall. Once she was in I headed into the house to rest. </p><p><i>This is why I drink, </i>is an alternate title for this blog post. </p><p>The next day I was careful about turning them out because they had been apart for a month and I didn't want any fireworks. So I put a halter on Carmen to make sure she didn't get aggressive. But it was a non-event. Quaid didn't even canter around. He was a totally different horse than the one I saw that morning. This was the horse I knew- happy, quiet, friendly. </p><p><i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73tf2VHQ196JS0WpeszFT5ckelxPl-hcgb2Aynds_wIG1dnKcJ78M1N_ThlIYCdVLvtCihVsnERxreumKGe-QvpdUgscFonCEyu3g7_IC7VFtXi4n4fWsxpfUdJ0v8Z8kf60BgHbyX5ZxRjAixYsUtNuj4viUhdwOY1QAz3JpEPflpATwKZ-Uy3zu3jM/s4032/IMG_6405.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg73tf2VHQ196JS0WpeszFT5ckelxPl-hcgb2Aynds_wIG1dnKcJ78M1N_ThlIYCdVLvtCihVsnERxreumKGe-QvpdUgscFonCEyu3g7_IC7VFtXi4n4fWsxpfUdJ0v8Z8kf60BgHbyX5ZxRjAixYsUtNuj4viUhdwOY1QAz3JpEPflpATwKZ-Uy3zu3jM/s320/IMG_6405.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love having them home again</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </i>My ring is thawing but too soft right now to work them. Which is, I think, fine, It gives us time to settle back into the routine. </p><p>Oh and the truck- the recptacle being loose caused the relay to blow. It is being replaced this week. Af first they tried to say it must have been my trailer. Until Ed pointed out that the trailer was hooked up to another truck and worked just fine. *eyeroll* Yes I am a girl but I know what I'm doing. I am not happy that this was not caught but I am happy that they owned up to it and weren't dicks about it. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-91063165293570402242024-02-28T21:22:00.000-04:002024-02-28T21:22:02.452-04:00Entropy<p> It is human nature to assume that we can impose order and structure on our lives. We make plans, we examine failures and think that we can prevent chaos. </p><p>But chaos is inevitable. No matter how hard we try our lives will, at times feel like they are spinning out of control. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXtNBs-TzzmxHNeojHTznRjcnjN6trUFa__yqadyTscTUoPT1igcV4iQbD_QjeS_WVXQuW5FokE-MfSAQuu5A_qM_tO2okN01-3bm8yiaFqBe5h6LvDvlzdyHlvkgzX_hi8A1IbHk2mGurAQp6sUzhsjFd9Hzb7_TZremyNmknCGAS8NQ9kW5U2cjHtQ/s3840/83249-Stephen-Hawking-Quote-The-increase-of-disorder-or-entropy-is-what.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXtNBs-TzzmxHNeojHTznRjcnjN6trUFa__yqadyTscTUoPT1igcV4iQbD_QjeS_WVXQuW5FokE-MfSAQuu5A_qM_tO2okN01-3bm8yiaFqBe5h6LvDvlzdyHlvkgzX_hi8A1IbHk2mGurAQp6sUzhsjFd9Hzb7_TZremyNmknCGAS8NQ9kW5U2cjHtQ/s320/83249-Stephen-Hawking-Quote-The-increase-of-disorder-or-entropy-is-what.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Honestly, if that does not describe life with horses I don't know what does. February has been a month of things creating disorder. Between the truck debacle, snow storms and unexpected truck shopping has made us feel like we're in a constant game of catch up. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOt7pof3Y5TNcZ87JEaE-x6FsdYqK2O3L4NkiLeVgb_junI8kHtrC2bKkV48_GTFkC5KNdXqRdVAPPg4B-DnOa2KlMH4BfS1JsR5mhLjfa7ZOe38B8E9tCZ4PiPYoxpSsd5gC_86PktakXJrs2Hw5Z4DoeGUixZb1Ynz9YY-lPIYXrr5NZSjlZzS8JJA/s4032/IMG_6366.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOt7pof3Y5TNcZ87JEaE-x6FsdYqK2O3L4NkiLeVgb_junI8kHtrC2bKkV48_GTFkC5KNdXqRdVAPPg4B-DnOa2KlMH4BfS1JsR5mhLjfa7ZOe38B8E9tCZ4PiPYoxpSsd5gC_86PktakXJrs2Hw5Z4DoeGUixZb1Ynz9YY-lPIYXrr5NZSjlZzS8JJA/s320/IMG_6366.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The snow storm demolished boards in my riding ring</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Quaid has been doing great with his training. Except that he's not eating as much as we'd like. Nikki has tried everything so last week I decided to put him on ulcer meds to see if the stress of everything has resulted in his gut being upset. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhauhbM2PTSuuaaclHRnmrxPsPWAvLGvHGdW2XeJO9GnIleM23ecf906R7ezhdKicbalK5sCsf0uT5BD662oA_omEf2q6dWEoRG55JuPi1eImYltJPoFglV8opyqy9n-11L5VQmO0uG78Pr86DdgZSp9Gaz2xOsWRf-GaGx_1liIZ7Yu21vAg9Rg5e2Y/s1543/IMG_9AC5D69C53BA-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1543" data-original-width="1125" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhauhbM2PTSuuaaclHRnmrxPsPWAvLGvHGdW2XeJO9GnIleM23ecf906R7ezhdKicbalK5sCsf0uT5BD662oA_omEf2q6dWEoRG55JuPi1eImYltJPoFglV8opyqy9n-11L5VQmO0uG78Pr86DdgZSp9Gaz2xOsWRf-GaGx_1liIZ7Yu21vAg9Rg5e2Y/s320/IMG_9AC5D69C53BA-1.jpeg" width="233" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at this superstar</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Tomorrow I go to see him. He's coming home on Friday. With the truck uncertainty and for my own peace of mind I decided to hire someone to pick him up and bring him home. Once I get him home I'll take my trailer and go get Carmen. And because Ed and I have been working hard on truck shopping, with my new (to us) truck. </div><div><br /></div><div>You know who's not in a state of disorder? This girl. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAEhGU0fTLEsalLsaRYPw5ylAyTyYv3KIAWMzfKEtHQ6sEQLLLnOGQLb9dO-yhgnKX0439qnLSdXXHpZGennAMiNyl4vhn4pZM3M6ZGEddQcRdx407z5UyTQgWCuj1cCKJFx1gKQzIKDlBHK8Gw1vsOdX88rQoCTfAwf3iG1__lgC9uKwgaBH-BghTaWI/s4032/IMG_6367.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAEhGU0fTLEsalLsaRYPw5ylAyTyYv3KIAWMzfKEtHQ6sEQLLLnOGQLb9dO-yhgnKX0439qnLSdXXHpZGennAMiNyl4vhn4pZM3M6ZGEddQcRdx407z5UyTQgWCuj1cCKJFx1gKQzIKDlBHK8Gw1vsOdX88rQoCTfAwf3iG1__lgC9uKwgaBH-BghTaWI/s320/IMG_6367.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">it was a stormy day so we played<br />the 'find the ball and get to rest' game</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>She's been having a grand time at her spot. It's been really nice to go and spend quality time with her. Julia watched us the other day and commented on how quiet and relaxed she's been. <div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxN0NOr8ML8nj0t8ps5AOs6M_p9n0nCj3GTGpCmM3ALWv_pmcMmaW5xwnTppGXRtm6nxeVGEGOd0p8zrC-YeI4TffIoObShyphenhyphenSQlqux61FF66xcDsORHYwcg1RxecIf6VlPy7jhG2qmMzsES26YQ5woJo9mbcdE8jwjCyBVC4QUVvzjBq2d5kty9qCwb4/s4032/IMG_6363.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicxN0NOr8ML8nj0t8ps5AOs6M_p9n0nCj3GTGpCmM3ALWv_pmcMmaW5xwnTppGXRtm6nxeVGEGOd0p8zrC-YeI4TffIoObShyphenhyphenSQlqux61FF66xcDsORHYwcg1RxecIf6VlPy7jhG2qmMzsES26YQ5woJo9mbcdE8jwjCyBVC4QUVvzjBq2d5kty9qCwb4/s320/IMG_6363.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: I don't believe in disorder<br /> unless I am the source. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I think that the lesson I'm taking is that we can't expect to be able to completely control everything around us. Instead we have to recognise that no matter how prepared we are things will fall apart at times. The trick is to take a deep breath and figure out what to do next. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am looking forward to things getting back to 'normal' for a least a little while. Because in other news, one of these little potatoes is going to be the new deputy of security on the farm: </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXxA4xeu0ADhqvDuHZ7s7jYA51m1yhJnJhEVa8B2YF3QbbpGGDa3GsfbmcFMlzyhRNeXQpnD7AQgNyNRn1w6Z3V6zo9S_m-AbxvkfIuJqH1cqNOHEBqwLmJUONp2BxD0RorIohA5XBXKMtgpYvOHpa1H0Y0Dzn9QJMEakQLHhhct-IFXfCVONKlERBWaU/s2048/428685848_10168268512490005_4636034363051899299_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="922" data-original-width="2048" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXxA4xeu0ADhqvDuHZ7s7jYA51m1yhJnJhEVa8B2YF3QbbpGGDa3GsfbmcFMlzyhRNeXQpnD7AQgNyNRn1w6Z3V6zo9S_m-AbxvkfIuJqH1cqNOHEBqwLmJUONp2BxD0RorIohA5XBXKMtgpYvOHpa1H0Y0Dzn9QJMEakQLHhhct-IFXfCVONKlERBWaU/s320/428685848_10168268512490005_4636034363051899299_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">German Shepherd puppies from the breeder who owns<br />Guinness' father. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /><div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-17207342850315096452024-02-19T21:15:00.003-04:002024-02-19T21:18:58.579-04:00Chugging Along<p> Here we are in Mid-February and there's a lot more action on the horse front. There's also a lot more snow. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMVtwbIHahWPdVbgX8SXS_yAO2daN6AZQLwBsyFjc-mtM1P5wCOAoWPP3OVg_hHDaYyjR-PXMVktZXPaN55mWYBi6hWeozI78P1ZCUSUo4G29cgEzwkg0lQ0Me088EeAfTMbiTdS3NjbpqCmHtPIX5aC4J2EsVmY0xg2TU6I-SpT5SxvxxSHtHBP0FvA/s4032/IMG_6302.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMVtwbIHahWPdVbgX8SXS_yAO2daN6AZQLwBsyFjc-mtM1P5wCOAoWPP3OVg_hHDaYyjR-PXMVktZXPaN55mWYBi6hWeozI78P1ZCUSUo4G29cgEzwkg0lQ0Me088EeAfTMbiTdS3NjbpqCmHtPIX5aC4J2EsVmY0xg2TU6I-SpT5SxvxxSHtHBP0FvA/s320/IMG_6302.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My driveway in under there somewhere</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>But you can feel the warmth in the sun and the days are growing longer. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEgK5JzUm_ucdoXBbyXFECftNND7CInvQdnb19kBT9-HGxjFQxM7lIsk55__EJfD707nNLWddJfXIVkPZMcd62IHTDvG4X-mezsFuQ-PvxxBYrg8z7sBAEaH5f89IEmd73bIE2E5UxGiZpZKJ_17TwfnI-MXOj_ZgHTsbehhBpy_BdAwSNTHSJ3GNakA/s1794/42D10769-AE36-4F30-A4C7-C12414ED9440.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1794" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEgK5JzUm_ucdoXBbyXFECftNND7CInvQdnb19kBT9-HGxjFQxM7lIsk55__EJfD707nNLWddJfXIVkPZMcd62IHTDvG4X-mezsFuQ-PvxxBYrg8z7sBAEaH5f89IEmd73bIE2E5UxGiZpZKJ_17TwfnI-MXOj_ZgHTsbehhBpy_BdAwSNTHSJ3GNakA/s320/42D10769-AE36-4F30-A4C7-C12414ED9440.JPG" width="257" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It might be cold but there's always baking</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Carmen continues to amaze me with how well she has settled into her current life. She's definitely happy.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMqR2KQMS6iAFlZ-0PKdlBvSAHiLd2h3cFPG1_wuIthyC9ywTZ9UvpcMA10KzQ7dj0rWLNDh4qoGdWiDx8Ehr5u0jpgD-fpUy0c8E23jutCY2XCZHnoLMZS-884bmHvzUPcluuq2RfUSZbOR-77VgPnwUuqwC-2YneK0UU_9UywPQ-rnfPuukmkXvO3Lg/s4032/IMG_6311.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMqR2KQMS6iAFlZ-0PKdlBvSAHiLd2h3cFPG1_wuIthyC9ywTZ9UvpcMA10KzQ7dj0rWLNDh4qoGdWiDx8Ehr5u0jpgD-fpUy0c8E23jutCY2XCZHnoLMZS-884bmHvzUPcluuq2RfUSZbOR-77VgPnwUuqwC-2YneK0UU_9UywPQ-rnfPuukmkXvO3Lg/s320/IMG_6311.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharing Marshall's hay even though hers is a few feet away</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>We've settled into a routine: I clean her stall and then tack her up to ride. She's been really good. Except for one day when the snow slid off the roof. That really scared her and she took off on me. But I got her back in a a few minutes and we had a good ride. She loves the mirrors. I see her watching herself as we go by and it's adorable. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixd9jPbFPEzw5TfEZAjrFROJRxgiQcezomZc8c5vLG6fq7UkJWmURtQjTVf-Olmy4ZBYrYGNKcug3OtfKCEUEadGhPkdNdKLXw7awC5jnBZJ1tqQP6ho2VvWEjFK8FQ8MF0ijDpiGJMhwxjwewxtZIGAVVdMOWyUrqPo0MIENKIseD69ee-Xj1G3U1Jm0/s3323/81179C43-FDA0-4925-9FF7-3D60B49503E7.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3323" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixd9jPbFPEzw5TfEZAjrFROJRxgiQcezomZc8c5vLG6fq7UkJWmURtQjTVf-Olmy4ZBYrYGNKcug3OtfKCEUEadGhPkdNdKLXw7awC5jnBZJ1tqQP6ho2VvWEjFK8FQ8MF0ijDpiGJMhwxjwewxtZIGAVVdMOWyUrqPo0MIENKIseD69ee-Xj1G3U1Jm0/s320/81179C43-FDA0-4925-9FF7-3D60B49503E7.JPG" width="291" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mirror Mirror on the wall</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>I'm curious to see what she'll be like when we return home. But now I know that there's a mellow Carmen in there....<div><br /></div><div>I've been getting regular updates on Quaid. He's doing really well. Nikki told me that he's the most prepared horse she's had in for training. Which makes me feel proud. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNfxz5f1Jsjry1WO5UBCELySUlGFpZrZfeSlsngLh7Cfr6WMLDpIFoL-Kz0xL-5g8EFWb8dJ1x3sD-Pqei7pGFgsA1bnl55PmQ_lxGbbAvMUqPKzK_MznD49EVHtrx4b_ssRYVrw_PWstGZ9DYfsOjV296f4BDGEZoc3UN37k5uOnESbK-LqxhreJj7U/s4032/IMG_6261.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNfxz5f1Jsjry1WO5UBCELySUlGFpZrZfeSlsngLh7Cfr6WMLDpIFoL-Kz0xL-5g8EFWb8dJ1x3sD-Pqei7pGFgsA1bnl55PmQ_lxGbbAvMUqPKzK_MznD49EVHtrx4b_ssRYVrw_PWstGZ9DYfsOjV296f4BDGEZoc3UN37k5uOnESbK-LqxhreJj7U/s320/IMG_6261.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaid's new BFF</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmiYa6OhGxy-rPcqH975TUaa7IBgcC5w1Nynh4uA9oRCVPtKAUSLjstWgPcEXiwCVgrYJ6bzIhcCXy5xWvrtidY5UW1ZURg8-JpuJrdTPc3V8agSYKdRe4ruNDCNd5yGaofxG1PVahlfJYdjXF5MinHv2FCjeNQN1-PgGwrgzkjCKQ4GasUzLFsOok2o/s4032/IMG_6327.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmiYa6OhGxy-rPcqH975TUaa7IBgcC5w1Nynh4uA9oRCVPtKAUSLjstWgPcEXiwCVgrYJ6bzIhcCXy5xWvrtidY5UW1ZURg8-JpuJrdTPc3V8agSYKdRe4ruNDCNd5yGaofxG1PVahlfJYdjXF5MinHv2FCjeNQN1-PgGwrgzkjCKQ4GasUzLFsOok2o/s320/IMG_6327.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Smarty Pants</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>I swear he looked like he grew when I saw him today. The wind was howling and he was quite worried about the noise in the arena. But after some work on the ground he settled. It was neat to see that as soon as the tack when on he was all business. Tacking up Carmen can cause her to feel more stress but Quaid really seemed to settle with it on. Like he knew what was expected and was happy to work. When he was being ridden it was like he didn't hear the wind at all. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8A_TSA4CgRY" width="320" youtube-src-id="8A_TSA4CgRY"></iframe></div><div><br /></div>His canter is getting a lot more balanced. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8A_TSA4CgRY" width="320" youtube-src-id="8A_TSA4CgRY"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /><div>I am so glad that I sent him there. I love how they work with him and how he's always challenged but not overwhelmed. It will be fun to bring him home and see where we can go from here. </div><div><br /><div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><p><br /></p></div></div></div></div></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-19044012420019955532024-02-07T16:05:00.000-04:002024-02-07T16:05:05.936-04:00How It's Going<p> First of all thank you everyone for your comments. I agree that I have great horses and, even more important, an amazing support system. I thought I was pretty good post trailering disaster, but ended up having a delayed reaction a couple days later. Nothing serious but it kinda knocked me back a bit. It didn't help that we were hit with a massive 3 day snow storm and Ed was away. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYf03NDWxum1-mctnOdSvEZiTgc_vRZPqX1R5D0ao5qNrsRf2Gr6Pxb-WojVihPjqtvWSl-xXk-75MMCuWJnAt4sYBvoSK6EuZENVL1udet3zU70-YaGufDGaWffqzn9RRCYv-1zlK26Hge14bOVgbV5gbaNBk1ZDpSUT78PH11Cl0WRk6J2qfIWOhwQ/s1920/IMG_6212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJYf03NDWxum1-mctnOdSvEZiTgc_vRZPqX1R5D0ao5qNrsRf2Gr6Pxb-WojVihPjqtvWSl-xXk-75MMCuWJnAt4sYBvoSK6EuZENVL1udet3zU70-YaGufDGaWffqzn9RRCYv-1zlK26Hge14bOVgbV5gbaNBk1ZDpSUT78PH11Cl0WRk6J2qfIWOhwQ/s320/IMG_6212.JPG" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table>It was a lot of snow. I cleared one side of my driveway (it has two entrances to the road) so I could get out. It took me hours and then it all blew back in. Fortunately, we hired a guy to plow for us while Ed is away but he had to do his regular customers first. And we were lucky! Parts of our province got 150cms of snow. People were trapped in their houses. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyDsr3Lldhuzsb1Alnaw5nP1GNkfhB1CuPIMQoJQrwbnrUybW-IWD-clT06kWi6XjfAp52K1uGIRTFJI9pvHQoeh8zX2m60EK3ga47rdQIMFARf3F7CnViPrHvEgS0Dt-RVhCkOGxsXCJaiHbmx5mRl34s8mikhB_wf5HfWPAFWCAU_C1c_iSKl0l8Sk/s1404/IMG_481CFC47EE76-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1404" data-original-width="1053" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyDsr3Lldhuzsb1Alnaw5nP1GNkfhB1CuPIMQoJQrwbnrUybW-IWD-clT06kWi6XjfAp52K1uGIRTFJI9pvHQoeh8zX2m60EK3ga47rdQIMFARf3F7CnViPrHvEgS0Dt-RVhCkOGxsXCJaiHbmx5mRl34s8mikhB_wf5HfWPAFWCAU_C1c_iSKl0l8Sk/s320/IMG_481CFC47EE76-1.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SM sent me this photo of Quaid watching<br />a horse show on his 2nd day there. I think it<br />was a roping competition (cows were <br />involved anyway). </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Interestingly, Quaid also had a reaction. The next morning he had hives that lasted about a day and then disappeared. Nikki had reached out and told me about them and asked what I wanted to do. I didn't want to give him Dex so said to wait and I could run down some antihistamine if he needed it. After that conversation I wondered if it was a reaction to the smoke in his trailer and/or stress. Do horses get stress hives? Is that a thing? Frankly, I'm afraid to google it. </p><p>Quaid also struggled with eating when he arrived. I don't know if it was stress or that there was just so much going on that he couldn't focus. Nikki called me again and we discussed some things to try. What I think helped the most was putting him near the other horses. He was in a stall that he couldn't see others at first. </p><p>Which all makes it sound like he's struggling, when he really is not. They have been working with him and keep sharing how well he's doing and how relaxed over everything. Nikki even messaged me 'If they only all came as well prepared as Quaid". </p><p>Here's a video of her working around him with the rope: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dy_IW0eogaU" width="320" youtube-src-id="Dy_IW0eogaU"></iframe></div><br /><p>You can see that he is completely unbothered by the experience. To me it looks like he's saying '<i>forget the pole, see if you can get me next!' </i></p><p>I'm so happy with my decision to send him there. They are very communicative and are looking after him well. </p><p>I wasn't expecting Quaid to have so much trouble settling in, but I did expect Carmen to struggle. </p><p>Turns out I was wrong on both counts. She has taken to her current situation with total aplomb. Tanya told me that '<i>she rolled in like owned the place'. </i></p><p>She even appears to have a boyfriend. Her neighbour is this lovable Fjord named Marshall. He's very laid back and those two have really hit it off. He even lets her share his hay net. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNUzwE-OO_QtoCHbqJuMyzW3SV3CevSr8rM8tYzyji0Tx4VA2MKCvBMydmOO3GMW7npgqeQmMdSSlYvmCpRvi7JOyjS-cw0Zv2N6RKrky1x6e2JUJsg2yKuX4yDwKc_VkTfBLY08Rchfvn5QOoGfLIO4LOBzZ8mUZstwlq_YxGvK0LOyBuodQnP3SvS8/s1813/IMG_B835B5697966-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1813" data-original-width="838" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNUzwE-OO_QtoCHbqJuMyzW3SV3CevSr8rM8tYzyji0Tx4VA2MKCvBMydmOO3GMW7npgqeQmMdSSlYvmCpRvi7JOyjS-cw0Zv2N6RKrky1x6e2JUJsg2yKuX4yDwKc_VkTfBLY08Rchfvn5QOoGfLIO4LOBzZ8mUZstwlq_YxGvK0LOyBuodQnP3SvS8/s320/IMG_B835B5697966-1.jpeg" width="148" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I mean how can you stand the cuteness? <br />It's a dinner date! </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Carmen has a large stall that opens into a nice little paddock. She has her own hay but doesn't mind sharing Marshall's. I'm already semi-planning to sneak him on the trailer with her when we leave (shhh don't tell Stephanie). <div><br /></div><div>I am enjoying having access to the indoor. It's quite nice. The first couple days I lunged and free-lunged her to get a feel for what she thought of it. The far end has a lot of 'stuff' and she was definitely wary. I immediately made that end the 'rest end' and now she loves going down there. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF40SKAaMBDNuMzYWLczwmgidHUhUPUNruhyphenhyphenoFuAXdLa_yiK5S10WtVVu-j0jM_U85-H_KEgIXqoDitIkX5OdB1hqg4t_KCpMntVoKIzTmTnKNGb3bKiDQoC_JWuLcZhVwumVmbtl9SFtoa8y44UfBICbr3X_0ZaVd-CLNIHUJcecWzQhMC11VG1hIfgc/s4032/IMG_6202.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF40SKAaMBDNuMzYWLczwmgidHUhUPUNruhyphenhyphenoFuAXdLa_yiK5S10WtVVu-j0jM_U85-H_KEgIXqoDitIkX5OdB1hqg4t_KCpMntVoKIzTmTnKNGb3bKiDQoC_JWuLcZhVwumVmbtl9SFtoa8y44UfBICbr3X_0ZaVd-CLNIHUJcecWzQhMC11VG1hIfgc/s320/IMG_6202.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's fascinated with these little hobby horses<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">It's neat to have mirrors as well. I am trying to get used to watching myself. I've ridden her about 3 times, each time going a little longer and asking for a little more. Nothing to get too excited about, just getting back into shape. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Carmen is intrigued by the mirrors but not worried. She's seen mirrors before of course. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsBKX6JBRnYsNO0HkC5fDNdBTQzh9FovaUDiRfMXJiufIZqGQJ5mzWtWPDdKgFZ0dNul2w_yS-sGwsB7yVKJ1CnhMXGcd7SovzITK6V5FLPBp9G5hJpwUMuOxuuGYX4LEbKRL8Dbe7brknFIkpnNhmkjnfyTrN5xXQRKts8U5b8anyn_i3tG7P32mxZk/s4032/IMG_6229.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsBKX6JBRnYsNO0HkC5fDNdBTQzh9FovaUDiRfMXJiufIZqGQJ5mzWtWPDdKgFZ0dNul2w_yS-sGwsB7yVKJ1CnhMXGcd7SovzITK6V5FLPBp9G5hJpwUMuOxuuGYX4LEbKRL8Dbe7brknFIkpnNhmkjnfyTrN5xXQRKts8U5b8anyn_i3tG7P32mxZk/s320/IMG_6229.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But after our first ride I halted and dismounted with us facing them. I took off her bridle- which is the usual routine. I normally take it off and she follows me to put her halter on. But this time she just stood there starting at herself. I waited and waited and finally had to go get her. She can be so adorable at time. </div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2Jl3Wa8BTmJYe5G0uv5cCV0AZruJvpTBBqz2XLoZ5czwboyTfA9owX5zSOK_kMTgpCP5KG_r-jHq3veoY0djPlFaUXofJxL4Kxo_l5Wr07XFVicvwIGgjyOd-pljC7X6r7KZzIqBe5SaoFtuot_2VbxAyk0XG7sv9D-mA2or4PrrqKyl4E8wwamUhfw/s4032/IMG_6232.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ2Jl3Wa8BTmJYe5G0uv5cCV0AZruJvpTBBqz2XLoZ5czwboyTfA9owX5zSOK_kMTgpCP5KG_r-jHq3veoY0djPlFaUXofJxL4Kxo_l5Wr07XFVicvwIGgjyOd-pljC7X6r7KZzIqBe5SaoFtuot_2VbxAyk0XG7sv9D-mA2or4PrrqKyl4E8wwamUhfw/s320/IMG_6232.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: I'm looking pretty good</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div>So Carmen is settling in like a seasoned horse. Which she is, of course. I know that intellectually, but I still always feel like I have to manage her carefully. Maybe someday I'll get over that. </div><div><br /></div><div>I expected it to be weird to not have horses home. And it really is. I miss them like crazy. But February will fly by and then they will be home. </div><div><br /></div><div>And then the fun can really begin. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8Fm6wNt8WM9lHbvACvHWvBti0W6uCRax0R_TBfd8cSkkujggn2bDnmQoU_JcSEsQz0JU7dZ43BMKM3_tvEAiZK3PTaxBzvzDMQdBzw5vBqWBz6uKXu1AO8-3Um1DNLbg3VfCtb2ho5Ax6y1bEVho2TZq6hIbYCug82Z-2etLE_aD8tGb50GZC4M-MZ0/s480/IMG_6922-preview.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8Fm6wNt8WM9lHbvACvHWvBti0W6uCRax0R_TBfd8cSkkujggn2bDnmQoU_JcSEsQz0JU7dZ43BMKM3_tvEAiZK3PTaxBzvzDMQdBzw5vBqWBz6uKXu1AO8-3Um1DNLbg3VfCtb2ho5Ax6y1bEVho2TZq6hIbYCug82Z-2etLE_aD8tGb50GZC4M-MZ0/s320/IMG_6922-preview.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div><p><br /></p></div></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-64557533747158159062024-02-01T20:38:00.000-04:002024-03-03T11:02:42.092-04:00The Further Adventures of Teresa, Quaid and Julia<p> So when I last wrote a post, I shared that Quaid was heading off to training and Carmen to a place with an indoor for the month. You may recall, from previous posts, I am not a fan of trailering in the winter. It makes me nervous. Which makes me work on all sorts of plans and contingency plans (this will make sense later). </p><p>Mike and Nikki are about 3 hours away which leaves a lot of room for different weather. Fortunately, the forecast was pretty good for Feb 1. My original plan was to take Quaid today and Carmen tomorrow morning. But then the forecast changed and the weather was going to be iffy tomorrow. Maybe. Probably. It could be rain or snow or a mix or nothing. Could be 2 cm or 5 or 10. </p><p>Sigh. </p><p>So I decided to make it a long day and take Carmen after I got home from dropping off Quaid. It would be a long day but everyone would be settled. </p><p>My plan was to leave a 9, missing the rush hour traffic through the city but early enough to have time to drop him off and get back with lots of time to get Carmen loaded (a 10 minute drive). Julia took the day off to be my wing person. Before we left I posted this cute little image with the caption "<i>Quaid is off to school. Wish us luck". </i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiempHSD5_gGQRANZfhKfo9GNHJ0kY0oPtBnJSEUEDclGB2lg7HxR8AlXE_tJajQ2W_6zmWw09z3MMmCiu6OH51eKSCSZDM_phO4seqv3yurIlBIq9FTmVIDZIu0W1xBiBc4M4Afsa6pLJAKolBXKLkmuNfSlTgGfKWrbCCZIQB9Lz9VVOtnnq9bE_aPL4/s1024/425345967_10161762359443593_3549797752997830027_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiempHSD5_gGQRANZfhKfo9GNHJ0kY0oPtBnJSEUEDclGB2lg7HxR8AlXE_tJajQ2W_6zmWw09z3MMmCiu6OH51eKSCSZDM_phO4seqv3yurIlBIq9FTmVIDZIu0W1xBiBc4M4Afsa6pLJAKolBXKLkmuNfSlTgGfKWrbCCZIQB9Lz9VVOtnnq9bE_aPL4/s320/425345967_10161762359443593_3549797752997830027_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Oh for those earlier times when I was young and full of hope. </p><p>The first 90 minutes were uneventful. A few slow downs from construction but we made really good time. I even commented '<i>this trip is going really well'. </i></p><p>Then I looked in my mirrors and saw a bunch of smoke billowing behind me. </p><p><i>what? </i>I thought. At first thinking it was spray. then yet more smoke billowed out. </p><p><i>Where is that smoke coming from?! </i>I said. </p><p><i>What smoke?</i> Julia said. I don't see any. </p><p><i>Look in the mirror </i> said grimly as I started to slow and pull over. </p><p>When I got I could hear Quaid whinnying. Smoke was billowing out from the back of the truck. I thought I had blown a tire but couldn't see anything. Then Julia looked under the back and said '<i>the truck is on fire'. </i></p><p><i>Call 911!</i> I said. Then frantically thought about what I should do. If it was just the truck I would have backed away but my beloved horse was attached to the truck. Unloading him on the side of a busy highway didn't seem like a good plan either. Honestly, the cars were speeding by this smoking truck without even slowing or moving over. </p><p>So I did what any sensible person would do. I grabbed my water bottle from the cab, went under the truck and doused the fire. The flames flared and then, miraculously, went out. </p><p>I went in the trailer. It was full of smoke and Quaid was giving me the hairy eyeball. But was staying calm. </p><p>Then the fire truck rolled up. The firefighters got out and looked. <i>We heard there was a fire but there isn't one. </i></p><p><i>Not now </i>I said. <i>I put it out. </i></p><p>Then we all looked at the truck. <i>"oh I see, the back end went out of 'er'. </i>The box at the back blew out leaking oil all over the back of the truck. Which then caught fire. </p><p>Then it was time to figure out what to do next. I felt at a loss. One of the firefighters was a horse owner and offered to get someone to get us to Truro so I could make arrangements. He told me that it wasn't safe on the side of the road. Which is wasn't. </p><p>I put out a call on FB: 'Help, my truck is on fire on the side of the road. Horse is onboard'. </p><p>Within minutes my phone blew up with messages and offers to help. I was overwhelmed. First with '<i>holy fuck my truck caught fire!' </i>and '<i>holy fuck, people are amazing'. </i></p><p>My phone rang and it was my friend Nicole (where Jane boards). </p><p><i>Hi Teresa it's Nicole</i></p><p><i>Hi Nicole how are you? </i></p><p><i>Better than you are right now I hear. </i></p><p><i>*laugh*sob*</i></p><p><i>Jane told me to bring her truck to you to haul your trailer. </i></p><p><i>Oh thank god. </i></p><p><i>Where are you?</i></p><p><i>*gives really garbled directions*</i></p><p><i>*silence* I'm sure we'll see you. </i></p><p>So now that there was a plan I could reach out and let people know. Someone had called and offered to come and get me but they were in Bridgewater. I called him back and said I didn't need him. But I asked him if he could go and get Carmen for me. So we arranged for that. It was one less thing to worry about. </p><p>In the meantime the firefighters did not want to leave us unprotected on the side of the road. They were blocking the lane next to us. But they couldn't really stay. So they arranged for the police to come and block the lane for us until we could leave. </p><p>I had Julia call Ed for me (she had earlier to let him know what happened) to tell him that we were getting a truck and carrying on to Amherst. The truck would be on the side of the road for him to get towed. </p><p>Julia called her sister to get her to go to the barn and wait for the guy to pick up Carmen. He was late but then Tanya was able to go. </p><p>Nicole and Greg arrived with the trucks. Greg looked at the truck, I told them that it had caught fire. </p><p><i>What did you do? </i>Asked Greg</p><p><i>I went under the truck and emptied a water bottle on the fire</i> I said. </p><p>He looked at me with the <i>'horse people are crazy' </i>look. </p><p><i>My horse was on the trailer. I had no choice! I will not have my horse die in a fire. </i></p><p>Julie went in the trailer to keep Quaid calm,, Greg unhooked the truck, I pulled it forward and he hooked up Jane's truck. Nicole helped me to transfer the feed. Five minutes later we were on the road. </p><p>I had informed Nikki, who also gave me some numbers to call. I told her we had it sorted. She texted me that I didn't need to come and we could work it out. But I was half-way and I honestly couldn't imagine going home and starting over. </p><p>While we were on the road Stephanie and Tanya texted that the guy had a flat tire so was going to be late. About an hour later she texted that she was on the road. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqEUqhXewhhx1qI1r9a_VV7ClFq1-eI3p1puOc4tWiPNcD-myudN1jwEdxHEUZKdpzWsuPmEldTx4RLZ9dVJPP5WugOiHtcETOZckYxSWMuO8Ll7VMdMHBk8VWuP4NOxHmJoAFFJOqoLvwLS7B-PU3hZ8mMc_QTlY3GqDvnBmRQj_AVlXC2sjjOuHZYY/s2048/72850595862__C540C6A6-B6FF-4B99-B8A4-575FE9AE1A7D.HEIC.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqEUqhXewhhx1qI1r9a_VV7ClFq1-eI3p1puOc4tWiPNcD-myudN1jwEdxHEUZKdpzWsuPmEldTx4RLZ9dVJPP5WugOiHtcETOZckYxSWMuO8Ll7VMdMHBk8VWuP4NOxHmJoAFFJOqoLvwLS7B-PU3hZ8mMc_QTlY3GqDvnBmRQj_AVlXC2sjjOuHZYY/s320/72850595862__C540C6A6-B6FF-4B99-B8A4-575FE9AE1A7D.HEIC.JPEG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo proof from Tanya</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>In the meantime my phone was blowing up with so many offers of help and advice. It was amazing. Like all of you- THANK YOU! There's a lot of negative about FB but it can really be a force for good. </div><div><br /></div><div>We finally pulled into Mike and Nikki's place. Quaid unloaded and walked to his stall and grabbed some hay. My lesson from this: buy the horse that can stand on a trailer attached to a flaming, smoking truck, while traffic whizzed by, with firetrucks and police cars. Then stands quietly while the truck is unhitched and new truck hitched up. Travel another 90 minutes and land in a strange place and then say '<i>cool, where am I now? the hay is good'. </i></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR11yLrEa0V_D9sR48qE6SUIjADIwfz0NXLJITDvkU0r6n1GRBO9GaIJdqnJmVXAw2XsOK5pivHfzr4SqfCKMjSYeQ435G7kkMFy1DebFYpdlo-Y8kR9KNX-dlX_9oPHMo4a5joUZrPOxf0SD3bv2YIxWHWk_X0iR9JLi_tUvRaAdbGfT3_FM4Et5xwnU/s4032/IMG_6195.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR11yLrEa0V_D9sR48qE6SUIjADIwfz0NXLJITDvkU0r6n1GRBO9GaIJdqnJmVXAw2XsOK5pivHfzr4SqfCKMjSYeQ435G7kkMFy1DebFYpdlo-Y8kR9KNX-dlX_9oPHMo4a5joUZrPOxf0SD3bv2YIxWHWk_X0iR9JLi_tUvRaAdbGfT3_FM4Et5xwnU/s320/IMG_6195.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><i><br /></i></div><div>After talking about some things we headed home. Ed let us know that the truck was towed and he would have dinner waiting for when we get home. I love him so much. </div><div><br /></div><div>While we were driving I got this photo from Tanya: </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGiC7GNHcqajxOfd_IrMSLfHXybx77lEcmBWKgZxtSkcxfmSrtDs0XQveGUwNUyAKGl3cOxJK1_F8U9XaJXH2EzqeR0oQaP9GNiMLOAFPTfAmJj73VKSqfTmI_nJ-ehvHBjJpleSwcjJI92nIg4sqEhcdWG5Wwt6xsIYkJtZEBgr1pTofjI168EQxerU/s2048/72850716809__4357BAB4-0652-437C-BAE0-E1041F294D57.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGiC7GNHcqajxOfd_IrMSLfHXybx77lEcmBWKgZxtSkcxfmSrtDs0XQveGUwNUyAKGl3cOxJK1_F8U9XaJXH2EzqeR0oQaP9GNiMLOAFPTfAmJj73VKSqfTmI_nJ-ehvHBjJpleSwcjJI92nIg4sqEhcdWG5Wwt6xsIYkJtZEBgr1pTofjI168EQxerU/s320/72850716809__4357BAB4-0652-437C-BAE0-E1041F294D57.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: I've been kidnapped. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>God I love the women in my life. They are warm and open and generous. With their time, help and trucks. </div><div><br /></div><div>What a freaking chain of events. I am home now and exhausted. Julia and I both agree that no more horse plans in February. </div><div><br /></div><div>How was your day? </div><div><br /><p><br /></p></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-14538849891185418502024-01-29T15:14:00.000-04:002024-01-29T15:14:12.680-04:00Shaking Up the Status Quo<p> I have been really remiss in blogging this month. Mostly because it's been a quiet month on the horse front. </p><p>I did get to ride a bit when we had a January thaw. The ring was soft but not too bad. I had decided to ride Carmen first and then lunge Quaid. Well, Mr. Quaid took exception to being left behind. We mostly ignored it but then he backed up to the fence and let fly with both hind legs, getting them tangled in the middle tape. Fortunately, the fence did what it was designed to do: rip out the insulators and loosen so he could get his leg free. I was so pissed at him. Fortunately, he escaped without a mark, although I hope that he got a real jolt from the electric. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14bZuNMxVdqs4caTOXd9z26JbToTFdZjWHNRc1iaNiw9kF35wsnDgBosUvt3TjVoBggaNWoEB3CmeYIYa_C2uHI3s18VoTxLgw-69wRg6_cyA83xvlJwTHoT52hTXx6QpQnfrSwBA0iC5Maje5FD0lqF73Dfz4GSR8ZbTbCCGaOzScyr0CgcHJqXKnNo/s4032/IMG_6086.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg14bZuNMxVdqs4caTOXd9z26JbToTFdZjWHNRc1iaNiw9kF35wsnDgBosUvt3TjVoBggaNWoEB3CmeYIYa_C2uHI3s18VoTxLgw-69wRg6_cyA83xvlJwTHoT52hTXx6QpQnfrSwBA0iC5Maje5FD0lqF73Dfz4GSR8ZbTbCCGaOzScyr0CgcHJqXKnNo/s320/IMG_6086.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">here he is grazing as though nothing happened.<br />Remind me of this when I want to get another baby</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Carmen was very behaved through all of this. But when it was all quiet and I was thinking that we were done she gave a shy and a bolt at nothing I could see and so we weren't done. <div><br /></div><div>After this the weather turned freezing again so riding was done. Two days after this event I found Carmen with a fat leg int he morning. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyN_GaXeWzvp-YNYFesVTD2t_gTjUMF8gI000-g-NPuuuyBuBU74Cd9mN4q-Bg_yNF-dgqe42rBXEa99V8zplKFzk_MQ2fCfCBgatckZrNjC8YNECcffgQloLmBmMfZo78TOh2CnLW73dDvFW2N1LRG0xRuQWWwxr1UIz6Ryd-onHmEnMr68xG9bdB0M/s4032/IMG_6111.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyN_GaXeWzvp-YNYFesVTD2t_gTjUMF8gI000-g-NPuuuyBuBU74Cd9mN4q-Bg_yNF-dgqe42rBXEa99V8zplKFzk_MQ2fCfCBgatckZrNjC8YNECcffgQloLmBmMfZo78TOh2CnLW73dDvFW2N1LRG0xRuQWWwxr1UIz6Ryd-onHmEnMr68xG9bdB0M/s320/IMG_6111.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sigh</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I have no idea what happened but I suspect that the frozen surface with mud underneath contributed to it. I contacted the vet but we figured out a plan without her having to come out. If her leg didn't go down in a few days then she'd come out: Bute, ice boot, wrapped at night and voltaren (which I didn't know about but worked great). Fortunately, the treatment plan worked and within 72 hours her leg was back to normal. </div><div><br /></div><div>Lest you think that the month is all doom and gloom, this guy turned 7 on January first. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4Ow59nGrvYer7AgefSVpHZSOXy2TMm5KM-6yL8BHCp3QxVClGdbOx4-azufdKLFRyZUFHOygxffRtVddrCv3wUCZh8j9wY3dyodhLZKUoiIxNTRZRAskDP4oTHb7gFrGCeujgfqnE8YJTQf9s7DUmJkXX4fzl6HBScp3Xzkc5zyh3yKVC42Uh6cAMh4/s4032/IMG_6020.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4Ow59nGrvYer7AgefSVpHZSOXy2TMm5KM-6yL8BHCp3QxVClGdbOx4-azufdKLFRyZUFHOygxffRtVddrCv3wUCZh8j9wY3dyodhLZKUoiIxNTRZRAskDP4oTHb7gFrGCeujgfqnE8YJTQf9s7DUmJkXX4fzl6HBScp3Xzkc5zyh3yKVC42Uh6cAMh4/s320/IMG_6020.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the best sidekick, oops I mean <br />'head of security'</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>January really isn't a month to do much in terms of horses. But it is great for making plans. February is going to be a busy month for both horses. </div><div><br /></div><div>Quaid goes on February 1 for four weeks of training at Mike and Nikki's. They are the ones that do the Obstacle Clinics. I am excited for him to do lots of learning. It is definitely time. This will be the first time I have ever sent a horse for training. I've usually either brought someone here or bumbled along with good intentions and luck. This time I want to start things off well. So while it's weird for me to send a horse away I also know it'll be be good for both of us. Quaid is growing like a weed. He's a solid 15'2 behind now and filling out. Although he continues to look mismatched in every single photo that is not how he looks in person (I swear). </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWsjHlVz6K6qtxyQXRqlTcGu7A2h1xLx61JLrJT0WJMRG5tRCqbVUUSaPGqOqct4NTtE3XCwcXLsCp03OyNN2Cr_tRsMD4uKIOTpsVqgLDPU_UQMKX4cqSO7ROraegquNSJ5_JwSwHd0yDVnIzprYB2Rnf-mmc7jic2wcFyLEMze9sC14IYpttZcPKFs/s4032/IMG_6155.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWsjHlVz6K6qtxyQXRqlTcGu7A2h1xLx61JLrJT0WJMRG5tRCqbVUUSaPGqOqct4NTtE3XCwcXLsCp03OyNN2Cr_tRsMD4uKIOTpsVqgLDPU_UQMKX4cqSO7ROraegquNSJ5_JwSwHd0yDVnIzprYB2Rnf-mmc7jic2wcFyLEMze9sC14IYpttZcPKFs/s320/IMG_6155.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me: Quaid pose for your fans<br />Quaid: Sure! *stands awkwardly*<br />And this was the best one! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Which leaves Carmen. And I did a lot of fretting and planning to figure out how to manage her for the month. Then a friend of mine offered for her to go to her place. It will be perfect: she's just 10 minutes away and has an indoor. So Carmen can get some training in too. this will be good because lately she's been quite challenging in her ground manners. I can't figure out why and I've been dealing with them as they arise. My only thoughts are that without me riding and her dominance of Quaid she's getting a bit dominant with me. Which is never gonna fly. </div><div><br /></div><div>I think separating the two of them will be good for both of them, even though it will be incredibly weird for me to not have horses at home for the first time in 12 years. I am hoping to get up to where Quaid is a few times to see how he's doing. Then in March everyone comes home and hopefully things will be thawed enough to seamlessly pick up the work. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDYX-EiUhTpVgI05qBqv50rrzTUU7pfIQrjedG0_9aHGYYR1BRqMj5s_8TbKzek-e96j7j0OGTn3VpU1R_dJ4phGlr4qxl0iuMDN07yHPitfiqkC1NTx5DVxwCDk6vnlqzukHS2Ah_2rc3siK1cgY_iFznn1tnc9opx9qX59ErjEJe10K_NmeSpzxK0Q/s4032/IMG_6128.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDYX-EiUhTpVgI05qBqv50rrzTUU7pfIQrjedG0_9aHGYYR1BRqMj5s_8TbKzek-e96j7j0OGTn3VpU1R_dJ4phGlr4qxl0iuMDN07yHPitfiqkC1NTx5DVxwCDk6vnlqzukHS2Ah_2rc3siK1cgY_iFznn1tnc9opx9qX59ErjEJe10K_NmeSpzxK0Q/s320/IMG_6128.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His first running braid. Not bad at all</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /><div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-42636568376071072932024-01-13T15:51:00.001-04:002024-01-13T15:51:56.719-04:00It's Funny Because It's True<p> In september I joined the local photography club. I used to belong many years ago but it dropped away because of the busyness of life. I have missed the creative outlet so decided to rejoin. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zZ6-VKbRgw86E22yagrSm1_bjD1XWSrkDjQ83bmhRCiJXFAX7c0BkLohTUY6ERKk8yYwx6A3YjZWqhPnvNY0Kjtw69PhMhLozBDEgKL0WlgboOARw5S4833l3YEDjRB3NrPzBSGYocdd3HRGO0Vk5Q3Yr0_AEl-LpHP6proHJOT7pCdjdWvYxI05_lY/s3395/quaid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3395" data-original-width="2716" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zZ6-VKbRgw86E22yagrSm1_bjD1XWSrkDjQ83bmhRCiJXFAX7c0BkLohTUY6ERKk8yYwx6A3YjZWqhPnvNY0Kjtw69PhMhLozBDEgKL0WlgboOARw5S4833l3YEDjRB3NrPzBSGYocdd3HRGO0Vk5Q3Yr0_AEl-LpHP6proHJOT7pCdjdWvYxI05_lY/s320/quaid.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaid: is this why you alway point that <br />rectangle at me? </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It feels good to knock the rust off. Last week I went to the first meeting of 2024. There was a speaker talking about how to make money with photos. I realised after a bit that I was likely the only one who had no interest in making money but I do enjoy learning. It was a good session with lots of interaction. </p><p>As I listened I became more amused. It was summed up when one participant said '<i>I don't want to make a living, it would be nice if I could make enough to cover my equipment'. </i></p><p>Now I know that good camera gear is expensive. Like I say, why have one expensive hobby when you can have <i>two?</i> But I couldn't help but relate this to horses. I don't think that any of my friends think about recouping their costs of having horses. </p><p>So I decided to say something. I said that I was really enjoying the presentation even though I had no interest in making money from photography. </p><p><i>But</i> I said, <i>I have another passion- horses. And as I listen to you talk about the money you spend on camera equipment, printers and stuff, I have to tell you that compared to horse owners y'all are amateurs. The only way to make a million dollars in horses is to start with two million.'</i></p><p>My point being, of course, that we should follow our passion because we love it, not expecting to make money. (Of course I know that some people make a living with horses, but not us AAs). </p><p>This comment fell into the room like a stone. <i>Uh oh</i> I thought. And then scrambled to say that of course people can try to earn money and I wasn't telling people to not do that. All the while thinking <i>"One day I will learn to keep my mouth shut. Maybe when I'm dead'. </i></p><p>Then in the lull, one of the members said <i>Oh, you have horses? Do you think we could come and do a field trip at your place? </i></p><p><i>Of course</i> I said. </p><p>Horses, somehow their magic transcends all the expense and work. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildiKIZsPQ4HBsFezJ_a9yIfwYoWdEEfM9EPTLZdOhxT3awPS-uPySD4KRdCGLsEcYzHhsFM3PrKoO6TasnGRRrAoDGcE20vpGfhqy3SbqlaEEMnripdI4PiSwQ8TWQg2PT6TSOWh-oyFHBFsvNBfSInSJ_Hcd2cZtgs6fMipaEuuSChh0uJ8Ackich04/s385/horses-cost-money.png.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="385" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildiKIZsPQ4HBsFezJ_a9yIfwYoWdEEfM9EPTLZdOhxT3awPS-uPySD4KRdCGLsEcYzHhsFM3PrKoO6TasnGRRrAoDGcE20vpGfhqy3SbqlaEEMnripdI4PiSwQ8TWQg2PT6TSOWh-oyFHBFsvNBfSInSJ_Hcd2cZtgs6fMipaEuuSChh0uJ8Ackich04/s320/horses-cost-money.png.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-59607844843456572372024-01-07T12:50:00.000-04:002024-01-07T12:50:04.691-04:002023 Performance Review <p> Well it's that time of year again. Winter has landed and this leaves me with time to reflect on my goals <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/01/victory-log-2022-goal-recap-2023-plans.html" target="_blank">from last year</a> and to plan out this year. Not that anything is ever guaran.....</p><p>*ahem*</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2kflV86V1kRj7fiTZXYT8aGgy2ZSmNtwQFCTHWy887aqBdjFDi-d3Hn8nKXneMOUFrIoNeQ-GZi85xZUfggqbaftOLDioxEl-qhePKd1Q9RFVqDQoiTUo4dFJw_YpPRMEuQusM5RWI_rYO03KRnBkIxxE7uWXBaZvipLIxfXF9dngnAbDRNfh5eH0Bi8/s1024/_e1643cb9-113b-4db5-98f0-905585957ee1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2kflV86V1kRj7fiTZXYT8aGgy2ZSmNtwQFCTHWy887aqBdjFDi-d3Hn8nKXneMOUFrIoNeQ-GZi85xZUfggqbaftOLDioxEl-qhePKd1Q9RFVqDQoiTUo4dFJw_YpPRMEuQusM5RWI_rYO03KRnBkIxxE7uWXBaZvipLIxfXF9dngnAbDRNfh5eH0Bi8/s320/_e1643cb9-113b-4db5-98f0-905585957ee1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Me: Yes Carmen. </p><p>Carmen: Well it occurs to me that you are in a conflict of interest- doing the performance review on yourself. </p><p><i>Me:.....</i></p><p><i>Carmen: </i>I mean, it's much more useful coming from an outside source, don't you think? And as. your partner I think I'm in the best position to provide the feedback. So it's settled. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJULRX_cdgrSKDhfMn4oKxyVjNObVf_7aMHCoeAvIW93eY_ry7YZCfCJ_hzHbOV_fBfjg6ewXNhPStvKktrElo84t5kD2sIfjhqZEnEvUNBmviohYx3EXb02-UVs_hWqPr_qNTWGZAEol0Qz3wxTXVTkN2dyiPuTqgEMQ6lglu-OpdAlJbe0ZJZVO4iXs/s1024/_2b0e1d54-beed-4493-a17f-ed875b13de10.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJULRX_cdgrSKDhfMn4oKxyVjNObVf_7aMHCoeAvIW93eY_ry7YZCfCJ_hzHbOV_fBfjg6ewXNhPStvKktrElo84t5kD2sIfjhqZEnEvUNBmviohYx3EXb02-UVs_hWqPr_qNTWGZAEol0Qz3wxTXVTkN2dyiPuTqgEMQ6lglu-OpdAlJbe0ZJZVO4iXs/s320/_2b0e1d54-beed-4493-a17f-ed875b13de10.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p><i>Quaid: </i> What about me? Don't I get to have some input? </p><p><i>Carmen: </i> not yet, you are too young. So settle down skippy. Now, let's see what we have here. </p><p><b>#1: 'Figure out what it means to be retired'.</b></p><p><i>Carmen: </i> Well we all know how that worked out. I think you should return to work. </p><p><i>Me: </i>But, but, I think I did really well. I've read a lot of books and got lots of riding in. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>Exactly. Far too much riding if you ask me. Clearly you need something to occupy your time. </p><p><i>Me: </i>Can I just point out that I also had a lot more time to serve you and both of us are in better shape then we've been in years? Also, next year I'll have two horses to ride and that should take some pressure off of you.......so.....</p><p><i>Carmen: </i>Okay, you do have a point with that. Okay, let's trial it for one more year. You can be on retirement probation. </p><p><b>#2: Continue to work on keeping Carmen with me rather than making her own decisions</b></p><p><i>Me: </i>I am quite pleased with this one. I feel that we are communicating much better and I have become more clear in my aids and sticking to the plan. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>I see your point but you do recognise that this is supposed to be a <i>partnership</i> and I should not be stifled. </p><p><i>Me:</i> Not stifled, just not blowing up because you're tired and a bird flew by. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE2aEWUwv9jCAXKNNXchEwUpyz0wIfp9yAWHz-pHs7kRmZ9QqJdm6LDUU5fLgk4Q6vFiVegBFcnC6sDgFpf30HBFMPivZbod3hhI6wiXAvOczeDakzHpGOUdvzE-LdunAtSLsUHwvpwg25y-twD-BvfQbAXnGDDFSdoF_O1VN3Qw-TXz6tM0bowMUUQM/s1474/IMG_4898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="1474" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmE2aEWUwv9jCAXKNNXchEwUpyz0wIfp9yAWHz-pHs7kRmZ9QqJdm6LDUU5fLgk4Q6vFiVegBFcnC6sDgFpf30HBFMPivZbod3hhI6wiXAvOczeDakzHpGOUdvzE-LdunAtSLsUHwvpwg25y-twD-BvfQbAXnGDDFSdoF_O1VN3Qw-TXz6tM0bowMUUQM/s320/IMG_4898.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">case in point</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><i>Carmen: </i>you really do not appreciate it when I save. your life. </p><p><i>Me: </i>But we had far more good moments this year then bad. In fact you were magnificent. Look at our success at the shows. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>Well that is true. I was pretty good wasn't I? </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUy-aTNpaTzO0stoIkcGsE3t8mnwUa2f3rPQ_xB0axqQ4-fVnf2T41s-hZByEUFMd6PPNtMNPqTXTP6FKbJ77uxC283B1CcwSxxm5930DLrq_XfBo5epmvO5B5ovfnqxlQHzvbO1reNQ8VjSLoMoibg6XpbrbCwzIAmiOnW5VrR0RK9ZW-x2CG8pTTKKo/s1262/IMG_5231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1005" data-original-width="1262" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUy-aTNpaTzO0stoIkcGsE3t8mnwUa2f3rPQ_xB0axqQ4-fVnf2T41s-hZByEUFMd6PPNtMNPqTXTP6FKbJ77uxC283B1CcwSxxm5930DLrq_XfBo5epmvO5B5ovfnqxlQHzvbO1reNQ8VjSLoMoibg6XpbrbCwzIAmiOnW5VrR0RK9ZW-x2CG8pTTKKo/s320/IMG_5231.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9oDX5gZQBueu4fmTqSVRGVjsUt2tjOhtDt35wR3i6vgxVHhHImViCiUcQ5eo19SL-ZsWtG2I2J3DumIjnfHd44EarPjzvskeaXxWjcD0xPneQ4wwOOwnP1GGb-3J8ZUPu2FY9pXUQaUFoIkL-Q41F9xH9I_SLeTZK2zy542hn8qF848alysau2ojCaWM/s1450/IMG_5427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="1450" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9oDX5gZQBueu4fmTqSVRGVjsUt2tjOhtDt35wR3i6vgxVHhHImViCiUcQ5eo19SL-ZsWtG2I2J3DumIjnfHd44EarPjzvskeaXxWjcD0xPneQ4wwOOwnP1GGb-3J8ZUPu2FY9pXUQaUFoIkL-Q41F9xH9I_SLeTZK2zy542hn8qF848alysau2ojCaWM/s320/IMG_5427.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHgQcKouqzo8e3kCKMfa_A7psW-2MImu1vw2XBWAePj4f5FAbRLjKFbKeiIBx_3flqdL5MPId55_HaKV-W74H8r5UxTuUcS845VaXI9kFwLOZbWDsISYivfy8uvx_v7t4KsMOBd9gIp3s_qSAZhJvZXSC_kHXyLZJvbQWo6OzxaNM97dcJEBOmKnS8G0/s4032/IMG_4840.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHgQcKouqzo8e3kCKMfa_A7psW-2MImu1vw2XBWAePj4f5FAbRLjKFbKeiIBx_3flqdL5MPId55_HaKV-W74H8r5UxTuUcS845VaXI9kFwLOZbWDsISYivfy8uvx_v7t4KsMOBd9gIp3s_qSAZhJvZXSC_kHXyLZJvbQWo6OzxaNM97dcJEBOmKnS8G0/s320/IMG_4840.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><b>#3. Show as much as possible</b></p><p><i>Me: </i>Well we did two. Having some unexpected vet bills made me cut back on some plans. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>Which is more than enough really. </p><p><i>Me: </i>But we did so well at our shows and at 2nd Level. I was really happy with how we grew from one show to the next. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>I was really happy that you began to trust me and loosen up a bit. </p><p><br /></p><p><b>#4: Support Quaid in becoming a grown up horse. </b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9QU2YREpUs7DWfR47fbSdV96TFXWVDQI5XrjBF16Lx-AvtlY7_QoiUObyIrwrDfY0WZ_oDD9GOFXqzFN2s8b6un0csznzz4Wl6h1aDAux3T61D0AFZdQuM6pqbychIvDc_78gmz4izoYVhSDnIn6n72RW4rAkZcMICWXo2TRW0RE25cll0v4aM27GkU/s1024/_47e390ec-e875-4634-bbb7-a33615186edd.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9QU2YREpUs7DWfR47fbSdV96TFXWVDQI5XrjBF16Lx-AvtlY7_QoiUObyIrwrDfY0WZ_oDD9GOFXqzFN2s8b6un0csznzz4Wl6h1aDAux3T61D0AFZdQuM6pqbychIvDc_78gmz4izoYVhSDnIn6n72RW4rAkZcMICWXo2TRW0RE25cll0v4aM27GkU/s320/_47e390ec-e875-4634-bbb7-a33615186edd.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><i>Quaid</i>: This is me! I get to talk about this! I did really well this year. After such a terrible start. I never want to do that again. </p><p><i>Me: </i>The beginning was hard on all of us, but it was a great year for both of us. You are pretty solid with: </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>lunging</li><li>ground driving</li><li>playing with flags, tarps etc</li><li>self-loading</li><li>hanging out a shows (still need work on Carmen leaving)</li><li>being tacked up</li><li>standing while being mounted and dismounted</li><li>and being ridden. Even trotted for one whole circle. </li></ul><p></p><p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArld8LB8TMx_vuC_i3yeaydJpmflzYequbBFyO1HkbxZMWqbptZZkHEnt8p7iydc5eBRmwsg29PwRE5rnVdTCLjqclvcfm6JFwMRd_UGcSUC8vKqKhy832YDyGSA8bXlXhoX5gK_wfiKgQIfUxuk0h-DnJ3ZemHHoGN_95NkSU4i553z8yA_4DkkK0fQ/s1525/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1525" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArld8LB8TMx_vuC_i3yeaydJpmflzYequbBFyO1HkbxZMWqbptZZkHEnt8p7iydc5eBRmwsg29PwRE5rnVdTCLjqclvcfm6JFwMRd_UGcSUC8vKqKhy832YDyGSA8bXlXhoX5gK_wfiKgQIfUxuk0h-DnJ3ZemHHoGN_95NkSU4i553z8yA_4DkkK0fQ/s320/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">such a rock star and baby genius</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p><b>#5: Work on my riding skills: independence of Seat and Hand</b></p><p><i>Me: </i>We should probably let Jane weigh in here but I think that I have improved a lot. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>I will agree that you are much less annoying than you were. Not that there's not still a lot to work on. But I do appreciate the consistency and that you try. </p><p><i>Me: </i>Thanks! I know that being fitter has definitely helped. And having Jane's help was critical. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>I do like Jane. I'm not always sure why because she makes me work <i>really hard</i> but she also appreciates me for the magnificent mare I am. And she makes you easier to carry around. </p><p><b>#6 Have Fun with the Horses</b></p><p><i>Me: </i>We had a lot of fun this year, didn't we? Obstacle clinics, riding clinics, shows. Playing with liberty, travelling together as a little family? </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXNphz5dMpTFpbcx9KXKMUcGdSOvWVfiKZgfHuQw8ATglfanVunaOIqjNNUAvV0xK5SD3NKjg-d3DMonwEqganKoaF5VcoqVkkGCW7pUI8X4BnIYBfkUqRrqgxzqIjtZISYenWYKoGKAE6Ti5MrK8NKq1QTWI0D8xlHsHuWHNOh9hwyTFB8b3H0r13De4/s4032/F326E363-A4BA-4ECB-AD46-5C83F56297AD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXNphz5dMpTFpbcx9KXKMUcGdSOvWVfiKZgfHuQw8ATglfanVunaOIqjNNUAvV0xK5SD3NKjg-d3DMonwEqganKoaF5VcoqVkkGCW7pUI8X4BnIYBfkUqRrqgxzqIjtZISYenWYKoGKAE6Ti5MrK8NKq1QTWI0D8xlHsHuWHNOh9hwyTFB8b3H0r13De4/s320/F326E363-A4BA-4ECB-AD46-5C83F56297AD.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93atB6EsFD0Xe5y8zFLkKHd1FKToCB_BqyftAyeEcP1Rt3Le800iI44I1hGyBF0ueB3zP0xHw2BBcLrsKilypUmOoFSNR-6teEd3xlMs3SgPf-GE5s0qjze6O9_WCcHelHK0kyuOCfQhe8qHT3Kvn8YLGby8q95fV1vck744oHbybYJiZpNd5aCmjHCM/s1402/IMG_4765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1402" data-original-width="1100" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93atB6EsFD0Xe5y8zFLkKHd1FKToCB_BqyftAyeEcP1Rt3Le800iI44I1hGyBF0ueB3zP0xHw2BBcLrsKilypUmOoFSNR-6teEd3xlMs3SgPf-GE5s0qjze6O9_WCcHelHK0kyuOCfQhe8qHT3Kvn8YLGby8q95fV1vck744oHbybYJiZpNd5aCmjHCM/s320/IMG_4765.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVL5dfBFfman1mQANC4l-0pqYF3Dcc_Y1nog9kbDM4cN41Vw_Cz2HMc1Ix1hd-ZN95RbRpwjs26o022ZaHVYUyrS9d7X-Qv5W7ErzfcFGIrtnUJuulVeWZ0LiP4QfuDg3w5MsGgFpXaPj0i4YT7cHTnzwSIa1xNWAnPxV9zzuotCOlL34yCepJGB78kwI/s1411/IMG_4707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1019" data-original-width="1411" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVL5dfBFfman1mQANC4l-0pqYF3Dcc_Y1nog9kbDM4cN41Vw_Cz2HMc1Ix1hd-ZN95RbRpwjs26o022ZaHVYUyrS9d7X-Qv5W7ErzfcFGIrtnUJuulVeWZ0LiP4QfuDg3w5MsGgFpXaPj0i4YT7cHTnzwSIa1xNWAnPxV9zzuotCOlL34yCepJGB78kwI/s320/IMG_4707.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJdkRLPyzKeEIsau8hHm2bKj78eOirsih19DBmRGIEcnnJ5mB1ZuuidzqnArVcjMDq7f3_L9zPTmgwjjm0j6WhshSuWkdjkrIUWM3x3ydCUBlB0EMFj4pPCkFSQX_Q9F1njyxm7YFPMADSUyhhNUlby0PcmRthGqiy5PAYGvvY0CT1HlG1MTcwPAIGpU/s2048/353397678_10161294282023593_7217255601358153198_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJdkRLPyzKeEIsau8hHm2bKj78eOirsih19DBmRGIEcnnJ5mB1ZuuidzqnArVcjMDq7f3_L9zPTmgwjjm0j6WhshSuWkdjkrIUWM3x3ydCUBlB0EMFj4pPCkFSQX_Q9F1njyxm7YFPMADSUyhhNUlby0PcmRthGqiy5PAYGvvY0CT1HlG1MTcwPAIGpU/s320/353397678_10161294282023593_7217255601358153198_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOVVu6yU_xd4qJ4puV0DCT_OXWMmgvS5papFcjJShPcvLE5xqMkP7U3SY_8Zrklfr8ufHnsTTmFmDfeBei3H6e_hVaIysdCY48gpTMPBhcXs6P5Oxh1a9CEvX61rWx_hgUiXLYkR82rj_QXY-mBzIeitDe5lPctgtQkSGHKjtxdp5UqyQ-dPuS1F4f2I/s4032/IMG_5290.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOVVu6yU_xd4qJ4puV0DCT_OXWMmgvS5papFcjJShPcvLE5xqMkP7U3SY_8Zrklfr8ufHnsTTmFmDfeBei3H6e_hVaIysdCY48gpTMPBhcXs6P5Oxh1a9CEvX61rWx_hgUiXLYkR82rj_QXY-mBzIeitDe5lPctgtQkSGHKjtxdp5UqyQ-dPuS1F4f2I/s320/IMG_5290.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1TvYrN01XU2cHOKtKbtQvKsK6yBvVoZepf-aWD_eF_OBYjGE3ErALzsQPZqhzpO8yDl5aAZMKYSP6wlwI70kV3tNXaYbgYMX7lass6549MpvOpLHbtGnYzaAyYL5XQnUQNCI5HJL0q_lppQy9QFcridkKC31Pm22KZy2KjZzVSC0jdKUZGYbIioZyWwo/s4032/IMG_5471.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1TvYrN01XU2cHOKtKbtQvKsK6yBvVoZepf-aWD_eF_OBYjGE3ErALzsQPZqhzpO8yDl5aAZMKYSP6wlwI70kV3tNXaYbgYMX7lass6549MpvOpLHbtGnYzaAyYL5XQnUQNCI5HJL0q_lppQy9QFcridkKC31Pm22KZy2KjZzVSC0jdKUZGYbIioZyWwo/s320/IMG_5471.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><i>Carmen: hmmm</i></p><p><i>Quaid: </i> I had a fun summer. Lots of people to meet and play with. It was great. Can we do more next year? I'm kinda bored now. </p><p><i>Carmen: </i>be careful what you wish for kid. She's got that look in her eye again.</p><p><br /></p>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-43419080335459032732023-12-22T20:06:00.002-04:002023-12-22T20:06:31.687-04:00Reflections: Looking Back on 2023<p> Yesterday was the winter solstice and that seems to be a good time to reflect on the past year. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50EiVYI85D-fwt0PDAaWZh1YsIZmDZLMzX959nYz1nAMdlvIyZ7v4Cc-bWd7gPkwte5h6j86AbaNv3RicifcUVMPlkz_wXn7EuYx-mWGVoiXc0A4-6wpVTbJTANaz3POYoYeVVDqdX9Z0FsZr4Uc3F0XJIppMt9-OM3ZrUUSmSwpzHhTJlaFiwmKOLk0/s1200/winter-solstice-quotes-margaret-atwood.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50EiVYI85D-fwt0PDAaWZh1YsIZmDZLMzX959nYz1nAMdlvIyZ7v4Cc-bWd7gPkwte5h6j86AbaNv3RicifcUVMPlkz_wXn7EuYx-mWGVoiXc0A4-6wpVTbJTANaz3POYoYeVVDqdX9Z0FsZr4Uc3F0XJIppMt9-OM3ZrUUSmSwpzHhTJlaFiwmKOLk0/w400-h200/winter-solstice-quotes-margaret-atwood.jpg.webp" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>2023 was quite the year, full of ups and downs. I know that's fairly normal, it just seemed that this year there peaks were higher and the valleys lower. The year started off easy enough with a fairly mild <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/01/giddy-and-up.html" target="_blank">January</a>. I was able to ride and the horses enjoyed the sunshine. </p><p>In February the weather took a turn to record low temperatures. Ed was home recovering from heart surgery. On the coldest day of the year I found Quaid with a <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/02/disaster-averted-probably.html" target="_blank">screw embedded in his hoof</a>. This lead to a nightmare of multiple vet visits, two trips to the Veterinary Hospital and a real fear that I was going to lose him. In the end he had to have a second surgery to debride the bone which had gotten infected. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy16I1DO-fbUScStVhWeNFdcmbHsftv4ouxG5vLKLM7kTAam9UuIJ80bi62igXm4ZUOWNNgBcqjNqNhQqFlCwcDrPxGyAIx4FvrN7rgs5jExhO0KKL-eNE3HI_0_c7lLi7fsZgjq1W5B0DNjjdtPijb9KYEq31WUxKCNki1UdHrR1HoNhhJsZ2kIUUhc8/s2136/xray.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1752" data-original-width="2136" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy16I1DO-fbUScStVhWeNFdcmbHsftv4ouxG5vLKLM7kTAam9UuIJ80bi62igXm4ZUOWNNgBcqjNqNhQqFlCwcDrPxGyAIx4FvrN7rgs5jExhO0KKL-eNE3HI_0_c7lLi7fsZgjq1W5B0DNjjdtPijb9KYEq31WUxKCNki1UdHrR1HoNhhJsZ2kIUUhc8/s320/xray.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">X-ray</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Once he was home, he was still not out of the woods. I had to protect the hoof, do regular bandage changes and make sure that <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/03/galloping-galoshes.html" target="_blank">not one drop of dirt</a> got in the open hoof wound. It was expensive and I had to work through some trauma with Quaid once it was all done. At one point <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/02/about-that-light-at-end-of-tunnel.html" target="_blank">he kicked me </a>and I thought I broke my elbow. It turned out to be heavily bruised but it was all a bit much. I think I can now wrap a hoof with my eyes closed. I have a great stock of supplies now and if you need recommendations on how to turn out a horse in March and <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/03/galloping-galoshes.html" target="_blank">keep their hoof dry </a>just ask. It was all worth it, though because Quaid is now 100% sound (and has been since his surgery). </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRP70HMYF0rzE6mpkCuP5VAL8EqtmSueAejuCdFWPNIXBkMkYSIbxJwuGGkOBQm37P5NodZEYGBg-sfs9_LGYutTPBg36_EIYPcwAXuoQ5nRlMa82FfklpG8b73vXRleSM7ACmXPOr8AtMJcZwxy2PPksPlG07JH-4G1Q7mmTiqHn4yvepcNOv2sJh74E/s1450/IMG_4575%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="1450" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRP70HMYF0rzE6mpkCuP5VAL8EqtmSueAejuCdFWPNIXBkMkYSIbxJwuGGkOBQm37P5NodZEYGBg-sfs9_LGYutTPBg36_EIYPcwAXuoQ5nRlMa82FfklpG8b73vXRleSM7ACmXPOr8AtMJcZwxy2PPksPlG07JH-4G1Q7mmTiqHn4yvepcNOv2sJh74E/s320/IMG_4575%202.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">every time I see him canter in the field I get a happy thrill</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It was hard on all of us and I honestly don't know how I would have gotten through it without Julia and Tanya who helped me pretty. much every day. Because of them and Joanne I was able to go off on a trip of lifetime to Europe while they took care of things at home. Karen and Jim gave me a place to stay while Quaid was in hospital and Paula took two trips with me to island. I learned that <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/03/the-gratitude-post.html" target="_blank">friends are basically family</a> that you pick up as you go. </p><p>I retired at the end of March and Ed and I celebrated by doing a River Cruise from Zurich to Paris. It was an incredible trip. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhS8XplvhtB59ZYXlN606JhwXJzoi2qgTaYg-zvdS0uAgUmnQxV-jNyGTaLanrLGBQwaczo3j55XC6VL9ZsAo2kOCEcEOZtneNdQkm9oP6hjkuLzj6KrpooZ4ap-CFHicpxuf7fhC6y0r8d93QPzI9tV9LhVezFeS2Y0T3rimZQjuHPiWyjafVxu67cEk/s1440/DB5009FF-8204-43BF-9553-7C06D2CD0366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhS8XplvhtB59ZYXlN606JhwXJzoi2qgTaYg-zvdS0uAgUmnQxV-jNyGTaLanrLGBQwaczo3j55XC6VL9ZsAo2kOCEcEOZtneNdQkm9oP6hjkuLzj6KrpooZ4ap-CFHicpxuf7fhC6y0r8d93QPzI9tV9LhVezFeS2Y0T3rimZQjuHPiWyjafVxu67cEk/s320/DB5009FF-8204-43BF-9553-7C06D2CD0366.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> I loved Strasbourg</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>When we returned home I settled in to learn what it was like to be a retired person. I spent the first two weeks basically exhausted. I think it was a combination of jet lag and stress leaving my body. I loved having the summer to ride when I wanted to and not because I was squeezing it in between all my other responsibilities. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFsU9vD-m3JM7dBihGO3DnwmeZUiXJlTXbzzkBXiTJVnQ15G0UWO1P7lIExjPaqQ1IlzEgOKU6CUoxne3QtUI3j_f-3975lfvZp1wBRXD30mJ7l2o_G0tg9QFFlc4B6p3CJWO2cAGcG_QZzA8FDyRNxWNYYQ7JZ2VD9JaXePDQvwHDt99a-lqrPOHt0k/s1262/IMG_5231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1005" data-original-width="1262" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRFsU9vD-m3JM7dBihGO3DnwmeZUiXJlTXbzzkBXiTJVnQ15G0UWO1P7lIExjPaqQ1IlzEgOKU6CUoxne3QtUI3j_f-3975lfvZp1wBRXD30mJ7l2o_G0tg9QFFlc4B6p3CJWO2cAGcG_QZzA8FDyRNxWNYYQ7JZ2VD9JaXePDQvwHDt99a-lqrPOHt0k/s320/IMG_5231.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen and I got fitter</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Which was good because the weather was not cooperative. Our spring was the driest I've ever seen and our province dealt with some pretty devastating wildfires. It was scary. And then in June it started to rain and from there we had the wettest summer ever. There were road washouts and flooding. We couldn't get our hay until August. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNvibH01HC3t-E15r5ky9YRAf76c8H681iAnBhRHtw043uPOxsMS4AZMiH2wM85OtKZw9BIdxjKI1SJO5d3Ik6u02gZQ5TaexhlB_i_qIQbLjofyk7zgHQ2hoYuDTiyrhjlAZL4kKkHrCAOeY4FG5fo4esCBPQecZRQLPzRs6zRwJZUF_m95Wt_OwIog0/s4032/IMG_4920.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNvibH01HC3t-E15r5ky9YRAf76c8H681iAnBhRHtw043uPOxsMS4AZMiH2wM85OtKZw9BIdxjKI1SJO5d3Ik6u02gZQ5TaexhlB_i_qIQbLjofyk7zgHQ2hoYuDTiyrhjlAZL4kKkHrCAOeY4FG5fo4esCBPQecZRQLPzRs6zRwJZUF_m95Wt_OwIog0/s320/IMG_4920.heic" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank heavens for French drains- this water<br />was gone by the next day</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Being retired meant that I could take advantage of the weather when I could. I also read so many books this year. I have to say that I was never bored. </div><div><br /></div><div>Things got busy in May with an <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/05/palate-cleanser.html" target="_blank">Obstacle Clinic</a> and a '<a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/05/carmen-magnificent.html" target="_blank">ride your test'</a> at the show grounds. Both were very useful in our training. After the test riding clinic I felt a lot more confident about showing Carmen. Before then I was convinced it was going to be a disaster. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioA5O4-1mXyM_MvMbzTO6AhY08S85G9492uxPkMMDy5FzLJGKJzA3DBZQ3fN1GQtC92pYC04eBCkcJ_Q7kGLK4bjmaXpNXgnvdjj957ixTKNhVtcCGvmFQ8dRK5WHuQE2bLkCSPXRJEgnIgJ-51oGj395yPakeGbeq_bz7KmD2wADPsf3s6iu10J5m2I4/s1402/IMG_4765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1402" data-original-width="1100" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioA5O4-1mXyM_MvMbzTO6AhY08S85G9492uxPkMMDy5FzLJGKJzA3DBZQ3fN1GQtC92pYC04eBCkcJ_Q7kGLK4bjmaXpNXgnvdjj957ixTKNhVtcCGvmFQ8dRK5WHuQE2bLkCSPXRJEgnIgJ-51oGj395yPakeGbeq_bz7KmD2wADPsf3s6iu10J5m2I4/s320/IMG_4765.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2sZwhueuhwpd2bO5vydzLROcd8a8tCuA-yTg5OXy3kwS4f_sskxyJ0sSabtrT0GWFKbiV5DPiQssbmsm7luUm5pIXhUn6KkQ0NgRlryh9gfIYvE9OvTDZxbdEFL4X_WU1WR_B5nvOTBqZHt6NZ7mhTHzNPpbczKdqO6TIj7heqpWuTx_mvs8JPN2aro/s1411/IMG_4707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1019" data-original-width="1411" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2sZwhueuhwpd2bO5vydzLROcd8a8tCuA-yTg5OXy3kwS4f_sskxyJ0sSabtrT0GWFKbiV5DPiQssbmsm7luUm5pIXhUn6KkQ0NgRlryh9gfIYvE9OvTDZxbdEFL4X_WU1WR_B5nvOTBqZHt6NZ7mhTHzNPpbczKdqO6TIj7heqpWuTx_mvs8JPN2aro/s320/IMG_4707.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>This year Carmen and I debuted Second Level. My literal goal was to lay down reasonable tests keeping her on the aids and not melt down. We succeeded beyond my imaginings. This fall I was pleasantly surprised to learn that we actually earned a Silver Medal this year. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uxo4U3FxmEHEumwE9ZTlcesArALT0BnUgyzeVqnT5QYfnMdi3WVeMIaZheQ2bd54or7vJ_2ySG50Wuq7S5habLWHcnZDBIASMVhai5bbik3jL2da7LceutS-8YYNoZTs0LLf1j_zr5AJynx4uV8ja55Y98fMJNa8KumzGB9fdmjLkE1JGysMzjC6jMU/s4032/IMG_5831.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uxo4U3FxmEHEumwE9ZTlcesArALT0BnUgyzeVqnT5QYfnMdi3WVeMIaZheQ2bd54or7vJ_2ySG50Wuq7S5habLWHcnZDBIASMVhai5bbik3jL2da7LceutS-8YYNoZTs0LLf1j_zr5AJynx4uV8ja55Y98fMJNa8KumzGB9fdmjLkE1JGysMzjC6jMU/s320/IMG_5831.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>More important than the ribbons or awards is that I learned to ride more effectively and confidently. My show in September helped me to learn to <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/09/self-fulfilling-prophecy.html" target="_blank">let go of Carmen.</a> Jane helped me so much at the shows and then picking things up from there and helping us to move ahead. </div><div><br /></div><div>I had a lot of lessons this year and they really paid off. Carmen is carrying herself more and is straighter. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxiAT4uZKyw4uEty8imwOssXLFOhGZ5e1_UiByuw58ueLt9TwYyTqJSGJ4R1T9q9HEFM5L9u6BMM3Bkqnj1qYw_kvfqv-36saCHlnXfLKuipQOANEkOYFA9GBwHViFA3sSJs1lNUnZ9MD_auqvKSGXHGosawOPyfE1SfoUOvT5KfQ3d91VJpNxcv4cWs/s1450/IMG_5427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="1450" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxiAT4uZKyw4uEty8imwOssXLFOhGZ5e1_UiByuw58ueLt9TwYyTqJSGJ4R1T9q9HEFM5L9u6BMM3Bkqnj1qYw_kvfqv-36saCHlnXfLKuipQOANEkOYFA9GBwHViFA3sSJs1lNUnZ9MD_auqvKSGXHGosawOPyfE1SfoUOvT5KfQ3d91VJpNxcv4cWs/s320/IMG_5427.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We travelled to Krista's for a clinic too. It was great. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Training of Quaid started slow this year, for obvious reasons. But as the year progressed we gained momentum. I've ridden him a few times and he continues to impress me with his mind and willingness. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RO7LRhF57HR5WMXQFGGQW9SWSZGafH3Q7wIQx0mPmA1vonlzNq_1i-cNxqVdgGr5i3MY8XgAUuJkk7vrySwGg_FuMCo1QlnIIZdMVBzdX95ddMxMpma6IFEZ9w52iU88nQr-ykEev0cLg283yfwrOdeCr6d0fsFS1gXie3wm0p3Joo3LCQOCkgBQu74/s1525/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1525" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9RO7LRhF57HR5WMXQFGGQW9SWSZGafH3Q7wIQx0mPmA1vonlzNq_1i-cNxqVdgGr5i3MY8XgAUuJkk7vrySwGg_FuMCo1QlnIIZdMVBzdX95ddMxMpma6IFEZ9w52iU88nQr-ykEev0cLg283yfwrOdeCr6d0fsFS1gXie3wm0p3Joo3LCQOCkgBQu74/s320/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIueQGp55rshdrD_Zi7gZYQv_tX6v1Cm65lr6W9IyTj-1ibq3Gqsi5P3SX6Ali19fEhKOHY0jkPu4aiUPKKcQk96_-HVVmM3TyM8ocqbez8nOFVO9f8-DEF683QysOP6BecjXmqevCJJepWtoFimKL3eBRKQ3rMsgdxQgoLeK59nzg6ObfDbv-Kr3G914/s4032/IMG_5899%202.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIueQGp55rshdrD_Zi7gZYQv_tX6v1Cm65lr6W9IyTj-1ibq3Gqsi5P3SX6Ali19fEhKOHY0jkPu4aiUPKKcQk96_-HVVmM3TyM8ocqbez8nOFVO9f8-DEF683QysOP6BecjXmqevCJJepWtoFimKL3eBRKQ3rMsgdxQgoLeK59nzg6ObfDbv-Kr3G914/s320/IMG_5899%202.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgra-Uy-mTxgA5qkZlHdlq8seZfILtIRDfJJSsbwNVBvpV_dgTcBpnkUivscjHafgIq7oYz9QIrx-57oVfpQo3GNYIft-uMXlkIjX6MtM6ASGZjG8imO5lLPRA8Pf9Jgt6FCJbb-90C_41y4k-tSfv5rWV1TL7oFwmVS2g1-hctAzDMqA1BF3I9kG3s9Wc/s1320/IMG_5454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="921" data-original-width="1320" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgra-Uy-mTxgA5qkZlHdlq8seZfILtIRDfJJSsbwNVBvpV_dgTcBpnkUivscjHafgIq7oYz9QIrx-57oVfpQo3GNYIft-uMXlkIjX6MtM6ASGZjG8imO5lLPRA8Pf9Jgt6FCJbb-90C_41y4k-tSfv5rWV1TL7oFwmVS2g1-hctAzDMqA1BF3I9kG3s9Wc/s320/IMG_5454.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>I had a very active summer and it showed in my fitness and body. It felt really good to get in shape and I didn't want to regress over the winter. So I joined the local rec centre in October. I have been going to classes regularly. It's hard but it's fun. I have been doing this thing called a 'Total Body Workout', which I originally thought was aerobics but instead was doing things. with weights, exercise balls and tension bands. It's sooo hard but when it gets really tough I picture the flinging of hay bales. After my first class my thighs were in serious pain from all the squats. I was still sore the next day but decided to ride anyway. When I was done I dismounted and my legs said '<i>nope!' </i>and I fell on my ass on the ground. Carmen didn't move a muscle, just gave me her Carmen look and, I swear, rolled her eyes. </div><div>Carmen: <i>god, stop giggling and get up. You are so embarrassing. </i></div><div><br /></div><div> I've also been doing Pilates and AquaFit (which is really fun). </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKV-_MVnUnR9CQEWYg_N8Xa8TvcRlu7A6tF2mrgMQEhqGSmKMymW5Hq4YrMnUsIILvG0Ijr5HBXQIyMqzNRyddvRn4bXeGF1HXRuG2s8isc0xfBQxppuDwguFt6XB9K_f4ZZTC7__WqHd2WdYSNL3XGSOhLjK8hxB4k4BbaKGtOH_NNBRST2ZjmIE67c/s3178/5A839892-07E2-48CF-87C7-6596BCF778CB.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3178" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKV-_MVnUnR9CQEWYg_N8Xa8TvcRlu7A6tF2mrgMQEhqGSmKMymW5Hq4YrMnUsIILvG0Ijr5HBXQIyMqzNRyddvRn4bXeGF1HXRuG2s8isc0xfBQxppuDwguFt6XB9K_f4ZZTC7__WqHd2WdYSNL3XGSOhLjK8hxB4k4BbaKGtOH_NNBRST2ZjmIE67c/s320/5A839892-07E2-48CF-87C7-6596BCF778CB.JPG" width="304" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">showed up one day not realising class was cancelled. <br />Worked out anyway. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I do like how I've been feeling. I am in the best shape I've been in years and it's showing up in my riding too. Jane has commented on it. Don't get me wrong, I'm no <a href="https://todoeluniversoconspira.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Nicole.</a>(although she's an inspiration). No one is going to be bouncing a quarter off my butt but at least now it won't <i>disappear. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Now it's December and things have really slowed down. Winter is here and the ring is frozen. I know that there will be some thaws that I plan to take advantage of. I am looking forward to not worrying about how I'm going to get to work when there's a storm. Instead I can stay home and watch horse training videos. </div><div><br /></div><div>That was the highlights and lowlights of 2023. It felt like a lot, mostly because it was. But it's ended with everyone healthy and happy. What more could you ask for? </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7U0U9E-_zqbIK6IBOo5oiv6ey3RgzoyAyd0aJIk48jL2cAyijYlY2ZiRlOxbJ4QmoJGIumuDf68WrbCv32cswmZk6KkE-bocd4RTzW3cfQ_oszOS4EFaBC8oXhvD1xuamvw6Ebh_QQiSKwNYdTA99y54UD4f0x_GTCkjKjaDP5kkk1rs3iIl6ZY4SF4/s4032/IMG_5972.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7U0U9E-_zqbIK6IBOo5oiv6ey3RgzoyAyd0aJIk48jL2cAyijYlY2ZiRlOxbJ4QmoJGIumuDf68WrbCv32cswmZk6KkE-bocd4RTzW3cfQ_oszOS4EFaBC8oXhvD1xuamvw6Ebh_QQiSKwNYdTA99y54UD4f0x_GTCkjKjaDP5kkk1rs3iIl6ZY4SF4/s320/IMG_5972.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All ready for Christmas</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-53904818105453621822023-12-18T20:15:00.000-04:002023-12-18T20:15:50.048-04:00The Pinch Hitter<p> After a few days of snow and really cold temperatures, things started to warm up again and my ring thawed. Which was great. I had a couple rides on Carmen and she was pretty good. I did a few lunging sessions with Quaid too. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDLF75Ulz4MDED7cxQixkViYLarQKOhUSwIfxM-KRQcspq82p5WC9xeYyEk-jNwMLGWygB_PNnZKwSFSsaqbuUJyZCxPvA-xhzViWZH2f95WpPyL_a6ym8StmCn6qexebqhw1Lv8XlHvGI0JTb45UpZ_AnGqcaykNPdp7CkmXrEkEudfUFeTvATbZDIs/s4032/IMG_5903.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDLF75Ulz4MDED7cxQixkViYLarQKOhUSwIfxM-KRQcspq82p5WC9xeYyEk-jNwMLGWygB_PNnZKwSFSsaqbuUJyZCxPvA-xhzViWZH2f95WpPyL_a6ym8StmCn6qexebqhw1Lv8XlHvGI0JTb45UpZ_AnGqcaykNPdp7CkmXrEkEudfUFeTvATbZDIs/s320/IMG_5903.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the latest that the horses have been able to be grazing on the<br /> back field. There's still lots of good grass.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>I was able to actually arrange a lesson for Sunday. While I don't like to drill before a lesson I do like to be prepared. Friday was cold and the ring was frozen but Saturday was lovely, although blustery. I was leading Carmen in through the small paddock into the stall to get her ready. The small paddock has been pretty muddy all year because of all the rain. Now it's frozen, rutted mud. Carmen was not paying attention to her feet and she tripped. It was scary because she couldn't get her balance on the frozen mud (despite her studs) and fell hard on her front legs. <div><br /></div><div>I brought her in and she had a few scrapes that looked superficial but she was quite shaken. And slightly off on her right fore. I checked her all over but, other than the cuts, I couldn't see any swelling. I hosed her legs off, put some ointment on the cuts, gave her some Bute and turned her back out. It was interesting because, in the past, Carmen was quite defensive over injuries and required two handlers. <i>"that hurts, touch that bitch and I will end you." </i>But this time she was clearly shaken and was quite clingy, letting me fuss over her. She did appreciate the extra feed with Bute. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7I1mwv9iq-IGdTF-RedwocuAB6nRVbldX_Two9PkFmDaRHkUZlGBr922bsApVI7AEJaM40z2s3jLUi-WH047NEbmhuus2DQOl7dc7jwIFJMMMJzcqIYS7eWY_eskcwTCaHekdNIrcszcu-xnWrq6z2GqJU2P2h5UcVacQNpnpgHfDDzM3S2PkRf3bv4/s4032/IMG_5897.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7I1mwv9iq-IGdTF-RedwocuAB6nRVbldX_Two9PkFmDaRHkUZlGBr922bsApVI7AEJaM40z2s3jLUi-WH047NEbmhuus2DQOl7dc7jwIFJMMMJzcqIYS7eWY_eskcwTCaHekdNIrcszcu-xnWrq6z2GqJU2P2h5UcVacQNpnpgHfDDzM3S2PkRf3bv4/s320/IMG_5897.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: <i>extra feed? Makes it almost worth it.</i> </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>While I figured she had just stung herself I decided that I shouldn't take her in the lesson. But it was a good time to get Jane's perspective and help with Quaid. I was already planning to work him Saturday so that didn't change. Keeping in mind that he'd only been lunged in the past few weeks a couple times he was perfect. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0-QshP7F3FCveMleQCC0wN31DEjoNGOm3r9Mf9y-5dT5x0XwUlj_T8LwEgg_08tezhUiA7b821OUbAQKN2rjSE3fZJS78gv4V-cXnVFoe-x4ze2TWkP9YASq5uGKeZq4Ijql5ik29n6-Ifo6IJbTATgjBBr-P1TZQpFJoKT4_YFFEYKoff1SwLpZauU/s1440/D7A0B552-60A8-4E6A-915C-D3C29EFCC947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1086" data-original-width="1440" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0-QshP7F3FCveMleQCC0wN31DEjoNGOm3r9Mf9y-5dT5x0XwUlj_T8LwEgg_08tezhUiA7b821OUbAQKN2rjSE3fZJS78gv4V-cXnVFoe-x4ze2TWkP9YASq5uGKeZq4Ijql5ik29n6-Ifo6IJbTATgjBBr-P1TZQpFJoKT4_YFFEYKoff1SwLpZauU/s320/D7A0B552-60A8-4E6A-915C-D3C29EFCC947.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He can look so grown up</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6IdHfWhvVLIwIe8NJD6w2XeqN_xa8UFFE3GW-aPSgwc8_SgUhYn7vlAUtwkm0HwYOY6LjDhhNB_AgkZonfzwpmXw4Pq6LIGuWm3dHqtMwCLC0W1XohjzAH1kUt_y9BcAXAz3uCsD0F7dJCRCCnmQ7xMYVb7baGtxrfQS7BAV33wz8dQ1KeaLcmEdnPQ/s4032/IMG_5899%202.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6IdHfWhvVLIwIe8NJD6w2XeqN_xa8UFFE3GW-aPSgwc8_SgUhYn7vlAUtwkm0HwYOY6LjDhhNB_AgkZonfzwpmXw4Pq6LIGuWm3dHqtMwCLC0W1XohjzAH1kUt_y9BcAXAz3uCsD0F7dJCRCCnmQ7xMYVb7baGtxrfQS7BAV33wz8dQ1KeaLcmEdnPQ/s320/IMG_5899%202.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And then so much like a baby</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Our ground driving is really coming along. We actually manage to do a circle that doesn't look like it was made by a drunk duck. </p><p>Jane was completely onboard with subbing in Quaid. In fact, it's really great to have two horses in work like this- it means that there is always one to work with. </p><p>And you know what? It went great. I did a little lunging warm up with him a few minutes before she came. He was a bit tighter and distractible than the day before. Which makes sense, A) he's still young and B) the weather was cooler and blustery than the day before. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxBvTf3F-E0s0TQiaMV9EvnyuwLiei4S0dImEJfWys_Fns8zYW4-CKrjiCbVns05RGIJuVh3kOP2Cozu4902qyOOe-msGvQJQOPf7Xw8gSZbqmqo8HtiWIH75hGo-6PXhbaV7y0xjvUibbdBmbAIpvQpLgC99SM0h5sYBn2PjQNCbZ4RQd9-LVi6BLYg/s1397/IMG_5911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="1397" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxBvTf3F-E0s0TQiaMV9EvnyuwLiei4S0dImEJfWys_Fns8zYW4-CKrjiCbVns05RGIJuVh3kOP2Cozu4902qyOOe-msGvQJQOPf7Xw8gSZbqmqo8HtiWIH75hGo-6PXhbaV7y0xjvUibbdBmbAIpvQpLgC99SM0h5sYBn2PjQNCbZ4RQd9-LVi6BLYg/s320/IMG_5911.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warming up</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>When Jane came we hooked up the side reins. She made a couple adjustments and he did quite well. He's learning to trust the contact, especially at the trot. Canter is more difficult, which makes sense but he needs the opportunity to figure it out. </div><div><br /></div><div>He got a little frustrated with me pushing him forward and had a brief temper tantrum. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P7IcamLWBik" width="320" youtube-src-id="P7IcamLWBik"></iframe></div><br /><div>Thee days it's as upset as he gets. I like to push him through and then give him a break to think about things. I have to be careful to not back off when he's upset because that will teach the wrong thing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then it was time to mount up. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3iqE2Lw_SviTBuZ12iqjqySJ5S-bZMKCQlQyCl4Z24axTQAARPfUcqEVzW_FBRMJS8SnQMM6QAVNMpnwtuwr8Taqx1fUeygbKG0QnWeTA4ohSjkjRrhSaDnaY5DqN4uP0FGQVFMHdzBlqmVzrsBOjFZMdkbSlECQ_dEutPeDP1wlC2YGwmhnqXfdPW4/s1733/IMG_5912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="1733" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3iqE2Lw_SviTBuZ12iqjqySJ5S-bZMKCQlQyCl4Z24axTQAARPfUcqEVzW_FBRMJS8SnQMM6QAVNMpnwtuwr8Taqx1fUeygbKG0QnWeTA4ohSjkjRrhSaDnaY5DqN4uP0FGQVFMHdzBlqmVzrsBOjFZMdkbSlECQ_dEutPeDP1wlC2YGwmhnqXfdPW4/s320/IMG_5912.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaid: what's in the wheelbarrow? I hope it's food. </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_l5_lQZxUbJP_PGahma7HZ8NW7Xqb0vumiVy6r7v54SLHmLbKW3IL69_Pr2AkCKpnCOb3oS_pZqT78-P_n2kKGEhv48YH-mndz2z8Giu7pLDeIV-jm7AqgL1labBczVeoALktT3oFiYBl3IR4MLN9RKNX970afwW3curj1GtHak2EPqQXXkQ5B2TDs18/s1545/IMG_5913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1545" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_l5_lQZxUbJP_PGahma7HZ8NW7Xqb0vumiVy6r7v54SLHmLbKW3IL69_Pr2AkCKpnCOb3oS_pZqT78-P_n2kKGEhv48YH-mndz2z8Giu7pLDeIV-jm7AqgL1labBczVeoALktT3oFiYBl3IR4MLN9RKNX970afwW3curj1GtHak2EPqQXXkQ5B2TDs18/s320/IMG_5913.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">note him standing ground tied while getting tacked up</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br />Jane took the lunge line and I mounted. He was a little wiggly but stood stock still while I got on. Jane was a great anchor for us. Talking me through using my leg aids and helping him to learn not only forward, but to not fall into the ring with his shoulder. </div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiPhiWCqezjdpHlKZNAssRy6R5KonkWjo7Wc94qoql0MFZjIDKbo8rxu-39aSqZT_uYu26BW_Eo5XWZmJgl-NchGvXE1kX6NXqS43szry0KjjVFFd2due_kjT42b14G3viP6I8S3ejNRaP4_qVwrySCpRvDt7QRbTlazJqVspvgRvIfiqQsSi8ueTZCck/s1525/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1525" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiPhiWCqezjdpHlKZNAssRy6R5KonkWjo7Wc94qoql0MFZjIDKbo8rxu-39aSqZT_uYu26BW_Eo5XWZmJgl-NchGvXE1kX6NXqS43szry0KjjVFFd2due_kjT42b14G3viP6I8S3ejNRaP4_qVwrySCpRvDt7QRbTlazJqVspvgRvIfiqQsSi8ueTZCck/s320/B616850A-E7BE-4869-8365-6A3C25D93DDE.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everyone is trying really hard here</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>He did spook once. I have it on video. Hang on to your hats while you watch it: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bYzbCYq94Ek" width="320" youtube-src-id="bYzbCYq94Ek"></iframe></div><div><br /></div>Did you catch it? The moment of uncertainty and then '<i>phew, I'm okay'. </i><div><i><br /></i></div><div>I think it was about 25 minutes of riding, getting him to come off the inside leg when I felt him figure it out "<i>ohhhh, you want THIS'. </i> I stopped him with my seat and turned to Jane and said '<i>I think that's a great spot to stop'</i>. </div><div><i>I was thinking the exact same thing!</i></div><div><br /></div><div>So I dismounted. I love how he stands like a rock: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zFmdDKY0ShI" width="320" youtube-src-id="zFmdDKY0ShI"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>It was a great lesson with him. I am so happy with this horse, I think he's going to be exactly what I want. My plans have not changed with him- I still am going to send him off for a month of training. I have the opportunity to do everything right with Quaid. Having a professional get him really going under saddle and then having Jane pick us up in lessons seems like a great recipe for success. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-7122871795416552852023-12-05T15:19:00.003-04:002023-12-05T15:19:56.823-04:00Quite Possibly the Last Lesson of the Year<p> Late Fall into Winter is always difficult for lessons. You simply cannot count on the weather. This year has been pretty mild and I've managed to get more riding in than I would usually. Retirement also helps because I am not racing the dark after work. </p><p>Unfortunately, lessons came to a screeching halt because of an outbreak of EHM at a barn. A few horses had to be put down and everyone closed their barns to stop the spread. This meant that it wasn't a good idea for Jane to travel to different barns to teach. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIWcuk06UnlQCPEFc_EYBWzp6-b2e3VGfbYX92FfAf5N__3lIEbLmBTr6DiqQYHxPsPkK6eVxM2RzeC17kTJULoDNUWxsmIP6eUu4OlUlU8HOAvB63WHIxl0afe6UkvK7Qx-rg-VrYN6fLX4OLP55i5kPN15Lt-xp5Sv4UOwkc_sZ5ABugA5qM1xzPzpM/s4032/IMG_5794.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIWcuk06UnlQCPEFc_EYBWzp6-b2e3VGfbYX92FfAf5N__3lIEbLmBTr6DiqQYHxPsPkK6eVxM2RzeC17kTJULoDNUWxsmIP6eUu4OlUlU8HOAvB63WHIxl0afe6UkvK7Qx-rg-VrYN6fLX4OLP55i5kPN15Lt-xp5Sv4UOwkc_sZ5ABugA5qM1xzPzpM/s320/IMG_5794.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have no media from the lesson so here's some other photos. <br />Carmen looking pretty during a groundwork session </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I completely understood but really missed having our lessons. I kept up the work but Carmen has been quite challenging the past few weeks. Now that the girth has freed up her shoulders she's been asking lots of questions. Usually around the concept of 'whyyyyyy must you torture me in this way?'. </p><p>Part of this is because she's still fit but the consistency of being able to ride really dropped off, leaving a lot of energy. And, let's face it, Carmen is a horse that will always challenge. She requires riding that doesn't let her set the agenda but is also not dictatorial. She doesn't necessarily like to work but she hates to be left alone. Frankly, it's like living with a 14 year old human child: '<i>I hate you go away. You are ignoring me, you HATE me!'</i> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjjDEnly1ge7OXiMj-Dzp35L7X38hQmcKC795mFcJasTtq_1HPd7gJbsXLU5UjUFlFiNe7ZJn12nwepttIv7QHor8-0_ksBgOf7I6shbXCa6mFurKuUzenh2_teFyQuPMSPHdnkzbxxJP2QzxTiUvDP1UCJDF67jYdMR2xBMCiZe9GtKJcy0M7ZUaGy44/s4032/IMG_5800.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjjDEnly1ge7OXiMj-Dzp35L7X38hQmcKC795mFcJasTtq_1HPd7gJbsXLU5UjUFlFiNe7ZJn12nwepttIv7QHor8-0_ksBgOf7I6shbXCa6mFurKuUzenh2_teFyQuPMSPHdnkzbxxJP2QzxTiUvDP1UCJDF67jYdMR2xBMCiZe9GtKJcy0M7ZUaGy44/s320/IMG_5800.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unlike this guy who is pretty chilll</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Finally last weekend the stars aligned and I was able to book a lesson on Sunday. The weather was warm and the ring was perfect, despite all the rain we had Saturday. On Friday I did a groundwork session with both horses and Carmen really enjoyed it. I wanted to establish our communication and responses. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFg_v25X6t-2iFN5XI5MhtUwrc9qNQmYnEqdBz-ax9y18ojs1Yn7YDtocSdZeP0rs9lOCx1OXA_AMDlglzr4bxtenRTowShBaNpq1h14IWA81lFfAXMzOHJ1GkfDPZ-wl0pHFfEK3vFbQKrcElwRBZ82FFPZzfV-DcYjF2MhAfCeGF5Isw7rYzYRvlZRc/s4032/IMG_5795.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFg_v25X6t-2iFN5XI5MhtUwrc9qNQmYnEqdBz-ax9y18ojs1Yn7YDtocSdZeP0rs9lOCx1OXA_AMDlglzr4bxtenRTowShBaNpq1h14IWA81lFfAXMzOHJ1GkfDPZ-wl0pHFfEK3vFbQKrcElwRBZ82FFPZzfV-DcYjF2MhAfCeGF5Isw7rYzYRvlZRc/s320/IMG_5795.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">she has the tarp lesson down pat</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>I lunged her before the lesson. It's difficult because with the inconsistent riding I don't want to make her sore but I have to deal with the energy. So I lunged getting her to work but not run wild. I let Jane know that she's been challenging when she arrived and then mounted. As soon as I asked her to walk down towards the gate she began to refuse to go. Then threw her haunches in and spun away. Jane had me turn her in some small circles to get her bent and soften her topliine. Then she began to run backwards and threaten to rear. FYI this is not pain*. This is old old old behaviour that used to intimidate the hell out of me and make me get off. I know that Carmen can rear (she has) but she's never going to flip herself because she has such a strong sense of self-preservation. Even when bolting she's careful. Sigh. But it's still really intimidating and the lizard part of my brain will start screaming and want me to clutch everything tight. <div><br /></div><div>Jane talked me all the way through it. **</div><div><i>** disclaimer** I'm about the describe my memory and take aways from what she guided me to do. If you take issue with it, take it up with me and assume that I misunderstood</i><br /><p> Jane had me walk her on a 20 metre circle asking her to move her haunches out on the circle. Sort of like riding a shoulder in on the circle but not really because her shape was not exactly right. I was to ride her forward, ask her to move her haunches to the outside of the circle and then lighten the rein. Not give it away but unclench my arm muscles and let the rein 'float'. </p><p>This is not easy because I'm overriding my whole sense of self-preservation. Jane never altered her quiet tone but didn't let me stop. At one point I said <i>I understand your words, but my lizard brain is telling me fuck no.'</i>She laughed and said <i>'damn lizard brain'</i> and kept moving me forward. </p><p>This was a struggle to do this exercise when I, frankly, wanted to get off and sell her for $10. I did say that I didn't understand why we were doing this. Carmen concurred. Jane basically told me to keep going for now. </p><p>And funnily enough, Carmen began to soften and reach forward. Then Jane asked me to trot. I gulped and did it. We repeated the same exercise: ask her to put her haunches out, soften my rein, go forward. Jane then explained the 'why' of this exercise: <i>this allows you to soften her with the bending and with her haunches in this position she can't lock and run backwards or rear. </i>So essentially this exercise moves her forward, giving her an outlet for her energy but in a productive way and supports her to soften and does not allow her to spin, bolt or rear. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wyAjbqykHAeAsPq1t1YdUpy_Hee7kTjW85yt2_znc5Qg00LBNa592uneR8w2mDQ55Uv0LzMNN4pYm2ZpRDhpCNqtn_x6MknqSbJ-OhDZPG2_dKWrpeDsKY5gCNQ2ZeeGhr9yppRGdltR1yPg9JAX8enMmFTsKxFJofOAkjARdqxKnKxN5TLNDtgxo-o/s4032/IMG_5776.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2wyAjbqykHAeAsPq1t1YdUpy_Hee7kTjW85yt2_znc5Qg00LBNa592uneR8w2mDQ55Uv0LzMNN4pYm2ZpRDhpCNqtn_x6MknqSbJ-OhDZPG2_dKWrpeDsKY5gCNQ2ZeeGhr9yppRGdltR1yPg9JAX8enMmFTsKxFJofOAkjARdqxKnKxN5TLNDtgxo-o/s320/IMG_5776.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: These lies you tell, I am an angel. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>It wasn't long before we were moving all around the ring without any of the bullshit. She was forward, soft and gave me some of her loveliest work. We even did some half-pass that, while not great, wasn't too shabby either. </p><p>Just as I was thinking that she was getting tired and we should stop Jane said '<i>I think that's enough for her'</i>. </p><p>It was a productive and perfectly timed lesson. Which is good because the next day we had a snowstorm. So I am not sure how much ride time I'm going to get in. At least the horses enjoyed the snow. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gulOfnV3fMQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="gulOfnV3fMQ"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>*For those who wonder how I can say it's behaviour vs pain, it's a judgement based on experience and making sure this mare has all the care she needs. I've been all over her and can find no sensitive spots or lameness. In the past, behaviours that were related to pain (e.g., ulcers) increased over the ride, not decreased. I believe that the fact that she becomes soft, engaged and happy in the ride means we are on the right path. </p></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-66188282843068938882023-11-23T15:48:00.002-04:002023-11-23T15:48:27.763-04:00That Was Easy<p> Way back when I was having the clinic with <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/08/black-magic.html" target="_blank">Danique</a> I remember her talking to me about Carmen. She told me that Carmen was a beautiful and smart horse. Which I agreed with, of course. She paused and then said '<i>she's not a horse for just anyone though'. </i>And that is the total truth. </p><p>A. horse like Carmen wears her emotions on her sleeve. There's never any doubt about how Carmen feels. Which is different than Quaid who tends to internalise more. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBvU5QPk6Smybtvk5jWKTfYelh84uRZpJjYj7GNeGa6GskNdr5DWoN9vjmfmhIjO_XC8A-KOj3SKt6UivMlthPRIi4n3Oawf8BfnztBnHKQas_wD3_FOnkTRr35_Yzckc5yoHxci24zTJr6e7Y5MRLrjto4Y0INxz0bkaZGWAwgSa0IK7D1uT8vu8CGck/s4032/IMG_5741.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBvU5QPk6Smybtvk5jWKTfYelh84uRZpJjYj7GNeGa6GskNdr5DWoN9vjmfmhIjO_XC8A-KOj3SKt6UivMlthPRIi4n3Oawf8BfnztBnHKQas_wD3_FOnkTRr35_Yzckc5yoHxci24zTJr6e7Y5MRLrjto4Y0INxz0bkaZGWAwgSa0IK7D1uT8vu8CGck/s320/IMG_5741.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many feelings- happy to be done the ride, <br />worry about the black clouds behind her, and <br />annoyed that I'm bugging her for a photo</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The problem with Carmen is that, while it's easy to know if she's unhappy, it's not always easy to figure out why. So when she was getting resentful of being asked to go forward I had a list of things to consider: </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>ulcers- unlikely but not impossible</li><li>hocks- she's 13 this year and we're asking her to carry more behind so it would be a real possibility</li><li>poor riding- I could be squeezing with my thighs, poking her with a spur. Honestly my flaws are endless</li><li>checking that I'm sure I really want her to go forward</li><li>saddle fit </li></ul><div>After ruling out the first four I kept coming back to saddle fit. But I couldn't find any sore spots on her back. I know that's not conclusive either but it felt like I was close but not quite right. What I became aware of was that the saddle was not staying put. When I put it on everything is good: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bbn6ndGle6LwGz6s3pFLTkGLVB4dzTqUI9gVwuxNVLmwFkP5TLAradytbsECdDVYJ-_-d0hmcJOfZEdHEYlVa8JIMXEyLI0Jt6f9fpVav-SUOOg3iKxtzfFWtHtGEg8PfZBYU5JnSrCnnp1U9w1n59tk4dCOA0jmSKPXIdYPJYjFy8VeHRNby6qeXuA/s4032/IMG_5075.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bbn6ndGle6LwGz6s3pFLTkGLVB4dzTqUI9gVwuxNVLmwFkP5TLAradytbsECdDVYJ-_-d0hmcJOfZEdHEYlVa8JIMXEyLI0Jt6f9fpVav-SUOOg3iKxtzfFWtHtGEg8PfZBYU5JnSrCnnp1U9w1n59tk4dCOA0jmSKPXIdYPJYjFy8VeHRNby6qeXuA/s320/IMG_5075.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>But as the ride progressed the saddle would slip forward onto her withers. The girth would end up right behind her shoulders and the saddle with it, no matter how I placed it or tightened it. I swapped it out for a girth that was a little more shaped. It was the brown one that I use with my Spanish saddle. This was better and I could feel an improvement but it was not perfect. </div><div><br /></div><div>This coincided with Jane coming to teach and I told her what I was thinking. She agreed that Carmen's shape (round barrel, low whither) was designed to pull a saddle forward. I told her I was thinking of trying an anatomic girth. As luck would have it she had a student selling one that was exactly the size I needed. </div><div><br /></div><div>I arranged to get it to try. It fit her fine so I sent the payment but wasn't able to ride for a couple days (November is hard for outside riding). I could immediately see how it worked better than our girth. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5stW_bcHp2D2_Ij0YMqWeypK_skH4LkBwGVNUtxPKSfwU5RbG7JJJRYe7VsXsL7Ij5VsfYGsN9MuD2whAcDJxXMsKljm91Go9GPZ98_rVMN88JMDawg7I-AcbRcjvvvcP1GaMY9ZGHbjrWvPHHMP0yB0_RS0soopmTpLa-0FEXQfBgm_PLNhaCd1tfE/s4032/IMG_5739.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5stW_bcHp2D2_Ij0YMqWeypK_skH4LkBwGVNUtxPKSfwU5RbG7JJJRYe7VsXsL7Ij5VsfYGsN9MuD2whAcDJxXMsKljm91Go9GPZ98_rVMN88JMDawg7I-AcbRcjvvvcP1GaMY9ZGHbjrWvPHHMP0yB0_RS0soopmTpLa-0FEXQfBgm_PLNhaCd1tfE/s320/IMG_5739.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before our ride</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>I was happy where it kept the saddle. I took a short video before mounting to see how she moved with it. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M7ESAXhPABM" width="320" youtube-src-id="M7ESAXhPABM"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>See how her shoulder has more freedom.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I mounted she felt like she was striding out more. When I first asked for trot I got the pissy mare reaction. It was funny because I could feel when she went '<i>oh, that's okay'. </i> I finished the ride and when I dismounted the saddle was still in the same spot. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqRTySU6MlazfCoiDxuD-FTDraov2JxNQW0UeP2Q1jpTb-EYnHtt7_ns5XpnYg_oLdTe4Ab6wsx_AA8tlKtizvqZuT_NbWXvpshR8eNRZFRJqfwHzsLb87sybRvg9SqaUidLekRz-rInRnxiSupXLcvlGf-oMB2Dg5h3Mlddxyv13agdq6UAFA4Ehi18/s4032/IMG_5742.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqRTySU6MlazfCoiDxuD-FTDraov2JxNQW0UeP2Q1jpTb-EYnHtt7_ns5XpnYg_oLdTe4Ab6wsx_AA8tlKtizvqZuT_NbWXvpshR8eNRZFRJqfwHzsLb87sybRvg9SqaUidLekRz-rInRnxiSupXLcvlGf-oMB2Dg5h3Mlddxyv13agdq6UAFA4Ehi18/s320/IMG_5742.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">after the ride</td></tr></tbody></table><p>I've ridden a few times in it (when weather allows) and she's getting better and better. Today when I asked for the first trot she just moved forward with happy ears. </p><p><br /></p><p>Best money I've spent. </p><br /><div><br /></div><p></p>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-15006959977778205842023-11-06T19:44:00.004-04:002023-11-06T19:45:19.225-04:00Ungrateful<p> Hey fans, Carmen here to urge you all to be more grateful to your noble steeds. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWYHI09_j3yVpqb_d9SGzVQFetnoE5Sukh2IkhHGywiuJDLTqBWm_jWGT2BvIB9t_Pr2YraxXdc3XEx7SJQtb4tsewk4RyjEXNeUi_n_ZXOcYJqp4c7ScTw6J07H-BBcFSVHypqMB1g-RBGKIE3m8ipdUHsvRk7BHKmODE3xvph_EVY8tB3TIEucfbI_w/s1024/IMG_0165.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWYHI09_j3yVpqb_d9SGzVQFetnoE5Sukh2IkhHGywiuJDLTqBWm_jWGT2BvIB9t_Pr2YraxXdc3XEx7SJQtb4tsewk4RyjEXNeUi_n_ZXOcYJqp4c7ScTw6J07H-BBcFSVHypqMB1g-RBGKIE3m8ipdUHsvRk7BHKmODE3xvph_EVY8tB3TIEucfbI_w/s320/IMG_0165.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(I'm loving the AI generator)</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p>Not only do we carry you with beauty and grace. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihbFJkzYYynP0u5jSfqyIZK7rCjMuwVaMaS320NQbwbk9Zjp4kOMvHoU28CeSn5SE-7t8cTjzfW-LNXxBLzbYxgxcQMgXlm9K7ub4u1W8_gtIqZ7Kmn5Cvr8XNGPvcE0VC3nOuYY_FG9V5CgVhlXp2req25CsA3CNJr0MuROQ2RxzhpWWVkNHdno_DO4/s1238/IMG_5658.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="921" data-original-width="1238" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihbFJkzYYynP0u5jSfqyIZK7rCjMuwVaMaS320NQbwbk9Zjp4kOMvHoU28CeSn5SE-7t8cTjzfW-LNXxBLzbYxgxcQMgXlm9K7ub4u1W8_gtIqZ7Kmn5Cvr8XNGPvcE0VC3nOuYY_FG9V5CgVhlXp2req25CsA3CNJr0MuROQ2RxzhpWWVkNHdno_DO4/s320/IMG_5658.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>We also protect you from certain death. </p><p>Here it's deer hunting season. While I appreciate that my servant has us in the front paddock, does she recognise the danger of being up in the ring? </p><p>She does not. </p><p>But fortunately I do. </p><p>The other day I was on edge but decided to humour my servant. She had booked a lesson and she gets so disappointed if it doesn't happen. </p><p>We were warming up and I realised that there was something in the woods below. </p><p>Being a creature of finely honed instincts I knew we had to skedaddle out of there. But with grace and style. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PyF6vOtAgzA" width="320" youtube-src-id="PyF6vOtAgzA"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;">Carmen: Come with me if you want to live</div><p>Was she grateful? </p><p>She was not. She was <i>amused. </i>Did you hear her on the video? Asking me where we were going? Clearly the answer was to safety. </p><p>But we all know the truth- I saved two lives that day. </p><p>You're welcome. </p><p><br /></p>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-58784915690002990342023-10-30T11:32:00.001-03:002023-10-30T11:32:07.719-03:00Boundaries<p> This post has been circling around in my brain for a few months now and today is the day I'm going to try to put my thoughts down on, well not paper <i>obviously, </i> pixels? would that be the correct term? </p><p>Ahem, anyway.....</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUH97niFUY7MbnyIDSiAmCocs7ZxMJaOr48RXZ3ZFnWBPWhTIsMnQ9Dvx4L7Kqb3wnXjUZ_6kP5A3PJCgkHl8UygW663gHIWMnPH_riX1mh-mEE_t_lYabL2aa1G3DzCrsEtNfjHP596YRIGKsLyjc68CG5wsUxSqqRjIORJqOjFRAbn2XpgHhBa2Kz2M/s1450/IMG_5427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="1450" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUH97niFUY7MbnyIDSiAmCocs7ZxMJaOr48RXZ3ZFnWBPWhTIsMnQ9Dvx4L7Kqb3wnXjUZ_6kP5A3PJCgkHl8UygW663gHIWMnPH_riX1mh-mEE_t_lYabL2aa1G3DzCrsEtNfjHP596YRIGKsLyjc68CG5wsUxSqqRjIORJqOjFRAbn2XpgHhBa2Kz2M/s320/IMG_5427.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo to break up the wall of text</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>There are a number of famous horse trainers that I follow on the various socials. One has a page on FB that is mostly for followers to ask questions. To be completely honest I read some of them and I cringe. The ones that make me shudder are ones that go like this: </p><p><i>hey, I have this 4 year old mare that I've been building a relationship with. I hang out with her in the pasture and when she turns away or looks unhappy I back up and give her space. She's getting more and more communicative but now when I go in the pasture she pins her ears and charges at me. I wonder what I have missed in her communication and how can I repair the damage? </i></p><p>Then others weigh in about her lack of awareness of the horse's communication and that she needs to back up but not to worry, in 20 years she'll be able to stand within 5 feet of her horse. Okay, the last part is sarcasm on my part but you get the the idea. </p><p>Don't get me wrong, I'm a firm believer in building a positive relationship with my horse. I've literally dedicated hours to it. But I don't know of any good relationship that exists without boundaries. And I worry that in our drive to have positive relationships with our horses we ignore this concept. I worry that we believe that if we can just listen and meet all the needs of our horses there will be a wonderful symbiotic relationship that is pure magic. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8qbv968AG6-X3Hk9MwU2AwQ8ayxzgPKj-sWJMZ41cWV9hZwqOod3hK4Zr262d5-raK8uIfLG9q8DxzsKSCZqoQv0gU9a6l1e4I3shUlFTokd1Z6yh9-ifLC1JUDZ8HjCLMb4UR6_R7vrXXfX5YOoEBE-lh9IwDqDSKWeFHtwKoC8my2a4vlTfbsGr6g/s1498/IMG_5634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="994" data-original-width="1498" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8qbv968AG6-X3Hk9MwU2AwQ8ayxzgPKj-sWJMZ41cWV9hZwqOod3hK4Zr262d5-raK8uIfLG9q8DxzsKSCZqoQv0gU9a6l1e4I3shUlFTokd1Z6yh9-ifLC1JUDZ8HjCLMb4UR6_R7vrXXfX5YOoEBE-lh9IwDqDSKWeFHtwKoC8my2a4vlTfbsGr6g/s320/IMG_5634.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">establishing boundaries with Quaid</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Unfortunately, life does not work this way. I don't believe we need to be always yielding to our horses to have a partnership. In fact, I think that does the opposite- I think it makes us not important and, even more serious, I think it can lead to us getting seriously hurt. <div><br /></div><div>In the above scenario I think that the horse has learned to chase the person out. I worry that the behaviour will get more aggressive. Not that it matters what I think. I am not a trainer, I am just a woman who has horses. In case you were wondering, I do not respond with my thoughts on those types of posts. I don't think that it would be helpful and I am sure that my answer is not the one they are looking for. </div><div><br /></div><div>I do believe that it's important to listen to the horse we're with. And that there is enough history of us ignoring every communication from the horse and that has lead to harm too. In thinking back over the years of horses I have known (in riding schools, boarding barns and even my own) I am sure that the behaviours they exhibited were of pain and discomfort. </div><div><br /></div><div>Long time followers may recall my early years with Carmen. Back when it was a good ride if I had less than 3 out of control bolts per ride. Each time she would spook I would let her leave the area and have a break away from it. I interpreted her behaviour as fear and tried to mitigate it. Looking back I realise that it was actually telling me two things: one that she had ulcers (which I treated) and two that bolting was the only way she knew of to deal with pressure. And it worked, she'd bolt and the work would stop. While I didn't create this behaviour I reinforced it far too long. It got to the point that the only place I could ride. her was the centre circle and that was becoming dangerous. Fortunately, I got help and things are in a far better place. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrfol2enF-kcrhCkfqgpZm62xREyXlyZezAKpUw0Cefh8DzcD7XSgxo5MoHkX0qhUDqbNB9DxuGtSF2WfSoBdKjpn8VWLk1Ln-ne3E_XiUMR2VGxpc97kiUwXcdLW2sYZLMxQIkid3gLg6YJ4d2uOVSqNnFSDfWO-xFpPq54o9zz80oYuS9Vrl9rKPbM/s1727/IMG_5628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1727" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrfol2enF-kcrhCkfqgpZm62xREyXlyZezAKpUw0Cefh8DzcD7XSgxo5MoHkX0qhUDqbNB9DxuGtSF2WfSoBdKjpn8VWLk1Ln-ne3E_XiUMR2VGxpc97kiUwXcdLW2sYZLMxQIkid3gLg6YJ4d2uOVSqNnFSDfWO-xFpPq54o9zz80oYuS9Vrl9rKPbM/s320/IMG_5628.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">screen grab from yesterday's lesson</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I try to take what Carmen and Quaid are doing as information. I form a hypothesis and then figure out what the right answer is. Because the truth is that there is no one right answer. So much depends on context, history that it would be foolish to believe that the same answer is always the right one. I make this sound very deliberate, and while it is, a lot of it happens pretty organically. Here's a brief clip from our lesson yesterday. I was trying to clarify some aids with Jane when Carmen saw something in the next field. She immediately froze. Old Carmen would have followed that with a bolt. I saw her notice, looked over and saw nothing (I figured it was my cat) and then redirected her thoughts back to where she was. Here's a brief clip: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T263rrrVC4c" width="320" youtube-src-id="T263rrrVC4c"></iframe></div><br /><div>I would never have had her settle so fast if I hadn't spent time on reinforcing what was okay behaviour and what was not. Carmen will always have feelings (lots and lots of feelings) and I don't interfere with them. But there are lines that we both understand. For example, she hates having the bottom of her belly brushed. I know that and try to keep it brief. But sometimes she lays in poo over night and it's crusty. Leaving it is not an option and I have to scrub at it to get it. She <i>hates </i>that with the passion of a 100 demons. I don't correct her ear pinning or faces. I acknowledge it and keep going. But if she swings her head around to make contact (note Carmen has never bitten me. Not once) I correct that immediately. And then carry on. </div><div><br /></div><div>I don't know of anyone, human or otherwise, only gets to do and experience what they like. Teaching a horse about boundaries is not only good for the relationship it can save a life. How can we expect a farrier or vet to help our horses if they can't touch them because the horse is 'not ready'. I've seen a lot of negative posts on social media about a vet or farrier refusing to work with a feral horse that can't even have a halter put on. Like seriously? Recognising communication does not necessarily mean going along with it. It can mean that we have to figure out how to 'explain' it better or simply know that we need to get to the other side of this. </div><div><br /></div><div>I do not always get it right in my response. Sometimes I miss things I should have fixed. Especially with Quaid because he's so low key and typically sweet. I am okay with getting it wrong. Well, not really but I do my best to learn from it. </div><div><br /></div><div>I want to share this video from the lesson too. We're working on getting soft contact and that requires letting go. There's no way I would have gotten this work from her even last year. Giving the rein gave her freedom to go sideways. But we keep working and setting boundaries and now look at this mare going softly and happily forward (mostly). </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XLRC2sJuOIw" width="320" youtube-src-id="XLRC2sJuOIw"></iframe></div><br /> </div><div>My boundaries have shifted over the years. and I know that mine are different than other horse people. That is fine. We're all on this journey and there is no one path. But there have to be boundaries. Do you agree? What are your non-negotiables? I'm okay if you think I'm wrong and we should always do what the horse is feeling. I'm probably not going to change but I'm open to flexing a little. </div><div><br /><p><br /></p></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-69054833800378126752023-10-25T19:35:00.002-03:002023-10-25T19:35:40.130-03:00Warm October<p> October has been unseasonably warm this year. Which has been lovely in some ways (if you ignore the whole climate change risk). </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8LxGR4tjjtvr2uZhhSgA5IcYH9POduNO7HA2pj5fH42XGi0Z9heV6vSn2G-tj_DFcNkm9gudXqWY5o3OVV23S7hI8MMkj6YMYi_IeczNwKxhaO7xnfDtV9-SfNz0_ediGfqjTCssREYgH_WNYn7ZIiKzpfZOUM1Pxf6ZF52MO7lLvbtW2xLww-tJ5BA/s4032/IMG_5557.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8LxGR4tjjtvr2uZhhSgA5IcYH9POduNO7HA2pj5fH42XGi0Z9heV6vSn2G-tj_DFcNkm9gudXqWY5o3OVV23S7hI8MMkj6YMYi_IeczNwKxhaO7xnfDtV9-SfNz0_ediGfqjTCssREYgH_WNYn7ZIiKzpfZOUM1Pxf6ZF52MO7lLvbtW2xLww-tJ5BA/s320/IMG_5557.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">there have been some fabulous skies</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I normally love riding in October. This year the flies have still been bad which limits the overall enjoyment. Riding in the morning helps because they are less active. We had our first frost this week so that should help. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQewlozVznPsyIfeGM79TaUjtX26c15evlH09oYSON1MR6G2WtB3iKBo1ALtsAFiAbmIyMGlEFZB4IuC4aoqNJ7glUUVpObQ8PKxkMIixNZGGHNEMnz0bpVGCbWQzNr0BmK_C7_ftzaJBI7DjQSBMQgmaSxdtsP3gBbAGLkOPLE_7TCFkv-u68lih0EcI/s976/FB942D0F-2D07-4D93-A545-43505B0395B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="976" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQewlozVznPsyIfeGM79TaUjtX26c15evlH09oYSON1MR6G2WtB3iKBo1ALtsAFiAbmIyMGlEFZB4IuC4aoqNJ7glUUVpObQ8PKxkMIixNZGGHNEMnz0bpVGCbWQzNr0BmK_C7_ftzaJBI7DjQSBMQgmaSxdtsP3gBbAGLkOPLE_7TCFkv-u68lih0EcI/s320/FB942D0F-2D07-4D93-A545-43505B0395B4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>I haven't had grass like this in October since I don't know when. It's definitely helping keeping hay intake down. I think I've only had one lesson this month so far. Between scheduling conflicts and weather it's been tricky. It seems like it rains every weekend. <div><br /></div><div>Carmen and I continue to work on moving forward into contact and me not micromanaging. It's definitely coming. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOYposqj1QR5s8kImtQoi-h4_nx7gOR4UiBL6zuRbWqetlwHsgwvxfNwzseWzzXhV390jyBfbRD0uD8Bgbu1m7uYlaGqx1IeI9W3DifnLZmqAOi7WMD2A7zppDqFLcy4_CyGFyTsV-WIqpSMjg3NlePRqZyUh3mXCJX5K0ADsQVIT1G_bIfe64BOVlb0/s1783/IMG_5517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="949" data-original-width="1783" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOYposqj1QR5s8kImtQoi-h4_nx7gOR4UiBL6zuRbWqetlwHsgwvxfNwzseWzzXhV390jyBfbRD0uD8Bgbu1m7uYlaGqx1IeI9W3DifnLZmqAOi7WMD2A7zppDqFLcy4_CyGFyTsV-WIqpSMjg3NlePRqZyUh3mXCJX5K0ADsQVIT1G_bIfe64BOVlb0/s320/IMG_5517.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: eek my feet will get wet</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>There's nothing earth shattering but things are feeling better each lesson and I see improvement between rides. </div><div><br /></div><div>Quaid is settling well into work. Our ground driving is coming along really well. I think I've sorted out his bit fussiness. I couldn't figure out what was causing the fussiness. It's a really mild bit and I didn't want to fall into the rabbit hole of bit searches (almost as frustrating as saddle searches). I was working with him one day and I figured it out. You see I was putting on his halter and the bridle over top (without a nose band). I think that the halter was pushing on the bit and making him fuss. I've been putting on the bridle and halter over top and the fussiness seems to have ended. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggU5kBcmEKQPEIqDozJs4E2dZhhHqIYOp4yJ5do6Rcbfh5maLZVltx3dv4ZeYp5fcsIegAHT2TbekkX977hTwDBmjh3dQdDrLNExRJFY-XISoM7NQkL9r8kC66yLCSX7FtrxK0Y9eC-unS__h0l6yCrrPlosJbYw_5qNN7vK9mUZ60U6OAAt32W9igTgw/s4032/IMG_5600.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggU5kBcmEKQPEIqDozJs4E2dZhhHqIYOp4yJ5do6Rcbfh5maLZVltx3dv4ZeYp5fcsIegAHT2TbekkX977hTwDBmjh3dQdDrLNExRJFY-XISoM7NQkL9r8kC66yLCSX7FtrxK0Y9eC-unS__h0l6yCrrPlosJbYw_5qNN7vK9mUZ60U6OAAt32W9igTgw/s320/IMG_5600.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaid: pretty sure it's my turn</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>I have him booked to go for a month of training in February. Hopefully the weather will cooperate for trailering him there. And it gives me time to figure out what to do about Carmen being alone. <div><br /></div><div>The nice thing about riding in the fall is that the pressure to advance eases up. I know that that pressure is self-induced but it's nice to have it ease up. I got this screen shot from my last lesson and I just love it. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Om8D11fom3otQ2PnY7APLWpau6N6bcy76OGXztyMuUG7REO4myeMP-Ey_NvGVEXqduER0dzqJpvdrwSaB3lt1ZYh_phx4HoEZAwtcpkK6bmwLsOyzP9vrHcMkal1MHFhABTAvvkeJxOwm_8ocKw0-kavLER7s8xvaZNGxTQlDcpMADlwjS2iwzp_K58/s1765/4123AF60-CF60-43A0-9854-EA7E1B543316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1007" data-original-width="1765" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Om8D11fom3otQ2PnY7APLWpau6N6bcy76OGXztyMuUG7REO4myeMP-Ey_NvGVEXqduER0dzqJpvdrwSaB3lt1ZYh_phx4HoEZAwtcpkK6bmwLsOyzP9vrHcMkal1MHFhABTAvvkeJxOwm_8ocKw0-kavLER7s8xvaZNGxTQlDcpMADlwjS2iwzp_K58/s320/4123AF60-CF60-43A0-9854-EA7E1B543316.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">it looks like Carmen, Dottie and Guinness are having<br />a whole separate conversation</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I know that snow will be coming and probably sooner than I'd like. But it's nice to enjoy a mild fall and I plan to make the most of it. Do you have plans for this fall? <br /><div><br /></div><div><p><br /></p></div></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-14958434432231580412023-10-13T07:28:00.000-03:002023-10-13T07:28:10.949-03:00Tales from the Coop<p> I realise that I have been doing a lot of 'serious' posts lately. </p><p>But we all know that life with animals is often absurd. </p><p><i>Especially if you have chickens. </i></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmn-lBC7hs2bUtasXdpYTAKnmvdkwTktqU_C1c-9E5_JiL0TTPNBZPCM5TC4bbAnipjDBBz641RmVGxs1rNsOQs4l9o_8bVA-1BlfPyVCXRawomBKyO8aLsQVyiudznBaIoit4g1vRPvgXDYJfITKDM1lzcpgq7rvBxnkuBQAKQFQg3TA8hdvW_mB1FNs/s4032/IMG_5534.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmn-lBC7hs2bUtasXdpYTAKnmvdkwTktqU_C1c-9E5_JiL0TTPNBZPCM5TC4bbAnipjDBBz641RmVGxs1rNsOQs4l9o_8bVA-1BlfPyVCXRawomBKyO8aLsQVyiudznBaIoit4g1vRPvgXDYJfITKDM1lzcpgq7rvBxnkuBQAKQFQg3TA8hdvW_mB1FNs/s320/IMG_5534.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">if you look close you can see Willow keeping an eye <br />on the hens on the driveway. She's a little afraid of them. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />I was so excited to add the hens to our farm and I have zero regrets. But they do add unexpected drama. This story is about Diana. She's a beautiful barnyard mix hen. Her eggs are delicious. But she is what I would categorise at 'high maintenance. </p><p>You see Diana becomes broody quite often. When they first started to lay I put some fake eggs in the coop to encourage them lay in the brood boxes. Diana took all the fake eggs and stayed on them for a week until I took them from her. In the summer she disappeared and we thought she had been taken by a fox or eagle. But then one day there she was. She had a nest somewhere but we couldn't find it and she would always disappear when we weren't looking. I finally stalked her one day (like literally- I hid behind bushes every time she turned around to look at me) and found her spot. I came back at night and gathered her up and put her in the coop. Fortunately I could do that before something found her and ate her. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZx-qi7ThYztH7y2dV3DANUbd2kxCertnF8yOOFCEtdcIupZX1d8B_SOTfFbD0BZIuN9Xij8_dKp8RYnJav-YrlV47ZrrfrFAvW-zTEQOl1ieHntR-QeCeYY8sgwuC251e6zr5Nesq7WAnwrGNDFnOyF4bgbw2UGfqOYTxURGzfno63saddBtP08aKvY/s2081/IMG_5510.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2055" data-original-width="2081" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZx-qi7ThYztH7y2dV3DANUbd2kxCertnF8yOOFCEtdcIupZX1d8B_SOTfFbD0BZIuN9Xij8_dKp8RYnJav-YrlV47ZrrfrFAvW-zTEQOl1ieHntR-QeCeYY8sgwuC251e6zr5Nesq7WAnwrGNDFnOyF4bgbw2UGfqOYTxURGzfno63saddBtP08aKvY/s320/IMG_5510.heic" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beauty and attitude</td></tr></tbody></table><p>She then moved herself to my hay pile. That was not such a big deal, I would find the eggs and take them to the house. The day I left to go to the Jane clinic I startled her and she flapped around the round bales. When we were having supper Ed texted that he couldn't find Diana. I told him to check the hay and he said her did. I had a funny feeling so when I came home I went out to the barn telling Ed I would text him if I needed help. He thought I was crazy (to be fair, he's not wrong). </p><p>I shut the barn doors (so if she was there and I startled her she couldn't escape) and went over the hay with my cell phone flashlight. After a few passes I found her- down on the barn floor in a small space between a round bale and the wall. And of course this was at the very back. She couldn't get out of that space on her own so I texted Ed and he came out. </p><p>We had two options: get the tractor and move 4/5 bales until we could get her or have Ed hold my legs while I tried to hang down and nab her. </p><p>Guess which one we decided to try? </p><p>Ed held my legs and I slipped down between the round bale and the wall. There was not a lot of room. </p><p>Me: <i>a little more. I've almost got her. </i></p><p>At this point I am mostly head first in the hay but I was able to reach and scoop her into my hand. </p><p>At this point Diana started screaming blue murder: </p><p>Diana: EEK <i>HEEEELP!!!! MURDER! HELP ME! I'M BEING MURDERED. MURDERRRRRRRRRR</i></p><p>Me: <i>Okay pull me up. </i></p><p>I felt Ed start to pull and then stop. <i>uh oh. </i>I was too far down and could not help him and he couldn't get a purchase to haul me up. </p><p>I want you to picture this: Ed is holding the legs of a woman who is mostly headfirst in the hay holding a shrieking chicken. </p><p>I was picturing myself slipping further down and having to be rescued. I mean can you even picture the 911 call? <i>Hello, what is your emergency? </i></p><p><i>My wife is stuck in the hay being savaged by a chicken and I can't get her out. </i></p><p>Fortunately, I felt him suddenly stand up, hook my feet over his shoulders and back up hauling us up while I kept a firm grip on a squawking Diana. When we popped out we all sat there panting and staring at each other. </p><p><i>help</i> Diana squawked quietly. </p><p>I handed Diana to Ed while I hopped down out of the hay. She quieted immediately. <i>My saviour. </i> When I was on the ground he handed her back to me (we weren't taking a chance that she would flap off and land back where she started). Diana immediately began to shriek again. </p><p><i>Oh shut it</i> I muttered. And, with a baleful glance, she did. </p><p>I put her in the coop and she gave me one last glare before leaping onto her perch. </p><p><i>you're welcome </i>I said as I shut the door. </p><p>The horses were wildly entertained. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIiH39onkim-CnBCNBYcyC4FZd9tO-MS18uEvk-CFAeg0CQ8QYwBb6inUQhyphenhyphen6rFXwGyf9UwaisJr4egvmqRSVHf7CL1SpjjWZcGPXQzmRpkeXt0iu5CxYUtYhREbYfUzqnmrEdy33X6S5FYK8OCAVoNXO-iWX1IN24-yzBLehki38SpRD0_WH9_HoCTg/s4032/IMG_5128.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIiH39onkim-CnBCNBYcyC4FZd9tO-MS18uEvk-CFAeg0CQ8QYwBb6inUQhyphenhyphen6rFXwGyf9UwaisJr4egvmqRSVHf7CL1SpjjWZcGPXQzmRpkeXt0iu5CxYUtYhREbYfUzqnmrEdy33X6S5FYK8OCAVoNXO-iWX1IN24-yzBLehki38SpRD0_WH9_HoCTg/s320/IMG_5128.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guinness and Willow think that hens<br />aren't worth the drama. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-10832297283432578062023-10-03T19:40:00.004-03:002023-10-03T19:40:54.268-03:00Big Steps for the Baby Genius<p>Last weekend I loaded up the horses to take to another clinic. This time it was with Johanna Batista, the trainer who comes from Spain (although in this case it was Portugal because she has moved). I have taken many clinics with <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2019/10/clinic-recap-slow-dance.html" target="_blank">Johanna over the years </a>and have gotten a lot out of them. Covid stopped them for the past three years and I honestly thought that might be it. But Karen and Stacie arranged for her to come this year. </p><p>I had originally thought that Carmen and I would be riding in it but after thinking a bit I had a different idea. I decided that this would be a great opportunity for Quaid. I have done a lot of work with him but there's only so far I could get when I am usually all by myself. I know that Johanna has a lot of experience starting young horses and there would be people there to assist. I thought it would be a great chance to move things forward and also to identify holes in our training. </p><p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBt02uxRXHyULyVAgHbY8ieQt9Cm_HSJhjmICL9yBnEG0YxeKjEUByQCnc4EyjhVce17rTntqX_2FDJh_jIjgFo2vdEZOLNpHXpEiadCgLV907_HrWa2vB3KsqZXfmIv_47RYf30PHOL85hHgqIRmkg4CY-uek_32m1PTRnMzaPZna8_k9Xs3Em5b17E/s4032/IMG_5466.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBt02uxRXHyULyVAgHbY8ieQt9Cm_HSJhjmICL9yBnEG0YxeKjEUByQCnc4EyjhVce17rTntqX_2FDJh_jIjgFo2vdEZOLNpHXpEiadCgLV907_HrWa2vB3KsqZXfmIv_47RYf30PHOL85hHgqIRmkg4CY-uek_32m1PTRnMzaPZna8_k9Xs3Em5b17E/s320/IMG_5466.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking so grown up right? :D </td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>There were three sessions starting on Friday. We did a lot of ground work. And, to my eternal embarrassment, I totally allowed him to invade my space and flip me off. Like I know better but totally froze in the moment. The first part was pretty much a repeat of the work I did with <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/08/black-magic.html" target="_blank">Danique a few weeks </a>ago. Sigh. My problem is that he's basically sweet so I let things slide. I made a resolution to do better. </p><p>We worked on flexions and lining up at the mounting block. Like you would expect with a three year old he was easily distracted in this new place but did not do anything horrible. Lining up and standing at the mounting block took a few trials but we go there. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjerBq9QWq-z0Ja9cmLLzE8-8EvX3VAZ3XostLuyM_LzEPTahCG_iOLcOnjTlJAMyrMA7ReHCVPAly0zrVX2w3d7AVXFBxiCV4V8n7wZwzsQe5eYEQtOM10vcf1tkkFlOPPD8HTno88rFQRD_I90I7LgsSi8FKDhnUYFrCt0a-dZcBNpcX_MGkBVyzbY/s1652/IMG_5501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1652" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjerBq9QWq-z0Ja9cmLLzE8-8EvX3VAZ3XostLuyM_LzEPTahCG_iOLcOnjTlJAMyrMA7ReHCVPAly0zrVX2w3d7AVXFBxiCV4V8n7wZwzsQe5eYEQtOM10vcf1tkkFlOPPD8HTno88rFQRD_I90I7LgsSi8FKDhnUYFrCt0a-dZcBNpcX_MGkBVyzbY/s320/IMG_5501.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Karen led him while Johanna gave us feedback. He was really good about all of it. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuzGC2t3vDyQJI3F-8c7qWGsIZHATHjxlKI0MxUCkfM6CuJxoCslaWoRNErj7IX-BDiaWDly8uLWihGrIjz_jn4EeZqZ81cIapGyl1CRVWxvqV3fFxJnYA6vWCZLGBvuTtLgTTxu9SRsOFGj4uHhDss4P3An0QeXCqa4tBAhoRDwTv25NlHtDtKC4gFj4/s1320/IMG_5454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_ej_cykN8g8dXneoQMRN6wSuKiRVF-TaJIqyy6lqPnx8X5PFBJZYmVfU-bFid8KSxImhQRqnmj0H4DcLlQrIGjT94Fh9ZBEEHnK23oWJsIrmyQbe9o4xNiDfXrSmRIn8uakADk7J8hB7kuvV3-0Kyz0HjrLUVom2b64XCEbpbql6ODwV7wickRAsP0U/s1320/IMG_5454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="921" data-original-width="1320" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_ej_cykN8g8dXneoQMRN6wSuKiRVF-TaJIqyy6lqPnx8X5PFBJZYmVfU-bFid8KSxImhQRqnmj0H4DcLlQrIGjT94Fh9ZBEEHnK23oWJsIrmyQbe9o4xNiDfXrSmRIn8uakADk7J8hB7kuvV3-0Kyz0HjrLUVom2b64XCEbpbql6ODwV7wickRAsP0U/s320/IMG_5454.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was great first day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our lesson was the next morning. This time Quaid was feeling a lot more sassy. I think it was because of me setting the boundaries and him asking me a lot of questions about them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VTk3UEne7ktaqbxaPrl24xZec7OmfhxVAUPrsdMdRkLuzV8PEY6c2eqeQp5x3jF9frDuj8CV5w1qKFKBe2t0AOMLga7D_pcOmWw-w-9FmnyzFVK5Gkuj-oL8kNFDu5KFwn0xbwFPoikFkOAGW0DSs7wx0zsgD_1ejczS02nL75QuH2wvgcIf6IS8C9g/s1697/IMG_5470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1697" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_VTk3UEne7ktaqbxaPrl24xZec7OmfhxVAUPrsdMdRkLuzV8PEY6c2eqeQp5x3jF9frDuj8CV5w1qKFKBe2t0AOMLga7D_pcOmWw-w-9FmnyzFVK5Gkuj-oL8kNFDu5KFwn0xbwFPoikFkOAGW0DSs7wx0zsgD_1ejczS02nL75QuH2wvgcIf6IS8C9g/s320/IMG_5470.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaid: you're not the boss of me.... are you? </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>In the end we decided that it was not a good day to ride. Instead we focussed on the groundwork and getting him tuned in. I would have liked to have ridden but not too bummed out. I totally get you deal with the horse you have on the day. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Guess who's nose was out of joint about this clinic being all about Quaid? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yup, Carmen. She was not approving of this development. You can see her expression in the back. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwIksYLwyPSiDfO5kAr7_K1jrHtxa-97ynTxmMAVQfyLTpZIE6BXXy_VxWUP-15EJbEH6ZJJB6cheOVtAnmboBuRIJBZPja4HwBX2GQrqhvhtFLNEPVUgWGgNo-cwBdhQxa22AI0FWUzdWhs6IU-GON0F69bC9PvBmIiplm1wjsdl4P-rPAN_AT90ZRug/s4032/IMG_5472.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwIksYLwyPSiDfO5kAr7_K1jrHtxa-97ynTxmMAVQfyLTpZIE6BXXy_VxWUP-15EJbEH6ZJJB6cheOVtAnmboBuRIJBZPja4HwBX2GQrqhvhtFLNEPVUgWGgNo-cwBdhQxa22AI0FWUzdWhs6IU-GON0F69bC9PvBmIiplm1wjsdl4P-rPAN_AT90ZRug/s320/IMG_5472.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: what is this new outrage?<br />Quaid: it's all about meeee</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made sure on Saturday I rode her at lunch time and she seemed to be appeased. Especially when I turned them out in the afternoon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiSuMGInyK3cAChcCp9jfImT2DxIF7IKvYDJBhlpUqM3CmDmE3NvqetbMTYTJ5E1ZIfC6hzVAsdzVhj_VmcCn2AjYC3E-DVlG0AB9fAH_OQHAFw256ikT8f2kVH_nHbumc8zyAM2ymyEMUfnxgVbRxULKeVnJ_vuxwuFztBERSPHi0OOQq9H5G1Ykg8Y/s4032/IMG_5471.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiSuMGInyK3cAChcCp9jfImT2DxIF7IKvYDJBhlpUqM3CmDmE3NvqetbMTYTJ5E1ZIfC6hzVAsdzVhj_VmcCn2AjYC3E-DVlG0AB9fAH_OQHAFw256ikT8f2kVH_nHbumc8zyAM2ymyEMUfnxgVbRxULKeVnJ_vuxwuFztBERSPHi0OOQq9H5G1Ykg8Y/s320/IMG_5471.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Sunday we were early as well. I could tell when I brought him out to groom that he was back to his normal sweet self. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We spent some time on ground work and then getting him to line up at the mounting block. It was interesting, he would line up but as soon as I flexed him he'd step away. I'd ask him to come back and he got quite rude about it, pushing into me on the block. The first time I thought it was a mistake. By the third time I realised he was pushing me around so I kneed him in the belly. After that he settled significantly. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I mounted and Karen led us around again while I focussed on using my seat to follow him. As soon as my seat would follow his ear would come back to me. Even though there were birds making weird noises on the roof. Then I played with using my seat to steer and ask him to whoa. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's a video of near the end:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wUQXn3Vrx1w" width="320" youtube-src-id="wUQXn3Vrx1w"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">It was a great note to end with. I learned a lot from this clinic:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. I need to be clear on boundaries and expectations. </div><div style="text-align: left;">2. We still need to work on him learning how to deal with getting excited and being able to come back down. </div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Quaid is still incredibly smart. </div><div style="text-align: left;">4. I may need a different bit. He was quite chompy with it. I need to determine if that was just an expression of nerves or if we need something else. </div><div style="text-align: left;">5. I need to work more on him lining up and standing at the mounting block. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My biggest takeaway is that I will be sending him off in the new year for professional training. He's very smart and sensitive. Because I am alone it limits how much I can do. So it's worth it to pay a trainer to get him going. I did that with Steele and I believe it's money well spent. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc6qmJSw5imlWk-XjOzUO-ZfGA0bzTRxNcx2KJdUrO-uzPvHcRAHhxVLYajRWHTWcxHM8K4agim4WjaIV0SjygXrs_M6CdIjwmRNbCr78gCroVjLsaUg1CSORSyaLsWB68gJtdsQAEZbkaFmLXo7KWjp37aEkgyA6Z3f9DdBXkU9MCmsXPVPMTd8r6rg/s913/004C0404-FBEF-4DAB-930C-2C352943B93C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="913" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc6qmJSw5imlWk-XjOzUO-ZfGA0bzTRxNcx2KJdUrO-uzPvHcRAHhxVLYajRWHTWcxHM8K4agim4WjaIV0SjygXrs_M6CdIjwmRNbCr78gCroVjLsaUg1CSORSyaLsWB68gJtdsQAEZbkaFmLXo7KWjp37aEkgyA6Z3f9DdBXkU9MCmsXPVPMTd8r6rg/s320/004C0404-FBEF-4DAB-930C-2C352943B93C.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quaid: was I good? I think I was good. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br />TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-91401652460811696922023-09-26T18:38:00.001-03:002023-09-26T18:38:56.189-03:00Trust the Process<p> Last weekend I packed up the horses and headed to a local stable for a 2 day clinic with Jane. It may seem weird to go to a clinic with a person that I lesson with regularly. But I thought it was a good chance to have back-to-back lessons and in a new place. I took Quaid as well for the miles. </p><p>I had ridden at this stable before a three<a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2020/09/triptych-tale-of-three-lessons.html" target="_blank"> years ago</a> and I remember having to work hard with Carmen to keep her focussed. But we are in a much different place now. </p><p> My lessons were Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. I know I have done a lot of work with Carmen and seen a lot of success. Carmen was very chill getting groomed and tacked up despite this being her first time in a new barn. Yet, when I mounted, I immediately took a hold of Carmen to keep her contained. Jane immediately told me to let go and trust the work we've been doing. </p><p>So I did and, spoiler alert, she was fine. Despite there being many things that she could legitimately take issue with: </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrUPeMHMygRdfREeGCIF6vHoSvmLzS603U6DCUKVFhbqh-MpxN8S-1x5YBMuF7rHxNuINjpiRDtlbzbqXlhYVb8C9obhxoBaBfI-j6KhiWE7SWoDf0vdlP_fnevXDWyivzIWGX9DYmVuZ9VUSxNN1FTvdUcWSSDvCb_7KzHtBaEENp10OWAh0fX3VDm4/s1408/IMG_5426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="814" data-original-width="1408" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrUPeMHMygRdfREeGCIF6vHoSvmLzS603U6DCUKVFhbqh-MpxN8S-1x5YBMuF7rHxNuINjpiRDtlbzbqXlhYVb8C9obhxoBaBfI-j6KhiWE7SWoDf0vdlP_fnevXDWyivzIWGX9DYmVuZ9VUSxNN1FTvdUcWSSDvCb_7KzHtBaEENp10OWAh0fX3VDm4/s320/IMG_5426.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lots to look at, nothing to worry about</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>I was thrilled that we were able to simply go to work. Most of the lesson was on letting go of the inside rein and keeping my elbows at my side. That is so freaking hard but it keeps me stable and allow me to be soft in my arms. But as soon as she pulled or got tight I wanted to wing out my arms. </p><p>Sigh. Riding is hard. But there's a lot of change too. She's not snarky and I'm not riding so defensively (the start notwithstanding). </p><p>I love how she coming over her back and from behind. And in a lot of these screen grabs you can see that I have a soft rein. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Zp_2NFHVss83BXhVf_m8g6ePsVa_lM6m65SGLlhzE19dQIy-U8ZE82h0MBegDf9RZpj5VR1h_ypSwnhC9jvzBRGfJYfOt-Qh49eOEVca5SroroZ8hKg4HTdDsZ-IMyeblKlNQqZiQXYWL07dqJfpoHNC_qv7pYytOud5eKQWkOz8Iv85EjSWZvwumHA/s1390/IMG_5421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1390" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Zp_2NFHVss83BXhVf_m8g6ePsVa_lM6m65SGLlhzE19dQIy-U8ZE82h0MBegDf9RZpj5VR1h_ypSwnhC9jvzBRGfJYfOt-Qh49eOEVca5SroroZ8hKg4HTdDsZ-IMyeblKlNQqZiQXYWL07dqJfpoHNC_qv7pYytOud5eKQWkOz8Iv85EjSWZvwumHA/s320/IMG_5421.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">half-pass not half-bad</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu1N30S6G6l3iq0R5lFbEzmq4sa2l5-YvhEYg5Ex3iPPxp3VfMJtEMsYRgTZcgqOX4dY8WRTZ0jpl8n-lOYmbv-nZ6sKO-OLlKxjPSa75zuKsHA837Mmmgq1AkHRLdACnZAazZiej77mdoVm8PwLMQUnxUvDnsuu9Jekkqf1eoPgWc5kV9scRG641nxU/s1341/IMG_5425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="1341" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu1N30S6G6l3iq0R5lFbEzmq4sa2l5-YvhEYg5Ex3iPPxp3VfMJtEMsYRgTZcgqOX4dY8WRTZ0jpl8n-lOYmbv-nZ6sKO-OLlKxjPSa75zuKsHA837Mmmgq1AkHRLdACnZAazZiej77mdoVm8PwLMQUnxUvDnsuu9Jekkqf1eoPgWc5kV9scRG641nxU/s320/IMG_5425.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">canter</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXwUhHSra0hjf6zer9UVXDP7JST9lgooTXcCA2rCnvndRjJxev0YOyNmg1QeN-6OWMtbMN-jcm7EKw9BVwtiCdaBlI0wy_CJqNVaDQMzbH-_Jk5OMg5Oed_Tz0XcSNc26j4amMe1WeYv0roRYYJH6gZAXgDj20JYjREdGu2cv-l0fXc8ZQvQBgCNO7Ss/s1450/IMG_5427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="1450" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXwUhHSra0hjf6zer9UVXDP7JST9lgooTXcCA2rCnvndRjJxev0YOyNmg1QeN-6OWMtbMN-jcm7EKw9BVwtiCdaBlI0wy_CJqNVaDQMzbH-_Jk5OMg5Oed_Tz0XcSNc26j4amMe1WeYv0roRYYJH6gZAXgDj20JYjREdGu2cv-l0fXc8ZQvQBgCNO7Ss/s320/IMG_5427.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stretching into trot</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I was very happy with our ride. I could feel her be balanced and trying really hard. Here's a little video of us working on a counter canter (if you listen closely you can hear Quaid yelling his head off) :</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_Od9uN47LoA" width="320" youtube-src-id="_Od9uN47LoA"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The next day Carmen out exactly the same. Although a little more tired. She continues to struggle with flexing to the right and believes to her very soul that the only way she can do a transition, especially to canter, is to straighten her neck and even move it to the left. That way she doesn't have to load her inside hind in the strike off. But she really really tried and we started to get it. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_-H1BfjE2h3jaeH77CarhvPY5oU3KLhJd6J2kbuyi2rKWmJ3mI2BrL2sjRvWNZOapEtlnTU4LJcZ22-FE-iWKdEAn3wjBOkhC7FcZWmyiXYOL2QX6R_UNsNZjWonuVIHcSDnb7ku7fdrbsGwE62UFbWuGvw_ODrDVJRNHL3QZ95yWNBNBkKtv7fqRoE/s1405/IMG_5429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1405" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_-H1BfjE2h3jaeH77CarhvPY5oU3KLhJd6J2kbuyi2rKWmJ3mI2BrL2sjRvWNZOapEtlnTU4LJcZ22-FE-iWKdEAn3wjBOkhC7FcZWmyiXYOL2QX6R_UNsNZjWonuVIHcSDnb7ku7fdrbsGwE62UFbWuGvw_ODrDVJRNHL3QZ95yWNBNBkKtv7fqRoE/s320/IMG_5429.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">look at her focus</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcsXKKIrWJXe2EySTB6gIKePQMrOfiyducTolFu_gh7Spf1Hr_DOlCBPAT_Y4a9Ei6bLjYa0Tc5iG_QOWPwQsgqVrf6NSrEjNtp0cO8epte-xYxDqGSfEkfd5EEw-5ReBBCtMocOrKsGeUPRzdF-GHxwwMaJ1ifVLgQQGvO6ID-xKOOMvulIhqyRcCSc/s1234/IMG_5430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="1234" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcsXKKIrWJXe2EySTB6gIKePQMrOfiyducTolFu_gh7Spf1Hr_DOlCBPAT_Y4a9Ei6bLjYa0Tc5iG_QOWPwQsgqVrf6NSrEjNtp0cO8epte-xYxDqGSfEkfd5EEw-5ReBBCtMocOrKsGeUPRzdF-GHxwwMaJ1ifVLgQQGvO6ID-xKOOMvulIhqyRcCSc/s320/IMG_5430.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRKXLIrcCPRJRe_eX-bnoYhUoGn7jXrudUS8OM_MOqmzE5KeSzxnR0_JmaTA--xMWbSkaFVjTdnqltnEnQfXP4HOcEjIjhXp6klwYF7dCKoS77U6KeFmJFep3SrezHsb7CUdGHxZEffQl-L2j4hzzXlfZu1pZrEDMWbV4kavV6yZsdiXCTLLce-URD90/s992/IMG_5431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="992" data-original-width="887" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTRKXLIrcCPRJRe_eX-bnoYhUoGn7jXrudUS8OM_MOqmzE5KeSzxnR0_JmaTA--xMWbSkaFVjTdnqltnEnQfXP4HOcEjIjhXp6klwYF7dCKoS77U6KeFmJFep3SrezHsb7CUdGHxZEffQl-L2j4hzzXlfZu1pZrEDMWbV4kavV6yZsdiXCTLLce-URD90/s320/IMG_5431.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">her tail continues to be magnificent</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLP6inwMbyEngV6I8F-HK6ykVIEAAp-8A9qGwhXHIsFUoa1P1IBVpg_jcdqZu640zufjjtP5ZklHpYDyxZ0C5ManWZgcMrX0dTtt8QDUEc0FrIoITj-FFAg2nS9AWBM953XMrWVSG4KQDLJnllm4lWpOOYukp4jrjPY9wxoFKX_8UXVD1fm_8j_aKAYg/s1599/IMG_5432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="916" data-original-width="1599" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLP6inwMbyEngV6I8F-HK6ykVIEAAp-8A9qGwhXHIsFUoa1P1IBVpg_jcdqZu640zufjjtP5ZklHpYDyxZ0C5ManWZgcMrX0dTtt8QDUEc0FrIoITj-FFAg2nS9AWBM953XMrWVSG4KQDLJnllm4lWpOOYukp4jrjPY9wxoFKX_8UXVD1fm_8j_aKAYg/s320/IMG_5432.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>She was a bit more behind the leg which made me naggy. Jane wanted me to squeeze with my legs for a couple strides and then soften. I thought I was doing that but when I look at the video it looks like I'm going 'nag-nag-nag' with my legs. Sigh. But I'll get it. This is why video is so useful- what you think you're doing and what you're really doing are often different. There were times Jane told me to put my elbows at my sides but when I watch the video there's a lot of air between my arm and sides. </div><div><br /></div><div>The lessons were very successful. Not the least because it reinforced that Carmen can go somewhere new and go to work. And the work is good. <br /><p><br /></p></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-16625665561651902582023-09-16T18:31:00.003-03:002023-09-23T08:59:22.933-03:00Summer Wrap Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpe0aCJH9DAq7uk9JTBHf28PFNV9RA-Ja6ZDDaG8uA-AlR8v3c2UGa3VzbDINjz-WP_Z_WRybZLxsY0VaD8UDp8hmY9voYRzuZEB5l0c_hsx_FQu2PapEKWqZtWw-HPepQs4RLPWoEWyABBEgv-O4AGy3G8g9LA0EFiAjDUaW_vo4QdEYqIjPtD3xJLfo/s4032/IMG_5360.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpe0aCJH9DAq7uk9JTBHf28PFNV9RA-Ja6ZDDaG8uA-AlR8v3c2UGa3VzbDINjz-WP_Z_WRybZLxsY0VaD8UDp8hmY9voYRzuZEB5l0c_hsx_FQu2PapEKWqZtWw-HPepQs4RLPWoEWyABBEgv-O4AGy3G8g9LA0EFiAjDUaW_vo4QdEYqIjPtD3xJLfo/s320/IMG_5360.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>This summer has been a bit unbelievable with all the events going on. Right now I am sitting in my living room on the couch listening to Tropical Storm Lee (formerly known as Hurricane Lee), blowing outside my window. So far we've been fortunate- trees are still standing and our power is on (unlike the over 136,000 without power). September storms are not unusual but they have definitely ramped up in intensity. After everything else that has happened this summer it seems a bit like adding insult to injury. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5hqKuQ_D_p5m4MGJFoMiRUurapNDGVx2wbG93IyT__PGdhwFTeECas4uHmpVm5qjOCNl-HZwfnhsl1D4XZvMCqsEli_PFZj1ici9Dbg5-tU71bJ2yqlu9zGXmN38q9idUuxjo38H2Eqg0tMAUXGLMfHmam1sxhK8ALZJFTz1AJZ8P3Tu17zK8-NM81s/s1620/TCH-12092023-DeAdderCartoon.jpg.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1620" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5hqKuQ_D_p5m4MGJFoMiRUurapNDGVx2wbG93IyT__PGdhwFTeECas4uHmpVm5qjOCNl-HZwfnhsl1D4XZvMCqsEli_PFZj1ici9Dbg5-tU71bJ2yqlu9zGXmN38q9idUuxjo38H2Eqg0tMAUXGLMfHmam1sxhK8ALZJFTz1AJZ8P3Tu17zK8-NM81s/s320/TCH-12092023-DeAdderCartoon.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">it's funny because it's true (lol*sob)<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>The horses are tucked in safely. Carmen has some opinions on the quality of room service and Quaid is feeling a bit stir-crazy but they are fine. I think if I wasn't retired I'd be a lot more frustrated in trying to find good weather for riding. <div><br /></div><div>Friday was warm and calm and I took full advantage by riding Carmen, working Quaid and meeting a friend for an ice cream treat. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISjDiTi4DkN8Wc8vXb9VvSRcMda2hg51n2to9yFeCOUPt0Cgh3xdMvqcLKsJH9tiqvQRVIT6vTfyVTdUqPfYSKIc8vR-yVay_Rhn2O8kU-AfrfGTSLC8aTQfE5oTYfrhdNTgr-oUsJlCmrTXOvdeT9fzdA8KHx6L7iyY02RadMgfRIltFWS2GRccKWS0/s1800/7EBA4404-E685-4CB2-B9D1-35326A1DD060.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISjDiTi4DkN8Wc8vXb9VvSRcMda2hg51n2to9yFeCOUPt0Cgh3xdMvqcLKsJH9tiqvQRVIT6vTfyVTdUqPfYSKIc8vR-yVay_Rhn2O8kU-AfrfGTSLC8aTQfE5oTYfrhdNTgr-oUsJlCmrTXOvdeT9fzdA8KHx6L7iyY02RadMgfRIltFWS2GRccKWS0/s320/7EBA4404-E685-4CB2-B9D1-35326A1DD060.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S'more ice cream. Soooo good</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Quaid is doing really well with our training. The flies are driving him bonkers so not all our sessions are as productive as I'd like. The gnats are really bad with all the wet. But when I do work him he soaks it up like a sponge. Our steering is coming along. His 'whoa' is very good but standing for a longer than five seconds is a struggle. I am no worried, it's coming. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEB9WJp41E10e5BSlQCbNqBE73fFRzGWK04emlm6Tg_rEwnkWdaQMagfgDz3B7jjrCK1TbHTbJ5dzCu8S3nLvfbwoX9NhcnZb2IutKOzMkv-Gpsaq7BQ4J0GeSGo1VyVIYi_UvXIvLQ1BWK3GcGo1u1ZYA-pJsvylAZb_EDMZ5WPTq22vmQDYDFdG4Mg/s1800/9CBFB179-565A-4584-9F13-F0C10E6EBBB1.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNEB9WJp41E10e5BSlQCbNqBE73fFRzGWK04emlm6Tg_rEwnkWdaQMagfgDz3B7jjrCK1TbHTbJ5dzCu8S3nLvfbwoX9NhcnZb2IutKOzMkv-Gpsaq7BQ4J0GeSGo1VyVIYi_UvXIvLQ1BWK3GcGo1u1ZYA-pJsvylAZb_EDMZ5WPTq22vmQDYDFdG4Mg/s320/9CBFB179-565A-4584-9F13-F0C10E6EBBB1.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me: can you stand awkwardly for a photo? <br />Quaid: you betcha</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br />Both horses have decided to mess with my morning routine. Normally I feed them and go get my coffee. I then turn them out and clean the stalls. Lately they've not wanted to leave but instead hang out in the stalls. It's a real PITA because they get in my way. I've started shooing them out and closing the door behind them. They are not impressed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRi_qmrHHJEvNBIf-gq-Vrr4ghzNOfUXfb_WBGO5HoGS-6iC1yMwEP1h1CnMBs1ckPuCYuZxvjeG5TYx_tCB_oerD2RO9AhjtwB8Xm_pmj68ZGpGiTZp2aJ0TeAoxc0wcpSyd0bddnnKU4vxFI87YaRxCEjPE5_VO4DISXjXAHJsmUw0eQjvG4bAXo6XU/s4032/IMG_5382.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRi_qmrHHJEvNBIf-gq-Vrr4ghzNOfUXfb_WBGO5HoGS-6iC1yMwEP1h1CnMBs1ckPuCYuZxvjeG5TYx_tCB_oerD2RO9AhjtwB8Xm_pmj68ZGpGiTZp2aJ0TeAoxc0wcpSyd0bddnnKU4vxFI87YaRxCEjPE5_VO4DISXjXAHJsmUw0eQjvG4bAXo6XU/s320/IMG_5382.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Carmen: <i>We are outraged at this treatment!</i></div><div>Quaid: <i>yes, we are OUTSIDE! </i></div><div>Carmen: <i>no, it's <b>outraged</b></i></div><div>Quaid: <i>Oh right- we are raged outside! </i></div><div><div>Carmen: <i>*sigh* no no no: OUTRAGED</i></div><div>Quaid: <i>ohhhh. Carmen, what does 'outraged' mean? </i></div></div><div><div>Carmen: <i>that we are really really angry</i></div><div>Quaid: <i>well I'm a little sad but I can't say I'm angry</i></div></div><div><div>Carmen: <i>you don't have to be angry, you just have to convince the servant you are outraged</i></div><div>Quaid: <i>why? </i></div></div><div><div>Carmen: <i>so she'll change her behaviour. It's called 'horse training'</i></div><div>Quaid: <i>I thought horse training was us learning things. </i></div></div><div>Carmen: <i>no skippy, it's the horse training the human to be a better a servant. Now get your outraged face on . </i></div><div>Quaid: <i>how does this look? </i></div><div>Me: <i>adorable. </i></div><div>Carmen: <i>I hate working with amateurs</i></div><div>Me: <i>I think that when you start cleaning your own stalls you can stay in as long as you like</i></div><div><p>In really happy news Quaid is now back to being barefoot. The last time the farrier came out a couple weeks ago his hoof was totally normal so we decided we could pull his shoes. I watched him pretty carefully and he's still 100% sound. I am so grateful that the <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/03/" target="_blank">hoof puncture nightmare</a> is all behind us. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXkN0-SsGqiinSvgz_hXgoK1DIZGgDqTuDPp9B9Vb2f1KBUqhVROf7AIvNBw_vVMoHyGQ4iMF4mJZoSwle39f9S_orMhP7NmXgNh8yZYnIUIjxprJe_L34RHmUDjaLBHljb47z5v1yf6oRWCAnmZ3VxzgZO6GyZPUEXboWPu_IDkz8Y4-PaUMJ8agNk70/s4032/CE48B9D9-CCDA-4488-9082-FD073D926EAF.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXkN0-SsGqiinSvgz_hXgoK1DIZGgDqTuDPp9B9Vb2f1KBUqhVROf7AIvNBw_vVMoHyGQ4iMF4mJZoSwle39f9S_orMhP7NmXgNh8yZYnIUIjxprJe_L34RHmUDjaLBHljb47z5v1yf6oRWCAnmZ3VxzgZO6GyZPUEXboWPu_IDkz8Y4-PaUMJ8agNk70/s320/CE48B9D9-CCDA-4488-9082-FD073D926EAF.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">if this doesn't warm your heart it's dead</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>Fall is coming and, to be honest, I'd like a couple frosts to kill off the bugs. That way we can enjoy working the horses without being tortured. <br /><p><br /></p></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-52041770495318954382023-09-05T21:08:00.002-03:002023-09-05T21:14:02.586-03:00Self-Fulfilling Prophecy<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBslvVt4rSi4lK4wloOYJHkTMluVMPWHfKrc5M-18yKcJR6Vi-BzUKXpP-JNkqCFHDB-WrrnD1T2lydDDHractUeYc6252jtzlqBbP8PxrOdfIlMcOvryT04W60si868Q_QnrAEvkl9totpceoKESAHhccQhBO1ACVT_DIbmFC4UeHk5J8oZjik_5y5k/s1206/Screenshot%202023-09-05%20at%207.30.18%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="514" data-original-width="1206" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBslvVt4rSi4lK4wloOYJHkTMluVMPWHfKrc5M-18yKcJR6Vi-BzUKXpP-JNkqCFHDB-WrrnD1T2lydDDHractUeYc6252jtzlqBbP8PxrOdfIlMcOvryT04W60si868Q_QnrAEvkl9totpceoKESAHhccQhBO1ACVT_DIbmFC4UeHk5J8oZjik_5y5k/w400-h170/Screenshot%202023-09-05%20at%207.30.18%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>Buckle up folks, I'm going to recap the show from my perspective (since you've heard <a href="https://journeywithadancinghorse.blogspot.com/2023/09/carmens-perspective-show-recap.html" target="_blank">Carmen's already</a>). In the days leading up to it Carmen was a bit spicy. And it wasn't just me, Julia rode her and she was pretty spicy then too. But, to be honest, it didn't really bother me too much- Carmen is often spicy. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, when she was being difficult about bathing her Friday morning and then in her stall leading to the trailer I was a little concerned. This concern was dissipated when we arrived and she totally relaxed at the venue. Quaid came along for the ride and he was pretty easy going about all of it. Except when I would take Carmen away. But that's all part of the learning. </div><div><br /></div><div>The nice thing about these shows is that you can book times to ride in the show ring on Friday afternoon. It's a great way to familiarise the horse with the ring. Of course Carmen has been there many times but it hasn't always been sunshine and roses. I went through our groundwork exercises first and then hopped on and took her into the ring. Jane was there to give some coaching which was wonderful. In fact she was available for all her students for the whole weekend. I am sure she was exhausted but we were all incredibly grateful. </div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, Carmen was energised but tuned in and we were having a good ride. Then the show committee came in and explained that due to some issues, they had to water the ring while were in it. I figured it would be good for us so decided to stay. I was quite impressed with how she handled the person walking and spraying. We finished on a good note and I put her away happy. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh7e7T3lESPb7gJc9xLstqDjqnCLbUSfRgpolly_fesmiP20u40nWCWbzc41LqDFO5mTw1YFLHJ8QeuKZRnPC3MGnjLXsOi3Ns5vxvler8eRMCC4CjHUX_IFPbYcsx4LkX4Bnh6CHSRuhNrR0dgjlBRzkdOZp_ldMKMUNQAnjdqgpi5--1wGkXEb23ys/s4032/IMG_5293.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh7e7T3lESPb7gJc9xLstqDjqnCLbUSfRgpolly_fesmiP20u40nWCWbzc41LqDFO5mTw1YFLHJ8QeuKZRnPC3MGnjLXsOi3Ns5vxvler8eRMCC4CjHUX_IFPbYcsx4LkX4Bnh6CHSRuhNrR0dgjlBRzkdOZp_ldMKMUNQAnjdqgpi5--1wGkXEb23ys/s320/IMG_5293.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo of the pretty sunrise Saturday <br />morning to break up the wall of text</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Our rides were late in the afternoon and with my least favourite timing of an hour apart. I find that too long to keep riding and too close to give a real break. I figured I would play it by ear and maybe take her back to the stall and take off her bridle to have a rest. </div><div><br /></div><div>I spent the morning hand grazing the horses, watching my friends ride and hanging out with the horses. It as a 'new to us' judge at the show and as the morning went on information began to circulate that she was tough. I heard that she had just returned from a judging a young riders competition in Europe. She was originally from Europe and now living in Ontario. While she was a tough scorer it seemed that, while she would give 3's (or lower) she also would give 8's. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9x-aWrUjaBTP90d8PItmLqSPdngaGv4w2se_NDHIkfL4wsonEdjzifxdxwY-PHxj110ItyKEy0_WcbGF6r2iX-vm9KQd4VyE5J7BxmrN_bTvyeU_7MHgwKBMl8qFQZxcCMkBq7Q-0SwE8mnqXoOu81gFf2PNIujOgcpnrfGpMqGVOeqgmggt16tKCjbI/s4032/IMG_5303.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9x-aWrUjaBTP90d8PItmLqSPdngaGv4w2se_NDHIkfL4wsonEdjzifxdxwY-PHxj110ItyKEy0_WcbGF6r2iX-vm9KQd4VyE5J7BxmrN_bTvyeU_7MHgwKBMl8qFQZxcCMkBq7Q-0SwE8mnqXoOu81gFf2PNIujOgcpnrfGpMqGVOeqgmggt16tKCjbI/s320/IMG_5303.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: untie me woman, I'll just be outside on the grass.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I've been timing our warm-ups and it takes about 45 minutes for her to feel soft and ready so my plan was to mount up about 45 minutes before my ride. Jane was there to help with the warm up and Carmen felt great. The ring got a little crowded so I headed outside to walk around for a few minutes before our ride. </div><div>Our first test was 2-1 and it felt really good. Carmen was tight and I was riding her very carefully. But it was a lot better than when we rode this same test in the June show. Here's the video: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hq66_F4ZSLg" width="320" youtube-src-id="hq66_F4ZSLg"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Carmen got a little strong at the end and took over a bit. When I went out I decided that she felt like she had a lot in the tank so I decided to stay on. I walked for a bit, then added in some turn on the haunches, leg yields etc. Then before I knew it it was time for our second test (2-2):</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uxFLEOc7DPs" width="320" youtube-src-id="uxFLEOc7DPs"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>I was happy with this test too. For both of them I knew we weren't perfect. There were definite bobbles but I was having fun riding Carmen. In the show ring. </div><div><br /></div><div>After I cooled her out and put her away I went to get my tests. I was slightly disappointed but not surprised to see that my scores were in the high 50's. I don't like to get below 60 but I was still not upset. We were last in both classes and I was still really happy with how we did. I never felt any of those emotions that I have felt showing Carmen before: out of control, worried, frustrated. Instead I felt like we both did our best and worked together. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbx9pmmOpAxkuXOphc_soqfABs0t0Vxz_8VOSnwYoee_kTq22dvpBizw6quIGUW4wU-j5oqcJX4-KsgQeksYWhUOlIsIn-HAM61YcIr0YEoTp0FBzND7aS8-BUPcEPWuV3_a4fS4jKCDY2NMHfqyOiYFhTMMkiD2Sn_KV_sesrqoQd5lA4LBVGwU5cXs/s3780/0C722B99-9B48-48A4-A3A1-79900FE97829.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbx9pmmOpAxkuXOphc_soqfABs0t0Vxz_8VOSnwYoee_kTq22dvpBizw6quIGUW4wU-j5oqcJX4-KsgQeksYWhUOlIsIn-HAM61YcIr0YEoTp0FBzND7aS8-BUPcEPWuV3_a4fS4jKCDY2NMHfqyOiYFhTMMkiD2Sn_KV_sesrqoQd5lA4LBVGwU5cXs/s320/0C722B99-9B48-48A4-A3A1-79900FE97829.JPG" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: whatever, I look great in any colour</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I read the tests over carefully later that day. The summary remarks at the end were really interesting. Both said that Carmen was a lovely, willing horse that was being held by a strong grip on the reins. For example "<i>a pretty horse, willing to work with you". </i>My first thoughts were '<i>yeah well you don't know Carmen. I need to keep her under control'. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>All night those comments kept rolling around in my head. You see I rarely think of Carmen as 'willing' because, for so long, she was not willing at all. We have a history of bolting, spinning and even running backwards. </div><div><br /></div><div>But what if that wasn't true anymore? The judge saw a tense horse at times but didn't see she as uncooperative. What if I built this story and now accept it as gospel. </div><div><br /></div><div>What would happen if I rode her as though she was willing? </div><div><br /></div><div>So I decided to try it. </div><div><br /></div><div>I spent Sunday morning taking care of the horses and thinking about my plan. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipv9mBLT64v8ZpLEVVsaEmcKv9uJ3nm2wY-fHUvb-YSACxx-l1gd5IGuhF8yCLVdVT5mz-rhiKs18cjpuxNgkCezV0l-Q6xbN1AzQx3-Aheq5BXNFlO-E6RYJgr4-jFwniDuY0qj4iW6o-DIR9UaJYuYqaOWQfPnJmAry2uEWVYcOMfJ5KnfL3jiroNKY/s4032/IMG_5304.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipv9mBLT64v8ZpLEVVsaEmcKv9uJ3nm2wY-fHUvb-YSACxx-l1gd5IGuhF8yCLVdVT5mz-rhiKs18cjpuxNgkCezV0l-Q6xbN1AzQx3-Aheq5BXNFlO-E6RYJgr4-jFwniDuY0qj4iW6o-DIR9UaJYuYqaOWQfPnJmAry2uEWVYcOMfJ5KnfL3jiroNKY/s320/IMG_5304.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you spot Quaid tied to the post <br />while I cleaned his stall?</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I shared my plan with Jane and she was all for it. We spent the warm up getting me to soften the rein and push her to contact not take back. It was a definite pattern break for us and it was difficult. Of course there was no way I was going to master that in one afternoon. But it was a start. Carmen was a bit confused: </div><div><i>Hey you're doing it wrong- I lean, you pull. That's how we roll. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Except this time when I felt her being to lean I would put on my leg and soften. I think Jane was happy. I know I was. Soon it was time to go in. When we walked in the ring while waiting for the judge to ring the bell I could feel us wanting to fall back into old patterns. </div><div>I took a deep breath '<i>no, I'm riding a willing horse, I don't need to micromanage. And if it goes to hell that is okay. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Spoiler alert- it did not go to hell. It went the opposite of hell. Every time I rode by C I gave the reins. I am not saying I never took back, I'm just saying that I was actively trying to not have a tight hold. I thought that I didn't have any videos of my rides on Sunday but it turns out that Katie, who was working the gate, recorded on her phone and sent them to me (I am so grateful Katie, thank you!): </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fh5BEcQHB5g" width="320" youtube-src-id="fh5BEcQHB5g"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>My second ride was also good. I don't know if you can tell but a couple times I actually laughed: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z7ER4yIh98k" width="320" youtube-src-id="Z7ER4yIh98k"></iframe></div><br /><div>At the end of the ride as I was walking by the judge I heard her say ' <i>nice'. </i>I was thrilled with everything. I know that the rides were better but I wasn't expecting necessarily a big change in scores. That typically doesn't happen by more than a few points. </div><div><br /></div><div>I hosed Carmen and cooled her off feeling hot and happy. I felt we had done some really good work. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJ5VWdmVDMmpgR0_5HMIg022ucmf3Ol7crTQfrKfgNpB8jSj2GM32_ZJJZ1b3YnvXDu2q99dIs8WqeUz0aPO6b4sIjt2LlkFgcUzTWpRJIaHJo5LfK-UeI4zd4Nn4lMJB3991BgpOV3oIEAcCHVmWVelKC2H3ZU-A4fNcQNWI8ldKqrZlk7m13EHcTsQ/s4032/IMG_5308.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJ5VWdmVDMmpgR0_5HMIg022ucmf3Ol7crTQfrKfgNpB8jSj2GM32_ZJJZ1b3YnvXDu2q99dIs8WqeUz0aPO6b4sIjt2LlkFgcUzTWpRJIaHJo5LfK-UeI4zd4Nn4lMJB3991BgpOV3oIEAcCHVmWVelKC2H3ZU-A4fNcQNWI8ldKqrZlk7m13EHcTsQ/s320/IMG_5308.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Paula came to the barn and said '<i>I think you'll be happy with your score'</i>. After I put the horses away I went to watch some rides and grab my test sheets. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was shocked. Not that my scores had improved but that they had got up 7 and 5% respectively! We placed 3rd and 2nd but I actually don't remember in what class. I've never had an improvement by that much unless the first test was spectacularly bad. The comments were nice too. This is my favourite: "<i>This is a lovely horse, quite eager and in front of your legs. Work on your contact, softer hands, a steady yet supple, giving (sometimes forgiving) connection'. </i>Noted. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6u5CT5KyCy7QgFSm2VzLzupo4hRz7Yu-uL6oMRuOTnGARP9UBq78ElWsmIlDf2DdgT7EMi1gtdw4zFWw6tqrrlW_d8wyFwB2vKCGqkDZGNMnMgf7fKo5HKlzbpJCjVKmTYXfqb7LWJ4BTSO_N9on9Q5assiFghLio4NTF5usZlhds73nrWl5F8xHqInU/s4032/IMG_5314.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6u5CT5KyCy7QgFSm2VzLzupo4hRz7Yu-uL6oMRuOTnGARP9UBq78ElWsmIlDf2DdgT7EMi1gtdw4zFWw6tqrrlW_d8wyFwB2vKCGqkDZGNMnMgf7fKo5HKlzbpJCjVKmTYXfqb7LWJ4BTSO_N9on9Q5assiFghLio4NTF5usZlhds73nrWl5F8xHqInU/s320/IMG_5314.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfnWjmz5jKmpNLXzoEeKWc5LVv5xnkXtyMJvYZ9WpAvcl2belswSYuEgVqpUn1a8mRR1ewpUlTkg6oABdcL7-CVTe1J9YVFAyQ0fupfuw7VpvMHZ4-X9Vn97r8oOrwcEeZt6RHdyxtT-1y2c0RenCXBV0GKa39f78W8OjL2gyfEyYgQKdzbsWjozmFSA/s4032/IMG_5315.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfnWjmz5jKmpNLXzoEeKWc5LVv5xnkXtyMJvYZ9WpAvcl2belswSYuEgVqpUn1a8mRR1ewpUlTkg6oABdcL7-CVTe1J9YVFAyQ0fupfuw7VpvMHZ4-X9Vn97r8oOrwcEeZt6RHdyxtT-1y2c0RenCXBV0GKa39f78W8OjL2gyfEyYgQKdzbsWjozmFSA/s320/IMG_5315.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">evidence</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div>Carmen napped during the final ribbon and awards. It was adorable. </div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZqOREVp8jvgnurE2szfKij1aQKclnbR5zFxR4NK4x-bg-vJ4wSkbmiHgJSPo56FwBsXiu7Ej1ttg3rtSIe0rAtpx6NCpuu7rNiOgvbmzJIKf--UPm-Mx9_TM8ei7nJohIvNF2G47F8FoWmLlW2y3p3v6KuEPYLt3hwdhTxs1OxT4DPA2LNHf8PM_k2xM/s4032/IMG_5310.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZqOREVp8jvgnurE2szfKij1aQKclnbR5zFxR4NK4x-bg-vJ4wSkbmiHgJSPo56FwBsXiu7Ej1ttg3rtSIe0rAtpx6NCpuu7rNiOgvbmzJIKf--UPm-Mx9_TM8ei7nJohIvNF2G47F8FoWmLlW2y3p3v6KuEPYLt3hwdhTxs1OxT4DPA2LNHf8PM_k2xM/s320/IMG_5310.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: my work here is done. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />It's funny how patterns become expectations were find ourselves in a reinforcement loop. Even when I've been working on changing the pattern. Even when I thought I knew better. I'm not beating myself up- I totally understand why. I'm just glad that the judge said what she did at the time I was able to hear it. It's not like others haven't been working on getting me there. I think that things just coalesced at this point to help me understand it at a deeper level. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now I just need to stay on this path and see where we go. </div><div> </div><br /><div><br /></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-85140921239723115672023-09-04T15:29:00.000-03:002023-09-04T15:29:11.611-03:00Carmen's Perspective: Show Recap<p> Hello internet fans, Carmen here. I am jumping on to give you my side of the weekend before the servant comes on and gets all philosophical and <i>wordy</i>. </p><p>Quaid: <i>Can I tell it? I was there too! </i></p><p>Carmen: <i>shush! You were just along for the ride. </i></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtSZ7k2LDhWDnP7ued7wVS7rjF_zGqIfnb7Vx2F78gNcZUm8sL5PytIf3ptsBN984w2u_rnvw_OTsnoHqmmZ02zX_M3TAcrBi86mMTzWBaXGfnz8OWAsy00MK_Fg1GG4vve_n9-Y81bdOqTt3H8TiRMfWgWOx7BhTov4n86Giu3lfOD46qkw-kUVuHNBE/s4032/IMG_4834.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtSZ7k2LDhWDnP7ued7wVS7rjF_zGqIfnb7Vx2F78gNcZUm8sL5PytIf3ptsBN984w2u_rnvw_OTsnoHqmmZ02zX_M3TAcrBi86mMTzWBaXGfnz8OWAsy00MK_Fg1GG4vve_n9-Y81bdOqTt3H8TiRMfWgWOx7BhTov4n86Giu3lfOD46qkw-kUVuHNBE/s320/IMG_4834.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's important for a mare to take things <br />into her own hooves. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>First of all I knew something was up because the moving stall has been parked by the barn. Then when I had a bath I was pretty sure and when she put me in a blanket for overnight the jig was up. It was hard to sleep that night in that stupid blanket and I cannot be held responsible for how dirty I managed to get underneath of it. After all she should invest in better clothes, don't you agree? </p><p>I was not happy to be sprayed and then hosed with cold water first thing the next morning and I made sure that she knew it. I mean, really! </p><p>Then she took me to the moving stall (she calls it a trailer but I've never seen it on a trail so....). I did not want to leave Quaid but I am a lady so I walked right on and then called loudly so he would know I hadn't forgotten him. The servant must have understood me because she brought him out. She'll try to tell you that that was her plan but we know different. She thinks she's all smart because Quaid walked right on but it was because I told him to. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGp3cD9Kie2O1ntE1_Y0FmXQkDZBejhkNymHXrWkbpNNd1Lslod1wfMwOuzE67y0i2caFOB5JNsCXeUAF524kZiGs-I9AW1c0aG79bo2do0-QCeNecVGt5dKMBHgZ9TCJAPQF-gAzS_ROM9LR2jEoqNKjH6vhkW49euRHgACrTNPazxaDUk1kL6H92IiM/s4032/IMG_5290.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGp3cD9Kie2O1ntE1_Y0FmXQkDZBejhkNymHXrWkbpNNd1Lslod1wfMwOuzE67y0i2caFOB5JNsCXeUAF524kZiGs-I9AW1c0aG79bo2do0-QCeNecVGt5dKMBHgZ9TCJAPQF-gAzS_ROM9LR2jEoqNKjH6vhkW49euRHgACrTNPazxaDUk1kL6H92IiM/s320/IMG_5290.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carmen: make sure you don't <br />eat all the hay</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>We all know that she has a habit of taking us place and doing different things and I <i>hate</i> surprises. When we arrived I knew that it was a show we were doing and completely relaxed. After making sure our accommodations were in tip top shape she put on my tack and took me to the ring. I know this now, we go in, I behave so she's happy and stops. But first I have to be a little difficult so that she doesn't take me for granted. </p><p>The ring was dusty and people came in to hose it off while we were working. I kept one eye on it to make sure I didn't get sprinkled (see hating surprises above) but figured if I was what she calls 'behaved' then we'd finish sooner. And we did. So that was good. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMtxGLqck89z1NZSuL0g39T_QSPDi3DTdOanvDUlvHXNQX8XPA1rR2GhbR6iM1DN47tIOOybWRM03OsNdQEB_MEVk9_jw_g8dMarSXau8q77ElR1pOK9-VboEruIgDzV_7dX43-WdxoQAYPba5udc2xPpyfQcLvBbeXkPGLAHoUYwesvOku_CX4EupQ0/s4032/IMG_5292.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMtxGLqck89z1NZSuL0g39T_QSPDi3DTdOanvDUlvHXNQX8XPA1rR2GhbR6iM1DN47tIOOybWRM03OsNdQEB_MEVk9_jw_g8dMarSXau8q77ElR1pOK9-VboEruIgDzV_7dX43-WdxoQAYPba5udc2xPpyfQcLvBbeXkPGLAHoUYwesvOku_CX4EupQ0/s320/IMG_5292.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teresa: I never thought that shed be so calm<br />being ridden past a person spraying</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Quaid: <i>I didn't like when you went away. I get bored with no one to talk to. </i></p><p>Carmen: <i>just suck it up, at least you weren't bathed and forced to work. </i></p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU1NkeMgM72N9chUvdC67-ndTvWv3Q0tH02yg4utKIKceCm51xNbXbmCIQxZ2wcGtUIW3_98kMjeWpsKeHLyZ0dvQKpu2qijGSNMmfNxM2c_mmZ580S1w7upm-v1w0EaSMe3SQo0AWvbxhkKtrdJurcQvzFJrYvOxj3Tm0zHhcsJ_iglViffPqJqFBqs/s4032/IMG_5291.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU1NkeMgM72N9chUvdC67-ndTvWv3Q0tH02yg4utKIKceCm51xNbXbmCIQxZ2wcGtUIW3_98kMjeWpsKeHLyZ0dvQKpu2qijGSNMmfNxM2c_mmZ580S1w7upm-v1w0EaSMe3SQo0AWvbxhkKtrdJurcQvzFJrYvOxj3Tm0zHhcsJ_iglViffPqJqFBqs/s320/IMG_5291.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">how can you leave this face?<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Overnight she put a different blanket on me and it kept me clean. That made her happy and lord knows I just want her to be happy. She was late in the morning. Don't tell me that horses can't tell time because we totally can. Other horse's servants were there and gave us hay but not our grain, no matter how many times I tried to explain to them. Humans are so dumb. </p><p>In the morning she took us out to graze on the grass. I got impatient with waiting for her to get Quaid ready so I went out of the barn and started snacking. But someone saw me and yelled '<i>loose horse!' </i></p><p>No one likes a rat, Karen! (Teresa: <i>literally her name was karen, not trying to malign anyone with that name. </i>Carmen: <i>whatever). </i>The servant came out and told her she was here and it was fine. But honestly I am fine on my own. I know what I'm doing. I don't why I even need that rope attached. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpjFbyv4VkqKqAYefEC-UYd3a86XPYlqDcp3tweYdFfvjHuNeU-_fqtZKQrUcjAPhi3lVcfvFiGN78Jjd9M9B_Fm_dSbhR1FxbdSPXlJC5NhSaVqQ6z64REjaksQ-FsWOhGsXXt62omsRHVd8fiGO4oZLiGlCcp8WSOXyooQbAP2NkjdhPNtPmZ9Sp_K8/s4032/67999BE1-2AD3-4D7C-B526-0DAE6E774970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpjFbyv4VkqKqAYefEC-UYd3a86XPYlqDcp3tweYdFfvjHuNeU-_fqtZKQrUcjAPhi3lVcfvFiGN78Jjd9M9B_Fm_dSbhR1FxbdSPXlJC5NhSaVqQ6z64REjaksQ-FsWOhGsXXt62omsRHVd8fiGO4oZLiGlCcp8WSOXyooQbAP2NkjdhPNtPmZ9Sp_K8/s320/67999BE1-2AD3-4D7C-B526-0DAE6E774970.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teresa: dropped the lines for a quick photo. Honest. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div>After two nights of captivity she packed everything up and took us home. She seemed pretty tired so I'm not sure what the point of it all was. I mean it's not like she can't ride here. </div><div><br /></div><div>Teresa: <i>but what about the actual show stuff? </i><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Carmen: <i>fine! I went in the ring, the person sitting at the table rang a bell, I went around and was magnificent. The servant got some satin and was happy. Her coach was happy. </i></div><div><i>The end. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Teresa: <i>but that's not enough detail. </i></div><div>Carmen: <i>well you're going to have to fill in the details. I don't have time for that. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdqaq0tCK6lnBrJkNe5YmyShQGVtR6bYwRnxgrIB0y5LMyYVdMtLgEUmzR84HBeCZc54dxT6h1bwgdmBlFV-OCCY7aePe4vmDgC1MuqYOnI9vMEH5PQLdPBgLrSGCT6QAEV6IJ1e4Myt8Ma2cAgTksKe84wuQ_NV7NHY1TXJio1X8FtqJ5TgFVs5Y5buc/s4032/IMG_5312.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdqaq0tCK6lnBrJkNe5YmyShQGVtR6bYwRnxgrIB0y5LMyYVdMtLgEUmzR84HBeCZc54dxT6h1bwgdmBlFV-OCCY7aePe4vmDgC1MuqYOnI9vMEH5PQLdPBgLrSGCT6QAEV6IJ1e4Myt8Ma2cAgTksKe84wuQ_NV7NHY1TXJio1X8FtqJ5TgFVs5Y5buc/s320/IMG_5312.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have some grazing to catch up on</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Teresa: <i>*sigh* okay, I'll fill everyone in tomorrow. </i><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-72672834481770720772023-08-26T14:51:00.000-03:002023-08-26T14:51:06.803-03:00Black Magic<p> Last week I had the opportunity to take both horses to a clinic with a local horsemanship coach, Danique Henderson. I was excited because I have followed her for a few years and really liked her work and philosophy. When a friend was having her at her stable and invited me I leapt at it. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18fEOD-8VNAfSCb05DLWfZcB4q9gSP5hNX1d7UfZS1beYyyHITtDm3G3qJgHBXDCIbcI2clCQheaO1zPxvYa8qoDiPiPGh0okMEzyEPPYsLeuW-uzERVsgfUQOqFRiVrkVX0ud3A-jo_or0xUrfikW1KKBTzPIxTanb_Ck8XLWqEamgNUGbk28x8_j3k/s4032/IMG_5204.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18fEOD-8VNAfSCb05DLWfZcB4q9gSP5hNX1d7UfZS1beYyyHITtDm3G3qJgHBXDCIbcI2clCQheaO1zPxvYa8qoDiPiPGh0okMEzyEPPYsLeuW-uzERVsgfUQOqFRiVrkVX0ud3A-jo_or0xUrfikW1KKBTzPIxTanb_Ck8XLWqEamgNUGbk28x8_j3k/s320/IMG_5204.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this dog kills me- he lost his toy so <br />he decided that I could throw hay instead</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>A really nice thing about this clinic is that it was a 15 minute trailer ride away. Usually I'm looking at 90 minutes minimum so this felt like a treat. We were in the afternoon so I had time in the morning to do chores ride Carmen and get organised. It was also a good chance to practice loading and unloading all by myself in a low-stress situation. </p><p>I put Carmen on first and then brought Quaid out. It took a little to have him load himself in the trailer. He dithered a bit but was not stressed. My back up was to lead him on and tie him and then put up the butt bar but I didn't need to. With a sigh and some encouragement he walked on. When we arrived I unloaded him and handed him to an unsuspecting young woman who was standing there. I put them in their stalls and got them settled with water and hay. Stephanie had stalls that had them separated which was great. Quaid became obsessed with the pony next door. The pony was less enthused. Carmen's stall was at the end of the aisle and had an elevated floor. She looked <i>huge. </i></p><p>I was able to watch a couple sessions before it was my turn. I decided to bring Quaid first. </p><p>Sidenote: </p><p>****disclaimer****</p><p>I'm about to describe the clinic from what I remember and learned. Any errors are not a reflection on Danique- I probably have it wrong</p><p>*******</p><p>When I brought Quaid in he was quite 'up' and definitely tense. Danique asked about him and I explained that he was 3 and I wanted to improve my groundwork skills with him. I said '<i>he's quite excited right now'</i></p><p>Danique "<i>this is him wound up?'</i></p><p>Me: <i>yes this is about as excited as he gets. </i></p><p>D: <i>wow. that's pretty good. </i></p><p>It took, I dunno, about 3 minutes for her to figure us out. She then asked if she could take him. I answered of course. To summarise: she believed that he didn't really pay attention to me because I was his safe space. So he felt okay with tuning me out while looking at the others watching, sniffing the ground and looking around. All of which was totally fair. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWohwu3901JVnd42qdQdqtfUXbYu2seAWd3S_Yu8VJzDv9Wdd6FnsPwppMkoQ4q0iEoESfJLOeW9_95G-19MlPrWA8hpQCEsUTLujje65Ba65mCCo7oQeP6GjmUvKV4GnvMeDQF3BkXqwLkl4jm-ej33cNwD3pHhPK1MFkzWOX3XZT21_3lkFy9Xi_iZk/s2000/IMG_5240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="2000" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWohwu3901JVnd42qdQdqtfUXbYu2seAWd3S_Yu8VJzDv9Wdd6FnsPwppMkoQ4q0iEoESfJLOeW9_95G-19MlPrWA8hpQCEsUTLujje65Ba65mCCo7oQeP6GjmUvKV4GnvMeDQF3BkXqwLkl4jm-ej33cNwD3pHhPK1MFkzWOX3XZT21_3lkFy9Xi_iZk/w400-h185/IMG_5240.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">talking to Danique, see his focus is elsewhere? (PC Stephanie)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>She took him and put a little pressure to get him to tune in and respond. She noted that he was definitely not afraid of pressure (the whip) which made him easy to work with. Even when she got after him a little harshly for totally blowing her off he would jump and look at her like '<i>what the heck lady?' </i></p><p>Danique then showed me how to use my energy to help him understand when to respond and when to chill. She talked about how horses learn in rhythm so we need to make sure that we do happens in that way. It was a pretty simple exercise but difficult to keep it all together. As humans we don't always pay attention to our energy and how horses are so attuned to it. The exercise was simply to walk, stop, back up and/or turn. She talked a lot about intention and how I need to match it to my energy. So if I want him to do something I need to tighten my stomach and bring up my energy. To halt I let my energy leak out my feet. To first teach him to back up I was to use my feet and then bring my arm around with the rope in front of his nose so he could see it. It didn't take long for him to tune in. I could tighten my core, pick up the rope and walk toward him and he'd back up. I could pick up the rope and keep my core soft and he'd stay so I could come up and pat him. I am thinking that if you were watching it would be hard to see the difference. </p><p>Another side note: she really really liked Quaid. I told her his breeding and it turned out that a horseman she admires recommended she use the same stud. She also asked what colour he was and I said 'bay'. <i>But he has this gold sheen. </i>I said he's still bay as far as I knew. But let's just go with he's pretty. But she right, he has these gold hairs so it's so easy for him to shine with a little bit of brushing. </p><p>My takeaways were:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>be clear in my intention </li><li>keep working on making sure he attends to me</li><li>don't accept him ignoring or being distracted and doing things half-assed</li></ul><div>Then it was Carmen's turn. I told her that what I wanted was to get some guidance on doing liberty with her. Danique had me lunge her a little and then take off the halter. After about a minute Carmen looked at me and left to go down to the audience and check it out. I laughed and came down. </div><div><br /></div><div>So then Danique told me what she saw in our relationship. She said that Carmen was a talented horse with a strong will. That she chooses whether to listen to me and she's pretty sure that I'm not the one in charge. I had to laugh that it was so obvious to her. Clearly she's a witch like Jane (I mean that in a positive way). She showed me a light line with a loop on the end. She explained how you can make it into a halter and put it around the neck when you're introducing liberty. Eventually you just tuck it into your waistband and that keeps your hands free. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMEBhJpHRICXqBvYg5vOg-jUUzPXTqxVlP0XWK2tuZRAEBmoNObISciZRJMzNf6EAWzWB8zWwGv9TbvLSuaMAczgQJi_F99-0HgX1dxwJAkwjRRWaf_7c0R1UZ7tJ9nqpcdlsZzSZbIm_-ZOhyUVA6HAtRa0mMVECcvEADFYhMSFV13CiBOa2-tpigvkE/s2000/IMG_5241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="2000" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMEBhJpHRICXqBvYg5vOg-jUUzPXTqxVlP0XWK2tuZRAEBmoNObISciZRJMzNf6EAWzWB8zWwGv9TbvLSuaMAczgQJi_F99-0HgX1dxwJAkwjRRWaf_7c0R1UZ7tJ9nqpcdlsZzSZbIm_-ZOhyUVA6HAtRa0mMVECcvEADFYhMSFV13CiBOa2-tpigvkE/w400-h185/IMG_5241.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>The exercise we worked on was to lunge Carmen around in a circle, when her attention shifted from her she would ask for her to yield her hind leg and stop. If she did that but was still attending elsewhere she would up the pressure until she had full attention. Then it was my turn. The idea was to keep her close and going around me. When she'd shift her attention out I was to bring it in by asking her to move her hind leg. Danique gave me lots of feedback and coaching on how I was holding my whip and line. Also that I was using too much body language and could tone it down a bit. Eventually I could have her go around, lose focus, ask her to bend in with her hind end and then send her back out in one move. Danique told me to think of it like a half-halt. </div><div><br /></div><div>I saw a lot of parallels in this work and in my lessons with Jane having her flex to the inside. I do love when things mesh like that. </div><div><br /></div><div>I watched another lesson (a riding one) and then cleaned the stalls and loaded the horses to leave. This time both loaded quietly and calmly with no persuasion needed. When I got home I took Quaid out and then Carmen. It all felt very doable all on my own. </div><div><br /></div><div>I gave them a day off and then played with them yesterday. Before I rode Carmen I went through the exercises again. When I did ride I found her attentive from the get go- I didn't have to argue about it. It's not like the ride was perfect but it was a productive ride and one that was very encouraging. My groundwork session with Quaid was also really good. None of him trying to graze as I led him to the ring and getting his attention back was pretty easy. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know that 'one fine day does not a summer make' (to butcher a proverb) but this felt right to me and I'm going to enjoy continuing to build on it. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKBUDmglGfUf0PYdcEPCBJU8VJMRZmR-X-iQvSgZpNoTZElCS2rZ-808mQ27QZsG2gDtkudR2P4PY4JT4RQSFsxf87VglSbTgAbhmnYRTjUy8r6fiMfNu4nnePKJNNNcTL-Gbhaq4a5-UesVY6k6EGSEjego0_xX2wLFF-muxyufu2cgOgs99n1kvXx0/s4032/IMG_5238.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKBUDmglGfUf0PYdcEPCBJU8VJMRZmR-X-iQvSgZpNoTZElCS2rZ-808mQ27QZsG2gDtkudR2P4PY4JT4RQSFsxf87VglSbTgAbhmnYRTjUy8r6fiMfNu4nnePKJNNNcTL-Gbhaq4a5-UesVY6k6EGSEjego0_xX2wLFF-muxyufu2cgOgs99n1kvXx0/s320/IMG_5238.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><p></p><p><br /></p>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8459505622378142466.post-30769839100969104502023-08-21T17:16:00.003-03:002023-08-21T17:16:30.815-03:00Learning<p> If there's one thing I've enjoyed all my life it's learning. I truly do enjoy it and it has been a huge part of everything I do. And of course this applies to horses. Which is why I continue to seek to increase my understanding and skills. </p><p>I've had a bit of an unplanned in being able to take lessons. No one reason- one week it was torrential rain and flooding, another time a horse was lame (not mine) and then Ed and I went on a short trip to Prince Edward Island to visit Karen and Jim. If you have a chance to go to PEI you should jump at it. It really is a lovely province. Karen and I fit in some time at the beach. The waves were up and in the water were a bunch of children and us laughing and being bowled over by the waves. It was glorious. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOhjf9xJDeIx61o9LBFtf2PDK0rvKGRSF-oOEaKzJTbMFLmnYs-qBc0czyKEZKOrRopQXCK3ZBDE3i2_pa9sH6Gk8-CZ4r8iWCSPn6A1fHq1Ykeg4gdWCy8gS3RBMDbgDwh5eTTG5PlRp75A38pOaH_GOEdTBaaXl7--_ZQ94Y7o4NMYEBu2jOdW6z8g/s1440/1B23BA4E-A677-493D-A311-77C6257FD5D0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOhjf9xJDeIx61o9LBFtf2PDK0rvKGRSF-oOEaKzJTbMFLmnYs-qBc0czyKEZKOrRopQXCK3ZBDE3i2_pa9sH6Gk8-CZ4r8iWCSPn6A1fHq1Ykeg4gdWCy8gS3RBMDbgDwh5eTTG5PlRp75A38pOaH_GOEdTBaaXl7--_ZQ94Y7o4NMYEBu2jOdW6z8g/s320/1B23BA4E-A677-493D-A311-77C6257FD5D0.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this beach</td></tr></tbody></table>Karen also told me that she was having a local coach come and give her a lesson on Sunday and did I want to have a lesson on one of her horses? That answer was easy- YES. She didn't care who I rode so I asked for Kalimo. He's advanced in his training and I thought it would be good to ride a 'school master'. I really wanted to learn about asking for flying changes. Yes, true confession- I have never trained or asked a horse for a change. In my hunter days the horses just did it (or not). I really wanted to get a sense of how to move my body. <div><br /></div><div>Kalimo did not disappoint and neither did Dawn. It was such a fun lesson. The first change was easy because we were riding a counter canter and then Dawn just asked me to change and I didn't have time to think about it. After that I got in my head (shocking I know) and kept overthinking. I would get my legs right but drop him and let him choose where to go rather than keep him straight. Or I would hesitate and be late in my timing. But we got there in the end and I loved every minute of it. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKzD_zqbzX4bSEjqLTaRFKGzj49cNncbKpdXzk4ri4wOn8zZDe9EG_ZAxuNrANcgM0WlYYuZ-4FLi4e5fc04l8_81UgtGeZwbemLpIrChkR_T6fueb4lf4h2imukWJT3wYSADZTRHArjpJd675SEXTuSG1qjeFwlPpP936CFuJrYOHbTqSWeQi7PH748/s4032/IMG_5182.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKzD_zqbzX4bSEjqLTaRFKGzj49cNncbKpdXzk4ri4wOn8zZDe9EG_ZAxuNrANcgM0WlYYuZ-4FLi4e5fc04l8_81UgtGeZwbemLpIrChkR_T6fueb4lf4h2imukWJT3wYSADZTRHArjpJd675SEXTuSG1qjeFwlPpP936CFuJrYOHbTqSWeQi7PH748/s320/IMG_5182.HEIC" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalimo: you are most welcome SeƱora. <br />Perhaps it is time for cookies? </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>When I got home, Carmen was off and after finding nothing on her legs I figured it was an abscess. Turns out it was- 2 days later it popped out of her frog and she's been fine ever since. Carmen may have a lot of issues but she doesn't fool around with weeks of unsoundness- just 'pop' and we're done. Which was good because I had a lesson booked for Sunday. To be honest, I was going to keep the lesson regardless, just swap in Quaid for a different sort of lesson (he deserves his own update so we'll save that). </div><div><br /></div><div>I have been working in my rides to keep Carmen straight and aligned and it's paying off. Not that it's easy. To be fair I've changed the contract again and she's not so happy that she can't just move all her weight to the inside and keep her head tilted out to look around. She has been especially spooky up by H and I found out why when I was trying to paint the fence. I started getting stung- there was a hornet nest somewhere in the brush. It took me forever to find it. Interestingly when I found out that there was a nest her spookiness level dropped measurably. I finally located the nest last week by going up during a rain storm and poking about the brush. It was low to the ground under a bush. I went back the next night and took care of it (I would have liked to have peacefully co-existed but they were getting more aggressive and territorial). Guinness backed me up by sitting way back and watching (he also was stung during the fence painting incident). </div><div><br /></div><div>The lesson was the next day so I figured we'd have some issues because Carmen wouldn't know yet that it was gone. I was right but really it was such a good lesson. Jane had us work on getting and maintaining flexion in all three gaits. It turns out that both of us think that flexion falls into the 'nice to have' category but, as Jane pointed out, it was pretty essential for everything. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaV3y7GDm9d8yaHDGO7Stq6DKfS_Tkiou8ZBCGSpV-eBPfXswjZBpVVFaGoiJ1altQwqPjUvO-J6CWbBtmk3FfyX7-wJeAUJZq2nGF3dzT7ddMVK-WT7kNk6EZoZRMHC2fAwWVMoHgZ2mx7VRSTKKkACtjpApj1CvweAr_oXr293yY-bOKVvALxvXgig/s1511/IMG_5226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="965" data-original-width="1511" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaV3y7GDm9d8yaHDGO7Stq6DKfS_Tkiou8ZBCGSpV-eBPfXswjZBpVVFaGoiJ1altQwqPjUvO-J6CWbBtmk3FfyX7-wJeAUJZq2nGF3dzT7ddMVK-WT7kNk6EZoZRMHC2fAwWVMoHgZ2mx7VRSTKKkACtjpApj1CvweAr_oXr293yY-bOKVvALxvXgig/s320/IMG_5226.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice warm up trot, no softness in the poll and zero <br />flexion. But, hey, she's straight! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Carmen, it turns out will do all sorts of contortions to fake flexing while still being able to look outside the ring. It was much easier on the side closer to the barn and much harder on the side by the brush (and ex-hornet nest). So it wasn't physical so much as mental. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ideally we'd get the flexion by using the inside leg to outside hand and maybe a gentle squeeze with the inside hand. </div><div><br /></div><div>We were not ideal. But it was coming. As with most things we'd get it, lose it, get it, lose it. When we have it everything feels soft. But I had to be careful because sometimes I thought we had it but she was just bending her neck and/or tilting her head. Other times she would barge through trying to get me off her back (perhaps literally but I think it was more metaphorical). Some favourite Jane statements this lesson: </div><div><i>'Get control and get back here' </i>(when my 10 metre canter circle moved from K to A)</div><div><i>'get the outside rein or she's going to have her way with you'</i> (when she got strong going by H)</div><div><br /></div><div>This work really pays off though. We did some work on medium canter and rather then thinking '<i>oh god, I'm going to die' </i>or <i>'I wonder if we can turn at the corner or will we careen through the fence and over the horizon?' </i> I was thinking '<i>wheeee'. </i></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nukzYURZVQSsFXJ2V93TXdzTCzpyYzLoqC5AGPDhzV-vPzmUGM4v0du3I3NnI3BEb7HZ-fuJcjV72tqJj1Ua7gSt77O7MRz9QfIpxxj-m5BLRjCh6NYshLHfpdFUtuO-N4T9Bqp8khaxFWR53dV4tmkMTzIa2wH6guhu-3SFtq_h8R0BugwTgm0rEAk/s1262/IMG_5231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1005" data-original-width="1262" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nukzYURZVQSsFXJ2V93TXdzTCzpyYzLoqC5AGPDhzV-vPzmUGM4v0du3I3NnI3BEb7HZ-fuJcjV72tqJj1Ua7gSt77O7MRz9QfIpxxj-m5BLRjCh6NYshLHfpdFUtuO-N4T9Bqp8khaxFWR53dV4tmkMTzIa2wH6guhu-3SFtq_h8R0BugwTgm0rEAk/s320/IMG_5231.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">uphill</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SV4d240yj68" width="320" youtube-src-id="SV4d240yj68"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div>And it helps with the walk pirouettes (or turn on the haunches): </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gs1Xi4yyPJY" width="320" youtube-src-id="Gs1Xi4yyPJY"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>We also did shoulder in to haunches in. That was hard but when Jane said '<i>maintain the curve going from one to the other'</i> it really helped. I'll play with that this week. </div><div><br /></div><div>When the lesson was over I was exhausted. So was Carmen. But she was sweaty in all the right spots. I don't know if I was sweaty in the right spots because basically everything was sweaty. But it felt good. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am sure that some of my friends (and definitely Ed) wonder when I'll stop taking lessons. I don't know that I ever will- it's so much fun to learn and push my boundaries. Even having a few weeks off I could feel myself letting things go in my rides. </div><div><br /></div><div>I guess I'll stop when I know it all. </div><div><div><br /></div><div><p><br /></p></div></div>TeresaAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05311118900077951863noreply@blogger.com18