On Monday when I opened the stall doors to let them out Carmen came running out beating it to the field. Normally when I open the doors they stroll out quietly, have a stretch and meander off to the field. If this was a habit I would fix it but I figured she was just in a hurry to get to the grass that she had been deprived of all weekend. For the rest of the day she ignored me and spent a lot of time grinding dirt into herself.
I let her be and didn't fuss with her. By Wednesday she started following me around in her field. On Thursday I brought her out and gave her a good groom. She enjoyed it thoroughly.
I stuck to the plan to not ride until Sunday. And by Sunday I was ready to get back in the saddle. I figured that a lunge first might be a good idea.
This was her mood in the barn getting ready:
 |
| I rather be napping |
The focus of the ride was on using my seat to influence her stride. It was fun to feel how that works and I was able to get her to do transitions within and between gaits. Playing with this allowed me to feel how much a tense seat can block the forward motion.
I am sure that at some point Carmen will really test my resolve with the spurs. But I was happy with our first ride back to work. The weather is getting cooler and it's my favourite time to ride. I love that there are no flies. And that there is no pressure to get to a certain level of training. There are no shows to get ready for. It feels like we can take a step back and play.
Later that day I took the dogs to the lake for a swim. I leave you this video of Guinness. I told him that he couldn't get in the car until he shook. So, because he didn't want to leave, he refused to shake.
Sigh. Save me from smart dogs and horses.
No flies? Lucky you. Breaks are a good thing for horses, and having fun is good, too. I feel the same way about spurs—they’re nice to have there. Once they get used to them being there, in my experience, they make a big, quick change, and I rarely need them.
ReplyDeletewe still have flies right now (a lot fewer though) but once the frost starts they are gone.
DeleteI think you were wise to give her a break. I’m sure horses need some down time as much as we do. Guinness is adorable!
ReplyDeleteIt felt like the right decision. And G is pretty special. :)
Deletesounds like a nice fresh return to work - and glad you're finding the spurs so helpful!!
ReplyDeleteI do like them. I'm glad that she doesn't over react to them! :D
DeleteThis time of year is very special although spring is my favorite season. No flies though - I'm jealous!!
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of spring. But our springs are usually wet and cold. Our falls though.....they are stunning.
DeleteSounds like a really great ride and that the little vacay was good for both of you
ReplyDeleteIt's good to take a break for everyone I think.
DeleteFall is my favorite season to ride too. My dogs never want to go in the water.
ReplyDeleteYou will find it very different where you live now! Dogs are funny they either love or hate water!
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