While that makes me feel very optimistic.
It also add pressure to apply the lessons to my regular schooling sessions.
Or, you know, even find time to school. Between work and weather it's not been easy.
I need to get back into the swing of regular training. Not in a drilling sort of way (I'm determined to not do that) but for consistency.
I managed to squeeze a ride in early Tuesday morning before heading for a day of meetings. I really like riding in the mornings. I find that I am more focussed. Julia came to join us as well.
As soon as I mounted I felt that Carmen was energized but in a good way. I even joked that I hoped she would use her energy for good instead of evil.
It seems to me that Carmen is figuring out that work does not equal pain. And so she's feeling much less defensive and interested in figuring out the questions.
And it's not that she isn't wary about the far side but the reactions are definitely going down, rather than up.
After riding for about 35 minutes I was happy to end it. She had done everything I asked. Her transitions were prompt, our leg yields were smooth and there was minimal spooking. Even our haunches/shoulder in were pretty straightforward.
I walked her over to the rail and we opened the gate. She was all 'yeah, I've got this'. We headed out for a lovely hack through the woods. Irish was also quite happy to be back at it.
It was a great way to start the day.
Turns out that I like to do it in the morning.
Looks like a beautiful ride <3
ReplyDeleteIt was. The photos were actually from the lesson the day before but it felt the same. :)
Deleteoh man, count me in as another who needs to get back into the swing of things!! it's hard to find that routine as the seasons change lol! awesome that the morning rides fit that bill for you tho, def a nice benefit of having the horses at home ;)
ReplyDeleteRight?! It seems to be difficult to get back at it. It helps to have them home so that you can take advantage of time and breaks in the weather. It also carries it's own disadvantages as there is always a ton of things to do around the property too that take away from ride.
DeleteSounds like a very wonderful morning with Carmen!
ReplyDeleteIt was. I think she's a morning horse....
DeleteThat sounds like a lovely ride!!
ReplyDeleteIt was. I'm feeling very optimistic.
DeleteMorning rides are the best. I only ride in the morning. It seems if I wait until the end of the day they're tired, looking to eat etc. And the middle of the day, well, good luck finding them out in the fields. Sounds like you and Carmen and Irish had great rides.
ReplyDeleteLOL, I can find them out in the field (it's not that big) but it's so much better to school first thing in the morning.
DeleteI'm so freaking happy to hear that Carmen is recognizing that work isn't painful. That's the best news ever and makes me smile so big for y'all!
ReplyDeleteThanks. Me too :)
DeleteYou two are really moving right along this spring! Sounds like a lovely morning!
ReplyDeleteI like early morning rides in the summer. The rest of the year? It's far too chilly.
ReplyDeleteI also need to get my butt in gear. I've had a few things pop up over the last couple of weeks, but fingers crossed after this weekend I should be in the clear for a while. Now I just need the weather to cooperate - I drove home in a snow store this evening!
Jealous. I wouldn't get on my horse for any Euro amount today. He trembled as he ate his warm mash, and freaked out at every little thing along the street. I gave up after 15 minutes, and spent another 45 trying to get him home without losing him. He almost trashed my new Roeckl gloves! I feel the burn still. Days like today, I want an elderly cold-blood. I thought of you and your recent education on our way though!
ReplyDelete