Show Takeaways

 After the show Carmen and I enjoyed a little down time. I left her totally alone for two days. When I started riding again I tried to keep it light and easy. And of course I have been reflecting on the show. 

Not caring about ribbons, just whether there's hay

First of all, Carmen has become very good at traveling. She loads, unloads, looks around and settles in. I believe it's because I spent a lot of time with her when we first started. I wasn't sure if it was actually working or not but now I believe it definitely helped. I put my chair by her stall and on our first day she will check on me by nudging my head.  She didn't fixate on the horses around her but didn't seem to care when they came or went. 

She wasn't Suzi level chill though. 

Carmen is understanding her job these days. Pigeons of doom, not withstanding. I am a better rider and, when I stay out of my head can do a competent job. Carmen will always be Carmen. And while I get frustrated when the hamster falls off the wheel, 

Show dogs, wondering why everyone is focussed on the horses

I had a grand time with the other competitors. Everyone was happy to be back showing and so supportive of each other.  I really enjoyed the time in between riding just hanging out. 

Those are some general takeaways. Others are more specific:

• half-halts are so key. Carmen will get tight and fall on her forehand but frequent half-halts will get her back. 
• I have to insist at times that she listens to my aids. I also have to give. It's all about the balance. Getting that accurate is not so easy, but we're getting there. 
• ride forward. In my concern about bolting I tend to hold far too much and not send her forward. 

Overall the show on the weekend was a good test of where we are- what is solid, what needs more work. Which is great, because it is likely my only show this year (life plans).