Tuesday, May 3, 2016

"A Good Ride"

As I drove to the farm today, the sun shone and fluffy clouds accented the blue sky. I was pleasantly surprised to read the list and discover that I was working with Hope, the horse I am showing in mid June. A gift because I know I cannot always work with Hope, that sometimes I train on Ariel. Hope has a wonderful smooth gait and loves to move, is a bit of a workaholic. Usually I use a bitless bridle, but regulations require a bit bridle. Last week, my hands were twitchy and Hope could feel every tug, so today I concentrated on keeping my hands still. I succeeded for the most part. There were many horses and riders in the arena today and I practiced working around them. I made some judgmental errors but with more practice, should be able to figure out how to work around other equestrians. I did some 20 meter circles, some good, some too tight. I am working on positioning, getting my seat down and my legs in good position with the heels down. Lots to work on but for the first time ever, my instructor said, "It was a good ride."