Docs Unspeckled Rock "Hailee"

Laura Loves Lessons! Episode 3

2012-01-29T19:17:00.004-05:00

Welcome to this week's episode of Laura Loves Lessons! In this episode, she discusses a January 29th lesson, she and Renny shared under Jill J's direction. During this lesson, she had an epiphany about her relationship with her pony! Listen in!

A-Circuit Banged Up Pony!

2012-01-29T06:30:00.001-05:00

I'm writing this entry on October 7th and these photos are from the night before Renny was taken to his training facility -- his last lesson before training at Quicksilver Farm. Anyway, as I was inspecting Renny's mud fever on my visit, I started noticing that he was banged up too! He had a kick or bite mark on his ribs, a scrape along his jaw, a nick on his hip bone. My boy had wrestling marks! And it just made me laugh and laugh with happiness. At home, Renny likes to cause trouble but not be in trouble -- who wants to get whacked by a horse. But at Quicksilver, he can start things up with the two ponies he's with and if he feels like it, he can finish it! He obviously is having fun knocking around with his buddies in the pasture. Made me super happy with how well he's being cared for!!

Renny's A-Circuit Scratches!

2012-01-28T06:30:00.001-05:00

I'm writing this entry on October 7th, 2011. Okay, so not everything is perfect for my beautiful talented pony. When I first arrived at Quicksilver, the owner said she was worried that I'd be unhappy with the way he looked. Turns out that they had an enormous volume of rain, just like we did, and over the past few days, he'd developed mud fever on his pasterns. Sure enough, he had scratches on all four pasterns and his back legs were stocked up. I was a bit taken aback, it's true. Up until then, the only health issue I'd ever had with my good pony is a little fever one day while he was still a suckling and a wolf tooth that needed taking out. It hurt me a bit to see him stocked up. But Melinda said that they were assertively treating it and expected it to clear up very shortly. And I had confidence about that. Renny didn't seem troubled at all and most of the swelling dissipated just from the short training ride they gave me. But I was surprised to imagine my guy with a little mud fever!!

Strong Renny at Quicksilver

2012-01-27T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here's my boy receiving A-Circuit training at a beautiful facility with talented people. Let me tell you, I'm so proud that I sometimes tear up.

Booksmart Equestrian! Episode 2

2012-01-27T06:29:00.001-05:00

Booksmart Equestrian! Episode 2

Hello and welcome to our weekly video cast Booksmart Equestrian with Laura! In today's episode, she discusses the novel True Grit by Charles Portis, as well as weighs in on the Coen Brothers versus the John Wayne ending of the original and remake film of the same name. Listen in!

Soft Sweet Renny at Quicksilver

2012-01-26T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here's an October 5th video and photo of my darling boy at his first major training at the A-Circuit level. Because he's such a good boy, the head trainer at Quicksilver said he could come back and receive more training and have a show season and that she would work with me to find him a placement with a good trainer and child for his first A-Circuit level green season. This generosity is very good news because she said that he's valuable now, but that he will be even more valuable if I can keep him to sell as a 4 year-old green pony. You betcha. I would be happy to keep my little guy another year!!!

My Pony's Pretty Trot

2012-01-25T06:30:00.001-05:00

I'm writing this entry on October 7th, 2011. Here is a photo and video from October 5th when I visited Quicksilver Farm to see the results of my pony's first month of training. They were terrific. His trot was so beautiful -- it has so much more reach and power and energy and roundness and efficiency and straightness and trueness. I just can't wait to get on him and try him myself now. Alyssa said that she would give me a lesson when I picked him up, so that I could learn the voice commands and aids she's been giving him to make him so solid and balanced and willing! I just love Quicksilver Farm!

Renny's First Lead Changes!

2012-01-24T06:30:00.001-05:00

I'm writing this entry on October 7th. As I was visiting Renny and chatting with Melinda, we were watching Alyssa just canter the forward happy relaxed little guy. And suddenly I noticed that she had gotten lead change transitions, but I had barely noticed because they were so unfussy, quiet, relaxed, and subtle. He just quietly and effortlessly gave them. Melinda said that they had just begun working on those with him and that he has an easier time going from left to right rather than right to left, but he is agreeable. They both said that he hasn't been snarky about a single thing. He's arrived with a good work ethic and that he has caused no trouble at all about anything. He's truly a tremendous pony. Melinda said that she could see him qualifying very easily for Pony Finals and having a very competitive show career, but that he might not place in the top 10 (though he might, hard to tell). But she said that he would be great for a timid child because there is nothing intimidating about him -- he has a good quiet unworried heart. Nothing bothers him. He is without fear and very smart. Anyway, listening to this talented woman say such nice things about my pony was the best! Here is some video of Renny working on his first lead changes. This past winter, Stacey and I had been impressed by the number of times we were able to get lead changes by accident from him and even a few over ground poles, so I was not surprised, though delighted that they were already getting some out of him in his first month of training!!

My Visit to Quicksilver Farm

2012-01-23T06:30:00.000-05:00

I'm writing this entry on October 7th. So, I've been missing Renny pretty badly and not enjoying his being gone for training at an A-Circuit facility. And this week was sort of tough because I had to address some bad business that had accumulated over the year. So, I was feeling a little ragged when I went to visit Renny on Wednesday, October 5th, during the halfway point of his visit. I slept terribly and got a late start, but my spirit improved as I travelled. The weather was beautiful -- sunlit, but cool, and the leaves were just starting to change in the pretty part of the country where Renny was staying. I arrived at the barn and Melinda, Alyssa, and two young ladies were there. Renny was looking fit and sassy in his stall and was comfortably eating hay. He was glad to see me, but he didn't go crazy about it. He was saddled and taken to the arena and I was so curious to see how he would do.

He was truly awesome. From the very second, she walked him to the mounting block, he stood quietly and sensibly and with a loose rein. And as soon as she asked him to walk off, he was all business, stepping straight and true and forward. I could see that his trot and canter had substantially improved and that he was much more centered, round, balanced. He didn't have any wiggles or bulges and he kept his frame beautifully without fussing even a little bit about her right to have his face. And he just knocks out the quietest most simple little lead changes. And he jumped a whole course as easy as pie. A-Circuit training is exactly that -- A quality! I was so proud I couldn't believe it! Here's video of Renny jumping his course for me!

Equestrian Travels with Laura! Episode 2

2012-01-23T06:29:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Episode 2 of Equestrian Travels with Laura! In today's episode, Laura shows you the various bits that Violet and Renny use in their work as hunters- and dressage-ponies in training! Listen in!

Equestrian Travels with Laura! Episode 2

Laura Loves Lessons! Episode 2

2012-01-22T18:01:00.002-05:00

Laura Loves Lessons! Episode 2

In today's video cast, Laura discusses some troubles she's having with Violet at the gates in the indoor arena and some strategies for patiently working through this snafu. And she talks about Team Renegade's dressage lessons this weekend -- a pair dressage activity with Mary and Fez and then some precision work on upward transitions with Janet from the University of Findlay. Listen in!

My Jackass, My Zelia

2012-01-22T06:30:00.003-05:00

Jackass and Zelia are 15 years old, so this summer I decided that I would take a family photo every Sunday. Well, that lasted two Sundays! Lol! They were definitely not into posing for the camera. In the first photo, we are struggling with family togetherness and I ended up yelling at them. And in the second, we had just come into the house and they are hanging together, probably gossiping about how weird mom is!!!

Jumping Stronger and Softer!

2012-01-21T06:30:00.011-05:00

A June photo taken in our favorite Thursday lesson by Patrick Wolff! Happy Team Tenderness. Namaste!

Forgiving Sweet Girl!

2012-01-20T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here is a photo of Violet and me in a June lesson. The photo is taken by Patrick Wolff. We were super happy in this lesson. In fact, our Thursday lessons are our favorite ones of the week. Anyway, Violet just loves jumping and as I write this in September, we've become so much better at getting our correct leads off of jumps and we are jumping regularly at the 3 hole. I am hoping one day to be jumping 2'6"!!! Stacey says that's an attainable dream!!

Booksmart Equestrian! Episode 1

2012-01-20T06:29:00.001-05:00

In this new video series, Laura explores books she loves and what she's learning about horses from combining reading and studying with riding! Tune in!

Booksmart Equestrian! Episode 1

Welcome to our weekly Videocast, Booksmart Equstrian! In this first episode, Laura discusses the purpose of this Friday Video series and talks about the first book in this series, The Complete Guide to Hunter Seat Training, Showing, and Judging by Anna Jane White-Mullin. Listen in!

Soft, Soft, Soft!

2012-01-19T06:30:00.004-05:00

Here is a June picture taken by Patrick Woolf of my beautiful girl. Since this photo was taken, Violet and I have worked hard to become soft and sweet together. But even in this photo, you can see the softness coming into our relationship!

Bad Temper and Apologies!

2012-01-18T06:30:00.010-05:00

These photos were taken June 28th and I am writing this entry on September 23rd. Over the past two weeks, Violet and I have done a lot of growing as a team. I had a private lesson two weeks ago and I lost my temper. I wasn't horrible, but I used the crop to spank her forward once and I was rough and intolerant with my hands -- rotten. So, she tossed her head and got stiff. So, then I just felt pretty badly all week and worked on being soft. And things were getting better because Violet is a forgiving girl who can blow things off and is happy to accept apologies. But here's the cool thing. On the Saturday following our Tuesday disagreement, Stacey gave me great great advice during our lesson about how to help her loosen up at the start and how to be so sweet and soft but feeling with my hands while driving with my legs. And since then, Violet gets that I'm trying to be good to her, so we work together now. We have really moved forward on softness!

Having Fun with Dressage

2012-01-17T06:30:00.001-05:00

This photo is from a lesson with Stacey on June 28, 2011 and I am writing this entry on September 23rd. Over the course of the summer, Violet and I have become interested in dressage. I worked a summer job and purchased a Passier dressage saddle and bridle for her and got a very nice bit and pad and purchased Gay's old girth. And we are just having too much fun riding dressage with Janet Harms and Stacey. I just think it's so much fun to incorporate into our week! And I can tell Violet is very proud of herself when she gives a soft collected trot or strikes out big in her extended trot or pops sweetly in her leg yields. She's getting it!

Beautiful Gentle Violet

2012-01-16T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here are some photos and a video from August 13th when Emily and Kelsey were having their last rides on my lovely herd. Emily rode Violet two days in a row that weekend and she said that Violet was lovely and softer than she'd ever been. I'm writing this entry on September 23rd and she and I have been working diligently on getting softer together. I am trying to feel and listen without grabbing my sweet girl. And I think we are making progress. We will be a true soft feeling team!

Equine Travels with Laura! Episode 1

2012-01-16T06:29:00.002-05:00

Welcome to our weekly video cast, Equine Travels with Laura! In this episode, Laura talks about the purpose of this weekly Monday Videocast and introduces her audience to the herd! Listen in!

Equine Travels with Laura! Episode 1, Season 1

Laura Loves Lessons, Episode 1

2012-01-15T18:15:00.003-05:00

In this new Videocast series, Laura discusses special lessons, workshops, or clinics that helped her learn more about riding, horsewoman ship, or life in her herd! Today she discusses Easy Blue Renegade's first lesson with the Hunter/Jumper trainer of the English Equestrian Program at the University of Findlay. This lesson happened at St. George Equestrian Facility on January 15. Listen in!

Laura Loves Lessons, Episode 1

Chilling with My Hunter!

2012-01-15T06:30:00.001-05:00

Me and my much better half in mid-summer 2011....happy happy happy team...

Missing My Boy!

2012-01-14T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here are late June, 2011 photos of Renny and me in a private lesson. These photos surprise me because they show that he is soft and supple and obliging and wonderful, even with me. And I don't mean that to knock myself, I'm just saying that it goes to show you what a great pony he is. Anyway, I am writing this entry on September 9th, and Renny's been off to college for 10 days. And I miss him something fierce!

Such a Fun Show!

2012-01-13T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here are more photos and a video from Renny's first schooling session at his second show in July 2011. He had just arrived on a blazing blazing Friday at Hunters Run in Michigan and he was eager to explore. But when his favorite rider and best friend showed up, he was happy to be ridden in this gorgeous well-groomed arena -- demonstrating his sweet supple athletic hunter pony nature. I was floored, simply floored. Stacey was satisfied by his goodness, Kelsey was calm in her skill, and Renny was the definition of unflappable. I will never forget standing by the judge's stand, filming his sweetness!

Such Happy Training...

2012-01-12T06:30:00.001-05:00

This photo and video were taken in mid-August, 2011, right before I went up to Rhinelander, Wisconsin to visit my family and kiss and hug my nieces and nephew. In this photo, you see the two wonderful young women who befriended my herd and helped them develop their skills. My thoroughbred and sport pony were so proud of themselves to show off their skills and heart -- they wanted to please these talented girls. I will never be able to express how wonderful those Friday mornings were and the other moments here and there when these girls teamed with my favorite creatures on earth. It was a great summer! Renny had a chance to have a real wonderful brave start. And Violet had a chance to show that she could be as soft and sweet and athletic as the very best in her heritage! Yay!

Violet's August Carrots

2012-01-11T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here is a photo and video from late summer when Violet receives treats straight from my garden! She's a carrot lover. Okay, so how do I even comment on what a wonderful mare she's become. At her vet appointment on August 30, 2011, Dr. Zimmerman said that she looked great that she was a good-looking mare. And she did look buff and muscled and trim and substantial and glowing and wonderful. And this summer, she's become so obliging about jumping courses with bending lines, diagonals, multiple overs, rollbacks, and bounces. And she's great at exercises which expect that she changes leads over fences. For example, I'm writing this entry on Friday, September 9th and just yesterday, in our Thursday lesson, we had to jump three fences set in a staggered serpentine. We had to take four separate leads with three changes. And what did Violet do. She picked up her first lead, took a long leisurely well-paced canter to the first jump, changed her lead and rolled back to the second fence, gave a change over that fence and turned neatly to the third and then changed her lead again and cantered a smooth circle to a smooth trot. It was breathtaking. Quiet, sweet, athletic. I am so lucky to be part of Team Tenderness!

A Full Happy Home!

2012-01-10T06:30:00.000-05:00

Rock on. Namaste.

My Comfortable Nest

2012-01-09T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here is a photo and video taken in late summer 2011. I love my happy little nest and the darling creature who share this space. And I love it even more now that I worked two extra jobs this summer to earn money to buy an iPad, Macbook Pro, and iPhone. The nest is feathered!

Grandma and Her Sweet Pony!

2012-01-08T06:30:00.002-05:00

I am writing this entry on Friday, September 9th, and this photo was taken by Lillian in late June -- well before Renny was deep into a happy satisfying partnership with Kelsey and before his two shows, two wins, and college. Here we are just in the midst of training and muddling and having fun. And I already look as proud as I can be. So, you can imagine my feelings now. What can I say about this miracle of a pony. A few days after his arrival at Quicksilver, I got a Facebook message from Melinda telling me that Renny was being so good -- that he was sweet and willing to learn -- that he'd already been over cross rails and had a very nice jump. That he had a new turnout buddy who was his BFF immediately. And that they were so enjoying him. I was not a bit surprised -- she used all the code words I would expect from him -- agreeable with everyone, sweet, willing, enjoyable. That's my life with him. I have a pony that is a wonderful darling companion. On the very day that I returned from taking him to college, someone came up to me and asked if they could lease him when he returns. I am so proud of this darling creature!

Renny Ships to Quicksilver Farm!

2012-01-07T06:30:00.000-05:00

All right! I am writing this entry on Friday, September 9th and these photos are taken in the early morning of Wednesday, August 31st. On that Wednesday, my little guy shipped to college! I got up super early and went to the barn and groomed him and packed his belongings. Stacey helped wrap him all pretty and we put shiny products on him. And then the day sped by -- I don't know if I'll be able to capture all the magic of this day. Ricky and I went to load him and Renny was as calm as you please. He loaded quietly and let me hook him. He didn't fuss or fight. And off we went.

The ride was over three hours and we even got lost for a little bit and had to turn around in a factory parking lot. We drove on I-80 and then on I-90 right through downtown Cleveland. And Renny didn't fuss at all. Every time we looked back, he was calm and sweet. And he even took time to pee in the trailer.

When we finally arrived at Quicksilver Farm, two stallions were galloping like crazy in their giant pastures, just to greet Renny and put him on notice. When we arrived, 7 minutes early which made me super duper happy, Melinda and Alyssa were there and two other staff people. Renny had a full krewe to meet him. And here's where Renny kicked into high style gear. We backed the trailer into the barn receiving area and then got out of the truck. We had a leisurely conversation with Melinda and her staff and all the time, I could see Renny watching us calmly from the trailer. He didn't fuss, he didn't move, he didn't paw, he didn't call. He just stood patiently. And then when it became time to unload him, we opened the trailer door and he just stood there. I unhooked him and stepped under the barrier and he just stood there. I said back in a gentle tone and he stepped quietly back to the edge of the door and then waited. And then when I said step, step, he calmly quietly smoothly slowly but not tentatively stepped backwards off the trailer making sure his legs cleared easily and fully -- no slipping or feeling. And then when he got off the trailer, he just stood there calmly and quietly and looked around. He waited for a moment or two and then took a step toward the dancing stallions, but when I tugged no, he just resumed waiting, but then finally dropped his head to eat grass.

He arrived like a glorious well-behaved sweet sensible pony. I could NOT have been more proud. Then we walked him into the barn into his new stall and while we were unwrapping him -- Melinda, Alyssa, Ricky and I -- Renny checked his feed bin, ate his hay, and then took a long happy drink of water. Melinda commented on what a good boy he was and how good it was to see that he wasn't fussy about the water. And as she commented about that nicety, Renny took a happy leisurely relaxed deep pee and looked around with satisfaction.

Then he was whisked out of his stall to stand in the aisle way and get measured. He had four people swirling around him and Ricky and I were standing quietly to the side. Renny was the quiet eye of these storm, standing with pride and quiet obedience in the middle of women who were measuring him and loving on his face. His new rider gave him treats which Renny received with satisfaction. He measured out at 14.0' and a sneeze, just as I said.

When I left, he gave me a calm sweet look. He has a stall that has windows right into the busy aisle way and he barn has openings at either end, so he will be able to see lots of liveliness of passing people and ponies. And he has a back window which over looks the house and also a small holding pasture for the new babies. I hope that even as I write this entry, Renny knows I love him and is having a good time.

Violet Says Goodbye to Summer!

2012-01-06T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here's a photo and video of my darling Violet taken in late August 2011, as we prepared for the start of the Fall semester. I had just completed teaching two summer classes, in order to pay off my car, buy some electronic equipment, pay off a few debts, and pay for Renny's college. And she and I were just hanging out and being happy. She's accomplished so much this past year. She's just wonderful at jumping courses and she's getting a bit ready for practicing flying lead changes, but she's become super great at feeling which lead I want coming off jumps. We are just a happy team! Plus she's learning dressage and even got her own dressage saddle and bridle (courtesy of my extra summer employment!). All good!

The End of a Wonderful Summer

2012-01-05T06:30:00.001-05:00

These photos and video were taken in late August, after Renny finished training with his dear friend, Kelsey, and after he went to two shows, and completed successfully for ribbons in his first two classes at a C-rated Hunter Show, and before he left for college at an A-rated hunter pony barn. We were just enjoying ourselves, relaxing, and feeling satisfied in our accomplishments. I'm writing this entry 10 days after Renny left for college and though I am sad because these past days have been the longest separation I've had from him, I just could not be more proud at all this little pony has done so far. He's been the most kind-hearted and hardworking little guy. Everyone thinks that he's amazing and solid!

Capable College Pony!

2012-01-04T06:30:00.001-05:00

Renny Getting Ready for College!

Here are some more photos and a little dressage video from our last lesson together before Renny left for college. You can see our relaxation together, our happiness, and the beauty of that special evening! I love this pony. He's been a true gift and kind blessing in my life from the very first moment, I decided to be a part of this magic process!

My Dressage Pony!

2012-01-03T06:30:00.001-05:00

Renny Playing at Dressage before College!

Here are photos of me and Renny, getting ready for our last lesson together on August 29th, 2011. We are a happy team. And the video shows a little dressage pattern that he and I played that evening. We just were soft together and happy. I think he knew that his life was changing, and for the better, and I certainly knew that evening that I had been blessed beyond all description to be the one who got to work so closely with him and with such good people to help bring along this talented kind pony. I was feeling scared and sad about his leaving for Quicksilver, but happy for his opportunities and happy for his skills and good common sense!

Team Renegade -- Ready for College!

2012-01-02T06:30:00.001-05:00

Renny and Laura's last lesson before Quicksilver!

Here's a photo and video from a beautiful August evening when I had my last riding lesson with Renny before he left for college at Quicksilver Farm. He was wonderful, just wonderful. He was quiet, thoughtful, responsive. He was happy to serpentine, circle, give his face, and I felt much like Kelsey did when she said that she felt like she could put his face anywhere she wanted. He was just plain old soft and supple and intelligent and fun. I was so proud and happy to be riding him. And it felt so sweet. I could feel all the love that had gone into him -- from picking his daddy, breeding his mommy, caring for her during her pregnancy, delivering Renny, enjoying his suckling and weanling days, playing with him during his yearling days, and then lightly backing him, and teaching him some simple lessons for his job as a hunter pony. He's nothing but a real joy. And that evening was wonderful. Anyway, here we all are -- trainer, barn manager, Grama, Aunt taking the photo, and the main pony himself!

A New Year's Adventures!

2012-01-01T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here's my bright red girl on July 10th with the lovely Emily, learning how to be soft and bringing her best heart to the task. Violet gave me a great year in 2011. I'm writing this entry on August 21 and I can tell you that I love her and I'm proud to be part of her family. And even late in the summer of 2011, I look forward to each day with her and for our 2012 adventures!

A Great Year!

2011-12-31T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here is video from Renny's first schooling session when he arrived at Hunters Run. He's an amazing pony and he gave me the gift of a wonderful year!

My Sweet Goofy Gunner-Loving Pony!

2011-12-30T06:30:00.001-05:00

These photos are from Saturday, August 20th, after Renny and I had a fun challenging riding lesson. He took a cool bath, happily received a bracing wash, ate some treats, accepted hugs, and then rolled and rolled and rolled in luxury in the sand. He was a chocolate-covered cherry pony! So, I'm writing this entry on Sunday, August 21st, and my little sweet guy was hilarious. When I arrived at the barn, I saw that he and his pals were just running around in their pasture. He was just smoothly flowing around the pasture, like he does. Anyway, He was glad to see me and came striding up happily. Because he was troubled by flies, I put fly spray on him and his nose sunscreen. I gave him treats. He was all happy and sweet, but still wanted to give me his angry ears, just to show me that he's boss! Then I watched him for awhile and he was a little happy guy with his buddy Gunner. They spent their time cozying up to each other, walking step-by-step together, swishing their tails on each other with love. When I left, Renny was looking at me all bright-eyed and ears forward standing behind Gunner's tail! So cute!

Renny Goes to College!

2011-12-29T06:30:00.001-05:00

These photos and video are from July 26th, the second day of Hunters Run. I love the photos because you can see Renny moving sweetly and smoothly and well-balanced and engaged. And you can see his riding companion giving him a kind reward for his sweetness, a round pat to his neck. He's a wonderful boy! Anyway, this past week, I went to Quicksilver Farm to visit where Renny will stay for for two months to continue with his education as a well-schooled show pony. I love him. I was very happy with the place and the people and I know he will enjoy himself and enjoy meeting 27 other ponies!

Renny Goes Wild with Coolness!

2011-12-28T06:30:00.002-05:00

I'm writing this entry on Sunday, August 21st, the night before Fall semester. Renny has had an amazing good-natured, hard-working summer. In early May, after he turned 3, he proved that he was a good solid citizen by jumping sweetly. And this summer, he was so fun with Grama, jumping courses. And he got a little crush on Kelsey who helped him win ribbons in his very first two classes against all horses. And now he's getting ready to go for more training as a hunter pony. Yesterday I could not have been more proud of him. We were in our Saturday morning lesson and he was happy and mellow and sweet. So we rode in our class with Mary, Cheri and Baker and their wonderful mounts. And Renny was so happy to be with his buddies. In his class, he was so calm and mellow and sweet and hard-working as he rose to every single challenge. He cantered a small figure 8 and gave simple lead changes. He trotted a circle of 4 cavaletti. He cantered a circle of 4 cavaletti! He worked in a cone box to make tight turns with only the outside rein. He cantered within that box on a small 20 meter circle! He was just stellar at everything we asked. I was so proud of my sweet boy! And before we rode, he wanted me to kiss him, place my face against his, and stroke his ears and jaw. He's a loving sweet boy! Happy Birthday to me!

Violet's Dressage Lessons

2011-12-27T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here are late June photos of my girl, taking a private lesson and learning how to be soft. In these photos, she looks like she is working hard to supple and bend and give her best. And now I'm writing in late August and she's had many lessons with Janet Harms and worked hard with Stacey, so now she knows she has to try her best at being round, engaged, soft. She is trying to get to the next level! And I am having tons of fun with her doing whinny widgets and practicing cone, cavaletti, ground pole, and other lateral games! This summer we bought a dressage saddle and gear and a dressage bridle and when I see my Violet wearing her dressage tack, I just feel nothing but pride!

Violet Jumps Sweetly

2011-12-26T06:30:00.001-05:00

These photos are from June and I'm writing this entry on Sunday, August 21st, the evening before the first day of the Fall semester. This past week, Violet and I made real progress on our flat work and our jumping. I had been watching all these videos of hunter ponies jumping their courses and they all looked so sweet and quiet and smooth and even, so in our Thursday evening class, I decided to try and ride my girl that way. We had such fun. We jumped a course with two overs, and a double roll-back. We were smooth and sweet. And I felt like I was riding a cloud!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T06:30:00.000-05:00

Dressage Improves Team Tenderness

2011-12-24T06:30:00.000-05:00

This summer I used some of my extra teaching money to purchase Violet a used dressage saddle and girth, and a new dressage bridle and bit -- all Passier! And we've been taking regular dressage lessons. It's been truly wonderful. I'm loving it. It makes me feel like a more involved active engaged rider -- makes me realize that I need to be fully present with my partner! And I've liked it so much that now I want to buy Renny his own dressage bridle and bit. And I am hoping my dressage saddle fits him! Crossing fingers. It'd be loads of fun to work on dressage with him too!

Dancing to Thriller!

2011-12-23T06:30:00.000-05:00

Renny is so ridiculously fun to ride that I've decided to shake things up and bring joy to our routine. For example, he had a week off when I went to visit my family and when I came back, the very first night he was soft, quiet, sweet, obliging, talented, wonderful in his riding lesson. He was pure joy to ride and Stacey even commented how good he was, how great after his break, how willing. And we jumped in our lesson and he was just a hoot always getting the correct lead coming off the jumps. Truly great.

So, I decided that it would be fun to learn a dressage routine to Michael Jackson's Thriller for a new training exercise for us. And today, August 13th, Saturday, was the first day I began work. We practiced circles, leg yields in both directions, side passes, turns on the hindquarters and the forehand, canters from the trot and walk. And we did Training Level Test 3 dressage pattern with real ease. My pony is responsive and willing and spectacular! It's gonna be lots of fun to learn a dance routine with him!

Violet Gets Softer

2011-12-22T06:30:00.000-05:00

Here is some July 10th footage and photos of Emily working with Violet. From the very first moment that Emily stepped up to her, Violet brought her best spirit to the task. And this work was not easy for her. She never had formal training, so learning how to carry herself, be soft and supple and engaged and balanced is not easy. But each time Emily rode her, I could see the difference. And I can feel the difference too when I ride her -- she's plain softer and more obliging and I can feel her trying to learn new tasks! She wants to be a high quality dressage and hunter horse!

My Responsible Pony

2011-12-21T06:30:00.000-05:00

My little Renny is just barely three years old, but he has been a responsible kind-hearted pony every day of his life. He brings love and kindness to all his work. And this summer, he has brought a true champion's heart to his work with Kelsey. He wants to learn. It's like he's studying the memos each night! LOL! Kelsey has got him braver and more confident about jumping. He knows how to canter from the trot or walk. He's happy to practice side-passing, leg yields, and turns on his hindquarters and forehand. He's just a genuine pleasure. I'm so very proud of him. He looks like a powerful fancy athlete, but has the kindness and sweetness of a gentle creature!

Jumping Three Oxers!

2011-12-20T06:30:00.000-05:00

Here is a June 28th photo taken by Patrick Woolf, during one of our Thursday evening riding lessons with all of our favorite girls. I just love my red girl. She jumps so easily and gracefully. These past few weeks, the challenges have been more involved -- curving lines through bounces, waves to jumps, bending lines to oxers, three oxers in a course. She does everything with willingness and responsiveness. She's a blessing!

Violet Works Hard!

2011-12-19T06:30:00.000-05:00

This summer has been extraordinary for my hardworking Violet. Here is a video and photo from July 10th when she was working with Emily to learn how to be softer and more supple. She's worked so hard to be more engaged and rounded. She carries herself better and just brings a true champion's heart to her tasks. I can literally say that at one point this summer, she worked ten days in a row without complaint or reservation. I'm proud to do dressage with her, flat her, jump her. I'm proud of her intelligence and good nature!

Ribboned Athlete!

2011-12-18T06:30:00.001-05:00

Rock on! Namaste!

Cowpony Walks to Get His Ribbon!

2011-12-17T06:30:00.002-05:00

I love these photos of my relaxed cowpony, who just delivered a picture perfect performance in his first class, and who is now walking leisurely and relaxed to receive his ribbon. He will be happy and surprised when he not only receives a ribbon, but a bunch of girls and Grama fuss over him like he's the grand old poobah!

Blue Easy Renegade!

2011-12-16T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here he is, in line with 17 horses, hearing his name called for the very first time in his very first class to collect his 4th place ribbon. Grama was so happy, blissfully happy. And she did let out a whoop!

Renny and His Good Friends

2011-12-15T06:30:00.003-05:00

Renny has had many loving advantages in his life. And among them are his trainer and exercise rider. Stacey has given him such good support, love, and training. And Kelsey is someone that he thinks of as a friend. You should see how sweet and happy and agreeable he becomes when she shows up and takes his reins. One day I was riding him and she stepped out of the barn to call her brother. Renny got happy and looked toward her. He feels bonded to her. And who wouldn't. She's a remarkable kind talented rider. She gives him confidence!

Renny and His Relatives!

2011-12-14T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here are photos taken by Lexie of Renny in the act of winning his ribbon in his very first class ever. He looks soft, sweet, agreeable, engaged. He looks like a hunter pony in action! So, anyway, he's supposed to go to college in September and October and I am going to the farm he'll attend after the Pony Finals and Auction in mid-August. So, I decided to take a peek at this year's auction catalog. I was able to easily guess which ponies were Renny's relatives. They were the cutest ones! And then I decided to take a look at the sales prices of last year's auctions. And guess what?! Renny's relative was the high-selling pony in last year's auction. The pony's name was Blue Note and Renny and he share a Grampa in Blue Rain!

Renny and His Team!

2011-12-13T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here is a photo after Renny earned ribbons in his first two classes! Here is Team Renegade -- Grama taking the photo, his Aunts Lillian and Lex, his trainer Stacey, and his good dear friend, Kelsey!

My Baby's Show Day!

2011-12-12T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here are some early morning photos of me and Renny on his first show day. I'm so proud of this little guy. And here's some more video coverage of his first class ever. Walking in that arena with him that morning was just wonderful. The grounds were beautiful. My pony was sweet. I was already proud of him. And little did I know that later that day, he would enter that arena twice more and win two ribbons. He's a wonderful wonderful sport pony!

Sanchez Herd in Training

2011-12-11T06:30:00.002-05:00

This summer I hit a small bump in confidence about Renny. Seeing him becoming so fabulous and wonderful and agile and talented made me feel like I wasn't able to keep up with him or help him. But Kelsey and Stacey got me over that bump and I know that they, along with Janet and Jill, will help me to become a better rider for my better pony. He and I are having fun just working alone. We're practicing cantering figure 8s and making simple lead changes. And we're happy to pop over cross rails. I have a feeling that when the time is right, I will be able to do bigger things with my little guy.

As for Violet, she and I are happily bubbling along together becoming a better team. She likes her new dressage equipment and we are working hard with Janet. And our jumping is getting better now that I've moved my stirrups up a full hole. In my private lesson with Stacey this past week (I'm writing on Sunday, July 31st), she and I were very good at riding a bounce, a curve, and bending lens and even over an oxer. We jumped the oxer nice and big.

Then on Thursday, our favorite lesson of the week, Violet was a super star. She had to canter a diagonal to a cross rail then follow a half-circle through a bounce and over a cross-rail and turn it into a serpentine to catch an outside line turn into a cross rail again and take a bending line to a vertical and then take a bending line over a vertical to an over. And Violet did it big and bold and loose and forward while catching all of her leads. She was amazing. I just loved her to pieces.

And then today in a jumping lesson with Jill Jewett, Violet again was a hard-working thoroughbred girl over ground poles, cross rails, and a four cavaletti bounce. She was just making turns, being supple, going downward and upward with ease, changing direction, riding past gates closely. She brought her best hunter self to the task and we got praised for how far we had come. We are working on being a nice hunter team. And I have to say, Violet really takes pride in being a good hunter dressage horse. She really really wants to hold up her end of Team Tenderness. Actually, I can say that about both Renny and Violet. They both bring their best selves to their team work!

Happy Sweet Goofy Teams!

2011-12-10T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here are photos of me as proud as punch on my beautiful stenciled, braided and gorgeous hunter pony. He looks this gorgeous and fabulous and he hadn't even gone to his first show yet that summer! He's amazing. Anyway, I just want to observe that I love my teams, Team Tenderness and Team Renegade.

Renny Communicates

2011-12-09T06:30:00.001-05:00

I really learned a great deal this summer from Janet, Jill, Stacey, and Emily and Kelsey. I have such great teachers. Anyway, one of the biggest kicks I had this summer was when Kelsey told me several times that she can feel Renny communicating with her. He's trying to talk with her about their work. And he likes to check in with her. And he likes to offer his opinion, but wants to accept hers. I loved that observation. And I'm trying to take her observation into my own work with him again. He's such a good-hearted loving little pony. I'm always communicating with Violet and feeling close to her moods, opinions, and decisions, but I forget that my little guy is trying to build on his experience too and communicate with his teammates. I adore him. And I like his smart smart teacher!

Violet Gets Supple

2011-12-08T06:30:00.000-05:00

Here are some photos and video again taken on July 10th of my girl bringing her best heart to the task of learning how to supple. Look at that rounded top line and how she's lifting up her belly. She's trying hard to bring her very best!!

Renny Bounces Beautifully

2011-12-07T06:30:00.001-05:00

So, these photos and video are from July 10th and you can see that my little guy is comfortable and relaxed and happy with his Kelsey. He really liked working with her this summer. And she gave him such confidence at the shows. He liked schooling with her and he sure liked winning ribbons with her. Now it's Sunday, July 31st as I write this note and Renny had a wonderful week off after his big competition. But yesterday, Saturday, I went to ride him and he was delightful. He was so quiet and serious and hardworking. And he gave the transitions to there canter so beautifully and precisely and without head tossing. And his canter was so unbelievably smooth and light and lovely. Kelsey has taken a wonderful pony and made his good qualities shine even more!

Violet Jumps Big for Emily

2011-12-06T06:30:00.001-05:00

These photos and video are from July 10th and you can see in the photos that Violet was working hard at collection, engagement, and framing. She brought her best heart to her work with Emily and I was so proud of her for realizing that she has to work at trying to get to the next level. This summer I really felt that Violet and I might be able to become even better as a team! I was so appreciative of Emily's help!

A Wonderful Summer Friday!

2011-12-05T06:30:00.001-05:00

This summer, Emily and Kelsey made themselves available for exercise rides. I was delighted to have their experience. Emily worked with Violet while Kelsey and Renny were becoming dear friends. Friday mornings when they would ride together were the best. I would just stand there and see both my beautiful horses being made better and better by such talented young women. I so enjoyed this magical summer 2011!

Renny's First Blue Ribbon Ever!

2011-12-04T06:30:00.001-05:00

So, I go over and chat with Kelsey and hug my Renny and just laugh and be happy. And Renny is surrounded by love -- receiving love from Kelsey, from Grams, from Katie and Chloe, from Lex and Lillian, from Stacey. Receiving love!! And then moments later, he has to go back into the Low Hunter Under Saddle class with two other tall black horses -- and he just belts out a second wonderful ride without a false step or false note or anything other than a sweet calm loving attitude. And so, of course, the judge has to give him the blue ribbon. And I was happy. Happy. HAPPY. But not a bit surprised.

It was a dream come true. No lie.

Renny's First Class Ever!

2011-12-03T06:30:00.002-05:00

Okay! Here are photos and video from Renny's first class ever. As this moment was occurring, I was practically bursting out of my chest with pride and happiness. Lex and Lillian came to cheer him on, and he was surrounded by fans, such as Stacey, Baker, Katie, Chloe, Liz! That morning Stacey said that he looked fabulous...and he did. He was groomed perfectly and so shiny and red and glossy. He just looked wonderful. And when I turned him over to Kelsey, I felt nothing but relief and happiness and joy. Chloe said that she would take the video, and Lex and Lillian took pictures. So, I just enjoyed the class.

And you can see by the photos that Renny was relaxed too. He just strides into the arena and then broke into a brisk trot at Kelsey's command as though he hadn't a care in the world. I turned to someone and asked what they judged on in a green hunter class and the person replied that in a nutshell, the horse must look fun to ride. And as I glanced over at Renny, I knew he would do well. Because he looked like just a load of fun to ride! Through his whole ride, he was responsive, light, supple, sweet, engaged. He just looked smashing! And he was the only pony in his class! And he was competing against 17 big tall horses!

And when they called his name -- number 8, Blue Easy Renegade, as the 4th place winner, with the other three being true professionals. Well, I was not a bit surprised. I was happy. Happy. HAPPY. But not a bit surprised! My little guy was a champion in his very first horse show class! I cried a teeny tiny bit. But I was not surprised. And neither was Renny. Kelsey said that getting 4th in that class of 17 was a big deal and I knew it was too!

Renny Schools Again!

2011-12-02T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here's some video and photos of Renny's second day schooling session. I love the photo of him going over the little cross rails. You can see that he's just relaxed and as cute as a button!

Renny's Big Boy Schooling Ride!

2011-12-01T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here are some photos and a video from Renny's second day at Hunters Run, as he gets a schooling ride from Kelsey. He was wonderful and soft and sweet. And she even popped him over a few jumps. And what's super great is that I got up on him too and rode him around at a walk and trot. I was so proud of him and myself!!! It was the first time I was on him at a place other than St. George. Renny and I were having big adventures.

Renny Explores the World!

2011-11-30T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here is some more footage and a few photos from that first schooling ride in that beautiful arena at Hunters Run. Renny just moved me because he was so calm and hardworking and sensible. He wasn't bothered by the big flapping pavilion tent. He didn't much care, though he wanted to look, at the very colorful enormous jumps by the fence. He couldn't care less about the judge's stand or the judge on the day! He just was happy to please Kelsey and to listen to her.

And I can't tell you how much fun I had, walking my pony around and letting him explore and graze. He really was like a puppy dog over those three days. He wanted to go up to horses, people, things, structures. He enjoyed his baths primarily because they were in the center of the action. He was funny because as soon as he passed the threshold of his barn, you could see him visibly relax. He hated his stall, but loved the world!

Two Nights Away!

2011-11-29T06:30:00.001-05:00

We arrived at Hunters Run and Renny was absolutely intrigued by the new giant surroundings from the very second he got off the trailer. He did NOT like his stall which was facing a wall and had a door. He couldn't see his companions and he couldn't hang his head out to greet people. So, he was miffed and especially miffed because he would spend three long days in that stall without turnout and without the benefit of barn activity. But anyway, we arrived and he settled in well. I walked him all over the grounds and he was not worried about anything. He was enthusiastic about checking the place out and very glad to be nosy. He was not nervous like he was at Lieway the first day.

So, here you see a few photos and footage from his first schooling session, very shortly after arriving at Hunters Run. He was fantastic. Stacey said he looked fabulous. And indeed he was already working so soft and quiet!

Renny's Second Show!!

2011-11-28T06:30:00.001-05:00

gates

So, the very next weekend after Lieway, Renny prepared to leave for his first true competition, at the C-rated show at Hunters Run in Temperance, Michigan. I was so proud of him because he just climbed aboard the trailer and here is the video footage of my happy boy, waiting fearlessly for the adventures to begin!! It was such a hot weekend, but he brought his sweet spirits!

Renny Gladly Goes Home!

2011-11-27T06:30:00.001-05:00

Renny enjoyed his overnight adventure with all of his St. George pals, but believe me, he got nervous when all the horses were packing up and heading out. He didn't want to miss his trailer ride home. And when we got home, he was happy to graze quietly with Grama and enjoy his praise. What an honest to goodness fabulous pony! Next week, I'll tell you about Renny's first competition!

Renny's Wonderful Schooling Rides!

2011-11-26T06:30:00.001-05:00

I will never be able to say enough about what a great rider Kelsey was for my boy. And how grateful I am that she was the first to ride my pony at a show. Renny would just visibly relax for her when she showed up. He'd stand quietly for her as she organized the saddle. And he'd stand stock still as she mounted. He was so responsive with her. At one point this summer, she said that she could feel Renny communicating with her. And I believe it. I think they had a real nice energy and telepathy together. She is helping him with his great start in life!

Renny's Happy Socializing

2011-11-25T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos of Renny schooling on his second day at Lieway. He was fantastic. He was soft, supple, obedient. He wanted to pop his shoulder out to suggest that they leave by the gate, but he was willing to face discipline from his trusted companion, Kelsey. But what's funny is how Renny behaved in his stall. He was at Lieway with 9 other of his horse friends, and his best companions, Louie and Tommy were right across from him in this narrow aisle way. And he had a net for his door. So, he was one happy camper. We had to adjust the net because he was pretty interested in seeing if he could go under or over it. But once we had it at the right height, he was as happy as a clam. He would just rest his neck against it and socialize with every passing person. He was a jolly happy social camper!

Renny's First Schooling Ride Away from St. George

2011-11-24T06:30:00.001-05:00

Renny was nervous and I quickly realized that I wouldn't have the courage to ride him. I would only put fear in his heart. So, Stacey called Kelsey to come and school him on that first day and she showed up about quarter to 9, right at dusk. Renny rode with a few other horses and with Stacey and Elliott in the fading light. He had one big scare -- he saw a man leave the giant Wyldewood trailer and it was a man emerging from a cave. Kelsey later said that she felt as though Renny was genuinely scared and needed comforting. He wasn't trying to be naughty. So, other than that snafu, he was a handsome champion about his work. He brought his best heart. And my friends who were there watching -- Carissa, Julie, Sherry, Katie -- they all said he was just an amazing A-circuit quality little guy. I was so proud and nervous and happy about his next steps!

Renny Checks out Lieway's Grounds

2011-11-23T06:30:00.001-05:00

For his first show, Renny was just going for the experience. So, I walked him all over the grounds, let him graze, let him explore. We walked by the Wyldewood tack trailer, by the rings, by the wash rack, by the other horses, by the announcer. And on the first evening, he was nervous about most things which was very unusual for him. But by the next morning, he was calm and sweet and happy and interested and he very very much wanted to explore. He really loved walking and checking things out!!

Renny Jumps on the Trailer

2011-11-22T06:30:00.001-05:00

On the Friday we went to Lieway, Friday, July 15th, Renny knew something unusual was about to happen. He got wrapped by Jacquelyn and he was totally intrigued and then when he saw his friends getting on the trailer, he just got all "up" and interested. And so when it was his time to get on the trailer, he blew all of our minds by just leaping on board and walking calmly to his slot. He was wonderful. And then when we got to the show, he just calmly backed off and stood quietly in this entirely busy new location and waited for me to pet him and move him along. He was just a champion. He was the same way about going home. He truly was remarkable for his first trailering experience as a big boy without his mama!

Renny's First Show!

2011-11-21T06:30:00.001-05:00

Over the next few weeks, I'll be writing about my horses and how well they've been doing over summer 2011. So, for two weeks, I'll be writing about Renny's first show experiences! Mind you, he's just freshly three years old, but he's been so mature and agreeable and talented that we wanted to give him some show experience before sending him to college. So, two weekends in a row, he went to a show near home at Lieway Hunt Club and then travelled to Michigan to compete in a C-rated show at Hunters Run. These notes will be about my pony's big champion heart and how he responsibly handled these new challenges, experiences, and roles!

I want to say that I'm very proud of my little guy. He loaded and unloaded onto trailers quietly. He made new friends. He schooled with his best heart. He enjoyed exploring show grounds. He won ribbons! Lots of love to this wonderful pony!

So Proud of Renny

2011-11-20T06:30:00.001-05:00

Namaste. Here are some photos of a gorgeaus pony and his biggest fan!

A Day of Many Firsts

2011-11-19T06:30:00.001-05:00

So, Lieway Hunt Club was Renny's first show experience and he handled everything beautifully. Here's the list of firsts for him on Friday, July 15th:

1) Cantering into a bounce

2) Being ridden twice in one day

3) Being ridden someplace other than St. George

4) Jumping on a trailer without his mom and without any urging

5) Going to a show!

6) Sleeping at a new place without his mom or aunt nearby

Trailer Loading Pony!

2011-11-18T06:30:00.001-05:00

I am proud of many things this week ending in July 17th -- Renny met every challenge with calm sweetness. But among the many things I am proud of, I am so very proud of how he handled trailering. He walked right on without pause when I first pointed him at the trailer and backed off confidently quietly and unhurriedly when he arrived at the show. And then when he went home, he stepped on again and stepped quietly off waiting for direction. And then here's the cool thing -- I let him graze when we got home and then as I was leading him back into the barn past the trailer, I stopped to pick up something near the door and Renny thought I was directing him back to the trailer, so he started to climb on again. Amazing! Tired after two intense days and finally home and he was still willing to follow direction about getting back on the trailer. He's truly a treasure!

Hardworking Teams

2011-11-17T06:30:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos of me grazing my little Renny moments before his friend, Kelsey, came to ride him beautifully on his second day at his first show. He was relaxed, happy, cheerful and when she mounted him, he was hard-working. He threw a few things at her, but mostly, he trotted and cantered at show ready quality. What a lovely sweet boy. I mention this fact because I know that part of the reason he is so good and so is his Aunt Violet is because of the great care he is getting at St. George -- from every single person at that facility!

My Faithful Pony

2011-11-16T06:30:00.001-05:00

So, here are a few photos of Renny at his first show and a video from that same experience on July 15-16 at Lieway Hunt Club. Over our years together, I've spent lots of time talking with him, chatting with him, loving on him...so it makes sense that that's how we spent much of our time at his first show. He was amazing through this whole week -- he was ridden by Kelsey four times, he was jumped quite a bit, he was taken on a little relaxed trail ride with Grams, chatting up friends at St. George. He handles his business well. He doesn't like to be bossed around, but he does like to work hard, have fun, receive love, and be a part of the gang. I just love that about my faithful pony!

Violet Learns Dressage and Jumps Big!

2011-11-15T06:30:00.003-05:00

Here is a photo of Renny in his first show stall at Lieway and a little video from the same event. But this entry is about what happened earlier that week. Violet's been working so hard. On Sunday, she had a training session with Em, on Monday, she worked hard with me on jumping, on Wednesday, she jumped a bounce, including with a 2'6" jump with me in a lesson, and then on Thursday, she worked so hard at a dressage lesson with Janet and then on Friday, had another terrific session with Em in which she jumped a line of 2'6" jumps several times! She really has been a star champion-hearted thoroughbred who brings her best heart and kindness to everyone. This week Janet said she was a very good intelligent girl!

The Big Week!

2011-11-14T06:30:00.002-05:00

I'm writing this entry on Sunday, July 17th and I'm reporting about a really big wonderful week. This week in July was a big training week for my herd and an especially important week for my little pony. Violet worked hard at jumping and dressage and had several personal bests. And my little Renny he trained very hard too and went and experienced his first show!!!

Summer Joy

2011-11-13T06:30:00.002-05:00

Here are July 10th, Sunday photos of Em riding Violet for the first time and then a Friday, July 15th video of Em jumping her. On the first day, you can see Violet working so hard to be obedient and sweet and hard-working. She brought her best to the very first lesson, even though it was a blazing hot day. And then in the video, you can see my granddaughter of Count Fleet settling in to jump 2'6" like a big bold sweet hard-working girl!

Smiles after Good Work!

2011-11-12T06:30:00.000-05:00

Here's a happy photo of my herd and their friends after a wonderful Friday, July 15th work out. Violet had just jumped 2'6" for the first time and Renny was my bouncing baby boy, cantering blissfully through bounces, and down lines. And those two smiling confident young women helped those two herd mates meet new challenges with success!! Namaste.

Photo Shoot with my Diva!

2011-11-11T06:30:00.003-05:00

Here's a July 15th photo shoot with my beautiful herd and their good friends. I love these two photos because you can see that a little nose sniffing went haywire with Violet objecting to Renny's kisses and the photo shoot ending with their riders looking happy and the horses looking bemused!!

Blissful Moment!

2011-11-10T06:30:00.000-05:00

These two young women are top riders and such elegant quiet zen sweet intelligent people. They have a true inner calmness. I wish that I could not only learn how to ride from them and how to train horses, but also how I can be a better person! They have many stellar qualities!! Anyway, here they are, my beloved herd and their good friends, quiet and happy before they step off to work hard!!

Those Top Girls

2011-11-09T06:30:00.003-05:00

I have to say that moving my herd to St. George has been one of the best blessings in my life. I will remember this special time when I'm an ancient old woman, checking the tomatoes in my garden, as my nieces' and nephew's children play around me. Tee hee hee. Anyway, here's a happy photo of the two girls who are helping my horses break through to the next level -- Emily who is helping Violet soften and become more athletic, and Kelsey who is helping Renny develop confidence and boldness and engagement in his work!!!

Renny Bounces Big!

2011-11-08T06:30:00.003-05:00

This photo and video were taken Friday, July 15th and I'm writing the evening of July 17th, after a lovely busy weekend. The Krull sisters have been helping me with my little herd and here is Violet getting ready to work her champion heart for Em. On this day, Renny cantered into a line and cantered into a bounce with such beauty that I couldn't help but cheer like I was at a World Cup game. He just looked like the most natural agile athlete and was so calm about his work. And I just adore that Kelsey. She told me that she could feel him asking to take the bounce with more speed and she told him no, and he asked again, and she said no, you can trust me, and he did...he slowed down and took the bounce with beauty. She said that he's a great communicator. I just love her training and riding skills. She's a real gift to my pony and I can tell that he has a little crush on her -- he likes to give her his best and he is trying to learn!

It Takes a Village

2011-11-07T06:30:00.002-05:00

I'm writing this entry on Sunday, July 17th, after a very busy wonderful weekend. This photo and video are from Friday, July 15th. I've asked Emily and Kelsey to help me with Violet and Renny, so we meet on Friday mornings for exercise rides. This past Friday was wonderful. Violet was soft and quiet and agreeable for Emily on their second ride together. Emily said that she could feel that Violet was traveling straighter and more willing to bend and trying hard to be supple. And what was super duper cool is that she jumped Violet several times at 2'6" which was a personal best for her. And I was so proud of Violet because she just turned that corner, took a look at those jumps, and pulled herself together to jump big and bold! And when I cheered, she veered in, looking right at me with happiness, for her pets!!! She loves me, I love her!!

My Top Pet

2011-11-06T06:30:00.000-05:00

Namaste.

Gorgeaus!

2011-11-05T06:30:00.000-04:00

From their first exercise ride, lovely pony. Namaste.

Learning to be a Thoughtful Light Pony

2011-11-04T06:30:00.000-04:00

Here are photos and a video from Kelsey's second ride on Renny on June 30th. He's so handsome and responsive and light to aids. Kelsey's tips to me were to keep off his face when I ask for the upwards to the canter -- to let him find his way, since he wants to be light and round anyway. And I need to work on that. I think that he gets a little jumble from me on our upwards to that gait!!

Renny Returns Home from Training!!

2011-11-03T15:02:00.002-04:00

So, Renny has been gone for two months of training at Quicksilver Ponies, learning how to be a fabulous little hunter show pony. He was treated very well and liked his time with all the other ponies. He liked his riding trainer, Alyssa, and the woman who owns the farm and head trainer, Melinda. And so I was excited to bring him home. I'm exhausted today, but yesterday was wonderful. I went to Quicksilver Ponies and they showed me how to ride my wonderful boy. And then Ricky and I brought him home safely. And then when we arrived, I discovered that dear friends, Lex and Lillian, went to the big trouble to give Renny a wonderful homecoming. They had a basket filled with carrots, mints, and apples for him, a banner, and a big giant box of chocolate-covered cherries for Grama and all of Renny's friends! I just laughed and laughed when I saw that box of chocolates because we always joke about Renny that way when he comes in all covered in mud!! I'm very happy my boy is home!

Team Tenderness, Floating along a Stream of Love!

2011-11-03T06:30:00.000-04:00

Working hard together -- working hard on soft, soft, round, round. Working hard on developing our dressage relationship. Working hard on making each other happy. And happy happy to be working hard. Love my sweet girl, my sweet girl loves me! Namaste.

My Sweet Beloved Renny

2011-11-02T06:30:00.000-04:00

I'm writing this entry on July 9th, but the photo is from June 29th. At the time of this writing, I am working on getting back into a training spirit with Renny. I worked hard this winter to learn more about how to develop a green pony -- read about training with empathy, ground pole exercises, breaking down teaching aids...and I worked hard with Stacey. And it was fun, fun, fun. Then we got into early summer and he started jumping bigger and stronger and getting more powerful feeling. And some friends braided and beautified him and took photos and I saw that he was a gorgeaus strong intelligent handsome fine sport pony. And I got a teensy bit intimidated. So, I'm trying to reach deep into myself and be grateful that Renny is continuing to teach me how to be his good rider. Renny wants to help me learn how to really really ride! Such a wonderful gift he is giving me!

Round, Round, Round

2011-11-01T06:30:00.000-04:00

Here's a picture of me and Violet, working hard in a lesson with Stacey. You can see that she's trying to round up, go uphill, engage her rear and soften her jaw and topline. She's trying very hard to round up and be sweet. That's what we've been working on this summer. And she's just been the most enthusiastic kind team mate. I'm so very proud of her. This past week, week of July 3rd, she and I had a tough dressage lesson with Janet Harms, but most of our week was super. On Monday, we practiced dressage, and on Wednesday, we had a nice lesson with pals in the indoor. And then on Thursday, she was just so great for her jumping lesson with our friends. I was exhausted because I'd just finished a lesson with Renny, so I didn't have any vinegar in me to keep up an active ride. But Violet was willing to listen for the soft aids. She had a big booming extended toe-flipping trot and she was happy to jump at a medium pace with a light listening to my hands and seat for the tune up and balancing on turns and entering into combinations. She just was amazing! What can I saw.

My Amazing Pony!

2011-10-31T06:30:00.001-04:00

This video and pictures were taken on July 1st, during Kelsey's second exercise ride on Renny. He's such an unbelievably good boy. He's working so hard for her and he's getting better with everyone all the time. So, for example, this past week, on Monday, I rode him in a free hack and he did a little whinny widgets dressage routine, rode around the farm, and then jumped crossrails for me. Sweet. Then on Wednesday, he was ridden by a little 11 year-old girl. He was quiet, thoughtful, hardworking, sensible. He cantered sweetly in a circle of cones in both directions and he cantered sets of jumps for her. He's amazing. Then he had a private lesson on Thursday and was super and sweet at serpentines, cones, and lots of transitions. And then he did an amazing ground pole exercise which required him to extend and collect his trot over sets of 3 poles and then canter a circle of poles. He did this quietly in both directions like a pro. And then today, Saturday, I rode him with spurs to help him with transitions. And he learned in like two seconds -- respond to grandma's lighter aids in order to avoid the spur. He was awesome. He was light in my hands, sweet, flexible, engaged. He was super on lateral aids and was happy to shallow serpentine through cones. He was happy to do a trot to halt to trot to canter and circle and halt and change to the other directions exercise. He's just happy to deliver. He's so handsome and wonderful and he looks like a fabulous fit sexy sport pony! I love him.

Moving with Purpose

2011-10-30T06:30:00.000-04:00

Here's a photo of sweet little Renny moving purposefully toward the jump, during his first ride with Kelsey!