Here are photos from the dressage clinic. I am proud to be riding Violet and Kelsey is showing off my darling Renny. But the weekend was sort of rough overall. The instructor said Renny had a weak back because of my early start with him. I had to hear someone talk about my herd. I told a family that Renny wasn't going to show anymore this year. It was all pretty emotional. And even though the instructor said that I could make Renny strong again, I was feeling bad.
And so over the next few days, I contacted people I trusted. I contacted Renny's trainer, Melinda. I looked at photos of Renny's mom and dad and half-siblings. I contacted my veterinarian. And I felt better. My vet said that I did not start him too early nor did I cause structural damage. He said the instructor's claims had no validity. Melinda said that she had a pony whose croup was 2 inches higher than the withers who finished first at the Pony Finals and who sold for a ton of money. They both said it's simply conformation. And Renny comes from butt high on both sides. So, I felt better. I believe in my heart that I have a pony who is sound and strong of body and mind. And I also decided that he's mine. He doesn't need to be improved for anyone other than me. He's my pony. He's not going to be an A-circuit jumping pony in the near future. He's not going to local shows with children. He's not going to be part of a lesson program for anyone but me. And I feel good about that.