The First Two Steps~

Another warm day - mid-40's - but overcast.  Absence of sunshine is something that doesn't happen often here.  One of the many reasons we love it even when it's cold & it's cold a lot!   With the wind due, along with a 20 degree drop in temperature for tomorrow, I headed out to the barn again today, wanting to build on where I'd left off yesterday.

Gold leaving, Chocolate coming in~

Farah met me at the gate to her stall & started looking for her cookie, which was in my pocket.  I'd forgotten carrots yesterday - she appreciated them today.  I brought my saddle into the barn & saddled her there.  The four horses with their heads out over their stall doors have been behaving much better when we're in the isle.  Probably because I give them all two small cookies when I leave.  Being stuck in stalls 24/7 - I figure it's the least I can do to improve their day.

Much better~

Much more relaxed than yesterday, only a couple yells & she settled in to her trot right away.  Her head may not look it, but it was lower & she wasn't as tense.  I know how much she likes routine & work.  Today she was ready to work.

An ear on me!

I was really happy when the ear finally turned my way.  A friend who trains on the east coast had posted an article;  Spring Checkup - confirming Farah's attitude is somewhat common.  There were some good tips that included working with transitions, which I started doing today.  A little more difficult with a lounge line, but she does respond well to the tone of my voice.

Frank has a short video on You Tube explaining the purpose of his 7 Safety Step program.  I'd forgotten my laminated card, but remembered the first & second anyway.  The first, Bonding has never been easy with Farah.  She likes to think she's in control & it's only the rare occasion she accepts much actual attention.   Regardless, I scratched her favorite places & it seemed appreciated, as usual.

Next; Step 2, - Take & Give/Pressure & Release.  I had to back her into the corner of the arena with plywood on the walls to keep her from backing up every time I'd ask for her head.  I was beginning to think we'd be at it for hours when she finally surprised me & Gave!  I know, this really doesn't sound like much.  I do get it from the saddle of course, but it took more work than I thought it would.  Getting her to keep it there for more than a second - then giving the release at the correct moment is key & I managed it. 

All done~

When we were done, I bridled her, mounted & we did some nice collected trotting!  She wasn't huffy, didn't rush, didn't try to constantly increase her speed - we had fun!  Dean's advice;  "Always end on a good note & never push for more - once you've achieved your win."  (The flip side of that advice, was to never take on a project you can't win!)

It's good to be in out of the wind & have such a nice facility all to ourselves.  Next week we'll work on the next steps.  As long as the trails are so sloppy, it's sure better than not riding at all!