Last night I offered to let my niece come out to ride. She hadn't been out to the farm in a while and she's a pretty die hard horse girl. I waited until after she was out of school before texting her (yes, she's 10 & has a phone) because I knew she'd get distracted if she knew she was going to get to ride. Next time I think I'll wait until I'm ready to pick her up before asking her if she wants to go. I think she texted me every 5 min. from 3:30 - 5:30 she was so excited.
I put Carmella in the RP while I saddled up the horses. She was having a bit of a fit about something. I don't know if it was the corn moving or what but she was full of it. It is times like this I wish the kids could saddle for themselves as I missed a perfect opportunity to work her.
Saddled and ready to go the kids headed out to the pasture while I headed up to the house to start supper. It didn't take long before we heard the giggles and saw heads flying across the pasture. My dad asked me "are they supposed to be going that fast?" "Nope but you aren't going to stop them."
While they rode I took Abby to the RP to get some video of her movement for some friends.
I wish she moved like this all of the time but unfortunately she doesn't.
The sun is going down by 8:00 so it feels like I'm just getting started and then have to quit. I'm ready for the fall temperatures but I'm not ready for the fall hours.
Tuff E Nuff Quarter Horses
Lucy
Showing posts with label Black. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Black. Show all posts
Friday, September 2, 2011
Monday, August 8, 2011
Time to hit the trails!
Saturday morning the boys left to spend a week at Great Grandma’s & Grandpa’s so DH and I loaded up the ponies and headed to Brushy Creek. We decided to try to take a new route to the park to shave some time/miles off only to find out my cell phone includes narrow, curvy gravel roads in its “fastest route possible” directions. I'm not sure how much quicker it was but we made it safely, unloaded the horses and set up camp.
Out on the trail, Black seemed pretty happy to be out and about. Her ears were perked forward and she was moving out pretty well. I was a bit worried when we first started because she took the long, steep hill really slow. I mean REALLY slow!
Even with her new shoes she was still a bit “ouchy” on the trails so I let her pick her pace. We headed to the West river trail. These trails were closed for quite some time due to the flooding and you could tell. They were overgrown and there were tons of wild grapes growing in the trees. Bell got her tail caught in one while we were stopped for a break.
The one thing we encounter I had not anticipated was the mosquitoes! They were horrible. They thought Bell and I were tasty but they left Black and DH alone. At times DH would stop Bell as her entire jowl and neck were covered with masses of mosquitoes. The horses were getting tired and the mosquitoes were making it miserable so we headed back to camp.
Back at camp we started up the grill and sat down to relax with a cold one. As we were relaxing a gentleman pulled up to back into the site two sites down from us. He was having a difficult time backing (I think I could have done better) so I told DH to go help him. Right about then he finally got his rig backed into the camp spot.
Once he was backed in he opened the back doors of his truck and unloaded a little boy. He couldn’t have been more then 3 or 4 and he was in his pj’s with his Jack Russell Terrier following right behind him. Brandon and I got a chuckle out of the little boy and his dog. The poor kid’s pj’s were hanging off of his butt so his cartoon character undies were showing. That didn’t stop him though!
The gentleman walked around to the other side and unloaded another young boy. This boy couldn’t have been more then 1 ½ or 2 (he was walking but didn’t seem to talk much). No one else was with him so DH and I speculated someone else would be meeting up with him later. He unloaded his horses (2), unhooked his truck and they headed off.
We enjoyed our dinner, took care of the ponies and then headed off to bed. The next morning we took out time getting around. The gentleman next door came out of his trailer with the two boys to feed the horses and eat their breakfast. He was still alone so our speculations changed to him being a single father. He looked like the rodeo type so it wouldn’t be that uncommon. Either way we both gave him kudos for taking two children anywhere with no help let alone camping with two horses.
Again DH and I got a huge chuckle out of the eldest boy as he couldn’t keep his wranglers up over his butt. His red/blue undies were showing as the back of his pants were down under his butt. He had that JR on a lead and was dragging it everywhere. After our morning entertainment we decided to hit the trails. The weather was lovely and we didn’t want to miss out.
As I led Black from the hitching rail to the trailer I noticed she was pretty sore. I was very disappointed. I decided to try to boot her backs to see if that would help. She moved a bit better but still not great so DH and I agreed if she didn’t do well after we got out on the trail we would turn around and head back.
The first part of the trail didn’t go so well. She was moving slow and was taking quite a few bad steps. As we started to head up a hill I stopped Black to tell DH I didn’t think she could go any further. Right about then Black spazzed since Bell was at the top of the hill and she hauled butt up the hill. I decided if she could do that she could walk some more. The more she walked out the better she seemed to move so we continued on our way.
We decided this time we’d go down the East River trail hoping it would be less rocky. It was and it was beautiful. There was a small stream crossing (I love water crossings) so DH and I let the ponies take a short break to play in the water.
The trails on this side were equally as overgrown as the ones on the West side but it was still beautiful riding.
DH grabbed a tree branch to help keep the mosquitoes off of Bell but it ended up turning into a “persuasion” stick.
When the mosquitoes got bad we headed back to camp. A large group was coming up behind us and it was making Black a bit uneasy so she moved into a trot. I didn’t think she’d stay in it because of her feet so I just let her go. To my surprise she went quite a ways before I shut her down. We stopped and let them pass us but then she wanted to keep up with them. She might be old but she's a long ways from dead and I had my hands full!
After 3 stops to adjust boots I was at my wits end. The last stop came after we almost tumbled down a hill. She tripped, the boot came off and the gator ripped but didn’t tear completely off. How she regained her balance I have no idea! I’m just glad she did. She twists her back feet as she walks so no matter what I do I can't keep boots on for too long (hence why I wanted shoes on them).
Both ponies were exhausted and ready to be back at the trailer.
Once we were back at camp we took the horses down to the wash rack for a nice hose down. We weren’t in any hurry to pack up and leave so DH and I relaxed a bit. The little boy next door & his jeans were making for some good comical relief. I noticed the dad put the youngest one up on his horse and then he mounted up behind the boy. He started to ride off and I was worried he was going to leave the oldest. I was a bit surprised because he had been so good with the boys the entire time I’d seen him with them. Then, I noticed him side pass his horse over to the picnic table so the oldest could get on behind him.
It was quite the site to see 1 adult, two children AND a dog on a small horse.
They really did help make the weekend that much more entertaining.
Out on the trail, Black seemed pretty happy to be out and about. Her ears were perked forward and she was moving out pretty well. I was a bit worried when we first started because she took the long, steep hill really slow. I mean REALLY slow!
Even with her new shoes she was still a bit “ouchy” on the trails so I let her pick her pace. We headed to the West river trail. These trails were closed for quite some time due to the flooding and you could tell. They were overgrown and there were tons of wild grapes growing in the trees. Bell got her tail caught in one while we were stopped for a break.
The one thing we encounter I had not anticipated was the mosquitoes! They were horrible. They thought Bell and I were tasty but they left Black and DH alone. At times DH would stop Bell as her entire jowl and neck were covered with masses of mosquitoes. The horses were getting tired and the mosquitoes were making it miserable so we headed back to camp.
Back at camp we started up the grill and sat down to relax with a cold one. As we were relaxing a gentleman pulled up to back into the site two sites down from us. He was having a difficult time backing (I think I could have done better) so I told DH to go help him. Right about then he finally got his rig backed into the camp spot.
Once he was backed in he opened the back doors of his truck and unloaded a little boy. He couldn’t have been more then 3 or 4 and he was in his pj’s with his Jack Russell Terrier following right behind him. Brandon and I got a chuckle out of the little boy and his dog. The poor kid’s pj’s were hanging off of his butt so his cartoon character undies were showing. That didn’t stop him though!
The gentleman walked around to the other side and unloaded another young boy. This boy couldn’t have been more then 1 ½ or 2 (he was walking but didn’t seem to talk much). No one else was with him so DH and I speculated someone else would be meeting up with him later. He unloaded his horses (2), unhooked his truck and they headed off.
We enjoyed our dinner, took care of the ponies and then headed off to bed. The next morning we took out time getting around. The gentleman next door came out of his trailer with the two boys to feed the horses and eat their breakfast. He was still alone so our speculations changed to him being a single father. He looked like the rodeo type so it wouldn’t be that uncommon. Either way we both gave him kudos for taking two children anywhere with no help let alone camping with two horses.
Again DH and I got a huge chuckle out of the eldest boy as he couldn’t keep his wranglers up over his butt. His red/blue undies were showing as the back of his pants were down under his butt. He had that JR on a lead and was dragging it everywhere. After our morning entertainment we decided to hit the trails. The weather was lovely and we didn’t want to miss out.
As I led Black from the hitching rail to the trailer I noticed she was pretty sore. I was very disappointed. I decided to try to boot her backs to see if that would help. She moved a bit better but still not great so DH and I agreed if she didn’t do well after we got out on the trail we would turn around and head back.
The first part of the trail didn’t go so well. She was moving slow and was taking quite a few bad steps. As we started to head up a hill I stopped Black to tell DH I didn’t think she could go any further. Right about then Black spazzed since Bell was at the top of the hill and she hauled butt up the hill. I decided if she could do that she could walk some more. The more she walked out the better she seemed to move so we continued on our way.
We decided this time we’d go down the East River trail hoping it would be less rocky. It was and it was beautiful. There was a small stream crossing (I love water crossings) so DH and I let the ponies take a short break to play in the water.
The trails on this side were equally as overgrown as the ones on the West side but it was still beautiful riding.
DH grabbed a tree branch to help keep the mosquitoes off of Bell but it ended up turning into a “persuasion” stick.
When the mosquitoes got bad we headed back to camp. A large group was coming up behind us and it was making Black a bit uneasy so she moved into a trot. I didn’t think she’d stay in it because of her feet so I just let her go. To my surprise she went quite a ways before I shut her down. We stopped and let them pass us but then she wanted to keep up with them. She might be old but she's a long ways from dead and I had my hands full!
After 3 stops to adjust boots I was at my wits end. The last stop came after we almost tumbled down a hill. She tripped, the boot came off and the gator ripped but didn’t tear completely off. How she regained her balance I have no idea! I’m just glad she did. She twists her back feet as she walks so no matter what I do I can't keep boots on for too long (hence why I wanted shoes on them).
Both ponies were exhausted and ready to be back at the trailer.
Once we were back at camp we took the horses down to the wash rack for a nice hose down. We weren’t in any hurry to pack up and leave so DH and I relaxed a bit. The little boy next door & his jeans were making for some good comical relief. I noticed the dad put the youngest one up on his horse and then he mounted up behind the boy. He started to ride off and I was worried he was going to leave the oldest. I was a bit surprised because he had been so good with the boys the entire time I’d seen him with them. Then, I noticed him side pass his horse over to the picnic table so the oldest could get on behind him.
It was quite the site to see 1 adult, two children AND a dog on a small horse.
They really did help make the weekend that much more entertaining.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
New Shoes!
FINALLY after many attempts Black has a new pair of shoes. Yes, you read that right – shoes! Barefoot is great and I will continue to keep the rest of my horses bare for as long as I can however looking at what I have to work with I decided shoes were the better option for “us”. If Black was younger I would have probably pursued the barefoot path a little more but like I told Randy, “with my luck by the time we get a good hoof on her she’ll be dead”.
I did opt to stay away from the metal shoes and had Randy put on Ground Control Shoes. They are a lightweight polyurethane shoe with a rolled toe and frog support. He also added pads with a bit of dental impression in them to help give support to her hoof.
We loaded up the trailers (yes trailers) last night and headed to the arena. I took the kids so they could ride Black. Chase and Shari ran her all over the place and she looked as though she was moving very well.
MIL and DH went along as well. I’m not sure why but MIL and DH switched horses mid ride. MIL looked like she was having a pretty tough time w/Bell. I tried to ignore things as much as possible.
When we got home I took Black out to the road – the “real” test. I was a bit discouraged when she started short striding but then she started moving out. I think she anticipated pain but then decided “hey, this doesn’t hurt”. I still think I’ll need to boot her backs on the road but if this works the way I anticipate it to then I will be having Randy shoe her backs next time as well.
I did change Cat's bandage last night and she finally got to be hand-walked. It looked like the bandage had rubbed her leg a bit (I'm no expert at wrapping legs) but the leg looked good for the most part. MIL thought she looked like she was moving well but I still think she's favoring her leg. I guess it is to be expected and hopefully with increased movement she'll do better.
I did opt to stay away from the metal shoes and had Randy put on Ground Control Shoes. They are a lightweight polyurethane shoe with a rolled toe and frog support. He also added pads with a bit of dental impression in them to help give support to her hoof.
We loaded up the trailers (yes trailers) last night and headed to the arena. I took the kids so they could ride Black. Chase and Shari ran her all over the place and she looked as though she was moving very well.
MIL and DH went along as well. I’m not sure why but MIL and DH switched horses mid ride. MIL looked like she was having a pretty tough time w/Bell. I tried to ignore things as much as possible.
When we got home I took Black out to the road – the “real” test. I was a bit discouraged when she started short striding but then she started moving out. I think she anticipated pain but then decided “hey, this doesn’t hurt”. I still think I’ll need to boot her backs on the road but if this works the way I anticipate it to then I will be having Randy shoe her backs next time as well.
I did change Cat's bandage last night and she finally got to be hand-walked. It looked like the bandage had rubbed her leg a bit (I'm no expert at wrapping legs) but the leg looked good for the most part. MIL thought she looked like she was moving well but I still think she's favoring her leg. I guess it is to be expected and hopefully with increased movement she'll do better.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Pull Up!!!!!
After a lot of thinking, I made the decision to put shoes on Black. Randy agreed to put Ground Control shoes on her Wednesday when he came out. I was very excited to see how she was going to do once she had them on.
To my disappointment he called me and told me they weren’t going to work. He put one shoe on, walked her off and said she was lame. He thinks there might be permanent damage in the left front foot (the one that had the tipped coffin bone) and the shoe put too much pressure on her sole. We discussed glue on boots, equicast, etc but I opted to leave her bare and boot when needed like I have been.
Last night MIL had drill and I had to fill in for a member that is gone this week. I didn’t warm Black up because she doesn’t have too much energy to spare. During our short warm up she felt a little off. The whistle blew and we were off. She felt ok, a little slower then last week but not bad.
Part of the pattern starts out as one large circle. When the whistle blows ½ of the group does a rollback (well that’s what it is supposed to be) and starts a new circle going in the opposite direction around the original circle. MIL and Sis turn back but the position I was in (right behind MIL) doesn’t. When the whistle blew I saw Sis turn but MIL didn’t. She hit the ground hard! Sis had anticipated the turn. MIL landed on her tailbone and the ground was hard. She climbed back in the saddle (she probably shouldn’t have) and we stated over.
We weren’t 3 minutes into the run and I had to pull Black up. Randy had trimmed her shorter since he anticipated shoes and it was too short. Even thought she was booted it was too much for her & I wasn’t going to risk hurting her to run the pattern. Amazingly they were able to finish with a ‘ghost’ rider.
The second run (which MIL again shouldn’t have done) I borrowed a horse from another member. It was interesting. Her saddle was way too small for me and it was a slick seat. I HATE slick seats. Jazz was a little out of gas and not too thrilled to be carrying my fat arse but we made it through just fine.
On the way home we picked up Carmella. She jumped right in the trailer. I joked and took the credit for being such a wonderful trainer. At home she got her first lesson. Well not really her first – I have worked with her before. It didn’t take her long to realize she wasn’t in Kansas anymore. It was late and MIL was sore so I put Carmella up and headed home. The real work will start this weekend.
To my disappointment he called me and told me they weren’t going to work. He put one shoe on, walked her off and said she was lame. He thinks there might be permanent damage in the left front foot (the one that had the tipped coffin bone) and the shoe put too much pressure on her sole. We discussed glue on boots, equicast, etc but I opted to leave her bare and boot when needed like I have been.
Last night MIL had drill and I had to fill in for a member that is gone this week. I didn’t warm Black up because she doesn’t have too much energy to spare. During our short warm up she felt a little off. The whistle blew and we were off. She felt ok, a little slower then last week but not bad.
Part of the pattern starts out as one large circle. When the whistle blows ½ of the group does a rollback (well that’s what it is supposed to be) and starts a new circle going in the opposite direction around the original circle. MIL and Sis turn back but the position I was in (right behind MIL) doesn’t. When the whistle blew I saw Sis turn but MIL didn’t. She hit the ground hard! Sis had anticipated the turn. MIL landed on her tailbone and the ground was hard. She climbed back in the saddle (she probably shouldn’t have) and we stated over.
We weren’t 3 minutes into the run and I had to pull Black up. Randy had trimmed her shorter since he anticipated shoes and it was too short. Even thought she was booted it was too much for her & I wasn’t going to risk hurting her to run the pattern. Amazingly they were able to finish with a ‘ghost’ rider.
The second run (which MIL again shouldn’t have done) I borrowed a horse from another member. It was interesting. Her saddle was way too small for me and it was a slick seat. I HATE slick seats. Jazz was a little out of gas and not too thrilled to be carrying my fat arse but we made it through just fine.
On the way home we picked up Carmella. She jumped right in the trailer. I joked and took the credit for being such a wonderful trainer. At home she got her first lesson. Well not really her first – I have worked with her before. It didn’t take her long to realize she wasn’t in Kansas anymore. It was late and MIL was sore so I put Carmella up and headed home. The real work will start this weekend.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Woo Hoo!
I finally have 30 rides on Cat! It has only taken me a year an a half but I can officially say she has had 30 rides. Now onto our new goal - 60 rides! Then I can "officially" do a clinic on her.
Last night I took her with me to drill. It was pretty muggy out and she was sweating before I even unloaded her from the trailer. I opted not to do any groundwork with her this time. She was moving out quickly but wasn't uncontrollable. I *tried* to work on the bending again. She does ok to the left - not so well to the right. She likes to snatch her head back as soon as I release.
I also worked on our "Whoa" off of voice commands. An empty arena would have helped but I have to use what I have. There was once she got testy with me but after meeting Mr. Popper she settled right down. I know she's going to be a stopper once she figures out my cues.
Black got to run the performance twice. I had to ask her to slow down a few times. I think she's enjoying being out again. She was scheduled to get shoes this morning but it didn't happen. Randy put on one Ground Control shoe and said it put too much pressure on her sole. I don't want to do glue on boots so we left her bare for now.
Black and I have drill again tomorrow night. I don't think I'll be taking Cat with me this time. I'm supposed to be picking up a filly to put 30 - 60 days on (calendar days, not all training days). She belongs to a friend who knows how slow I work. It will be interesting.
Last night I took her with me to drill. It was pretty muggy out and she was sweating before I even unloaded her from the trailer. I opted not to do any groundwork with her this time. She was moving out quickly but wasn't uncontrollable. I *tried* to work on the bending again. She does ok to the left - not so well to the right. She likes to snatch her head back as soon as I release.
I also worked on our "Whoa" off of voice commands. An empty arena would have helped but I have to use what I have. There was once she got testy with me but after meeting Mr. Popper she settled right down. I know she's going to be a stopper once she figures out my cues.
Black got to run the performance twice. I had to ask her to slow down a few times. I think she's enjoying being out again. She was scheduled to get shoes this morning but it didn't happen. Randy put on one Ground Control shoe and said it put too much pressure on her sole. I don't want to do glue on boots so we left her bare for now.
Black and I have drill again tomorrow night. I don't think I'll be taking Cat with me this time. I'm supposed to be picking up a filly to put 30 - 60 days on (calendar days, not all training days). She belongs to a friend who knows how slow I work. It will be interesting.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
She's still got it!
Tuesday night I was asked to fill in on the drill team so I pulled Black out pasture, booted her up & away we went.
When it was our turn we ran the pattern. She kept up great & almost had energy to spare.
Almost.....
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Memorial Weekend
Friday night Chase, MIL and I loaded up and headed to Elk Rock State Park for the weekend. The weather Friday wasn't the best but we had high hopes for the weekend. It was pretty late by the time we got there so we set up camp and went to bed.
Saturday morning while cooking breakfast we were greeted with rain and forced to move things inside of the trailer. I was glad we ended up bringing along the portable DVD player and MIL's laptop! The weather just couldn't make up it's mind. The sun would come out and then it would sprinkler. We finally decided to buck it up and go for a ride. I decided before hitting the trail I'd better hit the arena with Cat just to make sure she was going to listen. As we approached the arena I noticed a small "bridge" and decided to ask her to go across it. She was hesitant and then decided it would be easier to jump it. I worked on sending her over it several times. When she finally walked across it semi relaxed I stopped and headed into the arena.
She is really starting to anticipate my turns during LFR stage II so I've been trying to work on that. She was being good and listening to me so I decided to end our gw session (the huffing and puffing from her helped make the decision as well). As I left the arena a group of riders rode up and said "oh no, we missed it!" I replied "huh? missed what?". They knew I had been to a CA clinic so they wanted to see my gw. I chuckled and said maybe next time.
Mounted up we headed down the all purpose trail. It really was just a gravel road w/trees on both sides but it worked. Cat did really well! I was on a loose rein the majority of the ride. We rode down by the lake where we saw two bald eagles sitting on the bank. I'll bet they were less then a football field away. Chase thought that was pretty cool! I asked Cat to go into the lake and w/o hesitation she walked in.
Later that day a few of us decided to go for another ride. MIL stayed at camp with Cat as I was riding Sis w/a friends daughter on behind me. During the ride another friend's horse tried to kick Sis and afterwards Sis became very prancy and jiggy. Since I had a child on behind me I couldn't really do much for corrections. I had planned on taking her out when I got back to fix the problem until we returned..............that is when the plans changed.
When we got back to camp I found MIL holding Cat. Apparently she went into one of her major meltdowns when we left and started rearing on the hitching rail. She somehow managed to get her leg over the lead rope and got hung up. I'm still trying to wrap my head around how she did this. We always hook the tie rings to the wire above the hitching rail so they horses are tied up and have no extra rope to get caught on. I have to stand on a mounting block and reach to get the tie ring hooked!
MIL was too afraid to tie her back up and was worried her leg would swell so she held onto her the entire time we were out. When I returned to camp I gave MIL Sis and told her to take care of her while I took care of Cat! Black and Bell were tied up across camp at a friends hitching rail, Lucy was at the arena and Sis was gone. The only horse left at the hitching rail was a friend's horse Star.
I tied Cat to the trailer and she immediately started to rear so we backed over to Star and did some LFR then backed back over to the trailer for the opportunity to tie quietly. Th is took a few good repetitions for it to sink in and by this time I could see eyes watching me from behind trailers probably wondering what in the world I was doing. Finally she took a deep breath, exhaled and dropped her head. I don't have opportunities to mimic this at home so although I would love for her to be prefect, I'm glad I was able to work on the issue.
Sunday a huge storm came through so we decided to pack up and head for MIL's. When we unloaded the horses Abby was so excited to see them she RAN figure 8's around them trying to get them to run and play with her. She was hauling some serious arse! She would buck and then jump straight up in the air. It was nice to see her feeling so well. Monday it was wash ponies day! Lucy's mane was full of ticks so I gave her a flea/tick shampoo and then pulled them out. Yuck! Cat got clipped completely! I need to work on that more but neither one of us were seriously injured during the process so all was good.
The weather here is supposed to be hot all week so we left all of the horses except Sis at MIL's for the week to eat down her pasture and give ours a break.
Saturday morning while cooking breakfast we were greeted with rain and forced to move things inside of the trailer. I was glad we ended up bringing along the portable DVD player and MIL's laptop! The weather just couldn't make up it's mind. The sun would come out and then it would sprinkler. We finally decided to buck it up and go for a ride. I decided before hitting the trail I'd better hit the arena with Cat just to make sure she was going to listen. As we approached the arena I noticed a small "bridge" and decided to ask her to go across it. She was hesitant and then decided it would be easier to jump it. I worked on sending her over it several times. When she finally walked across it semi relaxed I stopped and headed into the arena.
She is really starting to anticipate my turns during LFR stage II so I've been trying to work on that. She was being good and listening to me so I decided to end our gw session (the huffing and puffing from her helped make the decision as well). As I left the arena a group of riders rode up and said "oh no, we missed it!" I replied "huh? missed what?". They knew I had been to a CA clinic so they wanted to see my gw. I chuckled and said maybe next time.
Mounted up we headed down the all purpose trail. It really was just a gravel road w/trees on both sides but it worked. Cat did really well! I was on a loose rein the majority of the ride. We rode down by the lake where we saw two bald eagles sitting on the bank. I'll bet they were less then a football field away. Chase thought that was pretty cool! I asked Cat to go into the lake and w/o hesitation she walked in.
Later that day a few of us decided to go for another ride. MIL stayed at camp with Cat as I was riding Sis w/a friends daughter on behind me. During the ride another friend's horse tried to kick Sis and afterwards Sis became very prancy and jiggy. Since I had a child on behind me I couldn't really do much for corrections. I had planned on taking her out when I got back to fix the problem until we returned..............that is when the plans changed.
When we got back to camp I found MIL holding Cat. Apparently she went into one of her major meltdowns when we left and started rearing on the hitching rail. She somehow managed to get her leg over the lead rope and got hung up. I'm still trying to wrap my head around how she did this. We always hook the tie rings to the wire above the hitching rail so they horses are tied up and have no extra rope to get caught on. I have to stand on a mounting block and reach to get the tie ring hooked!
MIL was too afraid to tie her back up and was worried her leg would swell so she held onto her the entire time we were out. When I returned to camp I gave MIL Sis and told her to take care of her while I took care of Cat! Black and Bell were tied up across camp at a friends hitching rail, Lucy was at the arena and Sis was gone. The only horse left at the hitching rail was a friend's horse Star.
I tied Cat to the trailer and she immediately started to rear so we backed over to Star and did some LFR then backed back over to the trailer for the opportunity to tie quietly. Th is took a few good repetitions for it to sink in and by this time I could see eyes watching me from behind trailers probably wondering what in the world I was doing. Finally she took a deep breath, exhaled and dropped her head. I don't have opportunities to mimic this at home so although I would love for her to be prefect, I'm glad I was able to work on the issue.
Sunday a huge storm came through so we decided to pack up and head for MIL's. When we unloaded the horses Abby was so excited to see them she RAN figure 8's around them trying to get them to run and play with her. She was hauling some serious arse! She would buck and then jump straight up in the air. It was nice to see her feeling so well. Monday it was wash ponies day! Lucy's mane was full of ticks so I gave her a flea/tick shampoo and then pulled them out. Yuck! Cat got clipped completely! I need to work on that more but neither one of us were seriously injured during the process so all was good.
The weather here is supposed to be hot all week so we left all of the horses except Sis at MIL's for the week to eat down her pasture and give ours a break.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Stepehen's Forest
Saturday MIL, Chase and I met up with some friends for a nice trail ride. We couldn’t have asked for a better day. The horses were great, the trails were pretty good and the weather was beautiful!
Here we are all gathered on the other side of the bridge. Danny’s horse didn’t want to cross the creek so Lu and I went first to give her a little more confidence.
MIL and Chase trying to cross the bridge. Black was not comfortable crossing the bridge. She got to this point and then backed off of the bridge. She was ok following but she was not ok leading.
Chase following Lu and I across.
Here is the bridge we opted NOT to cross. It didn’t look safe. The “bridge closed” sign has been washed out along with the bridge.
View from the other side.
Just plunking along.
It was hard to see the trail with all of the leaves on the ground. This trail was covered with trees and leaves so we don’t think it had been ridden much.
Such a cheesy smile.
Here we are all gathered on the other side of the bridge. Danny’s horse didn’t want to cross the creek so Lu and I went first to give her a little more confidence.
MIL and Chase trying to cross the bridge. Black was not comfortable crossing the bridge. She got to this point and then backed off of the bridge. She was ok following but she was not ok leading.
Chase following Lu and I across.
Here is the bridge we opted NOT to cross. It didn’t look safe. The “bridge closed” sign has been washed out along with the bridge.
View from the other side.
Just plunking along.
It was hard to see the trail with all of the leaves on the ground. This trail was covered with trees and leaves so we don’t think it had been ridden much.
Such a cheesy smile.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
A little bit of this, a little bit of that
Last Friday night MIL came over and we went for a ride. I saddled up the old lady and she saddled up Sis. We rode down behind the house where the fields are open and unplanted and just let loose. It was such a wonderful feeling for both of us to just let go and run. I’m not so sure the horses would agree however Black wasn’t too fond of letting Sis get in front of her. We rode into the timber and stopped for a brief moment to check for mushrooms. I found a few but the horses found a swarm of mosquitoes so we decided to head back.
Sunday my father, BIL, nephew, Chase and I went mushroom hunting. My Father, BIL and nephew rode down on the four-wheeler so Chase and I doubled up on Sis. Chase and I had a good time but he doesn’t think it is very comfortable to ride behind the saddle. I’m not sure if Sis has ever ridden double before but she did a great job.
Monday night I decided to get Miss Cat out. We did some LFR Stage 1, LFR Stage 2, the outback exercise, yhq stage 1, yfq, circle driving and some desensitizing. She very much wants to please but I find we end up fighting a lot. I’m sure it is me so I’m trying to “chill” and just go with it. During LFR she has an energetic departure but she also has a lot of draw when I yield her hq. Where our first argument comes into play is during the outback exercise when I try to back her back to the outside of the circle. She tries to take off vs. backing which usually gets a “fight” (for a lack of better words) started between the two of us.
LFR Stage 2 she is doing awesome. She was starting to get nervous when I would move the stick and speed up but she was also anticipating so I spent some time just moving the stick back and forth until she relaxed a bit. She really didn’t relax a lot but she did relax some.
During the desensitizing w/the stick/string she is getting much better. She usually flinches once or twice when I whack the ground but she doesn’t move. By the time I go to the other side she’s standing quietly.
YHQ Stage 1 she is doing very well. I just need to refine it a bit and get her to plant her foot more. I didn’t push it as she does have yet another injury on her front left leg.
YFQ was very ugly and I’m glad no one was around to see it. I’m hoping it is a bit better tonight when I try again.
Circle driving made her nervous. She was afraid she was going to get whacked with the stick so I changed things up and put the string on my stick and “flogged her with kindness” as she went around the circle until she relaxed.
I ended the night by clipping her. She HATES the clippers so I’ve decided to clip a bit each night after working her when she’s dog tired. It seemed to work well as I was able to clip a bridle path, her jaw line and muzzle, the exterior of her ears and part of her legs.
Last night I rode over to drill practice with MIL. I wasn’t sure if I would ride since my last ride on Cat was 03/16 but took my saddle so I could at least work her in it. I saddled her up as soon as we got there and headed to the arena to do some LFR. I didn’t stay on stage 1 very long as I didn’t want to “fight” the backing with an arena full of horses. The sand was nice and deep so she had to work twice as hard. Her turns weren’t quite as precise as I would have liked but she was listening to me and trying. I can barely move in the arena so I decided to cut her some slack.
I’m not sure how long I did LFR Stage 2 but it was long enough to make her want to die. She was pretty warm and when I drew her into me I don’t think she could have run fast enough. We left the arena so the drill team could run their routine.
I took her behind the trailers and did some desensitizing with the stick/string and then flapped the stirrups. She was good as gold so I decided to go ahead and mount up (ride #18). I rode her in small circles around the parking lot until I felt comfortable and then we ventured off. We went out of the arena grounds and onto the road. She was a bit nervous but not bad. I had forgotten how fast the cars drive on that road so I was thankful she didn’t mind them. She called a few times for Sis but she did keep moving. When we got to the end of the road I turned her around and headed back. The team was still practicing so I dismounted and let her eat grass.
During their break I mounted back up and went into the arena. To my surprise Cat is ok with me opening the gate while mounted. We went into the arena and trotted a bit but we weren’t able to stay in long before the team ran again. I decided this time to stay on her and just “sit”. I don’t do that often so it was good for her. It took her a little adjusting to figure out how to maintain her balance while just standing. She tried for grass once but once she was told no she left it.
When the team was finally finished we went back into the arena. The sun was quickly disappearing but I wanted to lope her before leaving. She did pin her ears at a few horses but I’m going to ignore that for now. I think if I start to pick on everything I will create more issues. If she still pins after she’s been ridden around other horses consistently then I will get after her but I don’t think she will.
Once the arena was free I asked her to lope. I didn’t do a bunch of ORS but I did temporarily shut her down after a few strides the first two times and then I let her go. She was literally running circles around Sis. She broke a few times and once or twice I had to whack her. Each whack was followed with a small kick up. Once she was loping out freely and away from Sis I shut her down and dismounted. She really wasn’t arguing about that.
Our high today is 67* but it won’t be raining so I’m hoping to get just one more day in on her tonight so I can get my three days in a row.
Sunday my father, BIL, nephew, Chase and I went mushroom hunting. My Father, BIL and nephew rode down on the four-wheeler so Chase and I doubled up on Sis. Chase and I had a good time but he doesn’t think it is very comfortable to ride behind the saddle. I’m not sure if Sis has ever ridden double before but she did a great job.
Monday night I decided to get Miss Cat out. We did some LFR Stage 1, LFR Stage 2, the outback exercise, yhq stage 1, yfq, circle driving and some desensitizing. She very much wants to please but I find we end up fighting a lot. I’m sure it is me so I’m trying to “chill” and just go with it. During LFR she has an energetic departure but she also has a lot of draw when I yield her hq. Where our first argument comes into play is during the outback exercise when I try to back her back to the outside of the circle. She tries to take off vs. backing which usually gets a “fight” (for a lack of better words) started between the two of us.
LFR Stage 2 she is doing awesome. She was starting to get nervous when I would move the stick and speed up but she was also anticipating so I spent some time just moving the stick back and forth until she relaxed a bit. She really didn’t relax a lot but she did relax some.
During the desensitizing w/the stick/string she is getting much better. She usually flinches once or twice when I whack the ground but she doesn’t move. By the time I go to the other side she’s standing quietly.
YHQ Stage 1 she is doing very well. I just need to refine it a bit and get her to plant her foot more. I didn’t push it as she does have yet another injury on her front left leg.
YFQ was very ugly and I’m glad no one was around to see it. I’m hoping it is a bit better tonight when I try again.
Circle driving made her nervous. She was afraid she was going to get whacked with the stick so I changed things up and put the string on my stick and “flogged her with kindness” as she went around the circle until she relaxed.
I ended the night by clipping her. She HATES the clippers so I’ve decided to clip a bit each night after working her when she’s dog tired. It seemed to work well as I was able to clip a bridle path, her jaw line and muzzle, the exterior of her ears and part of her legs.
Last night I rode over to drill practice with MIL. I wasn’t sure if I would ride since my last ride on Cat was 03/16 but took my saddle so I could at least work her in it. I saddled her up as soon as we got there and headed to the arena to do some LFR. I didn’t stay on stage 1 very long as I didn’t want to “fight” the backing with an arena full of horses. The sand was nice and deep so she had to work twice as hard. Her turns weren’t quite as precise as I would have liked but she was listening to me and trying. I can barely move in the arena so I decided to cut her some slack.
I’m not sure how long I did LFR Stage 2 but it was long enough to make her want to die. She was pretty warm and when I drew her into me I don’t think she could have run fast enough. We left the arena so the drill team could run their routine.
I took her behind the trailers and did some desensitizing with the stick/string and then flapped the stirrups. She was good as gold so I decided to go ahead and mount up (ride #18). I rode her in small circles around the parking lot until I felt comfortable and then we ventured off. We went out of the arena grounds and onto the road. She was a bit nervous but not bad. I had forgotten how fast the cars drive on that road so I was thankful she didn’t mind them. She called a few times for Sis but she did keep moving. When we got to the end of the road I turned her around and headed back. The team was still practicing so I dismounted and let her eat grass.
During their break I mounted back up and went into the arena. To my surprise Cat is ok with me opening the gate while mounted. We went into the arena and trotted a bit but we weren’t able to stay in long before the team ran again. I decided this time to stay on her and just “sit”. I don’t do that often so it was good for her. It took her a little adjusting to figure out how to maintain her balance while just standing. She tried for grass once but once she was told no she left it.
When the team was finally finished we went back into the arena. The sun was quickly disappearing but I wanted to lope her before leaving. She did pin her ears at a few horses but I’m going to ignore that for now. I think if I start to pick on everything I will create more issues. If she still pins after she’s been ridden around other horses consistently then I will get after her but I don’t think she will.
Once the arena was free I asked her to lope. I didn’t do a bunch of ORS but I did temporarily shut her down after a few strides the first two times and then I let her go. She was literally running circles around Sis. She broke a few times and once or twice I had to whack her. Each whack was followed with a small kick up. Once she was loping out freely and away from Sis I shut her down and dismounted. She really wasn’t arguing about that.
Our high today is 67* but it won’t be raining so I’m hoping to get just one more day in on her tonight so I can get my three days in a row.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
I Love Lucy!
No, not the TV show – the horse! Yesterday was an absolutely gorgeous spring day in Iowa. My mom was kind enough to take the boys to the movie “Hop” so I had the night to myself. It was time for a ride!
A friend of mine who hasn’t ridden in 12+ years decided to join me last night. I put her on Black and saddled up Lu for me. The cattle are out of the fields behind us so I decided to head down there. I warned Mel that Black would probably test her but I didn’t realize just how much Black would test her! Black was a royal PITA! I don’t think I’ve ever seen her act the way she did. I asked Mel “are you sure you aren’t squeezing her?” She didn’t think she was so I showed her how to do a ORS to shut Black down.
After a bit if time Black and Mel finally started to work together. There was a plastic shavings bag hanging from the fence a little ways in front of us. Lucy started to get that “look” so I prepared for her to spook – she didn’t! We walked right up to it, she sniffed it and then we moved on. A little ways further on the trail and there was a huge tarp on the ground. This tarp must cover a semi or something because it is big. They have it all balled up and it usually freaks the horses out big time. Again, Lucy went on alert so again, I took her towards the tarp. Even though she was “on alert” she walked right up to it, sniffed it and then stepped on it.
The only time I had trouble with her was the water. Oh that dreaded water! Of course it was a creek and they always seem to be worse then rivers or ponds. It took some coaxing for that but I finally managed to get her over it. Finally – we had acres and acres of open fields in front of us so I let Lu go! It was fun for about 3 strides and then she quickly slowed down. I think she saw how far we could go and said – no way! lol
Her bending is getting better each ride. I’m still amazed at how well she retains things once she learns them. Right now I’m in the process of trying to teach her to pick up a hat. She has the concept to go to the hat but she isn’t mouthy so getting her to actually pick it up could be fun.
A friend of mine who hasn’t ridden in 12+ years decided to join me last night. I put her on Black and saddled up Lu for me. The cattle are out of the fields behind us so I decided to head down there. I warned Mel that Black would probably test her but I didn’t realize just how much Black would test her! Black was a royal PITA! I don’t think I’ve ever seen her act the way she did. I asked Mel “are you sure you aren’t squeezing her?” She didn’t think she was so I showed her how to do a ORS to shut Black down.
After a bit if time Black and Mel finally started to work together. There was a plastic shavings bag hanging from the fence a little ways in front of us. Lucy started to get that “look” so I prepared for her to spook – she didn’t! We walked right up to it, she sniffed it and then we moved on. A little ways further on the trail and there was a huge tarp on the ground. This tarp must cover a semi or something because it is big. They have it all balled up and it usually freaks the horses out big time. Again, Lucy went on alert so again, I took her towards the tarp. Even though she was “on alert” she walked right up to it, sniffed it and then stepped on it.
The only time I had trouble with her was the water. Oh that dreaded water! Of course it was a creek and they always seem to be worse then rivers or ponds. It took some coaxing for that but I finally managed to get her over it. Finally – we had acres and acres of open fields in front of us so I let Lu go! It was fun for about 3 strides and then she quickly slowed down. I think she saw how far we could go and said – no way! lol
Her bending is getting better each ride. I’m still amazed at how well she retains things once she learns them. Right now I’m in the process of trying to teach her to pick up a hat. She has the concept to go to the hat but she isn’t mouthy so getting her to actually pick it up could be fun.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
I’ve got my hands full!
Finally! We are having some nice weather and extra time at night to actually enjoy it!
Tuesday it was in the 50’s with a slight breeze but it was still lovely so I took the boys out to ride. The hair is just falling off of the horses so between the mud and the shedding grooming is taking a bit longer then normal but we finally got them cleaned up and saddled.
Chase was off in a flash with Black and I don’t think he stayed in a walk for more then about 2 minutes. Since Nikki hadn’t been ridden in a while and Ty is only 4 I decided to put her on the end of a 14’ line and just let her walk a circle around me. Well, that was what I thought I was going to do anyways – Ty had other plans. I was informed very quickly that “I can do it myself mom” and was told to “let me go! I can train her myself”. Ok!
I took the lead off of Nikki and off they went. Of course Ty wasn’t happy at a walk either so he quickly got over by Chase and asked Nikki to trot. She did and the giggles echoed over the pasture. By this time I finally had to tell Chase to cool it with Black. The poor old girl looked like she was ready to have a stroke.
I think both of the boys enjoyed themselves. I think Chase is enjoying Black and I’m hopeful she instills some confidence in him so when Abby is back he is not intimidated by her. Ty……………..I’ve just decided that kid is going to be a handful!
Tuesday it was in the 50’s with a slight breeze but it was still lovely so I took the boys out to ride. The hair is just falling off of the horses so between the mud and the shedding grooming is taking a bit longer then normal but we finally got them cleaned up and saddled.
Chase was off in a flash with Black and I don’t think he stayed in a walk for more then about 2 minutes. Since Nikki hadn’t been ridden in a while and Ty is only 4 I decided to put her on the end of a 14’ line and just let her walk a circle around me. Well, that was what I thought I was going to do anyways – Ty had other plans. I was informed very quickly that “I can do it myself mom” and was told to “let me go! I can train her myself”. Ok!
I took the lead off of Nikki and off they went. Of course Ty wasn’t happy at a walk either so he quickly got over by Chase and asked Nikki to trot. She did and the giggles echoed over the pasture. By this time I finally had to tell Chase to cool it with Black. The poor old girl looked like she was ready to have a stroke.
I think both of the boys enjoyed themselves. I think Chase is enjoying Black and I’m hopeful she instills some confidence in him so when Abby is back he is not intimidated by her. Ty……………..I’ve just decided that kid is going to be a handful!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Frozen tundra of..............Iowa?
It seems I haven't updated in a while but then not much has gone on. I did sit down and have a talk with Chase about riding this summer. I told him I wasn't going to bring Black home if he wasn't going to ride. He assures me he is going to so I had MIL bring Black home on Sat.
Sunday we went to a horse sale. I had to sit on my hands twice. Once was when they brought in a 6 yr. old bay mare. She was about 14 hh and not very wide. The guy riding her did a fine job of spurring her in the belly and yanking on her face. She had a "dead" eye to her. She looked so lifeless. I figured if she could keep from dumping his dumb ass she'd be great for a kid. She sold for $50.
The other one was a beautiful black/white colt. He was 4, unpapered and I'm pretty sure uncut. He was scared out of his mind. Poor guy was shaking in the ring. I think he sold for $40.
After the sale Chase and I headed out to chore. We were going to ride but it was pretty cold so I told him maybe another day. He had this "look" to his face and when I asked him what was wrong he replied "but I was really looking forward to riding". Told him if he didn't think he'd freeze I was happy to saddle up - so we did.
Lucy seemed happy to get out for a ride. I think she was getting a bit jealous of Cat. Black - not so much. Chase had some issues getting her to go down the road and pulling through his rein (not a new issue) so I had to teach him to bump ehr. Once she learned he was capable of handeling her she was fine. He was a bit frustrated but I explained to him why she did it and that soon she wouldn't even try because she'd know he wouldn't allow it.
The rest of the ride out was pretty nice. We did some trotting and Lu was dead on w/my seat cues. I think I only had to remind her once with my rein. On the way back the wind cut through us like a knife so I broke a rule and allowed Chase to lope home. Lucy was in a nice, slow, cadenced lope w/her head low to the ground. I loved it!!! She's such a good pony.
Poor Chase - Black can long trot as fast as Lucy can canter so it took him a bit to get her going. Both of us had to go into the house to warm up before we untacked and put the ponies away. I've got to say - I'm pretty proud he wanted to ride on such a cold day.
Sunday we went to a horse sale. I had to sit on my hands twice. Once was when they brought in a 6 yr. old bay mare. She was about 14 hh and not very wide. The guy riding her did a fine job of spurring her in the belly and yanking on her face. She had a "dead" eye to her. She looked so lifeless. I figured if she could keep from dumping his dumb ass she'd be great for a kid. She sold for $50.
The other one was a beautiful black/white colt. He was 4, unpapered and I'm pretty sure uncut. He was scared out of his mind. Poor guy was shaking in the ring. I think he sold for $40.
After the sale Chase and I headed out to chore. We were going to ride but it was pretty cold so I told him maybe another day. He had this "look" to his face and when I asked him what was wrong he replied "but I was really looking forward to riding". Told him if he didn't think he'd freeze I was happy to saddle up - so we did.
Lucy seemed happy to get out for a ride. I think she was getting a bit jealous of Cat. Black - not so much. Chase had some issues getting her to go down the road and pulling through his rein (not a new issue) so I had to teach him to bump ehr. Once she learned he was capable of handeling her she was fine. He was a bit frustrated but I explained to him why she did it and that soon she wouldn't even try because she'd know he wouldn't allow it.
The rest of the ride out was pretty nice. We did some trotting and Lu was dead on w/my seat cues. I think I only had to remind her once with my rein. On the way back the wind cut through us like a knife so I broke a rule and allowed Chase to lope home. Lucy was in a nice, slow, cadenced lope w/her head low to the ground. I loved it!!! She's such a good pony.
Poor Chase - Black can long trot as fast as Lucy can canter so it took him a bit to get her going. Both of us had to go into the house to warm up before we untacked and put the ponies away. I've got to say - I'm pretty proud he wanted to ride on such a cold day.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Giggles, puddles, and mud bugs
Yesterday at MIL's we saddled up Sis and Black and let Chase and Shari, my niece (8), ride. I made sure both of them weren't going to get killed and then turned them loose. When these two get together their giggles are infectious. MIL and I sat on her back porch watching these two trot and giggle and then canter and giggle and all the while the horses were being good as gold. I swear they know when they have precious cargo on board.
My niece reminds me of myself when I was little. My parents were non-horse people and I would do anything my uncle told me to do just to get a chance to brush that old nasty mule. His name was Jack and it was quite fitting for an a.s.s. - I mean mule.
Shari will do anything in the barn just to be near the horses. My sister and her husband are non-horsey people so I love it when she gets a chance to ride. Usually we have to drag her off as she never gets tired. Yesterday her ride was cut short by the rain. We let them ride in the sprinkles for a bit but we were lucky to get them in the barn before it completely let loose.
When she came inside she was still all horse and drew this picture.
When I asked her if she had a good time she replied "yes, until the STUPID rain came down." lol
While Shari and Chase were riding Ty decided to go play in the water puddles. You can only be a kid onces so mom said "go for it buddy!". I thought DH was going to stroke when he saw Ty jumping up and down in the water puddles. He had water EVERYWHERE but he also had the biggest smile. Molly was enjoying running in the puddle with Ty too so both of them got baths before we went home. Molly was one tired pup after a fun day of play.
Abby is back home. We brought her back Sat. She seems to be happy to be back home. I have her out during the day and in at night. Talked to the vet a bit about her shoulder. I can x-ray to see if she does have a fracture but when I asked him what the treatment for that was he basically said "time off". Well I can do that w/o paying for x-rays.
My horses are a muddy mess! When I went out yesterday Cat decided to roll 3 times to make sure she was covered good for me.
Here she is sniffing a pile of pekin feathers. Lucy didn't want them in the pasture with her. Luckily the pekin made it to the other side of the fence with just a few missing feathers.
This is not Abby! Oh what a mess! Yes, I know her feet are long, she gets trimmed Monday.
If you look closely in this picture you can see where Cat has the "split" in her chest from her injury last summer. I call her three boobs. :D
My niece reminds me of myself when I was little. My parents were non-horse people and I would do anything my uncle told me to do just to get a chance to brush that old nasty mule. His name was Jack and it was quite fitting for an a.s.s. - I mean mule.
Shari will do anything in the barn just to be near the horses. My sister and her husband are non-horsey people so I love it when she gets a chance to ride. Usually we have to drag her off as she never gets tired. Yesterday her ride was cut short by the rain. We let them ride in the sprinkles for a bit but we were lucky to get them in the barn before it completely let loose.
When she came inside she was still all horse and drew this picture.
When I asked her if she had a good time she replied "yes, until the STUPID rain came down." lol
While Shari and Chase were riding Ty decided to go play in the water puddles. You can only be a kid onces so mom said "go for it buddy!". I thought DH was going to stroke when he saw Ty jumping up and down in the water puddles. He had water EVERYWHERE but he also had the biggest smile. Molly was enjoying running in the puddle with Ty too so both of them got baths before we went home. Molly was one tired pup after a fun day of play.
Abby is back home. We brought her back Sat. She seems to be happy to be back home. I have her out during the day and in at night. Talked to the vet a bit about her shoulder. I can x-ray to see if she does have a fracture but when I asked him what the treatment for that was he basically said "time off". Well I can do that w/o paying for x-rays.
My horses are a muddy mess! When I went out yesterday Cat decided to roll 3 times to make sure she was covered good for me.
Here she is sniffing a pile of pekin feathers. Lucy didn't want them in the pasture with her. Luckily the pekin made it to the other side of the fence with just a few missing feathers.
This is not Abby! Oh what a mess! Yes, I know her feet are long, she gets trimmed Monday.
If you look closely in this picture you can see where Cat has the "split" in her chest from her injury last summer. I call her three boobs. :D
Monday, November 22, 2010
Winter is just around the corner
Not much new to report. I haven’t had much time to do anything with the horses since we’ve gotten back from the clinic. I wish I could say I have all of the exercises perfected but let’s face it – we all know better then that by now.
Saturday the weather was decent but it wasn’t great. My plans to finish up my winterizing in the barn were cut short since both of my parents were feeling ill and I didn’t want to keep Ty out in the cold. MIL came over and we grabbed some feed and I decided to head over to her place to spend the night with the boys. It was a good decision because DH had a bad call at work Sunday am and needed some time to himself.
MIL had decided that Black (now known as Ma-maw) is hers. I’m not sure how she’s come to that decision but she does enjoy her and enjoys having a companion for Sis. Black looks wonderful! I switched her to Triple Crown Senior just prior to taking her to MIL’s and she has packed on the pounds! She’s moving great too!
Saturday the weather was decent but it wasn’t great. My plans to finish up my winterizing in the barn were cut short since both of my parents were feeling ill and I didn’t want to keep Ty out in the cold. MIL came over and we grabbed some feed and I decided to head over to her place to spend the night with the boys. It was a good decision because DH had a bad call at work Sunday am and needed some time to himself.
MIL had decided that Black (now known as Ma-maw) is hers. I’m not sure how she’s come to that decision but she does enjoy her and enjoys having a companion for Sis. Black looks wonderful! I switched her to Triple Crown Senior just prior to taking her to MIL’s and she has packed on the pounds! She’s moving great too!
Not the best photo I know. It was overcast and misty but I wanted one before we left.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Weekend ride
Saturday it was so hot! I hosed off the horses and put them in their stalls with the fans on. I decided to leave Cat’s bandage off to see if some fresh air would help her laceration heal a bit faster. I put some wonder dust on it to prevent it from bleeding and then put her in her stall. She proceeded to lick every ounce of wonder dust off (that had to taste good) until her leg was clean and started bleeding again. Needless to say the bandage went back on.
Sunday Chase, MIL and I went for a ride. I decided to pull the old lady (Black) out since I knew we wouldn’t be going far. We ended up riding down to the river and over the river bridge. Abby was very good for Chase and Sis was her usual lazy self. We trotted some and even loped a little on the way back. Black felt pretty good and was striding out. I had to chuckle on the way home as it was Black (25), then Abby (9), and then Sis (10) bringing up the rear!
Later that night Ty decided he wanted to ride so I pulled Nikki out for him. She’s a good pony but she’s learned a few tricks over the years (like diving for grass and snatching the reins away from her rider or shaking and unseating them) so I made up a set of grass reins before Ty ventured out. He likes to ride “by himself” so as soon as we made our way to the backyard I turned him loose. Nikki of course set her path straight back to the barn. When she learned the gait was closed she came back to the backyard (yes I was watching close by) and then proceeded to walk circles. He rode for probably 20 minutes before I made him get off. Little stinker thinks he’s big stuff now!
Sunday Chase, MIL and I went for a ride. I decided to pull the old lady (Black) out since I knew we wouldn’t be going far. We ended up riding down to the river and over the river bridge. Abby was very good for Chase and Sis was her usual lazy self. We trotted some and even loped a little on the way back. Black felt pretty good and was striding out. I had to chuckle on the way home as it was Black (25), then Abby (9), and then Sis (10) bringing up the rear!
Later that night Ty decided he wanted to ride so I pulled Nikki out for him. She’s a good pony but she’s learned a few tricks over the years (like diving for grass and snatching the reins away from her rider or shaking and unseating them) so I made up a set of grass reins before Ty ventured out. He likes to ride “by himself” so as soon as we made our way to the backyard I turned him loose. Nikki of course set her path straight back to the barn. When she learned the gait was closed she came back to the backyard (yes I was watching close by) and then proceeded to walk circles. He rode for probably 20 minutes before I made him get off. Little stinker thinks he’s big stuff now!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Ride 5
I’m going to try to start summing up my blog post a bit more vs. the long drawn out stories.
MIL, DH, Chase, Ty, two friends and I went to the arena last night. It was VERY windy but it was beautiful! Unloaded and Cat was not happy! It was the first time she’d seen Sis and Abby and she wanted to be next to them.
Lounged Abby to get her ready for Chase and then got him, MIL and DH riding while I watched Ty and saddled Cat. Had to remind her a few times I was next to her as she was very worried that her buddies were going to leave her. Ty was playing w/his tractor in the dirt so I decided to make Cat move her feet and quit worrying about Sis and Abby.
Backed her into the arena and then did LFR2 (haven’t done this much). She did very well and turns over her hocks well). Headed back to the trailer, bridled her up and got on. Flexed. She’s still a little stiff to the right but overall did very well.
Walked into the arena and I’m not sure what happened but she jumped sideways and up as if she was trying to get away from Abby (I don’t think she realizes she can’t play under saddle and that is what it felt like). I immediately pulled her head around and proceeded to let her know that behavior was not acceptable!
She was in high gear so I worked on ORS at the walk. Once she was listening we picked it up to a trot. I was able to do some ORS at the canter but I had to be moving towards the other horses (left spanker in the trailer). She did well for the most part.
Next was the passenger lesson at the trot. I really need to do this w/less horses in the arena (6 horses all going different speeds). She did well but she wasn’t moving out as much as I’d like (she’d already downshifted herself into a nice jog).
After that I moved her to the center of the ring and just sat and flexed her and then let her relax for about 5 minutes before dismounting. She’d worked up a little sweat but nothing too bad.
As for the other horses – Black looked really good! MIL hopped on her for a minute and said her trot was so soft and smooth! Abby was having issues but then I don’t think Chase was helping matters much there. I’m to the point w/him that I think I’m going to hand him the reins and say “figure it out” (just like w/DH). He doesn’t seem to listen to what I say and it just frustrates me so I guess he can learn the same way I did – trial, error and hitting the dirt!
MIL, DH, Chase, Ty, two friends and I went to the arena last night. It was VERY windy but it was beautiful! Unloaded and Cat was not happy! It was the first time she’d seen Sis and Abby and she wanted to be next to them.
Lounged Abby to get her ready for Chase and then got him, MIL and DH riding while I watched Ty and saddled Cat. Had to remind her a few times I was next to her as she was very worried that her buddies were going to leave her. Ty was playing w/his tractor in the dirt so I decided to make Cat move her feet and quit worrying about Sis and Abby.
Backed her into the arena and then did LFR2 (haven’t done this much). She did very well and turns over her hocks well). Headed back to the trailer, bridled her up and got on. Flexed. She’s still a little stiff to the right but overall did very well.
Walked into the arena and I’m not sure what happened but she jumped sideways and up as if she was trying to get away from Abby (I don’t think she realizes she can’t play under saddle and that is what it felt like). I immediately pulled her head around and proceeded to let her know that behavior was not acceptable!
She was in high gear so I worked on ORS at the walk. Once she was listening we picked it up to a trot. I was able to do some ORS at the canter but I had to be moving towards the other horses (left spanker in the trailer). She did well for the most part.
Next was the passenger lesson at the trot. I really need to do this w/less horses in the arena (6 horses all going different speeds). She did well but she wasn’t moving out as much as I’d like (she’d already downshifted herself into a nice jog).
After that I moved her to the center of the ring and just sat and flexed her and then let her relax for about 5 minutes before dismounting. She’d worked up a little sweat but nothing too bad.
As for the other horses – Black looked really good! MIL hopped on her for a minute and said her trot was so soft and smooth! Abby was having issues but then I don’t think Chase was helping matters much there. I’m to the point w/him that I think I’m going to hand him the reins and say “figure it out” (just like w/DH). He doesn’t seem to listen to what I say and it just frustrates me so I guess he can learn the same way I did – trial, error and hitting the dirt!
Monday, November 23, 2009
New Shoes?
Today we were going to have Equicast put on Black so I took an “extended” lunch hour so I could drive my trimmer nuts by asking him 100 questions. I got out to the farm right as he pulled in so I headed out to get the horses. As I headed out to the pasture to get Black she decided to do some LFR Stage 1 around me at liberty while kicking up her heels and playing “catch me if you can”.
She finally stopped long enough for me to put the halter on her and walk her up to the barn. After watching her run around me my trimmer decided maybe we didn’t need the Equicast after all. He trimmed her up and I walked her off to see how she moved. She moves great in a straight line but as soon as you put her on a circle or turn her you can see that she is still sore. He decided to try some Vettec Super Fast on her to create a “shoe” so he could bring her break over back farther. She did trot a little more forward on the circle but still seemed uncomfortable when at a bend.
I didn’t get any pictures of the after product but I did get a few pics of the mudbug herself.
Even with all of the fuzz and mud I still think she looks like she’s added a few more pounds.
She was not thrilled that DH didn’t have any treats.
And here she is behind the “almost finished” fence.
I still have to electrify the wire to the left and pick up the old post (Cat has been using them as play toys).
She finally stopped long enough for me to put the halter on her and walk her up to the barn. After watching her run around me my trimmer decided maybe we didn’t need the Equicast after all. He trimmed her up and I walked her off to see how she moved. She moves great in a straight line but as soon as you put her on a circle or turn her you can see that she is still sore. He decided to try some Vettec Super Fast on her to create a “shoe” so he could bring her break over back farther. She did trot a little more forward on the circle but still seemed uncomfortable when at a bend.
I didn’t get any pictures of the after product but I did get a few pics of the mudbug herself.
Even with all of the fuzz and mud I still think she looks like she’s added a few more pounds.
She was not thrilled that DH didn’t have any treats.
And here she is behind the “almost finished” fence.
I still have to electrify the wire to the left and pick up the old post (Cat has been using them as play toys).
Monday, September 14, 2009
Great Labor Day Weekend!
I know, I’m only a week late on this post but better late then never right?
Labor Day weekend we packed up the ponies and headed for Elk Rock State Park. It is a small park but it has nice facilities. The trails are fairly easy so I don’t have to worry about Chase being out on difficult terrain.
Friday night we spent most of the night unpacking and setting up the trailer. Man I love my trailer! It makes it so nice when we do stuff like this. DH had to work Saturday so we had Abby, Lucy and Sis and he was to bring Black down Sunday when he came down.
Saturday MIL started off riding Abby. This was only her second trail ride and if you remember, our first one last year left me with a sore bum. Chase was on Sis and I was finally on Lu! We headed out on our first trail with Lucy in the lead. Abby does not like to be in the back so MIL did a lot of ORS and circles with her. It was nice to be on a quiet horse for once! Sis of course was wonderful with Chase.
It didn’t take long for Chase to tire but we met up with another group and told him to buck it up, we were going on another ride. They rode a bit faster then we do so it gave me an opportunity to work on collecting Lu at the trot. When we got back we had ridden all 8 miles of trail & all of us were tired! We took a short rest and then headed into town and to the lake.
Sunday DH met us down there with Black. This was her first “known” trail ride since we’ve owned her & she was wonderful! Abby was being a bit more of a handful for MIL so I told her to get on Lu while Abby and I had a meeting. Needless to say, after 6 miles of trail and one hot, sweaty pony, Abby still wasn’t ready to come to an agreement with me.
Later MIL, DH and Chase went out and I stayed back at the trailer to work on supper. I sent Chase out on Lu so MIL could ride Sis and Abby could throw a fit at the hitching post. I was told Lu did very well with Chase, this made me very happy.
My parents showed up with Ty and we had a lovely dinner. After dinner MIL and I took Ty on a short ride. He had Black’s reins the entire time and giggled up every hill. He was so cute telling Black “easy Black! Whoa Black!” and moving her over on the trails.
The following day we noticed that 3 of the 4 horses had swollen legs. Upon further inspection it seemed that most of the horses at the park had swollen legs. I think there may have been some sort of weed that irritated them but we decided they had done well enough and headed home.
Labor Day weekend we packed up the ponies and headed for Elk Rock State Park. It is a small park but it has nice facilities. The trails are fairly easy so I don’t have to worry about Chase being out on difficult terrain.
Friday night we spent most of the night unpacking and setting up the trailer. Man I love my trailer! It makes it so nice when we do stuff like this. DH had to work Saturday so we had Abby, Lucy and Sis and he was to bring Black down Sunday when he came down.
Saturday MIL started off riding Abby. This was only her second trail ride and if you remember, our first one last year left me with a sore bum. Chase was on Sis and I was finally on Lu! We headed out on our first trail with Lucy in the lead. Abby does not like to be in the back so MIL did a lot of ORS and circles with her. It was nice to be on a quiet horse for once! Sis of course was wonderful with Chase.
It didn’t take long for Chase to tire but we met up with another group and told him to buck it up, we were going on another ride. They rode a bit faster then we do so it gave me an opportunity to work on collecting Lu at the trot. When we got back we had ridden all 8 miles of trail & all of us were tired! We took a short rest and then headed into town and to the lake.
Sunday DH met us down there with Black. This was her first “known” trail ride since we’ve owned her & she was wonderful! Abby was being a bit more of a handful for MIL so I told her to get on Lu while Abby and I had a meeting. Needless to say, after 6 miles of trail and one hot, sweaty pony, Abby still wasn’t ready to come to an agreement with me.
Later MIL, DH and Chase went out and I stayed back at the trailer to work on supper. I sent Chase out on Lu so MIL could ride Sis and Abby could throw a fit at the hitching post. I was told Lu did very well with Chase, this made me very happy.
My parents showed up with Ty and we had a lovely dinner. After dinner MIL and I took Ty on a short ride. He had Black’s reins the entire time and giggled up every hill. He was so cute telling Black “easy Black! Whoa Black!” and moving her over on the trails.
The following day we noticed that 3 of the 4 horses had swollen legs. Upon further inspection it seemed that most of the horses at the park had swollen legs. I think there may have been some sort of weed that irritated them but we decided they had done well enough and headed home.
Monday, August 24, 2009
1 down – 3 to go
Show season is slowly dwindling down. It feels as though we haven’t really had much of a season with all of the rain we got at the beginning of the year but it has still been a good year. This past Sat. MIL, DH and Chase showed. I opted not to take Lucy because Ty was going with and I know how that usually works. Plus she really isn’t ready and it isn’t fair for her when I have high expectations but haven’t put forth the work. We’ll be ready next year.
Due to a lack of volunteers I had to help the judge so a few good friends helped out with Ty while MIL and DH were showing (thank you Brenda and Terry). Chase got to use Sis in w/t and while she was a bit fast from all of her long trotting during her rehab he still had the quietest horse out there so he placed first. I know MIL placed in w/t and WP but I honestly don’t remember what her results were. She didn’t do as well as she normally does (again Sis is strung out and fast) but she was still in the top 5.
DH didn’t place (not that we expected him to). Black was a bit gimpy in the back end. I almost asked him to come to the center but I didn’t want to call him out. He put her up after the class and that was the only thing she went in for the day.
Chase had a GREAT pole pattern and took first. He got a little “big for his britches” in barrels and while they gave him a 2nd place placing, I told him he wasn’t getting his ribbon because he broke patter. I know, I’m a mean mom but he’s moving up w/the “big boys” next year so he’ll get knocked off of his pedestal quickly anyways. He needs to practice more and quite blaming it all on the pony.
Abby was being a bit of a handful for him though so I popped my saddle on and signed MIL and I up for barrels. It was a good crowd so I knew I’d get the opportunity to “fix” some of her issues. At the end of the pattern she likes to crow hop so as we ran for home I prepared. As soon as I felt her head go down I turned her in and nailed her w/Mr. Crop and asked her to continue running in a circle. I think I caught her by surprise.
After that MIL hopped on. She had a nice run (no crow hopping at the end) and I do think she placed 5th.
I took Carmella back and MIL took Sis and Cat back to her place so I’m back down to 4 horses at home. It is kind of a nice break since DH will be leaving to help with harvest soon.
When we got home, as I was picking out Black’s feet (assuming the gimping was from thrush), I noticed some liquid. She has an abscess on her back left foot. It looks like she bruised her foot on one of our road rides last week. While I’m not thrilled about it, I’m happy that is what the problem was and that it wasn’t another laminitic episode (I was starting to question that too). So for now I’m soaking her foot once a day in Epson salt, ACV and water and I have her in an icthamol wrap. I bought some of the new Easy Care Glove boots for her back feet and so far I LOVE them! I’ve got one over the wrap and she seems to be feeling a lot better now that the abscess is draining.
This means that Lu is going to have to temporarily fill in at drill. I think this will be good for her but we’ll see what she thinks.
Due to a lack of volunteers I had to help the judge so a few good friends helped out with Ty while MIL and DH were showing (thank you Brenda and Terry). Chase got to use Sis in w/t and while she was a bit fast from all of her long trotting during her rehab he still had the quietest horse out there so he placed first. I know MIL placed in w/t and WP but I honestly don’t remember what her results were. She didn’t do as well as she normally does (again Sis is strung out and fast) but she was still in the top 5.
DH didn’t place (not that we expected him to). Black was a bit gimpy in the back end. I almost asked him to come to the center but I didn’t want to call him out. He put her up after the class and that was the only thing she went in for the day.
Chase had a GREAT pole pattern and took first. He got a little “big for his britches” in barrels and while they gave him a 2nd place placing, I told him he wasn’t getting his ribbon because he broke patter. I know, I’m a mean mom but he’s moving up w/the “big boys” next year so he’ll get knocked off of his pedestal quickly anyways. He needs to practice more and quite blaming it all on the pony.
Abby was being a bit of a handful for him though so I popped my saddle on and signed MIL and I up for barrels. It was a good crowd so I knew I’d get the opportunity to “fix” some of her issues. At the end of the pattern she likes to crow hop so as we ran for home I prepared. As soon as I felt her head go down I turned her in and nailed her w/Mr. Crop and asked her to continue running in a circle. I think I caught her by surprise.
After that MIL hopped on. She had a nice run (no crow hopping at the end) and I do think she placed 5th.
I took Carmella back and MIL took Sis and Cat back to her place so I’m back down to 4 horses at home. It is kind of a nice break since DH will be leaving to help with harvest soon.
When we got home, as I was picking out Black’s feet (assuming the gimping was from thrush), I noticed some liquid. She has an abscess on her back left foot. It looks like she bruised her foot on one of our road rides last week. While I’m not thrilled about it, I’m happy that is what the problem was and that it wasn’t another laminitic episode (I was starting to question that too). So for now I’m soaking her foot once a day in Epson salt, ACV and water and I have her in an icthamol wrap. I bought some of the new Easy Care Glove boots for her back feet and so far I LOVE them! I’ve got one over the wrap and she seems to be feeling a lot better now that the abscess is draining.
This means that Lu is going to have to temporarily fill in at drill. I think this will be good for her but we’ll see what she thinks.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
It’s been a while
It’s been a while since I’ve updated my blog, but it seems like a lot of stuff has been going on (not all horse related). The horses got some much needed time off after the Carson Rodeo and MIL has been keeping me (and Black) busy with parades. They aren’t my favorite thing in the world but I can’t let her go alone. I have decided that this is Black’s calling. She just loves the parades! Walk, stop, yawn, and repeat.
This was taken at the Sweet Corn Festival:
Abby was a bit of a handful for MIL but the more she does the better she gets.
These were taken at the State Fair Parade in Des Moines. I love that you can see our gorgeous Capital behind us.
Notice Black’s tongue?
Last week the boys were gone for a week so I was actually able to get some ride time in on MY horse. I’ve been lunging Lucy on the 22’ line and watching her move. She seems to be improving and her cross-firing is becoming very minimal now. If I give her a minute to go into the lope, she has more time to think and set her self up and go into it correctly. Clockwise is still her worst direction but at least I’m seeing improvements.
On one of the nights MIL, DH and I all went for a road ride. Lu was perfect. Her alignment issues seem to be getting resolved and I barely had to move my hand at all. She is also moving out more willingly as well. If finances are available I’d like to board her this winter so I can actually work with her.
On a positive note: Sis is improving and the vet no longer feels that surgery is in her future. MIL has been able to kick her up into a trot and was even able to use her for the State Fair Parade. It is still going to be a long recovery but it looks like it will be a promising one.
In addition to the above I’ve decided to become a distributor for Gomers Inc., the manufacturer of Karbo Combo. This has been very nerve wracking and exciting at the same time. I feel this is a wonderful product and that it does sell itself but at the same time, I’m not a born entrepreneur so it will take some time to get off of the ground.
Chase started school on Monday and I have about a month and a half before DH leaves for his vacation up at the farm for 1 ½ months so things will be dwindling down and I have a feeling my horse time will become less and less.
This was taken at the Sweet Corn Festival:
Abby was a bit of a handful for MIL but the more she does the better she gets.
These were taken at the State Fair Parade in Des Moines. I love that you can see our gorgeous Capital behind us.
Notice Black’s tongue?
Last week the boys were gone for a week so I was actually able to get some ride time in on MY horse. I’ve been lunging Lucy on the 22’ line and watching her move. She seems to be improving and her cross-firing is becoming very minimal now. If I give her a minute to go into the lope, she has more time to think and set her self up and go into it correctly. Clockwise is still her worst direction but at least I’m seeing improvements.
On one of the nights MIL, DH and I all went for a road ride. Lu was perfect. Her alignment issues seem to be getting resolved and I barely had to move my hand at all. She is also moving out more willingly as well. If finances are available I’d like to board her this winter so I can actually work with her.
On a positive note: Sis is improving and the vet no longer feels that surgery is in her future. MIL has been able to kick her up into a trot and was even able to use her for the State Fair Parade. It is still going to be a long recovery but it looks like it will be a promising one.
In addition to the above I’ve decided to become a distributor for Gomers Inc., the manufacturer of Karbo Combo. This has been very nerve wracking and exciting at the same time. I feel this is a wonderful product and that it does sell itself but at the same time, I’m not a born entrepreneur so it will take some time to get off of the ground.
Chase started school on Monday and I have about a month and a half before DH leaves for his vacation up at the farm for 1 ½ months so things will be dwindling down and I have a feeling my horse time will become less and less.
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