A Good Day

Well, it had to happen sooner or later.  I finally got a chance to ride Dusty today.  It’s been so busy around here getting ready for Christmas there hasn’t been much time for the horses.  There is still a lot of preparation before I’m done, but sometimes you simply have to take a day and do something you want/need to do.

While I groomed Dusty and de-burred her mane and tail, she actually groomed me back.  Dusty never/rarely does this, so I was pleased and surprised.  She is a very standoffish mare.  Maybe she’s missed our one-on-one time together.  Dare I hope that she’s actually starting to like/tolerate me? 

After tacking up, we moseyed down to the indoor, adjusted the saddle and girth and confronted the mounting block.  She was actually listening while I positioned her.  But then she couldn’t help herself and had to take a step, swinging her butt away from the block because, yes, she’s just that stubborn and opinionated. And so we lunged for a short time.  After which she decided it was a better idea to stand still.  I mounted and she stood until I told her to move off.  This is a huge improvement for her.

We walked on a loose rein for a while and then took up the trot.  Today she decided to keep her pace steady for most of the time.  When she got a little enthusiastic I half-halted and she came right back.  She was listening to my leg, rein and seat aids.  In general, Dusty did whatever I asked of her.  Since it has been about three weeks since we’ve ridden together, I only trotted around a few times in each direction.  Afterward, we practiced walking using just my seat for steering while I dropped the reins.  She was perfect.  Thank you Dusty!

I wonder if this was her way of giving me an early Christmas present.  Or maybe she has been missing her treats.  Whatever her reason for being the Un-Dusty today, I’ll take it.  Best not look at a gift from a horse and wonder the reasons why; it’s better to just enjoy the gift.

Until next time

Quote for Today

A horse is an angel without wings