Sunday, April 29, 2012
Video of "The Woods" Part 1
Video of "The Woods"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3VZ3xZh6g0
First Part of "The Woods" Took a little video today...just with my camera as we were entering the woods.
Wind - 2012 Training Day 8
Training Day 8: I had not been to the barn all week, except for Monday, but this was not to ride. This was to say goodbye to our lovely boy, Chiquita. The most amazingly personable, cuddly, wonderful cat who had an opinion about everything and who we shared 14 years with. Such a difficult day! I did spend some time with Wind though and he was kind and sensitive and true to form acted like a big goof and made me laugh. I'm grateful to have had those years with Chiquita and I'm also grateful for a horse like Wind to help see me through the pain of losing him. I did get back to ride yesterday. It was an emotional roller coaster of a ride, but we did 18 miles and we both survived. Onward and upward as they say. Chiquita will always hold a very special place in my heart.
Friday, April 27, 2012
National Puddle Day
I just heard on the Weather Network that today is National Puddle day! Huh-imagine that! :)
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
My first ride in the rain!
This evening Lynn and Spirit, Kathleen and Caddy, and Summer and I went for a ride back Leland's road. I brushed Summer down good, she was quite muddy, and then I got her tacked up and ready completely by myself-bit and all! I am still learning and need to ask questions, but I am learning! I have been struggling with the bit, not feeling like I have enough hands sometimes, but no problem tonight. Summer is so good and still, keeping her head low for me! When we were all ready and heading out, we were nearly to the end of the driveway and Lynn spotted a red cardinal. I have never seen one like that before. It was beautiful.
Kathleen and Caddy started to lead us in Leland's road, or Puddle Lane as we like to call it lately, but Caddy wasn't liking it much, so Spirit took over like the pro he is. There were lots of puddles to go through, which are all helping Caddy get over her uncertainty about them. Caddy thought about turning for home after going through that big puddle part way in the road, but Kathleen did not get frustrated, and showed her who was in charge and won that little battle. Just after that, it started to rain, a little at first, and then it rained hard! Lynn thought we should continue in so Caddy didn't think she had won after all, and we agreed that was a good idea. I have never been riding in the rain before, and I actually quite enjoyed it. Lynn has assured me that I won't always enjoy it as much as I did tonight, "It just slows down my ride", she said to me, and I smiled, because although I have not been riding for long, I understood what she was saying! :).
It was rainy and cool when we got back to the barn, and despite the fact that we were all dripping a bit when we got back, we all agreed that it was still a great ride.
Kathleen and Caddy started to lead us in Leland's road, or Puddle Lane as we like to call it lately, but Caddy wasn't liking it much, so Spirit took over like the pro he is. There were lots of puddles to go through, which are all helping Caddy get over her uncertainty about them. Caddy thought about turning for home after going through that big puddle part way in the road, but Kathleen did not get frustrated, and showed her who was in charge and won that little battle. Just after that, it started to rain, a little at first, and then it rained hard! Lynn thought we should continue in so Caddy didn't think she had won after all, and we agreed that was a good idea. I have never been riding in the rain before, and I actually quite enjoyed it. Lynn has assured me that I won't always enjoy it as much as I did tonight, "It just slows down my ride", she said to me, and I smiled, because although I have not been riding for long, I understood what she was saying! :).
It was rainy and cool when we got back to the barn, and despite the fact that we were all dripping a bit when we got back, we all agreed that it was still a great ride.
Willow, Western
When I heard, "you might try riding Willow Western" my brain must have gone immediately to that pretty bit hanging all lonesome in my tiny tackroom. What Lynn meant was - try riding her Western! So off with this bit for now (when I'm better at one hand, I can give it another try since she didn't mind it and it IS so pretty!) and back she goes into her snaffle.
The Western riding went so well today, I might have had my best rides ever on Willow! She went everywhere I asked her to, and I kept one-handed most of the time. This morning we did mostly transitions, tons of them. And then she did some lunging for more of the same. She's sometimes vocal, actually squealed when cantering once! And then I got back on. There were a couple of times this when I reached out for an open rein to circle her, slowing down. She was so happy trotting around that we did some cantering too. Woohooo! fun, fun, fun!!
This afternoon I went down with Marie and after Ginger finished playing with the Lyon boys I took Willow into the indoor. Another fabulous ride. We hardly walked at all and the cantering we did was on her least favorite side. She was again a dream to ride! We rode in the middle while Mister took to the rail and trotted around cones and cantered. Then we're on the rail, going with Mister, changing to going against Mister, trotting, cantering, going to the different letters - Oh my!! 45 minutes of this and it was so, so much fun!
For awhile now, I'd been feeling too nervous to have fun - some over-thinking, some lack of confidence, some fear, some nothing at all to do with riding. That seems to come for me every once in awhile.
I'm planning on keeping those feelings at bay so I can keep having a freakin' ball riding again!!
This style of riding keeps me more relaxed, it seems. I feel more balanced. She feels happier.
The Western riding went so well today, I might have had my best rides ever on Willow! She went everywhere I asked her to, and I kept one-handed most of the time. This morning we did mostly transitions, tons of them. And then she did some lunging for more of the same. She's sometimes vocal, actually squealed when cantering once! And then I got back on. There were a couple of times this when I reached out for an open rein to circle her, slowing down. She was so happy trotting around that we did some cantering too. Woohooo! fun, fun, fun!!
This afternoon I went down with Marie and after Ginger finished playing with the Lyon boys I took Willow into the indoor. Another fabulous ride. We hardly walked at all and the cantering we did was on her least favorite side. She was again a dream to ride! We rode in the middle while Mister took to the rail and trotted around cones and cantered. Then we're on the rail, going with Mister, changing to going against Mister, trotting, cantering, going to the different letters - Oh my!! 45 minutes of this and it was so, so much fun!
For awhile now, I'd been feeling too nervous to have fun - some over-thinking, some lack of confidence, some fear, some nothing at all to do with riding. That seems to come for me every once in awhile.
I'm planning on keeping those feelings at bay so I can keep having a freakin' ball riding again!!
This style of riding keeps me more relaxed, it seems. I feel more balanced. She feels happier.
Tried a new bit on Willow today (a curb, she was using a rotary egg-butt snaffle), prepared for her not to like it. She does like to keep me guessing - she took it like a pro and then walked around like a Western Pleasure champ. It's a pretty bit, too - elegant, not too showy, just like her.
I wasn't sure I'd have the softness for it, but she didn't toss her head once. If I can keep my hands gentle enough (no matter what!), we'll work with that. I'll keep her snaffle close by.
Kept the reins loose at the walk and after viewing the video, will keep them longer at the trot! I need lots of practice riding with one hand again and how to stay relaxed and seated well at the trot/jog but am looking forward to it!
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Let's go find some puddles!
Heading out to find some puddles!
Me (Shelley) on Spirit! :)
Coming up to the road.
Ready to cross. My first time leading.
Just starting in the road, we met up with Mr. Leland who was also enjoying the break from the rain and finishing up a walk himself.
Mr. Leland. (Love this pic Lynn!)
I see a puddle coming up!
Caddy slightly hesitated, but did go through it in the end.
And we were off, Spirit and I in the lead, followed by Kathleen and Caddy, and Pam and Summer. It was a very peaceful ride, with mostly walking due to the slippery mud, but we did get some nice trots in too.
Pics by Lynn :)
One set of hoof prints!
April 23, 2012
Kathleen wanted to get Caddy through some puddles to help her get over that trouble she is having, so although it was a grey and windy day, Todd and I followed her and Caddy on their hunt for puddles. We thought we would start out the driveway and get those puddles in, and if all went well we would continue to Mr. Leland's road. Well in no time at all there we were, watcing Caddy and Kathleen head in the road solo! I said to her that Caddy's prints were the only ones in that fresh mud, and asked her if she ever thought she would see that day...She went slightly ahead of Todd and I, and I could hear her humming, so I knew all was well.
Kathleen wanted to get Caddy through some puddles to help her get over that trouble she is having, so although it was a grey and windy day, Todd and I followed her and Caddy on their hunt for puddles. We thought we would start out the driveway and get those puddles in, and if all went well we would continue to Mr. Leland's road. Well in no time at all there we were, watcing Caddy and Kathleen head in the road solo! I said to her that Caddy's prints were the only ones in that fresh mud, and asked her if she ever thought she would see that day...She went slightly ahead of Todd and I, and I could hear her humming, so I knew all was well.
Puddle Lane
April 24, 2012
Me and Mom and Pam went up Leland's on Caddy and Spirit and Summer. It rained hard today so there were lots of puddles. Caddy has been doing a lot better with the puddles, but she still doesn't go completely through all of them. She goes through most of them but not all of them. But today she went through a lot of them without much trouble. I think everytime she goes through a little puddle she gets better. We didn't do much trotting because it was really mucky and slippery in spots, but it was very peaceful.
Me and Mom and Pam went up Leland's on Caddy and Spirit and Summer. It rained hard today so there were lots of puddles. Caddy has been doing a lot better with the puddles, but she still doesn't go completely through all of them. She goes through most of them but not all of them. But today she went through a lot of them without much trouble. I think everytime she goes through a little puddle she gets better. We didn't do much trotting because it was really mucky and slippery in spots, but it was very peaceful.
Caddy's First Solo
April 23, 2012
Yesterday was a very windy, rainy and grey day, and it was mine and Caddy's first solo ride on Mr. Leland's road. Mom and Dad walked behind for safety, but other than that me and Caddy were on our own. It was a perfect day for puddle hunting. She was very alert, but she was extremely good. She tried to turn a couple of times but we were able to get her going back in the right direction. We made it up a little bit past the tree line and on the way back she was excellent. I was nervous, but I just was humming to her and that calmed us both down. I was proud of her.
Yesterday was a very windy, rainy and grey day, and it was mine and Caddy's first solo ride on Mr. Leland's road. Mom and Dad walked behind for safety, but other than that me and Caddy were on our own. It was a perfect day for puddle hunting. She was very alert, but she was extremely good. She tried to turn a couple of times but we were able to get her going back in the right direction. We made it up a little bit past the tree line and on the way back she was excellent. I was nervous, but I just was humming to her and that calmed us both down. I was proud of her.
Monday, April 23, 2012
TRAILS - Finally VIDEO that shows the cottage roads (Found a video editor to cut down what we had...give me a break, it's my first attempt with software!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=jpFLxPNu0wg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=jpFLxPNu0wg
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Wind - 2012 Training Days 6 & 7
Training Day 6: I had not seen Wind all week and I could not wait to get to the barn. We had some just us time with some lunging and in hand training while we waited for Lynn to get home so we could do a training run up Leland's Road and back. We ended the day with a beautiful 2 hour ride with Lynn, Kathleen, Shelley and Marci, through the quarry trail out to the cottage roads on to the top of the "gallop hill" which provided a breathtaking view of the setting sun on the Kempt Shore, down the hill, across the 215 and down onto the beach. No matter how many times I ride or how many beautiful things I see or how many times I get to share those things with wonderful people, I still am amazed that my life has brought me here to all of this.
Training Day 7: WOW!!! Mock competition day at 1/2 the distance. 15 miles at 6.3 mph. The last time I tried this I was a physical and mental mess and so I was not expecting this to be the greatest run for Wind and I, but I decided to relax, give him his face and just ride. It was amazing. It was my first real sign that if I stick with my training and continue to get stronger that I just might be able to finish that 30 miles next month with some dignity. My wonderful hubby was there along the way to offer support and made sure that Lynn, Pam and I had a picnic lunch set up, complete with table, chairs and music. I was so proud of Wind and I, but I also knew that I could not have done it without all the amazing people around to help us. I know there are going to be difficult days ahead, but that ride just gave me the hope and motivation I was looking for and I can't wait to see what else we can do.
Training Day 7: WOW!!! Mock competition day at 1/2 the distance. 15 miles at 6.3 mph. The last time I tried this I was a physical and mental mess and so I was not expecting this to be the greatest run for Wind and I, but I decided to relax, give him his face and just ride. It was amazing. It was my first real sign that if I stick with my training and continue to get stronger that I just might be able to finish that 30 miles next month with some dignity. My wonderful hubby was there along the way to offer support and made sure that Lynn, Pam and I had a picnic lunch set up, complete with table, chairs and music. I was so proud of Wind and I, but I also knew that I could not have done it without all the amazing people around to help us. I know there are going to be difficult days ahead, but that ride just gave me the hope and motivation I was looking for and I can't wait to see what else we can do.
TRAILS - Cottage roads - walking on horseback
Still trying to figure out how to cut out more exciting/interesting sections of video, but for now, here is a peek at the cottage roads we've been riding on:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=zePT72_aeNU
QUOTE from our greatest Tidal Treasure (Gary)
QUOTE from our greatest Tidal Treasure (Gary)
BACKGROUND: Yesterday was a very busy day down at the barn. People going in six different directions, horses here there and everywhere, busy, busy, busy all day. Gary couldn't get down in the evening to do chores as he had snuck to the emergency room in Windsor to take care of a damaged thumb (still haven't been able to find the hammer!) So, all hands were on deck last night; in his absence, our Tidal Treasures crew took over.
This morning, all is quiet (everyone thought it was going to rain and income taxes are due!) Gary went down to the barn to do his chores, expecting a lot of work to be needed since he missed last night. He has just come up to the house for a coffee. He shook his head, looked at me and softly said ..."Do you know, that barn was spotlessly clean."
It says a lot for this crew to have had such a busy weekend, and then make the effort to ensure our animals are cared for and our barn remains clean and tidy. It shows team pride in the wonderful little community of trail riders that has developed, and we certainly appreciate their efforts. THANKS!
BACKGROUND: Yesterday was a very busy day down at the barn. People going in six different directions, horses here there and everywhere, busy, busy, busy all day. Gary couldn't get down in the evening to do chores as he had snuck to the emergency room in Windsor to take care of a damaged thumb (still haven't been able to find the hammer!) So, all hands were on deck last night; in his absence, our Tidal Treasures crew took over.
This morning, all is quiet (everyone thought it was going to rain and income taxes are due!) Gary went down to the barn to do his chores, expecting a lot of work to be needed since he missed last night. He has just come up to the house for a coffee. He shook his head, looked at me and softly said ..."Do you know, that barn was spotlessly clean."
It says a lot for this crew to have had such a busy weekend, and then make the effort to ensure our animals are cared for and our barn remains clean and tidy. It shows team pride in the wonderful little community of trail riders that has developed, and we certainly appreciate their efforts. THANKS!
SPIRIT - An Endurance Horse Some Day - 72 MILES THIS WEEK!
72 miles this week...how did that happen!!!!! Not sure the last time we blogged, but on Friday we did two rides, a fast one with Tammy and a beautiful slower loop with the group, that took us through the woods, into a field that overlooks the Ocean from afar (have GOT to start bringing my camera), and then all along the beach at sunset...no wind, beautiful sky...about 20 degrees...."heaven" Saturday we trailered to Stanley and rode like the Wind, for 15 miles! Came home and went up the trail "PUDDLE HUNTING" for Caddy - it seems to be the only problem she has with the million different things encountered on a trail.
Looking back, Spirit was tired on Monday, so I didn't push him on Monday. By Friday, I could tell he had worked through whatever was slowing him down and for the last two days, we've been riding with energy and enthusiasm. Knowing your horse is a big part of understanding how far/fast you can go as the days accumulate.
72 miles this week...how did that happen!!!!! Not sure the last time we blogged, but on Friday we did two rides, a fast one with Tammy and a beautiful slower loop with the group, that took us through the woods, into a field that overlooks the Ocean from afar (have GOT to start bringing my camera), and then all along the beach at sunset...no wind, beautiful sky...about 20 degrees...."heaven" Saturday we trailered to Stanley and rode like the Wind, for 15 miles! Came home and went up the trail "PUDDLE HUNTING" for Caddy - it seems to be the only problem she has with the million different things encountered on a trail.
Looking back, Spirit was tired on Monday, so I didn't push him on Monday. By Friday, I could tell he had worked through whatever was slowing him down and for the last two days, we've been riding with energy and enthusiasm. Knowing your horse is a big part of understanding how far/fast you can go as the days accumulate.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Lynn and Spirit, Kathleen and Caddy, and Willow and I went hunting for puddles! Caddy doesn't seem to spook at much, but she isn't liking the puddles very much, and so we were on a bit of a mission. It did start to sprinkle when we started out, much to Kathleen's delight at the thought of some great puddles, however it was short lived. Our puddle had dried up, but there was some muck and water still, and this is Caddy going through it without hesitating.
Yesterday (Friday, April 20th) I enjoyed a nice trail ride back the Quarry road, and then we came out at the top of a beautiful field with a view that would take your breath away, and finally out onto the beach and back around to the barn. It was about a 2 hour ride, and I think it was around 6.5 miles.
Tammy and Wind were our leaders, and they did an awesome job letting us know when to stay to the left or right, if there were big rutts or anything to watch for. I was very impressed at how that big boy went right under a low branch for Tammy and she just reached up and tossed it aside like a pro! Nope there was no getting off for her. I even watched when on the beach she beautifully sat a buck that Wind did, and I do believe she said it was her first, although you'd never have known that.
Lynn and Spirit were very patient and helpful at getting Caddy successfully through this rough trail for the first time. I was so proud of Kathleen and Caddy! They had a wonderful ride together. It's nice to get so excited over Caddy going through a puddle, down or up a steeper hill than she'd be use to, or just at how well she did walking through a boggy spot. They were a great team, and it did my heart good to see them have such a ride, with lots of great firsts for them both. Kathleen was on cloud 9 the whole time, not believing that she was on her horse out on the trails. She told me that it almost brought a tear to her eye a time or two. I always knew this day would come for her, and I'm loving watching Caddy continue to surprise her, and at her surprising herself too. They are going to have a great future together.
Summer and I and Sam and Marcie were behind in our line up. We all sang a line or two on our journey, and had lots of laughs too. Beautiful ride. My knees were feeling it though...all that walking with little trots here and there is good for me, but I felt it! :)
Tammy and Wind were our leaders, and they did an awesome job letting us know when to stay to the left or right, if there were big rutts or anything to watch for. I was very impressed at how that big boy went right under a low branch for Tammy and she just reached up and tossed it aside like a pro! Nope there was no getting off for her. I even watched when on the beach she beautifully sat a buck that Wind did, and I do believe she said it was her first, although you'd never have known that.
Lynn and Spirit were very patient and helpful at getting Caddy successfully through this rough trail for the first time. I was so proud of Kathleen and Caddy! They had a wonderful ride together. It's nice to get so excited over Caddy going through a puddle, down or up a steeper hill than she'd be use to, or just at how well she did walking through a boggy spot. They were a great team, and it did my heart good to see them have such a ride, with lots of great firsts for them both. Kathleen was on cloud 9 the whole time, not believing that she was on her horse out on the trails. She told me that it almost brought a tear to her eye a time or two. I always knew this day would come for her, and I'm loving watching Caddy continue to surprise her, and at her surprising herself too. They are going to have a great future together.
Summer and I and Sam and Marcie were behind in our line up. We all sang a line or two on our journey, and had lots of laughs too. Beautiful ride. My knees were feeling it though...all that walking with little trots here and there is good for me, but I felt it! :)
Yesterday me and Caddy, and Lynn and Spirit, Tammy and Wind ,Mom and Summer, Marcie and Sam all went on a trail ride back the quarry trail onto the cottage roads. we all did excellent, i was so proud of Caddy , she had some trouble at a couple mud puddles, but she went through all the narrow roads steep hills little bridges roots, logs ,swamps,everything like a pro. I am so glad that we did it together. It felt like we really connected on the trail and i know that will just grow stronger. After we got out of the woods we got onto the beach and went back to the barn, and she went through all the mud and big rocks excellently, and she went up the little bank to get to the barn with out hesitation she just went trot trot leap leap jump. I cant wait to do it again.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Aziim 3
Grooming session this afternoon in the pasture. Grabbed brushes, hoofpick, halter & lead and found him dozing by the gate next to Paris lying flat on the ground, soaking up the sun. He must take guard duty, 'cause he was standing right next to her - he IS the great defender/protector, after all.
Well, he was so wild that Paris was moved to lift up her head. Actually, he slept through most of it - opened his eyes while I did his feet and dozed the rest of the time!
He did do a tiny, really fast spin once - I brushed an old rain rot spot and that surprised him. We recovered quickly and carried on, brushing the same spot again with no trouble.
And he did object once when I went to brush his off side - backed up and faced me - so we worked on that a bit before carrying on. A reminder to wear my helmet when I'm with him, maybe, even though he didn't bang his chin on my head this time! He and Summer and Willow all are highly amused by my height - or lack of height, really!
He got a piece of carrot when we were done and he watched me go before waking Paris to go for a little run. He was feeling pretty handsome, I think.
Well, he was so wild that Paris was moved to lift up her head. Actually, he slept through most of it - opened his eyes while I did his feet and dozed the rest of the time!
He did do a tiny, really fast spin once - I brushed an old rain rot spot and that surprised him. We recovered quickly and carried on, brushing the same spot again with no trouble.
And he did object once when I went to brush his off side - backed up and faced me - so we worked on that a bit before carrying on. A reminder to wear my helmet when I'm with him, maybe, even though he didn't bang his chin on my head this time! He and Summer and Willow all are highly amused by my height - or lack of height, really!
He got a piece of carrot when we were done and he watched me go before waking Paris to go for a little run. He was feeling pretty handsome, I think.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Tonight while I waited for Kathleen and Caddy to get back from their 5 mile trail ride (with Lynn and Spirit, Pam and Summer, and Marie and Mister), I saddled up Willow, and Carrilee was kind enough to teach me about diagonals. I had heard about diagonals from Lynn, but had no clue what they were. Carrilee was a great teacher, and I feel like by the end of my ride I had it down fairly well.
This was my first really enjoyable ride on Willow. She was trying to test me at first, not wanting to stay on the rail (that is why my earlier rides were not so enjoyable-- I was new in the saddle - just learning, and I had to work so hard to keep her on the rail, and not always successfully I might add) but I think one difference now, is that as I am continuing to learn, I have more tools to work with. Tonight Willow and I trotted in both directions of the outdoor arena, and were for the most part on the rail, while I practiced posting with diagonals in mind. She was very good with me. It was a beautiful night and an enjoyable ride. Thanks Carrilee and Willow!
This was my first really enjoyable ride on Willow. She was trying to test me at first, not wanting to stay on the rail (that is why my earlier rides were not so enjoyable-- I was new in the saddle - just learning, and I had to work so hard to keep her on the rail, and not always successfully I might add) but I think one difference now, is that as I am continuing to learn, I have more tools to work with. Tonight Willow and I trotted in both directions of the outdoor arena, and were for the most part on the rail, while I practiced posting with diagonals in mind. She was very good with me. It was a beautiful night and an enjoyable ride. Thanks Carrilee and Willow!
This is the speech I did for 4H this year.
Madam chairman, honourable judges, fellow 4-h members, family and friends,
Life goes by so fast, and sometimes we don’t realize it because we get so caught up in our everyday routines. But have you ever just stopped to think about how you got to where you are today in your life? Well I’ve learned a lot about myself in the last few months, I’ve learned that if I have a dream and don’t give up on it can come true, because sometimes life takes unexpected turns.
Six months ago, my life took an unexpected turn, but it was a good one. It took me to a place where I feel like I belong, it took me to a place called Tidal Treasures. Tidal Treasures is where we board my horse, Caddy. There are also 13 other horses there that I have come to love, along with some very special people. Ever since I’ve been there my life has been a lot more exciting.
Tidal Treasures is the place where I met my new best friend Aziim. At first it was hard because we didn’t really know each other, or if we would even like each other. But like most good things in life, we had to work at it, to gain each others trust and respect. When I’m with Aziim, I feel like my whole day just got 10 times better! Sometimes I have to work really hard to understand what he is trying to tell me, but with patience and guidance from the Tidal Treasure crew, I always figure out what it is he is trying to say. If you haven’t already guessed, my friend Aziim is a horse, he is a 5 year old Arabian who I have been given the opportunity to help train and ride by his owner, Troy. Aziim and I have a lot to learn, but we’ll do it together.
My time with Aziim has helped me to train my horse Caddy, who was a trained race horse. Caddy never had anyone ride in a saddle on her back, she didn’t even know how to trott because they are taught to pace. With many hours put in by many people, Caddy is now trained enough that we are riding through the trails, with all the mud puddles and bumps you can throw our way, and let me tell you, we are both taking it all in stride because we have the confidence to do it!
When I was riding through the woods on my horse, Caddy, I was thinking about my life, and I did stop to think about how we got here. We got here with with a lot of work and determination, some frustrating times and lots of good times, and with help from many different people along the way. And now we are at the point in our journey that has brought us to Tidal Treasures. It is with their support that Caddy is realizing what she can do, and I’m continuing to learn who I can be, and wondering what life has in store for me next.
Madam chairman, honourable judges, fellow 4-h members, family and friends,
Life goes by so fast, and sometimes we don’t realize it because we get so caught up in our everyday routines. But have you ever just stopped to think about how you got to where you are today in your life? Well I’ve learned a lot about myself in the last few months, I’ve learned that if I have a dream and don’t give up on it can come true, because sometimes life takes unexpected turns.
Six months ago, my life took an unexpected turn, but it was a good one. It took me to a place where I feel like I belong, it took me to a place called Tidal Treasures. Tidal Treasures is where we board my horse, Caddy. There are also 13 other horses there that I have come to love, along with some very special people. Ever since I’ve been there my life has been a lot more exciting.
Tidal Treasures is the place where I met my new best friend Aziim. At first it was hard because we didn’t really know each other, or if we would even like each other. But like most good things in life, we had to work at it, to gain each others trust and respect. When I’m with Aziim, I feel like my whole day just got 10 times better! Sometimes I have to work really hard to understand what he is trying to tell me, but with patience and guidance from the Tidal Treasure crew, I always figure out what it is he is trying to say. If you haven’t already guessed, my friend Aziim is a horse, he is a 5 year old Arabian who I have been given the opportunity to help train and ride by his owner, Troy. Aziim and I have a lot to learn, but we’ll do it together.
My time with Aziim has helped me to train my horse Caddy, who was a trained race horse. Caddy never had anyone ride in a saddle on her back, she didn’t even know how to trott because they are taught to pace. With many hours put in by many people, Caddy is now trained enough that we are riding through the trails, with all the mud puddles and bumps you can throw our way, and let me tell you, we are both taking it all in stride because we have the confidence to do it!
When I was riding through the woods on my horse, Caddy, I was thinking about my life, and I did stop to think about how we got here. We got here with with a lot of work and determination, some frustrating times and lots of good times, and with help from many different people along the way. And now we are at the point in our journey that has brought us to Tidal Treasures. It is with their support that Caddy is realizing what she can do, and I’m continuing to learn who I can be, and wondering what life has in store for me next.
caddy and khol
April 16th, Caddy and Khol got their own pasture together. I'm so happy because now Caddy has a real friend. They ran and were happy together right away. They even shared supper from the same dish.
Aziim 2
It's been a week since I took Aziim out. I spent the week thinking, reading, thinking, reading, stopping by Aziim's pasture and looking at him, calling him to the fence (in vain) and going in to the pasture to say hello - he ignored me completely. Once he looked at me by the fence, bent one ear back, and deliberately turned his butt towards me - I swear I saw him roll his eyes at me first! When we played last week, I couldn't get him to lunge and when I rode him, although he did what I asked, he really wasn't that interested in me.
Monday morning I stood by the fence watching him and Paris munching their hay and he pinned his ears back when I said hi. Hmmph, I thought. Fine, I'm taking your hay - so in I went and stood on his hay and told him to get back. He backed but swung his head around and said "hey, you can't take my hay, get off it!" Stood my ground until he went around to steal some of Paris' hay, watching me while he munched. His head came down and I gave him a handful and a scrub on the neck and said "See you soon, Aziim." He watched me leave and I think I saw him thinking...
Wednesday, Kathleen and I went to get him - she showed me how she puts his halter on after leading him into the indoor arena, she showed me what groundwork she's done with him. Mister and Marie were working on the rail. She led him around and I watched them, he was nice and calm and a bit interested in Mister and listening well to Kathleen.
I took him and showed her how I couldn't get him to lunge - he's fast and turns to face me! Took my new Easter-present dressage stick and went right behind his shoulder, pointing with my leadline hand, gently waving my stick up and down in the other hand and stuck to my position at his ribs like glue (man! the boy is fast!) and off he went - lunging on the leadline. Whew! Worked on that side (left rein) until I was able to send him off in a pretty good circle around me and get a nice halt and walk again. He heard a ton of "GOOD BOY!s". Then the right rein - much more difficult! Kathleen showed me that he prefers you back to his shoulder on that side, so that was trickier to get started. More dancing and backing to face me! Man alive! We did get it done but I didn't get the nice circle and halt yet on that side - another day. I could get him around me but I had to stick close! He will lift his head over mine to move away but I had my helmet on and he banged his chin - the first time it sounded like it hurt but the next two times he didn't seem to use as much energy. He asked me to take off that helmet but when I said no he seemed resigned and didn't do that again. For today, anyway!
Then we had a nice grooming session, he was just shy of perfect with his feet - only once did I have to tell him he'd get my elbow in his shoulder if he pulled his off front hoof away and I can touch him everywhere - more "GOOD BOY!s". He has a scrape on his off shoulder, so Kat went for her bag balm and rubbed that on. It was dry and not sore or warm - he said Paris did it but she denies it. He showed me how he likes to nip at Kat while she was holding his head so we traded and I pinched his muzzle when he did it to me - ha! He only did it twice. I felt again that he was thinking about this new lady.
Put his side pull on and hopped on. Kept to the gate end of the arena and walked lots of circles - no straight lines longer than four Aziim lengths. He paid good attention to me while still looking around at Mister and a couple of deadly-looking sunbeams. He moved off really well and didn't stop at the gate or anywhere - nice! Tons and tons of "GOOD BOY!s". He doesn't always like his ears touched so much so while I'm sitting there on him, I rub his neck and make my way up to his ears - he was surprised when lifting his head up gave me more ear to rub! again, Ha! He will let me move my legs all over him while I'm up there and we're standing and he stands really nicely while I scrub him everywhere I can reach.
We did this until supper time which he had in a stall. Then a free lunge in the indoor, very nicely done and outside we went with Shelley and Willow. My first time outside with him.
He was very, very good! I stuck to 1/4 of the arena, doing tiny, medium and larger circles from that corner to the gate to the middle of the arena. Nice, nice boy!! He stood nicely watching Willow sometimes while Shelley and I talked. He stood nicely when the walkie talkie in my pocket started sounding like Auntie Lynn. (I had a tiny stroke myself, but he didn't care - just listened). The only time he gave me any attitude was when he could see that Khol saw something deserving of notice - the trail riders were coming home. We did a couple of quick circles and he could watch as long as he kept moving where I asked. What a GOOD BOY!!
So that's it. Long blog about just walking.
My legs are tired - inner thigh, above the knee. I forgot to turn on my GPS thingy. We just walked. I have no idea if what I doing with him is really inspiring respect from him or just giving me confidence. But, for me, my second day out with him was fabulous and I loved it.
GOOD BOY!
Monday morning I stood by the fence watching him and Paris munching their hay and he pinned his ears back when I said hi. Hmmph, I thought. Fine, I'm taking your hay - so in I went and stood on his hay and told him to get back. He backed but swung his head around and said "hey, you can't take my hay, get off it!" Stood my ground until he went around to steal some of Paris' hay, watching me while he munched. His head came down and I gave him a handful and a scrub on the neck and said "See you soon, Aziim." He watched me leave and I think I saw him thinking...
Wednesday, Kathleen and I went to get him - she showed me how she puts his halter on after leading him into the indoor arena, she showed me what groundwork she's done with him. Mister and Marie were working on the rail. She led him around and I watched them, he was nice and calm and a bit interested in Mister and listening well to Kathleen.
I took him and showed her how I couldn't get him to lunge - he's fast and turns to face me! Took my new Easter-present dressage stick and went right behind his shoulder, pointing with my leadline hand, gently waving my stick up and down in the other hand and stuck to my position at his ribs like glue (man! the boy is fast!) and off he went - lunging on the leadline. Whew! Worked on that side (left rein) until I was able to send him off in a pretty good circle around me and get a nice halt and walk again. He heard a ton of "GOOD BOY!s". Then the right rein - much more difficult! Kathleen showed me that he prefers you back to his shoulder on that side, so that was trickier to get started. More dancing and backing to face me! Man alive! We did get it done but I didn't get the nice circle and halt yet on that side - another day. I could get him around me but I had to stick close! He will lift his head over mine to move away but I had my helmet on and he banged his chin - the first time it sounded like it hurt but the next two times he didn't seem to use as much energy. He asked me to take off that helmet but when I said no he seemed resigned and didn't do that again. For today, anyway!
Then we had a nice grooming session, he was just shy of perfect with his feet - only once did I have to tell him he'd get my elbow in his shoulder if he pulled his off front hoof away and I can touch him everywhere - more "GOOD BOY!s". He has a scrape on his off shoulder, so Kat went for her bag balm and rubbed that on. It was dry and not sore or warm - he said Paris did it but she denies it. He showed me how he likes to nip at Kat while she was holding his head so we traded and I pinched his muzzle when he did it to me - ha! He only did it twice. I felt again that he was thinking about this new lady.
Put his side pull on and hopped on. Kept to the gate end of the arena and walked lots of circles - no straight lines longer than four Aziim lengths. He paid good attention to me while still looking around at Mister and a couple of deadly-looking sunbeams. He moved off really well and didn't stop at the gate or anywhere - nice! Tons and tons of "GOOD BOY!s". He doesn't always like his ears touched so much so while I'm sitting there on him, I rub his neck and make my way up to his ears - he was surprised when lifting his head up gave me more ear to rub! again, Ha! He will let me move my legs all over him while I'm up there and we're standing and he stands really nicely while I scrub him everywhere I can reach.
We did this until supper time which he had in a stall. Then a free lunge in the indoor, very nicely done and outside we went with Shelley and Willow. My first time outside with him.
He was very, very good! I stuck to 1/4 of the arena, doing tiny, medium and larger circles from that corner to the gate to the middle of the arena. Nice, nice boy!! He stood nicely watching Willow sometimes while Shelley and I talked. He stood nicely when the walkie talkie in my pocket started sounding like Auntie Lynn. (I had a tiny stroke myself, but he didn't care - just listened). The only time he gave me any attitude was when he could see that Khol saw something deserving of notice - the trail riders were coming home. We did a couple of quick circles and he could watch as long as he kept moving where I asked. What a GOOD BOY!!
So that's it. Long blog about just walking.
My legs are tired - inner thigh, above the knee. I forgot to turn on my GPS thingy. We just walked. I have no idea if what I doing with him is really inspiring respect from him or just giving me confidence. But, for me, my second day out with him was fabulous and I loved it.
GOOD BOY!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Easter Egg Hunt
Spirit - An Endurance Horse Some Day
SPIRIT - AN ENDURANCE HORSE SOME DAY
Trying to figure out a catchy title for Spirit's story...think I'll stick with the one above till I have time to think of something a little more creative. Today, Tuesday April 17, 2012, we went a total of 9 miles. 8.5 miles at 7.3 mph with 1/4 mile at beginning and end for warm up/cool down. I was planning on three trips up Leland's but only did two - the boy felt tired and I didn't have a heart rate monitor on. Although I must say, he seemed to have a lot more energy going up the 2nd time. I just finished reading about something called "negative splits" (last laps faster than first laps) and how they are considered a good thing when training a horse for endurance. Well, I haven't figured out yet how to set my GPS for "laps" but I did not need a GPS to tell me that the 2nd lap was faster than the 1st lap today...we crawled the first lap and I had to hold him back on the 2nd.
Note: Summer and Pam were with us.
Trying to figure out a catchy title for Spirit's story...think I'll stick with the one above till I have time to think of something a little more creative. Today, Tuesday April 17, 2012, we went a total of 9 miles. 8.5 miles at 7.3 mph with 1/4 mile at beginning and end for warm up/cool down. I was planning on three trips up Leland's but only did two - the boy felt tired and I didn't have a heart rate monitor on. Although I must say, he seemed to have a lot more energy going up the 2nd time. I just finished reading about something called "negative splits" (last laps faster than first laps) and how they are considered a good thing when training a horse for endurance. Well, I haven't figured out yet how to set my GPS for "laps" but I did not need a GPS to tell me that the 2nd lap was faster than the 1st lap today...we crawled the first lap and I had to hold him back on the 2nd.
Note: Summer and Pam were with us.
Wind - 2012 Training Days 2-5
Training Day 2: 5 miles at 8.5 mph. Again, my brave boy and I went up Leland's Road and back. I found this run a little easier and was really happy with reaching the mph target.
Training Day 3: Another 5 miles, this time at a more leisurely pace and with other horses/riders. It was in the evening as the sun was setting and everyone survived a spook from a pheasant laying in wait. I'm very happy to be hitting the trails again with hubby now that he has Aziim (our 5 year old Egyptian Arabian) out and about.
Training Day 4: 10 miles in new territory. Wind and I, Lynn and Spirit, Pam and Summer and Marci and Sam walked on foot about a 1/4 mile down the road to the local rec area and then mounted up. We did some technical stuff through some beautiful woods, although I must admit woods, especially if there is a lot of ducking of trees is not my favourite place to ride unless the path is wide open. I do recognize though that this kind of exposure is good for me and Wind and it does give me a sense of accomplishment and Wind is very good at responding to my cues in order to navigate difficult areas. We came out of the woods onto cottage roads. After 7 miles, I gave Wind to Troy to do some riding, as I needed a rest and then I did 3 more miles to get us home. I found this ride very challenging and difficult, but I was glad to have the opportunity.
Training Day 5: 5 more solo miles at 6.5 mph. I was going to do another 5, but it was obvious that Wind needed some rest. He is not the typical breed for competitive trail and we need to be cautious that we don't overdo it. He does very well when he is properly conditioned, but we are just starting out and he still has some of his winter coat. So, no more riding for me for the rest of the week. I'm very proud of myself and Wind for having accomplished 33 miles in the last week and we have had a lot of help and encouragement from the Tidal Treasures team. Special shout out to hubby who has been so helpful. Love you more than words can say.
Training Day 3: Another 5 miles, this time at a more leisurely pace and with other horses/riders. It was in the evening as the sun was setting and everyone survived a spook from a pheasant laying in wait. I'm very happy to be hitting the trails again with hubby now that he has Aziim (our 5 year old Egyptian Arabian) out and about.
Training Day 4: 10 miles in new territory. Wind and I, Lynn and Spirit, Pam and Summer and Marci and Sam walked on foot about a 1/4 mile down the road to the local rec area and then mounted up. We did some technical stuff through some beautiful woods, although I must admit woods, especially if there is a lot of ducking of trees is not my favourite place to ride unless the path is wide open. I do recognize though that this kind of exposure is good for me and Wind and it does give me a sense of accomplishment and Wind is very good at responding to my cues in order to navigate difficult areas. We came out of the woods onto cottage roads. After 7 miles, I gave Wind to Troy to do some riding, as I needed a rest and then I did 3 more miles to get us home. I found this ride very challenging and difficult, but I was glad to have the opportunity.
Training Day 5: 5 more solo miles at 6.5 mph. I was going to do another 5, but it was obvious that Wind needed some rest. He is not the typical breed for competitive trail and we need to be cautious that we don't overdo it. He does very well when he is properly conditioned, but we are just starting out and he still has some of his winter coat. So, no more riding for me for the rest of the week. I'm very proud of myself and Wind for having accomplished 33 miles in the last week and we have had a lot of help and encouragement from the Tidal Treasures team. Special shout out to hubby who has been so helpful. Love you more than words can say.
Monday, April 16, 2012
SPIRIT...Sunday April 15 and Monday April 16
15 miles on Sunday....tough miles....new trail, harder (literally..ground is harder than Leland's) road, cottages, dogs, ATV's... Spirit and the other horses were stressed physically and mentally. I LOVE OUR NEW TRAIL!!! Will post video soon
4.7 miles on Monday....nice easy walk (horses are all a bit tired) up to the cottage road. Took Shelley/Summer combo with us so Shelley could see how beautiful it was. SHE LOVES OUR NEW TRAIL! (Once we trim it a bit....Tammy will love it too!)
15 miles on Sunday....tough miles....new trail, harder (literally..ground is harder than Leland's) road, cottages, dogs, ATV's... Spirit and the other horses were stressed physically and mentally. I LOVE OUR NEW TRAIL!!! Will post video soon
4.7 miles on Monday....nice easy walk (horses are all a bit tired) up to the cottage road. Took Shelley/Summer combo with us so Shelley could see how beautiful it was. SHE LOVES OUR NEW TRAIL! (Once we trim it a bit....Tammy will love it too!)
Shelley- A New Experience.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Well tonight was another first for me! Lynn took me for a wonderful ride back through beautiful, rough woods roads. I was on Summer, and she was on Spirit. It was 4.7 miles of beautiful trees with the sun shinning through in spots, frogs singing around us and birds trying hard to spook our horses by singing too! It was so peaceful, and the feeling is hard to describe. Yes there were branches in the face on occasion...but I didn't care! We went down, and then up some steeper little spots, which was also a first for me, as I haven't been on much other than somewhat flatter ground--and although it was a different feel, with Lynn's guidance on how to properly sit it, and Summer being an old pro-it was just great! I loved one little spot when we trotted up a bit of a steeper hill-man that was fun! There were little twists and turns, some boggy spots-oh what fun! Uh oh Lynn what are you creating here in me??? I am hooked!
Well tonight was another first for me! Lynn took me for a wonderful ride back through beautiful, rough woods roads. I was on Summer, and she was on Spirit. It was 4.7 miles of beautiful trees with the sun shinning through in spots, frogs singing around us and birds trying hard to spook our horses by singing too! It was so peaceful, and the feeling is hard to describe. Yes there were branches in the face on occasion...but I didn't care! We went down, and then up some steeper little spots, which was also a first for me, as I haven't been on much other than somewhat flatter ground--and although it was a different feel, with Lynn's guidance on how to properly sit it, and Summer being an old pro-it was just great! I loved one little spot when we trotted up a bit of a steeper hill-man that was fun! There were little twists and turns, some boggy spots-oh what fun! Uh oh Lynn what are you creating here in me??? I am hooked!
Hi my horse's name is Caddy. She is a 10 year old Standardbred. She is very challenging, but I feel like I can handle her. When we first got her she had TERRIBLE ground manners. She would rush past you and lead you around. She had very little saddle training and could barely trott because she was taught to pace when she was a racehorse. Now with the help of Troy and the Tidal Treasure crew, she has excellent ground manners, and is trotting 70 laps around the arena with me on her back. I love her. I also ride Aziim, I love him so much, he makes me happy and I love riding him. I feel like me and Aziim have a unbreakable relationship, when I'm on his back I feel unsttopable and I know I'm gonna feel that way on Caddy's back too! I love it at Tidal Treasures! <3
Shelley- The Beginning Of My Story...
Ok so here I am...finally on the Blog after a lot of help (thanks Carrilee for your patience with me). I have never blogged before (is that even how you'd say it?) I have never followed blogs before, and I'm not even sure if this will work when I attempt to post it, but if there's something I've learned in the past little while, it is to Never say Never!
You see not only am I here posting my first blog ever, but it is about horses! Horses have been a part of our life for years now because of our daughter Kathleen's love for them, but did I ever see myself as anything other than her Mom on the sidelines watching... (which don't get me wrong I love to do, and still do...I don't know if she realizes it or not, but I am her biggest fan!) but you see now I am also riding, something I never really considered myself doing...imagine that! I still can hardly believe it myself sometimes.
We came to Tidal Treasures in October of 2011, with our Standardbred horse, Caddy. We always loved her, and knew she had something special about her, but we really needed a lot of help and guidance in getting that out of her, and that is exactly what the crew at Tidal Treasures offered us. We knew Caddy needed them, but I don't think any of us knew how much we all needed them, because just look at us now!
I had no idea I would ever be riding, but when the oppourtunity came my way, I thought why not! I am surprising myself at how comfortable I am in the saddle, and I know that it is because of the guidance, encouragement and support that I've received from everyone at the barn. If anyone had told me 6 months ago I'd be riding trails and putting on the miles on horseback, I'd have thought they were crazy!
I feel blessed to have met some wonderful people who I consider friends, and to have the oppourtunity to ride different horses, and to have so many new and wonderful experiences.
I never saw this coming, but I'm loving every minute of it... and I just can't wait to see what's next!
You see not only am I here posting my first blog ever, but it is about horses! Horses have been a part of our life for years now because of our daughter Kathleen's love for them, but did I ever see myself as anything other than her Mom on the sidelines watching... (which don't get me wrong I love to do, and still do...I don't know if she realizes it or not, but I am her biggest fan!) but you see now I am also riding, something I never really considered myself doing...imagine that! I still can hardly believe it myself sometimes.
We came to Tidal Treasures in October of 2011, with our Standardbred horse, Caddy. We always loved her, and knew she had something special about her, but we really needed a lot of help and guidance in getting that out of her, and that is exactly what the crew at Tidal Treasures offered us. We knew Caddy needed them, but I don't think any of us knew how much we all needed them, because just look at us now!
I had no idea I would ever be riding, but when the oppourtunity came my way, I thought why not! I am surprising myself at how comfortable I am in the saddle, and I know that it is because of the guidance, encouragement and support that I've received from everyone at the barn. If anyone had told me 6 months ago I'd be riding trails and putting on the miles on horseback, I'd have thought they were crazy!
I feel blessed to have met some wonderful people who I consider friends, and to have the oppourtunity to ride different horses, and to have so many new and wonderful experiences.
I never saw this coming, but I'm loving every minute of it... and I just can't wait to see what's next!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Spirit - Saturday April 14, 2012 (and Friday) 10 miles
We went for a 5 mile walk tonight up Leland's and back. We had quite a few horses and riders with us. Made Spirit practice his "dressage" walk (on the bit and really pushing from behind). Las night we also did a fairly light 5 miles (2.5 at trot, rest at a walk.) Tomorrow will be our "fast" day.
We went for a 5 mile walk tonight up Leland's and back. We had quite a few horses and riders with us. Made Spirit practice his "dressage" walk (on the bit and really pushing from behind). Las night we also did a fairly light 5 miles (2.5 at trot, rest at a walk.) Tomorrow will be our "fast" day.
Riding Mister
I love riding and I love riding Mister.
He's very old but with the exercise he's been getting
he will be ready for those trails pretty soon.
But even just walking is fun on Mister, he's pretty funny too.
We were walking one day and he just kept on stopping at the mounting
block and I didn't know why! He was stopping there because he wanted
me to get off !
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Tidal Treasures Stables: Aziim
My name is Aziim El Ibriz and this is my story. I am an Egyptian Arabian and was born on this day, 12 April 2007. I was named Aziim which is a derivative of Azim meaning "Protector and Defender" The extra I in my name is associated with "Great" and as such I am named, "Great Protector".
I was born at El Ibriz stables operated by Nancy Bourque (that is her hand holding me below). My parents were Ansata El Ibriz and Nasula and their parents were Ansata Halim Shah, Ansata Rebecca, Rofann and Naufara. Although I was happy in my barn, one day a tall bald guy walked into the barn and I wanted him to be my human so I nudged him in the back while he was looking at my uncle. He didn't respond so I nudged him again and when he turned around, I looked way up with my big bright eyes and said, "excuse me mister could you take me home". He didn't appear to understand horse talk, but he understood the look and the next thing I knew I was flying down the highway behind his truck. 
This is me my first little while in my new home, it seemed a bit small, but so was I and my servant came twice a day with food and I was warm, loved and happy.
Then one day they took me out and put me in the big scary pond and this is me looking over my new kingdom at the ripe age of two. I wanted to make sure everyone knew where to bring the food and of course who was in charge so I stood here for a long time. Then when I realized that the big horses were staying out of my space because of the fences between us and not the fear of my manliness I had to slightly adjust my attitude. Of course this was not before tearing down many fences and, ok I may have crashed through a door or three, but fortunately I did not have to turn around and kick some butt. 
This is me at three and I am very aware of how good looking I am. I sometimes have my trainer walk me around the arena to help him understand how royalty needs to be treated, but for the most part life is sweet just lounging around eating and sleeping.
Things have taken a turn for the worse; suddenly he is putting one of those things on me that I see on the help. I am not sure why because nobody gets on top of it, but I am very disgusted to be getting the same apparel as those big worker horses.
This is me at four strutting my stuff in the outdoor arena, what a beautiful view and the ocean looks nice too.
This year I am the help, but it is OK because I am making some really nice new friends and enjoying all the love and friendship that Tidal Treasures has to offer. My little sister went and got her leg cut so I miss running with her, but she will be back soon cause her servant takes really good care of her and would never let her be hurt for long. Pam and Summer
PAM AND SUMMER
Pam rode Summer up Leland's alone - no other rider or horse? (Round trip of 5 miles). Just the two of them in the wild yonder (of Leland's backyard) Well, they were not the fastest equine pair to take on the challenge, but by golly they did it!? Rider was looking very pensive on the way out of the driveway and very smiley on the way back! Barn owner (me) was about to round up a posse when the glare from Pam's smile hit the kitchen window and temporarily blinded me! She is very proud of herself and her horse and so she should be! Congratulations Pam!
Dozer the Dog wants Pam to know that he was forced to stay in the house for the "whole evolution"...(Near drove me crazy crawling around the house with his back legs crossed.) He expects to be compensated for the inconvenience and he isn't talking carrots!
Pam rode Summer up Leland's alone - no other rider or horse? (Round trip of 5 miles). Just the two of them in the wild yonder (of Leland's backyard) Well, they were not the fastest equine pair to take on the challenge, but by golly they did it!? Rider was looking very pensive on the way out of the driveway and very smiley on the way back! Barn owner (me) was about to round up a posse when the glare from Pam's smile hit the kitchen window and temporarily blinded me! She is very proud of herself and her horse and so she should be! Congratulations Pam!
Dozer the Dog wants Pam to know that he was forced to stay in the house for the "whole evolution"...(Near drove me crazy crawling around the house with his back legs crossed.) He expects to be compensated for the inconvenience and he isn't talking carrots!
Paris
PARIS (April 12, 2012)
Hello my name is Paris. I am a four year old Arabian. Yesterday, the farrier tried to put shoes on my feet. He has done it before and also trimmed me tons of times but yesterday I DID NOT want him touching my feet. I have a sore leg (because that big Meany Summer kicked me while we were lunging on Tuesday and cut my leg) and I was having nothing to do with being shod. Now the farrier has gone and told Lynn that she has to do a ton of ground work with me. This does not make sense…I have been an ANGEL every time till yesterday. I know she agrees with me but she’ll put me through the training anyway….just to be sure and because she was planning on doing it anyway. Considering the bad luck I've been having lately, she'll probably work really hard at getting me used to water too because she knows I hate water and I know she's been meaning to trying to convince me otherwise (hee hee good luck with that Lynn) Sigh sigh sigh….gotta go eat more grass Bye! PS. Happy Birthday Aziim!
Hello my name is Paris. I am a four year old Arabian. Yesterday, the farrier tried to put shoes on my feet. He has done it before and also trimmed me tons of times but yesterday I DID NOT want him touching my feet. I have a sore leg (because that big Meany Summer kicked me while we were lunging on Tuesday and cut my leg) and I was having nothing to do with being shod. Now the farrier has gone and told Lynn that she has to do a ton of ground work with me. This does not make sense…I have been an ANGEL every time till yesterday. I know she agrees with me but she’ll put me through the training anyway….just to be sure and because she was planning on doing it anyway. Considering the bad luck I've been having lately, she'll probably work really hard at getting me used to water too because she knows I hate water and I know she's been meaning to trying to convince me otherwise (hee hee good luck with that Lynn) Sigh sigh sigh….gotta go eat more grass Bye! PS. Happy Birthday Aziim!
Spirit
SPIRIT - April 11, 2012 – 5 miles
Walked the first ½ mile. The road was wet and fairly muddy so we did a light trot for 4.5 miles (7 mph). Spirit had been quite spooky the day before when ridden by Troy in a different saddle and for part of the ride he was on his own. Today, back with me, regular saddle and a buddy (Summer), he was quite relaxed. All the riding over the weekend helped though; he was calm and I didn’t have to pull back on him when Summer led on the way home.
Walked the first ½ mile. The road was wet and fairly muddy so we did a light trot for 4.5 miles (7 mph). Spirit had been quite spooky the day before when ridden by Troy in a different saddle and for part of the ride he was on his own. Today, back with me, regular saddle and a buddy (Summer), he was quite relaxed. All the riding over the weekend helped though; he was calm and I didn’t have to pull back on him when Summer led on the way home.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Aziim 1
My first day taking the boy by myself. It's a beautiful warm day and I feel good about getting to know him but am not sure how much, if any, trotting I'm going to do. (Note to self: looking back, I believe that meant I was a bit nervous but didn't recognize/admit that until later!)
Removing his halter and putting on his sidepull went really well - he was happy to drop his nose in and have the throat strap buckled. Lead him into the indoor where we walked around a bit and then picked his feet and brushed him - all went really well. Lianne was there, for Sam and she held his head while I did his feet and she moved the mounting block for me after I got on.
We rode at a walk around the arena a couple of times doing a couple of circles along the long end as we went, not getting all the way to the end because of his ears trained hard on those scary things over there. I wasn't sure when he'd run but was pretty sure he would if we got too close! (So am I cueing him to think about running then? hmmmm.)
Walked around and around both diagonals and he did take off a bit once but he didn't go far - really was just a few hurried steps away from that end - so we ended up doing a big circle there. Then we mostly did circles around the arena and in the middle and did some figures of eight. (I'm reading a Brit's horse book at the moment!) We did some trotting while I sang Kenny Rogers to him - but when I realized how fast I was singing it I changed to Halelujah, which I thought was more appropriate anyway!
He did everything I asked, I didn't have all of his attention but felt calm and it was fun.
Then I slid off and led him around by the scary stuff. He is very cute and curious - looks at the stuff with his ears so forward and steps towards it anyway. We flapped straps, smelled the extension cord, set the extension cord on him, hit the wall, smelled the dirt piles and he watched me drag poles out - he blew at them and smelled them and then stayed out of my way while I placed them. Then we hand-trotted over them maybe 10 times. He didn't care for that at first: one little head shake and "avoid-the-poles" move and then he just carried on. We also spent some time in the middle of the arena just standing there quietly while I scrubbed his neck and rump and withers. Or just talked. Or were just quiet, waiting. He didn't know what he was waiting for but he waited really well!
If we'd ended there I think that would have qualified as a "great day" - especially for my first day with him. I'm kind of the "slowest progressor" at the barn (although NObody teases me for it, they're all too encouraging for that!) and am honestly happy with my accomplishments. But sometimes I want to "go another step"...
We took a break for about 20 minutes, him back in his stall beside Paris. When I took him out again it was with Willow's caveson and lunge line. I was thinking I could lunge him which might be more of a help to the farrier when he got his shoes on later that morning.
It did not really go very well!
I couldn't get him to move out without leading him around first and sending him past me from there. He'd go around me for maybe a whole circle but then he'd face me and turn his shoulder to me so I couldn't get him back out! Argh!
I tried re-aligning myself, making sure I'm pointing where I want him to go and looking at his butt. I tried sneaking over to behind his shoulder and swinging the stick while pointing. I tried leading him again. I tried tapping his shoulder. Lianne took a turn walking outside the circle beside him which worked for a bit, even trotting. But back in again he'd come. This might have been 10 minutes although it felt longer! Neither Aziim nor I seemed to feel annoyed or frustrated but confused so it felt better to stop and get on him instead.
So Lianne lunged him while I rode him so we would at least end with him going around the person in the middle at the end of a line!
When we left the arena, he really wanted to go so we stopped, backed up, took two steps, backed up, stood and waited, took a few steps and stopped until he felt happy/head down waiting for me and THEN we went through to his stall.
Which he did NOT want to go into. Maybe he wanted to go outside. Maybe he wanted the continued pleasure of my company. He just stopped stock-still and I laughed! We stood for a minute and he decided he did want to go in after all. Caveson off and halter on for farrier later, no problem. Breathed each other's breath. A bit of a scrub & "good boy"s and a treat.
This may not have been the best of days for Aziim but we are getting to know each other.
My GPS thingy read 1.34 miles (is that all??!!!) and 1hour 20min (again, really? is that all?!!)
This is the beginning!
Removing his halter and putting on his sidepull went really well - he was happy to drop his nose in and have the throat strap buckled. Lead him into the indoor where we walked around a bit and then picked his feet and brushed him - all went really well. Lianne was there, for Sam and she held his head while I did his feet and she moved the mounting block for me after I got on.
We rode at a walk around the arena a couple of times doing a couple of circles along the long end as we went, not getting all the way to the end because of his ears trained hard on those scary things over there. I wasn't sure when he'd run but was pretty sure he would if we got too close! (So am I cueing him to think about running then? hmmmm.)
Walked around and around both diagonals and he did take off a bit once but he didn't go far - really was just a few hurried steps away from that end - so we ended up doing a big circle there. Then we mostly did circles around the arena and in the middle and did some figures of eight. (I'm reading a Brit's horse book at the moment!) We did some trotting while I sang Kenny Rogers to him - but when I realized how fast I was singing it I changed to Halelujah, which I thought was more appropriate anyway!
He did everything I asked, I didn't have all of his attention but felt calm and it was fun.
Then I slid off and led him around by the scary stuff. He is very cute and curious - looks at the stuff with his ears so forward and steps towards it anyway. We flapped straps, smelled the extension cord, set the extension cord on him, hit the wall, smelled the dirt piles and he watched me drag poles out - he blew at them and smelled them and then stayed out of my way while I placed them. Then we hand-trotted over them maybe 10 times. He didn't care for that at first: one little head shake and "avoid-the-poles" move and then he just carried on. We also spent some time in the middle of the arena just standing there quietly while I scrubbed his neck and rump and withers. Or just talked. Or were just quiet, waiting. He didn't know what he was waiting for but he waited really well!
If we'd ended there I think that would have qualified as a "great day" - especially for my first day with him. I'm kind of the "slowest progressor" at the barn (although NObody teases me for it, they're all too encouraging for that!) and am honestly happy with my accomplishments. But sometimes I want to "go another step"...
We took a break for about 20 minutes, him back in his stall beside Paris. When I took him out again it was with Willow's caveson and lunge line. I was thinking I could lunge him which might be more of a help to the farrier when he got his shoes on later that morning.
It did not really go very well!
I couldn't get him to move out without leading him around first and sending him past me from there. He'd go around me for maybe a whole circle but then he'd face me and turn his shoulder to me so I couldn't get him back out! Argh!
I tried re-aligning myself, making sure I'm pointing where I want him to go and looking at his butt. I tried sneaking over to behind his shoulder and swinging the stick while pointing. I tried leading him again. I tried tapping his shoulder. Lianne took a turn walking outside the circle beside him which worked for a bit, even trotting. But back in again he'd come. This might have been 10 minutes although it felt longer! Neither Aziim nor I seemed to feel annoyed or frustrated but confused so it felt better to stop and get on him instead.
So Lianne lunged him while I rode him so we would at least end with him going around the person in the middle at the end of a line!
When we left the arena, he really wanted to go so we stopped, backed up, took two steps, backed up, stood and waited, took a few steps and stopped until he felt happy/head down waiting for me and THEN we went through to his stall.
Which he did NOT want to go into. Maybe he wanted to go outside. Maybe he wanted the continued pleasure of my company. He just stopped stock-still and I laughed! We stood for a minute and he decided he did want to go in after all. Caveson off and halter on for farrier later, no problem. Breathed each other's breath. A bit of a scrub & "good boy"s and a treat.
This may not have been the best of days for Aziim but we are getting to know each other.
My GPS thingy read 1.34 miles (is that all??!!!) and 1hour 20min (again, really? is that all?!!)
This is the beginning!
Quotes
"You possess the one thing that horses treasure more than anything in the world and that's peace. You can give them some peace, you can give them comfort, and they'll always be willing to trade you some sort of movement in return for you giving them some peace." ~Buck Brannaman~
Wind 2012 - Training Day 1
Training Day 1: 8 miles at 6 miles an hour. Wind and I did about 5 miles on our own and he was so good about it, willing and responsive...until I tried to turn him around and go down the road again that is. LOL. He planted those big Clydesdale feet and would not budge for love nor money. Thankfully, my husband had joined me at this point on Spirit and they encouraged Wind to continue. We did another 3 miles and had a pretty exhilirating run near the end and back down to the stables. All in all, quite a successful day. I'm sore and tired, but it's only the beginning. We will see where this journey takes me, hopefully culminating in that 30 mile competition in less than 6 weeks. I will keep you "posted"
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Easter Weekend
Stilll trying to figure out how to work blogger. I am about to post a video of our Easter Egg Hunt on Horseback to see if it works.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Appreciation
FROM TROY:
Yesterday I watched a 13 year old girl get as high as I had ever seen a person be and then today I watched a 10 year old girl get even higher. They were both trying something for the first time and the addiction was written all over their faces. Their drug of choice was wonder, the wonder of what was happening and all the wonder of the adventures that might follow. One was on the ride of her life and the other was cantering a young Arabian horse for the first time. All I could think was, that with all the bad in the world these days, how these two special girls got so lucky to be doing something they loved so much. Of course there is no single answer, lots of people and situations guide all of us to where we end up, but one special place that brought these two together is Tidal Treasures Stables.
One man, one woman and one vision. There are so many awesome people at the barn, so many dreams coming true every day and so many memories being locked forever in the minds of friends and family that sometimes it is hard to believe that it is all possible because of the vision of only two people.
A man who gets out of bed every day to clean the mess of the night before, feed and care for the horses that he never rides and whip the stables back in shape so that we can all live out our real life adventures. A man who does not know how to utter an unkind word, who never looks for reward or compensation, but instead offers more where most people would think there is no more. A man who loves unconditionally, cares for his neighbours and demonstrates absolute compassion for all living things.
A woman that hurries home after a long day to teach us, stands in the cold for hours to coach us and is always there to offer support when we just aren't sure. A woman who sacrifices her wants to be part of our dreams, that pushes us to levels we never thought we could reach and who then takes no credit when we reach them. A woman who aspires to her dreams only after she has helped us realize ours, she gives with an open heart and wants only great things for everyone around her.
To Gary and Lynn, Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am a better person for being in your lives and you have brought me and so many others so much joy and happiness that I can't even begin to list it all. You are both inspirational, kind, loving people with the most generous hearts I have ever seen. Your vision has become a safe haven to so many people and a dream factory to many more, so I will say it again and I bet many will second it, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, we all love you.
Yesterday I watched a 13 year old girl get as high as I had ever seen a person be and then today I watched a 10 year old girl get even higher. They were both trying something for the first time and the addiction was written all over their faces. Their drug of choice was wonder, the wonder of what was happening and all the wonder of the adventures that might follow. One was on the ride of her life and the other was cantering a young Arabian horse for the first time. All I could think was, that with all the bad in the world these days, how these two special girls got so lucky to be doing something they loved so much. Of course there is no single answer, lots of people and situations guide all of us to where we end up, but one special place that brought these two together is Tidal Treasures Stables.
One man, one woman and one vision. There are so many awesome people at the barn, so many dreams coming true every day and so many memories being locked forever in the minds of friends and family that sometimes it is hard to believe that it is all possible because of the vision of only two people.
A man who gets out of bed every day to clean the mess of the night before, feed and care for the horses that he never rides and whip the stables back in shape so that we can all live out our real life adventures. A man who does not know how to utter an unkind word, who never looks for reward or compensation, but instead offers more where most people would think there is no more. A man who loves unconditionally, cares for his neighbours and demonstrates absolute compassion for all living things.
A woman that hurries home after a long day to teach us, stands in the cold for hours to coach us and is always there to offer support when we just aren't sure. A woman who sacrifices her wants to be part of our dreams, that pushes us to levels we never thought we could reach and who then takes no credit when we reach them. A woman who aspires to her dreams only after she has helped us realize ours, she gives with an open heart and wants only great things for everyone around her.
To Gary and Lynn, Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am a better person for being in your lives and you have brought me and so many others so much joy and happiness that I can't even begin to list it all. You are both inspirational, kind, loving people with the most generous hearts I have ever seen. Your vision has become a safe haven to so many people and a dream factory to many more, so I will say it again and I bet many will second it, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, we all love you.
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