Connect, Flicker, Hope

I guess I’m the type of person who can burn out easily, in that, I don’t like to hammer and hammer on a project or a challenge and never see any progress. I like to see the fruits of my labor at some point. I’d say I’m above average when it comes to patience, but…

Progress Can Be Microscopic

Supposedly former US President, Theodore Roosevelt, once said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” And back then, they didn’t have social media! That saying is one of my favorite things to repeat to myself. These days, it’s hard not to look around at what other people are doing, at how their horses are progressing, and…

Dressage is Hard, Y’all

Back in the 90s, I learned to ride with a dressage foundation. What that gave me was a great perspective on feeling the horse, responding to them, and being effective with my aids. As time has passed over the last 30 years or so, the learnings and the sport have evolved. Because I didn’t really…

Infinity Challenges

The weather for yesterday’s lesson was a relief. The sun, clear skies, and lack of wind turned the day before’s panicked and spicy “drinker of the wind” into a relatively plodding half draft horse. She was way more focused on me and really enjoyed the work we were doing – even though it was hard…

Wind in The Trees (And in Our Sails)

Riders with sensitive horses know there’s a certain kind of weather they don’t love: the chilly, blustery day. Especially when they have to ride in an outdoor arena. Especially when that outdoor arena is surrounded by all sorts of trees and rustling bushes and mare’s tail. Especially when that outdoor arena is surrounded by other…

Re-Riding Lessons

My friend and the owner of the stable where I board Kiss, Bevin, is a great student of life. She is always learning, seeking knowledge, looking to improve. Along with her groundwork and Straightness Training lessons from our mutual trainer, Deanna, she also started taking Dressage riding lessons to work on her equitation. And, of…