My Life's Journey: Monday, February 22, 2010

On our first walk of the evening, we saw a robin. To me that is a sure sign of Spring but I found myself feeling concerned for him. There isn't much access to worms with all the snow and I would assume the worms are pretty deep in the ground right now. He looked plump and should be fine for a bit. I hope he eats bird seed.

The pups enjoyed an outing in the field. They dug deep in one area. The ice isn't too bad right now so I figured we would be okay. Too funny! Pixie growling away as she frantically dug and Wyatt bark yelling in her ear. A couple of times I caught him chewing his leash in frustration while digging and air biting at Pix's ear. We have seen plenty of vole holes but no voles. There were what appeared to be relatively fresh tracks but the pups had little interest in the scent left behind.

I was going to exercise tonight but my left either illiopsoas or pectineus muscles are strained. As I sat for periods of time today at work, I could really feel it upon standing and my first few steps. Lord knows I have enough stuff to do. Vacuuming was my priority. So much sand, horse hair, my hair and dog hair. I will get around to dusting another day :)

I have once again read through my tests at least eight times. I am excited to get back to training. Josie and I will be using the jumping saddle tomorrow night. I have signed up for trot poles and want to see if my working out will have helped the soreness I feel after having my stirrups short for jumping.

Sunday I slept in until I woke up - let the pups out very late to ensure I could. I slept very sound after all the excitement and long day.

Since I didn't stop to eat junk food on the way home last night I treated myself to a blended Chia Tea frap -mmmmmmmmm. Even went venti - double mmmmmmm!

Josie was happy to see me. I had decided just to ride bareback and move her around a bit but once astride, I asked for some bend and into the bridle and sure enough got it. Oh, Mare! I knew you could do it. One day you will give this to me every where. Stick with the plan - slow and steady gets an awesome horse.

We cantered both directions. There was a little delay in her left lead but at least she did listen. We will work on precision, bend, contact, and relaxation before our next show.

I didn't ride her too long or too hard. I gave her her gain dinner and kept the pups at bay so she could enjoy it. I should have given her some electrolytes - mental note to self - before show, at show and after show.

I am mystified why others are so closeted about their tests? I feel I have earned every point and am willing to share. Just a curiosity thought.

Moe has had his name changed to Double OO Seven - he looked magnificent and did exceedingly well in his tests. I can pick out great horses when it isn't my money on the line.

Josie, How do you really feel about all this show stuff?