Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Only in Minnesota can it be 38 degrees and a couple days later reach 97 degrees. Pixie crossed the town home street and wanted to lay down in the shade. I opted to leave them home. I felt naked without them.

Needless to say there were some crabby horses. Josie had a sweaty chest. I forgot to grab my electrolytes - darn it! I offered her water before riding but she refused . . . you can lead a horse . . .

Hey, Troxel helmet makers is your helmet sturdy enough and not warrant replacing if it falls from about two feet and then tumbles like a tumbling tumble weed across the dry paddock? Just curious.

I rode inside, it was pretty windy and just plain hot outside. Working on breaking in the jumping saddle. There is some wrinkling now behind the knee roll. Josie was very good for as hot as it was. We just aren't use to it. I have been cantering earlier in the ride (she anticipates it more if I wait until the third quarter) and then doing stretchy work after that. She enjoys stretching. We did shoulder in today - Wow! She really picks things up rather quickly.

I decided after our workout for cool down to walk the lane. She was weaving and wanted to eat grass and at one point she didn't want to go. With gentle encouragement we continued on our way. After pondering whether to do the whole trail, I decided to take a right and just walk the pasture border. It was very nice. I love being on a horse outside. It just doesn't get better well except for crossing the water and riding through the woods. Josie minded her manners. I worked on keeping a long rein. When you feel a little insecure the first thing you do is shorten the reins and that is the worse thing you can do.

As always looking forward to our next ride.