Another session with not too much to tell. Focused on more classical work today, trying to get a better shoulder in (more bend, less angle). Did a few steps of renvers on one rein. I also challenged her more about spooky places in the arena. The wind was howling today, but I was very pleased with how she worked. One missing element--her canter on the lunge is still very choppy. She will rush her way past the scary part of the arena, then try to run be down to the nice end. At this point I am more interested in working through her spookiness than going down to the friendly part of the arena and doing perfect circles. I stopped when I saw some progress. Flexing to the bridle is now adequate--enough to think about riding her again, but not nearly as light as Jordan and Panda are. I also introduced Baucher flexions today, where we look for vertical flexion and a soft mouth before releasing.
Joe was kind enough to loan a trailer for practice loading and I spent 20 minutes at the end introducing Maddie to it. I sent her around all 3 sides and repeated with the doors open. Once she started showing interest in the trailer, I changed positions and sent her towards the open doors. After she had stuck her head in well a couple of times, I quit for the day. It was so windy I was concerned a door could slam shut on her and wreck our progress. It should be no problem to load her tomorrow.
We also visited with Joe, Donna, and Michelle outside for awhile. It was really nice to have a sane horse who could stand still while all four of us loved on her. She could not have done this a week ago.
No comments:
Post a Comment