Hello Snow!

This is Christmas in October. Fortunately, it did melt but is threatening each day to return. In Idaho we deal with it! It's one of the things that builds character and the challenge makes or breaks a person. Winter has it's silent and harsh beauty. It's a matter of looking for the good in all things in each day.

Remy Moving Out and Moving On

If you've been following this blog, you will notice the difference in this horse. His story is one that I see all to often. He's 5 years or older, never ridden, and was basically labled unfit for rider. He did show signs of mistreatment and was unsure of himself and those around him. He was very "bronc like" and would do well in a rodeo. After instructing his new owners on handling him and their dedication to his cause, I agreed to take him to further his training. After about 2 weeks of training he had a "blow-up" when his environment changed. He injured his leg and during his recovery I continued training. We kept the physical part light which provided the therapy he needed, and the mental part of his training was consentrated on. Each day we saw improvement and one day I saw him "cross over". His expression is peaceful and trusting and he seems to enjoy doing a job well. With time and patience, I believe that most all horses can reach their full potential. The question is "Can we?"

Remy's Turn

This is a little display of Remy's turns. We had to take into consideration the turns to his right would be less smooth. However, he understands and is responding to the correct cues.

Backing and dismounting Remy

I remember our instructor in College saying, "The slower you take it, the quicker you'll get there." The older I get, the slower I become,(lol) and the more sense that comment makes.

Remy is quite light and responsive with consideration of his limp. Because of the slow instructions that he received, he understands the cues and what is expected of him. Because of the patience that was shown to him he responds in a willing manner.

Unsaddling Remy

While I was waiting for this video to post I added the photo of a rose bush that was blanketed with our first snow in October.

Note about the video: Notice how calm Remy is. He also has a peace about his dismeanor and seems pleased with himself. This is quite a change for a horse that was extremely fearful of people, and had some serious distrust issues.

Cornfields and end of season rides.

Samson loves to go on our trail rides.
This was the view from Noble.

Tacia is all smiles when she's riding. And Maddie is trying to keep " India" in line.

Being taller is why Tacia gets to open and close the gates. It's easier for her mount her horse. She's also a good sport.

Egin Lake Ride

A few of the students were out for "Spud Harvest". We were able to travel to "Egin Lakes" for the last ride for them this Season.

Paulina Maddie

Tacia

Trail riding is a high risk adventure. Unfortunately, Tacia did have an accident. She was kicked when traveling to closely to another horse. She was pretty tough to be able to ride back with her injury. We did wrap her leg and fortunately were close enough to home that she was able to get care. The last time I spoke to her Mom, she felt that all would be fine with the exception of bad bruise and possible scar. It all goes with the territory!

Some of the territory is worth it!