Finding Our Way

It’s not often that one is grateful to have a nightmare, but that Sunday morning, my nightmare saved me.  I don’t remember exactly what it was about; all I know is I awoke mid-wail.  My crying startled me awake so abruptly that I sat up just like out of a scene in a movie.  It … Continue reading Finding Our Way

The thing about goals in the horse world…

"A goal is an idea of the future or desired result that a person or a group of people envisions, plans and commits to achieve. People endeavor to reach goals within a finite time by setting deadlines". -Wikipedia The equestrian version of a goal: an idea of the future or desired result that a person … Continue reading The thing about goals in the horse world…

Gridwork with Grady: Using a Swedish Oxer

Here we have a grid set with a vertical to a one stride, to a Swedish oxer, to a one stride, to a vertical. A swedish oxer includes 4 standards and at least 2 poles.  The poles on the front set of standards are set with one side higher than the other.  The second set … Continue reading Gridwork with Grady: Using a Swedish Oxer

Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles

Trotting Poles is a very basic exercise and underestimated exercise that is very beneficial to young and older horses alike.  I felt the need to include it in our gridwork as it seems to get left in the dust even though it's a great exercise used almost daily. For one, it is a great tool … Continue reading Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles

A Break for the Young Horses

I've decided to give the youngsters a break from work before the busy season hits here in November

Gridwork With Grady: Feeling and Setting Leads While Jumping

Another addition to the 'Gridwork with Grady' Series! Check out this simple exercise great for horse and rider.

Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles to an Oxer

One of my favorite exercises for strengthening a horses jump: Trot poles to an oxer. Engages the hind end, sets the pace and assists the distance. I like to put considerable height once the horse understands the exercise. Grady is only 5 and a little behind the learning curve so 2'9" is plenty difficult. Soon, … Continue reading Gridwork with Grady: Trot Poles to an Oxer

The Faith to Win

I didn't get there by mistake.  It's good to improve a little with every ride, but what was I thinking trying to look like Edward Gal and Totalis overnight when I got there looking like Melissa Wanstreet and Petite Belle?