Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Back in the saddle again!

Yes, it's been a long time since I added any comments. Christmas was a busy time; drove 1876 miles round trip to enjoy it with my kids and their families. But yesterday, I knew it was time. After 2 months without riding, I brushed off Lady's coat of crud as much as possible, and rode in the indoor arena. She was perfect. Stretched out so I could mount, did everything I asked, including stop, back, slow gait, faster gait, sidepass over a pole both directions, turn in place, and then she stretched out so I could dismount. And she was quiet and attentive all the way. What a girl! After I trimmed off about 4 inches of bridle path and cleaned out her hooves (which looked better than I thought they would after all my neglect!), I had to reward her. Four cookies this time; she deserved every one. I'll bet my young gelding won't be that good after a two month layoff! We'll soon see. This warmer weather is a welcome incentive.

3 comments:

phaedra96 said...

Phew! That was a journey!! Glad you had a nice ride. I have to wait until Spring(it's not here yet?) since I have no indoor arena. Sigh. Love freezing rain....NOT!

Julie said...

Enjoyed my visit! Great Blog.
Julie
www.ridingaside.blogspot.com

Nanette Levin said...

Betsy,

So glad to hear you're riding again! What fun! I so want to get on my mares, but feel the footing (and in the case of my favorite filly, her added greeness challenge) is too tough to try. Part of me just wants to tack the baby up and hit the hills - but my brain tells me better. She'd probably be fine, but if we had a setback, it would take a long time to fix. Of course, I have a gelding on the ready who would is generally unflappable, but it's the mare's that make me feel charged.