A New Girth!

Last week I took the plunge and bought a new girth at Saddlers Row. I got the Ovation Comfort Girth which so far, Jimmy and I both love. My Professionals Choice lasted a solid 8 years and just finally kicked it a few weeks ago. Since Jimmy has lost all of his top line, my ancient old leather 48" girth is too stretched out and loose on him, so a new girth was definitely deserved.

I went down to a 46" for him, and it's still astonishingly big on him, being on 3 and 4 on each side. I like to be around 3 & 3, but I know when his top line comes back it will be all good.

I rode him Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Friday he was wonderful. Saturday I rode bareback and this I've learned he hates. He used to always be game for anything, but the more I ride him bareback, the more miserable he becomes. He pins his ears, throws his head around, goes into that ugly "Tranter" aka lope that I absolutely despise...all things telling me "Mom, I'm miserable." and "Mom, I hurt." So, Sunday I put a saddle back on and he was MUCH happier. He' s crabby to canter by the second and especially third day, so I am going to cut back on the cantering. I thought maybe once around each direction would help him loosen up a bit, but it only makes him miserable. He prefers to canter on the line, without me, on his own terms. Okay Jimmy, have at it.

This week I will be giving him some restful time off, because once again I've got freelance coming out of my ears. You didn't hear it from me, but I might be Creative Director & Graphic Designer for a very big, very exciting event to happen in August of 2011. (Sneak peak here) Keep your eyes and ears peeled, kiddos. Much bigger announcements will be made once the website is finished (...which I haven't started it yet and it's due to be up this week. *GULP* I think I can, I think I can, I think I can...)

Also: I have been offered position as head trainer at a barn only 5 miles from Jimmy's. I've got to go over there and check the place out, but the offer is a huge honor and I'm very flattered to have been chosen. We'll see where the future will lead me, but right now I like where it's going!!

Enjoy your week, everyone!