Yesterday I had a quick hour before my lesson was to arrive so I thought I could squeeze in a good hack on Jimmy before I taught. I thought wrong.
As I mentioned, he's having a bit of a 'tude problem from what I believe is his own teenage-minded (he's a teenager in people years - and acts exactly like a 16 year old human boy most days!!) stubbornness. He's bitter that I haven't been out and working him as much as I should, so he's showing me through attitude. Alright Jimmy, I get it. Thanks.
We worked for about 35 minutes (I'll admit I was gabbing a bit & didn't get on until late) and he just wouldn't relax. He had way more steam than he could blow. I couldn't work him down because my lesson had arrived and was tacking up her horse, so I cooled him down (which takes him about one lap, no matter how worked up he is) & untacked. I left his boots and halter on & put him in what we're now calling the "Naughty Boy Pen". It's a little 14x14 paddock just between our aisle and indoor arena & I didn't even put on his blankey. He had to chill out - LITERALLY so he stood naked in the cold until I was finished with my lesson. He stared at me through the window the whole time, eyes pleading. "Mom.....MOM?!? I'M NAKED!!!!!!!!!!!!!" (Jimmy is always FULLY clothed. I like protecting him from nips and bumps so he always has some kind of sheet or blanket on - even in the summer he usually wears a fly sheet)
After my lesson my student asked for a demo so I got to ride my favorite mare for a few minutes, then it was back to JC the Naughty Boy. DISCLAIMER: WHAT I AM ABOUT TO SAY IS NOT TYPICAL BEHAVIOR FOR ME BUT IN SOME INSTANCES I DEEM IT NECESSARY FOR ANY TYPE OF PROGRESSION. THIS IS ONE OF THOSE INSTANCES. I tacked him up again and put on draw reins. I try to NEVER EVER EVER use them, but based on how he was fighting me one specific way and just wouldn't quit I chose the draw reins as my weapon of choice. He hasn't worn them in probably close to two years so I was curious to see if he would remember them.
I got on & trotted enough to get his heart pumping again (if it had ever stopped...) & went to the canter, which is where he was causing me problems. Instead of cantering collected and appropriately, he was kind of hog-wild and flinging his front end all over the place, so I was using the draw reins as a light reminder of how to behave. They worked like a charm. It only took about fifteen minutes because he immediately remembered what draw reins were all about. He tried fighting me a few times seriously and with a little spur in his side & the draw reins keeping his front end in place he realized this was no battle worth fighting. We ended on a splendid note cantering beautiful figure eights with full changes in the middle. Good job, little man.
Showing posts with label Tack. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tack. Show all posts
Monday, February 28, 2011
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Saddle Update & Jimmy's Still Fat
This week has been utter chaos for me, and it's not over yet! Monday I had a migraine so I couldn't make it out to the farm, and Tuesday I was up in Lake Geneva for a sales meeting for work. This brings us to Wednesday, the first day of the work-week I could make it out to see the Choo & I had Lucy to teach. She's officially off the lunge line 100% (until we canter!) and doing an absolutely phenomenal job. She knows just how to push Smiley's buttons and when he gets quick she knows how to slow her body to "yellow-light" or "baby trot" and she knows to full halt him using her whole seat and body. Last night I taught her that I know he's finished the halt when she puts her bottom in the saddle, because he comes all the way back and tucks his nose into his chest. Every halt after that she plopped her bottom in the saddle and the second he tucked his nose in she smiled and giggled. I love teaching :-)
After Lucy's lesson I grabbed Jim to see how he was feeling on the lunge line. Two things: 1.) He's still fat. 2.) He's really lazy. I was surprised because he hasn't been out yet this week other than in his "back yard" (which Bill graciously cleaned last night! Thanks Babe!!) and typically he's got a little more gas in the tank. I'll chalk it up to "he wanted to go back to his dinner" and leave it at that. I can't wait to start him on the new feed and start get him in a more regular program. Someday maybe my schedule will calm down...then again when I start teaching more at the other barn, it has to so I can be there to TEACH!!! I can't wait - I'm practically counting the days.
Tonight we have a venue visit and if it's still early enough when we're done I will head up to lunge JC in the dark again or turn him loose in the arena to let him stretch his legs one last time before Bill and I leave for Augie this weekend. Bill is an Augustana alumni & this weekend is Homecoming, so we are Quad Cities-bound!!
On another note: yesterday I brought my lovely Nona & Jimmy's tracings over to Saddlers Row on my lunch break and met with Michael, their master saddle fitter/adjuster. He used his own tools first to measure the width of my tracings and compared it to my saddle, then took out the 'official' Prestige tool and bent it into place, compared it to my saddle, went over and took out a ruler, started measuring the centimeters, scribbled a few things....all silently. My heart raced and I was petrified to what he was going to say. He looked up and smiled and said "Yep. We can do it." I was thinking, "That's it?!" because I had been told previously that a formal fitting would need to be scheduled, more tracings needed to be made, etc. Lots of steps in the process = someday I'll have my saddle back...maybe. Instead Michael explained to me exactly what would REALLY happen: First, Jimmy measured slightly over 34cm, which is considered "wide" in Prestige lingo (and everything, from what I've researched) and since my saddle is a 32cm, they can widen it just barely over the 2cm it needs, making the adjustment he needs. I then showed Michael the photos I had and he said that confirmed what he thought was happening. This saddle perches up on top of his shoulder/wither, it doesn't lay the way that it should. However, the back panels lay as they should and he said no adjustment needs to take place in the flocking.
The work was to begin on my saddle immediately and they hope to have it back to me by tomorrow or Monday :-) He explained how the Prestige saddles are made with a polymer tree and they have all the certified, official equipment to be able to work on them properly (he showed me the machinery to prove it). Basically the tree is plastic and they heat it up to the proper temperature and stretch it (in the nifty machine-gadget) up to 2cm (and then a little...for fat Jim). He said no matter what, they will make this saddle fit Jimmy. He said once I pay the initial fee, it's not just a one-time adjustment. He will continue to mold and shape the saddle to make sure it fits Jimmy, no matter what. I had my typical, over-excited and near-tears reaction...and of course wanted to leap over the counter and hug him. He also said that he will be keeping Jimmy's measurements and tracings on file in case future work for him needs to be done.
Oh - and just before I left he said himself that "The Prestige saddles are the best saddles in the world." which confirmed my belief in them and made me feel like a million bucks, because he's not a Prestige dealer, he just loves that they can be molded and shaped to fit anyone and anything. He's got a ton of experience and I feel very comfortable with my saddle in his hands!!!! This adjustment will be totally worth it and I can't wait to have my saddle back so I can RIDE AGAIN! (The Crosby was returned last night to it's rightful - and extremely generous - owner. THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES, "MONIZZLE"!!!!)
After Lucy's lesson I grabbed Jim to see how he was feeling on the lunge line. Two things: 1.) He's still fat. 2.) He's really lazy. I was surprised because he hasn't been out yet this week other than in his "back yard" (which Bill graciously cleaned last night! Thanks Babe!!) and typically he's got a little more gas in the tank. I'll chalk it up to "he wanted to go back to his dinner" and leave it at that. I can't wait to start him on the new feed and start get him in a more regular program. Someday maybe my schedule will calm down...then again when I start teaching more at the other barn, it has to so I can be there to TEACH!!! I can't wait - I'm practically counting the days.
Tonight we have a venue visit and if it's still early enough when we're done I will head up to lunge JC in the dark again or turn him loose in the arena to let him stretch his legs one last time before Bill and I leave for Augie this weekend. Bill is an Augustana alumni & this weekend is Homecoming, so we are Quad Cities-bound!!
On another note: yesterday I brought my lovely Nona & Jimmy's tracings over to Saddlers Row on my lunch break and met with Michael, their master saddle fitter/adjuster. He used his own tools first to measure the width of my tracings and compared it to my saddle, then took out the 'official' Prestige tool and bent it into place, compared it to my saddle, went over and took out a ruler, started measuring the centimeters, scribbled a few things....all silently. My heart raced and I was petrified to what he was going to say. He looked up and smiled and said "Yep. We can do it." I was thinking, "That's it?!" because I had been told previously that a formal fitting would need to be scheduled, more tracings needed to be made, etc. Lots of steps in the process = someday I'll have my saddle back...maybe. Instead Michael explained to me exactly what would REALLY happen: First, Jimmy measured slightly over 34cm, which is considered "wide" in Prestige lingo (and everything, from what I've researched) and since my saddle is a 32cm, they can widen it just barely over the 2cm it needs, making the adjustment he needs. I then showed Michael the photos I had and he said that confirmed what he thought was happening. This saddle perches up on top of his shoulder/wither, it doesn't lay the way that it should. However, the back panels lay as they should and he said no adjustment needs to take place in the flocking.
The work was to begin on my saddle immediately and they hope to have it back to me by tomorrow or Monday :-) He explained how the Prestige saddles are made with a polymer tree and they have all the certified, official equipment to be able to work on them properly (he showed me the machinery to prove it). Basically the tree is plastic and they heat it up to the proper temperature and stretch it (in the nifty machine-gadget) up to 2cm (and then a little...for fat Jim). He said no matter what, they will make this saddle fit Jimmy. He said once I pay the initial fee, it's not just a one-time adjustment. He will continue to mold and shape the saddle to make sure it fits Jimmy, no matter what. I had my typical, over-excited and near-tears reaction...and of course wanted to leap over the counter and hug him. He also said that he will be keeping Jimmy's measurements and tracings on file in case future work for him needs to be done.
Oh - and just before I left he said himself that "The Prestige saddles are the best saddles in the world." which confirmed my belief in them and made me feel like a million bucks, because he's not a Prestige dealer, he just loves that they can be molded and shaped to fit anyone and anything. He's got a ton of experience and I feel very comfortable with my saddle in his hands!!!! This adjustment will be totally worth it and I can't wait to have my saddle back so I can RIDE AGAIN! (The Crosby was returned last night to it's rightful - and extremely generous - owner. THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES, "MONIZZLE"!!!!)
Thursday, September 30, 2010
EPIC NEWS
I just went to Saddlers Row on my lunch break and spoke with Judy. First of all: She's really nice. Second of all: I got the best news ever.
Long story short: They can fix my saddle to make it fit Jimmy meaning I DON'T HAVE TO SELL IT!!!! I showed her the photos of it and she said YES it's too narrow, but they can widen the tree (Prestige's are totally customizable, which is how this is possible. Other saddles, not necessarily true) 2 cm total. It's a 32 to begin with so once we do all the tracings and fittings and everything looks good then it will only be 5 days and the saddle is back in my arms and I can RIDE IN IT AGAIN!!!!!!!!
I almost leaped over the counter and hugged her, in tears, when she told me how this is possible. Of course, I could do my tracings and from that they see there's no way, but she thinks from the photos of Jimmy and the Prestige it's absolutely worth a shot. HOOORAYY!!!!! I'm ecstatic. (and no, it's not unbelievably expensive, which is another reason I'm so pumped) YAY!
Long story short: They can fix my saddle to make it fit Jimmy meaning I DON'T HAVE TO SELL IT!!!! I showed her the photos of it and she said YES it's too narrow, but they can widen the tree (Prestige's are totally customizable, which is how this is possible. Other saddles, not necessarily true) 2 cm total. It's a 32 to begin with so once we do all the tracings and fittings and everything looks good then it will only be 5 days and the saddle is back in my arms and I can RIDE IN IT AGAIN!!!!!!!!
I almost leaped over the counter and hugged her, in tears, when she told me how this is possible. Of course, I could do my tracings and from that they see there's no way, but she thinks from the photos of Jimmy and the Prestige it's absolutely worth a shot. HOOORAYY!!!!! I'm ecstatic. (and no, it's not unbelievably expensive, which is another reason I'm so pumped) YAY!
Killian's Closet
Just recently someone I know started this website called Killian's Closet. Here you can browse, buy, and sell new & used tack and horse/rider supplies! Since I am selling my Prestige Nona Garson, I jumped on the opportunity for an ad on this site, and for only $1, how could I not?
I recommend for all of you to take a tour through the site and check out all the great stuff it has already! It's new, but it's growing, so I strongly suggest utilizing it's awesome features!
And just for reference:
"Used 17" Prestige Nona Garson Saddle. Does not fit my horse so looking to sell it so I can buy a new saddle. Not sure on the specifications, purchased it new, had it custom made for my old TB. Fits TB type body VERY well. Please e-mail if you have any questions or are interested in trying it. Thanks!
I recommend for all of you to take a tour through the site and check out all the great stuff it has already! It's new, but it's growing, so I strongly suggest utilizing it's awesome features!
And just for reference:
"Used 17" Prestige Nona Garson Saddle. Does not fit my horse so looking to sell it so I can buy a new saddle. Not sure on the specifications, purchased it new, had it custom made for my old TB. Fits TB type body VERY well. Please e-mail if you have any questions or are interested in trying it. Thanks!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Jimmy Tries a Crosby XL
A very generous IHO member has lent Jimmy and I her Crosby XL until November when her horse moves up here. Here are photos of the saddle (sorry, it was dark so I had to use the flash and the colors got awkward...)
I definitely felt a significant difference in this saddle as opposed to the Prestige Nona Garson. My balance was in the center, I actually felt like I was posting off my butt instead of my crotch, which was strange...because the Prestige really tipped me forward and I just never noticed. Something I am not a huge fan of is how slippery this Crosby XL is. When I was younger I always rode in jeans so I loved the Crosby XL, but since now I ride in boots/breeches 90% of the time, it seems so, so SLIPPERY! I thought one sneeze and I'd fly right off.
On the lunge line to start he didn't move out very fluid with the saddle on, but soon he perked up and seemed to move alright in it. Jimmy tracked much straighter in this saddle. I felt very centered on him and he seemed very "under" me, which was different, but nice.
What do you think of the fit? Is this saddle an acceptable fit for the potential full month that I need it, or should I keep looking for a better-fitting borrowed saddle?
I definitely felt a significant difference in this saddle as opposed to the Prestige Nona Garson. My balance was in the center, I actually felt like I was posting off my butt instead of my crotch, which was strange...because the Prestige really tipped me forward and I just never noticed. Something I am not a huge fan of is how slippery this Crosby XL is. When I was younger I always rode in jeans so I loved the Crosby XL, but since now I ride in boots/breeches 90% of the time, it seems so, so SLIPPERY! I thought one sneeze and I'd fly right off.
On the lunge line to start he didn't move out very fluid with the saddle on, but soon he perked up and seemed to move alright in it. Jimmy tracked much straighter in this saddle. I felt very centered on him and he seemed very "under" me, which was different, but nice.
What do you think of the fit? Is this saddle an acceptable fit for the potential full month that I need it, or should I keep looking for a better-fitting borrowed saddle?
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Rodrigo Pessoa on Jimmy
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Saddle on a Fat Horse
Upon taking these photos I realized how fat Jimmy Choo REALLY is right now...So that issue is next to be worked with. But here are the photos I've been promising of him wearing his saddle.
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| The starting point. Fat. Jimmy. |
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| Prestige Nona Garson – No girth. |
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| Behind – No girth. |
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| Left side – No girth |
 |
| Top/front – No girth |
 |
| With girth (NOTICE: Bill cleaning his stall in the background. LOVE him!!) |
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| Behind – Girth |
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| Front – Girth |
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| Right Side – Girth |
After I tacked him up I took him to the arena for some riding time...and he was so fat and wild the saddle bothered him so much all he could to is shake his head in despair - no forward motion, just UPWARD motion hints (never went up, he knows better). So I got off & threw him on a line. It'd been a while since he'd worked anyway (5 days) and he couldn't do anything but rodeo bronc buck in place. He just kept sqeualing and leaping straight up in the air with his butt. At one point he was even kicking out with his left hind - he kicked the fence when he went by (for the first time in his life) and realized why he never kicks the fence. He looked at my like "MOM! WHY DID THAT HURT SO MUCH?!?!?" This is NOT normal "Wild Jimmy" so I calmed him down, grabbed the saddle & put it on the ground. Soon as that saddle was off he lunged BEAUTIFULLY sound and was gorgeous.
Then of course the explosion hit and he was so wild and naughty he slipped his back end out from under him - twice. It was slippery out there from all the rain we got the other night, so I wasn't about to let him off the line to suck his shoes right off his feet.
This brings me to my next point - his feet are rocking. I talked to Tim, my farrier, yesterday & he said he's seen a huge improvement in 5 weeks from the shoes/pads and because I've followed his instruction on sealing JC's feet 2x a week with Venice Turpentine or Hoof Sealer. I will have a bigger announcement on that later today or tomorrow regarding our plans for the future.
Please let me know what you think I should do about the saddle fit situation. He's so uncomfortable wearing the saddle that he can't move, but bareback rides he gets incredibly back sore. I spoke with a good friend of mine who's in feed sales and he recommended a new high-protein "diet" feed for JC. We will be starting that in the next month and until then, his "Complete" grain has been cut from 4#/day to 1#/day. Also: I've told the barn owner he is allowed a maximum of 4 flakes per day. His neck is cresty again like it got last year when he was on stall rest. He's absolutely huge. It's amazing how not seeing him for 5 days can clear my vision so much.
Should I lunge him or turn him out in the arena? No more riding until he's thinner again? Tell me what you would do if he were your horse, I'm definitely looking for suggestions. I hate to put a pad other than a baby pad under there because the tree is just too tight on him - or something is wrong because he has NEVER IN HIS LIFE objected a saddle. Never, not once. And this saddle, specifically, is what I've ridden him in since he was 3.
Monday, June 21, 2010
My Horse the Demon
Yesterday was "Spring Cleaning" day for me. It was the last day of spring...but better late than never, am I right?! Haha. So I set up a nice little area in JC's dry lot so he could "help" me clean his brushes and boots. He definitely did his part. Here he's ready to "help" (Side note: he's been leaving his mask on! HOORAY! I just keep it so tight there's not really any way to get it off!)
He drank half of the water out of the "rinse" bucket:
Then proceeded to knock it over and spray it all over me. He's such a gem...
Then that was boring so he started knocking around the brush box to verify there absolutely positively 100% were NO treats in it whatsoever. He is nothing if not thorough...
Since the treat in the brush box idea didn't work out so well, he thought about dumping the "wash" bucket out all over my toes when I called at him just in time before he knocked it all over me:
He's such a playful little fart I hate to ruin his fun!!! It's hilarious watching him explore and be nosey. I didn't mind having wet shorts the rest of the afternoon while I cleaned out my tack trunk anyway ;-)
Then proceeded to knock it over and spray it all over me. He's such a gem...Then that was boring so he started knocking around the brush box to verify there absolutely positively 100% were NO treats in it whatsoever. He is nothing if not thorough...
Since the treat in the brush box idea didn't work out so well, he thought about dumping the "wash" bucket out all over my toes when I called at him just in time before he knocked it all over me:
He's such a playful little fart I hate to ruin his fun!!! It's hilarious watching him explore and be nosey. I didn't mind having wet shorts the rest of the afternoon while I cleaned out my tack trunk anyway ;-)Friday, April 2, 2010
New Hobby
So, I've started selling my old stuff online. It's awesome, because it cleans out the garage, and I make money!
Here's the link! I'll be taking more photos of my millions of saddle pads this weekend. Refresh Monday to check out MORE stuff!! Probably will be adding girths and bridles too....
http://www.flickr.com/photos/12327730@N08/
Enjoy! Buy stuff! I do accept PayPal :)
Here's the link! I'll be taking more photos of my millions of saddle pads this weekend. Refresh Monday to check out MORE stuff!! Probably will be adding girths and bridles too....
http://www.flickr.com/photos/12327730@N08/
Enjoy! Buy stuff! I do accept PayPal :)
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
WARMTH!
Oh my goodness it's finally warm and I am dying to go out to ride. I miss Jimmy!!!! He was so good the other day I want to go RIDE!!!! Last night I was stuck at work until 7 so I didn't get out to ride at all :-( Booo.
Tonight I'm meeting someone to hopefully sell some of Doobie's old gear and then go out to RIDE as soon as I can!!
I can't wait to get out there :-D
LOVE THE CHOO!
Tonight I'm meeting someone to hopefully sell some of Doobie's old gear and then go out to RIDE as soon as I can!!
I can't wait to get out there :-D
LOVE THE CHOO!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
It's Official
Alright, it's official, the running martingale is my all-time favorite piece of equipment. No doubt about it.
Mom came out today (the barn was a total circus, new peeps, old peeps leaving, loose horses and stampedes, all in a matter of an hour) and watched me ride. Jimmy was a friggen' champ and we jumped a little oxer a few times to show her how much he's learned and grown. She couldn't believe it was the same horse! She goes "He's straight to the jump, he never fights your hands, and he jumps up so cute! It's like he's a real horse now!" haha. Also, he is reminding us more and more everyday of my beloved old horse, Slim. Below is a picture of the old saint :) I miss you, Slimmy!!
P.S. I decided what I want my license plate to be, now I have to figure out how to make it happen... LOL. ---- JMY CHOO ---
Mom came out today (the barn was a total circus, new peeps, old peeps leaving, loose horses and stampedes, all in a matter of an hour) and watched me ride. Jimmy was a friggen' champ and we jumped a little oxer a few times to show her how much he's learned and grown. She couldn't believe it was the same horse! She goes "He's straight to the jump, he never fights your hands, and he jumps up so cute! It's like he's a real horse now!" haha. Also, he is reminding us more and more everyday of my beloved old horse, Slim. Below is a picture of the old saint :) I miss you, Slimmy!!
P.S. I decided what I want my license plate to be, now I have to figure out how to make it happen... LOL. ---- JMY CHOO ---
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Saturday Fun
Well today is my birthday, and I did NOT go to the barn (shame on me, I know). Instead I spent the day with my Todd. We went race kart driving. It was fun :)
BUT, yesterday I DID go riding and I rode both boys. Doobie was so grateful to go out for a walk with Kix and Rebel. Even if he did try to attack Reb a few times... (sorry Kate!)
Jimmy was good. Little sluggish. I need to work on his sensitivity to leg, he's been a little dull. We all went to Farm & Fleet and got Dressage Whips so we can work on our mad dressage skills. Tiff & Steve generously put our dressage letters up so now we need to practice!!! Jimmy's getting a lot better with his frame with the help of the dressage whip. Little reassurance goes a long way! After our short hack we went for a walk around the pond in the snow :) Greta and Luke followed us with Chel & Kate leading them. Who knew that Jimmy the 4 y/o would be the confident leader of 6y/o Greta and 8y/o Luke! They were all VERY well behaved though.
Horse show is 3 weeks from today. I can't waittttttt.....
BUT, yesterday I DID go riding and I rode both boys. Doobie was so grateful to go out for a walk with Kix and Rebel. Even if he did try to attack Reb a few times... (sorry Kate!)
Jimmy was good. Little sluggish. I need to work on his sensitivity to leg, he's been a little dull. We all went to Farm & Fleet and got Dressage Whips so we can work on our mad dressage skills. Tiff & Steve generously put our dressage letters up so now we need to practice!!! Jimmy's getting a lot better with his frame with the help of the dressage whip. Little reassurance goes a long way! After our short hack we went for a walk around the pond in the snow :) Greta and Luke followed us with Chel & Kate leading them. Who knew that Jimmy the 4 y/o would be the confident leader of 6y/o Greta and 8y/o Luke! They were all VERY well behaved though.
Horse show is 3 weeks from today. I can't waittttttt.....
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Sorry I'm Slacking...
Hello hello!
It's been a bit since I posted, I know. I'm sorry.
The biggest concern for me right now is Jimmy's conformation. This is something I've never really thought about, but as he gets closer & closer to being 4... I worry his neck will never grow. So I'm going to try researching how to increase his neck muscles, and I'm going to work him more consistently in side reins. I don't want his mouth to get tough though, so I think I will just lunge him in a halter with the surcingle. This way, he gets some work on his neck, but his mouth won't go sour. I would love if his head and neck grew LARGER via bone, but if muscle throughout his neck is the best we can do, then that is the best we can do.
Of course, I'm going to love him whatever his "neck" situation! I just want him (like any mother for her child) to be the healthiest boy he can be, and I want him to be at his potential for the rest of his life. Never short of that (no pun intended)
Yesterday two light bulbs started to flicker in JC's brain... the COLLECTION light bulb, and the LATERAL MOVEMENT light bulb. YAY!!! All of a sudden, he's starting to GET it. His head placement has gotten worse, but all of a sudden his body and motion has gotten so much better, so I am not worrying about the head because so long as he has the body, we're going places.
So, with that... I guess I will go to yoga to MY body is as fluid as Jimmy Choo's!!!
It's been a bit since I posted, I know. I'm sorry.
The biggest concern for me right now is Jimmy's conformation. This is something I've never really thought about, but as he gets closer & closer to being 4... I worry his neck will never grow. So I'm going to try researching how to increase his neck muscles, and I'm going to work him more consistently in side reins. I don't want his mouth to get tough though, so I think I will just lunge him in a halter with the surcingle. This way, he gets some work on his neck, but his mouth won't go sour. I would love if his head and neck grew LARGER via bone, but if muscle throughout his neck is the best we can do, then that is the best we can do.
Of course, I'm going to love him whatever his "neck" situation! I just want him (like any mother for her child) to be the healthiest boy he can be, and I want him to be at his potential for the rest of his life. Never short of that (no pun intended)
Yesterday two light bulbs started to flicker in JC's brain... the COLLECTION light bulb, and the LATERAL MOVEMENT light bulb. YAY!!! All of a sudden, he's starting to GET it. His head placement has gotten worse, but all of a sudden his body and motion has gotten so much better, so I am not worrying about the head because so long as he has the body, we're going places.
So, with that... I guess I will go to yoga to MY body is as fluid as Jimmy Choo's!!!
Friday, December 26, 2008
New Bridle :D
Hello hello!!!
I just got home from the farm and Chelsey & I had a great day. We kicked it off by going to F&F (Farm & Fleet), where I got Neatsfoot Oil to oil my new BRIDLE!!!! And she got a kickin' new helmet for only $19.90. Pretty sweet, I'd say. Here's a pic of Chel in her new helmet and one of my dudes in their field! I didn't want to bring JC or D in yet, so I just tried Jimmy's bridle on him outside in the snow before I oiled it to make sure it fit... and it does! Really well!! It's perfect! Check it:
I also got miscellaneous goodies to spoil the boys along with Doobie's John Lyons Senior feed, as usual. My car now has 150 # of horse food/beet pulp in the back, so with these icy roads, I've got nothing to worry about!!!
I let one of the lessoners hack Jimmy a little bit after I rode him to see how he'd react with someone new on his back who wasn't as experienced (and someone who wasn't me, really...) and he was a little champion! (as he always is...) She did a bit of walking and he went right into some nice contact, which was awesome to see, since I haven't seen anyone ride him since I've started working on that... then she did a bunch of trotting, in which he automatically stayed in a perfect little frame for as well. What a champ THAT little dude is! He was quick at the canter (so surprises there) but overall he really was wonderful with her. I am so proud of my little hunter :D
I can't wait to oil his bridle now! I've put 2 coats on so far & it's darkening up really beautifully. I think three to four more coats will make it the perfect color. I've been working the oil in with my hands a lot so it becomes very soft and supple. I want it to be nice and smooth on JC's adorable little face :) The martingale that Todd got him is Cob sized and has the perfect amount of room for Jimmy to grow into. He will definitely be able to use it forever, which is great. I'll have to get a donut for it soon and punch some holes in it so we can put it to use! He outgrew his martingale a while ago... so I've been riding him without one at all, which it really doesn't matter to me, I have steady hands and so if I don't touch his face, he leaves his head down... but with Jennie on him today his head went STRAIGHT up in the air like a freakin' giraffe (not like Kix tho, lol) as soon as she touched his mouth at the canter... so a martingale will be necessary for a little reminder of what we do at the canter! Plus I prefer jumping him in it so he can't escape the bit like he tends to do sometimes. If he gets excited he puts his head in the air and hollows his back like a big loser. No mas, Jimmy Choo. No mas.
Hope everyone had a great day after Christmas :) I know I did! Now I'm off to oil my new gear!!
I just got home from the farm and Chelsey & I had a great day. We kicked it off by going to F&F (Farm & Fleet), where I got Neatsfoot Oil to oil my new BRIDLE!!!! And she got a kickin' new helmet for only $19.90. Pretty sweet, I'd say. Here's a pic of Chel in her new helmet and one of my dudes in their field! I didn't want to bring JC or D in yet, so I just tried Jimmy's bridle on him outside in the snow before I oiled it to make sure it fit... and it does! Really well!! It's perfect! Check it:
I also got miscellaneous goodies to spoil the boys along with Doobie's John Lyons Senior feed, as usual. My car now has 150 # of horse food/beet pulp in the back, so with these icy roads, I've got nothing to worry about!!!
I let one of the lessoners hack Jimmy a little bit after I rode him to see how he'd react with someone new on his back who wasn't as experienced (and someone who wasn't me, really...) and he was a little champion! (as he always is...) She did a bit of walking and he went right into some nice contact, which was awesome to see, since I haven't seen anyone ride him since I've started working on that... then she did a bunch of trotting, in which he automatically stayed in a perfect little frame for as well. What a champ THAT little dude is! He was quick at the canter (so surprises there) but overall he really was wonderful with her. I am so proud of my little hunter :D
I can't wait to oil his bridle now! I've put 2 coats on so far & it's darkening up really beautifully. I think three to four more coats will make it the perfect color. I've been working the oil in with my hands a lot so it becomes very soft and supple. I want it to be nice and smooth on JC's adorable little face :) The martingale that Todd got him is Cob sized and has the perfect amount of room for Jimmy to grow into. He will definitely be able to use it forever, which is great. I'll have to get a donut for it soon and punch some holes in it so we can put it to use! He outgrew his martingale a while ago... so I've been riding him without one at all, which it really doesn't matter to me, I have steady hands and so if I don't touch his face, he leaves his head down... but with Jennie on him today his head went STRAIGHT up in the air like a freakin' giraffe (not like Kix tho, lol) as soon as she touched his mouth at the canter... so a martingale will be necessary for a little reminder of what we do at the canter! Plus I prefer jumping him in it so he can't escape the bit like he tends to do sometimes. If he gets excited he puts his head in the air and hollows his back like a big loser. No mas, Jimmy Choo. No mas.
Hope everyone had a great day after Christmas :) I know I did! Now I'm off to oil my new gear!!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!!!!
Merry Christmas, everyone!!
Santa definitely had Jimmy Choo on his nice list... because he got a new bridle, martingale, bit, and reins :D And I go a new pair of breeches! Hooray!! Now I won't have to keep washing and wearing the solo pair I have now. Thank goodness!! (I've had to repair holes in them at least 4 times now too. Yikes!)
So this morning I was talking to Steph and telling her how pumped I was about the whole bridle get-up. It's an Ovation fancy stitched raised...with matching reins. It is pretty much gorgeous. I can't believe I got it, I am so ecstatic. I woke up early thinking about how to oil it...is that even normal?! I can't wait to just fit it to Jimmy Choo's perfect little face and make it just right.. then oil it and make it soft and supple. He is going to look like such a stud with his new get-up!
Todd got me the martingale and D-Ring snaffle :) When he put the box down the bit jingled and I looked up at him with wide, excited eyes and said "I KNOW THAT SOUND!!!!!" I was freaking out. I haven't gotten a bridle.... probably for close to eight years. It is a big deal!
Steph and I were joking yesterday that I should go shopping in her basement for a new bridle and I told her "I have EVERYTHING too.. but HORSE sized!" because JC is a cob, so his tiny little self gets all new stuff. What a lucky guy.
I hope Doobie isn't jealous... because Jimmy got stuff for Christmas, but you know.. after seven years, Doobie has about EVERYTHING there is to have! Then again... maybe he didn't get anything because he was on the naughty list.....?? (I'm sure he will be happy enough with the bran mash I make him tomorrow morning when I go out. I'll put some candy canes in it... make it a little more festive. Even if he is naughty. I love him)
Chelsey and I have to be sure we take our decorations down this weekend, since the new rules at the barn state that we aren't allowed to have decorations up more than 5 days past the appropriate holiday. I'd hate for anyone to throw away my $3 Farm & Fleet wreaths....
Here's a picture of my guys for reference, so you can put a face to a name, sort of speak.
TOP: Doobie, 23 (TB) BOTTOM: Jimmy Choo, 3 (QHxArab)
Merry Christmas everyone!! I hope you all had horses that were on the nice list, just like Jimmy Choo!!
Santa definitely had Jimmy Choo on his nice list... because he got a new bridle, martingale, bit, and reins :D And I go a new pair of breeches! Hooray!! Now I won't have to keep washing and wearing the solo pair I have now. Thank goodness!! (I've had to repair holes in them at least 4 times now too. Yikes!)
So this morning I was talking to Steph and telling her how pumped I was about the whole bridle get-up. It's an Ovation fancy stitched raised...with matching reins. It is pretty much gorgeous. I can't believe I got it, I am so ecstatic. I woke up early thinking about how to oil it...is that even normal?! I can't wait to just fit it to Jimmy Choo's perfect little face and make it just right.. then oil it and make it soft and supple. He is going to look like such a stud with his new get-up!
Todd got me the martingale and D-Ring snaffle :) When he put the box down the bit jingled and I looked up at him with wide, excited eyes and said "I KNOW THAT SOUND!!!!!" I was freaking out. I haven't gotten a bridle.... probably for close to eight years. It is a big deal!
Steph and I were joking yesterday that I should go shopping in her basement for a new bridle and I told her "I have EVERYTHING too.. but HORSE sized!" because JC is a cob, so his tiny little self gets all new stuff. What a lucky guy.
I hope Doobie isn't jealous... because Jimmy got stuff for Christmas, but you know.. after seven years, Doobie has about EVERYTHING there is to have! Then again... maybe he didn't get anything because he was on the naughty list.....?? (I'm sure he will be happy enough with the bran mash I make him tomorrow morning when I go out. I'll put some candy canes in it... make it a little more festive. Even if he is naughty. I love him)
Chelsey and I have to be sure we take our decorations down this weekend, since the new rules at the barn state that we aren't allowed to have decorations up more than 5 days past the appropriate holiday. I'd hate for anyone to throw away my $3 Farm & Fleet wreaths....
Here's a picture of my guys for reference, so you can put a face to a name, sort of speak.
TOP: Doobie, 23 (TB) BOTTOM: Jimmy Choo, 3 (QHxArab)
Merry Christmas everyone!! I hope you all had horses that were on the nice list, just like Jimmy Choo!!
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