tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72957151727390379602024-03-12T21:03:04.374-06:00My MojitoFrom the racetrack to water jumps and the journey in between redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.comBlogger285125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-24472849477344646192016-03-22T08:41:00.002-06:002016-03-22T08:41:58.454-06:00New horse!There is a new horse gracing the posts of my blog. Want to follow along? Come on over <a href="http://www.redheadlins.com/">www.redheadlins.com</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pkPXcr7kWMg/VvFZlvxZOUI/AAAAAAAA_YA/v7OkKoWyQBwAi_tHuWbYMKxWbj8B8w-3w/s1600/IMG_8182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pkPXcr7kWMg/VvFZlvxZOUI/AAAAAAAA_YA/v7OkKoWyQBwAi_tHuWbYMKxWbj8B8w-3w/s320/IMG_8182.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He is pretty cute!</td></tr>
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<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-26569682057673083422016-02-29T07:42:00.001-07:002016-02-29T07:42:28.824-07:00Having funI'm totally enjoying the learning curve with figuring out a new platform, I even changed up the look of the new website just a bit this weekend. Probably the most exciting thing...the mobile blogging app for squarespace freaking rocks my socks! Check out this post: <a href="http://www.redheadlins.com/blog/2016/2/28/dressage-chronicles-1" target="_blank">Dressage Chronicles</a>, it was done totally with my phone. You know what that means??? I can easily keep posting while I am in Arizona this week!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyaSlXJ8i7c/VtRYBUwvoxI/AAAAAAAA5gQ/6_u9pbpWIts/s1600/lp%2B14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyaSlXJ8i7c/VtRYBUwvoxI/AAAAAAAA5gQ/6_u9pbpWIts/s320/lp%2B14.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another great shot from <a href="http://fourmaresnomoney.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alyssa</a>!</td></tr>
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<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-81013922790466341462016-02-22T14:06:00.002-07:002016-02-22T14:06:21.880-07:00Don't forgetI'm over here now <a href="http://www.redheadlins.com/">www.redheadlins.com</a> :)<br />
Love you guys!<br />
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<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-45559751393639900202016-02-18T13:25:00.003-07:002016-02-18T13:25:58.738-07:00HeyoChecking in here. Thank you for all the support and visits to the <a href="http://www.redheadlins.com/" target="_blank">new site</a>! I have a couple new posts up there and thought I would let you know in case you are still over here. I know I have lost track of a few blogs when they have switched domain names.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">End of my blogspot era</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of my <a href="http://redheadlins.com/">redheadlins.com</a> era</td></tr>
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Anyone should be able to comment on my new blog, either with an account you already have (ex: Google+) or by just typing in your name (and website/email if inclined). See you all over there!<div>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_1493447677"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://redheadlins.com/">Redheadlins.com</a></div>
redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-64383933590216741402016-02-16T21:56:00.000-07:002016-02-16T21:56:19.564-07:00ShiftingsBig news day here. <br />
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1. I got accepted for the Thoroughbred Makeover!!!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NINhmzJ-HFI/VsP8W3l5DlI/AAAAAAAA38A/kjk2GstlzTc/s1600/accepted%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NINhmzJ-HFI/VsP8W3l5DlI/AAAAAAAA38A/kjk2GstlzTc/s320/accepted%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yahoo!</td></tr>
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2. I finally got a domain name and the blog will be moving to a new place!<br />
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Go check out <a href="http://www.redheadlins.com/">www.redheadlins.com</a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking towards the future</td></tr>
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It is in complete infancy, so far I am liking the platform and format. I don't even have info under all the tabs yet, but I am totally excited to share the experience with all of you who haven't gone through this process yet.<br />
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See you guys over there!<br />
<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-77114088076387782352016-02-09T07:29:00.000-07:002016-02-09T07:29:25.999-07:00Credit dueI'm not writing this to toot my own horn or even to pump myself up. I writing this for all of us that get stuck looking at the daily grind and forget to give ourselves the credit we deserve. The credit for the beautiful care our horses get. The acknowledgement of the research we do for the products we use. Credence to the mental fortitude to be patient and not to resort to anger or hysterics in the most trying of situations. Most of all, today though, I'm remembering to give myself the credit for the progress of my horse.<br />
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A few posts ago I acknowledged the 'winter training elves' and time off. I always acknowledge my horse and how great he is, how hard he tries, his talent, his memory for the skills he learns. I might talk about the things I am doing with him, but in my own head I never take that moment to be just a little proud. I'm not talking hubris here, just that little pat on the back. 'Good job self, this horse has made progress, you have guided that progress, you deserve a hug.'<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfsT58dPDWU/Vrn2XdKBjYI/AAAAAAAA3G4/CRgYiIAt5v8/s1600/canter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yfsT58dPDWU/Vrn2XdKBjYI/AAAAAAAA3G4/CRgYiIAt5v8/s320/canter.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He didn't learn to canter like this all by himself</td></tr>
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Do you understand what I'm saying?<br />
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Last year was a struggle, I've talked about 'muchness' and confidence. I've talked about learning to not beat myself up. So, I guess the next step on this journey to healthy mental maturity is to move from the safe zone where I no longer berate myself into a zone where I am willing to recognize the good things I do with a horse. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1LEeo747eS8/Vrn2XpSD8iI/AAAAAAAA3HA/UHQ-n_Tm_D0/s1600/hellz%2Byeah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1LEeo747eS8/Vrn2XpSD8iI/AAAAAAAA3HA/UHQ-n_Tm_D0/s320/hellz%2Byeah.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Or to use his neck like this</td></tr>
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Instead of looking at where we are in our training and feeling upset for not being further, I need to look at where we are in our training and throw a little party celebrating the journey so far. Ok, so we haven't been to a USEA event yet, but we can do pretty solid shoulder in, we did win a jumper class, we can canter in a manner suitable for first level. My horse's topline continues to develop as does his confidence. These are all things that don't happen while he stands in his stall or pasture. These are things that happen as I take up the reins, and I put on my leg, as I reward his effort I also need to reward mine.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1mFQfj61oQ/Vrn2YYCQGXI/AAAAAAAA3HE/62atW-JN_aU/s1600/that%2Bneck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B1mFQfj61oQ/Vrn2YYCQGXI/AAAAAAAA3HE/62atW-JN_aU/s320/that%2Bneck.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello topline development not gotten while grazing</td></tr>
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This is for all of you as well as myself. Remember where you started, remember where your horse started. In your journey to the finish line don't forget where that starting line was. It is that distance between goals in which you can so easily get lost. So, keep acknowledging the progress, keep readdressing the direction, and always remember to give yourself credit where credit is due.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SL88qd0VWkI/Vrn2XmUopRI/AAAAAAAA3G8/xedCiOaju1U/s1600/phenomenal%2Btrot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SL88qd0VWkI/Vrn2XmUopRI/AAAAAAAA3G8/xedCiOaju1U/s320/phenomenal%2Btrot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy all the steps</td></tr>
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<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-77122495638781977032016-02-08T14:01:00.000-07:002016-02-08T14:01:45.012-07:00The good kind of crazySo it is a big hurry up and wait game until the 15th of this month to find out if I got accepted for the 2016 RRP Thoroughbred Makeover. Gah! I just want to know. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bden2f7GE84/VrQl6nwsjJI/AAAAAAAA2lE/3cQlpH-jeqE/s1600/download_20160125_203115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bden2f7GE84/VrQl6nwsjJI/AAAAAAAA2lE/3cQlpH-jeqE/s320/download_20160125_203115.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He says he can't wait either!</td></tr>
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What do you do to whittle away the time? Have totally outlandish conversations with your friends about strategy for winning. Just a few minutes ago I was suggesting I learn to shoot a bow from horseback and enter the freestyle portion. I decided that since we all need laughs I would share our strategy conversation.<br />
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Then they asked if I had the hand/eye coordination for polo.<br />
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Then we looked at a random competitive trail riding video.<br />
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In case you are wondering I was cleaning stalls during much of this, hence the radio silence.<br />
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Grunch is the coolest OTTB ever, my dad has him now and they do trail rides like once a week.<br />
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Feel free to laugh at the autocorrect fails<br />
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And here we digress.<br />
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And that my friends is just a quick glimpse into the insanity we think is totally #situationnormal.redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-10794190214243371602016-02-01T22:24:00.000-07:002016-02-01T22:24:05.359-07:00That one timeI rode in Ireland. So I took a huge trip last April and then promptly took an unplanned break from blogging and then never shared it with you guys. Soooooo many adventures happened, not the least of which was riding a couple horses. My jump trainer here spent some time in Ireland years back (circa 2000ish) and when she heard I was going gave me the name of the brothers she rode with.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So much fun</td></tr>
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*fast forward to driving to Phoenix with her a few weeks ago. She didn't realize that I would actually go find said brothers who have a farm in Northern Ireland. She hadn't actually talked to them in years and had to find their e-mails via google. She was a little worried considering they are quintessential Irish guys who throw you up on anything and say, 'go jump!' I told her no worries, they were just like eventing racetrackers. She laughed, agreed, and I think finally stopped feeling guilty for possibly throwing me to the wolves.<br />
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Back to my point. I conversed with them via e-mail and then text and finally a phone call the morning we headed over. We had spent the night near the Giant's Causeway and their farm was about a 2 hour drive south. Backing up though check out these pictures from the northern coast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gnevcl0ve6c/VrAvOSwYvUI/AAAAAAAA2Eg/3k4Y3AXNzTM/s1600/Carrick%2Ba%2Brede%2Bcouples%2Bshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gnevcl0ve6c/VrAvOSwYvUI/AAAAAAAA2Eg/3k4Y3AXNzTM/s320/Carrick%2Ba%2Brede%2Bcouples%2Bshot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just us surprising local folk with our matching red hair and American accents</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4nkkJxuDKv8/VrAvO_otmnI/AAAAAAAA2Eo/utkFta91oqQ/s1600/Carrick%2Ba%2Brede%2Bview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="134" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4nkkJxuDKv8/VrAvO_otmnI/AAAAAAAA2Eo/utkFta91oqQ/s320/Carrick%2Ba%2Brede%2Bview.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can I just look at this all day?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YVqE3efV27I/VrAvO6Q9aII/AAAAAAAA2Ek/5caeA8XoCX8/s1600/rope%2Bbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YVqE3efV27I/VrAvO6Q9aII/AAAAAAAA2Ek/5caeA8XoCX8/s320/rope%2Bbridge.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hellz yeah I walked over that (rope) bridge (Carrick a rede)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0AG0cCu2Ak/VrAwrqApX3I/AAAAAAAA2FQ/9WOm1mag_0U/s1600/giants%2Bcauseway%2Beugene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0AG0cCu2Ak/VrAwrqApX3I/AAAAAAAA2FQ/9WOm1mag_0U/s320/giants%2Bcauseway%2Beugene.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giant's Causeway</td></tr>
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I took so many pictures. Anyways back to riding. We arrived at the farm, I just had on jeans as I didn't want to be presumptuous, but yeah I had helmet, breeches, and half chaps waiting in the car. This was the one place I somehow failed at taking pictures, don't hate me. One of them was riding in the outdoor ring and promptly hopped off to show us around. The barn was huge, full of stalls and tack rooms and indoor arena and an upstairs office/kitchen/lounge. There were a bunch of working student type girls tacking horses and grooming and cleaning. After some introductions and chit chat he asked if I wanted to ride. I resisted the urge to jump up and down and clap my hands, but did dash to car to change in the back seat. When I walked back into the barn all suited up Trevor's eyes about fell out of his head, he said something about how I could have used the bathroom to change, my husband just shook his head. I was legged up onto a cute bay gelding, he was a good boy albeit dead to the leg. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oq9iEIU_iS0/VrA3SHx77BI/AAAAAAAA2GU/qKORJxKDm0E/s1600/EEEEK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oq9iEIU_iS0/VrA3SHx77BI/AAAAAAAA2GU/qKORJxKDm0E/s320/EEEEK.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smiles for days</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I jumped him around a bit while he coached one of the girls. I felt rather uncoordinated as he was a kick ride,which I hadn't done in a while. Eugene (my husband, I always call him hubby here, but his name is Eugene) mentioned that I was used to something a little hotter, aka she gallops at the track. Once I had sufficiently proven myself I got to get on another horse. She was so cute! Her name Juniper and I wanted to take her home.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-66nxGT6OPQY/VrA3SQWQIdI/AAAAAAAA2GY/tejgJj3T4gU/s1600/indoor%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-66nxGT6OPQY/VrA3SQWQIdI/AAAAAAAA2GY/tejgJj3T4gU/s320/indoor%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hay and bedding storage at one end of the ring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ikpuDHj53U/VrA3S0pd8LI/AAAAAAAA2Gc/yK0KvA9ao00/s1600/indoor%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ikpuDHj53U/VrA3S0pd8LI/AAAAAAAA2Gc/yK0KvA9ao00/s320/indoor%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neat perforated metal walls, blocked rain/wind but let in light</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He told me to ride around and get a feel. I had to promptly put her to work as she was a spook, but she was light on my aids and willing to listen. He had me go over some little things and I fell in love a bit more.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I8MyFU3DIL0/VrA3T2Jf-wI/AAAAAAAA2Go/T-8Hgkb4X1I/s1600/jump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I8MyFU3DIL0/VrA3T2Jf-wI/AAAAAAAA2Go/T-8Hgkb4X1I/s320/jump.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini brick wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SfMbPIA_-NE/VrA3U0_0WZI/AAAAAAAA2Gw/2wTxO9aBY5M/s1600/juniper%2Bwalk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SfMbPIA_-NE/VrA3U0_0WZI/AAAAAAAA2Gw/2wTxO9aBY5M/s320/juniper%2Bwalk.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think these jumps are 3' or 3'3"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then he said I could do the bigger jumps. They felt small, but then when I was back on my own two feet I realized they were actually decent sized. Well she jumped around like a champ and I couldn't stop smiling. When I got off he informed me that he was very pleased to see her go around so well as he was the only one who rode her since she liked to stand on her hind legs no less than two weeks ago. Alrighty. She had just done well at a show the weekend before and guess I was her first ride back. Thank goodness Eugene is used to me riding assorted horses.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPll6i5NRZ0/VrA3RkcA32I/AAAAAAAA2GQ/qtZ3nh6o31w/s1600/Juniper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPll6i5NRZ0/VrA3RkcA32I/AAAAAAAA2GQ/qtZ3nh6o31w/s320/Juniper.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juniper's adorable face</td></tr>
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Then we went upstairs for tea and called Steph on video chat at 7am Idaho time. She was flabbergasted and we all had a good laugh. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xxupuYxHK44/VrA3UxvvtUI/AAAAAAAA2Gs/KyJv5M2jJQI/s1600/lorry%2Bin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xxupuYxHK44/VrA3UxvvtUI/AAAAAAAA2Gs/KyJv5M2jJQI/s320/lorry%2Bin.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside one of their two lorries</td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oHD0JsTLz1M/VrA3VPj539I/AAAAAAAA2G0/S93KlI6kIgE/s1600/lorry%2Bout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oHD0JsTLz1M/VrA3VPj539I/AAAAAAAA2G0/S93KlI6kIgE/s320/lorry%2Bout.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And outside</td></tr>
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We settled into the worn leather sofas and traded stories for over an hour. They really hit it off with the hubby wanting to hear all about American racehorse training. We could have just stayed the whole day!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JlE3X66VeNU/VrA3VmWLZZI/AAAAAAAA2G4/ikAg68npn34/s1600/more%2Bstalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JlE3X66VeNU/VrA3VmWLZZI/AAAAAAAA2G4/ikAg68npn34/s320/more%2Bstalls.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arena is on the backside of these stalls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XSSTWYHH3cs/VrA3X28QdzI/AAAAAAAA2HU/3Hd7fsvpdH4/s1600/oxer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XSSTWYHH3cs/VrA3X28QdzI/AAAAAAAA2HU/3Hd7fsvpdH4/s320/oxer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not too bad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzlahS_ioMU/VrA3Xh-E1bI/AAAAAAAA2HQ/IwGgWiMAQgE/s1600/stalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UzlahS_ioMU/VrA3Xh-E1bI/AAAAAAAA2HQ/IwGgWiMAQgE/s320/stalls.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happily munching away on hay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3s0vPlQHq4/VrA3X16WOwI/AAAAAAAA2HY/kUeNJJRO6JE/s1600/tack%2Broom%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3s0vPlQHq4/VrA3X16WOwI/AAAAAAAA2HY/kUeNJJRO6JE/s320/tack%2Broom%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridle wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gRxB7g7rWSc/VrA3ZbbOgmI/AAAAAAAA2Hs/if15rEdgZ1Q/s1600/tack%2Broom%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gRxB7g7rWSc/VrA3ZbbOgmI/AAAAAAAA2Hs/if15rEdgZ1Q/s320/tack%2Broom%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saddle wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sadly the hubby kindof failed at getting very many pictures of me riding, no worries though it was still amazing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m9zfIS_rl34/VrA3aUBR2II/AAAAAAAA2H4/EsWxEMHlHco/s1600/takeoff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m9zfIS_rl34/VrA3aUBR2II/AAAAAAAA2H4/EsWxEMHlHco/s320/takeoff.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check me out waiting for the jump</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We talked about several celebrity status eventers. They have supplied horses to many people in the US and even rode on the Irish olympic eventing team at one point. Here is a link to their facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Smith-Brothers-Eventing-112146095531432/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Smith Brother's Eventing</a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BmzXSC3J8Ts/VrA3auPfNlI/AAAAAAAA2H8/eciDk6xsyV4/s1600/xc%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BmzXSC3J8Ts/VrA3auPfNlI/AAAAAAAA2H8/eciDk6xsyV4/s320/xc%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gallop track around the cross country course</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bn4-a2IEdy8/VrA3bym4o_I/AAAAAAAA2II/ol5YDVFD6m8/s1600/xc%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bn4-a2IEdy8/VrA3bym4o_I/AAAAAAAA2II/ol5YDVFD6m8/s320/xc%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bank complex</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0EgiUu-KJQ/VrA3dDIjpYI/AAAAAAAA2IQ/NlM3KNFkPAY/s1600/xc%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0EgiUu-KJQ/VrA3dDIjpYI/AAAAAAAA2IQ/NlM3KNFkPAY/s320/xc%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water jump</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Overall it was so worth the drive and time. Eugene and I both had a blast.<br />
<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-60412454346745477682016-01-30T15:50:00.000-07:002016-01-30T15:50:06.965-07:00Training elvesLast week <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sprinklerbandit</a> came and had lunch with my mom and I and then came to the barn with me, yay friends, food, and pictures! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4kSzC_1rsSU/Vq01sOweH-I/AAAAAAAA1f0/AOMSa5kvc7Y/s1600/download_20160125_202618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4kSzC_1rsSU/Vq01sOweH-I/AAAAAAAA1f0/AOMSa5kvc7Y/s320/download_20160125_202618.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That stretch though</td></tr>
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I was soooooo thrilled with my horse! I kept it easy since he is rather soft after a couple slow months, but he answered every question I asked. His walk was forward and swinging, his trot was ground covering and loose, and his canter was worthy of a dressage test.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bBfuIUy4VIE/Vq02ax8uXwI/AAAAAAAA1gc/uOgK-pn5g4Y/s1600/download_20160125_201029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bBfuIUy4VIE/Vq02ax8uXwI/AAAAAAAA1gc/uOgK-pn5g4Y/s320/download_20160125_201029.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stupid hands</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Ok ok, so maybe not dressage test worthy yet (as in what the heck are my hands doing), but overall a great ride. I swear that the snow elves were training my horse while the arena was unusable. Also, can we just notice how great he looks in this bridle?</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VRoAPe7J0fE/Vq03AEet0pI/AAAAAAAA1g8/-yOdDylbL6A/s1600/IMG_20160129_144402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VRoAPe7J0fE/Vq03AEet0pI/AAAAAAAA1g8/-yOdDylbL6A/s320/IMG_20160129_144402.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink, purple, and snuggles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I was working hard to stretch my leg down as it has a tendency to creep up in the winter months, also I obviously need to get my hands out in front of me. I am excited to be planning on some dressage lessons with my old dressage trainer. I grew up in his barn and over the years have taken some of my client horses in for occasional regular lessons, but I haven't ridden a horse of my own with him in something like 7 (?) years. I am really pumped to have one nice enough to be worth the cost! He is someone who I can communicate with nearly no words. He gives you excersices that you can do on your own time, and quiet moments during the lessons where you can think and absorb the information. Often during walk breaks we discuss theory and ideas before picking up the reins again. He is unapologetic, but never berating. If the word 'good' actually escapes from his lips you know that you have truly earned it.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YeW6IzYeKQ/Vq07xFfFGgI/AAAAAAAA1lg/jS4bvDqjuII/s1600/advice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YeW6IzYeKQ/Vq07xFfFGgI/AAAAAAAA1lg/jS4bvDqjuII/s320/advice.jpg" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Life advice at the wedding</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Yeah, you know I wore a princess dress. Even when I don't see him all that often he is still there for me, he is my second dad. Anyways, can't wait to get his help guiding Prisoner in his training.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vaAwcNnvqP0/Vq08eDVXuBI/AAAAAAAA1lw/9HVw5zWgjuo/s1600/download_20160125_201102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vaAwcNnvqP0/Vq08eDVXuBI/AAAAAAAA1lw/9HVw5zWgjuo/s320/download_20160125_201102.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Also he can yell at me to sit up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g_fDxjN720E/Vq08eOMEkHI/AAAAAAAA1lw/x2c_jNxXLbY/s1600/download_20160125_202459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g_fDxjN720E/Vq08eOMEkHI/AAAAAAAA1lw/x2c_jNxXLbY/s320/download_20160125_202459.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snuggly pony dressage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqdf0hGRUuw/Vq08eETCD4I/AAAAAAAA1lw/qwwN3uwwVLU/s1600/download_20160125_200816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqdf0hGRUuw/Vq08eETCD4I/AAAAAAAA1lw/qwwN3uwwVLU/s320/download_20160125_200816.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holy hind end</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
You see him reaching with his hind end in the canter? We have worked very hard to get there. I have to give time off its due credit though. Nothing like a nice winter break for muscles to heal and the mind to be revived. Now to get rid of my winter break flab!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-54283776123914018562016-01-28T21:14:00.001-07:002016-01-28T21:14:37.304-07:00Time fliesWhen you are having fun, and that I have. My mom came and visited for a few weeks and I even took her on a trip to Phoenix to see the hubby and racehorses. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSgREjOfINI/VqrayI4qzQI/AAAAAAAA1WE/t9aTJxh2nzI/s1600/download_20160125_203115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSgREjOfINI/VqrayI4qzQI/AAAAAAAA1WE/t9aTJxh2nzI/s320/download_20160125_203115.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancer dancing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You really can't go wrong with racehorses and palm trees.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDQgyrsRhtY/VqrbQDAQvbI/AAAAAAAA1WM/XOw_ViyAUKU/s1600/20160101_094835-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDQgyrsRhtY/VqrbQDAQvbI/AAAAAAAA1WM/XOw_ViyAUKU/s320/20160101_094835-1-1.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancer showing off his muscles and reach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes, the rider is sticking his tongue out at me. Winter seems to me loosening it's grip here in Idaho which thrills me to no end. I was in serious need of some saddle time. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-euKMsh6PO4o/VqrcTWZpP-I/AAAAAAAA1WY/EF9SwqDyM30/s1600/20160114_163453-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-euKMsh6PO4o/VqrcTWZpP-I/AAAAAAAA1WY/EF9SwqDyM30/s320/20160114_163453-1.jpg" width="314" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bits of pink to brighten a grey day<span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The first few rides were in an arena sloppy to two inches down and then frozen, it seemed divine after weeks of being under snow and or frozen solid all day. Prisoner was a good boy albeit tentative about the footing. We walk trot cantered about and enjoyed ourselves though. He was just slightly dragging his hind toes and not quite stepping all the way through with his left hind. I wonder if he will have some stiffness in that leg from when he sliced it to bits this summer, either way now that the footing is truly good he is perfectly marvelous. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9uWxzhUVq0/VqrcTQsYjGI/AAAAAAAA1WY/XSNzXMfKDO0/s1600/20160114_163435-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="309" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9uWxzhUVq0/VqrcTQsYjGI/AAAAAAAA1WY/XSNzXMfKDO0/s320/20160114_163435-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiptoeing through the slop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can't remember if I shared with you guys about that leg slicing incident. It was the day after I returned from our week in Montana (Rebecca Farm) and Prisoner promptly lost his mind in turnout. I just missed seeing it happen (which I think I am grateful for), but I could see where it happened. He had gone careening around the pasture and misjudged a turn. He slipped into/over the fence line. It was a t-stake so it bent over which probably prevented more damage and thank God it had a cap. With out the cap there is a high probability that my horse would have been put down. He had one shallow slice across his belly and with out that cap it might have just stuck right in and gutted him, but it didn't for which I am forever grateful. The main injury was slice down the front of his left hock.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6owxvpBw99k/VqrjmN0LL5I/AAAAAAAA1Xk/LLACc1RU4ZI/s1600/Cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6owxvpBw99k/VqrjmN0LL5I/AAAAAAAA1Xk/LLACc1RU4ZI/s320/Cut.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day after it happened</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The top T shaped part almost needed stitches but not quite. I doctored it up, assured my barn owner I wasn't upset with her (horses will be horses) and he promptly got over a week off. He was lame for a couple days and then we haven't looked back until the other day in the cold and bad footing. Something I will be keeping in the back of my mind. It took a while to heal.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a5u0gK7TppI/VqrjmN1nqLI/AAAAAAAA1Xo/crBA_LxlG8E/s1600/cut%2Bleg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a5u0gK7TppI/VqrjmN1nqLI/AAAAAAAA1Xo/crBA_LxlG8E/s320/cut%2Bleg.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few weeks later</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He still has a white scar running down his leg, but compared to a dead gutted horse I am thankful.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzCvUy_zbjE/VqrcTR7q31I/AAAAAAAA1WY/TIMRV_blxuo/s1600/20160114_163437-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzCvUy_zbjE/VqrcTR7q31I/AAAAAAAA1WY/TIMRV_blxuo/s320/20160114_163437-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He says no worries</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Total rabbit trail there, sorry guys. The beautiful grey boy has also been lovely to start legging back up. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eb4m6JEycFo/VqrcTTV9-SI/AAAAAAAA1WY/xf2cUF2KDw4/s1600/20160114_170017-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eb4m6JEycFo/VqrcTTV9-SI/AAAAAAAA1WY/xf2cUF2KDw4/s320/20160114_170017-1.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hugs for Tudor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-49969869357407842892016-01-13T21:58:00.000-07:002016-01-13T21:58:17.712-07:00More plansSomehow December came and went and I only posted twice. I was busy though making this:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7_SfX-kVLQo" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
Totally a joint effort with <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Aimee</a> and <a href="http://fourmaresnomoney.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alyssa</a>, thank goodness for good friends willing to play in a snow storm!<br />
I still haven't gotten a response from Practical Horseman, but fingers and toes are crossed. I mean seriously, how cool would it be to get the Martins way out here in the wild wild west. Joking...but not really.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yvvj9pgarSU/VpckzoGeJ3I/AAAAAAAAz9w/hTudjA2mXyc/s1600/buck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yvvj9pgarSU/VpckzoGeJ3I/AAAAAAAAz9w/hTudjA2mXyc/s320/buck.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yep, not totally joking</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anyways, I mentioned 'more plans.' How does Kentucky in October sound??? Hopefully some of you are guessing correctly. I just submitted my application to be one of the 500 trainers for the <a href="http://www.retiredracehorseproject.org/" target="_blank">2016 Thoroughbred Makeover</a>! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--et-L8ZcabE/VpclnUWP6LI/AAAAAAAAz94/BaKUmmElx-s/s1600/20160108_132222-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--et-L8ZcabE/VpclnUWP6LI/AAAAAAAAz94/BaKUmmElx-s/s320/20160108_132222-1.jpg" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double thumbs up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
So yeah, more fingers and more toes crossed that I get accepted, then the search is on for a suitable horse (with plans to sell him (or her) at the Makeover). AANNDDD then, I'm thinking a totally epic meetup with east coast bloggers!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLdWlQfQ8_Y/VpcmQ5s2YfI/AAAAAAAAz-A/EEvioA2_m9c/s1600/epic%2Bselfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XLdWlQfQ8_Y/VpcmQ5s2YfI/AAAAAAAAz-A/EEvioA2_m9c/s320/epic%2Bselfie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hopefully the new horse will also be amazing at selfies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
What is life without plans, dreams, goals, and friends?</div>
redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-11154063031318262272015-12-22T20:08:00.000-07:002015-12-22T20:08:43.748-07:00Snow and Sun and SuchApparently I can only deal with so many media things at once, but the video is now submitted so I have enough brain power to blog again.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gBPhPhYclfA/VnoDkFEftYI/AAAAAAAAyD4/KhI93kUYJqU/s1600/Screenshot_2015-12-17-21-47-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gBPhPhYclfA/VnoDkFEftYI/AAAAAAAAyD4/KhI93kUYJqU/s320/Screenshot_2015-12-17-21-47-20.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Majestic snow</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Also, started reading the Outlander books again, I read the first one and a half while in Canada back in August and then forced myself to take a break. You guys it was bad, I was reading until my eyes were in pain, AND I STILL COULDN'T PUT THE BOOK DOWN. So, I'm back down the rabbit hole. It is ok though this time since my arena is soup.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3m1Oa8r4NpI/VnoFTsi77bI/AAAAAAAAyEU/DXgzKBHCZUg/s1600/charlie%2Bface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3m1Oa8r4NpI/VnoFTsi77bI/AAAAAAAAyEU/DXgzKBHCZUg/s320/charlie%2Bface.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie judging me, while using my pillow</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These books though, oh my goodness. Can't even.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YziBqDNSk34/VnoFSj89UOI/AAAAAAAAyEE/oYOrWp_Euuo/s1600/dance%2Bgoofy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YziBqDNSk34/VnoFSj89UOI/AAAAAAAAyEE/oYOrWp_Euuo/s320/dance%2Bgoofy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancer says he can't even either</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I went to Phoenix for a week and had a blast. So good to see the hubby! Also we won a race! But, one of our favorite horses got claimed, it was nice to get a last win picture with him, but sad to say goodbye.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CRAz1r3WwN4/VnoFUMFg7UI/AAAAAAAAyEY/mwfgGjsNqJI/s1600/good%2Bbye%2Bblackie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CRAz1r3WwN4/VnoFUMFg7UI/AAAAAAAAyEY/mwfgGjsNqJI/s320/good%2Bbye%2Bblackie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No more funny pictures of Blackie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The racehorses are doing good though, hubby has some new promising projects. One project though is less promising and he is convinced that he should be an eventer. Darnit hubby you should not be enabling me! But really, the horse is already wicked good at snuggling.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C9ORh-g1Zq8/VnoFSl2gRrI/AAAAAAAAyEI/PSoyTAINpPk/s1600/dancer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C9ORh-g1Zq8/VnoFSl2gRrI/AAAAAAAAyEI/PSoyTAINpPk/s320/dancer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proof of the snuggles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He is three and cute and super calm. He will probably run for while yet, then I can't wait to play with him and keep or sell either way he will be great! Hubby is also surprisingly good at picking out horses that will excel at their second carrer, soooo we will see.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-85RVDNKLuyY/VnoFUegkX5I/AAAAAAAAyEg/6qP3ubFDPSk/s1600/faces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-85RVDNKLuyY/VnoFUegkX5I/AAAAAAAAyEg/6qP3ubFDPSk/s320/faces.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back home wishing it would snow instead of rain</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In case you had forgotten, Prisoner thought you should all know he still has the best mustache though! I was so pleased with him when I got home and after more than a week off he was foot perfect for videoing in the snow.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-LK02zhCCk/VnoFUrOuD0I/AAAAAAAAyEk/J2pIUd8va78/s1600/snow%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-LK02zhCCk/VnoFUrOuD0I/AAAAAAAAyEk/J2pIUd8va78/s320/snow%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Champion and he knows it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Notice that cute bridle he is wearing??? Well, <a href="http://fourmaresnomoney.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alyssa</a> ordered a bridle for miss Bacon and it was too small. I had been lusting over it on the website as I'm convinced I can pretend Prisoner is my mini Blueberry (Valegro's barn name) if he is wearing a black and white patent bridle. Anyways I mentioned to my husband that if he was wanting to get me something really neat that he could pretend Alyssa was his personal shopper and buy the too small bridle from her. He went for it! Happy 4 year anniversary to me!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XiWeov64zYc/VnoMSbwr_kI/AAAAAAAAyFk/iLUT7oFDzLI/s1600/20151207_102346-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XiWeov64zYc/VnoMSbwr_kI/AAAAAAAAyFk/iLUT7oFDzLI/s320/20151207_102346-1.jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much shine, such sparkle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I haven't even gotten to really ride him in it yet except on the snow adventure. Can't wait to dress up with the dressage saddle and look fancy.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FRdw5L4etSU/VnoMSdlD8nI/AAAAAAAAyFk/8B9vkJ9B2A8/s1600/20151207_102343-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FRdw5L4etSU/VnoMSdlD8nI/AAAAAAAAyFk/8B9vkJ9B2A8/s320/20151207_102343-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That face though</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well I'm afraid I can't concentrate here anymore, the swirling mists of the Scottish highlands are calling. Not kidding, time to read.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQjZ9g49GkY/VnoFVAjooKI/AAAAAAAAyEs/8xMOMxANHjc/s1600/three%2Bamigos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQjZ9g49GkY/VnoFVAjooKI/AAAAAAAAyEs/8xMOMxANHjc/s320/three%2Bamigos.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When riding can't happen selfies do</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-59503694975120620702015-12-07T09:11:00.001-07:002015-12-07T09:11:43.886-07:00Mind Blown!So Friday morning I got a phone call.<br />
<br />
<br />
From Practical Horseman (yes the magazine).<br />
<br />
<br />
Do y'all remember the win a clinic with Boyd and Silva Martin for you and your friends contest?<br />
<br />
<br />
I'm a top ten finalist.<br />
<br />
<br />
EEEEEEEEEKKK!<br />
<br />
<br />
Now I have to make a 5 minute video.<br />
<br />
<br />
Let the insanity commence!<br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GCc7dxRF7OM/VmWu9l4EMFI/AAAAAAAAwbc/EuH_jLwsZb0/s1600/pet%2Bmy%2Bhorse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GCc7dxRF7OM/VmWu9l4EMFI/AAAAAAAAwbc/EuH_jLwsZb0/s320/pet%2Bmy%2Bhorse.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prisoner, 'Oh goodness, does this mean more sparkles?'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-49716686027958149412015-11-30T22:42:00.000-07:002015-11-30T22:42:02.812-07:00Dressage stuffIn what feels like a lifetime ago <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Aimee</a> came over and took some pictures of Prisoner and I, then I went and took pictures of her...and we thought we were cold. HAHAHAHAHA! Whatever the temp was then would feel balmy now. Oh Idaho. My phone informed me that the high tomorrow would be significantly warmer than today, 28 degrees, actually phone I don't appreciate hearing about how 28 degrees is warm.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j32u2YqMrxY/Vl0fEITi-DI/AAAAAAAAv4c/v1lUOlF4zOQ/s1600/20151130_131349-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j32u2YqMrxY/Vl0fEITi-DI/AAAAAAAAv4c/v1lUOlF4zOQ/s320/20151130_131349-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what we do when it is less than 20 degrees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In all reality I would ride in these temps, except it rained while the temps dropped and the arena resembles concrete currently. Fingers crossed the forecast doesn't change for the worse as right now it is saying that riding could happen on Wednesday.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7U2d82TJ_m4/Vl0fstJ_YbI/AAAAAAAAv4k/tHyooTLEFQc/s1600/tires.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7U2d82TJ_m4/Vl0fstJ_YbI/AAAAAAAAv4k/tHyooTLEFQc/s320/tires.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How was this a week ago???</td></tr>
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So back to our great dressage ride!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hP3iJcnpek/Vl0j4Q-mhkI/AAAAAAAAv4w/kigIokrlUSc/s1600/20151122_143558-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hP3iJcnpek/Vl0j4Q-mhkI/AAAAAAAAv4w/kigIokrlUSc/s320/20151122_143558-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black bridle, brown reins, I need to remedy this</td></tr>
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We played with wrap liners and decided that Prisoner is too much of a pony for them to look good. He seriously has the shortest front cannons.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PFUPUrRuz8/Vl0j4Wo7R7I/AAAAAAAAv4w/5_eaf1KGMFw/s1600/20151122_144301_014_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="197" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PFUPUrRuz8/Vl0j4Wo7R7I/AAAAAAAAv4w/5_eaf1KGMFw/s320/20151122_144301_014_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah, I've got all the colors</td></tr>
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I warmed him up with lots of changes of direction in a stretchy trot, he really loves powering around.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vySBXQkHHHY/Vl0j4YeRd5I/AAAAAAAAv4w/XQjoHS8d0qs/s1600/20151122_144301_010_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vySBXQkHHHY/Vl0j4YeRd5I/AAAAAAAAv4w/XQjoHS8d0qs/s320/20151122_144301_010_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vroom vroom</td></tr>
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After he was feeling loosened up I added in some leg yield and shoulder in. He is slowly starting to understand this concept, but I am working to get him more supple about it. I would like him to move looser and freer in the side to side stuff.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJ-CfG_iq6o/Vl0j4QzgYWI/AAAAAAAAv4w/Hd7Kon1ClXc/s1600/20151122_144512-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJ-CfG_iq6o/Vl0j4QzgYWI/AAAAAAAAv4w/Hd7Kon1ClXc/s320/20151122_144512-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solid three tracks</td></tr>
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I hope that as we gain more suppleness all around that he will track up easier. That is definitely currently his most weak dressage thing. I almost think it is a bit confirmational, like his legs are too short to reach each other in the trot. Tudor has long legs for days and tracks up with out even trying and even has a somewhat weak hind end.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75-oIAXLlTI/Vl0j4SuAk2I/AAAAAAAAv4w/qAaO03oR7TY/s1600/20151122_144602-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75-oIAXLlTI/Vl0j4SuAk2I/AAAAAAAAv4w/qAaO03oR7TY/s320/20151122_144602-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But who care, he has the cutest face</td></tr>
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It ended up being probably one of our best flat schools. Short, sweet, and to the point, Prisoner just seemed to understand the job.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9qLhtUiYcMA/Vl0j4c4yVZI/AAAAAAAAv4w/VWqv3qo0iTs/s1600/20151122_144651_009_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9qLhtUiYcMA/Vl0j4c4yVZI/AAAAAAAAv4w/VWqv3qo0iTs/s320/20151122_144651_009_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the bend from nose to tail</td></tr>
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One thing that has seen significant improvement over the last few months have been our trot to walk transitions. He used to just throw his head in the air, right at that last moment as the trot turns into walk. The solution has been keeping him thinking forward and straight through the transition. Now when we have a bad trot to walk transition we can blame it all on me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgo6wqEwI50/Vl0j4SNw5TI/AAAAAAAAv4w/R6U9t4Jgfzg/s1600/20151122_144651_016_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgo6wqEwI50/Vl0j4SNw5TI/AAAAAAAAv4w/R6U9t4Jgfzg/s320/20151122_144651_016_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty horse, fugly riding</td></tr>
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All of his other transitions are pretty spot on. We get the correct canter lead 99% of the time and his is willing for upward and downward between gaits and within the gaits.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jxpkNY6jY7k/Vl0j4Yuh4XI/AAAAAAAAv4w/2bG7BX4ANF4/s1600/20151122_144651_020_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jxpkNY6jY7k/Vl0j4Yuh4XI/AAAAAAAAv4w/2bG7BX4ANF4/s320/20151122_144651_020_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Point those toes</td></tr>
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He actually has a very powerful trot that throws me around if I'm not careful, possibly I need to do some planking or something. Maybe that would fix what ever the heck it is that I'm doing here:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jB3YeWVEF-o/Vl0j4bJOeuI/AAAAAAAAv4w/UT9Epxi-bXI/s1600/20151122_144705_013_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jB3YeWVEF-o/Vl0j4bJOeuI/AAAAAAAAv4w/UT9Epxi-bXI/s320/20151122_144705_013_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just no</td></tr>
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Seriously though, how cute is my horse??<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uht_jk9tki8/Vl0j4ejEFtI/AAAAAAAAv4w/QJYQ1EO29NM/s1600/20151122_144705_010_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uht_jk9tki8/Vl0j4ejEFtI/AAAAAAAAv4w/QJYQ1EO29NM/s320/20151122_144705_010_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the silver tail</td></tr>
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Side note from the dressaging, his tail is not dirty in these pictures, those are white hairs you see. I swear he is trying to grow a trendy silver tail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8K9tavXg0w0/Vl0j4c4KK8I/AAAAAAAAv4w/eYw0CIkKf2M/s1600/20151122_145025_004_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8K9tavXg0w0/Vl0j4c4KK8I/AAAAAAAAv4w/eYw0CIkKf2M/s320/20151122_145025_004_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Short fat pony legs...and human legs</td></tr>
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He still leans in a bit at the canter, but not bad for being 15 months off the track.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V0cTvRcu9ok/Vl0j4Yr6k7I/AAAAAAAAv4w/e0C1c5M8SlQ/s1600/20151122_145025_006_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V0cTvRcu9ok/Vl0j4Yr6k7I/AAAAAAAAv4w/e0C1c5M8SlQ/s320/20151122_145025_006_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Please come back thawed arena</td></tr>
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He has a very fun canter to ride, he is willing to collect for small circles or to go big around the arena. After we canter his trot always gets better.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bn9ALF7ZsxM/Vl0j4VjWlnI/AAAAAAAAv4w/ldK70KI9HQ0/s1600/20151122_145040_013-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bn9ALF7ZsxM/Vl0j4VjWlnI/AAAAAAAAv4w/ldK70KI9HQ0/s320/20151122_145040_013-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BAM!</td></tr>
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I like my position in half of these pictures and in the other half I can hear my dressage trainer's Swiss accented voice telling me to sit on my back pockets. My plan is to actually get in for some dressage lessons towards the end of December or in January.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-It6XLZzQfFQ/Vl0j4Zks_aI/AAAAAAAAv4w/VjxOtvNU4jY/s1600/20151122_145040_009_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-It6XLZzQfFQ/Vl0j4Zks_aI/AAAAAAAAv4w/VjxOtvNU4jY/s320/20151122_145040_009_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There we go</td></tr>
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I look forward to those sore dressage lesson muscles, they are so satisfying.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNQK97b7qHo/Vl0j4aVpfkI/AAAAAAAAv4w/1M8QfRczCEs/s1600/20151122_145040_001_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNQK97b7qHo/Vl0j4aVpfkI/AAAAAAAAv4w/1M8QfRczCEs/s320/20151122_145040_001_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swooning at how his neck is developing</td></tr>
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I have been working to push my hands towards him so that he reaches for the bridle and builds a better topline, but I need to watch that I don't drop the contact.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hV08SGvUrHM/Vl0j4aL225I/AAAAAAAAv4w/901skhjJsNs/s1600/20151122_145154_001-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hV08SGvUrHM/Vl0j4aL225I/AAAAAAAAv4w/901skhjJsNs/s320/20151122_145154_001-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting up better</td></tr>
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I also need to spend more time in the canter. I am bad about a few good circles each way and calling it a day. I need to make use of all those coolers I have from race wins!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ch371iF3Vc0/Vl0j4QRPOFI/AAAAAAAAv4w/vVyytu7AOfU/s1600/20151122_145154_003_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ch371iF3Vc0/Vl0j4QRPOFI/AAAAAAAAv4w/vVyytu7AOfU/s320/20151122_145154_003_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Work that boot P-Diddy</td></tr>
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He stands up a bit better to the right, but he struggles more to turn.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JxGTEKox7oI/Vl0j4TvXI2I/AAAAAAAAv4w/_XHmYqOZCHk/s1600/20151122_145154_004_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JxGTEKox7oI/Vl0j4TvXI2I/AAAAAAAAv4w/_XHmYqOZCHk/s320/20151122_145154_004_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild mane!</td></tr>
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Our goals for next year are to break into the 20's at our events and if the budget permits maybe hit up some dressage shows.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvyz52su0cw/Vl0j4Rrx2BI/AAAAAAAAv4w/Hks5Vk7cgjQ/s1600/20151122_145235_015_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvyz52su0cw/Vl0j4Rrx2BI/AAAAAAAAv4w/Hks5Vk7cgjQ/s320/20151122_145235_015_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Should have worn my spurs</td></tr>
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I love his willingness to try new things. This summer he struggled with body soreness, but in the last month or two it hasn't flared up at all!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o8MaumpB2FA/Vl0j4eLGLjI/AAAAAAAAv4w/Im9LRvKgJrw/s1600/20151122_145248_001-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o8MaumpB2FA/Vl0j4eLGLjI/AAAAAAAAv4w/Im9LRvKgJrw/s320/20151122_145248_001-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whoops, too bent</td></tr>
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Can I just say that I love how curvy he is!? He really isn't fat at all, he is just building up some great muscles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvJTkuaJeCo/Vl0j4SDdwcI/AAAAAAAAv4w/ry3lxEmHmz4/s1600/20151122_145248_008_02-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvJTkuaJeCo/Vl0j4SDdwcI/AAAAAAAAv4w/ry3lxEmHmz4/s320/20151122_145248_008_02-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reasons they need joint support</td></tr>
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In case you are wondering why I am sporting nearly rust colored breeches? They are warm and fleecy and wind proof, that's why.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ESbBViohi7k/Vl0j4S3xZiI/AAAAAAAAv4w/K421AyANWzk/s1600/20151122_145154_010_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ESbBViohi7k/Vl0j4S3xZiI/AAAAAAAAv4w/K421AyANWzk/s320/20151122_145154_010_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Favorite canter shot from the day</td></tr>
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Check out that hind leg reach!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ftgXlVj4caQ/Vl0j4ZO2B0I/AAAAAAAAv4w/SGP6WTjt4pE/s1600/20151122_144705_009_02-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="279" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ftgXlVj4caQ/Vl0j4ZO2B0I/AAAAAAAAv4w/SGP6WTjt4pE/s320/20151122_144705_009_02-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Favorite trot shot</td></tr>
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There you have it, dressage stuff.redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-60698819694048471742015-11-28T08:26:00.000-07:002015-11-28T08:26:56.099-07:00Babies!The four legged variety. Most years we have one or two beautiful Thoroughbred babies. It is so fun to watch them grow and then train and race them, and then finally get them all set up for a second career. This year we have a chestnut filly (Mckenna Warrior) and a bay colt (Baby Blakers). Mckenna is out of a plain bay mare who has produced two plain bay colts and a plain bay stallion. She looks like this:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HBiltN1sGds/VlnBav0GB-I/AAAAAAAAvos/uHst9DWLYco/s1600/mckenna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HBiltN1sGds/VlnBav0GB-I/AAAAAAAAvos/uHst9DWLYco/s320/mckenna.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One month old</td></tr>
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Swoon! So here are a bunch pictures of this year's babies.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uRp9Ezwr3Vk/VlnBdvv9WbI/AAAAAAAAvow/OAdhUsK83vw/s1600/Blakers%2Bface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uRp9Ezwr3Vk/VlnBdvv9WbI/AAAAAAAAvow/OAdhUsK83vw/s320/Blakers%2Bface.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Blakers already being sassy</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PWn_i7Tqcdw/VlnBd1f1oAI/AAAAAAAAvo4/shMM-vSXxNs/s1600/Blakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PWn_i7Tqcdw/VlnBd1f1oAI/AAAAAAAAvo4/shMM-vSXxNs/s320/Blakers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">About a week old here, born the end of March</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfJhKKvlvYs/VlnBdzIFhtI/AAAAAAAAvo0/MyAWa0ru3ZE/s1600/Mckenna%2BWarrier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfJhKKvlvYs/VlnBdzIFhtI/AAAAAAAAvo0/MyAWa0ru3ZE/s320/Mckenna%2BWarrier.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The day Mckenna was born, mid April</td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKHcSH7zjfU/VlnBaIxv4lI/AAAAAAAAvoo/7RIaXdIggjs/s1600/mckenna%2Bselfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKHcSH7zjfU/VlnBaIxv4lI/AAAAAAAAvoo/7RIaXdIggjs/s320/mckenna%2Bselfie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fluffy baby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uNP-3X43UsE/VlnBXmjFGFI/AAAAAAAAvoQ/ohGmIwRR6Nk/s1600/mckenna%2Blaugh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uNP-3X43UsE/VlnBXmjFGFI/AAAAAAAAvoQ/ohGmIwRR6Nk/s320/mckenna%2Blaugh.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughing our way through July</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGi-x4vdHlk/VlnBXwMROCI/AAAAAAAAvoY/JjKDluJsbmA/s1600/mckennaface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGi-x4vdHlk/VlnBXwMROCI/AAAAAAAAvoY/JjKDluJsbmA/s320/mckennaface.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting rid of that baby coat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gyz9tmt0pxg/VlnBYDMif4I/AAAAAAAAvoc/5yCPpFZ0Qrg/s1600/siblings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gyz9tmt0pxg/VlnBYDMif4I/AAAAAAAAvoc/5yCPpFZ0Qrg/s320/siblings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical siblings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hbiX5QUOTjc/VlnBtjijoyI/AAAAAAAAvqM/GkTt3LtZmGk/s1600/Herd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hbiX5QUOTjc/VlnBtjijoyI/AAAAAAAAvqM/GkTt3LtZmGk/s320/Herd.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole herd in September</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ja3sBvoqWl4/VlnBt0aOBuI/AAAAAAAAvqY/vRCAQwVH9nY/s1600/majestic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ja3sBvoqWl4/VlnBt0aOBuI/AAAAAAAAvqY/vRCAQwVH9nY/s320/majestic.jpg" width="176" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cover of Bloodhorse anyone?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_PJWLjH-W6A/VlnBugzUDhI/AAAAAAAAvqg/tuNG6XOkRrU/s1600/mckenna%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_PJWLjH-W6A/VlnBugzUDhI/AAAAAAAAvqg/tuNG6XOkRrU/s320/mckenna%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can I haves her?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QvHymLJf13Q/VlnBvH2khMI/AAAAAAAAvqk/ARBF23aNusA/s1600/me%2Band%2Bmckenna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QvHymLJf13Q/VlnBvH2khMI/AAAAAAAAvqk/ARBF23aNusA/s320/me%2Band%2Bmckenna.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She is giant!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TP8ORPi294s/VlnBtAha5DI/AAAAAAAAvqA/MjNFVsDKuyc/s1600/feed%2Bme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TP8ORPi294s/VlnBtAha5DI/AAAAAAAAvqA/MjNFVsDKuyc/s320/feed%2Bme.jpg" width="176" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blakers just wants cookies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kPEjrQl0F8/VlnBt5ACfEI/AAAAAAAAvqU/fH0Rs4Av3bY/s1600/babies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kPEjrQl0F8/VlnBt5ACfEI/AAAAAAAAvqU/fH0Rs4Av3bY/s320/babies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big babies (the hubs is 6')</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybbfnBYXwOM/VlnBmsl9C6I/AAAAAAAAvpY/1CA34x-18z0/s1600/mckenna%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybbfnBYXwOM/VlnBmsl9C6I/AAAAAAAAvpY/1CA34x-18z0/s320/mckenna%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretending to be a Quarter Horse</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJVuI18eJHA/VlnBmqxFkmI/AAAAAAAAvpg/GbehIfTev4s/s1600/mckenna%2Bhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJVuI18eJHA/VlnBmqxFkmI/AAAAAAAAvpg/GbehIfTev4s/s320/mckenna%2Bhead.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snuggle time</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ADZkmFeVlo/VlnBnhUZgAI/AAAAAAAAvpk/PPQpgTmh0wA/s1600/oh%2Bhai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ADZkmFeVlo/VlnBnhUZgAI/AAAAAAAAvpk/PPQpgTmh0wA/s320/oh%2Bhai.jpg" width="201" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter coat is THICK!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X-tBIv0cq3I/VlnBo4x47XI/AAAAAAAAvp0/olFlU8Nz_do/s1600/pose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X-tBIv0cq3I/VlnBo4x47XI/AAAAAAAAvp0/olFlU8Nz_do/s320/pose.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apparently her new favorite pose</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_XJFW5Qan14/VlnBo-8fdzI/AAAAAAAAvpw/dFfbPaVNdwk/s1600/sleepy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_XJFW5Qan14/VlnBo-8fdzI/AAAAAAAAvpw/dFfbPaVNdwk/s320/sleepy.jpg" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nap time for Blakers</td></tr>
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So there you have it, babies babies babies! I have more pictures I need to find and organize. Seriously though we are going to have to figure out some sort of epic battle to decide who gets Mckenna when she is done racing, because hello gorgeous!redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-33950076824870439562015-11-26T08:01:00.000-07:002015-11-26T08:01:27.299-07:00Yep, I'm going thereThanksgiving sappiness. Because why not. Also baked goods, because yum.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tXTFpA2N5no/VlcYdNqXAWI/AAAAAAAAvPE/2mS4mLhYb2g/s1600/moar%2Bpie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tXTFpA2N5no/VlcYdNqXAWI/AAAAAAAAvPE/2mS4mLhYb2g/s320/moar%2Bpie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moar pie</td></tr>
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Yesterday it snowed, and stuck everywhere but at my barn and house. Now you might think 'yay you can still ride!' But, yeah not so much, the arena is now totally saturated and the temperature dropped over night, so think frozen block of sand instead. Now is the time to practice lateral work in hand I believe. Really though, now is the time to remember blessings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-JdeFrAf6w/VlcXrFqbFUI/AAAAAAAAvO8/pZQCKh4fCCo/s1600/20151124_133328%25280%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-JdeFrAf6w/VlcXrFqbFUI/AAAAAAAAvO8/pZQCKh4fCCo/s320/20151124_133328%25280%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This horse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrEu2zvBhvM/VlcXrBFmoyI/AAAAAAAAvO8/zT5fIV8Ag5k/s1600/20151123_142228-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IrEu2zvBhvM/VlcXrBFmoyI/AAAAAAAAvO8/zT5fIV8Ag5k/s320/20151123_142228-1.jpg" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby horses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtV49ldrU-U/VlcXrLGeTTI/AAAAAAAAvO8/kAa3--BOan4/s1600/20151123_140316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtV49ldrU-U/VlcXrLGeTTI/AAAAAAAAvO8/kAa3--BOan4/s320/20151123_140316.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby lambs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QDi11tN8rZ4/VlcXrLNBNeI/AAAAAAAAvO8/Ji1ukZtm48M/s1600/20151122_145154_003_01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QDi11tN8rZ4/VlcXrLNBNeI/AAAAAAAAvO8/Ji1ukZtm48M/s320/20151122_145154_003_01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Did I mention this horse<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lln_DYPVtV8/VlcZNWxybII/AAAAAAAAvPM/eBM3np4pJNM/s1600/san%2Bfran.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lln_DYPVtV8/VlcZNWxybII/AAAAAAAAvPM/eBM3np4pJNM/s320/san%2Bfran.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This guy</td></tr>
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More things I am thankful for? My parents, my friends, my house, my dog, my cats, my health, my memories, my future. I hope you are all able to do something fun today and eat something tasty. Thanksgiving isn't really about the big turkey or stuffing or cranberries. It is about remembering the things we have instead of focusing on what we don't have. It is about making new memories and savoring the old ones. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLGDk_fuXFc/VlccRyzlnnI/AAAAAAAAvPo/hxCG6jDOMjg/s1600/foood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gLGDk_fuXFc/VlccRyzlnnI/AAAAAAAAvPo/hxCG6jDOMjg/s320/foood.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to cook</td></tr>
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And who knows about what really happened on that first Thanksgiving (hello folklore gone wild), but I really like the idea of adventurers in a new land meeting new people and having a party. I know this can be tough time for people who are feeling alone, I encourage them to volunteer, or cook a meal for other lonely people. Make treats and bring it to the people who have to work. Be thankful that you have the ability to give.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHw5bXsKeso/VlcdkKjmz9I/AAAAAAAAvP8/WmsTmhm_LHM/s1600/pies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHw5bXsKeso/VlcdkKjmz9I/AAAAAAAAvP8/WmsTmhm_LHM/s320/pies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last year's pies</td></tr>
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Anyways, I hope you all have a wonderful day, eat til that top button is tight, and laugh until your sides hurt.redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-40789951205071648402015-11-25T08:53:00.000-07:002015-11-25T08:53:57.370-07:00PartnersMy last two jump sessions with Mr. Prisoner have been really great. Nothing super challenging, but through both of them we have felt like a team. We have been working hard to get to that point. When things sort of slowly melted down this spring and summer I went back to the basics. Trotting cross rails and tiny verticals. Sometimes we put the jumps up a bit, because jumping, but over all I tried to keep it low key.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R56-R2PSOag" width="560"></iframe><br />
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Here is a random mashup from July (thank you google). We played with jumping in a hackamore, and while not my favorite long term it certainly was useful. All that chilling out paid off and we had two very successful shows in October with jumps ranging from 2'6" to 3'3". Height really isn't the issue for him, straightness and power are. If I allow him to get crooked or under powered that is when most of our issues rear their ugly head. Our new good habits are getting to be just that, habits. Which, leads us into feeling like a team again. He knows what I'm doing, I know what he is doing, together we get stuff done.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1upu9b0WnpM/VlXUVtxlV9I/AAAAAAAAvE8/rqALluIZtFM/s1600/oxer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1upu9b0WnpM/VlXUVtxlV9I/AAAAAAAAvE8/rqALluIZtFM/s320/oxer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like this</td></tr>
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I have to apologize for this video. I was capturing it from the fence, and the first half is totally blurry, but you can still see a blob jumping and also some kick ass lead changes.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l7btnl_6B3c" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
The two stride is super tight and the first few times I was happy with, then we took a little break. The second set of jumps (when video is less blurry) the second time through he got long and instead of sitting up and woahing I just sat there wondering if he was going to do it one stride. Gah. He stuck in two (good boy) and then promptly told me after the jump to man up. The next couple times I had to earn his trust back and then we finished well. My favorite part of the ride was his honesty and willingness to work with me. Then yesterday I figured I should jump again since there was snow in the forecast (and yes it is currently snowing).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rzxwg0QaBY8/VlXUVu7iX0I/AAAAAAAAvFI/HkaGPOFFcVo/s1600/tires.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rzxwg0QaBY8/VlXUVu7iX0I/AAAAAAAAvFI/HkaGPOFFcVo/s320/tires.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like a boss</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The jumps were totally tiny, but I had tires scattered around which had the potential to blow his mind. Guess what!? They didn't, he was super duper awesome! I love him.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/48PymVXIOB0" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
One more screen shot to leave you with.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jxmg1--Kse0/VlXYbcXeicI/AAAAAAAAvFs/lo6qRyUv6nc/s1600/Screenshot_2015-11-24-13-53-28-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="294" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jxmg1--Kse0/VlXYbcXeicI/AAAAAAAAvFs/lo6qRyUv6nc/s320/Screenshot_2015-11-24-13-53-28-1.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swoon</td></tr>
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Hello stretch and knees.redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-46423985454037562122015-11-24T08:51:00.000-07:002015-11-24T08:51:04.518-07:00One YearThank you Facebook memories for letting me know that a year ago we said goodbye to Mojito. Not exactly a cheery start to the day, but I know I made the right decision as I have no regret, just some lingering sadness about unfulfilled dreams and missing a friend.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THQrGRu78gc/Unxmz4nZduI/AAAAAAAABWI/-hH0-fYSRLE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1383798612416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="142" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THQrGRu78gc/Unxmz4nZduI/AAAAAAAABWI/-hH0-fYSRLE/s320/PhotoGrid_1383798612416.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He loved to be loved</td></tr>
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I was planning to write about a song for Prisoner today. I often share songs that describe a feeling or motivate me, but I struggle to find a song that could be my horse's theme. <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Aimee's</a> horse, Courage, though? Every other song I hear on the radio seems like it could be about him, possibly due to his being a queen/diva. Prisoner on the other hand is a little more self contained. He seriously has just recently decided that snuggling is actually an acceptable pastime.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LjUUfpvh7xc/VlR71BRYwnI/AAAAAAAAu9c/JTbidy8zEkc/s1600/20151122_143009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LjUUfpvh7xc/VlR71BRYwnI/AAAAAAAAu9c/JTbidy8zEkc/s320/20151122_143009.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blinded by the bling</td></tr>
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I'm sure that part of his hesitation to come out of his shell is a reflection of my own hesitation. I've gotten very attached to horses in the past only to have their owner take the ride back, or they die, or they end up showing a lack of aptitude so I sell them. That last one may sound harsh, but I have goals. I know it will be difficult to reach them, I might be 50 by the time I even get close, but I'm never going to get closer if I don't start with a somewhat suitable horse.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FTzZORXTevY/VlR9yFfRSEI/AAAAAAAAu9k/eKxMtFeL1yo/s1600/flame%2Bmane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FTzZORXTevY/VlR9yFfRSEI/AAAAAAAAu9k/eKxMtFeL1yo/s320/flame%2Bmane.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think he is suitable</td></tr>
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The struggle now is for me to get rid of bad habits (in my body and mind) gained from years of unsuitable horses. Prisoner isn't easy, but I don't think 'easy' comes with the territory of wildly talented, so I won't complain. He is skilled, but needs lots of training. I am skilled, but need lots of polish. Together I think that we can really go places. The last several months have been such a time for growth and introspection. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0xQhF6f6ozw/VlR_KrHg3_I/AAAAAAAAu90/Jqx6iCMj1CU/s1600/c4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0xQhF6f6ozw/VlR_KrHg3_I/AAAAAAAAu90/Jqx6iCMj1CU/s320/c4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All for you buddy, all for you</td></tr>
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I can't even begin to tell you the number of horses I've ridden in apparent preparation for this one. I've always looked at each challenge I've overcome with a horse as a time to build a new skill set. Often when the horse is less of a big challenge and ready for true forward progress in their training I get moved on to the next horse. 'Thanks for dealing with all the sh*t redheadlins, time for you to start back at the beginning with the next project.' I really have actually enjoyed all of that, but now I have my own horse past lots of his sh*t and guess what!? I get to keep progressing with him. He doesn't have a different owner to take him away. He shows heaps of talent I can't wait to hone and polish. I finally get to work on myself. We get to be a team.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EMt-CZf5iq0/VlSBLZGUJSI/AAAAAAAAu-A/6KJ6GpOW6qE/s1600/thumbs%2Bup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EMt-CZf5iq0/VlSBLZGUJSI/AAAAAAAAu-A/6KJ6GpOW6qE/s320/thumbs%2Bup.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At our first adventure together</td></tr>
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Circling back to what I was saying about my own hesitation preventing Prisoner's personality from really blooming. I used to give a horse everything I had, heart and soul, but when our time together would inevitably come to an end, I would be shattered. I started to protect myself, if I was going to train horses for people I couldn't let my soul get involved. I've gotten away with keeping myself one step removed, but Mr. P isn't going to accept that. I need to jump in, we need to build our faith in each other so that we can do the impossible. Because isn't that what this crazy thing we all do with our horses really is? Every day that we climb aboard a half ton animal and convince ourselves that we can control it with some leather straps held together by bits of metal, we defy the limits of possibility. The moment I want to do more than cruise over a few jumps or elevate our ride from twenty meter circles to actually dancing I have to be invested. I know this doesn't apply to everyone, maybe we can blame it on my red hair.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2TmWd_qpqXc/VlSDZJILf5I/AAAAAAAAu-M/mKWfpUe59PU/s1600/hair%2Bdown%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2TmWd_qpqXc/VlSDZJILf5I/AAAAAAAAu-M/mKWfpUe59PU/s320/hair%2Bdown%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So red</td></tr>
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I'm not talking about being some out of control emotional wreck. What I mean is that I have to allow the horse into my deepest recesses. The little bits of myself that I hold back and protect for me I have to share with my partner. It is what creates those highest of highs and lowest of lows. I've let this happen with a few horses and those are the ones I will remember for my whole life. It is always a gamble, but this little horse I have is worthy. All of this overly deep blather brings me to my original point about finding him a song. Maybe as I open up to him more, he will too and I will be inspired about what music is his. Right now though, there is a song that is ours.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-urmcz2RSwI" width="560"></iframe>redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-50959311225588928332015-11-19T17:12:00.000-07:002015-11-19T17:33:35.108-07:00This and ThatAs is typical of late fall here in Idaho riding is sort of on again off again. Much of last week the arena was wayyyy to wet to ride. I finally got to ride over the weekend, yay! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BY4G2v9G4NY/Vk5c9upPddI/AAAAAAAAuNA/KqKXolKcS2Q/s1600/canter%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BY4G2v9G4NY/Vk5c9upPddI/AAAAAAAAuNA/KqKXolKcS2Q/s320/canter%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does it get any better than sunset riding pictures?</td></tr>
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Saturday was the first of the winter schooling jumper shows, <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Aimee</a> and <a href="http://fourmaresnomoney.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alyssa</a> and I went for the free entertainment. You guys, it is such mayhem. Much more fun to watch than ride. Also, there was some shopping to be done and the new local tack trailer was set up. Love, love, love having some decent local shopping available. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls3FnP55Rq4/Vk5qRzsx_hI/AAAAAAAAuOc/i29eufCBT1E/s1600/smiles%2Ball%2Baround.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls3FnP55Rq4/Vk5qRzsx_hI/AAAAAAAAuOc/i29eufCBT1E/s320/smiles%2Ball%2Baround.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy ladies!</td></tr>
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I brought back the bell boots that I had bought and had disintegrated by the fourth ride (sad face) and thought I would just exchange for a different pair. Then we were going through the breeches, and OMG the sparkles. After a bit of arm twisting I tried them on in two colors. They are HKM out of Germany and were marked at a great deal. Well I grabbed the 30's because they had no 32's and thought what the heck maybe they will fit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V2MS6gs-zzE/Vk5femXBqhI/AAAAAAAAuNk/CXQMTVigQmI/s1600/20151114_111815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V2MS6gs-zzE/Vk5femXBqhI/AAAAAAAAuNk/CXQMTVigQmI/s320/20151114_111815.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sparkle pockets</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GmF542R1fX0/Vk5fegvycbI/AAAAAAAAuNk/1_Zpel-olX4/s1600/20151114_111347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GmF542R1fX0/Vk5fegvycbI/AAAAAAAAuNk/1_Zpel-olX4/s320/20151114_111347.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">UhOh we know I have a thing for navy breeches</td></tr>
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Well they fit like a glove! Sidenote: I actually took a moment and thought about the breeches I own and more of the brands are 30's than 32's. This made me smile since in typical female thinking I go from thinking that I am a 30/32 to thinking that I wear only 32's and might as well buy 34's. Yay! That said, the way they fit now is good motivation to not gain any weight.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mOch3HbGXOM/Vk5c9gZ466I/AAAAAAAAuM4/FPrKkKDs0jA/s1600/Canter%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mOch3HbGXOM/Vk5c9gZ466I/AAAAAAAAuM4/FPrKkKDs0jA/s320/Canter%2B2.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sparkles and sunset? I think yes</td></tr>
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Well with the credit I had coming from my $35 bell boot return I thought wow what color do I choose? I might have been texting with my mom who had been drinking wine and looking at overpriced breeches on line earlier that week. Wellllll, she said buy both and Merry Christmas. EEEEK! And that is how mom's plus gambler's choice prizes are the best!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibCYaUoQsPw/Vk5hA4A_6YI/AAAAAAAAuNo/n5JKFufNyRM/s1600/20151117_084642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibCYaUoQsPw/Vk5hA4A_6YI/AAAAAAAAuNo/n5JKFufNyRM/s320/20151117_084642.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitty approves of the sparkles</td></tr>
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I've ridden in the blue pair a few times now, and wow I really like them. We will see how they wash up. The tan pair I am going to attempt to save for clinics and shows. But, I do want to feel fancy and wear them once with this vest.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R9IySiC8gXg/Vk5h1PeX3PI/AAAAAAAAuN0/CUknXwbBlsY/s1600/IMG_8278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R9IySiC8gXg/Vk5h1PeX3PI/AAAAAAAAuN0/CUknXwbBlsY/s320/IMG_8278.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think the gold in the vest will look good with the gold sparkles</td></tr>
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Here are some random riding photos I got from recruiting a girl at the barn that I teach, not bad for a phone and waning light.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J8GPvZ_pn14/Vk5c9s2bJPI/AAAAAAAAuM8/4JmHQ0BJ1Q0/s1600/canter%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J8GPvZ_pn14/Vk5c9s2bJPI/AAAAAAAAuM8/4JmHQ0BJ1Q0/s320/canter%2B3.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking tall on my tiny pony</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yxKujtVuDS0/Vk5dAvqlajI/AAAAAAAAuNU/lYovTD3adXg/s1600/trot%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yxKujtVuDS0/Vk5dAvqlajI/AAAAAAAAuNU/lYovTD3adXg/s320/trot%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Streeetttchhh!</td></tr>
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I've noticed that I need to work on getting him laterally supple. He used to be wiggly and we worked and worked on straightness and getting longitudinal suppleness, now we need to get some 'on purpose' wiggle back. Watching <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/2015/11/major-dressage-clinic-takeaways.html" target="_blank">Aimee's clinic</a> over the weekend was a great refresher. If I can get him looser/more free in his back than I will be able to get higher quality movements and better sitting trot. Always something to work on.redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-28349238321840775702015-11-18T22:26:00.000-07:002015-11-18T22:26:37.463-07:00My WordsSo I'm sitting here trying to come up with content and scrolling through facebook (not always a great idea), when suddenly I find this:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkZKAbAXIII/Vk1A77BxPBI/AAAAAAAAuFc/PqsEA-ew9L4/s1600/words.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="336" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkZKAbAXIII/Vk1A77BxPBI/AAAAAAAAuFc/PqsEA-ew9L4/s640/words.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apparently my most used words</td></tr>
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I actually thought is was pretty cool, one of those facebook quiz generator things (that I'm convinced will one day infect my phone or computer but are too tempting to not click on #Iknowyouareguiltytoo). Then I remembered that <a href="https://zenbabyhorse.wordpress.com/2015/11/17/haiku-clarifiction-three-bridle-family/" target="_blank">Nicole</a> is running the Haiku contest and I thought I should use some of my most popular words and also make Haiku art. So here you go.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0i4QXqVXjE/Vk1Uxqt8ntI/AAAAAAAAuGw/rBHEmw0c4mg/s1600/Merry%2BChristmas%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0i4QXqVXjE/Vk1Uxqt8ntI/AAAAAAAAuGw/rBHEmw0c4mg/s320/Merry%2BChristmas%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before I refreshed my memory on counting syllables, #overthinking</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XPlDIqfddJM/Vk1V0LRs4cI/AAAAAAAAuG8/kPQo3UQfbXg/s1600/sunlight%2Bjoy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XPlDIqfddJM/Vk1V0LRs4cI/AAAAAAAAuG8/kPQo3UQfbXg/s320/sunlight%2Bjoy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mostly I think I just wanted to play with pictures</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EBsPkx6rMTA/Vk1brNVICVI/AAAAAAAAuHM/GmstURI3z08/s1600/PINK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EBsPkx6rMTA/Vk1brNVICVI/AAAAAAAAuHM/GmstURI3z08/s320/PINK.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can't Haiku</td></tr>
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I actually like playing at writing poetry, but the haiku is not something I have experience with, not like I need to tell you that after reading them. Either way totally fun.redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-76553049842257930772015-11-17T09:18:00.000-07:002015-11-17T09:18:44.600-07:00Brain BucketsI will admit it, I love helmets. The fit and style has changed drastically in the last 20 years, we're talking bicycle helmet to haute couture. Shiny plastic shells, to lace and rhinestones. White or black to the entire rainbow.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eBBczjqPJA4/VktM824BXfI/AAAAAAAAt2Q/HXiOc0Y-mes/s1600/no%2Breins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eBBczjqPJA4/VktM824BXfI/AAAAAAAAt2Q/HXiOc0Y-mes/s320/no%2Breins.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby blue and lavender anyone?</td></tr>
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<a href="http://dondeestahenry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Karley</a> commented one day on a photo that she wasn't sure it was me when I didn't have on what now seems to be my signature helmet. I love this helmet so much, it is totally out of the ordinary, which is totally me!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RKNNuyy4NGw/VktN9JT9EpI/AAAAAAAAt2g/YL_Dh3t7a3I/s1600/happy%2Bhelmet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RKNNuyy4NGw/VktN9JT9EpI/AAAAAAAAt2g/YL_Dh3t7a3I/s320/happy%2Bhelmet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nerd shirt + helmet in car = winning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This used to be my signature helmet look.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zcj3NEXD-Nc/VktOSOU1_FI/AAAAAAAAt2o/s8fNMokFyh4/s1600/canter%2Bsmile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zcj3NEXD-Nc/VktOSOU1_FI/AAAAAAAAt2o/s8fNMokFyh4/s320/canter%2Bsmile.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burgundy polka dots</td></tr>
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That helmet cover has actually been on several different models of Charles Owen skull caps. It has topped my head around Preliminary, the racetrack, and even dressage lessons. Every one needs some polka dots in their life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc0lrd8EBaA/VktPI3IRPaI/AAAAAAAAt20/dcZXu-naT_I/s1600/aspen%2Bxc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc0lrd8EBaA/VktPI3IRPaI/AAAAAAAAt20/dcZXu-naT_I/s320/aspen%2Bxc.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old school video still, from actual video camera, I promise the dots are there</td></tr>
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That picture is from Aspen Farm the very first time it ran (Autumn 2007). For a while I didn't use the dots because I had the pink skull cap!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W6OH02Abk0U/VktPI6zVHzI/AAAAAAAAt3E/Bu1z8F9BvK0/s1600/cowboy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W6OH02Abk0U/VktPI6zVHzI/AAAAAAAAt3E/Bu1z8F9BvK0/s320/cowboy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mesh in the middle shows more of the pink, but alas no head on shots</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mXHsF18htU/VktPI7QmO6I/AAAAAAAAt3A/_wm1xLupV_U/s1600/rio%2Bkaren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1mXHsF18htU/VktPI7QmO6I/AAAAAAAAt3A/_wm1xLupV_U/s320/rio%2Bkaren.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attempting to be conservative for Karen O'Conner, helmet still pink</td></tr>
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I have other helmets that don't get used quite as often in the rotation, but I still love them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1vT7hZoNxc/VktQb2HsTOI/AAAAAAAAt3M/kddsxeTEUcg/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1vT7hZoNxc/VktQb2HsTOI/AAAAAAAAt3M/kddsxeTEUcg/s320/9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The GPA</td></tr>
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The GPA is actually a tiny bit small (hello headache) and old enough it should be tossed. I may need someone to hold my hand as it goes in the dumpster.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLcJLWnp80A/VktQ4t3EZwI/AAAAAAAAt3U/iXCVbWlvLcs/s1600/oxer%2Bboss%2Bedited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLcJLWnp80A/VktQ4t3EZwI/AAAAAAAAt3U/iXCVbWlvLcs/s320/oxer%2Bboss%2Bedited.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diva! Miss her</td></tr>
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That is a black Charles Owen, that swings towards the big side. Good for when my hair needs contained under the helmet. Also nearing retirement age according to the tag inside.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bnbbqex-xsE/VktRcCycC7I/AAAAAAAAt3g/LabvtNtNYaA/s1600/more%2Bsmile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bnbbqex-xsE/VktRcCycC7I/AAAAAAAAt3g/LabvtNtNYaA/s320/more%2Bsmile.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the navy</td></tr>
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This is my show helmet, Navy Charles Owen Hampton. It has had a lot of adventures. Sadly it also is getting old, but it has always been mostly climate controlled and never fallen in, so I'm thinking while back up helmets (GPA and black CO) get retired this one can move into more regular use so that I feel less bad when it needs to hit the dumpster.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QFUkCOJHk6I/VktSWqXptEI/AAAAAAAAt3o/U7o94wIGeM8/s1600/warmup%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QFUkCOJHk6I/VktSWqXptEI/AAAAAAAAt3o/U7o94wIGeM8/s320/warmup%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love navy</td></tr>
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I think that covers the helmet collection. You know what helmet retirement and usage rearrangement means???? At some point I will have to pick out a new show helmet! Swoon. I really have a thing for helmets. <br />
<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-11218353195715200952015-11-13T09:22:00.000-07:002015-11-13T09:22:10.743-07:00First Event DerbyFlash back friday here. This show happened after the two day Jan clinic( <a href="http://redheadlins.blogspot.com/2015/08/jan-byyny-clinic-day-1.html" target="_blank">day 1</a> <a href="http://redheadlins.blogspot.com/2015/10/jan-bynny-clinic-day-2.html" target="_blank">day 2</a>).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cp1o0vv9wYw/VkX_zoJ6TwI/AAAAAAAAtPY/1GdhIMVlGPg/s1600/air%2Btime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cp1o0vv9wYw/VkX_zoJ6TwI/AAAAAAAAtPY/1GdhIMVlGPg/s320/air%2Btime.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who really needs to touch the ground anyways</td></tr>
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My horse arrived at the show relaxed and ready for business. After watching <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sprinklerbandit</a> put in a good test I went and tacked up. Prisoner cracks me up, it doesn't matter where I trailer to, he is 100% patient until I start to put his bridle on, then he decides that it is time to walk somewhere as I fumble with the buckles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NJJAcXtezvo/VkX_0wYMCHI/AAAAAAAAtPo/UnOtbNm6Esk/s1600/canter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NJJAcXtezvo/VkX_0wYMCHI/AAAAAAAAtPo/UnOtbNm6Esk/s320/canter.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pony face</td></tr>
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I did lots of walking around in the warm up, letting him relax and find out that it shouldn't be stressful. We did eventually walk, trot, and canter. He stayed rideable and mostly unconcerned about the other horses.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQIccX3zDUg/VkX_2OQZJTI/AAAAAAAAtP4/PKL1NMogQIo/s1600/dressage%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQIccX3zDUg/VkX_2OQZJTI/AAAAAAAAtP4/PKL1NMogQIo/s320/dressage%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone needs a smaller saddlepad</td></tr>
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Finally it was time to go in the ring. Other than wanting to look and the tiny arena fence instead of where we were going, he was pretty good.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dV7gTj0Lo0o/VkX_0d7X2CI/AAAAAAAAtPg/WOjUnOltiX4/s1600/Dressage%2Bbeast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dV7gTj0Lo0o/VkX_0d7X2CI/AAAAAAAAtPg/WOjUnOltiX4/s320/Dressage%2Bbeast.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Floating</td></tr>
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He loved the free walk as he always does. I got a confusing score of 6 on it though, with the comment good stretch shown. Ummm, a 6?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2SeUgtA2j6s/VkX_2sNjF-I/AAAAAAAAtP8/YVLaegJ18js/s1600/free%2Bwalk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2SeUgtA2j6s/VkX_2sNjF-I/AAAAAAAAtP8/YVLaegJ18js/s320/free%2Bwalk.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stretching</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm-FV5NblCA/VkX_3P_62vI/AAAAAAAAtQI/OT0uKIqJBww/s1600/freewalk%2Bbeast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm-FV5NblCA/VkX_3P_62vI/AAAAAAAAtQI/OT0uKIqJBww/s320/freewalk%2Bbeast.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still stretching</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I definitely left some points on the table. Mostly due to getting a bit rushed here and there as well as having not practiced in an actually dressage arena and having questionable geometry.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MrAAhX9G7P0/VkX_98oUycI/AAAAAAAAtRY/R5iy4wOIueg/s1600/trot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MrAAhX9G7P0/VkX_98oUycI/AAAAAAAAtRY/R5iy4wOIueg/s320/trot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not really tracking up</td></tr>
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Over all I was really happy with it. I don't remember our exact score other than it was in the mid 30's. No complaints there since I knew right where I could have fixed things and shaved more points off.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaphB0p20xY/VkX_9OJEy0I/AAAAAAAAtRQ/tMcydMFwu_8/s1600/salute.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaphB0p20xY/VkX_9OJEy0I/AAAAAAAAtRQ/tMcydMFwu_8/s320/salute.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Derp face at the judge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yUr3dlplLo/VkX_42Oo1uI/AAAAAAAAtQY/u5RYXACxMRk/s1600/happy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yUr3dlplLo/VkX_42Oo1uI/AAAAAAAAtQY/u5RYXACxMRk/s320/happy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy with the effort</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0aS6CK_OmQ/VkX_4n7xnLI/AAAAAAAAtQU/4hYHMlh_5NI/s1600/good%2Btest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0aS6CK_OmQ/VkX_4n7xnLI/AAAAAAAAtQU/4hYHMlh_5NI/s320/good%2Btest.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I forgot my gloves, shame!</td></tr>
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Courage and Bacon had stalls, so I figured that Prisoner could enjoy the trailer. It wasn't too hot, and he had a nice full hay bag. Then it was time to walk the xc course, peruse the tack store trailer, and cheer on friends before I tacked up again. I typically get way more nervous in xc warm up than I do on course. There is just such a mix of nerves and emotions from all the other riders, combined with the lack of control from some pairs. Prisoner was perfect though, calm, controlled, jumping well. Sprinklerbandit snapped this picture before I headed to the start box, it pretty much sums up how I was feeling, relaxed and uber happy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVNCT0bILYA/VkX_-vi-FVI/AAAAAAAAtRw/xiNt7TsCdHo/s1600/xc%2Bwarmup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lVNCT0bILYA/VkX_-vi-FVI/AAAAAAAAtRw/xiNt7TsCdHo/s320/xc%2Bwarmup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smiles for everyone</td></tr>
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We headed over to the start box, chatting with friends, petting my horse, and suddenly it was time. I had been envisioning this being the first event on our path rolex #dreambigmuch? He came out questioning but willing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tS863eIJHqs/VkX_74TNg6I/AAAAAAAAtRI/c4VOTzmYCXA/s1600/jump%2Bone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tS863eIJHqs/VkX_74TNg6I/AAAAAAAAtRI/c4VOTzmYCXA/s320/jump%2Bone.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got this</td></tr>
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The first few jumps were very simple logs, a great way to start the course. Oh, by the way we were signed up for Beginner Novice (2'7"). We cantered between, but I chose to come back to the trot for the jumps so that he could feel his most confident.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XChfZpGiTdk/VkX_5CAPnDI/AAAAAAAAtQo/9rfU16-DK5A/s1600/jump%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XChfZpGiTdk/VkX_5CAPnDI/AAAAAAAAtQo/9rfU16-DK5A/s320/jump%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ears pricked, ready to go</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1Zo9n08v-M/VkX_5_xWxUI/AAAAAAAAtQw/O4vMZwVcHyo/s1600/jump%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1Zo9n08v-M/VkX_5_xWxUI/AAAAAAAAtQw/O4vMZwVcHyo/s320/jump%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We hadn't schooled this jump the day before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bCvt2H6vfEc/VkX_-kkLjfI/AAAAAAAAtRs/ZwefkEBdDCE/s1600/xc%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bCvt2H6vfEc/VkX_-kkLjfI/AAAAAAAAtRs/ZwefkEBdDCE/s320/xc%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But he was still willing</td></tr>
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It felt like things were really starting to roll along. He was just a tiny bit sticky, but still willing to go forward when I closed my leg.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9smk8JpJA2g/VkX_7Cmv5cI/AAAAAAAAtRA/ZN1r1G0duPM/s1600/jump%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9smk8JpJA2g/VkX_7Cmv5cI/AAAAAAAAtRA/ZN1r1G0duPM/s320/jump%2B5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green but going</td></tr>
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We had a nice canter into the next field, and coming into the blue barrels (back at the trot) I actually can't remember if he spooked at the jump judges on the hill (or if a different horse in previous years did), this is what happens when you do a show write up 6 months after the fact. Either way he jumped it well and we were on to the next jump. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KiaDM0QA_A/VkX_7MNlkqI/AAAAAAAAtRE/X-bwoIS4PMY/s1600/jump%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KiaDM0QA_A/VkX_7MNlkqI/AAAAAAAAtRE/X-bwoIS4PMY/s320/jump%2B6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a little coop that he had jumped on the very first try the day before.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUEj5pctr7E/VkYKsV9wgsI/AAAAAAAAtSA/T8CuQBHaZuQ/s1600/coop%2Bagain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUEj5pctr7E/VkYKsV9wgsI/AAAAAAAAtSA/T8CuQBHaZuQ/s320/coop%2Bagain.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one</td></tr>
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Well, right as he should have been going over it, he ran sideways. I smacked him once with the whip and came back around, but he said game over here is my middle finger (hoof?), take me home. I was kindof flabbergasted. I pretended I couldn't hear the jump judge telling me to leave and proceeded to trot over cross rails on my circuitous route off the course. This was a schooling show, with the specific mention that if you weren't dangerous you could finish the course.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p5VWuOd7Lew/VkX_0DfJLXI/AAAAAAAAtPw/rkYHJ2lGB4w/s1600/anyhow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p5VWuOd7Lew/VkX_0DfJLXI/AAAAAAAAtPw/rkYHJ2lGB4w/s320/anyhow.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got this</td></tr>
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While rather (wildly) disappointing and frustrating, it is horses. I couldn't take it personally, it was just time to keep training and put one hoof in front of the others. We had several successful jumps, and I hadn't felt my old enemy fear creeping in, so I would focus on those. They say the good horses are never easy, so keeping that in mind we would live to fight another day. The best part? Being surrounded by friends (and watching <a href="http://fourmaresnomoney.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alyssa</a> make her first Novice look like a freaking walk in the park)!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jFo5kVYf8vg/VkX_85PD6iI/AAAAAAAAtRU/BBpSZSHSrAQ/s1600/three%2Bmusketeers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jFo5kVYf8vg/VkX_85PD6iI/AAAAAAAAtRU/BBpSZSHSrAQ/s320/three%2Bmusketeers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giant bag of trail mix for the drive home? Check.</td></tr>
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<br />redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-89677050256721532382015-11-11T22:40:00.000-07:002015-11-11T22:40:17.295-07:00It RainedSo I was thinking I had some dressage ride media to share with you, but I already did. Then I had a few media free rides. Then it rained, so just no rides since the arena is sand soup. What to talk about?? Dumdedadum! TUDOR!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Shlb6q-DO4k/VkQgQWuFVcI/AAAAAAAAtKE/O-sR7Cmvi3U/s1600/3rd%2Bride.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Shlb6q-DO4k/VkQgQWuFVcI/AAAAAAAAtKE/O-sR7Cmvi3U/s320/3rd%2Bride.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Third time being ridden</td></tr>
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Tudor is a 6yo, 3/4 TB 1/4 QH, (not racing bred). His owner is a new client for me, we had a mutual friend. He did ground work with a western type trainer for the past two summers, but they thought he would be more suited to English. I went to meet him, and the owner, and the trainer, and fell in love.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sgaTghpckSc/VkQgQDYl3mI/AAAAAAAAtJ8/Srgcjdnu5x4/s1600/tudor%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sgaTghpckSc/VkQgQDYl3mI/AAAAAAAAtJ8/Srgcjdnu5x4/s320/tudor%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Less than a month under saddle</td></tr>
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I watched the trainer put him through his paces and promptly told her that he looked more broke than many of the horses people have brought me and said had been ridden. I backed him a few days later, rode him again the next day, and then the owner moved him to the same barn as Prisoner. He has pretty much been a dream boat since day one.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IPy-eEF19Gs/VkQgQUqxViI/AAAAAAAAtKA/tXtQfned0Tc/s1600/tudor%2Bfunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IPy-eEF19Gs/VkQgQUqxViI/AAAAAAAAtKA/tXtQfned0Tc/s320/tudor%2Bfunny.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He says training is hard</td></tr>
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He is at right about two months under saddle and walk/trot/canters and even popped over a few crossrails the other day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SI1aEZ8goG4/VkQgQw_oYAI/AAAAAAAAtKM/-JThLZks_rY/s1600/tudor%2Bnap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SI1aEZ8goG4/VkQgQw_oYAI/AAAAAAAAtKM/-JThLZks_rY/s320/tudor%2Bnap.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best at napping</td></tr>
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He started out rather lazy, but now he understands that forward is better. He has maybe spooked twice since I've been on him, and really tries to think things through.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_GleUTzp4_Y/VkQgRqZ-T0I/AAAAAAAAtKc/Rek1Qt70c_s/s1600/tudor%2Bpets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_GleUTzp4_Y/VkQgRqZ-T0I/AAAAAAAAtKc/Rek1Qt70c_s/s320/tudor%2Bpets.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the first week</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bd7xHWq-8_w/VkQgRqLkvGI/AAAAAAAAtKY/3eb4MD-kEHE/s1600/tudor%2Bselfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bd7xHWq-8_w/VkQgRqLkvGI/AAAAAAAAtKY/3eb4MD-kEHE/s320/tudor%2Bselfie.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Already best at selfies</td></tr>
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It took him a while to understand giving to the bit, but now he even does that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DESSeBln3yM/VkQgSFiB0PI/AAAAAAAAtKk/7g1sV08ItsA/s1600/tudor%2Btrot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DESSeBln3yM/VkQgSFiB0PI/AAAAAAAAtKk/7g1sV08ItsA/s320/tudor%2Btrot.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Around the one month mark</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DRnerblYhPM/VkQgb40FtUI/AAAAAAAAtLw/4wNkR5k8I74/s1600/tudor%2Bcanter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DRnerblYhPM/VkQgb40FtUI/AAAAAAAAtLw/4wNkR5k8I74/s320/tudor%2Bcanter.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First canter</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W725g8fu-ts/VkQgaVhbrGI/AAAAAAAAtLc/Qm8I32zdcAk/s1600/tudor%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W725g8fu-ts/VkQgaVhbrGI/AAAAAAAAtLc/Qm8I32zdcAk/s320/tudor%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting to give</td></tr>
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Not only is he good to ride in the arena, I already taught him to let me open the gate and we have walk and trotted in the pasture!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d8T7DFLvRMs/VkQgcP8oLYI/AAAAAAAAtL4/xD1yImWF-No/s1600/tudor%2Bgate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d8T7DFLvRMs/VkQgcP8oLYI/AAAAAAAAtL4/xD1yImWF-No/s320/tudor%2Bgate.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First attempt is a success</td></tr>
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The only bad thing he does? Try to eat anything that fits in his mouth!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_h8HQ9rhicg/VkQgcIPIhsI/AAAAAAAAtL0/bK0ESHvni28/s1600/tudor%2Bphone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_h8HQ9rhicg/VkQgcIPIhsI/AAAAAAAAtL0/bK0ESHvni28/s1600/tudor%2Bphone.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Already phone approved</td></tr>
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The best part? His owner is the nicest lady! As is his previous trainer, I swear my facebook turns into a who can be the nicest competition #notabadthing. I am really enjoying a fun project and nice people. Always a good addition.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gemiWqt90Og/VkQgbJcD03I/AAAAAAAAtLk/nk6xsYrOWRk/s1600/tudor%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gemiWqt90Og/VkQgbJcD03I/AAAAAAAAtLk/nk6xsYrOWRk/s320/tudor%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubbahubba dang dang</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8QlQgU0VYA/VkQgZ89KqhI/AAAAAAAAtLU/sPX73d7OYSU/s1600/tudor%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z8QlQgU0VYA/VkQgZ89KqhI/AAAAAAAAtLU/sPX73d7OYSU/s320/tudor%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Work that booty</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9p0nVXaPfzA/VkQgY8QyRII/AAAAAAAAtLI/joqXPQ_qwkk/s1600/Tudor%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9p0nVXaPfzA/VkQgY8QyRII/AAAAAAAAtLI/joqXPQ_qwkk/s320/Tudor%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That trot tho</td></tr>
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I'm thinking that he needs aimed at the hunter ring, time will tell.redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-73622044015089160412015-11-08T21:45:00.000-07:002015-11-08T21:45:17.704-07:00Muchness<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/haiF5DOWwRo" width="420"></iframe><br />
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Muchness, a made up word from a fun movie. The thing about this made up word is that it describes exactly what I've struggled with this summer. Somewhere along the way last winter/spring I allowed some people in my life to plant seeds of doubt about my skills and aptitude with horses. I shouldn't have listened and also should have quickly ripped those 'weeds' out as they started to take root and grow. The problem though is that I wasn't totally aware of it, somehow the doubt had seeped into my own thinking. I started to doubt everything I did while I rode. I started to doubt how I remembered the past. I started to somehow rewrite my history. Instead of thinking about all the horses I had trained and retrained and the good I did them, I started to look for ways that I had somehow caused their issues. I continually heaped guilt over things I had no control of on myself, suddenly every bad thing any horse had done I had convinced myself was my responsibility. Talk about burying yourself alive. I know I keep rehashing this in different ways, but I'm making progress, so thank you for listening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-43wPkEjJy5k/VkAZ-wBUHpI/AAAAAAAAsn8/l-MbD3YJ8XE/s1600/IMG_1645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-43wPkEjJy5k/VkAZ-wBUHpI/AAAAAAAAsn8/l-MbD3YJ8XE/s320/IMG_1645.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much buck</td></tr>
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Anyways, I've been in search of where my muchness went. Here's the thing, the best riders have a certain level of cockiness. Even the nicest and most humble of good riders still exude a bit of that 'I'm the shiz' attitude. You know what? They need it. I've been guilty of it, but I don't know that guilt is the right word. I used to look at most horses that anyone was on and think that I could get on and get it be or similar or even better. It wasn't that I was under some illusion of being the best ever, it was just that I had confidence and liked the challenge of getting on horses and seeing what we could do. I like the challenge of thinking about what each horse needs, what kind of communication they need to reach their potential. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nwTo_wb_mKA/VkAbxeGiOzI/AAAAAAAAsoI/lNXr24PoQMk/s1600/IMG_2599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nwTo_wb_mKA/VkAbxeGiOzI/AAAAAAAAsoI/lNXr24PoQMk/s320/IMG_2599.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much jump</td></tr>
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I don't know if this is even making sense. It isn't that when I'm confident I don't think I can improve. In fact it is quite the opposite, I love watching riders and studying what I would emulate and what I would change. You can learn something from everyone! I also love taking lessons, having someone help you improve and get the most from your horse is awesome. It is just that when I'm full of muchness I feel like I could change the world, even if it is just my small corner of the world filled with horses. What better way to train a confident, bold horse than feeling confident and bold yourself. I want my horses filled with muchness and I can't find that for them if I don't have it myself. I can't expect my horse to have an 'I'm the shiz' attitude when we are headed around a course if I'm on his back doubting every move I've ever made.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UoumIuFdqX4/VkAgUK_WxuI/AAAAAAAAsoU/a490AnQAe3M/s1600/trot%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UoumIuFdqX4/VkAgUK_WxuI/AAAAAAAAsoU/a490AnQAe3M/s320/trot%2B5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much trot</td></tr>
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Good news, I am on the right track. I'm finding my muchness again. A journey for sure. The most difficult part is that thing called personal growth. I'm figuring out how to be my own personal proponent. If someone tries to insult/question/insinuate etc about what I'm doing, I will give it thought as I don't ever want to have been in the wrong and unaware. Mostly though I'm going to smile and nod and move on with my life. I am very very hard on myself, I don't need any help with that thank you. I'm not a typically bitchy person, but I may have to be now and again to protect my muchness, I hope you all protect your muchness too. <br />
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Speaking of muchness, when did being confident become such a crime? Maybe it was just in my own head, but let's say this is going to be my new theme song for a while!redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7295715172739037960.post-91187440284833542772015-11-05T22:31:00.000-07:002015-11-05T22:31:26.540-07:00Situation SparkleSo I feel like a terrible person. I was supposed to do a review about a beautiful sparkle browband I got a year ago! It came with three interchangeable strands of pink bling. Shortly after receiving them I decided to sell Diva and felt generally sad and not in the mood to sort through all the pictures of her wearing it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YBtCVLhZo5c/VjwqkxdJvkI/AAAAAAAAsNw/1BVZTg8RkBg/s1600/new%2Bbling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YBtCVLhZo5c/VjwqkxdJvkI/AAAAAAAAsNw/1BVZTg8RkBg/s320/new%2Bbling.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink that glows!</td></tr>
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Then life got busy and I continued to collect pictures of all the strands on all the horses. Well here we are a year later and I'm finally writing the review. This is a Dark Jewel browband, and first of all let me say, GO. GET. ONE! This came as a listing on her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DarkJewelDesigns" target="_blank">Etsy</a> site and the strands were already made, and she completely reworked two of them for me!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ioOPwUbv_Es/Vjwqzz_FvII/AAAAAAAAsN4/5mQkPoTtHno/s1600/v%2Bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ioOPwUbv_Es/Vjwqzz_FvII/AAAAAAAAsN4/5mQkPoTtHno/s320/v%2Bday.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The one strand we left the same</td></tr>
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The options can be a bit overwhelming, but you know you are getting exactly what you want when it is all said and done. I've done beading myself, but I tried hard to just let Amelia do her thing considering I've never seen a strand I didn't like. (Go like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DarkJewelDesigns" target="_blank">Dark Jewel Designs Browbands</a> on facebook) I did ask for one strand that incorporated black with the pink, because in the world of Redheadlins black and pink go with everything. She totally delivered.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MTomUTKZAFA/VjwvrILA6II/AAAAAAAAsOo/-FcmVbsxxl0/s1600/pinknblack%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MTomUTKZAFA/VjwvrILA6II/AAAAAAAAsOo/-FcmVbsxxl0/s320/pinknblack%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite!</td></tr>
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The arrived crazy fast in the mail and came beautifully packaged.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uQBVGRKwNbs/VjwvqT26LJI/AAAAAAAAsO0/P_6Jm8aZF4o/s1600/20140925_115524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uQBVGRKwNbs/VjwvqT26LJI/AAAAAAAAsO0/P_6Jm8aZF4o/s320/20140925_115524.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I still have child like glee popping bubble wrap </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P3y7XLza_9k/VjwvqWoNmzI/AAAAAAAAsOw/AhqRwwkxNWs/s1600/7260477420693674974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P3y7XLza_9k/VjwvqWoNmzI/AAAAAAAAsOw/AhqRwwkxNWs/s320/7260477420693674974.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OMG the pink!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mYBEVWgx1uo/Vjwvqe56dWI/AAAAAAAAsOs/oCPjq5xQ4cw/s1600/20140925_121553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mYBEVWgx1uo/Vjwvqe56dWI/AAAAAAAAsOs/oCPjq5xQ4cw/s320/20140925_121553.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Already playing with swapping out the strands</td></tr>
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The strands are so easy to change, all you need is a flat head screwdriver (or maybe a dime could even do the trick). There is a large chicago screw on either end that you just undo, swap the strand, and redo. Easy, attractive, and nothing to poke the horse. The browband itself is padded and made of solid leather, even after a year of regular use it still looks new.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ90cOKprBY/VjwrA6jQSoI/AAAAAAAAsOA/CbdtWKvUWXA/s1600/giterdone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uZ90cOKprBY/VjwrA6jQSoI/AAAAAAAAsOA/CbdtWKvUWXA/s320/giterdone.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink cross country sparkles</td></tr>
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The strands typically sit right in the groove on the browband, but sadly one of them is just a little long and droops out. Amelia said to send it back and she would fix it right up no issues. Except I suck at mailing things and still have it. You know what though??? That means that now I can send it back and buy a cob browband and have her shrink the strand down to fit on Mr. Prisoner! Also maybe order him some other colors! Amelia is awesome, prompt in her response to messages and always friendly. Also a wizard at sparkly combos!<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jG72VY7XHco/Vjwrn5CHrrI/AAAAAAAAsOI/Wr_nGpsI8ZU/s1600/gigi%2Bin%2Bpink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jG72VY7XHco/Vjwrn5CHrrI/AAAAAAAAsOI/Wr_nGpsI8ZU/s320/gigi%2Bin%2Bpink.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi wearing my first ever Dark Jewel browband (best bridesmaid gift ever, thank you <a href="http://fourmaresnomoney.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alyssa</a>!)</td></tr>
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The strands are very solid and I guess doing my review a year late means we know they last! I've actually used <a href="http://iamthesprinklerbandit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sprinklerbandit's</a> Dark Jewel browband and strands extensively as well and none of them give the impression of ever wearing out or getting fragile, this stuff is made to last! I also get comments on how beautiful they are. Possible that the amount of pink is overwhelming to some, but they love the idea and look. My barn owner ordered two and the lady that bought Gigi last fall ordered one. Really, if you like sparkles you should have one of these browbands.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6NVBoQzncJE/Vjw1hs1hrHI/AAAAAAAAsPE/dMgcSwVV1y4/s1600/dreamy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6NVBoQzncJE/Vjw1hs1hrHI/AAAAAAAAsPE/dMgcSwVV1y4/s320/dreamy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss my pretty girl</td></tr>
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If your horse is on the small side of horse or cob definitely order the cob as they are generous in size, or at least mine is. Mine is horse size and fits big heads, poor Prisoner swims in it, but he is tiny. Just double check when ordering.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O83GZPXmXCM/Vjw3Jeq0XgI/AAAAAAAAsPQ/ru6vdfj9_bI/s1600/Tudor%2Bpink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O83GZPXmXCM/Vjw3Jeq0XgI/AAAAAAAAsPQ/ru6vdfj9_bI/s320/Tudor%2Bpink.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful on every horse</td></tr>
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The best part??? They are crazy affordable! Get this guys, you get the browband and TWO sparkle strands for $50.00, yes fifty you read that right! If you choose to get extra fancy beads the price can go up, but seriously you get essentially two custom browbands for $50.00! #canteven<br />
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Now for the most difficult part, choosing what colors P-Diddy needs! I'm thinking a turquoise/blue one and a gold/champagne one!redheadlinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06736154763329900177noreply@blogger.com4