Chambord seems to be over whatever stomach upset he had. I hardly ever was so happy to see manure!
We took the boys out for a lovely trailride this morning. They both earned their gold stars, ears pricked, attentive, but not upset by all the other horses out on the trails.
Seems like everybody had the same idea: Memorial Day, for once: no rain, and trying to beat the heat. It's amazing, a couple of days ago I was wearing polar fleece, and today we were approaching temps in the 90s.
Ah, and total luxury: the power came back on! I already worried how to dress and put on my make up by candle light tomorrow morning, especially with the potential buyers of the company showing up. So, at least on the outside I will be properly prepared...
Monday, May 30, 2011
Chambord update
Chambord is better today. He passed manure over night, drank some, but pretty much turns his nose up at beet pulp and soaked hay cubes. When I offered him a handful of his pellets he gobbled those down right away.
Saumur probably thinks, "thanks buddy, more beet pulp for me!". We turned both boys out, but closed the lushest pasture off.
Still no power, but the generator is working and provides at least water (no electricity in the kitchen, bathroom). Not happy about it but it could be much worse.
Saumur probably thinks, "thanks buddy, more beet pulp for me!". We turned both boys out, but closed the lushest pasture off.
Still no power, but the generator is working and provides at least water (no electricity in the kitchen, bathroom). Not happy about it but it could be much worse.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Some days just don't work out as planned --
We went to the movies last night and the film we saw, Incendies, troubled me all night. I hardly slept at all, and I still have some of the images in my mind.
So, with four hours of sleep for me we drove to Sandy's for our lessons. Chambord and JP went first, and Chambord did the kicking out with the hind legs again when JP got on. After longeing it was better, and then he worked well in his lesson.
Saumur again started out great, and we focused again today on my position. Sandy explained very detailed on how to draw my core together in the transitions, instead of 'popping up'. All went well and we had started the canter work, half passes across the arena with counter canter, when JP came in with Chambord and said Chambord was not feeling well. That of course completely shot my focus to pieces. JP was hand walking Chambord while we tried to go on with my lesson, to finish with the changes. I had a heck of time, lack of focus is NOT conducive to good riding! We finally had a good change and quit with that.
In the meantime, Chambord seemed to be feeling worse and we called the vet. Bloodwork, physical exam etc. turned up nothing. Chambord seemed a bit dehydrated but the vet couldn't get the nasal tube down, so we took a chance and decided not to insist. After consulting with Chambord's regular vet we decided to trailer him home. By the time we got home we had been gone over seven hours today! We barely had unloaded the horses when the storm sirens went off.
From the barn I had called our friends Susanne and Joachim to see if the could help us out with mash. We only keep pellets at home and they are not good for making the soupy mash the vet recommended for Chambord. Luckily, Susanne hand everything at hand and after the boys were in their' rooms' at home I went to pick up the ingredients. The storm really hit right then, and I got treated to German cookies while waiting for the worst to pass. Loaded with beet pulp and hay cubes I came home to no power. The beet pulp was already soaked, and I had enough water for the hay cubes so Chambord could get his 'slush'. He wasn't exactly thrilled but then decided to eat. Saumur got his first taste of beet pulp and decided it was yummy. JP just checked on Chambord and he seems fine now. We'll have to monitor to see if the lush grass with all the sugar is the culprit for the bellyaches.
I am still stewing about my inability to focus during my lesson, even though I had a valid reason to be worried. And we still have no power, our generator doesn't work, so no light, no water..
So, with four hours of sleep for me we drove to Sandy's for our lessons. Chambord and JP went first, and Chambord did the kicking out with the hind legs again when JP got on. After longeing it was better, and then he worked well in his lesson.
Saumur again started out great, and we focused again today on my position. Sandy explained very detailed on how to draw my core together in the transitions, instead of 'popping up'. All went well and we had started the canter work, half passes across the arena with counter canter, when JP came in with Chambord and said Chambord was not feeling well. That of course completely shot my focus to pieces. JP was hand walking Chambord while we tried to go on with my lesson, to finish with the changes. I had a heck of time, lack of focus is NOT conducive to good riding! We finally had a good change and quit with that.
In the meantime, Chambord seemed to be feeling worse and we called the vet. Bloodwork, physical exam etc. turned up nothing. Chambord seemed a bit dehydrated but the vet couldn't get the nasal tube down, so we took a chance and decided not to insist. After consulting with Chambord's regular vet we decided to trailer him home. By the time we got home we had been gone over seven hours today! We barely had unloaded the horses when the storm sirens went off.
From the barn I had called our friends Susanne and Joachim to see if the could help us out with mash. We only keep pellets at home and they are not good for making the soupy mash the vet recommended for Chambord. Luckily, Susanne hand everything at hand and after the boys were in their' rooms' at home I went to pick up the ingredients. The storm really hit right then, and I got treated to German cookies while waiting for the worst to pass. Loaded with beet pulp and hay cubes I came home to no power. The beet pulp was already soaked, and I had enough water for the hay cubes so Chambord could get his 'slush'. He wasn't exactly thrilled but then decided to eat. Saumur got his first taste of beet pulp and decided it was yummy. JP just checked on Chambord and he seems fine now. We'll have to monitor to see if the lush grass with all the sugar is the culprit for the bellyaches.
I am still stewing about my inability to focus during my lesson, even though I had a valid reason to be worried. And we still have no power, our generator doesn't work, so no light, no water..
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Balance - and sit down
We took the boys to Sandy's today so we could have lessons today and tomorrow. With all the rain this week we couldn't get much riding in, which rather depressed me. I really miss riding and it sure helps offset all the stress at work.
Saumur was relaxed from the beginning and we were able to go right to work. It's really important to have him balanced, because if he gets on the forehand it's "over and out". If I have him balanced then the flying changes are good. OTOH, when he blasts through my half-halts they won't be happening. Sandy reminded me that my half-halts have to come from my hands and body, once again: NOT by bracing my back/using my seat.
We worked on elements of the tests, especially the new movement in 3/3: half-pass to center line, straight at X and then a flying change between I and G. This is where the balance really comes in. And, VERY IMPORTANT: My bottom MUST STAY down. No hunter changes! We also worked on more expression in the half-passes: Think TAKT and Medium paces. Not that we are actually riding medium in the half-pass, but getting the feel of it.
I feel much more confident about the shows this year. For me, it was pretty gutsy to enter the big show in Traverse City, especially knowing that Sandy won't be going to this one. We'll be on our own, with JP carrying the load alone (dealing with my show nerves, ugh) and having the unenviable position of "TT" (Turnier Trottel, meaning the trusty helper and 'go-to', 'go-for' at the shows). But actually, I am excited about going to Traverse City. I might be getting ahead of myself, but I entered the Qualifying Classes for the Regional Championships. Nothing ventured - nothing gained!
Chambord had to keep us guessing in the beginning again today. Once his saddle was on he started to kick out behind, and didn't want to move forward. JP was worried that all of a sudden the newly adjusted saddle didn't fit. But as it turned out, the explanation was as simple: gas! All that rich, wet grass will do that. Once Chambord got moving he was fine. I said to Sandy that he is a bit like DR, in that these horses show right away when something is not right. Sandy mentioned that this is often the case with light skinned horses. I jokingly said, "well I'm very light skinned, too". Of course, her come back was immediate: "Well, that fits you, too. You ARE very sensitive" (implied: easily rattled). Who, me???
Saumur was relaxed from the beginning and we were able to go right to work. It's really important to have him balanced, because if he gets on the forehand it's "over and out". If I have him balanced then the flying changes are good. OTOH, when he blasts through my half-halts they won't be happening. Sandy reminded me that my half-halts have to come from my hands and body, once again: NOT by bracing my back/using my seat.
We worked on elements of the tests, especially the new movement in 3/3: half-pass to center line, straight at X and then a flying change between I and G. This is where the balance really comes in. And, VERY IMPORTANT: My bottom MUST STAY down. No hunter changes! We also worked on more expression in the half-passes: Think TAKT and Medium paces. Not that we are actually riding medium in the half-pass, but getting the feel of it.
I feel much more confident about the shows this year. For me, it was pretty gutsy to enter the big show in Traverse City, especially knowing that Sandy won't be going to this one. We'll be on our own, with JP carrying the load alone (dealing with my show nerves, ugh) and having the unenviable position of "TT" (Turnier Trottel, meaning the trusty helper and 'go-to', 'go-for' at the shows). But actually, I am excited about going to Traverse City. I might be getting ahead of myself, but I entered the Qualifying Classes for the Regional Championships. Nothing ventured - nothing gained!
Chambord had to keep us guessing in the beginning again today. Once his saddle was on he started to kick out behind, and didn't want to move forward. JP was worried that all of a sudden the newly adjusted saddle didn't fit. But as it turned out, the explanation was as simple: gas! All that rich, wet grass will do that. Once Chambord got moving he was fine. I said to Sandy that he is a bit like DR, in that these horses show right away when something is not right. Sandy mentioned that this is often the case with light skinned horses. I jokingly said, "well I'm very light skinned, too". Of course, her come back was immediate: "Well, that fits you, too. You ARE very sensitive" (implied: easily rattled). Who, me???
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Happiness is... when all goes well at home
We rode the boys for the first time this year in our outdoor arena, and they both were super. Saumur, who usually gets very distracted by his surroundings, focused and went to work without any problems. That despite of cars and bikes driving right by the arena, strange dogs coming up barking, and our dogs voicing loudly their discontent of having to stay in.
Saumur and I had good walk pirouettes, trot half-passes, and even QUIET flying changes. I was thrilled. And I was equally thrilled with Chambord. He really listened to JP, trotted around in nice self-carriage, no trouble bending, not a hint of crow-hopping or bucking.
That made us both feel so good that JP opened a 10-year old, numbered bottle of St. Emilion to celebrate - very considerate of the boys to give us a ‘reason’ to tackle that bottle!
Saumur and I had good walk pirouettes, trot half-passes, and even QUIET flying changes. I was thrilled. And I was equally thrilled with Chambord. He really listened to JP, trotted around in nice self-carriage, no trouble bending, not a hint of crow-hopping or bucking.
That made us both feel so good that JP opened a 10-year old, numbered bottle of St. Emilion to celebrate - very considerate of the boys to give us a ‘reason’ to tackle that bottle!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
We've got Rhythm - we've got Takt - yeah!
Both JP and I had really good "send-off lessons" today. Sandy had us work on the flying changes, using the same exercise we did with George. Three-loop serpentine through the width of the arena, with flying changes at each change of direction. We were able to do both directions with clean changes. Sandy reminded me to focus on the rhythm, to keep it the same. She noted that when George used the German word 'takt' I immediately got the rhythm steady. Guess sometimes going back to the first language really drives the point home!
I am so happy that we seem to be on the right path with the changes. They really were my nemesis at last year's shows. Over the winter I had hoped to take some lessons on Shevy, Sandy's schoolmaster, but as Shevy is leased that didn't work out. I don't regret it, though, because Saumur taught me what Sandy taught him. How cool is that?!
JP and Chambord also did very well. Chambord was, according to Sandy, "a little brat" on Thursday, so she had Katie ride him through the resistance. And sure enough, JP told me on Friday that he had "the ride of his life" on Chambord. And today they had another great lesson. Good thing we didn't schedule more extensive vet exams!
Stacy, the saddle fitter, brought JPs reworked saddle and both Chambord and JP are really happy. Guess all's well that ends well.
It was a bit strange to take the boys home, but we'll be back next weekend for lessons. So during the next months we will commute between our two 'barn-holds'. The boys seemed really happy to be back home, Chambord especially expressed his joy by cantering and bucking along the fence line while Saumur preferred to graze and watch his friend's antics.
I am so happy that we seem to be on the right path with the changes. They really were my nemesis at last year's shows. Over the winter I had hoped to take some lessons on Shevy, Sandy's schoolmaster, but as Shevy is leased that didn't work out. I don't regret it, though, because Saumur taught me what Sandy taught him. How cool is that?!
JP and Chambord also did very well. Chambord was, according to Sandy, "a little brat" on Thursday, so she had Katie ride him through the resistance. And sure enough, JP told me on Friday that he had "the ride of his life" on Chambord. And today they had another great lesson. Good thing we didn't schedule more extensive vet exams!
Stacy, the saddle fitter, brought JPs reworked saddle and both Chambord and JP are really happy. Guess all's well that ends well.
It was a bit strange to take the boys home, but we'll be back next weekend for lessons. So during the next months we will commute between our two 'barn-holds'. The boys seemed really happy to be back home, Chambord especially expressed his joy by cantering and bucking along the fence line while Saumur preferred to graze and watch his friend's antics.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Mistakes motivate - so they say
Last night I received the latest edition of ‘Cavallo’, a German riding magazine. There was a short article that really hit home.
The following is a loose translation/summary:
Mishaps while riding are good, according to mental trainer Andreas Mamerow
Q: How should one deal with making mistakes while riding?
A: Riding mistakes are something positive, but unfortunately they have a negative connotation. Every situation where a mistake occurs is also a situation where learning occurs. If everything is going to plan, riding is boring. Learning success is motivation. Improvement can only happen when one realizes what is wrong. The base requirement for good riding is to know one’s own abilities.
Q: Why then is it that so many riders convince themselves that they constantly make mistakes?
A: This is typical German. German riders want perfection*. After a test or a lesson they analyze all the things that went wrong. Sometimes this already starts in the warm up. But one can only achieve good results as a rider by having positive thoughts.
*Well, now I know it’s genetic --
The following is a loose translation/summary:
Mishaps while riding are good, according to mental trainer Andreas Mamerow
Q: How should one deal with making mistakes while riding?
A: Riding mistakes are something positive, but unfortunately they have a negative connotation. Every situation where a mistake occurs is also a situation where learning occurs. If everything is going to plan, riding is boring. Learning success is motivation. Improvement can only happen when one realizes what is wrong. The base requirement for good riding is to know one’s own abilities.
Q: Why then is it that so many riders convince themselves that they constantly make mistakes?
A: This is typical German. German riders want perfection*. After a test or a lesson they analyze all the things that went wrong. Sometimes this already starts in the warm up. But one can only achieve good results as a rider by having positive thoughts.
*Well, now I know it’s genetic --
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
George, Day Two - Yes, we can!
Another day of "riding my butt off", and what a great learning experience!
Today we had the last ride of the day, so JP could watch (and operate our ancient camcorder). After the warm up we went right into the canter work: walk - canter - shoulder in - halt - reinback - canter. From there we progressed to the half-passes. What really helped me with the positioning was George telling me to "take his shoulders around his haunches".
After a bit of trot work with 10m circles in the trot we tackled our nemesis: flying changes. The first tries were (according to George) well set up, but then we lost it when Saumur blew through my half halts. The key really is to have Saumur collected, move him away from the leg in the direction we are changing to, and be really clear with my aids. I have to admit, it was quite the challenge. And George screaming in my ear really started to annoy me a bit -- "yes, George, I KNOW I have to halt, and I am trying, but I just can't get there fast enough". Not that George was really screaming on purpose, of course, he just gets very intense and I completely forgot that I CAN turn down the volume of the ear piece. I found out after my ride that it was set to maximum volume - actually, while writing this I can still hear George in my ear. In order for us to get effective half halts George stood in our path - and all I could think of was "oh, man, if something happens to him we will get totally sued" (his main sponsor is a very successful litigation attorney).
But low and behold, we were able to do three loop serpentine with flying changes each time. Totally exhilarating!
But now comes the best part: As Sandy told me afterwards, she suggested to George that he'd work on the canter pirouettes with us. So on the center we went, doing 10m circles, haunches in, keeping his shoulders on the line. From there we progressed to doing the same thing in the canter, and from there our circles got smaller until we had George as our 'center piece'. It gave me a great feeling of the level of collection I can get and how Saumur's back feels when it's right.
It was wonderful, and it was so nice having people rooting for us (thank you, Linda!): Yes, we even got applause from the spectators! For me, I was really happy that I didn't let Saumur, Sandy, and JP down. All three put so much effort, heart, soul, and work into it, I was determined not to disappoint them. Luckily my desire to do well didn't backfire this time. Sandy prepared us well for the challenge, the best way to describe it is that she did all the prep work with us and George went in for the kill. (True to his name: 'George the dragon slayer').
During that very intense lesson Saumur stayed focused, worked like a pro, not a spook in sight. All that with rainstorms pelting the arena roof, spectators, and camera flashes. This I will savor for a very long time!
Today we had the last ride of the day, so JP could watch (and operate our ancient camcorder). After the warm up we went right into the canter work: walk - canter - shoulder in - halt - reinback - canter. From there we progressed to the half-passes. What really helped me with the positioning was George telling me to "take his shoulders around his haunches".
After a bit of trot work with 10m circles in the trot we tackled our nemesis: flying changes. The first tries were (according to George) well set up, but then we lost it when Saumur blew through my half halts. The key really is to have Saumur collected, move him away from the leg in the direction we are changing to, and be really clear with my aids. I have to admit, it was quite the challenge. And George screaming in my ear really started to annoy me a bit -- "yes, George, I KNOW I have to halt, and I am trying, but I just can't get there fast enough". Not that George was really screaming on purpose, of course, he just gets very intense and I completely forgot that I CAN turn down the volume of the ear piece. I found out after my ride that it was set to maximum volume - actually, while writing this I can still hear George in my ear. In order for us to get effective half halts George stood in our path - and all I could think of was "oh, man, if something happens to him we will get totally sued" (his main sponsor is a very successful litigation attorney).
But low and behold, we were able to do three loop serpentine with flying changes each time. Totally exhilarating!
But now comes the best part: As Sandy told me afterwards, she suggested to George that he'd work on the canter pirouettes with us. So on the center we went, doing 10m circles, haunches in, keeping his shoulders on the line. From there we progressed to doing the same thing in the canter, and from there our circles got smaller until we had George as our 'center piece'. It gave me a great feeling of the level of collection I can get and how Saumur's back feels when it's right.
It was wonderful, and it was so nice having people rooting for us (thank you, Linda!): Yes, we even got applause from the spectators! For me, I was really happy that I didn't let Saumur, Sandy, and JP down. All three put so much effort, heart, soul, and work into it, I was determined not to disappoint them. Luckily my desire to do well didn't backfire this time. Sandy prepared us well for the challenge, the best way to describe it is that she did all the prep work with us and George went in for the kill. (True to his name: 'George the dragon slayer').
During that very intense lesson Saumur stayed focused, worked like a pro, not a spook in sight. All that with rainstorms pelting the arena roof, spectators, and camera flashes. This I will savor for a very long time!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
George, Day One - What arena monsters??
I just came home from the first day of the clinic. I should be working, but I am so excited I wanted to record my thoughts on my ride first.
I am so thrilled with our ride today. What a difference from Sunday ... we both were 'ON', Saumur focused on the job at hand and we had no to time to wonder "what if". We went right to the canter work after the warm up. Before long, we were doing really nice canter half-passes. I need to remember to really have the shoulders leading and take the haunches with us. One exercise was canter half-pass from the centerline to the rail, walk transition, and then reinback.
I loved our trot work, we did half-passes again, then mediums, followed by collected steps. It was really fun!! From there we went back to the canter, and worked on the changes on the short diagonal. Especially to the left Saumur ran through my half halts, which meant the change was not clean, and I had a tough time getting him back. George wants me to really have Saumur collected, almost like making a walk transition - and not pushing my seat down which just drives him more forward. (Where have I heard that before? Oh, yeah, every time from Sandy). Also I need to remember not to hang on, it's better to have quick, sharp half halts, and always give afterwards.
We finished with some better changes, and will have them as 'main menue' tomorrow.
I am still smiling, I am so happy. After our ride Sandy came up with a big smile to me and said "Birgit, you really rode your ass off today". What a great compliment! I was trying very hard to stay focused, ignoring the spectators and JUST RIDE. And guess what - it worked. I also appreciated all the positive comments we received from our friends and the spectators. As we say in German "it went down like oil" (meaning very smoothly).
I am a bit disappointed that JP couldn't be there - he is our biggest supporter and always gets me up when I am down about my (lack of) riding skills. But he had good reason to miss the clinic: He was at an awards ceremony for his latest three patents. Go hubby! Luckily Jake taped our ride, even though he wondered aloud if our camera could be older than he is. Kids...
Whatever tomorrow's ride will be -we will be fine!
I am so thrilled with our ride today. What a difference from Sunday ... we both were 'ON', Saumur focused on the job at hand and we had no to time to wonder "what if". We went right to the canter work after the warm up. Before long, we were doing really nice canter half-passes. I need to remember to really have the shoulders leading and take the haunches with us. One exercise was canter half-pass from the centerline to the rail, walk transition, and then reinback.
I loved our trot work, we did half-passes again, then mediums, followed by collected steps. It was really fun!! From there we went back to the canter, and worked on the changes on the short diagonal. Especially to the left Saumur ran through my half halts, which meant the change was not clean, and I had a tough time getting him back. George wants me to really have Saumur collected, almost like making a walk transition - and not pushing my seat down which just drives him more forward. (Where have I heard that before? Oh, yeah, every time from Sandy). Also I need to remember not to hang on, it's better to have quick, sharp half halts, and always give afterwards.
We finished with some better changes, and will have them as 'main menue' tomorrow.
I am still smiling, I am so happy. After our ride Sandy came up with a big smile to me and said "Birgit, you really rode your ass off today". What a great compliment! I was trying very hard to stay focused, ignoring the spectators and JUST RIDE. And guess what - it worked. I also appreciated all the positive comments we received from our friends and the spectators. As we say in German "it went down like oil" (meaning very smoothly).
I am a bit disappointed that JP couldn't be there - he is our biggest supporter and always gets me up when I am down about my (lack of) riding skills. But he had good reason to miss the clinic: He was at an awards ceremony for his latest three patents. Go hubby! Luckily Jake taped our ride, even though he wondered aloud if our camera could be older than he is. Kids...
Whatever tomorrow's ride will be -we will be fine!
Monday, May 16, 2011
Fighting Windmills - Two overachievers together are no guarantee for success
Yesterday wasn’t the best of days, starting out with 38F and pouring rain. Then we found out that the chiropractic treatment did not take care of Chambord’s issue. He is great on the longe line, but still can’t bend when under saddle. Now we are wondering if he has a tooth issue. Luckily Dr. Younk had planned to audit the clinic, so she agreed to check Chambord tomorrow.
To top it off Saumur saw monsters lurking everywhere in the arena. I have to admit I got very frustrated: The last ride before the clinic and we can’t even go down the long side of the arena again. I put myself under so much pressure, because I want to ride well, and then the frustration takes over and we go downhill from there. Of course Saumur, who also is a ‘Type A’ personality, feeds off my anxiety and frustration and that’s it.
I truly admire Sandy’s patience with us. She won’t let me give up or get away from the scary parts. The mantra* is: Outside rein, inside leg. And I got another reminder that I did not choose an easy horse – with the unspoken implication “Suck it up and deal with it!”. That was exactly what I needed. I was amazed that we finished well, with canter half-passes on the long diagonals with clean changes. It definitely helped getting ‘in the zone’ for tomorrow. Better put the mantra on the continuous loop, though.
*Mantra: Holy word in meditation
In Hindu and Buddhist religious practice, a sacred word, chant, or sound that is repeated during meditation to facilitate spiritual power and transformation of consciousness (Encarta Dictionary)
To top it off Saumur saw monsters lurking everywhere in the arena. I have to admit I got very frustrated: The last ride before the clinic and we can’t even go down the long side of the arena again. I put myself under so much pressure, because I want to ride well, and then the frustration takes over and we go downhill from there. Of course Saumur, who also is a ‘Type A’ personality, feeds off my anxiety and frustration and that’s it.
I truly admire Sandy’s patience with us. She won’t let me give up or get away from the scary parts. The mantra* is: Outside rein, inside leg. And I got another reminder that I did not choose an easy horse – with the unspoken implication “Suck it up and deal with it!”. That was exactly what I needed. I was amazed that we finished well, with canter half-passes on the long diagonals with clean changes. It definitely helped getting ‘in the zone’ for tomorrow. Better put the mantra on the continuous loop, though.
*Mantra: Holy word in meditation
In Hindu and Buddhist religious practice, a sacred word, chant, or sound that is repeated during meditation to facilitate spiritual power and transformation of consciousness (Encarta Dictionary)
Saturday, May 14, 2011
The challenges of maintaining two house(barn)holds - where is my stuff??
So much for the best laid plans and careful packing...
Despite the stormy weather we were all set to go on a trailride - until I realized that all three girths were at Sandy's. Not in the mood for a two hour round trip to fetch the girths I decided the boys could use longing sessions in our outdoor arena. Luckily we have excellent footing, despite the downpours there were no puddles. Separating the boys for work was a different story though - I think Saumur's screams could be heard in the next county. Chambord, OTOH, was only quietly calling, what Jake calls "sounding like a girl". (Sorry, JP, not exactly fitting for "Macho Man".)
To keep their minds busy I put down ground poles and cavaletti. Chambord had great fun with it and did all the excercises beautifully. Saumur clearly thought that this was not part of his program. He went through great pains avoiding the scary objects on the ground.
I sent Sandy an email about the girths and she suggested that "there is always bareback". Riding Saumur bareback on the trails, with storms looming? I wonder if she needs my spot at the George clinic?? :-)
Despite the stormy weather we were all set to go on a trailride - until I realized that all three girths were at Sandy's. Not in the mood for a two hour round trip to fetch the girths I decided the boys could use longing sessions in our outdoor arena. Luckily we have excellent footing, despite the downpours there were no puddles. Separating the boys for work was a different story though - I think Saumur's screams could be heard in the next county. Chambord, OTOH, was only quietly calling, what Jake calls "sounding like a girl". (Sorry, JP, not exactly fitting for "Macho Man".)
To keep their minds busy I put down ground poles and cavaletti. Chambord had great fun with it and did all the excercises beautifully. Saumur clearly thought that this was not part of his program. He went through great pains avoiding the scary objects on the ground.
I sent Sandy an email about the girths and she suggested that "there is always bareback". Riding Saumur bareback on the trails, with storms looming? I wonder if she needs my spot at the George clinic?? :-)
Thursday, May 12, 2011
The boys are home - and things are falling into place
I am working from home this afternoon and am VERY HAPPY looking out of the window seeing the boys (sure beats looking at the guys at work!). They both walked onto the trailer last night without a second of hesitation, and claimed their pastures at home immediately. I was a bit worried that they might be running around like maniacs (after all, they had been gone for almost six months), but it was like they never had left.
Dr. Weaver came as scheduled this afternoon. Turns out Chambord's right hip and left shoulder were blocked, thus the difficulties bending to the right. For Saumur it was the opposite: left hip and right shoulder. Saumur let out a huge sigh when his hip got adjusted. The proof will be in the pudding - will Chambord stop the crow hopping next time I get him on a 20m circle to the right?? We'll see on Saturday.
Good news on the saddle front: Stacy, the saddle fitter from Wisconsin, has reworked Chambord's saddle and will bring it to us the weekend after next. Ah, sometimes things just fall into place.
The only small concern I have is that I didn't get to do all the lessons I had planned before the George clinic - we'll just have to make do. In the big scheme of things - no big deal!
Off to muck out stalls, better get used to that again - as well as to 5 a.m. feedings. Actually, my days always start much better after I have been greeted eagerly by the hungry boys. JP just doesn't whinny that nicely :-).
Dr. Weaver came as scheduled this afternoon. Turns out Chambord's right hip and left shoulder were blocked, thus the difficulties bending to the right. For Saumur it was the opposite: left hip and right shoulder. Saumur let out a huge sigh when his hip got adjusted. The proof will be in the pudding - will Chambord stop the crow hopping next time I get him on a 20m circle to the right?? We'll see on Saturday.
Good news on the saddle front: Stacy, the saddle fitter from Wisconsin, has reworked Chambord's saddle and will bring it to us the weekend after next. Ah, sometimes things just fall into place.
The only small concern I have is that I didn't get to do all the lessons I had planned before the George clinic - we'll just have to make do. In the big scheme of things - no big deal!
Off to muck out stalls, better get used to that again - as well as to 5 a.m. feedings. Actually, my days always start much better after I have been greeted eagerly by the hungry boys. JP just doesn't whinny that nicely :-).
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Juggling the schedule
Persistence pays – I finally scored an appointment with Dr. Weaver (the equine chiropractor). Not an easy feat as he is on the other side of the State plus heavily booked with travel. But when it comes to my horses’ well-being I am nothing but DETERMINED.
We pick up the boys tomorrow night, Dr. Weaver comes Thursday afternoon. So, now we are scrambling to get the barn ready tonight (it was empty since last December), check the fences, check the trailer, move meetings, and cross our fingers that we don’t get ditched at the last minute! Hopefully, he will be able to help Chambord. Saumur is due for a ‘tune-up’, so we can do that at the same time.
Not only Southview Farm is in a ‘pre-George-clinic heightened state of activity’ – so am I. I am trying to figure out how to keep Saumur clean, and myself organized. I pulled out my new Petrie boots, still not broken in (my skin broke first). Now I am determined to break the boots in around the house – sounding like a pirate with the wooden leg. Won’t get much housework done, that’s for sure (I knew there had to be something good in it). Not going to sleep in them, though!
We pick up the boys tomorrow night, Dr. Weaver comes Thursday afternoon. So, now we are scrambling to get the barn ready tonight (it was empty since last December), check the fences, check the trailer, move meetings, and cross our fingers that we don’t get ditched at the last minute! Hopefully, he will be able to help Chambord. Saumur is due for a ‘tune-up’, so we can do that at the same time.
Not only Southview Farm is in a ‘pre-George-clinic heightened state of activity’ – so am I. I am trying to figure out how to keep Saumur clean, and myself organized. I pulled out my new Petrie boots, still not broken in (my skin broke first). Now I am determined to break the boots in around the house – sounding like a pirate with the wooden leg. Won’t get much housework done, that’s for sure (I knew there had to be something good in it). Not going to sleep in them, though!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Off to fight (pretend) fires
Sunday’s rides started rather inauspiciously - one physical, one mental. Chambord was fine on straight lines, but as soon as I asked him to bend on a 20 m circle he started cantering and crow-hopping. Clearly not a happy camper, especially to the right. Chambord had his second part of spring shots last Thursday (right side of the neck) and as Galeon had a reaction to his shots we are wondering if that is also the case for Chambord. Sandy texted the vet and she recommended giving Chambord Banamine. We’ll see how he is today, I am also trying to get an appointment with the Chiropractor to have his neck checked.
Saumur had no ill effects from the shots, but was startled by the changes in and around the arena. On Friday the footing got reworked and the wet spots in the corners and on the wall from the calcium chloride brine startled him. Then the other arena doors were open, so he could see his friends having fun in the fields. Oh, and there were chairs in the aisle, light under the door, and JP hammering in the observation room to put pictures up. Plenty of distractions for both of us …
Sandy has a great way of getting us through the tension. We always start with an ‘underpowered’ trot in order to ‘get in the zone’ of relaxation. The key is to realize that I can’t prevent him from spooking, but I can prevent his feet from taking over. This mainly means having him on the outside rein and inside leg. Oh yes, and I get plenty of reminders to “sit wide across the saddle” and to “let go of my weapons”, which are my back and my seat. It’s a tough battle against my tendency to brace my back as soon as things get dicey. Another thing we work on (as part of our very looong list) is facing the demons. Sandy had a great analogy, she said I should imagine firefighters, they rush in when others run out. Saumur and I, of course, would rather rush out (going away from the scary objects) instead of facing them head on and thus conquering whatever is lurking and out to get us. Gimme the hose!
Once we had successfully fought the major fires we moved on the bending lines and 10 m trot circles. From there we went to half-pass. We had the best half-passes ever, they were just effortless. It took hardly anything to make him float across the arena. Big smile!! By then, I felt pretty invincible and we toyed with some half steps which was fun. Our canter work also was really nice, although this ‘taking a risk thing’ is still difficult. Taking a risk to slow the canter down without breaking into trot, that is. I absolutely HATE making mistakes, and beat myself up if I do – which led to another reminder from Sandy that one MUST make mistakes in order to learn. Good advice, for sure, somebody please get it into my brain!
After our lesson I hosed a sweaty Saumur down. When I took him back out to the pasture I thought I had a kite at the end of the lead rope. Usually Saumur is very well behaved but yesterday he was ready to fly off. After a hurried roll (can’t skip that, of course, the shower!) he jumped to his feet and galloped in a dead run to his buddies. Probably off to fight another blaze!
Saumur had no ill effects from the shots, but was startled by the changes in and around the arena. On Friday the footing got reworked and the wet spots in the corners and on the wall from the calcium chloride brine startled him. Then the other arena doors were open, so he could see his friends having fun in the fields. Oh, and there were chairs in the aisle, light under the door, and JP hammering in the observation room to put pictures up. Plenty of distractions for both of us …
Sandy has a great way of getting us through the tension. We always start with an ‘underpowered’ trot in order to ‘get in the zone’ of relaxation. The key is to realize that I can’t prevent him from spooking, but I can prevent his feet from taking over. This mainly means having him on the outside rein and inside leg. Oh yes, and I get plenty of reminders to “sit wide across the saddle” and to “let go of my weapons”, which are my back and my seat. It’s a tough battle against my tendency to brace my back as soon as things get dicey. Another thing we work on (as part of our very looong list) is facing the demons. Sandy had a great analogy, she said I should imagine firefighters, they rush in when others run out. Saumur and I, of course, would rather rush out (going away from the scary objects) instead of facing them head on and thus conquering whatever is lurking and out to get us. Gimme the hose!
Once we had successfully fought the major fires we moved on the bending lines and 10 m trot circles. From there we went to half-pass. We had the best half-passes ever, they were just effortless. It took hardly anything to make him float across the arena. Big smile!! By then, I felt pretty invincible and we toyed with some half steps which was fun. Our canter work also was really nice, although this ‘taking a risk thing’ is still difficult. Taking a risk to slow the canter down without breaking into trot, that is. I absolutely HATE making mistakes, and beat myself up if I do – which led to another reminder from Sandy that one MUST make mistakes in order to learn. Good advice, for sure, somebody please get it into my brain!
After our lesson I hosed a sweaty Saumur down. When I took him back out to the pasture I thought I had a kite at the end of the lead rope. Usually Saumur is very well behaved but yesterday he was ready to fly off. After a hurried roll (can’t skip that, of course, the shower!) he jumped to his feet and galloped in a dead run to his buddies. Probably off to fight another blaze!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Fun work - right in front of the 'furniture monsters'
Southview Farm is preparing for the upcoming George Williams clinic, and as part of the ‘Spring-Spruce Up’ Sandy got new furniture and carpet for the observation room. Nice, shiny leather couches and colorful carpet – reflecting brightly through the large row of arena windows. Especially the view from the mounting bench makes one feel like being right IN the observation room. Wonderful for ‘he who shies at light’!
Sandy did send me a happy email yesterday, reporting that Saumur got over the initial shock of “oh, what is this shiny stuff???” and worked well. OK, that’s nice, I thought, but history taught me that this didn’t mean Saumur would manage it the same way with ME on board. Even though he had to deal with the closed door at the same time Saumur stayed focused. It is such a great feeling when the horse really focuses on the work at hand, concentrating on the rider and the aids (hence ‘being on the aids’) not worrying about the various ‘monsters’ lurking everywhere.
We worked on keeping my OUTSIDE leg relaxed in the canter, inside leg more forward, both seat bones equally on, and really SITTING. Another pearl of wisdom from one of my previous lessons: Hunker down when things get dicey! Sandy gave me the analogy of somebody (we won’t name) trying to rile her up. Instead of getting ‘high’ (worked up) about it (the equivalent of coming out of the saddle), she just brushed it off and stayed ‘down’ (sitting deep in the saddle).
I have a tendency to clamp my legs on, especially when I feel he might spook, which in turn gets Saumur on high alert that there is really something he should worry about. So no more: The outside leg drapes down RELAXED.
We were able to do very small canter voltes right in front of the 'furniture monsters', and I could feel the beginnings of a pirouette, which was really cool!
Sandy did send me a happy email yesterday, reporting that Saumur got over the initial shock of “oh, what is this shiny stuff???” and worked well. OK, that’s nice, I thought, but history taught me that this didn’t mean Saumur would manage it the same way with ME on board. Even though he had to deal with the closed door at the same time Saumur stayed focused. It is such a great feeling when the horse really focuses on the work at hand, concentrating on the rider and the aids (hence ‘being on the aids’) not worrying about the various ‘monsters’ lurking everywhere.
We worked on keeping my OUTSIDE leg relaxed in the canter, inside leg more forward, both seat bones equally on, and really SITTING. Another pearl of wisdom from one of my previous lessons: Hunker down when things get dicey! Sandy gave me the analogy of somebody (we won’t name) trying to rile her up. Instead of getting ‘high’ (worked up) about it (the equivalent of coming out of the saddle), she just brushed it off and stayed ‘down’ (sitting deep in the saddle).
I have a tendency to clamp my legs on, especially when I feel he might spook, which in turn gets Saumur on high alert that there is really something he should worry about. So no more: The outside leg drapes down RELAXED.
We were able to do very small canter voltes right in front of the 'furniture monsters', and I could feel the beginnings of a pirouette, which was really cool!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
It's this time of the year again --
Here we go again, the show bill arrived, with closing dates coming up at warp speed. Just looking at those got my heart rate up (should be a good thing, because my blood pressure is always too low).
I can feel the anxiety already creeping up, and we are still a month away from the start of the season. It's hard to explain, I don't have any issues in my professional life to be assertive and in charge - take me to a horse show and I'm a nervous wreck.
Just this morning I talked with a friend of mine who went through similar experiences. She is a tough as nails former JAG lawyer, accomplished FEI competitor and still -- nerves! She told me it took her years (she wouldn't divulge how many) to get over the performance anxiety at shows. Some of the thoughts that helped her were: "Focus on the horse - not you" and "Show off the horse and worry about yourself less". Yeah, sorry, that is not enough for me -- does this advise come with a strong drink or two??
Our first test will be the upcoming clinic with George May 17 and 18. This time there will be mostly professionals riding. I might have to schedule an emergency session with a Hypnotist or Sports Psychologist pronto.
I can feel the anxiety already creeping up, and we are still a month away from the start of the season. It's hard to explain, I don't have any issues in my professional life to be assertive and in charge - take me to a horse show and I'm a nervous wreck.
Just this morning I talked with a friend of mine who went through similar experiences. She is a tough as nails former JAG lawyer, accomplished FEI competitor and still -- nerves! She told me it took her years (she wouldn't divulge how many) to get over the performance anxiety at shows. Some of the thoughts that helped her were: "Focus on the horse - not you" and "Show off the horse and worry about yourself less". Yeah, sorry, that is not enough for me -- does this advise come with a strong drink or two??
Our first test will be the upcoming clinic with George May 17 and 18. This time there will be mostly professionals riding. I might have to schedule an emergency session with a Hypnotist or Sports Psychologist pronto.
Another educational lunch hour - Gastric Ulcers in horses
SmartPak had another educational webinar today. The gist of it was that 90% of race horses and 60% of the overall horse population have ulcers. Many of those are easily prevented through proper management:
- Grazing
- Moving
- Socializing
- Low carb diet
- Less stress
Well, aside from the grazing, that sounds like what most people should have, too!
A few things I found interesting:
- Loud music in the barn stresses horses (more so when there are talk shows or lots of ads) and there is research that shows that this stress can lead to ulcers
- When the horse is on a NSAIDs (i.e. Bute or Banamine), Ulcergard or a supplement should be given as preventive measure
- Alfalfa hay buffers acid and is a really good natural preventative. If weight is an issue, then grass hay should be given frequently, with several flakes of Alfalfa added in
- Gastrogard is FDA approved (RX only) and is a treatment for ulcers
- Ulcergard is OTC and given to prevent ulcers
So, I guess I need more Alfalfa in my diet!
- Grazing
- Moving
- Socializing
- Low carb diet
- Less stress
Well, aside from the grazing, that sounds like what most people should have, too!
A few things I found interesting:
- Loud music in the barn stresses horses (more so when there are talk shows or lots of ads) and there is research that shows that this stress can lead to ulcers
- When the horse is on a NSAIDs (i.e. Bute or Banamine), Ulcergard or a supplement should be given as preventive measure
- Alfalfa hay buffers acid and is a really good natural preventative. If weight is an issue, then grass hay should be given frequently, with several flakes of Alfalfa added in
- Gastrogard is FDA approved (RX only) and is a treatment for ulcers
- Ulcergard is OTC and given to prevent ulcers
So, I guess I need more Alfalfa in my diet!
Sunday, May 1, 2011
A great weekend in Kentucky - but leaving with some 'nagging' thoughts
No riding this weekend - it was more like living (riding!) vicariously through others. We made our annual trip to the Rolex Kentucky 4 Star Event.
On Friday we skipped dressage and instead went on a thoroughbred farm tour called 'See The Champions'. The very knowledgeable guide, a race horse trainer himself, took our small group to some of the most gorgeous properties in the area. Some of the farms have over 700 acres in fenced pastures. Different dimensions! I never really thought about the breeding process - it was quite an eye opener as this is definitely is a highly developed industry.
The last farm we visited used to house the famous derby winner Nureyev, who had a similar accident as Barbaro. Nureyev, who commanded a $400,000 stud fee in his time, survived. The sad part is that the farm no longer stands top winning stallions and the benign neglect due to lack of funds is very visible. This is just one example, there are many more farms like this, the success comes and goes with the stallions they stand.
As I mentioned before - it is an industry, even for the small time race horse owner. Our guide told us that he owns a 3 year old filly "that's not very friendly" and "stressed out" -- well, the horse lives with 100 other horses in a tin roof structure and only gets out for a maximum run of 2 miles a day. As Lexington caters only to the high stakes runners, the owner has to haul the filly as far as Virginia for races. No wonder she has 'issues' (and probably ulcers).
Cross country day in the Kentucky Horse Park was awesome, coming from the cold and rain we soaked up the temps in the mid 70s. The course designed by Derek di Grazia for the first time had very technical questions and many eliminations and withdrawals. I was just thrilled seeing Mary King go, I've always admired her. She is a lovely rider, with a lot of grit and determination, and truly cares about her horses.
My favorite place was the start and finish. Contrary to what I had seen before, the horses didn't rush out of the start box like bats out of hell, most of them started very mannerly and then built up the speed. The big reveal was the finish. Most of the female riders took care of their horses with the help of vets and grooms. The men just got off, handed them over and walked off. I had fun hearing one female rider yell the whole way from finish to vet box "good boy!". And Mary King, who rode the four mile course twice, iced and walked out her own horses. I am really thrilled that she not only won with her home bred mare, but also place second on a Lusitano Sporthorse. Cheers, Mary!
Denny Emerson was signing his new book "How good riders get GOOD" at the trade fair and I had a chance to chat with him. Denny is really the all consummate horseman, and years back we visited his farm in Vermont (when I still had the eventing bug). At that time I was toying with the idea of breeding my mare Crissy to Denny's stallion 'Reputed Testamony'. Luckily, my sanity kicked in before I ventured into this.
Another highlight of the trip were the dinners at Le Deauville in downtown Lexington. We really felt transported to France, not just by the food and Marc (the owner), but also the patrons. We had fun with the people from a French saddle company. Oh, and also the Kentucky Bourbon Ale is not to be missed!
Nevertheless, we are glad to be home and looking forward to spending time with our critters. It was good to take a look behind the scenes of the racing industry. One tends to admire the beautiful farms with the blue grass pastures and forgets that not many horses actually get to enjoy them for any length of time, if at all. Not all that shimmers is Gold --
On Friday we skipped dressage and instead went on a thoroughbred farm tour called 'See The Champions'. The very knowledgeable guide, a race horse trainer himself, took our small group to some of the most gorgeous properties in the area. Some of the farms have over 700 acres in fenced pastures. Different dimensions! I never really thought about the breeding process - it was quite an eye opener as this is definitely is a highly developed industry.
The last farm we visited used to house the famous derby winner Nureyev, who had a similar accident as Barbaro. Nureyev, who commanded a $400,000 stud fee in his time, survived. The sad part is that the farm no longer stands top winning stallions and the benign neglect due to lack of funds is very visible. This is just one example, there are many more farms like this, the success comes and goes with the stallions they stand.
As I mentioned before - it is an industry, even for the small time race horse owner. Our guide told us that he owns a 3 year old filly "that's not very friendly" and "stressed out" -- well, the horse lives with 100 other horses in a tin roof structure and only gets out for a maximum run of 2 miles a day. As Lexington caters only to the high stakes runners, the owner has to haul the filly as far as Virginia for races. No wonder she has 'issues' (and probably ulcers).
Cross country day in the Kentucky Horse Park was awesome, coming from the cold and rain we soaked up the temps in the mid 70s. The course designed by Derek di Grazia for the first time had very technical questions and many eliminations and withdrawals. I was just thrilled seeing Mary King go, I've always admired her. She is a lovely rider, with a lot of grit and determination, and truly cares about her horses.
My favorite place was the start and finish. Contrary to what I had seen before, the horses didn't rush out of the start box like bats out of hell, most of them started very mannerly and then built up the speed. The big reveal was the finish. Most of the female riders took care of their horses with the help of vets and grooms. The men just got off, handed them over and walked off. I had fun hearing one female rider yell the whole way from finish to vet box "good boy!". And Mary King, who rode the four mile course twice, iced and walked out her own horses. I am really thrilled that she not only won with her home bred mare, but also place second on a Lusitano Sporthorse. Cheers, Mary!
Denny Emerson was signing his new book "How good riders get GOOD" at the trade fair and I had a chance to chat with him. Denny is really the all consummate horseman, and years back we visited his farm in Vermont (when I still had the eventing bug). At that time I was toying with the idea of breeding my mare Crissy to Denny's stallion 'Reputed Testamony'. Luckily, my sanity kicked in before I ventured into this.
Another highlight of the trip were the dinners at Le Deauville in downtown Lexington. We really felt transported to France, not just by the food and Marc (the owner), but also the patrons. We had fun with the people from a French saddle company. Oh, and also the Kentucky Bourbon Ale is not to be missed!
Nevertheless, we are glad to be home and looking forward to spending time with our critters. It was good to take a look behind the scenes of the racing industry. One tends to admire the beautiful farms with the blue grass pastures and forgets that not many horses actually get to enjoy them for any length of time, if at all. Not all that shimmers is Gold --
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)