A new decoration for the barn - and I think my appetite is coming back

It's great seeing our friends so excited about my becoming an US citizen this year. True to form Glenda presented us with a beautiful American flag as now all eleven (!) of us are Americans.

JP installed the flag, and the boys reacted as expected. Remy and Chambord: "Cool, it flaps in the wind!", Teddy: "Hmm, I wonder if it's edible?", Saumur (eyes bugging out): "Do you see this STRANGE moving thing???"

It's been great riding almost everyday, without rush, and having fun with Remy. When the arena was so full the other day Judy reminded me (read: no whining, suck it up) that it's good preparation for the upcoming season next year. I flippantly replied "I thought you are going to ride him" - but then I came to realize I am actually getting my appetite up again.

When I'm stressed, I can hardly eat. It's gotten my better but I still remember a then-boyfriend saying during exam-time "your body is like a doghouse, a bone in every corner" - well, hence the "then-boyfriend"! But I digress... I don't eat when I am stressing over my riding either, and guess what: My appetite for food is good, and it is growing when I think of the coming competition season.

I'll keep the appetite (for food) in check, though ... no 'outgrowing' my Pikeurs!

Lighten up made a whole world of difference - and Muffin fills in the holes

Christmas Day we had the indoor arena to ourselves, so we used it to play a different version of indoor soccer:

Remy to Chambord: "I'll let you do the kick-off, it's Christmas!"

It was a lot of fun. I feel it's important for all of us to change the routine from time to time, and make things more interesting. Ever since I started to lighten up, riding Remy more forward, and putting more fun into our rides "Look, no reins!" (in the canter) he seems to trust me more. 

Case in point about the trust: The day after Christmas the arena was 'proppen-voll' (brimming with horses and their riders). Well, it seemed everyone had chosen exactly my lesson time to make up for time lost over the holidays; and neither Remy nor I do well with crowds. Actually, make that "did well" - because yesterday Remy filled in the holes for me.

I was a bit rattled in the beginning, our experiences in crowded warm-up arenas coming to mind. "S**t, there is no space!"; "Where to go?"; "Will he spook again if the other horses canter by too closely?" No worries: Remy (aka Muffin) set to work like a pro, ignoring the other horses, focusing just on me, strutting his stuff. I was sooo thrilled, what a good boy!! 

Another one of Glenda's 'Pearls of Wisdom' came to mind: "Don't worry about yourself, show off your horse proudly, show people how beautiful he his, and things will fall into place!" And sure enough, they did!

Remy, the poster-boy - and several "Voila!"

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

This year Remy was the poster-boy for our Christmas card. The glint of mischief in his eye is pretty catching --

Last week Judy was away to train with Jan, and Maryal came for a day to teach, trying to keep us on the straight and narrow. No surprise regarding the work, just a different way of explaining certain things. For example, in the effort to comply with "more outside rein!" I actually blocked Remy by clamping down on the outside. So Maryal asked me to keep Remy more supple on the outside and bend him more around my inside leg - which got him honestly on the outside rein. Voila!

Both Remy and Saumur had an appointment with the chiropractor. Saumur had been worrying me for a while because he was salivating so much the saliva was accumulating in his feed tub after every meal. His teeth were recently checked, and Saumur seemed fine otherwise. Well, it turned out his jaw was out of alignment. Voila! after the adjustment: Normal salivation. Remy's shoulders needed adjustment, and voila! better canter departs.

I had a lovely Christmas lunch with my friend Glenda, one of the most educated horsewomen I know. (Not to mention she also was a JAG-lawyer, and is pretty stunning).  One of the things Glenda mentioned stuck with me: "Learn the rules like a professional, then you can break them like an artist."

So, now if I break the rules I have an excuse,  I'll just say "I am breaking them like an artist!" Voila!

Education sprinkled with (German) humor - a good way to spend the weekend

I had a very enjoyable and educational weekend auditing a clinic with Lilo Fore (FEI "I'" Judge). Saturday we made it a 'girls outing' (four women piled in a -for the occasion nicely cleaned- truck), armed with horse blankets, chairs, chocolate, and anything else 'frau' needs to sit a day in a cold arena. Today the others went to church and I, well, I went back for more dressage instruction.

BTW, Lilo was the judge I was warming up for this summer when Remy decided "I'm outta here" and I subsequently ended up in the fence. I have always enjoyed her comments on the score sheets, and found her scores to be 'right on'. But judging and teaching are 'zwei verschiedene paar Schuhe' (two different pairs of shoes), so I was very interested in auditing the clinic, also of course because Judy was riding BeBe.

Well, the woman not only has a wealth of knowledge, her somewhat dry (actually very German) sense of humor makes it fun. However, you better follow her instructions, otherwise -again, very German- the intensity increases a notch or two, and the voice becomes quite stern. Ah, who does that remind me of?? Nah, not me! :-)

Here are my notes on some of Lilo's points:

- "The aids are your horse's friends" (Remy says, yes, but these friends are sometimes rather annoying)
- "The horse needs to be quick off the leg." Lilo stressed that she is very adamant about it (Ugh, Remy says, exactly what Judy insists on even though I would rather take my sweet time.)
- No potty breaks for the horse: "You could lose a gold medal at the Olympics!". Case in point, Valegro's untimely bathroom break that could have cost him the gold medal if he wouldn't have had such a large lead on the other competitors (Remy says, I'll give up a gold medal for my potty break, and I would prefer to read the paper while I'm at it.)
- "Reins are too long" - It seems that is a recurrent theme everywhere. Too long reins make it difficult to communicate effectively (Remy says, keep the long reins, it gives me an excuse to pretend I don't know what you want.)
- "He needs to work to develop the right muscling, not just trot around looking pretty" (Remy says, I like looking pretty and not having to work much!)
- "The horse should not move like a crocodile, flat and close to the ground. He needs to be up and looking proud" (Remy says, give me something interesting to look at and up I'll be, not a problem, lady!)

- Half pass: Look straight and move straight, if the rider thinks of turning it's often too much
- Canter: Volume and lift in the canter stride "Airtime is the volume of the stride". "Land, but come  back up"
- "Always go back to balance"
- "You cannot collect what you don't have, he has to go there first (having impulsion), and he has to go to the bit"
- "Horses must learn to flex the poll laterally left and right"
- "You need to sit on the seat bones, not your pockets. The seat bones are between the thighs"
- "Legs go on and off, not front and back"
- "Separate upper body from hips, stretch up"
- "Haunches are the support system for the horses shoulders"
- "Most flexible part of the horse is the shoulders"

So, now that I have audited I can say I would really like to ride with her. My rule about riding with clinicians I haven't seen teach before is clear: Watch first, decide if it is a teaching style that works for me and Remy, and only then write the fat check. Remy says, uh, thanks, but I'm good, no need to shell out the big bucks -  I'd rather play with Chambord anyway!

"You did much better than expected - and I'm not blowing smoke up your a**!"

Well, now, if that isn’t a compliment! Really, I was very happy with that. I rather over-perform than under-deliver; and I know Judy didn’t mean it in a way that suggested she has low expectations when it comes to my riding – or that she tried to blow smoke up my a** (for those of you not familiar with the expression: It means giving a compliment when it’s not deserved. And for the trivia buffs: It literally was done by doctors in the 1800s, they blew nicotine smoke up drowning victims rectums as a means to resuscitate them).

OK, taking that picture out of my mind – back to riding! Our focus currently is on getting good walk/canter transitions, and keeping Remy balanced in the counter canter. But the key for me are really the canter departs. I got spoiled with Saumur, who goes into a canter on the slightest aid. Finally the departs got better when I moved my hips correctly. Within the canter we played with going forward and then coming back into a collected canter. It felt pretty darn awesome!

JP, always the astute observer, helpful critic, and purveyor of all things chocolate, hit the nail on the head: Remy and I are clicking because I’m more relaxed – which makes life much easier for all four of us!!

The horse is the best judge of a good rider, not the spectator. If the horse has a high opinion of the rider, he will let himself be guided, if not, he will resist (Nuno Oliveira).

Lucky for me, yesterday was a special day where the instructor, the spectator and the horse had a high opinion of the rider!

"You are the brains - he is the brawn"

In sticking with the non-traditional Thanksgiving I skipped Black Friday shopping in favor of... riding, of course! It's hard for me to understand how people could have fun heading out in sub-zero temperatures at 3 a.m. clad in their PJs to score some deals (on things they may or may not need). But hey, the same people would probably scratch their heads on how I could have fun freezing in a barn.

Yesterday's ride was a real boost to my morale and it seemed to Remy's, also. He was much lighter on the aids today, happily doing what I asked him to do. He definitely worked harder (willingly) than I did, earning Judy's approval "Yes, that's right: You are the brains - he is the brawn!"

That was a great affirmation because most of the time I feel like I'm the brawn - and on the brains we toss a coin!

A happy Thanksgiving - at the barn(s)

Without family in the States and no interest in football (sorry, Jude!), the choice of venue today was easy: the barn(s)! First at home, where everyone got a good grooming. Saumur and Teddy are very woolly critters, and they thoroughly enjoyed their massages with the newly acquired 'Magic Brushes' from Germany.

Once Saumur and Teddy were clean and had plenty of hay outside we loaded up Chambord and went to join Remy at Topline, where we had the huge indoor arena all to ourselves.

Chambord was his usual cool self. He can have a lot of time off but then goes to work as if he had had a workout yesterday. Remy was eager to join his friend. As I've been working on making him more responsive to my leg with 'durchwachsen' (mixed) success I decided to try something new: take the spurs off and see what would happen. Surprise: Remy listened to my leg, we got good transitions and even prompt canter departs. So now I have to figure out what I am doing differently. I think I am so afraid to put my leg on (with the spurs) that I'm not giving clear enough aids. Good food for thought and something to follow up on!

Once home and thawed out under a hot shower I popped in a DVD I got in Germany: "Uta Graef - The intrepid dressage horse". Not much new, much of the things I have been practicing all along (hmm, and I still don't have an 'intrepid' horse?), but there were some good ideas to build on. Included also is a CD with noise, such as clapping, loud music that is played at victory gallops, etc. so it will be fun trying that out.

As to dinner: Fear not - no turkey had to die for us. So what does a German-American-French-American couple have for Thanksgiving dinner: Lebanese Takeout... and plenty of Champagne!

We are finally coming together - thanks to an American--French-German Village

For some time now I have secretly and openly (to close friends only) struggled with my relationship with Remy. Entirely my issue, of course. Deep down I wanted him to be another Crissy (who I still deeply miss), a fun and easy horse. Somehow I also felt I deserved an easy ride, after all my struggles with Saumur.

Reality check: Remy is wonderful, but also young and inexperienced - and yes, he is a boy. Girls seem to grow up faster :-)! I rode Crissy as a four-year alone on long trail rides, galloping all over the place, showing her at big, noisy events without a problem. Not something I could easily repeat with Remy. The freak accident this summer didn't help, neither his 'flying higher than a kite' at Regionals. Pair that with my feeling guilty about neglecting Saumur (who, BTW, is very happy to be 'neglected' as an active retiree), and well - you get the picture.

Judy was -and is- there for us, no matter what. JP was -and is- prodding me along, not very subtle, but with unwavering support. Remy and I are figuring each other out, and so it's finally coming together.

It takes an American-French-German Village to make it happen - but voila:

Remy and I are well on our way to becoming ... an old couple!

My very own, original "Sauvat" - in a very special book

Unfortunately, I missed the big opening bash of the White Horse Inn as I was in Europe. I really would have liked to be there, but the timing just didn't work out. JP was enjoying himself going stag*, but he also had a mission:

Taking the book Stephanie had so diligently searched for and ultimately arranged to be sent from France to Germany to the US "Les Chevaux de Sauvat", asking Jean-Louis to sign it.

Jean-Louis not only signed it, he dedicated it "with his friendship" and a wonderful drawing:

There is a quote in the book I absolutely love "Il n'y a pas d'echec pour celui qui sait aimer." 

 "There is no failure for the one that knows how to love."

*Stag (= a male deer) - attending a social gathering without a partner.

"Our little muffin is growing up!" - "We survived Kentucky"

Back after a whirlwind trip to Germany, where the weather was a balmy and sunny 60F. Not so here: On Saturday the Detroit airport was closed due to the icy weather, and a plane that had slipped off the runway. Great! Luckily yesterday we had a warm spell and I came home without delay (well, if you don't count the 4 a.m. start time, a three hour layover in Amsterdam, followed by an almost nine hour flight with the captain announcing "Folks, I need to keep the plane lower than usual due to the turbulences").

So today I was all pumped up to start riding again after a week off. Remy had behaved well for Judy and "he earned his weekend pass" (meaning JP picked him up for his weekend of playtime at home). Back to school... to find that school was under "weather alert". The weather had turned - we are in Michigan, after all! Howling winds, forecast at over 45 mph, rattled the barn and indoor arena. Sometimes it sounded like the roof would just take off. Judy had the music on in the indoor fairly loud to counteract all the scary noises.

Still, with the mayhem going on outside I didn't think it was the best of ideas to get on after a week off. I decided to longe Remy only, but as he (surprisingly!) kept his cool Judy offered to get on. It was neat to see how well he worked, solid counter canter, walk-canter departs without the trademark skip, half-pass... all that while the power went out, meaning no more music to cover up the scary noises, and very limited visibility in the arena.Wow! Judy hit the nail on the head with her remark "Our little muffin is growing up!"

We both felt we should wear buttons declaring "We survived Kentucky!" - after all the commotion at Regionals in Kentucky nothing much will face us now, as Remy proved today.

My "neat freak gene" rears it's head - at least when it comes to the barn

I grew up in a household where Q-tips and painters brushes were used to clean furniture, and were the Persian rugs had special combs for the fringes. "Mind the fringes!" was a common exclamation (meaning don't disturb the perfect layout), and eating after dinner time just didn't happen - no way to put a dirty plate in a spotless kitchen.

Needless to say, I couldn't wait to move out, and when I had my first apartment at the age of 20 you can be assured things like combs for fringes were the furthest from my mind. I was convinced that the "neat-freak gene" had by-passed me completely.

Fast forward to today: According to the weather-man it was the last mild day for a long time to come. Not sure what bit me, but I decided to vacuum the barn, top to bottom. Out came "R2D2" (the shop vacuum) and I went to work, first attacking the tack room, then the stalls. I'm sure the spiders are currently plotting revenge for taking down all their webs.

While cleaning, I had an audience of four, peeking through the windows, wondering what all the noise was about. (OK, probably more wondering if it was dinner time yet). I have to say, when I was done I had great sense of satisfaction - but not enough to tackle the house and get some rugs in order to comb the fringes!

It can't be snowing yet... and looking to the experts

Yesterday I almost chocked on my morning coffee: Looking out the kitchen window I saw heavy snow flakes tumbling to the ground. The snow didn't stick around, but still... It was a reality check of the things to come.

Remy is home for the weekend, and before he goes back to Judy's I had better dig out his winter clothes. I have to admit, I am not overly into blanketing early. Once Remy gets his trace clip he'll need the blankets, though, and admittedly it will make grooming much easier. The task at hand is pretty daunting: Four filthy boys are staring at me! They also managed to liberally dot manes and tails with burrs.

So, I skipped riding this weekend in favor of  'winterizing'. My good show boots are cleaned and stored, exchanged for my every-day sturdy Koenigs. They are large enough for liners and heavy socks, 20 years old and still holding up perfectly. Next in line are the heavy duty winter riding boots from Loesdau. Add a wardrobe full of polar fleece and I might just be able to venture out.

In addition to pulling out the Arctic Gear I spent time with Buck (again!) in the form of his "7 Clinics" DVDs, and also reading some of the classical texts - all that in my quest for lightness and responsiveness. It does not matter if it is Dressage or Reining, good horsemanship is good horsemanship. And when the latest "Chronicle of the Horse" came yesterday, I was thrilled to read an article by Jeremy Steinberg "The Power of Knowledge".

This article should be a 'must read' for serious riders, as Jeremy brings up so many valid points about the need to keep learning and knowing "why", by exploring the history of the sport, the various masters and techniques. As we all know, there is no "one size fits all" - but you can find the "size" that fits you and your horse!

So, case in point question: Who invented the shoulder-in*? It is an exercise used in daily training, but who knows the origins?

(*Answer: More than one person, Antoine de Pluvinel, William Cavendish, the Duke of Newcastle and Francois Robichon de la Gueriniere all played at part. Hint: When in doubt, mumble the name of a European guy that lived several hundred years ago!)

I have to be strong in order to be light - Gimme those "Yes, Ma'am's!"

OK, now that I'm over my episode of wilting in the Jan clinic, Judy has put the heat on regarding Remy's responsiveness to my aids. It's been an ongoing struggle with basically me working my behind off while Remy is ho-humming along, answering with "maybe's" (as in "maybe I'll do a canter depart").

I am paranoid about nagging him with my legs (which is exactly what I've been doing). It takes a lot for me to really get after him, and not only because Remy is not above throwing in a f.. you buck when he gets a smack with the crop. But someone had to give, and ...well... The "fear of the wrath of Jude" will not allow for that someone to be me.

Yesterday it took for me to be drenched in sweat (in 45F degree weather) and Judy's voice in my ear getting decibels louder by the minute until I finally gave Remy one good smack.

Instant gratification: Remy replied immediately with "yes, Ma'am!". From there on I could be light and soft and Remy was motoring along, with the rear engine well engaged. We did a lot of up and down transitions, as well as transitions within the gaits, and wouldn't you know it, no more "maybe's"!

It's really so simple: Start asking lightly, if there is no response turn the volume up, and if there is a response be light. (Exactly like Judy's voice in my ear!)

So, hmm, I might bring the crop into the house - I could use some more of those "Yes, Ma'am's"!

When things are not going according to plan - cutting myself some slack

It seemed easy enough: Fly to Mexico on Tuesday, come back Thursday night, ride with Jan Ebeling on Saturday. Sure - no problem, with a day in between to come off my travel meds I should be fit to ride.

Reality: Trip down to Orizaba went well. Return journey: Not so much: Two hour car trip from Orizaba to Veracruz, night in Veracruz, early next morning taxi to the airport. First snafu: Plane had been canceled. Rebooked on the next plane, alas, that one was delayed. Numerous hours later landed in Mexico City, only to find out that the plane to Detroit had left, and we opted for Chicago... only to find out the plane had be delayed. Arrived Chicago 2 a.m., shuttled to the hotel for a whopping two (!) hours of sleep and a shower. Back to the airport to find out the plane to Detroit was delayed due to snow. Hours later, leave for Detroit. Arrive - but can't leave due to lack of gate availability. Finally make it to the office and continue meetings. Roll home late and crash.

Perfect preparation to ride with a demanding Olympian. It started out well, though, Jan prepared us to get better canter departs on the iffy right hand. Lots of shoulder ins, leg yields all over the arena, transitions, transitions. He really honed in on my tendency to keep Remy too much on the inside rein. Hmm, there is an explanation: I learned a long time ago to do one-rein stops and they saved my hide more than once with Saumur. So when Remy decided to throw in a buck in at the first canter, I instinctively thought "one-rein-stop" (which I didn't need to do because Remy came right back to me).

It was a very good training session, until about 45 minutes in I faded fast and furious. I was overwhelmed by exhaustion, and thus embarrassment ("darn it, I need to suck it up and continue"). Well, that self-talk didn't help. And instead of telling Jan I needed a break I just muddled through, tears of exhaustion pooling in my eyes. How much more embarrassing could it get? Luckily, not much more. We finished on a somewhat decent note, but I had to come to grips with serious self-doubt ("I should be much fitter!").

Still, after JP kicked my behind I was able to acknowledge that yes, overall I managed to do a good job given the circumstances, it was a positive experience, and we (I!) know what we need to work on. After a shower and a nap I was able to enjoy a super nice evening with Jan and the Topline team. Cutting myself some slack is a challenge - but it sure makes life more enjoyable!

He is a "seat horse" - and passing on a "Thank You" from my BFF

I think we are enjoying the "last hurrah" of the Michigan weather. It's been picture perfect the last days, and we enjoyed scenic trail rides in the woods ablaze with color on the weekend.

Today it was time for our monthly clinic with Maryal. We swung by the barn to pick up Andrea and Simon, and off we went to Linda's and Vic's in Metamora. I couldn't help but point (again!) to their fabulous indoor arena and tell JPs "this is on top of my Christmas List!" Somehow I don't think Santa will fit down the chimney with it, though...

Remy and Simon are excellent traveling partners, and we arrived relaxed and happy. Maryal build on our work from last month. She really focuses on the rider's position in order to help the horse. Today she reminded me to lift my toes, and it was amazing how a seemingly little thing made a big change. By picking up my toes my leg muscles lay differently on the horse and thus making more impact with less work.

Another area we worked on is my core, and how moving it correctly can make the exercises to much easier. For example in the upward transitions, if I pick up my core I give Remy the space to come up in his withers. Or moving my core in the shoulder ins also made quite a change.

Maryal exclaimed "Oh, Remy is now a seat horse!" ("All of Judy's horses are seat horses"). That was a big compliment because it meant that Remy is truly on the seat aids - And may I say, not just Judy's but mine also :-) Yay!

So coming home we found a very fitting surprise in our mailbox from Stephanie (aka Schnucki II): A big box of Hanuta for Judy! (Hmm, none for me???)

Stephanie follows our trials and tribulations closely, and she obviously felt that Judy needed not only a big "Thank You!" but also some sustenance to continue working with us :-)

If you don't do a good job - Mom will take care of the "Bad People"

The timing of the Kentucky event coincided Dolores’ annual vacation. Dolores is our regular farmsitter and knows the idiosyncrasies of our crew quite well. So, who to ask? After all, it’s not just the care of the animals, it’s also everything else (i.e. house).

Friends recommended a nursing student that they had used successfully in the past. It seemed to be a good fit, the parents own a feed store, and she is familiar with horses and other animals. We were fairly certain that all would go well, after all, JP would only be gone three days.

Imagine his shock when he came home to find a sick Saumur in a filthy stall, that hadn’t had any urine removed in three days, just some manure was picked out. (Saumur being sick of course most likely had nothing to do with the condition of his stall). When JP called the girl and asked what happened, why she hadn’t done the stalls she was completely taken aback and denied not having cleaned. In addition only two bales of hay were fed in three days to two horses and a pony. (Never mind that I left detailed written instructions on how much to feed).

To top it off, today her mother called to say we are no longer welcome to shop at their feed store because she didn't like her daughter to be criticized. Good thing that we don’t depend on them, they don’t carry most of our stuff anyway, but still: you can’t help but wonder how their stalls look, and what does that tell the young woman? You don’t do a good job - mom will 'punish' the “bad people”??

Home again - and human hospital staff could learn a thing or two from the MSU VMC

Yesterday I got an excited call from Dr. Kopper, Saumur’s lead veterinarian at the MSU VMC (Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center). She was very happy to tell me that Saumur was ready to go home. Yay! He got a clean bill of health, was bright eyed and bushy tailed*. 

The cause of Saumur's sudden illness is unknown. The fever, signs of colic, and low white blood cell count indicated enteritis (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract). The tests for Potomac Horse Fever came back negative.  But whatever it was, the massive doses of antibiotics plus fluids etc did the trick.

Saumur apparently got the message that it was time to go home, he loaded without fuss. As soon as we drove into our driveway the “reception committee” galloped up to the barn door to greet him. Saumur had some good rolls (in his opinion he was kept way too clean at the hospital), and then got back to the business of grazing. Teddy stayed glued to his side.

It was our first experience having to take a horse to the MSU VMC. I can honestly say we couldn’t be happier not only with the care Saumur received, but also the positive attitude and concern the veterinarians and staff showed. I received twice daily detailed updates; when we visited everyone was very nice and took great care to explain everything. And I’m sure Saumur was very appreciative of the bed –uh stall- side manners! A big Thank You!! Human hospital staff could learn a lot from you!

Now we need to get Saumur’s gut in balance again as the massive doses of antibiotics have destroyed the good bacteria. Our Equine Homeopath will come today with pre- and pro-biotics. BTW, I thought the cheap and easy way of feeding yoghurt might be a good idea - Not so: horses after six month of age can’t digest milk products!

*The allusion here is to the appearance of a squirrel, which with its beady eyes and bushy tail looks ready for anything

This is not the homecoming I had in mind: Midnight rush to the clinic

JP had hit the road right after Remy's last class; we were both rather nervous because Dolores, our regular farmsitter, is on vacation and we had to use someone unproven. Turns out we had all rights to be nervous: I was somewhere in Ohio when I received a call from JP - he had checked everyone at home right away and found Saumur down in his stall, obviously in great pain.

Luckily, Mike, our vet, lives around the corner. After administering pain meds and fluids he recommended to take Saumur to the MSU (Michigan State University) Large Animal Clinic, as Saumur didn't have any gut sounds. This indicated something was seriously wrong, and the potential need for colic surgery. Good plan - difficult execution: Saumur refused to load for JP and Mike.

I high-tailed home, putting the turbo charger in my car to good use while gritting my teeth that I would be able to fly under the radar of the ever vigilant Ohio State Police. And forget a bathroom stop. I made it home in -let's just say- good time, got Saumur onto the trailer and off we went. Of course, our GPS got us lost on campus, and we had to call the clinic several times for directions. By now it was close to midnight. 

Luckily, a team awaited us and they calmly and expertly examnined Saumur. I got queasy watching the IV line being sewn in, but more due to exhaustion, hunger and dehydration. Luckily it didn't look like he needed surgery. Saumur was put into a stall with the IV fluid bags hoisted overhead.

Update this morning: Saumur developed high fever overnight, they suspect that he might have contracted Potomac Horse Fever (even though he's vaccinated). We visited today and Saumur was a tough sight: Clearly depressed, and almost unresponsive. He is on heavy doses of antibiotics, and hopefully that will help fight whatever infection he has. I love my 'old man' so much -- and I am so thankful that we are able to give him all the care he needs. 

Gaining experience is the name of the game - between 600 dressage horses and a carriage competition

I should have worn a mileage tracker, it felt like I walked about 100 miles at the Kentucky Horse Park with Remy over the last five days. It was sensory overload for the kid: The space, the cold, rain and mud; golf carts whipping by from every direction; and the piece de resistance: Carriage horses and ponies practicing for their marathon at the water hazard next to the Rolex arena. I could feel it whirling in Remy’s head “Why are these horses chased by buggies??”

                                            A cold day at the KHP - Remy had to borrow JP's scarf

All in all, Remy handled it well. His first test netted him his highest score of the season: a 70.8%! Second day he had another good test, but the judge had a different opinion. We were still happy, though, because Remy did a good job. Unfortunately, his championship class was at the Rolex arena. Even though Remy held it together –entirely thanks to Judy!-, the test was marred by mistakes as Remy was just very tense. However, as we were mainly there for education purposes we felt that this goal was met.

As Judy said: Now Remy has lots of stories to tell his friends, especially about his “near death” experience with horses ‘chased’ by buggies.

In desperate need of a drink - KHP Day 2

After navigating six hours of road work and trying to fly under the radar of the Ohio State Police I arrived yesterday at the KHP at about 1 p.m. Kim's status updates on FB didn't help with my anxiety "Three Tornado Warnings!", And then the response to my text inquiry was: "Remy survived the Tornado". Hmm, OK, while scant still good news.

Remy hadn't been out of his stall since arriving Tuesday evening, so needless to say, he was flying higher than a kite once I took him out: Horses! Golf Carts! Tractors! More Horses, Golf Carts, Tractors... Andrea showed me how to put a chain on his halter (I had never done that but yesterday it clearly was an act of self-preservation). So we walked, and walked, and walked some more... for hours on end. Remy finally chilled. By the time I longed him in the early evening,and Judy schooled him he was fine. Big sigh of relief all around.

I, OTOH, was not so fine, a lack of food, water and sleep caught up with me. To top it off, I got lost on the way to the hotel. When I finally made it I was too tired to eat. I got a bottle of Kentucky Ale and fell into bed - only to wake up in the middle of the night with severe leg cramps. Sure, all that walking combined with dehydration will do that.

Today started much better, and Remy schooled well. It was smooth sailing... until I hand-walked him to the Rolex arena and what do we see: Driving Ponies pulling carts through the water complex = Remy on hind legs! We got by unscathed, but I hate to think what what have happened if I would have been on him. So... more walking, and he settled down

I hardly ever felt like I deserved (and needed) a drink like these last two days in Kentucky. Cheers to Kentucky Ale!

On the road... towards big time

Remy and his friends are rolling towards Kentucky. Lisa posted a picture after he had boarded, I swear Remy was smiling! I sure hope he keeps smiling this week, because to me it all sounds rather overwhelming:

600 horses

1780 rides

8 arenas

11 judges

Etc. etc.

I already ‘outed’ myself again as “very German”. Ah, it never ends. This time it was concerning Golf Carts, more precisely renting a golf cart for the week. Most of the competitors are renting carts due to the distances at the KHP. When asked I just shrugged it off, saying I’d rather walk. Emil’s saying “you have two good legs, you can walk” is never far. And walk I did all through my child hood, climbing with him in the Austrian Alps. And walk I still do, even though I now live in a country where people take their car to the mail box.

Good shoes (love my Ariat Performers) and sustenance (German chocolate) are of the essence. Speaking of sustenance: I am packing ‘emergency rations’, as I have learned the hard way that the food offered at horse shows is usually not something I will eat.

The offerings at the larger shows in Germany (ach ja, caught again) are quite different: I can almost taste the “Thueringer Rostbratwuerste”, “Bier vom Fass”, and last but not least Crepes with Nutella and Banana; and Champagne!

Getting ready for boading the Party Bus - luggage for a 1200 pound Muffin

Remy, aka "The Muffin", will be boarding the party bus to Lexington, Kentucky, on Tuesday. OK, some explanation: We called him "stud muffin"* because he is so cute and and also sometimes studly. But technically, he's more Muffin than Stud, hence "The Muffin".

The USDF Regional Championships are held next week at the KHP (Kentucky Horse Park). I usually figure six hours driving time by car to Lexington, so it's much better for Remy to share the ride with friends on the 'bus' than being towed in a two-horse trailer.

Wow, they have 600 (!) entries. It will be interesting to see how Remy is going to handle this. There is quite a contingent from Topline going, 11 horses, plus riders, family members, grooms. I'll be following Remy early Wednesday morning; and until I get there Kim (groom to the stars) will take care of him. From there on out - Meet the groom: Birgit.

So today was packing day: 21 lovingly packed brown bags with Remy's breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A rolling tack box stuffed to the top with a myriad of essentials. Very important is the EquiMedic first aid kit, to my logic: If it's there - we won't need it! And, and, and...

So one of us will have fun with friends on the Party Bus, enjoying home made meals, and plenty of treats...  the other one will drive alone in a pickup loaded to the brim with horse stuff, some power bars by the side,  desperately trying to stay within the speed limit in Ohio and always on the lookout for the next coffee.

Let the good times roll!

*stud·muf·fin

ˈstədˌməfin/

noun

NORTH AMERICANinformal

noun: stud-muffin

1. a man perceived as sexually attractive, typically one with well-developed muscles.

To play or not to play is not the question - the boys turn into Ferkel

Actually, to be more precise, the question is "Let them play or not"?  When I looked out my kitchen window this morning my heart skipped a beat: Chambord and Remy were racing around, leaping in the air, mock fighting each other with their front legs, bucking, racing again ... I could hear their hoof beats in the house.

They definitely had a grand old time, and Saumur and Teddy were just slightly more 'sedate'. Of course, I love it when they have fun. But... with all the effort that goes into their training (and yes, all the expenses) the thoughts of Suspensory Injury! Broken leg! Pulled Tendons! are right with "Aw, look how they enjoy themselves!" To top it off, it was raining and 40F, the more reason for a lot of people to keep the horses in. 

The boys, however, are used to all day turnout. They have a huge covered porch, bedded and clean, where they can get out of the elements. Still, of course, the risk of injury through play remains. However, I could never deny them the joy of being horses. It's a risk that I am willing to take. And research has shown that a lot of injuries happen when horses are stalled or turned out in a small paddock. Life is unpredictable.

The local horse magazine "Saddle Up" featured a really good article by Juliet Getty, Ph.D. "Empty Fields Everywhere - Why Movement Is So Important". She lists all the problems lack or restricted turnout causes. I can say from experience that our boys are fitter and healthier than a lot of their pals. Ms Getty closes her article with "Confining a horse to a stall or small outdoor area without the ability to exercise leads to an animal who is mentally stressed and physically limited. Exercise, walking, grazing, socializing, and freedom to flee from perceived dangers are essential parts of what makes your horse a horse". 

So, while all this is nice and dandy... I am looking at three large and one small Ferkel (piglets) and wonder how to get them clean without turning into a Ferkel myself??

Happiness is when it feels like dancing - and the pieces of the puzzle fall into place

Today was one of those absolutely stunning Michigan early autumn days, temps in the low 70s, brilliant sunshine. A perfect day for an outing to Metamora Horse Country to ride with Maryal Barnett (a lovely lady who is a FEI "CE" Dressage judge, USEF "S" Dressage Judge, and a Canadian Equestrian Federation Senior Dressage Judge).

Andrea and I packed Simon and Remy into the trailer and off we went to Linda's stunning barn. I jokingly said before leaving that I had no worries about coming off, Linda's arena footing is as fluffy as a feather bed.

Remy settled right in, and handled everything like a pro. Maryal has an excellent way of explaining position corrections. For example, to get our leg yields more flowing she reminded me to move my core towards the direction we were targeting, and to lighten the seat bone (in that case the left one because we were going left), so Remy could have room to move there. It took almost no effort to make him "flow over" - and when Maryal said with a smile "it's like dancing, isn't it", I enthusiastically agreed.

We also tackled our nemesis - the right canter departs (aka our "skippies"). As Judy and Jan had pointed out before, Remy has a tendency to lean on the inside shoulder, thus getting crooked, which makes for the funky depart. Maryal's suggested that in addition to getting him off the inside shoulder I also needed to lighten up on the outside rein (I have taken the  rule "inside leg to outside rein" too far by taking too much outside rein) . That really helped, and we definitely improved. Nothing but smiles all around, especially on my side, after Maryal commented on my much improved position and quiet legs. Yay!

Yes, the pieces of our puzzle are falling into place, thanks to Judy. No resting on any (non-existing) laurels, though: The next level of complexity needs to be tackled. Let's Tango, Remy!

"I'm tired of having to spoon feed grown ups - so get with the program!"

Poor Remy - he got the fall out of the frustrations I had at work in the last days. Of course, there are always good days and not so good days, but you just have to roll with it and do the best you can while keeping a good attitude. Lately, though, it seems my fuse has become shorter - I am pretty sick and tired of having to nurture along grown up middle aged men simply to do their job in a positive and pro-active manner. Don't get me wrong, I love mentoring the new and eager recent college graduates, or new employees that don't have the particular experience yet. But drag your feet and make me spoon feed you and I get rather prickly. It's all in the attitude!

What does that have to do with Remy and my riding? A lot! As Judy reminds me frequently: He is trained now (to his age appropriate level). Time to step up and do the job without me having to negotiate, and often getting some half-hearted attempts in return. This is how it used to go: "Using my hind legs? What hind legs?" "Do I have to do this NOW?" "Are you sure you want me to do this? Really?" "Can't I just pretend I'm working?" So I subconsciously stepped up the ante for Remy today. I didn't set out and said "you must to this or else" - but when I asked for a response to a a question I wanted a prompt answer.

Wouldn't you know it: it worked beautifully. For the first time in a long time I had real fun again! Judy even ventured so far as to say that I rode better than before the accident. Remy, smart guy that he his, figured it out quickly ("ah, I have to work for you like I do for Aunt Jude"), didn't argue, and worked happily. Clear rules: I lead the dance, but we both do our parts, no if's, but's, or maybe's. And to sweeten the deal: Give me your best, honest and cheerful try ... and there will be a 50 pound bag of carrots in the wings!

Buckle up and do it - the trails are helping

Sunday was a beautiful and sunny day, even more appreciated after the miserable weather the days before. Waterloo didn’t go according to my plans (it was the right decision to scratch, I know, I know, but…), and it was time to regroup.

What better way to regroup than going on a trailride? Admittedly, the nice weather plus excellent company (Chambord and JP) made that an easy decision. It was lovely, and all four of us had a great time. That ride restored my somewhat rattled self.

Armed with a good experience I decided yesterday it was time to get on Remy ‘cold’, meaning riding in my lesson without Judy warming him up first. It has been a huge help, getting on a horse that is already in working mode and on the aids. So yes, from the get go I had to do the work, and ‘someone’ didn’t cut me any slack.

Currently the big thing is responsiveness, getting the job done NOW, not “perhaps in a few strides I might move out”. It took quite a few tries (no nagging!) but eventually I got the desired (and hard worked for) “Yes, ma’am, right away!”

Hmm, I have a few windows that need washing – any “yes, ma’am” takers??

"Today is not my day - and yours doesn't look so hot either"

I once saw this printed on a T-shirt - and today it would have been a perfect occasion to wear it.

Last show at Waterloo for the year. It started out well enough, with good schooling, and Remy being 'right on' for Judy (he knows better than to mess with her). Yesterday afternoon I put my big girl pants on and rode him at the same ring where I had the accident. Honestly, it was a rather big step, but we made it, and I thought I could handle a class today.

Well, that wasn't to be. The weather changed (it's Michigan!), and the temps dropped overnight into the 40s with rain and blustering winds. When I took Remy out early this morning for his walk he flew almost higher than a kite and I had a hard time keeping both of us grounded. What is considered desirable at some breed shows and people try to accomplish with firecrackers, etc. I got without any effort on my part: Snorting, leaping, flagging the tail...  Someone forgot to tell Remy that he is not a Park Morgan!

I rather have the fancy movements when under control, so this display of 'airs above the ground' rattled me considerably. There is is no way anyone should get on at this stage, and Judy's ride time was nearing. So I managed to get Remy back to his stall, tacked him up, and had him jump through the mud in the longing arena. Surprisingly, that did the trick. "Earth to Remy" worked, and he was back! Judy (unflappable, as most of the time) said, no worries, she'd ridden much worse. Off they went to score a 67.7%. Awesome, Jude!!

I, on the other hand, decided that Remy was right early this morning: Today was not my day. I was cold, wet, muddy, miserable... and rain and wind were picking up. So I decided to scratch. Yes, admittedly, it was hard on my ego, like conceding defeat (to what, the weather?!) but heck, I didn't fancy another visit to the Chelsea Hospital. As well as I was treated there last time, I just didn't feel ready to fight for my pants again!

I feel like the little red engine - uh, make that the cantering machine

Entering the clinic with Jan was a bit of a gamble, spending all that money without knowing how well I would be able to hold up. Jan really pushes the riders, very positively, but he expects you to work. I certainly didn't want to be the one wilting away half-way through.

Judy warmed up Remy briefly, and then we went to work. Jan switched to German, which made me quip that I felt like a 20 year old again, riding in Germany. Shoulder fore - shoulder in, first in walk then in trot. More angle - less neck bend. (You'd think with how often I hear this from Judy I should have gotten it by now!).

Jan really drilled us on the canter departs to the right, as this is Remy's 'skippy' side. He kind of skips into the canter, which is a mistake ("Taktfehler"). As Jan pointed out if we don't take care of it now we will have problems with the flying changes later. Remy braces a bit, and I have a tendency to give the aid more with my inside leg. So we practiced -and practiced- and practiced- moving promptly off my outside leg, while being on the outside rein, which netted us better and even good departs.

Another issue we worked on is having Remy react better to my leg aids. I'm so paranoid about hitting him with my spurs that I never really put the spur on him. My boots tell the tale. As Remy gets tense with a dressage whip (even though I never touched him, let alone hit him), I ride with a short jumping bat, aka the 'magic stick'. Jan jokingly pointed out "you only smack the saddle pad, and it didn't do anything wrong!" We settled on a compromise of finding a longer bat. The idea behind all this is "less is more!". Remy needs to learn to move off light aids, no nagging.

This session was a great morale booster for me, we went to work, never wondered about what was going on around us, did our job and did it well! No, we didn't have any major light-bulb moments as people seem to expect from clinics. But really, if you work correctly in your day to day training, and your instructor's philosophy matches the one of the clinician then the light is on all the time all the time - so it's more of an increase in brightness.

And no - I didn't wilt away during my ride (I waited until I was safely home and had a beer in front of me).

Flying changes: From French Artist to German-American Olympian - and Judy has a plan (as always)

Jean-Louis will be leaving tomorrow night, we sure hate to see him go. The Mural is finished and absolutely stunning. Linda and Victor, the owners of the White Horse Inn, had invited us to a party last night in Jean-Louis’ honor. Great people, super conversations, lovely food and free flowing wine – what else can one hope for? Not having to go to work the next morning comes to mind!

Hopefully, Jean-Louis will be back for the Grand Opening of the restaurant. He has been giving Linda dressage lessons every day and she is extremely happy with the French teachings of lightness, and how much progress she and her horse have made, so she has more than one reason wanting Jean-Louis to come back.

Tomorrow I will be trading the French Artist for the German-American Olympian. Jan is coming this weekend to do a clinic at Judy’s, and I boldly have signed us up. It’s a bit of a gamble, because I am clearly not yet back to my pre-accident form. It was evident in my lesson yesterday. I am overriding, I get tired and then I get frustrated. Argh!

I honestly don’t know how I would manage without Judy - well, I guess I could figure something out, probably along the lines of just sticking to trailrides, that is. Judy has just the right approach on how to deal with me (ja, ja, not an easy feat, I admit) – a mixture of giving me time, encouragement, and just the right push when I’m on the horse. She also has been warming up Remy for me, and that made a huge difference. When I get on I can feel how he should feel. The challenge then is to keep it…

So, the plan for the last Waterloo show of the year is that Judy rides Remy Friday, we both are entered Saturday, and if the stars are aligned I go into the ring, if not, I’ll scratch. Sunday we just school. The sole goal is getting me comfortable riding at the ‘scene of the crime’ – well, actually, that’s not the sole goal: We also need to keep Remy from getting any ideas about “I’m outta here”.

A friend who is always a step ahead - providing large doses of European equestrian culture

This morning on my way to work I received an excited phone call from my friend Stephanie in Germany. She had read my blog back in June about Jean-Louis and how much I loved his art work. Immediately Stephanie left no stone unturned to get her hands on the book "Les Chevaux de Sauvat". Alas, it was not available in Germany, and out of stock in France.

Well, persistence pays - to hell with not speaking French when on a mission! The book made its way from France to Germany, and is now well on its journey to the US... wrapped as a Christmas present, because that was the original intention. But Stephanie's logic (as usual, hard to dispute - just ask Harald, her husband!) prompted her to send me the book now so Jean-Louis can sign it when he comes back to the US for the opening of the White Horse Inn.

This is the same woman that managed to get a German TV station to burn a DVD of a show solely for me: The oldest state stud farm in Germany, Marbach, celebrated its 500 year anniversary.
http://www.die-deutschen-landgestuete.de/state-stud-marbach.html

I love the place and really wanted to be there, but I couldn't make it. The celebration ceremonies were slated to be shown on TV, so I asked Stephanie if she could record it for me. As that wasn't feasible Stephanie went into high gear: Found the number of the TV station, sweet-talked her way through the different departments, and low and behold found someone agreeing to burn the DVD and ship it to her!

What do they say: You cannot chose your family, but you sure can chose your friends. 30 years ago we both chose well - Although my meager 'cultural' contribution usually consists of providing Moose Munch Coffee :-)!

Remy gets recognition - I battle Bugzilla and also develop a major crush

Remy received his Performance Horse Certificate from the USDF; Out of 11 scores so far this year Remy had 10 in the mid to high 60s, the only glitch was a 58.9% thanks to yours truly. Oops. Of course, credit goes entirely to Judy! Pretty cool, the kid is growing up it seems.

Unfortunately, our weather is prime breeding ground for all kinds of annoying flies. This weekend was a bust concerning riding at home: The trails were closed due to the "Down and Dirty" obstacle race (for humans), and our outdoor arena was the happening place for all the B-52s in the area. Poor Saumur, who usually patiently waits for me to kill those things, was running out of options. The biggest Bugzilla dodged all my attempts at getting rid of him (her?) so finally we retreated to the cool of the barn. Next time, I'll get ya!

Highlight of the weekend was meeting Jean-Louis Sauvat and seeing his murals in progress at the White Horse Inn in Metamora. WOW! Not only is his art spectacular, Jean-Louis is one of the most interesting (horse) people one could ever wish to meet. I basically had to pry myself away at the end of the evening - I definitely developed a major crush. No worries, though, JP... it's entirely an "artsy crush" (that's my story and I'll stick to it :-)!)

Junior is cranky - but works well

Thunderstorms threatened to come down all day; and Remy seemed to reflect the weather: cranky and stormy. When I groomed him he was annoyed that I dared asking to lift his hooves so I can clean them. Hmm. He was also pretty pushy, and tried to ignore the groundwork I usually do with him before riding. Easy things, such as yielding the hind quarters, backing up, being soft when led.

Of course, when Judy got on Remy to warm him up he jumped to attention. That shows who is his authority figure! Luckily, though, he kept the good attitude for me, and I had a very good ride. I’m getting back into the swing of things. Yay! When he got fussy in the bridle Judy reminded me that he does that because he’s propelling himself with his front legs, as opposed to using his hind end. Legs on, supported with a little tap from the magic stick (my jumping bat) and we were back in business.

All good – until it was time to go home. Remy reminded me of a two year old in the grocery store “No, I don’t want to, and you can’t make me!” when it came to trailer loading. I’ll be forever grateful to Julie Arkison, who taught me effective trailer loading without drama. Remy, smart boy that he is, figured out quickly that he wouldn’t win this one, got over his temper tantrum and sauntered in the trailer, like saying “what’s the big deal??”

At home the welcome committee (Saumur, Chambord, Teddy) was waiting for him, crowding at the barn door. They parted like the Red Sea to let him through to the pastures. No wonder Remy thinks he’s hot stuff!

On the trails again - with "Moechtegern" Steady Eddies

We had perfect riding weather this weekend, temps in the 70s, and sunshine. On Saturday I ‘dusted off’ Saumur, who got excited at the prospect of doing something. “Yay – action!”.

I tried to heed Denny Emmerson’s advice regarding getting back on a horse after a riding accident: “Ride a Steady Eddy (note: it means a very safe and quiet horse)… walk only… repeat: Steady Eddy, walk only”. Well, Denny, we are kinda short of Steady Eddies. The only one we have is Chambord, and his job description covers JP only.

So, Saumur was the next best choice (for those of you knowing my bolting, scooting, shying Saumur it seems to be a stretch, I admit). Well, Saumur rose to the occasion. He seemed really happy to move out, the only tension happened when a guy with a very noisy tractor cutting wood was driving up close to us. I had to get off twice to fend off B-52s (large horse flies). Saumur is so good about it, where other horses freak out because the sting really hurts he patiently waits for me to kill the things. Getting off wasn’t a big deal, but getting on without a mounting block and shorter stirrups tested my left leg. Not a problem, Saumur stayed grounded while I heaved myself back up.

Yesterday it was Remy’s turn, and admittedly, I was a bit more concerned. Remy was very ho hum about the whole thing, first longing and then following Chambord out and about. I could feel his back tensing up a couple of times, and he had to find his footing, but he was also a very good boy.

Seems we do have a stable full of Steady Eddies – one confirmed (ops, sorry, Teddy: TWO confirmed – I just wish you were a bit taller), two moving up from “Moechtegern” (“wannabe”) to “almost there”!

"You rode well - but you looked a bit rusty"

My second ride this week on Remy felt good. Of course it made a big difference that Judy warmed Remy up for me, so by the time I got on he was all supple and on the aids. Tuesday I still had “Schonzeit” (it actually means the time periods during the year when hunting is forbidden by German law).

Yesterday we went back to business. Judy clearly didn’t want me starting out with my old habit of not using enough right leg; i.e. at shoulder in right I tend to get more neckbend instead of Remy bending around the inside leg.

With Jan coming at the end of the month for a clinic it’s time to get serious. I certainly don’t want to have to repeat the (felt) million canter transitions like last time!

Getting off was a bit awkward – I usually swing my right leg over Remy’s back and then jump off, landing first on my left leg. Judy suggested I use the mounting block to climb off, but really, that would just have been too “old lady”. I did it my way and almost buckled down. Judy’s commented with a smile “you are just so German”.

So, yes, JP, I guess I’m a bit rusty, but keep in mind rusty iron is actually STRONG and SWEET (as proven by ‘sweet iron’ bits for horses)!

Outstanding Lemonade - and no going moldy here!

Today was the day: This morning I got the "All Clear" from the Orthopedic Surgeon, complete with a printout of my x-ray and a statement for the USEF, confirming I am fit to do "Equestrian Activities".

This afternoon it was time to climb back on Remy, my first lesson after a two month hiatus. Judy jokingly asked if I had selected my outfit last night? OK, I admit, I like to dress well for my lessons. I think it shows respect for the instructor, the horse, and of course oneself. I doesn't have to be fancy, but well fitted and clean (I guess my German upbringing combined with reading all those George Morris' columns must have something to do with this).

Not the best of times, weather-wise, as a thunderstorm was upon us. But not to be deterred, Judy warmed Remy up for me and then it was "my" time... Surprisingly, it felt like I had never taken a break. There was no anxiety. My body remembered all the key things, like keeping my hind end in the saddle (important part!), legs on, hands quiet, being centered.   Of course, Remy was quite different: Judy is doing such an amazing job with him that I instantly felt the huge improvement. There was no "getting to know" period, or time to fumble ourselves back in a unity. It just clicked. Wow!

Big sighs of relief from all four of us (Judy, Remy, JP, and myself). The best part was when Judy told me afterwards that she really believes in Remy and me and she wants this partnership to work. My fall and the resulting time off proved to be a blessing in disguise: it gave me time to quiet down and it gave Remy the opportunity to get the best training at home and at shows. Jude, there is not enough Hanuta to thank you enough!!! We made darn good lemonade out of the lemons we were handed - I think I even detect some of Emil's home-made brandy in there :-)!

Speaking of Emil - his bad luck continued as he had an additional fall, dropping 12 feet due to another broken tree stand. This time he cracked five ribs and pinched a nerve so badly that he is currently in the hospital. When I checked in with him today he was as usual in good spirits. We compared our 'battle scars' and Emil dryly stated: "Wir koennen entweder nichts tun und Schimmel ansetzen - oder unser Leben leben" (a German expression meaning we could either laze about, therefore stay stagnant and go moldy) - or live life.

Well, Emil - here is to not going moldy!! :-)

Great Road Trip - with some chillin'

On Friday morning we caught up with Remy and the Topline team at Majestic Farm in Cincinnati, Ohio. Remy had traveled well, however, he got a bit too attached to Judy’s mare BeBe. Yes, Remy, she sure is spectacular – but, uh, kind reminder: too late for you, buddy! You might still think you are a studmuffin but really, it’s more muffin than stud.

Once Remy got a room next to ‘Uncle Leo’ (Carolyn’s Grand Prix horse Leonardo) calm was restored. I was also hoping Uncle Leo could give Remy some tips on how to become a GP horse!

Remy was a really good boy all weekend. Watching is worse for me than riding, because when watching there is absolutely nothing I can do – other than hoping he will be good for Judy. And of course Judy gives him all the confidence he needs to deal with a new and exciting environment. I literally stopped breathing when I saw them heading down the centerline, and the water truck was “beep-beep”ing right behind the judges booth, going back and forth. With me Remy would have said “thanks, but I’m out of here!”. With Judy he went about his business. They scored in the high 60s in all of their tests.

Obviously, Remy reveled in all the attention he got this weekend, between Judy’s riding, Kim’s beauty sessions, my hand-walking, and copious amounts of treats he had plenty of loving .. but I think his all time favorite is:

Just chillin’ with JP!

One of us travels in style – while the other one upgrades to Pickup Truck

On Wednesday Remy boarded the ‘Party Bus’ with his friends from Topline, destination Cincinnati, Ohio – while I was on a plane from Veracruz to Mexico City. Not exactly synchronized travel here, but luckily Judy and Kim offered to take care of him until I can join them on Friday.

Judy texted me yesterday that Remy was MUCH more relaxed this time than at the last outing to Lamplight. Big relief all around! I can’t wait to get there!

While on the various planes I had time to read an excellent article that Glenda had send me: “Getting hurt: How not to and (if that fails) how to recover”, by Denny Emerson. Right on – well, at least the second part. Too late for the “How not to”. He starts the article with a saying from a friend who is a logger, regarding those who work all day in the woods with chain saws, “It’s not a question of whether you will get cut, but when, and how badly”. It’s the same with horses. So really, I was overdue (hmm?) and luckily it wasn't bad.

Getting back to the travel experience, here is Remy’s ‘Party Bus’:

 On the bright side: I’ve been 'upgraded' from a very bumpy ride on an overcrowded small Mexican plane to driving a Pickup truck on I-75, where the only challenge is to avoid getting a speeding ticket J

Sticking the big toe into the water - is the temperature right?

A German analogy for checking out something: "Den grossen Zeh ins Wasser stecken" - meaning 'Sticking the big toe into the water to gauge if the bathwater is just right, not too hot and not too cold'.

That's exactly what I did today, not with the bathwater, but with my leg and also with the horses. The Orthopedic Surgeon told me that I'm good to go if I can walk at least two miles without pain. So I took Max and Jaas for a brisk walk into the woods. Good news: I can do it! (Admittedly, with some occasional complaints from my leg, but no major revolt).

Then I thoroughly shocked Saumur and messed up his daily routine: I took him out of the pasture for a thorough grooming, and -gasp- a longing session. Saumur: "What the heck happened to MY vacation??" Me: "You've been longer on vacation than any European I know!". That (and the ample supply of cookies) did it, and Saumur actually had a lot of  fun showing off. He looked like a barely broke four-year old.

On to Teddy (aka The Pony-Man), his beer -uh- grass- belly would rival any redneck's. Teddy initially didn't think too much of a work out, either, but then he got into the swing of things. At least now he doesn't just stop and swings his hind end threateningly my way. Success! As I watched him trotting around I thought: "Hmm, should I?? Shouldn't I??"

JP caught me laying over Teddy's back to see how he would react to my weight. Teddy hasn't had a rider on him for quite some time. As Teddy didn't object, and with JPs encouragement I got on and we walked around a bit.

It was a good day for re-starting walking longer distances and also getting on a horse (OK, a pony). The bathwater was tepid today, perfect for immediate needs. But next time I will take the temperature up a notch or two!

Off with the ball and chain - and on to stretching

On Thursday I made the executive decision to get rid of the ball and chain (aka 'The Boot'). It was an act of liberation, "off it goes!" - almost akin to women taking off and burning their bras in the 1970s (?).  I'm keeping my bras, though. They are much less cumbersome and way prettier than the boot :-)

Taking a recommendation from the horse world I got a brace from 'Back on Track' (very fitting name) and it's working well. I also started Yoga again, and quickly got a painful reminder on how stiff I am. Yikes! Next week I am on vacation and the plan is to attend as many Yoga classes as I can: On to stretching those ligaments and strengthening these muscles. 

Speaking of vacation: All my colleagues as well as my boss in Europe are dropping off like flies. August is approaching fast - which means France is shutting down, a concept not many Americans can grasp: "What - 3 or 4 weeks on vacation - ALL AT ONCE???" Yep, that's how it works. 

My four-week vacation jaunts are long over, but then, I am no longer desperate to get away. If you are stuck in a small apartment in a crowded area, leaving for vacation becomes the goal. Not my case: I have what Antje calls "my little paradise" right where I am. OK, no beach in sight, but green pastures with happy and healthy horses make more than up for it. And I would be bored laying in the sun anyway (aside from given any Lobster a run for its money when it comes to color). 

Speaking of happy and healthy horses: Currently our "Threesome" (Remy, Judy, and I) ranks first in the Nation for the Morgan All-Breeds Awards at 1st level. Remy's scores all season have been well above 60%. Go Remington, go Jude.. and go catch up, Birgit!!

Dolce far niente - I could get used to this!

Yep, Ingrid, you were right – I just didn’t believe you!

When I grumbled to Ingrid about the enforced idleness she said I would be surprised on how I could get used to it and even like it. Ingrid spoke from experience, having suffered a complicated leg fracture during an exercise class. Still… Me? Like doing nothing? No way!

OK, looking back at the last weekend, I have to admit that yes, I’m starting to enjoy this: Sleeping in, shopping (bought a killer skirt, of all things!), sitting in the sun with a good book, taking a break for an ice cream run into town … hmm, not bad at all!

I’m sure Saumur agrees whole-heartedly. He’s been living the good life, too, loafing in the pastures with best friend Pony-man at his side, stuffing himself with the rich, luscious grass. If it gets too hot, he stands under the fan in the run in shed. In the evening dinner and a comfy bed are waiting, followed by a final tuck in and “Betthupferl” (bed-time treat) later at night. (That, of course, goes for all the boys).

So for the time being Saumur and I agree: “Dolce far niente” (Italian for “Delicious Idleness” or “Sweetness of doing nothing”) is not that difficult at all J!

"My leg is OK - but my head needs help"

That's exactly what I said to Glenda, when she called me to see how things are going. I've been trying to wean myself off the boot after work, and things are going well, even though there is some lingering pain.

My head (more precisely - my mind), alas, is a different issue (not surprisingly, as some close to me would chuckle). I am going through a whole gamut of emotions, doubts, "what-ifs". Aside from having developed an anxiety about getting back on I am also struggling with self-doubts and embarrassment. I mean, really, I just shouldn't have come off in front of a large crowd!

Realistically, though, I've lived a charmed riding life until now. In all the years of riding I never had a serious accident (until now, and in the big scheme of things, this is a minor nuisance compared to what could have happened). Even top professionals come off, it's part of the game, so there is really nothing to be embarrassed about. Sure, just tell that to my subconscious mind!

As obviously I am not capable to do this - enter Julie: A certified hypnotherapist who also practices energy healing. Believe me, I'm not easily sucked in the "Hokus-pokus", but having had a couple of successful sessions with Julie about a year ago, I knew she could help. During the two hour session yesterday I felt like a weight was lifting, and energy flowing through my body. The proof of course is in the pudding. Another week or so and then we'll see what happens when I'm climbing back on.

In the meantime, Remy is progressing well with Judy, and they are having fun. In order to get Remy out as much as possible we've decided on a show in Cincinnati at the beginning of August. I'll have to be the groom again: The USEF does not joke about the medical suspension, as soon as I did the online entry for Remy I got a red flag indicating that I can't enter as the rider.

My next checkup is on August 12 and it should provide the necessary 'all clear' paperwork regarding my physical condition. By then hopefully my head will be "fixed" -- Don't get your hopes up, JP, the "head fixing" only pertains to my riding :-)!

Emil puts an end to my pity party - and Step 3 is a no brainer

Right after finishing my previous blog it was time for my weekly standing appointment that's not to be missed: Call with the parents!

Emil (my dad) is often good for surprises, and today was no different. After inquiring about my leg, and knowing his daughter, my state of mind ("how's it going with your patience??") he proceeded to gleefully tell me about his latest adventure:

Emil has spend his entire life hunting, and he sure won't let three hip replacements and some crushed discs (among other things) slow him down; and by the way - age is just a number! So last night he went out into his forest. While climbing the ladder up to the tree stand a rung fairly high up broke, sending Emil crashing hard to the ground. Luckily nothing seemed broken, but he had a large gash in his leg. Two choices: Go home and face my mother (who is generally not amused by his antics) or get on with it. Easy decision: Emil rolled the pant leg up, sock down in the hopes the blood would dry (oh, yes, he also is on blood thinners), went back up the tree stand and shot a wild boar. Quote "She was way heavier than you: 60 kg!" - Gotta love the man!

After that Emil called home, said "get the first aid kit ready", loaded the 60 kg boar in the trailer... and braced himself to face my mother. :-)

And here I was, wallowing in doubts and complaining about my boot, when really step 3 is that easy: Just get on with it!!

The following quote hits the nail on the head:

"Falling down is part of life - getting back up is living"

A roller-coaster state of mind - let's get the ball and chain off!

Ah, Remy... what can I say? Good thing I'm blond so grey hair doesn't show (hopefully!) that quick.

Waterloo this weekend was quite the ride -- for me mentally. Physically I'm feeling like a convict with an iron ball chained to my leg. That's how the boot/cast feels, especially after several days of maneuvering hilly show grounds. Judy and Remy were entered for 1st3 on Friday and Saturday. On Friday Remy warmed up nicely, but the schedule got messed up and we had to hurry from the warmup to the rings only to be told to wait. Judy got the go ahead to trot around the ring, only to be pulled out because the ring steward had forgotten about the rider before her. When it was finally Judy's and Remy's turn, the kid was exhausted. He still did respectably well, especially considering the circumstances, but I know it took a lot for Judy to carry him through.

Yesterday Remy was mellow all along so we didn't expect him to become the wild man on the longe line. I told Judy I would be absolutely fine if she decided to scratch, but she soldiered on: Crowded warmup on the left - water trucks and tractors on the right - storm brewing overhead. Honestly, I was really scared for her. This is where the true professional comes in: Judy didn't give Remy a chance to 'wander', she had him focused the entire time, and rode a beautiful test that scored 68.3%. Pretty darn awesome, Jude!! (As a side note, someone in the know told us that the test scored 70% and then the judge decided it was "too high" and knocked some scores down. So much for impartial judging!!)

For me the weekend was a bit of an emotional roller-coaster ride because being relegated to spectator is so NOT my thing. I felt useless, and yes, rather left out. I'm also pondering what to do when I finally get the all clear from the doctor: Do I have the guts to risk it again? Rather shockingly to me is also that I'm having twinges of doubts - why for once can't I have an easy horse?!? Yes, that's very immature, I know... but heck, after all the years of struggle with Saumur I'm tired. OK, I'm also tired lugging around in the boot, that might have a lot to do with my current state of mind.

So, how to move on? I'll start with my own 3 Step Program:
1: Off with the ball and chain - aka The Boot!
2: Plenty of German Chocolate (good for the nerves!)
3: Figuring out the next steps :-)

There is a silver lining - and I do have some gripes

My new nickname has become  "Hoppalong"  (thanks, Jude, as always you are right on :-)) because that pretty much describes how I move. So today I hopped through the barn, annoying JP with all my unsolicited advise on how to groom and tack up Remy for Judy.

It's great to  be able to observe how Judy trains Remy. I'm a visual person and it helps me a lot to  have the correct picture in my minds eye (i.e. "He's in front of her leg, but I don't see any visible aids, this is how it should look like!"). Judy has Remy working on 2nd level exercises, like walk-canter, shoulder-in, haunches-in. The 'skipping' into the canter has stopped, and yay - Remy did some baby-half-passes today. Looking good, guys and girls! :-) This is the silver lining around the cloud of having a fractured leg: My horse is receiving the best training there is, and eventually I'll benefit from it.

Just the other day I was a bit morose and said to Judy that I should have just done what some of her other clients did - buying a FEI schoolmaster and enjoying the ride without worries about all the young horse stuff. Judy's levelheaded response "You don't need a schoolmaster, I'll help you train Remy and there you go!". That made my day!

Getting the gripes off my chest:
 (1) To the helmet manufacturer. You tout your accident replacement program, but when I filed the claim your rep told me that  I'm a few days over the three year period, hence, no dice. Come on, really? Yes, you produce wonderful helmets, and I am VERY grateful that my head is fine. But with a  bit of good will you could have gotten great publicity and kept a  repeat customer.

(2) To the strangers inquiring about my leg/air cast: Dear Stranger, I appreciate your concern, less so the curiosity, but OK, I'll tell you it was a riding accident. Be aware, though, the next person that says "Oh, like Christopher Reeve" will get hit over the head with my crutches!

Ah, now I do feel better! :-)

It is official - and a judge with a sense of humor

Well, it is official: I am an American Citizen!

JP and I got to the Federal Courthouse in plenty of time, but when we turned into the parking lot across the street the attendant told us "If you are here for the Oath Ceremony - it's canceled!" My (normally very low) blood pressure immediately shot to the Stratosphere, and I sure didn't want to give up NOW. So, after a heated argument about parking fees (the guy insisted on $10 for a couple of minutes) JP sprinted across the street in to the court house. And guess what: It wasn't canceled!

After the Federal Marshall shepherded us through the metal detectors we had to stand in line in front of the courtroom, waiting for a clerk to verify the paperwork. All very polite and organized. Once 'the show got on the road' it was a dignified ceremony, perhaps a bit on the frugal side, but short and sweet. After swearing the Oath a clerk called the names of each individual and their native countries. We were about 50 people, from 19 different countries. The judge proceeded to hand out the "Certificates of Naturalization" to each person.

When my turn came he walked up to me with a big smile, shook my hand and said: "Congratulations on becoming an American Citizen - and by the way, the Germans won!" (The soccer game Germany - USA had finished just before the ceremony, and the score was 1:0).

A lovingly decorated office door greeted me at work - it was wonderful how everyone took so much interest in it and I am proudly wearing the T-shirt that was draped over my chair:  "USA 2014"!

Back to school - and "it was my AMERICAN horse"

Back to school for Remy this week, JP took him back to ‘Aunt Jude’s’ on Monday. He’ll have private tuition Monday through Friday, and then he comes home for the weekend. During the school week he has a set of friends to play with at Topline, and then on the weekends he can hang out with his best buds at home. It’s an excellent program, the only glitch in it is that it leaves me out.

Five more weeks… but again, I am so very fortunate in having Judy working with Remy while I’m “out of commission”. The plan is that I audit her training sessions as much as possible; and then when I have the medical all clear I’m thinking of starting with Saumur and even Chambord to get my ‘riding legs’ functioning again. Chambord might be a bit tricky, he is clearly a One-Man-Horse; he adores JP. The two of them have their program, anything else and Chambord is not afraid to flip the hoof.

Today was the big day, Interview and Test for Citizenship in downtown Detroit. I heaved myself through security, cane and all, with JP being my driver and “designated purse carrier” (I owe him for that one).  All went well, the officer in charge of my case was very nice – and he turned out to be a fellow horse lover. When asked about my leg I pointed out that my *American* horse caused it – and despite that I still wanted to become a citizen! What other proof of commitment is needed?! J

Luckily I had the answers to the civics questions down pat, and with all T’s crossed and I’s dotted I received confirmation that indeed I am ‘citizen-material’ and therefore was invited to attend the Naturalization Oath Ceremony this Thursday.

After the ceremony I will officially be an American. It’s a bit of an irony that right that very day the German and US soccer teams will square off to get to the next round in the World Cup. Whatever the outcome of the game: My team will win J!

I love "small town America" - swapping horse stories at the local diner

Like almost every Sunday we went for breakfast at 'Dimitri's', the local diner. As soon as I hobbled in on my crutches the waitress exclaimed "What happened to you, honey??" I had barely mentioned "riding accident" when she pointed out another woman having breakfast, this one with a broken collarbone, also from a riding accident. Ah, misery does love -some- company!

Our village is known for being very equestrian friendly, there are lots a horse properties and thousands of acres of parks with riding trails. Brand new is a traffic light (the first in Michigan) that can be activated from horseback. Pretty cool - and very thoughtful!

While waiting for breakfast -the best Spinach omelet there is!- our waitress told us that she and her family also have horses, and she knew exactly where my accident happened. It was fun swapping horse stories with her, and it really made me feel part of a larger community.

Aside from talking horses it was also very touching to see several elderly (if not to say ancient) couples getting together for breakfast, dressed in their Sunday best, and seeing them tended to with much care. Probably not something you'd experience in a fast paced large city.

Just yesterday afternoon we discussed living in America with Susanne and Joachim, our German friends and neighbors; and all four of us agreed that we couldn't imagine moving back to Europe. Aside from the quality of life we enjoy here, the logistics of moving would require something akin to The Ark - combined the four of us have 6 horses, 1 pony, 2 dogs, 13 cats, and let's not forget Rocky the Raccoon!