Spoiling the saddle .. and a butler for Remy

So, the new saddle is home for daily massages. Hmm, with all the TLC I'm sure it wouldn't want to go back home to Canada. JP built a very nifty saddle stand that converts from a regular stand so the saddle can be upside down safely for cleaning. Perfect, of course, to apply conditioner and massage the flaps to make them softer. The stand has three wheels so it rolls easily, an extra storage compartment when its closed, and a retractable handle. Pretty ingenious!

JP said "It's not Christmas if Remy isn't home" so Remy came home to enjoy R&R with his BFF Chambord. I was leery about the weather, but Remy deserved his Christmas vacation. And Michigan being Michigan... there is no way I can get him back to Judy's today in the snow storm. Merry Christmas, Remy! Your personal stall butler will be happy to spoil you a bit longer. But I do think a generous tip for Christmas would be appreciated... May I suggest more consistency in the changes?

Did I finally find my Holy Grail of Saddles? - Perhaps, but it first needs massage

Well, Thursday was the day: My new Schleese Tribute finally arrived. The whole new saddle process took about 15 months. Normally it takes three months for a custom saddle, but the one I had ordered previously was built wrong so it had to go back. Other saddles along the same line I tried also felt "off" (like sitting on a 2 by 4).  Luanne (the saddle fitter) is a super knowledgeable and patient professional and without her I would have given up on Schleese. After much trial and lots of "nope, not liking it" I finally ordered the Tribute - but not before swallowing very hard at the price tag.

The Tribute I test rode was beautiful, two tone with floral tooling. I liked the feel, but not the looks. Too flashy for me ... and as Judy reminded me "If you show up in this you better ride darn well". Duly noted! So I designed it to my liking :-)

With all the trials and tribulations to get the saddle I was pretty nervous to ride in it. Even though I rode in a demo and liked it, there was a chance that it could be different as every saddle is unique because it's hand crafted. What if it didn't fit/feel good to me and/or Remy?? I gingerly gave it a try with Luanne watching with an eagle eye. Well, Remy had a new swing to his step immediately. Whew! I rode it in my lesson on Friday and more Whew! Judy liked how Remy was going and my position after some fumbling around on my part. It's a bit more challenging for me to find my 'sweet spot' due to a more forward balanced seat..

All is well... except... the lower edges of the flaps are darn stiff.  No worries, says Luanne: "JP just has to massage the flaps this weekend and it will be fine".  Somehow I don't think massaging a saddle was JPs plan for Christmas ... pass the Woodford Reserve*, please!

*Kentucky Bourbon

A new resolve - and he still amazes me

Resolve = "Decide firmly on a course of action"

It was a bit of a bumpy road back to riding, marred by my being sick, but now Remy and I are finally  back into the swing of things. I am full of my new found resolve to be the leader that Remy needs: I will not get rattled when he tries to get out of work by resorting to antics!  Experiencing the show in Stuttgart was really an eye opener: All the horses performed at the top level in the very charged atmosphere (8,000 screaming people and music blasting) ... and I worry about Remy shying in Judy's indoor arena?! Really?!

So during the last rides I really buckled down and stayed focused. Sure enough, Remy did the same. Hmm - Duh! Things are going well, Remy is more through, and I think we are very close to nailing the changes consistently. It would be presumptuous to think that me currently still pretty much dilettante attempts using the Masterson Method make a big difference, but I do think it helps. Can't wait for the advanced course in Tucson in January (and yes, leaving Michigan in the midst of winter for sunny Arizona is an added perk).

Today was a cold, snowy and blustery day - and  I had another reminder how JP still wows me after 28 years together:
He came home asking if we had a spare horse blanket we could donate "because the horse down the road looks cold".
How many men would do this??

And yes, we did have a clean blanket - and the 20 year old Standardbred recently rescued will be sporting it.

A super week in Germany - but home with an "unwanted" souvenir

My week in Germany was awesome. I got to spend time with family and best friends, what's better than that? Ah, well, add a  horse show to that! Stuttgart German Masters, 55 000 tickets sold, 300 horses competing.

I love the German spectators, they are not afraid to voice their opinions. For example, in one of the jumping competitions one of the horses was completely overfaced, and it was a very ugly ride. The shouts of "Aufhoeren!" ("Quit!") were not subtle, and luckily the horse (!) took the hint and refused twice for elimination. SAP made it possible for the spectators to judge the dressage competitions via a phone app, the spectator judging didn't count but the score was shown next to the judges' scores. Interestingly, the spectators gave IW (Isabel) a lower score than the judges, and there was lots of grumbling, as the overall consensus was that Doro Schneider should have placed first in the GP freestyle.

It's mind boggling how all the horses performed in a "Hexenkessel" ("witches cauldron"), with 8000 screaming people and a noise level akin to a rock concert. During the indoor event, for example, the crowd went wild when Michi Jung went on course. His eight year old mare stayed focused on him the entire time, completely in tune with her rider. (Take note, Remy!).

I came home all eager to get back to riding, but alas, a bummer of a cold / bronchitis came along as 'unwanted souvenir'. Not at all what I had in mind! I don't even feel like touching the 'wanted souvenirs' (my mom's Christmas cookies and my dad's homebrewed Specials).  But the trip was more than worth it!

I still smile when I think about the trip to McDonald's with my parents. For years, they had been curious what McDonald's was all about so I finally took them (never mind that I don't go to Micky D's in the US). It wasn't the awkward trip I feared ("nothing to eat").  Surprise: They have veggie burgers and yummy salads in Germany. Picky Mom got a veggie burger, Dad a Classic, and I had the Greek Salad. My very health and status conscious parents had fun and were happy - go figure...

Here are some impressions:

Schluchsee - Schwarzwald

Piaffe performed by a "Fire Rider"

Straight and "vorwaertz" gets you spontaneous applause - and Is it the "Maternal Grandsire Effect"?

Last lesson before a two week hiatus - and it couldn't have gone better. I finally rode bolder, more "vorwaertz" (forward), kept Remy straight and therefore got clean changes, which netted us spontaneous applause from Judy. Yay!

Judy is on her way to Nationals in Kentucky now (Good Luck, Jude and Team Topline!) and I'll be heading to Germany this week. Suitcase is already packed, and as usual on overload. Do I dare weighing it before going to the airport? Nah. Otherwise I would have to cull all things Moose Munch and Emil's Bourbon. Can't do that.

I just finished reading Rita Mae Brown's latest book 'Crazy Like a Fox'. IMO, it is not as engaging and captivating as some of her previous works in the Fox Hunting saga. There was some unexpected food for thought, though, regarding to what the author calls "The Maternal Grandsire Effect". It refers to certain traits skipping a generation. To quote from the book: "For centuries this generational hop has been noted by Thoroughbred breeders and hound breeders. The study of this is relatively new.... Please research The Maternal Grandsire effect if you are curious. I think of it as train signals being switched on and off but gender produces the flip."

It made me think of my maternal grandfather, Franz-Xaver Kessler. As a young man he rode steeplechase races and worked as a horse dealer (later he became the town mayor and also owned a restaurant). Unfortunately, I did not get to spend a lot of time with him. The interesting part is that no one else in my family is into horses. My mother has no interest in horses whatsoever, I think the first time she saw me riding was when I was in my thirties (!). So perhaps I am indeed the product of the "Maternal Grandsire Effect"??

Steeplechase trophy won by my grandfather, Germany, pre-WWII

Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage. - Anais Nin

Mud baths?? - and "Yep, he's a couch potato"

Country living undoubtedly has its challenges. Currently on our list: A brand new well! Our old well is about 50 years old, too shallow, and pumping up dirt with the water.  My bathtub looked like I was taking mud baths. So, let the digging commence. Perfect day to start was Halloween, scary because of the $$$$$ required. It started out well (no pun intended) - then today we were told that at 120 ft (approx. 40m) the water is clear, but there is not enough of it to supply both house and barn. More digging to be done tomorrow...

Sometimes I have to shake my head: Here we live in one of the most developed countries in the world, and we have to pump our own water. And when we have storms more likely then not we need to rely on our generator, because we lose power. (BTW, no power = no water).

Aside from this -and my badly scratched GTI- (that's another story), life is good. Judy rode Remy yesterday and had a dozen clean changes. My turn today wasn't near as good, but I was very happy with my ride. As Jan had pointed out so aptly "Birgit, Remy is a couch potato!", it's high time to get Remy off the couch and working, so I don't have to breathe so hard. If I set the tone right from the beginning Remy says "oh, OK, sure". However, he won't put an effort in it if I don't ask. It's like expecting a guy to take the trash out or clean the cat litter box: Most likely he'll do it but not without being nudged*.

Judy explained it today as "You are the brains, he is the brawn" -  Remy begs to differ!

*And here JP begs to differ (what's it with my guys??). Although, it's true, JP takes out the trash, I give him that. As for the cat litter boxes... definitely some spur required!

Hitting bottom with a loud wheeze - and dealing with a major funk

I had been looking forward to the clinic with Jan this weekend, especially as it is the last one for the next six months or so. Jan doesn't do winter in Michigan :-)

As Remy had been going so well lately I was all keyed up, only to hit bottom with a loud thump - or better- a loud wheeze. I sounded like I had been on four packs a day for fifty years. It was one of these days where my lungs just closed up in the arena. Remy was tough to start out with, and then when he heard me wheezing and shaking on top of him,.. well, that was about it. I was pretty devastated and embarrassed. I HATE it when I'm not doing my best, and in this case I just couldn't do it.

It took about all I had to go back today and give it another try. This time JP drove the truck and I was able to double on the meds. Also, I warmed Remy up in the outdoor arena and we opened the large door in the indoor for my lesson. Luckily, today was 'die another day', and we had a very good lesson, including good changes with enough forward momentum and oomph. Jan reminded me that I need to set Remy on the straight and narrow from the beginning, and not wait half an hour before reminding him he has a job to do. We worked on lots on bending lines in the beginning, head to the wall leg yields, shoulder ins, travers, in order to get Remy more through. We had very nice work in all three gaits. Life was good again!

But of course this does not solve my problem: What to do this winter?? I can't ruin my lungs just because I want to ride. To be clear, it's not the riding, it's riding in the only arena I am super allergic to the footing (my doctor is obviously not a fan of this, she thinks I'm nuts because I'm not moving somewhere else), but at this time I'm not coming up with any viable options. JP, pass the wine, that might help - not to find a solution but definitely to make me feel better.

Perhaps Remy and I should just run off into the sunshine: Anyone in SC, AZ, FL, CA... willing to take us in?? :-)

"Out with the nose" - and "All you had to do was quit your job"

OK, today was one of these days when things just clicked. We had the best canter EVER! Soft, easy in the hand, through, supple, collected. Judy reminded me several times to "leave the front door open" and "out with the nose". I think I FINALLY am trusting Remy, and he reciprocates with trusting me.

It's the best feeling in the world if the horse is truly with you and you feel as one. Easy, soft, and you could go on forever like this.

When I gushed to Judy afterwards on how happy I was and how long it took to get there she deadpanned "See, all you had to do was quit your job." And yes, Jude, you are right (as usual!). It is like someone flipped a switch. It's not that I don't want to work. (Actually, I am meeting with a company tomorrow that seems eager for my services.) It was just that my last position was very stressful and no longer satisfying. Without that stress and tension my riding improved tremendously (duh! - and Remy says "It was about time!").

It was a bold decision, but hey, as Robert Frost so aptly put it:

"Freedom lies in being bold"

"Open the front door, but don't let him run through it" - and who to please??

The beautiful fall weather seems to be leaving us - storms, rain, cold weather are here. Yesterday the high winds were knocking down trees and rattling the arena quite seriously. Not my kind of riding weather - it spells "spook central", and it's not even Halloween yet.

Remy got to wear his 'headset' (sound protective fly mask) and I shoved Judy's voice in my ears (my headset) and off we went. We kept the work easy, as experience has told us that the more demanding the work the more Remy is looking for excuses to spook. This way we didn't give him any additional reason for his beloved spins and scoots. Remy didn't even bat an eye or ear, even when it sounded like a tree would come through the walls.

Today I was rather rattled myself by the time I made it to the barn. On the way a truck veered over the median and in order to get out of the way I pulled my GTI to the shoulder. In the process I managed to damage the entire left side of the car on the guard rail. Merde!

At least the wind didn't add more rattling and we had a very good lesson. Judy reminded me several times that I have to "open the front door", especially in the canter, so Remy's energy can come up and he doesn't feel trapped. The key is to not let him run through "the door", though: Up in front with energy from behind. He needs to seek the contact with the bit, not me pulling him onto it.

We had an amazing canter half-pass that made me laugh with glee - and then I stopped to give Remy a cookie. Uh, uh, the voice in my ear wasn't pleased: "That's what you guys always do: Something is good and then you quit!". Yes, Ma'am, you are right! I do have an excuse, though: In German we say "Man soll aufhoeren, wenn es am schoensten ist". (You should leave on a high note). Remy says: "Yes, let's quit and eat cookies every time we do something well!". Judy says: "You need to up the ante and not quit at the first good movement!". Ah, who to please, who to please??

Chats about their riders? - and "Look, these are the Dressage Riders"

Chambord and Remy are truly Besties. They always hang out together, even sharing the same hay bag in the run in shed. When we are out on the trails it seems they have some "intimate" chats about their riders. Hmm??

With the glorious October weather we run into other riders from time to time. Quite a few are of the 'rough and ready' variety, "Hop on and Go": No helmets, sneakers, on occasion sporting a beer can and/or a cigarette (!). So when we crossed a group the other day one rider remarked to the other "Look, these are the Dressage Riders I told you about. How cool." Apparently Dressage Riders don't venture on the trails?

Seems that JP and I are now officially known on the trails as "The Dressage Riders", easily identified by our saddles, riding pants, half-chaps, and most importantly: Helmets!

 Now the tricky part is to look like "Dressage Riders" in an actual dressage arena...

Fun with a different set of exercises - and my heart skips a beat

While Judy is in Germany her friend and fellow trainer Roz gave lessons yesterday. I trailered Remy for his lesson, it's just a 45 minute trip on nice and quiet roads country roads, so easy to do.

While Roz' and Judy's systems are very much alike, Roz has a bit of a different set of exercises. Roz had us do shoulder in from one letter to the next, then straighten to the following letter, and then shoulder in again. It made Remy more supple and responsive. In the trot and canter work we did leg yield to the quarter line, then half-pass, then leg yield. That was fun!  We also worked on half-pass - straight - half-pass the other direction. Roz wanted me to take my leg off for some strides during the half-pass to see if Remy kept working on his own. If Remy were human he would be one of those students that sit back and let the others answer the teacher's questions first. Remy was on his best behavior (I told him he wouldn't get to go home otherwise), and we finished happy and relaxed.

When I came home from my run with the dogs today 'happy and relaxed' didn't come to mind. In fact, my heart skipped a beat:

JP at work... Note to self: LIFE INSURANCE?!

Slowly coming off the adrenaline - and an exciting new prospect

There is no doubt, I am 'detoxing' - finally coming off the constantly high adrenaline that had been with me during most of my career, and was especially off the charts in the last years. I was more often than not at the end of my rope, and in hindsight Saumur and I just fed of each others nervousness, stress, and racing minds. Almost a surprise that we both lived to tell the tale and we are now in a much better mental state. And not to forget long-suffering JP: I think he enjoys my new-found "state of chill" the most!

It is also very noticeable in my daily dealings with Remy. Our relationship has changed, we have way more harmony because he no longer gets rattled due to my mind racing at 1000 mph. So, note to Remy: You sure can't blame that bucking thing you did today on me!

I've been intrigued for a while by Equine Bodywork, and the equine massage therapist that comes to Topline recommended I check into the Masterson Method (www.mastersonmethod.com). So last Friday I made the -not so scenic- drive to the Indiana farmlands. Note: If you use US 24 from Ohio to Indiana be aware that there are NO Starbucks or anything else for that matter for very long stretches of the road. Which is probably a good thing, because there are not restrooms either!

I truly enjoyed the weekend workshop held at a nice dressage barn. The advanced instructor was excellent, and also happened to be the translator for Dr. Gerd Heuschmann's books. Very cool. My fellow eight students were a great group of people from all walks of life, one young woman drove 17 hours from Nebraska to attend the workshop. She and her husband have a huge cattle ranch and her goal is to find ways to help the hardworking ranch horses.

The first day was a breeze, and I thought "I can do this", as all the horses we got to work on were solid citizens. The challenge came on the second day, when Vickie and I got assigned a second level dressage horse that was definitely a tough nut. Between trying to nip at us and coming up with rather creative ways to evade us it was a stretch. But hey, we like challenges. And the good thing was that in addition to Coralie, the advanced instructor, we had Cheryl and Annie (two certified instructors) always there to help the students. It was a really good feeling when we were able to do decent work on the horse (with their help) and at the end the horse was all mellow and chill.

So, I've decided to go 'all the way' to certification. It is a long and very demanding process. Next step: Advanced Training in Tucson, Arizona, if I pass the entrance test, that it. It will be at the end of January. What better excuse to leave in the midst of a Michigan winter? It's all for education!

It's nice to be a 'Sonntagsreiter' - and a cool quote

No leisurely breakfast at the local diner this morning. Another scorcher meant hitting the trails early. Good thing we did! It was beautiful, the boys behaved, and Remy is now completely comfortable taking the lead. It's nice to be a 'Sonntagsreiter'! (In Germany 'Sonntagsreiter' - people that go on trail rides on Sundays - are sometimes made fun of because they are seen as 'leisurely strollers' and not serious competitors).

Speaking of competitors and thinking about the past "no-show" season (meaning we didn't hit the show circuit) I don't have regrets but I do sometimes have pangs of feeling a bit left out. I guess that's what happens when you train at a high-performance barn, and your lovely equine partner is not a traditional dressage horse. It's even more difficult if your 'non-traditional' horse suffers from claustrophobia at horse shows. Those feelings never last long, though, because I am very lucky to have a trainer/coach that believes in us (thanks, Jude!), a husband that gets me out of the -usually short-lived- funk by kicking my behind (merci, JP!),  all the other 'non-traditional' experiences we are lucky enough to have (thanks, Brandt!).

This quote from George Morris sums it up:

"People, this is a horse sport. What's interesting is the horse. Not the ribbons, not the accessories, not the socializing. What's important are the horses and how best to manage them."

It's not the blue ribbon that made my day today - and a "phenominal" experience

The four of us hit the trails early this morning in order to beat the heatwave we are currently 'enjoying'. Temps in the 90s are tough on horses that are already growing winter coats. I'm not growing a winter coat (at least I don't think so) but I was sweating right along with them.

Afterwards I just had time to get cleaned up for the DHP volunteer appreciation lunch. It was wonderful to see the familiar faces of staff and fellow volunteers. I received a very unexpected surprise in that I got a special recognition from David (the DHP founder) for my volunteer work and contribution this summer. David presented me with a gift certificate for an Art Tour in Detroit, and one of the students handed me a blue ribbon.

But what absolutely made my day was the letters I received from the students. I am tremendously touched. Here are some excerpts: ".. All of your tips and advice I really took to heart and helped me a lot. If it wasn't for you I don't think I would of been able to understand and get into riding. You made things clear and you effected my life in a big way". ".. You were awesome teaching me and I cherish every lesson from you.. My experience at camp was awesome and you've made it phenominal".

Volunteering at DHP this summer was such a wonderful experience and the kids and horses made it phenominal -ah- phenomenal for me :-)!

Chipping away at it - and a woodpecker comes to mind

Today we went to Brandt's again, last time of police horse work before the winter break. Another great opportunity to chip away on our claustrophobia when it comes to being crowded by other horses. This mounted police unit uses Percherons, and those guys (the horses!) are quite 'substantial'.

Brandt had a client horse to take care of first and as the officers were already mounted I thought, what the heck, might as well get on with it. OK, in the interest of full disclosure ... I was a bit less gung ho about it when I rode down to the outdoor arena and joined in. Luckily I remembered what I learned from the cow working: Always keep the 'target' in front of you. Or as Buck Branamann puts it so aptly:

"Chase trouble before trouble chases you"

I love this saying and it has become one of my favorite mantras. Also, it does sound a bit classier than my usual "We can f...ing do this!" :-)

Remy handles the crowding much better. Brandt got on to ride him within the herd of about 10 horses and one very spunky pony, and it truly was the 'Herd of the Thundering Hooves'! They galloped all around him, Remy spun a bit when things got too tight, but then relaxed. He finished all relaxed and happy.

So, while it's still not perfect, we are chipping away at it, bit by bit. Somehow Woody Woodpecker* comes to mind...

*Woody Woodpecker is an anthropomorphic animated woodpecker, inspired by the acorn woodpecker and also resembling the pileated woodpecker,^[2] who appeared in theatrical short films produced by the Walter Lantz animation studio and distributed by Universal PicturesAccording to Walter Lantz's press agent, the idea for Woody came during the producer's honeymoon with his wife, Gracie, in Lake Sherwood, California. A noisy acorn woodpecker^[2] outside their cabin kept the couple awake at night, and when a heavy rain started, they learned that the bird had bored holes in their cabin's roof. As both Walter and Gracie told Dallas attorney Rod Phelps during a visit, Walter wanted to shoot the thing, but Gracie suggested that her husband make a cartoon about the bird, and thus Woody was born. [Wikipedia]

Major gaps between program and reality - and getting the feel of a 45mph race

Saturday I went to Northern Michigan to audit the Manuel clinic at Glenda's. The program was right on time, I thought, with focus on flying changes, collection, and PiPa (Piaffe/Passage). Not that Remy and I are in the league of PiPa, but I was hoping to get some additional tips on the changes and collection.

Unfortunately, the clinic participants in the flying changes class were such beginners they didn't even know how to get their horses to canter. One lady, beautifully decked out riding a stunning horse, was ecstatic when she got three strides of bumpy canter. Then she wanted to quit because she was so happy. I was happy for her, but also sad, because clearly her instructor at home didn't even teach her the basics. Collecting exercises like shoulder-ins, small circles, correct transitions, etc. were just not there.

I didn't get anything out of auditing, other than being very thankful (again!) for working with Judy.

The undisputed highlights of the day -other than seeing Glenda, of course-:
1) Luanne was there so I finally bit the bullet and ordered the new Tribute saddle, after lots of soul-searching (major $$), and deciding on the design (all black, not flower tooling, basket weave instead)

2) Visiting T-Bill stables and getting a tour by the owner, Carolyn Bay. What an impressive lady, and what great stories. We got to meet Cold Cash 123, the world champion race horse on the QH circuit in 2011, and his dam Hot Cash 123. Carolyn invited us into her stunning log home. We were treated to a tour of the trophy room and got to see vintage saddles have been in the family for generations. David, her son, showed us some of Hot Cash's races. The 'piece de resistance' was a race filmed by a chest camera, that gave you the feeling of riding the race yourself - at 45 mph. Wow!

When I told JP about the run at 45 mph he was literally chomping at the bit, wanting to see what Chambord could do. Well, honey, as neither of us is a 100 pound jockey, let's leave that to the professionals!

From Up North to bungled changes to riding trails - all in a week's time

I do love Michigan, especially "Up North". It's interesting, a four hour drive still has you in Michigan, where in Europe we would be going from Stuttgart to Paris in that time. Actually, to go up to the UP (Upper Peninsula) will take about 7 hours - and you are still in Michigan.

We were very fortunate that a former colleague of mine had offered us the use of his lakefront cabin, dogs welcome! So JP and I packed the truck, settled the dogs on Yoga mats and saddle pads (the shock absorbing kind, of course), and off we went to the charming town of Leland. It was just breathtakingly beautiful, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time there. We went to the Sleeping Bear Dunes (the dune climb is a must), Charlevoix, the Mission Peninsula, and had a lovely time in the small towns of Leland and Suttons Bay.

Ziggy and I did some hikes on our own and managed about 10 km daily, especially enjoying the Clay Cliffs with the 'Manitou Outlook' over Lake Michigan. As Paul, a fellow hiker, put it: "God's Country". Yes, with all the disasters going on, being in the middle of that pine forest seemed like a little piece of heaven.

Here are some views from the cabin at Lake Michigan (with Ziggy and JP as 'poster boys').

While we were gone Remy was at "Camp Judy". I pestered her for daily updates, and was happy to learn Remy was doing well but that I had to "up the ante". Hmm?? Yes, Ma'am! Well, the good intentions didn't quite work so well in my first lesson back, I still managed to bungle most of the changes and was super frustrated with myself. Remy basically dragged me to the trailer afterwards, loaded himself, and seemed to say "I am ready for vacation, take me home!".

We went on a lovely trailride today, all four of us were relaxed and happy. Remy's wish came true - he is indeed on vacation this week: "Whew! I get to play with Chambord, go on trailrides, and nobody bugs me about flying changes: Life is good!"

"Jan Time" - and let's get some big spurs on my heart

This weekend was "Jan-Time". Jan came to give on of his regular clinics at Topline, and this time neither cough nor hoof injury prevented Remy and me from participating. As usual, I had some butterflies before the lessons, but mostly from excitement. Reminds me of the Jimmy Wofford quote I like: "You can have butterflies, but they must fly in formation".

Both days went really well. Yesterday we focused on making Remy more attentive to my aids, lots of bending, shoulder-ins to haunches ins, prompt transitions in and out of the gaits as well as within. Quality! (says Judy's little voice in my ear). I got a good and big flying change to the right, the left was sticky.

Today was quite windy, but I still opted to ride outside: Better air. At the "C" end of the outdoor arena there are plenty of leafy trees that rustle loudly and look quite threatening in high winds. I was a bit leery, and of course Jan had us work right there (after commenting that we were the first ones brave enough to ride outdoors today). No worries, Remy stayed focused, soft and very obedient. We build on yesterdays exercises, and I was able to ride with much light aids successfully.

At the end of our lesson Jan summed it up that overall we are on the right track, but I have to focus more on Remy's Durchlaessigkeit (Throughness/Submission). He would like to see him work in a bit  rounder frame, with quicker responses. Jan reminded me that the key to deal with the spookiness is to keep Remy busy, constantly changing the exercises, and not to let him have too much time to 'dawdle' and come up with things to do on his own. It will also help us when in the company of other horses. The more confident and in charge I am (duh!) the more we will progress.

After a well deserved stint in our sauna tonight I picked up the latest Chronicle (The Chronicle of the Horse magazine). Under "Between Rounds" Denny Emmerson had another thought provoking column about "go-for-it guts'. He recalls observing a schooling session fifty years ago of three riders schooling over timber fences. Two of them flew over the fences, the third rider was fighting with the horse and had refusals. Someone said "Maybe he needs bigger spurs". The MFH (Master of Foxhounds) replied "No, he needs what they have" pointing to the two riders galloping in the distance "Spurs on their hearts".

If you have "Spurs on your heart," there isn't much that can stop you from chasing your dreams. -Denny Emmerson

OK, let's get the biggest badass spurs I can find!

The best thing I ever did for myself - and "till next summer at the DHP camp!"

The last eight weeks went by in an heart beat, it seems. I can't believe I had anxiety attacks about leaving my job, it actually was the best thing I ever did for myself!

The "present to myself" in form of volunteering at Detroit Horse Power was a great experience. For sure I am fitter than before, all that walking and trotting next to the horses build stamina. Although, in the heat of the day outdoors I wished for a bit less 'stamina-building'. I learned a lot, also about myself. Guess what? Kids are not that scary ;-) I got along best with teenage boys, go figure (probably not that much of a surprise, given all the men I worked with over the last decades). And James, I will always fondly remember you for your "Women are often better leaders".

My fellow volunteers were also amazing, from the dedicated high-school and college students with a super attitude and work ethic to a Colonel that had spent 30 years in the army and had been captured (and subsequently rescued) in the Middle East. The Colonel had fascinating stories to tell, and he endeared himself to all of us by telling that he was invited to ride in the inaugural presidential parade "but I just couldn't bring myself to do it for this president".

This week we had volunteers from FCA. FCA offers the employees 18 paid hours a year to spend at a charity. These "volunteers for a day" didn't have any horse experience but cheerfully helped out where needed. One young engineer was incredibly caring with the special needs student we had.

There are so many good memories and stories to tell. Just this week I had a young girl who never had been near a horse, let alone rode one. She told me she was very nervous. The photographer overheard it and said to her "Don't worry, honey, Birgit is a very good teacher and will take good care of you". And wouldn't you know it, the student relaxed and off she went riding - with a smile!

"How about that cookie now??" - He has my number

Lovely trailride yesterday, boys behaved, perfect -bug free- weather: Life was good in Kensington!

As soon as we got back to the barn and I took Remy's bridle off I got the "cookie look" and -as usual- I surrendered. How to resist a face like this??

"Please fork over a cookie or two - I was a good boy!"

Well, the tail started wagging again - a week without dressage will do that

Remy had a varied program this week, lunging sessions in our outdoor arena, trailrides, and plenty of playtime.

Especially the first longing session turned out the be quite the nail biter: Remy was starting all ho-hum but suddenly went into his best rodeo bronc imitation "YeeHah!". He pulled so hard (I had him in a longing cavesson, no bit) that I let go of the longe rein. Well, that was quite the sight: Remy hightailing all around the arena, kicking and bucking, probably wondering why this line was chasing him. Good thing our arena is enclosed by four-board fencing. Remy calmed down and we continued as if nothing had happened.

So after a week off today it was time to get back to work. Judy is at Lamplight at the National Championships right now:  Congratulations, Judy!! She won the Reserve National Championship for 5 year old horses on Quintee, and her student, Isabel, is the National Champion Junior Rider. Super results!!

Roz came today to help some of Judy's students and Remy and I had a very good lesson. Roz' approach is not that different from Judy, but she has complementary exercises and explanations that work really well for us. Low and behold, we managed clean changes each way!! All this while staying relaxed - No wonder the tail started wagging again :-)

Time to re-assess - the fun left the arena today

My lesson today started out well, Remy was nicely on the aids and Judy was happy with my position. Yay! I had planned to focus on the changes, so we could finish on a good note before Judy left.

Alas, it wasn't meant to be. Just as I was getting the canter going another rider (who I basically just 10 minutes earlier had told that Remy gets worried when other horses come too close) got in the arena and started cantering without any regard of what we were doing. There went our focus - mostly mine. It was pretty much a disaster and I left the arena with the tail between my legs.

It got me to thinking - once again - that why do it if I don't have fun?? Glenda is proof on how happy you are when you live according to "If it's not fun I won't do it". Obviously, I am not getting any better, the fun sure left the arena today, and consequently it wasn't exactly a good experience for Remy, either.

At least we have the trails and I am looking forward to nice relaxing trail rides. I need to take the pressure off myself. One step at a time, or perhaps better: One hoof in front of the other.

Two weeks left - and food for thought

We are getting into the homestretch of the summer camps at Detroit Horse Power, two weeks left and then the kids go back to school. It is a great experience, not just working with the kids, but also getting to know my fellow volunteers and the staff.

A typical beginner lesson: Balance exercises with a leader and a side-walker

Most of the other volunteers are college students, and I am amazed at their dedication to the program. I learned from talking with them that most are cash strapped, and still they donate their time to DHP. It also makes me appreciate that I am in a very privileged setting with Remy, having Judy as my coach, and being able to afford the lessons and training. My favorite volunteer, Bria, is a college student and makes do with once-monthly lessons on her OTTB (Off the Track Thoroughbred) mare. What I love about her is that she is so excited about working with her mare, she truly loves the horse, and developing the horse is way more important to her than chasing points and ribbons.

I think a lot of time people -especially the more affluent ones- get 'sucked in' by the whole show/awards/clinic/Florida scene that they forget what horse owning is all about. It is the joy of dealing with an -often opinionated- animal and seeing a relationship evolve and develop, taking pride in the accomplishments (even very small ones) along the way.  It is not just chasing scores and championships, and having a "delicate flower" (often with ulcers) that only knows its paddock, the arena, and show grounds.

This week I was very fortunate to have a "Riding Boot Camp", meaning daily lessons. Judy is leaving next week for the National Young Horse Championships (Her fabulous mare Quintee is one of the top contenders in the Five-Year old class), so Remy and I were 'cramming'. While my riding is getting better through the continuous work, I am still not good enough when it comes to the changes. To put salt in the wound: Judy gets a line of excellent changes on Remy (of course!).

One of the personality traits we focus on with the DHP students is perseverance. I certainly need to sit up in the class room and take it to heart!

A horse riding a horse - and a surprising young man

On our way back from the beautiful outdoor wedding we stopped at Glenda's to see her new indoor arena. "Wow" is basically what both JP and I were saying at the same time. Glenda combined the old stable with the state of the art indoor in such as way that it is beautiful and functional but not ostentatious. Ah, all I want for Christmas...

This week at Detroit Horse Power we had another very interesting and inspiring group of 17 and 18 year old students. During James' lesson I talked about horses and leadership, and explained that horses are looking for a firm but gentle leader they can respect. In the wild it is an experienced female, the Alpha Mare, leading the herd. The males are way too busy listening to their hormones to decide where to eat, drink, rest, or take flight from predators. Thus the Alpha Mare provides the trusted leadership. James looked at me and said very seriously that he also believes that women are often the better leaders. He just made my day: There is hope!!

Detroit Horse Power also had the visit from Hooper, the Piston's mascot, this week. We gave Hooper a DHP T-Shirt to wear and he changed his silks.  That was fun, and I was very impressed that the horses didn't spook, not even when he climbed on to ride. After all it was a horse riding a horse!

Hooper and Appy hit it off

Minde and I had fun hanging out with Hooper

Working on "Taming that Lizard Brain" - and "You may leave now"

My latest read is "Tame That Lizard Brain - Brain Training for Riders" by Andrea Monserrat Waldo. I am about half-way through and I do really like the information and exercises very much. Once I am done reading and I've had some time practicing I will do a book review for the MDA newsletter and also post it on the blog. What I like a lot already is that the author give very down to earth background information, advice and exercises. She asks the right questions, and gives working (!) strategies on issues from show nerves to dealing with the aftermaths of accidents (i.e. "Psychological Injury is a Real Injury").

My current exercise is after every ride to write down three things that went well. Luckily this week I didn't have to wreck my brain to come up with the positive points. Even though I had been already tired every day by the time I climbed on Remy, we managed positive rides. The tiredness stems from my mornings at DHP, walking and trotting next to the students while teaching in the sun is not exactly 'a walk in the park'. It is fun, and the kids are awesome. I do feel for the horses, though, and while staff and volunteers are trying their best, it is a fact that the horses are no Spring-Chickens. Having kids bounce on their backs in saddles that not always fit right makes me cringe. I am also concerned because there seems to be more illness going around, and the last thing I want is to bring  an infection home again.

Back to my lessons, all week Remy and I have been able to stay calm and focused, and getting consistent work. While our changes (mine!) are still a work in progress, the canter is getting better and better, and without good canter we won't have good changes. The three of us (Judy, Remy and I) were happy after yesterday's lesson and I proclaimed laughingly to Judy "You may leave now!".
(Judy and the Topline team are at the Majestic show this weekend, while JP and I are off to Cadillac for Ryan's and Megan's wedding).

The weekend at home got canceled - pass the applesauce, please

Well, Remy's weekend pass got canceled - now Chambord and Teddy are coughing. So for Remy not to get exposed to the infection again he has to stay at Judy's. Lisa, the barn manager, and Judy made sure that Remy's turnout time is almost like at home. This is not easy with the number of horses that have to get rotated through the paddocks, so both Remy and I appreciate it very much.

Luckily, we were able to pick up where we left off with our training a few weeks back. Remy went back to work soft and supple. Actually, our back to work faced some weather challenges: On Tuesday we were completed "Thundered out", and on Wednesday we had to ride to grumbling. Yesterday all was well and yay, we got good changes. Judy has been on me to be quieter and softer, and in turn Remy is going better.

As the season is coming to an end I've decided not to try to squeeze in the last show. As much as I would have loved to go to Majestic next week (it coincides with a wedding we are invited to Up North), Waterloo doesn't appeal much. So the plan is to solidify Third and start Fourth over the winter, and then see what we'll have next year.

In the meantime, I have two more boys at home that request to pass the applesauce - Just don't tell them I hide the meds in it!

No fan of selfies - and no room for cattle at our place (luckily!)

I'm no fan of selfies, and when traveling I always get a kick out of signs that announce "No Selfie Sticks Allowed".

However, I am quite addicted to photos of my boys. Angela Booth (Booth Photography) shared the photos she took at the Brent Graef clinic. Here are few:

And no, there is no room for cattle at our place. However, perhaps some goats might be fun??

Two for one - or when it rains it pours

Remy's cough and snotty nose came back, just when I thought we were over it. Then on Tuesday while Jim, our farrier, was trimming Remy JP called from the barn "we have a small problem". I hustled down to meet them and immediately saw a lot of blood on the floor. WTH?? Jim said he nicked what he thinks is a canker sore (small, shallow ulcer) at Remy's heel, and that this area is full of blood vessels and therefore bleeds a lot. As I had already called Crystal, our vet, about the cough I now had to add the foot issue.

There are two ways to look at this: Either "When it rains it pours" or "Two for one" = One barn call: Two issues. I try to keep a positive spin on it and stick to the "Two for one". At least both issues run concurrently, so Remy is off not for one reason, but two. Hopefully by next week we are back into the swing of things. Bummer is that we were scheduled to ride with Jan this weekend, and I was looking very much forward to it. Alas, there will be a next time - and by then we can work on tempis (nothing like a stretch target).

Luckily Crystal was able to come quickly, and Remy ended up with oral antibiotics for the respiratory infection, and treatments for his heel. Three days of antibiotics wrapped around the wound, then Dry Cow*, and then cross our fingers that the area doesn't need to be cauterized.

Good thing Remy is not pulling the usual guy thing - none of the "Help me I'm dying because I have a cold" shenanigans. It will be tough to wean him off the applesauce, though. As soon as he sees me coming with it (I mix the antibiotics in it) he starts to salivate. What is applesauce for Remy is Henri Bardouin for JP (hmm, lets see, what could I mix into this???).


*ToMORROW Dry Cow is Cephapirin Benzathine, used for cows with mammary inflammation. It comes in syringes for intra-mammary application, and is great to treat thrush.

Some good deeds indeed get punished - and a delightful book for instructors

As the saying goes "No good deed goes unpunished"... it's not as harsh as this but unfortunately, my volunteer work at DHP has made it possible for some "uninvited visitors" to ride home with me. I'm talking about a virus that causes upper respiratory infections in horses. When I noticed that one of the horses at camp had a snotty nose I made sure not to come in contact with him. As soon as I got home every day I ditched my clothes and disinfected my boots, but it seems it wasn't enough.

Remy came down with a snotty nose and a cough so heavy that it shook me almost out of the saddle. An emergency run to the pharmacy to pick up not one but two thermometers (check out the ones from Vicks, they are super easy to use, flexible and are bulb-shaped with clear and quick read outs). No temp, good appetite, but the rest... Gesundheit, Remy! I called Crystal (our vet) and she recommended R&R for Remy. She said it's like with humans, it has to take its course.  Remy says, Sure a few days on the couch with extra coddling is just what the doctor ordered!

This week at DHP has been more of a challenge, the kids were younger (Third to Fifth Grade), so the attention was not always easy to keep. Especially yesterday it was a bit of a struggle as the kids had to write thank you letters to the Mayor and City Council, and then fill out several pages of questionnaires. There was quite a bit of whining involved "I don't want to", "This is stupid", and I couldn't just say what I would tell adults: "Suck it up and do it". I think we all breathed a sigh of relief when this was done. Also, personally, my hackles went up when someone tried to order me around in a not so polite way. Obviously, in certain situations my "sucking up" is not so good either.

I do love teaching riding and horsemanship to the children. Seeing the big smile after a milestone, like the first time riding without being led, or trotting, is precious. I've been trying to make the exercises more diverse and fun, and luckily I found the most delightful book published in Britain. It has child friendly explanations and fun exercises, so I will use it at camp ... and at home ... for the one with the inner child that never listens...

"Let him make mistakes" - and "Do the hula"

Our lesson with Maryal started much more chill, this time we didn't get lost and were on time. Maryal -with her eagle eyes and laser focus- jumped right into getting me back on the correct way. Basically, I am still too controlling (hmm???) and "he doesn't need to be micro-managed" (another hmm??).

This is food for thought, because at work I am the opposite, I explain the job at hand and then give people the freedom to do it without breathing down their necks. Why can't I do it with Remy? Guess the truth is I trust the people reporting to me but I don't trust Remy completely. He should have the freedom to make mistakes, and then it's my job to correct him, which then creates a learning experience.

And then Maryal wanted me to "do the hula" - What??? Well, my hips are tight, and in order to get more swing in the canter Maryal suggested I think of the hula and move my hips, so that during a right lead canter my hips swing a bit to the left. OK, I can do this - as long as you don't ask me to wear a grass skirt!

Simultaneous 180° spins - aka spooks - and good thing we had coffee

After the boys displayed some crankiness on our Friday trailride due to pesky deer flies and other nuisances of the blood sucking kind we decided to head out early this morning. In the house only the dogs showed excitement at the prospect of a 7 a.m. breakfast on a Sunday.

It was well worth it, the trails through the woods were beautiful. The biggest challenge for JP was to keep Chambord from working his way from snack to snack. The heat and high humidity put the grass in some areas right to the horses' nose. That's just perfect there for me!, Chambord says.

Up on small hill in front of us JP noticed a beautiful white-tailed buck (Weisswedelhirsch to you Germans, Cerf de Virginie for the French) right next to the trail. Usually the boys are good with deer, so we didn't worry much about it. Well, obviously neither Remy nor Chambord had finished their coffee this morning: Once the buck decided to exit stage left both of them woke up and simultaneously executed fast but beautiful 180° spins.

Luckily, both JP and I had had ample coffee this morning, so we stuck to the saddle. We were very happy that both boys stopped right after their respective spins and remained calm. Saumur would have said "Gee, that's it, I'm so outta here!". Actually, a few years back that's exactly what happened, Chambord and Saumur got startled by a crying fawn stuck at a fence. That time JP and I simultaneously hit the ground. While Chambord stared rather perplexedly at JP "What are you doing on the ground? You are supposed to be on my back!" Saumur ran after the fawn (it had freed itself from the fence the moment we hit the dirt). It took me awhile to catch my runaway steed.

After their 'wake-up call' this morning Chambord and Remy were as chill as ever. They didn't even flinch when a hawk carrying his breakfast (a mouse) flew right over us. I briefly considered rescuing the mouse, but alas, even if it feels sometimes like Remy is flying - today he stayed earth-bound (whew): Good news for the hawk: he didn't have to give up his breakfast!

Some days things just click - and volunteering improves my riding

This week we have high school students at the DHP (Detroit Horse Power) summer camp. Initially I wasn't sure what to expect, there is a lot of 'angst' going around about dealing with teenagers. Well, the kids this week are amazing: Interested, respectful, willing to learn, and just fun to be around.

I found out that it's much easier for me dealing with teenagers than the younger kids. Teenagers I just treat like adults, with the smaller kids I sometimes don't know if I bring things across right. Live and learn!

Again, this work is giving me so much respect for teachers (school and riding), I never really thought about it. In high school I was mostly bored out of my mind and thus became quite the truant. Not sure how I managed to graduate with good grades...

After three days off it was time for the boys to get back to work. Luckily both Chambord (after some initial reluctance) and Remy jumped right in. I had a super lesson on Remy today, he was with me, I had moments where I felt like screaming "YES!!" because he was collected, light in the bridle, round underneath me. And -yay- we got clean and forward changes, finishing with canter on the center line to halt. I am counting eins, zwei, drei (vier: change). Interestingly, I still count in German, it doesn't matter where I am.

My volunteer job teaching the beginners at DHP has me review the basics. Today I did the 'General Safety' portion, explaining how horses perceive things, their vision, the difference between fight and flight animals, how to safely work around horses, and a myriad of other things. When it came to riding I had the students do exercises to improve their position, and also get a feel for the movement of the horse (i.e. close the eyes to feel the movement). I try to encourage effort and praise improvement.

All this is actually helping my own riding, I am more conscious of things that I might otherwise take for granted. Just the other day Judy reminded me that "Remy wants praise way more than cookies" (I forgot to tell him "good boy" and stroke his neck when he did a good job - and yes, Remy thrives on praise).

To summarize: My volunteer job has me revisit the basics, which makes me focus better on my riding position. I am reminded to show appreciation for my equine partner's efforts, as well as our teacher's (who seems to prefer German chocolate and Madeleines over praise *smile*). All this puts me in a great mood, so JP is happy = Win-Win all around!

A busy, rewarding and educational weekend

No time to get bored: On Friday JP and I picked up 60 bales of Hay that Minde donated to Horses Haven (an equine rescue organization in Howell) for the horses at the Detroit Horse Power camps. Horses Haven had volunteered four of their residents to the DHP summer program. We packed the hay into our trailer and delivered it to Horses Haven, where a nice volunteer helped us unload and stack.

Another helpful volunteer offered to show us around, and we met two Morgans: Pete, a 33 (!) year old veteran of "Been there done that" and Ebony, a pretty but quite defensive black mare. Good thing our barn is full, because Horses Haven has about 68 resident horses, donkeys, miniature horses, and mules. Quite frankly, we were surprised how well everything looked, neat, clean and well taken care of. That is not easy for such a large farm managed primarily with volunteers.

Saturday we attended a Barn Fire Safety Seminar that was given by two fire chiefs. It was super informative and I took copious notes for an article for the Morgan Dressage Association. I will also post a summary on this blog. Basically, we learned you cannot stop a barn fire once it's started - the only thing you can do is trying to prevent it!

Sunday I met Glenda at the White Horse Inn for a lovely brunch and then we went to audit the Bettina Drummond clinic. I had ridden in one clinic with her about 15 years ago with Saumur, and after she had called him a "cart horse" and wondered why -as a German- I didn't have a "more suitable horse" I was not too enchanted with her. However, quite a few serious horse people I respect swear by her, so it was time to re-visit. I have to say I really liked what I saw. Glenda, being the more academic of the two of us, also was very much taken by Bettina's teachings. Perhaps I will one day screw up the courage to show up with Remy at one of her clinics, as I think she is great with the riders position and the aids. Remy is by no means "cart horse" (neither is Saumur!) but he is not her favorite breed either (Lusitano). So, we'll see.

Today I've got unexpected time off because the thunderstorms and heavy rains curtailed the camp activities. I might even have to cancel my lesson with Judy today as I don't want to take unnecessary risks trailering. Bummer.

On the bright side, it gives me time to go dishwasher shopping - ours broke a couple of weeks ago and while JP has been taken on the "dish duties" I think it's time to put a professional in charge again - no offense, JP!
'

Some days the highlight is keeping calm while getting run away with

It was just a normal day today, Remy warmed up nicely and we had some good canter work when suddenly things fell apart. I shouldn't say suddenly, though, because I felt it coming on. We were in a canter half-pass across the arena when I sensed Remy tensing up due to a noise outside, his back got tight, and whoosh! he bolted straight ahead, cut the corner (a big no, no in Judy land) and took off down the long side. Stupid me, I should have done a one rein stop, but I was too busy trying to get his head up - and well, yes, staying on.

At the end of the long (and we are talking 60 meters long!) side I got his head turned to the wall and we came to a stop. Luckily without a bucking fit or other shenanigans. Remy is not a bucker, anyway, his thing is to spin and/or bolt. Neither of course is an endearing quality. Luckily Judy was right there to remind me to get him back to work, and we finished quite nicely.

My "proud moment" was that this time my legs didn't get all rubbery and I was able to  just shrug it off, kept calm and moved on. That is huge progress!

Neither Judy nor I could figure out what had set Remy off, it was as if his brain had just decided "I'm outta here", but once he had it out of his system he was his old sweet and kind self. And here they say women are unpredictable!

From Detroit Horsepower to Cow Working - all in a week's work

It's nice to know that some people miss it when I don't update my blog by sending me reminders. Sorry for the tardiness, it was a very busy week and quite frankly I was too tired at night to fire up the laptop.

It was my first week as volunteer at Detroit Horsepower (www.detroithorsepower.org) and I loved it. The elementary school kids were adorable, and the structured program is right up my alley. Initially it did push my comfort zone a bit, having never had any experience with children. But it all fell quickly into place. The morning meetings before the students arrived were a big help, we had detailed and written instructions waiting for us, as well as time for Q&A. I will write more details about the program in the next weeks (this week is an off-week due to the holiday). Let me just say I have a whole new admiration for teachers!

One experience stood out for me, though. A little girl took me aside and said she didn't want to ride a "Boy Horse". When I asked her why she said "all boys are mean" and that's why she only wanted a "Girl Horse".  This was a very good opportunity to talk about that a) not all boys are mean and b) she is a very strong girl that with the right preparation can handle difficult situations. I don't know who was happier when she sat on the "Boy Horse", the girl or I!

Friday through Sunday JP, Chambord, Remy and I did the "Horsemanship with Cows Clinic" with Brent Graef. Remy and I had done it last year (Remy even wrote an article about it), and so this time we had JP and Chambord joining us. I was a bit worried about Chambord, with him things are very clear cut: He either likes it and plays nice or he hates it and is outta here - sort of like his owner *grin*). Luckily it turned out that Chambord remembered his roots and cow sense. His French-American Cowboy didn't have any cowboy roots to draw on but he apparently has cow sense and decided he liked it - so both stayed (or perhaps they were just afraid of the "wrath of Birgit" if they would have bowed out... nah!).

Remy was a good sport, he was fine with the cattle. This year there was no Norman to distract him (last year Norman the steer was undertaking some amorous endeavors that Remy found offensive). However, when faced with cattle in front of him and horses behind him Remy still got rattled - and it netted me a "nice seat!" compliment from the rider next to me when Remy spun around.

Brent was working with me (seems I needed it more than Remy) and asked me to imagine that I have a ball full of water in my upper chest and then let the water flow through my body. Yes, I do carry all the tension in my upper torso and shoulders, I've done that probably all my working life. The good thing was that when Remy got rattled and spun he didn't run off, he centered himself. Another key element is for me to keep a much lighter contact in the reins. Brent demonstrated it with holding my hand, and then gripping it, to show the difference. And yes, when I get worried I automatically grip, which in turn gets Remy worried... ah... and so the circle commences.

We had fun with our fellow riders at the dinners each evening. It is so nice meeting people from all different walks of life with the common goal of improving their horsemanship and be better partners to their horses.

Brent's parting words to me were "Remember to let the water flow through" to which I deadpanned: "Yes, I will, but I'll try not to pee in my pants!"

What is better than having a great ride? - And thoughts about safety

The boys and I went to Brandt's yesterday for some riding fun in the sun. JP and Chambord were clearly the stars of the day! After some reluctance on Chambord's part - "I really don't want to" - they conquered a hollow sounding metal bridge over a rivulet. Then on into the pond they went. That's Chambord's favorite, so he has no problem splashing lavishly. Brandt asked JP to have Chambord canter out of the pond, and they managed that really well also. So what's better than having a great ride? Watching your husband and his best buddy having a blast!

Remy was much better working in between the herd but then had an unexpected melt down when I tried to give a whip to Brandt. He wanted to use it to move the horses around, not to punish Remy, and anyway, other than some light taps Remy never has experienced a strong whip. So where did this come from? No idea! Perhaps he didn't like my look with sun glasses and baseball cap, it might have hurt his fashion sense.

In this heat it is hard wearing a helmet, I do understand. But still, it bothers me tremendously when I see people ride without 'brain-buckets'. What's a bit of sweat compared to TBI (traumatic brain injury) or worse??

Speaking of safety: My neighbor, Gabriele, just cracked me up yesterday. She told me about a call she had from a company trying to sell her a home security system. Her response to the sales guy: "I don't need no stinking security system, I've got a twelve gauge shotgun and if that doesn't do it a collection of sharp hunting knives!". Gabriele is in her seventies, German, and as spunky as they come. Hmm, watch out people, that could be me some years down the road!

"Less is more" - and off to the cold water hose

Ah, the Michigan weather. The saying goes that if you don't like it you wait five minutes and it changes. No such luck today (actually, it was luck it didn't change - most likely we would have gotten a thunderstorm). Remy and I played in 32C in the mid-day heat. Most of Judy's students opt to stay indoors, but for me the toss up is either fry my brain under the helmet in the sun outdoors or struggle for air indoors.

It was a much better ride than yesterday. I am trying to focus hard on "less is more", not over-riding Remy when things get tough. The difficult part is to do less but still being effective. Doing less and just ambling along is not cutting it - as the voice in my ear-set likes to remind me.

Remy was a good sport when my Comtek receiver bounced off my belt and dropped next to his shoulder. He didn't even bat an eye. I did bat an eye, because the belt was on its last hole so I had to stuff the receiver into the inside of my pants. I lamented that I looked like I gained 20 pounds, to which I just heard a sigh and then a "but you want to hear me, right??". Yep, I'd rather have a smooth voice in my ear than a screeching one that can be heard in the next county - LOL. Without joking, it must be so hard for instructors to yell all day in order to be heard, especially in large (and/or outdoor) arenas. I can't imagine being able to keep this up.

Remy kept his focus (mostly) on me, swiveling ears and sometimes grunting. My ears don't swivel but why should I be the only one grunting? We finished on a good note, with all three of us happy - and two of us headings straight for the wash rack. The other day I was saying I'd like to get a cold hose down, too, and Lisa asked "then why don't you?". Hmm, because I don't want to do the wet t-shirt contest? She looked at me like I was a poster child for a 'true blonde'. "Just bend forward, and rinse your neck". Oh, OK, got it!

Cold showered Remy and I were happy campers and both ready for lunch - after I changed my shirt.

He got is knickers in a twist - getting an early start on a Sunday

With a weather forecast of 95F today we decided to get an early start on riding. The boys enjoyed breakfast 'in bed', and then Saumur and Teddy got to go out while JP and I prepared Chambord and Remy. Chambord was not amused, clearly, he felt that this violated his contract. Didn't we know it was Sunday??

Remy was his usually cheerful, albeit somewhat sleepy self. Chambord really got his knickers in a twist when JP got into the saddle. He wouldn't stay still, hopped up and was just cranky overall. Picture making a teenager get up at 7 a.m. on a Sunday. JP hopped off, and I resorted back to the tried and true ground work: Yielding the hindquarters, backing up, etc. When JP got back on Chambord had understood the message: Pouting is not getting you out of it.

We set off into the woods and had a wonderful trailride. We all enjoyed the almost bug-free peace and quiet. So, Chambord, no need to get your knickers in a twist*. Getting up early was well worth it! And if not, well, then we'll just get you a new pair!


*Wiktionary:
get one's knickers in a twist

1. (idiomatic) To become overwrought or unnecessarily upset over a trivial matter.

Different strokes for different folks - and "just like an airplane"

Different things appeal to different people. Case in point: This week we took Chambord and Remy to a training session at Brandt's. Chambord needed a refresher on canter over all kinds of different terrain, and Remy still has his "equine claustrophobia" to deal with. I was so happy to see how well all my boys (that includes JP) worked. JP and Chambord had the best walk-canter departs ever, and it was so neat to see them canter around, mane flying (Chambord's, JP is a bit short in the mane department).

Brandt took Remy and rode him in between his herd of about 12 horses. Remy's worst nightmare - other horses, close up and personal. But after a short period he got the hang of it and was clearly proud of himself when he got to herd the group of horses around.

Show season is in full swing now and I am getting a bit tired of seemingly having to defend my decision of currently not showing. It does make me quite crabby when I get condescending remarks implicating there is something wrong with me/us. The simple truth is I haven't got my show mojo back yet, and also I'd like to do a good job - and having only 50% of steady changes (they are good to the left, hit and miss to the right) does not cut it for me.

It is very rewarding to me to see the progress in our training, every ride we can build on the previous one, and both Remy (I hope) and I are having fun and feel good about the progress. The collection is getting better and it's so neat to feel Remy 'compact' with very light aids. Judy had a very good comparison, she said Remy should feel like an airplane taking off: Light front, engine pushing from behind. Very cool. Note to Remy: No, that does NOT mean like a rocket, you still have to stay on the earth!

New Beginnins - and watch out for those pony hooves

Thursday was my last day of work. It was quite emotional and touching. I am very happy that I am leaving on a high note, meaning I am leaving in a very positive way. Ironic, though, that my job is being divided between two men, and some of my duties go to a third one.


No time to dwell too much - Saturday was the orientation and on-boarding for the volunteers for Detroit Horse Power (www.detroithorsepower.org). DHP organizes summer camps for inner city youth, teaching life and leadership skills with the help of horses. I was quite impressed how well this non-profit is organized and I do look forward to working with the kids this summer.


Hmm, not long after listening to the owner of the stable that hosts the summer camps about safety around horses I got a sharp reminder that I am not careful enough. JP had an issue with the zero-turn mower breaking down in the pasture, leaking fuel, so I tried to move the horses to a different pasture. That startled Teddy, and yikes, those tiny pony hooves hurt! He got my ankle and the top of my foot. Luckily nothing is broken and ice, Arnica cream and Back on Track ankle brace helped a lot.


Now I am looking forward to my first week of freedom: Monday - trailride, Tuesday - working at Brandt's, Wednesday through Saturday - Dressage.


I picture Remy pouring over "Help Wanted" ads, trying to get me out of his hair and back into an office.  Note to Remy: Careful what you wish for, remember Aunt Jude is much more demanding than I am!

When your breakfast server reminds you it's time to clean the barn - and a sweet moment

Milford is a “horsey town” so it’s no surprise that the server at our favorite breakfast spot also has horses. The usual chipper Lori hardly could get a word out yesterday, but we learned that her allergies were acting up because she had been cleaning her barn, getting rid of a winter’s worth of dust and cobwebs.

Thanks for the reminder, Lori! JP had just finished the new barn roof and started re-decorating and arranging the inside, so what better time for me to bring out R2D2 (the shop vac)? I tackled cob webs and dust with gusto, and as filthy and smelly I was at the end I was proud of my accomplishment. Somehow it is way more satisfying for me to clean the barn than the house. Hmm??

Last night only Teddy was at the door in time for dinner, the others enjoyed the lush grass in the lower pasture. When my calls went unanswered (highly unusual) I walked down to see them. That was enough for Saumur and Chambord to kick up their heels and high tail it to dinner. Remy surprised me: He stayed with me, I had my hand on his neck and we walked companionable towards our respective dinners. JP watched us from the kitchen window and we both were touched by that sweet moment. It doesn’t take ‘big things’ to make us happy!