Hoof Blogs

Flossie's 234th Lesson

FLOSSIE'S 234th LESSON

Flossie was a nut at the canter on the track today. She trotted okay, but when it came
to the canter, she got silly. I had to come back down to a trot again before I could
work her properly at the canter. Eventually she came good. (As Des would put it). I
think it’s the cooler weather that makes her rambunctious sometimes. She circled better
than ever, though, bending and staying at a nice slow pace for me. If I keep my hand
that holds the outside rein near the pommel, she circles pretty much on her own.

I’m getting used to my longer stirrups and practiced keeping weight in my left one. I
think taking the weight out of the stirrups is why I lose it sometimes. My strength is
returning and I no longer have to take time to rest anymore.

Weatherwise, it was a perfect day, made for the saddle. You couldn’t have asked for a
more perfect blend of sunshine and cool air. The crystal clear sky was glittering with
gold and there were no clouds about at all.

Once I had Flossie in the yard, she snorted at the lawn mower and the gigs that were in
places where they normally aren’t and she had to go up to them and investigate before
going by. I always take her to a tree stump, which I use as a mounting block, before
taking her down the driveway. We had to pass the gigs to get to the stump and the mower
was right beside it. “Well,” I said, “Come on.” So she did. I mounted and had her
standing there quietly for the longest time. Having her stand while I’m in the saddle is
always part of her training. Horses should learn to stand patiently, I believe, no
matter who they are or what they’re used for.

After untacking Flossie, I used warm water I had brought from home to wash the sweat off
her back, down the back of her hind legs, and in the pastern of each foot. I don’t like
to use the hose on chilly mornings this time of the year.

Just for fun I thought I’d give Bambi some action today. I tossed Flossie’s saddle on
her back and she took to it like nothing. I lunged her with it on and she was as good as
gold. She only looked back at the saddle once when I first put it on her, but she never
flinched or became aggravated. When I tightened the girth she didn’t seem to notice.
I’ll have to find a bridle for her somewhere and a good bit because Des expects me to
ride her now.

Bambi seemed eager to please. She worked hard to figure out what I wanted. She was very
sensible and I enjoyed working with her. She has a more tractable horsenality than
Flossie has and possesses some endearing behaviors. She is also more flexible than
Flossie is and would probably find reining maneuvers easy to pick up.

I had the best time working two horses today. I told Des I’m going to continue working
with Bambi and he said that’s great. So there you have it. Now, when I go to sleep
tonight, I’ll be dreaming about two horses instead of only one.