Amy and I started taking lessons from Gail in the same ground class almost 2 years ago, and have been together in just about every class since. Today felt like a new beginning with both of us having a young horse to start off fresh with. When I think back to our first lessons and see all of our progress, I can't wait to see what happens with Doc, and Amy's colt, Archie.
The lesson started out with some groundwork, just to let Gail see how far along we were. It felt a little bit like a test, which I liked because I was excited to hear Gail's opinion of how we were progressing. I got a giant thrill when she told me that we were doing very well. Thanks Gail! :)
Once she had a good idea of what she was dealing with, Gail took the lead rope and started Doc's first ponying lesson. She was very clear about the rules:
1. You stay behind my knee at all times.
2. No socializing or butt sniffing while ponying (you can do this in the pasture later).
3. Follow me.
If any of these rules were broken, the correction was immediate and fair.
It didn't take long for Doc to understand what she was asking of him. She had a bit of resistance when trying to move into a faster pace, but by turning Win into Doc and making a few circles, she had things under control. When I think back to the groundwork test, I see that our biggest problems were in moving from a walk to a trot. It is interesting how this translates directly into ponying. I can also see how it could follow right through to the saddle unless we get it under control now. Who ever said lessons didn't pay off?!
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| A little resistance |
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| Follow me! |
In short order, Gail turned Doc over to Cohasset and I with an explanation of the rules...
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| A little resistance of my own |
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| Off we go! |
It was hard work for me to manage both horses, and not forget my own focus and technique!
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| Lock-step feels good |
...but we figured it out in the end.
Amy's little guy did a great job too. Her horses are always so willing to try anything.
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| Gail and Win with Archie |
When Gail felt that we were competent enough to venture out into the world, we went for a little ride around the property. |
| Amy and Bozo with Archie |
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| Aren't they cute??! |
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| Check out the mirror images! |
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| Learning about puddles |
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| Wet feet! |
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| "Hassie will protect you.." |
All in all, we had a very successful day. I am hoping that the rain will hold off for one more day so I can practice our new skills here at home tomorrow.
Doc was mentally and physically exhausted today, but he was also very content to just be with me. That is the best part of all. :)
Goodnight everyone!
~Jackie
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