http://www.helenspieglphotography.co.uk/p560104458/h54ecc730#h54ecc730
and another from a different photographer - doesn't he look happy!!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/harwood-images/8459908333/in/set-72157632733637890/lightbox/
Another picture for you - thanks for your sympathy :-) I'm still wondering how I got away with this one!
It was a disgusting day yesterday, high winds, minus temperatures and snow. I opened the gate to let the boys out and Radar did something he has never done before. He did not even look towards the field. He marched straight up to the closed barn door and looked at me as if to say "get this door open. NOW!" I did, and he went straight it, whereupon the other two left their stables (which they had been refusing to do) and followed him in. There they stayed, warm, cosy and happy, all day and night.
The weather was not exactly brilliant today but at least it was warmer and not raining. I hacked Woody out and he was the best he has ever been. I was using Radar's pelham, with two reins on, as a test for hunting on Saturday and he was fine with it. I don't think the bit made him any better, I think that he is just improving with learning how to manage his own athleticism, and getting more and more confident in himself. Hunting seems to have done him a lot of good. It looks very likely that we will get him out again this Saturday. The meet is probably going to go ahead and it isn't one that I would be desperate to take Radar on, no big hedges.
Radar and I also had a hack and he was wonderfully bouncy and forward. not surprising after being in all day yesterday. But so controllable too. We had a great time.
The power has been off since last night due to a major fault somewhere in the Northwest. I really wanted to ride Ace as well, but I decided that it would not make sense if I couldn't cook him first. I thought of warming him up other ways, but the last thing I want now is to destroy his confidence that being ridden is not going to hurt. So I resisted the temptation, but only just.
C
No fun with no power...been there, done that. *sigh*
ReplyDeleteYour leg is really bruised. You were really, really lucky!! Hope it doesn't hurt too much.
As for Woody...well, he certainly does look to be having a good time out there. Don't know what you were trying to do attempting to contain that enthusiasm.....oh, you wanted control, or something? What's the matter with you? *giggle*
Maybe the pelham and a proper martingale will do the trick. Is it a regular hunt on Saturday?? If you you are FAR braver than I.
Radar does show some more than common sense wanting to be inside in the bad weather. I have to laugh at how clear he made his desires. That's a good sign he has a pretty clever brain.
Good choice not to ride Ace without the heating lamp therapy. I'd hate to think you might spoil some of the progress you've been making.
We were put back on a nine this evening, nearly 24 hours without. I need a shower now :-)
DeleteI don't know what was wrong with me Jean. I just kinda wanted not to go for a swim in a ditch, if you know what I mean ? :-)))
Yes, regular hunt. Bigger fences but nothing huge and all avoidable if necessary.
C
Hiya, congratulations, two hunters on your hands (and pulling your arms out by the look of it). Your bruise looks rather painful though. Take it easy.
ReplyDeleteStrangely enough, Tracey, it's hardly painful at all. One spot it I push it, but other than that it's pain free. I was very lucky.
DeleteC
not surprised they wanted to stay in in yesterday's gale - had i known what the weather would do i would have kept M in as well...
ReplyDeleteOwie!
ReplyDeleteI am sure resisting the temptation to ride Ace will pay off. Confidence counts for so much in horses.
That's you every time though Caroline, remember when you broke your arm and hardly noticed?? Glad you're feeling fine.
ReplyDelete