I am so happy for you and Charlie. I knew you two would make it. I have been quietly rooting for you here in VA. Keep up the great work and Happy Trails. Tina in VA
--- In haflingerfriends@yahoogroups.com, "sassyme808" <sassyme808@...> wrote:
>
> Well, it finally happened! I rode the most beautiful, wonderful horse in the
> world today! I met Charlie's young rider today at the barn so she could put some
> time in on him. I had him in a stall last night so he would be clean and dry,
> so I got there early to groom him and spend some snuggle time before she
> arrived. She tacked him up and rode him for an hour or so, while I cleaned the
> stall and observed. He was downright mellow and even being a touch lazy, which
> is unusual for him. She even cantered him a little, and he did fine, no anxiety
> on his part. I decided it was time. I helmeted up, got on my riding boots,
> tried to keep my pulse under control, and.....he moved away from me when I got
> on the mounting block. I know he was picking up on my nerves, which contributed
> to the disaster last spring. I did some deep breathing, layed over his back
> from the block, got up and down from the block over and over. Finally, he
> relaxed, I relaxed......and I was on! I immediately flexed him to each side
> while I took deep breaths. He didn't move until I asked. I had him take a few
> steps, then did a one rein stop, which stopped his feet instantly.
> Flex....flex.....Breathe....then we were off! Walk and trot around the arena,
> stop to pose for pictures, then more walk trot, whoa's...back up three steps at
> the whoa...all the things I learned in my lessons. I'm absolutely enthralled
> with him. He feels strong and balanced. His walk is big and easy to move my
> hips to, and his western jog is so comfortable I could ride it all day. No
> wonder his young rider likes to trot him so much! I never even knew that my
> saddle is very comfortable too! I'm so happy I decided to stick it out with him.
> We are on our way! Thanks for letting me gush, and thanks for all the wonderful
> advice and support that I have received here. I think that without this group I
> may have caved to outside opinions and given up on him.
> Marlene in Oregon
> and Charlie!
>
------------------------------------
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