Sylvia in frigid NH, but without snow.
-----Original Message-----
From: sassyme808 <sassyme808@yahoo.com>
To: haflingerfriends@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sun, Feb 7, 2010 4:23 pm
Subject: [haflingerfriends] A MileStone Day!!! (First ride on Charlie)
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.
and Charlie!
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