Excellence With Horses

Making progress

2012-01-15T12:52:00.000-08:00

This so represents where I am at in my horse*man*ship! I find myself vacilating between wanting to be progressive and being patient and accepting of where I am at in my journey. This photo reminds me to celebrate each step along the way, and to recognize a step forward instead of wanting to move by leaps and bounds.

I know my horses appreciate me more when I recognize a small offering from them and I do appreciate even the smallest try - when I reward this, I get that much more and we move further together. With me though, I have to slow down enough to value the smallest change in myself YET also continue to push myself as I do get comfortable and find it hard sometimes to get out of my comfort zone.

One of my goals this year is to step out of my comfort - be uncomfortable and to take risks, while moving forward!

Frédéric Pignon Bridless Riding - What An Art!

2012-01-02T22:04:00.000-08:00

Wow - Now This Is A Partnership!

2012-01-02T21:50:00.000-08:00

I saw this video today and it re-ignited my vision with my horses. I have been playing with this (on a much lower level) and truly find my passion to be liberty with horses. So nice to see this and where I can go with my horses! Beautiful live orchestra as well. Going to bed....dreaming of the possibilies....

Cut and paste to view: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1YO3j-Zh3g

A Lovely Poem

2011-10-26T14:05:00.000-07:00

When we are old, we shall wear diamonds and wide brimmed straw hats with silver and leather trim on them.

And we shall spend our social security on white wine and carrots
And sit in the alley of our barns
And listen to our horses breathe.

We will sneak out
In the middle of a summer's night
And ride the chestnut colt
Across the moonstruck meadow
If our old bones will allow.

And when people come to call
we will smile and nod
As we walk them past the gardens to the barn
And show, instead, the beauty growing here
In stalls fresh-lined with straw.

We will learn to shovel and sweat and
Wear hay in our hair as if it were a jewel.

And we will be an embarrassment to all
Who look down on us
Who have not found the peace of being free
To love a horse as a friend
A friend who waits at midnight hour
With muzzle, soft nicker and patient eyes
For the kind of woman we will be
When we are old.

-Author Unknown-

Change Is Still Needed In How We Care For Our Horses

2011-01-06T19:21:00.001-08:00

My heart just aches. I visited a barn today and I know now what the word athropamorphic means - putting human values onto a horse. There were horses in stalls that had no windows, no contact with other horses, full bars, no light. These horses are kept in almost 24 hours a day except for the one or two hours the owner pulls them out to ride in the arena.

The perverse behaviour coming from these animals was so heart breaking. Many had "cribbing colars" on them - who can blame them for chewing - it beats looking at the same 4 walls all day and night? Horses only sleep 3 to 4 hours a day - that leaves alot of idle time in these jail cells, I mean stalls.

One horse was banging her head on the door to try to get out. Many had multiple "clothing" on for show purposes without the owner realizing the horse couldnt itch himself. One horse in particular, Tabby, really touched me. She was in a stall with no lights, almost black mid day - her owner boarded up all sides say Tabby didnt like other horses (huh?) and she had 2 sets of sleazies and other clothing all the way over this horses face. The horse was docile because she was resigned to her pathetic life.

When will we stop treating animals like slaves and possessions for our own pleasure without any regard to the animals well being, dignity and spirit.

Keeping a movement animal in a 12 by 12 day in day out is animal abuse plain and simple.

If you are going to own a horse, get educated about how to treat these wonderful, spiritual animals and take responsibility for treating them properly - it is black and white - personal preference should not take precedence over the care of these animals - they cant speak for themselves and we are supposed to be the "superior" animal - Please!

I would like each of the owners there to do a little experiment - try living in their bathroom for only 24 hours -eating, sleeping each for 24 hours straight with no contact from anyone other than maybe 1 to 2 hours in that time. That will equate to the lives these animals live. We have evolved in so many other areas of our lives - ie technology etc, that there is no excuse for ignorance that affects another creature.

Off my soap box - click on the youtube video - if these horses could talk....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkIFfixVooY

Baby Its Cold Outside

2010-11-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

It is only fall and the weather has already been wild - snow, lots of rain, low temps and all! Trying to stay warm while getting in some quality time each day with the herd. I love when I come outside and my guys coming running from the other 10 acre pasture - how cool is it to always have your horses "catch" you.

Now I am trying to come up with some creative things to do for a couple minutes each day during the winter. Have a feeling it is going to be a wild one weather wise.

4 Weeks At The Parelli Ranch - WOW

2010-11-24T20:30:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to spend the month of September at the Parelli Ranch in Pagosa Springs CO - one of the most peaceful cities I have been too. My time at the ranch didnt go exactly as planned - I had leased a horse who ended up being "not well" from day one - so my ambitions were curtailed by her abilities. BUT I was proud of myself for not putting my goals before my principles and kept reminding myself that the journey was about both horse and human.

It was an amazing 4 weeks and my horsemanship is that much better due to my time at Parelli. Like Disneyland for horse lovers - only bummer was coming back to the real world - playing with horses and being around like minded people was so much fun!

Sparks And Me Liberty - Unfenced 5 acre area

2010-03-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

My 11 year was video taping so excuse the quality. I love Sparkles arc into me when he is circling - so connected!!!! Sparks left his hay to play and was in a huge unfenced area where he could go back with the other horses if he wanted. He has a very high play drive which is why I was playful with him BUT he also geta worried easy really easy so I have to give him the time he needs. Also, Sparkles has a huge amount of white hairs on his back from bad saddling/riding with previous owner. He used to walk off constantly when being mounted and bit as well but now, he will calmly stand at liberty at the mounting block.

Playing Stay In Your Square

2010-03-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

Having fun playing a game of respect at treat time. I draw an imaginary square around each horses feet and each horse has to stay within their square - no leaking forward. If they do, they get sent back. Also, no dominance allowed between horses - no biting or kicking in my presence. If that happens, they get sent away. Watch my LBE Sparkle - the horse in the middle - he loves this game and gets it - rarely does he foul out by leaking forwarding or moving much at all. This is fun to manage the herd dynamics as well as teach them to read my body language and have respect. My 11 year old was taping and talking to me at the same time so I had to manage that as well :)

Happy March 1st

2010-03-01T06:29:00.001-08:00

Only 6 1/2 months until I head off to Pagosa. Yikes! I better really get into gear. My goal is to work on cantering and be well versed on flying lead changes by the time I leave. This weekend, I played at liberty with all my guys. It is amazing how Sparkle has grown at Liberty - he just shines. He can sideways and sidepass all over the place! We are supposed to have one more day of nice weather before the rain sets in so I will make the most of it today. Hope you too can enjoy!

Scentsy Horse Warmer - so cute

2010-02-27T19:51:00.000-08:00

Just got my new Scentsy flameless warmer with a Horse Theme - so beautiful. I am burning the "Sugar" scent and smells delicous. My whole family loves it and I love that it is safe, no smoke, no soot, no dangerous flame or lead. I love giving these as gifts to my real estate buyers and sellers. Yummy!

Its been awhile since I have blogged

2010-02-07T18:52:00.000-08:00

Wow - its February something (Superbowl Sunday I guess) and I havent been on in awhile. My real estate business has been very busy as has my agent mentoring. I am very blessed in this economy to have more than enough business!

The big news is that I got accepted into the Fast Track #8 Program so I am officially headed to Pagosa Springs end of August through end of September!!! I am so so so excited! There is alot of planning that needs to happen to make this work. Zach will be going with me and Rich will stay home to work and attend to the horses. I am leasing another students horse, which is a bit nerve racking as I will have to form a relationship with Lady very quickly. This is all huge for me as going someplace I havent been and participating in a very high level program is way out of my comfort level. BUT that means I will grow a ton as well so I am looking forward to that!

You Have To Become Who You Need To Be....

2010-01-07T16:59:00.000-08:00

Hey there and happy Thursday the 7th of January. I had a crazy day at work and the weather here has been wild too. 25 to 30 mph wind gusts - to look on the positive side - my horses have become completely desensitized to the wind since moving here a year ago. Cant say I have done the same. It is 39 and chilly!!!!

Anyway, I had this thought running through my head all day, You Have to Become Who You Need To Be For Your Horse To Become Who He Needs To Be. Wow that is so powerful. I am processing who I need to become to have the partnership and see the results I dream about with my horses. I have already come so far but know there is so much more!!!

Go hug a horse and have a great day!

Happy 2010

2010-01-01T20:36:00.000-08:00

I wish everyone a happy, safe, fullfilling 2010! Follow your dreams and make this your year.

Let it snow let it snow!!

2009-12-30T20:26:00.000-08:00

We usually do not get snow in the Portland OR/SW WA area but for the last 3 years we have. Yesterday the weathermen said we would get some flakes with rain but low and behold, we got about 2 inches of snow. Zach and his friends were up late sledding in the field. My new horse Marley couldnt figure out what those figures on round things were going up and down in his field. Sparks and Cutter could care less. It is amazing the difference in confidence levels between Sparks and Cutter who have been with me in the Parelli program and my new horse Marley whom I really havent done much with yet. Poor guy - I cant wait to help him improve his confidence in all aspects of his life with humans.

The Ten Commandments Written By Your Horse

2009-12-25T15:20:00.001-08:00

Ten Commandments for Horses

1. My life is likely to last 20 or more years. Any separation from you will be painful for me.
Remember that before you take me home.

2. Give me time to understand what you want from me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial to my well being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long. Don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your entertainment and your friends. I have only you.....

5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when it is speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I'll never forget it.

7. Remember before you hit me that I am powerful enough to hurt you, but choose not to.

8. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I have a problem that you are not yet aware of.

9. Take care of me when I am old. You too will be old one day.

10. Go with me on the last journey. Never say "I can't bear to watch or Let it happen in my absence." Everything is easier for me if you are there.

and...

Remember that I love you.

Christmas Eve Dressage Poem - Enjoy

2009-12-22T13:45:00.001-08:00

This was posted on the Savvy Club - hope you enjoy and Happy Holidays!

Christmas Eve Dressage Poem
By Mary L. Brennan, DVM

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the farm,
Only one horse was stirring, the brown one in the barn,
The only one to hang a stocking from his feed dish that night,
Hoping that Santa would come, and fill it just right.

The other horses were settled quietly in their stalls,
While their dreams were of horse treats, candy canes and riding halls,
And the cat in the hay barn and the dog on his mat,
Had just snuggled in for a long winter's nap.

When out in the dressage ring there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the arena I flew like a flash,
Pulling on my boots and jacket in my mad dash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow,
Gave the luster of mid-day to the dressage letters below.
When what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But eight little elves riding eight tiny reindeer.

A small round man, dressed in red and white, looked just like Santa,
And called out to the reindeer, as an instructor might.
His shiny black boots reached up to his knees,
His pants looked like breeches and even had a full leather seat!

"Now Dasher, now Dancer, now Prancer and Vixen, come Comet and Cupid,
more forward Donner and Blitzen,
Keep the voltes round, elves ride those reindeer through,"
It was Christmas Eve reindeer dressage,
Under the moonlight in the snow so blue.

And then, in a twinkling I heard my horse come out,
He gave me a look as if to say, "What's this all about?"
As I stood in the doorway and watched, my mouth agape,
Santa jumped on the horse and entered the gate.

He and the elves worked in teams,
four pairs of reindeer, evenly matched, working under the moonbeams.
Santa had paired with Rudolph, who was now leading the group,
He took them through maneuvers, making large loops.

Santa's eyes twinkled, his breath came out fast,
As he rode round the arena he started teaching my horse half-pass!
His droll little mouth suddenly called out instructions,
"Half-halt, stay together, don't forget to push them."

He kept a pipe clenched tight in his teeth,
And as he rode the smoke circled his head like a wreath.
Although he was broad of face and had a round little belly,
He rode like Reiner Klimke, gloved hands quiet and steady.

Despite his chubby, plump body, the jolly old elf,
Sat the trot well, letting the horse move all by himself.
And I gasped as I watched while he continued to school,
First piaffe, then passage, one-tempis, way too cool.

Then Santa stopped riding, suddenly moving to his sleigh,
The brown went to the barn, and the reindeer began to play.
The elves disappeared, the ride was now done,
The reindeer took off pulling the sleigh, still full of run.

I ran to the barn, saw my horse was all wet,
This was no dream; he really was in a sweat.
The note on the saddle pad explained it all, "You wished for an FEI horse, now he's all trained, have a ball,
Merry Christmas, peace be with you, and ride with good cheer,
Give the brown extra carrots, and have him ready next year!"

Brrr its cold outside

2009-12-12T21:04:00.001-08:00

It has been so cold here the last week - temps ranging from 9 to 30. Now it is rainy and they are calling for freezing rain. Not much fun for outside activities. BUT, I have been able to bundle up and spend a good deal of undemanding time with the horses - hanging out like one of the herd. Everytime I take the time to do this, our relationship goes to a new level. When I get back to "working" I mean playing with one of my horses, they offer more, do more than I could imagine.

During this time, one of my horses, Sparks had a choke incident - at 10:30 at night no less. We had to have the vet out for treatment and we were all frozen by the time it was over. He is back to his normal naughty self now, thank goodness.

Since I dont have much to report, I thought I would post some of my favorite quotes.

I posted some favorite quotes a few months ago but found some additional that I hope you enjoy:

"A mind stretched by a new idea can never return to its original form." my alltime favorite and one I find to be true as I grow.

"I dwell in possibility" Emily Dickenson

Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming 'WOW What a Ride!'"
--Unknown

Anything unattempted, remains impossible

There are no shortcuts to anyplace worth going

"We need another and a wiser and perhaps a more mystical concept of animals... In a world older and more complete than ours they move finished and complete, gifted with extensions of the senses we have lost or never attained, living by voices we shall never hear. They are not brethren, they are not underlings; they are other nations, caught with ourselves in the net of life and time, fellow prisoners of the splendour and travail of the earth" Harry Beston, we are all fellow travelers.

What someone else thinks about you is none of your business

Stay warm!

Life is good!

2009-12-02T09:08:00.000-08:00

I am so lucky to be in the profession I am in. I am a real estate agent in Vancouver WA and it has been a great year. What I love the most is that on days like today, when it is clear and sunny, I have the flexibility go out and play with horses in the middle of my life.

Life is good!

Brigitte Jones

Keller Williams

Associate Broker

BA in Business Administration

Direct: 360-909-0550

Visit my website: www.vancouvermlsonline.com

Listen to my pre recorded KW opportunity call - 712-432-1284 code 358265#

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T09:18:00.001-08:00

The sun is out which is a blessing itself as November has been very rainy here in Washington. I am thankful for all of the blessings in my life - my family, and my health. I am so lucky to be living my dream! Now, off to enjoy the weather and ride!!

Proof that Heart and Desire Makes A Difference

2009-11-21T12:03:00.000-08:00

Last night, I came home around 5pm and went out to feed my horses. It was dark by then and hard to see. I have 5 acres that are pretty much all pasture, with my home sitting in the center north portion, so there is pasture on each side and the horses can roam freely. The horses also use my neighbors adjacent property and this is in front of my house.

Anyway, I decided to feed on the opposite pasture from where the horses were, requiring them to go all the way around to this other side. 2 of my horses came cantering over but my third horse, and the one that is usually first to the food was nowhere in sight. I went around to the other side and ran right in to my Left Brain Extrovert on adrenaline. Something had spooked him and then he realized his buddies were gone and he was running full throttle in the neighbors field - man can that horse run. He could see the other horses from there but couldnt figure out how to get from a to b as there is fencing. He was thinking of jumping it and I didnt want him to get hurt.

In the past, being in this situation with a high spirited, very athletic prey animal would have been a bit scary. However, now I thought "oh boy" how can I help manage this?

Heres where heart and desire comes into play. Because I have gained heart and desire from Sparkle, I was able to pattern interrup, and avoid him jumping the fence. I led him by the chin (I didnt have a halter with me) with him surrending to me with a lowered head, all the way around the property. When I got him into the other pasture, he still didnt know how to get to the horses so he took off galloping and I mean galloping through the pasture trying to find them. He can roaring back to me and did a slidding stop at my side. The thought that went through my head during this was "Could I ride through that if I was on his back?" which led me to realize I need to work on balance if I am going to ride through that kind of power.

I led him then to the remaining side and to his buddies. He was breathing heavy with adrenaline and so I stayed by him until he settled down.

What does heart and desire have to do with this? I have taken the time with this horse to set the foundation for success, starting with the relationship first, building heart and desire, which is the first and most important quality of a horseman. When you take to the time to build this, you will get #2 which is respect. I have this with Sparkle, and he respected me as a leader to follow me with out resistance. As Pat says, "Be an icon of safety for your horse" and Sparkle sees me as that icon of safety, which is what a prey animal wants first and foremost. They cannot do anything with thought until they feel safe - period.

Heart and desire - yes, it does make a difference! How cool! I think this works with the humans in our lives too :)

What is Your "Horsenality"? And How Does That Relate To Your Horse & Life

2009-11-17T08:43:00.000-08:00

One thing that has been a real eye opener for me in playing with horses is becoming aware of the non verbal energy that my body puts out. I have known that we are all energy beings but I would bet that the majority of us dont realize the magnitude of energy we put off. Being aware of this and learning how to control your energy will serve you well with your horse and with others as well.

Why? Well if you have an introverted horse and your body is putting high amounts of energy out, this can really bother or worry that type of horse. Or, if you are asking your horse to be still but your body energy is not in neutral, it will confuse your horse. Or if your horse is high energy extrovert and you are always moving at the pace of a snail, your horse may become bored with you and start to take over leadership.

Really it is the same with people - have you ever been around someone with low energy or maybe is less outgoing than another? Depending on your personality and energy, you may or may not "connect" with that person.

The cool thing is that we can learn to bring the life up in our body when appropriate but to also go to neutral and everywhere in between. Its not easy but with practice, its amazing how aware you become. When you practice this down to your core, you will notice changes in your horse. Remember how sensitive they are and they pick up on your intentions before you do!

A fun way to rate your "human horsenality" as well as your horses "horsenality" is by the Parelli Horsenality Chart - see the link below. Fill one out for your horse and then one for you. Are you innately compatible? If not, what traits do you have that might be in conflict with your partner? Can you work on bringing those up or down? This is a great exercise to do with your human significant other as well.

Also keep in mind that this chart will change for your horse and you too, depending on the situation. For example, your horse may be an extrovert when playing with you at home, in your arena or pasture. But he may become introverted when learning something new, maybe being on an unfamiliar trail or competition etc. So make sure to chart for various situations so you can address the horse that shows up in those moments.

http://files.parelli.com/HorsenalityChart.pdf

One of the takeaways I have had is that I have considered myself an introvert but people have continually told me that I am "high spirited" and put out a great deal of energy (I hear this from the introverts mainly :)). That really has been a learning for me and my focus when I work with horses is to be aware of that energy and to make it appropriate for the horse.

Go out today and be aware of your energy and see how that affects the horses (and humans) in your life.

Love This Poem

2009-11-08T15:03:00.001-08:00

Promise Yourself

Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best and expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

--

So Cool

2009-11-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my farrier, Jerry came to his routine hoof appt with my boys. I have to say that since I got Marley, I actually get a little worried when I see the appt on my day timer. Marley, who has been with me now almost 3 months, is so touchy with his legs and feet. By touching I mean he can boot me across a football field with his side cow kicks :). Wow he has some power - when you see that thigh muscle start to wind up, be warned. Staying true to natural horsemanship, instead of saying "Oh no", I have said over and over "Oh boy what an opportunity" (well truth be told I have said a couple oh no's too but Im over that).

Anyway, I made a program out of working with Marley the last 6 weeks, at least 5 days per week, 2 times per day (quick sessions though) with touching his legs and feet. I had faith that we would make progress and that he would say I was doing this for him and not to him. I was not on my schedule but on the horses - progressing on his time.

Well that appt came yesterday and I was worried - did we make progress? I knew Marleys back feet were still a bit off limits but I had gotten his front legs and feet where he could be handled no trouble, where he was rearing previously. I taught him the command "foot" and to lift when he hears this word. BUT would it work with Jerry?

To my delight, Marley was awesome with Jerry on his front legs - no rearing, nothing - soft as a feather. On his back legs, he got worried once but no kicking. Jerry didnt trim his back feet, just handled and picked to let Marley know he was a good guy.

The coolest thing of this all was Jerry saying he noticed the improvement - I feel so happy for Marley and me!!! Sometimes it doesnt seem like things are working but if you have FAITH and keep doing the RIGHT things every day in life, no matter if it is wtih horses or with humans, trust that things will work out!!!

And of course, thank you to Marley for trusting in me and allowing us to work together in our lifelong partnership.

Progress

2009-10-25T13:01:00.000-07:00

I was watching some video shot earlier in the year when I was practicing for one of my auditions. Ouch - I didnt like what I saw BUT it did help me see what progress I have made. AND the weird (well not so weird really) thing is how well things are going with Cutter and Sparkle. Sparkle and I have had a huge huge breakthrough and after looking at these tapes from February, I see it because I have improved. Its been me all along. I ran out an apologized to my horses after watching these - thankfully they are patient and forgiving. It wasnt that I was mean or anything, I was just lacking savvy - still am but my skill set has gotten better.

An example, Sparkle wouldnt back up for the life of him or me when I was shooting those previous videos. Now, just a slight figure movement and he goes backward - so beautifully and softly. And liberty - it like dancing with him - wonderful connection - almost hard to describe. We have gone from misunderstandings to harmony and it feels so good. What changed? Me I guess. I am sure when I watch tapes I am making now next year, I will cringe but I am committed to progressing naturally and never ending self improvement.

If you are having a challenge with your horse, I suggest you video tape you and your horse. It will be telling - and remember, the horse is respoding because either he is afraid for his life (darn we cant that mother nature flight instinct out of them) or he doesnt understand what you are asking of him. Slow it way down and understand his response, get better yourself and you will see a change, I guarantee it.

Horsenality...in all five areas

2009-10-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

Last week Lillan Roquet said something to me about horsenality that was a light bulb on moment. We were talking about my new horse Marley and how I think he is innatelly a Left Brain Introvert. However, he has an issue with picking up his hind feet and he seems to be RBI/RBE with this task and also when being away from the herd.

She said to do a horsenality chart for the following areas of confidence: in you as the leader, in themselves, in his herd, in his environmnet and as a learner. I remember hearing this from Pat and Linda before but for some reason it didnt sink in until I heard it again.

Of course horses are not the same throughout everything they encounter or do. Knowing how they are apt to react and what "horsenality" may show up, is so helpful.

Go to parelli.com and download a horsenality profile for horse and fill it out in all 5 areas - you will be amazed at how much this helps.

Life is so short

2009-10-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

Found out today that my real estate mentor, Howard Brinton, has been diagnosed with terminal bone cancer with a short life expectancy. I am devastated by this news. Howard founded Howard Brinton StarPowers, www.gostarpowers.com which brought together the top realtors in the industry across the USA to network and share. I have been in the group for 5 years and I attribute the group for helping me achieve the great success I have in my real estate career. My thoughts go out to Howards wife and family and I hope he knows what a difference he made on so many lives. Howard is to the real estate industry what Pat Parelli is to us in the horse world.

Here is one thing I learned from Howard that has become an important concept in all facets of my life:

Be - live with intergrity, joy, wisdom and let these things be your guiding light
Do - put the time in to whatever it is that you desire, have the will to try and the faith that it can happen
Have - when you live true to who you are and do what it takes, you will have whatever it is in life you desire.

You must be BE who you need to be before you can HAVE and isnt this so true with horses?

Thank you Howard for making a difference!

Saddle Fitting

2009-10-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

I have learned more about saddles and horse anatomy and bio-mechanics than I ever thought I would. Growing up and riding as a child and even as an adult, I really never gave the saddle a second though (how sad!). My horse Sparkle came to me with extensive white hairs on his upper back - that must have been one horrible saddle. And from the time I met him at the barn he was at until about 2 months ago, he would try to walk off when saddling, nipped during the process etc. Poor Sparkle - I hope he forgives our ignorance.

Over the last 16 months, I have tried a mirage of saddles, spent thousands of dollars, did hours of research, wither and back tracing etc etc and still no saddle would fit this horse they way it should. Every saddle was too narrow (even the "wide" saddles). I decided to research treeless saddles - of which I knew 0 about and had never considered. After countless hours of research, I decided on the Barefoot brand. The specifications of the design seemed to be appropriate for the bio-mechanics of the horse and address the rider's needs as well.

To make a very LONG story short, the change in Sparkle when saddling him with the Barefoot Atlanta as well as riding, has been tremendous. I am using a Grandeur pad - I do have a Parelli Theraflex that I am going to experiment with the saddle as well.
The Barefoot saddle has built in panels to distribute my weight across the horses back as well as ample wither clearance based on the design of the saddle. It is comfortable for me - although it does require an independent seat, which is what we are striving for right? The saddle weights 13 lbs which I love but again the most important test of approval was from the horse - and he gives it 2 thumbs up.

I am going to demo an Ansur treeless as well in my quest for never ending improvement. I want to see if there is even a better model for my horses and I will let you know what I find out.

Rapport

2009-09-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

I was playing with my horses last night when my paint Cutter, who is 16, offered a great deal at liberty. This was amazing as Cutter is the type of horse that isn't particularly interested in people and putting out much effort with concern to people.

He is very obedient when riding etc but doesn't exude excitement like he particularly enjoys being with people as much as my other 2 horses. It may be in how he was treated prior to my ownership 16 months ago. However over the last 16 months, my first priority has been to develop rapport with him and I am amazed at where it shows up! Cutter offered to play at liberty last night - doing figure 8's around cones, standing on the pedestal (well he always does that, its his favorite), weaving through barrels, circles at liberty, mirroring and matching, even trotting with me while I "trotted". That was the best as he doesn't rev up much unless he is scared.

So I thought about rapport and how most people with horses do not even have this word in their vocabulary. I mean, it is just common sense - and if you are reading this post, you probably already have it. But you would be surprised how people put their goals and needs in front of building the foundation, starting with rapport.

So what is rapport?

Rapport, according to multiple online dictionaries is - "an emotional bond or friendly relationship between people based on mutual liking, trust, and a sense that they understand and share each other's concerns."

Wikpedia describes the word rapport in terms of humans - "Rapport is one of the most important features or characteristics of unconscious human interaction. It is commonality of perspective: being "in sync" with, or being "on the same wavelength" as the person with whom you are talking."

Think about your work situation - do you have a manager or leader? If the very first time you met that person, they started barking orders at you, telling you what to do, when to do and how to do without even bothering to introduce themselves, you would be put off I am sure. It is only natural that someone build some sort of rapport with you, gains your respect through rapport and then go from there. So why is it that most humans dont take the time to do this with their horse?

When you build rapport, you get heart and desire and there are no limits when a horse tries because he wants to do it for you, not because he HAS to do it or else. Same with a person, a person who has rapport with someone, will go that extra mile whereas, lack of rapport makes for resentment.

Instinctively I knew about rapport but it was the Parelli program that reminded me to apply it to my horses and boy are we all reaping the rewards.

Go out today, take the time to build rapport with your horse and over time, you will be amazed at what you can achieve together.

Ray Hunt And The Platinum Rule

2009-09-04T20:42:00.001-07:00

Most of us know and subscribe to the Platinum Rule - "Do unto others as THEY wish to be treated". But do we offer this same rule to our horse? Horse by nature being a prey animal do not want to be handled and treated the same way we do, the human - ultimate predator dont forget and we prefer to be handled in a different way in most cases. I know that I use this rule with other people and maybe you do but what about with your horse?

So do you offer your ideas and suggestions in a way the horse wants to be treated. As Ray says so simply in his Turning Loose video, "the horse is treated way down on the totem pole by humans - really like a slave and it doesnt need to be that way." "It is pretty hard to get things done when a horse is in trouble or bothered but so many people try to get the job done when they are bothered".

Hunt once said, “My belief in life is that we can all get along together if we try to understand one another…You’ll meet a lot of people and have a lot of acquaintances, but as far as having friends—they are very rare and very precious. But every horse you ride can be your friend because you ask this of them. This is real important to me. You can ask the horse to do your thing, but you ASK him; you offer it to him in a good way. You fix it up and let him find it. You do not make anything happen, no more than you can make a friendship begin.”

A horse is so sensitive - remember they can feel a small fly land on their back - so there is no need for any pressure really more than that if we remember the Platinum Rule.

I highly recommend you go to www.rayhunt.com and get as many of his videos as you can and wear them out. He truly was a horse-man and used the Platinum Rule - he helped horses understand and humans understand, each in the way that best fit them.

Wrapping This Post Up With "The Guy In The Glass Poem" found on Rays website:

The Guy in the Glass
by Dale Wimbrow, (c) 1934

When you get what you want in your struggle for self,

And the world makes you King for a day,

Then go to the mirror and look at yourself,

And see what that guy has to say.

For it isn't your Father, or Mother, or Wife,

Who judgement upon you must pass.

The feller whose verdict counts most in your life

Is the guy staring back from the glass.

He's the feller to please, never mind all the rest,

For he's with you clear up to the end,

And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test

If the guy in the glass is your friend.

You may be like Jack Horner and "chisel" a plum,

And think you're a wonderful guy,

But the man in the glass says you're only a bum

If you can't look him straight in the eye.

You can fool the whole world down the pathway of years,

And get pats on the back as you pass,

But your final reward will be heartaches and tears

If you've cheated the guy in the glass.

Time Out For Garage Band Concert - Future Stars! My 10 yr old son and "other artists"

2009-08-27T14:19:00.000-07:00

Being Equal On Both Sides Of Our Body

2009-08-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

We all know that we favor one side of our body in doing tasks than another - right handed versus left. Did you know your horse can be the same way? Horses tend to favor one side over the other with the majority tending to favor the left isde. This makes sense with humans tendancy to over due on the left side of the horse.

Traditionally we are taught to "catch" our horse, saddle and bridle from the left. If you have studied any history with horses you know that these traditions come from war times and have nothing to do with the horse or human.

Excellence with horses means we understand the need for both our horse and us to be ambidextrous. Remember, your horse has 2 eyes that see things both together and separately. So what he sees on the left side out of the left eye may become a whole new "scary" thing out of the right eye. In order to balance the horse, we need to develop both sides of the animal.

And of course, in the pursuit of excellence, we need to develop this in ourselves, otherwise our body will be giving off mixed signals. This is a great exercise for life in general as it will help you really use all of your body equally.

Try these exercises today - when you eat, use the opposite hand. Put on or take off the opposite shoe today, this evening brush your teeth with the opposite hand and comb your hair with the opposite hand. Do this for 7 days in a row and see if it makes a difference.

Horses Are Metaphors For Life

2009-08-26T09:39:00.000-07:00

It seems like every day goes by so fast and there is more to do than hours in the day. But, I really want to document my journey of excellence with and through horses and in some way maybe impact another's life as well.

Whether you have horses in your life or not, I really believe you can learn so much from these amazing animals. I know I have. I am on a quest for never ending self improvement in all aspects of my life and horses have made a huge impact for me.

They have taught me patience, leadership, understanding, empathy, humility, focus, justice, team work, humor,the importance of setting something up for success, to live in the moment as they do, communicating through the universal language (body language that is), to be aware of the energy I project and how to control that up or down depending on the situation, and the list goes on.

I am more balanced as a person because of the daily lessons I learn and the principles I have learned and continue to learn have impacted my personal life and professional life in ways I cant even begin to explain.

For those of you who are on the path to being excellent with horses, you know what I mean. And for those of you who dont have these wonderful creatures in your life, I invite you to take a peak into my life with horses as I know you will find some value for yourself.

Favorite Horse Quotes - That Apply To All Aspects Of Life - Even If You Dont Own A Horse

2009-08-25T22:58:00.003-07:00

I have heard many horse clinicians use the following quotes so it is hard to know where to give credit. Most I can trace back to Ray Hunt, Tom and Bill Dorrance, Ronnie Willis and Pat Parelli in their origins. Enjoy!

Cause to do is less than make, and allow to happen is more than let.

If your horse bolts, there's probably a “nut” loose in the saddle.

If your horse doesn't do what you asked, either you asked the wrong question, or you asked the question wrong.

(My all time favorite) It's not the goal so much as who you have to become to achieve it.

The more I learn, the smarter my horse gets.

Everyone wants to go to heaven but no one wants to die.

When horses get scared, they don't think you are going to hurt them. They think you're going to kill them.

Know what happens before what happens happens

When I hear somebody talk about a horse or a cow being stupid, I figure it's a sure sign that animal has outfoxed them" -Tom Dorrance

"There is no secret so close as that between a rider and his horse" -Robert Smith Surtees

"We have almost forgotten how strange it is that so huge and powerful and intelligent an animal as a horse should allow another, and far more feeble animal, to ride upon its back" - Peter Gray

A bad tempered man will never make a good tempered horse

Take the time it takes so it takes less time

Make the wrong thing hard and right thing easy – Ray Hunt

"I got a dope on a rope. Kind of embarrassing in front of my friends” – anonymous horse

In my path, through my constant search, my horse has taught me the limitless progression of life. Every time in my learning that I felt a breakthrough, I opened the door and I found my horse saying, Its about time. Ive been waiting for you. A few weeks later another breakthrough, I opened the doors and there was my horse again. So far I have never found any limits but my own.

"Pressure motivates but its the release that teaches"

When you get savvy, what used to become frustrating now becomes fascinating."

"Do your thinking at night so you can have the time to feel during the day" – Ronnie Willis

Melissa Sovey Nelson..."Could it be, that the horse as a messenger, is such a profound teacher because once upon a time when we listened to healers, all creatures who, in one way or another, inspired us to remember what we already knew, the horse persuaded us to believe in ourselves? As long as we do not ask the horse to forget who he is, he will remind us of who we want to be."

May the horse be with you.

Good judgment comes from experiencing and learning from your own bad judgment."It is important to be mentally, emotionally and physically fit to ride."

"The only constant thing in life is change, and things can change rapidly when you are dealing with horses."

"Don't encourage a horse who's already trying."

"Practice doesn't make perfect. Only PERFECT practice makes perfect."

Ignorance takes the dignity out of the horse"

Don't be offended by your horse".

"Do less sooner, than more later

"Recognize the slightest try."

Don't step over dollars to pick up pennies

"If your green your growing, if your ripe your rotten"

Remember, your rein isn't on the bit, it's on the foot. You are leading his foot, not his head. Ray Hunt

"Horses cannot not be prey animals, so to make the relationship work, we need to learn how to not be predators."

"I don't blame my horse. He's just being the best that he can be in spite of me."

"Slow and right beats fast and wrong!"

"He might join up today... but he's got to re-enlist tomorrow."

Prior and Proper Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance – Pat Parelli

Some people, when they get too old to be bad examples, they sit on the porch and hand out bad advice."

He knows when you're happy He knows when you're comfortable He knows when you're confident And he ALWAYS knows when you have carrots

Good,better,best. never let it rest. get your good better and your better best _ George Burns Comedian

"You've got to give something you never gave to get something you never had"

You have to be effective to be understood and you have to be understood to be effective."

If we could pour about a gallon of horse into the human and about an ounce of human into the horse, we’d have a good creature, it would be called a horse-man"

"I'm an extremist.. I'm an extreme middle of the roadist"

"Be as gentle as you can but firm as necessary, be firm without getting mean or mad and be gentle without being a big sissy."

"Exaggerate to teach, refine as you go along."

"Most people never have time to do it right but they’ve always got time to do it wrong over and over again".

"Principles before goals."

"I wanna turn'em and burn'em, spin'em and win'em, but I want a good relationship first."

I used to be normal, now I'm natural.

Inside every wild horse is a gentle horse; inside every gentle horse is a wild horse.

Reward the slightest try.

Put your heart in your hands and touch your horse with your heart.

If your horse is recreation for you, can you be recreation for your horse?

Act like a partner, not a predator.

To err is human, but to blame the horse is even more human.

When you want to learn as badly as you want air, then you'll be easy to teach." – PP

"Never knock the curiosity out of a young horse." - Tom Dorrance

"Don't break any promises to your horse." - PP

"I've got one rule: there are no rules." - PP

"Feel of, for, together." - Ray Hunt

"Cause your ideas to become your horse's ideas, but understand his ideas first." - PP

"Do it for the horse, not to him." – PP

My goal with the horse is not to beat someone; it's to win within myself. To do the best job I can do and tomorrow try to do better. You will be working on yourself to accomplish this, not on your horse." Ray Hunt

Horsemanship can be obtained naturally through communication, understanding, and psychology, versus mechanics, fear, and intimidation.

"Its what you learn after you know it all that counts"

"Trust that they will respond, but be ready to correct. Not more one than the other."

There are no problem horses, only problem riders.

"You can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink, but.. if you know what you're doing you can cause him to be thirsty when he gets there."

Imagination is more valuable than knowledge – Einstein

The pain of the practice is so worth the gain of the result.

Know where to be, when to be, why to be, and what to do when you get there"

"The four most handicapping words in the English language: can't, won't, don't, yeah but."

Communication is two or more individuals sharing and understanding an idea."

"If you are to obtain Natural HorseManShip through progressive thinking, you must first realize that a horse is not just a horse. He is an attitude with four feet and he thinks differently than you and I" ~ Pat Parelli

The horse is nature in it's finest form.

Observe, remember, compare."

Love language and leadership in equal doses.

Ask Me About The 7 Games Horses Play With Each Other And You Can Too

2009-08-25T22:50:00.000-07:00

My Guys

2009-08-25T22:45:00.000-07:00

One Of My Favorite "Horse" Songs And Videos

2009-08-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/user/katiedrakesongs