I was at a barn recently, talking to the manager about a client who would be hauling her mule in. A rider standing by wanted warning ahead, her horse (or someone riding her horse) didn’t like mules. A couple of weeks later that same rider told me that my music spooked her horse. She said … Read more
Ah, Spring! When a young girl’s thoughts turn to… horses. Just like old girl’s thoughts, and just like every other day of the year. Horse-crazy girls are a consistent bunch. Most of my clients are adults, but now and then, I get a young rider and I love it. It’s nice to be reminded. This … Read more
My hay guy got a new truck- a pristine dually in a pearlized-platinum color, with near Porsche-like lines. That big diesel engine hums like a finely tuned tank. If Tony Soprano had a truck, it would look like this. I liked it even more the second time I saw it, muddy and mussed. Should a … Read more
I have been blogging along for a couple of years now and I notice that no one is asking me for beauty tips. I wonder why that is? It couldn’t be that I offended with last week’s rant about non-helmet wearing riders who have more concern about their hair than their brains. It can’t be … Read more
“Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate and wine in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming “WOO HOO what a ride!” The first time I saw this quote … Read more
The gate opened and in came the first horse/rider combination. The horse was a post-prime Arabian, trotting quickly with her nose out. She was groomed to a shine, with a braid in her mane already beginning to fray. The rider was a tiny girl in jeans, rubber tall-boots and a scuffed helmet. I think she … Read more
The World Equestrian Games are in the United States for the first time, at the Kentucky Horse Park. It isn’t too late to watch it on FEI TV. Eight riding disciplines are represented, many reflecting old world skills like dressage. Reining is a comparatively new sport, born in the American west, competed on American Quarter … Read more
It is a vintage parade saddle, the kind the Lone Ranger rode Silver in. I am a dressage rider, we are famous for NOT being flamboyant dressers.
The helmet debate continues for riders, especially of my generation. It flares up when well-known competitors or local friends get injured. After the incident passes the debate continues at a quiet level. I will be honest: I am late to the helmet wearing side of this debate. Before, I would wear them for some events … Read more
Spring is the time for two of my favorite things. First, my horse’s birthdays. It is the day that the tables turn after 364 days of serving them and I get a present for me! Second, it is time to dance. I love riding to music and musical freestyles. Horses respond to music and it … Read more