Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Healing Shine

Healing Shine~A Spiritual Assignment

This is an amazing story about Michael Johnson and his horse, Shine.

Michael decides to purchase Shine, even after being discouraged. He is not sure what possessed him to do so. He soon finds out why he had been discouraged. Shine proves to be near impossible to deal with or to ride. He seems to be frightened of everything. Michael tries and tries, to no avail, to reach Shine. He struggles through his family's old cowboy ways, to eventually find a much better way. A very natural way.

This is a true story. Michael takes you through his trials and tribulations with Shine. The happy will make you laugh, and yes, the sad will make you cry. Michael finally realizes that he was MEANT to help Shine. He has to help Shine heal, from the inside, so he can do what is asked of him on the outside. This process took him years, which I can relate to. Their circumstances very closely mirror what I went through with Scottie, so much so that I contacted Mr. Johnson. To my pleasant surprise he responded, and we have since become long distance friends. This is a terrific book, for the non horsey set as well as the horse lovers out there. Treat yourself to this book, and please tell Michael that Loretta & Scottie sent you!

http://www.michaeljohnsonbooks.com










Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Last month's donation

Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation
P.O. Box 3387
Saratoga, NY 12866

518-226-0028

November 25, 2009

Mrs. Loretta Arey
20/20 Horsemanship
231 Seneca Rd.
Great Falls, VA 22066

Dear Mrs. Arey:

Thank you for your generous donation on behalf of 20/20 Horsemanship, paid with a Visa. Without the support of companies like yours, Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation would not be able to accomplish its mission.

Donations like yours allow TRF to provide quality care for our wonderful horses. These retired thoroughbreds have worked hard for their owners and the general public, earning money and providing enjoyment. TRF, in conjunction with our fine supporters, works equally hard to give back to the thoroughbreds. In private placements and on satellite farms, our retirees are saved from slaughter and live out the remainder of their lives as they were meant to. And in our successful prison work programs it is a definite two-way street - inmates nurture the horses, and in turn experience the reward of meaningful work.

Once again, thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation








Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

November Newsletter





Hello and Happy Thanksgiving. There has been a lot going on in and around the barn this month! We have games on horseback for kids, developing your seat instruction for teens and up and much more!

Check in on Stryker and his progress with settling in to his new home.

We are now offering discount lesson packages! So many of you were asking for this, so we delivered! Read the details below.

Please call and set up a time to meet at the barn. I'd love to introduce you to my herd of amazing equines.

Have a safe and wonderful holiday with your loved ones.

Loretta

Games on Horseback
Scottie-the one who started it all.
Have some pony fun time! Run through an obstacle course: pick up objects, drop them off somewhere else, go through a gate, cross logs, and oh, did I mention this is on the pony? Well, part of it. Sometimes you ride at a walk to the next obstacle where you might then dismount-on the wrong side! Then get back up, on the wrong side and trot to the next one! It's great for kids 6-12 they just love it. I will be incorporating this type of activity into the regular lesson program for kids.

Piero says, "Let's give it a whirl!"



Discount Lesson Packages are here!

The cost of each private one hour + lesson is $65.00. Now you have the option to purchase either 4 or 8 at a time.

The 4 lesson package costs $240.00 which is a savings of $20.00.

The 8 lesson package costs $475.00 which is a savings of $45.00!


As always, our website is full of valuable information.
Thank you to everyone who has been there and encouraged me along the way. Horse training was always my passion, but I'm not sure I would've been able to offer my services to others without your help/

Have a safe and pleasant holiday.
Sincerely,
Loretta Arey
20/20 Horsemanship
703-973-0780
Scottie-the one who started it all.
Current Openings
Tuesdays @3pm
Wednesdays @10am
Saturdays @3pm
Sundays at 11:30am

Scottie-the one who started it all.
Stryker
Stryker is our new 16.1hh Thoroughbred Cross gelding. He is approx. 15 years old. He is a very sweet guy, wants to please and knows his job. He was previously a 2' show hunter. Always honest to the jumps, great to learn on.
He has been in ground training here. He is learning that he may not use his (rather large) head to push us or point with. He is learning how to lead quietly and to stand still. Under saddle his manners are impeccable. View his photo slide show here.






Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Thursday, November 12, 2009

We named him Stryker




Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Friday, October 30, 2009

New Horse Continued

I went to see and ride one more horse today. He is a nice 16.1h, thoroughbred cross gelding, 15 years old. He is mostly white, kind of flea bitten grey. He has been a lesson horse. Has taught beginners, has taken more advanced riders to shows over 2' fences. He can even do lead changes. It has really been a tough choice, but I did choose him today. Since he knows the lesson routine, I thought he'd be the best suited. He will actually be working much less living here with us, he'll feel like he's getting somewhat of a vacation.

Here's a picture of Handsome (Cool Hwip) the horse:

The rider in the picture is the young lady who has been riding and showing him. He has lived in TN and in MD, and gone to shows in both states. They've earned champion and reserved champion several times. He definitely knows his way around a ring filled with jumps!

I plan on picking him up tomorrow.

So, come on ladies! Let's get you riding!



Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

New Horse

In an effort to provide all of my current and future students the best all around horsemanship experience, I have decided to add a medium sized horse to my herd.

The decision is not yet final. The buying process is just that, a process. There are many factors to consider. The hardest being that the horse is not meant to be a riding horse for me, but a teacher for my students. I also require that he/she be fun for a more advanced, experienced rider.

Stay tuned to find out which one I choose!

Zoey
Flower Power
Gemstone
or
Selena





Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Why I do this part II

I have a new student who came out for her second lesson last week. Her mom rode as a youngster & through part of her teen years, until a bad fall kept her away. Apparently the quiet horse spooked and off she went, breaking both of her seat bones. She never got back on.

She lived around horses and always admired & appreciated their beauty.

Thirty four years have passed since her devastating fall.

After her daughter's lesson was finished the other night, we were talking. I asked her to just sit on Piero. She DID. I was thrilled beyond belief. She stated that she felt very comfortable and safe with me and with Piero. She'd only been with us twice, so that meant a lot to me. But the fact that she got ON him. I was beside myself with joy.

I then asked her if she'd like me to lead her around for a moment. "Yes, I would love that." She said to me. So I led her around the paddock for a time or two. Her smile went on forever. I nearly cried. It was truly a very special moment. I could feel Piero's walk change: as we were going she was remembering how to ride and was actively using her legs.

When she got off we embraced and were thrilled to have shared that very special moment. And guess what? She thinks lessons may be her next step. She is a very brave soul to accomplish that after all these years She put everything on the line with a complete stranger. (Well, almost.) I believe she tapped into her intuition and just knew she'd be safe. We'll be talking about how to use intuition while riding and around horses more next month.

For now, I am so proud of B! And thank you for allowing me the honor of being the one who helped you.

Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Why I do this

When I started teaching horsemanship, I mainly taught horses and their owners. I love doing that, it is my passion. What I didn't realize was that as I started to teach children, especially beginners, how much I would love that too. There are so many wonderful reasons I am teaching and so many ways in which I am blessed. I hope this list makes you smile on this rainy day.

  • The eager look in a child's eyes.
  • The BIG smile on their face
  • Watching a child feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.
  • Helping the student work through something that had been tough for them. When THEY feel the satisfaction, so do I.
  • Knowing that the horsemanship skills they are learning today will help them on their journey tomorrow. Not just with the horses.
  • The kids learn : patience, kindness, to be gentle, to ask softly or quietly and add (pressure) as needed, leadership, positive thinking, & the power of visualizing.
I know there is much more, but these items come to mind right away. What do you notice about them? They are all qualities we want our children to grow up having, whether or not horses are in their lives.

Make it a great day,

Loretta

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Charitable Organizations

Every month I donate 10% of my earnings to charity, usually an animal related charitable organization.


Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation


This past July we lost our beloved ex race horse, Tango. You may read about it here. He touched our hearts in so many ways and we miss him deeply. My daughter Lauren and I thought it would be a nice idea to give to a thoroughbred retirement facility. Sadly there are many thoroughbreds that get tossed aside when they can no longer race, for whatever reason. We are eternally grateful to Tango's past owners....the ones who bought him at a stakes race and decided to sell him. How he ended up here we'll never know, but at least he lived a good life. If you would like to contribute, you may do so directly on their site at:


Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation





Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Grooming Tips

Grooming Tips for natural horsemen (& women):



It’s a good idea to groom your horse daily for several reasons, including the prevention of possible problems by spotting minor scratches, rashes, cuts or swelling before they become serious.

A horse relies on his hair, skin secretions and a thin film of dust to protect against insect bites, scraping, chafing and chapping. The natural grime hosts friendly bacteria; however, regular grooming is still necessary to help ensure a healthy and happy horse. Even if you cannot groom your horse every day, make sure you at least curry and brush him to remove dead hair and dirt. Brushing also helps stimulate the natural oils in the coat that help make the coat shiny.

Quick Tips for Grooming and Washing:

  • Do not let dirt build up on brushes during grooming. Knock off the coarse dirt and hairs after each session.
  • I prefer to keep my horses ears, chin, muzzle & nose unclipped.
  • A horse’s mane and tail are supposed to look natural even after they have been clipped.
  • Go easy on the soap! Excess shampoo is difficult to rinse out, can leave skin itchy and strips away essential oils from your horse.
  • Have different-size sponges handy: a large one for the body and a smaller one for the sheath, other delicate areas and for the face.
  • Make sure to use a mild conditioner for the mane and tail after washing.
  • Be sure to towel dry when you are completely done, and dry your horse’s heels to avoid cracking and drying.

Grooming Supplies:

  • Curry comb
  • Medium- and hard-bristle brush
  • Mud brush
  • Soft body brush
  • Rub rag or grooming mitt
  • Hoof pick
  • Plastic comb or brush for mane and tail

Bathing Supplies:

  • Rubber curry comb or mitt
  • Adjustable-spray hose
  • Bucket
  • Shampoo formulated for horses
  • Mane and tail conditioner
  • Sponges
  • Sweat scraper
  • Towels
With all of this in hand you'll be well on your way to a happy, healthy & squeaky clean horse!

This article was adapted from an article by Tractor Supply.



Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Saturday, October 3, 2009

The Natural Horseman New Students!



Welcome to our new students!

In the last 2 weeks:

Erica, Mary Glen, Ashley, Julia & Maggie


Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Top 10

20/20 Horsemanship's Top 10


Look where you want to go.

Gain Respect on the ground.

Toes up/Heels down.

Always wear a helmet.

Ask the horse rather than make him do something.

If he does not comply, either you asked the wrong question or asked the question wrong.

Be the Leader.

Be willing to always be a student. We can never know enough.

Eyes up.

Take the time it takes.



Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Looking Where you want to go

Looking where you want to go
Horsemanship and everyday life
Scottie-the one who started it all.You will often hear me telling students, "Look where you want to go!" There are several reasons for this:
  • The horse actually feels your weight shift when you turn your head. Your seat bones shift and he understands a direction or command is coming. Sometimes he will actually turn just because you simply turned and looked.
  • If you tend to look down, the horse will not easily move forward. And, you may very well up up on the ground!
I like to think of my work with horses in a metaphorical sense at times. In our lives, when we are aware of 'where we are going', we are more likely to get there. By that I mean our goals and dreams. Set a goal, lay out the steps to reach it, and BAM we will hit it like a target. So again, we are looking where we want to go. Not where we are, we are not stationery, but where we WANT to be.

I'd like to hear your thoughts on this, so please send them to me!



Loretta

the natural horseman

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Piero's training

I can not say enough about this little guy. Don't let his size fool you, he is the COMPLETE package!

He takes the beginner children around on the lead rope, then makes them feel really great when I take them off the lead. He simply follows me everywhere I go. They all get a kick out of that. The older, more experienced riders really enjoy how easily maneuverable he is. Just turn your head and look where you want to go, and he's off. Just a push with your seat and he walks on. Simply stop riding, and he halts. The students that are trotting are also having a blast with him. He is extremely reliable and hard working. He just loves his job!

He's been out on the trails now several times. I took him out for a long trail ride myself and was very impressed, as were my trail riding buddies. He crossed every creek, drank from the river, went in the water, carried himself downhill wonderfully, and seems to pick his footing very carefully and wisely.

My 12 yr old daughter has ridden him a few times out on the trails now, and I led a student (for the first time) on a short trail loop.

Let me know if you are interested in learning how to trail ride and we can set up a time to get you out there!




Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Summer Lessons are a success!

Wow! What a terrific summer we have had. I've been very busy with lessons and training and I love every moment of it!

The paddock renovation is complete, as well as the fence in the front yard. The newly fenced in area there in perfect for riding. I will be putting some jumps out there in the near future!

Thank you to all of my wonderful students (and their families) for giving me the opportunity to share my knowledge with them. I am very passionate about what I do and it is very pleasing to see all of you learning so much.

Please feel free to add any comments, or ask any questions right here on my blog.


Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Summer Horsemanship Lessons

Summer horsemanship Lessons are in full swing!

Wow, what a response I am receiving from offering horsemanship lessons! It seems a lot of you were looking for something more than just a riding lesson. Good for you!

If the riders of today want to become responsible horse owners in the future, then they need more than just a riding lesson!

I am truly enjoying working with all of you, kids and adults. It brings me joy to see the amazement on your faces when you see how we can get the pony to move with us-no halter or lead rope required.

Thank you to those who had to suffer through the mud and the muck! Now that the paddock is completed, what a difference it makes.

What does a horsemanship lesson include?

  • Basic ground work for the horse
  • An understanding of the importance of ground work
  • Leadership & Communication
  • Herd behavior & Body Language
  • Learning the parts of the horse's body
  • Proper grooming techniques
  • Explanations of tack and its purpose
  • Tacking up
Beginner Riding includes:

  • Focus on a safe & secure seat
  • Purpose & importance of seat bones
  • What the aids are and how to use them
  • Asking the pony to move forward
  • Asking the pony to halt
  • Turning

Check out the website for more details and to find out about our referral program!

We are quickly filling up, so if you've been thinking about it, now is the time.



Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Losing Tango

I'm not sure where to begin. I could start by saying I had to put a horse down. Or I could start by saying my old Thoroughbred had an abscess that ended up deadly. Wherever I begin, it ends the same. Tango is gone. And I miss him.

Several months ago I felt Tango saying he was not going to make it through the summer. I tried to ignore it, but it remained in the back of my mind. I am practicing my animal communication daily, and becoming pretty good at it. Of course, when I heard this I chose to think I was way of base and had a vivid imagination.

In the beginning of the year, my friend Sean was riding Tango with me and Scottie. They became fast friends and we all had a great time. I think Tango really enjoyed being out with his pasture buddy, finally. Then in March the rain started. One clear day I took Tango out on a spur of the moment ride. I'd been missing him since Sean was riding him, and decided it would be nice to take him out alone. We rode down to the river and he had a great time splashing around. Which, by the way, was only the second time he entered the water. He typically would spin and say, "water, no way. can't get THESE feet wet." I could tell he actually enjoyed himself. We headed back home, a short ride since I didn't want to overdo it.

Headed towards home he liked to gallop. But we were way down by the water and that's a long way. But he really wanted to. So.....I let him. He was always fun that way. If he had it in him, all you had to do was get up in a galloping seat and we would take off. The race horse in him was always there. So up that L O N G gradual hill we went galloping. All the way to the top. Wow, the smile on my face went for miles! He was huffing and puffing at the top, but he was thrilled with himself that he did it. We walked out of the woods, and when we got to the bluestone path that leads to home, again, he asked to gallop. So we did. The wind in his mane, the deep black flapping in front of me. He would get long and low, like the race horse he was, and almost disappear from under me. But I knew he had brakes if I needed them so I was never concerned. He never once tried to be a run away.

I was so happy. And he was too. For some reason when we arrived home, I thought to myself, that could very well be our last gallop.

The rest of March and most of April rained. No one went out. Then I fell off Scottie on April 24, broke my ankle, and didn't ride till a few weeks ago. I rode Astro in the field while Lauren rode Tango. We pretended we were ranchers surveying our land.

On Sunday, June 7 I set out on a trail ride with Astro, Lauren & Tango. The ride was mainly to get me out on the trail again. My first trail ride since my big incident. On the way home I thought I noticed Tango jigging, which was a common thing for him. Since I wasn't sure how Lauren would handle that, I rode up closer to get a better look. I noticed a very pronounced head bob. He was lame.

The lameness progressed and on Thursday, June 11 the vet diagnosed an abscess. No big deal. He's had them before. I'd soak his foot in hot water and epsom salt and it would pop in a day or 2. But it didn't. Instead, his entire coronet band swelled. Huge.
It kept swelling. Looked like it was going to come out in 2 places, but never did. On Tues. June 23 the vet came out and drilled the two places open. It did some draining but still, the swelling never left. It was obvious he was in a lot of pain. Only touching his toe down, trying to hop on 3 legs. Pain killers, antibiotics, soaking, poulticing, we did it all. He was telling me this was it.

He would lay down in the field, put his head down and say, "I'm tired. My body is old. I've worked hard. It's time to let go." I would cry and say "No, I am not ready to let go! I am going to do everything I can to save you." One day during this repeated conversation, I turned to walk away and very clearly I heard, "You are being selfish." WOW. I took a breath, returned with, "I know and I don't care." Then I went to the barn and cried because I knew there was nothing I could do. I knew he had to go.

I went to the vet's and picked up MORE antibiotics. A week went by. It was intense care, but we loved it. We wanted him to be more comfortable. By this point he was lying down a lot. You could see the age in his face.
The vet was scheduled to come back out on Wed., July 1. On the night of the 30th Tango gave my kids hope by trying to trot in for dinner. We went out to check on him later that night and found him lying down in his stall, head down too. I had to give him his oral antibiotic, which he hated. Well, he allowed me to give it to him while lying there. He didn't even lift his head. All 3 of us started crying. It was so sad. When Tango heard Lauren crying as she walked into his stall, I heard him say, "I can't make my girl cry. " And then he struggled to his feet. We all knew what the vet was going to say in the morning. I spent a lot of that night out there with him. Even checking on him and rewrapping the foot at midnight.

The vet arrived around 10:30am. Xrays were needed and what they showed was bad. The infection ate away at his coffin bone. There was nothing that could be done. We also found a bad case of navicular. Dr. Broadus said that given the recent riding he did, that he was incredible. He should've been lame from that alone for quite some time. In between rain storms in March I would turn Tango out and he would gallop from one side of the pasture to the other, and sometimes back and forth again. Given the case of navicular, THAT was amazing.

Always the proud, honorable race horse related to famed blood lines of Bold Ruler, War Admiral and Man O War.

May 23,1983-July 1, 2009

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Piero's first trail ride!

I've only ridden twice since my fall in April. Both were very short rides on Astro. So, I'm feeling better and decided Piero needed work and this was as good a time as any. Then, to add to that I figured, what the heck, I might as well go for it. I'm feelig pretty good and I eventually need to see what he is like wiht a real rider not in a ring setting.

I mounted him outside of my ring and preceeded to the front yard. I was nervous and he knew it. I was taking very deep breaths and sitting very deeply. I could sense that he was excited, and feeling my nervousness. Several times I sensed him thinking about bucking. Now I actually mean thinking about it. He did not kick out. He did not stop moving forward. I just felt him, well, think about it. I wonder if it's my intuition at play, or if it's some sense I've gained as a rider within my seat. Perhaps it is both. I guess it doesn't matter what IT is, as long as I pay attention to IT, and IT is correct! LOL

I pretended as if I had a ring there and rode around for several minutes like this. A horse and neighbor, Susan & Mo, rode by and invited us to come along for a short walk down the road.

Piero was EXCEPTIONAL. He just looked ahead and walked forward. Please note, this pony has never been on this road before. Never walked down this path, never into these trails. None, nada, nilch. Didn't even turn his head looking out of each eye, side to side. Susan could see his eyes moving, but his head was dead pointing straight ahead.

We took a short loop, in and out. We led and Piero kept a very forward, steady pace. Even walking faster than his new friend, and Irish Sport Horse. Oh, Piero is only 12.2 hands, all a registered Dartmoor can be.

We came home safe and sound which was the plan. And very happy I might add. Now I know I have a great little show pony who is also a great little trail pony, not to mention he is as CUTE as can be.


Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Paddock Renovation

DAY 1 Paddock Renovation

The morning started out nicely, with Carlin doing some prep work while waiting for the bobcat to be delivered. Throughout the day, which was beautiful, Carlin worked on removing the manure pile, removing misc. mud and muck, and grading areas that had eroded.

The paddock already looks brand new! With the removal of two tree stumps and the manure pile gone it looks so big! And, we even found original bluestone under all the sh*t. LOL

I will post pics as soon as I can.

Thomas and I spent a couple of hours painting the fence, so it's looking good too.

The large gravel comes tomorrow! We are SO excited!




Loretta

20/20 Horsemanship

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Exciting things in store......

The onslaught of rain has forced me into finally getting prices for some renovations to my paddocks. I've hired Great Falls native, Carlin Brundage to do the work. He's going to do a bit of grading, add a lot of gravel with a lot of crushed stone on top of that. He's going to do some erosion control in another area, and most exciting, we are talking about additional fencing and a real ring!

I don't have the ring stuff down pat, and not sure I can do it right now, but if I can at least get the fencing up where I want it - that'll give us a grassy area to ride on.

If anyone has any ring and footing suggestions, please bring them on!




Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Pony Rides!

We did our first birthday party pony ride event on Sunday.

What fun! Piero was awesome, calm, cool & collected. He loved all of the attention and was a complete gentleman.

The kids loved him! Several had never been on a pony before-what a special moment it was! We are honored to have been a part of the special day.

A big happy birthday to Alexa Wilson! Piero hopes you had as much fun as he did!


Loretta


because it's not just about the riding

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Enhancing your relationship starts on the ground

Does this describe you? You love your horse, and spending time with him. You enjoy riding, but feel something is missing. And you're not quite sure what it is? Maybe it's a feeling that something else could be going on. An awareness there is more, but you're just not sure how to go about it?

Try starting here:

  • Go BE with your horse. By this I mean, be in the moment. NOW. Horses don't process future events the way we do. Stop thinking about future things, and just BE with your horse. Smell him, touch him, speak quietly to him.
  • Get him, groom him, and take her into an enclosed paddock, or ring. Something smaller than a pasture. Tell him what your intentions are. Then let him go, and just sit there, or lean against the fence. (Maybe bring a chair and a book.) Notice if he gives any subtle notices to your being there. After about 10 minutes, stand up, walk toward him (with your shoulder in front), and stop about 20 feet away. Notice how he reacts. Does he look directly at you or does he completely ignore the fact you are there. If he looks up directly at you, (more than just a fleeting glance), or turns to face you, tell him he’s a good boy, and go away. Sit back down for another 10 minutes.
  • Go toward him again. This time, you want him to give you more. Remember, you didn’t ask him to the first time. If he does nothing, say his name. If you still get nothing, slap your thigh. If you still get nothing say his name while making an arc toward her haunches. If you still get nothing, then ask him to move forward. You are now acting like the lead mare. Circle your arm, whatever it takes, until he STOPS moving AND TURNS to face you. Immediately stop the pressure, and praise him. Then leave again. Do this for as long as time allows.

The goal: For him to TURN and face you just because you are there. When you walk into the middle of the ring, no matter where he is, when he truly sees you as his leader, he will stop what he is doing and turn and face you. You will then be able to bend your body toward his haunches, walk in an arc, and have him keep turning to face you. He’ll almost be doing a turn on the forehand. This is advanced, don’t expect him to do this now, just wanted you to keep in mind the end result.

Eventually you will be able to walk into the pasture when he is grazing, and he'll turn and face you. Probably even walk up to you. When we stand there doing nothing, not expecting anything, it puzzles the horse. Not to mention it is very UNpredator-like. It causes the horse to be curious, to begin thinking about you in a different way.

  • This is an exercise, for lack of a better word, that can and should be done regularly. It is not something you are ever finished with. It's not that once you achieve that goal you can stop and never do it again. It is continuous, it develops your relationship with your horse, as two individual beings. Note I did not say as horse and rider. Truly, the relationship has nothing to do with riding. Riding is simply a (fun) by product of the end result.

Loretta

20/20 Horsemanship

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Your horse is a mirror Part 2

Since my fall, I've been thinking a lot about this subject. I knew that Scottie did not buck me off just because he didn't want me on his back. I also knew he did not spook. Everyone thought he got stung, but I wasn't sure I thought that was it either. So what else could it be, not much left to pick from.

I've been noticing for the last couple of months that he's been showing signs of the 'old' Scottie. A bit more on alert, head up, snorting more, that kind of thing. I began to think I needed to do more ground work with him, that I was slacking with it. Then it dawned on me. Since I broke my ankle, I can't ride. But I can do ground work. (And I have been.) Hmmm, maybe this happened to GROUND me, so I would have no choice but to work him on the ground.

Additionally, I spoke to two trainers about his behavior. They both said that most likely he is in pain. They asked whether or not he'd had any accident or fall. A few months ago he fell going up a muddy hill. The timing is just about right. Since he's been resisting flexing through his poll, it also makes sense. The pieces are starting to come together now. After long discussions with both trainers, they both are fairly certain he is out in his poll and withers.

I am relieved to (hopefully) have an answer. But what about the ground work theory? I still think it holds true. At least it gave me a heads up that I needed to modify my behavior. And, I'll stay on the ground with Scottie until we figure out if something is going on in his poll and withers.

In this instance, he was not acting as a mirror for me, but was telling me or teaching me something that I really needed to pay attention to. Had a been a different kind of person, I might have whopped him with a crop and just got mad at him. Maybe I'd have even thought he was being willfull.

When our horses behave in strange ways we need to remember to look outside of the situation. Aside from always having a horse reason for what they do, they also are sending us very strong messages. Truly, they are amazing creatures.





Loretta

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Training Tip G-Ground Work

Today's training tip begins with Ground Work. It is vitally important, and yet sadly it is also very overlooked. The busy rider just doesn't have the time to spend with their horse, especially if they board, doing anything but riding. I hope after reading this, you will feel differently about that, even if that means instead of going riding one day, you do some ground work instead.

This training tip also applies to those who say, "But my horse is well behaved, he doesn't need training on the ground." I have three things to say to that remark. 1. You are lucky that nothing has fallen apart yet, but don't be surprised if it does. 2. Ground work is not just about the training of the horse. It is training for you too. Realize that we are always teaching our horse, every time we are around him. 3. Doing the kind of ground work I'm going to discuss can not only be considered training, but it WILL enhance your relationship, increase the horse's respect for you, and make you all around better partners.

If you are not familiar with how to use our body language with the horse, please read this article now which touches on the basics. However, there are even more very subtle signals that we are
sending our equine friends.

Horses being prey animals view life in a way that helps ensure their very lives. A predator attacking will typically go for the neck/head. This is why looking directly at the horse, with our two eyes in front, is threatening. Take this a step further, and notice how you stand. Your center is your belly. If your center is directed toward his head, he will likely toss his head up in response to your 'rudeness.' You can bend or turn slightly and his reaction will be more relaxed.

I find that when there seems to be a behavior problem with the horse, it can usually be traced back to the way he is handled. And many times it is something so subtle, the owner has no idea what is going on. The horse is actually REacting to signals you sent. He is not misbehaving, he is acting like a horse. He is reading you like he reads his herd. He has no other way. We, however, do. We can learn the best way to 'talk' to them, since they can not learn our verbal language, nor do they have the ability to think or act like a predator.

Think about what you've just read the next time you greet your horse. If you go right up to him, look at him and kiss, or hug him, don't be surprised if that head goes flying up. (By the way, horses don't really 'get' kissing and hugging. They'd rather have a good scratch on the withers or have you blow in their nostril.)

I will continue writing about this topic, there is a lot to cover!

If you are in Fairfax County, VA, I am now teaching people how to have a better relationship with their horses using these techniques.


Loretta

The Horse Speaks

Monday, May 4, 2009

Training Tip F = FEEL

If you've ever talked to someone about natural horsemanship, you may have heard them mention feel. The word feel, used in this way, represents not just something you touch, but an intuitive touch. It also is similar to energy. Confusing? You betcha.

I can say my good lead rope has a great 'feel' to it. I am not talking about how it feels in my hand, although that is good too. :O) It is heavy, so when I use it communicate with my horse, it sends more energy from me, to him, through it.

I would also use feel to describe when you know to give a release from pressure. Say you are teaching him to flex through the poll. His head is bent around. Now, as soon as he gives a tiny release of that pressure, you remove that pressure. You will learn the timing on that partly by paying attention, and partly by starting to understand feel.

Bill Dorrance wrote a wonderful book called, True Horsemanship Through Feel. It gives countless ways to understand the concept, and is great reference book.

Another thing to keep in mind is how things feel intuitively. Say I'm working with my horse and he's done ok, and it's been about 30 minutes. I'll check in with my intuition, and see how it feels to continue. It might feel right to keep going for another 10-15 minutes. Or perhaps, it doesn't feel right, and I'll find a good note to end on. In this case, it doesn't matter WHY it feels one way or another. Sometimes it seems we will try to analyze our intuition. I think that is the logical brain trying to take over. Just go with your first feeling. You will find as you practice this, using intuition in this way is rather simple. Nothing bad is going to happen either way. So it makes for great intuitive training. Once you do this for a while, try it on other things. I check in with my intuition all the time. If something doesn't feel right, I really take notice.

You will see that the more you do this, the stronger things will either feel right, or wrong.

Let me know how it works, and tell us your stories about how you used your intuition.

L

My Other Blog

20/20 Horsemanship


the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Your horse is a mirror

I just had a rather interesting conversation with a friend. We were discussing how our horses really reflect our personalities. Sometimes this is good, sometimes it shows us things about us we need to change, and sometimes we are too distracted to notice. Here's a few examples:

  • Your horse is skittish and can't stand still
  • Your horse is pushy and disrespectful
  • Your horse barges into your space uninvited
  • Your horse makes his own decisions without regard to your desires
Breaking this down a bit, we could match these traits with human behaviors:


  • You are stressed out about work and are feeling a bit (or a lot) of anxiety.
  • You have a very dominant personality and maybe are a bit pushy, Perhaps you feel the need to have your own way.
  • You like to be in control of others in your life and have an aggressive personality.
  • Again, you are very dominant, maybe even aggressive in nature. Perhaps you are quick to make decisions that effect others in your life without consulting them first.

As you can see, some of these traits are not quite desirable. When we 'see' things in our horse that reflect on us, we know we don't like or appreciate that behavior in him, but often fail to see that we are acting or being the same. It is always a humbling moment to see that the least favorite thing your horse does, is something you also do.

This happened to me for the first time a few years ago. I was training my draft horse when my trainer said he needed more consistency and dependability from me. That he even needed a commitment and a schedule. I will never forget that moment. I wanted to run for the hills! You see, I was not consistent with anything in my life. I'd been a stay at home mom for about 8 years and had gotten into some bad habits. I didn't even have a lot of consistency when it came to my kids, and forget a schedule. What schedule? I thought, "I'm supposed to do these things for my horse and I don't do them for my kids?" I had to realize that I had to BE those things, not just for certain moments, but I had to actually become them. It was tough. It was scary.

I learned a lot from that horse, and continue looking for ways, in him, to improve myself.

Let me know if you've had an interesting moment learning about yourself, from a horse.

L





Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Sunday, March 22, 2009

New pictures





Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Friday, March 20, 2009

Piero the escaping pony

I have these spaces between my fence sections and my barn. I call them people walk throughs. They are a little wider than I had wanted when my fence was built, but I figured, "Oh well. I have a draft and a thoroughbred. Can't imagine ever having anything small enough to fit through this little 18 inch space." Meet Piero.

He not only can fit through, he can move the obstacles I put there in an attempt to keep him in!

Yesterday I went out to throw them some more hay. I noticed Piero was missing. I couldn't find him so I got nervous and started calling his name. I felt like I was calling my kid to come home for dinner. So I go to the tack room, quick grabbed a halter and lead and headed for my gate. I'm calling his name the whole time, and then I see him trotting across my neighbor's field toward home. Not wanting to scare him off and have a loose pony roaming the neighborhood, I just watched him for a moment. He approached my fence line, put his head over, and said, "Did you call me, mom?" A bit surprised, I walked over to the gate and said, "Piero, glad you're back. I was worried about you. Why don't you come in and have some hay with the others?" And through the gate he came.

Maybe this does not sound surprising, but there is grass in my neighbor's field! And that is what he wanted in the first place.


Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Monday, March 16, 2009

Reading before riding lessons

I am a very visual learner. About 16 years ago I started taking riding lessons at a lesson barn again. The advanced flat class was before mine, so I would go early to watch the lesson. My riding improved dramatically just by going to observe these better riders every week. Then my instructor recommended a book, Centered Riding, by Sally Swift. I got it, read it from cover to cover and again noticed an improvement in my riding. I began to realize I was very visual.

I happened to run across this book on the Internet and think it is a great idea.
Click Here!
I would not suggest substituting the book for instruction, however I believe it would serve a good purpose. Especially for those getting back in the saddle after a period of time, or first timers. Some folks just have NO idea what they are getting into with lessons. I had a little girl come for a lesson with rubber rain boots on so big they were falling off of her! I thought I had specified hard soled boots with a heel, but I guess maybe the message wasn't clear enough. Perhaps the information in this book Click Here!
would've mad eit clearer to the parent.

I just thought I'd share those thoughts with you and forward on the resource!

Happy Trails,
Loretta






Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

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Loretta

the natural horseman
clear communication/visible results

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Lessons on Love from a Draft horse


Alright, this is a little off topic, but it's been bugging me, so I need to talk about it.

I've been considering my relationship with my horses, and trying to figure out what is ahead for all of us. Scottie's been a bit heavy on the forehand lately, and just plain strong at the canter.(remember that rope halter we ride in?) I really don't want to put his bridle back on him, but I'm not sure we can do much else other than trail ride without one.

Astro is the perfect little pony. I was thinking to maybe learn how to do cross country with him. But then I feel guilty for not doing it with Scottie. So I was considering the inner lessons Scottie has taught me through the years. And then I had this seemingly crazy thought. What if Scottie's true purpose is to teach me. These types of things, not about riding. And going right along with the crazy theme, I had a flash to my husband.

Lessons on love from my horse? Am I crazy?

I have to give a little background here. My husband is wonderful, charming and very affectionate. Always telling me how beautiful I am and how much he loves me. I, on the other hand, am not very affectionate. So he ends up feeling like he has to ask for love and it makes him very sad. Getting back to the horses which is why you are probably here....I have noticed that Scottie doesn't really like, or want, a lot of physical affection. Astro will let you rub and scratch on him all day. But Scottie will turn his head, then walk away. And it makes me feel a bit sad. Do you see where I'm going with this? Could my draft horse actually be teaching me a lesson on love? So maybe, just maybe, as I become more aware, I will understand in a deeper way how my husband needs more affection and how it makes him feel unloved when he has to ask for it.

Today, out of the blue I walked up to my husband and gave him a little kiss. Honestly, I couldn't remember the last time I just walked up to him and kissed him like that. Thanks Scottieman, you did it again. Who would've thought I could add a lesson on love to all that horse has taught me??!!



Loretta

clear communication/visible results

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Piero Training day 5


These days you can't wipe the smile off of my face! I did some more ground work yesterday with Piero. We played the catching game and got some pretty descent video of it. I'll be posting it as soon as I figure out how! I had him moving around the open field, keeping his attention on me, before I caught him. After I put the halter/lead rope on him I asked him to do some flexing which he is consistently improving on. I am very pleased with the way he recalls and wants to please me.

Today he did some running around. Wow, that little guy is FAST! He out ran Scottie! It was a pretty amazing sight to see.

Yesterday under saddle Piero was terrific. We walked, halted, and trotted around for about 15 minutes. I have not asked anyhting too difficult of him. I had him halting very square and on a dime with not much more than a 'halting thought' on my part. I can't wait to ask him to canter. I'm a little puzzled by the change in him, can't quite figure it out yet. He is much more relaxed and happy now than even a week or 2 ago. Perhaps he simply feels like he belongs here, maybe more wanted? I took my feet out of the stirrups and was bumping my legs all over him, nothing. No reaction at all. I even patted his rump while on him, and still nothing. (I had been told that that sent him to the moon and back.)

This picture was taken yesterday. I will take a better pic and load it next time. My daughter took this, among others.

Anyone have any ideas on his behavior change? I'd love to hear your comments.

Loretta

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Piero's Training Day 4

Wow. I am so excited! I worked with Piero yesterday, and he was super! He is really catching on to the ground work and understanding that I am the herd leader-all the time!

So, yesterday after a short round of ground work, I groomed him and tacked him up. We did a little more ground work, sending back, halting and following, then I got on him. Wow. I was so surprised. When I went to visit him before he came to live with me, I was told that when he was under saddle he was very full of it. They couldn't touch him behind the leg or on his rump. And had to ride with their legs away from his side because of his sensitivity. I knew I felt from the beginning that he was misunderstood, and I guess I was right on there. He was perfect under saddle. It's been two weeks since he arrived and I've not asked much of him except for the little bits of ground work that we've been doing.

He was calm, quite, just wonderful. I had my legs flapping all around him, and took my feet out of the stirrups, put them back in, and he was fine. I turned around and patted his rump, no problem. We trotted and I got an immediate halt when I asked. All this with very light contact. I almost felt like he was saying thank you and that he was very greatful that I took this approach.


I am confident that he will have no further issues and will be quite easy to sell. He has been to shows at Upperville and Frying Pan!

My theory on Piero's previous misbehavior: When the owner let her friend borrow him, they started using him within a couple of days for lessons. I believe that he did not have a human herd leader, and that was the main problem. Do all horses need that in order to behave properly? No. Not all do. However, some do. And maybe that's a good thing. Maybe those are the ones that still have theior original horse spirit in them. They are, after all, herd animals that look for leadership. I read an article written by the dog whisperer and he said that dogs need 1. discipline/direction 2. exercise 3. affection IN THAT ORDER.
I believe it is the same for equines. We want to be loving and doting on them, but that is not really what they are looking for. These things are human desires that we put onto our equine friends. Now that we know better, we can not only better communicate, but better coexist with one another.

More on that thought tomorrow!

clear communication
visible results

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Training Tip - E Energy

When it comes to horses, the word energy has several meanings. At first glance it might seem that energy is simply something your horse has (a lot of!), or doesn't have. What I am going to talk about here is the field of energy surrounding the horse, and us for that matter.
You know how some people, and horses are just always 'on'? And sometimes when you are around someone you leave feeling drained for no apparent reason? This is the kind of invisible energy I am talking about.

The picture here is Astro, my 4 yr old paint pony. Astro has terrific energy surrounding him. He is easy going, always happy and willing to please. Nothing seems to phase him at all. Scottie, my draft, also has great energy, but it is different. His energy is more nervous, he spends more time on alert, being the important herd leader and prey animal that he is.

Why even talk about this? Because when working with any horse, being able to tune into their energy will enable you to connect to them faster. Use your intuition and sense what the horse's energy is directing to you. My intuition has increased tremendously since I began my training business. I literally get feelings, or thoughts of knowing something without knowing how I know it. (whew-got that??)

When doing ground training with any horse or pony, part of the process of interacting with the animal is a direct connection of energy. The horse feels your energy. When you shake the rope and ask him to take steps backward, you are creating energy through the lead rope to the halter.

You've probably heard it said not to work with your horse if you are upset with him, or in a bad mood. It is the same principle going on in this case. The horse will feel that pent up emotion, and respond to it. There is no question he will feel your negative energy. Just come back tomorrow when you are in a better frame of mind.

Interestingly, these concepts can also be applied to the children in our life, or any relationship for that matter. I remember when my daughter was a baby. I was stressed out a lot, it had been 12 years since I had a baby. When I got stressed, she wouldn't nurse, and did a lot of fussing.

I'd go so far as to say most all of what we do with our horses can be applied to the people in our lives. There are several top notch natural horsemanship trainers who now make a living by conducting seminars for corporations!

Sorry for getting a bit off topic here! Energy is a passionate subject for me. Being a reiki master I am very aware of my energy and the energy of those around me. I will say that my horses have some of the best energy around! If you'd like more information about reiki, please visit:
Moon Dance Reiki or http://reiki.org
Hoping the snow melts soon,

Loretta
clear communication
visible results

Friday, February 27, 2009

Teaching Piero Ground Work Day 3

It always fascinates me to watch horses interact with one another. My established herd understands that I am the lead mare when I am around. Piero on the other hand, has yet to figure that out. He has asserted his position above Astro, and understands he falls beneath Tango. Yet when Scottie runs toward the fence where Piero is located on the other side, Piero stands his ground, pawing and flinging his head around. He was attempting to behave this way with me too.

When I approached him today, he turned and walked away from me. I then told him he had to keep moving, and moving. After about ten minutes of cantering around, and me running along, he finally stopped and faced me. Yippee. I immediately turned my shoulder toward him, and lowered my head. If he attempted to look away or graze, I slapped my thigh, made noise, whatever it took to keep his attention. It was either that, or he'd be moved again.

Piero is working hard to understand what I am asking of him. He steps back when I shake the lead rope a few times now. We'll keep working on that to improve the timing. When I lead him he is following at a nice position behind my shoulder, and he stops when I stop, and does not attempt to get ahead of me. He is learning to yield his haunches to me and to be driven forward. He is clearly accustomed to being lunged. I am striving for him to understand the difference between lunging and being driven. I point right, and he does go to the right, so I am very pleased with that. The next nice weather day we have I will tack him up for his ground work, in preparation to be ridden again.


Loretta

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Piero's Ground Training Day 2

Today was a good day. Bright and sunny, no wind. Piero seemed much less angry today. It was evident in his expression. He is one stubborn pony. When I ask him to move, and boy can he move-FAST-he plays the game with me for much longer than I would like. Running around two acres gets tiring really quickly! When he finally did stop and look at me, he came right to me. Exactly what I wanted. We did this at least 3 different times today. I am hoping within a few days it takes less and less time for him to stop and face me.

Today I had him follow me for a few steps after he joined up with me. I would stop and give him verbal praise while rubbing his nose. The nose rubbing fascinates me. He, Scottie and Astro all do the same thing. Even if they do not like getting their noses rubbed, when working on ground training they will drop their heads when they hear verbal praise in preparation for that nose rub. We repeated this several times and I was very pleased with him.

We did a little bit of learning to back up with just a shake of the lead. Stopping when I stop while being lead, and staying behind my shoulder while being lead. I think he is a very intelligent, yet stubborn guy.

I also spent a few minutes working on pressure and release with head lowering. I figured that would be easy for him. I want there to be many things he does correctly while in ground training so he can receive a lot of praise.

I gave him his first really good grooming since he arrived here. Wow, what an absolutely beautiful coat this little guy has. He is a very dark dapple gray.

(I am working on a better pic of him)

An interesting observation I had while doing ground work with Piero, is the feeling that no one had ever interacted in this manner with him before. I believe this led him to feel not quite sure what to make of me.

Piero seems to be completely unaware of flexing through the poll. I've seen some of this little guy's moves, so I know he is flexible. Today I was able to get a tiny bit of flex to each side. An improvement over yesterdays stiff neck and circling. I'm going to take that with tiny baby steps because I don't want to confuse him.

This little 12.2h pony almost seems to be challenging Scottie for a leadership position. He has asserted himself above Astro in the herd, and does submit to Tango. I have not let him together with Scottie yet because of Scottie's behavior toward him just across a fence line. When Scottie runs at the fence, Piero will paw the ground and throw his head around. What a little tough guy. Unfortunately for him, Scottie is not going to back down, and size will win that one. Scottie can eat that little pony in a few bites! Hopefully that won't happen!

I'll let you know how it goes on day 3!

Loretta

clear communication
visible results



Tuesday, February 24, 2009

The Plight of Piero the Pony

I never realized how much I loved ponies. Two summers ago I got an itch to buy a pony. For my daughter, of course. Sadly, we had her only 8 weeks and she had to be put down. She was very ill with a liver disease. That's another story entirely.

This past summer the itch came back. I've always wanted a paint. There's just something about those colors. So I was thinking, paint pony. Works for me. I found the BEST paint pony ever. I really am getting to the point here. I only realized after having Astro (the paint pony) for a while, that I just have a thing for ponies. Funny since I also have a thing for Drafts. They do look kind of cute together. Sorry, back to the point.

The other day a friend calls me up and says she has this pony and asked if I will take him. She's had him for a few years, but he is not ridden regularly and she felt it wasn't fair to him. She let a friend borrow him and while at the new place he started to misbehave. The new barn didn't have time to deal with it....enter Loretta.

My first thought after going to observe him was that he is misunderstood. I am at times clairesentient with animals, especially horses. (That simply means that I pick up their feelings, or intuitively know or understand what they are feeling.) He had been checked by a vet and his feet are great, so I decided to take him.

He arrived on Sunday, just 3 days ago. He seems very mad to me. He quickly has established his place in the herd, above Astro & below Tango. I have not turned him out with Scottie yet. Scottie wants to eat him, so I'm delaying that for as long as I can. I pretty much am just letting him chill for a while. Relax and know we love him and will care for him.

He's an interesting character. I asked a few things of him, basic ground and respectful behaviors. He learned fairly quickly that when he walks away from me I will take over and tell him to move. He seems to understand that he will have to keep moving until he stops and faces me, and at that point that I want him to come to me. I am pleased about that. He appears to be totally relaxed on the ground. Did some rope work, fligging over his head and ears, nothing bothered him. What puzzled me is that mad feeling. He continued to hold onto it, even had his mouth clenched. I saw him lick and chew maybe once during the 20 minute session we spent together.

He clearly does not understand flexing at the poll. We went in many circles and didn't get anywhere. I finally decided to make the request so quiet that his head was hardly bent at all. But at least I felt him give so I could reply with a release. Hopefully he'll get that soon. I think pressure and release is a new subject for him. He is only 10, so he should pick it up quickly. I plan on pretending like he was not ever broken, so I won't be getting on him for a while. I am also counting on the assumption that he has never had a human establish themselves as herd leader. He seems puzzled by my behavior. It fascinates me how different they all can be. Astro accepted it right away. He would say, "Ok, is this what you want, here, like this, like this?

I have to put my kids to bed, so long for now.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Scottie tells his side

"Did she actually say I was the problem??? Ok, so here's what really happened.

I lived on a big, beautiful farm in Middleburg with my mom, little brother and lot of other horses. The nice man there would ride me on a trail through the fields about once or twice every couple of months. One time he took me hunting and it was a lot of fun.

The man who owned me bought my mom, a registered Irish Draught, in Ireland. He did not know I was going to be born until after they came home. So there I came, and I looked Belgian. Well, I guess he only wanted race horses at this point, so he decided to sell me.

This is where Loretta came in. She came to visit several times before taking me home. I think she was a little intimidated by my size, but she said she liked my eyes.

Ok, here's the part where you find out SHE was the problem. It only took a few days for me to really settle in and make friends with Tango. He knew right away I was in charge, so no problem there. Loretta got me and took me out for a trail ride. It was very nice in the woods and wow, there was a lot to see! We went trail riding several days that week. And the next week, and the next week. Get the picture? I had barely been ridden regularly and now I had to go out all the time.

I was noticing that when Loretta was around me, she really didn't act like a leader. And when we went riding she would let me trot if I wanted to, or even canter. Hmmm, I thought, since there were only two of us horses and Tango is an old man, I quickly became his leader. Maybe I needed to be her leader too? Wow. That's a lot different from what I was used to. I never had to make real leadership decisions before and now I found myself doing it all the time.

Since I felt I had to be the leader, and that is a BIG, important job, I had to stay on guard and protect our safety all the time. I became very stressed out, which lead me to become extremely nervous. Soon enough, I was nervous all the time. Even when Loretta would take my saddle off and drop the girth, I thought a lion was under me trying to eat me! She didn't seem to understand this at all. I had to walk around all day with my head up looking for danger. This was a very difficult job and soon I was so nervous and upset that we could not go out riding.

I just couldn't understand why she was standing in the field, crying and calling me very mean names. I won't even repeat what she said here. I thought she realized she needed to change because she introduced me to someone that said they could help. This new person did teach me a few things, and I still remember them, but she also scared me. She never hurt me, but her actions were very abrupt, fast and startling. I was really scared and did not know what to do. Well, I guess I finally got through to Loretta because that lady stopped coming.

I'll tell Loretta I need to write more tomorrow. I have to go because I just found out there's a new pony in my field, and of course, I need to show him who's boss!


Scottie
p.s. do you want to know why she named me Scottie?
any Star Trek fans out there? Because she had to be beamed up to get on me!!!!

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