I finally realized that I do not have to ride every day, or every week for that matter. I can spend quality time with Reo just lungeing and learning. He is fuzzy now, like a velvet rug, and smells like a winter horse. He likes me, I think. He likes the snacks I give him, that’s for sure. He knows more than he lets on, as when I think I’m going to teach him something new, he already knows how to do it. He’s just rusty and needs to be reminded that he can do whatever I ask of him. I like working with him; I enjoy riding him in the arena and have begun to work him harder; he makes me nervous when I ride away from the barn as he seems so unsure of his ability to cope with his surroundings. I don’t know if that is a game or if he really has this innate fear. I am working on discovering more about him. I do know that when he decides I have taught him enough, he begins to object. I do not want to push him too hard, but I do not want to let him think I am a pushover. (I am, kind of.) Since I am a senior rider (over 70), and not as brave as I would like to be, I am sure he detects that in me. I have learned that I can get his attention by working him at a nice long trot. My goal for him is to be a successful western dressage horse. Not spectacular, just pleasant and competent. I am running out of time (years), so it is kind of disappointing that my future is limited with him, but I will make the best of the time we have left and see where we end up.
Published by mjm1942
I have aged. Of course. I was born in Trenton, NJ in 1942. I now live in Kentucky. It's 2021. My marriage has lasted 58 years, and I still love the man. My three children live far from us, and I miss them; however, it's fine with just him and me. We are best friends. I love my dogs, past and present, and my horse. I have failed as a professional writer, but I still dabble now and then. I have always been restless; perhaps because I have moved so many times in my life. I feel like something is waiting to happen around the corner. I graduated from Salem College at 55 years of age. I am a woman. View more posts