Several bloggers have commented that I need to post more pics of Riva (and this was my only New Year's Resolution), and I plan to do this.  Some tax return money is ear marked for a fancy new camera.  In the meantime, we have lovely cell phone pics!

            Please pardon the muddy lower legs, eeiiree glowing eyes, and general bad arena lighting!

The lovely, very fuzzy dirty, Riva modeling her brand new County Connection Saddle!



Was so excited to see a large UPS package waiting at the barn last night when we arrived.  Love the smell of new leather!  I purchased leathers and a girth from County also.  Just need to save up for new stirrups...and a few new pads...new bridle...new bit...the list could go on and on. 

For now - totally LOVE the saddle and Riva agrees.  My rep will be out one day next week to final fit it to Riva, which is included in the purchase price.  I lunged her in it first, did some in hand work, then hopped on.  Feels great - very comfortable!  I have not rode Riva in a dressage saddle for 3 months, so it took a little getting used to.  Basically, once I got myself oriented, it was much easier than riding in the jump saddle.

Riva's walk was great last night in the new saddle - very swinging - and her halts were much quicker and smooth.  We have been working a lot on walk to trot transitions and she felt good with those last night.  I did not canter yet - I am still working on myself in canter and will most likely wait until a lesson.

So the concensus is...well worth the waiting and saving to get a custom saddle.  Most of the boarders at our barn ride in Countys, so they were very excited for me, as well.