Feeling Stronger Every Day, Ride!

I am so blessed to have a talented, Dressage Trainer in training, daughter.  Even though I was hoping she would take an opportunity to be a working student in Florida for a big name dressage rider/trainer, I am thankful she stayed with her current trainer for now.  She has been a huge help to me the past two weeks while I get back to riding post surgery.  Riva may think other wise!  It has been dressage boot camp for the mare.

Lex on the Diva

I rode again last Thurs. evening, after Lex rode her, and I was very happy with how it went.  I have been riding in draw reins for a few months and this was my first ride back in regular reins for the entire ride.  With some instruction from Alexis, we were able to get round, engaged walk, trot, and canter - both leads!  Left lead is harder for us, and I had only tried canter to the right, without the draw reins, earlier this week.  What worked for us on left lead canter was keeping my hands low and using lots of leg to push her into the bridle.  Forward, controlled, rolling canter...felt wonderful

I am excited to go to another lesson with JC this coming Saturday.  I believe we have made huge strides since my lesson in January, and I owe so much of that progress to Alexis. 

On another subject - Miss Riva needs another body clip!  Our crazy Indiana weather threw in a 55 degrees and sunny day last Thursday causing a very sweaty steaming mare post ride.  So agree with Jen at cobjockey - early Spring is going to mean another hair removal appt for my girl.  I am hoping to put this off until March due to farrier visit, vet appt for dentals, and spring shots all yet to come this month for Riva and Cheers our OTTB.

Lex running thru TL Test 3 with Riva