Saturday, March 23, 2013

So Very Far Behind

On my blog posting!  Where have 2 weeks gone? 

I had a lesson last Sat with JC which went very well.  We focused on getting Riva sharpened back up to my leg aids for forward and bending.  We have worked on this in several lessons and THIS time, I think I've got it.  Since that lesson, I have had a much more responsive Diva.  I do have to give credit to my daughter for this,  not just JC.



Lex has been able to come out once a week for the past month to ride Riva and give me a lesson.  Last week, she also helped me get her more responsive on the lounge which carried over to the under saddle work.  I have to make it very clear from the moment we step in the ring that I mean business - then I can back off a bit.  Same under saddle.  JC's words keep playing thru my head 'the world better come to an end when you ask for a transition, if you don't get a response!'.  I have to be the leader and stay consistant.  Period.  Just the way it has to be every ride, every time.



That being said, we are working toward our first show in April.  I decided not to show at CAF this Saturday.  Weather plays a factor - despite the calendar saying it is Spring, Indiana does not seem to agree.  Also, our family has some major life changes in the works.  Decision was made to skip the March CAF show and show in Edinburgh in April.  I already sent in my entry form - Training Level Test 2 and Test 3.

I did get outside for 2 rides last week in the outdoor dressage arena and it was such a refreshing change from the dusty indoor.  And last evening, I rode in the outdoor jump arena - despite the temp being about 32.  But the sun was shining and the winds were calm...it was heaven!  Riva was very up and looky at first but settled nicely into the ride.  We had some lovely canter circles and diagonals - just floaty feeling.  She walked out a loose rein, not at all concerned about being outside alone.  I love this mare more every day!

10 comments:

Karen said...

I think I know what one of the life changes is. :) VERY exciting for you guys!!

Bakersfield Dressage said...

Those are really nice pictures!!!!! :0)

S. Lauren said...

Both of you look so good together! That first picture in your post looks amazing, she is so forward and on the bit, very beautiful. Good luck at your show coming up, I bet you will do great!

TeresaA said...

I love that first photo. It sounds like everything is coming along nicely

Karley said...

'the world better come to an end when you ask for a transition, if you don't get a response!'

I LOVE that!!!

Glad you are back!

Malin said...

Hope the "major life changes "are all good. Good on ya for getting the bend easier. We still have a ways to go.

Jen said...

Wow, she looks so good! I hope the life change is a positive one, and can't wait to see you guys next month!

SprinklerBandit said...

Um... now I'm curious what the life changes are because Karen says they're cool.

So glad the riding is going well! You both look great. :)

Hillary said...

Intrigued about these life changes...
Glad Riva has been good. Love the quote about the world ending if you don't get the desired response! Need to use that...

Lauren said...

Love the 'world better come to an end' bc I am so bad about enforcing that! Y'all look great.