DECEMBER 2011

Dec 2 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Brief online to connect before freestyle. Excellent with the ball - what fun she's having learning to follow it! AND zone 3 next to the ball. I had to ask carefully and softly (ie, respectfully) for her to back so she was next to it. It as really neat to see her assessing her trust in me, and allowing me to take the leadership. Also online with the Cruiser in place. She's learning to trot saddled without restriction. It is different for her, so I can see this will take time as she figures out how to move under it.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Second ride in the cruiser. After mounting, asked for flexion each way with the softest of feel and she responded with "you rang?" How delightful. She's putting her nose on the ground and I'm staying back in the saddle. We played with backing, transitions, and circling. She feels as is if she can do anything I ask!

Dec 4 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) During pre-ride check asked for canter circle - we are still learning to be unemotional during the canter - and got a beautiful soft canter to the left. Then to the left a BIG LBE dominant charging around canter! What fun! I remained persistent - didn't stop her but would ask for her to slow a bit, and when she'd stop and face on her own with a big snort I asked her to go again. This took repeated tries, as she'd change direction, but I but on my play the game face and made it fun rather than punishment to change back. She finally did a calm canter and stopped. I let her rest, lots of blowing and chewing. THEN I asked her to canter to the right again and this blew her mind. "What - again?" And she did a beautiful soft transition and a circle, so that was all. I love having the technique and knowledge to let her figure it out, and me to not worry about it.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Day 3 in the cruiser. BETTER posting trot. Maybe the canter fun helped? When trotting her online in the saddle I could see her starting to use her back legs more, so I think she's trusting the saddle more and starting to understand it. I kept "feel" in mind to move more with her which helped (thank you to Debi for the advice). Plus had just last night watched the Mastery dvd "steady rein" and that was a super technique for getting Zaina to not keep speeding up at the trot.

Even did some backing with suppling - very nice to left, awful to right.

Did a wee bit of sitting trot - amazing that I can do it at all, this is just going to get better and better in a very short span of time.

Next play day will be a chance to mosey for grass before it disappears under snow and have a nice break from riding.

(Liberty, 15 mins) After our fantastic freestyle, I was able to play with her on liberty, close range. Disengage, back, draw, and even turn on FQ. Even after she had a big roll she was willing to stay with me. Love the feel.

Dec 6 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Beautiful online time today. Munching grass, sideways to fence, zone 3 on fence (yahoo!), and stick to me at walk (getting better). Lots of squeeze games on a trail walk (under branches, through trees, onto a tree trunk). Sooo relaxing, and Zaina is so much more willing to let me direct her into challenging areas

Dec 9 2011

Today I realized that if I use my abs to stabilize my spine while walking and trotting, then my shoulders move in rhythm with my horse. Happier horse!

(On Line, 30 mins) Pre-riding online play, without then with saddle. I'm learning much from watching her walk-trot transitions in the saddle, focusing on how lightly can I ask so she pushes from behind. Too much energy from me, and she leaps forward. Also, making the saddle on the stand a sweet spot with carrots and rest.

(Freestyle, 45 mins) Ride #4. This was our longest time in the saddle to date. Focused on what my body was doing, so lots of passenger lesson at the walk. I learned my shoulders are not moving with her when going to the left unless I stabilize with my abs. How interesting! Big difference at walk and trot. Trotted circles over pole - she was doing an exaggerated trot until I used my abs, then kept the rhythm. No rushing - how nice!

(Liberty, 15 mins) Enough connection after freestyle to play at liberty again. Sweet. Wonderful to play at lead by the mane and jaw without resistance. I'm starting to get in the groove of this fine fine game!

Dec 12 2011

(Online 15mins) Stick to me at walk - figure 8s, really being particular about Zaina keeping up with me, and with me! That surprised her, and boy did things improve and got nice licking.

Lifted the ground pole 3 inches and after a little hesitation - I think not knowing what I wanted - Zaina happily trot over it each way. I was surprised at how quickly she did it without emotion. Big change!

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Less of a connection today, don't know where my mind was, but I had a difficult time focusing on what my body was supposed to do and keeping to a play. As a result, Z did lots more speeding up. I'm still working on getting the trot right - had it last two rides but not today. She let me know afterwards that I was not a very good leader, by not wanting to play at liberty. Good for her, I needed the telling.

Dec 14 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Thought I'd blown it last play day, but apparently not - or Zaina is super forgiving. She was interested in meeting up with me in the field, and we had a super online play. Stick to me at the weave, sideways with z5 to fence, and backing to fence. After all was done she offered me her jaws to caress - we never had such a soft moment before - I'm thinking she's starting to really like me (apologies to Sally Field).

Dec 16 2011

On Line, 30 mins) Today's emphasis was on transitions on the circling game to help Z develop her confidence with the new saddle, and her hindquarter strength. Beautiful to watch her confidence developing, and to see her strength building.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Ah - I've got the rhythm at the trot. 20 metre circles with FLEXION in a natural hackamore no less. Then to top it off, a soft (no rushing) trot over a raised ground pole. What is it Pat says, about their being nothing you can't do when your horse becomes part of you? I'm in the stars right now, thinking about how my horse has let me become part of her.

Dec 19 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Much greater connection early on outside on way for a grass snack. This repeated expectation - that you need to pay attention to me first not the grass, is beginning to pay off.

Today's pre-ride play included two low cavaletti at the trot. Zaina needed some encouragement to be confident wit going over the second one, but once she understood that it was part of the task, rather than running out, she trotted beautifully  (no saddle).

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Zaina became unconfident under saddle early on, as riders were preparing their horses outside the arena door, which she'd never before experienced. I got to develop my skill at keeping her attention and building her confidence rather than pushing her over her limit. The prize was her clear happiness afterward - she told me I'd done well by her!

Dec 22 2011

Today, after our play session I realized I was not longer afraid of riding Zaina. Two years of Parelli has helped overcome 9 years of fear.

(On Line, 30 mins) Moseyed for grass and went there playing touch it with multiple objects. Much more focus on me outside than past days. Still needed lots of encouragement to ask a question before having grass. Inside, focus was on trotting wearing the saddle, including over two raised (angled) poles, circling, and transitions. Happy to to trot over the poles going to the right, but got emotional to the left. Turned it into a project and played sideways game along the poles.

(Freestyle, 45 mins) Saddle play sessions just keep getting better. Played with carrot stick riding, applying insights from latest savvy club dvd. Starting to be able to better go through planned activities without making a mash of things: from passenger, to stay on the rail, to a million transitions, to figure 8, Million transitions included going over the 2 raised ground poles. When she got worried about doing this again, I went back to the project and helped her gain confidence staying between the poles by encouraging her to leave when she wanted to. Five times, then she choose to stay and relaxed.

Dec 26 2011

(On Line, 45 mins) Challenging day for Z - more RBE than usual. Snow coming off the coverall perhaps. I was a good leader, able to ignore the snow slides and work on conveying confidence to her, while still understanding her insecurities. Played at canter circles (very emotional), squeeze over low crossed poles - beautiful over jumping and increasing emotion, so changed it to a project which BLEW HER MIND - "What? You aren't gonna make me go over that again! Okay, I'll play at this sideways game." Lots of fun pushing the ball.

(Liberty, 15 mins) Stick to me at walk with small circles around me and change of direction.

Porcupine game - savvy string around both front legs to walk forward - amazing, I never thought we'd be doing this! Then back to her stall with just the string around her neck. When finished post-play grooming, stick to me - no ropes or sticks, to her paddock. She left once, but came back and nicely came into the paddock. After her treat she RAN to her buddy tossing her head! Then turned and looked at me softly. Ha! Love the exuberance!

I think Zaina prefers liberty to on-line!

Dec 27 2011

On Line, 45 mins) Zaina much more centred today despite sliding snow. Canter was more relaxed. Played at a million transitions, moving her sideways when she started to get emotional, rather than wiggling rope as that only works when she is calm. I tried to do as little as possible today, and the reward was fantastic.

Also trotting over angled poles, closer to shorten her stride; back between poles (excellent when I dropped the rope and just used my body - gigantic yawn afterward!

Zone 3 next to wall, sideways to wall (scary).

Best of all - touch it from 20-22 feet! AND stick to me at walk and trot!

(Liberty, 15 mins) Liberty continues to get better and better. Used carrot stick to move FQ over - she stepped and stopped as soon as I quit asking! Stick to me at walk, toward and away, and change direction on a small circle. Most surprising - Zone 3 next to wall! How come it is so hard on line for her???

After finishing up in the stall, walk to paddock with savvy string around her neck - safety net today. Much better, lost her once she was in the paddock, but she waited while I put savvy string back around neck, took her out and back in again - calmly.

Dec 29, 2011

Liberty, 15 mins) Small circle around me, touch it, and stick to me at trot, including change of direction, halt and backing!

NOVEMBER 2011

Nov 10 2011

(Freestyle, 60 mins) Freestyle question box today. I even asked for more trot from her! She was happy to oblige, lots of happy snorts and sneezes as I took on my leadership role instead of being a load of baggage. All this in a rope halter and long reins. Sigh. Lovin' it.

Nov 12 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Online inside due to sopping ring. Lots of confidence issues for Zaina inside, especially with barn cleaning going on. It was gratifying to be able to help her overcome these - and for me to realize them before mounting!

(Freestyle, 45 mins) Another day on the Question Mark pattern, this time inside. The pattern oh-so-helped zaina become confident under saddle. When I mounted she wanted to "go". I kept her disengaged, and when she could halt, stayed on the pattern. Eventually she breathed, and we could also trot. Added a ground pole raised 4 inches, just walking over today. I didn't have the confidence to trot it! Glad to have enough savvy now to not attempt it unless I feel secure.

(Liberty, 15 mins) Brief liberty "try" today after the ride. Disengaging and drawing. REAL nice to feel that connection. Wow.

Nov 16 2011

On return home from play time with Zaina learned about Westpoint. This space is dedicated to reflection on his and Linda's relationship. Silence between the notes.

Nov 20 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Really nice online session - Zaina told me in our least session that she needed a break from freestyle, I guess I was starting to drill... Focusing on building level 3 skills. Today's play focused on squeeze over pole at trot, Z3 next to ball (Z so loves to touch it now it's difficult to get her NOT to do that!), front feet on pedestal (board) from further away, canter circle (need calmness). I love online play.

Nov 22 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Quick visit to beat tomorrow's winter storm. Out to give an allergy serum injection and because it was so beautiful out (calm before the storm???) we played outside a bit. She was keen to get the frosty grass so I worked on developing my connection with her by asking her to do something each time her head or body went to the grass. It was a challenge, but I gave her a reward even for the briefest of looks. Then onto the road for a trot walk session. She loved it - so good that her breathing is now back to normal. Difficult again to maintain her interest, so clearly I need to increase my expectations! Too short but very enjoyable time.

Nov 25 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) A serene play time online, focusing on a few tasks to develop level 3 skills and move toward excellence. First big snow sliding off the coverall experience. Zaina was a trooper - she showed me how to be more confident! Playing at a farther distance for touch it (and moving quicker to different obstacles), Zone 3 beside "fence" simulations (inside now), and backing through obstacles. Plus canter circling game - lots of excitement there. The big green ball has indeed become her favourite project - thank you Mikey. She goes to it for relaxation, and is pushing it with her nose with intent - how incredibly wonderful for this RBE worried about the world mare.

Nov 28 2011

(On Line, 120 mins) Another wonderful play day. Sideways along fence, belly of rope on ground, then disengage and then sideways in opposite direction. First day with this pattern and I was amazed at how well it went - usually Zaina cannot "flow" from one task to another because she needs time to think and relax. This means me and her are both advancing! Canter circles improving, less emotional, she's starting to understand that she can come down to a trot instead of going faster when she gets worried. Nice stepping onto platform and waiting. Used "flicking" to back rather than rope wiggling and she MUCH preferred that technique. Straight back instead of crooked. Maybe "wiggling" finger and rope causes her to wiggle her body in response???? Then time having hooves trimmed. LB today during the session - it is great to have her so confident!

Nov 30 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Refining sideways along the fence, disengage and reverse. Today it was as if she's been doing this all her life? Pushing the ball AND following it. How neat is that for an RBE???? Teeny bit more confidant backing between obstacles. Now need to play with this from a further distance. OH - the platform, pheeeew easy smeasy!

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Big deal today. Cruiser intro. Would it be okay? Yes yes yes. Green light to saddle. Green light to mount - and then Z just snoozed! Green light to walk, and went over ground pole on her own. Green light to trot. NO BRACE circling. Balance point, and staying with her body. Amazing, simply amazing.

OCTOBER 2011

OCT 1 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Z's breathing is almost completely normal, so I can ask her for more. She had a very difficult time with a circle/squeeze game (passing between a jump block and barrel very far apart). Seemed to be switching between LB and RB reactions, and only much later today did I realize that I should have gone to control mode. My failure to do so resulted in her leaving the building, along with my 22 foot line. She was happy to come back though, and proceeded to play with me on a task that moments before was a problem. Mmm, how interesting! I'm figuring out how to make everything into a game, rather than directives. The payoff - Zaina trotting a figure 8 with more understanding and pleasure than previously. Sigh, I love Parelli.

OCT 6 2011

(Freestyle, 60 mins) Beautiful responsiveness today. Invitations to play are resulting in calmer and more interested interactions. Trotting the figure 8, and jumping a vertical were today's goals. The latter was super - as if she's never had an issue with it before. Figure 8 was more fun, as she's starting to get it, and thus enjoy it - mmm, soon she'll be left brain and give me sass! Loving it.

OCT 8 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Beautiful day of play. Zaina's fans, shelley and Patty graciously attended (over an hour's drive) and were effusive in their comments. Patty had not seen Zaina for two years. Zaina was a star, dancing through, over, and around.

OCT 10 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Today was a run through with videotaping. Keeping my emotions under control was a goal, and for the most part I was successful - a big change for me, before parelli I'd be completely focused on what was being captured on film. I was proud of myself for politely passively persisting. The proof was at the end, when after releasing her and leaving her field, she stayed by the fence line instead of wondering away with her boyfriend.

OCT 12 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Great play session. I upped my energy, provided quicker responses, moved from task to task more quickly, and challenged Z more. The result was a more attentive horse who was able to repeat tasks with decreasing emotion. Great success - Z moved the green ball with her knee! She was surprised and worried about it having moved but quickly centred as I had immediately moved her away as a release.

OCT 15 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) A brief session of quick tasks to get connected before feet trimming session. I focused Z on responding more quickly to me, and driving her with a purpose (back, to grass). Must have worked, because her session with Susan was super calm. I had her on a totally loose line, and she stood like the angel she is, softly and happily.

OCT 19 2011

(On Line, 15 mins) A brief online session to prepare for our first mounted session since august. Very good touch it, circling, FQ and HQ yields. Improved lead by the mane (backing).

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Very pleased with our freestyle session. First ride since August because of Z's allergy issues, and she was rock solid. What a difference to a year ago, when she was doing well, but I could feel she was still tense. Walk and trot, with circles. A short session because she's been out of mounted work for so long, and warm because of her winter coat. Looking forward to our next session!

OCT 22 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) A subdued day today, grieving the loss of our 16 year old Chase (dog). Not emotionally able to maintain a connection, so lots of grooming (mud rolling time), a delightful road walk and trot online, and a couple of squeeze games asking for Z to wait. It was a good decision to visit with her, as it helped move me out of my self.

OCT 26 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) A pre-ride check, with playing at moving the ball - difficult to motivate Z to touch the ball with her knee more than once, but I persisted, and did multiple side passes around the ball when she wanted to leave - that worked well to get her to stay in the correct position and try again. Three touches and left it at that. Excellent trotting and changing direction wearing the saddle. Not too long ago this was very scary for her. I start her walking, then just trot a couple of steps, transition to walk etc., and once she's okay with that I ask for more trot.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) My confidence in the saddle has very much increased. Today I was able to have a clearer idea of what I wanted from Zaina, and play in small steps toward the goal. Outcome: trot to walk to halt transitions at particular places; MUCH better flexion - doing squares instead of circles is helping because my body language is then clearer and she gets a big reward for going straight because I can stop asking for longer bits; straighter backing - when she turns out of it I ask her to turn further and faster, after that she's happy to just back straight. All of this meant a very calm and connected horse.

OCT 30 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Thought today would just be a quick hello visit, administer allergy serum, and be on our way before the weather got worse. Instead, it was an "Oh boy! I get to practise parelli to help zaina focus. Two miniature donkeys in the stalls next to the arena, and man was Zaina LBE!!!! Touch it, circling (with transitions learned from Oct dvd), sideways, yoyo - perfect backing on 22 line. Amazing, so much more connection when she's LBE, and lots of challenges.

LEVEL TWO ONLINE SUCCESS!

Passed level 2 online!!!!!

What a time it was. Set out just to do a video trial, mighty wind blowing. Zaina was soooo terrific that I decided to submit the audition despite the less than wonderful quality.

I had to fold up the tarp and hold it down with cavalletti  blocks, making a very small area for Zaina to step onto. I "assumed" she would balk, but she was WONDERFUL.

Molly Saunders assessed, and gave us helpful encouragement and very positive marking for our relationship (2++) and circling (level 3).   Lots of areas in need of improvement - go figure!

How interesting that when I started with this "Parelli stuff" I had no interest in "doing" the levels. But completing level 2 online has become important for my own progress. I've needed to "do" it in order to move on.

It has also been an important part of my personal development - to risk submitting a video. That was a goal of just sending in something despite not being super quality - risking what someone might think of it. Very glad to have done it. Now moving forward!

SEPTEMBER 2011

SEPT 1 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Better trot circle to the right, not so good to left, but getting better. Sideways while eating grass, 18 feet - with my feet still; ball confidence, and refining FQ yield. Loving it.

SEPT 3 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Further play with FQ yield. My feel has greatly improved, with my friendly touch being ultrasoft and comforting. I know that I am now giving Z a clearer message when I change to the PP game, and am also releasing sooner. Trot circling game to right quite good, to left still poorly. She looked sore, so I walked with her as she trotted then had her moving out and then more collected. This helped relax her and the trot was fine. When I released her after this (off line), she gave me a swing of her head, soooooo maybe I was on to her game???? How interesting. Also played with the ball again, sideways and backing through barn door and waiting.

SEPT 5 2011

(On Line, 90 mins) More provocative today with yoyo game, playing on hill - much better than a few weeks ago; more connection, understanding, confidence. FH yield is still a rush. Great play with the ball - chasing, confidence with it being bounced next to her, and biggest breakthrough - bent her leg toward the ball! Trot to right still sticky, I am persevering. Quit when achieved 4 circles without a correction - took a long while!

SEPT 9 2011

(On Line, 120 mins) Yesterday, time spent with Z as she got vet checked for the massive hive breakout she's suffered. Some play to get connected - success with asking her to touch a puddle of water with her nose, and backing toward a stone wall (needed to go to phase 4+++ but DID IT, and the next ask was successful at phase 2 - thank you Ron Pyne).

SEPT 10 2011

On Line, 30 mins) Brief play session to check things out, as Z's hives have reemerged and she's rather uncomfortable. Played at figure 8 and yoyo to get her mind focused on me and check her fitness. Not so great. Started antihistamine, and will resume serum injections.

SEPT 11 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Hives have quieted a bit, and breathing is better, glands swollen. Played for a bit on 12' line: yo yo to fence (crooked but done with phase 2 and 3), squeeze over small log with only little hesitation, lead by front legs, started lead by back leg (worried, but not bad), sideways to fence (facing opposite direction - not bad), and biggest deal - touch it (log) with foot.

SEPT 14 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Another short play session, close range as Z's throat glands are very swollen because of her allergies and she is reluctant to move out. Played touch it with feet again. More confidence today, touched both feet (front of hooves) on barrel on its side. This is a challenging activity for Zaina, but she tried with her heart and because I released at the right moments she was able to understand what I wanted - "crazy lady" she must be thinking, why should I touch THAT.

SEPT 15 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Short session to get connected in preparation for vet visit. Touching barrel with feet (day 3) - not as confident as yesterday, but persevered and were successful. Lots of yoyo game today, with more of a purpose (through obstacles, down the rail, and out the gate) - that was a challenge. Very claustrophobic today, probably having to do with her breathing issues. Vet visit found COPD - raspy lungs, heave line, mucous filled oesophagus. Hopefully meds will quickly help. Two weeks before allergy test results.

SEPT 17 2011

(On Line, 90 mins) Ahhhh, meds are having a positive effect. Hives greatly reduced, glands softer, and breathing easier (mine too, now). Was able to have a longer play session and be more progressive. - lots of friendly game with rope and string on back legs. - day 4, touch barrel with foot. Less claustrophobic today (breathing helps!). I also did more retreating, which helped. - much better yoyo backwards, although had to go to "control" at gate, to stop the panic, which worked soooo well. Not only backed through calmly, but later yoyoed between hydro poles that last time were scarey. - lead by the leg, back and front, much better. Need longer rope for back legs otherwise we are going sideways. - squeeze game next to fence to improve sideways for mounting.

SEPT 18 2011

(On Line, 90 mins) Ahhh, breathing relief. Meds are working and cooler nights/days. BREATHING. What a difference. Trotted on a circle without a fuss. Lots more, but need to sit back and think about it, as much is developing.

SEPT 21 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Hot sun has brought some breathing difficulties back, so no trotting. Great progress in other areas: - touched barrel with knee in less than a minute, with only 1 correction for moving into my space, and no going backwards! I immediately took her away and "let her sit", lots of chewing - lead by front legs, and left back leg without emotion. Huge change for back legs from Sunday. - straighter yoyos toward log. - faster, less emotional yoyos going out the ring, through the gate, able to stop just outside of gate instead of continuing to go back. - progress on waiting to eat grass until given permission. - progress on being groomed in stall without eating the hay. Playing sticky feet when she wanted to go to the hay was the key to this progress. After a few times of this, I could see she wanted to move but "gave it a think" and decided "why bother".

SEPT 25 2011

(On Line, 60 Mins) Zaina continues to be doing well, although breathing was a bit heavy today (sunshine), but we had a progressive and positive play session. I was able to put into practice some of what I learned from auditing Kari Bowser's lessons with Nova Scotia parelli gals. Playing the game within the game (everything is a game, rather than a punishment) - but need to remember this sooner and always. Asking more with my body (working toward liberty), softer quieter phase 1 now. She touched the big green ball with her knee today - fairly quickly, minimal corrections. She knew what I wanted right off (this was first time for this since developing it with the barrel), and just needed to slow work toward it. She made the softest tiniest touch! Left it then, and later came back to the task and she repeated a tiny soft touch. I'm happy she is more confident with me now, so trusts that even though this is "weird" that I won't do something that will hurt her. Led by front and back legs. Excellent FQ yields. HQ needed persistence, but done. Great walking circles. I dared to ask for a trot even though her breathing was heavy. She was a bit hesitant but gave 4 VG laps going to the left, so I quit there, and didn't risk the other direction.

SEPT 28 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Day 2 of touching the ball - today I placed it between 2 barrels, so that worried her but it did not take long for her to give a super soft touch. Weaved through cones at walk. Sideways while eating grass. Trot and CANTERED on circle - first time asking for canter in a long time. Even though her breathing is still laboured she had a beautiful transition and maintained a beautiful canter for the two circles I kept her on. Played at figure 8s between the barrels. Worried - has been awhile since we did figure 8s, and not with the barrel. Changed it from 8s, to circles, to change of direction to maintain her focus instead of getting more worried. Will come back to this.

AUGUST 2011

AUG 3 2011

(On Line, 15 mins) Bit of a left brainer today with having her feet trimmed - how interesting! A few minutes spent playing stick to me at the trot, HQ and FH yields, and yoyo helped her focus on us. Most interesting was how she stuck with me, and did a straight yoyo. Lots of changes happening.

AUG 5 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Z was CONFIDENT with the saddle on, online trotting outside, up and down a hill, yoyo back (few steps STRAIGHT) up hill and down.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Continue to work on my freestyle seat. Getting better. Was outside today, so bigger challenge, with Z wanting to be back at the barn more than with me. I'm continuing to develop my confidence, able to trot without gripping the reins (most times).

AUG 7 2011

(Freestyle, 45 mins) Fantastic freestyle day. Finally figured out my balance point at the trot - rewatching Oct. 2010 dvd, LP's bareback riding lesson got me straightened out. I was way too forward. When I was on my bp, Z' came off her forehand and I was able to regulate her speed with partial disengagement. HUGE difference. 45 minutes of smiles.

AUG 9 2011

(On Line, 15 mins) Excellent yoyo, very good circling at trot with saddle, including over small log.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Getting better at the trot now that I have my balance point. Much much better circles to and fro the rail, not so good in the middle of the ring. Very responsive halts from walk on the rail, and good from trot, although not yet responding first to my body.

AUG 12 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Leisurely online session, after a number of freestyle sessions with lots of progress. Revisited the ball, yoyo (perfect backing 12 feet!), sideways to fence for mounting on off side - well done, lots of grass chewing between tasks.

AUG 16 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Short visit with nice grazing, couple brief tasks to get a connection. Time spent in a relationship. Loving it.

AUG 18 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) A short session playing at yoyo game (further back, straight on hill!), and forequarter turns. Between tasks, grazing and walking. VERY LB today, introverted I think. So I slowed down my walk when she was reluctant to keep up with me, and had to be particular about making her do more than me. How interesting!

AUG 21 2011

(On Line, 120 mins) Afternoon lesson with Ron Pyne ***PP. Strategies for maintaining Z's attention, being a leader by having her move rather than me, friendly game (skipping) and rubbing to a stop. Major advance, circling game at the walk. First time ever Z circled on 22feet line with slack, ten circles each way (decreasing corrections) - done with responsibilities, interest - doing her job cause I was doing mine! Then, maintaining safety by keeping her out of my bubble when leading to stall, and backing into her stall from a distance - Hooray!!!! Wrap up by getting assistance with how to practice saddling with a hug. Learning details will be blogged: http://donnav-happytrails.blogspot.com/

Four and half hours of knowledge enhancement and savvy inspiration with Ron Pyne ***, supported by Karen Pyne, and the Nova Scotia Parelli gals. 

Expect more; be more provocative; every session take Z to a limit in order to progress.

Reward the slightest try - but be progressive (expect more with each try).

Faster and at a greater distance.

Have a plan (not just what tasks are going to do, but what want to achieve and how - be particular), and be flexible within the plan.

Always be aware of what she is doing - where she is looking, what she is attending to, and if it isn't me, cause her to want to pay attention to me.

Expect Z to pay attention to me, when she isn't, do something to regain attention (be provocative). Might be as little as upping my energy, tossing a bit of sand at her, do as little as it takes - but do it.

Have Z move out of the way, instead of going around her.

Have Z stay out of my bubble.

Backing gets rid of brace.

Backing - point body (finger, belly button) NOT at Z but toward where want her to go!

Hindquarters turn - pressure is where heel would be when riding. Get a response (and transfer this to riding).

Draw back - phase one (rope on ground) for as long as can stand it. Phase 2 (rope off ground but not moving halter) fast, 3, 4 (draw in as quickly as can).

Rub to a halt (remember to be at ease with body).

Scoldings:

- don't rub Z's head hard (stroke downward once)

Praise:

- timing of release

Homework:

Circle game on line, walk each direction 20 revolutions minimal corrections.

Then add trot, but focus on transition (how little does it take) and then go back to walk. Return to walk if transition is emotional. When transition is calm, continue circling. Then same with moving to canter. 

Mounted - same plan. Walk circles (big, little, backing, circles in circles). No trotting until these are established.

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I've been able to play with Zaina two times since my Ron Pyne *** lesson.

The first time back to the barn was amazing. Z's ears were up and eyes toward me - as well as all the other horses - the moment I arrived. I was much more attentive to my responsibilities from the get go, including putting a halter on her while grooming in her stall, to maintain her respect. That worried her - shift in the hierarchy?

In the arena she had a poop - which she usually doesn't, also signifying worry. But she was bright and willing to proceed. I played the circling game, and it took one full hour before completing 10 circles each direction. I stopped counting corrections. My realization - I did not put in the time for proper prior preparation - ie, I had no connection before expecting one on a 22' line! Still, I was able to practice my technique, and that went well. The proof was in the pudding, with Z's soft eyes on me in the stall afterward, even choosing to stay with me rather than be lured to the barn owner, whom she adores and respects!

Day two, Z is going into major heat so is vocal and distracted. Followed same practice in the stall while grooming, then outside played at FQ and HQ yields, and backing. Had to remind her to pay attention to me quite a bit. When had success, went to ring to play with circles. First time at it, was pretty dismal, then I shortened rope to 15' and it was MUCH better. Need to succeed here to gain her respect and confidence before moving to the goal of 22'. 

After our session, I had her wait while I put her apple and carrot treats in her feed bowl and for me to give her permission to eat. She knew what I was doing, and it was no problem! 

A major shift for me, from the lesson, was that I feel unmuddled in giving Z directions, and my use of the tools. Much less commotion! This will be very meaningful for Z's progress as she hates ambiguity. I have more strategies, and feel I can be clearer and more proficient in my directions to her, and in creating a plan.

AUG 23 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) First play session since our Ron Pyne Lesson. On-line focused on circling game at the walk. Goal: ten rotations each way, counting corrections. hahahaha - gave up the counting corrections, and it took a loooong time, but we did achieve the 10 rotations with confidence. Must remember to relax the BACK of my head when at ease. Biggest mistake - not enough time spent developing a connection on a shorter line before asking for circling game on 22 foot line. Will blog the details of today's learning http://donnav-happytrails.blogspot.com/.

AUG 25 2011

On Line, 60 mins) Day two of circle game. Z going into strong fall heat, so today I was smarter, and properly prepared her for circle game by doing FQ and HQ yields, and yoyo game. Circling game was more successful today when I shortened rope to 15 feet as our connection was not strong enough to keep her focus on the 22 foot line. Will work up to 22 feet instead of starting at the goal!

AUG 27 2011

(Freestyle, 60 mins) Day 3 of circling game and super success! 21 rotations each direction (walking) with only two corrections each way. This despite her being in heat and wanting to be with her guy pals. Stayed inside, and was able to do the circles on 22 line. Will see how it goes when we take it outside. Excellent HQ yield. Still much savvy to go for FQ yield.

AUG 28 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Upon arrival Z was sight unseen, down in a field. When I walked through the barn and looked out the door she was galloping toward me! I greeted her, then went to get her halter and she turned and left. Oh poohie I thought. But when I got to her gate she turned BACK and GALLOPED to me again! Was able to get great HQ yields and better FQ yields in less time than yesterday. Added transitions to our circling game - nice and soft phase 1 transitions into trot, phase 2 back to walk. She wasn't able to maintain the trot though beyond one circle without corrections. Played at obedience walking out the barn toward her field - waiting at the door, then backing when she came through without permission. It is very powerful to have this level of control with the need for so little energy.

AUG 30 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Outside play today. Much more connected with me than last time outside. Refining HQ yield, expecting more with FQ yield (ie, control so not moving forward). Walk circles including over ground pole excellent. Trot to right good, going next to pole tense. Trot to left broken. Will trot with phase 4, but then stressed, robotic and need phase 4 to transition down. Very connected in stall afterward.

JULY 2011

JULY 1 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Online play to prepare for riding outside (first time at new place). Played at turns on FQ and porcupine to back up on roadway, then played at backing up and down hill (still at porcupine game, quitting after one good step).

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Freestyle in outdoor ring. Z's feet were moving today, but not frantic. So glad to know about disengaging the hindquarters, matching my energy with hers (then some), bulls eye and circle patterns. All helped to keep me emotionally calm and a leader for her, and helped to focus. She wanted to go back to the barn with the other horses, so kept the play ride short, and quit when she was relaxed.

JULY 2 2011

On Line, 60 mins) Relaxing online hack today, down the road into the woods, over natural obstacles and touching natural pedestals, played at turns and backing. Then some conditioning road hill work.

JULY 5 2011

(On Line, 30 mins) Hesitant to circle or follow me today so played touch it using the techniques in Linda's June dvd segment. Big progress with new knowledge of stick use, focus, and directing the nose. Z even put her leg over the scary log obstacle that we have not played much with, when I asked with the new technique - foot over rather than on is huge for her, and necessary before she'll touch it with her foot.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) Today during Freestyle Z was less worried about getting back to the barn, but still anxious. However, not at all concerned about the hay mower in action near us, and behind the trees!!!! More worried about the weeds on the side of the ring, sigh. Oh well. Played with a million transitions, somehow finally understanding for real, their purpose, not just going through the motions, and that purpose in my focus transformed Z's walk from worried to calm. Nice over 3 poles lined up together, going into the corner, halts. Only fair back ups out of the corner (worried), good figure 8s. Still lots of development needed at the trot with transitions, better bullseye, Less commotion today - well, until the biting flies arrived!

JULY 7 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) 2'6" Vertical!!!!! Without the driving game!!!! Going to the left, with me on the right side of the jump. Z hit the jump, but the cavaletti blocks held the jump pole so it didn't "chase" her. She was in good emotional and mental form afterward. We quit at that point, after a play of FH turns, waiting with hind legs on obstacle, and touch it using techniques refined from June DVD. A superb day of learning and moving on with the journey.

JULY 10 2011

It has been four weeks since Zaina moved into her new boarding facility, and four weeks since our Fawn lesson. Much progress, including since the last post about our first coverall ride.

Since then we have had three in the outdoor ring in the hackamore no less. First couple were rather emotional, with Z wanting to get back to the barn, as the horses are now inside during the day and outside at night. I used parelli principles and techniques to work on her confidence, and mine, and today (the third time) there was a big change. During the passenger lesson she left the ring, but instead of going to the barn, she checked out the newly mowed field. She had a grand old time - me less so, I had to turn her back before her curiosity of "What's over there???" was satisfied as I was anticipating monsters lurking behind trees to spook us. Next time...

So good trotting over poles, including three in a row between jump standards. I'm not worried about her getting anxious over them (by the by, she jumped a 2'6" vertical the previous play session, on line!!!!!) and so she isn't anxious. Playing the million transitions pattern meaningfully (ie, with a purpose not just robotically as I had been doing) helps me to not let her get emotional in her walk or trot.

Most interesting discovery today (aside from her confident curiosity re the field) is that when I switched from two reined to try one rein riding for the first time she was immediately more relaxed. I just had to indicate with my body a direction and she followed. She does neck rein, so I'll have to be sure not to depend on that for changes of direction. So, it seems that she would either prefer to be in a bit with confidence, or completely free with one rein, rather than the lack of clarity with two reins on a halter.

Other areas of progress - touch it pattern, using more focus and intent (energy in the carrot stick, rather than wimpy waving).

Squeeze game over obstacles - as mentioned above. Really, this seemed unachievable before the lesson with Fawn.

The big green ball! Touching and moving (sort of, by accident, or design - very softly - but still, movement).

Ron Pyne lesson scheduled for August 20th. Hope to work on fixing the yo yo game and circling, and improving my riding.

Plan to video my on-line level 2 audition in September.

It is so wonderful - I'm not just riding my pony safely, but starting to have fun with the riding. Love it.

(Freestyle, 60 mins) Again played touch it pattern using techniques from June dvd. I upped much energy using the carrot stick and this made a huge difference. More (clearer) intent is the name of the game. More focused getting Z saddled and pre-ride checks, and as a result had minimum resistance and the start of a good yoyo. Fantastic freestyle day. Z much less emotional in the outdoor while horses were inside. During our passenger lesson she decided she wanted to explore the newly cut field - out the gate she went and sauntered along as calm as could be, despite the wind and trees fluttering. I went as far along the field as I could before getting nervous and then directed her back to the ring - she'd rather we'd play in the field but I'm not ready for that. Great trotting over poles, my sitting trot is much better, very good backups - even out of the corners. Biggest surprise, at the end I let go of the reins and used the line - immediate softening, and only needed to direct her with my body and open the rein or use indirect touch to neck and she went wherever I wanted!!!! Now THAT is interesting. Sooooo, seems that maybe she's best with either the bit and contact, or one rein no contact, rather than two reins pulling on her face. Back to review freestyle level 2 dvd for riding with one rein - never thought we'd be doing this. Mmmm, how many times now have I said that!

JULY 14 2011

(On Line, 15 mins) Preride touch-it, getting better at being further away. Very good figure 8 at the trot; after 4 times Z continued in the trot comming toward me, but then stopped before taking next circuit. I WAITED until she looked at me, which took a couple of minutes and I had to sit down. Then did it again, two more times and stopped when she continued with the trot. Very good saddling. Still worried about the stirrups when trotting, but working on it.

(Freestyle, 60 mins) One rein riding today. Practise practise practise one rein stops, staying back at the trot (especially on the transition). Walked over cavalletti and onto tarp no problem (first time walking on trot in freestyle!). Z picked up a beautiful canter on her own, but I was too nervous to ride it (especially as she was heading to the cavaletti!). Mainly a session of working on my body, moving with her and relaxing on downward transitions. Need to again review level 2 on rein riding material on dvd. But it's hapening!

JULY 16 2011

(On Line, 120 mins) An unexpected day spent with Zaina, nursing her through a gas colic, including two one hour one-line walks (undemanding time!). Hopefully the worst is over. Thankfully she is with super caregivers at her boarding facility so I can depend on them to help me out. Poor Z, she's never had something like this before - hopefully never will again.

JULY 17 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) More hand walking today, as still in some discomfort. Played at FH turns, back from driving line (jingle bells - see savvy times).

JULY 18 2011

(Liberty, 15 mins) Z looking a bit better today. She let me give her stretches, and we played lead by the chin before coming inside.

JULY 19 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Had a slow and easy online play session. Did lots of waiting, and Z did lots of licking and chewing and some giant yawns. Touched board with both front feet, squeezed through tall pylons going forward and back (the latter using porcupine and close range driving game and going very slowly). Did not want to circle to the right at all, not sure what's up with that.

JULY 20 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Z's continuing to do better, very stiff though in left shoulder and right hind leg, perhaps explaining lack of interest yesterday in circling. Did lots of stretches today at liberty in the arena, and played lead by the ear and chin, doing gentle arcs, and squeeze games. Sideways over a pole (close range, excellent); back toward pole and then over (close range, very good - at first very skeptical and kept swinging Z5 away, but I was persistent in the proper position and then she did very well. I was surprised by her offer to go over the pole, and on coming back to me, to be okay with waiting over it. Great progress.

JULY 22 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) Z feeling a lot better, much of her stiffness is gone. She was willing to trot to the right for a bit, and offered a soft canter. I think she was surprised at how good it felt, and so then wanted to do it bigger! Then some squeezes over a cross rail and low vertical, and backing toward pole. Trying always to maintain her relaxation. Today she was able to back two steps straight away from me (rather than me moving with her), toward the pole, Then we quit. She looked like she was starting to understand that I wasn't asking her to do something that would hurt her.

JULY 24 2011

(On Line, 45 mins) Short session due to the heat, but Z is feeling great. Pushed her a bit more today online, moving more quickly from one task to another (trying to flow). This will take time for her to feel really good about it, so can't push it. After doing 3 tasks, slowly, one after the other (touch with nose, Z 3 next to wall, then sideways) she needed a long wait time as went RBI. Then I needed to up my energy to help her trot over a cavaletti in second position. When she could do it once without "encouragement" we called it a day.

JULY 26 2011

(On Line, 15 mins) Z had moved to different part of barn, so was pretty emotional when taken to the arena (attached, can see the horses). I was able to rise to the occasion and help her become more centred by matching her energy +, and doing lots of transitions and changes of directions.

(Freestyle, 30 mins) After Zaina calmed down, was able to play with her in freestyle. Still trying to figure out one rein riding. Transitions each way were sooo much better than last time, I was slower, clearer and Z was more responsive in positive way.

JULY 28 2011

(On Line, 60 mins) I think the level 2 dvd freestyle lesson on one rein riding is finally sinking in. It is so frustrating to a) not remember and b) realize that what I was remembering was not even on the dvd (no wonder it didn't work). So, today on figuring out really how to do hind end disengagement I realized I have NO SEAT whatsever when Z goes into a fast trot. Legs splayed forward (mine), bumping on her back, discoordinated hands. BUT, made progress by figuring it out. At the end realized that I need to ride with more energy in my body and not be so schlumpy.

JULY 30 2011

(On Line, 15 mins) Took up energy today, to good effect. Have to wait for Z to relax and look at me, but then have to ask with more focus and intent. Circling game MUCH better, over obstacles and waited for me to ask her to disengage, both directions. Very interesting look from her when I insisted she straighten herself after a couple steps of backing - "Oh, THIS is what you wanted. Well why didn't you say so before." Sheesh, sorry.

(Freestyle, 45 mins) I'm starting to GET the freestyle motion in my body at the trot. Again, more energy, focus and intent. Starting to be able to leave the reins alone. Using the carrot stick really helps with turns, so I don't need to pull on her face. NICE over ground pole (first time she jumped it, haha), and tarp at trot. My confidence is growing.