Precision through Patience

That's a quote from our trainer.  I really like it, especially on days like today.  It's cold with a strong, even colder, wind blowing.  Honestly, I don't know how some of you live in this kind of weather all winter!  I figured if you guys can ride in the snow, I can ride in a bit of cold wind.  So, down to the barn I went with a million layers, my fleece lined breeches and a windbreaker.  Jackson was NOT pleased when I took off his blanket.  Fortunately, he was clean so I just saddled up and went instead of engaging in the usual leisurely grooming session.

He was WIRED.  Hellooooooo horse!  Are you there????

Jackson: " Huh???  oh, yeah.  Maybe NOT."  Then he would imitate a camel.  You know: head high and back hollow and brain far away in Africa.

I told myself that this was okay.  This was show behavior.  This is what he does in the dressage court.  This was an excellent opportunity to work on his confidence and listening skills.  I played the soundtrack of my trainer saying "patience" and "ignore the behavior" and "keep asking" and "wait for him."  It took 30 minutes but it did work.  I had a focused horse by the time we finished and I was fried but happy.  Instead of my usual frustration leading to bridle wars I just patiently worked through it with focus and consistency.  ...which is HUGE for me.

Maybe Jackson is in the pasture telling Flash what a great lesson he gave me.... 

The apricot tree buds have burst so spring is on the way.  Yes!  I'm in an optimistic mood.  (big grin)

Morning Chores: February

Today Brett left early for work so I did the chores by myself.  Which is okay.  I know, I know, I'm weird.  I like doing barn chores (unless the weather is just awful).  It was cold last night, for us, with a low of 30F.  It was still in that neighborhood when I went down to feed.  Come on along!

This is how the barn looked from the front porch

I walked to the front gate to retrieve a package and looked back at the arena and barn.  Purty!

The sun was just starting to peak over the edge of the ridge.

First stop: chickens.  They love their scratch in the morning.

Would you quit taking pictures and feed us already???!

Next stop: bunnies

Then I brought the horses and donkeys into the barn for their buckets of vitamins.

Finessa got to their bucket first but it didn't take Tuffy long to join her.

After dumping Flash's bucket contents into his stall bin, Kersey cleaned it out.

And then she checked out Jackson's. 

But, really, the tastiest thing around is fresh manure.

It's hard to see but the compost pile was steaming away in the cold morning air.

After they finish their vitamins, everyone goes back into the pasture for their hay.

Tuffy: "Quit taking pictures and rub my back, would ya!"       Me: "Wipe your face and then I will."

Last stop: feeding the dogs.  Kersey attacks her food.

Sedona is always a lady.