Bendy bendy bendy

Today Bones and I worked on moving off my leg, and bending. I watched this video, which made a lot of sense to me so I wanted to try it with Bones since that's kind of what we've been working on.

We did a 5 minute walk/trot warm-up, then started the pattern. At first I used my out side leg only when turning. He instantly turned each time I applied outside leg, so I after a few times around the pattern at a walk and then trot (each way), I switched to using my inside leg. I found it was best to use my outside leg as well to kind of support him. I started to pick up my inside rein going around the tighter turns to stop him from dropping his shoulder. We did the pattern probably 15-20 total. We did laps of the whole arena during the exercise, too to give him a break as well. 

Then I put the four cones in the corners of the arena and worked on bending around the turns. I think the visual of the cones really helps him understand that he can't cut corners. Overall, I liked the exercise and will use it again. But, next time I think I'll spread the cones out further so I can get more of a working trot rather than a slow inconsistent trot.

Later in the day I went to Kazi's barn to spend some time with him before he leaves tomorrow (SAD FACE!). I lunged him in side reins for about 10 minutes, then mounted and worked in the round pen (it's a very large round pen! lol). We worked on getting him to start working from behind, and getting into a frame. It was a decent ride, only 20-25 minutes. I didn't really see the point on doing a long ride since he is leaving tomorrow and I may never see him again (SAD FACE2!). After I untacked him, I let him in the round pen to graze. We just hung out for a while.. it was very peaceful. They're coming at 12:30pm tomorrow to get him.. (SAD FACE3!). Siiiiigh.

Anyways (lol) tomorrow morning I'm looking at this strapping fellow:

He is a 7yr old, 16.1HH TB gelding. He's so stinking cute! Click HERE for his video. He looks like a real pleasure to ride. The woman who owns him has some other VERY nice horses for sale, but this gelding is (waaay) closer to my price range! She also trains/rides for New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program.. which I thought was cool. Hopefully things go well! ;)

Oh yeah! This is my first attempt at a running braid. I think it looks good for a first time, two-minute braid! =)

Bed time! =D