Diamond In The Rough
… even so, a having a horse is still a LOT of work and it can be frustrating when you live far from the barn. Often I’d get to the barn only to realize that I’d forgotten something and, with no quick run home to get it, I was stuck. So I learned to keep ‘stuff’ in my car which took on the lovely scent of Eau de Equine. My family was NOT impressed.
As I worked with Pins I noticed that my priorities were changing. Riding each day was no longer essential and often just being with her was enough: lounging, working in-hand, just watching her graze in the field. And grooming her – I was so ecstatic to have a horse I overwhelmed her with love and attention. [She later let me know I had to lighten up!]
When I did lighten up she became more affectionate and over the years we formed a close relationship. For my part I’ve constantly worked to provide the best care for her I could, improving my equine knowledge, riding proficiency, body language and communication skills. And I’ve been rewarded with her gentle ground manners and willingness to do new things.
Ahhhh but life with Pins has not been without some drama – she’s a OTTB after all! In our trail riding days there were random spooks, powerful jigging and the occasional unscheduled dismount. We do most of our work in the arena now but I still have the occasional unplanned dismount. Luckily, I’ve never been seriously hurt, usually ending up on my back with Pins calmly looking down on me as if to say “What are you doing DOWN THERE!?”
Want to comment? Click on Life at the Barn