Ava has been learning to come when called. It is starting to work very well, especially when she is at the complete opposite end of her huge pasture.
I tried riding her a little today. It went... not so great. She tried bucking and rearing with me on her, and of course her signature of taking every little advantage to do something bad... I'm not sure that riding will work out very well in our future... I know it may sound silly, crazy or whatever but I've been considering retiring Ava from riding and just advance our ground and showmanship skills. The more I ride her the more I feel like we are on different levels and I'm not sure we will ever been the same. It saddens me but all I know is that we are both very good at showmanship, so if we work hard maybe we can start entering higher level showmanship shows. It's an idea. I also wouldn't have to worry about getting hurt anymore too! Eventually I would want another horse that is my level of riding but until I get a massive increase of income I will be working with my little halter pony.
I've also considered teaching her to drive but that is a whole other ordeal.
I'm sure she will settle down. Can you get some lessons at the new barn to help?
ReplyDeleteSadly the new barn doesn't have any riding instructors available. I wish they did :(
DeleteDo you have someone more experienced that could help you? Maybe some lessons? Obviously if your okay with just having a showmanship pony, more power to you, but don't completely give up if you still have a desire to ride!
ReplyDeleteNot really, I can think of a couple people but I'm not sure that they would help. And I agree, I do want to ride still, really bad actually!
DeleteSome riding instructor are willing to travel and come to you...
DeleteThat is a good idea. Maybe my old BO from The Ranch would be willing to come out. Thanks Mary :)
DeleteI also recommend lessons if you can take some at the new place. Lilly and I love showmanship, so I can relate to you there, but hopefully you'll still be able to enjoy Ava from the saddle as well!
ReplyDeleteThe new place looks lovely!
Thank you :)
DeleteSince your barn doesn't offer lessons, I bet they wouldn't object to a trainer coming in to give you lessons. Look online and see if you can find anyone that seems to have good reviews/students etc!
ReplyDeleteLooking online is a great idea, I will definitely do that :)
DeleteI am having similar issues. . .no trainer makes it hard to make progress. But doing what I can do, tons of ground work I think has really helped strengthen our bond.
ReplyDeleteBut give her a few weeks to settle in and get comfortable, she might surprise you :)
I really appreciate it Alli :) I think I start to jump the gun and expect her to perform perfectly only to realize she hasn't quite settled in yet. Poor girl.
DeleteThat's great that things are going well at the new barn!!
ReplyDeleteI second or third finding a trainer who will come to you to help with her.
If showmanship/in hand is all you want to do that's cool too but if you want to ride there's no problem getting help :)
Thanks Karley :) !
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