Update on Ky's Training

This morning Melinda and I worked with Ky on his saddle training and riding. I successfully mounted under saddle, and with some patience and consistence, he learned to walk forward at my command. Halting and turning on command is pretty simple since he can be led from the ground, but getting the horse to walk forward is more difficult when there is no one on the ground for him to follow.

After I worked him for about 10 minutes, Melinda got on him and worked him on a long safety line. Here she is on him.

He practiced taking commands today, standing still on command (believe it or not, that is hard for a 3 year old!) and allowing his rider to move and shift on his back. He is a patient boy, and he really learns quick. It wont be too long before we have another horse in the program. Good job, Melinda, bustin' brocos!

Today's Classes

Bundle up everyone and head out! We will have class this afternoon in the snow, if there is any left this evening. Make sure you layer up and dress warm, it will be a little cold this evening, but sunny. See you all in a bit!

Rough week

Hey guys. After a really rough week and a not-much-better weekend, I'm finally feeling much better. I think I got the flu. I spent three days on the couch, and the last 2 or so I have still felt a little cruddy. But I am definately back on my feet. I am so thankful for the warm days ahead, and that this sickness isn't interfering with riding. Thanks everyone for praying for me. You guys are the best. See you all soon!

The next day

I woke up this morning and half expected to see a familiar face at his usually spot in front of his water bucket waiting for me to bring him his breakfast. It has been somewhere around 14 years of his usually habits, things seem kind empty without Shenango here.... So, I don't know. Just different.

His body was picked up and removed today. I'm glad that they came so quickly. I hate emotional drag-ons :( Its funny though. In the 15+ plus years we have owned horses, we always knew in the back of our heads somewhere that we would eventually face the death of one of our animals. But I guess your never really prepared. I think we were very fortunate to have gone so long without experiencing a loss.

There's a first time for everything. I just wish it didn't have to be Shenango. Losing him by far hurts the worst.

Rest In Peace, Shenango

Today I lost a good friend. Shenango came to our farm about 14 years ago. Sometimes it seems like only yesterday that my brother, sister and I used to ride him around the yard. He has been part of this family for so long, it seems unreal that he is no longer here. Those of you who know what we went through with him last winter know that we were even more attached to him after narrowly escaping his death to his infection in his withers. Here are some pictures of him in earlier years of owning him

Megan & Shenango at a show

Shenango and Cutlass, his first pasture mate here

Yep, that's Jeffery!

Shenango made the transition from a family pet to a lesson horse gracefully, and over the last 3 or 4 years has been taking care of my students from age 4 to adults. He was one of my most gentle and patient teachers, not minding too much when a student makes a mistake. It takes a patient horse to walk with a beginner who is learning how to ride. He was one of the best.

My Senior Picture

I will miss him, as will most of you too. Please post to facebook any pictures you have of him to share with us. I would love to see any pictures that I haven't seen before. Thanks everyone. Please comment your favorite memory of Shenango.