Back in the saddle again!

Was that ever a long week! It felt so very good to see my friend Blu again. He was definitely not worse for the wear. He felt very up this past evening but best of all his back felt terrific as soon as I sat on him... swinging with every over stride. Thanks to my friend Mary who kept him moving and oh so very happy!

Maybe not the smartest idea but I scheduled a lesson for my first ride back and Linda did not let up. We had some of the best work despite the fact my seat could not seem to find and keep the center of the saddle. It was like I was swimming and Blu let me know it by popping out his shoulder or shifting his haunches way too much or best of all swapping his leads in the canter. It became all too apparent when we cantered down a long side to a 10 meter half circle to half-pass and counter canter... did I say counter canter? It would have been nice if I could hold him on my seat! I finally got it and then we went off to canter and quarter turns then canter walk. I finally sat back and let go and it was all up hill. He was magnificent and I was sadly lacking. Taking a week off just does not work for this aging dressage enthusiast. Thank God for my oh so patient boy!

I also rode without spurs last night and did not need them at all. He was quite forward and happy to work. Even a bit fresh... Spooking at the door because Hueler was feeding the horses... Don't tell me he wasn't trying to remind me that I chose dinner time for a ride.

Unfortunately, today we are expecting an ice storm so my ride will have to wait until Wednesday... We are definitely not doing ice despite the fancy Yak Trak's Mary gifted me with... me with my Yak Trak's and Blu with his winter borium.. nah, I still do not like our odds!