Hi, Been Slackin' on charting my progress, but I have made some and that's good.
Exy is really great about following me around and so we do patterns at liberty (she does almost better at liberty than on line--perhaps I'm so straight line with her on line?). She is a lot of fun, but does want to crowd me at times and for the first time EVER she blatently (it's been subtle up til now)challened my leadership and nipped me! This while walking SIDEWAYS through the gate and she reaches over and nips my sleeve. Well. Took me aback, I'll tell you and it made me re-assess my leadership--or perhaps I was pushing too hard? She's becoming more and more LB all the time (I was enjoying her being RBI to tell you the truth!). Sigh...gotta up the savvy. A stretch for me sometimes, unfortunately.
Now I have two LB's and Two RB's. I handle the RB's better I think. Gotta get myself to ramp it up a notch.
Been really tired and depressed lately since my Dad has a stroke on December 22, 2008 whilst on a cruise to New Zealand and Australia. He ended up in the hospital there and we were not sure he'd live, so I have put the horses on the back burner for now unfortunately. Have been out to love on them of course but no playing for a while now. Perhaps with the new year I'll feel more motivated and with the HD Video Camera that Santa brought me (to video my Parelli Levels!) things will look up. As I type this my Dad is still in NZ and is having trouble but at least he'll live. I'm so thankful and credit all the prayers from people all over the world as being a great help! THANKS! Thanks to God as well. He has spared my Dad in the face of a potentially fatal incident and I'm so grateful.
Starting to get cold now, too. I love cold weather (hate the blasting heat of our Ga summers).
Perhaps soon I'll be back to normal and will continue to play with my horses. Two of them are new to riding and I'm doing all I can to ready them and make it a non event. O'Rion has been ridden about 5 times and Exy I'm laying accross her back with no saddle and giving scratches and love.
December 31, 2008
November 30, 2008
Rain Rain Go Away
It is raining like crazy here with heavy fog so I've not had any horsey days lately. Been working a lot of overtime, so just had some non-demanding time while feeding hay, some scratches and did chase my O'Rion's butt one day when he turned it toward me, but otherwise nothing to report.
Exy has been more and more Left Brained and is doing well with patterns. So far we've done Figure 8 approx 4 times and she's getting it. No more dominant behavior for now. I had to get firm with her on coming on top of me!
O'Rion is doing well with figure 8 as well although he wants to squash the cones.
Fiona wants to sidepass through the cones. She's hilarious!
Will get back here soon, at least as soon as the dreaded fog lets up!
Savvy on.
Exy has been more and more Left Brained and is doing well with patterns. So far we've done Figure 8 approx 4 times and she's getting it. No more dominant behavior for now. I had to get firm with her on coming on top of me!
O'Rion is doing well with figure 8 as well although he wants to squash the cones.
Fiona wants to sidepass through the cones. She's hilarious!
Will get back here soon, at least as soon as the dreaded fog lets up!
Savvy on.
November 10, 2008
Patterns with Fiona-Figure 8
There have been many interesting moments since I purchased the Patterns the weekend Kim, my sister, and I, visited the FLORIDA TOUR STOP OCT 2008--the Last (sob) tour stop. I mean where else can you go for FREE to see the greatest horsepeople play? and to learn? I ALWAYS learn a lot when I go to Tour Stop.
Even though money is an issue, I purchased Gold Celebration tickets! I say go for it, and go in a big way, and I believe the money will come when I need it. (not to mention I've scheduled myself to work overtime!) So the world helps those who help themselves, right? I'm trying to help myself and trusting the rest will just work out.
Fiona loves the interaction of the patterns and she offers more than ever. FIRST time we did cones in figure 8 she OFFERED to do sidepasses in the middle. FANTASTIC!~
Exy is trying some dominant behaviors with snakey head and barging my space. We will NOT be going there as I'm nipping that in the bud. She's more left brained extrovert all the time. Sounds like I have a challenge on my hands. I'm up for it, thanks to Pat and Linda! All the hard work I've done with this filly is paying off as she's brave, calm and curious. Yes! This should be fun.
I'd love to hear from you. Let me know how you are doing and about yourself and your horses!
Blessings from Georgia,
Shelly
Even though money is an issue, I purchased Gold Celebration tickets! I say go for it, and go in a big way, and I believe the money will come when I need it. (not to mention I've scheduled myself to work overtime!) So the world helps those who help themselves, right? I'm trying to help myself and trusting the rest will just work out.
Fiona loves the interaction of the patterns and she offers more than ever. FIRST time we did cones in figure 8 she OFFERED to do sidepasses in the middle. FANTASTIC!~
Exy is trying some dominant behaviors with snakey head and barging my space. We will NOT be going there as I'm nipping that in the bud. She's more left brained extrovert all the time. Sounds like I have a challenge on my hands. I'm up for it, thanks to Pat and Linda! All the hard work I've done with this filly is paying off as she's brave, calm and curious. Yes! This should be fun.
I'd love to hear from you. Let me know how you are doing and about yourself and your horses!
Blessings from Georgia,
Shelly
Exy Figure 8 first try
Playing patterns with Exy: she did well but wanted to pounce on the cones each time around. I didn't get on to her (relationship first) but laughed a lot. We both had fun with our first FIGURE 8 Day. then I had her follow me at liberty through the figure 8. she did this successfullly about 4 times. I was THRILLED!
There have been many interesting moments since I purchased the Patterns the weekend Kim, my sister, and I, visited the FLORIDA TOUR STOP OCT 2008--the Last (sob) tour stop. I mean where else can you go for FREE to see the greatest horsepeople play? and to learn? I ALWAYS learn a lot when I go to Tour Stop.
Even though money is an issue, I purchased Gold Celebration tickets! I say go for it, and go in a big way, and I believe the money will come when I need it. (not to mention I've scheduled myself to work overtime!) So the world helps those who help themselves, right? I'm trying to help myself and trusting the rest will just work out.
Fiona loves the interaction of the patterns and she offers more than ever. FIRST time we did cones in figure 8 she OFFERED to do sidepasses in the middle. FANTASTIC!~
Exy is trying some dominant behaviors with snakey head and barging my space. We will NOT be going there as I'm nipping that in the bud. She's more left brained extrovert all the time. Sounds like I have a challenge on my hands. I'm up for it, thanks to Pat and Linda! All the hard work I've done with this filly is paying off as she's brave, calm and curious. Yes! This should be fun.
I'd love to hear from you. Let me know how you are doing and about yourself and your horses!
Blessings from Georgia,
Shelly
Even though money is an issue, I purchased Gold Celebration tickets! I say go for it, and go in a big way, and I believe the money will come when I need it. (not to mention I've scheduled myself to work overtime!) So the world helps those who help themselves, right? I'm trying to help myself and trusting the rest will just work out.
Fiona loves the interaction of the patterns and she offers more than ever. FIRST time we did cones in figure 8 she OFFERED to do sidepasses in the middle. FANTASTIC!~
Exy is trying some dominant behaviors with snakey head and barging my space. We will NOT be going there as I'm nipping that in the bud. She's more left brained extrovert all the time. Sounds like I have a challenge on my hands. I'm up for it, thanks to Pat and Linda! All the hard work I've done with this filly is paying off as she's brave, calm and curious. Yes! This should be fun.
I'd love to hear from you. Let me know how you are doing and about yourself and your horses!
Blessings from Georgia,
Shelly
October 1, 2008
Exy preparing to ride
Yesterday Exy and I played games for a while until she was confident and calm. We used the mounting block as a resting point as well as circling around it and sniffing it. She did excellent sideways without a fence both ways as well as basic games.
Preparing to ride: I put her next to the mounting block and did friendly with rope and lots of scratches. Then turned belly to eye, (she looked away) so i backed off.
Played more games. Back to mounting block. Put belly towards eye, lots of scratches (her lip poked out) and then I put my belly on her back. I was getting all excited and nervous so I quit for the day.
Played with Exy and a tarp and she became QUITE animated, jumping in the air then giving a little exhuberent buck, then Jumping on the tarp! I had to back off as she was so wild with that tarp! I let her have it and she sniffed it and pawed it. then I dragged it away and she pounced Again! it was hilarious!
I loved playing with my girl.
Then she followed me at liberty all over. Great day!
Preparing to ride: I put her next to the mounting block and did friendly with rope and lots of scratches. Then turned belly to eye, (she looked away) so i backed off.
Played more games. Back to mounting block. Put belly towards eye, lots of scratches (her lip poked out) and then I put my belly on her back. I was getting all excited and nervous so I quit for the day.
Played with Exy and a tarp and she became QUITE animated, jumping in the air then giving a little exhuberent buck, then Jumping on the tarp! I had to back off as she was so wild with that tarp! I let her have it and she sniffed it and pawed it. then I dragged it away and she pounced Again! it was hilarious!
I loved playing with my girl.
Then she followed me at liberty all over. Great day!
September 22, 2008
nice play day
EXY and Boss Play notes: Exy did saddle program. did put it on her, took right off. Let her bite, paw, ect, the old rotted western saddle. she did great. used the saddle pad as a pedestal and had her stand on it. She pawed and licked it, did lots of chewing/some licking and one yawn. Saddled up and let her walk with saddle just sitting there not fastened then took it off. That is big for her and me as I learned to BACK OFF and let her process.
ended on a good note, she followed me all around. Then I turned to boss.
got boss (both these horses caught me and that's BIG for boss). lots of friendly. did trailer games. Do NOT get on that trailer but put your foot on ramp, back on ramp, circle on ramp, retreat, graze, eat apple pieces, let's get on the trailer a little.
Sideways with fence. did get a little head up, eyes wild. did turn and turn and turn and he relaxed.
to trailer. back out, put zone 1 on tire. zone 2 on tire. relax. Get on trailer. *he only put front in and I was great with that. get off, get on, get off. graze. when he had front in up to shoulder I quit. called it a day.
good fun! Both my horses were fantastic today. I was pumped to play and did have fun myself!
ended on a good note, she followed me all around. Then I turned to boss.
got boss (both these horses caught me and that's BIG for boss). lots of friendly. did trailer games. Do NOT get on that trailer but put your foot on ramp, back on ramp, circle on ramp, retreat, graze, eat apple pieces, let's get on the trailer a little.
Sideways with fence. did get a little head up, eyes wild. did turn and turn and turn and he relaxed.
to trailer. back out, put zone 1 on tire. zone 2 on tire. relax. Get on trailer. *he only put front in and I was great with that. get off, get on, get off. graze. when he had front in up to shoulder I quit. called it a day.
good fun! Both my horses were fantastic today. I was pumped to play and did have fun myself!
September 14, 2008
Spanish Walk
Two times now after playing with Fiona I've wondered what I can do on the ground to challenge myself. Up is a direction I usually Do NOT want to go while on horseback (chuckling) but on the ground I asked Fiona to go UP. She got worried, but when i put the rope up, pointed UP, tapped her foreleg lightly she put her leg UP in the most lovely Spanish type walk. Both legs. Two play sessions. She really is getting this pressure concept!
I love Fiona. Can't wait to see what is next !
Last night she ran from me, so I played with Boss (I was too direct line thinking LOUDLY evidently). When we were nearly finished he offered the most lovely side passing for about 30 feet, so I called it quits, let him graze, gave him scratches, then let him go (the whole time we played I paused quite a lot and lovingly with a soft look stroked his face). Due to his fear in the past, I did LOTS of friendly and retreat. Only one little head up incident. But turning my back took care of that.
We stood for a long time and this play session had him licking and chewing and a little yawning at first. I just waited. He was amazed and engaged. Nice bright face and eyes, trying to figure out what I was asking (mostly get on the pedestal or put a foot or look at the pedestal, SOMETHING, ANYTHING and I'd turn my back. He stumbled at first, thinking how to get up there. Then one foot, then both. Didn't stay but that was enough. In between these sessions we jumped a log then went back to pedestal. I broke it up into sections. Log. Pedestal, circle with fence or obstacle, friendly,pedestal and repeat. We did about three turns of each and then we quit.
Nice day.
Then Fiona and I played as previously stated, when some one across the road began shooting a shotgun (dove season, sigh). She was still as stone with ears at half mast, still doing what I'd asked. Relaxed and let me throw ropes all over.
I did hindquarter disengage, pick up rope and step back as I leaned back. She did well. Lots of scratches and friendly for her, and stroking with love in hand. Head down, relaxed, I leaned against her and watched the sunset.
BIG SMILES.
I love Fiona. Can't wait to see what is next !
Last night she ran from me, so I played with Boss (I was too direct line thinking LOUDLY evidently). When we were nearly finished he offered the most lovely side passing for about 30 feet, so I called it quits, let him graze, gave him scratches, then let him go (the whole time we played I paused quite a lot and lovingly with a soft look stroked his face). Due to his fear in the past, I did LOTS of friendly and retreat. Only one little head up incident. But turning my back took care of that.
We stood for a long time and this play session had him licking and chewing and a little yawning at first. I just waited. He was amazed and engaged. Nice bright face and eyes, trying to figure out what I was asking (mostly get on the pedestal or put a foot or look at the pedestal, SOMETHING, ANYTHING and I'd turn my back. He stumbled at first, thinking how to get up there. Then one foot, then both. Didn't stay but that was enough. In between these sessions we jumped a log then went back to pedestal. I broke it up into sections. Log. Pedestal, circle with fence or obstacle, friendly,pedestal and repeat. We did about three turns of each and then we quit.
Nice day.
Then Fiona and I played as previously stated, when some one across the road began shooting a shotgun (dove season, sigh). She was still as stone with ears at half mast, still doing what I'd asked. Relaxed and let me throw ropes all over.
I did hindquarter disengage, pick up rope and step back as I leaned back. She did well. Lots of scratches and friendly for her, and stroking with love in hand. Head down, relaxed, I leaned against her and watched the sunset.
BIG SMILES.
Previous Post Late to Publish.
Feeding time had been interesting in the past. We did have some behaviors that were obviously dominant. Although those behaviors have not stopped all together we have realized with Parelli's help, that ears pinned was NOT to be tolerated, and we've started sending O'Rion off with zone 1 any time he looks at us with ugly thoughts. This has brought about a rather interesting change of attitude and also the way he looks at us is much nicer. Here is a pic of him running to dinner with his Dad, Albert. Albert is my husband and while he's not in the Parelli program, per se, he's learning by default how to defend his space, how to turn away a horse at feeding time with pinned ears, how to do jumping jacks to keep LBI boy O'Rion out of his space with no conflict (dang, that man's crazy...I'm going over here, you can almost hear him thinking!) I'm very proud of Albert. He actually got ON Fiona when I'd played with her for an hour and she was so quiet and LB. This is the first time in 19 yeras he's been willing to get on a horse, and he did it with halter and 12' line! (I led him around, but still it's huge). The hand means "NO PICTURES!" Duh. He's an introvert..can you tell?
Lately I've had some interesting times with Boss (older QH). He's becoming more and more introverted whether or not I do ANYTHING. So I'm just hanging out with him trying to do Friendly. No pressure, no looking at him...just sitting nearby and letting him know I'm waiting for him to offer. Occasional treats and scratches help.
Last night he went starey and head down at the water trough. Hardly any breathing (hope no one sees me at this water trough). I had done nothing to him but squirt the others off to cool them. Apparently this was too much for him. So I just sat with him, not looking at him, and then did concentrate on the dirt on the ground in case I was sending sideways energy to him (looking with peripherals, ya know?) 10 mins. later he came over to me and yawned all over me, almost putting my knee in his mouth while yawning. I had a hard time not laughing at him. he licked my knee and sniffed me all over (this is big for this independant boy). Rubbing his head on my leg, he then quietly walked away. I called it good for a nice friendly session. HARD to do nothing ! but I'm making myself DO NOTHING. This is savvy that I totally attribute to Pat and Linda! In the past I'd be all over him like WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU????? SNAP OUT OF IT! chuckles. I'm smug in the knowledge that I, FOR ONCE IN MY LONG CAREER WITH HORSES, did it JUST RIGHT!
This QH is a rescue and when I got him oh, say, 18 years ago, he refused adamantly to put a bridle on unless you wanted to chase him with it for an hour....and he would pull back something horrible. I got the bridle issue sorted by myself, pre-Parelli, but I now realize I did it their way, approach and retreat, and gently. Never did I force him. So I always knew I wanted to do things a different way. Now I have the program to guide me. If there were any BIG problems I was stumped. But now I'm really quite confident I can handle almost (I say again ALMOST) anything. Fear is still an issue but that is slowly, quietly, dissipating. I have walked on Fiona (that's big for me, folks). I can do anything (this is my mantra when I get unconfident...go slow and you can do anything). It's helping!
Thanks Pat and Linda! I love Parelli!
September 8, 2008
Exy--2 yrs old Boss--22?
My LBI extreme fraidy cat, Exy, and I played two days ago. I went very slow (VERY) and tried to do things on Valium. She snorted a time or two so I just stayed with her and did lots of friendly with rope, walking away, and S bends. Not much circling but did the other games. She is worried about squeeze. Had to get a HUGE gap in between fence and her for her squeeze.
We had fun, but I'm not progressing with her like I am Fiona and O'Rion.
Boss, I think is 22, must check, sidepassed to the fence last night so I could brush his mane. big for him as I had the carrot stick and he'd been afraid of it. I have done LOTS of friendly with it, way accross the field, and never looking at him while having it in hand. He's finally getting over his extreme fear of it.
Boss is a wonderful calm LBI but easy to ride and will go anywhere and do anything. Since I've been playing in Parelli he's not offering to let me ride, however. And this is something I'm working on, getting him to offer as I know we can have a blast together.
My new love, the bareback pad, is fantastic. The saddle I have, a Wintec, has the adjustable gullet, so I can use it with all my horses and all sizes, but I do NOT feel balanced even though I have the Parelli English air saddle pad. Want a Parelli saddle but that will have to wait. And do have shims of all three sizes.
Boss is really funny as if a horse fly lands on him he ZOOMS to me or Albert at a gallop sometimes, and stops right by you with horsefly facing us. He wants us to swat them. The first time he did it I got a weird feeling thinking he's going to run me over. LOL.
We had fun, but I'm not progressing with her like I am Fiona and O'Rion.
Boss, I think is 22, must check, sidepassed to the fence last night so I could brush his mane. big for him as I had the carrot stick and he'd been afraid of it. I have done LOTS of friendly with it, way accross the field, and never looking at him while having it in hand. He's finally getting over his extreme fear of it.
Boss is a wonderful calm LBI but easy to ride and will go anywhere and do anything. Since I've been playing in Parelli he's not offering to let me ride, however. And this is something I'm working on, getting him to offer as I know we can have a blast together.
My new love, the bareback pad, is fantastic. The saddle I have, a Wintec, has the adjustable gullet, so I can use it with all my horses and all sizes, but I do NOT feel balanced even though I have the Parelli English air saddle pad. Want a Parelli saddle but that will have to wait. And do have shims of all three sizes.
Boss is really funny as if a horse fly lands on him he ZOOMS to me or Albert at a gallop sometimes, and stops right by you with horsefly facing us. He wants us to swat them. The first time he did it I got a weird feeling thinking he's going to run me over. LOL.
O'Rion-3 yr. old RBI
Been neglecting O'Rion some since Fiona and I've had such a good time, but I started him again and we found a really great time together yesterday!
Did lots of zone 1 friendly with halter (he's quite mouthy and bracy zone 1) and that went pretty well. He was quite bright eyed and seemed to have fun.
We did Shoulders (mirror my shoulders) and he didnt' do as well as Fiona (I'm sure I'm not as clear as Pat is!) and we'll work on that some more.
Put your nose here and there was Brilliant! Smart boy he got my focus immediately, first time.
put your foot is great, too. He loves to put his foot on things.
I'm very happy with him. Will try to ride soon. He has about 4 hours under saddle. So should be interesting. But I'm going slow (last year last time ridden...yeah, very slow) because of my fear issues and I want him to have a very easy time of it and not think it's a bad thing. I lean on his back all the time over the fence but he's HUGE and not sure how I'm going to get on (I'm short and stubby and he was supposed to be a more manageable height based on sire and dam. Oh well.) Gonna have to lose weight and grow some longer legs! (or teach him to lie down for me to mount!)
We had a blast and ended up with Falling Leaf and S bends. he got a little up (head up, life up) on falling leaf and S bends he gave me a sweet soft look so I quit.
Brushed manes and tails and stopped for the day. it was HOT....but I had fun.
THANK YOU PAT AND LINDA! I LOVE YOU BOTH!
Did lots of zone 1 friendly with halter (he's quite mouthy and bracy zone 1) and that went pretty well. He was quite bright eyed and seemed to have fun.
We did Shoulders (mirror my shoulders) and he didnt' do as well as Fiona (I'm sure I'm not as clear as Pat is!) and we'll work on that some more.
Put your nose here and there was Brilliant! Smart boy he got my focus immediately, first time.
put your foot is great, too. He loves to put his foot on things.
I'm very happy with him. Will try to ride soon. He has about 4 hours under saddle. So should be interesting. But I'm going slow (last year last time ridden...yeah, very slow) because of my fear issues and I want him to have a very easy time of it and not think it's a bad thing. I lean on his back all the time over the fence but he's HUGE and not sure how I'm going to get on (I'm short and stubby and he was supposed to be a more manageable height based on sire and dam. Oh well.) Gonna have to lose weight and grow some longer legs! (or teach him to lie down for me to mount!)
We had a blast and ended up with Falling Leaf and S bends. he got a little up (head up, life up) on falling leaf and S bends he gave me a sweet soft look so I quit.
Brushed manes and tails and stopped for the day. it was HOT....but I had fun.
THANK YOU PAT AND LINDA! I LOVE YOU BOTH!
Fantastic Play session with Fiona
Lately things have been fantastic with my girl Fiona. Yesterday went to play and thought that I'd try some upward movement. So held rope up, pointed up, and tapped lightly on either front outer leg. got the prettiest Spanish steps you ever saw first try! Pressure makes sense to her. I was thrilled!
We played with the trailer (float) and did circles on the ramp, then backed in and then did yo yo in and out backwards. I was at the end of the 22'. This is a HUGE improvement over the first loading where she attacked me! And I was terrified! I'm so happy.
she did not offer me to get on, so I just stayed on the ground. (I did try but for some reason she turned away, so I let it be).
We did SHOULDERS (mirror my shoulders) and she got it after about 5 mins. and seemed like she enjoyed it! I rocked back and forth after a few steps forward and back. That was rusty and we never got a true rock, but we have a beginning. This is coming together (on the ground) and I'm really having fun.
We played with the trailer (float) and did circles on the ramp, then backed in and then did yo yo in and out backwards. I was at the end of the 22'. This is a HUGE improvement over the first loading where she attacked me! And I was terrified! I'm so happy.
she did not offer me to get on, so I just stayed on the ground. (I did try but for some reason she turned away, so I let it be).
We did SHOULDERS (mirror my shoulders) and she got it after about 5 mins. and seemed like she enjoyed it! I rocked back and forth after a few steps forward and back. That was rusty and we never got a true rock, but we have a beginning. This is coming together (on the ground) and I'm really having fun.
August 22, 2008
Rain, Rain, don't go away! Brolly Training.
Today raining like crazy thanks to the storm in the Gulf of Mexico...so I got my handy umbrella and went for some UMBRELLA DE-SPOOKING! Of course! What a blast!
Started out walking into the field with all 4 heads high, staring. Very still. I walked away gently flapping the umbrella. Stopped, waited. Three heads came down so I continued walking away. Had to go to the far side of the 10 acre field before Boss could lick. Walked back to them, gently flapping. Away flapping more vigorously. Rinse and repeat about 8 times.
Three horses came forward and two came TO ME to check out the umbrella. Exy, (LBI) the youngest (2)followed me closely as I walked away and I had to actually ask her to get out of my and the umbrella's space! Thrilling that she was totally unafraid after 5 minutes. O'Rion (3)and another LBI with some RBE tendencies was a tad more sceptical but he came all the way to the fence when I went out. Started to get worried, I walked away. Head back up. Waited, head came down, I was able to gently walk to him and rub him with closed umbrella.
Exy wanted to bite it (I let her) and actually it crossed my mind "she's going to jump on you" so I let myself out of the fence and conducted the rest of the session through the fence. BIG SUCCESS.
Boss never came to investigate per se, but he did join the herd in the middle of the field calmly grazing while I flapped the big scary umbrella before the two youngest checked me out, and this was really big for him. He's ALWAYS (20 yrs) been afraid of an umbrella no matter how I've presented it (must have pushed too much before although I THOUGHT I was being gentle). I was able to approach somewhat and he didn't freak as he has in the past. I'll get farther next time.
I had to stop myself from doing it again! We're tapping it in to them gently not hammering it, I told myself, echoing Pat Parelli at a Tour Stop. So I got myself to stop and flap all the way to the house as I retreated, and they ended the session calmly grazing.
MAJOR SUCCESS! YAY! And she jumps in a puddle in victory!
Started out walking into the field with all 4 heads high, staring. Very still. I walked away gently flapping the umbrella. Stopped, waited. Three heads came down so I continued walking away. Had to go to the far side of the 10 acre field before Boss could lick. Walked back to them, gently flapping. Away flapping more vigorously. Rinse and repeat about 8 times.
Three horses came forward and two came TO ME to check out the umbrella. Exy, (LBI) the youngest (2)followed me closely as I walked away and I had to actually ask her to get out of my and the umbrella's space! Thrilling that she was totally unafraid after 5 minutes. O'Rion (3)and another LBI with some RBE tendencies was a tad more sceptical but he came all the way to the fence when I went out. Started to get worried, I walked away. Head back up. Waited, head came down, I was able to gently walk to him and rub him with closed umbrella.
Exy wanted to bite it (I let her) and actually it crossed my mind "she's going to jump on you" so I let myself out of the fence and conducted the rest of the session through the fence. BIG SUCCESS.
Boss never came to investigate per se, but he did join the herd in the middle of the field calmly grazing while I flapped the big scary umbrella before the two youngest checked me out, and this was really big for him. He's ALWAYS (20 yrs) been afraid of an umbrella no matter how I've presented it (must have pushed too much before although I THOUGHT I was being gentle). I was able to approach somewhat and he didn't freak as he has in the past. I'll get farther next time.
I had to stop myself from doing it again! We're tapping it in to them gently not hammering it, I told myself, echoing Pat Parelli at a Tour Stop. So I got myself to stop and flap all the way to the house as I retreated, and they ended the session calmly grazing.
MAJOR SUCCESS! YAY! And she jumps in a puddle in victory!
August 19, 2008
Travelling Circles
Fiona tried to make it seem she couldn't do travelling circles, so I just asked for circles, once she got that down I started walking slowly. when she'd stop I would SMACK the ground (not her) where she had just been standing (she got it, I was not out to get her). Lovely travelling circles! and at a lovely nice cadenced trot. Success!
Travelling Circles and a New Nephew!
Fiona tried to make it seem she couldn't do travelling circles, so I just asked for circles, once she got that down I started walking slowly. when she'd stop I would SMACK the ground (not her) where she had just been standing (she got it, I was not out to get her). Lovely travelling circles! and at a lovely nice cadenced trot. Success!
On another note: went to the hospital to see my nephew, Nicholi's baby. He hadn't been born yet, so I got to help deliver! Really nice! He's Maxwell Brenton New. 6 pounds, .128 ounces. 19 inches long. He and mother are home and doing fine. New Dad looked Shell-shocked!
On another note: went to the hospital to see my nephew, Nicholi's baby. He hadn't been born yet, so I got to help deliver! Really nice! He's Maxwell Brenton New. 6 pounds, .128 ounces. 19 inches long. He and mother are home and doing fine. New Dad looked Shell-shocked!
Fiona changing even more
Nowadays I have noted that Fiona is becoming more and more LBI so I'm hanging out and offering comfort. But she can sometimes be dominant and try to bamboozle me into thinking she can't do anything so I have to watch that fine line between leadership and overdoing.
Yesterday we did all games with obstacles and she is STILL afraid of squeeze over anything more than tiny. So I just lead her to a log and let her look at it, did not force. Then backed over. (no problem backwards). Interesting.
Backing into a doorway, no biggie. coming out? scary. So I never asked her to come out. just let her come whenever she wanted to and that worked.
played games on the trailer (float) ramp and backed her on and off the trailer. No biggie. She grabbed some hay for good measure on the way out as I had left some in there for her.
Went very sleepy, not quite catatonic when I asked her to walk over a 3" log. So I just stood with her and didnt' ask anything at all. Let her come out of it, and backed up. Then advance and retreat. And slow. She offered to put her foot on, we called it a day.
Nice session but there are a LOT of thresholds and I'm not sure we'll ever get to a trail ride! Just going around the property is getting to take forever! I know eventually she'll trust me more but it's just that I used to Hunt and go all over, so this is a little boring at times not going anywhere, but the relationship part is fun, so I enjoy that. I'm very happy with what we've accomplished, just want it all (we've worked on this relationship for three years. One of them PNH and the other two I was not asking that much.). Sometimes I just feel I should be much farther along.
all for today. I'm off to do chores.
Yesterday we did all games with obstacles and she is STILL afraid of squeeze over anything more than tiny. So I just lead her to a log and let her look at it, did not force. Then backed over. (no problem backwards). Interesting.
Backing into a doorway, no biggie. coming out? scary. So I never asked her to come out. just let her come whenever she wanted to and that worked.
played games on the trailer (float) ramp and backed her on and off the trailer. No biggie. She grabbed some hay for good measure on the way out as I had left some in there for her.
Went very sleepy, not quite catatonic when I asked her to walk over a 3" log. So I just stood with her and didnt' ask anything at all. Let her come out of it, and backed up. Then advance and retreat. And slow. She offered to put her foot on, we called it a day.
Nice session but there are a LOT of thresholds and I'm not sure we'll ever get to a trail ride! Just going around the property is getting to take forever! I know eventually she'll trust me more but it's just that I used to Hunt and go all over, so this is a little boring at times not going anywhere, but the relationship part is fun, so I enjoy that. I'm very happy with what we've accomplished, just want it all (we've worked on this relationship for three years. One of them PNH and the other two I was not asking that much.). Sometimes I just feel I should be much farther along.
all for today. I'm off to do chores.
August 7, 2008
Starting Liberty
Hi!
Yesterday started really getting down to playing at Liberty with Fiona. I can do Friendly, lead with the leg both sides and out to the side at liberty, move zone 1 with fingertips or carrot stick, and yo yo. but when I go after moving the hind end...she drifts away. that is better than before when she'd RUN away. lol. We're making baby steps.
I'm reminded of Dan Thompson telling us "if you get 1% better for 100 days, you're 100% better!" so there we are, working on our 1 and 2 %. It's all good!
Gotta love those magnificent horses.
My girl's eye is clouding over. She has some scar tissue in the left eye from an old injury and it is getting worse. She seems confident to let me lead her and I hope this is as bad as it gets. She had a drain in it a while ago as she lacerated her eye before I got her. Just a note that she's ok with going wherever I point her.
Did I mention I love this girl? She teaches me a lot each time we get together. She just sniffs me all over and puts her head on my shoulder.
She has had a few Introverted moments lately. she's really emerging (her true self) and it's lovely to watch! Changing from RBE all the time to RBI and LBI sometimes. She thinks more and more and takes way less time to get back to her thinking self if something startles her. That head goes WAY up there not nearly as much as it used to!
I'm having a blast!
Watched the two youngest playing in the water trough and did some squirting with the water hose. They are funny...love to get wet. Well, it's 100 F here! Who wouldn't ?
Yesterday started really getting down to playing at Liberty with Fiona. I can do Friendly, lead with the leg both sides and out to the side at liberty, move zone 1 with fingertips or carrot stick, and yo yo. but when I go after moving the hind end...she drifts away. that is better than before when she'd RUN away. lol. We're making baby steps.
I'm reminded of Dan Thompson telling us "if you get 1% better for 100 days, you're 100% better!" so there we are, working on our 1 and 2 %. It's all good!
Gotta love those magnificent horses.
My girl's eye is clouding over. She has some scar tissue in the left eye from an old injury and it is getting worse. She seems confident to let me lead her and I hope this is as bad as it gets. She had a drain in it a while ago as she lacerated her eye before I got her. Just a note that she's ok with going wherever I point her.
Did I mention I love this girl? She teaches me a lot each time we get together. She just sniffs me all over and puts her head on my shoulder.
She has had a few Introverted moments lately. she's really emerging (her true self) and it's lovely to watch! Changing from RBE all the time to RBI and LBI sometimes. She thinks more and more and takes way less time to get back to her thinking self if something startles her. That head goes WAY up there not nearly as much as it used to!
I'm having a blast!
Watched the two youngest playing in the water trough and did some squirting with the water hose. They are funny...love to get wet. Well, it's 100 F here! Who wouldn't ?
August 2, 2008
Boss coming around?
Today i randomly wandered in the field and just HAPPENED to wander in front of Boss, whose been having pressure issues (I'm really working on NOT being direct line) and I stopped about 20 feet from him with my back turned. I waited.....and I heard licking and then HE CAME TO ME! this is great and I'm very happy as I wanted to cut some tail hair for a bracelet. Mitz on Savvy Club is making me one! So I got the hair, gave scratches, got him to poke his lip out quite comically and then left. He was giving me soft and happy looks. NICE!
did liberty with Exy driving game. She was Brilliant! Both ways were terrific. First real game at liberty all the way through. I'm pleased with all of our progress today, a great and lovely sunny (hot) day.
Hit the pool to cool off, and now off for a chinese take away and a movie.
July 29, 2008
Boss has a soft expression today
Boss is coming to me now of his own accord. His expression is soft and he's friendly. Hanging arnd doing nothing has paid off for now. I'll slowly build him up to riding again. I want to really ride a lot bareback to improve my seat (it has been horrid til now and I'm strongly suspecting my saddle is way off balance).
Bareback pad is great and so is bareback. Actually, I'm surprised I feel way more comfortable riding bareback or bareback pad rather than with the saddle. (Wintec).
lots of friendly tonight.
Exy was pretty funny following me around like a little groupie. She makes me laugh. Such a sweet girl.
Signing off for now...be back soon.
Bareback pad is great and so is bareback. Actually, I'm surprised I feel way more comfortable riding bareback or bareback pad rather than with the saddle. (Wintec).
lots of friendly tonight.
Exy was pretty funny following me around like a little groupie. She makes me laugh. Such a sweet girl.
Signing off for now...be back soon.
Fantastic Play Today
Today: FANTASTIC play session with the horses. Started out with Fiona. We did lots of play with obstacles and little things like pine cones, fences, stick to me both sides with fence and out in the middle of the field. Lots of friendly. Went to jump and she got sort of inside herself. so i just stayed there, when she came out we retreated and did nothing for a while. Lots of licking....
She was SO CALM and wonderful that I tied the rope on her neck and put her by a wagon...and got on bareback. Rode along the fence, did stops by raising the rope and backed up. Back along fence. Then called it a day. I scratched her a lot before I got off...we just stood there. Jumped off and then she licked and chewed. She then came to me...and hung around. Such a sweet look on her face.
Then I stalked hineys in the field. 'Cause they kept pointing at me. so ...it took three times of getting behind zone 5 and WHAP! and then everyone turned to look at me as I stolled briskly around the field.
Boss came to me on his own with a lovely expression, and I called it a day.
When I fed the dogs and came into the hosue I could see Fiona watching me...I waved and came in to tell you guys all about it!
:) Good night!
She was SO CALM and wonderful that I tied the rope on her neck and put her by a wagon...and got on bareback. Rode along the fence, did stops by raising the rope and backed up. Back along fence. Then called it a day. I scratched her a lot before I got off...we just stood there. Jumped off and then she licked and chewed. She then came to me...and hung around. Such a sweet look on her face.
Then I stalked hineys in the field. 'Cause they kept pointing at me. so ...it took three times of getting behind zone 5 and WHAP! and then everyone turned to look at me as I stolled briskly around the field.
Boss came to me on his own with a lovely expression, and I called it a day.
When I fed the dogs and came into the hosue I could see Fiona watching me...I waved and came in to tell you guys all about it!
:) Good night!
Feeding time had been interesting in the past. We did have some behaviors that were obviously dominant. Although those behaviors have not stopped all together we have realized with Parelli's help, that ears pinned was NOT to be tolerated, and we've started sending O'Rion off with zone 1 any time he looks at us with ugly thoughts. This has brought about a rather interesting change of attitude and also the way he looks at us is much nicer. Here is a pic of him running to dinner with his Dad, Albert. Albert is my husband and while he's not in the Parelli program, per se, he's learning by default how to defend his space, how to turn away a horse at feeding time with pinned ears, how to do jumping jacks to keep LBI boy O'Rion out of his space with no conflict (dang, that man's crazy...I'm going over here, you can almost hear him thinking!) I'm very proud of Albert. He actually got ON Fiona when I'd played with her for an hour and she was so quiet and LB. This is the first time in 19 yeras he's been willing to get on a horse, and he did it with halter and 12' line! (I led him around, but still it's huge). The hand means "NO PICTURES!" Duh. He's an introvert..can you tell?
Lately I've had some interesting times with Boss (older QH). He's becoming more and more introverted whether or not I do ANYTHING. So I'm just hanging out with him trying to do Friendly. No pressure, no looking at him...just sitting nearby and letting him know I'm waiting for him to offer. Occasional treats and scratches help.
Last night he went starey and head down at the water trough. Hardly any breathing (hope no one sees me at this water trough). I had done nothing to him but squirt the others off to cool them. Apparently this was too much for him. So I just sat with him, not looking at him, and then did concentrate on the dirt on the ground in case I was sending sideways energy to him (looking with peripherals, ya know?) 10 mins. later he came over to me and yawned all over me, almost putting my knee in his mouth while yawning. I had a hard time not laughing at him. he licked my knee and sniffed me all over (this is big for this independant boy). Rubbing his head on my leg, he then quietly walked away. I called it good for a nice friendly session. HARD to do nothing ! but I'm making myself DO NOTHING. This is savvy that I totally attribute to Pat and Linda! In the past I'd be all over him like WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU????? SNAP OUT OF IT! chuckles. I'm smug in the knowledge that I, FOR ONCE IN MY LONG CAREER WITH HORSES, did it JUST RIGHT!
This QH is a rescue and when I got him oh, say, 18 years ago, he refused adamantly to put a bridle on unless you wanted to chase him with it for an hour....and he would pull back something horrible. I got the bridle issue sorted by myself, pre-Parelli, but I now realize I did it their way, approach and retreat, and gently. Never did I force him. So I always knew I wanted to do things a different way. Now I have the program to guide me. If there were any BIG problems I was stumped. But now I'm really quite confident I can handle almost (I say again ALMOST) anything. Fear is still an issue but that is slowly, quietly, dissipating. I have walked on Fiona (that's big for me, folks). I can do anything (this is my mantra when I get unconfident...go slow and you can do anything). It's helping!
Thanks Pat and Linda! I love Parelli!
Feeding time had been interesting in the past. We did have some behaviors that were obviously dominant. Although those behaviors have not stopped all together we have realized with Parelli's help, that ears pinned was NOT to be tolerated, and we've started sending O'Rion off with zone 1 any time he looks at us with ugly thoughts. This has brought about a rather interesting change of attitude and also the way he looks at us is much nicer. Here is a pic of him running to dinner with his Dad, Albert. Albert is my husband and while he's not in the Parelli program, per se, he's learning by default how to defend his space, how to turn away a horse at feeding time with pinned ears, how to do jumping jacks to keep LBI boy O'Rion out of his space with no conflict (dang, that man's crazy...I'm going over here, you can almost hear him thinking!) I'm very proud of Albert. He actually got ON Fiona when I'd played with her for an hour and she was so quiet and LB. This is the first time in 19 yeras he's been willing to get on a horse, and he did it with halter and 12' line! (I led him around, but still it's huge). The hand means "NO PICTURES!" Duh. He's an introvert..can you tell?
Lately I've had some interesting times with Boss (older QH). He's becoming more and more introverted whether or not I do ANYTHING. So I'm just hanging out with him trying to do Friendly. No pressure, no looking at him...just sitting nearby and letting him know I'm waiting for him to offer. Occasional treats and scratches help.
Last night he went starey and head down at the water trough. Hardly any breathing (hope no one sees me at this water trough). I had done nothing to him but squirt the others off to cool them. Apparently this was too much for him. So I just sat with him, not looking at him, and then did concentrate on the dirt on the ground in case I was sending sideways energy to him (looking with peripherals, ya know?) 10 mins. later he came over to me and yawned all over me, almost putting my knee in his mouth while yawning. I had a hard time not laughing at him. he licked my knee and sniffed me all over (this is big for this independant boy). Rubbing his head on my leg, he then quietly walked away. I called it good for a nice friendly session. HARD to do nothing ! but I'm making myself DO NOTHING. This is savvy that I totally attribute to Pat and Linda! In the past I'd be all over him like WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU????? SNAP OUT OF IT! chuckles. I'm smug in the knowledge that I, FOR ONCE IN MY LONG CAREER WITH HORSES, did it JUST RIGHT!
This QH is a rescue and when I got him oh, say, 18 years ago, he refused adamantly to put a bridle on unless you wanted to chase him with it for an hour....and he would pull back something horrible. I got the bridle issue sorted by myself, pre-Parelli, but I now realize I did it their way, approach and retreat, and gently. Never did I force him. So I always knew I wanted to do things a different way. Now I have the program to guide me. If there were any BIG problems I was stumped. But now I'm really quite confident I can handle almost (I say again ALMOST) anything. Fear is still an issue but that is slowly, quietly, dissipating. I have walked on Fiona (that's big for me, folks). I can do anything (this is my mantra when I get unconfident...go slow and you can do anything). It's helping!
Thanks Pat and Linda! I love Parelli!
July 18, 2008
Big News: 
Went to play with Boss, he IGNORED me totally, so to respect him, I left him. Another day. I figured I'd let him know I'd not force him.
Fiona seemed interested so I played with her. backed onto trailer, went circles around trailer, did one foot on ramp, two feet on ramp. Forward to ramp. Back off ramp. Both hind feet on ramp...back into trailer. EASY PEASY. One tiny RB (mild) when we got way away and O'Rion called to his momma. I upped the energy and she calmed right down. (yes, maam I AM the leader. Ignore that brat!) ha ha.
WELL...we did ALL sorts of things and it was fantabulous! She OFFERED first time to let me get on (fumbling and all, she stood still) and I rode with halter and lead rope (tied on for reins but I used one at a time). Pushing passenger, mirroring, and a little turn around the yard with direct rein (she started up without my really asking but my heart was pounding at first so my energy was up). I stopped with tromboning and each finger, backed two steps with leaning back first, then gently lifting and she did great. I jumped off, practiced emerg dismount, (she did great) then I GOT BACK ON...and rode around the yard a tiny bit. We grazed and I mirrored. I was NOT AFRAID and I GOT PICTURES!
THEN...drum roll..........Albert expressed an interest in getting on. This is the first time in 19 years. She was happy to just stand for him, so he got on bareback, and I walked him around the yard. I got pictures of this, and BECAUSE I took his pic, he jumped off. GREAT DAY. For some reason I couldn' t get on to photobucket or PSC with home computer but will keep trying. I'm CHUFFED as my Scottish friends say!
Went to play with Boss, he IGNORED me totally, so to respect him, I left him. Another day. I figured I'd let him know I'd not force him.
Fiona seemed interested so I played with her. backed onto trailer, went circles around trailer, did one foot on ramp, two feet on ramp. Forward to ramp. Back off ramp. Both hind feet on ramp...back into trailer. EASY PEASY. One tiny RB (mild) when we got way away and O'Rion called to his momma. I upped the energy and she calmed right down. (yes, maam I AM the leader. Ignore that brat!) ha ha.
WELL...we did ALL sorts of things and it was fantabulous! She OFFERED first time to let me get on (fumbling and all, she stood still) and I rode with halter and lead rope (tied on for reins but I used one at a time). Pushing passenger, mirroring, and a little turn around the yard with direct rein (she started up without my really asking but my heart was pounding at first so my energy was up). I stopped with tromboning and each finger, backed two steps with leaning back first, then gently lifting and she did great. I jumped off, practiced emerg dismount, (she did great) then I GOT BACK ON...and rode around the yard a tiny bit. We grazed and I mirrored. I was NOT AFRAID and I GOT PICTURES!
THEN...drum roll..........Albert expressed an interest in getting on. This is the first time in 19 years. She was happy to just stand for him, so he got on bareback, and I walked him around the yard. I got pictures of this, and BECAUSE I took his pic, he jumped off. GREAT DAY. For some reason I couldn' t get on to photobucket or PSC with home computer but will keep trying. I'm CHUFFED as my Scottish friends say!
July 13, 2008
Played with Boss, made it short. Backed him thru the gate and then let him go. He was really engaged and seemed interested, even when everyone but him was eating hay. Nice session. Then Exy came over so I grabbed her. we did a few things, including friendly, (scratched her with the line and halter), porcupine, and squeeze between me and fence. Before that, it was put your nose here and there. she was a little bit scared, so I just stood for about 3 minutes (seemed FOREVER) until she licked. hard to do nothing! but I kept playing it over in my mind one of the DVD's where they said LBI needs time and do nothing. Hard to do! She had a nice expression when I let her go.
Then played a catching game with O'Rion, was going to stalk his hiney but he started coming to me so I turned and walked away...he followed a long way! I gave him a soft look and left. It sort of blew his mind.
Fiona: did a little friendly and scratch with the halter. Put halter on, took it right off...then let her sniff it on the ground. Then I Put it on her again, took it right off, and left. Head way down...lots of licking. i'm trying to be unpredictable! I think I was successful today!
Rained here, cool and very humid! Lots of bugs flying and biting. Got dark so I called it a day.
Night all!
Savvy on...
short sessions with everyone
Played with Boss, made it short. Backed him thru the gate and then let him go. He was really engaged and seemed interested, even when everyone but him was eating hay. Nice session. Then Exy came over so I grabbed her. we did a few things, including friendly, (scratched her with the line and halter), porcupine, and squeeze between me and fence. Before that, it was put your nose here and there. she was a little bit scared, so I just stood for about 3 minutes (seemed FOREVER) until she licked. hard to do nothing! but I kept playing it over in my mind one of the DVD's where they said LBI needs time and do nothing. Hard to do! She had a nice expression when I let her go.
Then played a catching game with O'Rion, was going to stalk his hiney but he started coming to me so I turned and walked away...he followed a long way! I gave him a soft look and left. It sort of blew his mind.
Fiona: did a little friendly and scratch with the halter. Put halter on, took it right off...then let her sniff it on the ground. Then I Put it on her again, took it right off, and left. Head way down...lots of licking. i'm trying to be unpredictable! I think I was successful today!
Rained here, cool and very humid! Lots of bugs flying and biting. Got dark so I called it a day.
Night all!
Savvy on...
Then played a catching game with O'Rion, was going to stalk his hiney but he started coming to me so I turned and walked away...he followed a long way! I gave him a soft look and left. It sort of blew his mind.
Fiona: did a little friendly and scratch with the halter. Put halter on, took it right off...then let her sniff it on the ground. Then I Put it on her again, took it right off, and left. Head way down...lots of licking. i'm trying to be unpredictable! I think I was successful today!
Rained here, cool and very humid! Lots of bugs flying and biting. Got dark so I called it a day.
Night all!
Savvy on...
July 12, 2008
Very Stormy
Yesterday lightening hit 20 feet from my husband. YIKES! Scary. I just realized (trying not to think of what could happen?) The tree I was standing by is the one that got hit 10 minutes later! I was 2 feet from the tree. scary...and so happy it waited!
I got Boss out of the pen, lead him at first then drove him to different things, put your nose here, put your nose there. No thresholds noted even when we went far away from the herd.
- We'd done some squeeze in between two trees, with carrot treat after. Success!
-Circle around the tree--oops you're wrapped around it...what to do? Lots of licking, and calmly walked out from behind the tree. got photos of this, need to download.
-put bareback pad on savvy way, No big deal with lead line on ground, Boss stood like a champ. I did put it on his neck at first and just looked at him. Funny expression 'cause he thought he knew what was coming. I'm trying to mix it up a little...so he won't anticipate my moves. Worked.
-porcupine is phase 1 hindquarters, phase 2-3 front (LBI--hard to move front end. hmmm).
-no biting, no kicking, no attacking, which is an improvement over the VERY FIRST time I tried 7 Games with Boss. He about pulled me off my feet first day. Now pretty smooth and easy. Success is in the small steps!
-Lots of pausing, backed to a really green spot with lush grass. WHAT? You mean you don't want me to do anything else? he seemed to say. Grazing is good. Funny looks, but he dove right in. Fiona wants to stand at attention and I have to practically force her to graze. Boss is right on it..."yes, Ma'am, I'm grazing now." He's a piggie really. Hogging up the grass. Funny really.
-sideways to the trailer with "put your side on tire". He was uncertain of what I wanted, but I stayed persistent and he got it. I relaxed, put my head down and went motionless when he got it. Lick, lick. Head down. nice!
I got up on a brick ring around a tree to try to get on the bareback pad. Well, this area needs some more friendly/work/not sure what. He was putting himself at right angles to me...no way did his back get near me so I could get on. I did circle sideways all around the tree. Moved away from trying to get on as that was a no go. Thought I'd change the focus. Tried again later but no go. More friendly needed, I guess, and more undemanding? We'll see how it goes. No hurry as I want this for the long haul, not just for today.
Lightening stopped my session when I had just gotten him all into it. disappointing but we'll live to play another day. I mentioned it hit right near hubby, it was about 20 or 30 feet from me but I was under the barn. Scared the poo right out of me! Thank goodness we're all ok. Put Boss right up and came into house, no more play today!
Savvy on and I'd love to hear from you!
Shelly :)
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I got Boss out of the pen, lead him at first then drove him to different things, put your nose here, put your nose there. No thresholds noted even when we went far away from the herd.
- We'd done some squeeze in between two trees, with carrot treat after. Success!
-Circle around the tree--oops you're wrapped around it...what to do? Lots of licking, and calmly walked out from behind the tree. got photos of this, need to download.
-put bareback pad on savvy way, No big deal with lead line on ground, Boss stood like a champ. I did put it on his neck at first and just looked at him. Funny expression 'cause he thought he knew what was coming. I'm trying to mix it up a little...so he won't anticipate my moves. Worked.
-porcupine is phase 1 hindquarters, phase 2-3 front (LBI--hard to move front end. hmmm).
-no biting, no kicking, no attacking, which is an improvement over the VERY FIRST time I tried 7 Games with Boss. He about pulled me off my feet first day. Now pretty smooth and easy. Success is in the small steps!
-Lots of pausing, backed to a really green spot with lush grass. WHAT? You mean you don't want me to do anything else? he seemed to say. Grazing is good. Funny looks, but he dove right in. Fiona wants to stand at attention and I have to practically force her to graze. Boss is right on it..."yes, Ma'am, I'm grazing now." He's a piggie really. Hogging up the grass. Funny really.
-sideways to the trailer with "put your side on tire". He was uncertain of what I wanted, but I stayed persistent and he got it. I relaxed, put my head down and went motionless when he got it. Lick, lick. Head down. nice!
I got up on a brick ring around a tree to try to get on the bareback pad. Well, this area needs some more friendly/work/not sure what. He was putting himself at right angles to me...no way did his back get near me so I could get on. I did circle sideways all around the tree. Moved away from trying to get on as that was a no go. Thought I'd change the focus. Tried again later but no go. More friendly needed, I guess, and more undemanding? We'll see how it goes. No hurry as I want this for the long haul, not just for today.
Lightening stopped my session when I had just gotten him all into it. disappointing but we'll live to play another day. I mentioned it hit right near hubby, it was about 20 or 30 feet from me but I was under the barn. Scared the poo right out of me! Thank goodness we're all ok. Put Boss right up and came into house, no more play today!
Savvy on and I'd love to hear from you!
Shelly :)
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July 8, 2008
Contemplating a new partner
Dear Cyber friends (not sure if anyone is out there, but here goes). :) this pic is a little blurry but my camera is acting up! This is Fiona, ID. Look at those ears. She's always been very friendly and comes to me whenever I go into the field. Very gratifying.
Been a while, just been really busy with the farm, getting up hay, and trying to work two jobs. I'm sure you know how it is.
Lately with my partner Fiona (lovely girl RBE with more LB tendancies these days) I have been having some fear issues with the RB portion of her mind....will she freak out when I'm on her? will I be able to stop her? Fear plain and simple...not fun.
My Quarter Horse Dancer's Boss (we just call him Boss) is 22 yrs old and a been there, done that kind of guy. He's LBI and can be quite a standoffish horse but if you can get his attention (give up the treats now!) then he's quite lovely. Anyway, I am thinking that my first experience with especially riding and getting the horses to know what I want should be easy. So I'm changing my primary partner (although I'll still play with Fiona as she is brilliant especially on line).
First day I did undemanding 30 mins. he ignored me totally.
Second day I rubbed him all over and played seven games heavily laced with horse treats. he was into it! Ears forward and happy.
Sat on him third day. Bareback Pad and halter. Asked nothing....bent toward which ever direction he bent in and just mirrored.
Day four tit for tat. Stood in sun (bareback pad) , roasting for 30 mins while he swatted flies. Then I got up my life and asked for us to go into shade (It was 98F that day). Stood there for 30 mins. Then he took me into the sun again. Thirty mins of roasting. Back into the shade for 30 mins.
LOTS of licking and chewing....I hope he realized I was not going to force him to do anything. We did give treats with the asking to go into the shade.
Fifth day treats were given a little less liberally (I don't want him to become a monster about it) and we did mirroring and tit for tat and let's stay on the fence. We used orange cones to give a visual place to turn around and he did brilliantly with the rope being thrown over his head. This guy is wonderful. I have had him for 18 years and he is such a nice trail horse. But he has a really rough trot. I'm begining to appreciate him, however, since he's just so laid back and easy going. I can take him anywhere on the farm and I'm not worried.
Once before Parelli my husband, a runner, said go with me...I'll run, you ride Boss. So along we went on a dirt road about half a mile from home. Boss stopped and wanted to back to the house. If I had known what I know now....sigh.
Boss is hilarious when we play on the Parelli playground. I have to not circle him as he can go Right Brained on me, but if there is an obstacle to jump over then he's ok. He can go introverted and then catatonic if I don't take breaks (we don't go there anymore).
Along with Boss there is Exy, who is now two years old. She is a Percheron/QH cross (her mother was a PMU mare from Canada. She has been immersed in Parelli Natural Horsemanship since the very day of birth and is a joy. She follows me around like a puppy! I just love her...she'll eventually be a wonderful partner. She's mostly LBI with some Exuberance at times. She needs lots of time and is very responsive to the most subtle cues. I just love her. Did I say that? In the middle of a month long program of saddling the savvy way. She is ok with saddling so far. I went right along with the video and did things the way they said. She was allowed to paw, lick, bite, chew an old western saddle I had (dry rotted so she can do what she likes with it) and she was ok with me putting it on her and taking it right off. I have put strings around her middle and tightened them, then loose immediately. Tight. Loose. Tight/Loose. She sort of jumped the first time, by the third it was a non-issue. I guess I'm coming up on GETTING ON HER FOR THE FIRST TIME! That will be interesting....I can feel my butterflies acting up although truly I'm very happy that I'm FINALLY in my life able to start a horse from scratch and do EVERYTHING. Not one other person has ever played with this horse or done anything with her. (BIG SMILE!) For some reason I'm fearful (what if this, what if that...) gotta master this. I've about had it with myself!
Was able to talk to Linda Parelli at the tour stop I attended, and she said treat myself like a LBI. Go slow...lots of breaks. So I am.
O'Rion is my three year old ID. He is a sweet heart. Very mouthy and Left Brained but can go introverted on me if I push too hard. I've had to learn to go slow with him but it's amazing how quickly he "gets it" when he's taught something! Very smart boy. he's playful and funny. Very obedient once he's in his halter and is a joy to work with. He LOVES the green ball and playing with it. So does Exy and I laugh at the two of them trying to play soccer with it. Not too long ago I turned my head and O'Rion pulled out the plug and the ball deflated. We were able to find the plug, re-inflate (albert said he pumped the green ball up for what seemed like an hour!) and play with it some more. Just took a second.
On July 4th some people came over wanting to see "that thing I do with my horses" :). So Fiona and I put on a "7 games with an obstacle" show for them. They were impressed! We did sideways with and without a fence with me 15 feet down the rope, mirroring along the fence backwards and forwards, squeeze game with a fence and another horse, And just think we're only Level 1-2 ground skills--we did all games with some poo and the fence, and sticks and whatever else I could find to back over, sideways over, whatever. Put your nose on this tree, (I was in zone 4). She is really a great horse, and I love her. Wish I weren't so stinking afraid when I get on her back (I guess watching how she USED to be has gotten me spooked, and to get over it I need a baby sitter--Boss).
Weather was growing stormy so we quit but hopefully I have some converts! Maybe they will buy the program and get learning before they buy a horse (they are looking for one now, and they love Gypsy Vanners, Shelley!) The lady wants a Vanner and the man wants my O'Rion. No way will I sell him! Unfortunately, O 'Rion is the type of horse that people might challenge and then beat as he might seem a bit unruly and dull at first, but get his cooperation and you're in! (TREATS and lots of them now and no one gets hurt).
May 27, 2008
I did go ahead and decide to officially switch to Boss. I'll still play with Fiona but I think I may need a little more savvy with her. We'll see how it goes.
Yesterday I did a LBI session with Boss. Plenty of grazing and treats when he'd do something and I noticed he really started to offer after he noticed I had more treats! When he got a little sullen I quit for a while, just rested...scratched.
Then got on and did a mirroring Pushing Passenger. he licked and chewed the whole time....I think exactly BECAUSE I asked NOTHING of him. Blew his mind. Actually before I got on he went to nip, so I backed him 1/2 the length of the field! Attitude adjustment. Head down and eyes soft, a change from a moment before with hard stare and trying to bite!
Stood quietly then for mounting (bareback pad) and it was a non issue for me. Very low key. He stood in the same place for the 20 minutes. Nice and quiet, no pressure on either of us.
We both lived. And he followed me around when I let him go after I stalked his hind end a little. When I turned away when he looked at me he "got it" that I wouldn't force him. Nice.
Yesterday I did a LBI session with Boss. Plenty of grazing and treats when he'd do something and I noticed he really started to offer after he noticed I had more treats! When he got a little sullen I quit for a while, just rested...scratched.
Then got on and did a mirroring Pushing Passenger. he licked and chewed the whole time....I think exactly BECAUSE I asked NOTHING of him. Blew his mind. Actually before I got on he went to nip, so I backed him 1/2 the length of the field! Attitude adjustment. Head down and eyes soft, a change from a moment before with hard stare and trying to bite!
Stood quietly then for mounting (bareback pad) and it was a non issue for me. Very low key. He stood in the same place for the 20 minutes. Nice and quiet, no pressure on either of us.
We both lived. And he followed me around when I let him go after I stalked his hind end a little. When I turned away when he looked at me he "got it" that I wouldn't force him. Nice.
April 2, 2008
Sideways through hula while circling-45 mins.
Today we worked on going on a circle and putting a hula hoop at spot along the circle to use as a point to slow, go faster, stop in, ect. Once we circled and then through the hula hoop did sideways! Both sides although going right she sideways stepped behind the hula. Fiona is going more LB all the time and it's wonderful to see. She is so responsive and lovely. I am just over the moon! Having lots of fun!
March 28, 2008
getting better....
I'm so excited each time I play with my partner Fiona. She's just mellowing so much from a RB freak to a thinking, participating partner! It's so fun! Two days ago we played in our Parelli Playground and she was calm going out there (first time no RB tendencies upon leaving the field) and when we got there she offered sideways a few times. I got on the pedestal after having invited her up there, and had her move her hindquarters all around the pedestal both ways. She did brilliantly. Eyes calm, blinking, just lovely.
We moved over the the tire and when she got there she was unsure so we backed up a few times, ended with her putting foot on tire (tractor tire with no dirt). I liked my friend Shelley's suggestion of leaving it open to put all feet in and pivot. so far we've not gotten that far but she will sniff and paw it and put one foot sort of in it. It 'grabbed' her foot and there was no freak out and hystronics like there would have been in the past. She did have her head come up a bit but quickly figured out how to lift her foot out. I was so proud of her!
Progressed to the little jumps. Did stick to me over the jumps (about 18 inches tall) and then some sideways (me out in front 15 feet-3 meters) and she did really well but going to the right her HQ lagged. But eyes very attentive on me and face soft, engaged. I told HQ to straighten up and they did. To the left it was pure poetry. Made me smile really big!
I am trying to be subtle with body language and this sensitive mare apprecaites that. She is amazingly soft and responsive.
Have worked on put your head down and working towards me mounting via her neck. Very good in that area. No problems there.
all games are very solid.
(just for my reference for later, you don't have to read this)
-Porcupine is phase 1 on left side, front. phase 2-3 on her right but HQ is phase 1-2. .
-Driving is phase 1 on all sides, front and back.
-yo yo phase 1 mostly on backing. Just starting out phase 3 to come to me....then later she comes way more easily.
--Falling leaf and S-bends are really nice and we always end with her getting a lovely look and coming in. Zone 1 used to be a problem (stiff) but now gives easily with no bracing.
-Friendly all over. No problem except: Front left ear is a problem. She doesnt' want me to touch inside her ear. I'm working on it. Loves being scratched all over, belly, between teats, massaged on legs. Massage tail. No prob.
-Circling--sometimes she does stop behind me or come in prematurely. Sometimes it is a perfect circle and we have done travelling circles with me kicking a barrel while she did perfect circles. needs a tiny bit of work.
--Squeeze is really great. She has a few moments with tight squeeze but we retreat and advance and it gets better very easily. nice.
Still have problems getting her OVER an object to jump unless it's small. I know this is squeeze at work and we'll keep at it.
hope you enjoyed this installment. more later!
on our Parelli Journey together, Fiona and me. Next will work some more on Pushing Passenger. That is my weakness. I've had some fear issues since a horrible broken ankle about sidelined my walking forever.
gotta do approach and retreat with myself, too, evidently.
We moved over the the tire and when she got there she was unsure so we backed up a few times, ended with her putting foot on tire (tractor tire with no dirt). I liked my friend Shelley's suggestion of leaving it open to put all feet in and pivot. so far we've not gotten that far but she will sniff and paw it and put one foot sort of in it. It 'grabbed' her foot and there was no freak out and hystronics like there would have been in the past. She did have her head come up a bit but quickly figured out how to lift her foot out. I was so proud of her!
Progressed to the little jumps. Did stick to me over the jumps (about 18 inches tall) and then some sideways (me out in front 15 feet-3 meters) and she did really well but going to the right her HQ lagged. But eyes very attentive on me and face soft, engaged. I told HQ to straighten up and they did. To the left it was pure poetry. Made me smile really big!
I am trying to be subtle with body language and this sensitive mare apprecaites that. She is amazingly soft and responsive.
Have worked on put your head down and working towards me mounting via her neck. Very good in that area. No problems there.
all games are very solid.
(just for my reference for later, you don't have to read this)
-Porcupine is phase 1 on left side, front. phase 2-3 on her right but HQ is phase 1-2. .
-Driving is phase 1 on all sides, front and back.
-yo yo phase 1 mostly on backing. Just starting out phase 3 to come to me....then later she comes way more easily.
--Falling leaf and S-bends are really nice and we always end with her getting a lovely look and coming in. Zone 1 used to be a problem (stiff) but now gives easily with no bracing.
-Friendly all over. No problem except: Front left ear is a problem. She doesnt' want me to touch inside her ear. I'm working on it. Loves being scratched all over, belly, between teats, massaged on legs. Massage tail. No prob.
-Circling--sometimes she does stop behind me or come in prematurely. Sometimes it is a perfect circle and we have done travelling circles with me kicking a barrel while she did perfect circles. needs a tiny bit of work.
--Squeeze is really great. She has a few moments with tight squeeze but we retreat and advance and it gets better very easily. nice.
Still have problems getting her OVER an object to jump unless it's small. I know this is squeeze at work and we'll keep at it.
hope you enjoyed this installment. more later!
on our Parelli Journey together, Fiona and me. Next will work some more on Pushing Passenger. That is my weakness. I've had some fear issues since a horrible broken ankle about sidelined my walking forever.
gotta do approach and retreat with myself, too, evidently.
March 14, 2008
a wonderful breakthrough
Two days ago it was Very Windy and cool. I wondered if it might be too windy but them I remembered, It's not about the wind. So out I went.
I put all horses into a small paddock so she could catch me as there have been some running away issues lately and that HUGE pasture was just the ticket to ignore the human in. SO..I put her in a place that she couldn't ignore me, I walked by, and she caught me. Easy.
We went out a new gate. Scary for her, so advance and retreat and soon we went a little further. There was a flapping tarp which threatened to eat her so we advanced and retreated a little more and walked sideways and backwards. Soon she offered to pass the tarp. I was very happy with this. But kept quietly telling myself Fiona was going to freak out and attack me --she did the first time I took her out of the field so it threatens to stay on my mind. (I got a grip and re-told myself it was going to be all right, that there was NO chance I'd let her go there, and to get a GRIP, Shelly.) I mentally slapped myself and carried on. No more mental chatter.
We walked to a barrel of pine cones and sticks that had blown over with the wind and the dogs. She offered to lick it and sniff it, then put her foot on it. I quit everything and let her explore to the point that she cracked the trash can! (don't tell my husband). Kept putting that huge foot on it. OK by me. Carrot time.
Then we played games with the horse trailer like I stood on the ramp (you can't go in there) and did circles to left and right ending with side of trailer. Then we put a specific foot on the ramp. She was starting to get into it with a soft eye and two eyes on me, two ears alert. NO freaking, NO attacking and all was well. I had hay in the trailer and a tarp on the floor. She offered head on ramp, then feet, then neck. As light was fading we quit. Good place and her face was so sweet and soft. Wind had died down, too. Nice evening. I turned her loose, she walked away and then IMMEDIATELY CAME BACK! HUGE! HUGE! Put her head on my hand and lowered head. Very sweet! I was tearful.
I was chuffed as my friends say.
She kept her eye on me and kept coming in to me for comfort. I allowed it each time, as each time I did let her come to me her head went WAY down and she was very calm. I let her stand with her head on my chest for a few moments stroking her face and throat then asked her to very softly move away and she did with no problems. And she came in with a very soft expression. NO dominance at all. This was a very RBE and now she's evolving to a LB. I'm amazed! So far no extreme behavior except when she has the occasional revert to RBE (usually because the herd is yelling at her and bucking and running) and then I quickly get her attention with turn and face, turn and face, and let's do it quickly...and she almost immediately gets control again. It's amazing!
On Monday I took her out to my Parelli Playground, which at this time consists of a Tractor Tire with no dirt....four jumps in a circle....some poles laying on the ground, and a pedestal. And a fence along one side.
We got there by retreat and advance from the gate after about 4 mins. She did rather well.
Played with all things in the playground and rotated, not staying at one thing very long. Kept it moving and fresh. She offered to get on pedestal and put foot on everything. We did sideways over a post first time today!
cool!
Great day and no freakouts. But she ran from me when we were finished. :(
I put all horses into a small paddock so she could catch me as there have been some running away issues lately and that HUGE pasture was just the ticket to ignore the human in. SO..I put her in a place that she couldn't ignore me, I walked by, and she caught me. Easy.
We went out a new gate. Scary for her, so advance and retreat and soon we went a little further. There was a flapping tarp which threatened to eat her so we advanced and retreated a little more and walked sideways and backwards. Soon she offered to pass the tarp. I was very happy with this. But kept quietly telling myself Fiona was going to freak out and attack me --she did the first time I took her out of the field so it threatens to stay on my mind. (I got a grip and re-told myself it was going to be all right, that there was NO chance I'd let her go there, and to get a GRIP, Shelly.) I mentally slapped myself and carried on. No more mental chatter.
We walked to a barrel of pine cones and sticks that had blown over with the wind and the dogs. She offered to lick it and sniff it, then put her foot on it. I quit everything and let her explore to the point that she cracked the trash can! (don't tell my husband). Kept putting that huge foot on it. OK by me. Carrot time.
Then we played games with the horse trailer like I stood on the ramp (you can't go in there) and did circles to left and right ending with side of trailer. Then we put a specific foot on the ramp. She was starting to get into it with a soft eye and two eyes on me, two ears alert. NO freaking, NO attacking and all was well. I had hay in the trailer and a tarp on the floor. She offered head on ramp, then feet, then neck. As light was fading we quit. Good place and her face was so sweet and soft. Wind had died down, too. Nice evening. I turned her loose, she walked away and then IMMEDIATELY CAME BACK! HUGE! HUGE! Put her head on my hand and lowered head. Very sweet! I was tearful.
I was chuffed as my friends say.
She kept her eye on me and kept coming in to me for comfort. I allowed it each time, as each time I did let her come to me her head went WAY down and she was very calm. I let her stand with her head on my chest for a few moments stroking her face and throat then asked her to very softly move away and she did with no problems. And she came in with a very soft expression. NO dominance at all. This was a very RBE and now she's evolving to a LB. I'm amazed! So far no extreme behavior except when she has the occasional revert to RBE (usually because the herd is yelling at her and bucking and running) and then I quickly get her attention with turn and face, turn and face, and let's do it quickly...and she almost immediately gets control again. It's amazing!
On Monday I took her out to my Parelli Playground, which at this time consists of a Tractor Tire with no dirt....four jumps in a circle....some poles laying on the ground, and a pedestal. And a fence along one side.
We got there by retreat and advance from the gate after about 4 mins. She did rather well.
Played with all things in the playground and rotated, not staying at one thing very long. Kept it moving and fresh. She offered to get on pedestal and put foot on everything. We did sideways over a post first time today!
cool!
Great day and no freakouts. But she ran from me when we were finished. :(
March 9, 2008
Savvy Journey With Fiona
2006 Aquired Fiona, an Irish Draught (ID) broodmare. She had been ridden a total of once by a local "professional Predator" who Fiona ran off with! She came to me pregnant and completely Right Brained. Talked to her and petted her every day for a year.
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