Once that was done and we got everyone settled down, we finished up, hopped on and went to the fruit & berry patch. I went with western today since I needed to fix up a few things on the English saddle and bridle, plus I knew we'd be riding for awhile and it's definitely more comfortable and better for the trails.
I've always said that horses get just as bored as we do, especially when we always take them through the same trails, over the same jumps or do the same moves, cues and groundwork. So, A and I decided to take them through a different part. They did absoloutly wonderful. It was just A and I this time, so we were less rushed. When mom comes, she's obviously needed at home because of the kids so I'm rushed, but this time I wasn't rushed and it was peaceful-definitely missed mom and Spirit though!!!
We went through the "pretty" trails, as we call them. It's a lot colder in these, the trees are gorgeous. Apparently, it was supposed to be a Christmas tree farm but it never took off!! Really nice, soft ground and pretty trees.
Once we got out of there, we found a little opening without fencing, leading to the subdivision next to the fruit & berry patch, that J, the owner of the farm, used to own. Really nice and quiet over there. We crossed over and an older couple was walking their dog. They seemed pretty shocked that horses were in the neighborhood! ;) The dog never barked but was definitely curious to what those big fluffy animals were.
We stayed in there for a few minutes and went to the roadside, there's a big "trail" next to the road so we rode along it to get back to the fruit & berry patch. The horses did amazing. Motorcycles went by, loud trucks, they were chill. Red is used to it but Patch isn't and she was an angel!! Red missed his hack. ;)
At that moment, we decided something. There's a Christmas parade every December here in my town, Equestrians are free to come and join, no registration fee, really simple and downhome kind of parade. So far, we've gotten AM, A and myself, obviously, in on it. C is a possibility if he gets home from Florida in time, plus a friend of mine may be in. Mom is in, if Spirit will do it. Going to test him first, though!!! (Siren noises, music and lots of lunging! Plus work around cars.) I am so excited!! December 6th!! If any of y'all are in TN, shoot me an email and I'll let you know the details.
Once we were done there, we let the horses canter in the field and then went back home. We rode for at least 2 hours, really nice ride! The horses barely broke a sweat. It was a really low-key ride. Mostly walked and trotted, it was so cool outside and they were loving it.
We got everyone untacked and fed, loved on Redman and worked on bowing. He was a bit stiff but he's fine tonight. I think it was from walking on the concrete. He's got the bowing down, now. Kissing trick needs a bit of work but doing good, hugging is down. Next step is going down to the ground a bit more so I can mount bareback.
After everyone was fed and were in stalls, we threw hay out. Checked everyone over, kept Red in for awhile longer than the rest so I could cuddle. ;) He is such a lovebug with me. I sat on the floor and he immediately put his head on my lap and went to sleep. He follows me everywhere, listens well and is really focused on me now. I laid on him tackless for a few minutes and just spent a good 45 minutes hanging out in the stall with him.
Now, for fun Christmas stuff!! I'm going to ride western in the parade. More warmth for both of us plus it'll be a long ride so comfort is key. Here are a few ideas and items I may purchase for it!!
Hoof painting!!! |
Cute !!! |
Mane...gotta be braided!! |
SO STNKIN CUTE. I could so make the little breastcollar and reins. |
I love the forelock. |
Little hat! (Chicks Saddlery) |
Reindeer antlers! (Chicks saddlery) |
From Chicks...a sheet...if I decided to ride English. (Although it could probably work for Western with some tweaking. |
I've ridden in four or five parades and we *always* did glitter hooves. I have them down to a science now, so if you want some tips on how to do them cheaply and effectively, I'm your girl!:D
ReplyDeleteI will definitely take you up on that!!!!! I need to find out what I can use safely that wouldn't chip or fade!
DeleteCute! Last year I walked Shy in a Christmas parade. She had on red polos, bells, garland, antlers, and lights. They make these real short strings of tiny Christmas lights that are hooked to a battery. I wove them around her halter. Excited to see what you guys do for the parade!
ReplyDeleteThat's so cute!!!! I need to get some lights for him since it'll be getting dark!!
DeleteI've never ridden in a parade. Sounds very fun!
ReplyDeleteI'm really excited, it'll be my first time.
DeleteGreat pics~
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteThat is so exciting! I can't wait to see what you decide to use! We used to do a Christmas show when I was a kid and everyone had their horse decorated for their show classes. It was a blast. I have never done a parade though! Have fun!~
ReplyDeleteI'm so excited!!! I love the Christmas theme!
DeleteThat is the coolest thing ever. I definitely wish we had that sort of stuff around here. It's funny the reaction people have when you're riding through a local neighborhood. I took B out once and a guy asked if I would tie him up to the decorative hitching post on his front lawn. Of course I didn't miss THAT photo opportunity!
ReplyDeleteThat is so cool!!!!! I hope you got a copy of the photo, haha!!!
DeleteI won't be bored tomorrow! My friend and I are going to a gaming competition because our fairgrounds are trying to raise money. we are entering but since we don't know much about gaming we aren't trying to win, lol!
ReplyDelete