Sidestepping

We got to ride up the Hennessy on Saturday! It was a glorious morning. The sun broke through the clouds and it was easily in high 50s/low 60s. Lynn rode up front and broke trail which kept Shirley and I drier. However, we have not had the rain the lower part of the state has received, so the branches weren't too full of water. None of us got drenched like we have in the past.

We rode up to the top, turned right and went down along the ridge. Instead of continuing on down to the lower meadow (which would have been slick!) we turned up the rode and came back up to the left-hand road which brought us back to the top. Then we headed back to the trail head. Jupes spent the whole way up and around in the back, but he didn't fight me too much. However, once we got to the top and headed back to the trailer, he'd had enough--it was time to trot out.

Coming down the steep stuff, he did really well; he just let his back feet slide down nice and easy. I heard Lynn telling Zigs to "keep his head up and pay attention," but they too just slid down. It was Mr. Boring, Buster, who came down the fastest. I think he is tired of being considered boring and he wants to lead, but if he isn't going to lead, he at least wants to be in front of Jupiter.

As we were headed down the road, I channeled Alisa and Keota. I have been hearing how cool it has been in the arena where they have been working on things. I know Keota is a great side-stepper (among other things) and I remember hearing Alisa talking about how she moves her leg to get him to do it. Well, Jupiter once was trained to do all kinds of good things too, that is, before he came to be with me! He has probably forgotten most of his good training. Anyway--we were too close to the edge of the road for my comfort. I had been trying to lead him with the reins away from it. Then I remembered Alisa & Keota. I used my right leg and pressed into the middle of his belly and wah-la! He stepped away from the edge! Thanks Alisa. :)

Ziva went with us and did fantastic! She stayed right with us and paid attention to the horses. Lynn groomed her yesterday and she looks beautiful as well. So happy Monday and happy birthday to Lynn. I wish we could be ahorseback to celebrate instead of at work!