Spiraling In and Out

Yesterday and today I rode over at the Martin's arena. Since my mom is in California visiting my brother Scott and his family, I had Tifanie watch the boys for me while I rode. I lucked out since it was nice both days and made it quick and easy to ride at the Martin's. I couldn't believe that I was able to drop Hyrum off at Preschool at 12:30pm drive back to my parent's, brush and tack up Ben, ride for 45 minutes, untack him and put him away and then drive back to pick up Hyrum by 3pm. It was great, almost as perfect as having my own arena to ride in! Imagine all the time I'd save. Although I really do enjoy riding at Barnabee since I'm able to see my friends, other horses, and ride in a covered arena with excellent footing, it's such a hassle to have to walk there 25 minutes each way. At least I'm getting some exercise though!

Anyhow, back to my rides. Both yesterday and today Ben was really antsy. I had to try really hard to keep his attention, lots of changes of direction and transitions. He had a lot of energy too, so one thing that really helped him to focus was riding on a 20m circle and then leg yielding in to make it smaller and then leg yielding out to make it larger. It was like a big spiral and I got a little dizzy from the exercise but it really helped to engage his hind end, slow down his pace and create a better connection with him.

Today there was someone working across the street, who sounded like they were chopping down a tree or something. Every time we rode on the west side of the arena which is parallel to the road, Ben's attention was focused on what they were working on and not me. I was getting frustrated and after spending 30 minutes working with him I figured it was time to quit and he just needed to run around and have some fun. So I dismounted and took off his saddle and bridle and then just let him run around the arena. He was really cruising and acting pretty crazy! A couple of times when he came racing towards the end of the arena, I didn't think he was going to stop and would just jump right out. Luckily he'd skid and turn just in time and go bucking and racing down to the other end.

What a mess that would be to have a loose horse, who was super excited! If he did get out I would hope he'd just run around in their field or something, because I'd hate for him to try to run back home, even though it's only a 1/4 mile away. What a nightmare to have a horse loose on the road! Sorry Ben, I've already been through that with Toasted and don't need to relive that experience. So please Ben, don't try anything too crazy...your life depends on it!!