Additional Update

I see that I skipped over reporting on the last show. I think it is important to note that Jimmy and I came away with 3 blues and a red ribbon! The show was a pleasant show, except that it was rainy and cold the whole weekend. The venue was really nice, though. Jimmy was actually quite sick of the show season by then. Every time I tacked him up, the more resentful he got. By Sunday afternoon he did not want to be riding dressage tests anymore. We got our red ribbon that ride. It was actually a horrible ride. He pulled the whole time and never relaxed for any movement. It wasn't much fun at all. We got a very low score, and the lowest collective mark I have ever received for submission -- a 4. We were riding Second 2. Our best ride was the first ride of the weekend, Second 1. Jimmy felt soft and responsive during that test. Although I rode it very conservatively because the footing was wet and I was worried about slipping. The judge was very difficult and we didn't get 60%. However, I was still very pleased with how we rode and felt very good about the test. I did get my qualifying score on First 3. Now all I need are qualifying scores at Third level and I have my bronze medal. Unfortunately, I don't think Jimmy will take me to third level in his career. I will have to wait for Zoe to be ready. That's okay, because I think Zoe and I are going to kick some butt when we start showing.

The Long Haul

Wow, I have been so busy during the day and evenings that I haven't had a moment to post. Sure, a lot has happened in the last month. I've had some great rides on Zoe. She is so much fun. Jimmy is on his winter hiatus, which means nice, easy rides during the week and getting out on the trails whenever possible. He is likes that schedule.

The new barn is, well, still in the early stages of getting a routine down for the place. They've done tons of construction that is getting close to being finished. Finally got mats in the stalls, and the horses love them. Many more are sleeping when I come in at night now. Jimmy and Zoe both seem much happier. They also got automatic waterers installed, the aisleways have been asphalted and have rubber runners on them, and they are building a pole barn to move hay and shavings storage. In a sense things are settling into a nice routine. This is nice for the horses. For me, I am still in a tumult. I have been working as the evening barn manager since October 1. I've had my frustrations and I spend long nights there working my horses and doing the chores. I am actually worn out from it. Therefore, I am not sure how long I can continue in this role. I want to be able to get home at a decent hour at night, or even not go out there at all if I am too tired. In the end, my time and sleep is more important than saving the $$ from the board. I don't think they would let me cut back my responsibilities and still get a break. So I am thinking this may not work out in the long run. We'll see.

This past weekend I went to St. Louis to see the Spanish Riding School of Vienna. Check out their tour blog if you visit the site. Some amazing talent -- both in the horses and the riders. I enjoyed every minute of it. It was also great to see MG again. I have so much fun with her and am glad she is willing to do fun horsey things with me.