Horsey New Year Goals

The beginning of the year! Resolutions are almost a cliché, however there is nothing wrong with making goals and setting the New Year out as a timeline to accomplish them. My Mom always stressed that we should make physical goals, academic goals, relationship goals and spiritual goals. Well, I’m adding to that list with my five “horsey” goals for the New Year.

   1.    Learn how to braid and clip (well)

This one is a little embarrassing because I feel like everyone in the horse industry has known how to braid and clip horses for ages. Except for me. I’ve read articles and read books on how to braid and clip but I have never taken the time practice and learn it hands on. This goal will take time and patience, not only on my part but on my horse’s as well. A fidgety horse would give me good practice right? Also, looking past my pride and asking friends at the barn who have experience in grooming to teach me will be an important step in achieving this goal.

   2.   Stop leaning when I jump

I hear this almost every time I have a jumping lesson. I forget until the horse stops, we rush the jump and especially when my coach yells at me. Making sure that I focus on not leaning, especially when practicing on my own. I have a fear of the horse stopping in front of or (even better) in mid jump. This has resulted in my lean-and-run-at-the-jump approach (I don’t recommend it). I’m planning on having friends video me so I can review my practice and hopefully see some progress.

   3.     Relax when I have lessons

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More confessions, I have this weird habit of trying so hard to get my position right that my entire body tenses up and I work against the horse. Then I add this extra movement in my post that my coach calls a “double post.” Usually, the horse picks up on my stiffness and the ride goes south. Before every ride I’m hoping to stretch or loosen up so that my lessons can be productive.

   4.     Get to Zone competitions in IHSA

I finally qualified for regionals in Novice on the flat and over fences. I know I’m not the best but I want to work at it and get better. I’m hoping my work and progress will help me get first or second place at the Regional show and get me to Zones!

   5.     Do at least 15 minutes of no stirrup work when I ride

This might be the hardest one for me to keep. Though when I think about it no stirrup work is smart, helpful and a great tool for improvement, when I get on a horse it somehow seems like something I should do tomorrow. No more! Even if I don’t get no stirrup time during lessons, I will try and make my self ride stirrupless for at least 15 minutes when I practice on my own. And not all at a walk either.

So here’s to the New Year and new goals. Hopefully, I’ll remember to revisit these come December and have improved. What are your horsey resolutions? Any tips on how to keep up with them? Comment below!

Artsy, Craftsy Equestrian

As a disclaimer, I love horses. So, when  it comes to arts and crafts, I often find my inspiration from the magnificent equine. When some people see my art they often make comments on how they wish they were crafty or artistic. To which I think, but you are! I started crafting and drawing at a young age and frankly was terrible at it. But, I loved horses and art so I kept at it, learned from others and (eventually) got better. Though I am certainly no expert on art and am still learning things myself, I have noticed a few tips that might help make the most of your horse inspired artistic endeavors.

1. Take a picture
    Sometimes there will be a moment or so of beauty that you would love to capture in a picture or art but just can't. Try to snap a photo and capture the moment for future reference. Even if the picture is blurry or not exactly as you imagined, you will have a jumping off point and can even search the internet for similar poses to inspire you.

2. Don't expect perfection
   The world isn't perfect so you have no reason to expect it from yourself! As imperfect as it is, the world is full of beauty and the occasional mistake can add to the beauty of your art. I find that the more I try to make a stroke of a pencil or dab of paint perfect, the more it becomes rigid and the picture less real. Don't be afraid to fix mistakes but don't be bothered by a misplaced speck either.

3. Learn from observation
    Everyone can teach you something. Even a child might have a different way of looking at the piece than you do. Being teachable and open to other's advice on technique and style can give your art the extra brilliance that makes it inspiring.

4. Be yourself
   Though slightly counterintuitive, if you are happy with your piece, don't change it to fit other people's standard of beauty. Art is subjective and if you have expressed yourself the way you had hoped, there is no need to change it to make someone else happy. You cannot please everyone and you might as well make your art your own.

5. Enjoy it
   Art inspires thought and gives pleasure. Though it is often hard work, completing a project is so rewarding and your horse will love it no matter what!

What type of art do you enjoy? Do your horses play a part in your creations? Tell me about it in the comments! If you liked any of the pieces you saw in this article, they are for sale. Just reach out through social media or in the comments!

Losing a Horse

 

  Leaving a horse because you sell, move, stop leasing or through various other reasons is always hard. But, having to put a horse down is the hardest. I have had many pets and understand the grief and loss that comes with losing a pet. However, the bond that one has built with a horse through riding and working with them often brings the loss to a different level. I have known a few horses that have had to be put down, however until recently I had not actually witnessed the process. This changed when a horse I had just started riding shattered her leg and needed to be euthanized. The circumstances were extenuating and the barn managers made the decision they thought was best.             Anyways, after we spent a little time with her and gave her all the treats she wanted, the vet and barn staff took her out and put her down. As she went down I felt a sadness that I hadn't felt since my first rabbit died. Though it was a somber day, I learned a few things along the way.

                                                                                                    morguefile.com

    Don't feel like you have to hold it in

 Everyone expresses sadness differently and everyone bonds with horses in their own way. Just because someone is not openly emotional does not mean you cannot shed tears and vice versa.

 Learn but don't dwell on it

There are so many ways which you could blame yourself for the loss of a horse.  Though you should learn from any mistakes and try your best to improve, you cannot dwell on the past and what could have happened. Learn and move on to the best of your ability.

Don't try to replace them.

You may feel the need to immediately get another or and feel frustrated when you can't seem to bond with one right away. More often than not, these things take time. Comparing every horse you come across with your old one won't help with the grieving process. Appreciate each horse for what they are.

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Remember the good times

All things pass over the course of time. Every horse, show, and good experience often end in order to make way for the future. Even bad times help us grow and appreciate the good ones. The best way to handle your loss is to smile fondly on the good times and look forward to those that are ahead.

                                                                                       Devon -May 4 2015                   

Have you lost a horse that you loved? How did you deal with it? Tell me in the comments and please subscribe.

All I Needed to Know I Learned From Horses

         

    Most horse people will tell you that horses can teach you much more than just riding skills and animal care. The atmosphere, experiences and environment if the horse world is practically a breeding ground for life lessons. Here are some of the best (and sometimes hardest) lessons I have learned while pursuing my love of horses.

Try Again - Patience

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       Practice is a staple in horse riding because nothing will ever go the same way twice. You and your horse may gel one day and the next be on opposite ends of a the ring (in more ways than one). Trying again and being patient with yourself and your horse is essential to growth. In life, patience helps you get through rough days, deal with people that are on your nerves and achieve heights that others have given up on.

Breathe - Stay Calm

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      The horse world can be extremely irritating and hectic. Horses stepping on our toes, running us over, horse show bustle and everything else can overwhelm and crush us if we do not stay calm. Especially before IHSA shows or riding a sassy horse I have learned that taking a deep breathe and saying a prayer helps me to refocus and remember my true goals. Apart from the barn, there are many things that can harry us as well. Because of the calming techniques i have learned from riding, I can breathe, pray and recalibrate my thinking faster in hectic situations so that the situation cannot control me.

Getting Back On - Resilience

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      Everyone falls but not everyone gets back on. Whenever I fall off, my instructor always makes me get back on and work through my fears. If you know you can get up off of the ground and get back on a animal that is 10 times bigger than you and ride through it, it is easier to bounce back from a bad grade, bad news and other besetting events in life.

Work First, Play Later - Responsibility

                                                                             recite.com

     It is so easy to put your own wants and feelings before others and even your horse. But every good rider know that you must take care of your horse before you relax. Even in training horses you have to establish good ground work and drill the basics before you can trust your horse to play around. If you constantly put fun before work, no work will get done and the fun will quickly pass. Working on your horse, with your horse and for your horse teaches you to work hard and gives you more appreciation for the free time that follows.

Hurry Up and Wait - Flexibility

                                                           wikipedia.com

      You will hear the classic "hurry up and wait" to describe any horse show. Because of the massive amount of variables nothing will go exactly to plan. In order to stay calm and focused you have to be ready for everything and go with what the day brings. In life, there are few things that go according to our wishes. Flexibility gives us the shocks to keep going on the bumpy road of life.

Pretty Mean Horse - Don't judge the outside

                                                                          morguefile.com

    Sometimes, the prettiest horses have the sourest attitudes and the plainest ponies consistently place well. Though one can learn so much from those difficult equines, the steady horses are superheroes in a lesson program and in teaching the essential basics. Because one of our first senses that we perceive the world around us is our sight, it is difficult for us not to judge by first impressions. However, one cannot judge people or horses by their looks. Being open and ready to get to know others before labeling them will help you to get friends and influence people in a positive way. 

Sit Back and Look Up - Staying grounded and positive

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    One of the most important lessons that I have learned in horse riding that applies so well in daily experiences in to sit back and look up. Sitting back puts your center of balance in your seat and heels making you balanced and in tune with your horse. Looking up gives you direction and clarity on what needs to be done. Sometimes, when the going gets tough, the best thing to do is sit back to ground yourself in what you believe, look up at your goals and hang on.

     So, just as I told my parents when I was convincing them to let me take horse riding lessons, I learned a lot of character traits and life lessons as I rode. Of course, I am still working on learning and understanding these lessons but the horse world has given me a jump start on them. What lessons have you learned in your experiences with horses? What lessons are you working on right now? Comment below and subscribe!

Horse Movies: My Top Ten

        What horse lover does not love a good horse movie? Admittedly, some are cheesy and the riding is questionable at times but they fed our horse love as kids and bring us fond memories today. Anyways, I have thought and "researched" (aka watched to many horse movies) in order to bring you my top ten horse movies list.Though some are based on true stories and some are fictional, they still hold the wonder and majesty of the horse in the cinema.

10. Second Chances

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          A cute story about a young girl, Sunny, who lost her father and some use of her legs in a car accident. After she and her mother move to a trailer park next to a ranch, Sunny befriends a "crazy" horse that also has an injured leg. Through trials, hardships, rivalries and more, Sunny makes a sacrificial decision that teaches all involved a lesson about winners.

- One of the first horse movies I saw as a child, this one will always be a favorite.

9. National Velvet 

                                             imdb.com

          Every girl dreams of loving the un-lovable horse and having said horse win a major competition bringing her glory and proving those that doubted her and the horse wrong. With Elizabeth Tailor as the lead it is hard to go wrong. The whimsical story is interesting and I always loved dreaming about riding in a big horse race.

 - As a review on IMDB said it "is such a wonderful little heart felt drama."

8. Secretariat

                                                       imdb.com      

         Chronicling the story of race horse Secretariat from his humble beginnings to his glorious triple crown win, Secretariat is a lovely movie about his rise to stardom with a female owner, quirky trainer and other difficulties.

 - I was so excited when I heard Secretariat was coming out. I have always loved watching the power and beauty of horse racing and Secretariat was (controversially) one of the best race horses that has ever lived.

7. The Man from Snowy River

                                                  imdb.com

         The Man from Snowy river is a Australian epic about a young man's journey to manhood in the outback with horses and an independent woman. The dynamics between a ranch owner, his father and the girl create a touching story.

     - Horses, romance, independence, what else could one want from a movie?

6. The Black Stallion

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         A young boy named Alec is stranded on an island where he befriends and tames a black Arabian that was also shipwrecked. After they return to the states a retired jockey help Alec and 'the black' train and win a race against some of the fastest horses in America.

    -The dialogue is sparse but the story is well fleshed out and and beautifully portrayed.

5. Hidalgo

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        About a cowboy that is out of work and pretty much only has his horse, Hidalgo. They travel to Arabia in order to race in an endurance horse race across the dessert for a large cash prize. Though many doubt the paint's ability, Hidalgo and his owner prove to themselves and others of what they have to offer.

  - Adventurous as well as tender at times, Hidalgo is one of my favorites because of its diverse mix of story and action.

4. Misty

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        Based on Margaret Henry's Misty of Chincoteague, this movie tells the true story of the historic pony penning day from the viewpoint of Paul and Maureen Beebe as they try to tame and love a wild horse named "the Phantom"and her filly Misty.

    - I loved the book Misty of Chincoteague and equally loved the movie. Though it doesn't exactly follow the book (what movie really does), it still inspired my dreams of one day attending pony penning day.

3. Seabiscuit

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        One of the rougher movies on my list, Seabiscuit tells the story of an unlikely racehorse, handicapped jockey, and rookie owners overcoming many odds to win against the favorites. Set during the great depression, the movie explores many darker areas of racing as well as the glory.

  - Hmmm another racing movie? I'm sensing a pattern here. But, there are so many beautiful and true stories of horses that have been chronicled through film.

2. War Horse

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        An epic that centralizes around a horse named Joey. From a plow horse to riding horse to war horse, Joey shows his versatility and heart. Through out the whole journey, Joey always has owners and human companions that love and care for him as he gives his best to them.

 - Ahhhh War Horse I love a movie that makes me sad and happy all in the same story while having beautiful scenery, music and arc.

1. Black Beauty

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         Another story focusing on the life of a horse, Black Beauty goes through the hands of good masters, bad masters and many in between. In the end, Beauty makes his final home in a good place but not without the scars of his past. The book the movie is based on was written by Anna Sewell to raise awareness for cruelty to horses in 18th century England. 

  - The quintessential horse movie and the start of many people's (read mine) horse passion. Though not based on a true story, the book captured the hearts of many and the movie carries on the legacy.



         This is by no means an exhaustive or complete list. What are your favorite horse movies? I have not seen them all so I am always looking for more good equine flicks to add to my viewed list. Are there horse movies that are on your do not watch list? Tell me below in the comments!

Horselessness: Five Things to do if You Don't Own a Horse

                                                                                                   morguefile.com

This is a conversation that happens to me more often than I would like:

Person: I like your horse shirt! (Or some other reference to horses)

Me: Thanks, I ride horses and it is so fun!

Person: Oh really!? Do you have a horse?

Me:... No

Person: Oh

Now, perhaps this doesn't seem as sad as I think it does. But it often feels like I am being judged as someone who only has a child's "horse obsession" or casual interest in horses because I do not own my own equine. Those of you who have horses you are great and should be thankful for your four legged friends! But, for those who don't own your own horse (this includes me), your horselessness does not make you less of a horse lover. Owning a horse is a big commitment and if you are not ready for it monetarily or otherwise it is actually in a horse's best interest if you wait until you can properly care for it. But, in case you feel left out at times from the horse owning circle, here are five tips on how to get your horse fix without having to own one.

1. Volunteer or apply for a job at a barn.

We have all seen this in the movies. Girl volunteers at barn, finds horse she loves, get given the horse and wins some national competition. While you may not win a big show or given your own horse, if you show a good work ethic and a desire to learn, those in charge will notice you in a good way. As a college student, I have the energy and willingness to  take care of and ride horses but not the finances. By marketing what I did have -- energy and ability -- I was able to work for a chance to ride over the summers. Also, do not be afraid of hard work. The better you do the menial jobs at a barn, the more your instructor or whoever else will see that you really care about what you are working for.

2. Offer to show or exercise horses for their owners or barn manager.

About to exercise Splash

While this follows with the trading work for riding time tip, you need to be well established as a good rider and accountable person before you go for this one. Be careful and make sure you have all the proper liabilities signed and taken care of before you ride someone else's horse for your protection as well as theirs. However, if you can, this is a great way to get experience for yourself and the horse you ride without having to pay for show fees. Exercising horses gives you the chance to ride as well as learn how to deal with different horses. Just be sure that your riding skill matches the type of rider the horse needs.

3. Do lots of research!

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Even if you don't have a horse you can still learn all about them. There are so many books and videos out there that can teach you everything from riding skills to wrapping to braiding. When you hang out at the barn be looking for things to learn and ask questions to the vet, farrier, trainers and other knowledgable people. This will give you a window into the horse world and show others how eager you are to learn. If you get a handle on all these things now, you will be even more prepared when you do have a horse.

4. Hone your horse riding and horsemanship skills

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When you do get to be on a horse, make the best of it. Try to learn from every horse you ride, every time you ride. Watch when other people ride and learn from their successes and mistakes. Since you do not have one horse that you need to ride, you can learn from the variety of horses that you do get to ride. And have fun! Spend time with horses that don't get a lot of attention or need some extra socialization.

5. Be thankful for the position you are in

Helping teach a lesson on Jack the pony

Though not having a horse is hard at times, it gives you the opportunity to learn and experience things that you would not normally get to do. It does not mean you cannot learn about and immerse yourself in horses. Though owning a horse is still something I dream about and look forward too, being horseless is not the end of the world!

Do you own a horse? If not, what do you do to get your horse fix? Tell me below in the comments and subscribe for more horsey tips!

Horse Show Supplies: What's in My Show Bag Part II

Here is part two of What's in my Show Bag. Today, we will focus on apparel and what I wear to shows. To be honest, I am a semi poor college student that is rather stingy when spending money. However, in order to show, one must look there best. I went with my IHSA team to look and purchase high quality show clothes for the best prices. Whatever you wear and however much you spend for them, show clothes are essential to presenting yourself and your horse well.

Breeches
I wear tan  Olympia Plain Side Zip Ariat breeches to shows. Though I am not particularly tall, I got longs because I can't stand feeling the end of my breeches riding up my calf. This is a personal preference so make sure your breeches fit you before you buy. They were rather expensive (about $200), but, they are sharp, crisp and fit me well, I like their slight stretch and deep pockets. I save these for show days so I that I do not get them dirty. However, they are machine washable and resist wrinkles pretty well.

                                                                        Ariat.com

Belt
Well this is a belt. Some people like more flashy belts but I like traditional brown or black leather. There are plenty of cute belts out there but I got mine for $1 at Goodwill and it is working just fine.

Shirt
Again Ariat makes an appearance as my show shirt. As a collegiate team, we decided that the Ariat Sunstopper  show shirt would work best as a relatively inexpensive yet uniform shirt for team members to wear. There are different opinions on collars, stock pins and more in the show world. But, my team decided on the modern yet conservative Ariat show shirt collar. The shirt is very breathable and easy to wash but doesn't provide much warmth in the winter. It was about $50 new.

Boots
Ah, the ever elusive perfect show boot. Skin tight yet comfortable and well fitting, quality made but (please) not to expensive. I searched and searched for a good boot that fit in my budget. On another note, my calves are really small and everything I tried on that was my size (shoe size 8.5-9) was a little baggy, even in extra slim. Finally, I went to a Dover Saddlery tent sale determined to find and purchase a boot. After trying on several boots, including a few out of my price range (under $200), The sales lady accidentally brought out a tall, regular, size 6 Mountain Horse Venice field boot. I tried it on and was surprised that the shoe fit and length was a tad small but really rather good. It fit like a glove around my calf and I decided (with the help of a fashion forward equestrian friend) that they would work. After about a week or two of blisters from breaking them in, they fit well and looked pretty snazzy. They cost about $170 on sale at Dover.

                                                Doversaddlery.com

Jacket
I was looking at jackets after purchasing my boots and shirt and was freaking out over how much I was spending. A nice jacket that I originally planned on getting was the R. J. Classics Essential Show Coat, which was around $150 when I looked at it. Though a relatively good price, I was already over my budget. So, I waltzed over to the consignment section of the tack store and found a perfectly fitting Regency 4 coat for $30. (I believe Regency 4 is no longer making equestrian apparel) Though I usually like navy instead of black coats, I was perfectly happy to trade color for $100. Though it may take longer to find a good fitting coat on consignment it is worth it. And, you can usually get a slightly larger coat and get it altered for less than a quality new coat.

Helmet

Back in high school I showed with a lovely tacky velvet cover over my schooling helmet. Though that worked for barn shows, I bought a Charles Owen GR8 as I started showing in Interscholastic Equestrian Association shows. It was $300 but my parents helped me out on this one. It fits my round head really well and looks classy in interdisciplinary show rings.

Socks
While remaining unseen, socks are still a part of show attire. What can I say, I like Ariat! I have used my Ariat tall boot socks solely as show socks ever since I got them for my birthday.

                                                                   Doversaddlery.com

Gloves

My show gloves were my favorite price. Yes, they were free! I got them from my high school trainer in a sort of exchange for some breeches that did not fit me anymore. They are black Heritage Pro Flow gloves and are breathable and thin enough that I can still feel the reigns. They are machine washable, which helps keep them show ready. They are not terribly warm but, since they are for shows and not everyday winter wear, they work great.

The final products in action!

Whatever you wear, remember that it is not the clothing that makes a good ride. The rider on the horse is much more important than what you are wearing. However, when you feel good in your show apparel, you ride with confidence that you look your best.
What do you wear to shows? Do you go for brand names or the price value? Tell me below in the comments!