Not sure what it is like in the city, but out here it is crazy windy. Fortunately the weather was warm enough yesterday to melt much of the ice in the pens, but the wind will ensure what ice is left is extra polished.

I miss snow!

With the nasty footing in some of the pens, and this odd weather, the horses are going a little nutty, so the lessons will be kept simple. We are going to continue to work to perfect the turn on the forehand, with the horses crossing under with their inside hind and riders sitting UP.

For jumping, we are going to have short courses and single jumps (maybe a bounce for the hotter horses) and work on making sure the horse is focused on the correct jump. It seems to be a fairly common issue particularly when coming to a jump on the diagonal if there is also a jump along the wall. Riders need to come to the diagonal jump from the track, and not turn to it as though they may be heading to the jump on the side.

Using the leg to turn rather than just reins, and LOOKING ahead to the jumps can also really help the horse know where it is going.

If you are participating in the clinic this weekend, please check the posted schedule. Be sure you are able to be ready ahead of your posted time. If the clinic is running behind I will make note of it on the white board during the day so you have a better idea of when you will be riding.

Please come talk to me if you are unsure of what to wear. Normal lesson attire should be suitable, and make sure your hair is neatly arranged. Tack should be clean, horses should have bridle paths, and saddle pads should also be clean.

If you have a video camera and want to be videoed, bring it out and I will try to have someone available to video you!

Karen