It is over -- the most amazing month of my life. . . now, MORE tears. . .from everyone.
This morning, "Dancin Pete" taught us to do the swing dance in 45 minutes, using a SAVVY string and the seven games. It was sooooo much fun. Then we did a line dance with the 7 games -- even MORE fun. And who do you think MY partner was? Dancin Pete! After the dancing was through, John had us do MORE activities with the equipment around the place. We continued to laugh and laugh.
Once we were warmed up and laughing -- we got the TEST results. Aaaaa. . . . I went from a Level II in everything to a Level III in everything. . .FAST TRACK you know.
. . Then -- drum roll -- the final TEST RESULTS: I couldn't believe it. I did VERY well. I was shocked and stunned. Of course, my highest scores were in the social realm. (If only my high school classmates could see me now -- I perhaps could have been voted homecoming queen.)
The final wrap up what did we learn? What were our highlights. You have no idea how very meaningful this journey with our horses was. Then a small group had made up a song- - so the entertainment began. Once I get the song edited, I will post it on YouTube. Hugs, Tears, Good Byes -- more Hugs, Tears, Good Byes.
Pat Parelli fulfilled in four short weeks "Parelli's Three Promises" -- now the Three Parelli Laws:
Put Relationship First
Foundation before Specialization
Never ending Self Improvement
There will be many Fast-Tracks over the years-- but we still will always be the #1 FAST TRACK -- the FIRST one. Feb 1 - Feb 26.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Day 19 -- The TESTS
Ok -- so being in boot camp not only means LONG hours, but also, how did you do? That means TESTS!!!!
We had pretests the first few days we were here, and today we had POST TESTS -- yesterday afternoon was our theory test-- this morning was our on-line and liberty tests. This afternoon is our freestyle and finesse tests.
Ok, I cried the first day because I didn't know what I was doing here. . .and I cried today because I didn't feel I had learned enough. - I was SAVVY in several areas -- but not SAVVY in other areas, even though I knew better. Of course, we all watched each other. Some people here were beautiful in everything they did. But do you know how hard it is to have these peers watch you fumble --
So, dry your tears, Jo -- It's your journey and only YOU are in charge of your learning. After today, this journey is almost over --only to start a NEW journey back in Iowa.
I will let you know how freestyle and finesse go -- for my husband, who has no idea what those two words mean -- it means I will be ON TOP of Fanny this afternoon. We will be riding. I have an hour to go warm up -- so until tonight. . .
6:00 pm
I am exhausted -- and so is Fanny -- We spent the afternoon with our finesse and freestyle skills. Kristi would have been proud -- I cantered around a circle with arms folded. I started with just the string, then with folded arms. . . Canter, Canter, Canter. . .
Until tomorrow.
We had pretests the first few days we were here, and today we had POST TESTS -- yesterday afternoon was our theory test-- this morning was our on-line and liberty tests. This afternoon is our freestyle and finesse tests.
Ok, I cried the first day because I didn't know what I was doing here. . .and I cried today because I didn't feel I had learned enough. - I was SAVVY in several areas -- but not SAVVY in other areas, even though I knew better. Of course, we all watched each other. Some people here were beautiful in everything they did. But do you know how hard it is to have these peers watch you fumble --
So, dry your tears, Jo -- It's your journey and only YOU are in charge of your learning. After today, this journey is almost over --only to start a NEW journey back in Iowa.
I will let you know how freestyle and finesse go -- for my husband, who has no idea what those two words mean -- it means I will be ON TOP of Fanny this afternoon. We will be riding. I have an hour to go warm up -- so until tonight. . .
6:00 pm
I am exhausted -- and so is Fanny -- We spent the afternoon with our finesse and freestyle skills. Kristi would have been proud -- I cantered around a circle with arms folded. I started with just the string, then with folded arms. . . Canter, Canter, Canter. . .
Until tomorrow.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
DAY 18 -- I got a LESSON from PAT
Ok -- I didn't get it. I have known some wonderful horse trainers over the years -- Hall of Fame horse trainers. They have been my friends. Why is it SOOOO wonderful to RIDE with Pat. Why do all of these EXTERNS and INTERNS and INSTRUCTORS come back year after year. I love the program, but I didn't understand the desire to be on a horse next to Pat UNTIL TODAY. . .
In this huge place there are basically 4 areas -- the teaching area for learners such as me, the foundation station across the road for the externs and others where horses are trained -- the personal residences of Pat and Linda and Mark W. and Pat's BARN -- where the interns ride with Pat. We are not allowed in any area except OUR area. . .
Today for the first time Pat was loping across our playground. I would not have known it was him, except his border collie was following him. I watched Pat as he loped to his house. Whew, he didn't look my way.
I didn't think much of it after that. Fanny and I were working on millions of transitions, stop on a sit down and whoa and listening to my body to know what to do (Eyes, bellybutton, legs -- then reins.) She was doing the transitions and stops great -- but not the following my focus. At a certain point after Fanny had stopped on her butt, tucked her head down, rocked back on her hind quarters I heard the words -- "Wow that was nice!" I looked up -- there was Pat watching every movement. I was startled and embarrassed. I started my "yes but, you should have seen her a few minutes ago" I stopped in mid-sentence and said "Thank you"! You learn many things around here, one of them are there are no YES BUTS. . .
Then I started off, Pat still watching with those focused eyes. Fanny was great until I tried to turn her with my eyes, belly button, legs -- no response. (I was riding with no hands on the reins.) Pat started to say something when I reached down and cued Fanny with the rein -- then let go fast. "That's right, Pat said!" Don't Let the Horse be Wrong too Long." And he turned and went loping off another way.
Now, I GET it. Pat can help with just a small phrase -- He can look, see, correct or present a puzzle. And you know he is right. . . No wonder there are all of those people up at the BARN riding with him. . .I feel I have had a huge huge lesson -- with just one little phrase. . .Don't let the horse be wrong too long (or he will think he was right)
If I were only younger, more athletic (talented) -- I have the rest of what Pat wants -- attitude, dedication, loyalty -- Oh well, on with my own journey.
In this huge place there are basically 4 areas -- the teaching area for learners such as me, the foundation station across the road for the externs and others where horses are trained -- the personal residences of Pat and Linda and Mark W. and Pat's BARN -- where the interns ride with Pat. We are not allowed in any area except OUR area. . .
Today for the first time Pat was loping across our playground. I would not have known it was him, except his border collie was following him. I watched Pat as he loped to his house. Whew, he didn't look my way.
I didn't think much of it after that. Fanny and I were working on millions of transitions, stop on a sit down and whoa and listening to my body to know what to do (Eyes, bellybutton, legs -- then reins.) She was doing the transitions and stops great -- but not the following my focus. At a certain point after Fanny had stopped on her butt, tucked her head down, rocked back on her hind quarters I heard the words -- "Wow that was nice!" I looked up -- there was Pat watching every movement. I was startled and embarrassed. I started my "yes but, you should have seen her a few minutes ago" I stopped in mid-sentence and said "Thank you"! You learn many things around here, one of them are there are no YES BUTS. . .
Then I started off, Pat still watching with those focused eyes. Fanny was great until I tried to turn her with my eyes, belly button, legs -- no response. (I was riding with no hands on the reins.) Pat started to say something when I reached down and cued Fanny with the rein -- then let go fast. "That's right, Pat said!" Don't Let the Horse be Wrong too Long." And he turned and went loping off another way.
Now, I GET it. Pat can help with just a small phrase -- He can look, see, correct or present a puzzle. And you know he is right. . . No wonder there are all of those people up at the BARN riding with him. . .I feel I have had a huge huge lesson -- with just one little phrase. . .Don't let the horse be wrong too long (or he will think he was right)
If I were only younger, more athletic (talented) -- I have the rest of what Pat wants -- attitude, dedication, loyalty -- Oh well, on with my own journey.
Days 16 and 17
I am combining these days as we have been on our horses for hours -- and then we've been studying for our final exam which takes place on Wed -- written theory -- and Thur -- Practical with our horses.
SADDLE FITTINg
We are having a horrible time getting any saddle to fit Fanny's short back. . . they press down into her butt.
I might try an English saddle tomorrow -- I know -- wouldn't my reining horse, Fanny, look funny with a fluidity English saddle? But, it is short and she could move her front end and, back end. We have shimmed and re-shimmed my cutting saddle.
WATER CROSSING: I have been working for three weeks on Fanny going in to the water. She WILL not -- I drive her to the water, then relax, then add more pressure -- I can just get her front feet in.
Today (Tues --Day 17), John had us on our horses and playing "follow the leader" to work on lateral flexion. We got to the creek -- all horses were crossing -- but NOT Fanny. So John had all the horses keep crossing beside us. I was to get out my Savvy rope, look up, and swing the rope around myself so it continued to hit Fanny in the butt. (I had to STOP using my kicking motion.) As soon as her feet touched the water, I had to STOP. I did this twice -- then back to swinging the Savvy Rope. Sure enough, through the water she went-- quietly. (Pressure on zone 4) Now, we go through the water without a hesitation. . .BRAVE BRAVE FANNY.
I used the same technique to encourage Fanny to step over a huge log -- WORKED! Tomorrow I will try it through the car wash.
This group is soooo cohesive. I have so many friends to keep in touch with. The first two weeks we were just getting to know each other -- the last 2 weeks we really are enjoying each other. We will miss each other horribly.
Enough for today.
jo
SADDLE FITTINg
We are having a horrible time getting any saddle to fit Fanny's short back. . . they press down into her butt.
I might try an English saddle tomorrow -- I know -- wouldn't my reining horse, Fanny, look funny with a fluidity English saddle? But, it is short and she could move her front end and, back end. We have shimmed and re-shimmed my cutting saddle.
WATER CROSSING: I have been working for three weeks on Fanny going in to the water. She WILL not -- I drive her to the water, then relax, then add more pressure -- I can just get her front feet in.
Today (Tues --Day 17), John had us on our horses and playing "follow the leader" to work on lateral flexion. We got to the creek -- all horses were crossing -- but NOT Fanny. So John had all the horses keep crossing beside us. I was to get out my Savvy rope, look up, and swing the rope around myself so it continued to hit Fanny in the butt. (I had to STOP using my kicking motion.) As soon as her feet touched the water, I had to STOP. I did this twice -- then back to swinging the Savvy Rope. Sure enough, through the water she went-- quietly. (Pressure on zone 4) Now, we go through the water without a hesitation. . .BRAVE BRAVE FANNY.
I used the same technique to encourage Fanny to step over a huge log -- WORKED! Tomorrow I will try it through the car wash.
This group is soooo cohesive. I have so many friends to keep in touch with. The first two weeks we were just getting to know each other -- the last 2 weeks we really are enjoying each other. We will miss each other horribly.
Enough for today.
jo
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Saturday -- Parelli Games
This is the third Saturday I have participated in the Parelli Games. It really is fun. I don't know what it will look like when it is rolled out.
There were four or 5 stations. All the Savvy club members in the area were invited to participate. Since I had other things I wanted to play with, I only did 3 of the 5 stations.
The three I did were FREESTYLE: One was a gait within a gait -- Which means walk as slowly as you can. . . go back and trot as slowly as you can -- go back and trot as fast as you can. You get timed on each of these. Then when you do it another day, you can see if there was any improvement, etc. You were disqualified if you broke gait.
The second station I did was a freestyle obstacle course -- kinda like the "extreme obstacle races" on RFD tv. We were to go over the bridge, back through the water -- or back over the bridge (whichever our horse would do) -- side pass in front of a 20 foot log. circle the white obstacle, do a figure 8 around two preassigned trees, go through the squeeze tunnel, put one foot inside a tire with sand, and then jump a huge log. We were timed and could do it at any speed we wanted. You got time added if you did not complete an obstacle and 30 seconds taken away if you did it without reins.
The third station was a double barrel pattern -- when you were finished with the pattern, you had to go to the middle (question box) drop your reins and stay there for 7 seconds. Fanny and I did this one at a trot.
The other stations were on line and liberty -- I did not do those stations.
But last week the on-line task was to back your horse through two obstacles, send him to the tarp and stand 4 feet on for 7 seconds, jump both ways over a big log while you were sitting on a chair, and do a weave pattern between cones. You had X amount of time to complete it -- (like 3 minutes or whatever).
Liberty was to do similar type of tasks at liberty in the honeycomb -- taking your horse from round pen to round pen to complete the tasks.
It was fun -- I can hardly wait for us in Iowa to do Parelli Games . . .
Until next time. . .
jo
There were four or 5 stations. All the Savvy club members in the area were invited to participate. Since I had other things I wanted to play with, I only did 3 of the 5 stations.
The three I did were FREESTYLE: One was a gait within a gait -- Which means walk as slowly as you can. . . go back and trot as slowly as you can -- go back and trot as fast as you can. You get timed on each of these. Then when you do it another day, you can see if there was any improvement, etc. You were disqualified if you broke gait.
The second station I did was a freestyle obstacle course -- kinda like the "extreme obstacle races" on RFD tv. We were to go over the bridge, back through the water -- or back over the bridge (whichever our horse would do) -- side pass in front of a 20 foot log. circle the white obstacle, do a figure 8 around two preassigned trees, go through the squeeze tunnel, put one foot inside a tire with sand, and then jump a huge log. We were timed and could do it at any speed we wanted. You got time added if you did not complete an obstacle and 30 seconds taken away if you did it without reins.
The third station was a double barrel pattern -- when you were finished with the pattern, you had to go to the middle (question box) drop your reins and stay there for 7 seconds. Fanny and I did this one at a trot.
The other stations were on line and liberty -- I did not do those stations.
But last week the on-line task was to back your horse through two obstacles, send him to the tarp and stand 4 feet on for 7 seconds, jump both ways over a big log while you were sitting on a chair, and do a weave pattern between cones. You had X amount of time to complete it -- (like 3 minutes or whatever).
Liberty was to do similar type of tasks at liberty in the honeycomb -- taking your horse from round pen to round pen to complete the tasks.
It was fun -- I can hardly wait for us in Iowa to do Parelli Games . . .
Until next time. . .
jo
Friday, February 19, 2010
Fast-Track Day 15
It's Friday -- a gorgeous day in Florida -- I actually didn't have to have layers on -- it was the best of best days
Today was all about Finesse -- and our horses. . . We had about 7 hours with our horses-- how much better does it get? We worked on Finesse -- the precision pen, circles, haunches in and out, off the leg, -- etc etc etc... Of course, remember, we are here 12 hours each day -- BOOT CAMP.
(See Farrah Green for GREAT instruction on all of this)
--
I am working on Fanny Bridleless-- as I have said before-- in my two hour session this afternoon-- we did transitions up and down, around trees straight in walk and trotting --back up -- and I only had to pick up the reins twice. Can hardly wait for tomorrow.
Our FAST-TRACK class is sooooooo close -- I think we will be friends forever. We all have several things in common -- we love our horses -- and we are work-a-holics
Until next time
Today was all about Finesse -- and our horses. . . We had about 7 hours with our horses-- how much better does it get? We worked on Finesse -- the precision pen, circles, haunches in and out, off the leg, -- etc etc etc... Of course, remember, we are here 12 hours each day -- BOOT CAMP.
(See Farrah Green for GREAT instruction on all of this)
--
I am working on Fanny Bridleless-- as I have said before-- in my two hour session this afternoon-- we did transitions up and down, around trees straight in walk and trotting --back up -- and I only had to pick up the reins twice. Can hardly wait for tomorrow.
Our FAST-TRACK class is sooooooo close -- I think we will be friends forever. We all have several things in common -- we love our horses -- and we are work-a-holics
Until next time
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Fast-Track Day 14
Day 13 Fast-Track
What a gorgeous day. I still wore toe warmers, gloves, 4 layers, etc. But, the sun was out warming the hearts and souls of us and our horses.
Planning is very important with our horses. Then we need to be flexible to change, depending on the horse that shows up – and the savvy that is needed.
I cannot say enough how it is NOT about completing the task – it is about the SAVVY or knowing what to do when the horse can’t do it – or doesn’t understand.
How do we make the horse successful and not make the horse feel wrong. . . How do we Expect a lot – accept a little – reward often. . . And how are our PHASES in that process.
With Fanny, it is so hard for me. I need to know the ingredients in a step by step format. I need to slow myself down – so I can give her the cues in phases—so she understands.
I am playing with “bridleless riding” which basically means I need to use my focus first, then if she doesn’t respond to that I turn my bellybutton, and if she doesn’t respond to that I put a leg on her. IF and ONLY IF she doesn’t respond, I pick up the reins.
Also, today played with bridleless backups – and bridleless side passes – We then played a purpose game for these two tasks – (open a gate and close it without taking your hand off the gate – with excellence -- all brideless)
Fanny understands my backup cues bridleless now—but we don’t have the sideways bridleless. . . Therefore, the purpose activity needed work – so what am going to play with? Certainly not the opening of gates – but a few steps sideways with help of the carrot stick or not – no reins. That is where we are. And, of course, she is a right brain introvert and I am a right brain extrovert. I want her to hurry up and lick and chew (RBE) and she can take minutes and minutes and minutes to lick and chew (RBI). So I am learning patience and to wait and wait and wait.
I had one little emotional unfitness today. I was watching a fellow who has just been riding around 6 years. He looked like a professional. . .so talented. I was jealous, envious, etc. Why is everything so hard for me? Why don’t I have any natural talent. But, then I was reminded, it is about the TRY – not always about the TALENT. I dried my tears and went on with my TRY.
Until next time.
What a gorgeous day. I still wore toe warmers, gloves, 4 layers, etc. But, the sun was out warming the hearts and souls of us and our horses.
Planning is very important with our horses. Then we need to be flexible to change, depending on the horse that shows up – and the savvy that is needed.
I cannot say enough how it is NOT about completing the task – it is about the SAVVY or knowing what to do when the horse can’t do it – or doesn’t understand.
How do we make the horse successful and not make the horse feel wrong. . . How do we Expect a lot – accept a little – reward often. . . And how are our PHASES in that process.
With Fanny, it is so hard for me. I need to know the ingredients in a step by step format. I need to slow myself down – so I can give her the cues in phases—so she understands.
I am playing with “bridleless riding” which basically means I need to use my focus first, then if she doesn’t respond to that I turn my bellybutton, and if she doesn’t respond to that I put a leg on her. IF and ONLY IF she doesn’t respond, I pick up the reins.
Also, today played with bridleless backups – and bridleless side passes – We then played a purpose game for these two tasks – (open a gate and close it without taking your hand off the gate – with excellence -- all brideless)
Fanny understands my backup cues bridleless now—but we don’t have the sideways bridleless. . . Therefore, the purpose activity needed work – so what am going to play with? Certainly not the opening of gates – but a few steps sideways with help of the carrot stick or not – no reins. That is where we are. And, of course, she is a right brain introvert and I am a right brain extrovert. I want her to hurry up and lick and chew (RBE) and she can take minutes and minutes and minutes to lick and chew (RBI). So I am learning patience and to wait and wait and wait.
I had one little emotional unfitness today. I was watching a fellow who has just been riding around 6 years. He looked like a professional. . .so talented. I was jealous, envious, etc. Why is everything so hard for me? Why don’t I have any natural talent. But, then I was reminded, it is about the TRY – not always about the TALENT. I dried my tears and went on with my TRY.
Until next time.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Fast-Track Day 13 end of day
Ok -- I live my horse trailer, which is a 4 foot short wall with a bed, table, couch, computer station, and porta potty -- (what else would you need) I leave at 6:00 am and get back to it at 7:30 pm. I have notes to type up for the group -- send off to the instructors for accuracy -- and then watch as much of the new LEVELS DVD as I can handle before I drift off to sleep.
Oh, yes -- I try to e-mail my husband a three liner. . .
This afternoon we as a group were taught more advanced liberty skills (spins etc), but I wanted to know the basics of EXACTLY how do you do the "stick to me" game, falling leaf and S curve games. These are all games to encourage "DRAW" ( or come be with me, your new best friend forever" person. . . We were advised to encouraged and reinforce the draw by at least acknowledging it-- that is the hard one -- we can always send back out.
So Fanny is going to learn DRAW and stick to me for the next few days. This will be a real treat.
Until tomorrow.
jo
Oh, yes -- I try to e-mail my husband a three liner. . .
This afternoon we as a group were taught more advanced liberty skills (spins etc), but I wanted to know the basics of EXACTLY how do you do the "stick to me" game, falling leaf and S curve games. These are all games to encourage "DRAW" ( or come be with me, your new best friend forever" person. . . We were advised to encouraged and reinforce the draw by at least acknowledging it-- that is the hard one -- we can always send back out.
So Fanny is going to learn DRAW and stick to me for the next few days. This will be a real treat.
Until tomorrow.
jo
Fast-Track Day 13
This morning was sunny with a little bit of breeze -- just the perfect weather to be on a horse. . . Holding the tongue, trailer loading, clover leaf, etc were the topics of the small group learnings. Then we went out to work on the PRECISION Pen. . . How much fun is this for a reining horse . . .or dressage horse (Yeah Leanna)
Yesterday, we went through the Horsenality chart as a Humanality chart. Lots of information that has been condensed into one chart. It was nice -- Everyone is talking today about THEMSELVES -- and how they fit into the scheme of the chart. So nice to know that even though the left brain introverts think the right brain people are crazy (sound familiar) we really aren't. . . And we don't need to know what is in it for us (smile you left brain introverts who take all the notes) We are all working at coming to the center of that chart - like we are asking our horses to come to the center of their chart. So we are all trying on new behavior. It is so nice to know that all quadrants are really OK -- We just need to work on ourselves to become more balanced.
We laughed and laughed today and danced in the middle of the playground.
Meanwhile, my horse, Fanny, is asking me for consistency (right brain introvert behavior) -- and lighter phases (be more nurturing) -- and she will be obedient. . . She will show me more emotions and more exuberance. (Right brain horses tend to HOLD IT IN -- thus gastric problems and ulcers) Actually, she is showing me so much exuberance in the canter, that I am implementing partial disengagement. Linda P. talked to us about that subject. That worked perfectly -- Fanny slowed down to her slow canter. I am still not consistent with my eyes, bellybutton, leg and then rein as the phases -- Savvy string here I come. I am taking my right Brain Extrovert behavior (go from one thing to another -- and changing it to SLOW IT DOWN -- do it right). . .I have so much to learn.
I am going to be 64 in a month -- how long will it take -- I'd better take 8 more FAST-TRACKS. . .quick quick quick -- WHOA Jo. . ."Take the Time it Takes, and it'll take Less Time" Until next time.
jo
Until next time
Yesterday, we went through the Horsenality chart as a Humanality chart. Lots of information that has been condensed into one chart. It was nice -- Everyone is talking today about THEMSELVES -- and how they fit into the scheme of the chart. So nice to know that even though the left brain introverts think the right brain people are crazy (sound familiar) we really aren't. . . And we don't need to know what is in it for us (smile you left brain introverts who take all the notes) We are all working at coming to the center of that chart - like we are asking our horses to come to the center of their chart. So we are all trying on new behavior. It is so nice to know that all quadrants are really OK -- We just need to work on ourselves to become more balanced.
We laughed and laughed today and danced in the middle of the playground.
Meanwhile, my horse, Fanny, is asking me for consistency (right brain introvert behavior) -- and lighter phases (be more nurturing) -- and she will be obedient. . . She will show me more emotions and more exuberance. (Right brain horses tend to HOLD IT IN -- thus gastric problems and ulcers) Actually, she is showing me so much exuberance in the canter, that I am implementing partial disengagement. Linda P. talked to us about that subject. That worked perfectly -- Fanny slowed down to her slow canter. I am still not consistent with my eyes, bellybutton, leg and then rein as the phases -- Savvy string here I come. I am taking my right Brain Extrovert behavior (go from one thing to another -- and changing it to SLOW IT DOWN -- do it right). . .I have so much to learn.
I am going to be 64 in a month -- how long will it take -- I'd better take 8 more FAST-TRACKS. . .quick quick quick -- WHOA Jo. . ."Take the Time it Takes, and it'll take Less Time" Until next time.
jo
Until next time
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Fast-Track Day 12 WOW WOW WOW
I cannot tell you how great a journey this process is. I would not give it up for anything. I want to sign up for 8 more FAST-TRACKS. . . Such a wonderful supporting community, learnings where ever you are, and total acceptance of you and your process. And my horse-man-ship is also improving. . . Fanny will love me forever for the process.
Life is about ups and downs -- some bigger and some smaller-- Whenever I have questions-- I usually get the answers if I put it to "The UNIVERSE" -- (God in my mind -- )
Today, one of the instructors asked if I felt all the energy yesterday in the playground -- many of the horses were new there and a little scared -- "Oh, it was hard , she said." You kinda have to change your plan and adjust for the situation. "Oh, it wasn't ME? I thought I was the bad one-- not being able to stay focused. I said.
John, came up and said "I saw you having a great time cantering yesterday." Oh, I thought you were looking at me and thinking I was a gunsel. He laughed and replied -- "It's interesting what our minds do to us isn't it."
Then there was Fanny -- I was doing PHASE 4-- PHASE 4 -- PHASE 4 with her yesterday -- felt like I was beating her up. But we stopped on a REALLY good note. Today, she was a different horse. She stopped and backed up on almost every "Whoa"
My coach, Sarah, helped me with my trainsitions in freestyle -- Instead of walk to trot, trot to canter etc -- millions of transitions -- we did Walk/backup. WOW! WOW WOW -- I could feel my change in my body and my slightest change Fanny responded it. We did walk 5 steps, backup 5 steps, etc . . . then on to the trot, backup. . . She was being so senstive and listening --Her mind, emotions and her physical were there with me
But. . . Then, I was going to take her to the honeycomb to canter. It's all about ME you know (EGO EGO EGO)-- motorcycle Fanny -- more more more. . .GO GO GO
NO NO NO --STOP STOP STOP. Fanny gave you her all, Jo -- now it's time for her -- what does SHE want to do? So, we sauntered back to the pen, took off her saddle, and let her go in and eat and drink. . .
All of you who are reading this, really need to consider doing this -- the whole group is absolutely loving it -- They have it so balanced and so good
Jo Meyer
jofacets@gmail.com
Life is about ups and downs -- some bigger and some smaller-- Whenever I have questions-- I usually get the answers if I put it to "The UNIVERSE" -- (God in my mind -- )
Today, one of the instructors asked if I felt all the energy yesterday in the playground -- many of the horses were new there and a little scared -- "Oh, it was hard , she said." You kinda have to change your plan and adjust for the situation. "Oh, it wasn't ME? I thought I was the bad one-- not being able to stay focused. I said.
John, came up and said "I saw you having a great time cantering yesterday." Oh, I thought you were looking at me and thinking I was a gunsel. He laughed and replied -- "It's interesting what our minds do to us isn't it."
Then there was Fanny -- I was doing PHASE 4-- PHASE 4 -- PHASE 4 with her yesterday -- felt like I was beating her up. But we stopped on a REALLY good note. Today, she was a different horse. She stopped and backed up on almost every "Whoa"
My coach, Sarah, helped me with my trainsitions in freestyle -- Instead of walk to trot, trot to canter etc -- millions of transitions -- we did Walk/backup. WOW! WOW WOW -- I could feel my change in my body and my slightest change Fanny responded it. We did walk 5 steps, backup 5 steps, etc . . . then on to the trot, backup. . . She was being so senstive and listening --Her mind, emotions and her physical were there with me
But. . . Then, I was going to take her to the honeycomb to canter. It's all about ME you know (EGO EGO EGO)-- motorcycle Fanny -- more more more. . .GO GO GO
NO NO NO --STOP STOP STOP. Fanny gave you her all, Jo -- now it's time for her -- what does SHE want to do? So, we sauntered back to the pen, took off her saddle, and let her go in and eat and drink. . .
All of you who are reading this, really need to consider doing this -- the whole group is absolutely loving it -- They have it so balanced and so good
Jo Meyer
jofacets@gmail.com
Monday, February 15, 2010
Fast-Track Day 11 MY RIDE
I wrote today about the day -- wasn't quite ready to write about the ride I had with Fanny.
Well here goes.
Fifty two plus or minus more people came in yesterday -- some Externs, some on the 2 week Behavior and Me Class -- so our total group seems huge. They are staggering the times we are all doing a variety of things, but some times we are all together. This afternoon was one of those times.
Pat was giving a demo for the Make a Wish Foundation. Almost everyone was going -- to support Pat and the Make a Wish Foundation. So there was going to be a huge delegation leaving the grounds EARLY. I decided not to go, but to stay back to ride and PLAY with Fanny. . . (We are not to use the word WORK -- We are to PLAY. -- good attitude) But in the back of my mind we were going to WORK -- I had things to do. FIRST mistake.
Since Fanny hadn't been well, and neither had I the last few days, it was a great opportunity for me to test my NEW attitude and resolve.
The whole ride was a disaster -- a DIRECT LINE ride -- Fanny not listening, I was going to phase 4 way too many times and it not working, using my reins, getting frustruated.
WHY??? Well, let me THINK. We are to FEEL during the day and THINK at night. So I am in bed THINKING why such a bad ride. First of all, I did not PREPARE Fanny adequately for the ride. I put her in the round pen for just a few minutes. She was feeling good, but not really ready to listen well. People were waiting on me. I felt the pressure. So I hopped on Fanny before we were both ready. Then, there were 90 people on the playground instead of my secure little group of 30. My attention deficit disorder (ACTUALLY LACK OF BEING ABLE TO FOCUS with too much stuff around me) kicked in. The third reason it was a BAD ride was I had some TASKS that I wanted to try out -- very Direct Line. . .Very NOT PARTNER. . .
So Fanny and I went to the Honey Comb -- We had been given a demonstration on canter departs. I was having a horrible time getting Fanny to have a canter depart at ANY gait, let alone from a walk. (Now, we KNOW Fanny can canter. . . and her personality is "Ask me correctly and I will do it -- a lot like SOCKS") I had one piece of new information that I hadn't absorbed before. (Note: When the student is ready, the teacher will show up). . .It doesn't mean I had not been told it -- I had not HEARD it. That new piece of information was to have my arms/hands like a Boxer. ONE little technique that works every time for Fanny. She would go from a stand still, a walk, a trot, all if I asked with the correct hand position. We were cantering around the honeycomb and I was laughing and laughing. Yeah -- we have canters. She sped up, so I did an indirect rein to disengage and to slow her down and we started again. We were both having a great time. Then Fanny became much more impulsive -- I was wanting her to think more. . .I wanted her to STOP when I said whoa --She can do that and do it well -- when she is THINKING> So in the middle of the honeycomb I changed the activity. Now, we are going to work on the whoa -- isolate,separate, recombine -- Fanny was NOT listening -- whoa meant nothing -- so I went to Phase 4 and kicked her in the shoulders with the calves of my leg--another technique we were taught . Oops -- she knows that THAT means. Now, she is listening -- WHY was that so bad? Afterall, going to Phase 4 is ok -- YES -- but, I was getting such a good response from Phase 4 -- I kept doing it -- That was INAPPROPRIATE -- I needed to go back to phase 1, slow it down, make sure she understands.
I noticed our instructor JOHN was looking at me. OMG-- I know he is thinking "WHAT a gunsel -- Jo can't do anything right -- I just KNOW that is what he was THINKING !-- Or was that what I was thinking. These new people were looking at me kicking my horse in the shoulders -- What were THEY thinking -- Fanny was understanding clearly that the kick meant to stop, put her butt under her and back up. . . Oh, no -- too much going through my mind. . . Too many people looking, I felt so inadequate. But, here I am. I am in the middle of this playground -- having fun (?) and playing (?) with my horse.
We did end up on a good note -- I went to an instructor -- showed her-- she gave me the phases I needed -- I did them -- it worked -- I got off, gave Fanny a treat, loosened the cinch and walked to the pen.
In SUMMARY: Here is what I need to do next time --:
1. Have a Positive and progressive attitude -- take my ego out--put Fanny first -- slow down -- Listen to Fanny -- don't worry about what will people think -- and the big one FOCUS
Tomorrow is a new day. . . Until then
Jo
Well here goes.
Fifty two plus or minus more people came in yesterday -- some Externs, some on the 2 week Behavior and Me Class -- so our total group seems huge. They are staggering the times we are all doing a variety of things, but some times we are all together. This afternoon was one of those times.
Pat was giving a demo for the Make a Wish Foundation. Almost everyone was going -- to support Pat and the Make a Wish Foundation. So there was going to be a huge delegation leaving the grounds EARLY. I decided not to go, but to stay back to ride and PLAY with Fanny. . . (We are not to use the word WORK -- We are to PLAY. -- good attitude) But in the back of my mind we were going to WORK -- I had things to do. FIRST mistake.
Since Fanny hadn't been well, and neither had I the last few days, it was a great opportunity for me to test my NEW attitude and resolve.
The whole ride was a disaster -- a DIRECT LINE ride -- Fanny not listening, I was going to phase 4 way too many times and it not working, using my reins, getting frustruated.
WHY??? Well, let me THINK. We are to FEEL during the day and THINK at night. So I am in bed THINKING why such a bad ride. First of all, I did not PREPARE Fanny adequately for the ride. I put her in the round pen for just a few minutes. She was feeling good, but not really ready to listen well. People were waiting on me. I felt the pressure. So I hopped on Fanny before we were both ready. Then, there were 90 people on the playground instead of my secure little group of 30. My attention deficit disorder (ACTUALLY LACK OF BEING ABLE TO FOCUS with too much stuff around me) kicked in. The third reason it was a BAD ride was I had some TASKS that I wanted to try out -- very Direct Line. . .Very NOT PARTNER. . .
So Fanny and I went to the Honey Comb -- We had been given a demonstration on canter departs. I was having a horrible time getting Fanny to have a canter depart at ANY gait, let alone from a walk. (Now, we KNOW Fanny can canter. . . and her personality is "Ask me correctly and I will do it -- a lot like SOCKS") I had one piece of new information that I hadn't absorbed before. (Note: When the student is ready, the teacher will show up). . .It doesn't mean I had not been told it -- I had not HEARD it. That new piece of information was to have my arms/hands like a Boxer. ONE little technique that works every time for Fanny. She would go from a stand still, a walk, a trot, all if I asked with the correct hand position. We were cantering around the honeycomb and I was laughing and laughing. Yeah -- we have canters. She sped up, so I did an indirect rein to disengage and to slow her down and we started again. We were both having a great time. Then Fanny became much more impulsive -- I was wanting her to think more. . .I wanted her to STOP when I said whoa --She can do that and do it well -- when she is THINKING> So in the middle of the honeycomb I changed the activity. Now, we are going to work on the whoa -- isolate,separate, recombine -- Fanny was NOT listening -- whoa meant nothing -- so I went to Phase 4 and kicked her in the shoulders with the calves of my leg--another technique we were taught . Oops -- she knows that THAT means. Now, she is listening -- WHY was that so bad? Afterall, going to Phase 4 is ok -- YES -- but, I was getting such a good response from Phase 4 -- I kept doing it -- That was INAPPROPRIATE -- I needed to go back to phase 1, slow it down, make sure she understands.
I noticed our instructor JOHN was looking at me. OMG-- I know he is thinking "WHAT a gunsel -- Jo can't do anything right -- I just KNOW that is what he was THINKING !-- Or was that what I was thinking. These new people were looking at me kicking my horse in the shoulders -- What were THEY thinking -- Fanny was understanding clearly that the kick meant to stop, put her butt under her and back up. . . Oh, no -- too much going through my mind. . . Too many people looking, I felt so inadequate. But, here I am. I am in the middle of this playground -- having fun (?) and playing (?) with my horse.
We did end up on a good note -- I went to an instructor -- showed her-- she gave me the phases I needed -- I did them -- it worked -- I got off, gave Fanny a treat, loosened the cinch and walked to the pen.
In SUMMARY: Here is what I need to do next time --:
1. Have a Positive and progressive attitude -- take my ego out--put Fanny first -- slow down -- Listen to Fanny -- don't worry about what will people think -- and the big one FOCUS
Tomorrow is a new day. . . Until then
Jo
Fast-Track Day 11
t was a gorgeous day all day today. We were to ride all morning. I got to the ranch by 6:30--so could be saddled and ready to go by 8:00. . .Fanny has been off food for about 5 days. I finally got her some supplement that helps with digestion --gave it to her yesterday -- today she is fine. . .eating up a storm.
I was soooo excited about today -- A new day -- a new experience -- a new attitude. . . But in Parelli land, anything can change at any moment -- and the word went around that Linda was going to come speak to us at 9:00 am -- YEAH!!!! but we would have plenty of time to ride. . .
I just LOVE Linda-- she is sooooo REAL -- kind and caring. . . she really cares about the horses and our journeys. She is a model of excellence. . . We could have listened to her all day -- but unfortunately, it was only 2 hours. . .
Then we had "class, then lunch, then class" -- oops the day was gone -- Pat was doing a demo for Make A Wish Foundation-- so everyone headed over there to cheer him on- -and help Make a Wish --
Perhaps, I'll get more Fanny time tomorrow--
jo
I was soooo excited about today -- A new day -- a new experience -- a new attitude. . . But in Parelli land, anything can change at any moment -- and the word went around that Linda was going to come speak to us at 9:00 am -- YEAH!!!! but we would have plenty of time to ride. . .
I just LOVE Linda-- she is sooooo REAL -- kind and caring. . . she really cares about the horses and our journeys. She is a model of excellence. . . We could have listened to her all day -- but unfortunately, it was only 2 hours. . .
Then we had "class, then lunch, then class" -- oops the day was gone -- Pat was doing a demo for Make A Wish Foundation-- so everyone headed over there to cheer him on- -and help Make a Wish --
Perhaps, I'll get more Fanny time tomorrow--
jo
Fast-Track Valentine's Day NOT about INSTRUCTORS
At the beginning of my journey here -- I was "disappointed" that I did not know this information earlier in my journey -- OK -- I was complaining -- bitching-- being negative. . .I admit it.
As I got further into the journey, I find myself being totally wrong -- again and again -- there is a saying -- when the student is ready, the teacher will show up. I look at the wonderful Parelli teachers I have had over the years -- where was this student? I don't know -- I only know that new things have NEVER come easy to me -- but I have lots of tenacity. ( In college, I had to read everything three times -- go to class, take notes, copy the notes again, read it again and again. . . This is no different, but this time it is about me, my body, my horse and my mind. . .wow.)
Tomorrow Fanny and I work on FREESTYLE -- I am MAKING my HURRY UP self slow down, go back to the basics -- Eyes, bellybutton, leg, rein. . . the four phases-- and then there are the phases within the phases -- but I won't go in to that here.
The last four days I have been on the brink of tears -- I could have cried at a moments notice. I wanted to blame everyone else for MY inadequacies. (I wasn't the only one in this state of mind during our journey with our horses. ) I know that I am assertive and sometimes aggressive. But, I love my horse. OK-- Fanny knows my intention, but. . .
This is a great journey during this BOOTCAMP -- but not an easy one -- keep Fanny in your thoughts and prayers -- and pray that I might be the partner she deserves.
jo
As I got further into the journey, I find myself being totally wrong -- again and again -- there is a saying -- when the student is ready, the teacher will show up. I look at the wonderful Parelli teachers I have had over the years -- where was this student? I don't know -- I only know that new things have NEVER come easy to me -- but I have lots of tenacity. ( In college, I had to read everything three times -- go to class, take notes, copy the notes again, read it again and again. . . This is no different, but this time it is about me, my body, my horse and my mind. . .wow.)
Tomorrow Fanny and I work on FREESTYLE -- I am MAKING my HURRY UP self slow down, go back to the basics -- Eyes, bellybutton, leg, rein. . . the four phases-- and then there are the phases within the phases -- but I won't go in to that here.
The last four days I have been on the brink of tears -- I could have cried at a moments notice. I wanted to blame everyone else for MY inadequacies. (I wasn't the only one in this state of mind during our journey with our horses. ) I know that I am assertive and sometimes aggressive. But, I love my horse. OK-- Fanny knows my intention, but. . .
This is a great journey during this BOOTCAMP -- but not an easy one -- keep Fanny in your thoughts and prayers -- and pray that I might be the partner she deserves.
jo
Fast-Track Day SATURDAY
Friday was an interesting day. It rained and sleeted all day long -- Since I have SAD (Seasonal Affect Disorder), this would NOT be a GREAT day for me anyway. In addition, Fanny was not eating, Fancy was arriving, and we were getting our midterm test/evaluation.
Not sure why Fanny isn't eating-- had to change the first hay -- but then I have three more types of hay-- and she only eats a little. So I am red lighting her today and watching her closely. We're getting a thermometer and seeing what happens there.
I am going to tack her up today. It is COLD here -- 35-40 degrees - - - ok -- better than IOWA
AFTER RED LIGHT --
One of my coaches, (Sarah) got the list of where to do the red light points to work on the energy fields -- She went with me to Fanny's pen -- I did the red light places-- Then we added the two big points -- tip of the nose and the tip of the tail-- there was a huge sigh from Fanny -- her eyes brightened -- and Fanny went straight to the bucket with the moistened cubes. . .
I have several people interested in buying it -- so am going to send them Barb's address and web site . . .
Let you know later.
jo
Not sure why Fanny isn't eating-- had to change the first hay -- but then I have three more types of hay-- and she only eats a little. So I am red lighting her today and watching her closely. We're getting a thermometer and seeing what happens there.
I am going to tack her up today. It is COLD here -- 35-40 degrees - - - ok -- better than IOWA
AFTER RED LIGHT --
One of my coaches, (Sarah) got the list of where to do the red light points to work on the energy fields -- She went with me to Fanny's pen -- I did the red light places-- Then we added the two big points -- tip of the nose and the tip of the tail-- there was a huge sigh from Fanny -- her eyes brightened -- and Fanny went straight to the bucket with the moistened cubes. . .
I have several people interested in buying it -- so am going to send them Barb's address and web site . . .
Let you know later.
jo
Fast-Track Day 9
Today Florida was dreary and cold. But not wet. I had my first REALLY bad day -- We were to learn to take our horses sideways with our arms folded and backward with our arms folded. Fanny and I were out of sink -- as bad today as we were good yesterday. The worse it got the more I went Straight line, off to phase 4 again and again. . . She was swishing her tail, which is Fanny's way of saying she's mad. I finally got 6 good steps going one way -- with arms folded. (Yes, I started with the reins, then the legs, etc. But, they really wanted us NO REINS -- and corrections --using the fence. . . My learning in that was when she did not go sideways, but kinda turned, she was "running away" and I was to back her up) Well, the relationship, which was suppose to be first, went out the window -- When I went to the backup station, my coach looked at me at told me I was being rude to my wonderful horse -- and broke out in tears -- not because I was told I was rude, but because I was not being nice to a horse that gave me her whole try. . .My coach felt horrible --feeling like SHE took me to the brink of tears -- but I was the one who was putting me first --(yet again) and my horse became a motorcycle.
This afternoon, Fanny and I are taking a walk to see how much green grass we can find -- undemanding time. It is so hard not to go direct line thinking and go get a task done.. Yes, we are in boot camp -- and we all feel as if we have so much to learn in just two weeks left. But, we are told over and over and over -- the relationship with the horse comes FIRST. . . . . . . .
As a group we have set up a Google spot to share notes. There is one really good notetaker in the group. She gives me her notes each night -- and I spend half the night typing them up. This is good for me and the group.
I took more videos of different knots with one of the coaches and the instructor's permission. I will post them on You tube -- If you want them for your i-phone I could post them to an FTP site for you to have in your video files.
Well, I am so excited that so many of our group are going to be part of the FAST TRACK -- and that we have Kristi, Carol, and Farrah around to help us with our journeys. . . It is never ending.
PS My new 3 year old --Fanny's first baby -- a red dun mare like Fanny, arrives by transport tomorrow noon -- I will have her here in Florida with me until I bring Fanny and FANCY home (Her real name is Hey Fanny -- but I can't have TWO horses named FANNY). . .
jo
This afternoon, Fanny and I are taking a walk to see how much green grass we can find -- undemanding time. It is so hard not to go direct line thinking and go get a task done.. Yes, we are in boot camp -- and we all feel as if we have so much to learn in just two weeks left. But, we are told over and over and over -- the relationship with the horse comes FIRST. . . . . . . .
As a group we have set up a Google spot to share notes. There is one really good notetaker in the group. She gives me her notes each night -- and I spend half the night typing them up. This is good for me and the group.
I took more videos of different knots with one of the coaches and the instructor's permission. I will post them on You tube -- If you want them for your i-phone I could post them to an FTP site for you to have in your video files.
Well, I am so excited that so many of our group are going to be part of the FAST TRACK -- and that we have Kristi, Carol, and Farrah around to help us with our journeys. . . It is never ending.
PS My new 3 year old --Fanny's first baby -- a red dun mare like Fanny, arrives by transport tomorrow noon -- I will have her here in Florida with me until I bring Fanny and FANCY home (Her real name is Hey Fanny -- but I can't have TWO horses named FANNY). . .
jo
Fast-Track Day 8 -- clarification
I looked at my e-mail and I want to clarify something. I worked with Kristi and Farrah this last year -- both of whom had just come back from Pat's latest and greatest -- updated versions of his thought processess... Good Better Best -- Never Let it Rest -- Make the good better and the better BEST!!!!!!
Both of these clinicians are doing a great job. . . What I am finding is we are getting many of the WHY's and I am sure to ask WHY if we aren't. . When you get the WHY? are we doing this -- the activity starts to make sense and you can problem solve other puzzles.
We have one teacher -- John Baar -- and for those of you who are signed up, you will LOVE him. He is soooooo clear in his explanations, gives clear examples, explains how to get to the next level and the list goes on.
Then we have four coaches -- they are there to teach us and for explanations. When we are on the playground, they are on their horses riding around to help us if we get in trouble.
I am working on LISTS of WHY's -- they are so helpful -- so you don't just do an empty activity. . . not knowing what you are developing in yourself or the horse.
Note -- there is HUMAN Development and HORSE development.
jo
Both of these clinicians are doing a great job. . . What I am finding is we are getting many of the WHY's and I am sure to ask WHY if we aren't. . When you get the WHY? are we doing this -- the activity starts to make sense and you can problem solve other puzzles.
We have one teacher -- John Baar -- and for those of you who are signed up, you will LOVE him. He is soooooo clear in his explanations, gives clear examples, explains how to get to the next level and the list goes on.
Then we have four coaches -- they are there to teach us and for explanations. When we are on the playground, they are on their horses riding around to help us if we get in trouble.
I am working on LISTS of WHY's -- they are so helpful -- so you don't just do an empty activity. . . not knowing what you are developing in yourself or the horse.
Note -- there is HUMAN Development and HORSE development.
jo
Fast-Track Day 8
Hi all
I didn't write yesterday for a variety of reasons -- one of which was the hard pouring rain we had all afternoon.
Today was interesting. I was in a FUNK this morning -- thinking how wonderful this experience was -- and how I had spent thousands of dollars on clinics, and felt I got splintered skills that didn't make sense as a whole. . . I was reminded that I was in charge of my own learning -- and the program was evolving -- the clinicians didn't have this information 2 years ago. . .OOPS, I think my ATTITUDE score just plummeted -- being negative and BLAMING others is NOT OK -- We are in charge of ourselves. So up with the boot straps -- I will overcome.
OK -- so what are we learning. I could tell you all the skills we are learning, but that is NOT the point of this experience. Yes, we need the building blocks and the instructor and coaches will answer any question we have. Plus, we have a demo each day, two focus skills, and our own goals to work on. Then we have some classroom time. We play with our horses about 5 hours a day. THE point of this experience is to empower us to be able to solve our own problems and our own learning. This group is getting really cohesive. . .
We were reminded that there will be many FASTTRACKS -- but WE are the FIRST FastTrack.
Fanny was GREAT this afternoon -- she hasn't been picking up a lope -- but today we were shown a couple of ways to do that -- now we can go from walk to lope-- etc.
I have been working on focus focus focus. . .Hard for this ADD/creative person. . . I am also working on slowing myself down -- and really doing the phases-- focus (eyes) bellybutton, leg, rein/stick.
I have a personal goal of learning herd behavior and how does that translate into how I become the alpha of the herd. It is not really covered here as an individual topic, but I am researching it.
JO
I didn't write yesterday for a variety of reasons -- one of which was the hard pouring rain we had all afternoon.
Today was interesting. I was in a FUNK this morning -- thinking how wonderful this experience was -- and how I had spent thousands of dollars on clinics, and felt I got splintered skills that didn't make sense as a whole. . . I was reminded that I was in charge of my own learning -- and the program was evolving -- the clinicians didn't have this information 2 years ago. . .OOPS, I think my ATTITUDE score just plummeted -- being negative and BLAMING others is NOT OK -- We are in charge of ourselves. So up with the boot straps -- I will overcome.
OK -- so what are we learning. I could tell you all the skills we are learning, but that is NOT the point of this experience. Yes, we need the building blocks and the instructor and coaches will answer any question we have. Plus, we have a demo each day, two focus skills, and our own goals to work on. Then we have some classroom time. We play with our horses about 5 hours a day. THE point of this experience is to empower us to be able to solve our own problems and our own learning. This group is getting really cohesive. . .
We were reminded that there will be many FASTTRACKS -- but WE are the FIRST FastTrack.
Fanny was GREAT this afternoon -- she hasn't been picking up a lope -- but today we were shown a couple of ways to do that -- now we can go from walk to lope-- etc.
I have been working on focus focus focus. . .Hard for this ADD/creative person. . . I am also working on slowing myself down -- and really doing the phases-- focus (eyes) bellybutton, leg, rein/stick.
I have a personal goal of learning herd behavior and how does that translate into how I become the alpha of the herd. It is not really covered here as an individual topic, but I am researching it.
JO
Fast-Track Day 6
OMG-- I AM loving every minute of this program, even though my body said I wanted more bed and less aches. -- More about the program a little later.
About the hay -- I would suggest Robin, you bring as much of your own as you can if you want grass hay or hay your horse likes -- The hay changes around here - depending. They bring a shipload in from Colorado -- a timothy alfalfa mixture. But I don't believe the new shipment has arrived so we have a grass hay -- The grass hay around here tends to be in two varieties that I see -- Coastal and Peanut. -- Some horses are liking it -- some not as much-- The new hay bales aren't very heavy, so I give Fanny more. She went through a bale in two days. You can always buy more for the same price they buy it for -- which was $13 a bale. --- ouch. There is also a mixture of grain you can feed your horse. The horse gets either molasses water or regular water. They do not dictate to you about what you feed your horse. They give you what they think is good -- and you decide whether you feed it or not.
The group is really getting close. There are pressures all over -- INTERNAL pressure -- to do your best -- and become qualified for Extern and/or Intern. (Except for me - I don't need another profession). Problem -- we direct line thinkers get ourselves in to trouble allowing this attitude. The SAVVY is really about knowing the ingredients to the problem we are dealing with, solving the problems by using the ingredients in proper order. It is also about knowing the phases. Then it is also about our own emotional fitness -- how are WE getting in the way of our horses.
As we all know, there are three main games -- and have to play and know in the right order -- if one breaks, we go back and fix that game. Well, there are many other systems Pat has developed that have an order as well. . . And we are really being taught about those and fixing those systems.
Today we worked on our CORE and our Balance point. . . We will be working on independent seat the whole time -- one of the responsibilities of the MAN (Principle #4) --
We spent 3.5 hours this morning playing with our "focus areas" -- which are goals we identified. I may write later. But a demonstration is starting. . .
Later.
About the hay -- I would suggest Robin, you bring as much of your own as you can if you want grass hay or hay your horse likes -- The hay changes around here - depending. They bring a shipload in from Colorado -- a timothy alfalfa mixture. But I don't believe the new shipment has arrived so we have a grass hay -- The grass hay around here tends to be in two varieties that I see -- Coastal and Peanut. -- Some horses are liking it -- some not as much-- The new hay bales aren't very heavy, so I give Fanny more. She went through a bale in two days. You can always buy more for the same price they buy it for -- which was $13 a bale. --- ouch. There is also a mixture of grain you can feed your horse. The horse gets either molasses water or regular water. They do not dictate to you about what you feed your horse. They give you what they think is good -- and you decide whether you feed it or not.
The group is really getting close. There are pressures all over -- INTERNAL pressure -- to do your best -- and become qualified for Extern and/or Intern. (Except for me - I don't need another profession). Problem -- we direct line thinkers get ourselves in to trouble allowing this attitude. The SAVVY is really about knowing the ingredients to the problem we are dealing with, solving the problems by using the ingredients in proper order. It is also about knowing the phases. Then it is also about our own emotional fitness -- how are WE getting in the way of our horses.
As we all know, there are three main games -- and have to play and know in the right order -- if one breaks, we go back and fix that game. Well, there are many other systems Pat has developed that have an order as well. . . And we are really being taught about those and fixing those systems.
Today we worked on our CORE and our Balance point. . . We will be working on independent seat the whole time -- one of the responsibilities of the MAN (Principle #4) --
We spent 3.5 hours this morning playing with our "focus areas" -- which are goals we identified. I may write later. But a demonstration is starting. . .
Later.
Fast-Track Weekend
Fanny and I participated in the Parelli Games today -- how much fun was that!!!! Next week, we will do LOTS of the Parelli Games -- Wish I could be here doing THIS FAST TRACK thing for 12 weeks. . . OOPS, sorry Duane -- Would you like to learn to RIDE???? There are couples here!!!! And I miss you!!!!
The group is already talking about a "reunion" -- I don't know how we are going to get the 10 people (of the 31 here) from other countries back for a "reunion", but it is a great idea.
Another gal and I are setting up a web sight -- study session -- so the group can share notes, pictures, etc. . . and add to the notes. . .
The group is already talking about a "reunion" -- I don't know how we are going to get the 10 people (of the 31 here) from other countries back for a "reunion", but it is a great idea.
Another gal and I are setting up a web sight -- study session -- so the group can share notes, pictures, etc. . . and add to the notes. . .
Fast-Track Day 5
I am ready to sign up for this NEXT year -- (Sorry Duane -- you get your fishing trip next year -- I will have to wait) But, what a GREAT GREAT GREAT experience. We are working our tails off -- in all four SAVVY's and our emotional fitness -- I've only cried 2 times -- Once the first day when I didn't feel I could do anything and the other one today -- as I don't feel I deserve to have this wonderful horse, Fanny, my teacher -- or the other wonderful horses I have had in my life.
. . .But I guess I have to get over that. . . and on with it. . .
Boy are we EXHAUSTED today. . . I mean REALLY exhausted. Not just emotionally exhausted, but physically exhausted. But it is raining hard now, so we are watching a tape of Ray Hunt give a clinic while everyone else is having their 1:1 with their coaches. I have had my session already.
Today we were shown in DETAIL how to halter, bridle, saddle, mount dismount a horse. . . New details were given. Like WHY do we bridle a horse from the ground.
We are talking about the ingredients that need to go into each task -- the purpose -- the whys of the tasks -- they aren't about the tasks -- and then what would be SAVVY and what not. . . We also learned LOTS about the circling game -- when it is a circling game and when it is not -- when to make the circling game a friendly game and when to help your horse show you what he will really do so you aren't stealing rides.
John Baar is an absolutely WONDERFUL teacher -- He gives the What -- Why and How -- then allows the WHAT IF to come out -- Also, he gives examples and some of his own experiences. We are learning the WHY's of the tasks -- and what is Savvy and what is not. . . It really is about the Savvy -- It is soooo true --
Our coaches took over this afternoon. We were told our strength and our weakness's in our pretest scores. Then we got to CHOOSE three or four skills we wanted to work on for the next week. . . We could choose in our weak area or not-- I chose what I wanted the most -- to canter on the rail, jump an obstacle, and get the stick to me game down like Brandi has it with Gunner. Cantering -- OK, so the ingredients are to walk the rail first -- I got to choose how many corrections I could make before I went to the next ingredient -- trot the rail. And yes -- we have to correct in phases -- eyes, belly button, legs reins -- any one of those is a correction. . . In other words -- Fanny has to follow the rail with JUST my focus. . . and I have to FOCUS -- and not touch the horse. . .OK -- think I'll start soon. . .as soon as I get a night's sleep.
Tomorrow there will Parelli Games here at the center -- I will be here to see what that is all about . . .
And Fanny and I are going to have bonding time. She has been OUTSTANDING. . . Her confidence in a new situation (Environment) is GREAT -- she has just become better. She also lets me know when she doesn't want to have anything to do with me -- and she does that at the most unexpected times.
Until next time.
jo
. . .But I guess I have to get over that. . . and on with it. . .
Boy are we EXHAUSTED today. . . I mean REALLY exhausted. Not just emotionally exhausted, but physically exhausted. But it is raining hard now, so we are watching a tape of Ray Hunt give a clinic while everyone else is having their 1:1 with their coaches. I have had my session already.
Today we were shown in DETAIL how to halter, bridle, saddle, mount dismount a horse. . . New details were given. Like WHY do we bridle a horse from the ground.
We are talking about the ingredients that need to go into each task -- the purpose -- the whys of the tasks -- they aren't about the tasks -- and then what would be SAVVY and what not. . . We also learned LOTS about the circling game -- when it is a circling game and when it is not -- when to make the circling game a friendly game and when to help your horse show you what he will really do so you aren't stealing rides.
John Baar is an absolutely WONDERFUL teacher -- He gives the What -- Why and How -- then allows the WHAT IF to come out -- Also, he gives examples and some of his own experiences. We are learning the WHY's of the tasks -- and what is Savvy and what is not. . . It really is about the Savvy -- It is soooo true --
Our coaches took over this afternoon. We were told our strength and our weakness's in our pretest scores. Then we got to CHOOSE three or four skills we wanted to work on for the next week. . . We could choose in our weak area or not-- I chose what I wanted the most -- to canter on the rail, jump an obstacle, and get the stick to me game down like Brandi has it with Gunner. Cantering -- OK, so the ingredients are to walk the rail first -- I got to choose how many corrections I could make before I went to the next ingredient -- trot the rail. And yes -- we have to correct in phases -- eyes, belly button, legs reins -- any one of those is a correction. . . In other words -- Fanny has to follow the rail with JUST my focus. . . and I have to FOCUS -- and not touch the horse. . .OK -- think I'll start soon. . .as soon as I get a night's sleep.
Tomorrow there will Parelli Games here at the center -- I will be here to see what that is all about . . .
And Fanny and I are going to have bonding time. She has been OUTSTANDING. . . Her confidence in a new situation (Environment) is GREAT -- she has just become better. She also lets me know when she doesn't want to have anything to do with me -- and she does that at the most unexpected times.
Until next time.
jo
Fast-Track Day 4
WOW! Day 4 and I am not even exhausted -- Now, my body hurts, don't get me wrong, but my spirit keeps moving.
This morning was the LAST day of the TEST -- The TEST was a theory test and 4 practical tests -- all at level 4 competencies. On Line, Freestyle, Liberty and Finesse. These TESTS showed us what we were going to spend the next 4 weeks learning.
Now, YOU FLUNKED,) if your horse and you were at level I (or as we say some of us did PREK level) and TRIED to do the Level 4 as they explained it. Showed NO savvy. (I think -- we find out our true scores tomorrow -- But DON'T expect me to share MINE with you. . .I KNOW how badly I did -- and I don't even care-- I care about what I am going to learn in the next 4 weeks.)
Some skills today (we had 11 that had to be done) were flying lead changes using three perfect circles with 20 meters diameters. . . Transitions from a walk to a canter -- backup with as light as you can get it. . . and the list goes on. At least I didn't have to jump a barrel again today (THanks Leanna for your Video -- it is always in my mind). . . They are trying to teach us the ingredients of each skill, so we can figure out the piece that might be missing, or where we need to go. When we are done, they want us to be puzzle solvers. (My husband would be GREAT at this.) Now, as many of you know, I have a reining horse. Do you think she would pick up a canter departure during the TEST -- No No No!!!!! so we did everything at a trot. . . At least the evaluator was nice enough to say to me at least I knew what a circle was. . .Trust me, Fanny went outside the evaluation area and we cantered and cantered and cantered. (Not necessarily DIRECT LINE on my part -- I figured out that I was holding her back with the reins as I was asking her to canter forward -- conflicting messages. . .I am lucky that Fanny is very honest)
We all had a GREAT time, and I was ready to ride another 5 hours -- even though Fanny was THROUGH. . . (This is why I need 3 horses lined up ready for my obsessive behaviors).
After riding, we were taught saddle fitting, shimming, posture, bits, saddles, ON LINE WITH 45 FOOT LINES skills and more. Oh yes, the information is being shoved very fast and furious. (Boot CAMP) I have sat through 4 saddle fitting and shimming demonstrations and taken a full day of posture vs confirmation workshop -- and three workshops about bits before this one. So it was easy listening for me. For those of you going, I would highly suggest you read read read -- because they go through the information VERY fast -- if you have some background -- it will be easier. It is boot camp -- I can hardly wait to get home to read some more.
Fanny was a HOOT -- she was ready for me when I arrived this morning. But, after our three hour marathon, she went to the corner of her 24X24 foot pen and wouldn't even turn around when I came in to the pen. Did she know I was there -- of course -- her ears were pointed to me, she was looking out of one eye and at the same time flipping her tail at me as if to say "F.... You" I am staying over here. What did I do -- I stayed as far away as I could, sat on the ground and looked for 4 leaf clovers like I did as a kid -- sure enough, within 2 minutes she was over looking for 4 leaf clovers again. She then allowed me to halter her from the ground and we went out to eat grass together for the next 45 minutes.
OK, now the meat and potatoes of the day. THERE ARE NO DESSERTS -- nothing SWEET being served at the meals -- The horses get their choice of water or molasses water. grain, cubes, hay -- etc. But, we HUMANS get brocolli, meat, some starches, fruit and all the GOOD stuff. So if you want SWEETS -- bring your own.
Until tomorrow -- I will be thinking of you.
jo
This morning was the LAST day of the TEST -- The TEST was a theory test and 4 practical tests -- all at level 4 competencies. On Line, Freestyle, Liberty and Finesse. These TESTS showed us what we were going to spend the next 4 weeks learning.
Now, YOU FLUNKED,) if your horse and you were at level I (or as we say some of us did PREK level) and TRIED to do the Level 4 as they explained it. Showed NO savvy. (I think -- we find out our true scores tomorrow -- But DON'T expect me to share MINE with you. . .I KNOW how badly I did -- and I don't even care-- I care about what I am going to learn in the next 4 weeks.)
Some skills today (we had 11 that had to be done) were flying lead changes using three perfect circles with 20 meters diameters. . . Transitions from a walk to a canter -- backup with as light as you can get it. . . and the list goes on. At least I didn't have to jump a barrel again today (THanks Leanna for your Video -- it is always in my mind). . . They are trying to teach us the ingredients of each skill, so we can figure out the piece that might be missing, or where we need to go. When we are done, they want us to be puzzle solvers. (My husband would be GREAT at this.) Now, as many of you know, I have a reining horse. Do you think she would pick up a canter departure during the TEST -- No No No!!!!! so we did everything at a trot. . . At least the evaluator was nice enough to say to me at least I knew what a circle was. . .Trust me, Fanny went outside the evaluation area and we cantered and cantered and cantered. (Not necessarily DIRECT LINE on my part -- I figured out that I was holding her back with the reins as I was asking her to canter forward -- conflicting messages. . .I am lucky that Fanny is very honest)
We all had a GREAT time, and I was ready to ride another 5 hours -- even though Fanny was THROUGH. . . (This is why I need 3 horses lined up ready for my obsessive behaviors).
After riding, we were taught saddle fitting, shimming, posture, bits, saddles, ON LINE WITH 45 FOOT LINES skills and more. Oh yes, the information is being shoved very fast and furious. (Boot CAMP) I have sat through 4 saddle fitting and shimming demonstrations and taken a full day of posture vs confirmation workshop -- and three workshops about bits before this one. So it was easy listening for me. For those of you going, I would highly suggest you read read read -- because they go through the information VERY fast -- if you have some background -- it will be easier. It is boot camp -- I can hardly wait to get home to read some more.
Fanny was a HOOT -- she was ready for me when I arrived this morning. But, after our three hour marathon, she went to the corner of her 24X24 foot pen and wouldn't even turn around when I came in to the pen. Did she know I was there -- of course -- her ears were pointed to me, she was looking out of one eye and at the same time flipping her tail at me as if to say "F.... You" I am staying over here. What did I do -- I stayed as far away as I could, sat on the ground and looked for 4 leaf clovers like I did as a kid -- sure enough, within 2 minutes she was over looking for 4 leaf clovers again. She then allowed me to halter her from the ground and we went out to eat grass together for the next 45 minutes.
OK, now the meat and potatoes of the day. THERE ARE NO DESSERTS -- nothing SWEET being served at the meals -- The horses get their choice of water or molasses water. grain, cubes, hay -- etc. But, we HUMANS get brocolli, meat, some starches, fruit and all the GOOD stuff. So if you want SWEETS -- bring your own.
Until tomorrow -- I will be thinking of you.
jo
Fast-Track Day 3
We are all in the Lodge eating supper -- Yes the food is GREAT . . .
But, most of us can hardly walk. We are soooo tired. And if you think WE are tired, just ask our horses. This morning we went from station to station getting graded on 10 savvy's at Liberty -- at LEVEL 4. Since I have only done Liberty once or twice with Fanny, and we CERTAINLY DON"T have the Stick to me Game down, I started on line with her at every station. As she figured out the pattern, I would then take the line off - - and do the liberty task. Today, I did REMEMBER -- to use my SAVVY -- don't ask this good sweet horse to do something I haven't taught and she doesn't understand. Break down the task and just push a little.
Then we did 12 stations of Freestyle riding -- Fanny and I jumped the white barrels for the first time. I did not come off, but I sure popped out of my saddle. During the trot/ lope stop and back up with no hands, I decided I needed to retrain her to do this during the task -- I did it and the last trot stop and back up she did while I had my arms folded.
In the cloverleaf pattern, we were to lope both ways arms folded. . . -- Fanny thought I said "This is a reining competition so go as fast you can." OOOOOOH-- glad I had my helmet on.
Someone said it feels like we have completed two weeks -- and we've only been with our horses two days. . .
Someone else asked if we had to ride the horses -- some didn't feel like they were quite ready yet -- The response was a very kind and gentle "That's why we call it BOOT CAMP.
We are in class or with our horses over 11 hours a day and will sleep well at night. Wish you were all here. . .Actually, the group is VERY positive about our experience so far -- We are all tired, but VERY VERY happy.
Of course, it was 67 degrees, sun was shining, and I was with my horse -- what was there to be UNHAPPY about?
More Later
Jo Meyer
But, most of us can hardly walk. We are soooo tired. And if you think WE are tired, just ask our horses. This morning we went from station to station getting graded on 10 savvy's at Liberty -- at LEVEL 4. Since I have only done Liberty once or twice with Fanny, and we CERTAINLY DON"T have the Stick to me Game down, I started on line with her at every station. As she figured out the pattern, I would then take the line off - - and do the liberty task. Today, I did REMEMBER -- to use my SAVVY -- don't ask this good sweet horse to do something I haven't taught and she doesn't understand. Break down the task and just push a little.
Then we did 12 stations of Freestyle riding -- Fanny and I jumped the white barrels for the first time. I did not come off, but I sure popped out of my saddle. During the trot/ lope stop and back up with no hands, I decided I needed to retrain her to do this during the task -- I did it and the last trot stop and back up she did while I had my arms folded.
In the cloverleaf pattern, we were to lope both ways arms folded. . . -- Fanny thought I said "This is a reining competition so go as fast you can." OOOOOOH-- glad I had my helmet on.
Someone said it feels like we have completed two weeks -- and we've only been with our horses two days. . .
Someone else asked if we had to ride the horses -- some didn't feel like they were quite ready yet -- The response was a very kind and gentle "That's why we call it BOOT CAMP.
We are in class or with our horses over 11 hours a day and will sleep well at night. Wish you were all here. . .Actually, the group is VERY positive about our experience so far -- We are all tired, but VERY VERY happy.
Of course, it was 67 degrees, sun was shining, and I was with my horse -- what was there to be UNHAPPY about?
More Later
Jo Meyer
Fast-Track Day 2
Day 1 of the FAST TRACK is over. . . Pat talked to us for a couple of hours. Basically, his speech made lots of sense to me, an educator.
The Fast Track is mostly for people who want to be Instructors or Ambassadors . . . Pat wants people who want to make this world better for people and horses. He is looking for passionate, dedicated, people to carry on the message --now and after he leaves and goes to heaven --
Pat wants Tom Dorrance, Ray Hunt, and Ronny Willis's message to live on and on and on.
We all knew coming in that this was a "BOOT CAMP" He assured us that the Education/Vacation model was not what we would be doing.
Our day consists of Problem solving puzzles. . . When we get a problem in a horse, we get to strategize how to fix the problem. We also will have "stations" during the morning to go to. The purpose is to hone our skills in specific areas -- We will stay just a few minutes and have our coaches help us, then off to play with our horses. We will have more classroom time, simulations, and tests -- We will be GRADED.
We will be taught what level 4 looks like in all the Savvy's -- then will be helped where our own level is --
We had our first test today -- more will be to come. We had lots of information on that test that Farrah Green has been teaching us -- beats, foot falls, haunches in, out, precison riding, precision court, lead change ladder, Half pass vs leg yield, etc And and the list goes on.
Walter Zeitle will be here all week with the Master Students. We are hoping we get to watch some of the lessons.
Of course, Carol Symens Lowrey is here-- she looks great -- happy and radiant. I haven't seen Lizzy yet, but it's been raining -- a nice 60 degree rain.
Take the time it takes -- and it will take less time.
Until we meet again.
The Fast Track is mostly for people who want to be Instructors or Ambassadors . . . Pat wants people who want to make this world better for people and horses. He is looking for passionate, dedicated, people to carry on the message --now and after he leaves and goes to heaven --
Pat wants Tom Dorrance, Ray Hunt, and Ronny Willis's message to live on and on and on.
We all knew coming in that this was a "BOOT CAMP" He assured us that the Education/Vacation model was not what we would be doing.
Our day consists of Problem solving puzzles. . . When we get a problem in a horse, we get to strategize how to fix the problem. We also will have "stations" during the morning to go to. The purpose is to hone our skills in specific areas -- We will stay just a few minutes and have our coaches help us, then off to play with our horses. We will have more classroom time, simulations, and tests -- We will be GRADED.
We will be taught what level 4 looks like in all the Savvy's -- then will be helped where our own level is --
We had our first test today -- more will be to come. We had lots of information on that test that Farrah Green has been teaching us -- beats, foot falls, haunches in, out, precison riding, precision court, lead change ladder, Half pass vs leg yield, etc And and the list goes on.
Walter Zeitle will be here all week with the Master Students. We are hoping we get to watch some of the lessons.
Of course, Carol Symens Lowrey is here-- she looks great -- happy and radiant. I haven't seen Lizzy yet, but it's been raining -- a nice 60 degree rain.
Take the time it takes -- and it will take less time.
Until we meet again.
Fast-Track Day 1
I am here in Florida with Fanny -- I have been here a month -- if you remember, we came early so my wonderful husband could go to the ORANGE BOWL -- and IOWA WON!!!! Meanwhile, Fanny has been in Ocala -- or 25 miles OUT of Ocala -- kinda close to the Parelli Center.
Well, Monday is the day I show up at the Parelli Fast Track program in Florida-- (Carol Symens Lowry is there now in the LONG LONG program. )
I have been staying with Lori Wegner and her family here in Ocala for the last month who is from The Horse First Farm-in Wisconsin --(-see the NEW Parelli e-news under Coverall and you will see Lori talking about the Coverall and the Horse First Farm. )
My horse, Fanny, has been boarded about 25 miles away and has been happy as a clam -- and happy to be out of Iowa weather. Fanny's first baby, (Hey Fanny) now, her barn name, FANCY, will arrive to be with us in about 10 days. I just bought "Fancy" and she will join Fanny and Ellie as the LAST horse for the Meyer family -- (according to my wonderful husband, Dewey. . .)
Fancy is 3 years old, never started. Lori will be starting her for me -- such fun to see a horse started naturally. Lori and I have rented a pasture and will make a playground for our horses-- while I am at the Parelli Center. Note: I will not be brining my horses back to the midwest until at least April or May -- after the WET WET seaSON OF APRIL in Iowa and wisconsin.
Lori studied with Kristi Smith last year in her month long here in Florida/Parelli) and LOVED Kristi's style. I have been shadowing Lori in the last month-- and have learned TONS. . . probably more than I will learn in the next month. Lori can explain it like no one else.
I will let you all know what happens in the next month -- I am not sure how I will share that-- only to know I am here to get MY own horsemanship better-- I am after NO stars -- no APPROVAL -- only the approval of Fanny -- and my GOD. . .
For those of you who BELIEVE, keep Fanny and Me in your thoughts and prayers-- and FANCY's well-being in your thoughts and prayers as well. More about that later.
Love to you all who believe that not only is it NATURAL -- it is part of the GREAT UNIVERSE. . . and our God.
Well, Monday is the day I show up at the Parelli Fast Track program in Florida-- (Carol Symens Lowry is there now in the LONG LONG program. )
I have been staying with Lori Wegner and her family here in Ocala for the last month who is from The Horse First Farm-in Wisconsin --(-see the NEW Parelli e-news under Coverall and you will see Lori talking about the Coverall and the Horse First Farm. )
My horse, Fanny, has been boarded about 25 miles away and has been happy as a clam -- and happy to be out of Iowa weather. Fanny's first baby, (Hey Fanny) now, her barn name, FANCY, will arrive to be with us in about 10 days. I just bought "Fancy" and she will join Fanny and Ellie as the LAST horse for the Meyer family -- (according to my wonderful husband, Dewey. . .)
Fancy is 3 years old, never started. Lori will be starting her for me -- such fun to see a horse started naturally. Lori and I have rented a pasture and will make a playground for our horses-- while I am at the Parelli Center. Note: I will not be brining my horses back to the midwest until at least April or May -- after the WET WET seaSON OF APRIL in Iowa and wisconsin.
Lori studied with Kristi Smith last year in her month long here in Florida/Parelli) and LOVED Kristi's style. I have been shadowing Lori in the last month-- and have learned TONS. . . probably more than I will learn in the next month. Lori can explain it like no one else.
I will let you all know what happens in the next month -- I am not sure how I will share that-- only to know I am here to get MY own horsemanship better-- I am after NO stars -- no APPROVAL -- only the approval of Fanny -- and my GOD. . .
For those of you who BELIEVE, keep Fanny and Me in your thoughts and prayers-- and FANCY's well-being in your thoughts and prayers as well. More about that later.
Love to you all who believe that not only is it NATURAL -- it is part of the GREAT UNIVERSE. . . and our God.
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