Full Circle

Last weekend Megan moved back to the barn where she grew up. While we wait in house sale limbo, full training was stretching beyond what I had planned, so now we're on our own. As I trotted her around the familiar arena, I couldn't help but think what a difference a year makes.

I read back over my blog entries from this time last year and we've come a long way baby! Despite the health scare time out and the hi-ho Silver issues, Megan has grown into a solid citizen who is just a pleasure to ride. Sure we still have our ups and downs -- lately her nice canter has gone missing -- but that's just part of the journey.

Progress report:

• Gone are the butterflies, riding her is very comfortable and fun.
• Steering is now fully functional. This time last year we had none, nada.
• Walk, trot, canter and jump with ease and relaxation -- woohoo.
• Still groans and complains... a LOT, but that's part of her charm. :-)

Most importantly, she's happy and healthy! As soon as the weather cools off, I'm looking for some shows to enter.

Happy Birthday Lily Spot!

Lily turned three on Friday. We celebrated with lots of treats and some pictures. Pretty soon her life of leisure will end, but for now she's just growing and enjoying being a horse. Doesn't she have a sweet face?

I like this picture of introspective Lily. "Soon I'll be a big horse!" Well she's already a big horse, but not so much a grown up horse. I looked at some pictures of Megan when she was 3 and I think Lily still has a LOT more growing to do. Baby girl is going to be a tank some day.

I can't wait to have her home where I can work with her every day and then get her started under saddle. I'll probaby wait until later in the fall to get her started under saddle, but the sooner we get started on ground work the better. She's so sweet and amiable that it will be great fun.