I was riding with my friends at our Private Lesson Clinic with Patty Johnson.  I was working on canter departures.  Patty reminded me that it's the first three steps of the transition that determine the outcome of the canter.  When I got in the correct position I could ask her to canter and the result would be a soft, lifted departure that felt wonderful and was simple for both my mare and me!  When each part was put together the whole became a thing of beauty and joy!  All of the ladies at the clinic left feeling so wonderful about their rides and their time at the Farm!  

When we get soft and movable in the hands of our rider-guide (the Holy Spirit) He will put us is the best and easiest position for success.  He is committed to bringing out our natural gifts and talents so we can totally engage ourselves in the ride of our life!  Correct positioning is imperative for collection.  Collection is necessary to transition smoothly from one movement to another.  Just as a horse has to be soft, supple, engaged and willing, so do we.  We have to give total trust to our rider-guide!  He knows what moves have to stop and which movements need to change.  He also releases and rewards the ones that are desired!  So, lets learn to follow...be a great partner...learn to dance as one!  It  is the simplicity of two becoming one that is most amazing!

*While I was riding Kisses (the blue eyed, medicine hat paint in the photo's) I realized, agian, how much I am just like her.  If I ask her something gently, clearly and quietly she does everything she can do to please me and tries her very best.  If, however, I ask too abruptly, ask too much at once, or am messy and unclear with my aides (hands, feet, legs, seat, etc.) she gets very nervous, frustrated and afraid (which looks alot like a BIG BUCK!).  At that point I know I must quickly remove the pressure and ask her to do something familiar.  I usually drop my riegns, pivot, and head off in the other direction at a walk.  She drops her head, I drop my blood pressure!  If I find myself in the middle of a confusing, messy situation, I find my comfort in pivoting (turning on my haunches) and heading back to something tried and true!  Ahhh!  Balance is restored!I head back to my safe place, strong tower: Jesus!  I get alone with Him, sit, get quiet, lean on His chest, and just be.  I breathe in His light and breathe out the stress and fear of the day.  

How are you like your horse?  What do you and your horse do when you loose Connection?  How do you regain your Balance?  Blog me!

Do you have a personal motto you live by?  One of mine is: Keep your mind in the middle and a leg on each side!  Share yours with us!  We talk about this stuff and so many more fun stories at GallUP! Getaway Club each month. I'd love for you to joing us!  Call me!