….say it with me people. NON LINEAR! Nothing you ever do with them is a linear path (except maybe your centerline at A, we hope). You work and fight and continue to improve and then everything goes to shit in an instant.
I am starting to realize that the kids are more herd-bound to each other than is really good for them. It creating massive separation anxiety for them that they are having trouble focusing while I am in the saddle and they are being worked. This is creating a dangerous environment for me as the rider. We have discussed with our barn manager and will be working on separating them.
Today was just day of NOT great rides. It was a rare day when I resolved to sit in the saddle of both of my kids. The last time I got on Ruffi, she was very anxious and our ride ended in a fall, unfortunately. Today was a day of a lot of anxiety again for both of the kids. I got on Ruffi and could barely be on her. Her anxiety manifested in bucking and rearing. Thankfully, today I did not come off, but Preston was standing there and I just looked at him and said “I feel like I am back at square one again with her.” I was nervous, couldn’t relax and was very fearful. I didn’t want to RIDE her, I wanted to be led, which totally defeats the purpose. It was a humbling feeling. I am going to try and ride her again tomorrow night if things work out.
The other one was a bit more of a successful ride but was not without its frustrations. Bacardi was also VERY anxious about being away from Ruffi and initially tried to just take off, to be near the gate and call for her. Thankfully, I feel a little more confident, and have a better seat on him. I was able to get him moving forward and working on the bit. It was about a 20 minute ride and we worked on just walking and focusing on me as the rider.
Hopefully this next week goes better and after they are separated for a bit, it is a better environment for everyone, so we can continue to learn and work together.
A+B+R