Not gonna lie—tonight sucked. And I’d love your support, words of wisdom, similar stories, etc. I have no ego. I want to learn and be the best I can for her, and I don’t know what I don’t know.
I’m not sure if it was that my energy was off from a really crappy work day, that the barn was super busy, or what, but I started with working with some other riders on honeys saddle fit. We think we got it at least pretty good, after a shimmable pad was added to prop up the cantle. Then I went through my normal routine.
When it came time to mount, it was hard to keep her attention. When I did get it I tried to mount and she hopped, spun away. It wasn’t as bad as before, but still, steps back. I tried again and same thing. Also I’m trying to go forward under saddle, she would stop and hop. I’m not sure if she’s trying to rear.
I got off, lunged a bit to get her to focus, and ended after she lined up to the block and I pushed on the stirrup. I think we both were at our wits end and I just wanted something positive to end on.
She’s getting a training ride tomorrow so I’m interested to see how it goes. But these setbacks happen, right? Does it sound like I did anything wrong? We aren’t sensing a problem with her back after 3 vet checks lol, her teeth are done… is she maybe just fussy bc she’s out of shape/has no topline?
I’m disappointed today. Just want to do better for us. 🩵
I’m all ears, but please be kind. I’m a sensitive one.