Trail Sisters

I happened upon a Google Group that caught my attention. It's been several years since I had this idea that women trail riders share a bond through their horses and their experiences that lends to networking and sharing. I came upon a group of women trail riders out of Iowa who communicate everything from plans to ride to sales of tack and trailers to helpful suggestions.

My idea was to form the Ohio Women's' Trail Alliance or "OWTA" as in "we're OWTA here" As many of us know, riding is not only fun, it's our escape from jobs, wash, even loved ones;. Of course we love our families, but most women are caretakers in one form or another. Riding provides an opportunity to be a little freer and a little less responsible. Even for a day or two. It's not a luxury, it's a necessity.

So check out "outahere@googlegroups.com" and

Happy Trails, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.net

Play Well With Others

Emotions run high when trail riders talk about possible plans to have mountain bikes share trails with riders in the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Forest. And understandably so since mountain bikes, unlike deer or runners, are typically more silent , and often come down hills and around corners at fast speeds.

Mountain bikers have the right to enjoy the park as well and may not have any interest in being around horses either. Hopefully the park administrators will see the wisdom in keeping the two separate. There is plenty of land for sharing, and plenty of opportunities to keep both groups safe and happy. Trail riders have spent many years improving bridle trails; hopefully they will finally be recognized for their dedication and their involvement.

It needs to be a win/win solution.

Happy Trails, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.net.

Sweat Equity

This is a very confusing time of year for horses here in Northeast Ohio. Because of changes in daylight, winter coats are appearing, but when I rode today it was 83 degrees and humid. Tomorrow may be near 90. It wasn't that the horses were poky, but as we rode, they were hot and dripping. I'm trying to figure out what will happen to northern horses, with global warming and winter coats. Does this mean they will have to evolve to lighter weight coats or maybe just wear scarves?

The tricky weather here can change quite quickly, so in a few days we may be back to seasonal weather. In the meantime we're pretending it's still summer, fly masks, furry coats and all.

Happy Trails, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.net

Horsatude

I was thinking about attitude in general and attitude as it relates to being with horses. It became apparent that it's almost one of the most important elements to being a good rider. Horses, being prey animals see the world in terms of maintaining their own survival. If I have an attitude of fear and anxiety, that readily gets translated to my horse.

Maintaining an attitude of experiencing fun, adventure and learning can get a whole different result. That's probably why I've seen very young children riding well because they are so relaxed and basically in it for the fun.

I'm developing a different attitude about my website as well and have decided to carry products that are just for fun. Practical is great but fun is better. Will keep you posted.

Have Fun, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.net

Team Work

I will never cease to be amazed by the miracle of the partnership that horse and rider create. I read once that it's the sum of "two nervous systems" coordinating efforts. When you have a true partnership with a horse that "effort" is almost seamless and nothing is more exciting than to have that "flow" with an equine partner.

Riding should be fun, not a battle of wills. Having owned my Fox Trotter for 4 years now, I can attest that each year gets better and the partnership stronger. That is why when I read of the death of a rider's beloved horse on a website, I could not hold back the tears because I understood what had gone into developing that bond.

Each day I am grateful for the beauty of the relationship I share with my horse. I hope that you have had that experience as well.

Grateful to be on trail, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.net

Fall Preview

Each rider we passed on trail yesterday had the same grin and the same comment, "No Bugs". The weather has cooled considerably during the night, probably slowing down those pesky horse flies. It was fun to see horses without their fly gear. One of my riding buddies commented on the shading of my horses ears which she had not seen all summer.

This summer was particularly hot and dry, I guess good fly breeding weather. I even invested in a fly butt rug which saved me from many a pesky horse fly intruder. It's an amazing sense of freedom when you're not trying to outrun those stealth bombers. Our horses were less distracted and happy as could be. I was happy too having avoided the need to plaster myself and the horses with bug repellent.

Anticipating the leaves turning is the next great joy.

Happy trails, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.ent