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

No Gap Here

As I've trail ridden with several different groups, and several different women, it has occurred to me that on any given day the ages of the riders can span 3 generations. I find this to be both empowering and encouraging.

In a culture that typically emphasizes differences in generations and that does not value aging, especially in women, I find that riding with women of all ages to be a wonderful bonding experience. Caring for and riding horses is for certain an anti aging activity. The physical and the mental activity it takes to ride regularly is what keeps us well, balanced and happy.

I've often thought of my trail rides as my therapy, and the on trail discussions with other women as an important component. Being on trail close to the beauty of nature and close to the power of the horse make for a perfect day. There are no generation gaps on trail.

Happy Trails, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.net

No Gap

Fly Taxi

The horse flies have been particularly large and aggressive this year. Could it have been from some of the hot and humid weather conditions? At the competitive trail ride outside of Toledo last week they were fierce and numerous, and threatened to spoil an otherwise great weekend.

Sprays seemed to be a temporary fix, but we all know that sweating dilutes the effectiveness. A clever fellow rider had the answer in a rump cover that could be attached to the back of the saddle and under the tail. It was light but durable mesh bordered by soft polar fleece and colorful trim. I was glad to purchase one of her last covers.

The day was saved. As the temperature rose from the start of the race at dawn, the the flies rested on my horse's backside; it was comical to watch them hang on and try to bite without success. I don't know if it was the movement or the thickness of the mesh, but the confused flies had no effect but hung on like we were the last taxi on a Saturday night. As I looked behind me I giggled and my horse was completely unaware of the joke.

Thank you inventive fellow riders.

Happy Trail, Kathy, Horsedrivensite.net