Good day had by all.

Had a really nice day today..foot isnt too bad suprisingly but sporting a fetching bruise:)
My dad is up for the Christmas so he and my brother came up to the farm to walk the dogs while I rode Polo.When we were ready to go they put the dogs(5borders 1GSD) in his jeep and my car then drove along the lane to meet me at the track as I rode along...saved me the usual job of walking and leading!
The dogs were tearing around, Polo must get dizzy trying to keep track of them but he's really good at not standing on them.My dad and brother turned back before me as its all uphill I kept going a bit further with my 3pooches in tow then galloped up the hills to catch them up.Buster is going through a bit of a rebelious faze at the moment and has a tendancy to run up to people and dogs barking but he was very well behaved.I always have a pocket full of dog biscuits when they come out with the horse to keep them focused on me when I need them close,Minx and Mouse are pro's and Buster seems to be getting the idea..it helps they are incredibly greed dogs:))
Dogs got deposited in the car to be driven to the farm while I rode back.
Polo was very keen and forward today so worked up quite a sweat despite being clipped yesterday.
I was going to take AliG in the school but it was busy so decided to go for a short hack on him.I honestly find it hard to put into words how laid back he is the only thing that seems to remotely excite him is other horse's,when a car passes he's nearly on the bonnet he's that unconcerned:)))
He had one little shy,its hard to describe what he does as a shy is move of a slow motion hesitation,but anyway it was when we passed the riding school their geese were in the field making a noise but he couldnt see them..perfectly understandable.
He got a few boots and sharp smacks for dawdling a couple of times but all in all he was pretty darn good considering he's only been on a few hacks by himself and how little he's done in the past few months full stop.
I really enjoyed myself today,I get very stressy/stroppy and tired when im at work and it definately affects how I deal with the horse's but this week has been great..minus the foot of course!!:)

Strange old day...

I hung on and hung on this morning waiting for it to stop raining,it was lashing down.Gave up at 11.30 decided to go up do jobs as it was 'obviously' in for the day and I didnt fancy riding in it today.
No sooner had I got to the farm then the clouds broke and it was actually sunny = me fumming cos I hadnt brought a saddle!
The boys were pleased to see me as at some point the gate had blown shut blocking them out of the pen and their shed,so they were keen to get in and dry.
I poo picked then clipped Polo,I just take his chest and half his neck out,he's no bother to clip just stands dozing.I then trimmed his feet and gave his frogs a good spray with my cider vinegar/teatree oil mix.
I then decided to give AliG a quick trim.Im still using M's trimmer for Ali as his feet were all over the place when he came and I was a bit concerned about them but I usually keep them tidied up inbetween trims and to help keep his heels down.
He been absolutely fine about having his feet picked out for a while now but still a bit hit and miss with the trimming in that he snatches his feet away or will collapse down on you 'usually' on the front feet.
Anyway the bugger virtually sat on my when I was trimming his hind foot!:0
I could feel him start to drop onto me so I quickly let go of his leg and of course he stood on my foot..heavily.It was excrutiating(already my dodgy foot where my toe doesnt bend from the joint)I screamed at him then im afraid he got a wallop!
The thing is he doesnt seem scared when you do his feet its almost like he's thinking I dont see why I should pick my foot up and hold it so I wont,he's very well balanced so thats not the reason.I always keep it short so he's not expected to hold it up for long and dont both with the stand at the moment as he just keep snatching his foot away knocking it over.I picked it back up after I'd stopped hopping and swearing, gave it a few more swipes with the rasp to make a point then put it down and gave him a pat.
Anyway Ive got a cracking bruise and very sore foot!

Hoping to ride both of them tomorrow weather permitting.

Angels:)

Well I reckon my two have deserved the title of Angels today!
My sister was up visiting so we'd arranged for her to come up to the farm this morning to bring my niece up to see the horse's,she was a little nervous the last time and would only look from a distance..well she is just 20months give her time:)

Anyway I decided to ride AliG in the school first ,if it was empty of course,then I could see them when they drove up the lane.Did lots of walk to halt to walk,if he didnt respond first time to my leg when asking to walk on I gave him two taps with the whip, he quickly got the idea.I didnt do too much in trot as he isnt remotely fit but did a couple of circles on each rein,any more schooling ideas that I can do in walk while he fittens up would be most welcome:)
My Phoenix feels like its sitting too low on the front and tipping me forward a bit but Ali seems to prefer this to the treed saddle.I'll try and pad it up at the front for now,im wanting to sell it and hopefully buy the new 17"Vogue eventually cos he does seem comfortable in it but I reckon a 17"would be better for both of us size wise.

I saw my sister's car so rode back over to the yard to see them. Well Ericka was much more confident around the horse's and AliG was brill standing quietly (not tied up)while she had a sit on his back and 'helped' brush him.Didnt get a pic of her sitting on him as she was off and on pretty quickly but he was very sweet and kept nuzzling her and my sister's hubby who's scared of horses:)

We then went and got Polo ready so Ericka 'helped' brush him,he was so gentle and kept his head really low seeming very interested in her.
I tacked up and asked her if she wanted to sit up on him with me, she was pretty keen so my sister lifted her up and she sat on the front of the saddle.So off we went on a little ride around the yard and a short way down the lane,my sister walked alongside just incase but he didnt put a foot wrong and just plodded quietly.Ericka absolutely loved it and kept giggling and saying good boy to Polo...reckon we have another little horse lover in the family.
I lifted her down to my sister then we went off for a ride.
My sister kept saying Polo was very quiet and laid back and couldnt ever remember ever seeing him like this before,im sure its the Ranitidene!!

Few pics of Ericka's first ride on a horse.....

AHHHH...........

Ive just deleted a whole long post by mistake:0 Cant face starting again so will do a shortened version.
Had to sort the electric fencing out this morning as it was down so Polo and AliG were in with Ellie when I arrived..spent nearly 2hours faffing about with that so ended up have a short ride on Polo up the lane with the dogs then 20mins in the school doing ground work with AliG, both were very good:)

On the way back in stood and had a chat to Jo who was there with her daughter,she was very pleased about the suprise pony but had wondered how Santa got him in the sleigh?

Short but sweet:)))

Fabby day:)

Well ive had a brill day..rode BOTH my boys and they were BOTH perfect!
YO came to see if I was riding when I got to the yard,I said I was meeting M to ride a 12 but was going to get my jobs done first then I had half an idea to ride Ali,well I'd put his saddle in the car so more than half an idea:)).
My plan was take him in the school and lunge him for a bit first but thought what the hell im sure he'll be fine so tacked him up and got on.
He actually looked suprised and pleased if thats possible so we rode down to the bottom of the farm to meet YO then went out on a short hack.He didnt put a foot wrong and led most of the way!
There was a black bag flapping around on the lane....did he try and run?....well obviously not..he looked at it then walked over sniffed it then picked it up flapping it around:)) He was fastinated by all the sheep which have just been moved into the fields(he might never have seen sheep before?)so we stood and watched them for a little while.I was very pleased he genuinely seems to enjoy being ridden and is naturally brave and confident,amazing for a three year old.

M didnt turn up so I went out on Polo,spent half the ride chatting on my phone and getting texts from friends while he happily plodded along....naughty me:0

Ive just got home from the beach,me and my Dad took all the dogs for a really long walk going from one beach to the next.Picture five Border Terriers (my three with flashing lights on their collars)and one German Shepards running wild,we were the only ones there,fabulous!

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas.

Oh be quiet!

Had a good ride on Polo yesterday with YO.He wound himself up a bit as we passed a huge bunch of horse's from the riding school heading home and he does like to show off when he see's other horse's.Nothing too bad just hurrying and bouncy which if your not carefull can lead to him looking for something to shy and spin at,Ryan said use the energy when he's like this to channel it so I asked for a nice outline and 'played' a bit which almost resulted in a bit of passage...im under no illusion I could get anything like this at any other time:)))
We had a good gallop up the hill home,hurdling the styles flat out..that was fun!

I then took AliG for a walk in-hand,the school was busy and didnt have anyone to accompany us long reinging,so decided a walk was better than nothing.
Now Jo had just gotten a pony on loan as a suprise christmas present for her little daughter so Ali and Polo have spent the last couple of days gazing at it over the fence(keep telling them its a boy).Well as we left the yard Ali proceeded to whinny loudly right in my ear with the pony shouting back at him.A little way up the lane he was walking like crab,totally focused on everything but me!He then whinnied for about the fourth time right in my ear so he got a slap on the nose with the end of the lead rope much to his shock,he almost went to winny again so I lifted to rope and he actually stopped mid whinny:))
He then walked lovely for the rest of the way..clever aint he.

Today I had a turf out...sorted both their stables and had a re-arrange,cleaned out my storage area and poo picked so didnt have the inclination to do anything else after this.

Twice in one week.

Think ive re-discovered my schooling 'mojo' went back in the arena yesterday with Polo and AliG,plus I thought all the kids have broke up for Christmas now so it might be too busy to get in over the next 2weeks.
Went in with Polo first im starting to use my brain a bit more when schooling him as I have a tendancy to repeat what ive been taught and not experiment enough.I do convince myself i'll make a mess of things and it took such a long time to get him to accept working in a school without major kicking off I dont want to spoil that but I decided to risk it!:)))
We did lots of transitions,walk-trot,halt-trot,trot-halt and tried a little reinback to walk and trot,he was very responsive after the usual 5min powering around and was halting and slowing from my seat alone..I was very pleased.
I let him have a couple of minutes cantering around at the end purely for fun for us both!

I then took AliG in and did more ground work..well the boy seems to 'have' the idea.He was circling and stopping with very little pressure,still less keen on the right rein but not putting a much effort into protesting.I honestly think the fact he's having to maintain the speed I ask without constant encouragement to keep going will help his mmmmm lets just say 'laidback' attitude to ridden work,I worry he's got the potential to be a horse you have to work at to keep going.

Anyway it was a very pleasing day,I just fed them today and im now off work for two weeks:))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Recovering..slowly.

Well I was very sore from Saturday's tumble it felt like I'd pulled every muscle in my body and to top it all off I had to go Chrissy shopping on Sunday!:(

I phoned in sick at work on Monday mainly because the girl im working with doesnt pull her weight so I knew I wouldnt beable to take it easy so decided I wasnt going to kill myself.Ahem I did manage to take AliG in the school and do some ground work though and ride Polo;0
AliG was excellent responding very quickly,he tried to get out of going right a few times so whenever he did this I sent him into trot on the left then when I asked him to go right kept it short and in walk.Hopefully he'll figure right is the easy option and be more willing!But I was pleased with his response and M came to watch and was very impressed with how he was reacting.
I then {shock horror} took Polo into the school,this was about the second time in 4months so I wasnt expecting anything wonderfull which was well and good cos it wasnt great:))
He was hurrying all the time but seemed quite loose and free in himself,I tried to slow him down by slowing my rise but when you stay in the saddle that few seconds longer he uses that as an excuse to say "oh you want canter now"..only trotter I know that prefers to canter! I didnt ask to much just tried to get him to soften a bit which he did a little towards the end and did some circles,leg yield's and a few shocking shoulder in's.

Today I long reined AliG,he acted like he'd never had a break plodding along.He got a bit excited at the top of the lane as some horse's came trotting up behind him,by excited I mean he did a few elevated strides of trot:))
I then rode Polo,well more of a plod really.We went along the lane and I just rode on the buckle and let him dicate the pace and how far/where to go.He was lovely forward but totally chilled.:)

AliG and Polo have now been stripped off from Ellie as they have both (Ali in particular) been getting rather frisky with her that past could of days.I think its because she's in over night so they only see her for a couple of hours a day so get excited and carried away.Suit me as I can sick to poo picking my bit and they have the shed on their side so can stay out as long as I want.
Im still stiff and sore today but much better over all.

Oops!

Well I took a tumble yesterday...not riding but taking AliG out for his walk would you believe it!
I started the morning off with great intentions of taking Ali for his walk then riding Polo as it was such a nice day and I had plenty of time to potter on.
Was in the fields with Ali and tried a little trot and he refused to move again so did a little circling then asked him to trot again went into trot straight away so pat then walked.But I couldnt leave it there could I and wanted to reinforce if he doesnt do it first time he would have to work harder in a circle.Anyway he refused to move again so on the circle he went and then im not really sure if he slipped or hit a deep bit of the field,panicked somehow ended with his backend to me and was off and running. I hung on for dear life with at that angle I had no chance of stopping him and got dragged off my feet.
Luckily there's only one way out of the field and he ran in the opposite direction towards horses in field so I legged it to the only bit he could get out onto the lane to see if he'd turn in that direction or was was calm and would stay put.
He stayed put but was looking a me coming towards him with a bit of a sheepish look on his face so I caught him and quietly walked home.
I honestly thought I was going to die as i'd run so fast I felt that bloody feeling in my throat and kept coughing,my side was a bit sore so I decided not to tempt fate and ride Polo.Still a bit icy on the lane so I figured the way my luck was going Polo would skid and fall over!:-0

So lesson learned rope work will have to be done in an 'enclosed' area (this is when I wish we had a school)..im going to have a week long reining him next week,luckily my brother is on holiday for the week-RESULT:))

I was very stiff this morning,get whiplash at the drop of a hat,my arms hurt and my side so they had a few hours in the stable while I went for my Christmas shopping.Dont think spending the night cleaning and putting polish on my floor helped matters.

few pics...would you say living out agrees with them?!?:))














and doing what they seem to do best...eating!

Interesting..

the ground work and in-hand stuff is certainly showing a side to AliG which I doubt i'd see if I was just doing the usual handling and riding.Took him for a walk yesterday and asked for a few stride of trot following me and would he heck move faster than a walk!No amount of encouragement would get him to speed up,I flicked his side with the lead rope and still nothing.So I did some circling with him throwing a bit of a hissy fit whenever I asked him to go right,I asked him to follow me and trot again and he refused so more circling..did this 3times then he hurrah he trotted I kept it to a short burst and gave him lots of praise and pats while he was trotting along with me:)

Muriel asked what I mean when I said lots of pressure.Im not great at explaining how I do things but I dont use a lunge whip,Richard Maxwell(who's 'stuff im following) uses a longer rope and swings it to indicate when you want them to move ie;swinging the rope to the quarters means move the backend over/away etc.So its a case of swinging the rope with more intensity and using your body to create the movement then as soon a you get what you want to stop which takes the pressure off.He believes you shouldnt continually nag at them to keep them going so they learn to take responsibility to maintain the speed until you ask them to do any different.The pressure only comes back on if they stop or start falling in on you for example.This should be good for AliG actually as he isnt the most forward boy to ride!

Its strange but Im feeling more of a connection with him recently which may well be linked to the groundwork we've been doing?He usually comes in following Polo and doesnt move until Polo does but this week he's been coming when I shout for them before Polo.I think because ive been through such a lot with Polo Ive found it difficult to feel any deep emotion for AliG but recently it seems to be happening:)
Must sound crazy when Polo's so difficult and AliG is what many people would consider to be a dream horse but im getting there,been a bit hard to deal with and accept as I love my animals with a passion!

Its FREEZING!!!!

Wow its really cold but it's dry so thats good,dont mind putting extra layers on but I hate getting wet AND cold.
I'll track back...
Sunday was a really good day out!
Oliver Townsend is so funny,typical young male eventer...totally without fear.He seemed a really nice lad,mucking in with all the kids between his demo's,they were having mini jumping competitions with their pony's and dogs and he was running round like crazy helping lift dogs over jumps and encouraging reluctant ponys.Lots of silly stories,jumping with his eyes shut and making faces at the crowd.He really emphasised that he lets the horse's think for themselves and doesnt 'nurse' them when they are jumping so they are clever and up for the challenge of cross country.
Heather and Max were really good but I thought the demo could have done with being longer..she was cut short by the organisers when people were starting to ask questions.Max's horse is a lovely big boy and I could imagine he was a real handfull when he came to him in the beginning (was going to be shot before Max took him on!).
Had a chat to Damien,one of Heather's old students about going for some lessons on his school masters.He's based at Sheffield which is around 2hrs travelling ,I reckon it could be a good short term solution to the lack of horse transport and decent local instructors.
M couldnt come due to more problems with her horrible OH so my non-horsey friend from work came(was a shame to waste the ticket), she really enjoyed it to the point she's now determind to learn to ride and wants to come to Damien's if I sort some lessons out.
My Mum and her friend came too and she bought me a new pair of Ariat long boots at an excellent price for christmas,I got AliG's heavyweight winter rug and a few other bits and pieces.

On Monday I did some groundwork with AliG.He definately doesnt want to circle right,he just stands looking at me refusing to move so I had to put quite a lot of pressure on to get him to move.He got a bit narked a few times as if to say "how dare you tell me to do that" his reactions are so mild compared to Polo though, its just a case of me 'trying' to be patient(not one of my strongest points)and persisting.I then took him out for a walk in-hand with Minx,Mouse and Buster in tow.
All the horse's up the lane started charging around the fields (that always happens with him??) well the most he did was have a little snort and bounce,not bad for a three year old who hasnt left the yard for over 5 weeks;)
Buster managed to get totally tangled up in his legs cos he thought the horse's in the field were going to get him and panicked a bit but Ali didnt react at all or it could have been nasty.

Yesterday it was Polo's turn and we went out for a an hour& half with the dogs.I have to walk the lane stretch with the dogs on leads as there's a lot more cars with the new livery yards that have opened and some of them dont slow down(even though they are horse owners..makes sense- NOT!) but its good exercise for me.It was cold but bright and we had a lovely hack,Polo was very chilled.
They both seem to be doing well living out AliG is still very 'round' and Polo's coat is a lovely rich mahogany type colour at the moment so as long as they stay in this sort of condition,well hopefully a bit less condition for Ali;),I wont change what im doing.

Ive lost it!

the plot that is...I rode today in the sleety,snow and gales!
There was a reson but I was still riding along saying to myself "you need your head read!":)
Well the reason was Polo was a naughty boy to catch so I got my determinded/
stubborn head on and thought if you've got energy to be a prat you can do some work. I got to the farm at 11ish and went into the field to get the boys in,Polo usually comes as soon as I shout then AliG follows him in but today he just looked at my then put his head down and kept eating (it wasnt raining,sleeting or snowing at this point).So I walked over to get them AliG came first so I put halter on him and started leading him in.Polo then proceeded to charge the dogs in the field then galloped off towards Ellie totally full of attitude..well I was furious and screamed at him.Bless him Ali didnt react to Polo being stupid and just tootled in following me.
I marched back in the field with rope halter incase I needed it when I caught him..yes when I never dont catch him when he's being silly!He gave me his 'look' that means he's not going to come without a battle of will's, so I drove him around the field swinging the lead rope at him making him change direction and keeping going until I decide to stop.The reason I do this is if I dont get the submission from him this way he'll let me catch him get so far then rear and pull away so he isnt allowed to dictate when he does or doesnt come in...he can come in nicely or do some work first then come in!
I was mad..can you tell:-0.
I think he was being a pratt because Ellie usually goes out in the morning after he and Ali come in for their couple of hours in the stable so he simply didnt want to leave his chick.

It had started raining by this point and was very cold and windy BUT determinded head rules out any common sense so I tacked him up and rode.We only went out for less than an hour but the weather was getting progressively worse,sleety blowing hard across the lane,we got soaked..my legs were so cold it was like someone was stabbing me with pins and my face was totally numb.Needless to say we trotted most of the way and Polo was steaming time we got back.
Few pics...not sure if you can see the sleet on it?





Wet through and steaming


..<

Having a good roll




I was going to take Ali for a walk inhand but the weather was so bad and I was absolutely freezing I couldnt face it but he had a good brush and I trimmed his feet a little and he was so much better and having them done.

Ive just had some pics developed from my 'proper' camera and there are some of the pups at various stages,last years Crufts with Mouse (yes last March)and some of AliG..my god he's put a huge amount of weight on:00

Off to Harrogate tomorrow....

Quiet few days.

Ive had a cold this week so havent done huge amounts had a short ride yesterday then rode out with M today and my three pooches.I have to walk them along the lane leading Polo as there a too many cars to risk it with the dogs but they all enjoyed it.Polo likes the easy option of being led me thinks:))).
So far out we pass a couple of house'hs and in the garden of one they had one of those huge trampolines well it was on its side with the wind and looked like it was ready to go up so we turned back, bit too risky one big gust would have done it!

Bumped into my friend while we were out riding she has a unrelated Border to mine and to be honest its really a poor example but she's desperate to have pups out of it and now wants to line it with Buster.Its a difficult one cos obviously she loves her dog but do I hurt her feelings and say it isnt good enough to breed from (I dont really want to encourage poor breeding) or say im charging X amount and if she's willing to pay let her get on with it?My oh reckons whatever I say she'll breed from it and at least if it's lined with a quality dog there might be a chance of improving the pups but Im still not comfortable about it.

Going to start with AliG next week its been over a month would you believe it so will do a couple of long reining sessions next week and the week after then will hopefully get out for a few short hacks while im off over Christmas:)

Ahhhh

..this was the sight that greeted me when I got to the farm to ride today I didnt have the heart to disturb him so I left him to sleep and went home, went back up later to feed and put him and Ali out this afternoon:))
M said Polo and Ali were galloping around having fun when she arrived to turn Ellie out so I reckon he got his exercise there anyway.

Didnt ride Sunday due to the anticipated hangover,I dont go out often with the girls so tend to have a few too many:0, but rode Saturday and did some ropework(Aka RMaxwell)with Ali.
My brother came out with all the dogs which Polo enjoys and we had a canter up the verge with dogs in hot pursuit.
AliG was much better with the groundwork stuff this time so I think he just couldnt work out what I wanted him to do the first time plus I watched the DVD again and had missed a couple of things I should have done so I was obviously a bit clearer.

Somehow ended up on a waking night again due to more staff absences and possibly tomorrow but have arranged to meet M to ride in the morning.Hopefully will get some sleep after im done although the next door neighbours dog has howled all day today so dont fancy my chanced!

Rain rain go away!

Well it rained most of last and today but I still rode.YO text me to see if i'd ride out with her as it was also pretty windy and one of her pony's is a rather nervous,spooky sort..strange the way people want to ride out with Polo and I when they have neds with issues its not like he's a school master but I do actually get this alot!?!
Funnily enough i'd say this pony would be a definate ulcer candidate,he's so on edge and sensitive to the extreme but no point mentioning it to YO as she's just not the type to listen or give it a go.Shame cos he really is a stunning pony with not a bad bone but seems so unhappy and on edge all the time:(
Think ive said it before but the wind doesnt bother Polo at all or make him anymore spooky so we had a lovely hack with a good old blast coming home up the hill leaping the stiles on the way..well Caroline said go for a gallop.

Still havent had time to go over the groundwork DVD again so didnt do anything much with Ali other than feet and a good brush..im pretty happy about the splint it seems to be settling down at last and has felt cool all week.Im going to stick to the month off that I originally said though cos I dont want to start then have it flare up AGAIN.
He's put so much weight on and his neck is unbelievable..i'll have to get some new pics think you'll get a suprise.
I'll have a look at the dvd tonight then see how we go tomorrow if I get stuck i'll give you a shout Claire.

Not as Easy as it Looks.

Hacked out yesterday on Polo with Jo for about 2hours.I was so tired it felt such an effort to hold myself upright,hate it when I feel like that I must feel cr#p to Polo cos my balance felt all out of sync, just walking felt like hard work!
Never mind he was very sensible and chilled so obviously didnt affect him too much.
Really must start getting back into the school again ive lost all disipline in that area at the minute,possibly need a couple of lessons to give me a kick up the butt and inspire me again.Trouble is hacking is more enjoyable to me (I like speed!)and Polo's being so good but the school work really makes a difference and long term will benefit him.

Tried a bit of the ground work from the Richard Maxwell DVD with Ali...flip it really isnt as easy as it looks!I need to watch it again felt like I was missing something or it could have been Ali was sensing I was tired cos it took quite a lot to get him to move..in any direction:0
Will study it and hopefully try again tomorrow,it is new to Ali too so I think his theory is if you dont understand something conserve energy and dont move:))))


Still lots of hormones flying around with the dogs,it must be ending soon...........
...............

Naughty Ali!!

Yes that does say Ali..he absolutely had a field day yesterday trashing his rug!
I brought them in took his rug off and hung it over the stable door to hang up when I was finished brushing him walked away totally forgetting the rug, poo picked and did a few jobs.He'd pulled rug in the stable and obviously had a great time.Luckily he'd only managed to shred the lining and pull out some of the filling so I took a deep breath and drove to my Mum's to get a repair job done.Mum did quite a good job and said she'll get a full sheet of lining in Town and re-line the rug.My own fault really cos he plays with everything but the rug is less than a week old and not a cheap one,he'd already ripped the neck cos he seems to spend half his time rolling in the mud:0
Trouble is ive been spoilt because Polo really takes care of his rugs so ive bought expensives ones knowing they last him for years,AliG is in need of a heavyweight one if they are wintering out but im starting to re-assess the amount i'll be spending on it!

Had nice couple of rides on Polo over the weekend,my brother came out yesterday with all the dogs in tow which was fun. The GSD nearly had me off bouncing out of a bush when Polo wasnt expecting it so he did 180degree spin..well 4dogs is a lot for him to keep track of:)))

Not sure if I mentioned AliG was going through a difficult patch with his feet again but he's been picking them up nicely this week.
He rather bonded to Polo now and shouts whenever we ride or if Polo comes in without him,if Polo is eating out of a hay pile Ali has to eat out of 'that' hay pile too :)

Our field shelter is up and running, we moved all the hay and boarded it out still waiting for the tractor to come out (told you YO takes forever to do anything!) but they still have enough room to get in out of the rain and have been happily using it.M found them both fast asleep in there yesterday morning when she put Ellie out,reckons Polo nearly shot through the roof when she popped her head round:)
Might try and get a few pics of them in it this week....

Yuck!

Is it ever going to stop raining?!!
I still havent rode Polo so he's getting a long time to recover after his treatment:)The weather doesnt help and ive gone onto waking nights again mid-week due to staff sickness,I dont mind as it earns me more holidays but its' really difficult to switch and reset your body clock so ive had about 4hours sleep today.
I did manage to sort out the shed that YO said we can use,had to move some hay and alter the electric fencing so when we open the gate they can walk straight in, just waiting for him to move his tractor then they can go back out but with a nice spacious shelter to get out of the elements when they want to.
Polo was hilarious when I was getting on with it,he came trotting over to see what I was doing but everytime I move the electric tape or post galloped off snorting and bucking.AliG came strolling over in his own good time to investigate without any excitement or sillyness and guess who tucked in behind him like a wimp?!?!:))
Hopefully tractor will me moved by tomorrow,makes my life so much easier if they can live out during the winter.

Not alot to report!

Polo is having a few days off after his treatment(should be riding him tomorrow) and AliG is having at least a month off until im happy about this pesky splint.Bowen lady put it into perspective and said he's got many years to be ridden so im chilling out about it now!Its not like im keen to ride with this God awful weather..its rained for 3days solid:(
Im relenting and bringing the boys in tonight,hopefully it will only be for a couple of days till it dries up AND we are trying to catch YO about either having a field shelter built or opening up one of the sheds that ajoins our field,his wife tends to make huge issues out of everything so we want to talk to him about it.If we can get that sorted i'll winter them out,our field is very exposed and has no natural shelter so they do get fed up when it rains none stop but if we can get this sorted it would be brill.

Minx and Mouse are coming into season so I have rather randy dogs at the mo,Buster is going to stay with my Mum over night while im at work,I dont trust OH to keep an eye on them:)

Fit as fiddles.

EMRT(Bowen) lady came today and the verdict was they are both fine and dandy.
I had made the appointment around a month ago when Polo still wasnt 100% during the last couple of weeks he's felt pretty good but thought i'd let the appointment stand just to make sure.She was pretty impressed with how well he looked,infact she said she'd never seen him looking better!He was showing minute signs of atrophy behind his right shoulder previously which has now built back up.
Not sure how much of this is due to the WOW saddle or the fact he'd had alot of lessons and schooling earlier in the year,probably a bit of both. I have felt the saddle needs the air adjusting recently and this is probably why,saddle lady put a bit extra in the atrophy side.
Im digressing a bit but I was chatting to M the other day about when i'd rode AliG in the Fhoenix recently then I got back on the WOW I now much prefer it to the Fhoenix,took a while as I wasnt convinced for ages!
Back to Tracey...she noticed a difference in his demeanour,he's usually very resistant to any kind of treatment at first and there was none of that today.I mentioned he'd had a few weeks on Global restore after all the bute and antibiotics plus the ulcer theory.She was very interested and reckons there was a definate difference in him:)
Anyway she didnt think a treatment was crucial but it wouldnt hurt and would certainly help if there is any slight remaining niggles so I said go for it,he's got to have 3/4days off then back to work.

She then had a good feel off AliG and watched him move and said he's absolutely tiptop no point in doing anything with him.

She gave Ellie a treatment before coming to my two as M couldnt stay,she was quite concerned about the weight issue as they'd talked about this alot in the past.I mentioned that i'd tried to give bits of advice but it doesnt seem to help and I dont want to fall out with her so trying to keep my trap shut.
Tracey said she'l have a word with M next week about it all as she has to come back and see Ellie again.
Its a really difficult situation as M doesnt ride her more than 2/3times a week thinks is cruel to put her out without a rug if its cold or wet when she's got a full winter coat but then clips her fully out and puts a thin sheet on.
Personally I think the later is much more unkind and unnatural...how she hasnt caught a chill is beyond me:(
Believe it or not Ellie was brought in at 11 this morning then M was keeping her in tonight night because the weather forecast is bad,I could tell she wanted me to keep my two in but I said they werent standing in all day then all night and im leaving them out as long as they are happy and well,I put their rugs with necks on and they happily went out to play.

TIME!

Where does it go? Been really busy this week work it still tough at the minute im working with someone who basically cant do the job so im carrying her which isnt easy when there's only 3of us on in the evening,one being male so he cant help with the girls.So had lots of meetings about it all this week as management have realised they've made a big mistake but are obviously worried about how to get out of it without being taken to a tribunal and me getting fed up and going on the sick:))

Anyway enough moaning and excuses as to why ive not updated or kept track of everyone this week.
The big news is AliG's splint was hot at the beginning of the week,just when I'd started riding him again so ive made the decision to give him a full 4weeks off...no long reining ..nothing but complete rest.Maybe coincidence but he's been difficult picking his front feet up again so im not going to push things.I'd love him to be rideable during my two weeks off a Christmas so reckon if I give him full rest I should be able to start long reining him for a week or two then be riding him little while im off.He was totally unconcerned when I got back on him last week (was it?)after having only been long reining for a while so im happy he isnt going to do anything silly so thats the state of play with him!

Polo's been ridden 3/4 times this week he didnt feel quite right on Wednesday and my gut feeling was he was a bit footy so I put his front boots on today and mmm well yes it was his feet!He was hyper..hyper managed to throw in quite a hefty buck while cantering 'up' a pretty steep hill,any ideas when horse's are meant to start slowing down?:))
I think the footiness its because there's been a fair bit of rain this week but we'll see.
Our lot are still out at the minute they come in for a couple of hours in the morning so Polo can have his sleep:) and are ready to ride. M said yesterday just as she was about to bring them in the horse's from the yard near us were being turned out so Polo decided it wasnt time to coming in a proceeded to gallop around with Ali in tow(I know I said rest!!)...I sometimes wonder who's the youngster!
I cant remember there being this much grass in November before,poo's are still green and they barely touch the hay when they come in,we havent bothered opening the haylage yet.They are looking gleaming and rather too chubby on a small feed of unmolassed sugar beet,alfalfa and Eclipse(linseed/brewers yeast/seaweed)..they've both had the loading dose of Cortaflex now so hope this helps with Polo's joints and AliG's splint.Polo's got some magnetic boots im wondering if they could help with Ali's splint?Could easily swop them between the two...

BTW whats happening on the 5th Claire?

A possible new star?

..Buster that is:)) Dog talk first.
Mouse didnt get placed tough competition,big class and my showing 'mentor/breeder' said she was carrying a touch too much weight,reckon 2/3 more days and she would have been spot on.At this level you get anything even slightly wrong and wont get placed,im happy she's performing well(was very awkward at first wouldnt stand) and she's had two excellent placings this year qualifying her for Crufts so cant complain:)
Breeder offered to buy Buster on the spot,absolutely loved him and is convinced he's got it all..suggested going into partnership and getting him out as much as possible next year(he's too young at the mo),the entries arent cheap and mount up if you show two but I dont think I'll take him up on the offer.It would mean Buster going up to stay with him for a while and they are first and foremost my pets, I might change my mind if my lack of time and experience hold him back but I doubt it.
He pointed him out to several people and they all REALLY liked him,someone else tried to buy him:)) Buster's dad was there and uncle,they both got second.

Today I was playing catch up on all my jobs..house...horses etc.
Polo had another day off and AliG had a long reining session,better to go when I can rope someone in to walk with us and didnt have the time to do both.He was extremely forward today I struggled to keep up as times we were out for a nearly an hour and I think he enjoyed every minute of it!
I lifted his bed,made feeds for the week,poo picked and scrubbed out buckets too.

I eventually got round to scanning the pics of Polo jumping in the summer so here they come...he hadnt jumped anything much other than a log in many years so I was impressed,not bad for an old man!

Chips rule and I LOVE my neddies!

Ive had a really hard week at work this week and insomnia has returned with a vengence so was feeling pretty tired and grotty today.I got home from work at ten and had arranged to meet M at lunchtime to ride thought i'd take dogs out then 'try' and have an hour sleep.Try being the operative word,I then got a phonecall to say M couldnt ride 'tried' again for a sleep..still no joy so got up and went up the farm.Took both saddles with me but didnt really have a lot of intention of doing anything.Stopped on the way to farm at the chip shop for some dinner,chip buttie which was yummy and obviously hit the spot because I felt a surge of energy to do something:)
I decided to take AliG in the school,no lunging today got straight on and rode him over,since he hasnt shown any reaction the two times ive ridden him after the break I didnt see the point.Got to the school to find it locked I asked one of the girls what was up she said the key was stuck inside the lock so they were waiting for the owner to come and sort it.Wasnt sure what to do at this point they didnt know how long it would be to get sorted so decided to go out on a short hack!
We went up the lane and other than being nosey and wanderey he was absolutely fine,I cant say enough how chilled and curious he is,its almost indecent how a 3year old be so self assured;)))...NOT that im complaining.
I still dont want to do too much ridden work on hard ground so will keep up the long reining and riding in the school but with the odd short hack thrown in.Im probably being extra carefull but as Caroline is finding when you pay this much money for a horse and they are so fabulous you just dont feel like taking risks!:)
I also rode Polo we went up the lane too but when a bit further AND I took all the dogs,Minx and Mouse are old hands at it but Buster has only been out twice and with my brother on foot.I usually take treats in my pocket when they first start coming out with Polo and every so often call them to his side and throw a treat down when they make eye contact with me,this way I know I have their undivided attention if I need to get them back quickly.Suprisingly after doing this twice Buster had it sussed,I havent credited him being the brightest dog so he suprised me!
Polo is brill with the dogs he watches out for them and will wait patiently while I get them under control.Minx was in heaven as there were rabbits all along the fields so she was in full hunting mode,Buster looks like he may follow in her footsteps as he was off with her unlike Mouse who totally heels Polo and has never shown any interest in hunting.
Smack my wrist and tell me to stop cantering on all the grass verges because no sooner had we turned for home and Polo was off and running.He feels great to ride at the moment totally forward but not crazy with it..usually when he's in forward mode you cant trust him not to throw in a dirty spook or bad buck but at the moment I feel really happy on him.This may sound silly as horse riding is meant to be a pleasure but a lot of the time with him it simply isnt nice but I could feel my irritation and tiredness draining away..weird they didnt pick up on my mood and become silly or agitated instead they changed my mindset completely:))
Ive been wondering if the Ranitidene has kicked in recently he probably hasnt been getting the full or correct does but maybe its been enough?
Just remember to mention when I read Jean's blog a while ago she had found some research which suggested ulcers occur in foals due to lack of milk or early weaning.When I thought about this I remember Polo's mum was a terrible broodmare in that she didnt have much of a bond or interest in him.At one point she had to be taken out of a field with other horses as she kept letting another young mare take Polo off her and he got really confused to which one was mummy,maybe this had an impact(ive always said thats why he's insecure!)..possible?
Early bed for me to catch up on the elusive sleep and dog show for Mouse tomorrow so no horsey 'stuff'.

Someone's feeling better!

Polo that is,rode him yesterday and saying he was fresh is putting it mildly,he wasnt spooky just wanted to GO !We went out with 'his' chick Ellie we had a steady trot on the way out along the edge of a field then went around the Brickworks,not a hugely long ride but works out about an hour.On the way back we usually turn up and canter a small hill then along the grass verge.Im my own worst enemy at times cos he's the type of horse that anticipates then gets over excited but I cant help myself(Hehe).So off he shoots with an attempt to buck which I could feel coming so stopped then I 99% gave him his head with Ellie snorting after him,I couldnt completely let him go as the stretch of grass isnt that long but he didnt half enjoy it!:)
One brilliant thing about him is he always stops when I want him to and will stay back in a steady canter if another horse is taking off out of control.

Today it was AliG's turn so he was long reined to the arena then had a short lunging session.I used the two reins with the outside one over his back and found that so much better(been reading Jean's methods).I havent done a huge amount of lunging or long reining but did prefer to use two then always ended up taking the outside rein off as it was hard to keep it from dropping too low down the hocks,this way worked great though.The control and contact was much better,never thought I'd say this but im really enjoying all this ground work malarky!:)
I then got on for a while and he was fine a bit distracted by all the horse's hanging around the school but no problem.
Muriel asked if AliG was a dominant type i'd say most definately with other horse's(not sure how much of this is due to lingering hormones yet)I would say he has the potential to be with people but A) he's had such a good start his manners are excellent:)) and B)im quite dominant naturally so would hope he wouldnt try it.
Lots of people have had problems handling Polo in the past and when I turn up butter wouldnt melt so think its simply my nature to be like.But on the other hand I have to watch myself not to use dominance and force or be over the top.My old instructor says most people he taught had to be encouraged to be more assertive where as with me I have a tendancy to over do things!

Off topic from the boys..why cant I keep my gob shut?!I get on really well with Eliie's owner, today however I reckon I huffed her a bit but I find it so hard to keep quiet.She's the very fat coloured cob who also happens to have ringbone!Anyway owner treats her like a thin skinned TB, rugging up at the hint of rain or cold etc.Anyway I was hanging over her stable chatting as she was getting her ready to go out and saw her putting these EquiChaps on Ellie.I asked why she was putting them on..reply "to keep her legs warm" :0..well I couldnt stop myself exclaiming "but this is why she's always so fat and the weight is doing far more damage to her joints than her being COLD".
I feel bad now cos im sure I was too sharp but the mare is HUGE and M is always worrying about the weight and feeling insulted when people comment on her size or she does poorly at a show.All summer she'll ask for advice on how to get the weight off but then wont allow the horse do what is natural for her and use the fat up to stay warm in the colder months.AHHH it seems so obvious!But note to self if she mentions weight say "you know my opinion" and then firmly bite tongue.

..and yet more long reining!

Polo had the day off today and AliG went out for more long reining.
I was going to get on at the end for 10mins but A)forgot to pick up my hat and B) the arena was being used so we just went for a wander.My brother had a bit of a hangover so we didnt go too far and get out on the roads but still went out for forty five minutes or so.There were some 'boy racers' parked along the lane which comes off the fields, on the way back they had moved onto the track AliG walked so close when we passed them I thought he'd take their wing mirror off!
Polo always worries when something is 'there' thats not usually 'there' but Ali seems more interested and wants to investigate..he's such a naturally confident horse.
Im convinced he's happier now that he's getting regular work again.He wanders off in the field when I turn them out without that bored look or as if he's waiting for me to do something with him.
I can see im going to have to keep coming up with new idea's and activities for him or he'll be rolling his eyes at me:)

Another lovely day

I'd intended on giving Polo the day off as he'd had a long ride yesterday but it was such a nice day I thought i'd be mad not to take advantage of it!
Really pleased I did as we had a lovely ride, only went out for about three quarters of an hour but it was just one of those really good hacks. We walked most of the way,he has a great forward walk when he's not being the chicken and had a lovely steady canter along the grass verge.

Roped my brother into coming out longreining AliG tomorrow so Polo will have the day off.Sure i wont be able to resist getting on him for a little while.:)

I rode him!

Took AliG into the school as it was free for once, I lunged him for 10mins mainly walk with a couple of short trots then got on,as expected he was fine no reaction what so ever!
He felt a bit unbalanced and wandery (if thats a word)but felt better after doing some circles and changes of rein.Its the first time Jo has seen him in the school and she couldnt believe how well he carries himself on such a light contact,its so natural and easy for him.
I only rode for 10mins but was really pleased with him and he seemed happy to be back doing some work like a big boy:))

YO,Jo and myself went out for a nice long ride today also.The weather was lovely so mild and sunny,fabulous for November.We went down by the riverside then came back up the hills,Polo was in good form and we had a little blast up the hill coming home.YO and Jo had a great time as Ellie and the pony were flat out keeping up with him.I can feel he's starting to build his fitness back up still got a way to go yet though.Jo and I have a plan to get him and Ellie fitter over the next couple of weeks then go to Percy Pit which are big fields and hills near my house for a good gallop!;)

Ok pics as requested.......Mouse is on the left Buster in the middle and Minx on the right,cute or what!Buster had to get a size bigger than the girls and he's only 5months.
.


AliG playing with his feed ball

Seen as im in picture mode this is how Polo prefers to spend his time:)

Yikes its blowing a gale!

Wow its really windy today,the plan was to go in the school but when we went over it was booked for lessons all morning so we went out for a hack instead. Now Polo isnt usually any spookier in the wind but it was more than windy today so I wasnt entirely confident we'd return at the same time:0
Marina said why not go around the fields (Ali's long reining fields) so I was feeling even less optimistic,open fields usually = several bucks and taking off ,but I said we'd give it a go.He was on his toes for the first 5/10mins but didnt feel like he was in spook mode so we ended up having a nice ride we had a good long trot which always helps settle him,I did feel like I was going to get blown off him at one point though;)
AliG had a relaxing day,im toying with having a short ride in the school on him on Friday but still not sure if its a bit too soon, the splint is a fair size and although Jo thought it was slightly smaller yesterday she reckoned it looked like it had 'changed' shape slightly if that makes sense?

Buster's little coat came this morning the girls have one for when its cold and they get locked in the stable when I ride..i'll have to take a picture they are like mini horse rugs and look so cute!

Bit of road work.

Jo managed to free herself this morning so text to say she could come out with AliG for his long reining.Decided to walk along the lane and hit the roads today,he seemed totally unfazed when I was riding him but that was alongside another horse so thought it was time to see what he's like by himself.He was unsettled going out calling for his pals and when we passed other horse's in the fields but it didnt affect his behaviour and he was his usual sensible self.He had one spook at the corner of the lane as an old woman was feeding the donkeys over the fence,dont think he could work out what was going on plus the sun was really low so doubt that helped matters.He tried to turn but I stopped him no problem then Jo went infront and led him past to show him it was ok.He was absolutely fine on the roads dont think traffic will be a problem for him but I want to do more,just a pity we've got to walk for a about a mile along the lane to get to the busier road!
I now have a huge blister on my foot where my boots have had a hole in the insole and rubbed so im hobbling around and also got a headache with squinting in the sun..the things you do eh!
Polo had the day off today.

What an annoying morning!

I promised I'd take my mum up to the vets with her recently aquired German Shepard dog for his vaccinations so I made the appointment for 9.40 am thinking I'd get up and down in an hour then ride and hopefully longrein Ali.
Ended up taking all morning cos the vet was running late,one of the reasons why I use this vet is he takes his time and doesnt act like its all about money(he was fantastic when Minx had to have her ceasarian) but it does tend to mean he's always running late. I then had my Mum panicking cos she couldnt find her house keys,luckily she found them still in the lock at the front door even more luckily no one had discovered them and burgled the house:0
I got some sedatives for Minx while I was there,she's terrified of fireworks so these should help with Bonfire night,trouble is they are going off already!

Time I got to the yard Jo was tacked up waiting for me so I quickly got Polo ready and went out for an hour,he nearly had two spins on me but its windy and he was good for the rest of the way so i'll let him off this time.
Didnt have time to long rein cos im back to work today ;(, im trying to find a 'walker' for tomorrow to come with us but im struggling up to now cos everyone seems to be busy or working...why cant I win the lottery {sigh} work does kind of get in the way of things I want to do;))

Well he suprised me;)

Polo collected his 'mate' from the yard today and he was sensible throughout the whole ride!
My friend couldnt get her horse off the yard mind even following Polo so her YO ended up leading her off .What a pain this horse is,he's genuinely not scared of anything just completely spoilt rotten he just says "er not today thanks!" and my friend and her niece(who actually owns him) are too scared to get after him.I wouldnt have the patience im afraid, at least I know when Polo has a hissy fit he genuinely 'thinks' he's scared:)))

Not much else horsey to report AliG got fed and brushed then I turned them out without rugs on as it was such a nice day,went back up at 4 to put them on..dark nights I hate them!;(

Oh I met the girl who took Minx's other pup at the beach today,its the second time we've met up since she took him. Harvey gets really excited when he sees my gang,Buster had a bark at him then remembered who he was after that they ran around for over an hour playing in the sea and digging in the sand.

More Long Reining!

AliG had another long reining session, we went out for about three quarters of an hour and he throughly enjoyed himself.The only problem we have (if you can call it that)is he spends half the time with his nose on the ground!He literal sniffs everything he sees its not that he's being greedy and trying to eat he just sniffs leaves,rubbish and other horse's poo's im wondering if I should put side reins,not to hold him in an outline(he does that perfectly well himself {she says smugly}).... just to keep his nose off the ground?
It was a bit windy and he had a spook at someone rattling around on the otherside of the fence which is perfectly understandable(in the nudist bit..ahem) but just froze for a moment..looked...thought ..then carried on,you can really see this horse using his brain its fab!
I lifted his bed and put some of the disenfectant down that I bought from the Simple Systems supplier,it smells absolutely gorgeous and hangs around for days,expensive but very concentrated so lasts for ages.
Polo had the day off, he loves a couple of hours in the stable to sleep I barely get him through the door and he's down catching some zzz! So he just chilled for a while with his magnetic boots on looking smug as it was Ali's turn to work.He's looking really well again which is great and the swelling has pretty much gone from his side so it obviously needed one more lancing.
Its funny but when you turn them out Ali hangs around at the gate,he'll stay there until you walk away from him ..my brother was laughing saying he doesnt want to go out cos he doesnt like the cold coming from Spain!

Tomorrow im riding with my friend,she's got the horse who doesnt like to leave its yard so im going to collect her..should be 'interesting' with Polo's present mood!;00

Work this one out if you can...

...how is it that ive had a week off work and yet I seem to have less time?!?!Anyway thats my excuse for not keeping the blog updated:))))
Trying to think what we've been upto this week its all a bit of a blur to be honest.I'll start with AliG as he's done less and goes without saying is 'Mr Perfect' so less to report!
Well AliG has had a couple of long reining session's this week with my brother and dog in-tow.On Monday we went into 'our' usual stubble field to find tractors ploughing it (how inconsiderate of them), so we turned round to come back out when one of the idiot drivers followed us out the field he came far to close but Ali didnt react other than a tiny little jump,Polo would have freaked.We then detoured up the lane past the neighbours house with the little dog that ambushes all the horse's ,no reaction,past the horse's in the fields who got really excited to see a horse being long reined so started bucking and galloping round the fields.Well AliG at this point lost the plot and.....................hehe did I get you? well obviously there was no reaction!
Just thinking maybe its not the long reining that seems to excite the other horse's it could be the fact he's sooo lush?!?
Hopefully roping brother in to help again tomorrow I wanted to have a couple of short sessions in the school this week with him but all the kids have been off so the arena has been in use everytime I pass plus his splint looks a bit bigger to me so thought best not(sure its not just my eyes).

Polo's been ridden most days which he thinks is extremely unfair,dont think the fact Alig gets his feed ball with treats in helps,it keeps AliG happy when he's left in by himself;).
Oh and Polo's going into manic mode again for some reason;(.
Im not ruling out the ulcer because although he's been getting the Ranitidene I dont think he's getting enough(works out so expensive) so im going to order the human omprazole and try this ,might as well pay for the good stuff to give it a proper chance of success.Ive also read on IHDG someone made up a herbal ulcer treatment they were recommended with good success so its something to look into if I see results.
It could also be that im 'trying' to take it easy with him and he needs more work,today we had a shortish route planned but he was just acting like a spooky nutter on the way out so we took a de-tour coming back up the hills and had a bit of a blast.I know probably shouldnt but he feels sound on half a bute every other day and I cant see the point in letting him escalate things and kill me :0 ... he walked home on a loose rein no more shying.
Polo had his feet done yesterday,im so pleased with them he actually has proper frogs now which I never thought would happen.I barely have to think about his feet other than monthly trimming and the odd spray with Cider vinegar/tea tree oil so thats cool;)
I also clipped his neck and chest out yesterday,just a really low one cos he's been sweating quite a bit,Ali watched all this with interest.

Right thats me updated for now..trimmed my mates 4horses today too so ready for a hot bath.

Were does the time go!?!?

I havent updated since Monday!

All these extra hours at work and having two horse's doesnt leave much time for anything else at the moment...and im feeling pretty tired.But im off for a whole week now so that should give me time to get some decent nights sleep and rest ,well thats the theory ive got some decorating I want to do while im off;)



Rode Polo several times this week,one day in the school.He felt a bit rubbish and stiff so I did loads of walking,leg yield,turn on he forehand etc to start with then a bit of trot work.He spotted a tiny plastic bag blowing around outside the school so started fixating on this trying to shoot off up the school!'Killer bag' eventually landed in the school I let him sniff it (with much snorting) but he continued to spook at it so I did lots of circles around the 'killer bag' gradually getting him closer and still working in a semi-sane way,without him trying to shoot away.So in the end he worked longer and hard than i'd intended but I figure if he can spin and shoot up the school he's not feeling that bad!



Had a longish hack on him yesterday all in walk,we came up a steep hill heading towards home and as usual Polo powered his way up.Im a bit confused actually as the vet reckoned he'd struggle with hills as he'd have to use his hocks didnt seem like they were causing him any pain thoug ,he's on one bute every other day now so not a huge dose that would make him seem better than he is I dont reckon?



Today I rode Polo first,my brother came with my dogs and his GSD.Minx and Mouse were very excited as they havent been out with Polo for ages,Buster stayed on the lead with my brother as this was his first 'proper' going out with the horse.We went into the fields where I long rein AliG then down a lane which leads you to a track which runs between two field.I rode down the track on Polo (with Minx and Mouse following) told my brother to turn back half way as we'd canter back up to the top.Its a really good canter place for Polo as he's enclosed on either side by a hedge so no spooking a shooting sideways across an open field,which is his usual course of action!:0

Well as soon as I turned Polo he leapt up off all fours,head down and bucked,obviously sensing the gallop opportunity,I pulled his head up grabbed a lump of mane and kicked him on.He took off like a bat out of hell ,I had to scream at my brother to get out of the way as we were up on him so quickly I thought we'd mow him down.Polo usually has excellent brakes but today he was just off, pity the track wasnt longer or I could have let him go properly;)

He was very on his toes after but walked home reasonably sensibly,it wasnt what i'd intended as im 'trying' to build him back up but he obviously feels good enough in himself and wants more fun..none of this 'walking' malarky:))))



AliG hasnt done a huge amount this week as ive had no-one to help me longrein him but he got his feet trimmed and was ALOT better behaved.The trimmer said he has fantastic,hard feet with lots of concavity but the heels have come back up a bit so im going to keep taking them down every couple of weeks so they dont bounce back up inbetween trims.

AliG had a longreining session today,we are both really enjoying it!He was feeling rather fresh so we had two short trots which was fun,im just pleased he doesnt trot like Polo or i'd never keep up:0.A bird flew out on him when we were having the second trot which could have been dodgy but he never spins just does a semi stop then carrys on.I reckon he's going to be a very brave boy to hack out on as he really 'thinks' about things and doesnt just react plus all this longreining is bound to give him lots of confidence in being out by himself(not that I think that was ever going to be an issue with him).



They are both out without their rugs on as its been a lovely sunny day but im going back up late to put them on as its really cold over night.

A good couple of days.

Everyone seems to have settled down nicely over the past few days, there was a definate distance between AliG and Polo after the Ellie 'incident'.Polo had been pretty much ignoring Ali and they werent grazing near to each other but today they had a chat over the stable wall and were close again when grazing.

Polo has had a couple of reasonably sedate rides(for him) since the vet came out,he obviously has the token spooks!;)Today we were out with the YO on her pony and Jo on Ellie he was torn between leading, which he usually does but then worrying about the pony getting near to Ellie so kept grinding to a halt waiting to check nothing was going on then walking on again.He also pretended a leaf rustling was soooo terrifiying he just had to try and take off which just happened to be across a field heading home!
AliG was long reined on Fri with Jo's help ..no problems.
He looked really bored over the weekend actually when I turned him out Sunday he hung around at the gate while I finished off jobs as if to say 'well come on Ive done nothing today',he only walked off when I got in my car and started the engine...seems like the boy has a work ethic unlike someone else I know:0 Might ride him in the school tomorrow if its free.
Long rein AliG today as well, he was brill again.. even when some horse's started charging around the field we were going past,they seemed to find a horse being long reined and not ridden terribly exciting!?!
Tomorrow he's getting his feet trimmed again im hoping now that he's picking his feet up nicely he'l be easier on the poor woman.I have rasped twice since the first trim,his heels were so high and loads of flare on the hinds she didnt want to do too much in one go, when they are in balance I might take over and do them myself along with Polo's..its just finding the time!

Busy Bee.

Well ive been pretty busy today!Finished work this morning and went to collect our new electric fence gear and some shavings I get these free from hubby's friend who has his own joinery business saves a good bit of money,shavings are so expensive!
Came home collected dogs then went up farm to meet Jo who said she'd walk out while I long rein AliG.He was fab again seems to really enjoy it and walks out really well no help needed from Jo but I think its a good idea to have someone with us 'just incase' while its new to him.
I might start riding him in the school a couple of times next week combine this with two longreining sessions until im 100% happy with his leg.I think this is the ideal for now,the school work will be on soft ground and I'll keep it short and steady and he's still getting out and about with the long reining without me on him while working on harder ground.
I then sorted out Ellie's paddock,we bought a new energiser for this cos the existing one is already going around the whole field to avoid more incidents with barewire so we thought its probably working to its maximum. Also bought some higher post for Ellie's paddock incase AliG cant contain his lust for Ellie:)...that seems to be on the wain anyway thank god!
So Ellie is now back out with the boys in her re-inforced strip.
I then turfed out both of their stables,new shavings etc.

I had all intention of riding Polo but it was getting on a this point and I'd only had 3and a bit hours sleep the day before so was flagging by this point.His lumps have gone down loads but his legs are a bit filled but less than yesterday,he's going to be wearing his magnetic boots while in the stable. Tomorrow im just going to take him out for a plod..ahem..well thats the plan unless 'he' has other ideas then go on the Echinecia hunt.

Incidentally im finding it really weird that im needing less sleep and an hour or two seems to be recharging my batteries.
I felt more tired Tuesday after having 5/6hours on my sleep in whereas I moved onto my waking nights WedmI couldnt sleep at all throught the day then went through till Thurs afternoon having 3&half hours and have had an hour this afternoon.
Dont get me wrong I feel tired but im still able to get on a do my normal stuff...I am craving rubbish food though:(
Wonder how long the body can keep this up..will it reach burn-out or do the short sleeps do enough to keep you going?

Bit of a mixed bag!

Well....shock horror..AliG aint perfect after all :0
If you remember Ellie broke into the field with him and Polo a few days ago ,everyone was fine and they'd all be in together for a month Ellie just getting stripped off because she was getting too much grass so nothing to write home about.
Ellie came into season a few days ago and Ali has been rather interested but fine and managable just bit of shouting and 'bits' hanging out etc.
Marina went up to put some hay in for Ellie in her bare paddock Tuesday evening and he somehow managed to get past her into Ellie's bit,they then both ran past her again and escaped into the big field!
Marina said Ali was trying always to have his wicked way and Ellie was very happy with the attention!She tried for over an hour to catch Ellie who kept running away with Ali so went and asked the YO's hubby for help, they eventually caught Ellie but as they were leading her out AliG managed to squeeze out the gate THREE TIMES so she put Ellie in the nearest stable and you guessed it Ali squeezed in there with her too!
I have to say I couldnt for the life of me work out how he managed to get past them that many times ,im afraid i'd have got a whip or a brush and walloped him after he'd barged past the first time that type of behaviour is a danger to him and other's.Having said that I dont think he was being out and out naughty it was just the smell of Ellie and the lingering hormones but it still doesnt excuse what happened and mean he should be allowed to get away with doing it.
Anyway it all sounded a bit crazy so Alig and Ellie are going out at opposite times for the next few days until she comes out of season,we may have to strip the field in half for the winter until all the hormones are gone but will wait and see how they go when Ellie rejoins them.They were all absolutely fine in together before and they've are right next to each other in the field now so im very suprised it's all happened now.
Its funny but Ali so knew he was in bother when I got to the farm lets just say keeping his head down was an understatement,I brushed him, picked his feet up to test him and he did everying immediately with a sheepish look in his eye..well least he had the decency to know he'd done wrong!Funny but Polo' like that too,when he's done something silly or naughty he really grovels for attention afterwards:)
Guess what Polo did during it all??Kept out the way and watched I KNEW he wasnt 100%:))

Which leads us on to today.The vet came out and I was quite suprise with her findings but it makes sense.I explained he wasnt quite right,terrible to school and just didnt feel completely sound so she had a look at his side said there was a little bit of puss still there to get out but not that bad to account for what I was describing.So watched him trot up and down and reckons he has a touch of arthritis in his hocks with his right one being slightly worse.She thinks it a combination of him having time out of work,putting weight on,loss of fitness/condition and simply his age!She feels said its very slight and is sure once he gets back into work and fitter he'l be back to normal ..I suppose he's never shown any signs of aging before so I felt rather sad about it;(
She wants him on bute for a while to get him loosened up and mobile then hopefully reduce this down to only if and when I think he needs it..Caroline you still got any of your DIY stuff?
Im going to get my Bowen lady out next week,vet thought it would be really beneficial to him and ive got to track down some Echinacia (place I bought it from in the past doesnt have any now).
To top things off he'd broken out in loads of lumps and swellings all over his body, put a clean rug on that i'd washed and the detergent must have irritated him(he's had these reactions in the past),its the same one as usual but bless him I think his immune system must be a bit challenged at the moment.
Oh had a chat about AliG's splint and she agreed rest then when its completely cool and hard start work again but thinks a couple of longreining sessions on soft ground wouldnt do any harm.

So Polo is to have gentle work with a long warm up,bute and Bowen..AliG is getting his cream on his leg and a couple of longreining sessions a week.

Long reining and PICS!

Nothing horsey Saturday other than feed and poo pick. Didnt get anywhere at the dog show which I'd expected cos her coat isnt 100% right,having said that it is a very clicky show and ive never once been placed there but its on my doorstep so may as well go.

Rode Polo on Sunday and he was pretty good,got a bit wound up coming home cos he 'thought' he could see something about to eat him but pretty chilled for him.He on the Ranitidene for the moment ,I cant find anywhere you can buy the Ulcerguard etc over here but I think Ive found somewhere I can buy the human version, just going to be working out the dosage that'l be the hard part!

Ali had a brush and feet picked out(good again).

Today I rode Polo in the school,I put the pelham in to see how he went and he was definately softer but I still dont think he's quite right.Im going to ring the vet tomorrow to see if they can come have a look and possibly get him some physio,he didnt half hit the fence and I reckon walloped his side on a post so there could be more underlying damage than just the abscess.Its gone through the insurance now anyway so a few physio sessions will just get added on that too.

AliG got longreined today,I was expecting him to be a bit silly because he's done nothing for a week and a half and has been,well lets just say feeling the weight of himself since Ellie broke in with him and Polo(she's now in season).

He was a star ..bet your getting sick of me now:) but he really enjoyed it.Marina walked alongside him at his head to start with then unclipped him because he was fine and listening to me.He walked out really well so im going to do this for the next week or two so he's not missing out on work but isnt getting the strain on his leg with me not on his back.Poor Marina nearly keeled over trying to keep up,she does have asthma and a bit of arthritis :0 so ive roped Jo into helping me tomorrow.

...pics are probably at the top but anyway they are 'there' somewhere.

Breaking out.

..Ellie that is!She broke out of her bare paddlock into the field with the boys last night,Polo was delighted and im sure he had some 'fun' with her he wouldnt let AliG anywhere near her,Ellie came in licking her lips:)

Had a schooling session with Polo yesterday..god he was terrible!Seems like we are back to square one with him having that long break,resistant,rushing,unable to bend:0 needless to say it wasnt pretty but he didnt strop once so think we have that side of things sorted.I do wonder sometimes whether its worth going through this I reckon his breeding makes it so difficult for him but he 'can' do it and when he's going nicely he knocks people socks off just takes alot of regular sessions to get him there.I know physically its beneficial for him to be working more correctly but whenever he has a break we have to start all over again.
I did wonder if some of it was due to the fact he could hear Ali shouting made him less focused?we could hear Alig for the whole time we were away, whenever we've been out Ali is always covered in shavings so I think he has a roll in a bit of a paddy!

Had a short ride to day around the stubble fields this tends to blow Polo's mind but he was really good today only getting a bit excited when we turned for home.
Ali had a good brush and picked his feet up pretty quickly too which is good news.
Debating whether to lead Ali out for some walks as he's getting rather porky,he has filled out a lot in general his chest is much wider than when he first came and his butt is fuller now too but its the waistline thats had the biggest growth!
I dont want to do too much as the splint def has a bit of heat in it and annoyingly looked a bit bigger today (that could just be me) but walking out in hand should be okay...what do you reckon?

Dog show tomorrow with the Mooster,not expecting anything her coat isnt right but it should be in much better for the November show.May aswell go as its on the doorstep for a change and Buster can come to have look around..just hope he doesnt bark at everything that his latest response to EVERYTHING..boys {sigh}.

Dentist time.

Polo,AliG and Ellie had their teeth done yesterday.
Ali was no problem,suprise suprise :)the dentist said they were a bit sharp but not too bad,she was very admiring of him.Polo as usual had to put up a fight,he lifted me off my feet a one point but got done in the end...I always know when he's not right if he doesnt put up his token resistance!

Didnt do alot today cos ive switched onto waking nights again for the rest of the week so needed some sleep(got about 4hours)..they both got a brush and AliG picked his feet up no problem so I was pleased.
Its lovely to watch them in the field now Ali follows Polo around like a puppy and looks like he wants to eat the same blade of grass as Polo:))
...must get some pics soon.
My friend got some excellent pics of Polo jumping in the summer..not me riding him im afraid!He hadnt jumped for about 6years other than the old log or stile, I wasnt that brave but he looks amazing on the pics clearing them by a mile and making a lovely shape.He has a natural ability and really enjoys it just a shame he's always been so silly when we went anywhere or he could have done more im sure.

Still not 100%

Ive still got a lingering migraine today so feel a bit hungover and yucky but rode Polo and did the usual jobs.Im sure his side is flaring up again,its leaking a bit and he just doesnt seem quite right but we'll see how he goes.Im going to get him some Echinacia tomorrow to give his immune system a boost so hopefully things will settle down.
My friend has some 'stuff' from Crossgates that they made up for her horse when he had a splint so she's going to dig it out for me to give to Ali,its drops in to take orally and a lotion to rub on.Worth a try AND its free..hey Caroline your starting to rub off on me!:)

My sister came to see AliG today with my little niece who's a year and a half.She was a bit wary of the horse's at first more interested in chasing the dogs,mainly Minx cos she'l stand and let her do whatever!I went in to brush and tack Polo up when my sister said look at Ericka, niece was lying flat on her stomach looking under the stall guard so she could see what I was doing,wish i'd got a picture it was so cute.

Anyway Polo was good again but determind not to let Jo's old boy anywhere near Ellie everytime he got too far infront he put the breaks on waited for the other two then squeezed in between,think he misses her cos she's stripped off on a bare paddock to try and lose some weight..love!:)

All Quiet on the Eastern Front.

Think I over did it yesterday so didnt do too much horsey stuff today.

Yesterday I rode out with my friend who's horse has just returned after being away 'somewhere' getting some work while she was on holiday,Polo was a good lad.Even though he has his hang ups he's very forward going so nearly always ends up leading.My friend's horse has a thing about the donkeys at the bottom of our lane so she ended up having to get off and lead him past them Polo aint keen but he trusts me enough to go past most things, usually with a bit of snorting mind;)
I poo picked the field,scrubbed and hosed out Polo's stable and mats, trimmed his feet,which are looking fab BTW(he actually has proper frogs now!) then did AliG's feet that proved to be a bit more difficult.He's such a sod about picking up his front feet he 'knows' what I want he gets this stubborn look in his face and no matter what I do he just will not pick them up.
Ive resorted to moving him back and forwards then picking them up as he moves, so what did he do??well he was refusing to move full stop!
After much sweating and straining I could feel myself starting to get mad so out came the Richard Maxwell rope halter.I did a few mins schooling,backing him up then coming forwards immediately or the pressure would go on he got the idea pretty quickly,I then went back to getting him to step towards me and picked his leg up first time!GRR
AliG's feet were all over the place when he came, high heels,small smelly frogs and lots of flare on his outside hinds so I think foot care hasnt been something he's had a lot of but he picks his hind feet up straight away so dont know why he's as awkward with his front feet?
I then went out for a Chinese meal for my Dad's birthday it was gorgeous but I had a stinking migraine at this point so just wanted to get home and lie down in a dark room:(
Incidentally one of the waitresses was showing eveyone pics from her phone of some Eastenders actors who'd been in earlier, they were up to do the Great North Run which was today...Max was one of them.

Today I went to visit my friend who's just had a baby boy then went to the stables.Poo picked field and brushed the boys then my Dad came to see AliG for the first time,he was very impressed with him and needless to say Polo got plenty of attention,my Dad's a huge fan of Polo!
Claire then arrived for a visit so more attention and fuss for the boys AND dogs who jumped in Claire's car.AliG was getting rather cocky with it all and became a bit mouthy but I reckon thats mainly his age and those little lingering hormones,I move him away from me when he does this.Ive got to be carefull to not allow him away with this, Polo is very cuddly and in your face for affection but he never has a nip but Ali is a lot younger and still learning the ropes.
Felt a bit rough from the migraine and couldnt face riding so fed and turned them out..it was a lovely day so sheets back off,hard to know what to do for the best at times the weather's so up and down!

I then made Sunday dinner,did the most terrifing pile of ironing then hoover and cleaned..see I AM superwoman;)


Ps Claire do you have my email to send me those pics?

Dam..blast ..and bugger!

Well AliG has developed a splint..I think this has been why he's been reluctant to walk out and why he's been better after a couple of days off!
Its very small but I didnt spot it until after I'd rode him today.He wasnt happy when we were out even though we didnt go far he kept dropping back and I could see he was getting annoyed when I was getting after him to walk on his ears clamped back and felt like he was threating to rear at one point!
Feel a bit guilty for not keeping a closer eye I had wondered if something like this had the potential to flare up somewhere down the line simply because he's gone from soft arena surface to hacking on harder ground.He's not lame and it not huge so hopefully it wont get any worse but im kicking myself about it..I should have sussed when he was better after a couple of days off that it wasnt just a case of him being lazy.
Just done a bit of reading up and the standard recommendation seems to be minimum 30days rest then see how it goes,also the obvious cold hosing,Arnica and Ruta Grav(think that the one).
Polo had splints,probably the norm when breaking in trotting horses on roads,and it never bothered me but feel annoyed I could probably have avoided it if i'd been bit more carefull.:(