back in the saddle

We are back again to trying to get lots done here...New top was put on the jeep..so maybe now I can stay warm and dry this winter. We need to set in more hay too for Jim's next absence.

 Today was a red letter day as it was my first 101 lesson on How to correctly tack a horse...also how to tie a horse.  I passed and my new saddle is now set up for me and Lady. Now, mounting was a different story. I did have to use the mounting block....but I still can't get my leg over the saddle..making me wonder why the hE double hockey sticks I had this damnable surgery. After some trial we decided to try mounting on the other side....nope same story. So back to the left side and by stepping off the block into the stirrup and determination I got the damn leg over only to get terrible paining cramps in both legs. After a few minutes relaxing they went away and I am hoping with practice I will be able to do this again without problems.

Lady passed with flying colors..never flinching through out and earned her treat plus a good grooming before and after.  She just loved it.

Jim then did the same thing and he also passed, but he had to give Cody some manner lessons first as Cody saw some what he determined as "horse killer birds" and freaked out....pulling the gate and bending it and then flipping over as he tried to get away. Thankfully our trainer was here and showed Jim what to do about this and Cody was soon satisfied that Jim would protect him from the "killer birds" ( Two mocking birds protecting their tree which we were close to.  Lady took the thing in stride never balking...she had already done her thing as Jim not thinking as he was opening the gate dropped her lead so she started off down the street.with me stopping traffic. Cody called to her and she stopped turned around and went into our other unfenced pasture where Jim caught her......no other trauma..except Mom could use some tranqs. We didn't 

really ride today but walked and had them stand with us on them. Next lesson will be a riding one but meanwhile  he and I will be doing ground work. Me I'm looking for a sling shot to get the birds..

Molly well all she did was watch the fun..I think praying she was invisible..and thinking she was because no one went to bring her out on a lead.