The time was 7.15 am, I just wanted to check Bruno's eyes, he had been suffering with the flies so I had put a fly mask on to see if that would make a difference in the day time and was removing it over night.When I got to the field Bruno was lying down, looking magnificent, neck rounded with his nose resting on his legs, he heard the gate opening and his head and ears became alert.I wobbled into the field, and zig-zagged over the field to where he was, armed only with his fly mask and a treat.He was still lying down, and slowly moved into a roll, both sides and then came to rest still lying just looking at me. I approached, wondering how close I should/could get, bearing in mind I can't move fast, I only have one speed.
He looked very relaxed and I felt he was inviting me closer, so I did it, I walked up to his head and used the fly mask to play the friendly game.He loved it, arching his neck, moving his head letting me know where he wanted to be rubbed.He then stood up, all 17'1 of him, he lowered his head and I put his fly mask on. He then followed me back to the gate, stopping when I stopped and walking on when I walked.I got him to back up at liberty and leant forward and drew him in on our 'imaginery line' I gave him his treat and he waited for more rubbing.The sun was up, the day was going to be great with such a 'wow' start.

Thanks for Parelli giving me the understanding to be able to read Bruno to see what he wants me to do for him, and to remember that we don't give to receive, but what the horse give back is just so honest and true that there is no feeling that can surpass!

Hoppy 18/08/07

SAVVY FUN DAY
The morning started with a drive over to Dawn A's house, we were met by all her dogs first and then Dawn. We have arranged previously to borrow one of her horses instead of trailer-ing one of ours over.Dawn was grooming Monty and Merlyn, and ready to ride down the hill to Brierley, Evelyn and I set off in the car with dawn riding Monty and leading Merlyn.
At the arena we were met by Carole and Rocky, Ulrike and Casey, no sign of Julia yet.
Then down the ramp into the arena come Julia and Maverick, followed by Dawn and her boys.
We all stand around talking, horses munching on hay, Parelli is such a lovely way to be with horses, no rushing, companionship, communication between horses and humans. The yard seems very quiet, lovely.
Dawn E is there, sorting us out, giving us ideas, talking (surely not I hear you gasp), we wouldn't be a group if it wasn't for DawnE's direction and leadership, we love her!
The fun days are just that ... fun ... friends with horses together, we all picnic together in the arena with the horses watching and munching, time seems to go so fast, but as Pat said at the conference it's not about the end result ... it's about the journey.
Northants Naturally is a fantastic club, thank you Dawn for the time you put in.

Hoppy x
Cheers,
Hoppy and Evelyn
Sunday 12th August 2007