Welcome

Thank you for visiting my blog to read about my journey from upper level dressage to natural horsemanship..... Wow what a journey it has been..... every day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Never ending self improvement in all aspects of life..... Life is good, live in the moment and keep it natural.

Friday, December 31, 2010

Reflections

Wow time goes so fast... I have the best intentions to blog here frequently and now looking at my blog the last entry was Dec 1..... Where does the time go??? Yikes...... As I reflect back on the year 2010... WOW what a year for change.... I quit my full time nursing job and became a Parelli Professional... living my dream.... holy smoke it doesn't seem real some days... I love teaching humans and horses and love sharing Parelli Natural Horsemanship.

My family is so supportive. My loving husband over the past 13 years...... so supportive and really drove me to live my dream and go for it. I thank him for that. Our daughter Emma who is such a blessing to our lives. So much fun and pure pleasure for us. I love spending more time with my family. It really is true if you find something you love you will never "work" another day in your life. Thank you Pat and Linda Parelli!

As a family we are always working to get our better best...... eating healthier, exercising and enjoying life. (seems like we are all under construction! LOL)

My horsemanship has certainly had some ups and downs. Fast track in Feb... wow what a shock! Realized all that I don't know.... really gives me something to focus on and continue to improve on. Glass half full........ Lordy has been a fantastic teacher. A true left brain introvert...... a challenge for an extrovert like me that wants everything.... like yesterday! He has taught me so much and continues to remind me to take the time it takes..... sigh.......

I am boarding at a wonderful private facility in Davidson. Both Follow Me Farm and the neighbors Triple Play Farm are so supportive of me and Parelli. We are planning a fantastic 2011 and lots of socials and playdays!!! Should be a wonderful and educational year. Lordy is very happy and even has a special girlfriend "Lucky". I am honored to be able to board at such a wonderful place. Thank you Nancy, Clark and Corey!!!

My horsemanship journey has been amazing.... Official level 3 and passing Finesse level 4 while in FL during Fast track was wonderful. Doing my audition live on the finesse components I LOVE!!!! At the ranch!! Amazing!!! I am playing to fill my holes on Online, Liberty and Freestyle savvys to pass level 4 completely. I have my focus on that black string in 2011......

Looking ahead:
Planning to pass auditions to obtain my level 4 and excited to assist in the Horseman Series 2 week class in April. In addition, I qualified for a wonderful Parelli Scholarship to attend the 2 Star Parelli Professional Instructor Program in FL in just a couple weeks. I can not wait to reunite with old friends and make new ones. The Parelli family is awesome and the genuine support from all is felt! I have big goals for 2011 but most of all I plan to spend quality time with family and friends, supporting horses and humans and enjoying the journey along the way!

Savvy On and Keep it Natural-
Dawn

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Barrel Play Today!

Had just a short time to play today..... Lordy and I did a few things online and then went to liberty in Triple Play Farm arena..... He loves the new pedestal... (thanks Batchelor Family)

During our liberty session... once I could peel him away from the pedestal...... I ran and asked him lightly to jump a single cow flavored barrel on it's side.... he stayed straight and soared over it. Honestly and committed to the task! I was so proud of him. He so had a choice to jump or not to jump and he followed my polite ask!!! Our bond is growing between us and I could not be more excited... it is amazing what horses will "want" to do when they know you care and that you are fair and polite. It is all in the ask and mutual respect.

Keep it natural-
Dawn

Settled In

All is good.... Lordy has transitioned and settled right in to his new home. Very relaxed....... he acts like he has lived here his whole life...... I am loving him so close to home and the quiet and peaceful environment is amazing. I am working hard to keep us motivated and working on our horsemanship. Student lessons/coaching is amazing and I am loving all the great improvements in partner play! As I write I am working hard to coordinate 2011 calendar of fun events.....