Direct Line Thinking........

I wanted to share a big ah ha experience for me with my horse Lordy. The past several months I have been focusing our play sessions on Liberty in preparation for videotaping our level 4 Liberty audition. Now before I go any further, I am a strong type A personality that can become very direct line. The Parelli program has taught me to play and think laterally but from time to time I can slip back into being direct line!
Before the focus of preparing for the level 4 audition our liberty play sessions were fun and both of us enjoyed free jumping the most. Lordy and I would run around the arena or field and go from jump to jump. I would point to the jump and he would aim proceed straight, honest and with exuberance. His recalls were prompt and his expressions always bright and connected.
As the weeks passed, our focus became task driven more than free form and fun. I was narrowing our focus to perfecting the figure 8’s, changes of direction with flying changes and compulsory movements. I am sure I had more drive and draw and over time my horse became a reflection of me. It was eye opening. Each play session I was getting less and less. Lordy was more distant and when given a choice in the open area he would promptly leave. As Pat always says “Liberty is the Truth” that is so very true. I found myself running around in attempt to suggest that Lordy aim and jump and when I would look he was headed quickly in the other direction. Yikes! I knew I needed to stop, refocus and look at our sessions with an open minded lateral thinking perspective.
When I really took a few moments to evaluate how things had progressed over the past few weeks I realized I had become “audition” driven and along the way I had lost the connection to my partner. I lost that sparkle in his eye to want to please and respond with the lightest suggestion. I immediately STOPPED playing at liberty and spent undemanding time with him for days! After a week, I found our connection growing again. I believe he realized I cared…….
I have re-entered the sessions of liberty with my partner keeping my intention lateral and not direct line! Although a HUGE challenge for a type A individual like myself, I realize that is “my” emotional fitness journey and I thank my partner for leaving me at Liberty to teach me this valuable lesson. Horses really do teach humans….. if we are open to listen and learn! Savvy on –

Update

7-18-11 Today the weather was beautiful. The past few days have given us a break from the heat and humidity. Lordy was a bit bossy today as he has had some days off with the heat.....Although he did trot to greet me at the gate... or was it that he wanted a cookie.. LOL

We played for a short time before spending quality time bathing him. He so needed a good cleaning. Haircut as well....... His coat is an amazing mix of black, gold and brown..... I call him the magical bay since his color depends on what season we are in or getting ready to move into...

I am really excited about our new mini farm! So looking forward to having my partner out my back door! August 18 can not come soon enough..... closing day on our new property in Lake Wylie SC! WHOOOO HOOOOOOOO

Freestyle

6-24-11 I am working very hard to blog regularly my play sessions.... at times the days get away from me....... Today I had a wonderful freestyle session with Lordy. He was so responsive considering he has had quite a bit of time off since our focus was getting our online horsemanship better....... I did find that I need to play with the shim some...... I think he is filling in the areas along his topline differently..... Riding in the hackamore and Lordy appears to be so much happier not having a bit in his mouth. I do find it is a skill not to feel any brace on the halter. I am working to remain consistent in my ask, timing and release. Remembering to never release on a brace.......

Spent some time just casually walking the pasture fence line. Life is good.... XO

Figure 8

6-15-11 Today was another stunning day... clear blue sky and no humidity. Temp in the 70's. I can so get spoiled with this weather for North Carolina in June! Lordy and I spent some quality down time brushing and hanging out. Our play time was short and focus was online with the figure 8 pattern. Building draw and drive at walk and trot. Sending the horse around the cones is easy but keeping a connection to them mentally and emotionally is a challenge. I am constantly striving to use just enough drive to have respect and build the draw to enhance the rapport.........
Next session we will play again with the truth..... figure 8 at liberty. Until tomorrow going to soak up this amazing weather! XO

Evitex Update

6-14-11 Lordy has been on the loading dose for almost 2 weeks..... His stallion like behavior is much better. One of the mares just came into raging heat and he is coping fairly well. He has the shrill call out here and there but overall he is better.

I will be curious to see how things continue on since Sat he will move to the once a day regular dose. I do have to say that his coat is looking better than ever! He is shinny and shedding out wonderful!

More updates to come. All I can say is at least now I can play with him and he is not so distracted all the time during the mare heat cycles. Since he lives with 3 mares... there is usually one that is cycling!
Sigh.......

XO

Liberty Cones

6-14-11 The weather was amazing at 8am this morning. The humidity was gone! It was quite refreshing. I headed out to the barn, grabbed Lordy, fed him a cookie and headed to the round pen. We are focusing on liberty patterns in prep for liberty audition!

Our change of direction is really coming along. I am getting my timing and feel better and he is giving me more respect and fluidity!

Our challenge is the figure 8 around the cones. I find unless he really focuses on them he leaves the task on the send around the outer edge of one of the cones. Every time I found him disconnected from me and the pattern I placed him back on the line. We then did the pattern pretending not to have the line. Then I unhooked it and tried the figure 8 at liberty again. After 3-4 times he got it. He stayed connected to the cones!! I quit on that and my hope is that I am preparing for tomorrow.... knowing when to quit!

Overall we had a wonderful session with numerous dwell periods where I scratched his itchy and favorite spots. Having no bugs bothering us was a nice treat. We shall see how tomorrow's session goes..... until then..... XO

Softness at Liberty

6-13-11 Had a wonderful round pen liberty session this evening. The weather was beautiful and our changes of directions were fluid and effortless. It was like something clicked for Lordy tonight..... I could see the mind thinking and the lightbulb came on bright. We played with some soft slow changes of direction with flying changes. The trot change was also soft.

What was most amazing was his girlfriends are very distracting at the moment since 2 are in heat right now. His new supplement is taking the edge off but he was still very distracted. So I was thrilled to get the softness I got. I quit while I was ahead and I am planning to return early tomorrow morning to play again. My rope pen is still staked in the arena and ready for our play session early tomorrow. I am really trying to stick to the minimum of 7 days of a pattern!

OnLine to Liberty - BFO

6-7-11 WOW OnLine play really does enhance your Liberty! What a BFO today! I played with Lordy today at liberty and it was the first time in quite some time since my focus has been getting ready for OnLine audition. I was absolutely stunned with the outcomes! He was fantastic and he really showed me how much being in the proper position at the proper time really do matter.... I was able to ask and get the most amazing fun canter flying changes but it was critical that I was in the right place and followed through with timing and feel. Our 360 spins were good.... just at the walk for now...... I was very excited as I am turning my attention to liberty audition..........

I can not wait to play again and improve my feel timing and balance!

Evitex has begun.....

I got my shipment of Evitex from Emerald Valley in 2 days! I got Lordy started right away and I know it will take a few weeks for any results... but I am sure hoping it works....... His behavior waxes and wanes depending on the day and I think the hormone level that is swirling around in the air..... LOL but not really........ XO

Level 4 Audition Experience

6-5-11 Early before the heat turned up I was able to get some wonderful footage for my Level 4 OnLine Audition. In the moment I can get quite task oriented being a type A personality mixed with LBE! BUT the Parelli program has allowed me to develop some emotional fitness so I can stay more a lateral thinker in the moment of playing with my horse even when the video is rolling and I want everything to be perfect! LOL

I enjoyed my session and our flying changes were fun. Lordy is really expanding his play drive. I am also excited how fast his 2 line driving has improved. Our communication through the lines is getting better every time. I think our finesse background has really helped with that. The feel on the lines is so important not too much not to little but just right...... LOL

Overall I was very pleased and I am now working to convert my video footage to Movie Maker and upload to YouTube. I will post a link as soon as I can. (media challenged at times but getting better........)

I am now turning my focus to liberty and playing with the truth of everything we have been doing on the line! Stay tuned..... XO

Gelding or Stallion?

5-31-11 Today I write about a special gelding that thinks he is a stallion! Sigh.... Since moving to a wonderful barn full of girls.... let me tell you it has been a tad challenging..... Lordy's behavior and mood swings from day to day and week to week...... I have had the vet pull lab work no issues there..... so...... We have a recommended herbal supplement Evitex on the way! I will let you all know how it works......

Today's session was a tad challenging... Lordy was very distracted and needed more than phase one with most things that he is super light with...... sigh..... Emotional fitness was a challenge for me today but Parelli has taught me to just smile and make it a game in some way... and so I did......... It was hot and humid at 9am and after about 40 min Lordy settled down and was focusing more on figure 8's around the cones. We are playing with smooth canter figure 8's with flying changes..... at times if he is not exuberant in the change itself then he is late with the change behind. So we are playing with not having to drive through the change moment and just allow more... Quite the balance since I dont want him to create a habit of late changes since he is clean under saddle I want to not allow his decision to be a tad lazy about them online. Being an LBI he has a tendency to get slower rather than faster.... or is it a matter of respect? LOL

It is all a balance. Raised poles went great today. We are playing at the trot over 6-8 poles in a row and maintaining balance and tempo. Playing with the distance between them to lengthen and shorten stride naturally over poles.

Ended with some jumping online over cross rails and some straight rails about 2'6. Lordy appears to get excited about jumping and I love to watch his expressions and effort.

Hopefully our new supplement will be here by the end of the week!
XO

Procupine Power

5-27-11 Focus of PORCUPINE POWER! I can honestly say that I now really understand the importance of game #2! It is something that most of us do not play enough with our partners. All zones soft and light with the slightest intention of steady feel/pressure.

I have been playing with ground driving and that quickly brings up how important game #2 really is...... Lordy is really improving with the leading rein starts and following the steady feel. Feather lines are really improving our finesse connection and we are moving in better unity.

I find at the canter I need to work hard to get back into zone 5. I find it easy to creep up next to zone 4. Staying in zone 5 is quite the challenge when cantering.

The trot changes of direction are getting so soft and Lordy is doing so much better at maintaining gait and direction with following a feel. I am very excited with the progress we have made together in a short period of time. We are focusing on level 4.

I feel like we now need to really play on the 45 at max distances and get respect with changes etc. Getting our better best... and never letting it rest.......

XO

Time Passes.......

5-26-11 It seems at times that time can pass so fast...... I am working hard to blog regularly and also blog for Parelli Connect...... Bear with me as I get it all started and find time to all my "hats" that I wear on any given day... balancing the day is quite a challenge some days. You would think I would be good at balancing being a yoga guru! LOL

Today Lordy and I had a wonderful session. He was so soft in the feather lines and learning to maintain flexion softly to the inside during our turns and circle play. I have found that ground driving really focuses your attention on the importance of feel and timing otherwise the horse does not go the way you intend and you end up moving your feet way more than you need to........ Our experience with the feather lines has been amazing and I am feeling more unity and connection every time I play with them. I also love them when using one to play stick to me and mirror me online.

Most of all I took time a few minutes ago to watch my video of Parade of Barns spotlight online and liberty on May 7 and it had so many really nice moments. Softness, politeness and partnership that at times made me feel so good. I could see just how far our journey has progress and I could also see where we can continue to make our better best. I love that Parelli has helped me be particular without being critical. Being critical was my old ways... OUT with the old and in with the new! Being particular progress and making it fun!

Parelli Central Blog!

FYI-
I am now a featured instructor for Parelli Central! I am looking forward to writing some blogs...... Stay tuned and check the site often.

http://central.parellinaturalhorsetraining.com/

Parade of Barns!

5-7-11 Parade of Barns – Fund Raiser for Hinds Feet Farm, Davidson NC. I was honored to be part of this unique venue. Lordy and I presented an online and liberty spotlight. I finally figured out my ipod to create a play list. Had a good 30 minutes of fun and inspirational music……. My husband and daughter came with me to cheer me on and of course get a video of the spotlight…. always room to learn and improve…… A picture is worth a thousand words….. Lordy was a slow warm up on the 45 foot line to start… shocking for an LBI…. When the spot light is on you….. it can sometimes feel like years trying to get to his brain to get to his feet… LOL Did a bit on the 45 foot line but quickly moved to some feather line play. Lots of changes of directions and s bends to create more draw and connection. Our turns are really coming along. Played with some long line driving… I am sure getting a work out in the deep sand…. it is hilarious to watch me jog beside or behind him…. Last was the transition to liberty for some free jumping. Lordy was fantastic and so willing. He appears to love jumping… or is it the cookies….

In the arena was a brand new plank red and white rail jump. Lordy had never seen it before. It was a solid 3 foot. I played with approach and retreat and he sailed over it… I was so proud of his willingness. I owe the Parelli Program for allowing us to have fun jumping! Lordy has learned all his jumping from a natural Parelli approach and his relaxation and exhuberance shows! Thank you Pat and Linda!

Out stick to me game is coming along and Lordy is really learning to bend and stay connected at close range. We can sync our steps some and we are always improving.

Overall looking over the video I was very excited to see how natural some of our play appeared. Our rapport really shinned…. Now at times our respect could use a bit of polish… LOL The music magically seemed to fit the situation. It was weird because I dont remember trying to transition or make changes with the music but watching it it just happened that way. Maybe it was unconscious.

The day was fun, weather great and best of all Lordy and I had an awesome time! Savvy on and always remember to never stop self improving….. Life long journey! XO

Online Savvy

5-9-11 The day was beautiful and sunny. Lordy and I had a fantastic online session in the fields playing over cross country jumps. Lordy had never seen these obstacles before so it was a great test of our partnership. We played on the 45 foot line. Focus on increasing distance without losing respect. At times can be challenging to say the least.

Transitioned to the feather lines for some driving. Today we had the focus of leading rein starts mixed with the pattern of figure 8's at WTC. Today was the first day that we got an in sync canter with a soft simple change of lead through a few steps of trot and then back to the canter in the opposite direction. I quit the session on that. Lordy was so light and responsive I wanted to give him a HUGE release for being so in tune...... We have made so much progress with ground lines. Our goal is flying changes in sync along with fluid lateral work at WTC. Work in progress but every session is positive in some way. We are also able to jump small obstacles I just need to remember to jump too! LOL

Online Focus

5-3-11 First day with focus online. Level 4 online audition is the goal in the next month. Planning to get some video footage to help me visualize where our holes might be and hopefully one of the weekly video clips will be amazing to send in for our audition. Focus in on the 45 foot line and getting neutral so we can communicate better when I come out of neutral to suggest something. Changes of direction are better from right to left. Need to build more confidence on change from left to right. Going into his right eye...... so playing with more draw to balance the drive of the change.

Yoyo is strong with recall back at the trot. Playing with energy and inhale and exhales. It is amazing how sensitive horses are to energy and thoughts.... absolutely amazing.

This week the focus is online and liberty since May 7 is our "spotlight" for Parade of Barns fund raiser.

Back in Action

5-2-11 Today it felt great to be back......I missed Lordy and I am sure he missed is Winnies Cookies..... LOL I spent time bathing him and working to shed his coat out........we played for a short time online..... I would have to say he was still on vacation..... LBI at its finest! I returned home motivate to finish my official level 4 by Sept! Need to focus on filling in the holes and moving our relationship to new heights. I will be working hard to blog my journey and share both here and on Parelli Central blog as well..... Stay tuned... XO

Parelli Nuggets of Goodness.........

Enjoying my time at the Parelli Ranch in Florida. Teaching in the Flex Track is a wonderful experience. The students are eager to learn and the fellow coaches amazing. I am learning so much from everyone. Great nuggets of information every day! The environment is encouraging and welcoming. It is wonderful to meet up with old friends and make new ones.

I have had the privilege of auditing bits of the "Wow for Cows" course taught by Pat himself. Cow work looks like fun and who knows maybe Lordy and I will be cow herding superstars! I am game for anything and learning is always fun!

Looking forward to returning home after a few weeks of gathering nuggets of goodness to share to all...... XO
Dawn

Travel to Ocala!

4-16-11 Today was a long drive down to the Parelli ranch in Ocala FL with my fellow instructor and good friend Marie Pruden. We enjoyed the stop and go traffic on I-95 the best we could by taking the time to catch up....... We are both thrilled to be assisting in the 2 Week Horseman's Series course starting Monday. This week is also Wow with Cows course taught by Pat Parelli himself. We are excited to attend the the orientation tomorrow and meet the students for this special course.

We are looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones....... Stay tuned......
XO
Dawn

Connection of Rapport & Respect

4-14-11 Today was an amazing day! I had one of the most memorable sessions with Lordy. We headed out to the sandbox to play online to start. Due to space constraint we played on the 22 foot line with the focus of maintain canter on circle game with me in neutral. We had several wonderful laps. Changes were wonderful and prompt. Yoyo game with only a phase one....... focus on lightness and respect without losing any rapport. Can be a challenge at times.... balance......

Moved on to some liberty play! Lordy and I are always challenged by keeping a connection at the circle game and increasing the distance between us. Lordy being as independent as he can be likes to leave the circle just so he can canter off and then loop back and zoom towards me...... His recall is wonderful but he really should not leave in the first place. So today when I could keep him connected on a 20 foot circle around me and then for a few moments he offered the canter... I was thrilled..... We are building our rapport and respect...... It is slow at times but today showed me how important it is to take the time it takes.....

I felt an incredible connection with Lordy today in both our online and liberty play. His reward was Winnie Cookies at the end...... He just loves them... almost too much. XO

Liberty Jumping

4-12-11 What a fun day! Lordy put so much effort into our play session today. It was quite motivational! We started with a warm up and to engage mentally and emotionally on the 22 foot line. Our focus was the power of neutral. We played on the 22 foot circle with focus on Lordy's responsibilities. His canter is really developing. At one point when I was in neutral as he passed behind by back he did the most fluid change with a flying change and his expression was priceless. You would have thought he just got away with something big!

After that we took off the halter and played stick to me at liberty. The arena had numerous stadium jumps set up. One cross rail and the rest straight rails about 2 - 2.5 feet. At my suggestion Lordy jumped the cross rail. His energy came up and I played with increasing his draw to me after the fence at both trot and canter. I proceeded to suggest a straight rail and as Lordy approached at the canter he slid the brakes on at last moment.... stopping dead in front of the jump. I paused and then started to quietly suggest he back up some to take another attempt and he backed up 2 steps and then proceeded to trot off and around the jump picking up the canter and went straight over the cross rail then looped back to me. He had an expression on his face that said..... I didnt think I could do that one jump but look I can do this one... It was so funny... priceless! We then played some more and he did jump everything with such a great attitude and off the slightest suggestion from me. He partnered up beautifully. I owe his love of jumping to Parelli. He had NEVER been jumped before starting our journey in PNH. Everything he has learned he has learned naturally. He outwardly shows how much he "wants" to jump! There is never a "make" moment...... It is such a wonderful feeling when you see your partner offer so much all on their own. I am looking forward to doing a natural liberty spotlight at the May Parade of Barns Tour!

Day of Coaching

4-9-11
Just a quick note to thank all the folks who came out to play yesterday. The Expo/Coaching Event was lots of fun. Even with my graceful wipe out over the rope and stick going backwards........ I am a firm believer that you have to be able to laugh at yourself and be humble.......

What an honor to coach side by side with other professionals. I have to say that is one of the things that makes Parelli different is that we are ALL going the same direction and team teaching is not a threat to us. Instead we look at it as an honor. We learn from all of you and from each other. Every day is an opportunity for never ending self improvement. Having 4 professionals in one place is unique and I am proud to be part of a team experience!

The weather was great and of course we all thank both farm families for hosting us all. Triple Play and Follow Me Farms rock in Davidson! Thank you all.

Savvy on and enjoy the ride.........
Dawn

Warm and Windy!

4-4-11 Today was warm and windy! What a change from all the rain. We saddled up since we were tight on play time today....... we headed right out to play under saddle in the sandbox. Started with follow the rain on a casual rein. Using phases to assist Lordy in learning and maintaining his responsibilities. Although a short session Lordy was great considering the last 6 days off due to weather and then my need to pack in student lessons to make up for 4 days lost due to rain. I am sure he didn't mind being left to graze on lush green grass and relax.. LBI's most favorite thing.. doing NOTHING AND EATING... heck sounds like my favorite thing..... LOL

BFO with Feather Lines!

3-24-11 Today's focus was back to ground driving from zone 5 with feather lines. I still can not believe how light and responsive Lordy was! Wow all my hackamore riding with consistency has made all the difference in the world. It is actually quite fun and enjoyable to ground drive.... although I need to get in better physical shape to run through the arena sand and keep up... LOL. For sure I am working on my physical fitness!

Once I got a good tempo going - meaning I was running as fast as I could in my boots ready to cough up a lung after a few loops around the sandbox.... Lordy actually did fantastic. He maintained his gait and turned on the lightest line pressure. I also had a nice attempt at leg yield zig zags where I moved from side to side behind him to encourage the lateral movement. Of course after that I had to swallow my lung...... :)

Well - my BFO was Lordy stalls out when I just shuffle along behind him. I must maintain a good strong forward gait....... Not a BFO - I need to get in better shape!

I guess never ending self improvement rings in my head.... AGAIN!
Savvy On-
Dawn

Hackamore Game of Contact!

3-23-11 Today was warm.... Lordy is so not a summer horse... LOL Plus all his hair right now. Saddled up and headed for the sandbox (arena). Playing in the hackamore. I am amazed with the results..... I have been focused on freestyle riding in the hackamore. Always playing careful attention to lightness and feel. Looking for no opposition reflex to the rein. Appropriate responses to pressure. Today I had a HUGE BFO (blinding flash of the obvious). After a quick freestyle warm up at WTC I moved on to playing the game of contact and more finesse rein feel... WOW was I ever surprised at the lightness and ease of the contact. Numerous times Lordy stretched down and really come through his back. He followed my phases and feel it was so amazing. I came to realize today that all my freestyle riding had so much purpose and it is so paying off with finesse and of course the other day ground driving with feather lines from zone 5. I know one thing... I sure underestimated the power of teaching your horse their responsibilities through freestyle. Being a gal with tradition riding background... thank you Parelli program for teaching me Freestyle. Better late than never! LOL

Gates

3-22-11 Saddled up today and rode on the trails with good friend Kris and her partner. We laughed as we were challenged with quite a few gates.. today was the day for gate malfunction. Between the 2 of us or more like the 4 us we handled things quite well. Indirect and direct rein turns helped to line them up to easily open the gates. Principle to Purpose! Overall it was a good day and a fun trail ride. Rode in hackamore and Lordy was great.

Feather Lines

3-21-11 Focus of the day was 2 rein driving with feather lines. First a quick warm up on 22 foot line in the arena. A few games and then we moved right into driving with the lines. First let me say how nice and light the feather lines are. They ROCK! Then my big BFO was how light and soft Lordy was in the halter to the pressure on the lines..... WOW..... I have to say all my freestyle riding with the hackamore is paying off in more ways than one! I was very impressed and shocked to be honest. Never even thought about how it could impact our driving until I felt the difference! Lordy was so much more responsive, we got great moments at walk and trot. Figure 8's and also some beginnings of walk and trot leg yeilds in motion. He was just so much more sensitive and willing. I just had to lift my rein and off he would move in that direction. Amazing..... I am really psyched at the possibilities! Flying changes here we come! :)

Playday Challenge... Thoughts and Results......

HI Everyone-
Just a moment to reflect back on yesterday's event hosted at Triple Play and Follow Me Farms in Davidson. A huge thank you to the Batchelor Family and the Curry Family for opening their beautiful facilities to a wonderful group of folks! We had a great turnout of horses and humans. The weather was absolutely perfect and both arenas were full of new and creative toys to play with both online and under saddle. The day started with free play with free coaching to those that inquired for help whether it was at a new obstacle or just needing assistance with a task. I was honored to have fellow Parelli Professionals Marie Pruden from Sharon SC and Rich Miller from Sparta NC with me to assist and coach throughout the day.

I feel it is such a unique experience to work side by side other professionals where we are all part of the same "team" making the world a better place for horses and humans. We all share and assist openly. WOW such an experience! Thank you guys!!! You both ROCK!

The afternoon was busy sending horses and human partnerships through 10 creative mounted obstacles. Each obstacle had a few options to chose your level at which to attempt the task. Many folks were surprised with what they could accomplish when putting the relationship first! Speaking of First...... Lisa Rask and Duck came in First followed by Natalie Peterman and Tucker and Third place to Kristen Hamelink and Tango! Congratulations to all that took part in the challenge it was great to see everyone playing with such great partners!

Our next event will be an Expo and Playday combo on April 9!
Also a great opportunity to come and socialize and enhance your carrot stick savvy at the Parelli Patio Party on March 31.
Barn Yoga in May!
All information about events along with pre-registration and forms can be found on my website. Check often as new things are posted regularly!

PLEASE REMEMBER - Due to such an overwhelming response for you all..... we have to limit our events to 20 horse and human partnerships. Therefore you MUST pre-register and pay to secure your spot!!!! Almost half the spots for April 9 are taken.. dont delay contact me and info on website. Auditing is open with no limits! (at the moment LOL)

If you have any questions let me know and thank you all that came out on such a beautiful day to have FUN!
Savvy On-
Dawn

Savvy Spurs

3-20-11 Today was cool. Lordy I am sure enjoyed his day off watching all of his equine friends playing in the Playday Challenge. Michael and Emma came with me to the barn. We saddled up and headed out to the arena. Today was the first day wearing spurs since our dressage days..... I feel like it is time to win the Porcupine Game when needed. So I have committed to wearing my spurs. Lordy was overall light but a few times the Porcupine Game was needed to the message effectively to his feet. I could tell a few times during the session that Lordy remember his dressage days "making" him do things... therefore he got sticky to the maintain gait all on his own. I allowed him to realize the spurs we polite and fair. I do think it will take a bit longer for him to realize my attitude of justice with them. Overall he is so much softer in the hackamore and getting easier and easier to bend and keep bent on a circle off feel and body versus consistent reins..... His canter is a dream to sit so nice and soft and fluid. Best part was in the end my little girl who just turned 3 could not wait to ride Lordy back to the barn. She was so excited to put mommy's helmet on and get on up there. Even said giddy up Lordy lets go! Priceless.......

Freestyle on a Circle

3-18-11 Today was a beautiful and warm morning. Enjoyed some down time brushing him in the warm sun. His winter coat is beginning to shed. I saddled up and headed off to the arena. Today the focus was follow me focus and intention on the circle on the center of the arena around a jump at WTC. Freestyle no reins. We had some brilliant moments where Lordy followed my eyes and upper body. I really needed no leg or reins to keep him bent in the direction we were going on the circle. Getting a few laps of this at the canter is truly amazing considering our past experiences in an arena of being micromanaged. It was so easy.... I was humbled. We are continuing to build our communication without reins. One day we will be bridleless.

Undemanding Time

3-17-11 Today was a quiet day..... spent lots of quality time..... brushing,..... undemanding time is so important to the horse. Lordy enjoyed a flake of hay online as I brushed him and just enjoyed being with him. We then proceeded over to Triple Play to just hang. I played on the barrels.... Standing on the barrels tall playing friendly game and asking him to pick me up through the sidepass over even with me being way above him.... neat to see his perspective.......

Freestyle Responsibility

3-16-11 The sun was shinning today! How wonderful to enjoy the mild temps and sunshine. Lordy was sunbathing when I arrived. Coat all puffed up and warm. Saddled up the savvy way and headed out for the arena. Freestyle patterns...... Playing on hackamore riding still. I feel like we have some holes in our foundation that need fixing so I am taking the time it takes. We started on the rail. Doing better with maintaining gait, direction and watching where he is going. Played with figure 8 around 2 jumps. Nice smooth turns focusing on intention and following a feel. Not playing into any opposition reflex he might give me. Instead I held steady to being polite and positive in the proper position. I could really feel his bend when it was relaxed and true. He was soft in the hackamore and willing most of the time. I am also playing with his responsibilities under saddle to maintain gait. I am not using my leg at all to nag him to keep gait. Instead I am suggesting and allowing and then being ready to correct him when needed. He really wanted to stretch into the contact with combing rein motion. Spring boarding him forward with nice power and reach. We are making small step forward..... Able to get walk transitions from seat only. Halt and back up are coming along as well.

Freestyle Circles

3-15-11 Arrived to the barn to find tree construction still going on next door.... Heavy large equipment, lots of beeping and snapping of branches..... Not to mention it was early.. so Lordy had not had breakfast yet. Now mind you he is out on grass 24/7. You would think he was starving... LBI at his finest. We saddled up and headed out to the field for some freestyle play. Following intention and feel. Giant circles in the field. Once he got over the fact it was not breakfast time we had some wonderful moments. It is clear to feel with freestyle when Lordy will brace against my feel for a bend. I believe he finds bending to the left more difficult therefore he doesnt want to soften his ribs or the left side of his body easily. Being patient and polite gets amazing results. I just play with combing the left rein encouraging him to follow the feel. I dont give him something to brace against and then I find he softens. I am working hard on my own muscle memory to develop new skill and feel. Use my body more and my reins less. (hard for the ex-dressage queen. LOL)

Online beginnings of halfpass towards me!

3-14-11 Today was beautiful....... Farm next door was having some large trees removed and stumps grinder going... so needless to say it was challenging with some loud bangs and buzzing...... I elected to play on the 22 foot line in the field. Lordy always enjoys the field more... I think his years of play more like"work" in the sandbox have left him a tad on the sour side... so whenever possible I try to spice it up and play outside the arena.

Today was the first day of playing with sideways draw toward me at the trot. Very much a half pass move sideways and I use my body to draw him and I move sideways. We started from a circle in which I was traveling with him, then change my angle in relation to his body and start the draw. At the same time I use my carrot stick and string to encourage a follow the feel yield with string over his back in zone 3.

We really had some nice moments.... always careful not to over due things.... otherwise Lordy will start offering it when you dont want it and he ends up in your lap. LOL

I never get upset as he is trying so hard to do what he thinks I want. I love that he is so willing to want to please. It brings such joy to see him try harder because he "wants" to not because I am "making" him.

Spring Shots!

3-11-11 Today was spring shots.... Lordy was super for the vet. He stood like a gentleman in the paddock for his shot and coggins to be drawn. He partnered right up and it was so easy! Afterwards we played lightly online. The arena was a tad soggy and after shots wanted to take it easy. Played with the basics and some liberty as well. Lordy absolutely loves the pedestal. He can put front feet, all 4 and hind feet up. It is like a magnet for him... I really think it is his favorite toy. Although he did play all on his own at liberty with the ball and was trying to pick up and shake the hula hoop. For my LBI this kind of play is wonderful and inspiring to see. He used to NEVER play with anything.... Parelli is really helping him to unlock his mind, get curious and have fun! Whoo Hoooooo

Freestyle Responsibility

3-8-11 Today was a beautiful cool sunny day. Lordy and I saddled up and went off to play in the arena at Freestyle. First follow the rail. Making mental notes of how many corrections needed each lap. Always working to improve Lordy's understanding of his responsibilities. Something I used to never think about pre-Parelli! Lordy did a few great laps needing no corrections. We moved on to play on a circle approx. 20 meters. Looking for him to hunt the circle and maintain responsibilities at all 3 gaits WTC. He did super. His canter felt amazing - lifted for freestyle. I kept my focus and really tried to feel for him, with him and together. Slowly our freestyle is coming along.... After that we set out on a short trail ride around the farms. He was wonderful even when a deer literally jumped across our path approx. 20 feet in front of us.....Lordy was a wonderful partner today!

Neck Rope Play

3-7-11 The arena footing was wonderful today after the rain yesterday! Today Lordy and I got creative online. We played with the 22 foot line as a neck rope. Using the ring I threaded the rope through and around his neck. Mostly it stayed in the middle of his neck. He was super light and we played the 7 games with obstacles. His changes of direction were soft and I found him even more focused on my body language. He felt to follow the feel of the rope better than when in the halter.... How interesting. It was nice to play and have minimal opposition considering it was something so new for him. We have never done it before.... so it was very cool. Lordy is so willing to do things... I thank the Parelli program for that.... I can suggest and get with lightness responses I thought impossible pre-parelli..... LOL

Online Play

Today's focus was being effective on circle game at the canter 22 foot lead. Lordy had some great circles and I played with being very clear if I was asking for a disengagement versus change of direction and flying change. Body language has to be so clear to be understood correctly and effective....
After we moved on to playing with the 22 foot feather lines and some ground driving while following the rail first. Then we moved to serpentines around jumps. Changing directions behind him at both the walk and trot. Connecting the feel through the lines. Challenging at times. As always lots of room for self improvement!

Future of my blog......

Moving forward....... I am finding the Parelli Connect an amazing place to connect with other people much like Facebook and also track all of my progress, hours playing and a full task list to keep me focused and challenged... therefore I encourage you if you are not on Parelli Connect..... click here.... www.parelliconnect.com and check it out. You can sign up for a free 30 day trial!

I blog pretty much every day on Parelli Connect and welcome you to track me there. I will attempt to post big events and ah ha moments here when I have time. I just find with all I try to stuff into day... Parelli Connect is so much easier and read by many peeps......

I hope to connect with you soon..... Keep it natural and savvy on......
All my best-
Dawn

2011 Dates Confirmed

Log onto www.dawnsroth.com
Click the schedule link. All events are posted and updated regularly!
Exciting......

2011 Dates Set!

I have been very busy planning some great events for the rest of this year. I am privileged and honored to work directly with Kris Batchelor from Triple Play Farm and Nancy Curry from Follow Me Farm. Both ladies are wonderful and a pleasure to plan events with. We have a full calendar of fun planned. Informal playdays, Expo/Demos, Playday Challenges, Workshops and Parelli Patio Parties! All information has been posted on www.dawnsroth.com

My personal mission is to build a wonderful and supportive community of humans that want to put the relationship first! Making the world a better place for horses and humans........

I finally feel like I can breathe after returning home from Florida...... So my hope is to blog more regular here and also start blogging for Parelli Central! Check me out there as well.

Keep it natural-
Dawn

Element of Man Workshop

What an inspirational and amazing lecture by Linda Parelli! This workshop explored the human side of horsenality. Seeing the similarities was so helpful to better understand people. I am excited to share what I have learned with others. Most of all I am excited to better understand my students so I can better help them in their horsemanship journey.

Course Experience......

Course Experience at Parelli Ranch in FL is amazing. We jumped in Monday with an inspirational and motivation lectures from both Pat and Linda. They are both excellent speakers and full of passion when it comes to making the world a better place for horses and humans. I enjoyed learning more about the Parelli Foundation and all the ways Parelli at large supports numerous organizations such as rescue operations, handicap and at risk youth programs. Pat’s dream is to allow anyone with right attitude, loyalty, dedication and talent study tuition free at his facilities. He is well on his way to making his dream a reality through the Parelli Foundation that scholarships students from all over the world. I would not be where I am today without the generous support and belief the Parelli Foundation had in me. Thank you.

Parelli Connect is going to provide an amazing springboard for us all to jump off of and connect with one another. The tools hosted within are literally amazing! So much more to launch in the near future so stay tuned and if you are not on www.parelliconnect.com sign up today.

Overall, the feeling I get when I step on campus is surreal……. I am surrounded by like minded people all with the same vision of making the world a better place for horses and humans. I soak up as much as I can from everyone on campus. I enjoy talking with the externs and interns and learning about their experiences. Just sitting in a room full of people from literally all over the world yields an exhilarating feeling. Honestly, I sometimes find myself at a loss for words to describe it all and for those of you that know me personally…. I am usually not at a loss for words…… LOL

Keep it natural-

Dawn

At the Parelli Ranch - Florida

I arrived safely to Florida. Weather is wonderful. I just settled into the lodge at the Parelli Ranch. It is quiet here today....... relaxing...... The grounds are beautiful and everything tranquil. There is something special about being on the ranch..... I can not find the words to describe it.

I am excited to begin the 2 Star Instructor Course tomorrow..... runs for 2 weeks. So many highlights - Pat and Linda, Lessons with Walter, special courses, amazing people from all over the world. I treasure my time on the ranch and I soak up everything I can. Being inspired, educated and empowered by wonderful horses and humans!

I will attempt to blog as much as I can..... stay tuned. XO

Parelli Expo ~ Demo ~ Playday

Jan. 8, 2011 Marie Pruden, Rich Miller and myself donated our time and knowledge to a Parelli event with the intention of raising money for the Parelli Foundation Scholarship fund. This was the first in this area of 3 instructors teaming together to help give back to what developed all three of them through their horsemanship journeys. There were 50 plus people that turned out to watch and 20 plus horse and human partners that showed up to play! Triple Play and Follow Me Farms were gracious in hosting the event. I was amazed at how many people turned out that were brand new to Parelli Natural Horsemanship. It reminded me of when I was first introduced to the program. The appreciation received by everyone made me realized once again why I do what I do. We weathered snow flurries and blustery winds to help spread a little love, language and leadership. Please visit our sites to view more on our progress. www.mariepruden.com and www.dawnsroth.com We plan on offering another like event in the spring and we are sure there will be just as much support. Savvy on my dear friends, let's continue making the world a better place for horses and humans.
Warm Regards-
Dawn

Parelli Expo - Demo - Playday Jan 8

The response has been overwhelming! Quite unexpected to be honest... I have found so many people in the local area very interested in learning more about Parelli Natural Horsemanship...... Our big day Saturday should be quite a success!

We will kick off at 11am with Parelli Professionals demonstrating in the 4 savvys...... Open to everyone to audit no charge. Then at 1pm till dusk those that brought their partners will have an open format playday with free instructor coaching, games and fun.

Facilities are excellent, 2 fenced arenas, sand round pen, plenty of toys to play with (cones, tarps, balls, barrels, jumps, poles, bridge, pedestals)

We will have complimentary concessions stand and info available for pick up.
Donations appreciated and 100% will be given to the Parelli Foundation!

More information and directions on my website at www.dawnsroth.com

Outcomes and photos to come..... stay tuned... savvy on......
Dawn