Lessons...

I had the occasion earlier this spring while sitting in a hotel in West Virginia to reflect on what I need to work on to be a better rider. It was a long list starting with, 1. consume fewer donuts,(Dunkin Donuts how do I love thee let me count the ways) but also allowed me to identify showjumping as a phase in which i would like to become much better. I was able to take ALOT of jump lessons in Aiken and made the commitment to myself that once I was home I would MAKE TIME to continue this endeavor as well as go to a couple jumper shows to check our progress.

Progress as measured at the two schooling shows I've done has been good, and I felt like it was time to sharpen up with some fresh eyes on the ground. Today took me to Jeff and Holly Taylor's beautiful Blue Ridge farm for a jump school. Jeff has helped me in the past with a few horses and I knew he would impart some great advice. We worked over one fence doing walk canter transitions, 10 meter circles, and a figure eight exercise that all drove home Captain carrying himself, and me being more quiet, light in the rein, and pATIENT! I am still getting used to how well Captain jumps and how soft and slow he can come into the jump... I have to do a lot less! It was a great lesson, and fun to see Jamie, Holly, and Jeff on their home turf.

I really do love taking lessons, and there are so many pearls to add to the necklace of learning. For me, one of the most important things I can do for myself and for my students is advancing my knowledge base, and constantly seek out fresh perspectives. So be the little grasshopper. Go take lessons!