"Spring" Training

Since the boys moved to their new barn, it has continued to look, act, and feel mostly like winter around here.  I have managed to ride a whole five times, but today's was the first that we could actually trot and canter safely.  Let me tell you, the boys did both with gusto!  There is still snow everywhere, but it was finally shallow and squishy enough to allow more than a walk (and yet not too slippery, either.)  The conditions have been different each time we've ridden.

You will notice there's only one picture from today's ride!  That's due to the fact that we could move at a faster pace than a walk, and the corresponding enthusiasm sparked in the horses made two-handed riding a necessity today.  Both boys were very good, despite their "feeling great in the spring" attitudes.

March 28, 2013 - 2nd ride for both boys as Rhio and I went solo once previously, and Red and I went with C. and Annie earlier in the week

March 28, 2013 - heading down the long and muddy drive from the barn (yep, view of the St. Louis River and the big lake in the distance!)

March 28, 2013 - Skyline is all snow - still somewhat packed but deep enough that we had to walk.  I think it was in the middle 40s this day and no wind (balmy!).

March 28, 2013 - The overlook (only place with a little gravel road showing through) - a 4 mile round trip from home. 

March 29, 2013 - I rode Rhio and ponied Red along for 6 miles, again all walking. 

March 29, 2013 - The boys stare at a deer after we've negotiated the concrete barrier at the bridge.

April 2, 2013 - The overlook, now nearly half exposed gravel!  Only 36 degrees with an icy wind, but we were able to trot and canter so we all got plenty warm.  6 miles today.