Raquel-the Filly

It is so much fun to watch the new babies come in each year. This year Raquel, our now 2 year old, came in. What a different personality she is from her brother. Raquel definitely has attitude. She is a mare and doesn't let anyone forget it. She tries hard, but gets confused, and then gets upset. It really is not fair to her that we keep comparing her to her brother. We have to remember that we have been breeding for over 25 years and she is still one of the best ones we have bred.

It is hard to remember to have patience. They are not going to look like show horses the day they come into training. She has a lot more attitude than JC, but doesn't seem to have his heart. That just could be because of her age. I remember when JC was her age. We were told he wouldn't amount to much and he certainly is a good boy. I have to remember not to lose faith in her and give her the time she needs to become what she can. She is a talented baby with lots of personality. She loves her carrots and you can play with her in her stall. She is not mean in the least. more

We're Getting There!

Wow, it's been 4 years since he was born, but I am finally riding JC. He has exceeding some of my expectations and didn't rise up to others. He is beautiful, but is not gaited. I can forgive him that. He is a gentle giant of a boy. Everything he is in his stall; he is when you ride him. He doesn't get angry or confused. He doesn't hold it against me that it takes time for me to get on him and end up hitting him with the step stool. He doesn't get upset that I hang on his mouth every now and then and that I don't understand him as well as his trainer did. He always keeps his head in a perfect place without me having to fight with him. I cluck and he steps up with no hesitation. I say back and he backs his three steps.

Through these years, he and I have developed a relationship; I believe that relationship has carried on to my riding him. He knows I am the "carrot girl" and I love him. He trusts me and I trust him. He tries to teach me to help him and I do my best. I don't always get it right, but he doesn't resent it when I make a mistake; which I do frequently. He never loses his temper or gives in to my frustration. It is like he is saying, "Will you chill out; we will get there together." He and I are learning to come together as a team. The 4 year old is teaching the 40 something how to trust him completely. more