slow feeder

Our horses stand around much of the day, maybe playing with friends, or resting, but often waiting for breakfast or waiting for dinner. They get anxious to eat (as anyone knows who feeds too late one day), then devour their hay so quickly. They were meant to graze all day, but there are few of us who can provide that.

I've been intrigued by the slow feeding movement for awhile, and more motivated when a really great independent nutritionist (Clair Thunes, Summit Equine Nutrition) at the recent HorseExpo event talked more in detail. I did lots of research myself, enjoying the paddock paradise wiki and thinking I could make something myself.

There are so many types of feeders: bags and barrels and timers and grates and more. I decided to make a simple barrel and net feeder. It was pretty easy, until I realized that Major's shelter didn't have an easy way to mount it. It needed to be easy to fill for the barn staff (they have a tough enough job!) but at the height needed Major kept trying to eat out of the top, and an easy solution for all couldn't be found.

Since I didn't really have the time to make something else, I decided to try a basic, well-reviewed net, the Freedom Feeder. I choose this one because I thought I could easily install it on the pipe panel for Major munch on and the barn staff to fill.

True slow feeding is best: you keep the feeder full 24/7. At first the piggy horses eat more, but when they realize food is always there, they begin to self-regulate, not worrying when their next meal is coming. They stabilize at an amount, usually not any more than they were already being fed, without wasting hay on the ground, grinding it into the dirt, or otherwise being disgusting on it. If I had my own barn, I would do this for every horse.

Major eyes his new freedom feeder

Since I board Major, the next best solution is just to slow him down, so dinner is done in three hours and not one. It's better for his digestive system to have food in it longer (like the constant grazing they evolved with). The feeder was easy to install, opening like an envelope to the outside to fill, and Major enjoyed helping by chewing on the net, standing in the way, and not even flinching when we needed to remove a board with the power drill. I did a test run, adding some grass hay (his usual meal) and he was a little confused at first but just started munching.

The feeder has been in use for two weeks, no damage yet. If a horse chews a hole in the net you need to sew it back up so he's not rewarded by getting a big bite. I'll be keeping an eye on it, but so far, so good. I watched Major contentedly eating, and then saw the poor mare across the way, who is on tiny rations as her pasture is too lush and she is too fat. A slow feeder would make her work for it, and she wouldn't be done in 10 minutes, banging at the fence for more.

I'll see how this experiment works, and report on how the net holds up over time.

"How do I eat outta this thing?!"

Major "helping"

to auburn

We were up for an adventure on Saturday. I had to talk my friend into it. "How far is it?" she questioned. I'd estimated about 12 miles, not farther than we usually do on an out-and-back trip. But this would be one way: we were going to have a trailer waiting for us at the Auburn staging area. This is the same trip we tried to do back in the spring.

This time there was no rain or threatening clouds, just clear skies and a cooler day. The first six miles of the trip are well-traveled and known paths, and Major happily trotted and cantered along. We took a break for the horses to drink from the lake, and continued. There was a really nice breeze off the lake and not too many obnoxious boaters. Major did his usual tap-dance as we crossed the Mormon Ravine bridge, and now we were in unexplored territory, we'd only done about a mile past that point. My friend C and her horse Friday had ridden the trail before, but it had been years and she'd gotten lost, not a good sign!

But I know these trails pretty well. I had hiked the top portion, so it was just the middle area I was unfamiliar with. The trail seemed nice and open, so we began with some trotting, until coming across the nasty star thistle. I had wondered why as I was leaving the stable the neighbors has asked where I was heading. When I said Auburn they said "Good luck with the start thistle!" I didn't think it could be that bad. It was that bad.

star-thistle field

the trail ahead

So we walked though fields of thorns, no way were the horses impaling themselves at a trot through that stuff! But we were able to trot in the areas where the fields gave way to oak and pine trees, in shaded valleys with fig and blackberry bushes and still some running water. The trail very gradually climbed until we were more than 60 feet above the river. In some areas it was a smooth grassy slope down, in others just rocks. Major didn't seem to care, and I kind-of like glancing down into the water. I don't look for long, eyes on the trail! My friend doesn't like it as much, but just kep ther eyes on Major and the trail, and all was well.

view down to the river

The trail got easier as the river widened and the shallow rapids began. But this area I'd hiked, and I knew it was all a ruse. Because coming up was Cardiac Hill. Aptly named, we could have gone that way, but took the slightly easier Cardiac Bypass instead (someone has a great sense of humor). The trail still climbs and climbs, more than 1000 feet in about 1.5 miles, pretty slow hard going for the horses. As the trail levels out, the ends seems like it should be in sight, but there is still at least a mile to go.

before the big climb, the river is wider.

There are two trail options. You can follow the abandoned road, but it is hot, walking on concrete, no fun. We're on a trail ride, so took the trail. Most riders seemed to have taken the road, because the trail was horribly overgrown! Pushing through branches, being attacked by blackberry canes, rampant bush/tree/plant growth: at this point we were tired, horses were tired, we were done! But not home yet, so we slogged on. We went through some water and up a bank, where Major stepped out of his boot. I jumped off, strapped it back on, and continued. I think he stepped on himself coming up the bank, he was tired too. A tiny bit further on, the same boot popped off. Damn! (haha, OK, I'm a nerd but that is funny, we were at the dam site!) I was too tired to readjust it, so just put it back on. Less than 500 feet from the staging area, the other boot came off. DONE! I was done. Both boots got strapped to the saddle and we finished barefoot.

Auburn canyon: dam site scar on the right, river in the middle.

We did manage a final tiny canter up the hill to the staging area water trough. Both horses got a good drink of water, and my SO was waiting with the trailer and cool drinks.  A very welcome sight! After untacking the horses there are hoses provided to wash them off. Major didn't appreciate it, and danced around like an idiot. At home he is fine, this water/hose/place combination is just different. Tied to the trailer Major was figity, though Friday was behaving himself. I was just tired, and not beyond bribery, so the horses got a grass-hay pellet mash and we stood in the shade, cold drinks in hand.

Major needed some convincing loading, not much, but something I'll review. It was great to get back to the stable, unload Major and put him away. He looked none the worse for wear, while I on the other hand/hoof have a big scratch on my arm from trees and some blackberry thorns embedded in my shirt. I think the trail would be better done in early spring (like we planned the first time) to miss the star thistle, blackberry and heat by the end of the ride. It was still a fun adventure: I tend to think all rides where I stay on top and no one is hurt (much) are good rides!

The boot losses at the end were annoying, but I know it is my error. I had loosened them a few weeks ago when he was due for a trim. Now that he is trimmed, they held on for most of the terrain, but once wet were just too loose. I haven't quite got them dialed-in perfectly yet, but still like his bright orange boots.

friday ride

Again disturbing Major's breakfast, we headed out to meet two friends. Scheduling conflicts and horse conflicts meant we hadn't ridden together in one and two years respectively! When I first had Major, my friend D had a very feisty older horse, which was not a good match for calm quiet learning trail rides. She now leases a nice gelding from my friend M, and we all headed out.

It turned into a really nice ride of everyone taking their turn in front, back and middle. Unless he is in the front, Major has crabby/bored ears. I'd say more bored, because they aren't layed back at another horse, more like sideways at irritation of not being in charge and resignation at his horrible state in life. No pity from me!

The other two horses, Sky and Zoe, have lots of trail experience, and we went up and down and around the forest with hardly an issue. Sky was a little crabby, but I told them my favorite saying of "deal with it." He'll learn crabbiness doesn't het him what he wants.

It was a shorter ride, but nice to be done before it got too hot. It was great that Major behaves like a nice grown-up horse, my friend even called him a gentleman! I don't think I'd go that far, but we all had fun.

bananas and turkey

Some random days are made for strange blog titles.

Major will eat almost anything, and I had read somewhere that many horses like bananas. I had a nice slightly-overripe one I took to his paddock this morning. He gladly looked up from his hay to sniff the sweet treat, and took a bite. The look on his face! Then banana projectile being spit out! He took a bite of hay to get the taste out of his mouth. Poor guy, but it was funny. I'll stick to carrots. (He also doesn't like watermelon, which every horse I've ever met loves, or peppermints, which we tried last Christmas with about a 50% success rate at the barn.)

On a short ride today my sharp-eyed friend spotted a pretty dark and white variegated feather. Her horse being black-and-white, it would be perfect for her indian princess costume. She mentioned it could be a turkey feather. Turkey feather! That does not match with my romantic preconceived notions of indian princess! It is supposed to be an eagle! Or at least a hawk! Damn. My feathers are probably turkey (or vulture) too. I was thinking if I kept collecting them I could make Major a feather necklace. Or I could actually do something productive and not be such an embarrassment to my horse.

friday ride

yellow-flowered meadow

Hot. Already at 7:30am. And Major wasn't very happy since breakfast had just been delivered. But I took him to the saddling area, put a bucket of hay in front of him, and he was fine. Tacked up and double-checked my boot fit. Major had a trim yesterday, and we have to always keep his toes nice and short, he tends to grow hoof that way. Boots seemed good, so we hit the trail.

Headed for the green gate, right past it a kamikaze deer jumped in the bushes right in front of us! It was too fast for Major to even react as it bounded down the trail, then veered left, the right, then into the field, looking back at us like we were chasing it. Just going the same direction deer! Thank goodness we ride horses and not deer, they are too damn quick! Those turns and spooks would be crazy!

3 oak knoll

Continuing on we headed for the lake. We were near the trail and I was hot. I'm sure Major was hot. No goal for today, not meeting or riding with anyone...screw it, we're staying in the forest. Major thought turning back meant we were going home, and got some extra spring in his step. But we just took random turns, found a little meadow dotted with yellow flowers, a neat oak peak with three oaks and a view, and some cool big feathers. Those I made Major wear, like a dork, I think it comes from my childhood desire to be an "indian princess." I know it is not PC, but I thought an indian princess was the best, it was a constant dress-up costume, with braided hair and indian symbols on my face (of Mom's lipstick!). I think I wore that as a Halloween costume for about four years. I think it would be great fun to dress up the horse too, so I kept those feathers!

silly horse wearing feathers

Staying in the forest does make me hate two things: poison oak and star thistle. Both are everywhere: in the shade the poison oak, in sunny patches the star thistle. The poison oak can be bush or vine, as tall as a rider on horseback, dangling from trees, just nasty. At least it is native and supposed to be there. The star thistle was introduced I think as cattle feed, but very little eats it, it stabs the horses as they walk along, leaving little needles in their legs. Bad stuff, and while I try to avoid it, in some places the trail is just too narrow. I apologize to Major as he winces along: ow, ow, ow!

We didn't stay out long, and came back in time to say good luck to friends heading off to an endurance ride at Lake Almanor. My friend is nervous on her green horse (as I would be!) and kept suggesting she should take Major instead, Mr. Calm. I think he would be a mess with all the other horses and general craziness, he's just calm at home because he's used to it!

weeding the arena

Back home Major helped weed the arena (he loves the purslane plant that grows beneath the jumps) and finally got to eat the rest of breakfast. At 9:30am, and getting hotter.

anniversary

Two years ago I bought Major and we started our partnership. There have been ups and downs: physically, emotionally, and trail elevation! The last year has been a major leap, I think we both have a level of trust that just wasn't there before. I'm looking forward to more new adventures: to more horse camping, trailering to fun places, some longer trail rides, maybe getting brave enough to accomplish a limited-distance endurance ride. I know each new adventure will stress the partnership, bring new concerns and situations to deal with. Sometimes not necessarily the ones I want to (or can) deal with. But we'll get through it. We're up for the adventure.

careful with blackberries

I'm not too sure about these blackberry things...

I'll watch Mom to see how she does it...

ow, pokey! my nose! but, hmmm, yum?

I think I've got it, and they are Yummy!

Yeah, some blackberry slobber, so what?

Are there more over there? What? I have blackberry lipstick? That's ok, I love them!

friday ride

This ride was the same trail as my solo fast ride, but now with added friends! Riding alone is great for horse and human, and riding with friends is great too. I like having a balance and doing both, and I think it is really good for Major to understand different behavior and riding styles.

Heading up the road were Major, Friday and Dune. Friday and Major are buddies, but Dune doesn't come out too much with us. He can be a handful, but I knew his mom was up to the the challenge, if someone just challenged her! We have all been there: a bit scared to push to the next level because our horse bucks/spins/spooks/goes too fast/insert problem here. I have done this through many situations with Major, as has Friday’s mom Christie. We also know the only way to get past the problem is to address it, hopefully in a controlled situation.

So we started trotting, and told Dune to deal with it, to keep up, and when the horses are kept moving they can't do much else. Major was in the front and his trotting speed keeps Dune very busy! We kept trotting even over the wooden bridge, slowed for rocks, but just kept going. We did all change places from time to time, and pretty quickly we were at the pond, where we all wandered down to the water to get a drink/stare at boats. We did continue on a bit to the Mormon Ravine bridge, where the water was really rushing underneath. It really unnerves Major, but after some tap-dancing across the bridge, we got across (just look straight ahead, we ARE going across, deal with it.) Going back across was less tap-dancing, and we walked along the lake shore, watching the fisherman on the other side of the ravine (and seeing a giant fish swimming on our side!).

There is a lovely spot for a snack break, where the horse got a few carrots and we got granola bars (Major got a bite of mine). After that it was back in the saddle for the ride home. This was going to be more of a challenge, because of course we are now going home, and all the horse want to move faster. But they were still OK with Major in the lead (I can certainly slow him down, but he loves his fast trot). We were able to move out pretty well, in a few places I even let Major do the BIG trot, but it really is too fast for most of this trail. Only once did Dune need me to slow down, and when we finally paused at the top of a hill, everyone was happy, and there was no silliness in horses or scared people. That is a successful ride!

elevation change on this ride, more than 1500 feet of up and down!

At the top of that hill it suddenly seemed super hot! We could go home the way we came, a bit longer, or shortcut home. We all looked at each other, and everyone agreed on the shortcut! The only problem with the shortcut is the blackberry bushes try to grab you, and ouch! So after dodging them for a bit I remembered my handy multi-tool with clippers, and both Major and Dune did some trail clearing. Friday got to follow in our cleared-out wake, and while we paused anyone not with clippers got to eat the delicious berries. At a point we all dismounted, and ate our way along the trail.

scary thing ahead!

We have to walk along the road a bit, with no shoulder or horse path. There are always good obstacles to encounter, and Major was in the lead, power walking home, when a monster behind some trees made him pause. He had his head-high snorty look, and I had to capture it, because it was so silly. We walked another 5 feet and he saw the man with the lawn-clippings bag, and just walked past (Major says: There was nothing scary, I wasn’t scared, what are you talking about? I was just posing!).

All the horses really seemed to have a good time, and by extension their people did as well. I know how hard it is to be the person who is being “pushed” into the situation, but I also know that is good for you in the long run (like eating your vegetables). Trotting along, not being able to worry, to just live in the moment and deal with the situation and push though it, will teach you more than any arena exercise. Those exercises have their place, but there is then the practical application that needs to be experienced.

clean and shiny...for now

My old trainer had quite a collection of sayings, and every lesson she’d go through the litany. Sometimes it got pretty repetitive, and we’d get tired of the stories. But she had spent a lot of time with horses, and most of them ring pretty true. The one for this situation: The horse will live up to, or down to, your expectations.

fast and slow

watching the boats

I took a solo fast ride to Avery pond. We followed a couple other riders for a bit. Major pulled, but with nowhere to go he did finally settle in. We did pass them at a hill, Major was just traveling faster. We left them behind with no worry from Major, and continued on. At the lake Major stood in the water and enjoyed the view, even while a fisherman yelled “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink!” Never heard that before...but at least the guy was pleasant! Major doesn’t like the trough at the pond, no idea why. Most other troughs he is fine with, but the little rock trough with clear-running stream water is not appealing (?). He’d rather drink the muddy water by the lakeshore...who can understand a horse’s reasoning?! Major did think we should go home really fast, but he is now so good about slowing for rocks, downhills etc, I can really trust him on this trail. In a few places he does need reminding to take a breather, but then we have a nice swinging walk home.

A couple days later we joined friend Ziggy for a slower evening ride to Granite Bay. The ride there Major led most of the way, Ziggy is in training for an endurance ride and needs to work on being behind another horse. We kept it at a trot, Major really wanted to canter in a few places but I told him he was supposed to set a good example, and cantering is just too much for Ziggy right now! Ziggy is much better than the last time (when even I felt sorry for Major for having to put up with the idiot.) Coming home we took it slow, as Ziggy also has to learn to behave himself going home. It is nice to see Ziggy improving so much, and it really makes me see how far I really have come with Major. I remember the rides of all jigging, all the time. Of course we still have our moments, but they are much shorter, or can be handled with more ease. It is also so nice to be out at 8pm, 80 degrees, still light out, and just walking your horse though the forest towards home, everyone enjoying the evening.

camping: day two and three

I didn’t get much sleep, I needlessly worried about the horses, and woke a few times to shine my flashlight at them, I’m sure they were completely annoyed (“Hey, we're sleeping here!). But both horses laid down in the night, ate most of the hay, and were much more awake than the humans in the morning. The campsite is pretty close to the road, and the logging trucks all night were tough to sleep through. I’m used to true silence all night, but after some breakfast and hot chocolate, I was revived.

these woods are lovely, dark and deep...

We really wanted to do a long all-day ride, maybe to a destination, eat lunch, come home. I was in charge of navigating, but the maps we had and bad trail signage made me nervous about finding the right trail. So a couple shorter rides would have to do. On our first ride of the day we thought we’d try a different trail, maybe something on the map, even though we knew it wasn’t accurate. The Omega trail sounded intriguing, and after a fun charge up the hill, we found the trail! For awhile. Then we ended up on a super-rocky access road. Major had his boots on but Friday is barefoot, so that is no fun (and not even if your horse had shoes on, it was the big jagged-type of rock). Then we were lost again, but I had a better sense of where things were, so we wandered a bit, saw more random “trail” markings, and headed home for lunch...and a nap.

forest view

Our second ride of the day we thought about exploring, but remembered the rock experience then how nice some parts of the other trail were, so we went a similar trail to the first day. And this time cantered quite a bit, including Friday and Major neck-and-neck up the big canter hill. They were having so much fun (as were we) but when we asked them to slow down they listened nicely.

We also finally found some cell service. Phones don’t work in camp, so we both checked in at home, let them know we were alive, and said they couldn’t reach us, so don’t try calling back! I am admittedly addicted to my technology, but it was nice to have a break. (Of course, I did use the GPS and the tracking software, but that was much needed so we didn’t get lost!)

Back at camp the horses settled in, having a sloppy “trail mix” snack of beet pulp and timothy pellets. We were hungry and tired too, ate dinner and sat by the fire. I was overly happy at finding some vegetarian marshmallows, and burned a couple to a crisp (campfire marshmallows must be caught on fire). The same gooey/disgusting/yumminess I remember!

The horses eating happily, sleeping bag and tent extra comfy, I didn’t worry as much, even resisting bothering them with the flashlight.

Our last day. Camping for two nights is as much work as a week! With a better trail map (or a guide, or general directions) we could ride here for more days, but we were ready to go home. But not without one last (shorter) ride.

By this time I had a better sense of direction, so we went the opposite direction and when we came upon an access road with the trail splitting on the other side, we chose a good long canter up the road. It was really nice to find such a long stretch, I was able to canter all of it on a loose rein. I think the horses can get the silliness out in the beginning, see the long road ahead, and just settle in. Add more horses though and I’m sure that situation would change!

A wooded trail to the left looked intriguing, and we followed it along a ridge. It seemed to go higher and higher, I looked at the GPS, we were heading the right direction, just needed to get down into the canyon! But my sense of direction was rewarded, and an hour later we were back in camp to finish packing up. Both horses curiously watched us loading truck and trailer, a bit impatient as we didn’t give them any more hay. They got more hay to munch on for the trailer ride home, which was as we like it: uneventful. Major did whinny as Friday unloaded and we drove away, calling a few times, but back home was content with some green grass and a good roll in his paddock.

I was content to sleep in the next day! Horse camping was great fun, though tiring, and I can’t wait to find some other new places to explore.

camping: day one

Camping is fun. Horses are fun. Camping with horses is a lot of work!

Last week I set out with my friend and her horse Friday on my first camping with horses adventure. Also my first longer-haul with my trailer. I had my normal camping equipment and clothing, and then the horse stuff. ALL the horse stuff. The trailer dressing room fills up pretty quickly! I felt pretty confident with a good emergency kit (horse, human, trailer and truck). But making sure all the tack, feed, extra halters, carrots (can’t forget those!) blankets and random crap were all packed was a different story. Double checked it all, it will be much easier in the future now that the trailer is pretty well stocked.

We had a great plan to ride high in the beautiful Sierras. But the trails were iffy, and rangers hadn’t even been out. Rangers didn’t recommend it, with all the snow some trails were still buried, some lakes still frozen, and who knows about downed trees and other problems. So we went local and lower, Skillman Horse camp outside Nevada City.

The camp is small but very pretty, nicely shaded. The camp host was new and clueless, so we put up a highline but we could have used the corral (only a couple other sites were being used). I was a bit nervous about the highline, but Major has always tied fine, and there were no problems. (Aside from putting it up: remember to bring small ladder, standing on a bucket next to a tree while trying to tie knots is tough!)



The horses stood nicely while we set up camp (the rolling cooler was a bit scary for Friday) but we wanted to see the trails! So we got ready and headed out. We had a map, saw the trailhead, no problem! The horses were ready to go! Really ready. The first part of the trail is pretty steep uphill with switchbacks. Let the charge of the light brigade begin! (we did change it to just charge, since the actual Light Brigade didn’t turn out so well for the British)

The trail footing was great. A few rocky places but much of the trail is under pine trees with soft pine needles and everything smelled wonderful. There were steep drop-offs into the forested canyon, and curving trails through blooming ceanothus. Dogwoods and azaleas were in bloom but I don’t have many trail photos, we were going too fast! There were lots of wonderful places to trot, and fun cantering along a curving trail. One fun cantering hill had the horses going as fast as I’ve ever ridden. Both Major and Friday were amazingly well behaved, being in a new place with new trails, no silly spooks, just a willingness to explore.

And explore we did, because we quickly realized the trail map was completely useless! We came up a trail, there was a fire road, and three trails branching off: all marked with an arrow and “trail.” Not very helpful. The map had names for the trails, but we found nothing indicating that. My GPS didn’t show the trails either, but the compass and tracking feature ended up being invaluable. Coming home one large mud puddle stymied them both, 3 inches of clear water, had they forgotten all our mud-slogging all winter? I finally got Major through, we were less than 100 feet from camp at that point!


Back home the horses enjoyed exploring every water trough in the campsite, and were very good about drinking. We piled lots of hay to keep them occupied, filled a big nice (cool orange) bucket with water, and sat by the fire ourselves. We were tired.

brain freeze

The last few days have been exceedingly hot. And busy, so I haven't had a lot of time to spend with Major. Like any bad parent, last night I decided to bribe him to keep him happy. I made him a giant horse popsicle! I took a couple apples and some slightly-old baby carrots, put them in a bundt pan, added water (with some salt for good measure) and froze the whole thing.

At first he wasn't sure of this new thing. It was strange, but smelled like apples and carrots? The first couple of tastes were hilarious! I couldn't get a photo of it, but if a horse could get brain freeze, Major had it! He took a couple licks/bites, then raised his head quite high and funny. But it didn't dissuade him, and as I left he was happily licking away.

I have one other popsicle in the freezer. I've even thought of some other ways of creating this (like a layer cake effect). I think it is cool, tasty, adds needed salt and keeps them entertained for awhile. A perfect summer treat.

independence

Independence is being on the trail with your horse, meandering through trees, admiring the view, watching little quail burst like fireworks from along the trail.

Luckily Major doesn't mind the quail, or the numerous turkeys with their babies. Maybe he knows how Benjamin Franklin thought the turkey should be our national bird! I liked this excerpt from a letter Franklin wrote:
"For in Truth the Turkey is in Comparison a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America... He is besides, though a little vain & silly, a Bird of Courage, and would not hesitate to attack a Grenadier of the British Guards who should presume to invade his Farm Yard with a red Coat on."

nice lookout, but dead car below cliff

Luckily our turkeys are not that brave, and rarely stand their ground. Plus, by chasing them every chance we get I think it helps Major think they are not a concern.


We rode to a lovely lookout, where someone decided their independent action would be to dump a car off a cliff...I hope a turkey gets him.

But the trails were calling, so we continued on from the lookout. We were chasing our shadow all day, it looked very cool to be trotting along and seeing a silent partner. Anyone who rides "alone" knows that they are not..we are with our horses, as good partners and friends.

The ride today was short, we were both happy as we cantered the final forest trail, turning for home, ducking under a branch, crossing the creek, stopping for grass.

Happy Independence Day. Enjoy your horses and celebrate whatever way you like (and remember those who have and do protect our freedoms).

friday ride

finishing breakfast before the trail

It was going to be hot, so we got an early start. Saddled, bridled, booted, and off we headed into the forest. It is nice that some of the muddy trails are accessible again, so we descended Barking Dog Hill onto the Pioneer Express trail.

At every trail junction Major thought about turning for home, but a little leg and we continued on, toward Rattlesnake Bar. Major loves this part of the trail, and we trotted down the trail, curving through the rocks (catching a stirrup on them too, gotta have quick feet, glad for caged stirrups!). He didn't even hesitate at the first bridge, just kept trotting across. As we continued on we crossed two more bridges, the final one had something odd. This bridge has terrible handrails that could catch a rider right in the knee, so we go slow and careful. Looking down the stream is flowing, and the bridge seems to be...moving? And the dirt? Baby frogs! Everywhere! I felt so bad that we were probably squishing them!


We continued on, stopping at the lake for a drink/wade/scuba session. Major would have just walked right out and started swimming. This year the waves are no concern to him. I decided to explore rather than continue on. There is a trail that goes up to a huge power stanchion, alien-looking, 50 feet tall, that I've always wondered about. So we went that way. The trail follows the power lines, is pretty nice and open, at the top the trail forks. The left had a noisy power generator at the bottom, Major didn't seem to like the noise. I decided to fight that battle another day, and went right, down the hill, hooking back with the main trail, just farther on. A nice diversion, I'm sure we'll try it again, I think there might be other hidden trails in there, I know there used to be one for Avery Pond. Maybe good to explore when it isn't already 90 degrees at 10am.

A good (fast) return trip home. Got his great extended trot, faster than his trail canter, he just powers along, fun to see the GPS read 14mph trot! Summer rides in the heat can be pretty draining, so the plan will be to go early, even earlier than this. If I didn't ride on 95 degree days, there would be no riding most of the summer!

(wednesday) friday ride

Due to a weekend camping trip, I took my Friday ride on Wednesday. I dragged along my friend and her horse Friday, all on the hottest day of the year. We started out early, but getting ready we were already hot. It was very cute when I brought Major out, he visited with Friday, and they both started grooming each other. They are buddies!

The forest beckoned and was nice and cool. I wanted to try the same trail to Granite Bay, some fun spots I wanted to show off. The trail there wasn't too hot, and we had lots of fun trotting and cantering. And at the staging area the water was back on! Both horses thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Major is more of a scuba-diver: dunking his whole head in, spouting out water like a dolphin. Friday tried that: but got a nose-full of water and didn't enjoy it much. So instead he contented himself by just shaking his head back and forth, making nice frothy waves.

We did finally make them leave the trough, and continue on. After a super fun canter up a big hill, we walked down a steep, dry, dusty trail to a small beach paradise. The white sand, blue water, green trees, just beautiful. We were in Belize? Both horses were happy to get into the water, walk around, just enjoy. We would have really like to get off and jump in ourselves, but it was a long ride home, especially in wet clothes.

Heading home it just seemed to get hotter and hotter. About 10 miles in there is a long stretch on an upper trail, no trees, just scrub brush, and downhill, requiring walking. I think that sucked the last of our energy from us. The horses were fine, we were melting. We arrived in the forest and took the most direct trail home. Unfortunately I also got stung by a bee, but that was just uncomfortable, I was just ready to get home! We moved out where we could, the breeze of our movement keeping up cool.

Back home both horses enjoyed being cooled off and rolling in the arena. We were still hot and tired, but seeing them enjoying themselves is always rewarding. I love the summer rides, but would prefer maybe not 98 degrees, I'll settle for a cool 90 instead!

having patience: by Major

After all those nice rides, she puts my mane in braids? How do I explain THAT to the pulled-mane geldings in the pasture? I just can't stand for this picture, it's too embarrassing...actually, maybe it is quite fetching?

I'll just stand here very patiently where she put me. I finished my carrots, I think she's gone to get more? I hear her inside, but I can't see! I'm being patient...a good boy like she said...

Maybe if I move closer, nope, I'm supposed to stay here! This is so hard! I just can't stand waiting anymore! Oh, here she come, more carrots!

rock trail

I only wanted to see if Barking Dog hill trail was open yet. When that is available I can make a nice loop, which I prefer to out-and-back. And it's open, and has had some trimming done, much appreciated! Major thought it looked different and a bit worried, but when no monsters came out, we moved along.

I was going to turn left at the bottom of the hill, but went, "Hmmm, rock trail, haven't done that for awhile, how bad could it be?" Really, I need to learn to listen to myself a bit more. I was just thinking after the ride on Friday that a short technical trail would be good. Now all the trails are pretty technical around here, not a fire road or much open space to be seen. The trail had more open spots than I remember, though they do drop off right into the lake. Major thought trotting should be fine: just a straight trail, right? That drop-off was pretty close though! It was intermitently shady, I was thinking this wasn't so bad.

the trail goes behind the big rock, very cool

Then the staircases came. Up and down rock staircases, some reinforced with wood, others just a scramble up rocks and more rocks. Then down rocks and more rocks. All out in the exposed sun, with poison oak limbs grabbing at me. I revised my opinion. The worst part of the trail is only two miles, but now I remember why we all avoid this part. Just not fun!

can't see the dropoffs here

I did take a slight shortcut home, and left the trail about a half mile before the normal forest access. It was still a bit wet on the beginning of the cutoff, but after that it is good footing, and I let Major move out, cantering up the hill until we get to the decapitating tree. It is just high enough for the horse and tack, but not the person, to fit underneath. I slow down way before it, in case Major gets any ideas, and go around to the left. The tree fell this winter, and it isn't going anywhere, luckily it is towards the end of the nice canter hill.

A quick ride of only an hour, but hard on the horse, with all that tough footing and the warmth of the day. That is the kind-of trail that makes you realize you've got a good trail-savvy horse!

friday ride

Wow! A really great ride! I planned for a quick ride pretty early to beat the heat. Best laid plans and all that, and didn't get on the trail till almost 10:30.

On the trail, we tried out the pre-winter quickest way to the Granite Bay access...still some pretty scary boggy parts. Those will dry, but the 4-wheelers have ruined the trail. More 4-wheel crap when I saw that one of them tried to drive through Mandy's Cutoff, knocking down a fence (had to be so careful, barbwire in the area). So stupid, there is no where for them to go, the State Park f**king lake is right there! Hope they drive off a cliff...

But on a better note, Major was really behaving himself, we were moving as fast as the trail allows (so many rocks and dropoffs, but some smooth parts). He was deciding himself, a second before I asked, to slow when appropriate, so I also let him choose sometimes when to speed up. So far everything on a totally loose rein, really nice.

At Granite Bay there was no water. We'd only gone 5 miles, but it was warm. The tank isn't just turned off (EHV1 scare), but gone! I can see what might be another soon-to-be water trough, hopefully soon with this heat. I decided things were doing so well to continue on. I hadn't been past that point in awhile, but the trail was great, we were able to canter a lot. Crossing the entrance road the trail merges with an all-access trail. We stopped while two cyclists went by, then chased them up the hill. It's a big hill, it was great fun to canter up the whole thing, passing the bikes and emerging on top with an amazing view of the lake and dam.

The bikes made their way up, where they mentioned that relations between horses and cyclists seemed to be better. I am glad to hear that. I really think a few bad apples in each group were spoiling it for everyone. I headed down the hill, they went the other way. I thought about the beach, but it was full sun and warm, so headed home.

A nice canter on a side road lets you bypass going down the same big hill. Heading home I got the same great behavior. We did stop at the pond for water, but Major just looked around and snorkeled a bit. Came home a slightly different way, I wanted to avoid the mud, and I love this one loopy roller-coaster trail.

The final meadow is turning brown, but still really pretty. I did think that cutting through on the middle trail would be safe, and it was, but still some boggy parts! I have never seen marsh grasses in the meadow, but this year it has plenty, and still mushy. Not much trail to be seen, but did see a complete deer skeleton...Major didn't notice, we were heading home!

At home I stripped off the tack and Major got a good bath. I turned him out to roll and hosed off my sweaty tack (love biothane!). I did this ride with front boots (and no boot failures, I think I'm getting this down), which I hosed off but are full of foxtails. I'll spend one evening picking those out of Velcro!

I am really pleased with the success of this ride. I felt like we were a good team, each making decisions, respecting the other. I also feel much more secure this year allowing Major to canter on trail. He's proven himself incredibly surefooted, and is more consistently making better choices. I was considering last year how he always seemed so fast, I could never let him go. I realize now that I am just comfortable with his speed, not that he is any slower! My old trainer used to say it took a year of consistent riding to know your horse. I think it has taken me longer, but hopefully I'm getting there.

not complaining

Really trying hard not to complain. But 70-75 degrees to 95 in a couple days...come on! A little transition would have been nice, but again, skip Spring go directly to Summer.

Rode Wednesday, which happened to be the hottest day of the year. I was melting, but thought the cool walk in the forest shade would be nice. Went with a friend, both horses were happy to be out and a bit full of it. I was a bit worried about the temperature spike on them (let alone me!), but coming for home both horses didn't even notice as we steered them up a big hill to get some energy out.

Major was sweaty but not bad, Friday was dripping sweat. I learned that even if really hot I need to wear my half-chaps. My leg got all sweaty and gross from the horse, branches kept grabbing me and leathers are not very comfy. Once we all adjust to the weather, 95 will be downright cool!

just being a horse

Today when I arrived at the ranch the horses were having a lot of fun. While doing yardwork the gate was left open to another large pasture, and Major and his friend had to investigate. Major, even though low-man in herd dynamics, instigates most of these adventures. He wasn't scared to squeeze by the quad and downed tree limbs, and the other followed. I got to watch them buck and fart around, dashing here and there, the light-weight fine Arab playing with the heavy (but beautifully light on his feet) warmblood. They were having so much fun I just let him be. Just being a horse.

Now the chainsaw is going and logs are being thrown into a trailer about 30 feet away. And he's just eating the newly-found pasture grass, happy.

I'm moving him into a different pasture, which has it's up and down sides. At the barn there are 2 options: small pasture with 3 horses and night in a small paddock, or a private pasture where he'll be out all the time. I'm going to try the small private pasture for a couple reasons. In the summer riding early in the morning is essential. I'll be able to take him out even if he hasn't finished breakfast and he won't have to go back into the small paddock to finish eating when we get back. Another reason is just having room to move around 24-7. If he wants to wander around in the night, or stand in the rain, he can do that. The bad part is not being turned out with others to play with. He'll be next to other horses, but can't interact directly. But he doesn't play much with his current pasture mates, they gang up on him and he is usually grazing alone. Changing practices is always hard, but I reserve the right to admit I'm wrong and change again. I think he'll be happier wandering around as much as he likes.

In a perfect world Major would live in a huge pasture with compatible friends, some grass (but not too much), safe fencing, amazing trail access and no mud, ever. There would be slow-feeders and a stream and good gravel for his feet. I'd have a heated tack room, covered arena and a permanent awesome trainer to help me. I imagine lots of people would join me wanting the same thing! It's always a compromise when you board (and even if they're kept at home), and I hope the new change is worthwhile.

two quick rides

obligatory ear shot

The sun is finally out, the weather has warmed, and now all I want to do is ride. Work to pay bills? No way! But alas it has to be. I've been able to ride after work, and it has been lovely.

I did a quick 30 minute ride the other night, and forgot how much fun you can have in just a little time. We trotted and cantered all over the place (avoiding the new mud bogs from the last rain, soon they'll be dry). Major was in a good mood, and I pretty much let him choose. I think that is a delicate balance, and there are days when I have to guide every step, but then there are days where we're quite a team. We just rode for 26 minutes, covered 3.23 miles, average speed 7.3. On my trails that is moving pretty good, all the single track can be tough to manuever, and remembering to duck is paramount!

lover's trees

Last night we headed a different direction. Major's ears perked up...we've been this way many times, but not for awhile. We went by the Lover's trees (I've pictured them before, but they're just two amazing intertwined oaks) and up to a lookout point. I can't believe that I don't know the name for this spot, I'll have to find out. It is a good spot for photos, and we stood on the rock and took an obligatory ear shot. I was going to stop here but continued on another half mile to a pond. I did look this one up, it doesn't have a name on the map, but it is quite pretty. Major was totally enthralled. We stood in the water, he just keep gazing out, there were fish jumping and also near our feet. It was a nice, quiet spot. All I could hear was the breeze, a few birds and frogs, and our breathing.

peaceful at the pond

After about five minutes we headed for home, at a fast but controlled trot. We got to the trail we call Mandy's cutoff, and Major picked up a canter. The trail uphill has lots of twists and turns, so I didn't think the canter was a good idea. I asked him to slow, he slowed to a really nice slow controlled canter, and while I should have asked for the trot again, I let him try it. I thought after a quick corner he'd break back to a trot. Instead I got a canter though a corner, switch leads, canter corner, switch leads, canter corner, switch leads. I had no idea he could even do that! I certainly do not school in the arena on leads (though I should, I know!), and while we pick up both leads on trails this was quite cool! I am not going to make it a habit of letting him canter tight corners, but this experiment turned out OK, and let me see how athletic he is.

Charging up the hill we came down to a walk, as there is a tree trunk that will grab your knee if you're not super careful (and barb wire off trail, and a branch to whack your head on, it is a tricky spot). The rest of the way home was more sedate, but he was very hot and sweaty after this ride. We'll have to acclimate to this temperature (that should have been a month ago!).

He got hosed off (not his favorite thing) and to roll in the arena (that part is ok) and to eat grass (the best part for him). It was a fun day, for us both, and that is the best part for me.

friday rides: year 2

I have Friday's off for the next few months. So here I begin the second year of Friday rides:

I can't take it anymore! I had a weekend free for riding, and it rained...in June...again. Average temperature 87...this weekend 65.

I had a nice ride on Friday, with a friend on her horse Friday (love Friday on Friday rides). We headed out to Avery Pond and beyond, crossing all the scary bridges, with lots of fun trotting. Cantering (away from home!) over at Rattlesnake Bar, both horses leading or following. Major is fine following Friday, though he does make crabby ears and would rather be in the lead, but needless to say he doesn't get to choose.

He did get to be extra stupid a couple times, including one time I can't figure out at all. At Avery Pond just on the regular trail he thought he saw something and backed up 5-6 steps....and not paying attention there was a drop off and he had to scramble to stay on the trail! And then walked right past the area like there was nothing. He did mange to cut his leg (probably with his other hoof, or a rock) but it is not bad.

He also tried the backing-up evasion at the bridge of death (Mormon Ravine). He didn't succeed, and we rode over the bridge a couple times for practice. It isn't the bridge he dislikes, I think it is the sound of water rushing underneath it. He started in with the tap-dancing, but I just pushed him across. Friday was such a good boy, and didn't seem to flinch at all! Always good to have two horses have sane and silly moments at opposite times.

Coming home our speed was almost 2 mph faster, over pretty tough terrain. Major was doing his top-speed trot, which Friday had a hard time keeping up with, so we worked on halting and waiting, then when Friday caught up trotting again. I think it was good for Major to practice being patient. They both had fun blasting to the top at the last staging area, but settled right down. Good ponies!

looking cute, except for the June MUD I didn't brush off...

Hoping for more good rides, and that the weather clears up. Sunday kept threatening rain, and Major's leg was a bit swollen (though not hot or sore or lame) from his cut. So we walked it off (after hiking the edema was gone). While hiking we ran into friends out on the trail, everyone just glad to be out! Major got to eat among the poppies while their horses stared enviously...

I hope to fit some rides in this week, and that the trails aren't too mucky after another half inch of rain last night! Current gray skies and wind do not bode well...

This coming Friday I'll be attending Horse Expo and not riding. I'll miss the trails but I'll hopefully learn a lot (and not buy too much)!

smile

Some days just make you smile. The sun was finally out, and there were fluffy white clouds in blue skies. I thought about riding, but I'm riding in the morning, so decided to take Major on a hike. At first he was a little reluctant: leaving home when dinner was coming soon! But we walked down the road and into the forest, finding some yummy grass along the way. Then he was reluctant to leave the grass!

We headed up an unused horse trail, it's overgrown since some limbs block the trail for riding, but hiking is OK. About halfway up I heard a sound, and turned trying to pinpoint it. It sounded like squirrels scrambling up the bark of a tree. I looked around, and up to a large pine tree about 20 feet away...where two baby bears were clinging! Mama bear had to be somewhere, but we didn't stick around to find out. Major didn't notice anything, but I hiked really fast to the top of the hill and back down Beginner's hill to leave the area. If I'd been riding I'd have felt safer, but a mama bear with cubs on the ground is not something to mess with.

Hiking towards home we took a few more grass breaks, Major was happy to be out, and me too! The trails aren't too wet from the recent rains, and we just meandered around, my favorite kind of hike. Heading up a hill towards home, there are some big rocks. I taught Major to stand there while I got on right when I first got him. I climbed the rock, he stood there, we do this all the time when hiking. But his eager ears and glistening coat just called to me. Yes, I knew I only had a halter, and no helmet, and it was dumb. But I climbed on and he stood nicely, and we walked off. I haven't ridden bareback for awhile, I'd almost forgotten feeling the strength of the horse, but Major walked along, behaving himself, taking care of me. He was striding out with his power walk home, and I just had a smile on my face. We crossed the meadow and the creek before I hoped off for the road back.

Gold star for the day, gold star for Major. Sometimes it is the simple things that make you remember why you love your horse.

is it summer yet?

Winter does not seem to want to leave! The weather hasn't been that bad...for February! Cold and windy, rain showers, hail storms, not what is expected in almost June! But I'm just about fed up with it, and so is Major, so Saturday I saddled up Major and we went out, despite thickening gray clouds.

Plus I had to make it up to Major. The poor guy has spent the last couple rides out with my friends green horse, who has been a monster. Major is so sick of that fire-breathing dragon on his tail. Last time Major couldn't take it anymore and kicked...but won't be trying that again after his reprimand. While it is a good experience to be out with many different personalities of horses, I could tell Major was at a breaking point. I don't blame him!

an actual picture of us both!

The first 2 miles I did with my SO hiking along, Major thinks it great fun to follow his "herdmate" and would like to chase him down the hills. Not an option, so we catch up on the flats and uphills. The trails are in pretty good shape, and we had fun moving along. I split and we went farther along. Major seemed very happy to be out, wasn't pulling, just trotting when asked, and some cantering over on the wider park roads.

gray skies, but pricked ears heading home

Heading home Major was a bit excited. Amazing how the same small mud puddle he HAD to try and step around on the way out became no big deal as we trotted through it coming home. The burned log that gets the evil eye is now not a bear, just something to fly by. We did have to have some discussions about not cantering through rocks, and he did finally behave enough to take the shortcut trail. It is a great parallel trail that has had some storm damage and downed trees for awhile, but SO to the rescue and it is now pruned and ready for summer...if it ever gets here.

photo shoot

Since we're not hitting the trails much (EHV-1 self-imposed quarantine) I took Major for a walk just around the property. The sky was beautiful blue, he looked pretty, so I tried to set him up for some conformation photos, he didn't exactly cooperate...

 

 "My mom just wants me to stand here...I think I'll wander off to the grass since she isn't paying enough attention to me..." 

Oh, such an attractive photo...could his head look any uglier?

 

 "What? Why am I standing here? What do you have in your hand?"

  

"But I have an itch, right here, and must scratch it right now"

Sigh...at least he looks shiny...