Shella and I
took the time then to set up the "easy-up" next to the van for added shade
and tied the dogs out while we worked and for a short break. Then I wandered off to check on the availability
of a wrangler's horse and to check with Kita. Kita had said that I could
ride her green two year old, Joe, if I wanted. She had led her niece about
on him previously, but he had not really been ridden before. I checked
with her and yes that was really ok. I tried my dressage saddle on Joe and
from the ground it seemed an ok fit. I led him about a bit and a tad impatient, I had someone head him as I mounted while Kita was still off scouting
for another brace. He was stressed that he couldn't find is mom, obviously
did not really understand direct rein completely much less indirect rein
and was all and all a complete baby with a good mind and sweat disposition.
I decided to
walk him in hand until that brace (with his Mom, Jenny) returned. I led
him in circles around Shella and Kukui. Kukui barked bravely, but was really afraid of Joe if we got too close. We circled
Shella and Kukui several times and Kukui began to relax - then we quit while were ahead. When I could see Kita as almost back, I re-mounted
Joe (with Marge holding him). Kita was pleased to see him under saddle.
We rode the following brace with Joe in dolphin "baby position" - basically
head and shoulders at his Mom's flank, touching or almost touching. We
had a few
discussions about letting his Mom in front when the mesquite did not
allow two through at once. Overall he was very sweet if silly at times.
At one point he tried to follow a different mare. It was then that I learned
that he was not gelded and that the mare of interest was in season. We
tried to keep our distance after that.
At the very last bit,
there was a dirt truck track and we practiced walking in the other tire
track from Mom. Joe was not keen on the idea, but did relax and walk nicely. Joe has a nice natural running
walk of a Tennessee walker and was a joy to ride - for those who like to
play with puppy horses.
The black & white colt with Kita is Joe and his mom, Jenny is the chesnut in the background.
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