Horsing Around

Hi Blog Friends!
Just wanted you all to know that I'm sorry I've been missing visiting everyone's blogs, but ever since the Dr. scared me on Thursday, about another possible surgery, I've been totally focused on doing my physical therapy exercises dutifully at home, and trying to push through the pain getting my knee to flex more every day. I'm getting so frustrated realizing that my body is just not doing what I want it to do. My knee gets to a certain point and then just doesn't want to move/bend anymore. So, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers still. I'd really appreciate them.
And I'll try to get caught up on all your wonderful blog updates throughout the week.

On Sunday, my neighbor friend Val~aka~Fiona, of Fantastyk Voyage blog called and asked me if I'd like for her to exercise my mare and work her in the arena. Of course, I said, "Sure!". Baby Doll hasn't been more than a pasture pet for the past 6 weeks, so I was very happy that my dear friend offered to work my girl. Val has 3 horses of her own to care for, exercise and ride so it means so much to me that she'd take time out to help me with my painted pony, too.

She brought Baby Doll down from the barn and I went out on our loft balcony to say hello before they headed for her arena.


Val invited my girl to stretch her legs and kick up her heels, which Baby Doll joyfully did.
I love this picture, not only is my horse running and having fun, but my buddy, Val has this beautiful smile on her face, too. (Click photo for larger view)
Val and I cheered Baby Doll and encouraged her to run. It was so awesome to see my mare having so much fun out there, tail up in the air, mane blowing, and feet flying.
Is there anything more beautiful than a running horse?
And look at my happy horse running barrels all on her own. hehe

Doesn't she have a pretty trot?
Here's she's winding down a bit finally.
It made me smile when my painted pony ran towards my direction as I cheered her on from my balcony.

Then it was time to saddle up, and I grabbed my crutches and made my way out to the arena to watch, visit Baby Doll and chat with Val.
Val worked on getting Baby Doll to bend her neck, be responsive to the bit, stop quickly, and transition to a trot smoothly. Baby Doll tends to jump/lunge into a trot and it feels like riding a jackhammer when she starts out.
I was really impressed with my horse's willingness to work, too. She never kicked out or gave Val any crowhops or small bucks. She still didn't like moving into a trot, though, and let us know with her flat ears. lol!
Val and Baby Doll worked well together, though. And I enjoyed sitting in my camp chair while watching her ride my mare.
I also enjoyed chatting with Val and visiting with Baby Doll, who wasn't bothered by my crutches, like she was by my walker.

After the arena work we thought it would be great for Val to take Baby Doll for a ride around the neighborhood.
Val said that Baby Doll got a little nervous when she walked near the area where my wreck happened back in December. Baby Doll's got a very good memory, so we'll have to work on moving her past that nervousness over the next couple months.
It was just so wonderful seeing my mare get some exercise and be ridden. Baby Doll seemed to enjoy herself, too. Thank you Val!

From the Tower of,