"Wherever you are, be all there." - Jim Elliot Riding brings us into the present moment. It is very difficult to focus on a jump course if we are thinking about work, or school, or all the groceries we need. Even just being around horses on the ground requires a certain level of focus. Riding has always been my …
Tag: horse riding
Off Days
Yesterday, I had the day off of work. After a crazy busy week last week, and a crazy past few months, I felt that taking a Tuesday off of work was a fabulous idea. So, how did I begin my day? Like most equestrians, I rode. I was up at 6am to get out to …
Sweet Summertime
Summer is my favorite time of year. Life always seems to slow down a little. I love feeling the hot Texas sun on my back, and jumping into some kind of water - whether it is the ocean or a lake, or a pool - to cool off after a hot day outside. Pool parties …
When It Rains
When the weather will not cooperate with riding plans, it is beyond frustrating. Texas is having its own monsoon season. So. Much. Rain. Yesterday, it cleared off in the afternoon so after a busy workday I was more than ready for a ride in the evening. I headed out to the barn, tacked Chance up, was …
Working Without Stirrups
Perfect practice makes perfect. - George Morris Working without stirrups is so incredibly beneficial for our riding. It may not be fun, but it strengthens our legs, stabilizes our position, and allows us to really feel the horse. I once had a trainer who made me flat without stirrups every time I rode for a …
Sitting Still
When my horses are lame or sore I immediately give them a few days off. If that does not help, the vet comes out. I am always very conscious about my horses' physical well-being. One horse I had got regular massages and chiropractic adjustments. And I always make sure that they have adequate time off. …
All Mine
There really is nothing quite like owning a horse. I got my first horse when I was fifteen. At twenty, I found myself without a horse and with no way to buy one. I started catch riding, and eventually got riding jobs. For a few years, I exercised and trained horses along with teaching riding lessons. …
Update
Some of you have asked how Chance is doing since I posted a bit about his body soreness a while ago. He is doing great and fully back to work! It turned out that neither of my saddles fit him quite right. He never acted like his back was sore and it seemed to fit him …
Almost Time
Our show year should begin in a few weeks at a small schooling show near the farm, so long as the weather cooperates. I am looking forward to getting back in the ring. Chance has shown more and more potential each year. Our difficulties last year were because of me - my terrible nerves and anxiety at …
All You Need is Love
Horses are truly fascinating creatures. They have been used by humans for centuries in war, farming, transportation, and now in recreation. They are hard workers and lovable companions. They are beautiful and strong. Intelligent and spirited. I suppose these are some of the reasons why I have been fascinated with horses since I was a …
Laurel Ashton Equestrian 