Saturday, February 28, 2009
Big show day today! I am going now to go beautify Degas (though he is always beautiful - but he does need braids)He loved going to the show grounds yesterday, he had a lot of energy. We went over for some coaching. We are trailering in each day because we are only 20 min from the show grounds. Walking around the show, I couldnt help but notice that Degas was almost as tall as some of the palm trees!We had a good session. Chris is really impressed with how much he has developed even since the fall.One of my friends who is at the stable (she is from Virginia), came over to watch the lesson. She commented on how nice Degas pirouettes were.... this really pleased me because we have really been working on them.
Palm Beach Dressage Derby
Degas after his bath and getting ready for braiding. He is being a bit of a pill as I think you can see in his expression - he knows something is going on. And he can't wait to get there!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
First show in 2 days!
My times this weekend are Friday @ 2:19, the Prix St George, and on Saturday @ 3:56 the Intermediare I. Thank you everybody for all of your inspiration and well wishes!!!
and of course the special reminder from Judi.. put on the blush and lipstick (her going away gift).
Lawrence of Arabia!!!!!
My times this weekend are Friday @ 2:19, the Prix St George, and on Saturday @ 3:56 the Intermediare I. Thank you everybody for all of your inspiration and well wishes!!!
and of course the special reminder from Judi.. put on the blush and lipstick (her going away gift).
Lawrence of Arabia!!!!!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
First lesson with Chris
I had my first lesson with Chris Monday. We worked on exercises to keep Degas connected through the canter pirouettes - this also helped in the half pass work. We also worked through the new Int 1 trot work, and did some exercises which will help to increase my points here. As always, proper gymnastic work and use of the exercises, helps you to control the finer details when it comes to riding the test movements.So after requesting goals from all of my students while I am gone, I have my own goals this week in preparing for the big show day?. FRIDAY!Saw something today I have never seen before? you can buy salt blocks, electrolytes and fly spray in the grocery store!!!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Welcome Back to White Fences
Sunday was another great day.
I attended the Welcome Back to White Fences Show.
Actually, the show was quite similar to shows in our area.
I met Chris there, and we set up our first lesson for Monday, so we will let you know how that goes.
Later, I was invited to an Art Show, hosted by Gisela Pferdekamper, who established White Fences . It was a great event with a lot of horse people, beautiful art, and beautiful animals.
See the attached photos of visitors from Busch Gardens.
Oh, and how could I forget?.I had my first pilates lesson today. I went to an instructor who Betsy Steiner recommended. It was a great session, and something I obviously need to keep up with!
Anne Gribbons
Saturday was another exciting day. I drove 3 hours with Andreas Stano, the executive director of DressageClinic.com. He was filming Anne Gribbons for his website.
We had a wonderful day watching Anne ride and teach.
She was also a wonderful hostess. At the end of the day I enjoyed as she gave us a tour of the photos in her office. She talked about each horse in the photo, it was great to have an insight into some of these famous horses.
She also had a cool quote in her office:
"The quality of a person?s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence regardless of their chosen field of endeavor."
Wow, I can't believe so much has happened in 3 days!
First of all, with an impending birthday coming up, I have to share 2 big compliments. Especially since the week before I left, Hilary was teasing me about my "experience".
Yesterday someone told me that I looked like a little girl on such a big horse. Now 20 years ago, this may not have been so complimentary, but now, I'll take it!
And today, as I was filling up on diesel, a man was asked me what gas mileage I got "on that big truck". After telling him, I commented on how much I loved driving it anyway, and he said " yea, that was nice of your Daddy to let you take it out for the night!"
Ok, the last few days have been action packed! On Friday I got to see Michael Barisone and Juan Matute coaching some top riders. Michael gave a lot of great insight into riding the Grand Prix test, as well as several great exercises for strengthening the horse through half steps. There was also a technique for making a half halt which I tried on Degas today I think it will be very useful.
Juan Matute was also very interesting to watch. I found the most interesting thing was the in hand work. He asked the rider to get off, and he did piaffe work in hand. You could see the horse immediately feel confidence in Juan. When the rider was on, as soon as Juan took the reins, and whip as if he were working in hand, you could see the horse become immediately more confident and secure. It was very interesting to see how Juan used his hands in this work.
First of all, with an impending birthday coming up, I have to share 2 big compliments. Especially since the week before I left, Hilary was teasing me about my "experience".
Yesterday someone told me that I looked like a little girl on such a big horse. Now 20 years ago, this may not have been so complimentary, but now, I'll take it!
And today, as I was filling up on diesel, a man was asked me what gas mileage I got "on that big truck". After telling him, I commented on how much I loved driving it anyway, and he said " yea, that was nice of your Daddy to let you take it out for the night!"
Ok, the last few days have been action packed! On Friday I got to see Michael Barisone and Juan Matute coaching some top riders. Michael gave a lot of great insight into riding the Grand Prix test, as well as several great exercises for strengthening the horse through half steps. There was also a technique for making a half halt which I tried on Degas today I think it will be very useful.
Juan Matute was also very interesting to watch. I found the most interesting thing was the in hand work. He asked the rider to get off, and he did piaffe work in hand. You could see the horse immediately feel confidence in Juan. When the rider was on, as soon as Juan took the reins, and whip as if he were working in hand, you could see the horse become immediately more confident and secure. It was very interesting to see how Juan used his hands in this work.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Degas settled in well, and now starting to get to serious work. will keep everyone posted as we start working with Chris and prepare for our first show in the end of February.I am hoping to spend some time today watching some other training in action. will let everyone know how that goes.Degas needed a new fly sheet, so you can see more beauty photos of him. Everyone seems to love him. he earned rights to be turned out in the BIG field, since he doesnt rip up the grass. He is now the barn baby sitter, since he is so good outside.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Tuesday
I rode Degas for the first time today, and he seems really happy. It is hard not to be happy with a little sunshine. Brian got to watch me ride, before heading off to the airport. He likes to watch me working and riding. I told him we could go do something fun, like the Lion Safari, and I could ride later, but he prefered to watch me working. He did this in Germany too...always wanted to see me working.... hmmmmmm.
It is like one big horse show down here! Everywhere you go, you run into someone you know. It is amazing. It shouldn't be that surprising, but you are not expecting to see people you know show up where you are living, and the barn you have your horse at on your first day in FL. I am renting a room in a house, at a small farm in Loxahatchee. the farm is right down the road from White Fences.
There are trainers everywhere.I have already been warned not to expect great scores my first season showing in Florida. People who consistently get scores of 70% are saying that down here they are getting in the high 50 percents or low 60s.
So we have our work cut out for us!!!!
It is like one big horse show down here! Everywhere you go, you run into someone you know. It is amazing. It shouldn't be that surprising, but you are not expecting to see people you know show up where you are living, and the barn you have your horse at on your first day in FL. I am renting a room in a house, at a small farm in Loxahatchee. the farm is right down the road from White Fences.
There are trainers everywhere.I have already been warned not to expect great scores my first season showing in Florida. People who consistently get scores of 70% are saying that down here they are getting in the high 50 percents or low 60s.
So we have our work cut out for us!!!!
Sunday/Monday
It was so hectic getting ready to leave for FL, and then being anxious to get Degas there safely, I didnt have time to be excited. But on Sunday night, after we dropped Degas off, and headed to my new home, I started to get excited.I couldnt even sleep sunday night, because I was excited to start out, and of course anxious that Degas faired his first evening well.But Degas was fat and happy on Monday morning. He was doing all the things a healthy horse should do. He loved getting turned out the first time, he just rolled and rolled and was so happy. The cutest was when he rolled, and then came over to check in with me and Brian, and then went out to roll again!Monday morning we already met two visitors! Nathalie had come down over the weekend for some horse shopping, with Deb. They scouted out the horses on Saturday, and then took me to evaluate the favorites on Monday. There were some great prospects, so we will let you know how Nathalie makes out.In the afternoon, Brian helped me to unpack and clean the trailer up, so Degas and I were all settled in. Then Brian took me grocery shopping to make sure I was all stocked there. Felt like I was going away to college!
Monday, February 16, 2009
South Carolina
The sun is coming up and we are in South Carolina.
I think degas just realized we are in it for the 'long haul'.
I think degas just realized we are in it for the 'long haul'.
Oh jeez, am I dense ... I just realized that the "chicken" that was left in my front seat was actually a fake pigeon. Written on the side was "ALL of us will miss you" (that includes the pigeons in the ring that are constantly getting in my way when I ride). I won't miss ALL of you... I will everyone, except the winged ones!
11 p.m. departure
Florida departure time: Saturday, 2/14 at 11 p.m.
Thx for all of the going away gifts everyone!
Yes, I opened the m & ms immediately upon entering the vehicle, can't wait to use the iPod earphones, and especially loved the chicken!
Brian and I are enjoying valentines dinner of turkey sandwhiches and lots of chocolate!
More later
Thx for all of the going away gifts everyone!
Yes, I opened the m & ms immediately upon entering the vehicle, can't wait to use the iPod earphones, and especially loved the chicken!
Brian and I are enjoying valentines dinner of turkey sandwhiches and lots of chocolate!
More later
Friday, February 13, 2009
Degas' day of beauty
One more day to go! We are planning to leave tomorrow night (or should I say very very early Sunday morning!). Mapquest says 16.25 hours.
Luckily we had some warmer weather so Lauren could give Degas a bath. She decided to take some preventative measures so he would stay clean, since she had to clip him this afternoon….
Take a look….
Luckily we had some warmer weather so Lauren could give Degas a bath. She decided to take some preventative measures so he would stay clean, since she had to clip him this afternoon….
Take a look….
Yesterday was a great day preparing to go to FL. Frank and Cece Maddlone of Equichord Productions came out to help me practice my freestyle. We have made a few changes to increase the difficulty level, and it is going to be lots of fun! Working with Frank and Cece is so inspiring – you feel like you are preparing for a performance at the Kennedy Center!
Another great part of the day was the call I got from the Culpepper Farmer’s Coop in Virginia. They provide the Pacemaker Performance Feed that keeps Degas in tip top shape. They are donating Degas’ feed to take to FL! What a generous offer.
Everyone is so supportive of this trip and are really cheering us on. Thank you!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Packing Day!!
Thank goodness we had a warm day today. Actually, it was unbelievably warm. Not so healthy for everyone, but a great day to pull everything out of the trailer and reorganize. I am taking the 2 horse trailer, 3 trunks and enough feed for the whole time. Lauren and I spent a good 3 hours organizing and deciding what we wanted to bring. Actually, Lauren commented that it wasn't as bad as she thought. You can't imagine how much stuff 1 horse needs (havent gotten to the rider's stuff yet). Lauren thought that packing for 6 weeks and 3 shows isnt really different that much more than going for 1 week and 1 show. Either way it is a lot of 'stuff'! Departure day and time is going to be next weekend about 12 AM on the 14th. Expected arrival time will be Sunday late afternoon on the 15th.
Thank goodness we had a warm day today. Actually, it was unbelievably warm. Not so healthy for everyone, but a great day to pull everything out of the trailer and reorganize. I am taking the 2 horse trailer, 3 trunks and enough feed for the whole time. Lauren and I spent a good 3 hours organizing and deciding what we wanted to bring. Actually, Lauren commented that it wasn't as bad as she thought. You can't imagine how much stuff 1 horse needs (havent gotten to the rider's stuff yet). Lauren thought that packing for 6 weeks and 3 shows isnt really different that much more than going for 1 week and 1 show. Either way it is a lot of 'stuff'! Departure day and time is going to be next weekend about 12 AM on the 14th. Expected arrival time will be Sunday late afternoon on the 15th.
I have to admit that today I was feeling a little melancholy about leaving for FL. All of the horses are going so well, I just hate to leave. But I know Hilary and Lauren will do a great job of keeping things going while I am gone. Though speaking of party's, we all thought it was great to have an excuse for a party (the fundraiser). But I am thinking everyone may have a party when I leave.
Everyone is working very hard to prepare for my leaving and we have a really tight schedule to make sure we can spend time with all the horses and riders before I go... I think everyone will be relieved once I have finally departed.
Everyone is working very hard to prepare for my leaving and we have a really tight schedule to make sure we can spend time with all the horses and riders before I go... I think everyone will be relieved once I have finally departed.
Fundraiser, con't...
"Barb and Degas' Excellent Adventure"
This is what Judi Rosenfeld, who hosted the fundraiser, called our trip to FL! What a great name for our next step in the journey to excellence.
We had such a great time last night. I felt so honored that so many wonderful friends and supporters attended the party.
Judi made a wonderful introduction, giving the many reasons why this adventure is so important. I was also touched that Judi talked about how my adventures and education benefit everyone. She also pointed out what a great reason this was to have a party - we all agreed!
I had so much fun, and it looks like everyone else did to. Other than good friends, good food and conversation, some other highlights of the evening included the video that Frank and Cece Maddlone of Equichord, my good friends and freestyle creators, made. They are so talented! You should check out their new book Rythm Riding: Riding to Music.
The other crazy thing was that 2 people attended that knew me when I was 12 years old... when I realized this I couldn't believe it. Francie reminded me that it was her that suggested to my parents that I take a year off to be a working student before going to college... so I guess this is all her fault :)
I also have to add a little note about dedication. Francine D'Antuono offered me 40% of her paintings which were sold. What a generous offer! The amazing thing was that while loading up her car to come to the event, she broke her leg on the ice. Her husband rushed her to the hospital, then she made him come back to drop the paintings off for the event. Poor Francine! But we did sell 3 paintings.
We also sold Canter Crunchies, by Susan Donahue, who donate 50% of the proceeds.
Everyone has been so generous, I am really blessed.
This is what Judi Rosenfeld, who hosted the fundraiser, called our trip to FL! What a great name for our next step in the journey to excellence.
We had such a great time last night. I felt so honored that so many wonderful friends and supporters attended the party.
Judi made a wonderful introduction, giving the many reasons why this adventure is so important. I was also touched that Judi talked about how my adventures and education benefit everyone. She also pointed out what a great reason this was to have a party - we all agreed!
I had so much fun, and it looks like everyone else did to. Other than good friends, good food and conversation, some other highlights of the evening included the video that Frank and Cece Maddlone of Equichord, my good friends and freestyle creators, made. They are so talented! You should check out their new book Rythm Riding: Riding to Music.
The other crazy thing was that 2 people attended that knew me when I was 12 years old... when I realized this I couldn't believe it. Francie reminded me that it was her that suggested to my parents that I take a year off to be a working student before going to college... so I guess this is all her fault :)
I also have to add a little note about dedication. Francine D'Antuono offered me 40% of her paintings which were sold. What a generous offer! The amazing thing was that while loading up her car to come to the event, she broke her leg on the ice. Her husband rushed her to the hospital, then she made him come back to drop the paintings off for the event. Poor Francine! But we did sell 3 paintings.
We also sold Canter Crunchies, by Susan Donahue, who donate 50% of the proceeds.
Everyone has been so generous, I am really blessed.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Monday, February 2, 2009
Fundraiser
The Fundraiser was a huge success!
Congratulations to Janice Alperin and the Rabin's. They went home with these lovely paintings by Francine D'Antuono:
http://www.fernwooddesignsart.com/portfolio.htm
http://www.fernwooddesignsart.com/portfolio.htm
http://www.fernwooddesignsart.com/portfolio.htm
Amy Lynch and Judi Rosenfeld also left the party with Canter Crunchies for their horses.
Party pictures will follow shortly, along with more details about the evening.
Congratulations to Janice Alperin and the Rabin's. They went home with these lovely paintings by Francine D'Antuono:
http://www.fernwooddesignsart.com/portfolio.htm
http://www.fernwooddesignsart.com/portfolio.htm
http://www.fernwooddesignsart.com/portfolio.htm
Amy Lynch and Judi Rosenfeld also left the party with Canter Crunchies for their horses.
Party pictures will follow shortly, along with more details about the evening.
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