Condition Like An Eventer

Check out my new (free) girth that just happens to perfectly match my saddle! What good fortune! It's just the right size and the color is a freaky match. Although I'm still definitely considering getting an anatomical girth at some point... see where the saddle wants to settle in on his back vs. where the girth wants to sit? I think Dino would benefit from some more curvature in his belt.

Classy as all get-out.

Yesterday we pretended we were eventers and did a conditioning ride in the big field down the road. Every time we head out for a hack I just can't get over how cool it is that I have the kind of pony that I can just take off with and not have to worry about whether or not he'll be stupid. And there was plenty to be stupid about - dogs barking in yards, people walking their dogs, kids running around, horses whinnying at us from other farms, big rattling trucks, people mowing lawns... and Dino just takes it all in and gets on with his job. I absolutely adore him. 

We had a total blast on our ride, too! I was very proud of my pony - Dino was able to do quite a bit more than the last time we went out. Fitness FTW. We rode 3x around each way at the trot, and then 2x around each direction at the canter. The canter was awesome; I just let Dino settle into a rhythm and cruised around the field. By the end we were both pretty tired, I was definitely feeling it in my abs and legs, and we had a nice, relaxed walk home. I'm quite pleased that so far I've been sticking to my one conditioning ride a week plan! It makes for a fun variety in our training, and definitely helps both of us with fitness and confidence. 

Weenie little me has even been cantering and trotting down hills.

WHO AM I?! 

2014 is truly the year of Bravery. 

And the year of freakishly cute ponies that will steal your soul:

Don't resist.

LOOK INTO MY EYES.