Back again - or, was never far away

That magical late spring has arrived with soft cooling breezes, fresh greens, blues, purples, pinks and vibrant orange. The oreoles flash through the new leaves, uttering their clear sharp calls in counterpointe to the softer musings of the quieter birds. There are many crows this year which regularly harrass the red-tailed hawks. A pair of mallards and a lone great blue heron frequently visit our stream.

The gardening is well under way, with several of the beds being restored and replanted. There are veggies this year and much still to be done. For the first time in years we have the will and time to devote to the growing things, fleshed out with plans for more extensive outdoor expansion.

The horses have relished the lushness of their pasture. Boo particularly, who is adept at finding that 'greener patch' just beyond the fence. Up to now, she has rearranged her space to suit her practical sense, but the lure of growing vegetable vitality has been irresistible, and she has blithly pushed through the tape fencing, inadequately powered by a solar charger. The neighbors would come by to say she was out, grazing happily along the road with no apparent interest in becoming a runaway. We would collect her and she would sheepishly resign herself to the limitations of the round pen.

Last week, we completed the supercharging of the border fence which has caused some consternation with the mare. The boys seem fine, but Boo, after several sharp, insulting reminders, has shown a definite caution and increased respect for what is around her.

We worked her from the ground yesterday, some in hand work, some free schooling. When we put up a small jump, she eagerly popped over it...to the left. The right was difficult for her and pointed to the need for us to begin a strengthening and straightening program in earnest. She has always been crooked, and her year off has only magnified this. We will be continuing the exercises in hand, on the lunge and move up to the mounted lateral work she so needs. Ground poles and cavaletti will be put to use on a circle to build up her balance.

We are reminded, particularly, by discussions on the varoius horsey forums we frequent how important it is to continue to learn from every area possible. Not only how and why to utilize certain methods, but how to avoid easy fixes and hurried lessons. Our responsibility to this crooked mare is to help her maintain her soundness and comfort so that she is able to do what we ask of her with a quiet and willing mind.

As we observed recently, it is a quest for truth for those of us striving to keep open minds. It is a path to wisdom and honesty, one we couldn't leave if we wanted to.