>>>> That is just so cute. I don't have pictures, but that's just how Tosca's first ride on her own went, complete with Gabe/Shirley patting the rump. I finally stepped back in and started her walking, then stepped out. Several rides later, her inclination was still not to move if she became confused.
The funny thing is that, as Icelandic's go, she's easy to move forward from the ground. When circling her, she will canter freely when asked, and getting her to trot while ground-driving her has been very easy. I don't think she's going to be exactly a "deadhead", but I sure do want their first under-saddle experiences to be as easy-going and mistake-free as possible. My philosophy is that it's much easier to train a horse than to RE-TRAIN one. We aim for 100% forward progress, with no remedial work at all. I can't say that we always reach that goal, but it doesn't hurt to set lofty goals! She seems to have enough "go" to her with her groundwork that Cary asked me recently when she'd be ready for him to try... It won't be in the next few weeks, but maybe by spring. Karen Karen Thomas Wingate, NC No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.5.516 / Virus Database: 269.17.13/1209 - Release Date: 1/4/2008 12:05 PM
