Two days after the most shocking and painful election of my lifetime, I had a ride and picnic with my two Cowboys at James T Slavin conservation area.
We ran into a friend who took our picture and later she shared this photo below of the Trumpet Swans that were there that day. I couldn't get a good photo on my cell phone camera!
Above: Photo copyright Cindy & Gary Miller
I asked my husband to take a picture of the same spot we were in last summer to show the difference between the seasons.
July 8, 2016
November 10, 2016
Leah and I have been working on walk trot transitions on as loose a rein as possible. I hold the reins in a position where I'm framing in the outer-boundaries of where she can place her head, but they are loose. If she decides to put her head down or up, when I ask for the trot, she hits the bit. That area in between is quite large--not overly collected or tight. As soon as she gives me a few relaxed steps, I stop and praise her. So far, we have only been successful in a large circle. And, as we move through the circle, I have to lift the rein and direct her, but as soon as she responds, I give it all back to her.
There were two days last week that were just awful for me--and I did not attempt to work with Leah during those times. I felt like I missed out on two sunny, beautiful days--and I did--but my soul hurt so badly, it wouldn't have been fair to her. It's a reminder to me--do everything you can to limit your exposure to toxic people. Sometimes, it's difficult, especially if you work with the public, but you still need to do all you can when you see those early warning signs of a cruel temperament. If you don't heed the signs, you will most certainly lose a little of what is most precious and that cannot be bought back--not even with all the money you can make in a lifetime.
Oh, I'm so happy for you that you've found solace with your horse and your guy - your 2 cowboys. :) I am so jealous of your beautiful, dry weather! We are positively saturated and it shows no signs of letting up. SO much rain! I can't ride because it's muddy and slick, plus it's dark before I even leave the clinic. I really do hate this time of year where I live. It's warm, mid 50's to mid 60's and just so wet. Yuck! So, enough of that.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry you had such a bad couple of days, and I agree that toxic people are very hard to be around. There has been (and still is) so much anger, resentment, retaliation since the elections. So much hatred from the people who are pointing fingers. I truly do not understand their fear, I just don't get it. The bible tells us to "protect your heart". Good advice, and I hope that's what you're doing.
Thank you so much for your comment on my blog. I don't feel like I have to defend my vote. I voted like I saw it, and remain hopeful. But it felt good to have someone stand up in my defense. :)
What's so interesting is that they are everything they say Trump is--bullies who don't accept election results. I read that anonymous commenter towards you and it was awful. There seems to be a general belief out there that Trump and his supporters (half of our country) are so vile that they deserve their abuse or unfriending. Where is the respect for our friends and neighbors--assuming they read the issues, searched their hearts and consciences and came to the best decision they could for their country? Andy by country, I mean themselves, their families, their friends, communities, etc. Well, anyway, I hope it wears off and we start seeing each other as humans again--no better and no worse than one another.
DeleteI'm so sorry to hear that you've had a rough time, & at the same time glad that you have your family & friends to help ease you. You are your partner there are looking like the cover shoot of a western magazine, so photogenic!
ReplyDeleteThank you. I shouldn't let people get to me--but I hate conflict. I'm doing better today anyway.
DeleteI'm sorry about your rough time but I agree- it's better to not inflict our emotions on sensitive horses.
ReplyDeleteVery true. I probably should have gone out and rode Cowboy. He's sensitive in a different way and would most likely have cheered me up. Oh well. Sometimes, when you're attacked, it has a paralyzing affect.
DeleteSuch a beautiful place to ride. So sorry you and C-ingspots had to deal with election fallout.
ReplyDeleteThank you. Actually, my awful situation didn't have anything to do with the election--unless it inspired this person to be EXTRA MEAN. But the election, overall, was a painful experience--splitting friends, family & neighbors. Hope you're recovering!
DeleteGlad you got out and had a nice ride. The country there is beautiful. The election was divisive to the whole country. Hopefully, he will realize this and make good choices moving forward. it is what it is. People have a right to their opinions and their vote. Politics sucks and so do politicians. As a whole I think they all need a lesson in morals and kindness. I don't understand why one person would attack another because of their vote. There's something to be said for being a gracious loser. I believe Hillary took the high road on that score.
ReplyDeleteYes, wouldn't it be great if politics were civil discussions about policy and absolutely no character assassination? But it doesn't work like that. It's almost exact opposite. The press sure doesn't help.
DeleteI'm so glad you election is over. I can't believe the sore losers! So much like spoiled brats having a tantrum. Oh well, they will get over it eventually.
ReplyDeleteNeamwhile, there is nothing like horse therapy! Glad you got a good ride in and your sessions with Leah are sure coming along.
Yep, glad it's over, too. Now, we just need to let the dust settle and see how he's going to govern. We had snow today, so the riding season is coming to a close. Gotta get out there while I can!
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