Years ago, I attended so many Ray Hunt clinics that I can still hear his voice calling out the horsemanship class in my head.
Today Grace and I practiced riding with Ray.
We had many firsts. And most of you know by now, I love sharing firsts.
Ray’s words that guided us were these…
“How fast will they walk?
How little does it take?
How slow will they walk.
Pick up a soft feel.
How little does it take?
How little does it take to stop?
Leave the hindquarters there bring the front end around to the inside.
How little does it take to trot?
Pick up a soft feel.
Do a half circle to the inside.
You should be going the other way”
All this and so much more.
At one point Grace set herself up to offer a haunch turn. It was completely her idea. I just giggled and went with it.
As Ray would say, “It’s never better than when it’s their idea.” I’m happy to share that clip here.
I felt that if Ray could have seen the awesome offspring of his Mare “Sweetie” he would have smiled. And this feeling warmed my heart the rest of the day.
When we were done in the arena we went out and explored some territory and built more confidence outside. Then we came back and Grace got a good bath. And I think we both felt equally fulfilled.
Grace is beyond amazing.
“Amazing Grace”.
“Amazing Grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind but now I see”
These words have never felt more true.
~M~
If this blog resonates with you, please consider reading my book Perfect Practice. You can read an excerpt from the book HERE.
