I'm so fed up of winter and hate anyone who wishes for winter! Why would anyone possibly like the idea of having frozen water troughs which need breaking, gloves which are too thick to do anything with and when they're taken off, you instantly lose any feel in your fingers- always being ill, mud, ice, snow... and not being able to sit in the garden with just a t-shirt and shorts on?
I can't wait for Spring time to come around again and begin to enjoy our work a lot more. Being able to sit down in the field and to be able to wear just a t-shirt. To be able to FEEL MY FINGERS!
I'm really looking forward to Spring- bring it on :)
Amy x
Monday 27 December 2010
The Art and Science of Clicker Training
For Christmas I got Ben Hart's ''Art and Science of Clicker Training''; and although I've not yet finished it, I wanted to share how much I'm enjoying it with my blog ( which nobody reads...)!
Back in August I bought Alex Kurland's book 'Clicker Training for Your Horse' and I really enjoyed it- it was a good read. However; I think, at present, I prefer Ben's for a numerous amount of reasons. It makes so much sense to me, a lot of it is re-reading things I've read in the past- yet he gives examples but what I like is that he points out common errors- some of which I am guilty of! But it is bringing me this awareness of what I am doing and I think it's brilliant! It's very readable- he doesn't sugarcoat the truth and is honest about clicker training but through his candour, he provides us with this fantastic read that I think would convert anyone over to clicker training ideas.
I wanted to share a few lines from parts I've read so far- I agree with him and also found it a good summary of some of the points I've tried to get across in the past as well as it just making lots of sense!
The first one is in Chapter 5, when he answers the question ''Doesn't using food rewards cause equines to bite?''
I think wherever you go; people always say that you mustn't give your horses treats, as it will cause him to bite for food- but Ben makes a brilliant point!!
I think that is a brilliant way to sum up and justify that us as clicker trainers aren't creating dangerous and evil horses who are aggressive for food- but becoming more aware of the environment we create for our horses and how we influence them. Perfect!
I will do more later- but I'm off to the yard!
See ya!
Amy xx
Back in August I bought Alex Kurland's book 'Clicker Training for Your Horse' and I really enjoyed it- it was a good read. However; I think, at present, I prefer Ben's for a numerous amount of reasons. It makes so much sense to me, a lot of it is re-reading things I've read in the past- yet he gives examples but what I like is that he points out common errors- some of which I am guilty of! But it is bringing me this awareness of what I am doing and I think it's brilliant! It's very readable- he doesn't sugarcoat the truth and is honest about clicker training but through his candour, he provides us with this fantastic read that I think would convert anyone over to clicker training ideas.
I wanted to share a few lines from parts I've read so far- I agree with him and also found it a good summary of some of the points I've tried to get across in the past as well as it just making lots of sense!
The first one is in Chapter 5, when he answers the question ''Doesn't using food rewards cause equines to bite?''
I think wherever you go; people always say that you mustn't give your horses treats, as it will cause him to bite for food- but Ben makes a brilliant point!!
''If food is used incorrectly, the notion that it causes equines to bite appears true. However; if we consider that all equines have their feed restricted by domestication and are given feed by humans, yet not all equines bite we begin to see that food itself cannot be the cause of biting or food aggression. The factor influencing the behaviour of the animal is timing, knowledge and consistency of the trainer- and this has more influence over the animal than food alone.''
I think that is a brilliant way to sum up and justify that us as clicker trainers aren't creating dangerous and evil horses who are aggressive for food- but becoming more aware of the environment we create for our horses and how we influence them. Perfect!
I will do more later- but I'm off to the yard!
See ya!
Amy xx
Saturday 25 December 2010
A very Merry Christmas :)
So, it's that time of year again- when the New Years Resolutions come into play, we reflect upon the year that has just passed us and we begin to embark on a better new year. So what does 2011 have in store for us??
It looks weird writing it like that- 2011.
I decided to be slightly cliche and join in with the whole reflection of the year- and am going to talk about my hopes for next year- so just heads up for what this post is going to entail!!
At the beginning of last year, I had a whole array of hopes and dreams- some perhaps more unrealistic than others. I hoped to be riding Andalusians and Lusitanos, to be a wonderful classical rider which I aspire to be.
In March, my journey with a Piebald pony perhaps changed my outlook on horses for the rest of my life.
I'd never heard of clicker training, I didn't know about learning theory and I thought that teaching tricks was only for the totally genius! I am sure no doubt, that this time next year, I'll be laughing at some of the silly things I've said over the next year and continue developing my knowledge. I also hope that Shadow will evolve into even more of a Gentleman than he already is at present.
For Christmas I got Anja Beran's book, two in-hand books ( so I have three now), Ben Hart's Art and Science of Clicker Training, Marthe Kiley Worthington's 'Equine Education' and Gincy Self Bucklin's book ''What your horse wants you to know''.
I know a lot of people say that you shouldn't follow things from a text book; as it's not the 'real world' but to me, it is. Literature- particular from the collection of wonderful authors, have put a pen to paper and documented their journeys, their discoveries and experiences with their horses. Why can't I take some of that and apply it to my work. I document my journey, how I feel and what I do with Shadow. So there is no wrong in taking knowledge out of books- you can manipulate it to suit you and your horse.
I'm hoping to do lots of long-lining and in-hand work with Shadow this year. I'm determined to go at it. Shadow was never confident on the long lines and would bolt, so using our dear friend the clicker and using it to help overcome the fears of longlining, we can hopefully begin to work on that fear and our ridden work can progress.
Of course; whatever happens this year- as long as Shadow is happy, then I'm happy. I hope to continue enjoying the pony of a life time- I couldn't ask for much more. He may be a fat yack to some, he may be nothing special, with no special breeding or claims to fame. We may not be wanting to hit the competition circuits- but that's fine, means I can appreciate my beautiful boy even more :)
Amy xx
It looks weird writing it like that- 2011.
I decided to be slightly cliche and join in with the whole reflection of the year- and am going to talk about my hopes for next year- so just heads up for what this post is going to entail!!
At the beginning of last year, I had a whole array of hopes and dreams- some perhaps more unrealistic than others. I hoped to be riding Andalusians and Lusitanos, to be a wonderful classical rider which I aspire to be.
In March, my journey with a Piebald pony perhaps changed my outlook on horses for the rest of my life.
I'd never heard of clicker training, I didn't know about learning theory and I thought that teaching tricks was only for the totally genius! I am sure no doubt, that this time next year, I'll be laughing at some of the silly things I've said over the next year and continue developing my knowledge. I also hope that Shadow will evolve into even more of a Gentleman than he already is at present.
For Christmas I got Anja Beran's book, two in-hand books ( so I have three now), Ben Hart's Art and Science of Clicker Training, Marthe Kiley Worthington's 'Equine Education' and Gincy Self Bucklin's book ''What your horse wants you to know''.
I know a lot of people say that you shouldn't follow things from a text book; as it's not the 'real world' but to me, it is. Literature- particular from the collection of wonderful authors, have put a pen to paper and documented their journeys, their discoveries and experiences with their horses. Why can't I take some of that and apply it to my work. I document my journey, how I feel and what I do with Shadow. So there is no wrong in taking knowledge out of books- you can manipulate it to suit you and your horse.
I'm hoping to do lots of long-lining and in-hand work with Shadow this year. I'm determined to go at it. Shadow was never confident on the long lines and would bolt, so using our dear friend the clicker and using it to help overcome the fears of longlining, we can hopefully begin to work on that fear and our ridden work can progress.
Of course; whatever happens this year- as long as Shadow is happy, then I'm happy. I hope to continue enjoying the pony of a life time- I couldn't ask for much more. He may be a fat yack to some, he may be nothing special, with no special breeding or claims to fame. We may not be wanting to hit the competition circuits- but that's fine, means I can appreciate my beautiful boy even more :)
Amy xx
Friday 24 December 2010
A wonderful Christmas present from a wonderful Piebald pony!
I finally got to the yard today and have had the most heartwarming day; despite being a bit cold
!
I really do love Shadow so much and today we had good fun
.
As I don't get many sessions with the clicker in and haven't been able to see him for the past week, I decided to break down the day into three chunks...
I made quite a few observations about my skill as a clicker trainer today- having all this free time at home due to being not very well and having time to do lots of reading and make some shaping plans and structure things definitely did us the world of good.
Due to it being icey- it meant I didn't want to risk bringing Shadow in; but I put the hay out of the other horses and got to work with Shadow; as we've not done anything for the past 3 weeks I wanted to refresh by doing some Don't Mug me Training and adding in a verbal cue.
I began by saying clicking each time he turned his head away- he kept repeating this and then when he seemed to get the idea- I added the cue 'Away' in. Each time I said Away- he moved his head to the side and took a step back when I gave him his treat
! Spent 10 minutes on that, until I lost all feeling in my hands ( my gloves are too thick and I can't hold anything with them on
)
Made their breakfasts up ( they get breakfasts when it's sub zero!) and tried to poo pick but the poo bend the rake and so that plan got abandoned!!!
I can't believe how much of a gentleman Shadow really is- the funniest bit is, as I do most of the work in the field at liberty- with no headcollar etc, I call Shadow to come over. Usually if I had treats- he'd be over- but he's so much more respectful now and doesn't come charging over- when he sees the treats.
So, the don't mug me training obviously had some effect- as he was very, very polite indeed- every time we play with the clicker, his attitude improves and he matures each time- it's such a nice thing! Shadow loves to hold things in his mouth ( the trug bucket, my coat, rugs etc), and so when I put his headcollar/bridle on, he usually opens wide to eat it- I've already gone through one set of reins because I was stupid and didn't realise he was eating them, and then I got on and found my reins broke! So I want to get rid of this habit by getting him to lower his head and take his headcollar nicely( without eating it!); so I thought I'd try and encourage him to take his headcollar, by reinforcing him taking it nicely and not rewarding for when he went to bite it. I began by rewarding him for looking at it ( as if I were tackling a bridle shy horse) and then he was like 'I know all that Mum; let me eat it
'' So, each time he opened his jaw, and grabbed the headcollar he got an 'Ah ah' ( he knows that means no reward), and he let go and stood thinking for a while, he then put his head nearer the headcollar and I clicked. He repeated this again ( with his mouth shut), and I jackpotted it. Next thing, he slid his head through the headcollar and let me do it up. So he got a handful of treats and a big hug. We repeated and he did it again and so got jackpotted for it!!
I was about to finish, when I couldn't help but reinforce what Shadow did next. I'm not sure whether I did subconsciously cue it or something, but usually when we lead in, when he has his headcollar on, he goes to walk straight off- anyway, he stood there, holding himself and stood square- he stood next to me and was like a statue- usually he just wants to walk off or eat my jacket/the leadrope, so I really reinforced this. He kept offering me the behaviour and I couldn't believe it!!!
He got a few too many carrots for his dinner too, as I'm still overwhelmed by it. It actually made me quite tearful, what a lovely way to end the day and what a lovely thing for him to do. I finally feel that I understand him a lot more and can be a lot more effective as a clicker trainer. I noticed today that sometimes I hold the treat in my hand before I've clicked, so need to remember to keep a few seconds between the click and treat delivery..
.
!I really do love Shadow so much and today we had good fun
.As I don't get many sessions with the clicker in and haven't been able to see him for the past week, I decided to break down the day into three chunks...
I made quite a few observations about my skill as a clicker trainer today- having all this free time at home due to being not very well and having time to do lots of reading and make some shaping plans and structure things definitely did us the world of good.
Due to it being icey- it meant I didn't want to risk bringing Shadow in; but I put the hay out of the other horses and got to work with Shadow; as we've not done anything for the past 3 weeks I wanted to refresh by doing some Don't Mug me Training and adding in a verbal cue.
I began by saying clicking each time he turned his head away- he kept repeating this and then when he seemed to get the idea- I added the cue 'Away' in. Each time I said Away- he moved his head to the side and took a step back when I gave him his treat
! Spent 10 minutes on that, until I lost all feeling in my hands ( my gloves are too thick and I can't hold anything with them on)Made their breakfasts up ( they get breakfasts when it's sub zero!) and tried to poo pick but the poo bend the rake and so that plan got abandoned!!!
I can't believe how much of a gentleman Shadow really is- the funniest bit is, as I do most of the work in the field at liberty- with no headcollar etc, I call Shadow to come over. Usually if I had treats- he'd be over- but he's so much more respectful now and doesn't come charging over- when he sees the treats.
So, the don't mug me training obviously had some effect- as he was very, very polite indeed- every time we play with the clicker, his attitude improves and he matures each time- it's such a nice thing! Shadow loves to hold things in his mouth ( the trug bucket, my coat, rugs etc), and so when I put his headcollar/bridle on, he usually opens wide to eat it- I've already gone through one set of reins because I was stupid and didn't realise he was eating them, and then I got on and found my reins broke! So I want to get rid of this habit by getting him to lower his head and take his headcollar nicely
( without eating it!); so I thought I'd try and encourage him to take his headcollar, by reinforcing him taking it nicely and not rewarding for when he went to bite it. I began by rewarding him for looking at it ( as if I were tackling a bridle shy horse) and then he was like 'I know all that Mum; let me eat it'' So, each time he opened his jaw, and grabbed the headcollar he got an 'Ah ah' ( he knows that means no reward), and he let go and stood thinking for a while, he then put his head nearer the headcollar and I clicked. He repeated this again ( with his mouth shut), and I jackpotted it. Next thing, he slid his head through the headcollar and let me do it up. So he got a handful of treats and a big hug. We repeated and he did it again and so got jackpotted for it!!I was about to finish, when I couldn't help but reinforce what Shadow did next. I'm not sure whether I did subconsciously cue it or something, but usually when we lead in, when he has his headcollar on, he goes to walk straight off- anyway, he stood there, holding himself and stood square- he stood next to me and was like a statue- usually he just wants to walk off or eat my jacket/the leadrope, so I really reinforced this. He kept offering me the behaviour and I couldn't believe it!!!
He got a few too many carrots for his dinner too
, as I'm still overwhelmed by it. It actually made me quite tearful, what a lovely way to end the day and what a lovely thing for him to do. I finally feel that I understand him a lot more and can be a lot more effective as a clicker trainer. I noticed today that sometimes I hold the treat in my hand before I've clicked, so need to remember to keep a few seconds between the click and treat delivery...
Wednesday 22 December 2010
My 4 P's- Positiveness; Passion; Patience and Perseverance!
I'm having withdrawal symptoms; I've not been out of the house for four days- It's been snowing again; I've got the flu and have felt like total crap!
To keep my brain occupied; I've spent some time thinking about next year with Shadow and going through my books and looking at some ideas being presented in there for inspiration and tips on what to do.
We've had a break from clicker for nearly a month- due to bad weather and exams, but that is soon to change because 2011 is hopefully going to be the year.
Shadow is pretty good at groundtying, backing up and moving over- but; I want to refine this a lot more.
So I've been developing a rather large 'shaping plan' which is going to work towards our main goal- ( it sounds so silly to some, but to me and Shadow- it's huge).
Walk, Halt, and steer round the school
So; that is our main goal- the paper consists of lots of sticky notes and arrows!
I've found that in my life; In general; I'm a really disorganised person- there appears to be no structure- I can mentally link things together; but my head is so unorganised, that I like to write things down- even then, there is no apparent structure to it.
I am adamant to not follow that trait though; in Shadow's training regime. We've spent the past few months really just having fun- playing games with the clicker, working it all out and just beginning to appreciate the power of clicker- we've had some successful rides this year- out on the roads, but at home; he is not sure on what is asked of him- I think partly he's not used to working on grass; he sees the horses in the field and the roads are a lot more interesting for his inquisitive mind!
I won't bore you with all my shaping plans- but we're going back from the beginning- the key to having a nice to ride horse, is having good foundations and I want to be extra diligent and ensure I've not missed anything out! So; it's back to the beginning for me; I want to refresh things he's pretty good at, so he can become great at it!! The following are things I'm planning on teaching, in this order ( structure !!!) and I have shaping plans for the all ( but I will be here ALL day, and I really must be doing some coursework and revision too...)
To keep my brain occupied; I've spent some time thinking about next year with Shadow and going through my books and looking at some ideas being presented in there for inspiration and tips on what to do.
We've had a break from clicker for nearly a month- due to bad weather and exams, but that is soon to change because 2011 is hopefully going to be the year.
Shadow is pretty good at groundtying, backing up and moving over- but; I want to refine this a lot more.
So I've been developing a rather large 'shaping plan' which is going to work towards our main goal- ( it sounds so silly to some, but to me and Shadow- it's huge).
Walk, Halt, and steer round the school
So; that is our main goal- the paper consists of lots of sticky notes and arrows!
I've found that in my life; In general; I'm a really disorganised person- there appears to be no structure- I can mentally link things together; but my head is so unorganised, that I like to write things down- even then, there is no apparent structure to it.
I am adamant to not follow that trait though; in Shadow's training regime. We've spent the past few months really just having fun- playing games with the clicker, working it all out and just beginning to appreciate the power of clicker- we've had some successful rides this year- out on the roads, but at home; he is not sure on what is asked of him- I think partly he's not used to working on grass; he sees the horses in the field and the roads are a lot more interesting for his inquisitive mind!
I won't bore you with all my shaping plans- but we're going back from the beginning- the key to having a nice to ride horse, is having good foundations and I want to be extra diligent and ensure I've not missed anything out! So; it's back to the beginning for me; I want to refresh things he's pretty good at, so he can become great at it!! The following are things I'm planning on teaching, in this order ( structure !!!) and I have shaping plans for the all ( but I will be here ALL day, and I really must be doing some coursework and revision too...)
- Lowering Head on cue ( this will be useful when bridling/ and in-hand work!)
- Stand still on voice command
- Back up to voice/light pressure of rein
- Move over to light touch of side
- Walk forward to touch of whip on his side/voice
- Stand still at the mounting block
- Stand still when I mount
- Stand still when I'm on
- Walk on when asked
This is the first few steps we're going to take- this will get us in the school and hopefully help us get round. I was given a few exercises to try with him in the school by a friend; who successfully has worked with her youngster with the clicker!
I must go, as much as I'd like to stay!
Enjoy;
Amy xxx
Sunday 19 December 2010
How wonderful, life is- now that you're in the world...
I've just been looking back at some photos over the year from March of Shadow, and it's reminded me how much we've both changed over the year, and I'm smiling on the verge of tears as I write this ( through happiness of course).
Most weeks, and most days, I think about my old pony Shayden and the life I lived before I met Shadow.
I had some of the best opportunities that anyone could ask for. Brilliant mentors, facilities and I messed it up, it's something I'm pretty good at.
I used to feel sorry for myself- I used to think that I didn't deserve the bad karma I was getting and would cry most nights about how fucked up everything was, but something changed and I have only really just realised it. Something 'clicked' ( teehee, do you get it!) and it suddenly felt okay.
I have said it in the past- that I've spent a lot of time comparing Shadow to Shayden and the more I think about it; the more I think- what an idiot- how arrogant of me and more so to the point- how unfair on Shadow? I've spent so much time being blinkered to so many things, my own wall of idiocy has prevented me from seeing so much.
The clicker has been marvelous- and whilst I'm still working bits out, working with my timing and accuracy- I am enjoying the work done with it. Not only has it developed Shadow's confidence, his happiness and his maturity, it's helped me to develop an inquisitive and creative mind. To become a little more adventurous, to delve into things which I wouldn't before. My lunch times in the library consists of printing off articles in journals- some which are a little out my depth, but I'll get there.
It's Christmas in a weeks time, and 2010 will soon be over. Sometimes; I think that I would of had Shadow a year in March and I'm sure there are so many people out there who are mocking me behind my back, that he's not ''progressing'' like some. He's not out doing things other youngsters are doing; sometimes I feel a little left out, sometimes I feel I'm doing it all wrong- but then I think a little bit harder about the situation we are in and remember 'I have time, we have time'- life would be boring for us if we had it all worked out in 3 weeks- if we crammed it all in last minute instead of slowly digesting it all. It means; our life isn't full of reoccuring problems from the past- but full of new challenges each day we work. Life is all about discovering who we are; and I think the biggest part of who I am, is the wee black and white pony I call Shadow. He's not just a horse; he's a friend, he's funny and he's a reflection of me at times. He's not the world's most 'talented' horse, he's not everyones cup of tea and I'm the same! But he's perfect to me.
For Christmas; I have asked for some more books to add to my ever expanding collection ( should of asked for a new bookshelf really)... one in particular I've asked for, is one which I've wanted for a long time but not had the opportunity to get and so I can't wait to get it ( I know I got it because Amazon sent me an email oops- sorry Grandad!), and I was reading a few different synopsis's of the book online earlier.
Classical Training is something which fascinates me, inspires me and where my passion lies- it's also something that I'm not very good at! I know the theory pretty well- I could write essays and essays on it, I could critique people and tell them how to correct it and suggest ways- but I'm unfortunate to have a hollow back, a fat ass and I don't ride often enough to be 'great'. But; nevertheless- I can only get better by always trying and Anja's passion for Classical will hopefully be transferred into her writing and hopefully will help me a little more. I love reading and trying to apply it to my work, it's helped me a lot- but I feel something is still missing. Clicker definitely filled a huge part of my emptiness and has become something which will be incorporated into our work.
It may not be interesting; we may not have much to show for ourselves and we aren't going to be the type to be cliche and do what everyone else does. We're different and I'm beginning to accept that- Shadow accepted it a long time ago, but I didn't accept myself, I'm different and I have a lot of people to thank for that- past and present. Who have shaped my mind and shaped it out to a point where I don't want to turn back- I don't want to give up.
Who knows where on Earth I will end up, but I hope to god, it will always, always be with Shadow.
Most weeks, and most days, I think about my old pony Shayden and the life I lived before I met Shadow.
I had some of the best opportunities that anyone could ask for. Brilliant mentors, facilities and I messed it up, it's something I'm pretty good at.
I used to feel sorry for myself- I used to think that I didn't deserve the bad karma I was getting and would cry most nights about how fucked up everything was, but something changed and I have only really just realised it. Something 'clicked' ( teehee, do you get it!) and it suddenly felt okay.
I have said it in the past- that I've spent a lot of time comparing Shadow to Shayden and the more I think about it; the more I think- what an idiot- how arrogant of me and more so to the point- how unfair on Shadow? I've spent so much time being blinkered to so many things, my own wall of idiocy has prevented me from seeing so much.
The clicker has been marvelous- and whilst I'm still working bits out, working with my timing and accuracy- I am enjoying the work done with it. Not only has it developed Shadow's confidence, his happiness and his maturity, it's helped me to develop an inquisitive and creative mind. To become a little more adventurous, to delve into things which I wouldn't before. My lunch times in the library consists of printing off articles in journals- some which are a little out my depth, but I'll get there.
It's Christmas in a weeks time, and 2010 will soon be over. Sometimes; I think that I would of had Shadow a year in March and I'm sure there are so many people out there who are mocking me behind my back, that he's not ''progressing'' like some. He's not out doing things other youngsters are doing; sometimes I feel a little left out, sometimes I feel I'm doing it all wrong- but then I think a little bit harder about the situation we are in and remember 'I have time, we have time'- life would be boring for us if we had it all worked out in 3 weeks- if we crammed it all in last minute instead of slowly digesting it all. It means; our life isn't full of reoccuring problems from the past- but full of new challenges each day we work. Life is all about discovering who we are; and I think the biggest part of who I am, is the wee black and white pony I call Shadow. He's not just a horse; he's a friend, he's funny and he's a reflection of me at times. He's not the world's most 'talented' horse, he's not everyones cup of tea and I'm the same! But he's perfect to me.
For Christmas; I have asked for some more books to add to my ever expanding collection ( should of asked for a new bookshelf really)... one in particular I've asked for, is one which I've wanted for a long time but not had the opportunity to get and so I can't wait to get it ( I know I got it because Amazon sent me an email oops- sorry Grandad!), and I was reading a few different synopsis's of the book online earlier.
Classical Training is something which fascinates me, inspires me and where my passion lies- it's also something that I'm not very good at! I know the theory pretty well- I could write essays and essays on it, I could critique people and tell them how to correct it and suggest ways- but I'm unfortunate to have a hollow back, a fat ass and I don't ride often enough to be 'great'. But; nevertheless- I can only get better by always trying and Anja's passion for Classical will hopefully be transferred into her writing and hopefully will help me a little more. I love reading and trying to apply it to my work, it's helped me a lot- but I feel something is still missing. Clicker definitely filled a huge part of my emptiness and has become something which will be incorporated into our work.
It may not be interesting; we may not have much to show for ourselves and we aren't going to be the type to be cliche and do what everyone else does. We're different and I'm beginning to accept that- Shadow accepted it a long time ago, but I didn't accept myself, I'm different and I have a lot of people to thank for that- past and present. Who have shaped my mind and shaped it out to a point where I don't want to turn back- I don't want to give up.
Who knows where on Earth I will end up, but I hope to god, it will always, always be with Shadow.
Monday 13 December 2010
“Patience is waiting. Not passively waiting. That is laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow - that is patience.”
Life is a funny thing.
I spend a lot of time trying to work out who I am, what I'm trying to be- how I act and how I make others feel- I'm trying to be compassionate.
Of course; life is never really that straightforward, perhaps I've got schizophrenia or something like that and can't make my mind up- but then the more I think about it, the more I think- well maybe it's just the way I am?
I remember someone said to me ''That we spend too much time looking forward to the future, that we forget what is here right in front of us''- I suppose I've missed it all along- trying to manipulate my responses to people- I can't help it, but I think it's just how I am.
I'm not very good with people and so tend to bury myself in my work, yet when I'm comfortable around a handful of people- I can be as loud as you like- I'm very talkative and can be quite fiery in character too. But then when I'm around Shadow, or people I don't know as well, I am quite shy and reserved.
Shadow definitely brings out the best in me- if there is such thing! I find that I am really at home and feel I can be myself- not having to worry about what Joe Bloggs thinks about me or how I look- I can just relax and forget about everything else.
Which brings me to what I really wanted to talk about- not caring about what others think and being who I am- but also letting Shadow be WHO he is- he's just as important and patience has become our key philosophy and as I say '' the 4 p's - Patience, Persistence, Passion and Perseverance' I am developing all these traits slowly but surely, and my passion is always increasing.
A lot of people I know think that what I do with Shadow is silly, he's progressing at like 1m.p.h to a lot of people- most people have their youngsters out on the show circuit and I'm sort of dawdling along- the difference is I'm content- I think Shadow is content- it works. By ironing out all the issues right now, it means we can focus on the other stuff later on. Not only that; but I can be confident that any problems which may face us in the future are unlikely to have stemed from poor foundations set!
No matter how long it takes and no matter what people think, I suppose it's just about enjoying the ride- the journey can be the best bit- if you take the best route!
No more fear, submission, dominance or pushiness- just a calm ride, through a gentle breeze!
Life is bliss
I spend a lot of time trying to work out who I am, what I'm trying to be- how I act and how I make others feel- I'm trying to be compassionate.
Of course; life is never really that straightforward, perhaps I've got schizophrenia or something like that and can't make my mind up- but then the more I think about it, the more I think- well maybe it's just the way I am?
I remember someone said to me ''That we spend too much time looking forward to the future, that we forget what is here right in front of us''- I suppose I've missed it all along- trying to manipulate my responses to people- I can't help it, but I think it's just how I am.
I'm not very good with people and so tend to bury myself in my work, yet when I'm comfortable around a handful of people- I can be as loud as you like- I'm very talkative and can be quite fiery in character too. But then when I'm around Shadow, or people I don't know as well, I am quite shy and reserved.
Shadow definitely brings out the best in me- if there is such thing! I find that I am really at home and feel I can be myself- not having to worry about what Joe Bloggs thinks about me or how I look- I can just relax and forget about everything else.
Which brings me to what I really wanted to talk about- not caring about what others think and being who I am- but also letting Shadow be WHO he is- he's just as important and patience has become our key philosophy and as I say '' the 4 p's - Patience, Persistence, Passion and Perseverance' I am developing all these traits slowly but surely, and my passion is always increasing.
A lot of people I know think that what I do with Shadow is silly, he's progressing at like 1m.p.h to a lot of people- most people have their youngsters out on the show circuit and I'm sort of dawdling along- the difference is I'm content- I think Shadow is content- it works. By ironing out all the issues right now, it means we can focus on the other stuff later on. Not only that; but I can be confident that any problems which may face us in the future are unlikely to have stemed from poor foundations set!
No matter how long it takes and no matter what people think, I suppose it's just about enjoying the ride- the journey can be the best bit- if you take the best route!
No more fear, submission, dominance or pushiness- just a calm ride, through a gentle breeze!
Life is bliss
Thursday 2 December 2010
Let it snow, let it snow, let it SNOW!
When the weather outside is frightful....
The snow has made it's way from Scotland down to us in Kent, and it certainly shows our lack of preparation in Britain, everywhere is in total turmoil!
This is our balcony on day 2 of the snow fall, Wednesday 1st December- within 12-16 hours later, though....
This is it this morning ( Thursday 2nd December)
The snow has made it's way from Scotland down to us in Kent, and it certainly shows our lack of preparation in Britain, everywhere is in total turmoil!
This is our balcony on day 2 of the snow fall, Wednesday 1st December- within 12-16 hours later, though....
This is it this morning ( Thursday 2nd December)
Snowed in! This is the Lower Rainham Road at 8am in the morning, during 'Rush hour'.........
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| So, where are we off to today? |
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| ''Shall we brave it? If you go, I go...'' |
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| ''Rush hour on the Lower Rainham Road'' |
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| ''Pretend we're building a snowman, really we're digging a hole to bury Amy and Mum in'' |
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| ''Can I come in now- instead of posing for this photo!'' |
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Wednesday 1 December 2010
Tuesday 30 November 2010
The greatest gift you can give someone, is the purity of your attention
NOTE- I am transferring a lot of notes from Facebook over to here :)....
This is from the 13th November.
What a refreshing and enjoyable day I've had today.
Had a lovely ride out this morning in the woods- it was really fresh and the air was crisp, the noise of the leaves crunching as the horses trod on them was really quite enchanting, Meg was lovely to take out and I'm not used to being quite so high up!
We began our in-hand work today, Shadow and I and definitely know what I need to work on, main one is my body positioning, I found I kept getting a bit too ahead and a bit close, so had to take a step back and remind myself to respect his space. Did some exercises at halt to start with, he certainly responded to it, although he responded well, he wasn't too keen on the lifting stretch, he did well with the neck flexions, although he did try and nip me to begin with, I said 'Ah' as he knows that means 'no' and he then moved his head away and got a pat. The lowering stretches are a working progress- although he did well, and held himself nicely for 3 seconds, he then saw the grass and thought 'Mmm, that's why we lower our heads- to get nearer to the grass, thanks Amy!'', we did it in short bursts ( i.e a stretch in each direction- up, down and sideways) and then a short break, as he's not used to this kind of work. I'm thinking of perhaps free-shaping some neck stretches with the clicker, as I didn't use it today, I wanted to get coordinated to begin with, as I had to get used to playing with the bit and holding the rein and whip in the other hand. We got walk pretty well, although I think I kept moving in front of him. There was quite a lot going on around- with other horses in the school, so this probably impaired his concentration a bit as he is a very curious pony by nature, but nevertheless when I wanted his attention, he did give me it and he got mine too.
Came back out the school and we put into practice some of the things we've been working on with the clicker, and I got that very proud 'Joie de Vivre' moment, where it really all felt like it had paid off. All the practicing we've done, and we put it into practice today, I had to get something out of the car boot and Shadow came, I asked him to 'baaack' and he went back, and then when the boot was open (it's full of hay and treats- he used to just barge you over and grab all the treats!), I told him to stand, et voila, he listened and kept his ear and eye on me.
I also noticed how observant he really is, I think it's something I've subconsciously taught him, because he responds to it, but I've always had leading problems when going back to the field, with him not wanting to move or him wanting the eat the grass, but sometimes, when I get nervous or feel a bit cross/impatient, I tap my finger and thumb together, each time I did this, he walked forward and the faster I tapped them together, so did he. So I wanted to experiment with this, and I asked him to trot with my fingers and he did it. Okay, so useful on the ground so perhaps I could add a cue in to help this encourage forwardness in other aspects of things too. He was very responsive and also very observant to my body language too, which was really quite sweet and a very happy moment, it finally feels like our hard work has paid off, because now we can put our work into situations apposed to just practicing in the field.
Didn't want to overdo it with the in-hand work yet, it's a lot for him ( and myself) to absorb still, so it's a case of just slowing it down a bit and taking it slow, however I think we're enjoying the work, with his naturally curious nature, he enjoys doing things, like me- hates being bored, however, he is also like me in that we have short concentration spans and short bursts of things do us better than intense periods of work, but the disadvantage of working in a grassy area is that his nose and mouth begins to wander down to the green grass.....!! Need to ponder on some ways to keep him active, so may resort to working on the track, until I've gotten a little bit better with my timing and positioning and then can begin to do some more activities to vary out the sessions and prevent them from boring him.
In good time, it will come, but I'm kind of enjoying the challenges and kind of enjoying the journey anyway, as those small triumphs keep you buzzing for days and it's a nice feeling.
Although, I shouldn't say this, and shouldn't be making expectations, but I really cannot wait until we can go for more walks in the Autumn leaves and explore the beautiful countryside that surrounds us :).
Monday 29 November 2010
The 'to-do' list
I shouldn't really make lists, because they never go to plan/never get round to it or something else, but I think that the first step into beginning to structure Shadow's work, is to perhaps structure my life and begin to organise his work regime in order for him to develop and for progress to be made- at the moment, I'm kinda skiving off and playing games with the clicker, or just chillaxing, it is nice to just sit back and do nothing, but despite the winter months having arrived, this is an opportunity for lots of work to be done- poor us!
I'll break the lists down into smaller segments so I can begin to see what needs doing/what has been done!
- Stand still by mounting block and allow to be mounted- stand still after I get on.
- Walk on when I ride him in the school/yard
- Understand basic commands- leg, hand aid etc.
- ''Grown-ups are talking'' game
- Develop in-hand work
I think grown ups, will be our first step toward progressing, this will enable us to work on lots of things...
- Stand still when asked ( pretty much there)
- Keep a distance at times ( sometimes gets a bit pushy if he doesn't understand)
- Lead back to the field
-Pick up feet on a lighter cue....
- Walk on in-hand
-Stand still when I walk away
That's just the basis for now, will paste in some bits and bobs into this bit later on.
Amy x
So, will break these down in my head later, and paste in some helpful advice I've had from others
I'll break the lists down into smaller segments so I can begin to see what needs doing/what has been done!
- Stand still by mounting block and allow to be mounted- stand still after I get on.
- Walk on when I ride him in the school/yard
- Understand basic commands- leg, hand aid etc.
- ''Grown-ups are talking'' game
- Develop in-hand work
I think grown ups, will be our first step toward progressing, this will enable us to work on lots of things...
- Stand still when asked ( pretty much there)
- Keep a distance at times ( sometimes gets a bit pushy if he doesn't understand)
- Lead back to the field
-Pick up feet on a lighter cue....
- Walk on in-hand
-Stand still when I walk away
That's just the basis for now, will paste in some bits and bobs into this bit later on.
Amy x
So, will break these down in my head later, and paste in some helpful advice I've had from others
Welcome to my world....
I do have another blog 'Amy's world' but that was a bit of a fail and I'm in the mood for starting fresh with a blog dedicated to my boy. So, welcome to 'piebald blog'... ( no prizes for originality...!)
So, thought I'd join the club, I do write a lot on Facebook, but I do like to record my progress with Shadow complete with photos, and feel this is more appropriate as it's lower scale and less read, so preferred to do it like this :).
Anyway, I'll keep this one short and sweet, as a wee introductory post...
Shadow is my 4 year old cob gelding whom I adore, he's my best bud and we may not be the fastest progressing pair ( we're both pretty darn slow), but it works and it works for us, otherwise we get brain freeze and then our problems begin all over again, so we have the philosophy 'patience is a virtue', although I'm in no rush to ride him, I'm just enjoying all the other pleasures that come with working with him.
We began our clicker journey in June, but spent a lot of time working it out and understanding it all, I'm still learning a lot, but my understanding has increased and therefore his learning has developed too.
I think all in all, he's good for me, he keeps a smile on my face. He has days where he doesn't want to know me, and the won't look up, but he's a big sweetie and I love him loads.
So, this is our story, thoughts and things that we learn as we embark on our journey! Lots of photos, videos and of course, ramblings about our journeys development, from winter 2010 onwards ( and upwards hopefully!)
Amy xx
Warning, please beware of totally terrible photos of me, but this is the mad world of Amy and Shadow- enjoy!!!
So, thought I'd join the club, I do write a lot on Facebook, but I do like to record my progress with Shadow complete with photos, and feel this is more appropriate as it's lower scale and less read, so preferred to do it like this :).
Anyway, I'll keep this one short and sweet, as a wee introductory post...
Shadow is my 4 year old cob gelding whom I adore, he's my best bud and we may not be the fastest progressing pair ( we're both pretty darn slow), but it works and it works for us, otherwise we get brain freeze and then our problems begin all over again, so we have the philosophy 'patience is a virtue', although I'm in no rush to ride him, I'm just enjoying all the other pleasures that come with working with him.
We began our clicker journey in June, but spent a lot of time working it out and understanding it all, I'm still learning a lot, but my understanding has increased and therefore his learning has developed too.
I think all in all, he's good for me, he keeps a smile on my face. He has days where he doesn't want to know me, and the won't look up, but he's a big sweetie and I love him loads.
So, this is our story, thoughts and things that we learn as we embark on our journey! Lots of photos, videos and of course, ramblings about our journeys development, from winter 2010 onwards ( and upwards hopefully!)
Amy xx
Warning, please beware of totally terrible photos of me, but this is the mad world of Amy and Shadow- enjoy!!!
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