Happy Birthday Harley!

Today is Harley's 15th Birthday!

I know exactly what my horse wants for his birthday.

Yummies.

A nice grooming session, lots of attention, and a ride!

At the beginning of our ride, I let him mosey around the ring, sniff poop, nuzzle barrels, and knock over cones and blocks.  You know, the simple pleasures in life.  His best buddy was also enjoying a ride, so we let our horses walk side-by-side for several laps around the ring.  Both horses marched along like they were headed somewhere important.  Harley's walk felt awesome!

A barn visitor created the opportunity to get a picture of Harley's lovely neck and friendly nature.

With a couple clucks, Harley moved up into trot.  Before long, he was motoring along with a very nice feeling of lift through his back and shoulders.  We took a quick break to chat and receive birthday wishes from the barn owner, and then we went back to our ride.  This time Harley answered my request for forward movement by cantering.  

"You got it boy, it's your birthday!"

I stood in my stirrups and encouraged him to engage his hind legs with little nudges from my lower legs.  He gave me this smooth, rocking canter, with beautiful softness through his neck and into the reins.  I told him "trot" and he transitioned easily into a nice, round trot.  I love the feeling of never-ending impulsion that he gets in his trot once we start canter work.  It is such a joy to ride.  I think that I am the one who got the best presents today.  What a wonderful horse.  I am so lucky!

Harley "self-portrait"