I haven't been posting much, and it's really because I've settled into a nice rhythm with my horses. Traveling between 2 barns 25 minutes apart will take up a huge chunk of time, especially when you spend 2 hours at one barn and an hour at the other. Throw 2 dog-walking sessions in there and you have my typical day. I'm not going to lie, it's pretty marvelous.
I will admit though, I have totally slacked on riding Miles until the last 2 days. For some reason, he has decided it's SUPER FUN to roll in wet mud right before I get to the barn. Literally, he has been head to hoof stinktastic. I resorted to hosing him off yesterday (in November!) because he was just that bad, and the weather was a balmy 60 something with sun so I knew he wouldn't be too uncomfortable as long as I threw his cooler on after a good squeegee.
Anyway, today was the most fabulous ride we've had in quite some time. My attentions have been so divided with Chamie that I had forgotten how amazing my boy is at just about anything I ask him to do. I took him on a loooong trail ride today with 2 awesome ladies from my barn-we have such a great group of boarders right now! Afterward, there was just enough juice left in our tank to hop over a few cross-rails....here's a link:
https://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=2253436536456
Honestly, though, the trail ride was my favorite part. He really, really loves getting out. It's nerve-wracking for me, because I wouldn't say he's relaxed during these rides...his head is constantly turning this way and that, and today he had a few spook-and-scoot episodes, which were really no big deal. He's not a dead-head, which is of course good, but he has an electricity running through his body that is so visceral, I'd have to be dead not to feel it. It's exciting and thrilling, and it's obvious he is having So. Much. Fun. I feel that too:) He's a bold boy and marches right along-woe to those who hold him back. He's in tune to everything around him, from the horses to the wind and reacts in kind, which can be scary. I think I'm learning, though, that his "reactions", such as they are, are nothing I can't sit, and he's not going to bolt or buck or even pull one of those horrid sideways-spooks that leaves you behind.
What I'm trying to say is, he's the best. I just have to be a good enough rider not to hold his natural self back.
In Chamie news, my old girl is coming home on Friday! It feels like Christmas is right around the corner.
Showing posts with label jumping?. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jumping?. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Lady Of Leisure
Yeah....it hasn't even been a week yet that I've been unemployed, but the days and hours stretch out before me, promising infinite possibility. I'm not gonna lie, I needed this break, even if it comes from, you know, getting laid off. It helps that the weather is unbelievably perfect-sunny, mid to high 70's; just lovely.
Lo, I did have an interview this morning. I don't want to divulge all the details here, but it was for a position I know I could do, and do well. I felt good during the meeting, tried to be honest and humble while still speaking about my strengths. The entire thing took 25 minutes! This is with me asking a few questions of my own at the end...I can't decide if that's a good or a bad thing. They are scheduling 2nd interviews next week, so I'm going to go with the "We're weeding out the crazies" theory and hope I get that call to come back.
MEANTIME, sweet Miles is not a pony of leisure. As promised, he's getting lots of face time, though I'm pretty sure he loves it. Today we took the most gorgeous trail ride with a fellow boarder and then hopped over a couple jumps. He was so perfect-relaxed but super forward, listening to my aids and responding. How did I get so lucky with this one? I know we're not out there galloping fields or doing passage or jumping courses, but he's exactly what I need right now. As always, the best part of my day. Some things never change.
Lo, I did have an interview this morning. I don't want to divulge all the details here, but it was for a position I know I could do, and do well. I felt good during the meeting, tried to be honest and humble while still speaking about my strengths. The entire thing took 25 minutes! This is with me asking a few questions of my own at the end...I can't decide if that's a good or a bad thing. They are scheduling 2nd interviews next week, so I'm going to go with the "We're weeding out the crazies" theory and hope I get that call to come back.
MEANTIME, sweet Miles is not a pony of leisure. As promised, he's getting lots of face time, though I'm pretty sure he loves it. Today we took the most gorgeous trail ride with a fellow boarder and then hopped over a couple jumps. He was so perfect-relaxed but super forward, listening to my aids and responding. How did I get so lucky with this one? I know we're not out there galloping fields or doing passage or jumping courses, but he's exactly what I need right now. As always, the best part of my day. Some things never change.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
*Deep Breaths*
Whew...
So after keeping my organization in limbo for approximately 5 months, the State, in its infinite wisdom, has "officially" decided to de-fund us for fiscal year 2012 as of September 15th. My last day at work is Friday. Nice notice, right?
I (and my co-workers) pretty much knew this was coming, but there was that glimmer of hope that everything would be ok and funding would come through. Not to be. I've been with that organization since it started, from the ground up, 7 years of blood and sweat and tears, wah wah woe is me.
I've sent out about 10 resumes in the last 3 weeks or so. I got my first rejection email this morning, for extra bonus awesome!
Anyway, I'll continue searching, obviously. I'll collect unemployment (which is about half of what I was making). Kyle and I are cutting back even more than we were before, and we will be ok for a little while. I'll get some time to decompress from this shitty limbo-state of uncertainty, wash some horse blankets, get the yard ready for winter, and of course lots of this:
Such a handsome head.
So after keeping my organization in limbo for approximately 5 months, the State, in its infinite wisdom, has "officially" decided to de-fund us for fiscal year 2012 as of September 15th. My last day at work is Friday. Nice notice, right?
I (and my co-workers) pretty much knew this was coming, but there was that glimmer of hope that everything would be ok and funding would come through. Not to be. I've been with that organization since it started, from the ground up, 7 years of blood and sweat and tears, wah wah woe is me.
I've sent out about 10 resumes in the last 3 weeks or so. I got my first rejection email this morning, for extra bonus awesome!
Anyway, I'll continue searching, obviously. I'll collect unemployment (which is about half of what I was making). Kyle and I are cutting back even more than we were before, and we will be ok for a little while. I'll get some time to decompress from this shitty limbo-state of uncertainty, wash some horse blankets, get the yard ready for winter, and of course lots of this:
Such a handsome head.
It's not all bad. Kyle says to focus on finding what will make me happy. I've heard the saying, "Do what you love, and the money will follow." It's a nice thought, but I'm so disillusioned with the economy in this State I don't know. I'm worried I'll end up taking something I hate because, um, we need dollars. Worse I won't even be able to find a job I hate that pays what I was making, and I'll end up working at Speedway. (Aside: If I have to work for 8 bucks an hour, I'd rather at least work around animals; a pet store or something. I'm actually really fascinated by animal nutrition and pet care, having owned just about anything with fur at one point or another, and I don't think it would be horrible.) The rejection letter I got? Says they received hundreds of resumes for this one position. It's tough out there.
Dark days.
Dark days.
Of course, leave it to Miles to be my bright light. He has been working so, so beautifully the last couple of weeks. Friday and Saturday I took him over cross rails for the first time in a month or so. We've both missed them and it sure injected more joy into our ride. Saturday I raised the rails up so the middle was just under 2 feet. I know, I know, we're CA-RAAAZY! It was fun to feel him actually use himself to jump though-thank goodness I had the presence of mind to grab mane the first couple of times. He's so adorably pleased with himself when he does a good job, too. Love my boy. How can any situation be all bad when I get to drive out to see this more often?
Monday, August 29, 2011
You Want To Hit The Trails? How About We Talk Supplements?
Writing Rut? Um, yes. That "30 Day Challenge" thing I tried was a huge bust, lolz. Even with my pathetic bending of the rules I think I got to the fourth question or something. Blah. It's hard to write about my pony when so much else is going on job and family wise-both of which, by the way, are up in the air. Grandma is still in hospice, and (not to equate these things) I still don't know if I'll be working past October 1st.
Still, I want to write about Miles, because even with our challenges he is the "happy place" my brain goes to when I need to think of something good, something to look forward to.
First, a HUGE shout out to Aimee and Izzy - they were kind enough to ship us an Amigo Bug Rug that rubbed Izzy's shoulders but fits Miles like a very big, very covering, pretty light blue glove, sans rubbing. Combining this with going into a stall at night was exactly what he needed. He's getting much needed rest, along with extra calories, and is putting on weight again. I have to get a picture of him in his gear though-I never thought I'd own a horse I had to cover from head to hoof in the summer, but I totally get it now.
The mosquitoes seem to ebb and flow. Are you sick of hearing about them? Me too. I'm even sicker of being a prisoner to them. Sunday they finally ebbed, thanks to a super brisk breeze. It's a good thing because I was PISSED OFF-the day before was the very first time I had tacked Miles up, walked up to the arena, and turned right back around to the barn. Those little bastards were flying in my mouth, in my ears, to say nothing of what they were doing to my horse. It's been awhile since I've seen or felt Miles ready to explode, but he sure was. Poor boy.
ANYWAY, Sunday. I took the golden dogs out, and we had a short ride around the grounds and briefly down the trails. Ohhhh, it was lovely. There were a couple other riders milling about around the barn, and the dogs had a blast with everyone, though they aren't getting any younger. They were already pooped by the time I mounted so I didn't want to exhaust them by making them keep up with us on a mile long trail ride. When I did point Miles down his favorite trail though, the one that goes up a hill diagonally through a field, he started double timing it and wanted to break into a trot (and I'm sure a canter) so badly. I held him back and talked to him, and after he tossed his head and squealed he relented, begrudgingly. Y'all, he didn't want to turn back home - you know, where all the other horses were hanging out. I love this horse so much. I can't wait to canter him up that hill someday soon.
He can be a challenge to keep healthy and happy, for sure. I wish he wasn't soooo sensitive, for his own sake. I thought we were over the whole "hard keeper" issue until the mosquito invasion. At the same time, his issues are a nice distraction from everything else going on. It's horrible to admit; I like being able to focus on fixing something I have some control over, you know? However, between the fly sheet and stalling at night (not to mention, once again, the Durasole which has totally fixed his ouch-y feet. I can't recommend that stuff enough!!) I'm figuring things out slowly but surely.
Our ride before Sunday I actually popped Miles over a crossrail a couple times before we were chased out of the arena by insects (see a pattern?). It's no big deal to him at all anymore, which tells me maybe we can start working on lines and eventually cantering a course of three jumps or so. I have no desire to increase the heights of the jumps over 2 feet. My boy raced long and hard until he was 7 years old, and his joints have paid their dues. Besides, there's a lot of fun to be had with small jumps in the right configuration.
Finally, because SmartPak is awesome, their supplements in "SmartPaks" (individual containers) over $40 a month ship for free, and ANY order over $75 has free shipping as well-NO exclusions. I'm not a huge fan of any one company, with the exception of SmartPak. Everything, from their customer service to the quality of their products is far superior to anyone else in my (totally un-solicited, un-sponsored, unfortunately) opinion, horse-related or not. So, this free shipping business has given me the excuse to spend just a little more on Miles' supplements and put him on SmartFlex Senior Pellets. It's got the same (or more) levels of MSM and Glucosamine I've been giving him, with the addition of Vitamin C, Devil's Claw and Boswellia, not to mention pro and pre-biotics and another free-radical "scavenger" they call it. The very best part is it's pelleted, and he won't be losing half of it through his feed bag or having it left at the bottom of his feed pail. The reason I went with this particular supplement, even though Miles isn't technically "senior", is that I think his joints probably are:) It's also the highest rated supplement they have within a price range I can afford. My boy isn't "unsound" now, but it will be interesting to see if, for instance, it takes him a little less time to warm up, especially with winter coming. I'll keep you posted! More riveting reading about insects and supplements to come, no worries:)
Still, I want to write about Miles, because even with our challenges he is the "happy place" my brain goes to when I need to think of something good, something to look forward to.
First, a HUGE shout out to Aimee and Izzy - they were kind enough to ship us an Amigo Bug Rug that rubbed Izzy's shoulders but fits Miles like a very big, very covering, pretty light blue glove, sans rubbing. Combining this with going into a stall at night was exactly what he needed. He's getting much needed rest, along with extra calories, and is putting on weight again. I have to get a picture of him in his gear though-I never thought I'd own a horse I had to cover from head to hoof in the summer, but I totally get it now.
The mosquitoes seem to ebb and flow. Are you sick of hearing about them? Me too. I'm even sicker of being a prisoner to them. Sunday they finally ebbed, thanks to a super brisk breeze. It's a good thing because I was PISSED OFF-the day before was the very first time I had tacked Miles up, walked up to the arena, and turned right back around to the barn. Those little bastards were flying in my mouth, in my ears, to say nothing of what they were doing to my horse. It's been awhile since I've seen or felt Miles ready to explode, but he sure was. Poor boy.
ANYWAY, Sunday. I took the golden dogs out, and we had a short ride around the grounds and briefly down the trails. Ohhhh, it was lovely. There were a couple other riders milling about around the barn, and the dogs had a blast with everyone, though they aren't getting any younger. They were already pooped by the time I mounted so I didn't want to exhaust them by making them keep up with us on a mile long trail ride. When I did point Miles down his favorite trail though, the one that goes up a hill diagonally through a field, he started double timing it and wanted to break into a trot (and I'm sure a canter) so badly. I held him back and talked to him, and after he tossed his head and squealed he relented, begrudgingly. Y'all, he didn't want to turn back home - you know, where all the other horses were hanging out. I love this horse so much. I can't wait to canter him up that hill someday soon.
He can be a challenge to keep healthy and happy, for sure. I wish he wasn't soooo sensitive, for his own sake. I thought we were over the whole "hard keeper" issue until the mosquito invasion. At the same time, his issues are a nice distraction from everything else going on. It's horrible to admit; I like being able to focus on fixing something I have some control over, you know? However, between the fly sheet and stalling at night (not to mention, once again, the Durasole which has totally fixed his ouch-y feet. I can't recommend that stuff enough!!) I'm figuring things out slowly but surely.
Our ride before Sunday I actually popped Miles over a crossrail a couple times before we were chased out of the arena by insects (see a pattern?). It's no big deal to him at all anymore, which tells me maybe we can start working on lines and eventually cantering a course of three jumps or so. I have no desire to increase the heights of the jumps over 2 feet. My boy raced long and hard until he was 7 years old, and his joints have paid their dues. Besides, there's a lot of fun to be had with small jumps in the right configuration.
Finally, because SmartPak is awesome, their supplements in "SmartPaks" (individual containers) over $40 a month ship for free, and ANY order over $75 has free shipping as well-NO exclusions. I'm not a huge fan of any one company, with the exception of SmartPak. Everything, from their customer service to the quality of their products is far superior to anyone else in my (totally un-solicited, un-sponsored, unfortunately) opinion, horse-related or not. So, this free shipping business has given me the excuse to spend just a little more on Miles' supplements and put him on SmartFlex Senior Pellets. It's got the same (or more) levels of MSM and Glucosamine I've been giving him, with the addition of Vitamin C, Devil's Claw and Boswellia, not to mention pro and pre-biotics and another free-radical "scavenger" they call it. The very best part is it's pelleted, and he won't be losing half of it through his feed bag or having it left at the bottom of his feed pail. The reason I went with this particular supplement, even though Miles isn't technically "senior", is that I think his joints probably are:) It's also the highest rated supplement they have within a price range I can afford. My boy isn't "unsound" now, but it will be interesting to see if, for instance, it takes him a little less time to warm up, especially with winter coming. I'll keep you posted! More riveting reading about insects and supplements to come, no worries:)
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Re-defining Perfection. Also, Muscles!
Had an interesting ride today. It really cooled off, and Miles and I rode in temps in the mid-60's for the first time in...well, it feels like months. So he was a bit up and fresh, and very looky-loo, but still had a brain in his head. I decided to hand walk him twice around the arena, turn on "The Twilight Singers" on my phone (I don't know about Miles, but listening to Greg Dulli makes me feel invincible), and hop on.
He was a bit distracted, and not really into the whole riding around the ring in circles and serpentines bit. Could it have something to do with the fact that I wasn't either? Hmmm. There was no one to go trail riding with, which is too bad because it would have been a perfect day for that, especially because I think I saw 2 flies all day.
Instead, after riding for about 15 minutes and making sure we executed all 3 gaits in both directions, I pointed him at the cross rail, set up on a diagonal as the vertical had been on our last ride. We trotted it a couple of times, then cantered it each way-and there was such a profound, amazing change in both of us. Miles stopped looking all around, rushing in this corner, stalling in that corner, and just generally tuned in to me and what we were doing. I stopped feeling like I was constantly asking him for forward impulsion and engagement he wasn't offering. That's the great thing about jumping (and again, keep in mind I'm talking about under 2 feet at this point). It changes our whole ride. After going over that cross rail, his trot got BIG. His canter transition was there, BOOM, instantly. I think we cantered it about 5 times-the first 2 times we got a slightly short spot, though I wouldn't call it a chip. The 3rd time we got a long spot, but I LOVED that I asked him to take it and he did. The last 2 jumps were perfect.
He's perfect.
OK, hyperbole in writing, blah blah blah. If anyone actually saw our riding (especially before we started jumping)-look, it's NOT perfect. I know that. What it IS is perfect for ME, for what I'm asking of him at this stage of our partnership. Not always pretty riding, but he's always trying-and that's all I can ask for at any time. He's happy in his work, and that makes me happy. It might not be perfect by most definitions, but it's perfect enough for me. Hey, I've never been accused of being type A:) Plus, look at these MUSCLES!
Yeah, I'd like another 50 pounds on him, but I think our work in the last month is paying off. Natalie at Retired Racehorse pointed it out on Facebook, and she's right. His butt is way more impressive than it was 6 months ago:) Thanks for the big ups, Natalie!
Facing the other way, with a punk-rock hairdo. I'll always love that neck of his, muscled or not.
Modeling his very own Dr. Cook's, which we both love. Never going back to a bit again, no matter what. He's doing even better in his very own, that I can adjust to fit his face perfectly, and there is Zero leaning with the noseband sitting just a bit lower as it should be. Make no mistake, I can still "collect" him-in fact, if you haven't already, go read Fugly's latest blog-beautiful example of bitless riding. Passage, Piaffe-you can do it all without a bit. "On the bit" is really just collection, and you don't need a bit for it. Believe me, I hate the feeling of a strung out horse as much as anyone-I've never felt more connected to Miles than I have in a bitless bridle.
Well deserved green, green grass for his beautiful muscled-ass:)
He was a bit distracted, and not really into the whole riding around the ring in circles and serpentines bit. Could it have something to do with the fact that I wasn't either? Hmmm. There was no one to go trail riding with, which is too bad because it would have been a perfect day for that, especially because I think I saw 2 flies all day.
Instead, after riding for about 15 minutes and making sure we executed all 3 gaits in both directions, I pointed him at the cross rail, set up on a diagonal as the vertical had been on our last ride. We trotted it a couple of times, then cantered it each way-and there was such a profound, amazing change in both of us. Miles stopped looking all around, rushing in this corner, stalling in that corner, and just generally tuned in to me and what we were doing. I stopped feeling like I was constantly asking him for forward impulsion and engagement he wasn't offering. That's the great thing about jumping (and again, keep in mind I'm talking about under 2 feet at this point). It changes our whole ride. After going over that cross rail, his trot got BIG. His canter transition was there, BOOM, instantly. I think we cantered it about 5 times-the first 2 times we got a slightly short spot, though I wouldn't call it a chip. The 3rd time we got a long spot, but I LOVED that I asked him to take it and he did. The last 2 jumps were perfect.
He's perfect.
OK, hyperbole in writing, blah blah blah. If anyone actually saw our riding (especially before we started jumping)-look, it's NOT perfect. I know that. What it IS is perfect for ME, for what I'm asking of him at this stage of our partnership. Not always pretty riding, but he's always trying-and that's all I can ask for at any time. He's happy in his work, and that makes me happy. It might not be perfect by most definitions, but it's perfect enough for me. Hey, I've never been accused of being type A:) Plus, look at these MUSCLES!
Yeah, I'd like another 50 pounds on him, but I think our work in the last month is paying off. Natalie at Retired Racehorse pointed it out on Facebook, and she's right. His butt is way more impressive than it was 6 months ago:) Thanks for the big ups, Natalie!
Facing the other way, with a punk-rock hairdo. I'll always love that neck of his, muscled or not.
Modeling his very own Dr. Cook's, which we both love. Never going back to a bit again, no matter what. He's doing even better in his very own, that I can adjust to fit his face perfectly, and there is Zero leaning with the noseband sitting just a bit lower as it should be. Make no mistake, I can still "collect" him-in fact, if you haven't already, go read Fugly's latest blog-beautiful example of bitless riding. Passage, Piaffe-you can do it all without a bit. "On the bit" is really just collection, and you don't need a bit for it. Believe me, I hate the feeling of a strung out horse as much as anyone-I've never felt more connected to Miles than I have in a bitless bridle.
Well deserved green, green grass for his beautiful muscled-ass:)
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Miles Conquers the Vertical
Just a quick update...the last few days were Hades hot, for real. I was swamped at work, and on the road a bit, so Miles got a respite. Today, however, he was back in fine form, and we had a lovely ride in 76 degree weather (we Michiganians are slightly obsessed with the thermometer. Does it show?).
There was a lesson happening in the arena while we were working, and various spooky things about because there was a fun show at the barn on Tuesday. At the canter, Miles tried halfheartedly to react to a mini-American flag in a bucket on the rail. He was so lame about it I had to laugh-is there such a thing as a lazy spook? Because I'm pretty sure that's just what he did. Maybe he's a Commie. Or just a proud Chilean:)
Miles has been tripping a bit, which I noticed over the weekend and again today. It's not horrible, but enough where I need to talk to our farrier about it in 10 days. He's also got a small to medium chip or beginning-chip in 3 out of 4 hooves, so I think his feet are just growing super fast thanks to all our wonky weather; super wet to super hot and dry...I think it's messing with a lot of pony feet. He's sound, just...clumsy. Anyway...
The BO set up a small vertical (which we've never done under saddle) on the diagonal for her student, as opposed to down the long-side like the cross rails we've been jumping. I thought what the heck-he was in a nice trot so I pointed him at it. His ears and head went UP, but I kept Lucinda Green's voice in my head; "Act as if your horse is a sandwich, and your legs are holding him together. If you squeeze too much you'll crush your sandwich, and if you don't squeeze enough everything falls out" (or some variation of this quote). I heart Lucinda Green so much. I also heart food metaphors-don't ruin my sandwich, legs!!
So, I supported him with my leg, and he JUMPED (like...JUMPED) Mr. Tiny Vertical...Good Boy!!! Somehow my position was strong enough to stay right with him and I remembered to grab mane. He was so pleased with himself, cantering away with just a slight toss of his head. Rightly so, natch:)
Did you know I love this horse?
This is the Droid you were looking for. Take him to your verticals.
(Milez iz owned by a nyrd.)
There was a lesson happening in the arena while we were working, and various spooky things about because there was a fun show at the barn on Tuesday. At the canter, Miles tried halfheartedly to react to a mini-American flag in a bucket on the rail. He was so lame about it I had to laugh-is there such a thing as a lazy spook? Because I'm pretty sure that's just what he did. Maybe he's a Commie. Or just a proud Chilean:)
Miles has been tripping a bit, which I noticed over the weekend and again today. It's not horrible, but enough where I need to talk to our farrier about it in 10 days. He's also got a small to medium chip or beginning-chip in 3 out of 4 hooves, so I think his feet are just growing super fast thanks to all our wonky weather; super wet to super hot and dry...I think it's messing with a lot of pony feet. He's sound, just...clumsy. Anyway...
The BO set up a small vertical (which we've never done under saddle) on the diagonal for her student, as opposed to down the long-side like the cross rails we've been jumping. I thought what the heck-he was in a nice trot so I pointed him at it. His ears and head went UP, but I kept Lucinda Green's voice in my head; "Act as if your horse is a sandwich, and your legs are holding him together. If you squeeze too much you'll crush your sandwich, and if you don't squeeze enough everything falls out" (or some variation of this quote). I heart Lucinda Green so much. I also heart food metaphors-don't ruin my sandwich, legs!!
So, I supported him with my leg, and he JUMPED (like...JUMPED) Mr. Tiny Vertical...Good Boy!!! Somehow my position was strong enough to stay right with him and I remembered to grab mane. He was so pleased with himself, cantering away with just a slight toss of his head. Rightly so, natch:)
Did you know I love this horse?
This is the Droid you were looking for. Take him to your verticals.
(Milez iz owned by a nyrd.)
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Mahhhhvalous Mr. M
Oh, we've not done anything crazy in the last week or so-but Miles has become Mr. Steady, Mr. Reliable, Mr. Pull Me Out Of The Pasture After A Week And Ride Me...which is exactly what I've needed lately.
Also, this horse LOVES jumping. Loves it. When he's being a little lazy (or it's like today, 85 degrees and muggy), I can point him at our little crossrail and he instantly becomes forward (but not rushy), and is now consistently jumping the obstacle from a trot and cantering away. I don't care that it's a teeny tiny...it's added so much to our rides. It's been lovely.
The not so great news is that he's lost a bit of weight in the last few weeks. He's quite sensitive to bugs and heat so I'm pretty sure that's all it is. I've also not been at the barn nearly as much as I should be this time of year (though I would if I could have) to feed him his Speshul Miles' Mish-Mash of beet pulp, alfalfa and apples. He's been scarfing it up, and it's great because it gets some additional water in him as well. Our barn owner is aware and he's getting a bit of ration balancer in addition to his regular grain-which we've switched (again), from Purina Strategy to Tribute Kalm and Easy. I actually really like everything I've heard about this feed and their rep was great, so I hope it helps. Miles is also nowhere near as ribby as this time last year, but I don't want him ending up there either. I'll keep you updated.
Item! I've been blogging about Miles officially for over a year now. I had no idea I would have enough nonsense to write about for so long, but there it is. Posting has slowed down considerably in the last month or so, but I've found these things ebb and flow. Also, I suck at taking pictures-I need to remedy this because sometimes you can write paragraphs on the right photo:)
Item! Looks like Miles and I will be featured in New Vocation's summer newsletter. I think it's just going to be a blip among other updates from adopters, but still I'm so excited!!! Even though we aren't one of their "success stories" that have won tons of ribbons, when I was looking at horses a story like ours is exactly the kind of thing I would have wanted to read. You know, about a horse who busts all the "Crazy OTTB" stereotypes, who is full of life and love, sound and barefoot, and who is a true partner to his totally smitten owner. I'll let you know when it's out.
Thank you to everyone who sent a comment or an email in the last few weeks. It's been tough, but you all bring a smile to my face. Happy June Everyone!! It's my favorite month, especially to ride. Enjoy YOUR partner.
Also, this horse LOVES jumping. Loves it. When he's being a little lazy (or it's like today, 85 degrees and muggy), I can point him at our little crossrail and he instantly becomes forward (but not rushy), and is now consistently jumping the obstacle from a trot and cantering away. I don't care that it's a teeny tiny...it's added so much to our rides. It's been lovely.
The not so great news is that he's lost a bit of weight in the last few weeks. He's quite sensitive to bugs and heat so I'm pretty sure that's all it is. I've also not been at the barn nearly as much as I should be this time of year (though I would if I could have) to feed him his Speshul Miles' Mish-Mash of beet pulp, alfalfa and apples. He's been scarfing it up, and it's great because it gets some additional water in him as well. Our barn owner is aware and he's getting a bit of ration balancer in addition to his regular grain-which we've switched (again), from Purina Strategy to Tribute Kalm and Easy. I actually really like everything I've heard about this feed and their rep was great, so I hope it helps. Miles is also nowhere near as ribby as this time last year, but I don't want him ending up there either. I'll keep you updated.
Item! I've been blogging about Miles officially for over a year now. I had no idea I would have enough nonsense to write about for so long, but there it is. Posting has slowed down considerably in the last month or so, but I've found these things ebb and flow. Also, I suck at taking pictures-I need to remedy this because sometimes you can write paragraphs on the right photo:)
Item! Looks like Miles and I will be featured in New Vocation's summer newsletter. I think it's just going to be a blip among other updates from adopters, but still I'm so excited!!! Even though we aren't one of their "success stories" that have won tons of ribbons, when I was looking at horses a story like ours is exactly the kind of thing I would have wanted to read. You know, about a horse who busts all the "Crazy OTTB" stereotypes, who is full of life and love, sound and barefoot, and who is a true partner to his totally smitten owner. I'll let you know when it's out.
Thank you to everyone who sent a comment or an email in the last few weeks. It's been tough, but you all bring a smile to my face. Happy June Everyone!! It's my favorite month, especially to ride. Enjoy YOUR partner.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Who Has 4 Hooves, 2 Thumbs, and Canters Crossrails Undersaddle?
Miles and Me!
(Yous Guys...she's about to bragz about me again. I TOLDZ her not to...)
Yes, while cantering an 18" (truthfully, it was probably smaller) cross rail is not a big deal to lots of people, it is to me, since it's our very first time! In the same ride today, we caught each of our leads successfully, used the entire outdoor arena, rode our corners, executed transitions...I just had that feeling from him-you know the one? Where you can do anything you want with your horse....walk down the trail, gallop across a field...or canter over a couple of jumps. So we did. And lo, it was awesome.
Of course, we started off trotting the tiny jump. The first time? He literally trotted right up to it and then proceeded to walk over it, and he was trotting VERY briskly . Suffice it to say, I remembered my base of support after that-it was actually the best reminder he could have given me. I honestly think he was just surprised to see the obstacle, since we didn't lunge over it or walk over it first. After that, though? Aces.
Both canter jumps were taken in stride, straight and true. I have no idea how my equitation was, but I know he looked great. No weaving, no speeding up or slowing down. Just a perfect hunter canter, with the fence taken as any other stride. I love him.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
It's Amazing What 2 Rides Will Do For Your Outlook
For reals. After having so much time off, Miles the Wonder Pony gave me 2 great rides in a row this weekend. I don't really have much to add to that...we cantered (and cantered well) and trotted cross poles. Miles still doesn't see much reason to actually break into a canter after the cross rail, but we'll get there. I did lunge him at the canter over the jump and he had no issue what-so-ever. Today we also worked, for the very first time, with another boarder who was jumping as well. Miles was a little rattled at first but quickly settled in-he really hasn't been exposed to other horses working at the canter and jumping right next to him. Wonder Pony...what can I say?
Here, have a boring (but cute at the end) video of Miles and LaShore moseying down to great me at the gate. I was hoping to get one of his whinnying/galloping greetings, but considering all the snow we've had this is actually much safer. Turn your sound down so as not to get aurally assaulted by my ridiculous voice.
I think the horse apples in the pasture are a nice touch. Happy Sunday Everyone!
Here, have a boring (but cute at the end) video of Miles and LaShore moseying down to great me at the gate. I was hoping to get one of his whinnying/galloping greetings, but considering all the snow we've had this is actually much safer. Turn your sound down so as not to get aurally assaulted by my ridiculous voice.
I think the horse apples in the pasture are a nice touch. Happy Sunday Everyone!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
An Even Wee-er Update
...Just to say that Miles cantered his first jumps today-both directions, on the lunge, a tiny vertical and a cross rail, in fine fashion I might add. I just love this horse.
Maybe our last "crash boom bah" session was actually a good thing, because he never touched the rails this time, and was careful yet totally confident. The first time I pointed him at the jump while he was cantering, I admit I held my breath, yet he took everything in stride with his ears up-a very happy boy. That first jump was maybe 12"-pretty sure he cleared it by at least 2 feet:) Yay for lunging first!
Ever wanting to conserve his preshus energy, however, the next 3 canter jumps (I alternated trot/canter to avoid any silliness) were gorgeous and cleared by totally reasonable heights.
How did I get so lucky? What a good boy. I rode as well, and he was equally wonderful. I'm going to stay at a trot under saddle for a little while while he figures out the obstacles in front of him and focus on straightness and rhythm (we're also still working on that frigging right lead canter, ha ha). I'm a proud mama tonight-I'll try for pictures/video this weekend:)
Maybe our last "crash boom bah" session was actually a good thing, because he never touched the rails this time, and was careful yet totally confident. The first time I pointed him at the jump while he was cantering, I admit I held my breath, yet he took everything in stride with his ears up-a very happy boy. That first jump was maybe 12"-pretty sure he cleared it by at least 2 feet:) Yay for lunging first!
Ever wanting to conserve his preshus energy, however, the next 3 canter jumps (I alternated trot/canter to avoid any silliness) were gorgeous and cleared by totally reasonable heights.
How did I get so lucky? What a good boy. I rode as well, and he was equally wonderful. I'm going to stay at a trot under saddle for a little while while he figures out the obstacles in front of him and focus on straightness and rhythm (we're also still working on that frigging right lead canter, ha ha). I'm a proud mama tonight-I'll try for pictures/video this weekend:)
Monday, January 3, 2011
A Wee Update
Miles has been moving better than ever after my last post. What a relief...I think he was just having an off day when I posted last, for whatever reason. He does have sizable "racing jewelry" on his ankles, so it's to be expected I suppose. I may start looking at giving him more support via nutritional supplements (SmartPak Senior or TLC, anyone?), at least during the winter months.
I did indeed get a lot of riding/lunging in this past weekend, and lo, it was awesome. Yesterday, after 3 days of riding, we played with more ground poles and tackling our first (very small) vertical on the lunge. Poor boy-the first couple times he gave it a big look and picked up his feet accordingly (keep in mind, the jump was maybe a couple inches higher than the tiny cross rails he was so comfortable with). Then I placed a pole in front of it-Crash Boom Bah! Poles were flying, standards fell over, it was a disaster; OK, in truth I laughed my butt off. He was such a good boy though-he didn't bolt away, spook or anything. He was just very...confused. Unfortunately, he was less than confident on our next go-around after I re-set everything. He hesitated right before the jump, sort of stopping in mid-air, and then LAUNCHING his big butt over the jump.
I praised him big time for going over, but also realized that he probably doesn't need to face something new every session we have, no matter how competent he is at what we're currently doing. It's quite alright to keep doing cross rails for now, and ground poles all by themselves, or ground poles leading up to a teeny tiny cross rail. It's too easy to take advantage of his enthusiastic, game nature, and that's the last thing I want. I don't want him worried ever at this stage if I can help it, and it's way too easy to push for more than he's ready for, particularly on the lunge. Good lesson for me.
In short, Miles is still sorting out what his body needs to do when presented with obstacles in front of him, and I need to respect that and give him time. He's figuring out striding, take off spots, straightness, how high to lift each foot, all that good stuff. Although nothing we've done is over 18", it's still very, very new.
If we do this right, we should be here in no time~
Oh, I kid, I kid. Honestly:)
I did indeed get a lot of riding/lunging in this past weekend, and lo, it was awesome. Yesterday, after 3 days of riding, we played with more ground poles and tackling our first (very small) vertical on the lunge. Poor boy-the first couple times he gave it a big look and picked up his feet accordingly (keep in mind, the jump was maybe a couple inches higher than the tiny cross rails he was so comfortable with). Then I placed a pole in front of it-Crash Boom Bah! Poles were flying, standards fell over, it was a disaster; OK, in truth I laughed my butt off. He was such a good boy though-he didn't bolt away, spook or anything. He was just very...confused. Unfortunately, he was less than confident on our next go-around after I re-set everything. He hesitated right before the jump, sort of stopping in mid-air, and then LAUNCHING his big butt over the jump.
I praised him big time for going over, but also realized that he probably doesn't need to face something new every session we have, no matter how competent he is at what we're currently doing. It's quite alright to keep doing cross rails for now, and ground poles all by themselves, or ground poles leading up to a teeny tiny cross rail. It's too easy to take advantage of his enthusiastic, game nature, and that's the last thing I want. I don't want him worried ever at this stage if I can help it, and it's way too easy to push for more than he's ready for, particularly on the lunge. Good lesson for me.
In short, Miles is still sorting out what his body needs to do when presented with obstacles in front of him, and I need to respect that and give him time. He's figuring out striding, take off spots, straightness, how high to lift each foot, all that good stuff. Although nothing we've done is over 18", it's still very, very new.
If we do this right, we should be here in no time~
Oh, I kid, I kid. Honestly:)
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Leaping Lizards! Miles Style
OK, not really, but Miles and I did jump our first jumps together:) You know I had to post about that, however briefly.
Well, technically, there wasn't much jumping. We trotted a cross rail twice...I know, I know, we're crazy like that! Haha. I didn't get the canter depart after the jump I wanted, but the cross rail was teeny tiny, and my real goal was getting him straight to the obstacle (relatively successful), maintain forward motion, and get us both on the other side. Leaving the rails up without major rubs was an added bonus. Also, it helps to know he can jump properly, since I've seen him do it on the lunge; I thought he was trotting pretty forward, though he certainly has more engine than what I asked for. I was also trying to focus super hard on my position-weight in heels, good base of support, proper release, all that important stuff, since I haven't done this in awhile. All in all, I'll call it good, especially considering all the time off we've both had, and the fact that he felt a little...off on our flat work.
It's weird, because we were in the high 30's today, so I thought he would be feeling good. He lunged really well, but just felt odd from time to time under saddle. Not all the time, mind you, or even most, just the occasional wrong step here or refusal to bend there.
Ah well, we have 2 more days to sort everything out. We're also building our foundation for (very low) jumping, and in that I say yes, we did well. Thanks bubs!
Well, technically, there wasn't much jumping. We trotted a cross rail twice...I know, I know, we're crazy like that! Haha. I didn't get the canter depart after the jump I wanted, but the cross rail was teeny tiny, and my real goal was getting him straight to the obstacle (relatively successful), maintain forward motion, and get us both on the other side. Leaving the rails up without major rubs was an added bonus. Also, it helps to know he can jump properly, since I've seen him do it on the lunge; I thought he was trotting pretty forward, though he certainly has more engine than what I asked for. I was also trying to focus super hard on my position-weight in heels, good base of support, proper release, all that important stuff, since I haven't done this in awhile. All in all, I'll call it good, especially considering all the time off we've both had, and the fact that he felt a little...off on our flat work.
It's weird, because we were in the high 30's today, so I thought he would be feeling good. He lunged really well, but just felt odd from time to time under saddle. Not all the time, mind you, or even most, just the occasional wrong step here or refusal to bend there.
Ah well, we have 2 more days to sort everything out. We're also building our foundation for (very low) jumping, and in that I say yes, we did well. Thanks bubs!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Whirlwind
That's what the last 2 weeks have been. There has been limited available brain space for blogging pursuits, unfortunately, and I'm behind on reading my favorites. Hey? How is everyone?
I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday. We took a trip up to Michigan's Upper Peninsula for a few days to visit Kyle's family, and as soon as we came back down-state it was back to work. Fortunately, I have one more day and then I'm off again for 3 glorious days, in which we have no plans and I'm keeping it that way, so help me God. Just me and my husband and our little furry family, with lots and lots of pony time. Bliss.
Was Santa good to you and your ponies? He was very good to Miles and me. One of my favorite gifts was a balance ball chair, with the theory being that I can strengthen my core (abs and back) during some of those 8 hours I spend on my tush at work. I can't wait to try it!
Miles also got himself this Myler bit, which I hope he will like. Plenty of room for that fleshy tongue of his, and it's gotten good reviews from folks with OTTBs and other horses who have bitting issues. I'm not going to try it right away, but I'm super interested to see how he likes it, especially after we've gone for months in a hackamore. Worst case scenario is that he hates it and we sell it-everyone wants Myler bits on Ebay, thank goodness.
Finally, Miles got these:
WhooHooo! I'm quite geeked. OK, it's just one set (2 blocks) but it's a start. Yesterday, for the first time, I lunged him over a cross rail. He was a superstar, and once going forward he had no problem making the effort to actually jump and canter away. I think he surprised himself the first time-he shook his head and practically sashayed away from the jump. Most importantly, he was happy and forward and brave, never wanting to look, stop or swerve. He's just so game. Finally, he even left all the poles up, suddenly turning into Mr. Careful.
I really wanted to ride, but I had so much to do yesterday (including mucking out a very neglected-by me-outdoor shed, blech) and Miles had many days off while we were gone. Still, it beat the hell out of a normal lunge or groundwork session, that's for sure. I can't wait to pop over a few obstacles in the saddle this weekend, hopefully *crosses fingers*.
I'm very horrible in my No-Horsey-Holiday-Picture-Taking-Let-Alone-Posting; another thing I hope to remedy this weekend as we look forward to 2011. 2010 kinda sucked the big one, in a myriad of ways I don't mind saying. Still, it was a real breakthrough year for my Super Steed and me. I think we built a great foundation for our partnership, and I can't wait to see where we go from here.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday. We took a trip up to Michigan's Upper Peninsula for a few days to visit Kyle's family, and as soon as we came back down-state it was back to work. Fortunately, I have one more day and then I'm off again for 3 glorious days, in which we have no plans and I'm keeping it that way, so help me God. Just me and my husband and our little furry family, with lots and lots of pony time. Bliss.
Was Santa good to you and your ponies? He was very good to Miles and me. One of my favorite gifts was a balance ball chair, with the theory being that I can strengthen my core (abs and back) during some of those 8 hours I spend on my tush at work. I can't wait to try it!
Miles also got himself this Myler bit, which I hope he will like. Plenty of room for that fleshy tongue of his, and it's gotten good reviews from folks with OTTBs and other horses who have bitting issues. I'm not going to try it right away, but I'm super interested to see how he likes it, especially after we've gone for months in a hackamore. Worst case scenario is that he hates it and we sell it-everyone wants Myler bits on Ebay, thank goodness.
Finally, Miles got these:
WhooHooo! I'm quite geeked. OK, it's just one set (2 blocks) but it's a start. Yesterday, for the first time, I lunged him over a cross rail. He was a superstar, and once going forward he had no problem making the effort to actually jump and canter away. I think he surprised himself the first time-he shook his head and practically sashayed away from the jump. Most importantly, he was happy and forward and brave, never wanting to look, stop or swerve. He's just so game. Finally, he even left all the poles up, suddenly turning into Mr. Careful.
I really wanted to ride, but I had so much to do yesterday (including mucking out a very neglected-by me-outdoor shed, blech) and Miles had many days off while we were gone. Still, it beat the hell out of a normal lunge or groundwork session, that's for sure. I can't wait to pop over a few obstacles in the saddle this weekend, hopefully *crosses fingers*.
I'm very horrible in my No-Horsey-Holiday-Picture-Taking-Let-Alone-Posting; another thing I hope to remedy this weekend as we look forward to 2011. 2010 kinda sucked the big one, in a myriad of ways I don't mind saying. Still, it was a real breakthrough year for my Super Steed and me. I think we built a great foundation for our partnership, and I can't wait to see where we go from here.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Best Laid Plans And All That
We've had just a wee bit of snow around here. You know, like 6 inches or so. Sigh.
It is beautiful, yes it is. Still, what a pain. I couldn't get to the barn yesterday, as it was just coming down in sheets (Thank you Universe for awesome barn peeps that fix my boy's blanket and feed him his beet pulp!!). It was so frigging cold this morning that my poor old dog could barely walk. It's going to be in the single digits tonight, so no riding again. Sigh Sigh Sigh....
I was so excited for last Saturday's ride. It was in the mid 30's and Miles had his Good Boy Brain installed. I dragged out a bunch of standards and poles and started warming him up...he was lovely. I think the slightly warmer weather definitely helped him move forward and freely.
Unfortunately, boarding my horse means sharing the facilities (and my inner 2 year old starts whining "but I don't wanna shaaaare!!!"). Just as our warm up was done a big young horse starts lunging on one side of the arena. A big, young horse that likes to kick the walls and run amok and buck and fart at random times, scaring the crap out of ME, let along my Thoroughbred....Miles was very, very good, all things considered, but I could tell his nerves were getting worn (and so were mine). The good news is he can spook in place, hooray! When someone else came in to walk their little Arab, I called it quits...there was no way I would have enough room to work him over poles or the cross rail I set up. Oh well.
That will teach me to set any kind of riding goal in a Michigan winter:) At this point, with the snow and the freaking cold nights we're in store for, the only goal I'm going to set is to make sure I ride at least a couple times a week. We will do what we can until Spring.
I think it's only 97 days away.....
It is beautiful, yes it is. Still, what a pain. I couldn't get to the barn yesterday, as it was just coming down in sheets (Thank you Universe for awesome barn peeps that fix my boy's blanket and feed him his beet pulp!!). It was so frigging cold this morning that my poor old dog could barely walk. It's going to be in the single digits tonight, so no riding again. Sigh Sigh Sigh....
I was so excited for last Saturday's ride. It was in the mid 30's and Miles had his Good Boy Brain installed. I dragged out a bunch of standards and poles and started warming him up...he was lovely. I think the slightly warmer weather definitely helped him move forward and freely.
Unfortunately, boarding my horse means sharing the facilities (and my inner 2 year old starts whining "but I don't wanna shaaaare!!!"). Just as our warm up was done a big young horse starts lunging on one side of the arena. A big, young horse that likes to kick the walls and run amok and buck and fart at random times, scaring the crap out of ME, let along my Thoroughbred....Miles was very, very good, all things considered, but I could tell his nerves were getting worn (and so were mine). The good news is he can spook in place, hooray! When someone else came in to walk their little Arab, I called it quits...there was no way I would have enough room to work him over poles or the cross rail I set up. Oh well.
That will teach me to set any kind of riding goal in a Michigan winter:) At this point, with the snow and the freaking cold nights we're in store for, the only goal I'm going to set is to make sure I ride at least a couple times a week. We will do what we can until Spring.
I think it's only 97 days away.....
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
No More Rowley Poles
I've said it before, and I'm sure I'll say it again...I can be veeeery slow to catch on to things.
Monday night we worked on ground poles, for the second day in a row. I really, really want to be able to jump this horse. Maybe not a full course of six jumps, and definitely not anything over 2 feet (at least without lessons and an ok from a vet), but cross poles at least. Maybe be able to enter a hunter hack class at a schooling show someday.
Previously, he has shown little to no interest (or so I thought) in picking up those feet of his over ground poles-it didn't matter if it was one or five in a row. Clunk Clunk Roll Stumble...not pretty, in other words. The one time I walked him over a cross rail that was about 10" off the ground, he knocked down a pole. Yeah....
Of course, all this was before I switched farriers. Now, 2 trims with the "new" guy (and my new favorite equine professional), he is moving SO much better, and finally picking his feet up. Miles has been barefoot since I pulled his shoes 2 weeks after I adopted him, but I no longer have to ride him everyday in his Cavallo Simple Boots (though I still love them for riding outside of the arena). He doesn't stumble. He is balanced. It only took me just over a year to get to the root of the issue. I know, I know.
Having said all this, with the colder weather coming on, it is taking Miles a bit longer to warm up before our rides. Still, he's looking much, much better than this time last year, when on his worst days he would limp slightly on his right front (arthritis, which I knew about when I adopted him). I love the pure glucosamine supplement he's on now, in addition to MSM; he's on high levels of the former and normal levels (10,000 mgs) of the latter and it's all he's needed, so far and knock on lotsa wood. Again, I can't overstate how beneficial his new farrier has been either.
So, in the next week or 2, my goal is to get Miles and I jumping...I am sOoooooO geeked!! Now, of course, I am talking tiny tiny fences, but still...I MISS jumping so much. I didn't realize how much until I cantered him over a ground pole the other day. The measuring of strides, feeling the horse gather himself, the (ever so slight) elevation...ahhhhh. This week, Miles has told me he's getting ready, too-Monday had him trotting straight down a line of five ground poles, forward, ears pricked and feet up.
It was pretty cool.
Monday night we worked on ground poles, for the second day in a row. I really, really want to be able to jump this horse. Maybe not a full course of six jumps, and definitely not anything over 2 feet (at least without lessons and an ok from a vet), but cross poles at least. Maybe be able to enter a hunter hack class at a schooling show someday.
Previously, he has shown little to no interest (or so I thought) in picking up those feet of his over ground poles-it didn't matter if it was one or five in a row. Clunk Clunk Roll Stumble...not pretty, in other words. The one time I walked him over a cross rail that was about 10" off the ground, he knocked down a pole. Yeah....
Of course, all this was before I switched farriers. Now, 2 trims with the "new" guy (and my new favorite equine professional), he is moving SO much better, and finally picking his feet up. Miles has been barefoot since I pulled his shoes 2 weeks after I adopted him, but I no longer have to ride him everyday in his Cavallo Simple Boots (though I still love them for riding outside of the arena). He doesn't stumble. He is balanced. It only took me just over a year to get to the root of the issue. I know, I know.
Having said all this, with the colder weather coming on, it is taking Miles a bit longer to warm up before our rides. Still, he's looking much, much better than this time last year, when on his worst days he would limp slightly on his right front (arthritis, which I knew about when I adopted him). I love the pure glucosamine supplement he's on now, in addition to MSM; he's on high levels of the former and normal levels (10,000 mgs) of the latter and it's all he's needed, so far and knock on lotsa wood. Again, I can't overstate how beneficial his new farrier has been either.
So, in the next week or 2, my goal is to get Miles and I jumping...I am sOoooooO geeked!! Now, of course, I am talking tiny tiny fences, but still...I MISS jumping so much. I didn't realize how much until I cantered him over a ground pole the other day. The measuring of strides, feeling the horse gather himself, the (ever so slight) elevation...ahhhhh. This week, Miles has told me he's getting ready, too-Monday had him trotting straight down a line of five ground poles, forward, ears pricked and feet up.
It was pretty cool.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)