Ezra's Adventure

The final chapter

2007-05-07T18:30:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not writing yesterday, by the time I got home I was exhausted, so much so, that I almost fell asleep in my dinner. Hard to do in a noisy place like Guadalajara Grill.
It began with most of Team Gray Matter in attendance, plus new and old friends that were there already and others that showed up to give support.
I have to admit at this point I was a little disappointed in myself and feeling very humble by the words of encouragement and the support I was receiving. I was feeling as if I am not worthy, for dear readers, it was my error that pulled me down to 21 after cross country, it was a little lack of faith in the dragon, that I alone have created and honed into a cross country machine, that caused my 20 points to be added to my score.
My dragon, how he felt flying underneath me, chills crossed my back, so confident, so stoic, so amazing. Yet, I did not trust him still. I know better, or so I thought, and yet, in my over confidence, in my lack of faith, in that split second, I pulled him so hard, I pulled him off the line he was traveling ( the wrong one) but also, hard enough that I made him fly right by the correct line, had I been softer, had I been more faithful, he would have done it for us, my dragon, my horse, my partner. I still have much to learn.
So let me tell you about our final day. We had our last formal jog-ups. And as I was told by our Team Leader(Joyce) I clean up well! Jerry and Zachary were in attendance as well. And I promise there will be pictures later. Ezra behaved himself once again, however, this time it was like we had the Paparazzi following us, in which case he grew even bigger and strut ed even more. I ran without the hat, but with sunglasses ( at my husbands request) and still with the three inch heels. We had hardly passed the ground jury before we heard the words "number 18 accepted". Then it was back to the barn as fast as possible to get out of the "cocktail" wear and into comfortable white britches.
Horse was clean, tack was clean, with much thanks to Gab, the indispensable groom and great friend through this whole adventure. My bridle happened to be quite gross after Saturday, as dust and water had mixed on leather... EW! So Gab and I walked the course together, I did not walk it with my good friend David, as I truly trust Gab's assessment of a show jumping course and how to ride my horse, he has ridden the dragon, and knows what he is like, and he has jumped many courses higher and faster than David and I have seen in a lifetime. Gab gave me good, sound advice. The hard part is putting that into play, when you are cantering along and jumping fences, that when you walked them were as high as your chest and as wide as you arm span. So dear friends, I dropped two poles, to add 8 points to our score. The idea of a ribbon had long ago left, but my heart was breaking anyway, I had disappointed my support group ( I thought) and I was so sorry I had let them and the wonderful beast down. Yet, when I got back to the barn and was done feeling sorry for myself, everyone was so complimentary. It seems that after I went, there were quite a few problems on the course, so many that Ezra and I actually moved up to 16th. In our first CCI* we still managed to come in at least in the top half!
I learned so much this past weekend, and I hope you did to.
I have so many people to thank, and I think dear readers you should know who they are.
Joe and Kaye Shaman, for providing the entry fee and enough for the first formal jog-up outfit.
Stella Russell for all the extras including the new dressage bridle.
My Godfather and Sue for more extras.
Eva Beck for the wonderful logo.
Joyce Wells for the home away from home.
Kathryn for the quiet support and the help with shopping.
Eva, Barry, Jacob and Tina, for the Gas and Food.
Tanni and Al Grachian for the ability to go schooling.
Tom and Sharon (aunt and uncle) for more gas:)
Joan Carini, Michelle Kelly(and family) Lynda Ehrich, Dee Dee and Chris Heath, Vicki Anderson and family, Ashley Klekar, Max and Laura, and of course my Emma:} who believes no matter what!
But the biggest most hugest thank you (besides my wonderful husband and son) has to go to the dragon's groom, Gab, I could not have made it through the weekend with out him. He was the Zen for both Ezra and I, I only hope that when it is his and Flyers time to shine, I will be at least half as good as he was.
I can not end this without the biggest Thank You going to my Mother, who saw the beast and I, 4 years ago and knew what kind of partnership we would make. Thank you for the dream, Mom, I love you.

7 minute adrenaline rush

2007-05-05T20:40:00.000-07:00

I read 125 pages in a Candace Bushnell book while preparing for Cross Country this morning. Actually, my groom prepared my horse as I tried to zone out. I was not to nervous(just sick to my stomach with anxiety) and heady with anticipation of a 7 minute gallop on the dragon.
As we left the start box, I spoke to my horse, I told him that I believed in him, and that I knew he would keep me safe, and above all that this was what he was meant to do. He left the box with exuberance and took me along for the ride. As we approached our nemesis fence. I dug in with my legs. No worries, he sighted in on the out and never even broke stride or looked twice. We were hitting our minute marks, as we went to the first water complex I felt totally sure of our line, however, Ezra has an interesting way of jumping into water, he "usually" peeks first then jumps. So as we rode over the first fence in the complex I expected that ride, and instead got a very bold ride into the water, so much so, that my horse sighted and locked onto the wrong fence out. I over corrected and in doing so pulled him so far off the track of our correct out that we flew by it. We circled around and managed to pick it up easily once Ezra figured out where we were supposed to go. The rest of the course rode on automatic pilot. Ezra was finally galloping and I felt like we were soaring. As we crossed over the finish lines the fun really began. As required we had to check in with FEI vet. She took Ezra's temperature and pulse and respiration, at that point we were supposed to cool him back down in the time allowed, before we could be released back to the barn. So buckets of ice water were tossed on by both Gab and Jerry as I scraped it off and walked him. At the first recheck, his pulse and respiration were coming down beautifully, but his temp was not. So more buckets of ice water, lots more, then finally they rechecked and we were released.
Ezra is resting comfortably, I made chicken enchiladas for Team Gray Matter and my in-laws who came to cheer me on. And now it is time for me to rest comfortable as well. This whole experience has been amazing. And I can't wait til the ** in November.

Pictures from Dressage at the Twin Rivers CCI* (May 4)

2007-05-04T20:32:00.000-07:00

Trot Work

Canter Work

Let's get together, baby

2007-05-04T20:17:00.000-07:00

We entered down center line with Barry White in our hearts. Perhaps I even had a smile on my face. I honestly don't remember much of the test. I know my horse behaved, I know I rode well enough to end up in the top third, but at this moment the day is a blur. I have managed to walk my cross country course 3 times, which I have not done on any previous courses in the last 4 years. I have to admit that walking with the course designer was a bit gratifying as he picked the same lines I had chosen earlier. Now the test will be if I can ride the lines I have chosen. I am pretty sure that I can. I trust the dragon to keep me safe and to show everyone how grown up he is now
Today was a great day, filled with promise of more to come. I was judged by 2 international judges, one of them Sally O'Conner who often judges the Olympic Games. We were found worthy. And Barry White sings in our hearts, because Ezra really is, my first, my last, my everything.

Pictures from the First Formal Inspection at the Twin Rivers CCI* (May 3)

2007-05-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

Expectantly waiting for hour number to be called

Jogging away

Jogging back

And the hat flew...

2007-05-03T20:44:00.000-07:00

At 5:30am, Max and I went and fed Ezra and his stablemates. We had nothing to do until the mandatory meeting at 1 1am, so I crawled back into bed. I suppose you are wondering, as was I, why my groom was not awake at this hour and tending to his beastie. I had taken pity on him yet again, and let him sleep. I enjoy the early morning anyway, as the sun was not yet on the horizon and the moon was still in her full glory.
I have found out that the one star and two star are full of "mandatory" meetings. It is a time of information gathering for me. So many rule changes, and useful information. Plus, Ezra and I were asked to join a team. Which should at least ensure a ribbon out of this venture.
I was going stir crazy waiting for the 3pm jog -ups, I think we all were. So the tack was cleaned, the horse washed, the stall fluffed, etc. At about 1pm, I started to get nervous, I had rented a young rider for the weekend to braid for me (all proceeds go to the area 6 young riders)she had not shown up by 1:30. Panic was starting to set in. I went back to the "home" to see if she had called, yup, and she had left a nice voice mail saying she would be late. Alright, I will start breathing again.
Ezra was being beautified, so it was my turn as well. Surprise, Surprise I even blew dried my hair and used product in it. The linen suit that Kathryn and I picked out looked perfect. And as I put my hat on, I realized I had left my hat pin at home. Okay, the wind isn't really that bad...(yes, it is)No matter, I looked smashing and so did my horse. We arrived late to jog but the shuffled us in. I proudly walked up and said good afternoon to the ground jury. Ezra stood proudly, front feet square, hind legs slightly off set, as the vet inspected him, yet again. Then we were told to walk to the first set of bushes the trot all the way down, and trot back past the jury. With whip in hand, and 3 inch heels, we of course did what we were asked. Ezra behaved! He looked so smart, with his neck arched as we trotted past the judges and I did not trip and fall as I had dreamed I would. But... My hat flew off. I grabbed it somewhat deftly as we jogged past. Then smiled in relief when I heard, '18 accepted". We are in, our ride time is 8:58am tomorrow. The groom says he will wake early.... We shall see...

First hurdle

2007-05-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

I couldn't sleep at all last night and into this morning, one because I was going over all the lists I have made, and randomly lost while preparing for this endeavor. And two, Ezra was officially ready to go as he had seen the trailer packed and loaded. From 1:25 AM and every 45 minutes there after, Ezra let me know he was awake and ready. I on the other hand was TRYING to sleep; to no avail. By the time Gab showed up to drive the motor home (8:30am) all the chores were done, and everything was packed, including Max. As we hit the road, with the obligatory stop at Starbucks, I kept my fingers crossed that I had remembered everything. Thank God for Harriet should the need arise, she told me she is the Fed Ex Queen.
We arrived at Twin Rivers without incident, we even made it past King City without a problem. After we unloaded, Gab had some work to do, I had to go and pick up my number. Due to our early afternoon arrival, we were one of the first ones here. Therefore, we were able to hear Ezra's elephant like screaming from as far away as where we parked the motor home. Upon picking up my number, I was told that in barn inspection was taking place in barn 1 stall 1. I was also told to take my paper work with me. So I did. As I am standing in line waiting for the vet to inspect the horses in front of me, I noticed that the young lady directly ahead of me, had numerous papers in her hand, I on the other hand only had two. I only had two. The butterflies that were already in place, grew to very large buzzards. They were no longer cute and charming. Perhaps, I thought, if I was especially polite and nice, two would be all I needed. Well, I was polite and nice, and for once so was Ezra, so much so that he was half asleep as she took his vitals. It seems that two papers was all I needed. First hurdle leaped over. We passed, and went back to our cubby. Later on to tempt fate, I rode. It feels like, after our emotional breakdown yesterday we are on the same page, and perhaps even like one another.
Thursday brings us our 11am official briefing and our first ever formal jog-ups. I hope the wind subsides but I am thankful that I took my Mothers advice and brought my hat pin, for the prettiest hat ever!

A parting of ways

2007-05-01T21:17:00.000-07:00

This week started a little rough for me. I began Monday with the death of 4 kittens caused by their own Mother. The death of the kittens was bad enough, but poor Zachary found them under his bed, right before school. Thankfully Jerry was home to lighten up the situation, as per usual. After Zachary went to school, Jerry and I got on his "hog" and took a ride of sorts to finish all the little errands I had yet to run. We went out to Western Saddlery to but tack cleaning supplies and boot polish. I even think I found a replacement for my Gracie whip. We will have to see.
Today, I decided to take the dragon next door to confirm, and ride my dressage test. Obviously this was a bad idea. It seems that the dragon remembers Saturday (no forgive and forget with this one) and very able to show me how disgusted he was with the whole idea. All I wanted to do was get him forward and brilliant, in other words I wanted his A^* underneath him and forward. He had other ideas. Like not going forward, but rather straight up. He is very good and leaping up on his hind legs, which is really stupid when you consider that it takes more effort to do that then actually do what I was asking. Which of course, I pointed out with loud vulgar words, whip and spurs. Which in turn got the dragon breathing fire and spitting mad. Which in turn, got me spitting fire and smoking from my ears. so the next logical thing that either one of us could think of was getting rid of the other. As Ezra went up. I pulled back, over on his side he went, and over on my side I did too.
We stood staring at each other and breathing very hard. I suppose a truce was made at that moment. I remounted, he went forward. We went home.
Ezra looks beautiful tonight, I bathed him and clipped him, I felt like drowning him with the hose, but I didn't. I remembered that he keeps me safe at speed over solid obstacles. I forgive him. We leave tomorrow, I have lots of butterfly's, but I have faith, that we worked out what we needed to, and we will be a better team because of it.
Tomorrow is the road trip, and first barn inspection. Ezra and I will keep you updated.

The last gallop

2007-04-29T21:06:00.000-07:00

Today to get over the misery of yesterday, I needed to go for a long gallop and trot sets. And since the "dragon" was so kind to me yesterday, I decided to make him break a sweat. Actually I was looking to make him lather and drip, but since he is in shape, I figured he may last longer than my will would. So we set out, with Coffee in hand thankfully provided by our groom, who came along with us on big Al. It was hard to hold a grudge today as the sun was shining brightly and the birds were all in song. Abby once again ran ahead, and slowed the bikers down as they approached us. We hit the trail head at my parents house and began the slow steady climb up, I had decided on the trail we call cardiac hill, It is a steep grade of about 12% and goes on for about 3/4 of a mile, before that it has a long slow steady track that is about at 2% for about 1 full mile. By the time we got to the beginning of "Cardiac Hill" Big Al was already lathered and sweating. However the gray beastie had not even broke a sweat yet. We set out briskly at a trot and the two horses stayed side by side. As we approached the bottom of the grade, Al put his whole heart into tackling what lay before him. The gray beastie however had just found his stride and began the climb with long deep breathes. About half way up Al looked as if his heart would bust, and since I know he would drop underneath Gab rather than give up, we brought both horses back to a walk, and finished the climb. by the time we reached the top, a cool breeze had picked up, and after playfully skirting away with the grooms hat, we found a hole in the fence to continue a complete circle around. There was even a pond that we could let the horses drink from. Ezra of course went as far in as I would let him, and chose to try to catch tadpoles by putting his whole head under water. He thought he was being sly, BUT I felt his hind end, start to SIT DOWN! Big kick and outta the pond I rode, I am not going to get stinky in pond water, just because my horse finds humor in it! By the time we got back to my parents house, they themselves were tacking up to go on a ride. So we said our hellos and our goodbyes, and rode home. By the time Ezra and I had gotten home, I had forgotten all about the grudge I had been holding. I suppose it is easier to forgive than to forget. Today was glorious, and I feel that galloping for 8-9 minutes will not be a problem. But more importantly, I think we are back on the same page.

The dragon ride

2007-04-28T22:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, under the coercion of fellow members of team gray matter I rode Ezra after he had spent a lovely day out in the pasture. We all had a lot of fun, and Ezra seemed in good spirits as he did his level best to intimidate the others in the arena with him. Although I was asking him to go to work, he seemed willing and able, last night anyways.
I suppose that was all subject to change when the pressure was on for this mornings clinic with my good friend Gina Duran. Today the fire breathing dragon was at his best in trying to get me off his back. It bean easily enough with us moving around the arena in our usual relaxed if somewhat laid back fashion. Then Gina chose to bump up the level of "engagement". Well, that is where the fun stopped, and I stopped breathing, and the dragon beneath me began to grow larger and more irate. I stopped at one point to have some water, to breath, and to quietly almost puke off the side of my saddle, and also to beg that we do not "rock the boat (dragon)" . To0 late, Mr. Pissy pants already had his panties in a bunch. So it was back to trying to relax him, and get something out of my $80 ride. Meanwhile, I was hating my horse. How can he go so beautifully for my groom, yet turn into the most dreadful beast when I ask him for the most simple of things. I wanted to cry, better yet I wanted to quite halfway through and beg for relief. Didn't happen, I sucked it up, but I was crying, just a little bit. The thought that was echoing through my mind, is how many people are believing in me, and supporting us, and how essentially it is up to Ezra, what his mood is like, and if he wants to perform that day. We all know he can do it, and do it better than most out there. But will he chose to? Sometimes I think my horse and I are more similar than I want to admit. He can be brilliant, but chooses to just get by with being " good enough', something my parents and others have stated about me my whole life. And now, I really want to prove myself, and it is up to the one "thing" in my life I have absolutely no control over.
Right now, I would really love to quit. I won't... I think I just need to cry a little though...

Good needles

2007-04-26T21:21:00.000-07:00

I am always excited about the prospect of learning something new. So this morning I woke up excited. After driving Zachary into school, I stopped by Safeway to grab a few sandwiches for the afternoon's adventure. Dr. Linda was once again expected at our little barn, and remembering what her marvelous ministrations brought forth last time I was looking forward to the day of needles and relaxed equines. As expected the bright red truck drove down our driveway, very soon after Jerry came home on his own"horse" of a different color. So, Dr. Linda and I started our day. It is always amazing to me how each horse reacts differently, however they all end with the same goofy relaxed look on their faces when she is done.
Ezra waited, somewhat quietly for his turn. I wasn't sure where to put him in her day. I know he takes a lot of energy to deal with, and I also wanted to be able to put him out on the hill after his treatment, as he seems to enjoy moving afterwards. Well, this time Dr. Linda requested that I put him on a lunge line so that she could see him move. Okay, so here comes the time when Ezra teaches her about his longing technique. We never Lunge the "dragon" with out tack. And for a very good, sound reason, he believes it is very beneath him. So in true beastie form, he trots 3 circles, then displays his very unique and disturbing quality of lying down and rolling all in one fluid motion. Then he curls his head and neck into himself to take a little nap. It was actually well worth it for me to see the look of astonishment on Dr. Linda's face, and then the sheer giggle that came from deep inside her. She could not believe his arrogance, and of course you can't "wake him" as he takes it very personally. So we had to wait...
When the dragon finally woke from his slight slumber, Dr. Linda began to work on him. Ezra enjoyed every needle she poked him with, except for the ones that went to his Liver. Those made him nervous and he wanted to run for the hills. But he fought the urge and continued to allow her to help him. I really believe he is beginning to see the big picture, and that we all agree finally that it truly is "all about him".
I myself being curious by nature some how held so fascinated by the procedures that I was witnessing that the Good Dr. took pity on me, and hit me with just 2 tiny needles. Oh my goodness, I understood immediately why Ezra wanted to move. I felt completely out of control of my body and I felt like I had left my body and was floating. Being a complete control freak ( yes, I admit it) it was very nerve racking for the initial 5 minutes, but then I began to feel euphoric. Amazing!
So, we are now 6 days and counting, and I am thinking that my horse and I are on the same path and traveling together in an unbelievable journey that is full of learning, guidance, and even magic. What a spectacular day!

7 days and counting

2007-04-25T22:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I went galloping with Ezra. I knew I wasn't going to be able to do a whole lot more galloping this week until Sunday. The little dog Abby kept up with us the whole time. I was surprised, she managed to catch up with us when we broke to trot and took some short walk breaks. I took the Ipod along so that I would to think to much. It seems that I have been on a whirlwind getting ready. I managed to run into town to pick up the logo wear that happened to be ready before I expected it to be. Admittedly I was so excited to see what Team Gray Matter looked like "in logo form". Wow! It looks sharp and professional. Then of course I had to drop off yet more dry cleaning. I also had to pack some of the stuff that has arrived. The wine of course is already in the motor home. Half my clothes are packed, and I even put the plastic shrink wrap on the carpet in the motor home to keep it clean.
So,today I picked up my tailored suit from the dry cleaners and managed to drop of yet more dry cleaning. Okay, so now the suit is packed too. right now I am hoping that I remember what I have packed and what I still need to pack. Ezra was wondering what was taking so long when I got home, so finally I made my way to his stall and saddled him up to go next door to jump. I haven't set up many jumps next door, simply because I will have to take them down for the dressage clinic on Saturday. So, at first I scared myself silly, as I was trotting around Ezra did not feel quite right, I thought I detected a slight unevenness. My heart was in my throat as I took him onto I hard surface and asked him to trot. Rather than looking and feeling what was going on, I listened to his footfalls. Thankfully, they sounded even, and on then feeling them, i realized I was being paranoid, can you blame me? We all have so much invested at this point, and my luck being what it is.... Well you get the point. Anyways, after warming the dragon up, I set all the fences up to 4'. Brave I know, but I am starting to get very comfortable at that height. So is my horse. So we made a little course, and sailed over all the fences without dropping a single pole. Okay, so now I am feeling pretty good about jumping a 3'7" course. Well get this, I am telling all this to my groom and what does he tell me, just to boost me I am sure, but that my course is actually going to be 3'9". Perhaps I should read the rule book? I think the first order of course tonight is to take the dressage test to bed with me and memorize it. Then maybe rules this weekend. tomorrow the Dragon has his acupuncture, hopefully he remembers how much he liked Dr. Linda last time and will enjoy her again this time. I wish I could line up right behind him. Perhaps a message is in order before we leave...

the grooms dressage

2007-04-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

First let me state that I apologize for my absence these past few days. For some reason I finally need a computer, and all 3 of ours go belly up. Thankfully Gab was able to fix my son's and I can continue my musings.
I have been schooling dressage over the last few days in an effort to have "THE DRAGON" ready for the *. But also, I wanted to give his groom a leg up in the arena. I am never entirely sure if I help him out or not. But I do know that I have found a spot on my horse that makes him happy and compliant doing dressage. I could be quite wrong in the thought process that I have been having lately but I truly believe it. Ezra seems to understand that a giant effort and good wishes have been put forth on our behalf ( his behalf of course). And he seems to be rising to the occasion.
Gab hates dressage, with good reason, and if wasn't for the promise of cross country I don't think we would ever see him in a dressage court. I am sure that Ezra is his kindred spirit in this regard. And it was proven today. How proud was I today? I was amazed, I was awed. I was speechless, I was tearful, and above all I was Star Struck. All of Team Gray Matter was in attendance today, cheering both Eva and Gab, to show that kind of support and to be able to laugh through the nerves makes showing that much more bearable. I thank all of you, you are what lifts us and makes us believe in ourselves. The spirit of our little team is grand and powerful.
Today, I watched rather than ride. I actually like this part of my job greatly, perhaps I am voyeuristic? Anyways. THE DRAGONS GROOM hates dressage. So, I gave him the DRAGON to ride. I thought that if he rode like it didn't matter, he might enjoy himself. Well, Ezra seemed very relaxed, how could he not, with his adoring fan club watching his every move, and every one trying to keep him happy and content. As for Gab, we were just trying to keep him from puking all over my horse. After a 40 minute warm-up they headed up to the arena for their first test. I was reading, and the look of death had left Gab's face. Ezra was practically snoring before he entered at A. I have never seen my horse, so bored, so not brilliant, so quiet, in a dressage court before. IT WAS SPECTACULAR!! So with a score of 61% in our first test, and a much more relaxed dragon rider and more brilliant dragon for the second test, I choked back tears as I read the test. For here, here was MY HORSE allowing himself to be led, to be ridden, to be a team member. And to show joy at being ridden by a person other than his own. Ezra was proud, he was kind, today he was a teacher. Today, I finally saw who I am, who he is. I am Star Struck.

Spring Break's over

2007-04-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to say that this past week was defiantly an adventure. First the family dragged me to Pismo Beach and then we went to Grass Valley to do Wine Tasting YUMM!
Meanwhile the poor grey beastie was left to the charge of Gab. I was hoping that when we returned that I would find Gab still alive. What luck, he is! Ezra however seems to have had a great time playing with him, so much so, that today he thought he might pull the same tricks on me. By tricks I mean the, I know how to canter really well without going anywhere. And the oh, if you put your leg on, I fall apart... Hmmm, bad idea beastie, I know those tricks and know how to GALLOP. Well that put him back on track. Besides the fact that I had put on all his new jumping equipment. Running martingale attachment, girth, and boots. So we warmed up over little 2'6" fences. and once we were listening to each other again. and landing and bending off the fence. I got off and did the unthinkable, I raised the single vertical we had been making a figure eight over to 4'6". why not? And then did a figure eight over that one, over and over, and over, guess what? not once did the fence drop. Either we are getting scary good at this, or maybe we just are that good:)

a young lady's smile

2007-04-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

I have to take time out from "Ezra" to explain about my day.
First however, let me say a belated Happy Easter. Ezra and I had a wonderful trot and canter set early in the morning with Gab and Big Al. Thankfully Gab always greets me in the morning with Coffee, which is so appreciated. Al and Ezra have both gotten very good at standing still and allowing us to mount up with coffee in hand. And we usually finish by Janet's trash can:) (Thanks Janet) Then it is off to the hills and work. It was defiantly a glorious morning and I wished to be hunting for vinegard food colored eggs. But no such luck instead I simply enjoyed the energy of my horse and the colors of the mountain side.
So today I made a girl smile, the kind of smile that reaches all the way to the eyes and comes from the farthest reaches of the heart I found this special girl a horse. A very deserving girl and I think a very special horse. I watched her smile, a saw her ride, I mean really ride. She was taking in every moment and savoring it. Oh to be like that again. Ignoring the pressure and just enjoying herself. Needless to say we put the pretty little mare in the trailer with us and continued on our way.
So, I have not mentioned that Ezra and I have a Nemesis fence at Twin Rivers, hence the 6:40am trip from home to travel 3 and 1/2 hours to ride for 45 minutes. I know, I know, my whole family thinks that I am crazy, but i beg you, please don't think I am. i have been lifted, no inspired by the little white envelopes that keep showing up in my mail. And I am not crazy, I am inspired and lifted all at once by your belief in me. So I traveled today, to make a young lady smile, but more selfishly to school the "coffin". A fence I have yet to get over " the first time" in competition. So I traveled, for you, for me, for faith, and for inspiration.
We arrived in the early afternoon, and saddling up the dragon went easily enough; it was as if he knew I was counting on him to show me we had grown to international level. I went out to the normal warm-up and the fences had been left at Advanced height 4'3". What the hell, might as well see what we got:) True to form, Ezra warmed up over the larger fences and didn't even tap a pole. Which in turn made all the solid 3'6" fences look pretty easy out on course. So we galloped a few big fences and then went to our NEMESIS fence. I DID IT THE FIRST TIME, and the second and the third at speed! Wahoo!! Okay, so feeling very brave, I went to the intermediate fence (coffin, the next level up) Arms pumping now! He was amazing! Of course Ezra seemed to be on fire. All confidence and arrogance (but in a good way) I swear sometimes I am mearly a passenger on a fire breathing dragon, who is determined to prove to the world he is something out of this world, and I, well I suppose I am his rider, the one he trusts to not put him in danger and to help him prove what he has become.
Today, I made a young lady smile, today I was one with my beast, today, Today, well today was in honor of you. Thank you for believing.

to much dressage

2007-04-07T21:07:00.000-07:00

Ouch! Okay after two glasses of wine I am finally able to ignore the pinch in my lower back that has decided to run down the back of my thighs all the way to my feet. And all this because I wanted to jump today! I set up a course next door at Morning side Joe Fargis style. It is a fun course with bending lines, roll back turns and steady lines. However I was supposed to ride it with the height only at 2'6"... yeah right... Okay, now I am going to admit something, I am intimidated by smaller fences, yup, it is much easier for me to now ride fences over 3'6" . And Ezra, oh my gosh, I think he thought I was torturing him. the look in his eyes was sheer boredom, and his whole attitude was one of disrespect and lazy. So thanks to little Miss Emma we raised a few fences to our required height, and then the happy feet came out as did the jump. Okay, so I like to go to my fences with attitude, hard to do over something I can walk over:) But to be totally truthful, OUCH, my back was killing me as were my legs, too much dressage with the longer stirrup and softer leg position. You can't "hang" your legs when jumping. You have to rely on them to support you and balance you. they were screaming! So i guess I know what I have to work on in the coming weeks. to think that I will be galloping for 8-9 minutes in jumping position, over 30 obstacles...yikes! Better get a little more serious about getting in shape. I have to say though that the running is going well. Max is once again able to squeeze through the kitty door after becoming my running partner:) The day ended surrounded by my friends and getting to know my back up horse. Little does "Prophet" know that I see big jumps in her future. Ezra on the other hand is becoming Miss Emma's new project to groom, someday she might actually be able to reach the top of his back... don't worry Emma, I can't see it either... i just run a brush over it and call it good:)

lazy day

2007-04-06T22:19:00.000-07:00

so yesterday was a gallop day, and we galloped next door. The wonderful thing about the Morning side arena is that it is deep especially on the sides (not good if you are not used to the pull and drag) perfect if your horse has strengthened his tendons and ligaments over time. So we galloped for a good 10 minutes, of course we were doing time work, so the 10 minutes was lead and cooled down by sets of trot and canter work, and no real speed was asked so we did not have to turn fast and hard.
So toady in preperation for my Pismo trip over Spring Break I had to run into town and get all the pet food squared away, Grain for horses, food for dogs, rat,bunnys, cats and birds (both wild and domestic) So after the running around, all I could think of was to get home and ride my "dragon". Although I had to feed the hubby first:) So I tacked up the beast and tried to diplomatically explain that all I had time for was a little dressage work out. So off to Morningside we went. But of course as I arrived I needed to tell Tom how lovely his new fence looked as he sat there in the new spring grass with his paint brush in hand. Then I saw Harriet on her way out and discussed saddle fit and a time Saturday to work with Katie... hmmm and this whole time Ezra was content to stand queitly... Then I spoke to Wendy... Okay now I have 30 minutes to do a work out...
Well, it really wasn't so bad. The beast enjoyed working, I enjoyed listening to my Ipod. I love the Barry White song "Your my everything" for some reason that rythym is perfect for Ezra's trot. Besides the fact that Barry is So SEXY!
I love the fact that in listening to the music I am able to relax more and feel the movement beneath me and move with it. Ezra's movement has become so expressive and it really does seem like a dance.
At this point I have to admit that it is so much fun to ride a well trained horse, then I have to reflect that I made him that way.
We finished our ride and headed home in time to teach my 3:30 lesson as we strolled down the driveway, Jessica's Mother Mia says, "what a beautiful horse" of course I say thank you, but I think Ezra was grinning as I rinsed him off:)

Breakfast ride

2007-04-04T20:07:00.000-07:00

I certainly hope that everyone else enjoyed this glorious day! I managed to sneak away with the kids this morning and even took Jerry with me to have starbucks and half a bagel before I started my day. Then off to home again and time to drag the gray beast out of his stall. As usual I was greeted with pinned ears and swishing tail. However I find it very interesting that once the tack goes on, the dragon almost goes peaceful and has his eyes half closed. I think it is to draw my guard down in thinking that he is very relaxed... ha ha.
As dressage is where the score must rest, then dressage it was this early morning. Thankfully the full size dressage court was still up next door and so we sauntered over there.
As the dragon has gotten stronger and stronger, he has become so much more capable and balanced in his work. We almost harbor on collection at times, especially in our canter work which is becoming so much fun to ride. I find it second nature almost like breathing. The counter canter has jump and straightness. My horse no longer switches leads behind. in fact he seems to enjoy the work now. But his trot...oh my... still hard to sit, still takes every breath I have... I have got to figure out the secret in the next four weeks. I have moments where I think I am dancing on his back, but one little nuance or change of balance and the whole thing falls apart.... ugh.. so annoying, and sometimes he tells me about it, to the point of wanting to stop and remove me from his back. I guess he is generous in the fact that he allows me to blunder. Over all it was a great ride. My horse was relaxed and focused as was I. We both raised our heart rate, we both felt exuberant after wards.
I think tomorrow we will do some galloping....

A little break

2007-04-03T21:41:00.000-07:00

Since Monday is usually the day off around the barn, Jerry and I took advantage of his new Harley and ran up the Mendocino coast. It was a beautiful ride and we enjoyed the 462 miles that we traveled. Unlike a horse, Harley's have to be broken in with long rides to gorgeous places with your loved one:)
Meanwhile back at the barn Ezra had Monday off and was a little grumpy when I came home today. but he has new Tap Dancing shoes thanks to our wonderful farrier Grady Mykrantz. Grady left me with a complete set of extra shoes that he even labeled for me. This is in case we lose a shoe at the show, someone will be able to quickly find the appropriate shoe and put it on.
So in the morning I will run the kids to school, pick up Starbucks for hubby and then take Ezra next door to practice dressage test. i think this is where I need the most work right now, i want to start the 3-day at the top after dressage. why not have the pressure on all through the weekend?

Journey's Begining

2007-04-01T12:28:00.000-07:00

And so it begins. I'm quite sure that since this is April fools that perhaps I should fool everyone and say that i have scared myself silly and did not send my entry in on time... but nope, I did:) I even went so far as to send it priority.
It has been truly amazing and quite frightening actually as to the response my little letter has reaped. So here is a giant heartfelt Thank You to all. That being said, now the pressure cooker has started:) When you have so many believing in you, it lifts you up into anew found relm of belief in yourself.
So today we begin.
I woke earlier than usual for a Sunday morning on account that Jerry and I are running away to Mendocino later this afternoon. I hope that you were able to enjoy the early Spring morning as well. The animals were quite happy to recieve breakfast and I waited for Our teammate (s) to arrive. Today was a gallop day. So shortly after nine Gab true to form with Coffee in hand arrived to ride Big Al. My father stopped by looking for a riding buddy, but hello, do I really want to spend 4 hours at the walk.... (nope) So off we went. Molly and Eva probably overslept or were enjoying their own quiet Sunday. Which incedently was not quiet on the road to the trail head. We were passed by quite a few loud motorcylces and of course the bumble bee tightly clothed bike riders in what can only be described as a pack. Abby of course acted as a sorta of speed bumb slowing the traffic down for us and scaring the bikers. Which I think her and Ezra find very enterrtaining.
So from the trailhead it was trotting all the way, listening to the breathing of both horses and waiting for Esra to click into his mode. Which thankfully is happening sooner and sooner. We hit the gallop and big Al kept right up with us. The morning was glorious, as we crested the ridge we were able to look across to the livermore valley and it looks so beautiful with the lush green landscape of Spring. Okay, then we dropped down on the single track, where at one point the voice behind me ( on the bigger horse no less) commented on perhaps next time I should remind him that we need the ponies. Perhaps it was the tree branch that nearly swiped him out of the saddle that made him say that... i on the other hand was practicing my trick riding by leaning as far off to one side or the other and getting dusted with pollen. Finally we hit the Finley road and took up galloping again. The little dog was keeping up and Ezra is finding his open stride. i love listening to him breathe in the relaxed cadence of his gallop. I will atest this new found relaxation to Dr linda Lauper and her acupunture along with his Maca supplement for endurance. His recovery happened in less then 10 minutes and we walked the rest of the way down hill to my parents house. Where of course my Father was tacking up his Gray mare to go out for his 4+ hour ride. He of course asked that if anybody was back at the barn he would love company. Nobody was, however I know that he is out enjoying the day right now with his mare and the sun shining.
Back at home, I gave the beastie a much needed bath, and then massaged his neck and shoulders with his "special" massage cream. Not entirely sure he appreciated it but oh well it made me feel better:)
Now its off to Mendocino for a much needed get away. I leave the charge of the Gray Dragon to his groom (the only one who will put up with him) and hope that the farrier will see my request for the extra set of shoes on the board come Tuesday.
As much as I need to get away, it is so hard leaving others in charge of "my" charges.