What a windy week here at LNH!
This week, we've continued to build Cricket's confidence with the saddle through Desensitizing, Popping the Stirrups, Flexing, Lunging Stages 1 & 2, Yield the HQ & Soften, Throw to a Stop/Walk, Turn & Draw, jumping up & down in preparation for mounting for the first time, & even went as far as to bounce with a foot in the stirrup.
While she still has moments where she gets worried, she continues to make big improvements. She's gotten quieter & quieter each week. This week, she graduated to ground-tying for her biweekly conformation-style photos. She's able to be saddled & unsaddled while tied with no problem. I believe it's the back cinch, along with the saddle strings flapping around in the wind.
Overall, it was a great week of nice progress! Had it not been for the wind impairing our vision, we would have gotten her first ride out of the way today. However, it'll be a better experience for all of us if we wait until Monday when the wind isn't as strong.
Next week, Cricket will have her first rides in the round pen & if she's ready, we should move to the arena by the end of the week.
- Lexy Nuesch
Next week's update will be posted on Saturday.
I do my best to get these updates posted in a timely manner, but it's not uncommon for me to be outside until after dark, depending on the weather, my schedule, & who gets worked when so updates will sometimes be posted quite late in the evening. Don't be alarmed if you don't see your update right away. In rare cases, I may have to push them until the next morning, but I'll reach out & let you know if so.