Bits and such

To catch up from a busy week!

2pointober 
I started October clocking 3:00 of 2-point and finished the challenge with 5:10. The month seemed to fly by, and next year I want better improvement. Congrats to the extremely impressive winners, and thanks to L. of Viva Carlos and Hillary of Equestrian at Hart for hosting the challenge!

No Stirrup November
I’m in! Every ride this month has included no-stirrup work, though I’m still leaving the leathers on the saddle.

Because someone has the fall friskies!

Playing with Bits
Ever since I got Hemie I’ve been riding him in an Albacon mixed metal french link eggbutt. It hasn’t been a problem, but I do wonder if there isn’t something he might like better. Can’t know until you try, right? So I’m borrowing friends’ bits to experiment. So far I’ve tried this one:

Stubben golden wings gag

I couldn’t tell if he prefers the lozenge/bean to the link, but I did notice the gag action come into play. Next one to try will be a loose ring lozenge without wings and without gag action.

Riding in the dark
It’s completely dark by the time I get to the barn after work during the week, and I’ve noticed my rides have gotten shorter in duration. On the plus side, I’ve been good about cleaning tack with the “found” time.

Lessons
We’re working on some new skills including trot and canter lengthens. Hemie is enjoying learning new things. Meanwhile I’ve been focusing on my position to ensure my weight is in the proper place (inside vs outside hip or stirrup), while still focusing on Hemie’s shoulder placement to get straightness for better self carriage.

Showtime for Friends
This past weekend I hauled TK and her lovely 4-year old Levi to a local schooling dressage show. This horse hasn’t gotten less than a blue ribbon in dressage to date! Judges just adore him.

Speedy can really step under himself!