Moving Right Along

Cruisin' down the trail

Drinking at the spring

What can I say about the last few days with Eli except - WOW!!!

We got out of quarantine on Tuesday evening, much to Eli's pleasure. That night I turned him out in the 40 acre pasture. It was first time I'd really seen him move out, and boy did he! We watched him disappear over the hill in a cloud of dust that followed him around the perimeter of the pasture and back again. After a good gallop, he made his introductions to the rest of the herd and promptly found himself at the bottom of the pecking order. I don't think he minded too much - he was just happy to be out.

Last night I worked him in the roundpen. Saddled him up, and got on his back. No drama, he figured it all out quickly. Went thru the same routine as I had when I rode him bareback, then added some trotting. Then it was out to the grassy field to explore a bit before getting off. Introduced him to the washrack - he wasn't a big fan, but tolerated it without much fuss.

Since he'd done nothing to worry me so far under saddle, today I took him out for a trail ride with my friend Diane on her endurance horse, Prism. I swear, you never would've known this was all new to Eli! He followed Prism for a while, then we let him lead, which he did fearlessly with ears forward, eager to see the sights. I let him trot a bit, and even cantered for a short stretch. What a smooth canter - a pleasure! We walked down to a little spring for a drink, and he dropped his head right down and slurped away.

Eli's training is far from finished, but he's picking up everything I teach him so quickly. I haven't been able to wipe the smile off my face all day. Can't wait to see what we get done over the next few days!