My daughter and I went to a local horse show this week-end. I participated in 3 hunter classes and 2 dressage tests. I was a little disappointed with how it went. Teddy had his feet trimmed only 5 days before so he was a little ouchy. I could not get him to canter on the hard footing in the jumping arena. And I was quite tired from all the preparation for the show the day before. So we were both a little off. We did have a lot of fun though. My daughter was a wonderful assistant. She took pictures, bought me the different whips in between classes and kept me hydrated. I hope next year she will be able to participate in a few classes too. But most importantly we confirmed that Teddy is our treasured family horse. He listened perfectly and was quiet and gentle. He has truly bonded with us. The three of enjoyed our time together on our little adventure to Hot August Hooves.

It was very special to be with the horses while the solar eclipse occurred today. They were scheduled to get their feet trimmed exactly while the eclipse was happening. So the barefoot trimmer, my daughter and I had a great time looking through the pinhole camera I made in-between foot trimming. When the light dimmed it got even more peaceful and quiet in the country side. Notice in the picture of Teddy's head that the leaf shadows are in the shape of crescents.

Leg yielding Toby on the right rein. I think he looks pretty good here. My position is lurching forward a bit. I'll have to work on that or "put my shoulders in my back pocket" as my coach says.