Just wanted to share alittle story from this morning. I worked with Samson this morning as usual in hand around the open arena and then took him into the round pen for saddling and alittle riding-still working on forward motion. I had already ridden last years makeover horse with same saddle. Well- I saddled him up and rounded him a few times and noticed he seemed alittle "off". Difficult to describe- just alittle agitated for no apparent reason. I checked all tack-everything seemed ok. I had already decided in my mind that this morning I would get that forward motion no matter what so I got on up there and began the turn to lead into the forward walk that I was looking for. He turned well and then just stopped and started pawing the ground with alot of energy. Now- I may be hardheaded at times - but having just turned 51 yesterday-maybe I got alittle wiser overnight - or alittle more nervous about hitting the ground. Whatever the reason - I decided I better get on down pretty quick as something was definitely not right. I tied him up still fully tacked to take a breather and figure out my next step. Well- he is not great at being tied and started to move around just alittle and then gave alittle hop. I glanced over there and the off bilet had broken off the saddle from the bars -everything was hanging on the near side and he was standing still like a champ. I sent up my thanks and praise at that time, to my God who watches over me and this wonderful horse who tried from the getgo to tell me something was not right. I am thankful also that I am not as stubborn as I used to be- or I would have gotten in a fight with him about that forward motion I wanted- it might not have been pretty.

My patient and wise husband got me a new digital camera for my birthday so once I figure it out I will be able to post some pictures. Taking the rest of the day off. For those suffering in the heat like we are-- STAY COOL.