Postcards from Camp

Heard from Delphi today. Lurena said she bonded so quickly with Bailey and Gentle Rain, her paddock mates, that when she worked her the first time Delphi was calling, whippping her head around to gaze at the paddock, and in general being a first class brat. Delphi was really feeling good about herself because not only did she have the run of the largest paddock, after gobbling her food (a small dry quart only) she barged Bailey out of the way and gobbled Bailey's ration too. SO, Lurena promptly segregated Delphi to a paddock where she is alone and the only thing she can do to feel good about herself is squeal at the poor gelding Casper in the next paddock over. Hopefully, rather than running Belle Terre (a job Delphi's convinced should be hers) Delphi can now focus on her real job of dressage.
Lurena has been schooling Delphi in that ever important prerequisite to all things past second level: Self Carriage.

Casper the Friendly Horse:

When she's not bossing Casper around Delphi can view the sheep of Belle Terre:

Boot Camp Day 4

The lesson today on Gryphon was a breathtaking experience of *wow* medium trots, fairly good passage steps, exhilarating canter, and uphill shoulder in. By far the medium trot was the most spectacular; it was so much that the first attempt I wasn't ready and it actually took my breath away. Once I knew what to expect, I was able to sit for that amazing Trakehner extension that Gryphon does so well and for which his breed is becoming so famous.
The premium for me is allowing the horse to travel in self carriage: yes, I must half halt, but this should always be with my legs, seat and back while pushing my elbows down (think armpit muscles) but never pulling on the rein. Gryphon is quite capable and taught me how to allow a horse to travel in self carriage by giving half halts then keeping the reins soft, even "fluffy."
To improve, I should bring my lower leg back with a softer knee, allow the reins to be soft to promote self carriage, and I still could have more impulsion, forward, or just more GO in the lateral work. It was a good reminder of where I need to be to get Delphi to the next level.