unspoken communication

Dezi, the bay horse on the left, has been with me for over 15 years. Our relationship has seen it's ups and downs. I often tell people our relationship is much like an old marriage, we are very comfortable with it, we read each others minds, but are always looking for ways to add in some fun. Thus, Tommy 2Face, the jack puppy on the right. He has been with us for a year and a half, and has really added some fun into our world.
The two of them have a unique relationship, it has been fascinating to see how they work things out between themselves. Mostly unspoken, though Tommy offers a grumbly growl from time to time, they have developed quite the relationship. In the arena, Dezi is in charge and can move Tommy all around and out of the arena when he wants. Out on the trail, it seems Tommy is in charge, often leading the way picking the path for Dezi and I to follow. Between the three of us, we have an amazing flow of communication, though hardly a word is spoken. It seems I can think things and both Dezi and Tommy understand. And I like to think they think things and more often than not, I can understand them. When I saw this picture (to be honest, I cannot remember taking it), it made me smile and see the unspoken communication that flows, and keeps my days interesting.

a new year

Happy 2009! With this New Year, I am filled with a sense of optimism and hope. There is so much to be grateful for, my health, my horses, my dogs, Andrew, my friends & family, Dragon Fly Farm, and Helpful Horsemanship, Inc. As I look back, '08 was pretty great. As I look forward, '09 has endless potential, even though there are obvious challenges with our current economy. I heard someone saying the other day that in tough economic times, when the panic subsides, a new joy is often found in the simpler things in life.
In my work life, I am blessed to be making a living doing what I love, helping people with horses and horses with people. What I teach is the basics, the foundations for which all levels of horsemanship can be achieved. And in these tight economic times, I encourage people with horses to invest in themselves. Now is not the time to send your horse away to some trainer who can "fix" this or that. It is the time to spend your money on yourself, getting the education to help you achieve and succeed with your horse. Whether it is with me at Helpful Horsemanship(obviously the best choice =) !) or with another teacher, get back to the basics and get out there with your horse. Get yourself good, solid education that enhances your safety and increases your knowledge base so you can do what you dream of with your horse! It is a New Year and a great time to set some goals for yourself and your horse! Happy 2009, hope it includes some "horsehappys"!