Book is without a doubt Snowman. I cried so much when reading it. My other favorite horse book that I've reread many times is In & Out by Barbara Moss. It's a fictional tale of FEI level jumpers and the A circuit. It's got some intense NC-17 rated scenes in it, so not for the unprepared. It was supposed to be the first in a series but the author never put out any other books.
7. Most common riding misconception
That it's a hobby. To me, riding is a lifestyle. It is something I will do for the rest of my life. I've had people make comments that it's so cute that I ride and am able to maintain my childhood hobby. My horses are my children, not some set of golf clubs or tennis racket to be taken out whenever I feel like playing. "Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion. It seizes a person whole and once it has done so, he/she will have to accept that his life will be radically changed.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson
8. 2 riding strengths and 1 weakness
I tend to underestimate my riding ability, thinking I'm not as good as I really am. Which is both a strength and a weakness. I won't ever over face myself or my horse, but at the same time I tend to not want to push what we're capable of unless I'm in a lesson. I think another strength of mine is my leg. I've got super strong thighs and calves, thanks to both of my boys. My trainer used to call Phoenix the thigh master as it takes of lot of thigh to half halt him, and to get nice lateral work out of him. Buddy, being super lazy and disliking spurs, requires a strong lower leg to get him motivated. He's super wide, and will stretch your legs. Riding him bareback has really helped keep my leg quiet and grippy.
9. Least favorite thing about riding horses
As with everything else, $$$$$. I also wish being able to show while having a full time job was easier. It's fine to have one or two day schooling shows on the weekend and work, but trying to take five days off to go to an A show (if/when I have the $$) is hard. And trying to explain it to my boss is even harder.
10. What does my horse eat
Phoenix- Grass hay, 4quarts Strategy, turmeric, celery seed, BL solution, nettle. Both am and pm
Buddy-Grass hay, alfalfa, 4 quarts Strategy, half cup Amplify, turmeric, nettle. Both am and pm
McKenna-Grass hay, 4 quarts alfalfa pellets, 2 quarts Strategy, 1 cup Amplify, skullcap, MagRestore, both am and pm.
This is the their winter ration, in the summer when they're on 24/7 turnout they get less of everything and don't get fed hay for the first month or so when there's enough grass in the pasture.
Totally agree with #7 !
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