More playing

It was an absolutely dream of a spring day – sunny and warm – mid 60s. I spent the first part of the afternoon doing yard work. Then I gathered up the saddles, bridles and tools and set them up in the arena. Tomorrow, if its nice, I’ll oil up the leather.

It’s still too muddy to work in the loafing shed, so I opened the arena door but no one would come in. Sparkler let me halter her and lead her in. Banjo blocked the door so Gilly couldn’t enter. So after some ground work, I haltered him and led him in, leaving Sparkler tied up. She is such a princess (not in the good sense). She pawed the ground, and, something I’ve not seen her do before, stared chewing the lead rope. When that didn’t get my attention, she turned sideways and kicked the wall for effect. You can tell she enjoys the noise it makes.

Gilly was great. Cleaning his rear hooves is improving. Less stomping.

Banjo still would not come in. So I played his game. I showed him the halter instead of hiding it and advanced toward him. He shied away and I backed off. I’ve found if I stare at him and assume an aggressive posture, he will look away and after a short time look toward me. Then I’ll soften and avoid eye contact. We did this 3 times before I was able to halter him. Not bad!

I had thought maybe I’d saddle him, but the English saddle fits the best and I haven’t been able to find the saddle pad. Just as well, it was almost 6:30! I completely lost track of time.