Trudy, Florida

Rode Bart yesterday, just a quiet walk with friends, as it was unbearably hot. Our horses are used to the heat as we ride them lightly at least once a week. Our destination was a nearby commercial boarding facility; we wanted to go play on their obstacle course for a bit. When we got there, we all stood in the shade while a friend went to make sure it was all right for us to use the obstacle course. Let me explain that Bart is a very “herd-oriented” horse, to the extreme that whatever way the other horses are facing; he faces that way too, so as to not be left behind if they start off. There was an arena a little distance from where we were resting, and Bart indicated unmistakably that he wanted to enter the arena. AWAY from the other horses! Had it not been for our telephone visit the other day, I would have argued with him, as it was not MY idea. I remembered what you said about things Bart wanted to share with me, so I let him enter the arena. After we got in the arena, I gathered him lightly, and he GAITED! Not far, mind you, as his poor misshapen feet are recovering from a lifetime without break from front shoes. But it was apparent that he wanted to show off his awesome gait! Everyone was shouting “Yeah Bart!” 🙂 Thank you again, Joan for alerting me to Bart’s desire to show me just what a wonderful horse he is. I am so looking forward to sharing my riding and camping life with this sweet guy. Our telephone visit gave me immensely helpful insights into his character.

-Trudy, Florida