BACK IN THE SHOW PEN

Shiek and I made it through our first show. Baby steps.... we only entered the western pleasure on the last day at a local AQHA show in Idaho. It was wonderful to be a part of the show community again and in many respects, it did not seem like I had ever left due to the familiar faces and horses. My trainer, Shawn Deal, rode Shiek in the Sr. Pleasure on the first day and picked up a few points. Based on the fact that he was solid, we decided I would show him in amateur on the last day. I forgot what it was like to have butterflies! The only major difficulty was the fact that the judges asked for the extended lope and extended walk. Given that we are just trying to have solid rides, I opted out of those transitions. I focused on sitting back and keeping my legs in my horse and he carried me through like a champ. The worst part is over...I have survived my first show back. I can't wait to add my favorite class- horsemanship (the real reason we purchased this horse). I have definitely been bit by the horse show bug again!