Something about a horse... and a baby bunny...

"There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man"

Sorry about the closed eyes.
The photographer was also the horses handler and couldn't see into the sun.  

 Today Jason got to go spend time with Sam!  (If you don't remember Sam, see the post Trotting In Place)

We are starting off slow, and today was just a day for Jason to reconnect with Sam and see where he is at.  First we worked Sam in the round pen to warm him up.  Then we brought him into the arena where Jason groomed him and said hey to his old friend:

It was a little windy so Jas started with his hood up.
Lots of wind+hearing aids=ANNOYING!

For those of you who have never groomed a horse, it is extremely therapeutic!

Then the fun started!  You may remember that Jason was riding in an english saddle prior to his most recent health scare.  Today, he went bareback.  We stayed at a walk, with LeAnne leading Sam and Jason just focusing on his balance and enjoying the ride:

"The wind of Heaven is that which blows through the horse's ears"
~Arabian Proverb

Bareback riding is extremely challenging but also one of the most rewarding ways to ride a horse.  You have no stirrups to support you, only the muscular, powerful back of your horse.  You really learn to just move in harmony with the horse.  It requires a great deal of balance, muscle, trust and courage!  This is one reason why a lot of therapeutic riding centers start their clients on bareback pads before transitioning to a saddle.  It is a great foundation, and a great exercise for any level rider!

It's also just a ton of fun:

 "Horses carry the wisdom of healing in their hearts and offer it to any humans that possess the humility to listen"

"Horses: Life's apology for every crappy day ever"

Jason has a very sweet spirit and is very humble.  This helps him work remarkably well with Sam.  Jason is also courageous and always ready to try new things; his work ethic amazes everyone he meets!  Jason's balance was great today, and he still had plenty of energy after his ride.  This was especially impressive considering he'd already had a workout at the gym today!  He will do great continuing to ride Sam.  From here we pick up where we left off (using a saddle and bridle) and keep him moving our favorite direction...forward!  Go Jas!




Also, you should meet Roger:

Yup.  This is our new bunny!  Roger is a such a sweet special boy, I think I see a future therapy rabbit here!  

Make sure and hug your pets today, they are with us for so short a time but can teach us so much :)

Top of the Muffin to Yah!

-LeAnne