Simple is good sometimes

My lesson today on Indy after a week and a half break was wonderful.  We just took it really easy, working large and focusing on lengthening and compressing the trot, and doing transitions.  He was so "on" today that I got great half halts just from my seat alone.  I kind of love being able to ride a horse that other, more experienced riders tune up for me, lol.  But as Mia said, he does more challenging lessons and can "relax" and go perfectly for me and her less experienced riders.  And he is completely happy doing this.  Really, I think he is utterly content going large and not really challenging himself much at all, lol.  He could definitely get used to it, but mixing the different types of rides is wonderful for both him and his various riders.

Ole! we cantered

I've been having good rides on both Ole and Indy in the last few weeks, but on Tuesday I got to canter Ole for the first time!  Mia convinced me that I should try the canter as, right now, his canter is literally no faster than his speedy trot... and she was totally right.  His canter reminds me of the Fjord I used to ride, not dressage-y in any way, but super comfortable and easy to ride for a novice like me.  It was really fun and a great reminder to myself that, yes, I'm totally capable of cantering!  Hadn't cantered since I stopped riding Radar (in... April? May?) as Indy's canter stride is probably a bit big for me.  Sometimes I'm still not sure I totally trust Ole, but after a ride like Tuesday's where he really seemed happy and willing I'm super hopeful he'll work out.  I just wish he steered a tad bit better right now!  Think we'll reserve cantering for empty arenas for now...