AHHHHHHHHHHH, OMFG I LOVE MY HORSE

Srsly. I've been uber bummed about my jumping since the October 2012 show because basically I had, like, REALLY decent jumping position even in a DRESSAGE saddle of all things but since 2009 I've developed fairly significant scoliosis which isn't severe enough to require surgery but severe enough to SERIOUSLY screw with my riding, hence why I'm hardcore with the lessons now. Anyway, I did a few jumping classes with Jynx and she did amazing, even winning one of our jumper classes, but the photos came out and I was MORTIFIED with how absolutely AWFUL I looked. Like, humiliated they were even viewable to the public. So I decided to start taking some lessons with a local young star rider who isn't certified yet but basically could write her Instructor of Beginners tomorrow and pass with all the pony club she's done.

We have seriously had two lessons, the first one being a month ago and it's like we both straightened out our act in our sleep. My position was great today and Jynx was a STAR. We ended up doing some bounces and then gymnastics up to 2'9" and Jynx was like "yo, I got this bro." She loves jumping. And I mean LOVES jumping, not that "my crazy TB gallops psychotically towards a fence so clearly he loves jumping", but more "I am going to trot my little butt off around this arena like a happy consistant little hunter, on the bit, and just flawlessly jump these fences even though my mom can probably count on one hand the number of jump training sessions I've had in my short life."

I took a video still and the quality may be crappy but I think I ruined what was left of Shay-las hearing with my squealing. Obviously MANY improvements must be made, but compared to October 2012, this is GOLD. Even Jynx just looks more on her game, more balanced, more educated. This coach is great and I am just really relieved it didn't take another 3 years to unlock the inner rider that KNOWS HOW TO FREAKING JUMP FOR CRYING OUT LOUD.

Bella pics!


2'9" woot woot!!!!


Obnoxious halter is obnoxious


YAWN. It's hard work being perfect!

And just as comparison - this was a photo from October 2012. How embarrassing:

Aw you both look great - such an improvement! She looks like such a fun jumper

You guys look amazing! Even though it's just a video still I can really see how you've improved!
And can I just say, that I'm really glad that you can see and actually admit to your riding weaknesses. So many people I know who ride and have terrible jumping positions and think they're fine and do really high level jumping classes and just GUH. It frustrates me! So kudos to you for that as well!

Awwww, thanks a ton! I really really dislike people who actually believe they have nothing left to learn. My jumping position wasn't bad at all in 2009, and since then, the scoliosis has just wrecked havoc on my body. My hips are fairly straight now, but my shoulder still has a bad habit of slouching especially when I'm riding Western on the trail - UGH!

I'm just really glad I'm at a point in my life where I can have lessons! I love learning as much as I can!