My favorite jumping sessions are those centered on gymnastic exercises. They were also some of the most beneficial for improving jump position, balance, centeredness, strength, feel, and more. They’re challenging but really fun, and are essential training exercises for beginners to the most advancer riders.
Gymnastic exercises are a series of ground poles and jumps with [...]

Posted in Jackie's Thoughts, Riding and showing, Training 1 Comment »

Last night was another volunteering night at the Pegasus Farm therapeutic riding center, and even though I wasn’t feeling my best I still managed to learn something from the students. I was a little tired, not feeling very patient, and it was rainy and cold. I’ve had a few really good weeks in a row [...]

Posted in Jackie's Thoughts, Making a Difference, Therapeutic Riding 3 Comments »

Here are some more great Christmas gift ideas for that horse-crazed loved one. This set includes a variety of practical items that are good quality riding equipment and apparel. I’ve had many horsey Christmases myself and have tried a variety of brands of each of these products, and the following are my top picks.
Riding Gloves

Warm [...]

Posted in General, Recommendations 1 Comment »

I had a really nice chat with a good friend yesterday, a seminary student and ministry intern at my church who also happens to be affected by cerebral palsy. He has difficulty with his legs and a little with trunk control, but he also works harder to improve himself than anyone I know.
He was thrilled [...]

Posted in Jackie's Thoughts, Making a Difference, Therapeutic Riding No Comments »

Just an update for anyone following the fate of the 41 horses who survived the double-decker trailer accident in Wadsworth, Illinois:
The first of the horses have left Fred and Vicki Carney’s farm for new loving homes, which have been carefully screened by a committee of the veterinarians and horse owners who have been involved [...]

Posted in Horse Care, Horse News, Horse Slaughter No Comments »

Need stocking stuffers for that horse crazy girl or guy this Christmas? I have some favorite items that I love so much I just have to share.
Thelwell Ponies
I grew up reading my mom’s well-worn copies of Norman Thelwell’s A Leg At Each Corner, Riding Academy, and Angels on Horseback. These timeless horse books are [...]

Posted in Horsin' Around, Recommendations No Comments »

I first met Kylie when she was about 3 years old. She came hobbling down the concrete aisle, her legs scrawny, misshapen, and unable to support her, her arms attached to braces to give her balance and support, and her face glowing like a small angel. Kylie has cerebral palsy. I was attached to her [...]

Posted in Jackie's Thoughts, Making a Difference, Recommendations, Therapeutic Riding 2 Comments »