Hi Chris,

I am also glad we are in touch and I apologize that this message has been so long in coming. We just had my brother and his wife visiting from the UK so its been very hectic. Neither of them drives! No, not ever so they are completely dependent on us when they are here. It was a little easier when we lived in the city as they could take themselves out and about.

The best day of their visit (for me) was when I took them with me to visit the stud farm where my horse was born. The farm is in a beautiful area and so the drive itself was quite lovely, and the farm is spectacular - gorgeous pastures and the largest barn I've ever been in. They breed Hanoverians and Standardbreds and we met a group of absolutely gorgeous yearlings, one of which is sold to the UK and soon be be shipped there. Another, who is most likely UK bound also was the richest possible liver chestnut - a colour I've never seen on a Standardbred. The owners were very welcoming, toured us around and then invited us into the house for coffee and apple fritters. My brother was super impressed as such a visit would not have been so warm in the UK.

More later, Chris - duty calls...

John

Christopher, 

so much enjoy reading your posts and replies. The exercises alone are sure to make a difference so I have taken to the stairs!  Also, I just love this quote you offered: Learning to "be one in motion with a horse" is one of life's most magnificent adventures...the preparations are multitudinous, riding itself is easy-riding well is the best revenge."  Indeed, Sir.  

I really take your comment about mentorship seriously. I am so much in the early stages of things but it was near impossible to locate a seasoned male rider.  I am grateful for the young woman taking me through the basics but I do see already the need to consider reaching out beyond this. Any advice for someone in Lower Mainland British Columbia would be well received. 

I'm looking at this all as a process and not a thing with an end-point, the start of a wonderful exploration. I thank you for your kind words of advice, and your reception to my brazen questioning of 'seat' issues.  Regards, Chris

Oh Fantastic Christopher,

Interesting to hear that the arms and hands of the rider are '50%' of the reigns. Also, this video clearly shows me the movement of the pelvis with the horse, back stationary, hands not pulling on the reigns . . . Now, to cause a distraction to my young coach so I can connect a little further with Winchester. Hmmm.