I have lots of video needing to be uploaded for this day.  This was day 1 of using vita-calm to just take the edge off.  We free lounged for a few minutes before I got on.  When I did get on he started to have a melt down, backing up and raising his head really high.  I pulled his head to the left so he wouldn't be able to run off and we briskly walked in small circles until he relaxed a little.  Not sure why he is alright with that sometimes, and other times he slightly freaks out.  We walked in circles, and then trotted in circles and figure 8's.  After he was relaxed with this, we trotted around the whole round pen rotating direction every two passes or so.  He seemed very relaxed so after a few stop and backs, we picked up the trot and I squeezed him into a canter going to the right.  It was the most comfortable canter ever!  He was slow and controlled, but definitely leaning to the inside.  That is something I will need some instruction on to work with him on that.  I brought him back down to the walk, and we changed direction and did the same thing.  Going to the left he seems a little less coordinated and more rushed in the canter but it still wasn't bad.  He was very good and picked up his leads easily.  I am not sure if the vita-calm helped or if it was the consistency in his schedule but he was very good and focused more than yesterday.  Tomorrow I work 12 hours so I will be up earlier and might lounge with side reins instead of ride.  I am nervous if I stop riding, he will get crazy again but it is not like I can ride every single day.  We will see :)  Today was a good day for us!

Things we need to work on:

Relaxing while mounting,

Trotting forward and into the bridle

Leaning in while cantering