06/22/2026
Everyday is a lot of hard work around here, physically, mentally, and emotionally. But days like today really help put the whole thing in perspective.
Jane's mom bought Monte for her last fall. She was told he was super gentle and beginner friendly, they saw videos and pictures, and the barn that was selling him was well reviewed by friends. Unfortunately after having him shipped across states, he showed up looking a little more ragged and thin than his pictures and a lot more nervous than described. He was unsafe for Jane to even do groundwork with, let alone ride. That's what led them to look for support and they found my program (I'm so glad they did!).
The first time I got on Monte, it felt like he'd never even been ridden. He was really tight and nervous and it felt like he was ready to blow. We took it a little slow, did a ton of groundwork and really tried to show him that just because he's gaited, doesn't mean he cant be balanced and use his hind end. Monte, fortunately, is a very sweet boy with a ton of try and he seemed to really appreciate the empowerment that comes from this horsemanship.
Jane brought Monte to a groundwork clinic with Joel Conner last month and has been really working on her groundwork. She's also working with me this summer helping me with everything from farm chores, to bringing horses to the arena for me to work (which means many trips up and down my steep hill). Her work ethic is admirable as is her dedication to making sure her horse is confident and comfortable.
All that to say, today Jane rode her horse for the first time out on her own! They walked relaxed on a loose rein around the round pen and Jane worked on bending and hindquarters to a stop. I wasn't even nervous, and neither was Jane. Monte's come so far in just four months, I knew he was prepared to support Jane as she learns what she needs to do to support him. This pictures speaks volumes, I swear this horse's head was screwed on upside down when he got here 😅 Seeing this relaxed boy with his person makes all the hard work more than worth it.
Congrats Jane and Monte!
