To update from the last post, Cassidy has decided to stick with it. It’s been a challenge. She is doing so very well and so is the horse. The thing that makes this all so difficult is Cassidy’s limited leg usage. Most of the time the horse is being directed with leg movements when in the ring for dressage, with Cassidy they have been working on voice commands and the horse and Cassidy both have become frustrated. But I can see that much progress has been made and vacation is going to help everyone feel much better and ready to continue.

Today was very difficult for Cassidy. These lessons are very intense, for everyone. She is upstairs crying herself to sleep. I am rethinking all of this. Should I let her quit? Should I make her stick with it? In the morning we will talk about it. We have spent too much money and time just to quit now. It’s been a really hard day.

Cassidy has been working so very hard! I am so proud of her. These lessons are very intense for both her and the horse. I am worn out just from watching! Ha, ha. We will have to put off leaving for the ocean by a couple of days when vacation starts due to the fact that Cassidy and the horse have to complete the first stage of learning. Jacob has started “training” Doll. I may want to tell you Doll is a much older horse and is very patient with Jacob. At any rate, Jacob is very proud of all the work he has been doing, he leads that lovely animal all over the pasture, stopping starting, checking which leg she leads with. It’s amazing to see just how much he absorbs from watching Cassidy.

We found the perfect horse for Cassidy. It took much longer than she expected, but it was worth the time. She is now the proud owner of a registered Quarter Horse gelding, bay in color and the sweetest disposition I think I have ever seen on such a young horse. Cassidy is totally in love with him and would probably let him sleep in her room if she could. She and the horse started their lessons yesterday. Cassidy still hasn’t chosen a name for her horse and I hope she decides something soon before I name him myself. (Not really) The work has just begun and we are already planning in advance for her first show. I’m off!