Gia - session 244 - jumping at CDP and then Gia's first trail ride!

 Gia had a jumping lesson with Hayley at CDP today.  I didn't have time to lunge, but she wasn't too bad.  She was very anxious about the gazebo, but no more than usual.  We had to do a lot of circles whenever she wasn't paying attention to me, and especially when she wanted to get too quick.  

Her first few jumps were a bit rushed and hectic, and she made a few bucking attempts afterwards.  Once we started adding more circles into the mix, she started jumping MUCH quieter!

After our lesson, one of the other ladies at the barn asked if we wanted to take a brief walk around the pond.  It's about the same size as my pond, and about the same distance from the barn, so not a very far walk, but it would be Gia's first time walking outside the arena and outside any fences.  Walking with another, more experienced horse is always a plus because it helps the younger, less experienced horse to relax a little bit and gives them a little confidence.  Gia was quite nervous about a few things - the gate, the chain drag, the pile of dressage fencing and letters, the squishy ground near the pond.  But her buddy, Girl, was very calming and helped her feel more comfortable.  Gia had a little trouble going over the squishy ground, so Girl had to come back and "lead" her over it.  Once she did, Gia went cautiously through.

It wasn't a very long trip, but right now she just needs baby steps of confidence.  One day, we'll be able to go on a "real" trail ride!

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