Time seems to be at premium, so I decided to prioritize. First thing, in the mornings now, dog and horse agility. The dog was first today. I set up a simple course, and then worked with Shadow over the obstacles. I then improvised, changing things around as I went along. She waited on the table. I sent her over a jump, around barrels, over another jump, then had her go back to the table. I did vary this, putting jumps on the sides of the barrels, and then putting the teeter in front of the furthest barrel.

It all seemed so easy when we were in class. It’s harder, going at it alone. The dog is actually very patient with me, and also remaining very enthused about the task at hand. On July 26th we will resume formal agility training.

Hrimmi with the packs

I next worked the horses over their obstacle course. The mares are not as enthusiastic about agility as the dog is; however, I do see the wheels turning when I am working with them on something new. Some things they already know, like put one foot, and then another, on a raised platform. They also have no problem going around weave buckets, stopping halfway through the curtain, navigating the S bend, or walking through the water obstacle. The troublesome obstacle – and there is always one – is this. They must go out and around a barrel, with me, the handler, standing in one place. Then they have to back around the barrel. I read the directions several times because I could not believe that they would have to back around a barrel.

I decided, to hell with it. I will guide them backwards, around the barrel.

The barrel send with the horses is much like the barrel send with the dog. Other than that, there are no obstacle similarities this month.

This afternoon, when I was out riding, neighbors with kids came over and Pete took it upon himself to work with Shadow while around kids. He introduced Shadow to the children, and one of them petted her under her chin. There was no aggression activity. I think by working with her, that we are doing things right by her.

Tonight, I cleaned Hrimmi’s pack saddle, in preparation for Tuesday’s big event. She’s going to deliver books to children at the Sutton Library. Lois, a volunteer, is going to read the kids the book Biblioburro. I was lent a copy by the head librarian at the Sutton library – I read it this afternoon – it’s about a fellow who starts delivering books by burro. The two burros are named Alpha and Beta. As I read this book, I heard the Aristotle so-called click of recognition. I can do this with Hrimfara. And I can do with Sastrugi, our new goat. And I can talk about libraries and maybe read them this wonderful book.

The Bright Lights Book Project and the Dog and Pony Show – they are becoming increasingly more connected.

Next: 192. 7/13/21: The Bright Lights Dog and Pony Show