I figured out later in life that some have what I call the “horse gene.” I do not know if a love of horses is genetic or environmental, or if one is a catalyst for the other. I presumed that I acquired the gene.

I was obsessed with horses at an early age, then less so after my first two years of college. I again became obsessed with horses later in life. I remained obsessed, and this time, was in a position to acquire horses of my own.

Alys moves Raudi through pole bend obstacle

I had single minded intensity of focus; for sure, when it came to horses, the first, then the second time around. The second time around, I spent the next 19 years learning as much as was humanly possible about their care and education. I went to innumerable clinics, the ones I was most interested in had a positive reinforcement bent to them. This included TTeam training, Centered Riding, and Intrinzen training. I also became interested in the body/mind relationship, and along the way, dabbled in Feldenkrais training. I also did agility training and competitions. Raudi had a summer of jumping lessons.

Lately, I’d been wondering if I am still obsessed because the book project obsession seemed to take precedence over the horse education obsession.

Today I realized I’m still obsessed. I rode all three mares today, to the Murphy Road turn. I determined that I’m out of shape and they’re out of shape. This can be easily rectified. I also determined that Raudi, Hrimmi, and Tyra are highly educated. Some examples -- I rode Hrimmi first. I dropped my crop; she picked it up for me. I rode Raudi second. She went into a beautiful rocking chair canter coming up the Murphy Road Hill. I rode Tyra last. We worked on getting a more sustained trot. I got off all several times and they all stood still. Both Hrimmi and Tyra let me know when cars were coming – we were in blind spots.

I never considered myself to be a good horse educator, and in fact did not believe that any of them learned much from me. But today, I realized that, yes, they are highly educated. However, I am not sure what direction I’m going to go in in terms of their education.

What I’m going to do is find time in my days, even the busy ones, to do things with them. This includes riding. The answer will then materialize. I do know that I still have a lot to learn as a horse owner/rider. And the horses still have some to learn as trail horses.

I’d like it if someone materialized who might give me some guidance. If not, I will figure out things again on my own. We’ll see. The most important thing is to continue to spend time with all three.

Next: 78. 3/20/23: Giddy Up