Magic and I rode up the deer hunter’s road and up to the switchback on the trail up to Pinnacle Mountain. I am very happy with Magic. I learn from riding him because he is capable mentally and physically to do things that put me in a position to learn. He has recently shown a little more tendency to be concerned with odd things we see on our rides. He does not actually spook but just stops a looks at the object. It is hard to keep your seat in a real spook because the horse immediately lowers it’s center of gravity (spreads his feet) leaving me up in the air. And then they often move laterally very quickly. Magic has only done that once but a calf jumped up real close and actually ran towards us. That was last spring. Today he showed some concern about a trough that the hunters feed the deer in. He has walked by it previously but I did not force the situation. I have respect for a horse’s or dog’s ability to recognize things that we are unaware of. Bears often feed at the hunter’s deer feeders. So if he shows concern in a situation like that, I’m going to pay attention. We did not see a bear today but we had a very nice ride. I feel we are making progress. I’m getting better feeling with my hands. We’re getting the leg aids and lateral movements coordinated. Magic is showing a lot more “go” and often wants to break into a trot. That is good. It is not good if a horse shows reluctance. I want Magic to enjoy our rides.
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