I had the following conversation with Raudi today, while out on the trail.

Alys: Raudi, you are doing so well.
R: What makes you say this?
A: Used to be I was fearful about riding you, but now I look forward to it.
R: What brought about the change?
A: I’m not sure. I just kept working at becoming a better rider.
R: For sure, you are a better rider. You are now more in balance. Going down hills slowly used to be near impossible because you kept falling forward.
A: That’s right.
R: And now there is this newest thing. You have stopped nagging me when you want me to go faster.
A: And you now move out.
R: You squeeze on me with your legs and

I go. But now its fair game – If I don’t pick up the pace you hit me once with a crop.
A: Yes,
R: We all hate the blasted tap, tap, tap. Give the cue and get on with it. That’s what I say.
A: We have one little problem remaining.
R: There is always one little problem remaining.
A: You are a big time grass snatcher.
R: For four months of the year. There are twelve months of the year. The other eight are not a problem.
A: Those four months are the best time to ride.
R: Those four months are the best time to eat grass.
A: I don’t know what I can do to get you to stop eating and focus on what you are doing.
R: There isn’t anything you can do.
A: Grr, grr, grr.
R: Now see, you just stiffened every muscle in your body, this included your jaw and face muscles.
A: So?
R: Pretty dang inconsiderate.
A: Why do you say that?
R: Because it’s harder for me to do my job.
A: How so?
R: I have a much harder time keeping my balance.
A: Well, I have a hard time keeping my balance when you snake your head around and go for the grub.
R: Just relax and everything will be fine.
A: Grr, grr, grr.
R: Stop it! You’re pulling on my mouth.
A: Sorry about that.
R: You’ll be sorry if I take the bit in my teeth and run off.
A: I won’t be sorry, I will be scared.
R: Either one is acceptable.
A: Isn’t going to happen. I am no longer pulling back on the reins. I’m using my seat and legs to control your speed.
R: Yes, when you are relaxed. You go for the reins, go into a C position, raise your heels when you get fearful.
A: Lately I’ve been far less fearful.
R: Yes, I agree.
A: You know, you are now my number 1 riding horse.
R: What about Tinni?
A: He is my number one riding horse emeritus.
R: What does emeritus mean?
A: Retired.
R: Is he really retired?
A: Yes and no.
R: And no and yes.
A: Yes. Just using him around here for day trips.
R: No more CTR?
A: No more CTR.
R: Hey, I hear that you are thinking of training that young upstart Tyra and doing the CTR with her. What gives?
A: Nothing gives.
R: Why her?
A: Well, for one thing, she’s not a grass grabber.
R: There you go again with that.
A: Let’s table this issue for now. I want to enjoy the rest of this ride.
R: Yes, let’s table the issue. I want to enjoy the best of this ride.
A: Giddy up!
R: Giddy up, my ass.
A: That’s right – Giddy up your ass.
R: Back to the barn!
A: Yes, back to the barn!

Next: 221. 7/14/17: Change is Good