A New Chapter

As Gracie grows, I see how she is just like a normal kid. She goes through phases. When I first met her she was so very sweet, respectful, friendly, and just the best to be around. Then she decided to test me for awhile – she started being extremely disrespectful and rude. This caused a lot of frustration and I started to wonder what I was doing wrong.

Just when I had about lost hope that she would come back around, she did. It started a day or so before taking her to my friend’s house for her first adventure. She started listening better and being more respectful again- giving me space when leading, not trying to walk on top of me, no pulling away. Today, she walked next to me with a loose lead and was happy to do so. She listened to my every cue and reacted accordingly.

When I turned her back out in the field, she followed me and gave me that “I love you” look that makes me melt. She wants to be loved on again and her sweetness seems to have returned.

It’s a great reminder for me to stay patient. She will go through phases, and I will need to work through them. I plan to take advantage of these good days we’re having and built upon them. Lots of little things – everything can be a training tool. Whether it’s a grooming session, walking around the yard, or working on our halter skills. We’ll work on more desensitizing and getting her out and about.

I like to say that we’ve closed a chapter- her first disobedient stage. It’s time for a new chapter, and hopefully this will be a good one.

This little filly means the world to me already, and she’s still so young. I have high hopes for a bright future.