1st ride w/ breastplate

Well, I got to use the breastplate that I picked up for Pal tonight for the
first time, and I think it made a wonderful difference. Either that or the
sudden spike to 60 degree weather had him happy : ).

He was just really cooperative, tonight. I got the bit on him myself (he
lowered his head for me nicely -- I cheated though, with a little bit of
honey on the bit <g>) and he stood still for me to mount at the block (he
did walk off again shortly after I mounted, just slowly this time.) At the
walk he was really perky, loose and swinging, ears forward and happy the
whole time in both directions. I think the saddle not sliding back
uncomfortably made a huge difference. He didn't have the slightest bother
either about the breastplate from the moment I slipped it over his head, as
though he's worn them before (would make sense because he really does have
this massive shoulder for his size, even more so than chest, and high
withers.)

So tonight was one of those nights the barn was almost empty, the connection
with Pal was there and everything just seemed to come together, which was a
very nice ending to "week three" of ownership.

And I wanted to say... thanks. The knowledge and support in this group is
invaluable. The heck with the cookbook (though I'm sure the recipes would
be great)... publish a horseowners book : ).

Jane


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