I've put together a short series of posts recapping our year and looking forward to 2018, First up, a recap of what we did! For a year that felt seriously hindered by time and money constraints, we got a lot done!
As always, I focused my budget and time mainly on learning. I'm starting to enjoy shows, but let's be real, for the amount it costs to attend just one, I could pay for lessons for months! My long term goals still include teaching, and to do that responsibly and successfully, I feel like I need to invest heavily in my own riding education.
As a small brag, this year we achieved our best ever scores and results.
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| Bridget has a ribbon jar now |
In reality, though, this felt like a pretty tough year progress wise. B was feeling pretty sour and unenthusiastic last winter and spring, and we spent SO many hours on the fitness struggle bus too - another thing she is not overly fond of. Our eventing and dressage competitions were at the same levels as 2016, when I had obviously hoped to move up. On the plus side, fun was had, and the 'easier' tests and jump heights kept us both confident. I had a fabulous time at the Canada Cup dressage competition, and have penciled it in thr calendar for 2018. We had a super result at Campbell Valley Horse Trails, but I think eventing might get put on the back burner in 2018. We'll see.
While it remains to be seen what the future holds for us, I'm still proud of what we accomplished this year and have a lot of really fun memories to take away.
Next up: Things We Learned in 2017
you guys definitely got a lot done this past year!! it's funny how it never really seems like that much until we sit back and try to add it all up again haha
ReplyDeleteRight? I was looking at it this morning and even realized I left some stuff off!
DeleteI think it's awesome that you take your horsey education so seriously and love the final goal of teaching! :)
ReplyDeleteI take it SO seriously, lol. I'm the first to admit I could afford to lighten up a little.
DeleteYou had a very busy year with lots of progress (and some struggles).
ReplyDeleteSo many struggles! But it's nice that we still got out and had fun.
DeleteSo many accomplishments! I totally hear you on the cost of shows as it compares to lessons. I feel the same way.
ReplyDeleteIf I didn't get so in my head about showing, I'd probably focus on lessons even more. One of my goals last year was to tackle my show nerves by getting out more.
Deletei love all your progress!!
ReplyDeleteSort of sideways/backwards progress mostly, but any time at the barn is good, so I'll take it!
DeleteYou got lots done! Very impressive :) (48 lesson omg!)
ReplyDeleteNumber of lessons required for me to move from first to second level dressage still > 48, lol
ReplyDeleteYou guys did get a lot done!!
ReplyDeleteLove your graphic and great post. I also like your ribbon jar.
ReplyDeleteYou guys did TONS this year and even tho it was a hard year in some aspects, you really rallied to keep B happy and healthy. I think there is a lot to be said for a horse's happiness to do work!
ReplyDeleteAlso - 48 lessons!! OMG. I think I had a grand total of 4 lessons this year lol. My plan for next year is to TAKE ALL THE LESSONS.