Sunshine, Horses and Dogs

Could this be Utopia?  I think if I died, this is what my heaven would look like.  Today was an outstanding day.  It's amazing what a little sunshine and heat can do for one's attitude...  I began my afternoon with a ride.  As per normal, I hauled over to Cedar Crest.  There, with the wind in my hair and the sun on my face I decided to brave the mosquitoes and ride in their gorgeous outside arena.  Spraying myself shiny with bug spray, rubbing The Body Shop's Satsuma body butter on my hands, neck and face, and finishing up with a thorough spraying for Bacardi we headed over.

The arena hadn't been harrowed since our downpour and was hard, but it was still glorious.  It was my first outdoor ride on Bacardi and I wasn't sure how she'd be but she was pretty good.  A bit of a lookey loo, but nothing unsafe or over the top.  I think she also enjoyed her outside ride!  When we got home I sprayed the lather spots off her with the hose, which she seemed to enjoy.  Tying her up to dry I went and pestered Guinness.  He's such a doll.  That little boy sure likes his bum scratches!  Or any scratches for that matter... He's growing so much, I'll have to get some fresh pics or a video to share.

After a cool off period and some food in the house, I went back out.  Using Reba I moved the sheep out of their enclosure into the field.  Reba had a pretty good work.  I think she's slowly getting her confidence back.  She drove the sheep out into the field the farthest she's ever done without me close to her.  Plus, I think she's finally getting the knack of her direction commands.  That has been slow to stick! We'll keep plugging away.  My decision to not worry about trials has really helped her out.  She'll be a dog that needs a calm and relaxed handler to do her best.

I was ecstatic with Ryder's work.  He's really growing up and developing some confidence.  This is really exciting because I wasn't sure he would.  When my "bad" sheep turned and faced him up, Ryder walked up to him and bit him on the nose!  In the past her would have just barked and I would have had to help him.  He listened so well, lying down quickly and looking to me for further direction.  He has a nice manner and look on the sheep.

Diva, was herself.  Her biggest progress was that she was more willing to rate the sheep.  It still concerns me that she wants to lie down when trailing them.  I've decided I won't worry about it too much.  Worst case scenario is she's my pet and companion.

Right now I can't wipe the smile off my face.