From our series about horse personalities, here is a story about Grace written by Jessica Tonn from the Prince George office of Horses of Amazing Grace.
Grace is a Canadian Hanoverian cross. At two years of age she is a ball of energy. She gets into her zoomy mode and suddenly throws up her head and takes off around the field in her beautiful floating canter, with Lincoln, my fox hound, in hot pursuit. Being a very smart boy, Lincoln is very careful to keep clear of her flying back legs. Watching her move in her effortless, graceful way gives the rider in me such a thrill!
She is so curious! The wheelbarrow is the best toy known to her. She tries to help me push it along but usually we just crash in a big laugh and the hay I’m trying to feed is spilt, then taste tested, of course. Grace is fascinated with the fact the wheel turns and loves to paw and bang away at it. She also loves to try to wash her feet in the water tub, and stir her grain in her bucket.
It is amazing to watch how she explores the world around her usually using her foot to touch it, paw it, bang it, or spill it. The way she is so open to the world around her challenges me to show her new things and always let her enjoy these moments. As horse owners, trainers, and riders, we can get so focused on our goals we can forget to see the wonder of the world around us. My Grace reminds me daily to slow down and just enjoy the moments together. The world is a new place for every little one. As trainers, owners, and breeders of horses we need to remember to keep this new world a wonderful place of exploration and fun without fear and conflict.
Grace is happiest when her legs are moving. She is learning to come through open gates ONLY when invited. Her fun-loving, all in personality, really shows up when a gate is open and Jess is trying to leave without her. This is a great moment to stop, slow down, and encourage her to go BACK into the pasture through the open gate when told to. Some days this involves an arm wrestling match with Jess holding onto a handful of mane to try to encourage her to go back in when asked with minimal tack.
Grace has also learning to walk around with a saddle and bridle on. This is done after Moxy comes back from a ride. The saddle pad is introduced on the wooden rail fence. In true Grace style the pad is pulled off, shaken, stomped on, rolled on, then allowed on her back. The look of pride in her eyes when she walks about all dressed up like a big horse is so rewarding. Her mind is on a 2 minute loop and lessons are very short and full of praise.
This filly is so willing to try anything new with no fear. Grace is an athletic horse with so much personality, enjoyment in being with her human, and a huge floating movement. Her love of fun is contagious and inspiring. For now, feeding time with the wheelbarrow is her biggest joy. Remember to enjoy the simple pleasures in life!
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