Abra: week one

On the Monday morning I was walking towards the barn and one of the staff was leading out a pretty grey mare. She said - this is your new horse. I patted her and said hello.

She has been out in the front ring with her friend Fatima who came with her from Southern Ontario. Her pony friend will be used as a school pony. Abra was sort of lonely at first and she kept on neighing and talking with her friend - especially when separated.

Abra is shorter than Bishop but wider. She is also fatter but that will change. My saddle had to be stretched to fit her. My bridle fits but it is on the top hole. My leather halter needed a few holes to be punched in it for it to fit.

I have ridden her in the arena and in the front ring. She had never been in an arena and was surprised when she saw herself in the mirror.

She is very easy to ride. She has a nice trot. She learns quickly.

There is a woman who rides often but only has a pony that she shares with her daughter. She has been on Abra a couple of times and even bareback.

I think she is being much admired by the other riders. There is something about a new horse and a grey one at that. She is starting in the lessons already - it will be good for her waistline and she will improve certain skills such as standing still.

Abra is living in Bishop's old stall so I do not have to go looking for her.

I have been feeding Abra apples and carrots as treats. On Friday she was in the front ring and I had some for her. I called to her and she came to me. The barn owner saw all of this and he was impressed. I think we are bonding very quickly.