At the end of June we embarked on an 8 horse journey over to Ellensburg for the Buck Brannaman clinic. Carrie brought Esme into the morning Foundations class, and has the following to say about their experience together:
“I had the sheer delight participating in the groundwork class at the Buck Brannaman clinic in Ellensburg. I’ve only been working with Esme for a few months now and this sweet smart little buckskin mare has been an incredible teacher for me. While this was my first Buck clinic, it was Esme’s third. She traveled to the Eastern side of the Cascades like a pro, settled in quickly to her surroundings, and tucked into her hay and water.
The environment at the Ellensburg rodeo grounds is stimulating, what with wind, noisy grandstands and giant flags whipping around. If that wasn’t challenging enough, we also had construction in the western side of the arena and flying cardboard. Esme, again, demonstrated her solid and thoughtful demeanor. When something caught her attention you could see her sorting through and finding her own inner safety and peace, or responding to gentle guidance to bring her to that place. During Buck’s teaching times, she relaxed into a nice nap.
Esme is one of the kindest mares I’ve worked with. She notices the smallest of movements and is patient when I give conflicting signals as I learn how to communicate what I’m asking of her. A few main areas of focus for Esme are softening her neck to a more relaxed carriage at the trot and lope. Increasing her capacity for things touching her unexpectedly around her hind end. And staying more relaxed during cinching up. She’s making significant progress with and she thrives with consistent work.
I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to spend time with Esme. She’s helping me stretch my skills and shows me how soft I can be, where I need to be more accurate with pressure and release, and most of all the magic that can happen when you show up with curiosity and a ton of try. She’s a gem. And when ready for adoption, will make a trusty and fun riding partner.”
