Favorite Finds 49
Stool & Cooler Backpack
Show season is upon us and I am always looking to add some comfort and ease to what is most often an exhausting and stressful weekend. Generally speaking, the warm up is rarely in short walking distance to the stalls, if you show in Wisconsin at Otter Creek, you’re tired just thinking about the distance between arenas and stalls. And we’ve all seen the “ring bags” on the market. Personally, I don’t use mine that often at the warm up but this backpack is something I would carry. This backpack is a stool & cooler combo. I love the idea of being able to sit down for a few minutes without lugging a camp chair with me. And the cooler of course is handy to keep drinks cold but it can also be used as a regular backpack compartment for sunscreen, test booklets, etc. I have not purchased this yet but I can think of many uses for it outside of horse shows like soccer games, my husband’s triathlons and more.
The Equine Academy- Square Exercise
I love this exercise and I use it all the time with my students and it is even more beneficial to see a visual of it. This exercise starts with a basic square and uses transitions, turn on the forehand and turn on the haunches. This exercise is very helpful if you are looking to help your horse organize their body or for riders that need to work on being more clear with their own aids. If your horse is a little distracted or anticipatory, this can help tremendously as well. I always find doing detailed, or more specific work like this exercise is much more beneficial than trying to simply “keep the horse busy.” When trying to keep the horse busy, most people end up being a little frantic with their energy. By slowing things down while still allowing the horse to move, it allows riders to connect to their horse through the aids. Have fun with it and give this exercise a try!
The Printable Pony
As I have shared before, good organization is very important to me and who doesn’t love supporting small businesses. I found the PrintablePony on Etsy and purchased the pet planner printables for our dogs and then fell into the wonderful rabbit hole of The Printable Pony. The owner Tracy sells her printables such as budget sheets and horse record keeping packs but also sewing patterns for things like ear bonnets, stirrup covers and more. It is important to keep track of your horse’s records and these printables would be great for anyone but especially a young equestrian learning all about horse care and management. I should mention her blog that is available through her website, she shares tons of tips and tricks that are very helpful. Be sure to check out her website and her Etsy store to see all of the great information and items offered!