Baby Steps

Larry's stocking up was completely gone and he was sound with no Bute or medication.  I had enough daylight to let him out with the herd  after work.  The ground was too soft for lunging or riding from the rain, so we spent just a little time on some despooking and ground work, working with the landscape flag and a bag full of aluminum cans, as well as touring the yard and gardens.  He was pretty good for it, and figured out standing still was easier than dancing around, though he never got 100% relaxed.  In part, he did seem full of himself with the cooler temps and potential lack of self-exercise during turnout.  Group turnout will help, and we'll keep working on different little exercises.  One of these days, I'll finally get to ride him!  (New saddle should be on its way!)  I gave the herd the run of both fields when I let Larry out.  With his fast trot, he was pulling away from Lee's canter.  He never did break gait into a canter himself.  Just trotted all around the field like a little machine with the others trailing after.  His stride has flattened out with shorter toes, though it's interesting to see the difference in his fast trot (he really hunkers down and gets wide behind and under himself) and his cruising speed (just a normal trot).  I'm looking forward to actually riding him, hopefully Friday.  Lee seems accepting of him; Legs is a typical stand-offish mare, but I'm sure she'll warm up to him over time.