The day began with a breakfast for all 'employers' and participants. Some of the individuals who attended the breakfast were riders we already knew. Others had heard about our facility and came over to talk about their wish to someday participate. The biggest hurdle for most of these individuals is funding-- which is another topic.. but please keep in mind the importance of our new scholarship fund to assist these folks in their dreams. Visit our web site to read more about donating.
We had a great turn-out - of all the participating sites, Dream On Curls Riding Center hosted the highest number of participants ! We were also blessed with a gorgeous Indian Summer day- probably some of the nicest weather we've experienced in weeks ! (maybe months!)
A little introduction by instructor Zoe and then some saddle cleaning along with discussion of types of saddles and their use.
taking time out from cleaning tack to record the day with a photograph.This woman was a return visitor to the farm- having participated in last year's Mentoring Day. She remembered a lot of what she learned last year and was a great help in supporting her peers in their new experiences. When asked later what she got out of this rewarding day she stated “it made her feel important to help other people learn about the horses.” When working with a group-- it's not always about the horses, but also the interaction that takes place between the human members of the session.
After the saddles were cleaned and oiled - the FUN part of the morning commences.. the horses are brought up for grooming. Another introduction and explanation of the tasks ahead.
Everyone has an opportunity to curry and brush the horses, learning at the same time the importance, purpose, and benefits of grooming for both horse and groomer. 
once the horses are properly groomed- the next step is cleaning the hooves.
Zoe shows everyone the proper way to approach the horse safely and how to pick the hoof up and hold it for cleaning.
This important step in preparation can be intimidating for many- but this group was incredibly enthusiastic to learn and eager to try it!
4 horses - 4 hooves each-- plenty to go around !!
Here is a quick study-- she enjoyed it so much she did more than one horse.
Same with this young man ! For most of the participants, this was their first experience with such large animals and they all displayed respect and willingness to learn and try all the different steps.
Some did need a little assistance- dealing with hooves and co-ordinating yourself in a new way requires practice.
Some of the attendees found great satisfaction with this more physically demanding interaction with the horses and their care.
And there were those who preferred to find their gratification in another manner- just being close and 'cuddling' -- bonding through touch.
Both horse and handler are relaxed and smiling.
All those who attended found that being around the horses was very relaxing and enjoyable-- and could see many of the benefits immediately - from increasing stamina, to reducing stress, to just plain having a great time.
This proved to be a day that reminds me that all my hard work has a purpose ! While instructor, Zoe gets to see and witness times such as this daily in her interactions with riders and participants-- I am generally busy managing the farm and horses. Today, I put aside my normal work-a-day routine and became a 'volunteer' fetching horses and helping out - in addition to being there to memorialize the event in photographs. It is immensely gratifying to personally take part in the enjoyment and appreciation of participants such as these individuals.
One of the women proclaimed at the end of the morning's session - "This was the BEST day of my life ! " How rewarding is that ??
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