Great idea on the chinks, I often forget about this.

From a tools perspective Ariats insulated jeans, wool sweaters and wool socks.   When in the Northeast we rode a lot in cold weather down to zero. As long as the wind wasn’t really bad, we stayed pretty consistent.

 I think that the key thing for me was always planning (writing down the time I was going to ride) and then just heading for the barn. Once you have decided you’re riding and leave the warm cozy house the rest kinda took care of itself for me.

Two related questions I have:

Has anyone tried the insulated cowboy/riding boots?

We always tried not to get a horse sweating when it was super cold. Is there a rule for that (e.g. light blanket right after riding)?

Richard Boatwright thank you, working on things in that order is a great idea. I hadn't thought of disconnecting the two.

As for Neches - he wins hearts and minds wherever he goes. Can't say I've seen a horse with as much personality as he has.  He's doing great and is getting some size to him.

Richard Boatwright

Richard Boatwright still inconsistent. Like some other folks have mentioned, I find her losing forward when I do many circles so have been 'pushing the toothpaste back in' on the speed control. One thing I think she needs is a longer warmup period to get her focused in on me.

Interesting - I had never heard of learned helplessness before two years ago and now I'm hearing it everywhere. Do you think it's becoming more prevalent due to the focus on desensitizing horses?

Richard Boatwright

Have to agree with you Stephen, I thoroughly enjoy these newsletters and seem to always get something out of them.

Where in East Texas are you Phil Mandelbaum? I'm over near Marquez.

Merry Christmas to you too Stephen! Y'all got any extra horses there if any of us stateside folks want to join in?(: