As usual, we’ve arrived in Florida, and everything has gone a little sideways.
Everyone is fine, no calamities. But between a few Naughty Baby Squirrel moments and some rogue skin crud, it’s been a colorful week. My Young Rider student, Kristin, is here taking part in Robert Dover’s Horsemastership Week, and I’ve gotten to watch a little, as well as be in the presence of a large collection of teenage girls. It’s reminding me that a) I’m getting old, fast; but also b) kids have their own way of working through, and describing, their world.
So here is a summary of how the horses have been this week, told in the language of teenagers everywhere: emojis.
First up, Dutchie and Kristin:
(Translation, for the old people like me: there were a few little Florida-related excitements, what with some high winds and floppy trees, but after the initial settling in period, Kristin (aka Girl Champion, in emoji speak) brought Dutchie over to the clinic, where they’ve been rockstars.)
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Next, both Midgey and Fiero can be summed up the same way:
(Translation: after a sleepy start, both have been perfect. No ifs, ands or buts. Liza, Midge’s person, has had fabulous rides, and Bev will be down shortly to start riding Fiero, who is also going brilliantly. I’m so excited for both of them!)
Danny is where things get exciting:
(I don’t really feel this needs translating.)
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But Ella’s been a bright spot in my week:
(Translation: the Dancing Princess settled right in to work, and she means business. I’ve gotten a lesson every day, and every day I figure something else out. I’m opening doors I didn’t even know where there. WOW!)
And last but certainly not least, Dorian:
(Translation: he was great, then he wasn’t, and then I had a stroke of genius on how to approach our one last sticking point for Prix St. Georges—the flying change to the left. And hallelujah if he didn’t get it! It might be too early to pop the champagne, but with a lot of work and a little luck, he’ll be winning things in no time.)
