2016 Goals

Posted on January 4, 2016 by Britt

Now that the holidays (and my unintended blogging absence – sorry folks) are over, it’s time to look forward to all that 2016 has to offer. 2015 was a tumultuous year for Foster and I, and I’ve been hoping for a long time that 2016 will bring some redemption to us. So, without further ado, here’s what I hope to accomplish and strive for in the coming year.

The Horse
Really this is a re-hash of our 2015 goals that weren’t accomplished due to unforeseen medical circumstances. However, I still hope to be successful in them, even if it’s a year later!

Here’s the big one! Move up to Training!
Increase strength in haunches through cavaletti work (2-3x/week)
Walk-Canter-Walk transitions
- Lead changes
Completing a Second Level dressage test with a score over 63%
-new- Participate in at least one dressage clinic

The big caveat is that I won’t know how his fetlock will feel as we continue to recover. Jumping will remain to be the biggest question mark, and I’m determined to just see how it goes- if he tells me that he can’t do it, we’ll just have to focus on dressage domination instead.

The House

Paint upstairs – hallway, study, State room
Wrap up giant handyman to-do list covering all sorts of small sins
Declutter in the extreme….
In order to put the house on the market!

Surprise!

One of the original goals for this house, and the reason we decided to take on all the challenges that purchasing a foreclosure brings, was that in selling the house we would be able to afford our dream home. Now there’s still a lot of kinks to be figured out, and probable changes to our plans, but come summer, the House on the Hill may be home to a family besides ours. Updates to come as they happen!

Documenting Fair Hill | PC: JP

The Rest
Even though 2015 was an emotional roller coaster, I felt like I ended it in a better place than I started. I can only hope that I can say the same thing when we wrap up 2016. But until then, these are the goals that I have for myself.

Health
- Eat less red meat
- Make a dedicated effort to consider myself an athlete as a rider and take responsibility for staying in decent shape
Concentrate on photography and expanding my range of work
- Complete 10-15 sessions this spring – my fingers are itching for that shutter button!
- First newborn session!
Stay positive and keep calamities in perspective

Here’s to many more memories in 2016!

Well, there you have it! Here’s hoping that 2016 is a joyous and successful year for everyone! Happy new year!

2015 Goal Review

Posted on December 14, 2015 by Britt

It’s almost the end of the year, which means that it’s time to look back at the goals I made in January and see how we’ve done!

Horse Goals

Here’s the big one! Move up to Training!
Increase strength in haunches through cavaletti work (2-3x/week)
Walk-Canter-Walk transitions
- Lead changes
Completing a Second Level dressage test with a score over 63%
~~Get a 7 on a lengthening~~ completed 2/11/15

Bahahahahahahahaha…. goals. Ulcers knocked us out from February until about April. The only silver lining is that prior to this we did complete a winter clinic at the Carolina Horse Park, where you could say we moved up to Training, except that it didn’t include cross country- so I’m going to call that goal incomplete. We did however make great new contacts in Mr. Robert Costello, trainer extraodinaire, and also got a 7 in our first attempt at a judged lengthening, all at that outing.

In the short time between April and July when we were in full work, I can proudly say that Foster’s booty was strong. While some of this was cavaletti/ground pole related, a lot of it probably had to do with the more intense collected work we did, including starting to teach piaffe. I’m going to call that one a win.

The rest, as you all know, is a wash. After a lesson at the end of June with Bobby C, Foster became NQR to downright lame. After throwing all kind of diagnostic tests at him we eventually discovered negative palmar angles and a bone chip in his front right stifle. Everything post August has been about recovering from surgery.

Personal 2015 Goals

Be a better competitor
Stop over-thinking the distance
~~Stop overthinking people~~
~~Lose 10 lb~~

Well- the first 2 obviously being horse related didn’t happen. So let’s look at the last couple. A couple months ago I had some minor health issues that put my anxiety through the roof, and finding a solution to [all of that] has been a major life-changer for me. So win on the ‘not overthinking people’ goal. Then happily, as a result of starting to ride again, sticking to a pretty low-carb/non-starch ~~diet~~ change in my diet has allowed me to lose the 10 pounds as well. I feel a lot better and have way more energy to boot- no more 2pm caffeine crash! Win.

A photo from our Christmas party this weekend- gotta love being surrounded by such fun horsewomen!

House 2015 Goals

~~Granite kitchen countertop~~
~~Aerate + seed front and back yard~~
Paint upstairs hallway
Paint the NC State Room
~~Be better about blogging about the house!~~

Hey, look! Some big goals accomplished here- how about that. The kitchen finally got it’s complete makeover, in the form of both the granite countertops and something that wasn’t even on the list- painting the kitchen cabinets! All this has definitely provided some (in my mind) interesting house fodder for the blog- what do you guys think? The other painting projects got left behind as a result of focusing on the kitchen- but I see a roller in my future very soon!

Overall
If I were looking at my goals list alone, it looks like a total failure. Our success rate is 42% – not so hot by anyone’s standards. But, looking at the bigger picture, there are still some big accomplishments.

The silver lining of Foster’s situation is that I learned a lot more about what my horse takes to be healthy and happy (i.e, ulcer prevention techniques, icing after workouts, etc etc). By taking the time to really truly diagnose his NQR lameness, we discovered a bone chip, and by proactively doing surgery, are hopefully prolonging his career as a sporthorse. I can close 2015 by knowing I have done absolutely everything within my power to help him be successful in 2016 and years to come. And that’s a comforting feeling.

My sweet boy in his pre-surgery photoshoot

The house has undergone huge changes, and bar several small projects, feels done. The culmination of this was our Christmas Party this weekend, when everyone finally got to see the kitchen in all it’s madeover glory, and truthfully, it made me so proud to think of all the husband and I have accomplished. It’s been a wild 2.5 years, and the end is in sight!

A full before and after House post coming in 2016!

And then there’s those pesky personal goals. I didn’t get a chance to improve my overall competitor attitude, but the year’s challenges have (I think) made me a better horsewoman. Certainly someone more knowledgeable about little things like bone chips and ulcers, at the least. I’ve made changes in finding a better me as well, though that will certainly always be a work in progress.

2015- another year of changes, challenges, and a little cheer. 2016 – looking to you to be a year of happiness and success!

Let’s Discuss: Thankful

Posted on November 25, 2015 by Britt

It’s time for this year’s Thanksgiving post, where we all try to take a moment to pause and count our blessings. fb_DSC8362

2015 has been a tough year at the barn. Foster was diagnosed with Grade 4 ulcers in the early spring, which started us on the 10-week-ulcergard-and-alfalfa-lined path to recovery before we could really get to work. Then of course we started having odd lameness issues at the end of June, which led us down the rabbit hole of hell as far as diagnostics and eventually culminated in 2 special hind shoes and 1 bone chip removal surgery. But even though this year and any goals for it was a wash, there are some silver linings. I’ve discovered a great vet who doggedly helped me get to the bottom of Foster’s problems. My horse made it through surgery and hopefully will now have many years ahead of him in his career. I’m truly thankful that Foster has not only come around to his normal goofy, cheeky self, but that he also has been an absolute saint throughout the recovery process. And considering I used up every single penny of my reimbursement money, I’m hella glad for equine insurance.

DSCF2050 copy

In the same line of thinking, I’m especially grateful for the horse community, and for those who have been supportive through Foster’s rough times. Thanks to all of you readers for your sweet comments and positive thoughts, and for providing me with an outlet for discussion and documentation of our journey. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- y’all are awesome.

Fair Hill

Thanks to the friends who have been there this year, and for the adventures we’ve had. Whether you gave me a place to stay, or shared Disney wine nights, or ran around Fair Hill stalking upper level eventing barns- these are the memories that will make 2015 worthwhile.

And lastly, I’m thankful for my family. Thanks to Tyler for being totally engaged and not only supporting me through this year’s craziness, but even defending my passion to those who think horsemanship a trivial thing. Bonus points for being patient and tackling all those house projects this year- the end is in sight! Thanks to my furbabies for keeping me sane, and praise be to God for the health of my loved ones- it’s been rocky at times but we’re trying.

What are you all thankful for this year?

Photography Friday: Tricks and Tips

Posted on November 13, 2015 by Britt

Documenting Fair Hill | PC: JP

I’ve been doing portraiture for some years now, shortly after falling in love with photography in college as part of my design degree. But even though I’ve done it for many years, I continue to learn a lot with each session. Here are some of the tips and tricks, for both horse and human, that I use in my shoots.

Start with a clean slate
It probably goes without saying, but a clean horse is going to present itself better than a dirty one. Take an extra moment to brush that mane and tail, and remember to wipe down the eyes. The eyes are the window to the soul, and drawing attention in images as they do, it helps if there’s no eye funk present.

Know your limits
Though I’ve never photographed small children, I kind of imagine that photographing horses (or dogs, or insert animal here) is somewhat like that. There is a window of time when they will play the game, standing, walking, being loved on, before they just don’t want to play anymore. In order to extend that time, I try to take little breaks when I sense that the animal’s patience is running out. Take those moments to focus on the person, or the environment, or go for a cute grazing shot, but try to be understanding of your subjects- equine and otherwise!

Make a Plan
Before every shoot I come up with poses and ideas based on the subject I’m going to shoot. I then jot those ideas down on a piece of paper, stick-figure style, including any requests the client may have. That paper then comes in handy if ever I need inspiration onsite, and helps as a reminder for photos I specifically wanted to take. Similarly, I arrive to each location about 15-20 minutes early and figure out exactly what path we will take through the property. This can really make a big difference- for instance, if it’s overcast and you are shooting as the sun goes down (the “Golden Hours”), you should probably plan to visit the shadiest spot at the venue first, when you have the most light. Of course it’s always important to remain flexible, but having a well thought out plan helps make the most of everyone’s time!

Running out of light can of course lead to its own opportunities, but is maybe not ideal for portraits!

Be Patient
When one of your main subjects (the horse) has no concept of what you are after (i.e, the look of eagles/ears up/eyes open/no slobber/etc), it’s not their fault if they are not the perfect model. Staying calm and waiting for the right moment, and not rushing or forcing it to happen, is key. Save your ear-pricking antics (waving a plastic bag on a whip, rustling peppermint wrappers…) for when both models are in position and ready. If you keep up these tricks throughout the session, not only will they lose their novelty (and therefore decrease the likelihood of getting those ears forward), but you’ll also put a strain on everyone involved. Better to wait, and capture that perfect, and more natural, pose!

Have fun!
This probably goes without saying, but it’s no less important! No matter which side of the camera you’re on, remember that this is all about capturing good times. Find your sense of adventure and keep things lighthearted- not only will the animals sense your mood, but it will help everyone enjoy the experience even more! Besides, photography is fun!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Photography Friday: Amanda, David, Govey & Biscuit

Posted on November 6, 2015 by Britt

Amanda is a fellow eventer who wanted some family portraits, and boy am I glad she asked! Joining us in the session was her sweet husband, David, Govenor the NZ Thoroughbred, and Biscuit the pup. Oh and let’s not forget the 1987 Porsche! This was definitely a memorable shoot for me, and I loved including everyone in some equestrian-style family photos!

A boy with his toy!

Happy weekend everyone!

Photography Friday: Austin and Flash

Posted on October 30, 2015 by Britt

Today’s photoshoot is of a young lady, Austin, and her sweet Appendix gelding, Flash. They’ve been together for some years now, and I am told their satin collection is one that any of us could admire- over 800 ribbons! I think it’s safe to say these guys have lots of success and good times ahead for them, and I loved getting to spend this beautiful fall day getting to know them.

Have a great weekend all, and happy Halloween!

Photography Friday: Ashley and Sarita

Posted on October 23, 2015 by Britt

Ashley is a bright and beautiful senior getting ready to take on the world. After getting to watch her ride her beautiful Dutch Warmblood mare, Sarita, I got to know her and her mother a little better, and was enchanted when they asked me to photograph the pair for Ashley’s senior photos. We had so much fun on our photoshoot and literally took pictures until the light was gone!

Happy Friday all, and have a great weekend!

Photography Friday: Flynn

Posted on October 16, 2015 by Britt

A friend of mine, after retiring her young OTTB gelding unexpectedly, got herself the most adorable young Connemara X TB gelding. When we first met we bonded over German Shepherds and Connemara crosses, and so I always felt like she was living the dream with her acquisition of Flynn.

Well recently, in a strange turn of events, her OTTB has just as unexpectedly come out of retirement. So baby Flynn needs a new job and a new home, and thus we scheduled a conformation photoshoot with a few fun pics of the pair of them in the mix.

If you are interested, or know someone who might be interested in what is an incredible eventing or hunter prospect, check out Flynn’s video and leave a comment. I’ll hook you up with how to get more information.

Were you raised in a barn?

Posted on September 24, 2015 by Britt

Why yes, I was. Literally.

After my family moved to North Carolina in 1990, they spent a year in a rental house before deciding to buy a farm. Being that my mother was a horse-woman, and my father is familiar with construction, they sank their teeth into a huge project: A 24 stall red tin Saddlebred barn. They remodeled the entire facility in the English Tudor style and made huge landscaping changes, as well as adding a second sand arena to the surrounding property. Thus began my mother’s long career in selling and breeding horses.

The farm before getting remodeled- house sticking out on left

What was most unusual about the barn though, was the house that was attached to it. A hallway within the house led you to a door that opened up into the center of the barn, which essentially winged out with 12 stalls in each direction. This was an exceptionally convenient set up for a breeding facility, as my mother used to put heavily pregnant mares in the stalls that shared her bedroom wall. I can remember many sleepy nights being woken up to come watch foals being born. This convenience also led to certain mischief, up to an including walking my Shetland pony up the stairs and into the house once. Thank goodness she didn’t poop!

The barn/house - the windows on the right wing denote stalls that were turned into a lab post-move

The barn/house – the windows on the right wing denote stalls that were turned into a lab after we left

At a certain point in time, as seems to happen, my brother and I got to the age where sharing a room was no longer ideal. Probably my parents were sick of hearing us bickering all the time. The solution? Take a stall and turn it into my bedroom.

A bird’s eye view. House = green; my bedroom = pink

Don’t worry, I didn’t sleep on stacks of hay bales (though I probably would have been happy to). The stall was properly dry-walled and carpeted and painted a pukey shade of pink that befits most young girls. My memories of living in the stall bedroom are many- hearing the clip clop of horse being walked down the asphalt aisle behind the wall, many nights hearing barn cats running in the hay lofts over my head, and various creatures (including a bat) making their way into my bedroom and catching me unaware.

My mother always used to joke that I was the one girl who really did grow up in a barn. Partial truth that may be, and I wouldn’t change that for anything.

Photography Friday: Wild Horses

Posted on September 18, 2015 by Britt

As previously mentioned, last week I spent half a day with an old dressage friend, who now works as Herd Manager for a herd of wild horses in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She took me through the sand dunes of the wildlife preserve, showing me the various herds and pointing out “singles” (often loner bachelors) while I did my very best impersonation of safari-style wildlife photographer. Though I intend to write a more in-depth post about the experience, I want to share some of my favorite images from the day.