I have to come clean about something. A friend of mine sent me a text so happy for me and the wonderful training day I had with Natalia on the 11th. What I didn’t share was the two training days with her after that one, that were not as great.

I was so excited all week about how that first day with a saddle on her went, that I was eager to try it again. But I didn’t have anyone to help me with her for several days (and I don’t like to really do serious training with the Mustangs by myself). So four days later one of my talented volunteer trainers arrived, and I was so ready to pick up where we left off with Natalia. What I didn’t realize is actually how inexperienced my volunteer was. She had certainly learned everything frontwards and backwards in my Masterclass about how to use positive reinforcement training. But, the practical, hands-on part of just being around and handling horses, is something that was lacking. And Natlia was having none of it.

I realized how important it is for my volunteer trainers to actually get lots of practice just being around big animals, and handling them. Because although nothing was done actually wrong, it was just that Natalia could sense the insecurity, and it did not give her any security, and she did not feel safe working with us, and the entire session did not go so well. And the funny thing is, I didn’t even realize it might be a problem. On the surface, my volunteer seemed more than capable of handling this young horse. But when Natalia began to get antsy and unsure and tossing her head, I noticed the tightening down on her, and not giving her space, which only made her worse, and is a natural human reaction and one that can only be overcome with experience.

So I wasn’t particularly proud of that moment, and also pretty sad we didn’t progress like I had hoped we would, and worried I might have damaged my relationship with Natalia. A few days later we were able to try it again, and she was pretty perfect once more, but I didn’t ask nearly as much from her so it still felt like a step back. And now several more days have passed and there has been no opportunity to try again. All I can do instead is make sure to check in with her every day and be certain she still enjoys being near me, and so far, so good. Such is life. What do you think is the lesson in all that?

Today I am grateful we didn’t inadvertently cause damage to my relationship with Natlia, I am grateful I slept well and my ankle is not hurting me this morning (the fish just starting begging for breakfast), I am grateful my children still love to hug me meaningfully, I am grateful for the still quiet of the early morning, for my washer and dryer humming away, and that I have another day ahead of me to try and get better at all the things, drinking enough water, eating healthy, taking vitamins, taking a moment for myself for my own mental health.

What are you grateful for today? Today, this Wednesday, is the perfect day to notice your vibration, are you happy? What are you happy about? Why does that make you happy? This is a great question to ponder each morning as you begin your day with intention, instead of just getting up and letting your day take you wherever you end up. I encourage you today to take ownership over your day. You can start right now. What do you want the rest of this day to look like? Be full of laughter? Fun
? Will this day be easy for you? Do you want to be an inspiration for others today? What would make today the best day of your life?

​I hope today, you do have the best day of your life. So far! Remember to be kind to yourself today, have gratitude, and be kind to someone else, for it will lift your vibration and make you a happier, healthier person.

Have the most wonderful day of your life, and thank you for being here you Animal Loving Angel!

​Check out my YouTube channel for a daily "Good Morning!" from the rescues and lots of free tips and training resources. https://www.youtube.com/@the1drq