2015 Goals.

Technically taken last year

I hesitate to even set goals after failing at pretty much all of them last year. That said, I love goal wrap ups and a huge part of blogging is taking snapshots in time so progress is more tangible... so here goes.

Things I think I can achieve in 2015 with my green OTTB, limited time, short funds, so-so bravery, and a deep and intense hatred of showing green horses, but I still think need to be done in pursuit of a useful and well-rounded horse to have fun on:

1) Compete at two dressage shows (schooling shows count) with Courage. Me riding. Don't care what level. Complete test and stay in the ring.

2) Attend two jumping shows with Courage. Don't have to compete. Do have to hack around warm up.

he thinks we could do this right now

3) Comfortably jump around a 2'6" course at home, including oxers and spooky fill.

4) Pop over the occasional 3' (or better) single.

5) Get out on the trails. Courage is brave and willing. I want him comfortable solo and in groups.

6) Ride bitless. I dunno. Just want to try it and have an english hackmore, so might as well.

7) Take 1-2 lessons a month so I'm not just stalling out without help.

8) Travel to one out of state show to see either upper level eventing or grand prix showjumping.

this is hot

Reach Goals:

9) Jump double clear around a stadium course at 2' or better in a show.

10) Score 65% or better on a training level dresssage test.

Bonus Goal:

11) Ride in either of the H/J shows at the end of the summer.

Instead of setting big achievement goals, I wanted to break it down this year to more incremental progressive goals. I want to avoid checking in at the end of the year and being like "wow, yeah totally didn't even think about these things". I want to focus on doing the things that make the horse I want to ride.

So yeah, even though I hate showing green horses, I'm going to do it in pursuit of making a less green horse.

but our dressage is getting kick ass

You might also notice that is is way less performance oriented than in years past--I haven't called out specific shows or levels or even anything that seems way out of reach. Part of that is me wanting to attack the mental aspect and get really happy and comfortable and part of it is realistic--I'm not working consistently with a jumping trainer right now and I have other personal goals I'm working towards this year that realistically limit the horsey $$ at least for now.

It's so us

I want to tie this all together more holistically, so look for a sidebar or new tab or something in the near future. Maybe I will also get my shit together and (gasp!) migrate to my own domain here soon.