The Horsepower Homestead

As the winter season blows in stronger than ever this week, with lows of 17 degrees and threats of snow and sleet, I am trying to make the most of my time with the horses. My riding lesson the other night was canceled when the wind chill made the temperature dip below freezing. Even with my gloves, beanies and winter coat; it just wasn't worth it to fight the cold. Winter is my least favorite season. Too much darkness, which equals decreased riding opportunities for an adult like myself, who spends Monday through Friday at the office. Add to that the increasingly cold weather, which either makes riding unsafe or uncomfortable. Pick your poison. To try and keep my spirits up, I often find myself watching Dressage or Hunter videos on Youtube. Listening to fantastic riders give out pointers on maintaining better posture, perfecting the two-point, stride counting between jumps, etc. I also hit the gym in an attempt to fill my riding void with endorphins. I'll be happy when...

As the Holidays roll in and the cold starts to stick, depending on where you are, your saddle time might start to decline during this season. I compiled a list of my favorite horse shows and movies to help ease you through the Wintertime blues. TV shows: Heartland - Available on Netflix, 9 season. This show is very family friendly. It follows Amy Fleming and her family through their adventures on the Heartland Ranch in Canada. There is Trick riding, Western riding, Rodeos, English/show jumping, etc. It's beautifully filmed with great horses, and lovely scenery. Godless - Available on Netflix, 1 season. This show is more appropriate for adult audiences. It's a typical western with gun, thieves, and horses. There's some very strong willed women on this show and lots of pretty horses. This show had a Limited run and has concluded but the last episode wraps things up. Free Rein- Available on Netflix. Family friendly. Movies: Black Beauty- Family friendly Seabis...