Happy Birthday, Imperioso

That's Izzy for those of you who are confused. It's such a commanding name that even I have trouble calling him that. When we someday make it to a big show, the name will suit him. For now, I'll just stick with Izzy.

Newborn Izzy. PC Noemi Leach

Izzy is 11 today. When I bought him as a very green 6 year old, I was certain that our rise through the levels would be quick and easy. It hasn't been quick, nor has it been easy. In fact, he doesn't even have a show career. I am not counting the handful of schooling shows that we did at Introductory Level.

During his RPSI inspection. PC Noemi Leach

The real, honest-to-goodness truth is that I am okay with where we are. In fact, things have started to really fall into place. On the ground, he is cuddly and sweet and a perfect gentleman. Under saddle he is still dealing with tension, but it gets better each and every day.

I was talking about this with a friend the other day. When people look at me, they assume that showing and earning ribbons is my end goal. They're not wrong to think that. It is what I do, particularly with Speedy. I am competitive, mainly with myself, and I like to do well. Showing is the yardstick by which I measure my progress. 

Even as a youngster he liked to goof around. PC Noemi Leach

While I love to show, it's not really what keeps me coming back. Instead, it's the process that I enjoy. I love the figuring it out part, the how do I get him thinking that part, and the I made that happen part. So while we're not showing (yet), I still look forward to our work. I don't have any concrete goals for him like I do with Speedy. Instead, I show up every day wondering what we'll figure out, what I will learn, and what I can teach him.

Good boy pats.

As I celebrate his birthday today, I am also celebrating our journey. It's not the same path that others might have taken, but it's the one I am thrilled to be on. Izzy challenges me as a rider, and nothing makes me dig deeper than a challenge.

Happy birthday, Big Brown Horse!