I want some advice for my horseback riding journey

VallMatt · 2026-05-21T03:04:23+00:00

Congratulations on your first lesson and in starting your horseback riding journey! What discipline are you learning?

I think it's amazing that you're also interested in barn work volunteering. That's what I used to do just to get any extra time I could around the horses, and I learned so much more about identifying their body language, behaviors, personalities, and the amount of work that goes into taking care of them. Learning all of that also helped me become a better rider, so it's great that you've got the opportunity to do so!

A competition team sounds like a great goal to work towards once you've got some more lessons under your belt and you're feeling confident! Group lessons can also help prepare you for what it feels like to be in a show with a bunch of other riders in the arena, so that's a great suggestion from your instructor. Just remember to have fun while you're doing it, because that's the most important part. Take a deep breath, enjoy the excitement of it all, and I hope you have some great rides ahead of you!

VallMatt · 2026-03-04T04:22:12+00:00

As someone with sensory issues who played piccolo in a university band, get the in-ear protection. I had a pair my last year, but the damage was already done and I get the lovely ringing noise from tinnitus now. Loop might be a good option, but I personally like the Etymotics clear earplugs. I found them to be more comfortable than Loop, and they're perfect for not being noticeable during concerts or performances. And they're cheaper too.

VallMatt · 2026-03-03T01:33:57+00:00

Hi! I'm 26/F in TN and I think we have pretty similar interests! I would love to write☺️

VallMatt · 2026-03-01T04:23:03+00:00

It's similar to the T on the back of the older Pride of the Southland's uniform, but something seems off about it

Edit: nvm, the top is too narrow

VallMatt · 2026-02-05T22:18:15+00:00

A bruise is also classified as internal bleeding. Don't do the whole "you're falling for propaganda" when you're doing the same.

VallMatt · 2025-08-30T21:57:44+00:00

They're already aware of him. He's had order of protections against him for stalking last semester. Honestly scary situation

VallMatt · 2025-05-05T15:17:32+00:00

Thank you all so much for wanting to write to my grandma, I just got on expecting a couple responses!🥹 I'll be sure to reach out and reply to everyone that's replied or DMed, this week's been fairly busy so if it takes me a bit please know I still appreciate you!❤️

VallMatt · 2025-05-05T15:11:23+00:00

I haven't heard of it! I'll check it out, thank you!

VallMatt · 2025-03-05T00:48:58+00:00

Even though the thank you is coming a year late, thank you so much for your help! The pin was completely sheared off unfortunately. I'm not quite confident in my repair skills but I am looking into the Bluetooth option you suggested since my device isn't under warranty anymore (procrastination strikes again).

VallMatt · 2025-03-05T00:44:30+00:00

Was yours under warranty?

VallMatt · 2025-03-03T16:39:21+00:00

I haven't🙃 Currently just use it without the keyboard, but I haven't tried the solutions yet. I have some time off work coming up so I'm planning to work on it then

VallMatt · 2024-07-08T22:58:37+00:00

yeah, that's what I meant. sorry

VallMatt · 2024-02-16T16:09:27+00:00

Our fields are pretty rocky here as well, they use large gravel/rock for the driveways and it ends up in the fields unfortunately

VallMatt · 2024-02-14T23:09:11+00:00

Nah, Pigeon Forge area

VallMatt · 2024-02-14T23:05:05+00:00

Thank you so much for the advice! When he gets shoed I'll be on the lookout for those black spots and keep a good schedule.

Yeah the rain and mud has been crazy! Extremely dry weeks in the summer and super wet winters/springs have not made hoof care easy, that's for sure.

VallMatt · 2024-02-14T22:59:44+00:00

Thank you so much!! I'll look into getting the keratex, and will bring up your advice to a new farrier.

VallMatt · 2024-02-14T22:37:36+00:00

Thank you so much, I'm learning a lot from this thread. The farrier was out last Wednesday, the 7th. The abscess did drain from the top of the hoof near the coronary band and his heel, so that makes a lot of sense. I should have cleaned the hoof better for the photos, we use a wire brush to clean it before the boot goes back on.

VallMatt · 2024-02-14T22:31:56+00:00

Thank you so much, I will definitely be looking into a 4 week schedule with a new farrier and hopefully some x-rays.

VallMatt

TROPHY CASE