Party for Squish

We have a Russian imported warmblood in the barn by the name of Nyuushka, or Noosh, or Squish. He is ridden by G, who is doing dressage with Amanda, or Ree, her daughter. Ree is Ardee's mom, so she also jumps.

Last night Squish turned 20 years young and we had a party.

Squish in his stall, pre festivities.

There was cake and carrots and a big bag of apples

The four of us did a trail ride: Ree on Ardee, me and Ashke, Amanda on Jackson, and G on Noosh.

I cannot tell you how happy my horse was to get out and explore. He was forward, swinging in the walk, engaged and soooo very happy. He looked hard at a tarp and a storm drain. I encouraged him with "good boy" to approach the storm drain and he did. The only time he wasn't calm and moving easily, was when Ardee and Noosh were in front of us and Noosh was between Ashke and his girl. Then we piaffed. 

 SD Jackson and Ashke (not happy ears)

SD Jackson is a three-year-old gypsy cob Amanda has in for training. He showed in his first dressage show last weekend and won with a 67%. He is for sale and will make a wonderful horse for just about anyone. He is calm and likes people. We had a bike go past a couple of times and his only response was to flair his nostrils. This was the first time off property and there were zero shenanigans. Plus, he is taller than Ashke. Nice poneh.

 SD Jackson with Amanda up.

 Noosh and G in the front and Ree with Ardee in the back

Ree was bareback in a hackamore. No issues.

To be 21 again and fearless.

 More of the Jack man

Big smile and relaxed mare

See my unicorn horn? I wanted it on Ashke but he was not willing to stand still long enough for me to put it on his head.

Headed home. About 40 minute walking ride and almost two miles (I figure).

Ashke was not happy to be headed home already. It bodes well for his attitude on the 4th (we are doing a trail ride). Jackson and Noosh were ready to be back, however.

It was a great way to celebrate the birthday of Noosh, who speaks Russian, btw.