New Segmet: Weekly Radar!

I'm excited to be starting a new line of posts that is very popular among some of the favourite blogs on the internet! Let's face it, we all spend too much time on the internet, and I'm guilty of this I'll admit. But in all that seemingly pointless web surfing I come across some pretty cool stuff! So every week I'll be putting out a list of my favourite things I've found on the world wide web that week! Hope you enjoy! As for the first in this series, here is a mix of some of my recent finds, and all time favourites!

• Although it's no new news for me, monograms are all the rage now in equestrian style, and the Etsy shop TheHoundstoothHorse knows their stuff. These adorable monogram patches are so cute and so versatile! 
• An awesome tribute to the retirement of one powerhouse of a little horse! 
• One of my favourite equestrian websites- how can you not love everything they feature?! 
• A classic and effective schooling idea that I will definitely be putting Niall's through her paces on! 
• Not horsey but a must- know Instagram account (if you aren't secretly obsessed with Target you're lying!) 
• A fun and amazingly good snack- perfect for the barn and better for you than the store bought version! 
• I can't wait to pick up this wardrobe classic in August- perfect for the barn, lazy days, and fall days running to class! 
• Live feed from Achen! 

Not Everything Goes to Plan

Riding is a sport that is driven by goal setting, and for me, having something to work towards is my motivation to keep improving myself in this sport. As these goals have moved from learning to jump, to jump 3’6”, to owning my first horse, I have always had one achievement in my mind- to compete on the A Circuit. We all have these aspirations, and thankfully most of the time we are pretty successful in achieving them. Although sometimes things don’t always work out, and believe me I have definitely had my fair share of those moments. Unfortunately, last week was one of those times were my goal that was perfectly planned out in my mind just did not seem work out. 

This past week, I took my horse Niall’s to our very first A Circuit horse show at Angelstone Tournaments in Rockwood, Ontario. Having almost completely trained her myself (with help from my trainer of course), this was a very important and emotional event for me. It was something I had been waiting so long for that it felt like everything had to go perfectly... and boy was I wrong. With the combination of maxed out fences, thick grass and the ever present horse show pressure, things didn’t go as perfect as I had hoped. Now don’t get me wrong Niall’s was a trooper through everything and put in two clear rounds once we dropped down to a lower division, but I still left the barn that evening feeling disappointed. Then after some thinking, I came to a realization:

In riding, we deal with setbacks on a constant basis, but there may be that one time we fall down were we do find it hard to pick ourselves back up again. And my advice? There’s nothing wrong with taking a breath for a second while your metaphorically lying on the ground; but the important thing is that you do carry on. There is always bad in the good, although it may be hard to see sometimes. And the difficulties I faced at this show? It just makes me want to go out next time and work even harder. When working with these animals things won’t always go to plan, and I think we just need to accept that. It’s a hard thing to do trust me, but we have to push through. We can replay that perfect jump- off round, or posting trot over and over again in our mind, but when asked to really do it in reality it may be far from that perfect day dream we pictured so many times before. And I think what I’m just trying to say that it is okay! It’s okay to fail once in a while! It happens to the best of us. The important thing is that we pick ourselves up, move forward to future success and accept that not everything goes to plan.  

The Start of Summer

School has been out for just over a month now, and it is officially starting to consistently feel like summer! The weather has been gorgeous lately, aside from the sudden regular thunderstorms and humidity the past few days, but regardless I have been loving it! Niall's has been doing amazingly well, and is in surprisingly good shape considering the amount I've been riding. We've just been getting back into a regular routine these past couple weeks of riding three to four times a week and I think it's starting to show! 

The near future this summer is starting to look really exciting. If all goes well, me and Niall's will have our first A/AA show in July. She feels ready already, which makes me confident that we will go, have fun, get around, and that she will be a little superstar. I don't want to get too over- excited, because truly anything can happen with horses, but everything is looking up so far! I've also started working at a local tack shop, which has been great and a true learning experience. After working there a month so far I have learned a lot of valuable knowledge. 
Here is a quick "portrait shot" of the big girl.. I'm loving her super shiny dark bay summer coat this year! 

Two Years of Horse Ownership!

Niall's today before the beginning of our ride!

I'm writing this a day early because I am working all day tomorrow and I don't know if I will have time but it will be two years tomorrow on the 29th that I will have officially owned Niall's! I was thankfully able to get up to the barn today and have an awesome ride as a little celebration. We started off working in the indoor arena doing the usual flat work and then we decided to go outside for the first time this year! Niall's was super excited as usual, so we did some "hill sprints" and some good long gallops which I think Niall's definitely appreciated! She was begging to run the entire time she was so excited to be outside, and then settled right down after her big run.  I can't believe it has been two years since I bought Niall's! If any of my readers have followed me all the way back from my YouTube days, you will know that I have been riding Niall's for a long time now (almost six years!) but she only officially became mine in April of 2012! We've gone through a lot of ups and downs, and worked very hard to get to where we are now. As much as you always wish for that big fancy imported warmblood, I do really love my sassy, super talented little Thoroughbred! 

Riding Outfits for Spring

Especially in Canada and the northern United States, spring is a time of mud, horse hair everywhere and that really awkward temperature in between warm and cold. With the constant temperature mood swings (especially here is southern Ontario) it can get hard to find something to wear to the barn that looks good, but is warm as well! Here are a few of my favourite outfit ideas for this tricky time of year, since who says Spring jackets and layering has to be colourless and frumpy?! Definitely not me. Of course all of these outfits would be paired with my Treadstep Donatello Field Boots, GPA Speed Air Evolution helmet and my Roeckl Chester gloves. 

This combination has to be one of my favourite and most used styles for riding and daily life. I love a good puffer vest over top a sweater or button down shirt (or both!). It is such a simple, put together look that takes almost no thinking whatsoever; it looks great with a pair of breeches, or some dark wash skinny jeans if you aren't heading out to ride. Vests are great when it's just a bit too hot for a full jacket, so when you get too warm it's east to pull right off! The pink vest adds a great pop of colour for spring, while the sweater remains a classic grey but with a fun twist of while polka dots! 
Vest: J Crew Factory | Sweater: Tommy Hilfiger | Shirt: Ralph Lauren | Breeches: Tailored Sportsman | Belt: Tory Leather  

This next outfit is a bit more simple, but still remains super fun with a pop of bright colour. With the usual tan breeches I added a fun light blue patterned belt, it has a mix of blues, pinks and greens which makes it perfect for spring. Keeping on the idea of bright colours, I chose a bright green polo shirt from US Polo Assn. The colour is so cute and fun, and the large polo pony logo on the front adds just that little extra. 
Shirt: US Polo Assn | Breeches: Tailored Sportsman | Belt: Unknown

For this look I decided to put the colour into the breeches (you have no idea how many compliments I've gotten on these things), along with that a thick quilted belt in a gorgeous grey/ purple colour. On top it's kept simple again with a staple grey v- neck sweater and a quarter zip fleece to throw on top incase it starts to get cold! 
Fleece: Old Navy | Sweater: Joe Fresh | Breeches: Tailored Sportsman | Belt: Tailored Sportsman
Hope you enjoyed, and got some inspiration for your spring riding wardrobe as well! 

Getting Inspired With Your Riding

As in any sport, in horse- back riding you go through periods where nothing seems to be going right, and your desire to get out of the house and go ride decreases by the day. We have all been there whether we want to admit it or not. And dealing with what once was (and sometimes still is) a hyperactive and egocentric Thoroughbred mare, I have gone through this stage of self- doubt way to many times to count. But thankfully, at least for me, I always seem to pull myself out stronger than before. Believe me, it does get better! Here are some of my ways to get out of that riding slump, get yourself back to looking forward to your time spent at the barn, and re- inspire yourself to improve your riding:

1. Switch Up Your Rides
If you find yourself dreading being stuck in the dark confinement of the indoor arena at night, try riding outside on a nice sunny day! This is of course difficult when it is winter, or especially if your job keeps you from riding during the day or on weekends, but believe me just that odd hack around the field on a sunny spring day can do wonders for your sanity. I used to always find myself dreading night rides during the school year, but in the summer I lived for being able to do some schooling during the daylight! I have no idea why, but it seemed to make me (and Niall's!) much happier!

2. Watch the Pro's 
This is my biggest form of personal equestrian inspiration. You can learn so much from watching the professionals do their thing, whether that is online through a live stream of a competition or going to watch a grand prix in person, seeing people that compete at the highest level I find truly inspiring. Don't just enjoy a good round of show jumping, but study their riding style.. what do they do that you could adapt that may help your effectiveness as a rider? How does their horse go? What are they doing right, compared to what are you doing wrong and need to fix? All these questions can be answered from watching experienced riders simply ride. And of course, I think there's that small desire in everyone to get to that high level, and watching it in person may spark that flame a little more!

3. Talk to Your Trainer 
This is an important one; in a sport where communication is key (between horse and your support team on the ground), being on the same page as your coach or trainer is a huge must. If you find yourself struggling with an aspect of riding, or you simply feel as everything is falling apart- arrange a time to have a short meeting with your trainer about these issues. If they truly care about you and your horse, they will be with you 110% to help, wether that be going back to the basics or maybe trying out a new bit. If your trainer doesn't know you want, and need, some extra help, ask them for some! Your improvement as a rider and horse person is what they are there to build in the first place!

4. Love the Sport 
Equestrianism is a physically and emotionally demanding sport, and when going through a rough patch you have to have that dedication to get though it, no matter how long that may take. Passion and dedication is the most important thing when taking that step towards moving out of that rough stage. If theres no passion, you wont be willing to stick with it. Simple. I've stuck through all the bad times in my riding career simply because I have a huge love for this sport and the horses. I love it, and that is what gets me through. Have a serious talk with yourself, or maybe even take a short brake to figure things out. If you start telling yourself you're crazy for wanting to quit, then you are- don't quit! In a sport that has as much ups and downs as ours, you need that drive. Passion is a necessity.

My Equestrian Wish List!

School has been crazy, but really what else is new? Regardless, here is probably my first "blog" post! I thought it was fitting to do my "equestrian wish list"! These are just a few (key word "few"- the list of things I want is seriously endless) things I really have my eye on and hopefully will save up in the near future to get. Links to websites to purchase all these wonderful items are provided. Enjoy!

Butet Premium Jumping Saddle
Behold... the object that is the cause of my sheer joy and drool over its beauty every time I venture into the tack shop. First off, I love Butet saddles. Although I do not have one of my own, I consistently try them out at shows and talk to the rep at the booth at horse shows. They are seriously not only beautiful to look at, and beautifully made, but so comfortable. This model is no exception, and is my favourite out of all the saddles they make. The look is simple and classic, with a subtle twist with the unique stitching on the flap. Just perfect.

Wildkart Jin Stirrups
These stirrups are probably at the top of my "must buy" list. In my search for new stirrups, I wanted something with a traditional look, but with a that little something extra in terms of looks. As well, due to some my mild knee problems a wide footbed was something I am also interested in. The Jin Stirrups fit the bill. After checking them out in the store, I can say I want them even more. They are not too lightweight, but not too heavy at the same time- I would say a perfect weight. The design is sleek and modern, yet traditional as well. And also, they come is tons of different colours! Bright blue or hot pink stirrups anyone? For me, I'll be sticking to the traditional sliver, but everything about these stirrups screams perfection. I know what I'm saving up for next. 

Spooks Riding Show JacketI've been on the hunt for a new show jacket for years, it's been hard finding one that is slim enough, and fits my incredibly long and thin arms (I obviously don't work out enough), but after trying on this show jacket at the Spooks booth at the Royal Winter Fair this past fall, I am 100% sold. The first thing I noticed was the material, I was amazingly well made and super comfortable. I loved the tailored fit of the jacket, it is perfect made for us skinny people. And the best thing? It fit my arms perfectly- no ugly loose fabric. I even had two ladies stop in their tracks while walking by as I was standing in the mirror with it on! But seriously, this jacket is perfection. It fit me great in every way possible. I'm thinking it will have to be my next birthday present for sure! I can't wait to get my hands on one of my own!

Back On Track All Purpose Saddle Pad
I've always been interested in Back On Track products, and I've heard more than enough positive reviews to push my interest even further and think about trying their stuff out for myself. Although I would love to spoil Niall's with one of their mesh sheets, their saddle pads are at a price that is a bit more friendly to my wallet. Because Niall's sometimes moves a bit short, especially in winter, I would think that the technology Back On Track uses in their products would be great to try with her. I was told though, to try and wash these things as least as you can, as the ceramic powder in their products that makes them work does eventually weaken over an extended period of time. So the solution? The the black! Less washes and less visible dirt! Combine that with a happy horse, and I'm all in for adding one more to my already pretty ridiculous collection of saddle pads. 

Struck Apparel Breeches
Move over Tailored Sportsman, because you may have a new neighbour joining you in my closet- Struck breeches. When I first saw Struck breeches at the Royal Winter Fair the first thing I thought was "Oh my god these are so cool." Not only are these amazing quality, but they are customizable! I unfortunately did not try on a pair at the RWF but I am planning to this summer. Horse show vendor BlueBerry Hill sells them and I can't wait to test them out myself! 

Tailored Sportsman Ice Fill Shirt
I've been looking for Ice Fill shirts for a while now, but honestly can't justify spending upwards of $100 on one, but now here comes along Tailored Sportsman, and this shirt is exactly what I want! These shirts are awesome, and keep you cool on those hot summer days at the barn or show. I love the blue, and navy, along with classic white. 

An Official Introduction

Wow, it's kind of crazy to think that I am finally finding myself able to crawl out of the deep dark hole of procrastination and finally start my very own blog. This is something I have been wanting (and slowly planning) to do for a while now, and I think the time is right! Who knows how long this state of being actually productive on the internet will be, but I am determined to make it last! At least for a little while. I thought I would start off with a small introduction- about myself, my horse, my interests and ultimately what my plans for this blog are. I hope you all enjoy, and will find something that interests you along the way!

If you did not know already, I'm Amanda, currently coming close to finishing my first year of undergraduate studies at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. My current major is english, which I definitely have a love- hate relationship with. Let me put it this way... creative writing about something that I am passionate about? You better give me a whole novels worth of paper because this is gonna be a long read. But reading some boring play from 17th century Europe which I can barely understand? Not really my cup of tea. I would love to focus on modern literature, maybe journalism, publishing, heck even becoming a professor, but only time will tell. That is why I created this blog, to help me improve my skills by writing quality text about things I love.
But back to a bit more about myself, I love fashion, although in the winter my wardrobe does consist of 90% leggings, big scarves and cozy sweatshirts. It truly is something I enjoy. I'm in that awkward phase between shy and outgoing, don't ask how because I am kind of confused about the whole thing myself. But generally, I love to talk, just sit there and I will go on and on, most of it is useless information but I will keep going anyways. I've always had an interest in graphic design and photography, and I am an extreme projectionist with these. I love equine photography, especially horse show photos that really capture the athletic side of the sport. Which leads me to probably the biggest and best waste of my life to which the main part of this blog will be dedicated- horses.

I have been riding for almost twelve years now at the age of eighteen (turning nineteen this year) and it is definitely something I am so glad I became involved in back when I was in that awkward "I love unicorns" stage of my seven year old self. I am extremely lucky to have a sport that I am so passionate about, and that I love doing. After riding western for a few years, I decided I wanted to learn english because really, what ten year old kid doesn't think jumping a horse isn't cool? Another factor, my mom loved the what she still calls the "outfits" you wear at hunter/ jumper shows. To be honest, I can't blame her, I feel extremely classy every time I put on my show jacket. And honestly the rest is history, I have never stopped riding in all those years. Now, I'm almost nineteen (I feel really old) and a proud horse owner to an unbelievably sassy Thoroughbred mare who is as close to myself reincarnated in a horse as you could get. My love for these amazing animals and the sport of hunter/ jumper gets stronger every day.

This marks the end of my short, yet long, introduction. But the intro's are not over yet! You all have yet to meet my partner in show jumping crime- Niall's, who is just that special that she get's her own post. I hope you all enjoy my blog, and thank you for reading!