Pacha - october 17

Today,I decided to take the draw reins off, and to replace the resin, broken snaffle by an even softer bit (single big rubber rod snaffle). I also put on my own single bridle the leather of which is 40 yrs old(!), and has been softened by heaps of Sapo. A cherished present from my godfather, who had been my mentor in horsemanship, it had been bought in a good tack shop ('sellier') in Paris, and such quality product would be difficult to find today I suppose. It is allows smoother contact than the modern reins I used previously, the rubber grips of which 'muddle up' the contact with such a sensitive mouth.
All this worked very well. Quite a pleasant session at all three gaits. Pacha was also much less on his toes, and he almost forgot about his 'scaring spots' in the arena. He stood still at most halt exercises. And he gave first signs of 'descente d'encolure' which I was very happy to see. After 35' of work, his owner took him out in the outdoor rectangle where they had quite a pleasant ride during 15'.
A very good day indeed!