Whew! It's been a huge week of teaching - and as the days have heated up, so have the challenges mounted! With all the festivities and stressors of Christmas behind us, many students are finding that they are now 'free' to focus on their relationship with their horse ... and are keen to develop their natural skills! The best piece of advice I can give them, aside from 'Take the Time it Takes' is to 'Lighten Up'! Smile more, laugh at your efforts that don't quite work, and always take time to breathe and relax when things do go right! Great for your horse and great for your health too. And when it's hot and tiring, keep your sessions short, before your patience runs out and your temper gets short! Above: on a hot day, Spirit's favorite activity is the 'hosing game'!