Summer Routines and Sweet Progress
The Herd
Summer is officially here at our little ranch in the Rockies, and we kicked it off with a Fourth of July BBQ on our new patio and outdoor kitchen. It was a wonderful evening of food, friends, and fresh mountain air—except for poor Casper, who remains unimpressed by fireworks. While we humans were enjoying the local fireworks, Rich stayed in the pen with Casper to help him through the ordeal. Fireworks are no fun when you’re a horse, but as always, Casper’s calm came from knowing his people were close by and keeping him safe.
🐴 Rip Report: Fit to be Tied!
Now just over a year old, Rip is really starting to grow into himself. He continues to make great strides in his ground training. He’s gotten very good at standing tied—a skill that takes time, consistency, and patience on both ends of the lead rope. We continue to stretch his patience in small doses, teaching him to stand quietly and relax. I’ve also started taking Rip away from Annie for short adventures. Sometimes we even leave the whole herd behind for quick jaunts. These solo trips are always short and fun, and I end them on a positive note, building his confidence and independence little by little, step by step.
🐎 Annie’s Corner: Spa Days & Saddle Prep
Annie is still living the life of luxury—no foal to nurse and no tack on her back (yet). For now, she’s living the high life—good food, sunny pastures, and lots of attention, but that doesn’t mean she’s forgotten how to be a riding horse. I gave her a full spa day recently, complete with a nose-to-tail body wash and a good detangle and conditioning of her mane and tail, thanks to Show Sheen and Silver Honey Medicated Shampoo. Here in the high mountains we can only bathe our horses in the summer, and last year she was too busy being a mom, so this was a long-overdue treat. She stood like a pro, and I can tell she’s ready to get back to work soon. But there’s no rush.
🐴 Casper Chronicles: Always a Good Soldier
Casper, on the other hand, is getting plenty of saddle time. With Rich focusing on showing his young cutter this summer, Tomcat, I’ve taken on more of the riding duties with Casper—and what a joy he is! He’s a finished bridle horse with a heart of gold, soft in the bridle, responsive to the seat, and always willing. He makes every ride feel like a gift.
As the days stretch on and the training progresses, I’m reminded how important it is to meet each horse where they are. Whether it’s building a young colt’s independence, easing a seasoned mare back into work, or simply enjoying the ride on a mature gelding, it’s all part of the journey. No rush. Just rhythm, relationship, and a lot of fun along the way.
🔧 Tip from the Trainer: Practicing Patience at the Tie Rail
Tying is an important lesson that builds mental relaxation and physical stillness. For a young horse like Rip, I make these sessions short and successful—just a few minutes at first, then gradually longer. I only remove him from the restraint when he’s still and quiet, supervising him closely to find the ideal moment to release him. That way, patience becomes a habit, not a struggle. Tying is one of the safest and most useful skills a young horse can develop early on, and like most skills, it’s built by breaking it down into its smallest steps. I’ll elaborate on this in my upcoming blog.
🗣 What’s New & What’s Next
Summer always flies by with so much going on—clinics, riding tours, a little R&R, and our own herd to care for. I’ve got some fabulous programs coming up this fall at the renowned C Lazy U Ranch and you can find out more about my upcoming events here.
If you’re working with a young or green horse—or just want to improve your horsemanship or you need a little more support in your training journey—check out my online coaching membership. You’ll find structured lesson plans, video coaching, and a wealth of information to help you on your path.
📌 Stay Connected
🎧 Listen in on the Ride On Podcast with Julie Goodnight
🎓 Join the Goodnight Academy for online coaching, courses, Q&A, and free resources
📚 Explore resources at JulieGoodnight.com
Enjoy the long days, cool mornings, and every moment you get in the saddle this summer! Until next time, stay safe and ride on.
—Julie
