Wellington is OUT -- Aiken is IN

Jaliska is going to Aiken, South Carolina to train for the winter.

I have mixed feelings.

On the one hand, I am so excited for her that I can barely stand it. On the other, I will miss her dearly. This must be what it feels like when sending a child off to boarding school or college. I decide that I don’t like this feeling at all. I am happy, though, that she will be in a warm climate with turnout all winter and I will join her at least once a month to train.

Adrienne, my second-in-command local trainer, and primary in Aiken, sent me this note to prepare for the trip:

The plan is to pull out of Kirkwood, PA very early on the 20th (6 horses, 4 boys, 2 dogs, and 1 cat...oh, as well as me, Erin, Tanya, and Noll).

We will be ready for additional horses to arrive on the 22nd of January and beyond. It is going to be a great winter. We have a bunch of really nice people and horses. I need all of you to be sure I have the dates that you plan to arrive so we are ready for you.

To do list:

The temperature has been in the 60's during the day but can get quite cold at night. Be sure to bring gear for all conditions for you and your beast.

You will need the following:

Up to date Coggins
Spring shots and teeth now before you travel (you must have shot records and a Coggins with your horse as it travels)
If you have winter shoes you may want to change them over before your travel. Snow shoes are no fun to balance on for a long trip.
Clip before you ship. Your horse may get too hot in the truck heading south.

For your horse:

Special feed and supplements
2 buckets
Small feed bucket
Turnout halter (I don't want to have to use the nice one)

A trunk to hold:

Blankets
Bridle
Pads
Boots
Brushes and bug spray, and anything special your horse may need.
Saddle

I may use much of my stuff but you will want your own when you are down to ride.

Show stuff. Studs. Cross country vest... and don't forget to bring your helmet.

I have started sending entries in for shows. I will get you a schedule out very soon.

Please email me with any questions you may have.

Thinking warm thoughts.

Adrienne

It is a real luxury to have my horse shipped south to be trained for the winter.

Jaliska is worth every cent.

I tentatively mark February 8–12, March 7–11, 21– 25 and April 7–9, to go to Aiken to train with her.

My good friend Rhonda moved to Aiken a few years ago. She was my neighbor and previous owner of the farm where I board Jaliska and train.

I call her to tell her the good news, “Jaliska and I will be coming to Aiken.” She is so excited and insists that I stay with her. She adds that “we must ride the hunt while you are here.” I adamantly agree. “I would love to," I say.