Just a couple thoughts re: teaching
downhill and guns:
Personally, I feel the most
comfortable when a horse can negotiate obstacles (including downhill and up) in
a natural manner (i.e. no rider). After having my horse carry
himself down-a-hill (a very steep hill) a gazillion times w/ me in the lead, he
seems to naturally carry me in the same frame as when I decide to get
on.
Tailing, however, is another matter
and I would not assume to prognosticate on that one (my horses are too good at
following, but I am working on it).
Re: Guns--though I don't carry one
currently (haven't found a way to carry one "comfortably"-- any help on that
would be appreciated), though I oft wish I did. There are crazies out
there. My personal story on that front includes me being 8 months pregnant
w/ an 18 month in tow and being almost assaulted (another man held him back) by
a fruitcake carrying a rifle (it was hunting season in the Berkshires of
Massachusettes). I have been on my horse being completely alone coming
across quite a few men w/ guns (now I live in Colorado). I know in my
heart most are decent (like my husband who is a hunter) but it only takes one
not- so -decent person (the news unfortunately is full of them) and the privacy
of the forest can lead many to a path they would not normally take. It is
not wrong to carry a gun and at least feel safer on your rides (esp if you ride
alone). How many have been killed or maimed by wanton female (okay, or
male) endurance riders out on a training ride? It's all about being
comfortable while you are out there alone.
