This weekend Beau was taken outside the stable again, but now with Dorien sitting on his back, and following a different route through the dunes. Mary and Paula were holding him on a leash, to keep him assured in this new environment. As Beau was acting very calm, the leash was unclipped, and he followed us like a obedient dog. At the end of the path we turned around, and Beau suddenly bolted away in a canter, scared of something we didn't see. Dorien didn't panic and brought him back under control; 500 m further they were both waiting on the rest like nothing happened. It is all about confidence, also for a horse, and strange noises or shapes need getting used to!
It was Sinterklaas at Madurodam handicapped stable and Paula and Dorien were asked to play as his helpers, Zwarte Piet (black Peter). They dressed up, got themselves face-painted and played along during the lessons. As many of you know Sinterklaas is the Dutch equivalent of Father Christmas, who brings presents to all children in early December. Due to the age of the girls (and the fact that they got a huge present with Beau!) we didn't do much ourselves; but this way they still participated in a typical Dutch tradition.
Beau, Dorien and Mary, when everything was looking fine
Dorien and Paula at Madurodam stables, playing Zwarte Piet
No comments:
Post a Comment