Getting Acquainted with Bluebell
Alright, let me tell you about this blue roan mare I’ve been working with. It wasn’t exactly planned, you know how these things go. I was just browsing, not seriously looking, but then I saw her picture. Something about her stance, maybe? Anyway, decided I had to go see her in person.
Made the trip out to this farm. Took a while to find the place. When I got there, the owner showed me to her pasture. And there she was. Definitely a looker, that classic blue roan coat, dark points. Looked solid. But she kept her distance, watching me from the other side of the field. A bit standoffish, you could say.
I didn’t push it. Just leaned on the fence for a bit, watching her watch me. The owner mentioned she hadn’t had a consistent person for a while. So, I figured, okay, patience is key here. Came back the next day. Brought some apple slices this time. Still kept my distance mostly, just tossed a few over near her. She eventually wandered over, sniffed them, and crunched them down. Small victory, right?
Spent the next few visits just being there.
- Walked around the pasture, letting her get used to my presence.
- Started bringing a grooming kit. Left it on the fence post first.
- Eventually, tried a soft brush on her shoulder. She flinched but didn’t bolt.
- Kept these sessions short and sweet. Always ended on a good note.
Slowly, slowly, she started letting me get closer. Started enjoying the grooming, I think. Even started nickering softly when she saw my truck pull up. That felt good. Real good.
Tacking up was the next hurdle. Took it step by step. Just the saddle pad one day. Then the saddle, no girth tightened. Then finally, cinched it up very gently. She stood for it, bless her. A little tense, but she stood.
First ride was just a walk around the round pen. Nothing fancy. Just letting her feel my weight, figure out basic cues again. She was rusty, for sure. But willing. That’s the main thing I look for.
Long story short, I ended up bringing her home. We call her Bluebell. It’s been a journey since then. Lots of groundwork, lots of trail miles put in easy stages. She still has her moments, that little bit of mare attitude, you know? But she trusts me now. And seeing that change, from the skittish horse in the field to the partner she is now… well, that’s why I do this. It’s been quite the process, getting to know this blue roan mare.
