The seat is foundational for balanced, effective communication with horses. In riding, the term seat refers to the way a rider sits on the horse and uses their body, particularly their pelvis, hips, and lower back, to communicate with the horse. The seat is a primary aid that influences the horse’s movement, balance, and responsiveness. A well-balanced … Continue reading Rider’s seat
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Rider’s hands
Essential for precise, gentle communication with horses. Proper use of hand aids is one of the keys to riding and building trust with your horse. They provide direct communication with the horse’s mouth through the reins, allowing for precise control and guidance. Effective use of hand aids helps in steering, stopping, and maintaining a steady … Continue reading Rider’s hands
Ameraucana Chicken
Bearded, blue egg laying, friendly, cold-hardy, chicken. Ameraucana chickens have been a part of my backyard flock for years. I absolutely love their beautiful blue eggs and sweet bearded faces. These birds add a splash of unique color to our egg basket. They are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for our Minnesota winter climates. … Continue reading Ameraucana Chicken
Week 33 farm & pets
Week 33 is an important time for pet and hobby farm care as summer transitions to fall. Focus on thorough cleaning and organizing your barn to prepare for cooler weather. Ensure that all stalls are clean and dry, and check for any necessary repairs or improvements. Dogs This week ensure your dog’s grooming routine is … Continue reading Week 33 farm & pets
Bielefelder Chicken
Hardy, Dual-Purpose, Prolific, Sociable, Striking Chicken Breed. I recently added two Bielefelder hens and a rooster to our mix of layer chicken breeds flock. We've raised them from chicks this last summer (summer of 2023). This German breed was established in Bielefeld, Germany, in the early 1970s, through careful crossbreeding to achieve a harmonious balance … Continue reading Bielefelder Chicken
Raising chickens For eggs
Fresh flavorfully homegrown eggs with rich orange yolks. Having kept laying hens at my place for 9 years now, I can reflect on my commitment to this sustainable and rewarding lifestyle. Beyond the obvious perks of a daily supply of fresh, homegrown eggs, my long-term dedication has found me with a connection to the natural … Continue reading Raising chickens For eggs
Barn Swallow
Acrobatic, delicate, dedicated parents. Barn Swallows gracing my barn evoke a lively spectacle of nature. With iridescent blue-black plumage, their aerobatic flights adorn the pasture, capturing the essence of summer. These agile birds skillfully snatch insects mid-air, contributing to natural pest control. Nests, meticulously crafted from mud, cling beneath eaves, echoing a timeless bond between … Continue reading Barn Swallow
Gardening for bird conservation
Birds in the garden bring landscapes to life. Attracting birds to your garden enriches the outdoor experience with nature's vibrant palette and cheerful melodies. Beyond the aesthetic delight, birds play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations and aiding in pollination. Their presence signifies a healthy environment, reflecting the vitality of … Continue reading Gardening for bird conservation