Since my last update a lot has happened in Germany. They say that time flies when you’re having fun, well the last 9 months have gone by so fast that I can hardly believe that I am already looking at flights home.

With summer now in full swing many exciting things have occurred. The farm that I am working for has two stables. One stable, to which we refer to as “Under”, has a section for only mares in foal. Well two of the three mares have had their babies and the third is about to foal any day. The babies are so sweet. It is very entertaining to sit and watch the two babies play with each other.

Show season is also going full steam ahead. Every weekend there are several horses going to competitions. It is very rare that there is a week where there are no shows. The last week I was privileged enough to attend the Neuss-Grefrather Bundeschampionate qualifier. Although grooming does not allow much time for looking, I was able to see some of the best horses in Germany. You often read about these shows on Dressage Daily or Euro Dressage, but it is so rare that you can actually see them. It was a great experience!

On the lighter side I had a little extra fun one day riding a Shetland pony. The young girl that rides her has a difficult time getting her to canter. When she uses the whip the pony bucks and because she is already conformed downhill it is very easy that you do a flying dismount over her head. This particular shettie, Flicka, has a mind of her own. When she wants to leave the indoor, she simply trots in the direction of the door and heads out. It does not matter how hard you kick her or pull on her, she is going where she wants. The children have to lead her around with the bridle because when she smells fresh grass she takes over and drags the kids around the farm. I attempted to teach the girl how to get her into canter, but it was unsuccessful. She asked if I could try it for her. So I hopped on and rode the small pony a few rounds canter, did I mention I was wearing only running shoes? There is nothing like riding a pony, nothing in front of you, nothing behind you, and the short strides make it simply impossible to ride them without laughing.

A month ago I also had my 19th birthday. I thought I would be like any other Monday. But it was far more than a normal Monday and was absolutely amazing. In the morning I went with a good friend Mirjam into Dusseldorf for a little shopping tour and sightseeing on “Koenig’s Alley”. Then, after several very nice shops, we drove back to Neuss where I bathed Focus. Then a lady from the stable that I normally spend Mondays with came. We went to her house for a small birthday cake and then grocery shopping like normal. Then she said that we would go to her house for dinner, but first to my house to drop off my groceries. As we pulled up in front of the stable everyone from the stable was standing there, waiting for me. They had organized a huge surprise party/BBQ. It was a great evening with good food and dessert. Lots of fun!!!

I have also continued to submerge myself into German youth culture. This consists of frequent visit into discos to learn how to dance. Christian advised me that I should do it, while dancing helps your rhythm as a rider. Last week I partook in the Cocktail Tour in Krefeld. I also went rocking climbing in the same city. The European soccer championships have started. I have never seen an entire nation hypnotized my something so simple. Most people are totally soccer crazy. Last night was the first game of the German team. They played Poland and won 2-0. I was able to watch the game at a special party. When team Germany scored you can literally hear everyone cheering in their gardens. Each time the German team plays people throw parties, leave work early or even don’t go to work at all, all in preparation. There are large public viewings with 4000 plus people. Thursday is game two for Germany, we will see what is to come.

And now, an update on the horse. Focus is making very good progress. She is on a good way toward the Young Rider level. She has been started in the double bridle and accepts it very well. She will be going to her first German show in four weeks time. I am still teaching. I am now working with the owner of a horse I ride and next week I have to give my first lesson in German. I hope my German is fast enough.

With so much new happening I am going to try and write more frequently. And with such nice weather I am going to try and take more pictures. We as riders all know the best pictures come when the sun shines, not in the rain and dark!

So until next time happy riding to all!!

Erika and Focus