19th riding lesson.

Was good. Was really good: one of the best I've had since I'd started back in June.

Was hoping I'll get one of the smaller horses today, but got Jasmine instead. I was a bit apprehensive, but what Annie said is right: if I keep riding the easy horses, it's the horses that are doing the job, not me. I wouldn't become a good - or even competent - rider that way. It's through working and working on my form on the harder-to-manage horses that I can become better, and go on to the intermediate.

So, I approached Jasmine with a more open mind and less apprehension than before I started the lesson.

I did well, even in my view (and you all know what a critical person I can be of myself).

Jasmine needed a bit of urging to move, but her walk was nice, and I did the sitting trot okay. For some reason, I felt focused today, and managed to remember to really keep my heels down on the stirrups as I did the sitting trot. Her gait for the rising trot was beautiful also. I just have to remember to keep my hands down.

Cantering was beautiful. I managed to do about two rounds of canter around the arena. My leaning back was good, and I managed to keep my hands down and in motion with Jasmine's head most of the time. But I have to correct my feet: step on the balls of my feet instead of almost allowing my boots to slide to my heel. Also have to point my toes straighter and keep my knees more in contact with Jasmine's body.

But other than that, was good. =)

Helped with the pony handling after class, and Annie secretly gave me one free lesson.

W00t!