Photoshop Fun

I have been taking an online Photoshop class to learn how to do all kinds of things with my pictures. Here are my first few projects. Enjoy!

Pony Club Camp

Alex, Margaux, and I spent June 17-21 at Pony Club Camp at FENCE (Foothills Equestrian and Nature Center) in Tryon, NC. FENCE is a beautiful place--huge arenas, cross country courses, and a steeplechase track. We left on a rainy Wednesday morning, but it was sunny, hot, and muggy by the time we arrived. Alex and Margaux had lessons all week with some really great instructors. We attempted to camp on the grounds, but after rain the first night, I chickened out and checked into a hotel. Alex's favorite activity was learning polocrosse and Margaux loved going on a trail ride and galloping along the steeplechase track. The week was intensely hot and the ponies hated staying in stalls so much, but overall we had a great time. The kids were able to do all kinds of different riding. They really benefitted from the focused instruction. Here are some pictures from the trip.

Horse Show

We spent most of the day today at a horse show put on by Alex and Margaux's trainer. The kids did fantastic! Their ponies were very well behaved and their riding was spectacular. Alex won two 1st place ribbons, a 2nd, and a 3rd. Margaux won THREE 1st place ribbons and a 5th place. Dan and I were extremely proud!

Pony Club Rating

Recently, Alex and Margaux rated up in Pony Club. They have been active in the local club of the United States Pony Club for about about 1 1/2 years now. I am really impressed with the whole Pony Club philosophy of teaching young riders. The organization focuses on the entire process of owning, caring for, and riding a horse safely and correctly. Alex and Margaux are really enjoying being part of a group of kids who love horses as much as they do. As part of the club, the kids are rated up as they learn more about horses and attain higher riding skills. The first levels are the D-levels--D1, D2, and D3. In April, Alex and Margaux both went up to D2. We were very proud of them! Pictures are below.