Behind the vertical... UGH

Today I rode in my new dressage saddle, and let me just say I LOVE IT!!! I love the tony slater, its really close contact, and super comfy, even though its not really padded. Definately well worth the 200 I spent on it!

Now for the frustrating part...
Monroe travels consistently behind the bit, and I am KICKING MYSELF FOR IT. UGH. I know exactly when she learned to do it too. *kicks self* I really need to fix it, it is soooo incorrect and so frustrating because I really want to gain the respect of the dressage crew at my barn, and I really want a correct horse so we have a chance if we ever decide to do a dressage test.

Part of the problem is that I get stiff, and I need to loosen up. Half the time I'm locked and pulling, and then half the time I throw away my contact... its a never ending battle!

I think we need to do more long and low work, we need to work slowly and carefully and avoid stress on either of us. Monroe is an over reactive horse, sand I think when I get stiff, she gets worried and upset and "hides" behind the vertical, because in her mind, if her head is down, mom leaves her alone. (Shame one me, UGH!)

Also need to remember, collection comes from the legs, not the hands. I think I need to repeat that to myself over and over and over again.