Africa: Our Journey #55 Connecting at Liberty

Today a friend of mine video-taped Africa and me doing our audition for Level 3 Liberty.  I combined my two passions (horses and flute) in this audition.  When we started, I played the beginning of a piece of music and then the CD I had made with my flute teacher took over. 

I remember when Africa first heard me play the flute in the arena.  He was at the other end of the arena and he came racing at me.  I held my ground and he stopped a few feet from me, snorting.  As I continued to play he listened.  Now, as seen in the audition, he follows me while I play and likes to put his nose on my flute.

I felt very good about doing this audition, but I always seem to get so nervous when the video is taping.  Consequently, I get tense and Africa can feel that.  I tend to overdo with my cues, such as wave the carrot stick too much.  As the taping continues, I can breath and slow down, becoming less reactive.  It happened again for this audition.  When I finally calmed down this time, I was better able to be attentive to Africa. 

I felt so connected to him and he tried so hard to do what I had asked.  He offered an extra sideways and loves to put his feet on the pedestal.  I am so proud of him.

Playing at Liberty is an amazing opportunity to attune ourselves with our equine partner.  I love watching Africa offer actions and then 'ask'  "How am I doing?"

If you would like to watch the audition go to youtube.com and search for Ann and Africa Liberty 8 2010.