Behind The Bit

We have some devastating news to share with our Behind The Bit family.

Our favorite little old lady, Poppy, passed away peacefully in her sleep last night. She was up and completely herself at our 11 p.m. night check, and when we came out to feed this morning, she was simply gone. There were no signs of a struggle, so we have every reason to believe she quietly slipped away in her sleep.

Poppy has been known by many names and carried hundreds of riders in her 30+ years. She was fluffy, affectionate, endlessly patient, and deeply allergic to anything resembling real work.

She was, quite affectionately, our favorite gross little old lady. 🤍

For so many kids, Poppy was one of their first ponies, and we know a lot of little—and grown-up—hearts are going to hurt over this one.

If you have a favorite Poppy photo or memory, we would love for you to share it.

Rest easy, Poppy girl. No more work—just snacks and naps forever. 🤍

If you’ve been thinking about trying a group lesson, this is a great week to jump in!

Why ride in a group?
Group lessons are longer, which means more time in the saddle and more riding experience. They also give riders the opportunity to learn by watching others, working through challenges together, and realizing they aren’t the only ones struggling with a particular skill.

Sometimes watching another rider work through the exact same thing you’re learning can make everything click!

Not sure which level is the right fit for you or your rider? Just ask Zoe or Makenna. We’re happy to help you find the group that will be the best fit. We have a few openings available this week:

• Tuesday 9/22 at 3:00 PM — Level 1
• Wednesday 9/23 at 4:00 PM — Level 2
• Thursday 9/24 at 1:00 PM — Level 2
• Thursday 9/24 at 5:00 PM — Level 2

❄️🐴 WINTER LEASES ARE HERE! 🐴❄️

We have some truly wonderful lesson horses available for winter lease!

Winter is the perfect time to build confidence, sharpen your skills, and create a stronger partnership before next year’s show season.

✨ Try a new horse and push yourself
✨ Step back into some comfortable old shoes
✨ Or start building a partnership you can carry into next year’s show season

More saddle time, more confidence, and more opportunity to really get to know your horse. 🤎

📸 I’ll post photos and all the details on each available horse below!

See one that catches your eye? Send me a message!

Come spend one free time in the barn outdoors with good company.

🌧️🐴 Rainy Day Lesson Update!

Just a friendly reminder with Alaska’s fall season brings occasional torrential downpours, some so bad we’re going to need floaties just to get outside! 😂 this being said some of your lessons may be moved indoors.

Don’t worry, We’ll stay dry in the garage and have some horsey fun working on tack, breeds, colors & markings, crafts, games, discussion questions, and more. Unmounted lessons are a big part of building great horsemanship!

Families with back-to-back lessons are welcome to combine times to make the day a little easier.

Rain or shine, there’s always something to learn! 🐴☔