While I'm not exactly wild about the DAR, having noticed an apparent preponderance

[IrishAyes]

7. If you'd already read my original reply,

know that I added to it considerably as an afterthought.

Marsh Tackys aren't terribly well known, but I'm sure with the new support they soon will be.

One thing I had a lot of trouble trying to convince people to do was to take an attitude of gratitude toward Arabians. They have feelings and opinions too, that are best accommodated when possible. Before I ever climbed onboard, I would talk and visit a few minutes with my mount. I'd whisper in the ear, "You are the most beautiful creature God ever made. If it's okay with you, I hope you'll let me ride awhile and that you'll bring me safely home so I can keep taking care of you as you so truly deserve.... etc etc...." And I'd scratch all their favorite places awhile, too, thanking them in advance. It's amazing what they'll do for you when you acknowledge their service and grandeur along with your own lower place on the totem pole. People who approach them with an air of arrogant (false) superiority are in for a well deserved battle.

'sfunny... a trainer for Kellogg Arabians once said I didn't really 'train' my horses but rather sweet-talked them into giving me what I wanted. That was followed up with the comment that the horse she'd just tried to ride was 'too fine tuned' for her! At least she didn't try to blame the horse for her mistake. I'd told her exactly what approach to use and that it had to be from the heart too, but she had scoffed then. Not anymore. I still treasure that as the greatest horse-related compliment I ever received.