It was more. And better. Then I ever expected. This "new" old traditional way. I am used to going to clinics, where there are 20 people, minimum per session..and sometimes, you just get lost in the shuffle. Most of the time, it is a good shuffle, mind you..... but LOST is the key word. Not so with Bruce Sandifers Workshop, held in beautiful Prescott, AZ. Prairie Karen and Linda Turner both live in Prescott, so this setting was perfect! Plus instead of a days driving to California, I got to be just drive a little ways!! Whoo-hoo!! The format so different then I am used to...three to four people per session..and the tables were turned.. most of the folks here, traveled for miles to attend the full workshop....from Colorado, from New Mexico, from California and of course, from Arizona. Limited number of riders, geared up for the morning and afternoon session...as always, a waiting list to get in to the mix.. It was a treat for members of the Californios Bridle Horse Association, tho the weather was on the warm side, and the wind kicked up to cool us off, one thing each of us understood...we all realized we were really witnessing the birth of a tradition. An easier hands on way to learn. A different methodology..one so very differentt then what we were taught...all of us grew up on..and believe me, some of those old habits are hard to break. Bruce explained, that when a horse was hardened..it never works to meet him with hardness..you can not soften hardness with MORE hardness..you must be soft..and draw him back to you..It wasn't easy. Prime example was that beautiful arab mare...she was working in a harder bosal, stiffer then she needed...soon as that was changed up, she was a happy camper. As you look thru the photos, notice the "palm up"...You'll have to join Bruce and Jeff, on the Californios Bridle Horse Association for a full description of the why...all I know is it seems to work, and free a horse up...your hands are able to lift..rather then pull. And that is just for starters. For more information on how you can become a part of the Vaquero Traditions, learn more about the CBA, or the next Sandifer Workshop...please check out Bruce Sandifer, or follow this link to the site. If there is a Workshop near you..or even sorta near you. Make sure you call and save a spot...incredible, all the way around... http://www.californiobridlehorseassociation.com/ Such a honor to be a part of, am proud to show you just a slice of the workshop...

Thanks for taking the time to look, Lil and I will see you at the next workshop. Que Bueno. If you do not see yourself here, know that I have you on my list for next time around...I was only able to attend for a partial day, sent to get a cover shot...next time in Prescott I will make it for the entire session.