Welcome to the Horsemanship With Brandy Blog

Have you ever heard, “I don’t want to sell him, I don’t want him to go to a bad home”, or “I have too many in the pasture”, or “I haven’t ridden any of these in years.”  This is a sign that it is time...

Have you ever had someone demand something when you would have gladly done it if they would have asked nicely?  Have you ever had a boss that was too bossy?  Think about how much more could get done i...

With owning a trail riding facility and instructing clinics and lessons, I encounter the same dilemma faced by many aging riders.  They compare the rider they once were to the rider they are now.  Thi...

I can say very proudly that I am a turd polisher!  What is a turd polisher?  Well, if you do not know your mule’s background, if it wasn’t broke until way later in life than normal, has flaws, or look...

Most trainers will tell you that your mule can only go up, down, left, right, forward, or backwards.  Mules are spunky creatures and with them being all wheel drive, I am here to tell you the new and ...

First, if you are having trouble with your horse, do not be afraid to seek help from a trainer or clinician.  Do not feel like a lesser rider by wearing a helmet, and ride with others until you have o...

As a host, you are not going to be perfect.  As soon as you can come to terms with this inevitable truth, you will regain hours of sleep and find a peace of mind that is priceless.  Follow me through ...

There are ways to design your course for your competition to run smoothly and time efficiently.  Understanding the two major types of obstacles will help you begin designing a course that people will ...

My husband and I own and operate Von Holten Ranch, a trail riding facility in Mora, MO.  We have  hosted over 70 events a year.  When people view our life looking from the outside in, they think this ...

Life is always about the little details.  If someone remembers your birthday and sends a card, that means more than wishing you happy birthday on Facebook.  If someone makes you a cup of coffee and re...

You see a ditch crossing in your path coming up and you know exactly what your mule is about to do; JUMP IT!  Now, if your mule is anything like my old barrel horse, it can’t just jump it enough to cl...

Confidence is a real issue for adults and children alike when it comes to handling and riding equine.  However, children are a blank slate and are natural riders.  Have you ever seen a child running a...