Mixing things up

With the disobediences making a reappearance I thought it was time to mix things up a bit and get Socks jumping with the aim of entering our first ever Showjumping competition.  Then, all things going to plan continuing to jump over the winter and who knows we could affiliate early next year... however, with my mare plans could change ten times over!

We'd still like to throw in a few dressage competitions for variety and continue with lessons on the flat as its vital to achieve a good canter and balance for jumping.  We've been concentrating on lots of grids and pole work at home which Socks is thoroughly enjoying although the best thing is she really hates hitting the poles, but she could be a little less expressive when she does show her dislike of touching them!

I think the hard work is paying off as her technique is looking good (I'm obviously biased)

We've got a few weeks to prepare for her first jumping outing and have a little work to do on her waistline and energy levels before then.  Also hoping to find a feed suitable for her soon as she's a natural fatty but lacks stamina so harassing feed companies at the moment for ideas.  She's worked 5/6 days a week stabled in the day with small Haynet and on a feed balancer as she needs no extra calories.  Socks lacks stamina and concentration at times but also can always find energy to explode! She also suffers with puffy joints which doesn't help when she has to be stabled to help control her waistline and needs a long warm up to get the best work out of her.  If anyone has any ideas or recommendations let me know.