|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sherry is certified by:
* AAHS (American Asso. of Horsemanship Safety)
* EAGALA (Equine Asisted Growth and Learning Asso.)
* NEA Nebraska Education Assoc.
She is a member of
*NHC Nebraska Horse Council
*USEF (US Equestrian
Federation)
* AQHA American Quarter Horse Asso.
* PNHSC Parelli Natural Horsemanship Savvy Club
|
|
Click on button below
to Buy Sherry's Book
"Win Your Horse's Heart"
(And Be a Better Horseman)
It is also available on
Amazon, Barns & Noble, or call
or e-mail Sherry
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Sandhills Horse Sense"
is devoted to promoting
relationships and
choices that lead to
a positive future.
Sherry is now an
EAGALA Certified
Horse Professional
working in conjunction
with Melissa Dearmont &
Mid-West Country Clinic
L.E.A.D.
"Leadership through
Equine Assited
Development"
will help you with
building relationships,
problem solving,
attitudes & behaviors,
conflict & stress,
responsibilities,
positive choices,
and much more.
Individual sessions by appointment!
Classes & Retreats adapted to families or groups are
also offered .
Call 1-866-757-3853
1-402-684-2908
|
|
|
|
Our Friendly Warning: There is always some risk involved in horse training for both you and the horse. Horses can cause serious injury.
Be sensible and don’t attempt anything that is outside your comfort level.
Any information on this website or that we present through any of our programs are intended to illustrate how we apply our training techniques with success.
However you are responsible for using this information wisely. If you don’t feel comfortable with your abilities or an exercise, don’t do it!
Seek advice or assistance from a professional before attempting things beyond your skill or confidence level.
Stay on the "high side of trouble".
Keep it natural and above all KEEP IT SAFE!
Warmly,
Sherry
|
|
|
|
|
Items in this months newsletter:
Either scroll down the page or use the Quick Links below.
|
|
|
|
|
|
MINI CLINIC with FREE TRAIL RIDE
available at Sherry's House starting again next spring on Wednesdays,
or upon special request any open weekend or day Sherry is home.
Tenative 2009 Dates:
April 15, 22, 29;
May 6, 13,20, 27
June 10,
July 1, 15, 29
Aug. 12,19, 26
Sept. 2, 9,16, 23, 30
Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28
Make plans to ride in the sandhills in 2009
Individual instruction in the morning followed by a Free Trail Ride in the afternoon (Very easy trails)
Only accepting 4-6 riders. It only takes two to make a day of it, so Call a friend now and join in the FUN!
Call Sherry at 308-730-2150 for more details.
Back to Quick Links
|
|
|
|
Sherry & Cisco
Having a great time!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dear Horse lovers,
The connection between a person and a horse is not only physical, but mental and emotional. The path to harmony is NOT EASY, and it requires considerable personal investment, with moments of deep satisfaction (thank goodness) but also times of profound frustration. Rest assured that determination, perseverance, and willingness to listen and learn will always bring success towards becoming a better horseman. As we progress down the road on our journey the way we perceive horsemanship often changes. For me it no longer appears as a discipline, but rather a way of living and being with the horses by adapting myself to how they learn, act, and react.
For the past four years I have had the privilege of working with a group of women who are dedicated to becoming the kind of horsewoman their horse needs them to be. Six years ago I officially started Heart in Your Hand Horsemanship LLC. However four years ago the idea of the horsemanship camps at my cousin’s beautiful guest ranch was born. There were 12 women at that first camp to let me give it a try. I planned and re-planned over and over all the details, until I had completely over-planned. But even so the results were fantastic and it was a huge success.
Since then I have lost count as to how many people and camps I have had. Each one has been different because of the different needs presented by both horses and riders. One thing is for sure they are never boring, you will be tired, you will be fed well, you will have fun, you will have challenges, and most of all you will go away changed from the experience. You won't solve all your problems in four days but you will make significant advancement and you will be one turn closer down the road toward your destination of becoming the kind of horseman you desire.
People who have come to my camps range from people who live in the city and don’t even own a horse, to people who show successfully, to working ranchers, to others with extreme fears, to those somewhere in the middle. They have been from 8 years old to 72 years young, both genders, and with a wide variety of experiences both positive and negative. No matter how vast the differences in skills are or how unlike their goals are, everyone who has come to our camps have a common bond which is a love of horses and wanting to be the best horseman they can be by gaining more savvy.
With this original core group of horsewomen who come back annually in October I have tried to make each year a little different and keep new information coming as they grew and changed. It has been a lot of work but worth it, as I have seen the development of each horse and person throughout the 4 years.
This year we had the worst weather we have ever had. However, we are fortunate enough to have an indoor arena, so it wasn't so bad after all. Even with the rain we do not have to fight mud because the sand seems to suck the moisture right away, so we do not have to worry about bad footing. I enjoyed the rain as Leigh Cheryl and I rode many miles on that last afternoon together.
The private lessons on Mon. were the crowning glory. Each person really got something they needed with their horse and some made very significant milestone changes that final day, which brought tears of joy. In fact, for those of you who have been to my camps you know that tears of joy and tears of frustration are nearly always a part of the process of change.
On the final classroom session at the camps I usually do what I call nuggets of knowledge where we list the things we have learned over the past four days. However this year I did a recap of the road we have traveled these last four years towards becoming better horsemen. I think it is a pretty good road map for anyone to follow towards becoming a good horseman.
The first year was all about CONFIDENCE: for both the horse and the rider. The theme was Finding Wings So Your Dreams Could Fly. I chose Women’s Confident Camp because while doing a demo at the NE Horse Expo it seemed everyone who came to talk with me afterwards told me how they lacked confidence like they saw in me with my special horse Cisco during our routine to music. At that first camp we focused on the ground games, simulations, and lectures which helped build the rider’s confidence. Without CONFIDENCE, it is pretty hard to be an effective leader or communicator with any kind of horse. Lack of confidence usually causes one of two things either the horse becomes more scared and lacks trust in you to do the right thing, or he becomes even more pushy and lacks respect in your ability to get him to do the right thing.
The Second Year we focused on the EMOTIONAL ELEMENT for both the horse and human. We studied the horsenalities. We accessed each horse’s emotional characteristics and behaviors. We learned how to read a horse, how they learn and react. Then we learned some strategies about how to handle those emotional reactions a horse can throw at us. While we studied the emotional elements it wasn’t a surprise that we were all very emotional, in fact there were a lot of tears of frustration that year. The Theme was "The Journey Continues".
The Third Year we focused on thinking and having a plan. The MENTAL FITNESS was stressed for both the rider and the horse. We set up patterns and puzzles for the horse to solve. We talked a lot more about feel and how to develop it. Each person was given a check list of tasks to perform in order to access where they were in their horsemanship journey. By checking off the tasks we could and couldn't do with our horses we had a better picture of where we were on this road to becoming a horseman. We caused the people to think about where they have come from, where they are, where they want to go, and how to get there. The theme was "Are We There Yet?"
This year we focused on developing the PHYSICAL in both the horse and rider. We stressed life up/life down, postures, conformation, etc. We accessed individual horses their willingness, calmness, attentiveness, conformation, abilities, and physical movements. We tried to apply the feel we have developed in ways to change the horses body and movements, towards relaxation, energy, and balance to set them up for collection. The Theme was "This is Your Time!" We demonstrated our steps forward by a short performance to music in a celebration of what we have accomplished the past four years. This really stretched some of us way out of our comfort zone. Another important element on the road to becoming a horseman. If you always play in your comfort zone pretty soon your playing field will start to shrink instead of grow.
As a result of the study of CONFIDENCE, EMOTIONAL, MENTAL, AND PHYSICAL FITNESS, necessary for horsemanship these dedicated women have all become better horsewomen. Through this evolution they have developed different goals. Even though they have all progressed at very different speeds and levels depending on how much time and effort they have had to put into the journey they always support and encourage one another because of their common bond of a love for horses and to be the best they can be for their horse. It has been a pleasure being a part of their journey, and I look forward to what might happen next year. It will take some creativity to develop a new program for next year, but I’m sure we’ll come up with something that will be meaningful and applicable to the next turn on our road to becoming horsewomen.
Horsemanship is an art form that to me takes a lifetime to really come into, because it is a way of life that involves change, constant assessment and adjustments to fit each horse. I’m not sure I will ever arrive at my final destination as a horseman, but I do know this that despite the hardships of change and learning, I’m having a heck of a good time riding down the road to becoming a horseman, and I know these women are too!
CONGRATS TO EACH OF YOU WHO IS RIDING DOWN THIS ROAD TO BECOMING A BETTER HORSEMAN!
IT IS EXCITING AND VERY REWARDING WHEN WE FEEL THAT RIDE THAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF!
Hope to see you on the trail this fall,
Sherry Jarvis
PS"A little learning is a dangerous thing but a lot of ignorance is just as bad." -- Bob Edwards
Fall Horsemanship Camp Reports:
From Cheryl:
Every year I come home thinking this year was even better than last! I don't know how Sherry does it. One of the keys is her constant learning and personal development. As she grows, she shares with us and offers us the opportunity to expand our knowledge and playing field. She is always there encouraging and celebrating our successes.
The Switzers have a beautiful ranch with outstanding accommodations, food, and fellowship. We stayed in the North Lodge this year and we all agreed we liked it even better than the main lodge.
The spotlights were quite inspiring. Everyone has their strengths and it was fun to see them on display. The music adds a new dimension. For my turn, I asked Sherry to pick out two Mary Ann Kennedy songs and I rode Kisses freestyle to one and finesse (on contact) to the second. My plan was to live in the moment and ride the horse that showed up. Fortunately, my partner showed up and I was very happy with our ride.
We had some nice group trail rides and a couple group lessons. We were outside all day Saturday, but spent quite a bit of time in the indoor arena Friday, Sunday and Monday. Everyone had a private lesson with Sherry. Leigh and I wanted a trail ride to end camp, so our "lesson" was a ride with Sherry. We rode in the wind and the rain, but we also had some time when the wind was calm and the Sandhills had their special magic. I don't know how to describe it. The Sandhills are spiritual to me. I feel like this is the most beautiful area in God's creation and am so thankful I get to live here. The rain makes the footing even better. We walked, we trotted, we loped, maybe some galloping even. We went up and down the hills, we saw the deer enjoying the misty day. We were appreciative and thankful. It was the perfect ending for me.
Not sure what next year will bring, but I plan to make my annual pilgrimage to Calamus Outfitters for another camp with Heart in Your Hand Horsemanship.
From Cindy:
As in every year, I come home from camp enriched in friendships, and my horsemanship. Although the weather certainly could have been better, I still loved every minute of it. The drive out to the beautiful Sand hills brought me peace and joy.
What I enjoyed most:
1. The exercises we learned....
2. Friday when we played with each others horses, I chose Blue. Leigh's mule. That was a first to play with a mule! He kept me on my toes and you could see he was two steps ahead of me all the way ;) What fun, and a challenge at the same time. I think I know now why Leigh is attracted to mules...!
3. Saturday....the trail rides through the Sandhills. I am quite sure that is the most I have ridden Checkers in one day. I loved the ride out earlier in the day. It was the first time I've gone through the gate, landing my eyes on the vast Sandhills, and not feeling fear of the unknown. Checkers gave me that sweet confidence. Sherry showed me the hill that the first year I got off and walked up. (We call it the FAT FARM hill!) This year I cantered up to it. What a difference!
4. I also played on my horse bareback that afternoon. Another thing I always wanted to do, but was too afraid to.
5. We loved watching every one's routine to music.
6. Sunday..... after Sherry's cowgirl church we moved indoors. Sherry kept us busy with exercises in the arena she uses in her colt training to create a softer more supple and responsive horse.
7. Monday: For my individual lesson, I had Sherry show me how to Long Line using two reins. I loved the FEEL it presented to me on line. I wasn't sure I could handle two ropes, as I seem to have enough trouble with just one 22ft. but it wasn't as hard as I thought. And was actually fun!
8. As usual Sherry gave us some nice study material including areas of Leadership, Communication, Partnership and Lightness. Again also emphasizing the Mental, Emotional and Physical Collection. It was a nice balance of thought and application.
I do feel it all came together for me this year. I have always felt like I was swimming under a layer of ice and I finally hit it from underneath hard enough and broke through. Thanks to my awesome horse Checkers, my mentor teacher Sherry, and my dear friends that are just as much a part of this journey as any thing else.
Wow...I'm finally where I want to be.
Lessons from Horsemanship Camp transferred to working cattle!
From Renee:
Had to write you to tell you what an exciting day I had today. We have been working our calves, pre-conditioning (vaccinating) for weaning in a couples weeks from now. Been using 4 wheelers for moving cows to corrals but used Jack for sorting in the corral. Was so happy to use the maneuvers you taught me on him and he worked so much better. I realized that what helps so much and why we do so good at it is because of the intention that you taught us about. We are so focused on the cow that even when one dives back into the herd, it is like parting the sea. So neat to realize how that works so well. I thought it was all Jack doing that however I do give him a lot of credit for his intentions.
Anyway another exciting thing that I learned today and thought you would be interested in was what I learned in moving the cows. We were taking the herd back to pasture with our 4 wheelers and I was watching our Border Collie and his herding at the same time my husband and I were criss-crossing in the back. It all came together, we were doing serpentines! That's what the dog was doing naturally. So I said "let’s try going up on opposite sides of the herd, turning in towards the cows and criss-crossing in the back, like your dance you talk about. It seemed to work great. I think we can really perfect our timing and dance as we only had about a half a mile to move them. Looks like if we want the herd to move in a different direction, the person on that side would go up a little farther. I am so anxious to try it some more.
So I got to thinking of this on a deeper level. Why I think this works is I think maybe cows need to be disengaged on the front end. When you think about it, when a cow gets on the fight, she braces in the front and faces her enemy. So exciting. I've heard that you need to move cows from the side so I am taking it a step farther. I think you need to disengage that front end and then drive them once moving. We have probably done a lot of this already without realizing what we were doing. I am so anxious to do more experimenting.
I haven't had time to work with Ace. We have been very busy. You did such a great job with him. I have way more hope for him now. Sprinklers have been breaking down and I help my husband with that. Almost through irrigating if we can just get through the next couple weeks.
The lessons that you taught were so, so, so valuable. Thanks so much and looking forward to working with you more.
Testimony: Young Horse Training:
Erica and I started Jessica’s Morgan Mare Babe this past Sept. This is what she said when she came to ride her horse after we had Babe for three weeks.
What a day!! What a ride!! Sherry said I was going to be blown away and that was an understatement. This is what I wrote to her about the ride: I just can't get over how good that was. I am so excited about it all. You were so right when you said it was so easy it was almost a let down. There was no let down about it but I think I got myself so wound up about it and all that was really required was just to ride my horse and trust her. It was so good, she feels so soft and solid. I felt our relationship was still quite solid despite not seeing her for a few weeks.
I was a little wound up because of the unknown when we started but she felt so good and solid under me that once I stopped thinking about it and just rode her like a broke horse all of the tension melted away.
We did a few minutes of ground work and I mounted up. She stood stock still, flexed very soft to both sides and then off we went. In the pen we did some walking, changing directions, and backing. She tucks her nose so sweetly and backs so softly it's fantastic. Then it was time to do some trotting. After I got over my butterflies we started moving together nice and she has this lovely springy little trot. Then it was time to canter... gulp! The first time wasn't so pretty because I had a hard time letting go of my tension to relax enough for her. The second time was a little better. Sherry assured me it would improve when we got on the trail.
And we were off... out into the wild blue. Babe walked out great, relaxed and really enjoyed herself out on the trail. She seems to really excel out in the open. Any amount of tension she was holding was all blown out and we had a GREAT trail ride. We did lots of walking, trotting, transitions, turns around trees, up and down blow-outs (burms), squeeze in between cedar trees, crossed water!! It was very eventful. We did a few canter transitions and they were much better out on the trail. I was able to relax and encourage her and she never got worried she just held a canter as long (a few strides to several) as she could then slipped quietly back into a trot. I didn't ever have to completely one-rein stop her. We did circle into the down transition but it was all very soft and controlled.
We rode about 2 1/2 hours and she felt so solid the whole time. She has nice impulsion but it’s pretty balanced in her downward transitions also. She doesn't really have any "drunkeness" to her any more. I was very happy with her straightness. OH... and her HQ disengagement is wonderful. Sherry is going to start working more on FQ, sidepass and etc. next week.
I am thrilled with the progress and basically she was ready to go home. They have already far exceeded my goals for her training time. I will ride her next Saturday at camp and then she'll come home with me. I can't wait!!
Back to Quick Links
|
|
|
|
A Personal Note from Sherry:
Take Time for Rest and Play
Hello Horse Lovers,
What a wonderful spring, summer and fall season I have had. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with so many horses and their owners. But to tell you the truth the hectic schedule has been more than I expected and I am so far behind on office work and honey do projects around the home front that I need some time to just catch up, rest and play a little. Even though I love my job and I am so grateful that I have been on a horse nearly every day since last March I am going to take some time for catch up, rest, and play the next couple of months. However I will be in the Omaha and Lincoln Area for regular lessons the weekend of Oct. 23-26, Nov. 13-16, and Dec. 11-14.
I will still be taking private lessons at my house or the mini clinic with FREE trail rides on Wed. I will not be scheduling any clinics away from home until January 2010. I know it will be hard on the pocket book but I am willing to invest in this time for my family, my own horses and myself in order to keep balance in my life. But come January watch out! I plan to have another busy schedule with lots of fun and challenging learning opportunities for those who wish to participate. If you want to host a clinic, let me know as soon as possible and the 2010 Camp schedule will be coming soon as well. So sign up early you will be glad you did!
Both amateur horse owners and professionals who are in the horse business know all about work. There never seems to be an end to it. Being “all caught up” with your work is impossible. Being “all caught up” in your work is probable. The nature of horses is to be “on” twenty-four hours a day. A barn full of living animals dependent on our diligence for survival can be both tiring and at the same time very rewarding. Our responsibility to give daily care to our horses is a given, and I also consider it my duty to help my horses be happy and physically able to do the jobs I ask him to do. So I focus on building his confidence, mental and emotional frame of mind, and his physique. I am obligated to balance his work with relaxation and times of rest and play in order to keep him from getting sour.
I also take my job very seriously to help my clients continue advancing down the road toward becoming an even better horseman. I believe this is my calling. I feel thrilled to have found it and to have so many clients who put their confidence in me. The question I am asking myself right now is whether I am creating the opportunity in my busy life for rest and play like I give my horses to keep them fresh and exuberant. As I consider the balance of work, rest and play in my life I would like to offer these suggestions to those of you who may also feel the need for a little rest and play.
Rest
• Set a regular bedtime each night and do your best to stick to it.
• Rise each morning at close to the same time. Like our horses, our bodies thrive on routine and stress on chaos.
• Replace your mattress if it doesn't provide the comfort you deserve.
• Indulge in at least one break in the morning, in the afternoon, and stop to eat lunch.
• Your mind and body will function better with defined breaks in your daily timeline to rejuvenate.
Play
• Schedule at least one day off a week. (I haven’t done this is 6 years, it’s about time)
• Create time for yourself to be away from the farm and business doing non-horse activities. It will do wonders for providing the opportunity to relax enjoyably. I may go play with my nephew in the park, play cribbage or go fishing with my Dad.
• Consider a fitness program to complement your busy daily life style. A fitness center or personal trainer can help you stretch and tone muscles, and improve your cardio health. It will help your riding ability as well. A new fitness center just opened in Burwell, I went to check it out and even if I don’t join, I’ll start on my own DVD routines again, as I do every winter season. Plus as soon as snow piles up a little I’ll be cross country skiing with my dog.
• The mind and body stay fresh when they have the opportunity to experience new things. A Yoga class, dance or scuba lessons, classes in painting, instrument and voice instruction are all opportunities to do something just for you. I plan to do some artwork which I love, and get back to playing my piano and violin again. I haven’t done either since I started this business. I would love to do dance lessons, just not sure anything like that is available in Burwell, maybe Ord? I’ll check it out.
• Plan a vacation away from the farm and your home. Even if it's just a weekend away from it, the opportunity to play and relax will provide measurable results in your renewed attitude and productivity. Maybe I can go hunting with Keith, or just go to a B&B somewhere and hang out together.
Now, if you need permission to take a break, slow down or have some fun, You are hereby ordered to get work, rest and play in balance. That is exactly what I am going to do and I know with this balance I’ll be refreshed and renewed for another busy 2010 season of clinics, lessons and camps. I look forward to working with old clients and meeting new ones.
Until next time,
Sherry Jarvis
OTHERS HAVE SAID
"The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life, acknowledge the great powers around us and in us. If you can do that, and live that way, you are really a wise man." -- Euripides
"Most people struggle with life balance simply because they haven't paid the price to decide what is really important to them." -- Stephen Covey
"We can be sure that the greatest hope for maintaining equilibrium in the face of any situation rests within ourselves." -- Francis J. Braceland
“WIN YOUR HORSE’S HEART” (And Be a Better Horseman)
Buy your personal signed copy from Sherry Only $18.69 (+tax)
Also available on-line at Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble
NEW CLASSIFIED PAGE ON WEBSITE
Free to Heart in Your Hand Horsemanship Clients
We have added quite a few new horses for sale this month, so check it out.
RIDE FOR FREE by Hosting a 2-day Clinic
Host a 2-day clinic and if you positively get 7 other people signed up with deposits then you ride for free.
You will also be required to make arena arrangements, plus a few other duties. For more info go to our hostess page.
15-20% OFF SMOOTHSTRIDE RIDING PANTS (Only a few sizes left from 2008 inventory.
Back to Quick Links
|
|
EVENT SCHEDULE
Oct.- Dec. 2009 Lesson Schedule
SCHEDULE FOR REGULAR PRIVATE LESSONS IN OMAHA AND LINCOLN AREAS FOR FALL!
Oct. 23-26 Private Lessons in Omaha and Lincoln Areas
Nov. 13-16 Private Lessons in Omaha and Lincoln Areas
Dec. 11-14 Private Lessons in Omaha and Lincoln Areas
Horsemanship Private Lessons:
Please sign up as soon as possible, because we are usually fill up.
Sherry goes to various barns and even makes house calls in the Omaha and Lincoln areas once a month.
So call to reserve your time and find out locations or if she can come to your house.
The cost is between $40-$50 per hour depending on the location because of arena fees.
If I have to drive over 40 miles from where I am staying then a mileage charge is added.
Call Sherry at 308-346-5663 to set up a special personal time for you and your horse.
The dates are subject to change so please confirm by calling or e-mailing us. There are a few events still in the works without dates, so periodically check our schedule page.
PRIVATE LESSON RETREAT
There have been several people come spend a few days with me at my house this summer for intense private lessons. Some stay in my spare bedrom and others rent a nearby cottage for more privacy. If you are interested, please call so we can arrange the details.
2010 Summer Horsemanship Camp Dates
at Calamus Outfitters near Burwell, NE will be announced soon. Get your Early Bird Discount by signing up by Jan. 31, 2010.
Back to Quick Links
Apprenticeships
I have had a great time working with Erica over the past three years. She has been with me four different times now, staying a month each time. We have started a total of 12 horses together in that time. The first two years she paid me for her learning. Then this year she deserved pay as I did not have to coach her near as much. This last fall she had really started to blossom as a horsewoman with good training savvy. The thing that impresses me most is she sticks to her principles no matter what the situation.
I have had many many inquires about the internship, but it seems everyone wants me to pay them in order to learn from me, but that is not the way it works. So I have changed the name to apprenticeship, then when you have paid your dues and developed enough savvy to work more independant of me then you will be able to earn what you deserve. Erica even got a couple of bonuses this year. She needed a pair of new boots, and so for her 21st birthday I gifted her a new pair of Rockies. Then she is moving into a new house and I gifted her with a house warming gift of a new 32 inch TV.
So if you are serious about an apprenticeship with me I would love to have you, but you must not expect me to pay you to learn from me. Once you have established a good skill level of horsemanship then you will be rewarded appropriately.
If anyone is interested a similar opportunity, call Sherry for more information at 308-346-5663. There is a new page on our website with details about this great opportunity. (It is not a salaried internship)
GET REAL POSITIVE AND LASTING RESULTS
We promise an experience with us will give you a new perspective and confidence about your horsemanship which will take you to even more success and fun with your horse.
Horsemanship is a lifetime endeavor. The more we learn and experience the more artistic we can become in our expression of movement with the horse and the happier and more willing the horse will be.
Horse ownership is for fun, recreation and personal growth. Making the right investment to help insure less frustration and more safety will put the joy back into the experience. That is an invaluable gift.
Spending hard earned dollars on riding lesson, a clinic or camp may sound like a self indulgent luxury. But, without coaching on a regular basis, the best professional athletes admit their performances begin to deteriorate. At an amateur level, your investment in riding lessons will create personal joy and yield measurable progress in your goal to become the best rider and horseman you can be. Isn't that what you expect?
Back to Quick Links
|
|
|
|
Reviews of New Horse Book
Before you read one more "how-to" book, it's absolutely necessary that you read Win Your Horse's Heart because if your whole way of THINKING about the human/equine relationship doesn't change, all the how-to books in the world aren't going to work for you. And once your perspective changes, everything else will fall into place and you'll be amazed how "easy" your training becomes. This book and Tom Widdicombe's Be With Your Horse ought to be the bibles given with every horse purchase.Buffy: New Zealand
I am so happy to hear from you! I was actually planning to call you in the next couple of days to tell you how much I enjoyed your book. It made me laugh and cry. It was such a wonderful testament to the power of natural horsemanship. I was inspired and touch by it very much. I especially identified with your memories of the horses you owned before you became "enlightened" (smile). I, too, remember the first few horses I owned as a young girl and wish I had understood them more. I unfairly blamed them for a lot of things that were my fault and wasn't as patient with them as I've learned to be. I appreciated how you weren't too hard on yourself, because your actions were based on your knowledge at the time. Thank you for writing the book and sharing your story with others. Tammy
Hi sherry. just wanted to drop you a line and say THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MY BOOK AND SIGNING IT FOR ME!!!!!! It was good to see you in person at the expo. I have started reading your book and am really enjoying it. I have a coming 5 yr old gelding that is very curious and I find myself frustrated with him alot!!!!! But I waited for him to put his attention back to me while working with him like you suggested and I'll be darned if he didnt PAY ATTENTION BETTER!!!!!!!! I cant wait to finish it!!!Megan
I have read your whole book! I have sat here in my chair with my blanket over me, only interrupted by the occasional break. This book brought me to tears and then to joy. I have dog tagged the pages that I will reread. I loved the stories about Sunshine, Cisco, Dolly, and Slick.
You have written this book well and my congratulations to you for doing such a good job. I’m kinda glad I was sick as it would’ve been VERY difficult to put this one down! I look forward to learning more from you at the clinic in June and many other sessions after that.
Thanks Sherry for being a stabilizing force for me and my wacky thoughts regarding horsemanship. You really get it and it is very apparent-I look forward to the mentor/mentee relationship we can build.
Ok, just read “Trail of Inspiration for the Journey” and I am in tears. I feel like you wrote this for me. My first real trail ride as Cunningham Lake with Michelle was beautiful and without fault. It was magical. Your poem is that day for me.
Michele
I have the last 15 pages to go before finishing your book, but I already know that it's one of the most important ones I've read. AND I'VE READ 'EM ALL!!!!!
I wanted to congratulate you on your enormous, significant contribution to the wealth of equine training/behavioral literature out there. My own personal opinion is that the reason there "needs" to be so many different "how-to" books on empathetic horsemanship is that the most critical first phase to those books is either always missing, or certainly nowhere nearly as well written and cogently presented as you have done in your new book. That missing element is the entire change in THINKING and BEING that is absolutely necessary before all the very best intentioned techniques can have any hope of effectiveness, let alone success.
I'm about to order 10 more copies as (necessary) gifts. I thank and applaud you again,
Corey
Your book arrived on Mar. 11th and I have read it from cover to cover. Also, I have highlighted and underlined throughout its entirety. It brought back a flood of memories for me and I did cry where it really touched me. Presently, I am reading from the beginning again and find it difficult to put down.
Joan
I just finished your book and I loved it!!!!!!!!! I am going to start reading it AGAIN!!
Sharon
Finished your book, I really liked it. It was just like sitting down and having a conversation with you, all of your principals, beliefs and priorities were laid out in a very easy to read fashion. There was no place in the book that I want to lay it down. Actually I kept paging ahead to get sneak peaks. Congrads again! What a wonderful job you did.
Jessica
Just wanted to pass along a huge thank-you for your time and commitment to training people to be better companions for their horses as well as better leaders...my daughter, Jessica, and I learned a lot watching your clinic.
I have done lots of reading, Mark Rashid, Buck Brannaman, watching Monty Robert's on-line videos, as well as purchased Stacy Westfall's videos. I enjoyed your presentation and the way you work with the horses and really appreciate the way you explain every step you are making with the animal. I really wish we had brought our gelding along to work that day...hope we can catch you again in this area. I have tried the breathing/relaxing techniques with him and another horse we have and it really does make a difference, COOL!
I'm halfway through your book and it is well written and interesting enough I don't want to put it down.
Again thank you for your time and effort, putting yourself in all that you do for these magnificent creatures God has given us to care for...the best to you...Jamie
WIN YOUR HORSE'S HEART (Be a Better Horseman)
By Sherry Jarvis
is a must-read for those who love horses.
CLICK HERE to read a synopsis
To order go to Amazon.com OR Barns and Noble
Contact Sherry at 308-346-5663,
Back to Quick Links
|
|
|
|
In addition to the many camps, clinics and lessons we continue to offer, we have formed some study groups for those interested in getting together to support, inspire, and encourage one another on their horsemanship journey.
There are several women in the Omaha, Lincoln, Broken Bow and Grand Island areas who have already started meeting on a regular basis in order to advance even quicker and stay motivated toward excellence with horses.
We would like to see other groups popping up in other areas. If you are interested in starting or joining a study group call Sherry 308-730-2150.
For now the locations change because sometimes we meet at a person's house to watch DVDs,and other times we will meet at an arena to ride.The study groups are free unless there is an arena charge.
So Please call before coming!
STUDY GROUP GUIDELINES
These study groups are not exclusive, meaning we want to encourage people to come who may not be familiar with "natural horsemanship". We don't want this to be a club where only the "chosen few enlightened ones" can join, however we also don't want this to turn into a place where people bring problem horses expecting free lessons and a quick fix. If you have a problem horse please seek the support of a professional trainer like Sherry.
These groups are meant for students to express and show what they have learned with each other. It is a day of sharing creative ideas and free expression.
In order to encourage people who have never taken a lesson from Sherry to attend we respectfully ask that the first time you attend you do so as an observer only. This way you will have a more objective view of what it is all about by not having to attend to a horse. You will get a better sense of the expression and techniques of natural horsemanship.
Of course if the study group is watching DVDs that day instead of playing with their horses, then anyone is encouraged to attend whether they have taken a lesson from Sherry or not. It doesn't even matter whether you have a horse yet, maybe you are just thinking about getting one, then by all means come and learn.
Please always call before coming 308-730-2150
We now have over 70 members on our Heart in Your Hand Yahoo Chat Group.
This group is dedicated to natural horsemanship students lead by Sherry & Keith Jarvis whose aim is to help both the horse and rider to become even more successful by presenting a balanced foundation from which you can build a confident, trusting, respectful relationship,without sacrificing the spirit of either the horse or the human. This is a place to share natural horsemanship philosophies and how horses change our lives including those little victories/defeats that don’t mean anything to the "normal" crowd, to have a place to celebrate/vent leadership issues, blinding flashes of the obvious, or brainstorm creative ideas! We will be able to organize natural play days, tournaments, and post information and announcements of natural horsemanship happenings.
This group is by invitation only. You are officially invited by receiving this newsletter. If you would like to join Heart in Your Hand Horsemanship's Yahoo group please e-mail Leigh the moderator at freeman@diodecom.net
Back to Quick Links
|
|
|
|
Our aim is to help both the horse and rider become even more successful
by presenting a balanced foundation from which you can build
a confident, trusting, respectful relationship,
without sacrificing the spirit of either the horse or the human.
Our Vision is to offer every horse lover an even better partnership with your horse
so you both enjoy a safe ride with confidence and harmony.
Our programs are more than just riding lessons.
Our mission is to present individualized programs designed
to meet the needs of horse lovers so you become even better horsemen.
These programs include: camps, clinics, private lessons, internships, demonstrations,
videos, and books which provide instruction that leads to self-discovery
about understanding the horse, clear communication and leadership skills
so you have more fun and success with horses.
Who can benefit from our horsemanship instruction?
Anyone who loves horses and has a desire to learn about
interacting with horses from the horses point of view with true feel.
What are the benefits of our programs?
Better:
Communication
Understanding
Leadership
Confidence
Back to Quick Links
STUDENT TESTIMONIES from working with Sherry
From Emma’s Mom: Emma spent an afternoon at Sherry’s house, riding Cisco.
Dearest Sherry,
I just want to let you know what a tremendous impact you had on Emma the other day and thought you'd like to know the great things she's told me about her day with you.
When we were leaving she was in tears... tears of joy Sherry. She said to me; "Mom, she made such a difference in my life..." and the entire way home she told me all the neat things you'd shown her, the interesting ways you explained things to her and how you kept explaining things she didn't understand until she did grasp the idea! That was huge in her eyes Sherry - that you cared enough to keep explaining instead of becoming frustrated and getting angry or upset.
She was overjoyed having learned so many new things and the vital corrections you made in her riding. You notice when she does something right and encourage her, rooting for her to do well and seeing when she's made those changes! That is something she's not had before and was used only to hearing the mistakes she was making without positive correction or encouragement when she did do something right.
That's why I was so excited to get her started with you Sherry - I saw not only how you worked at the 4-H meeting but also how she responded to your encouragement and enthusiasm! I knew you would be kind, understanding and gentle yet firm but also that you would cheer and acknowledge when she'd grasped something new or corrected the things she needed to change. Seeing the good in her and rooting her on to do better made her a very happy little girl. She needs that and it's exactly what you give! Thank you!
I wish I could remember all the things she said so I could repeat them back for you - your heart would melt - you made that big an impact on Emma Saturday and she's very eager for more. Again Sherry, thank you!!! The remainder of Emma's weekend was spent telling anybody who'd listen about her time spent with you Saturday afternoon and even Popcorn Days paled in comparison to the fun, neat times she had with you Sherry.
Emma hasn't had many adults in her life that take an interest in her or her well being and though I have actively sought to bring her together with people that do care and want to be a participant, make a difference in a child's life for the better, unfortunately we've ended up with folks that talked a good story but in the end made things more difficult and hard - if that makes sense?
You obviously are not only great at horsemanship and care about teaching people how to correctly go about riding and owning a horse but also took the time to show Emma you cared about her - that's what made the difference!
Emma just kept repeating, tearily, on the way home how you'd "made such a difference in [her] entire life" and for a mom to hear that is the best thing in the world!!
Well Sherry I won't keep you but wanted to take a moment to thank you and share some of the wonderful things I'd heard from Emma with you, and hope it's put a big smile on your face. She had a fantastic weekend thanks to you!
We look forward to seeing you Wednesday at 10:00 Sherry.
God bless,
Marguerite
And Emma, I had a fantastic time with you too and so did my special horse Cisco! Thanks for being careful to do what I asked with him, as he is so dear to me.Thanks for giving me the opportunity to serve you and share with you my love and passion of horses and especially my wonderful horse Cisco. I’m looking forward to working with your yearling filly next week.
Warmly,
Sherry
From Carla in Wyoming: Working with her Young Horse
Dear Sherry,
Thank you for the very encouraging note! The day after our lesson, I practiced the loading button. She followed me in the trailer twice, the third time she walked in and stood there on her own, just like you said she would! I’ve also been climbing on her back from the fence. How much fun is that? It is so comfortable to lay on her bare back. I then saddled her and bridled her and we rode safely and relaxed in the round pen. She stops when I use my butt and when I pick up one rein she crosses her back legs to turn. I am working her with confidence thanks to you. I’ve got two more colts to start and I am excited.
Your saddle pard,
Old Carla in WY
Thanks Backatya’ Carla. I knew you could do it! See you again next year!
Warmly,
Sherry
Back to Quick Links
|
|
|
|
Physcial Health
Skin Care, Diet and Exercise
Sherry has been told over and over that she looks and acts much younger than she is. Those who have taken lessons with her have experienced her energy and passion.
Her secrets are eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, don't drink or smoke, use sunscreen, wear a hat and take really good care of your skin with a dermatology tested and proven skin care system.
If you would like to find out more about the special skin care and dietary aide products that Sherry uses to stay looking young and full of energy call her at 308-730-2150 or 308-346-5663.
Sherry knows that a good horsemanship program will affect every area of your life. Staying in shape is part of it. Call Sherry to visit more about how she stays in shape for her horses. Or maybe, how her horses keep her in shape.
|
|
Mental and Emotional Health
Sherry has been through some stressful and challenging times in her life like the rest of you.
She has bounced back through many life changes by keeping a positive outlook on life even though depression tried to take over at times. It seemed that her horses always kept her on track and so it was only natural that she wanted to share their healing powers with others.
Check out
"Sandhills Horse Sense" a program devoted to promoting relationships and
choices that lead to a positive future.
Sherry is now an EAGALA Certified Horse Professional working in conjunction
with Melissa Dearmont & Mid-West Country Clinic.
L.E.A.D. "Leadership through Equine Assited Development" will help you with building relationships, problem solving, attitudes & behaviors, conflict & stress, responsibilities, positive choices, and much more.
Right now sessions are by appointment!
Classes & Retreats are offered upon request!
Back to Quick Links
|
|
|
|
|
