Desensitizing and costume party

In June, my barn had a Desensitizing Party.

It was so much fun, we decided to do it again.

This time with costumes.

Olive isn't a big fan of costumes so I decided to keep it simple: Icelandic princess bridle,

glitter hoof polish,

and home made, sparkle hair extensions...

for both the mane...

and tail.

There were also some silver necklaces, but someone made it very clear that was a step too far. Okay, girl. I get it.

Most of the obstacles were similar to what we had last time: a big ball,

Cheri and Maggie

various inflatables,

Dango

a pool noodle walk-through,

Cheri and Maggie

a tent with a backdrop on one side,

Reece and Saphira

an umbrella,

Karen and Roy

and a windsock,

Kathy and Ahji

another scary walk-through...

Bea and Blackjack

and a tarp.

Diana and Guaranteed

Except this tarp wasn't actually a tarp. It was an area rug.

Despite my best efforts, Olive has never managed to put four feet on a tarp. I thought this would be more of the same.

I was wrong!

I'm guessing the big issue with a real tarp is the sound. The rug was much quieter, and Olive didn't mind it at all.

Good pony!

While I don't have photographic evidence, she also navigated the tent and both walk-throughs, and generally managed to keep her composure in a really busy, spooky arena.

She did not cross the bubblewrap or interact with any of the inflatables, but honestly, I didn't push for that. There's only so much a little mustang pony can be expected to do.

At the end of the day, I asked Karen to pose with her and Roy in front of the backdrop.

Margaret saw this and asked if I wanted to be in the picture. I don't usually ride without a helmet, but she was being so good, I couldn't say no.

I love this one!

Before I got off, I rode Olive right across the area rug tarp. She didn't even hesitate. What a good pony. What a fun party!