Shannon Molloy

The day dawned bright and cold with rain in the forecast for late morning. I was glad my section was riding early—I’ll pick low 40s over getting soaked, if I have to pick. The footing was going to be wet no matter what—dew in this case—and at Scarlet Hill Farm in Groton, Mass., the name doesn’t lie: it’s hilly. This year’s experience with the pony has made me more confident riding over all manner of terrain, but I get nervous anyway, especially when I have an audience with an internationally famous equestrian.

Maybe, instead of giving the pony a show name that fits him perfectly, I should have chosen something more…say, submissive. Please Kiss Me, I’ll Do Whatever You Want. Kissing The Way You Like. Kiss Me, And I’m Yours! But no, I had to go and call him Kiss This, and someone told him, and now he won’t live it down.

After having a lot of fun soliciting fashion input, half-washing the pony (focus on the white parts), and cleaning my tack within an inch of its life Sunday, we set off this morning to the pony’s debut with an Olympic rider. 

Yesterday the pony and I participated in a dressage clinic with Joy Congdon. Joy helped me with Blue some when I was bringing him along, and I really liked her.

Not being born into a shadbelly and white gloves, I sometimes find straight dressage trainers to be a little bit scary. Joy is very down-to-earth and accessible, on top of being a smart and gifted rider, and a very talented teacher with a wonderful eye (and a ready smile, which is maybe my favorite part).