Your lessons have really helped me learn not just the basics of riding, but how I can build off of those and go into deeper methods of jumping, trail riding, dressage, control, pleasure, ground tasks, etc. I'm able to go to the barn each day and be confident in what I do on my horse, knowing that if a problem arises during the course of riding, me and my horse (as a team) can work to fix it. I can observe what my horse is saying through body language also. I've used the ground training as a base for what I can now do on horseback, and always something to go back to if things really get tricky. I'm so glad I've taken lessons with you, because I have no idea what I'd be doing with my horses now if I hadn't. You've really taught me how to care for my horse, how to be their leader, and also how to love them. - Brie Snider
"Jen brings a vast amount of horsemanship, teaching capability, and spirit to every lesson. She not only teaches you riding skills, but helps you to understand the horse. She is very passionate about her trade and is a lot of fun to ride with and be taught by!" Gary Manuel
"As a rider that's been in and out of the horse scene for the last 12+ years, I wanted a refresher on a few things, and Jen was the answer. As an instructor, she is straight to the point, makes you work to achieve your goals, is very patient, and most importantly, has excellent communication skills. Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or a seasoned rider looking to improve on things (we all need it at times), she's the ticket. Overall great teacher, horses that you can actually learn on, and a well run business. Highly recommended!
Pat
"Jen has been giving my daughter private lessons for the last 2 years. Having grown up learning to ride with nose-to-tail-factory style lessons on exhausted horses I wanted something more for my daughter. Jen is a down to earth, amazingly intuitive rider and teacher. Her horses are calm, safe, curious, and follow her around like dogs. Every lesson is different and my daughter loves every minute. I love seeing her progress her skills safely whilst learning respect for these great animals."
Kirstie K
What fun it was to stretch out into a new undertaking. Your passion for horses and sensibility in working with them made the lessons so much more enjoyable. Thank you again for your patience with me. -MaryBeth Gaskill
There are certain points in a horse's life when proper and timely training are essential to his mental and physical well-being. One of these points came up for me in 2010. That spring my horse was diagnosed with insulin resistance. He was not allowed to eat fresh grass, clover or alfalfa. This meant that a grazing muzzle was necessary for him as he stays out all day. Jen helped us out by introducing both my horse and husband to the muzzle and how to put it on ( I am physically unable to do this). She made the muzzle a positive experience for the horse and showed my husband that muzzling a seventeen-hand horse is not impossible. Jen's training and patience are clearly reasons for my horse's health today (2012). The confidence that she instilled in my husband helped him realize that a horse's acceptance of a situation depends on the calmness and patience of the person working with him. This all started with correct training. - Gloria Kraft
I am an adult student of Jen. Jen tailors her teaching plan according to my specific goals. Her lesson plan is both innovative and comprehensive, from relationship building with the horse, training of riding techniques, to practicle experience in trail rides.
Leo and Cass the horses are great fun as well. Leo is carefree and has a mind of his own. Cass is very gentle manner. Jen encourages me to get to know the horses and they are great companions after a long week of work.
Jen was able to connect riding back to nature, and the enjoyment of the experience is far beyond horsemanship alone. - Iryne Ng
"I found Jen to be a patient and knowledgeable teacher. As an older person with next to no experience, I had very little confidence until she gave me the skills to learn about myself and my horse. Her enthusiasm makes a student want to do better without putting too much pressure on them." - Cindy Edwards
I love that you are ALWAYS wanting to GROW in your learning. You make me want to be a better horse person myself. - Molly Feiker
My son and I have been taking lessons from Jen since June of 2012. She has changed not only how we ride but our relationship and understanding of horses. In lessons my son and I experienced before Jen, we had no idea what we were doing or why. We never learned how to take care of a horse or even get a horse ready for a lesson. I use to ride being afraid the whole lesson and never really felt safe, I was at the mercy of the horse’s behavior that day. I watch my son who is 13 ride bare back on Cass, totally at ease and loving every minute we spend at the barn with Jen and the horses. I have always wanted to have my own horse and Jen has taught me so much that I feel I could one day have that happen. Jen’s love of her horses comes through in every lesson. My son and I have taken lessons at a few barns he has gotten bored and was not motivated to continue riding even though he loves horses. I personally would quit because I was afraid and didn’t feel like I was advancing. I can say I am no longer afraid and my son is not bored ever. Jen has taught us so much and it starts on the ground way before you ever get on the horse and once you get and understand that you will advance as a rider no matter what level you are. Taking lessons from Jen is an adventure each time that you walk away from with a deeper understanding of the horse and yourself as a rider.
Thanks Jen and Leo, Cass, J.J.
Cindy and Matt Zaban
Captivated by horses my entire life I finally had the means to start riding lessons in my early 40’s. After sending an email to Jen and chatting with her on the phone we bonded immediately and I knew that she was the teacher for me. For several months I had tried to find an instructor who would teach me everything there is to know about horses—from how to greet them properly to grooming to understanding all that tack. My goal was to be able to go on a trail ride with my own horse someday (my ultimate dream) where I had the skills to be safe and where I felt secure. Sounds simple and sane enough right? Wrong! I spoke to so many riding instructors who wanted to start me jumping or in intensive dressage training. They didn’t want me to learn the basics but wanted me to jump fences! How can I jump a fence when I don’t even know how to saddle my horse and make sure all the tack is proper? That is a recipe for disaster.
When Jen and I spoke that first time she asked me what my goals were and instead of telling me that those goals were a waste of time she said that if I wanted to learn to ride I was on the right track! Since that talk in October 2011 I’ve been taking weekly riding lessons and can’t adequately describe how much those lessons mean to me. As an adult learner I tend too over think and over analyze things but Jen is always patient and willing to explain or show me certain moves over and over until I understand and am comfortable with them. Jen has made me so excited about riding that I now subscribe to riding magazines so I can continue my knowledge. I also read books on horsemanship all the while comparing what I’ve learned to what I read. I have made incredible progress and am so proud of myself and my achievements. I have Jen to thank for being a talented, caring instructor who knows when and how to push me out of my comfort zone but does so knowing that I can execute the maneuver—I am just blocking myself in my own head. I am always comfortable asking Jen questions during a lesson. We have strong communication and that’s an important building block to learning. Jen appreciates students who are engaged and put forth their best effort.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my horse partner, Leo. I love this Hallinger so much. Jen has given me the opportunity to work with Leo exclusively and get him in top form. Leo and I have had many trials and tribulations but he’s been remarkably patient while I apply what Jen has taught me. Truth be told—Leo’s taught me a thing or two on his own! There’s a lot of sweat equity built into the partnership that Leo and I have but I know with him I am safe and he’ll take care of me on trail or in the arena.
Jen’s mantra is “trust your horse—be a good partner” and with Jen’s instruction Leo and I are there. Of course there are still miles of learning ahead but we have our basics down and teamwork.
Thank you, Jen for being a talented, caring, amazing instructor and friend. Thank you, Mr. Leo for your awesome partnership—and being the most handsome horse ever. I look forward to each lesson—I don’t know who I love more—Jen or Leo!
-Roxanne
Jen is the first riding instructor, out of several, who has made lessons enjoyable and truly meaningful. She is positive and takes the time to make sure you understand why you do groundwork/exercises. Most importantly, through natural horsemanship you learn through the horse's eyes and she makes that possible.
Jackie
"Jen is knowledgable, experienced, and fun! I knew nothing about horses and now, 6 months later, I understand the basics of horsemanship. She made me comfortable at the same time she pushed me to improve. At first I thought I could learn to ride in a few months. Now I know that there is always something to learn no matter how experienced you are. I want to learn about horses, not just how to ride. That's what Jen provides."
Sophia
Working with Jen is truly an out of body experience. She helps you learn to connect to the horse with skill and intuition. You can actually feel the horse respond in subtle ways when you get it right. Leaning at Face 2 Face is not horseback riding, it's horsemanship at the core. It's simply, "wow!"
Lori McConnville
"Jen brings a vast amount of horsemanship, teaching capability, and spirit to every lesson. She not only teaches you riding skills, but helps you to understand the horse. She is very passionate about her trade and is a lot of fun to ride with and be taught by!" Gary Manuel
"As a rider that's been in and out of the horse scene for the last 12+ years, I wanted a refresher on a few things, and Jen was the answer. As an instructor, she is straight to the point, makes you work to achieve your goals, is very patient, and most importantly, has excellent communication skills. Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or a seasoned rider looking to improve on things (we all need it at times), she's the ticket. Overall great teacher, horses that you can actually learn on, and a well run business. Highly recommended!
Pat
"Jen has been giving my daughter private lessons for the last 2 years. Having grown up learning to ride with nose-to-tail-factory style lessons on exhausted horses I wanted something more for my daughter. Jen is a down to earth, amazingly intuitive rider and teacher. Her horses are calm, safe, curious, and follow her around like dogs. Every lesson is different and my daughter loves every minute. I love seeing her progress her skills safely whilst learning respect for these great animals."
Kirstie K
What fun it was to stretch out into a new undertaking. Your passion for horses and sensibility in working with them made the lessons so much more enjoyable. Thank you again for your patience with me. -MaryBeth Gaskill
There are certain points in a horse's life when proper and timely training are essential to his mental and physical well-being. One of these points came up for me in 2010. That spring my horse was diagnosed with insulin resistance. He was not allowed to eat fresh grass, clover or alfalfa. This meant that a grazing muzzle was necessary for him as he stays out all day. Jen helped us out by introducing both my horse and husband to the muzzle and how to put it on ( I am physically unable to do this). She made the muzzle a positive experience for the horse and showed my husband that muzzling a seventeen-hand horse is not impossible. Jen's training and patience are clearly reasons for my horse's health today (2012). The confidence that she instilled in my husband helped him realize that a horse's acceptance of a situation depends on the calmness and patience of the person working with him. This all started with correct training. - Gloria Kraft
I am an adult student of Jen. Jen tailors her teaching plan according to my specific goals. Her lesson plan is both innovative and comprehensive, from relationship building with the horse, training of riding techniques, to practicle experience in trail rides.
Leo and Cass the horses are great fun as well. Leo is carefree and has a mind of his own. Cass is very gentle manner. Jen encourages me to get to know the horses and they are great companions after a long week of work.
Jen was able to connect riding back to nature, and the enjoyment of the experience is far beyond horsemanship alone. - Iryne Ng
"I found Jen to be a patient and knowledgeable teacher. As an older person with next to no experience, I had very little confidence until she gave me the skills to learn about myself and my horse. Her enthusiasm makes a student want to do better without putting too much pressure on them." - Cindy Edwards
I love that you are ALWAYS wanting to GROW in your learning. You make me want to be a better horse person myself. - Molly Feiker
My son and I have been taking lessons from Jen since June of 2012. She has changed not only how we ride but our relationship and understanding of horses. In lessons my son and I experienced before Jen, we had no idea what we were doing or why. We never learned how to take care of a horse or even get a horse ready for a lesson. I use to ride being afraid the whole lesson and never really felt safe, I was at the mercy of the horse’s behavior that day. I watch my son who is 13 ride bare back on Cass, totally at ease and loving every minute we spend at the barn with Jen and the horses. I have always wanted to have my own horse and Jen has taught me so much that I feel I could one day have that happen. Jen’s love of her horses comes through in every lesson. My son and I have taken lessons at a few barns he has gotten bored and was not motivated to continue riding even though he loves horses. I personally would quit because I was afraid and didn’t feel like I was advancing. I can say I am no longer afraid and my son is not bored ever. Jen has taught us so much and it starts on the ground way before you ever get on the horse and once you get and understand that you will advance as a rider no matter what level you are. Taking lessons from Jen is an adventure each time that you walk away from with a deeper understanding of the horse and yourself as a rider.
Thanks Jen and Leo, Cass, J.J.
Cindy and Matt Zaban
Captivated by horses my entire life I finally had the means to start riding lessons in my early 40’s. After sending an email to Jen and chatting with her on the phone we bonded immediately and I knew that she was the teacher for me. For several months I had tried to find an instructor who would teach me everything there is to know about horses—from how to greet them properly to grooming to understanding all that tack. My goal was to be able to go on a trail ride with my own horse someday (my ultimate dream) where I had the skills to be safe and where I felt secure. Sounds simple and sane enough right? Wrong! I spoke to so many riding instructors who wanted to start me jumping or in intensive dressage training. They didn’t want me to learn the basics but wanted me to jump fences! How can I jump a fence when I don’t even know how to saddle my horse and make sure all the tack is proper? That is a recipe for disaster.
When Jen and I spoke that first time she asked me what my goals were and instead of telling me that those goals were a waste of time she said that if I wanted to learn to ride I was on the right track! Since that talk in October 2011 I’ve been taking weekly riding lessons and can’t adequately describe how much those lessons mean to me. As an adult learner I tend too over think and over analyze things but Jen is always patient and willing to explain or show me certain moves over and over until I understand and am comfortable with them. Jen has made me so excited about riding that I now subscribe to riding magazines so I can continue my knowledge. I also read books on horsemanship all the while comparing what I’ve learned to what I read. I have made incredible progress and am so proud of myself and my achievements. I have Jen to thank for being a talented, caring instructor who knows when and how to push me out of my comfort zone but does so knowing that I can execute the maneuver—I am just blocking myself in my own head. I am always comfortable asking Jen questions during a lesson. We have strong communication and that’s an important building block to learning. Jen appreciates students who are engaged and put forth their best effort.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention my horse partner, Leo. I love this Hallinger so much. Jen has given me the opportunity to work with Leo exclusively and get him in top form. Leo and I have had many trials and tribulations but he’s been remarkably patient while I apply what Jen has taught me. Truth be told—Leo’s taught me a thing or two on his own! There’s a lot of sweat equity built into the partnership that Leo and I have but I know with him I am safe and he’ll take care of me on trail or in the arena.
Jen’s mantra is “trust your horse—be a good partner” and with Jen’s instruction Leo and I are there. Of course there are still miles of learning ahead but we have our basics down and teamwork.
Thank you, Jen for being a talented, caring, amazing instructor and friend. Thank you, Mr. Leo for your awesome partnership—and being the most handsome horse ever. I look forward to each lesson—I don’t know who I love more—Jen or Leo!
-Roxanne
Jen is the first riding instructor, out of several, who has made lessons enjoyable and truly meaningful. She is positive and takes the time to make sure you understand why you do groundwork/exercises. Most importantly, through natural horsemanship you learn through the horse's eyes and she makes that possible.
Jackie
"Jen is knowledgable, experienced, and fun! I knew nothing about horses and now, 6 months later, I understand the basics of horsemanship. She made me comfortable at the same time she pushed me to improve. At first I thought I could learn to ride in a few months. Now I know that there is always something to learn no matter how experienced you are. I want to learn about horses, not just how to ride. That's what Jen provides."
Sophia
Working with Jen is truly an out of body experience. She helps you learn to connect to the horse with skill and intuition. You can actually feel the horse respond in subtle ways when you get it right. Leaning at Face 2 Face is not horseback riding, it's horsemanship at the core. It's simply, "wow!"
Lori McConnville
