Rode for the first time in 3 months today.  Only about 20 minutes as he has to get used to the saddle on his back  (know they don't get callouses per se but believe they do have to build up some kind of protection).  At any rate, did a truncated 7 games.  We're in a race with the flies - to see if we can get anything done before the repellant wears off and they attack in earnest.  As it was he was distracted with them but we presevered.

He was a little antsy as he was removed from his buddies but pretty obedient all the same.  He did suck back, as he does, when I overfaced him with requests.  He is so sensitive that almost any request save for moving briskly forward (at the walk, trot or canter) around the arena, is a reason for him to adopt his 'pretty pony pose' and suck back inside himself.  We'll just have to keep plugging away at it.  Do try and allow him to 'let down' after we've done something that requires a bit of mental effort so that the ride, our lengthy 20 minute ride, is not too stressful for him. 

Have 5 cones set up so did the weave using exaggerated body movement (he's not focussed on me enough yet, still experiencing separation anxiety) and then with the reins.  Also figure 8 around two cones - he really sucked back with that but we got an excellent canter depart (the only one we did as it's still too slick and boggy in the arena) because the figure 8 had got him collected and underneath himself.  Lovely feeling.

Took him out for a pick and a good bush afterwards and then threw a rug on him to give him some relief from the flies. 

Lovely to be riding again.