Welcome to the Horsemanship With Brandy Blog

If you ask 100 people if equine are good on the trail riding, I expect 95% would rave about their horses/mules.  What about the other 5%?  I own one of those mules.  Well, if he is...

For the largest part, there is absolutely no difference in training a mule than training a horse.  I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing mule trainers, and I have yet to have one say...

Have you ever heard, “I don’t want to sell him, I don’t want him to go to a bad home”, or “I have too many in the pasture”, or “I haven’t ridden any...

Have you ever had someone demand something when you would have gladly done it if they would have asked nicely?  Have you ever had a boss that was too bossy?  Think about how much more...

With owning a trail riding facility and instructing clinics and lessons, I encounter the same dilemma faced by many aging riders.  They compare the rider they once were to the rider they are...

I can say very proudly that I am a turd polisher!  What is a turd polisher?  Well, if you do not know your mule’s background, if it wasn’t broke until way later in life than...

Most trainers will tell you that your mule can only go up, down, left, right, forward, or backwards.  Mules are spunky creatures and with them being all wheel drive, I am here to tell you the...

First, if you are having trouble with your horse, do not be afraid to seek help from a trainer or clinician.  Do not feel like a lesser rider by wearing a helmet, and ride with others until...

As a host, you are not going to be perfect.  As soon as you can come to terms with this inevitable truth, you will regain hours of sleep and find a peace of mind that is priceless. ...

There are ways to design your course for your competition to run smoothly and time efficiently.  Understanding the two major types of obstacles will help you begin designing a course that...

My husband and I own and operate Von Holten Ranch, a trail riding facility in Mora, MO.  We have  hosted over 70 events a year.  When people view our life looking from the outside...

Life is always about the little details.  If someone remembers your birthday and sends a card, that means more than wishing you happy birthday on Facebook.  If someone makes you a cup of...