So this winter means that Ike and I are beginning our introduction to the double bridle. Yep, I have never used one before. It was debated and discussed for a number of months before we decided that it could be helpful. I struggle due to lack of experience with dressage beyond First Level, and I lack the physical strength to half halt effectively in certain situations.  There are also Carpal tunnel in both wrists and my fibromyalgia that can make riding a struggle some days. My drive to learn and to escape the lower levels keeps me going, and the double bridle can hopefully give me just a little bit of extra oomph to teach Ike the skills to progress beyond First Level.  I will still ride in my normal bridle most days, but will use the double bridle during some of my lessons. [read – under the eagle eye of Ms. C so I don’t do anything stupid inappropriate.]

I found a very nice double bridle (it can convert to a snaffle bridle if necessary) and inexpensive bradoon and Weymouth bits through Schneider Saddlery (http://www.sstack.com/English_Bridles/Dress-Conv-Bridle-W-pat-Bead/$%7B(%20%20)#32871%20FS%20BK}) for a very reasonable price. Of course, assembling the pieces was not quite as easy as clicking “purchase” on the website. So, without further ado, I present to you “How to assemble a double bridle.”

1. Stupidly smile at box when it arrives because it makes you feel like a big kid rather than a beginner.
2. Open box. Remove the packaging and sniff the new leather.
3. Lay out the various pieces on the counter to make sure all parts are present and accounted for.
4. Look in box for some Ikea-style pictogram assembly instructions. Grimace and then mutter expletives when you realize there are none. 
5. Pour a large glass of wine.
6. Retrieve laptop so that you can find a photo of the assembled bridle on the website.
7. Attach the bradoon and Weymouth bits and admire your handywork.
8. Remove the bits when you realize you forgot to attach the browband.
9. Curse your ineptitude and take a big swig of the wine.
10. Slide browband into place.
11. Reattach both bits.
12. Realize that the headstall is backwards because the throatlatch is in the front.
13. Mutter more expletives as you remove both bits for the second time and then the browband.
14. Have another large sip of wine.
15. Curse the inventor of the double bridle.
16. Pour more wine.
17. Yet again study the photo of the assembled bridle and reattach the browband first and then the bits.
18. Attach the noseband.
19. Breathe sigh of relief when you realize you finally attached everything correctly.
20. Attach the reins to the bits.
21. Call your trainer to confirm each set of reins are attached to the correct bit.
22. Admire fully assembled bridle.
23. Find a keeper on the floor. Pick up before it is consumed by a curious canine.
24. Scratch your head when you realize you cannot figure out where it goes.
25. Shrug and put it in your wallet just in case you have an epiphany.
26. Admire your accomplishment again as you envision riding down centerline with your horse wearing the bridle…one day….
27. Finish the bottle of wine.

I am happy to report that Ms. C gave my efforts a passing grade.  Ike was a sport as we adjusted the fit.  And I have to say (please pardon my proud horse mom moment), that I think my boy looked pretty smart wearing this new bridle.  Wish us luck!

alison