*sigh*
Just found out that Circle R isn't currently taking orders for side saddles. The fuster (treemaker) is redesigning the tree. So, I have no idea when the saddles will be available again. Very frustrating. I may need to talk to our historical saddler and see what he can do. He's made side saddles before and has been a saddler for over 30 years. So it might be time to do a fitting and just have him go ahead with the "project".
On the bright side of today, Bob's taking me out for my birthday. We're going to try out a new Japanese restaurant that opened in our area.
And this weekend, we'll have our new Italian Greyhounds. YAH!!!
5 comments:
Hi Jenn. I've thoroughly enjoyed reading your side saddle blog. The early part made me laugh as I've been there, done that and bought the balance girth - albeit many years ago. You're right about the silly questions. I have to bite my tongue when, after I have painstakingly explained the "science", people STILL say "Oh, I'm sure I'd fall off". Given that I've sat up there while 18hh of total lunatic has bucked enthusiastically twice round a large indoor arena without getting me off, I think they should believe me when I stress how secure the seat is.
Only one comment to make. Do be careful with western side saddles. Ok, so I'm English so what do I know? Old western side saddles were built differently to "english" ones and the rider was made to sit in an odd position, facing 11 o'clock instead of 12 o'clock as you do in an "english" style side saddle. I don't know whether modern makers have overcome this problem but you might be wise to investigate before committing yourself to any particular saddle. Over here new side saddles are often built on old trees and that may be the same over with you, which might cause problems. (Apologies for the use of "english" to describe a generic type of saddle - no zenophobia intended, I assure you :)
If you are in the States you might like to contact Lilian Choudhary, a saddler has a good reputation amongst side saddle ladies both in the USA and overseas.
I hope you continue to enjoy your side saddle and to be such a good ambassador for "the elegant art".
Henrietta
Hi Henrietta,
thank you for reading my blog and I am delighted that you are enjoying reading it as much as I enjoy writing it. :) I know not much has been about the art lately. And thank you very much for the warning about western side saddles. I was not aware that fact. Interesting ancient practice of recovering a tree.
I think the ones by Circle R put you in the correct position. The ladies of the New England Side Saddle Association have had a lot of direct input on the design from my understanding, though I never got to try one out because they didn't have one to fit my mare.
I've heard of Lilian before, so I will definitely look her up.
Happy Birthday Jenn, although a bit late... I do hope you had a good evening.
And I think the buckle's looking good...
Gina
@ Gina. Thanks! :)
@ Henrietta,
I can't find Lilian Choudhary on the net. Does she have a web site?
Nevermind, it's Lillian Chaudhary. :-)
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