Boy, that does not sound like fun! It sounds like your pony has some serious trust issues. I don't think he's happy and excited -- instead, he's anxious about jumping and rushing to get over and away. Assuming that you've checked all the obvious physical problems that might exist -- poorly fitting saddle, bridle, bit, or girth; teeth or feet that need attention --I'd recommend that you start over with the basics, walking and trotting over single ground poles. Maintain a steady

As with most things, the best answer is "it depends," but there are also some absolutes. Different horses mature at different rates and in different ways. On the "absolute" end, I would never start a horse younger than 3 and a half over jumps, no matter what the condition, size, or training the horse has already had -- yet the German horse sales will feature three-year-olds free-jumping over very high fences, to show their natural abilities. If you're getting a young jumper

All good suggestions! I'd second the longe-line lessons. Even being longed by a friend on a steady-eddy horse, and working on your sitting trot on THAT horse, will help. (And no, don't try to sit the trot on your youngster!) Another exercise that I've found works well is to move from two-point to posting, staying about ten strides in two-point, then moving smoothly to posting, going back to two-point, etc. Do this on the friend's steady horse first, then on your horse. And my third

A good resource with info on reins and hitching -- be sure to get the revised edition, which includes the chapter on pairs driving: Carriage Driving, by Heike Bean and Sarah Blanchard

Ah yes, a great topic. I invested in one pair of 'special' underwear, an under-breeches liner with longer legs (mid-thigh) and light but strategic seat padding, for all-day wear at shows. For everyday, however, I prefer -- don't laugh -- Victoria's Secret all-cotton undies, the high-cut brief style. I buy them in white and tan, half a dozen at a time. They're comfortable, have a moderately broad waistband that doesn't curl or cut in, and they don't ride up. I've never

Check out Dr James Warson's book, the Rider's Pain Free Back. Jim is a longtime rider, Morgan horse breeder, and retired surgeon. You can also contact him through his publisher, and I think he may be available for clinics and consultations. A great guy and very knowledgeable.

My mother rode with me until she was seven months pregnant, back in the dark ages of 1950...so in 1984, when I was pregnant with my son, I rode until 5 weeks before delivery. That included hunter paces and jumping on my experienced reliable, trusted mare. I wouldn't recommend that, however, as your balance really gets dicey in the last couple of months. And as your ligaments relax in preparation for childbirth, your back can REALLY hurt. My gynecologist did explain that I wasn't likely to