Being Intentional

Slowly, but surely, I am making progress on the saddleseat set for Hamilton. I decided to start with the bridle. I’ve never attempted a double bridle before so this has been a challenge. It’s also very delicate. I’m splitting 1/8″ lace for 1/16″ straps to reduce bulk on the model.

The leather lace came from Springfield Leather. I ordered brown in their Classic finish, hoping that the color would work out ok. I was so relieved when I took it out of the package. It’s such a nice, dark brown color, and is so smooth and easy to work with. Leather lace can be hit or miss sometimes, but so far I’ve been really happy with my orders from these guys.

Finding time and finding motivation to work on tack has been such a challenge for me, especially during the last couple of years. Once I get into it I’m ok, but starting is often the hardest part.

Something I’m learning is that motivation doesn’t always show up on it’s own. I can wait and wait and wait and before I know it months have gone by and I’ve made no progress at all.
However, motivation does arrive when I’m intentional about my time and setting small, realistic goals for myself.

Managing my time better is something I’ll forever be working on. With my time for hobbies limited, I’ve found it extremely helpful to dedicate 15 minutes, 30 minutes or an hour for uninterrupted work. I’ll listen to podcasts, music playlists or just set a timer and work in silence. Once that time is up, I’ll put everything down and move on to whatever else I need to do. Ideally I’d like to do this every day, but some days it just doesn’t happen.

Of course there are days where I am mentally or physically unable to accomplish this, and rather than force myself it’s better to go outside for a walk or curl up on the couch with a movie.
Thankfully I haven’t had too many of those days lately… my main struggle is fighting the lazy part of me that just wants to mindlessly scroll social media for an hour. 🙄

This week was a good week though. A little at a time quickly adds up, and so far I’ve managed to put over five hours into this bridle.

Hopefully next week will be a good week too.