The Powder Forest

Gail Coopersmith & Brandy Alexander
Jonesboro, GA

I have learned more in the last 2 years of riding with Sandi than in all the 20 years before. My Horse Alex has advanced so quickly that he now teaches me. Sandi refined my technical skills and made certain I had an understanding of why these techniques work. As a result I enjoy riding even more and I know that Alex [my horse] is happier.

Dawn and Summer Sauls & Stormy
McDonough, GA

My daughter, Summer, and I were/are new to the horse world. Not knowing enough, we were convinced by a friend that a two year old horse would be a good fit for my 9 year old daughter. They said, "It'll be a great fit, they will grow together." Yes, you read that right. My daughter spent the summer cleaning stalls, feeding, watering and grooming this horse and theirs, before I decided to buy her. I made sure the friends could help us with the training and lessons. Unfortunately, it didn't work out that way.

Concerned about safety, I started searching for any "outside" information. I came across Sandi's website and sent her an email, through her "online training help" link, asking if she had a seminar coming up soon. I told her of my situation and she responded very quickly. Sandi emailed me, expressing concern and wanted to see us immediately. I was scared. I had no idea that we were in danger. Sandi said that it was not a good mix for a young, green horse and a child to be put together and she wanted to see us immediately. I made the appointment and we met Sandi within a week.

Immediately, I knew I had picked a professional in the world of horses, not to mention psychology and equine vet, etc. She knew it ALL. I say psychology, because, she made me feel better about my "not so smart" decision. It took several weeks of encouragement and pep talks from her. I had felt like a fool and was afraid for my daughter. I was embarrassed and ashamed that I had put my daughter in danger. Sandi quickly made me realize that I had made a smart decision to seek help, which put us on the right track. Sandi brought us and our horse out of the danger. I'm wiping away the tears now, as I write this testimonial. Sandi is our angel.

When Sandi met Stormy for the first time, we were excited. We showed her how we were doing "things." Our "things" were different than her "things." We quickly converted to Sandi's natural horsemanship way of training. It is gentle, calm, compassionate and loving, as is she. On the second visit to our boarding facility, Sandi told me of her concerns. Stormy was in a bad place, physically, mentally and emotionally. She was under weight, was in danger of injury from the conditions of the facility, and it was not the best learning environment for my daughter. Sandi recommended we move Stormy, which we did within a few weeks.

We have been with Sandi for about five months now, and she has saved us. I'm afraid to think what could have happened if we didn't find her. I call her the "know it all" because she does "know it all." I learned more from Sandi in the first three weeks than I had learned from my "friends" in nine months. She will guide and teach you in a kind, fun, honest, professional way, proceeding at the level you and your horse are ready for. It's been a year since we bought Stormy and, because of Sandi, we are not just riding her, we are understanding her thoughts, needs and wishes. Thank you so much Sandi.

Jackie Asbill & Snickers
Jonesboro, GA

I'd been riding about 25 years before I met Sandi. I had taken lessons from several local instructors with my unpredictable thoroughbred mare. When I met Sandi I was ready to replace her. Sandi helped me make peace with this mare and we went on to enjoy many happy years together. I had to retire her about five years ago, but now Sandi is helping me through the levels with a new horse. I very likely would have quit riding years ago if Sandi hadn't come along when she did. She knows not only horses so well, but also how to relate to the riders which is what I needed so much. I had over the years become a much more timid and nervous rider. I found that Sandi can talk you through nervousness (you and/or your horse) and build your confidence (you and/or your horse) while improving your riding skills. The rider and especially the horse benefit from Sandi's influence because she is so caring and through in communicating riding skills, management skills, health issues, tack issues, safety and all aspects of horse and rider. I am glad to still have my sassy thoroughbred mare and I am so glad to still be learning more as I work with my new horse. I'd have none of this without Sandi's dedicated help.

Kirsten Eidsmoe & Draoi
Atlanta, GA

It's so easy to blame the horse, isn't it? After a childhood of 'problem horses' followed by a 10 year hiatus from riding, I finally decided - as an adult - to do things right: find a trainer, learn to ride properly, and finally get my dream horse. The day I met Sandi, I knew step one was complete. If I had written a list of what I wanted in a trainer (and I kinda did), Sandi matched it completely. I'd never met someone with so much skill, so much respect for the horse, and such a rare ability to communicate with her students. I used to think I was special because she was so invested in my riding progress, until I watched her teach a few lessons to other students. She never runs out of energy and enthusiasm!

My dream horse has become a reality, and along with the reality comes all kinds of little problems that real horses have. I never realized until Draoi was here that I'd spent my whole life imagining a perfect horse that he could never live up to. I was shocked to find out that he had a mind of his own; shocked that he acted like a horse. I was suddenly faced with the realization that in all my earlier years of riding, the problems I was having weren't because I had 'the wrong horse.' I was the common denominator, and I needed to figure out how to work with real horses - not keep looking for that perfect dream horse that didn't exist.

Thankfully, Sandi already knew that! I am so impressed that she can be so gentle, and yet still earn a horse's respect. She's nice, but she's no pushover! Sandi pushes Draoi and me to go a little farther and get a little better each time. I'm learning how to communicate with Draoi in a way that he can understand, and I'm understanding why it works. What differentiates Sandi's instruction most is her commitment to building a strong foundation. And when she says "training tailored to the individual," she's serious! Sandi is always able to find a unique approach to a unique problem.

Sharon Willis & Parable & Mint Julep's Lace
Conyers, GA

My beautiful mare, Lace, and I have been taking instructions from Sandi Forester for 18 months. Thanks to Sandi we are finally beginning to work as a team. Lace was a frightened, mishandled horse when I bought her, and very dangerous in that respect. Sandi has brought us together by teaching me how to teach Lace to trust. I'm not afraid of my horse anymore. We are riding intro level dressage, and were just in a horse show at the Horse Park – my first! We can even ride trails now. If I had not found Sandi when I did, I'm afraid I would have been just one more person to have given up on such a wonderful animal. Thank you so much, Sandi.

Sharon Kraft & Razz-Me
Burlington, CT

I grew up with the All American Dream. I wanted a husband, a house, kids and a horse. I was fortunate enough to acquire it all. However, no one prepared me for the horse. It didn't take Razz long to figure out that I didn't know much about riding or horses. My dream was becoming shattered. After only one month this beautiful talented and gentle horse turned into an obnoxious untruly and biting monster. Time to get help!

Well, let me tell you, that it was my lucky day when Sandi came for my first lesson. I could not hold back my frustrations. I told her my impression of riding was like playing beautiful music. My riding was comparable to playing all the wrong notes to the right song. After many tears and hard work those notes began to sound like a song. After 5 years with Sandi, I now compare my riding to playing a beautiful symphony with my horse. I will be forever grateful to Sandi who made my dream more beautiful than ever envisioned. I miss her and so does my horse.

Kevin L. Ward & Cisco, Magic, EZ, & Rocky
Atlanta, GA

When I was dragged, kicking and screaming into the horse world by my wife, I was not what you would call an "ideal" student. Then, after a year of school horses and basic training at a good local barn, I began training on my own horses with Sandi Forester. Still reluctant, I recall one day getting off of my wife's stubborn Appaloosa, handing the reigns to Sandi and basically saying "to hell with this."

It is a true testament to Sandi's ability as a trainer of both horse and rider that I am now really enjoying riding and feel like I have developed the skill to overcome my horses' stubbornness as well as my own. I enjoy it so much, I even insist on keeping my lesson in the pouring rain (Sandi carries a raincoat for such stubborn students).

Sandi's intense, personal focus on my horse and me has helped me learn that horse and rider are one combined and collective spirit that function seamlessly. This is one of those classic unions that is greater than the sum of its parts. Sandi's patience and guidance led me to the right horse at the right pace. Now I've learned to communicate with my horse, Magic, through body language as subtle as breathing and as complex as a ballet. Sandi has taught me well enough that on a good day for me and my horse, I can look where I want us to go and we just go there. I even know why this happens and how to do it again. Sandi is one of those rare people in the equestrian world that loves horses and people, and has the patience to deal with both. If you get the opportunity to learn with Sandi, you will be learning in rarefied air with a mentor that is at the absolute pinnacle of her craft.

Sascha Ward & Cisco, Magic, EZ, & Rocky
Atlanta, GA

It was just dumb luck that I had a chance to meet and watch Sandi teach a lesson one day last fall. I'd known of Sandi from her ad in Stablemates but had instantly dismissed the idea of calling her as I assumed she would be too hoity-toity and advanced for the likes of me. My goal was simply to learn to start, stop and steer my horse, Cisco, while remaining in his good graces so that he would allow me to get on him and safely stay there for what I'd hope would be a pleasant bit of trail riding for both of us.

As I watched and listened to Sandi that day I was reminded once again why one should never judge a book by its cover! I generally tend to know a good thing when I see one and so I ran to catch up with her (if memory serves me correctly it may have involved some tackling) and inquired about scheduling a lesson. I immediately found her to be easy to talk to as those who are charming, friendly and warm are wont to be. Happily she happened to have a spot coming available and as they say... the rest is... History.

What I've learned about Sandi since that fortuitous meeting is that besides the charm, friendliness etc. she is an intelligent and talented teacher, patient beyond belief with both horse and rider, unflagging enthusiasm coupled with a sunny disposition and if that were not enough, it's rolled all together with a thoroughly delightful sense of humor.

I cannot for one minute imagine my life without Sandi in it. She is a true miracle worker, an Anne Sullivan to my Helen Keller. Taking me to places in my equestrian interests I had been deaf and blind to before. I had always believed that dressage was only for the very serious and competitive student. Sandi has opened my eyes to the importance of using the basics of dressage to enhance performance in both horse and rider no matter what the rider's discipline of choice. Not to mention it's challenging AND fun.(who knew?)

I know without a doubt that if it were not for Sandi's superb ability to patiently communicate (even if Cisco and I have to hear it a hundred times) and instruct, I believe I would have a very expensive and kooky (although much loved) lawn ornament on my hands and Cisco would be.........living the Life of Riley!

Sandi, thank you for all you have given to me and my horses. I so much appreciate your help in being able to finally leave that feeling of merely "clinging on for dear life" behind me.(well...95% of the time anyway.... depending on Cisco) You know how important that is for a 51 year old who's deep into her second childhood! And thank you for showing my husband "the light"! (see Kevin's testimonial) You have been instrumental in enriching our marriage! I would be more than happy to speak with anyone who might have specific questions about your lessons. Feel free to give them my email address. Here's to many years of Good Times together!

Bonnie Martin & Baron's Final Star H.
Gemara Farm Foxtrotters, Barnesville, GA

I have learned more from working with Sandi Forester for in the last couple years than I learned in the previous 25 years of Lessons, Seminars, Clinics & Readings. She is able to communicate with the horse & rider in clear terms and is an excellent all-around horse woman.

Dale Anderson & Calendar Girl
McDonough, GA

"I can't do this!" I heard myself scream in the middle of a lesson when my horse ran out of the arena for the umpteenth time. My instructor, Sandi Forester, questioned me as to whether I truly meant what I said or if I was just frustrated. I think, at the time, that I really did mean it, but told her I was just frustrated with my pathetic horsemanship.

That was a year and a half ago and had I looked back a little further in time, say six months, I would have realized what a long way we had already come.

It was love at first sight!! The first time I saw that beautiful chestnut Arabian mare with the flaxen mane a mile long I was hooked. I wasn't even thinking of buying a horse, but I couldn't get her off my mind. A year later, unbelievably, she was mine. I thought everything was going to be wonderful because I had the most beautiful horse in the world and I loved her. Nothing prepared me for what followed.

My beloved horse seemed to hate me! I had difficulties trying to catch her, groom her, tack her, lead her, mount her, lunge her, and of course ride her. Sandi patiently, yet persistently taught me about horse psychology. She explained that I needed to be her leader, as Calle was a rather dominate mare. Being firm, consistent and proactive became the rules of the day. Sandi explained that just like the other horses had to let her know when she was in the wrong very clearly by using a kick, bite, or body movement, I must be able to emulate those actions in human terms.

Slowly and painstakingly, I improved in my leadership role. Calle also improved as many of her behavioral issues disappeared. Not surprisingly, my horsemanship skills have also improved through Sandi's instruction. Calle and I have become much more of a team than I would have ever thought possible because of Sandi's knowledge, experience, and intuitiveness. Her patience is so important, but equally as important is her insistence on pushing you just to the edge of your comfort zone to achieve a higher level of skill than you thought possible.

I am deeply indebted to Sandi for teaching me how to ride, but much more for teaching me how to have a positive and fulfilling relationship with one of God's loveliest creations - the horse.

Andrea Elmore & Janoe
McDonough, GA

I had been riding horses competitively and for pleasure since childhood. An avid pony-clubber in my youth, followed by years as a successful rider with my University's Intercollegiate Horse Show Association team, and then as an exercise rider for a large eventing barn, I considered myself knowledgeable and well-rounded as a rider. One bad fall and a serious injury involving my newly acquired and very green horse, managed to shatter my confidence and turn what used to be my passion into something I dreaded and was afraid to do. I was blessed, and my love for riding was salvaged, when I had the good fortune of meeting and beginning lessons with Sandi Forester. With an abundance of patience for both me and my young horse, she has not only brought me back to the level of confidence I had before my accident, she has given me a whole new education regarding equine emotions, physiology, way of going, and how to achieve everything I ever wanted with my equine partner. I am grateful to Sandi for playing a huge role in helping me find the joy and exhilaration in riding that I was so close to losing and for taking me to a much higher level of understanding and ability. Sandi is a truly professional horsewoman who is not in it for the glory of the show ring or the awe of the spectators. She is in it for the good of the horse and the pleasure to be gained by the rider when real harmony is achieved.

Beverly Seebacher
Carousel Farms, Woodbury, GA

I want to express my deepest gratitude to Sandi for her excellent care and training of my 4 year old quarter horse mare. Her professional expertise and special communication ways with horse and rider make her a delightful pleasure to know and work with. I feel really blessed to have her as a friend.

Janie Stegall, Dixie & Snuffy

We wanted to thank you for all the hard work and time you put into our two horses. Since bringing Dixie to you we have seen a marked improvement in settling her down to a western way of going. She has developed a good working jog and seems happy in her work. She is a challenge for a beginner rider, but with your guidance, we will get over the existing hurdles.

In the two months that you have had Snuffy, we believe that he is in his best physical condition since leaving the show circuit six years ago. He is moving comfortably, his trot is softer, and he is displaying a proper walk for the first time. In addition, we wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed the working clinic you held last month. It is the first time in years that we have been able to enjoy an activity with our horses beyond just feeding and grooming. In closing, we appreciate your overall approach to horses and riders. You instill confidence while handling us all with patience. We look forward to a continuing working relationship.

Catherine Bakkum Lyons
Lithonia, GA

The past month of classes concerning the care and general knowledge of horses has been priceless. Your choice of subject matter was comprehensive and thorough, the presentation un-daunting and personable. At the moment I feel overwhelmed with the responsibility of owning and caring for a horse, yet much more prepared. Even more important, I feel my knowledge of what to look for in the choice of a horse and boarding facilities has expanded to the level of conversing intelligently about the subject and knowing how to be a integral and caring part of the relationship I will have with my horse. At times I feel frustrated with my limited knowledge of horses and overwhelmed about all there is yet to be learned, but excited about gaining the knowledge and experience. Thanks for the information about the book and for your contribution to my future!