Welcome to Barnby Notes!  Barnby Notes is about everything training notebooks, from online notebook and hardcover notebooks to our mobile version and our clinic books.  The reason for Barnby Notes is simple.   It originated with my personal experience.  I'm motivated by the horse I love to learn to the best of my ability.  So I take notes, video my rides and journal.  No trainer had suggested I start keeping a training notebook, but I wish they had. And because I'm like many riders who are a little low on natural feel, I wish my earlier training offered other classes on learning how to learn this difficult sport.   Keeping a notebook has been the first step in bringing me the clarity I crave -- from how to problem solve to how to develop new motor skills. This clarity compelled me to give training notebooks a stronger voice in the circles of equestrian education. Thus, Barnby Notes.

 

What's wonderful is that some of the greatest, most gifted riders, educators, psychologists, researchers and respected learning specialists in the country who have succeeded in making it to the top have come to my side.  Why?  because they too have colorful histories with, and a love for, training notebooks and they want to help riders learn how to learn.  With their help I feel like I'm part of a team.  And I want to invite you to join us.  

 

In the first year of launching Barnby Notes, I received an email with a quote.  It's a reflection of what we are trying to accomplish through our efforts at Barnby Notes and it's worth reading..."What I really love seeing is that there is a greater focus on how to learn than on what to learn, a focus that I know has been important to you (Lendon) for a number of years.  Thoughtful reflection on the components  of an activity, linguistic, musical or athletic, and repeated, purposeful practice will enhance and facilitate the acquisition of the skill dramatically.  I have followed your advice about journaling, and I have found it extremely helpful... especially since I don't ride all of my horses each day.  At this point, I've amassed several notebooks.  I re-read my notes from the previous few rides and go into the ride with a frame of reference and a greater sense of purpose, not to mention ownership." -- written by a student of Olympian Lendon Gray