Facial Recognition

The first show of the season, to shake off the dust and get a baseline assessment, is in the books.  After turning in two thoughtful and tactful rides on Barry (gusts of wind under the tail on rainy days can make for a tense horse), he and I are now ‘approved’ to move up to second level at the next show.  Due to his proclivity for flying lead changes, Laura says we could be showing third at the end of January.  I sure hope so because sitting his trot is like a jack-hammer until he gets to a third level frame where it gets all soft and bouncy and much easier to sit.  Galatea and I will be going out at first level at the next show for the same simple tests, while we work on second and third level exercises at home.  Things are going well and she is happy with the work as am I.  Laura thinks that she and I should also be at third level by the end of January. 

To celebrate the successful show with Barry, I dropped by BurgerFi for a chocolate milkshake and Texas-style hot dog.  I paid cash and was surprised when the server brought the meal to my table and addressed me by my first name – and the receipt had my first name.  Before I left the store, I asked the cashier how they knew my name since I had paid by cash and not credit card.  She didn’t seem to understand what I was asking.  So, I googled ‘facial recognition customers florida’ and up came a blurb that BurgerFi was using facial recognition software to – and I quote – “streamline ordering and remember individual preferences”.  Whaaaaa?  It appears that by using the kiosk to order on a previous visit, I had given the system permission to capture my mug?  If I had been using the kiosk to order, I might not have been surprised since I would have been using my card.  However, I had walked in, gazed at the overhead menu, and then given the cashier my order.  So, clearly, this is being taken to another level – as in recognition as soon as you enter the store?  Recognition at/by the cash register?  Remotely reading my credit cards? Yikes.  Makes me rethink kiosks like those at McDonalds or when checking out from Hyvee or Publix.

Expectations are rising as my riding progresses.  Today I realized that I am now enrolled in the “tough-love” division of dressage.   After riding Barry in a long lesson, I was a bit depleted but had a lesson on Galatea scheduled 45 min later.  That is the usual day; ride Barry first and then 45 min later ride Galatea.  Then collapse in the hammock by the canal.  Usually, the lesson on Barry is shorter because if everything goes well there is no sense drilling.  So, I get on Galatea, but I am clearly not 100%.  Laura asks if I am sick or just tired.  I say “just tired.”  Wrong answer.  If I was sick I could get off, but if I was just tired I was required to continue riding because this could happen at a show and I need to have the mental fortitude to reach down, muscle my strength, and ride my horse.  Moreover, when I then rode a practice test and messed up a movement I was not permitted to circle/regroup or re-do the movement.  I am expected to take the necessary steps to correct the problem in the moment and be ready for the next movement because that is how it will be at a show.  I was then directed to two books written by David Goggins - an ultra-marathoner - about tapping into your reserves.  Oooof. 

Being in Florida at Christmas is a bit of a cognitive disconnect.  I keep looking for snow, but it’s not happening.  Those reading this will think I am crazy, but after spending all my life in snowy climates I really do miss it.  So, how does one know that it is Christmas in Florida.  From all the blow-up decorations and lights – tons of lights.  The decorations are huge and they are everywhere.  I have attached a small slideshow of some of the units near me to give you an idea. Christmas day I will be cooking dinner for few people at the barn who are also on their own. I’ve decided to tackle Beef Wellington.

Bob, Otto, Galatea, Barry and I wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope that Santa appropriately rewards your good behavior this year.