I had a lesson with Lee Tubman today. I had never ridden with him before and I was super impressed with his eye and his ability to explain things. He went right to the root of the problems, called us out, and then we tackled them head on in a very non-confrontational way. He knew after 1 circle for instance which way was Bliss's easy side and which was the stiff side. He identified immediately that Bliss can fake it all day long with his neck too high looking very pretty without really coming through from behind. So he had me be really soft with the hands and let him have a longer rein to try to get him stretching more over the topline to work the muscle in front of the wither. Then he called us out again once Bliss started going with a lower neck for him being behind the bit. So we focused on having him STRAIGHT with a good half halt. Then when things were going well he had me give forward slightly with both hands and at the same time pushing him a bit more forward to encourage him to stretch more over the back. He felt super at times. He was very light in the hand, quite straight, and super responsive to the half halts. He didn't have as much power in the gaits as I know he can, but it's a continuum and I'm really happy with where he is now. I think focusing on balance and thoughness is the order of the day and I can build on the power when all the prerequisites are in place.
Lee is an absolute stickler for the basics so there were some riders that only did walk trot for the whole lessons and came away with minds blown. I considered myself fortunate that I was allowed to canter a bit.
I am posting a video now (it will take a few hours to load) and it doesn't show anything earth shattering, but my lesson today confirmed that I am on the right track so I am thrilled. In the mean time, here are a few pics.
Comments and critiques welcome. 
