Spring training began today

I decided it was a good day to start getting Chance ready to ride. The footing is horrible as the snow is melting and the paddock is full of mud, ice and manure. So with a limited area to work I decided it was a perfect time to start with the bridle. We did about 5 minutes of work. I was set up to put it on him, but only held the bit in front of his mouth, then down by his chin. He pulled his head away once pretty hard and held his mouth shut tight. So I played with his mouth to help him relax, scratched his chin and made it as pleasant as I could. I took it away a couple of times then put it back just getting it ready to put on, but never did. In about 5 minutes he took a deep breath and gave a big sigh and lesson 1 was over. I think the 1st step is really getting him to relax and be okay with the bridle again before it goes on and the bit goes in his mouth.