my horse wont go

Question
Dear Shelley,
I have a 13 yr. old quarter horse mare that i've owned for a year. I ride her western, just for fun and don't compete or anything.
The problem is that if i am trying to ride away from the house she won't go. i have an awful time with her. I like to ride on the road because we're out in the country on a gravel road with hardly any traffic. But she gives me such a hard time. She weaves back and forth from one side of the road to another and won't keep in a straight line. And not only that but she keeps stopping and trying to turn around.She doesn't listen to my cues either and i have to constantly kick her and sometimes even smack her on the rump. She turns a 20 minute ride into an hour ride, and by the time i get back my legs are worn out from all the kicking. Its really bad if we do meet a vehicle because she won't listen and go where i need her to go.
But its just like that heading away from home, she's perfectly fine coming back, i don't have any trouble with her. Do you have any suggestions as to what i can do to break her of that bad habit?
                  Thanks so much,
                          Erin

Answer
Dear Erin
I'd like to apologise for taking so long to respond and for the rampant typeo's as I just had a baby (early)
and am typing one handed.
Your problem- often referred to as "barn sour" reflects a lack of basic training - submission and obedience. This behavior (which really means your horse is not obeying your aids) is especially dangerous on a road.
Although you do not show, I urge you to go back to a ring and re-visit  the basics. Focus on lateral movements like leg yield and shoulder-in.  Plan your excursions as training excersises- don't expect too much too soon and set small goals - bring along another rider on a well schooled horse for "emotional support." Always wear a helmet! De-sensitise your horse in the ring to the application of a dressage whip (long enough to back up and re-enforce your leg aids).
Best wishes,
S. Evans