In case anyone wondered, Carole did indeed send me the prototype set of lovely stainless side check rings to mount on a standard open Bitless Bridle.  I gave them a trial run on my Shetland and mini geldings and they worked GREAT!  I think Carole will be offering them on their site in the future, but she says it may take awhile.  I am anxiously awaiting a second set when she gets some in.  For the first time I was able to ground drive my ponies on the grass and get their undivided attention.  It was GREAT!!

Jo