I am going through my forms and breaking down individual sequences. I notice that this particular footwork pattern shows up in a lot of my forms (hand and weapon). Here's a description:

1. Cross right leg over left and land in a "lady horse stance"
2. Cross left back over right and land in a "lady horse stance" (now facing opposite direction).
3. Step out with right foot into a "hill climbing horse stance" and repeat

I can remember my sifu explaining that it mimicked some mythical animal. Here are my questions:

1. Is there a name for this stepping pattern (I see it a lot in other styles, too)
2. Should I be stepping over (bringing the knees high before stepping down in the "lady horse stance") or should I swing the feet cross (more like a sweeping action)
3. Any info (articles, webpages, past posts, links) about its history would be appreciated.

BTW, I study Wah Lum Kung Fu; the terminology may be different. Thanks in advance.

-BM