Author: langlep

So 2020 was going to be my year. The year I got my life sorted after being served redundancy notice from my job in November 2019. The year I ticked off more things from my horsey bucket list. The year I got my mental health back under control and reduced stress in my life. I had a plan. And it was a good one. Then the plan changed dramatically on 2 January. I came off my horse at speed and broke my ankle. Badly. Like all good equestrians, I got back on and rode back to the yard, sorted Buddy out and then drove myself to A&E. That’s where this journey really began... I was sent home from A&E and told to crack on, only to receive a phone call later to say they’d missed a fracture (and a rather serious one at that). Whoops! So fracture clinic on 3 January, surgery on 5 January and home to recover. I started this blog as a way to chart my recover back to the saddle. As I cleared clinics and competitions out of my diary and wondered what the next few months would bring, it's been a safe space for me to say how I'm feeling. The new plan was to get a new job, to keep Buddy is kept ticking over and recover from my injury. Another good plan! I didn't expect a global pandemic, lockdown and all that happened in 2020. This blog has changed over time but it's continued to be my safe space to share the things going on in my life, with Buddy and the cats. Enjoy!

Mother’s Day

This card made me giggle. Spoke to my Mum earlier. She’s recovering in a nursing home while her mobility improves. She’s making good progress so hoping she’s home soon.

I spent today with my ‘children’. Hugo, Dodo and I pottered around the house and garden. Then I went for a lovely hack with Buddy.

I may not be a conventional Mother. But I love my little boys.

Happy Mother’s Day one and all.

Keep going

I had an unexpected free weekend so decided to take Buddy out for a long hack. Wasn’t quite planning on 2.5 hours though!!

It was one of those days where I just wanted to keep going. So I did! We twisted and turned and went new routes.

Buddy has more members of his fan club. We met some kids out walking who all wanted to say hello and take a selfies with him. He was so patient with them.

My legs were feeling it when we got back. I now get why cowboys walk funny. 😉

Pay it forward

What a fab day jump judging at Great Witchingham Horse Trails. It’s the first time in 3 years I’ve been able to do it and it was as much fun as ever.

There were some incredible horse and riders. It’s really inspiring watching top riders in action.

I got a bit emotional coming home. Sad that I’m not competing tomorrow. And sad that it looks like it’ll be their last BE season. So aiming to do the one they’ll be holding in July.

At least they’ll still be doing Unaffiliated Events so I’m aiming for them too. Watch out Buddy, we’re getting back out there.

Keep on rolling

Thought I’d give Buddy a hose down after our ride today. It’s been so warm, he was a little sweaty (as was I as I got my layers totally wrong).

Walked him out to the fields to dry off in the sunshine and he rolled! 😂 I didn’t have my phone to capture his enthusiastic rolling efforts. But here is the aftermath.

Took ages to brush the wet mud off so that I could put his rug back on. Made me laugh as he looked so happy with himself.

Two years on

Today is the second anniversary of the first lockdown. How optimistic and naive were we to think it would just be 3 weeks?! I’m not sure many would have dreamt we’d still be talking about Covid!

It’s been an incredibly individual journey for everyone. It’s certainly been a challenge. Sometimes it’s hard to remember exactly how tough it’s been. I have had very dark moments. I’ve felt scared. I’ve been totally lost.

The last two years have been an opportunity to redefine myself. I’ve definitely learnt a lot about myself.

I’ve also had great moments. I’ve met new people. I’ve started my business. And achieved so much.

Stable relationship

Back home after a fabulous weekend in Warwickshire. Katie and I got through so much work. I’m not sure we stopped talking the whole time too. Super excited about the new few months. I’m going to be a busy girl.

I’ll never be too busy for my little boy though. Just what I needed when I got home. Glorious sunshine, beautiful countryside and a chance to switch my brain off.

Two Castles

This afternoon we got out and explored a bit. First a late Sunday lunch in a castle at Edgehill and then on to see Warwick Castle.

It was closed, but we got to see a bit of it. This is my Castle face! I do love a castle, a tower and a turret. One for the list to come and check out properly in the future.

Little Kineton

My home away from home for the next few days. Talk about chocolate box! What a gorgeous place to stay.

Shakespeare County is stunning. Lots of rolling hills, green fields and sheep! Seems appropriate that I’m here to write copy. Let’s hope my prose is as good as his!