Welcome to blog! I started it in 2020 to chart my recovery from breaking my ankle (hence the name). I guess no-one saw a global pandemic coming. It's turned into a place where I can talk about the things happening in my life, my horse and my cats. Enjoy!
I have to admit, I was woke up feeling a little wobbly after yesterday. So I was kind to myself and didn’t put too much pressure on myself.
Between meetings, I went for a long walk with a good friend and talked it out.
Then this evening I went to a Soundbath and gonged it out.
While the gongs were playing, I sent as many healing vibes as I could to anyone who needs it. You’re welcome.
Today Buddy and I headed off to Geldeston for the BRC SJ Qualifiers.
After making the Champs last year by turning up (when the rest of the team were amazing), I was determined to do better this year. We’ve been working so hard on our jumping and are definitely seeing improvements.
On arrival, I heard the ground was hard, slippery and causing some issues. Walked the course and it felt firm but there was still a bit of spring in it. It seemed a really nice course. This team competition is run over two rounds. The first round was 80cm. The second one at 85cm and had 4 more jumps. I was feeling confident as we warmed up.
My confidence was well founded. Buddy stormed round the course for a super clear. I brought him back to trot for the bit that seemed the most slippy. Came out with a huge smile.
Then the day took a sad turn when one of my team mates had a nasty fall. The competitions were suspended while we waited for first an ambulance, then the air ambulance.
With Buddy safely back at the Buddymobile and munching away, I went back to check on her. I sat with her for over an hours stroking her hair and doing my best to keep her calm. She was in a lot of pain.
Thankfully when the air ambulance arrived, they gave her serious sedation so she could be transported. We did feel that it was a bit ironic when as a riding club we are raising money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance. This is why!
After she was safely on her way to the N&N, the competition recommenced. I wanted to do the second round. I felt I had to. So warmed Buddy up again. There had been a number of withdrawals so didn’t have too much time to think about it before it was our turn.
It wasn’t the best round we’ve ever done. Halfway round, the previous 1.5 hours hit me. Buddy had switched off a bit in the break too and I know I didn’t ride very well. I burst into tears as I left the Arena.
Christ knows how but, we ended up with 6th place individually.
We all know the risk we take when we ride a horse. The love, enjoyment and partnership built outweighs that risk. But days like today remind me how it can go. So I’m focusing on the wonderful clear round we had, the camaraderie shown and the amazing support from our emergency services.
Dodo has made himself a lovely nest in the daisies. He was so camouflaged it took me a while to spot him. I was going to try and cut back the geraniums and daisies but decide it was probably best to leave them for now.
That and he was sulking after I gave him a wormer. I haven’t dared tell him that he’s getting the flea treatment tomorrow.
Well that’s another Royal Norfolk Show done. It’s such a wonderful show. I really loved being back there. So much to see and do.
Sad that some classes didn’t have the entries of previous years. But those who did make the effort, looked great. And it’s made me want to take Buddy next year.
Today it was all about Hunters and Riding Horses for me. Another long day as we ended up staying for the Supreme.
Good job I can run on horse hair and show shine. And I’ve found a new favourite product for plaiting. It’s called plait it up. And boy does it! Love it when something actually works. Ernie’s plaits stayed in all day.
First day at the Norfolk done. And it was a long one. Arrived at the Showground before 7am and left after 4pm.
Was lovely to be back though. Caught up with so many people today. It was lovely. It was also lovely seeing everyone enjoying a cracking day out. And being with their horses.
Made me sad that I didn’t enter Buddy. I have so many happy memories of being there. Guess we’ll just have to go next year!
Today I was more of a spectator and cheerleader. Tomorrow I’m there to groom. Thankfully it’s a later start. Till tomorrow…
Knowing I had an afternoon of meetings today, I switched things round and took Buddy out for a long hack this morning. It was so fresh. Almost chilly at times. I know right?! One minute it’s like we’ve moved to the Sahara. The next it’s positively nippy.
I’m not knocking it. It was a wonderful relief after the heat. And I’m sure the animals and competitors at the Norfolk tomorrow will be thankful for it too.
It was so quiet out today. Didn’t see a single soul till we were almost back home. Sheer bliss. After my day of rest (well rest for me), this definitely helped to fill my tank back up too.
Bring on the Show Shine… Groom Extraordinaire is ready for action.
I am fully aware that there are times when I overcommit myself. The last few weeks (OK months) have been full on. I got back from Poplar Park yesterday and knew the tank was getting empty.
So I did something I rarely do. I cancelled plans and cleared my diary for today. I felt I needed a free day to rest and restore.
I also needed a day without travelling. I’ve clocked up a few hundred miles this week.
It massively helped that it was much cooler today. Each year, I seem to forget how much the heat takes out of me. I’ve ordered some more electrolytes. They might help too.
It’s been cloudy. The clouds look like they’ve got rain in them but sadly, none fell on me.
I’ve got another busy week with two days at the Norfolk. Really hoping the temperatures stay cooler. Right now, I don’t even care if I get wet!
Back home after a very long day commentating at the Riding Club ODE at Poplar Park. It’s the fourth time I’ve been asked to commentate and run XC Control, so must be doing something right.
It’s great fun. Stressful at times. Today Helen Elizabeth Barnes and I saw most things. From a jump broken by the second rider on course, to a loose horse jumping the course in reverse and ending up back in the start box. Sadly we also had to hold the competition while we waited for the Air Ambulance to land and take off again. Thankfully the rider was released from hospital earlier.
This year, they’d introduce a 70cm class. This was a great addition so hope they keep it.
There weren’t as many combinations as in previous years. I wonder if the heat put a lot of people off. There was a lovely cooling breeze and the course was riding really well.
It’s very inspiring watching the competitors come through the finish line with big smiles on their faces.
I am now all talked out (a miracle I hear you cry). And ready for my bed. The past week has been very long days and lots of driving. I’m sure I’ll sleep well tonight.
This is the latest upgrade for the Buddymobile. It can run hot and with the hot weather, I wanted to make sure Buddy is as comfortable as possible.
He’s already like an oversized Labrador with his head out the window as I keep the living one open. I can see him sticking his head towards it was we drive along.
This is the next logical step. And works a treat. Took Buddy over to a friend’s this morning, so while we went for a hack, her partner fitted the fan.
It’s been so hot today, Buddy definitely approved. It also helped to keep me cool while I was cleaning the lorry after getting back.
Wasn’t quite what I expected to see in my garden today. A pair of Muntjac deer wandering through.
Hugo was fascinated. He sat watching them too.
Tales, Tails and Talus 