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 met up this morning with a lady I’d connected with from the Lucinda Green XC Academy. There are members on there from all over the world. And she lived just down the road from me. Small world huh?! We chatted all things horses for over 1.5 hours.
This afternoon, I had a lesson with Simon Grieve over at Willow Farm. She asked if she could come and watch. And very kindly took some videos of us in action. Buddy was on top form. I love my lessons with Simon. He makes me feel like I can achieve anything with Buddy.
It’s been a bit of an odd day. After a busy few weeks, it was good to have a bit of clear space. I didn’t really achieve much today other than getting clarity on a few things.
A good friends gave me a new mind journal. So this morning I did one of the exercises. It was to write 100 things on your bucket list…
Jeez, that tested my brain. Sure there were some things I could easily put down. But I really struggled to get to 100 (and still haven’t got there).
There was some guidance to write down some that you’ve already done to tick off. I could have easily done that!! I consider myself very lucky to have achieved so many of my bucket list dreams already. A lovely place to be.
The biggest realisation I had was that I’ve become rather uncomfortable dreaming. I wonder if it’s because the last 3 years have been so uncertain. Whatever the reason, I’m going to keep pondering and I will get to 100 things.
This was my office for the day. Stewarding the SJ at Blackwater Farm’s ODE.
I was in heaven! Not only did I have a clipboard, I had a radio too! I didn’t get a hi-viz as apparently I wasn’t a hazard. Clearly they don’t know me well enough….
I got nearly 120 competitors into the ring for their rounds. And ran a very tight ship (the SJ Judge’s words not mine). She was thrilled with how smoothly it ran. It was lovely watching everyone in action.
Obviously I’d prefer to be competing. But without volunteers, these events can’t run. So if you fancy a fun day out, go and volunteer at one. You don’t need to be horsey. All you need is a willingness to learn, a good sense of humour and a strong bladder helps. Oh and you get fed! Winner!!
I’ve been fortunate to compete regularly. So this was my mesh of giving back and ‘paying it forward’.
The bluebells are out at Blickling so it had to be done. A gorgeous Spring day too. And the first ride round without a coat.
It was rather busy in the car park, but we had lots of the park onto ourselves. It’s so special.
When we did meet people, there were two topics of conversation – how handsome our horses were and how beautiful the bluebells were. The sun shining really does improve people’s moods.
This is the sign of an equestrian for sure. Most of us have carried some form of feed or bedding in our cars. Made me laugh as I was driving along.
This one had an added bonus of smelling really nice. Definitely an improvement on the usual horsey / musty smell of The Comedy Car. Hoping this smell will last a few days. Who needs an air freshener?!
I decided to change things around today. I normally tend to ride in the afternoons, but today I felt drawn to go this morning instead.
So glad I did as I had an incredibly productive afternoon. Over my career, I’ve worked out when I am at my most productive. Of course, I can be productive all day. And have frequently worked long hours. But my ‘sweet spot’ seems to be between 4-7pm.
I’m thankful that I have a business where I can set my own hours. And clients who don’t set when I need to do the work.
Going out with Buddy this morning definitely set me up for a good day. I came back with a smile on my face. Wonder if I can claim him back as a business expense?! He definitely helps with my wellbeing…
Buddy made a friend today at the yard. This lovely black cat came to play in the arena with us. Now we all know that Buddy can be a bit hit and miss with new things. So wasn’t sure what he’d make of it sitting in the arena.
But it seemed the cat was more wary of Buddy than the other way round. Made me laugh as we all trotted round together.
I had a business strategy meeting today. This picture was on the wall of the co-working space. I’m guessing the building was once a factory that’s been converted. There were lots of old photos and historical references around.
This photo caught my eye for two reasons. Firstly as there isn’t a woman in sight. It was taken at a time when women weren’t allowed office jobs. And secondly because of the way the desks are laid out. Having spend over 30 years working in offices, I’m not sure I’d have enjoyed working in this way. I’m way too chatty for that.
There are times when I miss the collaboration that comes from being surrounded by people. Today it was really good to bounce ideas around.
Took Buddy to Carleton Riding Club’s first show of 2023. It was a beautiful morning as I sat having breakfast in the conservatory. Fast forward a few hours and it started to rain as I loaded Buddy. The closer I got to Easton, the heavier the rain got.
Tacked Buddy up and my thinking was do the course walk, then ride him in. They’d sensibly delayed the start of the class till after the emergency test thing. Went to check and once more, I’d missed the course walk.
Cracked on instead. Poor Buddy was soaked and so was I before we’d even jumped a fence!
Soon it was our turn. Entered the ring, only for the commentator to call out the wrong name. Quick trip to the box to sort it out and we were off. Super pleased with Buddy. He stormed round the 70cm. I’d seen a few fences causing issues in the 60cm so was mindful. Would have had a faster time too. We had a bit of a stag leap over the second to last fence. It meant I landed in a heap and had to get my knitting back before heading to the final jump. Still thrilled with a clear round and 4th place.
Then it was time for 80cm. Hallelujah, I walked the course this time!! It was a very twisty course, but looked easily doable. Popped Buddy over a couple of fences and he felt really good.
I got a big Gung-ho and pushed him out of his rhythm a few times. So even though we had a fast time, we had 3 down. Still I don’t care as he didn’t refuse and was definitely up for it today.
I’ve been playing around with my stirrup length and have found that just by putting them down one hole, it’s made a massive difference to the way I ride. I can now really get my leg on him before a fence.
I may have been rather moist and had to peel my riding tights off. But I’m a very happy girl today. Oh and my new show jacket is lush!!
Tales, Tails and Talus 