Plait it up

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.

Banded

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…

Fresh

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.

Respite

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!

On the mic

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.

Upgrades

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.

Thankful

Back home after a long couple of days in Wales. Very productive ones though. Last night I sat in my very luxurious hotel room feeling so thankful for the way my business is going.

You know it’s a posh room when housekeeping come to turn your bed down. And give you an Elemis pillow spray for good measure.

Don’t get me wrong, running my own business is bloody hard. But I get to do things that bring me joy, utilise my extensive skill set and I work with some great people. Oh and I get paid for it!

This morning I woke up to a rather stunning view. After eating so much yesterday, I wasn’t sure I’d want breakfast. Still managed a full Welsh though. I may not need to eat for the rest of the week now…

Still the food choices are all made for the conference. It’s going to be a good one.

Food taster

Greetings from Wales! Yes I’m on my travels again. Flying visit to Celtic Manor for one of the very fun bit of my job – food and beverage choices for a conference I’m working on.

Anyone who knows me, knows I love anyone who feeds me (given my lack of ability to do it myself). So this is heaven. Today I’ve consumed 4 starters, 4 mains and 3 desserts.

As if that wasn’t enough there were 4 wines to choose from too. Finished the day with a cocktail and canapés.

Such fun! Sat with the chef chatting food options. Now I may be culinarily challenged, but I know a lot about food. I knew watching all those cooking programmes would come in handy. We’ve got a cracking menu for the two days.

Now retired to my room as my food-coma is setting in. And what a room.

Have I mentioned I love my life?!

Hot chocolate

It seems lots of things are benefitting from a bit of rain. Especially me. It was much clearer and cooler this morning after the downpour last night.

I could almost hear the plants rejoicing as I wandered round my garden. Amazing how one’s attitude to rain changes when you don’t get any! After weeks of bemoaning it, we’re back to craving it. We are so fickle…

The rose bush I was given to remember Tom and Nero was particularly happy today. So many blossoms and buds. It’s called hot chocolate as I wanted something to remind me of my beautiful black boys. As they both aged, they ended up being more brown and black. This rose has similar hues.

Both of the kittens have made nest either side of it in the border. I wonder if they know that it’s a cat’s rose.