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!
OK so today was rather weird. I went for a hack in a fleece. It’s January, right?! It was so mild today I was too hot in my coat. And that wasn’t even my winter coat.
It was very grey and murky out today. There were so many geese out there too. God they’re loud!! Buddy and the geese had a bit of a stare-off. Eventually he caved and spooked as they flew off. Which then caused more of the geese to fly away. Then they got even louder!!
The honking made me laugh.
I had my first massage of 2023. today. Don’t worry I won’t be doing a post on every first for the year. This was the first massage that I’ve had since October, it was very much needed! My knots had knots, on top of knots!!
Practically floated out!
Buddy and I had our first lesson of 2023. I was a little apprehensive as our last lesson of 2022 ended with a face plant for us both. I needn’t have worried. Buddy was in good form.
As it was the first lesson, we kept it simple. Still we were flying over a 105cm upright. Buddy found his springs for sure.
Got home and it was time to open the laptop and get back to work. I’ve really enjoyed my time off over Christmas and New Year. It’s been a fab break with lots of lovely people.
Dodo was very happy indeed that I was back at the laptop. He was purring so loudly on my lap.
Oh my goodness what an incredible day!! I got to walk in the London New Year’s Day Parade as supporter for my friend Sam and her amazing Haffy Halo!
It was worth the 4:15am alarm call. The Buddymobile made good time to Hyde Park ready for the parade briefing. After a leg stretch through Green Park for Halo, it was time to get Sam into her stunning costume.
Then we headed to the start of the parade. The crowds cheered and waved. And I’ve never said ‘Happy New Year’ so many times!
The atmosphere was electric. I couldn’t get over how well-behaved the horses were.
After we’d finished the parade, we headed to Horseguards Parade for a photo. Then up The Mall to have more photos outside Buckingham Palace. What an honour!
Definitely a special way to start 2023. Lots of memories made today, that’s for sure!!
We will all sleep well tonight….
Each new year, I pick a word for next year. For 2022, I picked stability. I should have picked relentless, it would have been more appropriate!!
After the past few years, I’d hoped to get back on an even keel. Boy did the challenges keep coming. It was curveball after curveball.
This photo represents my biggest achievement with Buddy. Competing at our biggest competition by far. It wasn’t the success I’d hoped for. We learnt a lot that day. And left the ring with tears and a huge smile! It’s also is a good metaphor for 2022. It wasn’t what I’d hoped for, but I learnt a lot. And I’m leaving it with tears and a huge smile.
Even with all the challenges, I still achieved so much in 2022. Here are some of the highlights:
If you’re reading this, I’d like to thank you for being part of this year and my journey.
Here’s to 2023 and whatever it holds for us all. After the past few years, I know I can handle it – the good, the bad and the downright ugly!
18 years ago, my family changed forever when my brother choose to end his life.
This is one of the last photos that I have of him. It was taken the last time that we were together as a family.
It took me a very long time to accept that it was his choice. I will never understand why he felt that was his only choice. It’s not one I could make as I have too much I still want to do. The past few years have been challenging to say the least. And at times, pushed me to the brink. But I’ve always made it through. I wonder if his death in some way has driven me on. I’ve tried to live my life to the fullest. Like I’m doing it for both of us!
Wherever you are, I hope the decks are hot, the drinks are cold and the party is banging. RIP Chris.
Well it appears my brain isn’t firing on all cylinders. Today I managed to wipe all my WhatsApp messages. And last night I forgot to put Buddy’s rug on after I lunged him. I’ve never done that before.
All was forgiven when I arrived for our saddle fitting. Liz was very impressed with how Buddy is looking. He’s gone down a dress size as he’s leaned out more. And muscled up in the right places. Always lovely to hear that your horse looks good.
Buddy felt great in the adjusted saddle. And was very happy to have parsnips afterwards.
I’m hoping that my brain returns to full working order soon. Not sure if it’s the menopause, relaxing or something else. Whatever it is, I’d like my brain back please.
Well it felt good to sleep in my own bed last night. I’ve been away a lot in December with one thing and another.
Not that I’m complaining! I love being away. The downside is that I can get behind with the mundane chores. So today I pottered and caught up a bit. Did the laundry, housework and tidied up.
Ventured to the supermarket too. It was slim pickings for breakfast this morning. Missed being catered for. So I bought myself a posh pie amongst other things.
Not to be left out, I got Buddy some parsnips. And the kittens some posh cat food. Well there has to be an upside to the mundane.
Buddy and I are back home after a fab Christmas away. It was an amazing few days. Spent with loving people, six dogs, seven horses and two cats. What’s not to love?!?!
Always sad to leave. But it’s definitely au revoir. The kittens were very happy to have me home, I can tell you. I’ve swapped puppy kisses for kitten purrs.
Christmas 2022 done! Thank you Simon and Harry for a truly wonderful Christmas.
Buddy and I have been utterly spoilt. They say that family is not always by blood, it’s by heart. Well these two are definitely in my heart.
Tales, Tails and Talus 