Side-saddle

Today Buddy and I did something new. We had a go at side-saddle! I honestly wasn’t sure how it would go. But Buddy, once more, proved he really is an ‘all rounder’. He was bloody awesome! I, on the other hand, may need a few more sessions.

Given I’ve only had a go at side-saddle once before, and only in walk and trot, the fact we were cantering by the end of the lesson blew me away. My downward transitions weren’t great. Muscle memory kicked in and I tried to rise in the trot. But we definitely improved as the session went on.

The instructor was incredibly complementary about Buddy and my riding ability. The words ‘elegant’ were used. I’ll take that!

Forager

Buddy is a big fan of foraging in the hedgerow. So after our lunge session, I took him for a wander. He LOVES blackberries. So much so that he looked like he was wearing purple lipstick.

He was very happy. And that makes me very happy.

Boxes

I ordered some cat food for the kittens. They seemed more excited about the box than the actual food. In fact I couldn’t actually open the box because they slept on it most of the day.

When I did get to open it, I found another box inside. And in that was 3 boxes of food. Talk about cat paradise! 5 boxes for them to claim… let alone the food. I will have happy kitties indeed.

Amicitia

Buddy and I went on an adventure. We headed over to High Ash for a hack and picnic with some wonderful friends. It was great to wander round for a few hours before having a picnic lunch.

We rode past the archeological dig. So cool to know think that Roman artefacts and buildings are waiting to be discovered. I kinda wanted to get off and go and see what they’ve found. I do love archeology.

Peopling

I’ve been peopling again today. 10 hours of it in fact! I’ve been back working at the chiropractor’s. I met some really interesting people too. I find it fascinating hearing people’s stories. You never know what people have done in their lives.

As a child (and an adult), I was told I talk too much. A shock for those of you who’ve met me I’m sure. But sometimes, it really comes in handy. I can talk to anyone, about anything. And I’m a good listener. All handy life-skills it seems.

Afternoon jaunt

Buddy and I headed over to catch up with a friend and her horse this afternoon. It’s always fun to go and ride in a new place. Not sure how far we went, but we we’re out for 1.5 hours.

The stubble looked so appealing but with no real rain for months now, it’s way too hard to canter on. Maybe next year, we can go back for a blast. But this year, we stuck to walk.

We chatted the whole way round. A fabulous way to spend the afternoon. We’ll definitely be back soon.

Roses are red

Took Katie over to Peter Beales Roses for a spot of lunch and a wander round the rose garden. Saw this sign hidden away. It’s very true for me. Roses are my favourite flowers.

They’re so versatile and give colour all years rounds. There were lots that had gone over but I still find the hips beautiful.

I’m an English Rose. And I’m pretty versatile. I’ll let you decide if I give colour all year round.

Soul time

My amazing friend Katie has come to visit this weekend. It’s been great showing her my part of the world. We walked down to the yard so she could meet Buddy. He gave her a good sniff and said hello. He’s heard a lot about her. And her him so lovely for them to meet each other.

After chatting most of the day and putting the world to rights, we headed to The Cantley Cock for dinner. Proper pub grub. Stuffed now!

Lucky Lemur

Got the chance to go to Carrow Road tonight to watch Norwich City. It’s the first time I’ve been to see them back in the Championship. I can’t say it was a classic match. But I’ll take a 2-0 win.

I really do miss going to the football. It was such a big part of my life for so many years. Still feels odd being ‘a punter’ and not ‘a lemur’. At least I was a lucky lemur tonight.

Balance

Today I knuckled down and ticked lots of things off my to-do list. I’ve had a busy few weeks, so felt like I was behind with lots. Having said that, I had promised myself a bit of an easier month in August.

The heat has almost forced my hand as I’ve really struggled to maintain my usual pace in it. My brain hasn’t wanted to focus either.

Today I felt like I was firing on a few more cylinders. And finished my working day feeling like I’ve made a dent in stuff.

Took Buddy out for a leg stretch after his busy week too. One of the advantages of being the boss is that I get to decide when I work and when I play. Well, most of the time…

Sometimes it’s more works. Sometimes it’s more play. I think that’s called balance.