Countryside code

I’ll never tire of this view. We’re so lucky to have access to such off road hacking. I’m definitely a country girl at heart. That’s why it upsets me when people have no respect for the countryside. Seeing the flytipping today made me very angry indeed.

We have the countryside code for a reason. I want to preserve the countryside for generations to come. Not just for riders. But for everyone to appreciate the beauty that’s around us.

One good thing about lockdown was that more people came out to the country. I know I explored what was on my doorstep more. If you are coming out, please respect it. You could be walking next to your next meal. You’re definitely walking near someone’s livelihood.

Greenery

My little garden has exploded while I’ve been away. It’s looking so pretty at the moment. The Forget-Me-Nots are out and the bluebells aren’t far behind.

I love the way it changes over the year. There are bits that need tidying still. But that’s half the fun of gardening. There’s always room for another plant…

Back to the land

I saw this great sign today. I’ve often wondered what’s growing in the fields around me. It’s also a great reminder to everyone to respect the fields and stick to the footpaths.

I had to pick my lorry up as it was having done work done. It has sprung a leak. Not ideal as it was in the living. The roof has now been resealed so should be nice and water tight. Good job too as we’re off for our first training camp next weekend.

I’m grateful that I can walk over to get it. After 3 days away at a conference, it felt good to be outside and moving.

Rolex

This came up on my memories today. 7 years ago I was ticking another thing off my horsey bucket list. The Rolex, Kentucky. It was an incredible experience.

I was listening to a build-up podcast about this year’s event as I drove home from Birmingham. Sounds like it’s going to be another special event. I’ve been fortunate enough to go to Burghley, Badminton and Kentucky. There are a few more 5* events I’d love to go to. As well as WEG, the Olympics and HOYS to name a few.

So as I drove, I mentally created my updated horsey bucket list. And I want to do the Grand Slam in Eventing and Show jumping! Dream big they say. So that’s mine!

Conferencing

So this is what I’ve been up to today. A cracking day representing the Addison’s Disease Self-Help Group at a Conference. So many brilliant conversations with medics.

Annex

Greetings from Birmingham! Yes I know, I do get about sometimes. Up here working at a medical conference for a few days. Staying in a cute little AirBnb called ‘The Annex’. It’s really well done.

I’m looking forward to this bed tonight I can tell you.

Redemption

First competition of 2022 done! A spot of show jumping at Easton College. The last time I was here, I had a rather interesting time. And a flying lesson from Buddy.

To say I was a little apprehensive would be an understatement. But I honestly couldn’t fault Buddy today. He warmed up beautifully for the 60cm class. He felt switched on and ready to go. I haven’t felt so calm before a competition for a long time. Few sticky moments in the ring, but he listened and responded when I asked. Thrilled with a clear round and 3rd place.

Then onto the 70cm. Again, he felt up for it and flew round the course in a much better rhythm. Just the last down but still bagged 6th place as it was a decent time. Totally my fault as I knew I’d got the turn wrong so it was an awful line. But he tried his best for me.

To come back with two placings was beyond my dreams. I was aiming for understated and to enjoy myself. I’m trusting him more. I’m trusting me more. And more than anything I’m trusting our training.

Hard work paid off today. Onwards and upwards.

His and hers massages

Today was a bit of a self-care one with massages all round.

First Sam from Touch Equine came to check Buddy. I wanted to get him checked after not feeling quite right on Tuesday. She found quite a few tight spots. Buddy can be rather expressive so it’s clear when she hit a tight spot.

Then it was my turn for a massage with Jess Greenacre Massage Therapist. She found a few tight spots too. I’m not as expressive as Buddy though…

Pease Pottage

Today has been a long day. 260 mile round trip to West Sussex. I’m off to a conference next week and needed to handover some stuff as I’m not doing the set up.

It meant meeting in the services at Pease Pottage. What a cracking name for a village! I kinda felt like a spy. Only less secretive…

As it’s not far from my parents, I did a surprise flying visit to see them. They were very shocked to see me. But my surprise was a welcome one.