40 winks

Someone is very tired after another full on day at camp. In fact, I think it’s safe to say that both of my kids are very tired. I am too. The sudden heat is rather sapping. Still we’ve all had another good day.

In our flat work lesson this morning, I felt so much straighter in my body after yesterday’s treatment and taping. It’s really puts you in the right position that’s for sure. I noticed a change in Buddy too. He had to work differently to adjust for my new posture. I could really feel the difference. He was much straighter too.

The battery seemed to drain though and he felt like he was getting a little stiff. After last year and his injury, I was a bit concerned. He worked really hard yesterday and I foolishly forgot to give him his electrolytes. That wouldn’t help.

I walked him off in the forest and he felt good. So he got a lunch with lots of electrolytes in it to see if that would help.

He popped on the weight bridge after our lesson. I had 630kg in my head. He was 631kg! And a perfect body score. The nutritionist said he had really good muscle tone too. We got a rosette for being perfect! What a lovely touch.

After taking Bert in the forest for a run. And some lunch for me. It was time for our second lesson – jumping related distances. We built on the quality of canter lesson we had yesterday. I’d mentally prepared myself to stop if Buddy wasn’t feeling it. Well he was well up for it! My new position massively helped as did my softer hands (another learning from yesterday). So happy with him!

I know Buddy is a seasoned pro at camps. Bert has taken to it like a duck to water.

Last day tomorrow. Always bittersweet.

Babysitter

I got to have cuddles with this little cherub today. He’s 14 weeks old and scrumptious. I was babysitting while his Mum was being adjusted. A lovely little perk to peopling on a Monday.

Babies have a certain smell. My Mum loved babies. She always used to comment on their smell. I get what she meant.

I’ve had people assume that I don’t like children because I didn’t have them. It’s not true. I like other people’s. Just never wanted them myself. I’m much happier having animals instead.

Bert came with me today as I was doing a longer day. He was very content sleeping in the sunshine. We went for a little walk at lunchtime. The crocuses were in full bloom in the nearby churchyard. So pretty. I love crosses. They’re such happy flowers.

Pony clubber

Today I was at the Pony Club Regional Champs being held at Blackwater Farm. Yes I know I’m a bit old for Pony Club. I was there to help the organisers. It mostly involved running around a lot, looking after people and anything else anyone needed. It was a long day, but a lot of fun.

I never had the opportunity to be part of the Pony Club. I didn’t get my first horse till I was in my 20s. It was great seeing so many riders, horses and ponies in action. It was also lovely seeing the camaraderie.

I was only meant to be there today. But I managed to leave my bag behind. So I’ve now got to go back tomorrow for pick it up.

Mother’s Day

This card made me giggle. Spoke to my Mum earlier. She’s recovering in a nursing home while her mobility improves. She’s making good progress so hoping she’s home soon.

I spent today with my ‘children’. Hugo, Dodo and I pottered around the house and garden. Then I went for a lovely hack with Buddy.

I may not be a conventional Mother. But I love my little boys.

Happy Mother’s Day one and all.