Overcooked

Well Bert was a very tired puppy today. I think he overcooked it yesterday round the XC course. Last night he was asleep by the time I got into my bed. And slept through. Today he was less enthusiastic about things.

He got lots of spaniel love today. So many people wanted cuddles, which he was very happy to provide. He had many spaniel fans cooing at how well behaved he is.

Considering he’s only 7 months, it’s a lot for him to deal with. The shops were much busier today. I made sure he had time out so he didn’t get completely overwhelmed. He got lots of treats from a number of stands. That helped too.

He’s clearly a fan of Henry James as he decided to fall sleep on their stand. The lady there said I could have one of everything in exchange for him!

I also managed to completely embarrass myself in Stubben. When asked if I needed any help, I replied ‘I love your bits’. To a rather attractive chap. Thankfully he saw the funny side of it, as did his colleagues. Apparently I made his day. While I was wishing the floor would open… Trust me to take something innocent and make it sound smutty. It’s a talent.

Snow

After walking into a Winter Wonderland yesterday with the Christmas decorations in the hotel, I really wasn’t expecting to wake up to one!! Who ordered snow?!

I feared the worst. It happens when you have 600 people due to arrive for Conference. But I needn’t have worried. Pretty much everyone who was due to arrive did. And we even had a few who weren’t! Swan-mode was fully activated.

We kicked off tonight with a drinks reception. So far the feedback has been great. The alarm is set for 5:45am ready for the Conference Day and Gala Dinner. Shall we have a sweepstake on how many steps I walk tomorrow, how many hours I work or if I actually get time to eat? Good job I bloody love what I do!

Oh and today’s step count was almost 28K or nearly 13 miles.

Details

Well it’s nearly time for me to pack my posh frock and very sensible shoes for Conference 2024. Today was working through the smallest details in preparation for next week.

Good job I love a spreadsheet. Think I had about 8 open at one time. To go with multiple emails, documents and other stuff. My brain is mush right now.

Still I think I’ve got everything covered. Just the last minute shopping to do and then me and 4,000 glowsticks are off to Birmingham on Monday.

Nature’s power

Another long day at the Showground. Another BRC Qualifier being run by Carleton Riding Club. This time Combined Training. Another day of stewarding – not only the dressage, but the showjumping too!

Thankfully the weather was kinder than yesterday. Good job too as my boots were still wet this morning. That wasn’t particularly pleasant. A bit like putting on a wet swimming costume. Only a few showers to contend with today.

We cracked through the dressage and even faster through the showjumping. Finishing early!!

This made me giggle when I’d finished. We talk about nature’s power, well this looked like the electric was coming from the tree. Got to witness nature’s true power when I got home as there was an almighty thunderstorm! So grateful that didn’t hit while I was standing in a big field!!

I ache from standing for two days, my face aches from smiling at everyone, but I’ve had a fantastic weekend. Volunteering, supporting and being part of equestrian events really does make me feel good about myself. I love helping. I love riding more, so fingers crossed we’ll be back to that too. And I’m sure my boots will dry out at some stage…

That’s a wrap!

Back home after my first Hoseasons Owners Conference. And what an experience it was.

Anyone who’s been involved in events will know they come together through hard work, long hours and determination. And of course, lots of caffeine and sugar!

This was no exception. Over the past few days, I’ve dealt with the random pleas that come with the territory. A new one on me was securing a door that fell off its hinges!

The Comedy Car was called into action too for emergency Tesco runs. I was very grateful he’s so small as the car park was rammed and I was able to park him in a space that wasn’t technically a space.

Yesterday was a very looooong day the alarm went off at 5:45am and I finally made it to bed at 2:30am this morning!

My feet are wrecked, my voice is heading towards Barry White and I’m beyond tired.

All signs of a cracking conference!