Toby

Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to introduce you to the latest addition to the Langley family, Toby. Otherwise knows as the Buddymobile Mark 2!

I’ve been waiting over 3 weeks for his arrival. They say good things are worth waiting for. Let’s hope it’s the case here.

We didn’t get off to the best start as I totally embarrassed myself by inadvertently using the brake instead of the accelerator. No wonder I wasn’t going anywhere.

I did redeem myself as I drove along. Even had another trucker salute me. OK so he was overtaking me, but it still means I’m a trucker. Right?!

I was a bit ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ on the way home. Probably didn’t help I was looking at kilometres and not miles per hour. It’s all learning.

It’s a tad bigger than the current Buddymobile, so it’s going to take a bit of getting used to. So far so good.

And yes, I might have ducked going under the bridge by my house. I know I was going to fit, so why does your brain do that?!?

Now to start working out where our stuff needs to go, reading the manuals (who am I kidding, I’ll probably just wing it) and take Buddy out for a test drive.

Let the adventures begin…

Christmas Cheer

This little face has brought some much needed Christmas Cheer to Chez Langley. He was very excited about going to the yard to muck out first thing.

Then he went for a lovely walk. Before heading home to open presents. Can’t say he’s totally got the hang of presents. Like a small child, he was more interested in the wrapping paper than the gifts. But he loved the toys and treats he was given. He was spoilt that’s for sure.

Buddy and the kittens got their fair share of gifts too. Buddy got carrots and parsnips. The kittens got Sheba. And I had my non-conventional Christmas dinner.

Whatever you’ve been up to today, I hope you’ve had a wonderful time. Merry Christmas one and all.

Runneth over

Well my cup runneth over this weekend. My Riding Club family have given me such a boost. So did Buddy.

It’s been a fab weekend. I’m still beaming from yesterday’s clinic. Being able to get back out jumping definitely filled me with joy.

Last night, I had a lovely dinner with Nicola Wilson, Simon Grieve and most of the Carleton Committee. It was great to catch up with them. So many laughs over great food. Very much needed.

Today, I was driver and support crew, heading to Wakefield Stud for Nicola’s second clinic of the weekend.

There are times when organising clinics like this seem a very daunting and thankless task. Seeing the smiling faces over this weekend, makes it worth it. Very proud to have played a tiny part in it all.

I know that this week is going to be tough as I head back down South for my Mum’s funeral. This weekend brought tears to my eyes, a smile to my face and more memories for the archives.

Horsey people

After mucking out 3 horses this morning (and sweating about 3 gallons), I headed over to Forest Edge to catch up with the campers there. And a lot more sweating for good measure.

There were road closures so I ended up on a magical mystery tour of Swaffham. I saw bits I have no idea were there!

Finally arrived, very hot and bothered, so it was lovely to see so many friendly faces. Lots asked how Buddy was doing. It was sweet to hear that we’ve been missed.

It was sweltering over there, so part of me was glad I wasn’t riding. Of course, the much bigger part wished I was.

As I drove home, I reflected on how lost I would be without the horsey people in my life. I’ve made so many friends as a result. Friends that have become family. Friends that I can’t imagine life without.

Very grateful indeed to my horsey family. Buddy and I will be there for the final camp of the year. So watch out campers, we’ll be back!

Shelter

Head over to Easton College for Carleton’s May Show. I was there to steward the show jumping. Wasn’t expecting to herd everyone into the arena to shelter from a thunderstorm. The rain was biblical at times and the thunder echoed round the arena.

Thankfully it passed quickly and we could get back on with the jumping. It was lovely seeing everyone in action. Of course, I did wish I was jumping. We’ll be back to it when Buddy is all better again.

At least I get to spend time watching the action, supporting others and catching up with my horsey family.

Welcomed

Back home after a lovely Christmas in Suffolk. Simon and Harry always make me feel so welcomed. It really is my home away from home. And they’re family for sure!

I was welcomed home by my family. The kittens haven’t left me since I got back. Maybe they missed me. Or maybe it was cause I came home with cat food.

Buddy was pleased to see me too. Maybe he missed me. Or maybe it was cause I came home with haylage.

You draw your own conclusions…

Niece lunch

Home after another mammoth drive. Took a detour on the way back to meet up with my northern family. So good to catch up with them. One of my nieces is back from New Zealand for a little holiday. I’m so proud of both of my nieces. They’ve grown into amazing women.

We didn’t have long together as I needed to hit the M6, but it was worth the extra miles to see them.

Family ties

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.