Back again

After a very long time, today saw our return to Blickling. Honestly, it’s been months since we were last there. It was also Bert’s first visit! It was so good to catch up with Katie and Archie too. We talked the whole way round.

It was glorious weather too. This photo made me laugh, it looks like Archie and Buddy have had words.

Having ridden for nearly 1.5 hours, I took Bert for a run around. We had our first recall fail when Bert decided that another spaniel was far more fun than Mummy. Thankfully, said spaniel was very happy to play and the owners were incredibly understanding. They said they remembered those moments well.

There were lots of positives though. Bert waited in the lorry while I rode. He ignored several other dogs. And he did come back after he’d played. He clearly has the same love of Blickling that I have…

Wakehurst

I needed to get outdoors today, so I headed over to Wakehurst Place this afternoon. Being outdoors and in nature are good healers for me. With all the emotions and stress of the past few days, I’d usually go for a long ride on Buddy. That’s not an option at the moment. So this was the next best thing.

Wakehurst Place is part of Kew Gardens and the National Trust. My Mum was a lifetime National Trust member, so I borrowed her card. We used to go there together. But I haven’t been for many years.

I walked round the gardens. Then found a bench to sit and reflect. The bench was dedicated with a line from a Wordsworth poem ‘To stay the wanderer’s steps and soothe his thoughts.’ Seemed rather fitting.

I had a chat with a magpie as you do. Before walking up to the highest point. As I sat looking out across the treetops, I couldn’t stop the tears from coming. Luckily there was no-one around.

On my way out, I noticed a plant I recognised. It was a Veronica. My Mum’s favourite. Can’t imagine why?! Guess I’ll be getting one for the garden.

Bluebells

The bluebells are out at Blickling so it had to be done. A gorgeous Spring day too. And the first ride round without a coat.

It was rather busy in the car park, but we had lots of the park onto ourselves. It’s so special.

When we did meet people, there were two topics of conversation – how handsome our horses were and how beautiful the bluebells were. The sun shining really does improve people’s moods.

Two chocs

Headed over to meet a friend for an early morning ride around Blickling. It’s fast becoming one of my favourite places to take Buddy. Another thing that could become a favourite is a National Trust hot chocolate. Oh my goodness! We both had one when we got back to warm up.

I’m so grateful to have my own transport, a horse who loads and travels well and friends to ride with.

Another little outing

Buddy and I headed over to Blickling Estate NT today to meet my friend Katie and Archie for a long hack. Felt very autumnal today as so many of the leaves are turning.

We met up with another friend Maria and her dogs on our way back as she’d come to find us.

Great to catch up with them both. Even better to have a spot of lunch in the sunshine.

I do love our little outings. I’m so grateful for the Buddymobile. I love being able to get out and about. Blickling is so beautiful. It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to ride round.

Blickling Hall

Ruth and I headed over to Blickling today. Well it seems appropriate given she works for The National Trust. It’s the first time I’ve been inside. It’s definitely worth it.

Things I have learnt today…

Anne Boleyn was born there
it has the most important library in all of the National Trust properties
when Globe Artichokes flower, they look like giant thistles
the Tamerind deliver!!

OK so that last one wasn’t about Blickling, but it’s still very exciting. We had the best curry tonight and didn’t have to leave the house. This could be rather dangerous!!

National Trust

Today my friend Colette took me to Felbrigg Hall NT for my birthday outing. First time I’d been there. In fact it was the first time I’d heard of it. So glad we went though. It’s beautiful there. Wandered round the walled garden, had lunch in there cafe, then wandered some more through the woods and to the lake.

It was a lovely day indeed. And we managed to include a saddlery and a garden centre on the way back.