Vineyard

I took Bert out for a little bit of a longer walk this morning. We took the footpath that runs through the vineyard behind where I live. I watched them planting it and it’s been interesting watching the vines grow.

You can volunteer there to help keep the vines weed free, pick the grapes when they’re ready and other jobs. They reward you with wine. Not that they’ve produced any yet. I really wish them well. Wonder what Norfolk wine will be like?!

The footpath then heads across a field. What I hadn’t realised was that it had been freshly muck spread! Bert LOVED the cow muck. A little bit too much if I’m honest. He definitely needed a shower when we got home!!

He’s teething, having a growth spurt and awash with hormones. 18 weeks is tough for him. And my hands as the land shark is back. It’s really hard as I can see he’s uncomfortable. Doing what I can to help him. Lots of cuddles, frozen carrots and extra food. Maybe I need to start volunteering at the vineyard….

Stable platform

No words needed. Just a very tired and overly emotional girl and her favourite little boy.

Given I woke up feeling rather drained, I actually had a rather productive day. Lots of errands run.

Finished it off with a trip to WHW for an evening with 5* Eventer (and Norfolk girl), Alice Casburn. Considering she’s just 22 year old, she’s incredibly grounded. Amazing what she’s achieved already. It was fascinating listening to her. I went to a talk with her last year. That was really interesting. She’s done a lot more since then.

She quipped that eventer Richard Jones had told her that eventing was just a glorified gymkhana. That made me laugh. Must remember that when we get back to eventing.

Cruising

I took my friend Colette on a sunset river cruise tonight for an early birthday treat. It rained. A lot. But we still got to see a lovely sunset. And some even more lovely properties from the water.

I know I say it a lot, but I really do love in a beautiful part of the world. It was so peaceful out on the Broads.

Banded

First day at the Norfolk done. And it was a long one. Arrived at the Showground before 7am and left after 4pm.

Was lovely to be back though. Caught up with so many people today. It was lovely. It was also lovely seeing everyone enjoying a cracking day out. And being with their horses.

Made me sad that I didn’t enter Buddy. I have so many happy memories of being there. Guess we’ll just have to go next year!

Today I was more of a spectator and cheerleader. Tomorrow I’m there to groom. Thankfully it’s a later start. Till tomorrow…

Stunning vista

I don’t think I could ever tire of this view. It makes my heart swell and it’s even better when I’m enjoying it with Buddy.

This is part of our hacking. We’re allowed to ride round the edges of the fields and there are a number footpaths too. It’s wonderful to have this on the yard’s doorstep. And it’s only about a 20 minute walk from my house.

It really is a special place for me. Sometimes when I’m hacking with Buddy, I forget to look around. But today, I did just that. I soaked in the view. It really was a wonderful way to end a rather busy day.

Cloud cover

Popped over to catch up with a friend today. As it was dry, we took her dogs out for a walk. The clouds were so pretty today. They made me smile. I know I’ve said it before, but I love Norfolk skies.

Then I took Buddy out for a hack. We stopped to watch a Marsh Harrier sweeping across the wheat. It was quite magical as we were the only people in sight…

Southern Comfort

What a wonderful way to end the day. Cruising down the Norfolk Broads on the Mississippi River Boat. And celebrating my friend’s 30th birthday.

We ate, we drank, we danced and we sang. Fabulous evening. So lovely catching up with so many people.

Connections

I’m down at my parents for a few days and saw this map on the wall. It must have always been there, but I’ve just noticed it. Spooky that I should end up making Norfolk my home. I’ve found Strumpshaw is on there, but no Brundall.

Mum is recovering from a surgical procedure so I’ve come down to lend a hand (literally as the procedure was on her finger).