Welcome to blog! I started it in 2020 to chart my recovery from breaking my ankle (hence the name). I guess no-one saw a global pandemic coming. It's turned into a place where I can talk about the things happening in my life, my horse and my cats. Enjoy!
Blimey, it has been unseasonably warm today! Luckily, I got to spend the morning in a nice cool office. It was quite the topic of conversation at the Chiro’s.
Bert and I didn’t need any pursuading to get out for a walk when I was done that’s for sure.
It was utterly blissful. Not a soul in sight. I love moments like that…
Bert can choose to sleep anywhere in my office, conservatory or living room. Including the sofa, chair or his bed. But no, he decided to sleep right behind my office chair. Creating a barrier so I can’t move without fear of running him over!
He has done this now on multiple occasions. Guess I should be flattered that he wants to be so close to me.
The snoring can be a little distracting though…
Bert has had an upgrade to his crate, so I had a bit of a shuffle around. I brought the smaller one into my office instead. That way I can keep tabs on him while I work. Well Hugo was straight in there! What is it they say about curiosity and cats
Speaking of curiosity, there’s been definite progress with the kittens and Bert. I’ve given them their own zones. That’s worked well. I’ve put a stair gate up too to create a barrier but they can see each other through it.
The kittens are wary of Bert. They really do t know his whines and little wolf howls. He, on the other hand, is oblivious of them for the most part. Tonight we had a Mexican Standoff between Hugo and Bert. Since then, Hugo has jumped the barrier twice to investigate. He’s either realised that Bert is no threat or that he’s staying.
Either way, my sofa is big enough for all 4 of us (sorry Buddy, it’s not that big).
This was my office today at Forest Edge Arena. I was commentating at the Petplan Area Festival. But Pip, I hear you cry, what do you know about dressage?! Fear not, I just had to announce the combinations as they entered the arena. Not actually comment on the performance. Good job too as today was Medium to Intermediate 1.
Not that my job wasn’t without its perils. Given I’ve been a tad poorly this week. It was touch and go if I’d make it. And if I did, if my voice would hold out. Thankfully it was all good.
The classes today needed 3 judges, so I shared the commentary box with one of them. I’ve been told in the past that it’s really interesting to write for a dressage judge as you learn a lot. I’ve always been worried that I’d mess it up. But today I got to watch the action and to hear the judge’s comments. It was fascinating. And I definitely learnt a lot.
Not that I will ever get to that level. I have the utmost respect for the riders and horses today. Not a clue how they remembered where they were going. Or performed the movements.
Got two more days of competitors to call. I may be hoarse by Sunday evening.
This was my office for the day. Stewarding the SJ at Blackwater Farm’s ODE.
I was in heaven! Not only did I have a clipboard, I had a radio too! I didn’t get a hi-viz as apparently I wasn’t a hazard. Clearly they don’t know me well enough….
I got nearly 120 competitors into the ring for their rounds. And ran a very tight ship (the SJ Judge’s words not mine). She was thrilled with how smoothly it ran. It was lovely watching everyone in action.
Obviously I’d prefer to be competing. But without volunteers, these events can’t run. So if you fancy a fun day out, go and volunteer at one. You don’t need to be horsey. All you need is a willingness to learn, a good sense of humour and a strong bladder helps. Oh and you get fed! Winner!!
I’ve been fortunate to compete regularly. So this was my mesh of giving back and ‘paying it forward’.
I had a business strategy meeting today. This picture was on the wall of the co-working space. I’m guessing the building was once a factory that’s been converted. There were lots of old photos and historical references around.
This photo caught my eye for two reasons. Firstly as there isn’t a woman in sight. It was taken at a time when women weren’t allowed office jobs. And secondly because of the way the desks are laid out. Having spend over 30 years working in offices, I’m not sure I’d have enjoyed working in this way. I’m way too chatty for that.
There are times when I miss the collaboration that comes from being surrounded by people. Today it was really good to bounce ideas around.
After rushing around so much recently, it was a bit weird to have a day in my office. But much needed. I wasn’t feeling terribly motivated to start off with. So broke my to-do list down so that I could tick off lots of little tasks first.
It worked as I seemed to crack through things. And had a very productive day.
Tales, Tails and Talus 