Bladder control

OK, I’m going to say it. It’s too early for Christmas! Thought I’d treat myself to a mocha on my way back from my Dad’s. I regretted it when I was stuck in traffic and needed to pee. Luckily, I’ve done a lot of riding and Pilates, so have a strong pelvic floor.

By the time I neared Stanstead, the full bladder has shifted from ‘mild discomfort’ to ‘OMG I’m going to wet myself’. While queuing for the services exit, I had to laugh as a lorry pulled alongside with two portaloos on the back. Someone up there has a sense of humour. Made me think of my Mum. As a child, she’d rarely let me pass a toilet. Just in case…

By now I was up to ‘it really hurts! So drove into the services with the speed of a Formula 1 driver heading to the pits!! Lewis Hamilton would have been proud! And trotted to the loo.

Talk about relief. But then I did relieve myself. Made me wonder why we say that. And it’s still too early for a Christmas cup…

Sound

Today I had some great news, Buddy is sound. Looks like he tweaked something in the field judging by where he was tight. Auntie Sam came and gave him the once over. He was VERY tight and VERY reactive. He left us in no doubt where the issues were.

I’ve been trying so hard not to worry or panic about it all. It’s really tough. I know it’s horses. They are even more accident prone than I am (and that’s saying something). When I got back from Burnham yesterday, I realised I’ve been flirting from anxious to sad. More tears followed.

Horses are such an important part of my life. Buddy gets the best I can afford. I got without at times. Going away to training camps, competitions and having adventures are really important.

Last night, I played the ‘what if’ game. I didn’t get the best night as my brain was whirling (don’t worry, I also included ‘what if he’s fine’). This morning, I sat and journalled. A lot came out. There isn’t an area of my life that doesn’t need some sort of attention.

So much of it is outside my control. Knowing that Buddy is OK really does make me feel better in myself. The rest, well I’m doing my best. That’s all I can do. At least I can put a few things down today.

Sound

Horses are such an important part of my life. Buddy gets the best I can afford. I got without at times. Going away to training camps, competitions and having adventures are really important.

Fresh

Knowing I had an afternoon of meetings today, I switched things round and took Buddy out for a long hack this morning. It was so fresh. Almost chilly at times. I know right?! One minute it’s like we’ve moved to the Sahara. The next it’s positively nippy.

I’m not knocking it. It was a wonderful relief after the heat. And I’m sure the animals and competitors at the Norfolk tomorrow will be thankful for it too.

It was so quiet out today. Didn’t see a single soul till we were almost back home. Sheer bliss. After my day of rest (well rest for me), this definitely helped to fill my tank back up too.

Bring on the Show Shine… Groom Extraordinaire is ready for action.