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….

Club helper

Bert did his bit for Carleton Riding Club today. He helped us sort out the jumps we have stored at a local venue. We marked them too so it’s clear which ones are ours.

He was very helpful and definitely didn’t get himself wrapped round them. Or round a table. Or chair. He started ‘free range’ but a pony came into the arena, so he went back on the long line. Then became a bit of a trip hazard…

We’re all volunteers on the club Committee. We give our time willingly to support the club we love. It supports many people to do the things they love as well. All we ask is that our members do a little bit of volunteering too. Think Bert is setting a very good example already.

I’m looking forward to our next clinic where Buddy will be the one jumping them.

Stewarding

Another full on day stewarding the SJ today at Blackwater Farm’s ODE. The power of the clipboard was in full force again.

So many lovely people who were grateful for my efforts. It’s so nice when people say thank you. Without volunteers, these events couldn’t run.

A couple of grumpy ones, but that’s life. I may have suggested that they volunteer next time to see how difficult a job it actually is.

I did the best I could to get everyone through as quickly as possible. Challenging when we had delays from the dressage. And then another hold up when a loose horse decided to come and join the party.

As a ‘professional organiser’ I was in my element. The fact I was over-sugared probably helped. Still for the most part, everyone had a good day. And that’s what matters.

Next time, I’m aiming to be a competitor so will definitely say thank you to the volunteers.

Tight ship

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’.