My Archived Blogs

1st October 2010
Today Was Different!!!

The last few days have been pretty full on, what with watching and cheering on the G.B Dressage team, who by the way were bloody fantastic!! I have been keeping my self-busy.

Derek is just ticking over at the moment, and as each day passes he more and more resembles a Mammoth, I struggle with the fact, my stunning black Warmblood grows a coat like a native pony!

Yesterday in attended the Active Gloucestershire sports day, I have done the last three years and love it, each time we have more and more children taking part, and that just shows how much these events are needed, I am keeping everything crossed that they don’t loose there government funding or I fear I shall have to go and chain myself to number 10, and trust me after a night outside chained to a rail, I will not be something Mr Cammeron wants to deal with in the morning.

Finally I need to tell you about today, when I think back to some of the things I have done over the years, from cage dancing to borrowing a milk float to get home in the early hours, this one is I believe is amongst the best. It all started very innocently, with a simple request from a friend who runs a fantastic R.D.A centre in Bristol, to come along with him and open a local Super Market, one of a large chain, all I will say is they have orange bags! I agreed, and thought it was an opportunity to polish my medals. Then a phone call to inform me we would be taking one of the centres ponies, I admit I found this a little strange, as said super market was in a shopping centre! Never the less I arrived to meet Kevin, Tony the young lady that would the pony and of course Squiggle the pony who had clearly drawn the short straw. Once loaded we where off into the centre of Bristol, 9 a.m do you see where I am going with this? We unloaded Squiggle on a bus stop much to the shock of people, who came face to face with a pony on the pavement. This is where the fun began, Tony had taped his feet so he wouldn’t slip on the tiled floor, then like a giant dog Squiggle passed through the automatic doors with out bating an eye lid, past several shops, the look on peoples faces was priceless. Squiggle still in good form was expected to stay perfectly still inside a small circle. I have to say Tony was fantastic, and Squiggle a bloody angel, but of course nerves got the better of him, as can happen. Squiggle then promptly dropped one if you know what I mean, in fairness only a small one. It was at this point the centre manager appeared, a lady who as far as I could see had spent the last hour sucking a lemon! You know when you sense trouble? Well I did. She started on about the pony having an accident on her highly polished tiles, I am afraid it was at this point, I slightly lost the plot, I was not rude I believe but simply put forward the facts. Firstly he was a pony, and his bottom was beyond our control, secondly the tiles were not highly polished Italian tiles, as she said, can you seriously see them putting down Italian Marble tile in a shopping centre in Bristol, this is not Dubai!!!!! Thirdly pony pooh is mostly grass and water, not sulphuric acid, and would not damage the tiles, and lastly a sense of humour transplant is reversible! Needless to say she left promptly. Ribbon cut, Squiggle loaded back in the trailer, it was back to the centre for coffee!. I am now seriously thinking of becoming the face of Tiles Are Us!

22nd September 2010
Been Quiet!

Been Quiet!
Well it has been relatively quiet. Since my rubbish performance at the nationals, I have been hacking Derek out, just to give us both a break, I was so disappointed for him not to retain his title, and guess I have been licking my wounds, I was I have to say beaten by a much better performance, Ive said before I thought this would be Dereks last big outing, I believed it would be easy to let go but I am struggling, I need to find a new horse if I wish to continue, and for this to happen I will have to find Derek a new home, and thats killing me, I hate myself for but cant see another way out, this is going to be worse than the time I finally had to bin my favourite pair of Jimmy Choos! I am joking, I actually am thinking of giving it all up and somehow keeping Derek. I am caught between a rock and a hard place head or heart, yes believe it or not I have one. Plus all the horses I see or am told about I seem to discard them I am sure this is because I keep comparing them, and reality is there will never be another Derek.

On another note I have been judging a fair bit, I did Baby Gatcombe last weekend which was great fun. Plus I had some dear friends wedding which was lovely and they had the perfect day for it, all apart from the Canadian Hikers who strolled through, thinking the garden was a public right of way, but they were taken care of in true British fashion and sent packing.

I am also getting involved in a joint Para R.D.A event on the 9th of January which should be great, well lets put it this way I am going to make it great.

Everybody is off to W.E.G in the next few days, so I am wondering who will take my title? Aneka or Hannalore or maybe Bettina, either way all are worthy, I have toes, fingers and when I can legs crossed for the British team, it does feel a little strange not going I have been on all the Championship Teams since I joined in 2006, and who knows if I will be on another. Catch you soon Simon xxxx

8th September 2010
Its been a while!

Its been a while!
Well it has been a while, things have been a bit manic. The house thing is still rumbling on, I am now franticly trying to find a way to keep the house, as I really do not want to move, I am happy here as are the animals, and frankly the thought of packing up and moving on freaks me out, so if I go bankrupt then so be it that will be the only way they will get me out of my house!

On a lighter note, I have just spent the weekend in Ireland judging and helping the Para riders. Friday Chris Portafield and I spent the day helping the Paras, what a great bunch, we had great fun and there are some really good combinations, and now they seem to be getting some structure to the program, I can see some real forward moves to the Irish camp. It is great to put time into something, and feel really appreciated, plus we had a great lunch always a bonus, I wish them all the luck, and I know they will grow in strength.

Saturday and Sunday was judging, long days 9 till 6 and 8 till 5, but I had such a blast, I can honestly say I saw a huge improvement from last year, and I think a lot of this is due to Barbara and her family and friends who put on these shows, always a good atmosphere, even if it did rain, and I couldnt work the windscreen wipers, on my car I was judging from and kept pressing the hooter. But thankfully the riders didnt seem to worried at my blunders. I hope I got the judging correct, well put it this way, I left in tact with not a blemish, so I am guessing every body was happy, and at the end of the day as long as people are happy thats my main job, to give constructive, helpful comments. I finally got home around 2 in the morning, and my brain had turned to jelly, it is tough to concentrate for that length of time, but I did my best, and never nodded off once! So that tells you that every body was pretty good. I had great writers which is such a bonus, nothing worse than sitting for hours with someone who has had a sense of humour bypass, because those of you that know me, know I am a little quirky. So all in all a great time I have laughed and cried through tiredness may I add, but I loved it, so thanks Ireland.

Friday this week is the Nationals, this will be a said one for me as Derek will compete in his last big Para competition, so I have no doubt I will cry.

1st October 2010
Today Was Different!!!

22nd September 2010
Been Quiet!

8th September 2010
Its been a while!

23rd August 2010
What a Week!

What a Week!
Its been a week, and a fairly full on week. The excuse I have for not blogging is the fact my step son is away and he does all my down loading, weak I know but I have never been great with computers, if you could see me tapping away with one finger you would realise. I have been busy Judging like a mad thing, everything from pony club, Horse Trials and B.D, and all I have to say have pretty good, only one run in with a pony club mother, and she came off worse! I had a lovely time in Wales, this time without getting lost, I had several people come up and say thanks for the comments on their sheets, I presume it was in a good way? I hadnt thought they could be, being rude, and thought my comments were rubbish!

I also managed to fit in a day trip to Denmark to look at a couple of horses, one was great but I could not ride the damn thing, the other was nice but I dont want nice, so I am back on the hunt, the one thing it did show me was how lucky I am with Derek! Plus I was bloody knackered left the house a 2.30 in the morning got home gone midnight, then up at 5 to go off and judge at a one star event some where in Hereford. I tell you early morning do not suit me.

Judge training on Saturday, was really good Chris Portafield took the session, I tell you this judging thing is jolly hard work! I have now put in for my upgrade to list 4 so need to get down to work.

The house failed the survey, I cannot believe it, the cellar is the problem, they found some damp, but for the love of god what do they expect the house was build some 200 years ago. So I did get my wish, I now wish I had kept my gob shut. Lesson there I think?

The weather has been splendid if you are a duck, but I am not so just wet for me.
Just to keep everybody up to speed I saw a sign locally for a Christmas fair at the weekend, I almost stopped and ripped it out the ground and threw it in the hedge.

10th August 2010
Manic!!!

Manic!!!
Yet again I have been caught on the hop, never enough hours in a day, or days in a week come to think of it. I last blogged on Tuesday, after the Trail Blazers. Well since then I have been flat to the boards, Area 10 Pony Club, and V.W.H Pony Club trials the first in Hereford the second in Cirencester, both very busy days, of course Hereford being so close to Wales it rained, so with ponies skidding out the arena, and many frantic mothers ( beware the Pony Club mother, note to self) it was not my most wonderful day, although when one of the young lady competitors mobile phone went off in the middle of the test, and the panicked look on her face as she was clearly desperate to answer it. She did though manage to control her urge until she was walking out the arena, this made me smile.

V.W.H on the other hand was great I think there was around 10 arenas running so very busy, and jolly good fun, I was lucky and had the Intermediate class so it was strong. Great lunch supplied by a friend of mine who was in charge of catering and had taken it to a new level. The sun shone so it was a really lovely day.

Sunday I was at Hunters one of my locals judging the prelim and novice qualifiers, for the Winter Championships, another good day. I hear you ask what about Derek well yes I have been riding him to at the crack of dawn mostly, as by the time I have finished judging I am knackered, he is going fantastic, so lets hope it lasts till Friday when we have Addington the regional championships.

The house has had its survey just waiting to hear back was kind of hopping it would fail, not sure that is realistic, but I can dream. Finally as a treat I have had my hair cut this morning I was starting to look like a hippy, not a good look for as I was rubbish at it first time around. In case anyone was wondering Onion my 16 year old pussy is fine it appears he was a little matted so with a jolly good grooming he is back to his normal crazy self.

3rd August 2010
Manic Day

Manic Day
I have had a manic but lovely day, started early went and rode his lordship, and had a wonderful ride. Then off to Stoneliegh for the Trail Blazer Championships a very large class but a good one really enjoyed it. But even better was to run into some old friends, who I had not seen for a while. Then just to completely throw me ran into so friends from Jersey, who I had not seen for years, gosh how time flies by. Then it turns out her son who I used to teach as a small boy is getting married in the next village to us. So all in all a good day. Apart from the hot water boiler packing up and I need a shower!

1st August 2010
Last Few Days

Last Few Days
I thought I would leave it a few days as not a lot going on. Derek has been going really well in preparation for the regionals, thrilled with him but then I always am.

The surveyor is coming tomorrow to look at the house is it too much to ask for something to be wrong with it? So John has been running round like a loony today getting it ready. I went up to Vale View today to watch the last of the Kabis qualifiers, and catch up with some mates, was a good day with some good tests. So I have a busy week this week I am judging at the Trailblazer final at Stoneliegh on Tuesday and Area Pony Club Championships on Thursday, so my ass wont touch the ground.

I am feeling much better about things I hope I don’t sound to moany thats the last thing I want. I know things will get better, they have to as not sure they can get worse. Lol

27th July 2010
Looks Like a Tent!

Looks Like a Tent!
Today has been ok, rode Derek who was a very good boy, I have now come to terms with not going to W.E.G, although I completely new the reasons why, I still kind of hoped that some kind of miracle would happen, and I would be winging my way to Kentucky, to defend my title, but as it is I am now spending my spare time searching for a house, if I had no animals I would be laughing, as it is looks like I may be pitching a tent somewhere. Oh how the mighty have fallen as my dear old granny would say, I guess life is about learning, although at 43 I thought that just maybe, by some crazy chance, I had learnt a fair bit? But no, I have been rolled down the hill, so there is nothing for it but to start back climbing again, ( note to self need new hiking boots!)

Old Onion my 16 year old cat is off to the vets first thing in the morning for some tests, that will be like trying to get a lion into the cat box, not fond is old Onion. Worse still he is not aloud food from 10 tonight, so he will be even more foul tempered in the morning.

26th July 2010
4 Days!

4 Days!
So sorry it has been 4 days. The weekend has been manic, it started with Friday heading down to Millfield for the under 25 international, and inter regional, I have to say it was fantastic it felt like a full on international, everybody was on great form, the youngsters had a ball and we had a great inter regional competition, the trainers got very competitive and it was quite a battle, with the Southeast coming out on top. We had a lovely party on the Friday night, which ended up in the pub at 12.30 or there a bouts. I caught up with loads of new people and hopefully made some new friends? I was really impressed with Niki Thompson who rode at grade three for the first time, and was fantastic really think she is one to watch out for. I dont mind saying it even if she is in my grade! I feel very strongly about Millfield and what it has to offer the youngsters, I will be working my ass off to keep it going. Unfortunately I had to leave Sunday morning as I had a test riding clinic in Stow which was great fun but jolly hard work, I tend to get a little carried away, so instead of 15 minutes it ended up about 30 each so naturally I finished late, this has left me knackered today so other than teach this afternoon I have done very little. Apart from house hunt which has driven me nuts, I just cant find anything that feels like my little house, so before I get all emotional again I will go, I promise to be more on the ball with the blog!! xxx

23rd July 2010
Milfield here we come!

Milfield here we come!
Has been an odd day, very warm, then suddenly this afternoon we have had flash floods and are on a severe weather alert, this all looks good for the start of Millfield tomorrow, but no matter the weather it will be fun. I am really looking forward to it sure it will be just the tonic I need. I have started the next article for BD magazine, hope it will be of interest, only problem I have is one page is not enough.

Taught this afternoon, and have to say we are seeing a great improvement in dear Blue, so blue gets a gold star for his work this week. I hope he continues.

20th July 2010
Bit Sad

Bit Sad
Well today, I feel like I have been gutted! The guys who made the first offer came straight back this morning with a really good offer, so the house is gone. I just feel numb, I know it had to go, but still in my kind of crazy mind I thought it would never happen, it has, so I guess I have to just suck it up and move on, I know John is as upset as I am. All that work, for what. My first concern is of course the dogs and cats, they are so settled here, I am dreading it. So tomorrow I will start looking at houses, I will also make a mental note to keep perky!

On a brighter note, my very good friend Natasha Baker has her new improved website up and running, it looks good, if dare I say a little like mine? Check it out Natasha-baker.co.uk she really is a cool chick, I love her she just makes me laugh and at the moment it is much needed.

I am now on a serious mission to find a new horse if I am to stand any chance of going to 2012, so I am going to be busy over the next few weeks.

19th July 2010
Can Things Get Worse?

Can Things Get Worse?
Well today has been an interesting one, I can now confirm that I will not be going to W.E.G, not that I am surprised or even shocked, the fact is I dont know how I feel. Part of me would dearly loved to defend my World Championship Title, but the other half knows it would have been a tall order. I feel sad that this looks like it may be the end of the road for Derek, not that he has let me down in any shape or form, he is as always been a trooper, its just a fact that we are what we were is that age? Is it just a drop in form? Or is it just the nature of the sport that there is always newer, younger combinations that push forward as you stand still. What ever the case, I and Derek can take comfort that over the past 5 years we have done nothing but our best and along the way we have collected 7 medals of various colours and 4 national titles, and countless other awards. In short Derek has never let me down, been a constant source of inspiration, and been the thing that has given me a reason to carry on and above all else he has been a good and faithful friend. We will how ever be going to the regional championships, and we will be defending our national title later in the year. I will as I promised do whatever it takes to keep him with me till the day one of us pops our clogs!

As I said can it get any worse, because as if the thought of not going to W.E.G was not bad enough, today we had an offer on the bloody house, we have rejected it but I know they will come back with a better offer, so I guess I better get the old boxes out and start thinking about packing. I know it has to go I guess I was always hopping for a miracle or at the very least a win on the lottery, but hey are we all not wishing for that.

So the hunt is on for another horse for 2012, I am not sure how or if I can replace Derek, I certainly know I will never find another like him. So yet again it feels like I am having to go into battle, and of one thing you can be sure I will not quit, until every avenue has been explored!

18th July 2010
Lazy Day!

Lazy Day!
Today has been great, all I have done is go to the yard to see my boy, and clean the lorry with John, I love the lorry all clean and ready for next trip. With all of Dereks kit clean and packed away, I am afraid I went home, and chilled out, I caught up on Eastenders, watched a lovely film which made me cry. Today was just what I needed after the last few weeks. Busy week ahead, so off to bed.

17th July 2010
Long Week!

Long Week!
Firstly sorry about not blogging for a few days, but things have been quite mad, a very long week, with highs, lows and much in between. Hartpury International has nearly drained the life out of me, physically and mentally. I have to say Derek was an absolute star, although coming second on the first day, I was very pleased with his way of going as was Henriette, sometimes a test goes like that and you just take it on the chin and move on. Day two I felt I had nothing to loose, so I just went for it, and god bless my horse he answered every question I asked him, and came out almost 5% ahead, so needless to say I was over the moon. Day three was freestyle day I and Derek always enjoy this, and again he did not let me down, and although I felt the marks were a bit mean, and I did end up point 1 behind so another 2nd. But there was a silver lining we did end up over all Grade 3 Champions, which I am thrilled about.

The squad has been picked for WEG and although I am unable to say who it is, I can confirm, that Derek has now competed in his last International, read into that what you will, but I feel its pretty clear. Derek has been a wonderful servant to me over the years. But above all this he has been a true friend, who has helped me through some of the darkest times in my life. So I am not sad, but dont get me wrong I have cried, (in private) I just feel I have come to an end of an era, I have had so much success with Derek in the last 5 years, and sure he will carry on with me only with just a bit less pressure, we have the regional able bodied champs in a couple of weeks and I hope to defend our national title in September.

I have Millfield to look forward this week so sure I will keep busy.

12th July 2010
Blue Arsed Fly!

Blue Arsed Fly!
As from the title, I have run round like a blue arsed fly, John went off to London at god knows oClock, so I thought I would just crack on, first walk dogs, home put first load of washing on, go and ride, Derek was really good again he had a day off yesterday, but didnt go in the field as its so hard, so just hand grazed instead, next sort lorry and pack it as best I could, then home to walk dogs, change washing, hang out washing, go and ride clients horse, teach, back home, walk dogs again, more washing, hoover, tidy kitchen, wash kitchen floor, upstairs bathrooms, downstairs dust, last job water garden. I am bloody knackered and its only 7. So I feel I have earnt a glass of wine and some me time on my massage bed. But I would be moaning if I had nothing to do. lol

11th July 2010
Another Fun Day!

Another Fun Day!
I have had a great day, I was at the RDA Champs again judging, Tiring but really good, such a good atmosphere, everybody cheering each other on, I loved it. The riders from Avon did well winning a couple of classes and placing well in the others. I have to say I have not been this tired for ages, it was jolly hard work, and the heat did not help. So back to normal tomorrow ride my horse pack my lorry and get ready for Hartpury. Bring it on I say if I am going out Im going with a bang!!

10th July 2010
RDA Champs

RDA Champs
I have had a great day, very warm and long, but a good day. It started off with my class starting 45 mins late, a bit the problem if only walk tests and they go wrong and some horses walk so slow it would have been quicker to get off and carry them! I was lucky enough to have the Princess Royale come and watch my arena, unfortunately it was at this point that the horse in the arena dumped its rider right in front of her, I dashed out to see if the young man was ok, thankfully he was, so on we went, only for the next pony to halt beautifully at the end of its test I was about to say 8 to my writer, when it promptly turned round and walked out of the arena with the young lady franticly trying to salute to me. So all in all you can say I have been well and truly broken in as an R.D.A judge . I dread to think what will happen tomorrow?

9th July 2010
Hot One!

Hot One!
Golly its been hot today, I rode early this morning and had a training session with Henriette, Derek was fabulous, but I swear I thought I was going to melt and that was at 8 this morning. This afternoon I taught, and then a whiz down to Badminton to pick up my lorry, she has been having a little over haul. Need her on top form as its a fairly busy month with Hartpury, and the regionals coming up.

Popped in to see my good mate Lizzy and had a glass of wine in the garden, the perfect evening, lovely weather good company and a glass of wine, I am thinking of joining the Chipping Norton book club, it may do me good to broaden my horizons?

8th July 2010
How Exciting!

How Exciting!
Well after me saying what a boring day I had yesterday, it seems it may not have been as quiet as I first thought. Because on my way up to the yard this morning, I noticed a lot of police activity at the end of the village, what was once the old village garage, is being developed for housing. Well the police had it all sectioned off, so thought ok they have found a body? On arrival at the yard, Mark the Black Smith was busy at work putting a lovely new set of shoes on Derek, when I asked how he was he said to me, its all kicking off in your village ( he lives in the next village to us) apparently they have found several bombs from the second world war buried on site, and apparently it all kicked off while I was at home yesterday, I had no idea. Today they are back with full bomb disposal, very exciting, John who is like Miss Marple can hardly contain himself!

Oh and yes Derek was a star today!!!!!

7th July 2010
Bit Boring

Bit Boring
Today has been slow, John headed off to London first thing and I headed off for an early training session, Derek was yet again great this must sound boring he is only ever good.

Then home and this is where I stayed and did the house work, bit of work on my judges log book, the most exciting thing to happen, I phoned Amy at BD to find out when trot up was for Hartpury next week, and yes Michelle as I am sure you will read this, its on Tuesday afternoon, so wont leave till Tuesday morning.

So all in all pretty boring, sure things will get a bit more exciting as we head ever closer to next week and of course Christmas!

6th July 2010
The World has gone Mad!

The World has gone Mad!
Just as the heading suggests the world has gone mad! Today on the radio I heard an advert for Christmas Parties, apparently if you book now you wont be disappointed, but I feel sure I would be with six months build up, for what chicken in a basket, and a glass of Blue Nun! I appeal to you now Christmas is for the winter months.

I was not happy today as you can tell, the estate agent rang to tell me the people who came on Friday to view loved the house, and to expect an offer, even with all my putting down of the house, the village the neighbours they still love it, so I guess I will be looking for some where to pitch my tent.

Some times I just feel like packing a bag and shipping out, disappearing into the sunset, me and my pony like a scene from the Sun Dance Kid, never to be seen again. But knowing my luck as on Sunday, the sat nav will go wrong and I would end up full circle and back here. So here I stay, batten down the hatches , stand my ground and fight on, as they say it aint over till the fat lady sings!

5th July 2010
Relaxed Day

Relaxed Day
We after yesterdays antics I was pleased to get back to a nice quiet day, I had a little lay in, because my body was refusing to do what I wanted so I let it tell me when it was ready, damn thing always wins in the end.

I went and rode Derek and he was a legend today, really the best medicine is my horse, gave me such a buzz. I popped in to see my friend Lizzy who lives in a stunning little cottage across the road from the yard, she is always full of stories and tales which are told with such gusto, always makes me smile, ended up having cheese biscuits, olives, dips and elderberry cordial, in the garden looking out over the Cotswold hills soaking up the sun, and talking about her trip to Hampton Court in the morning, very jealous! Then I am afraid it got boring had to come home and do paper work, yuk!

John had gone to the hospital, for a check up with his Parkinsons consultant with his eldest son driving him, some how they managed to misplace each other, and after an hour found each other so a doctors trip which should have taken an hour tops took nearly three, sometimes I do wonder!

4th July 2010
Journey from Hell!

Journey from Hell!
Firstly sorry about yesterday, I have no idea where the day went, as nothing in particular happened. All I can remember is sitting at the dinner table with friends, and suddenly thinking sh....! I forgot my blog, so sorry again. We did go to a friends for dinner, and what a great night I laughed so hard I did nearly wee myself! All I will say is there was an incident with a large carrot found in the bathroom of my friends house, she claims the dog put it there, the rest of us were unsure that this was in fact true, so it will be forever known as Carrot Gate!

Today should have been straight forward, but as with most things I do it was not. It started fine with me heading off to judge in Wales I was to begin at 12 so leaving at 9.30 on an hour and 45 minute journey, should have been a piece of cake. I crossed the bridge Sat Nav going a treat, bombing down the M4, through a tunnel, things went quiet, I carried on following the green arrow, in silence, not thinking anything of it, it was not until I started seeing signs for Cardiff and looked to see the millage had not moved, since crossing the bridge. I pulled over and the screen went bonkers, she started telling me I had over an hour to go, and saying re-calculating, re-calculating, I tried to re set no joy, it was at this point I became hysterical, with no map, no number for the venue, and in Wales with all signs saying something I could not read, I went into melt down, sobbing pathetically down the phone to John, he then guided me in the right direction, at this point after travelling miles out of the way and it fast approaching 12, the organiser called, help was at hand, I was guided to the venue, met by a very nice man on a motor bike who I followed, directly to my arena, arriving at C half an hour late, everybody was very kind, coffee and cake, then to work the class went well and some how I picked up some time. I am now safely back home. Thanks to all who helped.

2nd July 2010
Looking forward to the Weekend!

Looking forward to the Weekend!
Gosh its been a busy day. Had to go and ride early this morning, Derek was really good, apart from the home International at Hartpury I have the regionals at Addington , so its a busy time. Plus on top of that I am president of the Millfield Junior International, and we have just lost two of the borrowed horses through lameness so we are hunting the country for replacements not easy I can tell you. Plus it seems we need to raise ten thousand to keep it going for next year, bloody hell it never ends! I am sure that between the committee we can squeeze some cash out of a few companies.

Then we had another second viewing of the house, according to the agent we will be getting an offer, great just what I did not want.

Teaching this afternoon, was enjoyable as always, John not feeling great so I am on nurse duty now, a wounded soldier but he will be fine.

I have a quiet day tomorrow, then off to Wales judging.

1st July 2010
Halfway Through the Year!

Halfway Through the Year!
Half way through the year, I cannot believe it! Before we know it will be Christmas! I heard on the radio this morning that Hammleys were preparing the must have toy for Christmas and would be unveiling it in the next few weeks. Madness I say!

Derek had the day off today as I was judging at Burrows Court, not huge classes but still it was the start of the new season, with the Winter qualifiers starting, I am surprised not more people take advantage of this quiet period.

I had the layout for my article in British Dressage back today looks good hope it goes down well bit nervous about the response it will receive, all I can say is I am not a writer and I did my best, we shall wait and see the out come.

Another second viewing tomorrow yippee!

30th June 2010
Busy Day!

Busy Day!
It has been a busy day, started off riding, just went for a plod with Caroline from the yard, so beautiful around the yard fantastic views across the Cotswolds. My next job not so lovely, after our trip to Keysoe yesterday I needed to scrub the lorry, so armed with scrubbing brush, and bucket of disinfectant I set about my task, I had no idea one horse could pooh so much and get it in places I thought physically impossible.

My afternoon was spent at Stoneliegh the home of British Dressage, for a meeting started at 1 ended gone 7, so a long one. Tomorrow judging at Burrows Court, so another busy one.

29th June 2010
Keysoe, a long way to go!

Keysoe, a long way to go!
What a long day, started off at 5 this morning and just back. I went to Keysoe to ride at a judges seminar, always good fun, and interesting from my point of view, as a judge, to hear the comments coming from your fellow judges and the marks, very interesting indeed. Thankfully Derek was on form and so did not disappoint in the marking area, with a few 9s and a load of 7s and 8s, so came away very happy its nice also to get in the arena without any pressure.

On the way back a call from the estate agent, to say we had a couple who wanted a second viewing of the house tomorrow, jolly annoying rather hoped they didnt like it! So I am going out in the garden to do some tidying up as everything seems to be growing like mad!

28th June 2010
Happy Days!

Happy Days!
What a good day, the sun is shining my horse was great just took him for a hack this morning. The yard was a hive of industry with Henriette heading off to France to compete with Louis and Layla tonight. So it was busy, busy, busy.

We had a viewing today at 3 so had to get back to get the house straight, and take the dogs with me to teach as John was in London and I cant leave them in the house. So with everything done Im off to teach, and then a phone call to say viewing cancelled, bloody annoying!

I just need to finish of my article for BD tonight as it has to be in on the 30th. I am off to Northampton in the morning with the horse to ride for the judges seminar should be fun.

27th June 2010
Good Day

Good Day
What a fantastic day. The weather is great. I have been at Sapperton Horse trials today judging. Had great fun, in a beautiful setting. I hope I had the right order, they seemed to pretty much sort themselves out, long class mind 8.30 till 12.45 hard to keep focused.

Had lunch with Johns daughter, son and Hannahs friend at the horse trials, very pleasant, then it was home to the village pub, to watch the match, well what can I say? How about what on earth was that, they looked like an under 12s team. I struggle with the amount of money we plough into the sport and the endless junk we get in return, so much hype for so much tripe!

Well its in the garden BBQ out Pimms to the ready.

26th June 2010
Hot Hot Hot!

Hot Hot Hot!
Well its jolly hot! I have had a relatively quiet day, no horse to do. But we did have another viewing, so yet again I did my Dot Cotton impression running around with a duster in one hand, and mop and bucket in the other! Gosh I lead such a glamorous life!

I judged today at Home Farm 2 good classes, and then sat in with the Elementary as I am applying to do my upgrade, so that was most of the day taken care of, it was so hot I was a kind judge and let them ride without their jackets.

Tomorrow I am at Sapperton horse trials judging the Pre Novice always good fun, as you can always expect the unexpected from the Eventers.

Salad and Pimms for tea.

25th June 2010
Hot Friday!

Hot Friday!
Wow it has been hot today! Derek has a few days off now, so I am busy doing all the jobs, I have not got round to. John informed me we had a viewing today, so bearing in mind I had washing coming out of my ears it was foot down and kick on this morning. Washing, hovering, in the garden changed the hanging baskets as they looked rubbish, cleaning you name I did it, and all with a smile on my face! Not!
As it was Johns birthday yesterday I thought as a treat we would have a treat a picnic up at the view point just outside the village, fantastic views to the Malverns. Gosh I love this place!

I taught this afternoon in the heat blimey it was hot by the time I had finished, I was ready to melt let alone the poor horses.

It was while on my way over to teach I had a little adventure, there had been an accident on the main road so every body was using the lanes around us this gets on my t..s! They drive to fast dont know how twisty the road is and all the pull in points, so with this in mind I came across a guy driving a small coach, not realistic in our lanes, with several cars in front of me and heaps behind me we ground to a halt, with no where to go, then mr coach driver decides he cant move and infact refuses to move, people getting out of cars, people getting cross and more and more cars appearing either way, someone asked if anyone could drive a coach? I was going to be late so took it upon myself to volunteer, climbed in coach driver by my side several pensioners behind me my car was parked in the field, and with a bit of thought and may I say jolly skilled driving I got the coach out of the way, about a hundred yards up so all the other cars could get going, climbed out, and surprise not a thank you from anyone, apart from the pensioners on the coach, I had to walk back to my car in the field dodging traffic, then once in my car no bugger would let me out of the field! Gives me great faith in the British public.

26th June 2010
Bitter Sweet

Bitter Sweet
Sorry not been around for a couple of days, was going to blog last night but honestly I was knackered. Well Hickstead what can I say, the drive down was easy, apart from the heat and only took us 3 and a bit hours, after getting him settled in his stable, went and caught up with everybody.

Derek was great I was thrilled with the way he went and everybody around the arena seemed to agree, my little trick with writing it all down seemed to of helped. Then the score went up, the judge at C had me to win and judge at M had me way down. So I ended up 3rd, I would like to say I was gutted but honestly, I could and Derek certainly couldnt of done any more. Then day two and exactly the same thrilled with him, he went great and yes we did pull up to 2nd and actually only lost by 1 mark. So I guess if I am being realistic we will not be going to WEG, but thats life we move on Derek owes me nothing. But I really feel it may be time for him to step back, its not great having a horse thats done all he has done being beaten when he is going better than he has in the past.

25th June 2010
Ready to Go

Ready to Go
Wow what a long day. Started off early with a training session, he went well but I struggled a bit, seem to be suffering from a fair amount of cramp and spasm at the moment, sure a good go on my massage bed will do the trick. So after bathing Derek and hand grazing him, he hates going in field at the moment the flies drive him wild even cover from head to foot in fly net, I set about sorting and packing the lorry, everything has been scrubbed, polished and cleaned to within an inch of its life, all feeds made, lorry stocked with food for us and of course wine. The later being what gets me through these competitions.

This afternoon I had a brain wave, I know I need to be careful. I thought how about if I write down each movement exactly how I would ride it, instead of just reading through the test, it would be like reading a manual. Not that I am good a reading manuals that come with all manner of things I tend to just blunder through, but this is how I feel riding my tests at the moment, so maybe this is the way to go, will let you know.

21st June 2010
Longest Day!

Longest Day!
Does this mean summer is over? So the nights start to draw in, just as we get some sunshine.

Rode this morning and all is good so feeling happy about Hickstead.
Did some more work on my article this morning at the crack of sparrows, as suddenly had an idea, and ended up rewriting the lot.

Slightly exciting, had a scout round from Channel Four seems they are interested in doing a documentary, on the run up to 2012. They wanted to sound me out and see if I was up for it, so fingers crossed.

Taught this afternoon, Blue was at his new home and behaved himself better than I expected, seeing as he was at a new place with lots to look at so all good there to.

Up early in morning as I have a lesson and want to avoid the heat, and pack the lorry.

Johns birthday on Thursday, and as I dont have a present as yet I will just have to win. lol

20th June 2010
Feeling More Myself

Feeling More Myself
Well today I am actually feeling more myself, stomach has finally settled down touch wood. Its so nice to have the sun back again, it certainly makes you like getting up and going and thats what I have done today. busy, busy, busy.

I had a great ride today, outside looking over the Cotswold hills. Derek feels amazing at the moment just need to hold form till Wednesday. The times are out for Hickstead and I am not on until 6.30 in the evening, so instead of Tuesday I am travelling down on Wednesday, so he can have an extra night in his own bed.

Have really got into my article for BD magazine, and think I am well on the way with it, I have everything crossed the editor likes it. I am trying to give it a new look, was thinking maybe a nude picture may spice it up?

I have also been out in the garden weeding, trimming and dead heading, I love it, thankfully John has not killed anything or cut any heads off what he shouldnt have, a real bonus.

Happy Fathers day, dad if you read this?

19th June 2010
So So Day

So So Day
Not my greatest day woke up feeling not so wonderful. We had two viewings today so was a case of get the house ship shape, but frankly could not be arsed! But of course I did it. We were supposed to go to a friends Birthday Party tonight, in Northhamptonshire, but because of not feeling great, and viewings we have not gone, shame I know it would have been fun, and we all need fun? Plus I have Hickstead next week so need to rest I guess, I do get a bit miffed when I cant do the things I used to, because I need to save my energy.

I have ridden because I need to keep on top of my game if I am to kick ass! I have spoken to Tash Baker who is also long listed for WEG and she has Chicken Pocks but should be ok for next week. Even if I dont go I will be rooting for team Baker, I need to put a link to her web site, she is in competition with me having just upgraded, and amazingly hers is similar colour and set up, has baby Baker been doing a little copying?

18th June 2010
I saw a Smurf!

I saw a Smurf!
Yes I did I saw a Smurf, in fact several Smurfs in Cheltenham of all places, I can tell you I did a double take.

After seeing Smurfs I thought I had seen it all but no I just watched the England game and honestly the Wags would have played better!

Derek again was on form this morning. I taught this afternoon and again Blue was good so lets go for a hat trick on Monday.

I even found time to have my hair cut, and put back to its natural colour, which is hard to tell it has been so many different colours. Still feeling a bit rubbish, my stomach is still not right, so please by morning be fine have busy weekend.

17th June 2010
Great but Tiring Day!

Great but Tiring Day!
I have had a fantastic day down at Avon, the guys were brilliant and I am thrilled with them, they had all improved and really been trying to put into practice what I told them last time. So things are looking great for the championships at Hartpury. I left at 8 and got home at 5 so long day for me although the sun was a treat.

I had news today that I will be doing something for Channel 4 and they are coming on Saturday, so mad dash to get my hair cut tomorrow as I look like an ageing hippy! Should be fun they are coming to the house so yet more cleaning.

Unfortunately the viewing went well today so fingers crossed they wont buy it! I know thats wrong but I dont care.

I had a long chat with a friend who does Para show jumping, and it seems she is going to give dressage a go, so I better watch my step. I am so nice I have given her loads of tips on how to get started, I am going soft in my old age.

16th June 2010
Thank God for Imodium!

Thank God for Imodium!
As from the title, you can see my stomach is not quite settled yet, and as I had Chris coming down to run through the tests for next week I thought Id better be prepared not wishing to hop off every five minutes, Imodium was the answer, and touch wood it seems to have worked.

Having Chris down was wonderful, sometimes a fresh set of eyes can just help pinch a few extra marks, and although she said nothing any different to Henriette, again coming from someone else it just reaffirms what you have been doing. Simple things like riding a corner correctly, not letting push through the outside shoulder, smoother transitions and keeping him on his hind legs, so he keeps actively forward. So I am frankly jolly excited about next week.

Derek has a day off tomorrow, this will be his last before Hickstead, and I am off down to Bristol, to help the guys that qualified for the RDA championships in July. We are working on test riding tomorrow so I shall be pushing them to get those extra marks, I have a really talented bunch who are eager to learn, this is always a bonus, sometimes you feel like you are banging your head against a wall.

I also had a long chat with someone from Channel 4 today about the possibility of being part of a documentary heading towards 2012, this I think maybe fun, so watch this space. So all in all its been a busy day and even though my stomach is still rough and John has informed me we have a viewing of the house in the morning, a cunning plan on his part as I wont be here to scare them off. It has been a good day, Johns children are round for dinner tonight so I better whiz up something yummy for them, and I will be on toast yippee!

15th June 2010
Highs and Lows

Highs and Lows
Today has been a game of two halves. Derek was a very good boy today, I have a friend and fellow judge Chris Portafield coming to the yard tomorrow to give me a few pointers on my test riding to see if I can steal a few more marks. Chris was instrumental in helping me get going in Para Dressage so her input is invaluable as far as I am concerned. Her knowledge as a trainer and a senior judge, I hope will pay dividends, as I have a selection trial next week at Hickstead. I will use every trick in the book to get those few extra marks.

I taught this afternoon, and wow! We had a major break through, it seems to have taken forever with Blue to except the contact and today, although he has been making steady progress, he suddenly got the idea, so I am thrilled, so well done Blue and well done Sarah for having the patience to keep going, now its fingers, toes and anything else crossed he keeps going in the same way.

I was really looking forward to a good evening out, its my good friend Lizzies birthday today, and a group of us were heading out for dinner, but unfortunately I am writing this from my bed, as I seem to have a very dodgy stomach, without being too graphic I dare not be further than 10 feet from the toilet! And as I have Chris coming down in the morning I feel I should stay put and hope its only a 24 hour thing. Please I cant afford to loose more weight, and water and dry toast dont do it for me. So here I am Gutted of the Cotswolds!!

14th June 2010
Interesting Day

Interesting Day
Today has been fun, tiring and interesting. I had a lesson this morning, and all was well, Derek feels on good form just need to keep it up till next week.

Then I was off to the Midlands, David Hammer invited me to a Foundation Squad training with Maria Eilberg, the foundation is set up for young people up to the age of 30, and funded by sport England. Today was a test riding day, the guys taking part certainly seemed to thrive with Marias input and guidance, and you could see a great improvement in just the short session. Maria was in great form and her normal straight forward, down to earth approach was wonderful. I really enjoyed my self and was happy to join in and give my input from a judges angle.

This evening I have a meeting at home with my RDO to discus the forth coming Millfield International, of which I am President, so tonight will be busy and a long one but I am sure a couple of glasses of wine will help.

13th June 2010
Very Long Day

Very Long Day
I have just got home from my trek across Britain. It is now 9:30pm, very long day, but a really enjoyable one, lovely people and all the volunteers were so enthusiastic, and kind.

I have eaten huge quantities of cake and drunk vast amounts of tea, so thank you everybody who made me so welcome at the Shelly RDA centre.

Even if my mount was a little feisty and didnt really want to play the game. Plus I have learnt something today did you know that historically Suffolk houses are painted pink?

12th June 2010
Driving Miss Daisy!

Driving Miss Daisy!
What a lovely day, Derek was a good boy again today so no complaints on that score.

A friend of mine brought her lovely horse to the yard for Henriette to sit on, and see if they gel, a smart horse working at P.S.G showing scope to move on up, he is staying for 10 days to see how he gets on while she is away on holiday, by the look of today I think he may be staying.

This afternoon I took my dear friend Glynie out for a bit of a lesson in the lorry, as she is going to borrow it on Wednesday as she is competing. We had a great time and before we new it we had been out for an hour, put the world to rights, sorted the economy, and predicted who will win the World Cup! Glynie is tiny so she did look a little odd driving a great big lorry but she took to it like Lewis Hamilton, only a little slower.

A slight moan I have nothing against the World Cup in fact I quite like it, but these bloody flags on cars, driving home singing along to something random on the radio and next thing car passes and I have an England flag stuck to my wind screen! Fix them properly!

I have a very early start in morning leave around 5 a.m I am going to an open day at an R.D.A centre in Suffolk, will be fun love the kids and always make you feel really welcome, so long 4 hour drive but sure it will be worth it.

11th June 2010
Summers Back Again

Summers Back Again
Well the sun is back long may it last, I rode his lordship this morning, doing lots of lateral work, in an attempt to keep him supple and off my leg, which frankly he is not always, but end result was good so things are looking favourable.

I managed to avoid the dreaded estate agents this afternoon, I am sure they are very nice people, but not really in the mood for small talk with them at the moment, apparently the good news is, my house has gone up in value. Yippee!

Taught this afternoon, and after a sticky start Blue decided i