Joyous Art

Crafty weekend

2012-02-06T16:37:00.004Z

Today is a little warmer than last week but we managed to escape the snow that most of the country experienced over the weekend - we had rain instead. Spoke to my sister yesterday who lives in Kent, as usual they had snow. My nieces were shovelling the part of the driveway they share with the neighbour, my brother-in-law was shovelling the rest of the driveway and unearthing the car, while she was on the phone telling me all about it - that's the way to do it *lol*

Had planned on starting riding lessons again after giving my finances time to recover in Jan, but freezing temperatures have changed my plans - I get chilblains in my feet and the worst is when it affects my heel. I struggle to get normal shoes on and its practically impossible trying to get my riding boots on *sigh* Also I have Reynaud's - a hint of cold and my fingers go totally numb. I do feel bad that Liam's lessons have stalled as well but when the chilblains are bad, it does hurt to walk. Hey ho, such is life, as they say ...

Have a plan for another altered book but before I dive into that, I wanted to do some quick crafts to get myself in the mood. Came across a couple of ideas and decided to try them out.

First up, a mini pocket album, made from one sheet of 12x12. I decided to use double-sided cardstock but I think single-sided would work just as well. The photos for these were taken in 2009.

Basically, fold a sheet of 12x12 in half, then fold up either end by 2" - this will make the pockets.

Turn the sheet so the folded pockets are on either side of you and fold the sheet in half:

Then fold either end back to the halfway fold so it ends up like a concertina. Cut along the original middle fold but stop at the last quarter:

Glue the ends together, where the paper hasn't been cut:

And ta-dah, a little pocket album. Hope that makes sense as I'm better at explaining things face-to-face.

The other album I made was a quick & easy 6x6 album, again made from one sheet of 12x12. Double-sided cardstock definitely suits this album.

Start by folding the sheet in half one way, then in half again the other so that you have 4 6x6 sections 'marked'.

Cut out one of the squares - I used the cut-out piece as part of the album:

Then fold the bottom left part to the right and the top part down:

The fun part - putting it all together!

I like this design as it can also be stood up:

I got the idea for the contents of this album from my birthday present from Gordon - 'Of Wolves and Men' by Barry Lopez. So amazingly informative and so easy to read.

I HAVE AN AWARD!!

2012-01-28T15:09:00.000Z

The wonderful Wolfie at whatwasithinking.blogspot.com has given me this award!!! How sweet is that?!!?

'Liebster' is German for 'dearest', and the award is intended to help up-and-coming blogs get the attention they deserve. The rules:
1. Copy and paste the award on your blog
2. Link back to the blogger who gave you the award
3. Pick your five favorite blogs with less than 200 followers, and leave a comment on their blog to let them know they have received the award.
4. Hope that the five blogs chosen will keep spreading the love and pass it on to five more blogs
Embarrassingly, I don't know 5 bloggers I can give this to. Most of the ones I visit already have quite a following, so I'm going to have to break rule #3 by only picking 2.

gapyearsthebook.blogspot.com Personally I think Jo is an inspiration! At a time when most people are thinking of taking it easy, she packed herself off on a round-the-world trip alone and is now almost done publishing a book about it, 'Over the Hill and Far Away'.

tomandhenry.blogspot.com Just discovered this blog while rooting around trying to find out more about Trakehners - Shelley owns 2 of these gorgeous boys.

Thank you again, Wolfie, this has sweetened my week tremendously :D

'War Horse'

2012-01-22T17:48:00.001Z

On Thursday, the boys and I went to see ‘War Horse’. I have long wanted to go see the stage show but the prices of theatre tickets, not to mention the cost of the 3 of us going up to London, is somewhat daunting. Doesn’t stop me hoping to, one day, still go … In the meantime, I thought the movie could tide us over ;o)

Even though I have the book, I made a point of not reading it so I could immerse myself completely in the story; I’m one of those who prefers not knowing how a story, be it book or movie, will end. To begin with, it was only going to be Liam and me going as Gordon didn’t seem that interested. But, after giving it some thought and realising that there isn’t much ‘out there’ about the First World War, in book or movie form, he decided to come too. Besides, he said, there had to be at least one ‘toughie’ there to support Liam and me, who’d no doubt be blubbing!

I shan’t say too much about the plot, but we enjoyed it. The only human you do empathise with, in my opinion, is Albert, who raises the horse, Joey. The story in the book is told from Joey’s point of view, but we don’t have Joey doing the voiceover in the film (thank heavens!). Instead the story around each human he interacts with forms a mini-plot, as it were. And where I think it works is that Joey, being a horse, is non-judgmental, so you don’t really ‘take sides’ – he’s just with the person, be they English, French or German.

Some critics and movie-goers have criticised the film for being too ‘clean’, but the scenes in the trenches and ‘no man’s land’ were pretty filthy; the only thing lacking is any ‘in-your-face’ blood and gore and blowing up of people/animals. But you don't need all that to get the message across about the horrors of war, which, again in my opinion, the film does manage to do. At their ages, my two are aware of what war is about and some of their games are set in war-zones, but this was enough for them to realise the horrific reality that was the First World War.

Another criticism was about the village where Albert and his family live – apparently it’s too ‘chocolate-boxy’. And yet, we were shown how difficult life is for them, as tenant farmers. And I think the prettiness of the village and ‘life back home’ contrasted sharply with the war zone, where everything seemed to be various shades of grey and black. Even Joey, who’s chestnut with white feet and blaze, was basically black, he was so covered with mud.

I did have a little weep here and there during the film; I noticed Liam root around for his tissue at one point … and there was one scene, which has been shown in the trailers, where Joey is running through ‘no man’s land’ on his own, which really set me off – if I hadn’t had my tissue jammed up against my mouth, I would have been sobbing loudly. And the ‘toughie’ who came to support us – I turned to Gordon at the end of the film and he had tears running down his face!!!

East Prussian Horses

2012-01-18T22:56:00.004Z

For my birthday last year, Liam got me a book, ‘The Flight Across the Ice – The Escape of the East Prussian Horses’ by Patricia Clough – a “little-known story of the Second World War – the bid to save the famous Trakehner horses”; just finished it and found it most interesting. For someone who loves history, I’m embarrassed to find that my knowledge of East Prussia is sorely lacking. Though, to be honest, there isn’t much out there … I guess it’s still a sensitive subject; for some, the memories of WW2 haven’t faded.

The book tells the story of the Trakehners and their owners in the winter of 1944 when the Red Army were massing on the border of East Prussia, ready to invade Germany and exact revenge for the horrors inflicted on the Russian people, by order of Hitler.

“Two and a half million inhabitants were desperate to flee, but the Nazis said no: they must stay and fight to the last man. Trapped with their breeders and owners were some of the finest horses in the world, the Trakehners, bred carefully and lovingly over two centuries as mounts for Prussia’s formidable cavalry … Only when the tanks roared in and cannon smoke filled the sky were they able to leave, in large herds or harnessed to the wagons of their owners, fleeing desperately through the snow, the chaos and terror of war …”

Horse breeding and rearing was the major industry of East Prussia with state and private studs dotting the countryside. Here, horses were not a status symbol but an essential part of daily life. Almost everyone rode or drove horses as few people owned cars. Even the farmers owned Trakehners, harnessing their mares to ploughs to work the land. And once a year, they would take their mares to be covered by a stallion and then sell the foal to supplement their income.

The oldest and most prestigious state stud farm in Germany, Trakehnen, frighteningly close to the border with Russia, was huge, probably the largest in Europe. It and its 16 outlying farms covered over 37 800 acres, and was home to about 1200 horses and the 3000 or so people who cared for them. Imagine the planning, time and effort needed to move all of them to safety. For months, Ernst Ehlert, Trakehnen’s director, and other stud farm owners pleaded to be allowed to move their horses, but each time the answer was no.

In the early hours of 16 October 1944, “a great roar rose in the east, a roar that swelled to deafening thunder. It was the opening barrage of the Red Army’s artillery … Shells fell all around, sending up clouds of dirt and debris. Horses panicked … the stud was thrown into chaos. Everyone in Trakehnen was waiting anxiously for the order to evacuate; none came. That night, Ehlert had all the horses from the various outlying farms and paddocks gathered together in large herds in preparation for the trek. It was not easy to move the horses around in the darkness, nervous as they were after the explosions and noise. Particularly terrified were the 20 small foals among them. At 5am … 17 October, the phone rang … Trakehnen was to be completely cleared of people, horses, farm and domestic animals – and of its furniture, equipment and other contents. And, after having been forbidden for months to make any preparations, they were told that it must all happen within three hours.” – !!!

With all able-bodied men away fighting, Ehlert had to make do with what he had. Dividing horses into 10 herds of about 80 horses each, he assigned each herd 3 men, one old groom and two young stable boys – one to lead, one to ride alongside and one to bring up the rear. He gave his men strict instructions to travel at a brisk trot without stopping until they reached their destination, Georgenburg, another state stud farm about 34 miles away.

As soon as they joined the main roads, however, “they met an endless flood of people fleeing their homes … mostly women, children and old people … soldiers retreating from the front, people on foot carrying heavy bundles … hay wagons … horses, sheep and cows.” Roadblocks, bombed bridges, detours and other obstacles lengthened their journey but they managed to reach Georgenburg that same evening, having only lost one horse. But this was only the first, and, as it turned out, easiest trial. And all the breeders, state and private, faced similar situations, including having to decide which horses to take with them and which to leave behind.

By January 1945, the Red Army had managed to surround the enemy and the breeders’ route to the west and safety was almost cut off. It was decided to brave the Frische Haff, a lagoon on the Baltic coast that was separated from the sea by a long, narrow strip of land called the Frische Nehrung; in winter, it froze over. By crossing the frozen lagoon, they could trek westwards and reach Danzig and the west.

Martin Heling, the director of Georgensburg and his family travelled in an open hunting trap pulled by two black Trakehner stallions. It was 20degrees below zero with snow lashing their faces. Having coaxed the horses over the ice, they and other refugees found themselves being constantly forced off the road by military vehicles into the deep snow on either side of the road. After 12 arduous hours, they ran into a deep snowdrift and the trap got stuck. “The stallions, up to their bellies in snow and exhausted after the hard 46 mile journey, were unable to pull it out. There was nothing left but to unharness the horses … and search for shelter … Heling spent the rest of the night in a freezing cold barn with his pistol drawn, protecting his two black Trakehner stallions from marauding soldiers.”

Despite this, the ones who crossed early were lucky. A few days later a thaw set in and the ice began to melt, but about half a dozen routes across the Haff had been tested and marked. When a blizzard set in, reducing visibility, they simply “followed the line of corpses, humans and horses and wrecked vehicles, across the frozen waste … Some drivers had brought metal spikes with them that could be attached to the horses’ hooves to give them a better grip. But other horses, with their iron shoes, were constantly slipping, crashing onto the ice, picking themselves up again and falling again. Often horses and people were wading knee deep in icy water, unable to see where next to put their feet. The ice was cracking up and holes were everywhere … All the time they were flanked by … terrified refugees … with tiny children … inadequately clothed and shod for the bitter cold and snow. After three days on the ice … they were dismayed to find that there was no food available anywhere for man or beast. The ravenous horses took to eating the thatch from the roofs of houses as they passed.”

West Prussia – German land, including Berlin, to the west of the Polish Corridor – was long considered safe land by the East Prussians. But they had reckoned without Stalin’s determination to grab as much of Germany as possible and to reach Berlin before his western allies. The East Prussians who managed to reach the west found their journey to be far from over.

"The first trek in October had been relatively easy. This time it was a struggle for survival. They spent nights camping hidden in the frozen woods; in the morning the horses would be covered with hoar frost. By day Soviet planes roared low overhead, firing at the treks. And when they stumbled on American units advancing from the west they were scarcely safer … Finally they reached the Elbe … sure that once across, they would have little to fear. But they were too late; the border between the Soviet and western zones had already been drawn and sealed off. They were forbidden to cross.”

In the areas occupied by the Americans, the horses appeared to remain safe with their owners. They were, however, loaned to farms and estates to work to earn their keep for the arrival of more and more people and their horses inevitably put a strain on the communities. But when those areas were handed over to the Russians, many of the horses were taken away or simply disappeared.

And yet some were helped by the allies – a senior British officer, Major Koenigstein, a horseman himself, arranged for numerous Trakehners to be brought to Mecklenburg. And when Mecklenburg was handed over to the Russians, he found temporary accommodation for the horses and their owners in Schleswig-Holstein. The British commanding officer in the area, Brigadier Bolton, another horseman, did his best to get permission to send the Trakehners to the west but was told that the horses were German state property and had to remain as reparations for the Russians. However, he managed to extract one concession from his superiors – the Ratzeburg district, bordering on Schleswig-Holstein, was to remain British, so a number of horses would remain under British control. Two sires and 27 brood mares went with the British troops to the Ratzeburg area, each horse with a note written on the back of its pedigree, stating “that the horse existed for the purpose of preserving the blood of the Trakehner Stud and must not be removed from its guardian”.

The Trakehners had journeyed over 600 miles, some over 900 miles, “pulling loads of up to 4000lbs through bitter cold, snow and ice, through the fires, the bombardments and the shooting. They had rarely had enough food or rest. Many had been pregnant and had lost their foals. It had probably been the greatest test of endurance ever demanded of horses and the Trakehners had shown, as never before or since, what their breeding was worth.

“But it was only a small minority … that finally pulled in to the British and American zones of defeated Germany. Out of 56 000 registered Trakehners in East Prussia in 1944, less than 1000 reached the west. The rest had been killed, stolen, seized as reparations, lost, left behind or simply stayed with their owners in Russian-occupied territory … It was pitifully few, but … there were still enough to save the breed from extinction. In normal times, that is. But the times were anything but normal.

“In a land already devastated by war, with millions of refugees … and food and housing desperately scarce, the East Prussians and their horses were extremely unwelcome. Local inhabitants, struggling with their own losses and suffering, did not want to know about, or simply did not believe, the far more terrible experiences of the East Prussians … many believed their problems were their own fault.

“Local state studs, breeders … preferred their own heavier local breeds, such as the Hanoverians … there was a distinct resistance to the idea of buying, breeding or using Trakehners, or even helping them survive.

“In those dark days a saviour appeared … a jovial, generous Swede called Dr Arvid Aaby-Ericsson. He had long been a Trakehner fan and after the end of the war … sent oats and blankets for the horses … clothes and shoes for the penniless breeders and their families. He used his influence to have a number of Trakehner sires bought for the Swedish stud at Flyinge.”

Under the leadership of Martin Heling and others, Trakehner numbers slowly recovered. Much later they learned that the horses from Trakehnen that had been seized by the Red Army had survived. In 1945, about 1145 Trakehners had been shipped to the Soviet state stud farm in Kirov, for many years the only Trakehner stud in the Soviet Union.

Not surprisingly, reading this heart-breaking story had me in tears more than once. But I did find it fascinating, learning, among other things, how the breed developed. The original horse of that area, the ‘Schweike’, was tough, strong and undemanding, rarely fell ill and was very cheap to keep. In the 18^th century, King Friedrich Wilhelm I wanted a steady supply of riding and carriage horses. Also his huge army needed good horses, which were imported from abroad, which was costly and of those that did arrive, few survived.

But it was only under Friedrich Wilhelm II were proper steps taken to breed a suitable horse locally. There was heavy investment in English horses for their height and large frames, and also in Arabs. So English and Arab blood, mixed with strong points of the’ Schweike’ were the building blocks of the breed, producing horses of remarkable strength and stamina. The temperatures in East Prussia ranged from about 30degrees centigrade in summer to -30 in winter, but Trakehners could live outside if necessary and never needed blankets.

“In 1903, the Prussian government’s Master of Horse … went to England and bought the English thoroughbred, Perfectionist, the son of Persimmon, the stallion owned by King Edward VII, which in 1896 had won the Derby and the St Leger. Persimmon was the son of the legendary St Simon, a stallion so fast that he won all the races he ever entered without even extending himself … Perfectionist, who was dark brown, only stood for three years in Trakehnen before he had to be destroyed after breaking his pelvis in a tragic fall in his loose box.”

Of the 131 foals that Perfectionist sired, his greatest son was Tempelhüter, also dark brown. In 1944, before the Russian invasion, the brightest star at Trakehnen was the dark brown Pythagoras, grandson of Tempelhüter and great-grandson of Perfectionist. Sadly, he disappeared during the war and it was never known what became of him. But his son, Totilas, survived and became one of the most important sires in the rebuilding of the breed at Rantzau.

And guess who’s a direct descendent of Totilas? The amazingly gorgeous Moorlands Totilas!! That was a jaw-dropping moment for me when realisation hit! I shall be looking at that horse in a whole new light now.

Perfectionist

Pythagoras

Totilas

Moorlands Totilas

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T15:20:00.000Z

"We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day." ~ Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Took this picture on our train journey up to London in November ... it was so unusual, kind of reminds me of angels ... Wishing the world a blessed, magical 2012. xx

Alternative Christmas tree ...

2011-12-20T18:21:00.001Z

We've always had a real tree for Christmas but, for some weird reason, Neil reacted to last year's tree by coming out in an itchy rash on his hands and arms. Caring wife that I am, I'd totally forgotten about it *blush* but thank heavens for our children -- both boys remembered and opted not to have a tree this year. I know we could have a fake tree but after only having real trees, none of us were too keen on that idea.

But I still wanted to have something green in the house, even if it was a little potted plant but no poinsettias -- don't know what it is about those big red flowers, but they've never appealed to me. Sister-mine suggested going to a florist's and, conveniently, there's one just down the road from us. Lovely florist-lady didn't have anything potted but she started grabbing various green leafy things from different buckets and made me a 'bouquet' of greenery -- so much better than what I'd imagined! She included bamboo, which she said will just keep growing. So, if I don't manage to kill them off, we should be able to use the same bamboo for next year's alternative tree.

Almost Christmas already?!

2011-12-18T15:55:00.001Z

Me oh my, where has the time gone?!? Can't believe its been 3 weeks since I last blogged. Liam and I did have a riding lesson about three weeks ago, which went well I'm pleased to say, but I didn't get around to blogging about it ... can't think why. Had to cancel our lesson last week as young sir hadn't fully recovered from feeling poorly; probably won't be riding now until after New Year's.

Weather's been fairly mild - so far - compared to last year's freeze, though the roads were a touch icy this morning, but it didn't last. Fingers crossed, we'll make it to the band Xmas concert this year, which is next Thursday ... should put us in the mood for Xmas.

For this year's Xmas cards, I moved away from my 'Anna Griffin' comfort zone and used papers from 'My Minds Eye' and cardstock & embellishments from 'Kanban', but I did use 'Anna Griffin' stamps. After a slow start, I had a fun time making the cards; its been a while since I've made up a batch of cards from scratch. Its put me in the mood to crack on with more craft stuff, but I can't think what to make ... downside of having too much choice!

Natural History Museum

2011-11-27T23:09:00.004Z

Can't believe we haven't been for about 2 years! And we used to go ALL the time!!

The many times we've visited the museum, we'd never looked up at the ceiling! We'd seen a programme on the museum last year, and the presenter pointed out just how gorgeous it is.

The main reason for our visit this time -- the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. This is the first time we've been to the actual exhibition and we're so glad we did. We knew what the entries and the winning shots were as a portfolio is always included in the BBC Wildlife magazine (which we get mainly for Liam) but to see them displayed so beautifully ... well worth the visit.
Here's the link: Wildlife Photographer of the Year

After lunch, we went to the Darwin Centre, which opened in 2009, and is a science-and-collections facility. The main part of it is called the Cocoon; you take the lift up to level 7 and gradually work your way down sloping walkways, passing all sorts of displays and interactive discoveries. I couldn't get over the size of the books, dating back to at least the 17th century ...

After the Cocoon, we paid a quick visit to the Dinosaurs, without a doubt the boys' favourite place to be. The section had been closed for a make-over and it did look a lot better than what we remembered. I'm pretty sure most of the exhibits had been on the ground but now there are quite a few suspended ones, which makes them easy to view from the elevated walkway.

The star of the show, the animatronic T-rex, looks even more realistic now. Okay, the fact that his feet are rooted to the spot does spoil it somewhat *lol* but his movements are much more fluid, and what adds to the realism -- his eyes dilate! It does seem as if he's fixing his gaze on you ...

Then we trotted back to the Darwin Centre for the Spirit Collection tour. Dippy twit that I am, I thought 'spirit' somehow referred to ghostly things, which did confuse me as the collection comprises the millions of specimens in the museum ... actually, obviously (!) the word 'spirit' refers to the alcohol and such like they use to preserve the specimens in the jars *duh* Unfortunately, no photography allowed; we were taken down to where the specimens -- literally millions of them -- are stored, including some Darwin originals!! And a giant squid!!! Fascinating ...

We managed another 20 minutes or so with the dinosaurs before zooming off to catch our train home; we’d spent about 5½ hours there yet it didn't seem enough. But did get a quick shot of the carousel in the grounds of the museum with the pretty lights in the trees ... A return visit is already being planned in the new year ...

Back in the saddle -- yee-ha?

2011-11-16T16:50:00.000Z

More like ‘ouchy wa-wah!’ … after 5 weeks of no riding and minimal exercise, I decided the only way I was going to back into the routine of riding and exercising was basically to face the inevitable pain and carry on from there. Why do I do this to myself?? Sheesh!!

Liam and I had our lesson on Monday (his 14^th lesson, my 46^th), and I felt fairly non-committal about it. Usually we book morning lessons, but for now, afternoons seem to be the only time that works; it was a lot quieter than the mornings, which was nice. Funny how things work out –Wolfie commented in my last post about riding a different horse, and it turns out there is another horse I can ride!! And I hadn’t even asked! As we were getting ready, Jodie told us that Liam would be riding Biscuit and I would be riding Molly – colour us both rather surprised *lol*

Molly’s about the same size as Biscuit (15.2hh) but she’s black; possibly in her early 20s and she’s had 3 foals. She’s only recently come back into work and, according to Jodie, she’s on her way to becoming a reliable school-horse like Biscuit.

Off we went, with Liam ahead of me and I had a quiet giggle – viewed from the back, Biscuit is quite barrel-shaped *lol* … I can talk! Just before we entered the schooling arena, a buzzard flew past, right in front of Liam and landed on one of the trees, where it settled down to watch us …

We started with standing in the stirrups and it didn’t take long for me thighs to start complaining. Don’t know if it was just me but I found I had to think about finding my balance with Molly, whereas with Biscuit I find it without any effort at all. It did feel weird though, watching Liam on Biscuit, knowing I was on another horse … Liam was doing really well with standing in the stirrups and keeping his heels down. I told Jodie about my hurting back after the last lesson when I tried to keep my feet in the ‘correct’ position – she made quite the face and said to keep my feet in whatever position was comfortable for me, as that kind of pain is not at all worth it. So relieved she’s got that sort of attitude.

Rising trot next. I was silently wondering why Jodie had handed Liam a crop but was still holding what I assumed to be the one for me. I thought she wanted to see how well (or not) I’d be able to get Molly moving. Liam started first and … wouldn’t you know it, a couple of kicks, the barest flick of the crop and Madame Biscuit was away, trotting very well indeed!!! As the lesson progressed, he commented a couple of times on how responsive she was–!!! Methinks the lady prefers young sir to an old bag!! *lol*

Anyway, I soon found out why I was crop-less. I was expecting Molly to react the same way towards me as Biscuit, so I gave her a bit of a half-hearted kick aaaaannnndddd we were off!!!!! Her trot was so fast, she was on the verge of cantering!!! Took me a while to slow her down to an almost-walk. Apparently she’s a lot better than she used to be – when they first started working with her in the school, all she needed was the slightest touch with the leg and she’d do 0-60 in as many seconds!! So, a forward-going horse – definitely a new experience for me!

I thought Biscuit was one for cutting corners in the arena – for Molly, it’s an art form. Got her into trot again and, as we straightened up past the curve, it felt like we were moving sideways into the middle. Jodie told me to really take up the outside rein and squeeze hard with the inside leg to keep her out, and to keep doing it regularly to stop her cutting corners and drifting to the middle. That took some doing as it’s not something I’m used to; I’ve only ever had to struggle to get Biscuit moving faster! Again, like Wolfie said, starting ‘fresh’ is definitely a good thing. And not having to spend all my time trying to get a ‘proper’ trot going but being able to concentrate on something else – that was fun.

I do still love Biscuit, but it was great seeing Liam with her. When he’s on Pepsi, like me on Biscuit, he does seem to spend a lot of time trying to get her to respond. But Biscuit seemed to go like a dream for him and he looked good on her. Jodie said he made Biscuit look small *lol* (I’m about 5’7” and at 14, he’s just about looking me in the eye!)

When it came time to canter, he didn’t do too badly at all. Although I think he was caught off-guard, not expecting Biscuit to respond so quickly when he … sort of … asked for canter ;o) But once he got his mind around it, he managed a half-circuit both times.

My turn … new things to get my mind around as well – got Molly trotting but had to hold her back at a decent pace before I asked for canter. OMG – the speed!! I just about stopped myself squealing like a fool!!! I honestly thought she was about to gallop *lol* Almost did a half-circuit and I’m sure we’d have done more but I slowed her down. Exhilarating! Unfortunately, despite a few more tries, I couldn’t get the canter going again – she just kept trotting faster and faster instead.

Liam said afterwards that he was hoping I wasn’t getting too frustrated with myself and I admit that I was getting disillusioned – must have shown on my face as Jodie told me, quite firmly, that I must NOT get disillusioned, that I did really well especially with keeping Molly out and not letting her cut corners, even at trot. Also, Molly was getting tired, poor love.

Back at the stables, after I dismounted, Molly yawned THREE times, in quick succession – guess she must have been tired! She’s lovely, stood quietly while I fussed her and didn’t seem to mind at all. Again, felt strange fussing another horse while Liam fussed Biscuit.

It’s even more fun at the stables now; there’s a kitten, Dotty who's gorgeously white with a black tail and ears and is like a female version of our very vocal baby-cat, Tamu – she’s also very vocal, loves people and thinks everyone’s there for her benefit! Liam picked her up for a cuddle and was rewarded with very loud purrs. Richard also has 2 goats, Hinge and Bracket; and 2 pretty cows, Mirabel (redhead) and Midnight (black). And his dog, Poppy (a small Jack Russell-type) has had puppies – a boy & 3 girls. I’d forgotten how adorable puppies are with their chubby little tummies – these ones are very licky!!! New experience for Liam *lol*

So, a day or so later and I’m still feeling upbeat about that lesson. So what if the canter wasn’t really a happening thing? It’s been more than a month and I think I did pretty well, all things considered. Oh, I admit to being prepared for the achy legs but, man-o-man, I was so not ready for sore and achy shoulders and upper back!!! I finally realise just how much strength is needed to hold a horse back!

Battling doubts

2011-10-25T19:53:00.000+01:00

Haven't posted in a long while, even though Liam & I have had a couple of riding lessons, but honestly couldn't bring myself to 'talk' about those. Liam's doing well, which I'm glad about but I seem to have lost the plot!

Having gotten to grips with canter, or so I thought, I now feel, after the last few lessons like I'm back to square one. I can't seem to get my head around what I need to do when cantering ... I've lost what little control I had over my legs and I'm struggling to keep them still while cantering; I seem to have forgotten what to do with myself to get Biscuit to move from trot to canter, and when I do manage it, I must inadvertently tighten the reins because she starts to slow down ... I'm lucky if I manage half a circuit, and then the canter is so ungainly *sigh*

Exercise or no exercise seems to make no difference to my legs -- they ache either way!! I do enjoy my lessons with Jodie & Richard, I don't want to change instructors or stables, but I admit that I wasn't best pleased to be told, after all this time, that my feet are in the wrong position. I tend to turn my toes out slightly as that's more comfortable for me, but Jodie said I need to turn them in a bit more so my legs are hugging the horse more -- but as I struggled to hold them in that position, I had a pain go up my right leg and settle in my lower back, which then hurt for the rest of the day and then some.

So, I've been re-visiting the land of doubt, wondering if I should continue with lessons, as I can so do without more aches and pain ... the frustration of not having regular lessons, of not being able to work out what the hell's happened with the canter (!!) blah blah blah!!!!!

Had a flick through the Oct issue of Horse & Rider magazine (bit behind with my reading!), which has an article on Britain's Para Dressage team -- one of them has transverse myelities, which affects the nerves and muscles in her legs -- she has no feeling in her legs, can't feel her feet and the muscles get really tight in the inside of her thighs. Another suffered serious damage to her spinal cord after 3 bad falls off her horse, has problems with her balance but is determined to continue riding. Yet another was born two months prematurely with cerebral palsy, has difficulty controlling her muscles and speaking but rides beautifully, and she's the reigning grade 1a World Champion.

Honestly, I have to say, what the hell am I whinging about?!!??? Onwards, woman! And no excuses with the wet, wild and windy weather either!!!

Summer!!

2011-10-03T16:15:00.000+01:00

Thought we'd be getting ready for autumn/winter now, instead we're having a mini-heatwave!!! ... by UK standards anyway ;o) This weekend the temperatures were pushing 25C, apparently hotter than Athens, Barcelona and Istanbul! Even though its due to end this week, it has certainly made a pleasant change as this year's summer has been a real non-event.

Our roses have decided its time to come to life again, and finally the tomatoes are ripening -- all at once!! One day they're still green, the next its like they're turning red right in front of us!

Our next chapter ...

2011-09-19T15:56:00.000+01:00

We’ve started another chapter in our home-ed life – Gordon’s started college!! Today is the start of his second week and, so far so good, he seems to be enjoying it. I’m glad, as he was so looking forward to this, it was something he really wanted to do and my wish for him is that it fulfils his expectations.

I always assumed it would be Liam who would want to work with animals and Gordon would gravitate to something that involved drawing or something technical. But one day at the vet’s, he said he’d like to work with animals. He doesn’t want to be a vet though, as he’s seen what a vet has to do and he doesn’t think he’d be up to the emotional side of it. He wants to care for animals, work with them in their environment, understand their behaviour …

We’re lucky that we have an agricultural college near Dorchester, which is not too far from us – the country estate campus is set in 760acres! The main house at Kingston Maurward College was originally built in the early 1700s, and its style is similar to Kingston Lacy. We visited the college back in June and it is gorgeous! Wish I could go there. When I was looking through the prospectus, I kept getting distracted with the various equine courses *lol* From the car park, there’s a lovely view of well-kept fields with horses!

The guy who showed us around, very handily, had the key to the Animal Centre, which is where the Practical Animal Care course is based – that’s the course Gordon had his eye on. There were loads of rabbits, a small aviary, a reptile room … The college also has a working farm so there are cows and sheep too. By the time we left, Gordon really, really wanted to attend that college!!

He was supposed to have his interview in July, but unfortunately they messed up the dates so we had to wait until the 26^th August. Don’t know about Gordon, but I was a little nervous as, after a family discussion, we’d decided against going for any exams. Depending on what the boys decided to do, if exams were imperative, then they’d work towards them.

It was very civilized when we got there – tea/coffee/juice and cakes were on offer!! Neil and the boys got themselves sorted; I went through to get my coffee and cake but got distracted at the transport desk. Then Gordon’s name was called, I wished him ‘good luck’ and the interviewer said I could accompany him. He said he’d like me to – so much for coffee & cake *sigh*

The lady started the interview by explaining that she may not offer him a place straightaway or not offer him one at all; she then came across a little disconcerted by the home-education and by his lack of GCSEs. I started to get anxious for him but he didn’t seem in the least bit flustered. She said a couple of things (can’t remember what now) that got my back up but I kept my mouth firmly shut! At the end of it, she offered him an unconditional place!!! Woo-hoo!! So glad I kept my mouth shut *lol*

His enrolment was on the last day of August, so back to the college we went (it’s about an hour’s drive). Having been told it would take 2-3 hours (!), Neil and Liam were prepared to head off for a walk in the surrounding area while I shadowed Gordon. It started with an assessment, form-filling, met his tutor who seems nice, admin stuff, sorted out his student ID & locker key, and his transport. There are various bus routes to ferry students in from the surrounding area, and Gordon’s pick-up point on his route is just a 5-minute drive from our house!

The Practical Animal Care course is for 3-days per week, Mon-Wed. It covers exercising, handling, health, movement and accommodation of animals; feeding and watering; practical, environmental and conservational skills. It’s very ‘hands-on’ which suits Gordon. It also covers Maths and English.

His first day was last Monday, and I had him at the bus stop by 07:20 – after years of not having to wake up early, that was a bit hard! The bus is due in to college about 08:45, and his course starts at 09:15. At the end of the day, the buses leave at 17:00 and he gets back to his stop about 18:15. It was weird not having Gordon with us; Liam was a bit subdued on Monday, missing his brother terribly. I managed to keep it together, though did have a bit of a teary moment mid-morning.

Thoughtful boy sent me a text to let me know he was on the right bus home ;o) Boyo can be a bit of an air-head sometimes but only when I’m around I guess! Liam and I were waiting for him on the road by the bus-stop when I got another text saying that everything was in a muddle & he didn’t know when he’d be back – turns out the bus driver didn’t know the way for the last part of the journey – oopsy!! The students had to explain it to him! Gordon made it back at 18:30, missing the first few minutes of his drama class – just as well it’s close to the bus-stop.

The other ‘hiccup’ – no one had told him that he needs his student ID (which he only got on Wed morning) before he can order food from the cafeteria!! Just as well I’d sent him with some food – all he’d had the whole day were 2 muffins, a banana & a packet of crisps!! And this boy can eat for England!!! So on Tuesday, he went packed to the gills with food!

His class isn’t big, only 12 of them and he says they’re quite nice. On Tuesday, they moved 15 calves from a field to a pen, I think. His first experience with cows and he enjoyed it. There’ll be outdoor work as well – they’ll be clearing a pond and working out the best plants for it. Wednesdays is mainly classroom stuff.

Had a proud, home-ed mum moment on Wed – they had a class assessment so their tutor could work out what level each student is, and Gordon scored 86% in English and 90% in Maths, the highest score!!! Yippee!! Not that I’ve ever felt the need to justify our home-ed choice, but sometimes it’s nice to have something to show those who only believe something’s working if you can produce a piece of paper to prove it.

This course lasts for one year, after which he can progress to Level 2 or go down the Apprenticeship route. He seems to be favouring the apprenticeship, but he doesn’t have to decide yet. We’ll see what happens …

The Company of Wolves

2011-09-17T14:06:00.004+01:00

Decided to put in my 2pence worth on the fabulous SurLaLune Fairy Tales blog when Heidi suggested discussing favourite fairy tale films prior to a wealth of them being released next year. I thought it would be tough to choose but it didn't take me long to realise my favourite has to be 'The Company of Wolves' -- redeemed the Red Riding Hood tale for me in a big way *lol* Haven't watched the latest Red Riding Hood film and have no desire to despite the presence of Gary Oldman; mightily put off by the film's trailer!!

Thoughts on The Company of Wolves

If you haven't visited the SurLaLune blog, please do, especially if you love fairy tales -- it is a treat!!

Hard work but ...

2011-09-10T20:23:00.000+01:00

Riding lesson … Liam’s #11, my #43

Had our riding lesson on Thursday; the days leading up to it were wet and extremely windy but even though the sky looked threatening, it stayed dry. Just as well … if the heavens had opened, we’d have gotten quite wet as it was too hot to wear waterproofs.

We had Richard taking our lesson again. Liam was back on Pepsi; his new boots must be making a difference because he said he found her more responsive – result! Three ladies, setting off on a hack, walked with us for a bit before overtaking; Liam said later he enjoyed that, being part of a group on horseback and Pepsi moved up a gear as well – me herd animal, must follow!!

We got to the schooling arena and oh joy – puddles galore! Geared myself up for some hard work *lol* We set off on opposite reins, standing in the stirrups, circled a jump (had a momentary panic as I thought Richard had said to head for a jump!) and sat down.

And moved on to rising trot. And that’s when the hard work began – kicking her on, tapping her with the crop didn’t seem to make much difference to the diva – she was not going to get her feet wet! There’s Richard asking me if I’m on the correct diagonal and me thinking, stop pestering me before I finally said: “I don’t know, I’m too busy concentrating on getting Biscuit to keep trotting through the puddles!” Liam wasn’t having any problems with Pepsi but I was pleased with myself for not giving Biscuit the chance to slow down to a walk through the puddles – she did slow her trot slightly but kept going :D

Then sitting trot – it still hasn’t clicked yet but it did feel a bit easier. Tried to pick up some pointers watching Liam but no luck, not when it looks as if he’s just sat there, not doing anything!!

We didn’t spend too long doing sitting trot before it was on to canter. Off I went and managed a half circuit before stopping as I STILL can’t seem to keep my feet in the stirrups. Readjusted and tried again – pleased to say, my legs stayed connected to the horse and even though my foot slipped (always my right foot) I kept going; didn’t quite manage a full circuit.

Liam’s turn – he’s feeling a lot happier and relaxed enough to try different things. A couple of times, he lost a stirrup completely but didn’t panic (unlike his mother) and found it again, fairly effortlessly (again, unlike his mother) According to Richard, Liam’s got really good balance and, when he relaxes into the riding and doesn’t fight it and get tense, he moves really well even at canter (proud mother moment!). His second time, he came very close to completing a full circuit!

And my second attempt, even though foot slipped forward again, I kept going and when Biscuit slowed down I got her back up to speed, refusing to let her get away with it like I have done before – how pleased was I!! Even Richard commented that I was a lot more assertive with my riding, letting her know that I was the one making the decisions … now, if I can only transfer that to my dealings with certain people ;o)

So, even though that lesson was a lot of hard work, mainly in getting Biscuit to do what I wanted, it was still great because I feel I achieved quite a bit.

Fabulouso!!

2011-08-30T16:26:00.002+01:00

Riding lesson … Liam’s #10, my #42

Been just over 2 weeks since our last lesson; glad we hadn’t booked a lesson the week after the last one, on Thurs 18^th as Bournemouth had its very own version of biblical-style floods! It started raining just after 10am and it came down so heavily, drain-covers were dislodged and the main road just down the way from us was closed due to flooding!! In fact, most of Bournemouth was flooded with too many roads closed, cars were swept away, the gardens in the town centre was totally underwater, people lost businesses … but at least no lives were lost. And it only happened in Bournemouth … everywhere else was fine and even sunny!!! Hmm …

The road by the building to back left of the pix leads up to our house.

What should be the gardens in the town centre

Bournemouth town centre!

Anyway, even though it’s cloudy today, at least it’s dry. Liam had a different horse, a cute little grey called Stacy, about 14 years old. Richard took our lesson; I like changing instructors every now & again, get a different perspective. As we walked up to the arena, me in front, we heard a loud exclamation from Liam – Stacy had stopped to grab a mouthful of leaves! Richard remembered then to tell Liam that he had to stay on the ball and kick her on as she takes very good care of her stomach *lol*

We started with standing in the stirrups and thankfully, Richard doesn’t keep us standing for too long unlike Jodie. Richard hasn’t seen Liam ride since his first lesson, and was taken with his balance. Another thing Richard does, which I prefer (but each to his/her own), he concentrates on one person at a time – so, while I did a couple of circuits of rising trot, Liam walked Stacy around; then I slowed to a walk while Liam took his turn at rising trot. Apart from getting a chance to rest ;o) I liked that I could have a proper look at how Liam’s getting on. For someone who isn’t too keen on rising trot, he didn’t look too bad.

My rising trot took a while to get going as Madam Biscuit was on a go-slow for the first half of the lesson and I’m sure she wasn’t convinced when I told her I felt as if I was doing most of the work *lol* Liam said later, it took a bit of effort to get Stacy moving but when she did, she really started moving! To watch, she has quite a neat little trot.

We had a couple of go’s each with rising trot, then it was time for sitting trot. The whole time I’m in sitting trot, I feel like the proverbial sack of potatoes. But after a bit of a bouncy start, Richard said I was doing better and by the time I finished, he said I had the hip movement right. I am still totally clueless as I don’t feel I’m doing anything different!

Watching Liam in sitting trot doesn’t help me either. He doesn’t look like he’s doing anything other than sitting in the saddle, he’s so still. Like Richard said, his hip movement is spot-on and, even though it looks like he isn’t doing anything, he’s moving in sync with the horse. I have no idea how to translate that to MY sitting trot!!!!!

Canter-time! Me first *gulp* knowing that Richard always ends up shouting at me (not in a horrible way, I must add). He gave me a pointer before I started – get Biscuit going in a forward-moving trot (thankfully, she was done with her go-slow by this point), like she’s about to canter but hold her back, so that when I do ask for canter, it feels like something is definitely going to happen. Sounds so easy. First try was laughable … slowed down, regrouped, and set off again. Got her trotting well and when I asked for canter, she was off. Managed over half a circuit but when I caught sight of my lower leg out the corner of my eye, I didn’t take that as a good sign!! *lol* As Richard pointed out, my upper body and hips were doing the right thing, but as for my legs … the less said the better! So, try again, this time remembering to keep my legs ‘attached’ to the horse. Felt so much better, but didn’t quite manage a whole circuit … close though.

Richard asked Liam if he’d like a go and he said yes. Apart from stiff arms, he cantered just over half a circuit and looked quite wide-eyed at the end of it. But he enjoyed it! He was a bit breathless and when Richard asked him if he’d cantered that fast before, he just shook his head, breathless and giggly!!

Time for me to have another canter. This time I did it for almost 2 whole circuits!!!! A first for me!! And another first – even though Biscuit slowed to a trot a couple of times, I got her back into canter and kept going!!! Woo-hoo!!!! The last part of the second circuit, we were going at such a pace, it really was exhilarating!

Then Liam had another go and even when Stacy slowed down a couple of times, he kept her going and he cantered near enough a full circuit!! We were both so pleased, we couldn’t stop grinning. That was the end of the lesson – as Richard said, “Let’s finish on a good note.” And what a good note that was.

Long time no craft

2011-08-28T16:52:00.001+01:00

... been too preoccupied with other things and sort of lost the 'need' for it, but happy to have found it again. Wasn't in the mood to do a themed project or a scrapbook; came up with the idea of putting different techniques into one altered book. I know that I do use different techniques anyway but this time I concentrated more on the technique instead of the image/theme like I usually do.
I took my time with it, sometimes leaving it for days, even weeks. That was nice too, not setting myself a deadline but just meandering along ...

used clingfilm to apply ink to the background & covered with fabric

blocks of paper & postage stamps

attached pocket & filled with 'stuff'

covered pages with serviettes, folded pages to create pockets, filled with copies of other altered book pages

covered text with paint, highlighting selected words

straightforward layout, using strips of paper and stamped images

fold paper into mini envelope ...

... open to reveal either text or 'found' item

A4 size paper folded over to create 2 pockets

tear hole in page to reveal glimpse of something several pages away...

... slightly larger tear to reveal more ...

... until full image is revealed

covered slide mount to highlight image/text

cut out & attach paper doll; fold over pages to create pockets for her clothes

the technique here is on the stamped cards on the top and side of the images -- stamp pattern onto card using acrylic paint(preferably white) instead of ink; ink over stamped image; mist paper towel with water and gently wipe over image to remove the top layer of ink. The paint resists the ink (Tim Holtz technique)

Crackle effect-- easily achieved using Tim Holtz Distress Crackle Paint; also used Stickles glitter glue

mist paper with water and sprinkle on coffee granules

multiple shallow niches

the end.

Show some spirit ... even if it is fiction!

2011-08-24T00:09:00.002+01:00

Bit of a departure for me … going to blog about my other ‘love’, writing. I tend to keep that fairly private, only a few people know about it and there is really only one person I can honestly, truly talk ‘book’ who takes it seriously & who is as interested in the process of approaching agents/publishers etc …

The stories I write are young adult fantasy and I’ve read my fair share of that genre (though not as much as I should, really!) And I’ve started to realise something – the female characters, usually the main characters, don’t tend to come across too well. I remember what it was like to be a teenager (just about!!) and yes, I remember being wishy-washy about certain things and drooling over guys, and falling in and out of love (supposedly – what did I know at that age??) fairly frequently, but I do not recall ever letting myself be defined by guys. My first serious boyfriend was when I was at college but when I found out he’d had a couple of one-night stands, it was ‘So long Clyde old boy!’ Give him his due, he did apologise like mad, over many days but, even then, I believed I deserved to be treated better.

To each his own, every person is entitled to their own opinion, but for me, the prevalence of seemingly ‘weak’ female characters in YA is nothing short of worrying. Generally speaking, it takes the notion of ‘damsel in distress’ and runs with it. Surely our young girls/women deserve to read about strong, independent women, who can still be feminine, but who aren’t defined by the object of their so-called love. And that’s the other thing – the sort of ‘love story/romance’ that’s at the heart of most of these stories is … not very believable. Never been a big believer of ‘love at first sight’ – more ‘attraction at first sight’ for surely ‘Love’ can only emerge when two people get to know one another…

I know the ‘Twilight’ series is loved and enjoyed by a huge number of people … I read the first book, intrigued by the premise as I enjoy vampire stories. Was willing to give the second book a try, but, barely a third of the way in, I was struggling. I hate to give up on a book but I couldn’t finish it … I read for enjoyment and pleasure but when I start muttering and growling at a book, and end up in a foul mood, that is not a good sign! I just wanted to reach in and shake some sense into Bella!! She only ever seemed to react to Edward, she didn’t seem to do anything for herself! And, to be honest, I found their ‘relationship’ sort of creepy … if he hadn’t been a vampire, his character would have been nothing more than an abusive boyfriend.

And that’s my other bugbear – yes, I can understand young people being drawn to the seemingly chaste relationship of Bella and Edward but … the books seemed to be saying it’s ok to want to be dead, to join the undead instead of living your life to the full.

Just finished another YA book, ‘The Forest of Hands and Teeth’ – what a fab title! The ‘hands and teeth’ belong to what the author calls the Unconsecrated … turns out to be a fancy name for zombies. Don’t get me wrong, I haven’t got anything against zombies (so long as they don’t try to eat me!), just would have appreciated a hint. Again, interesting premise and I was enjoying it … it’s in first person and the main character seemed appealing … until I couldn’t ignore her self-absorption! Could the girl decide what she wanted? Every time she ‘got’ what she was obsessing over, she’d tire of it/him and move on to the next thing, and that happened more than once!

(Spoiler alert) I did put forward a scenario from the book to my boys, just to test the teenage waters – your village has just been overrun by zombies, people you’ve known all your life are being killed, only a handful of you have managed to get away, a metal fence is all that separates you from the zombies who are trying to get to you, and the person you fancy is hugging and comforting someone else – would you be more worried about the dangerous situation you’re in OR would you be angsting over the fact that you’re not the one being hugged?? I’m glad to say both boys said they’d be more worried about the zombies!

Surely it’s possible to write female characters who, despite their foibles, can think and act for themselves … I think Nancy Lamb is spot-on when she talks about portraying vivid personalities (in her book ‘The Writer’s Guide to Crafting Stories for Children’): “Part of the secret of creating vivid personalities is to make characters courageous in their confrontations with their demons and determined in their drive to overcome the obstacles they encounter. This does not mean they are fearless. But it does mean they overcome that fear in order to step up to the plate and be counted.” Personally, I try and apply this to my main characters, so far all female, and I hope I’ve succeeded.

I could go on and on … or it could be that I’m just too demanding a reader ;o) But lately, when I’ve been surfing various blogs, I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find that I’m not alone …
Disney princesses and YA heroines

YA romance ... or not -- there are even more fascinating links at the end of this article ...

Should have been a fun weekend ...

2011-08-21T17:47:00.000+01:00

... but turned out so terribly sad. Had a brilliant view of the Red Arrows from our bedroom window, even took a few pictures ... less than an hour later, Flight-Lt. Jon Egging lost his life in a heroic act, guiding his plane away from houses, to crash in a field, too late to save his own life.

http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/jon_egging/9207595.UPDATED__Tragedy_hits_Bournemouth_Air_Festival_as_Red_Arrows_pilot_dies/?ref=mr

Much better this week

2011-08-11T16:47:00.001+01:00

Today's riding lesson: Liam’s #9, my #41

Glad I blogged about the previous lesson; the lovely, encouraging comments from Wolfie & GHM have certainly helped.

GHM made me stop & have a proper think; had a chat with Liam about his lessons & he admitted that he’d felt a bit pressured the last lesson, like there was too much to think about & process. I asked if he’d like his lessons to be toned down a little, to get to grips with the trot, the ‘heels-down’ thing & work on his communication with Pepsi before moving on. He didn’t want to hurt Jodie’s feelings so he asked if I could tell her that – young mr. sensitive *lol* And he said he would focus more on being patient & not getting frustrated – thanks for that pep-talk, Wolfie ;o)

Another thing GHM mentioned – was I perhaps focusing more on Liam than on what I was doing? And the more I think about it, the more I’m sure that’s what it was. Our last lesson, I was turning to look at him more whereas the previous lessons I’d just let him get on with it.

Had a chat with Jodie as were walking up to the schooling arena & she’s more than happy to take things down a couple of notches for Liam. As we walked along, we saw a little deer in one of the empty paddocks, staring at us -- that's one of the things I like about this place, you never know what wildlife you're going to see.

We were in the big arena, me in front of Liam, & for a couple of circuits, Jodie & I were talking about the rioting that’s been going on in London & a few other cities. Then she told us to stand in the stirrups except young sir had already been standing in the stirrups while Jodie & I were talking!! Talk about showing off *lol*

It’s nice that we’re both pretty good at standing in the stirrups … although, I seem to have acquired a ‘bad’ habit of sometimes turning my toes in when I try to ‘hug’ Biscuit with my legs. Though I know when I’ve got it right – me legs hurt!! And Liam seems to be ‘getting it’ about having his heels down! Yaaay!!! I’d say, for about 80% of the lesson, he had his heels in the correct position! Again, thank you GHM for the visual aid :D When Jodie asked him how his legs felt, he said they hurt *lol*

Then we went on to standing in the stirrups while trotting. I used to dread it but now, once we get going, it’s actually fun. Such a weird, springy motion though. I think another thing that helped Liam was, Pepsi was being a touch more responsive – may have been something to do with his feet & legs being in the right position when he kicked her on.

We moved on to rising trot & lordy, was Biscuit doing the slowest trot in creation or what?!? Had to work a bit to get her moving, she didn’t seem to notice when I used the crop the first time (!) but soon picked up speed. Again, it took me about 4 tries to get her to trot over the poles, instead of walking … again, Liam got Pepsi to trot over them on his second attempt (grrr) But when I did get Biscuit trotting properly over the poles – Wow! What a difference!! Could really feel her picking her legs up! Only managed that once though … never mind.

A couple of times, Liam sat during the trot as he readied Pepsi to trot over the poles & Jodie said, he’s got a really good seat for sitting trot & holds himself well … I’m not jealous, honest … *humph* He does make it look effortless though …

Then ‘twas time for me to canter. Jodie told Liam he didn’t have to & he grinned. Again, the transition was fine and … I cantered!! Properly !!! Even got my legs to stay still!!!! Only half a circuit but after last week, was I bothered?! Had to stop myself doing a happy dance!! Changed the rein & proved a point – everything was going fine, trotting ready for the transition when I took my eye off the ball for a second as my foot had slipped slightly – ended up heading for a jump & stopped Biscuit in time!!! Sheesh! Concentration really is everything when you’re riding. Just about managed another canter, not as good as the first but, for me, the important thing was, I was in control & not flapping about like a mad chicken :D

Back at the stables, again I let Liam get on with his thing while I concentrated on dismounting, which went without a hitch. So, my mantra shall be ‘concentrate, concentrate, concentrate’.

I’m glad that lesson went well as I don’t like quitting … so far so good, my back feels fine, so I think it’s safe to say, I’ll be continuing lessons with my boyo :D

Warning -- bit of a rant ahead.

2011-08-08T18:36:00.002+01:00

Riding lesson: Liam’s #8, my #40

Taken me long enough to blog about this … had our lesson last Thursday and the rain was coming down in buckets!! It did let up a bit as we started, got heavy again a couple of times but had become a light shower by the time we finished. So had large, horse-eating puddles to contend with as well as trying to concentrate on riding!

Started off well but the second half of the lesson was pants! Liam was getting really narked that he wasn’t getting the hang of dropping his heels & Pepsi wasn’t being very responsive when he was trying to get her to canter. But, he does have a good seat so that’s something, at least.

I’ve now got the transition from trot to canter going a lot more smoothly and managed to control my legs a bit more BUT – and I haven’t got a clue what went wrong – my upper body was all over the place, just like when I first started cantering!!! Arms flapping, leaning, bouncing in the saddle – and what’s really truly annoying me … actually let’s just say it, what’s making me angry is, I don’t know why that happened so I don’t know how to correct it!!! Icing on the cake – I was so preoccupied with Liam, I didn’t concentrate and made a proper pig’s ear of dismounting!! If anyone noticed, they were kind enough not to say anything!

Spent most of the drive home giving Liam one heck of a pep-talk to stop him sliding into despondency … wouldn’t have minded a pep-talk myself … By the evening, my lower back was hurting so much (just like when I first started riding), I was/am seriously considering stopping the lessons. Except Liam has said he likes & has gotten used to having lessons with me, he doesn’t know how he’ll feel about continuing if I stop. No pressure then! I don’t know …

We’ve got a lesson booked for Thursday, won’t cancel because it’s for Liam as well. But if the same thing happens again … I don’t think I can deal with the lower back pain on a regular basis – by the time I’m climbing the stairs for bed, I can barely move. Maybe horse-riding isn’t the best thing for my back … or maybe I’m just in a s****y mood at the moment!

Riding lesson - Thurs 28/07

2011-07-29T22:25:00.000+01:00

Liam's #7; my #39:

Got to the stables in time for our 10:30 lesson. Forgot that the summer hols have started & they do get busy with kids coming along for rides & being taken for walks on the lead rein. Biscuit was tacked up & ready but we were waiting on Pepsi who was out on a walk. Just as well I didn’t have anything else planned as it was about 10:50 before they finally came back, after Jodie was on the phone to the one in charge, pointing out to her that she should only have been gone for 30 mins & that Pepsi was needed for a lesson! Ooopsy!

I shan’t say anything about the muggy weather considering parts of the world are experiencing heatwaves. But at least there was a bit of a breeze at the schooling arena & that took the edge off. We started with standing in the stirrups and that went ok, thankfully Jodie didn’t keep us standing for too long.

Then it was sitting trot time … and we did a lot of sitting trot for that lesson OUCH!! I found Biscuit quite responsive, probably a lot to do with me having a crop ;o) But it didn’t take much effort to get her into a trot & I didn’t need to use the crop.

Liam was getting annoyed during the lesson, mainly because he’s struggling to get his heel down enough without his legs swinging forward every time he tries it. I was glad when Jodie noticed his frustration and told him not to worry about it, to relax & enjoy it. She spent time holding his leg and foot in the position it should be in so he could get a feel for it.

Again, I only stopped once. Thanks to Wolfie’s post about getting physical, I’ve been faithfully boinging on me mini-trampoline daily :D Definitely noticed a difference, didn’t feel out-of-breath as I normally do and my legs didn’t hurt.

Did some rising trot as well, and when we had that momentum going, Jodie told us to stand in the stirrups. At this point, Liam was in front of me and he didn’t do too badly at all – stayed up more than he sat down. As for me, this is the first time I’ve found it easier to maintain & I think it was because I was already in the trot-rhythm, if that makes sense … though I did sit every now and again.

Jodie had to keep reminding Liam that he should be rising and not sitting – she did ask him why he kept sitting as most people prefer rising to sitting, and he told her he much prefers sitting. She frowned at him, looked at me, mystified and said, “Strange boy.” *tee-hee*

She wanted us to trot over the poles and I was doing fine until we got to the poles when I lost my concentration and Biscuit ended up walking over them. As I’d made a pig’s ear of it the first time around, Biscuit decided that it was time to take the mickey … she’d been so good up to till then & but she does have a reputation to maintain *lol* It took me another 4 attempts before I finally got her to trot over the poles! And we were fine after that – either direction, she kept trotting and didn’t slow down. Just as well Liam is my son & I love him – he got Pepsi to trot over the poles on his second attempt!!! Grrr!!

Then canter. Messed up on my first attempt – must remember to get the trot going properly FIRST before the transition! Second attempt was much better except my right leg decided it was pedalling an imaginary bicycle – no, I didn’t understand it either!! Anyway, despite my weird limb-functions, I managed a complete circuit.

Then it was Liam’s turn. He was about to transition to canter when Pepsi had a little spook and darted to the side. Apart from a very loud, “What was that?” exclamation from Liam, he kept his seat. Don’t know what happened there as we couldn’t see or hear anything but she was fine directly after.

Jodie said Liam’s seat & position in canter is quite good, so good that maybe he should just do everything in canter *lol* He didn’t lean too far back & he didn’t lift his leg either like he did the last time. So that was a nice little boost for him. She did admit that she was being strict with him and pushing him that bit more, as that’s the only way he’s going to improve, and that’s because he seems to be taking to riding quite well. Oooo, I am sooooo pleased for him!!!

And, as if having Liam catch me up in riding isn’t enough, I find out he takes better pictures than me!! Neil took the boys out for a nature-walk on Wed. & here are some of the pix Liam took …

Riding lesson!!!!

2011-07-14T15:45:00.000+01:00

Finally!! (Liam's #6 & my #38) And what a lovely day for it -- sun shining, hot but with a light breeze to take the edge of. Though the arena was quite dusty ... and the flies/midges were out in their hundreds!

Jodie suggested Liam try mounting Pepsi without the block & he gave it a go and managed it quite easily. Bridget, who was holding Biscuit, then said it was my turn & I joked that that would take up the entire lesson -- me trying to mount Biscuit from the ground *lol* Needless to say, I used the mounting block -- let's not put Biscuit off before we've even started ;o)

Richard was taking a lesson in the big arena so we started in the middle-sized one. Obviously I'm getting complacent with standing in the stirrups -- had to re-adjust my leg position a couple of times. But, considering he hasn't ridden for over 3 weeks, Liam got the hang of standing up fairly quickly. We stopped and changed the rein a couple of times, still standing & he got Pepsi to move into a faster walk while I eventually got Biscuit moving too. Oh yes, Jodie decided to be kind to us & let us have the crops before we left the stables :D

Then she told us to pick up the trot while still standing! That feels so odd, very springy. Though we were both pleased that we got the horses moving while still standing & not really having to use the crop. It took a while but we eventually got to the point where we were standing more than sitting. After that, we did a bit of sitting trot. And I discovered that my feet aren't really in the right position -- I tend to turn my toes out so I end up having my leg on all the time *duh*

After about 10 minutes, Richard finished with the other lesson & they left so Jodie told us to move to the big arena. Both horses thought that was it for the lesson & turned their heads to the exit *lol* As there was more space, Liam went one way & I went the other as we picked up rising trot. Found I was spending more time concentrating on getting my feet in the right position ...

Have to confess that I have been sooooo lax with exercising over the past 3 weeks so I was dreading the lesson as I knew it was going to hurt. But, all in all, I only stopped once for an unscheduled rest & I wasn't hurting (apart from the usual with sitting trot). I KNOW I am in no way fit but this is a definite improvement!

Back to the lesson -- we trotted a few circuits, changed the rein a couple of times & I managed to keep Biscuit in trot, which was a confidence boost for me. Then Jodie told me to keep trotting then change to canter. That was a non-event -- twice!! My mistake was I was trying to do it from sitting trot. She told me to start with rising trot at a good pace, then sitting & as soon as possible, get the canter going. So I did ... and I did it!! Only cantered a quarter circuit but it felt like the easiest thing ever :D And Jodie said the transition was so good, I couldn't have improved it! Way-haayy!!

Then she told Liam, he could have a little go. The look on his face *lol* She talked him through it & off he went. And didn't he look good!! The transition certainly looked smooth from where I was & Jodie said he's got a naturally good seat ... except he was leaning back quite a bit. She said he'd probably take to western riding quite well, he looked like a cowboy *heh* She asked him how it felt & he said, "Exhilarating!"

Then I had another go & managed a half circuit :D When Liam set off again, he brought his leg up a bit & almost lost the stirrup but kept going. And on my third try, I ended up cantering a whole circuit, kept Biscuit going around the corner (when she usually slows down because I've lost the plot) & wanted to do another circuit but Jodie said to slow her down to trot and to make sure she did it when I wanted her to. The whole thing felt so effortless & so easy ... I so hope I can do that again for the next lesson.

Liam really enjoyed having a go at cantering ... I'm sure it was quite a few lessons for me before I attempted it but talk about a confident boost for him! As we were leaving, he asked Jodie what galloping felt like -- !!!

As we were leaving the stables, we spotted a couple of foals in one of the fields, still small & staying close to their mums.

All in all, a really fantastic lesson. Have to wait a couple of weeks before the next one but hopefully, once the boys are done with their activities next week, we'll have more free time.

Time flies...

2011-07-08T16:08:00.000+01:00

... even when you're not having fun ;o) Haven't had a chance to go riding for what seems like such a long time, had to cancel last week's lesson thanks to the car acting up -- nothing serious, just an over-sensitive sensor *rolls eyes* Don't mind so much about me missing lessons but as he's only just started, I do mind that there is now such a big gap since Liam's last lesson.

Finally got around to getting another computer ... our old museum piece was hanging on by a thread & I really didn't want to push our luck too much. As I'm a bit of luddite when it comes to pc-technology, I wasn't looking forward to going through all the replacement-hassle but when I saw the latest Packard Bell Touchscreen pc, I was hooked!! No tower or trailing wires to worry about, everything is built into the screen! Setting the thing up was easy-peasy, even for me ;o) but the boys helped & they're not scared of tech *lol* but it took a while to get us re-connected to the internet. Anyway, it seems to be working fine & we're all happy with it.

We had a 'sneak peek' at a possible summer but weather's gone back to being windy & rainy, and not very warm. Boys are gearing up for their summer band concert & drama performance next week, then things start to wind down and we're 'free' for the summer :D More chances to go riding! And to catch up with loads of other stuff that inevitably gets pushed to the bottom of the list ... like crafting and writing ...

First lesson with Liam!

2011-06-20T16:05:00.001+01:00

Liam had his 4th lesson a couple of weeks ago but didn’t get around to blogging about it … he was back on Pepsi who was a little more responsive. The one thing I do remember about that lesson – one of the other ladies who works there, mainly exercising some of the horses, was putting her own horse through his paces. She watched Liam for a bit before leaving & I went to open the gate for her. She said he wasn’t doing too badly at all, especially with the rising trot, and when I mentioned it was only his 4th lesson she said he was doing really well then! Boyo was well pleased when I told him :D

We had our first joint lesson on Friday. Don’t know about Liam but I was excited! We’ve been having very wet weather the past couple of weeks – last Sunday (the 12th) was very, very wet!! Neil thinks about an inch of rain must have fallen in the garden & most days its been raining. Friday was no exception. Liam was a bit sceptical but I told him I’d had lessons in worse weather *lol* Not surprisingly, the yard was a bit quiet when we got there, even the dogs weren’t venturing far from the office.

Jodie was taking our lesson as Richard was away on a course. Bridget got Pepsi out for Liam first & told him to quickly get on the mounting block so the saddle wouldn’t be too wet for him ;o) When we were ready, Biscuit started moving first but I told her to wait as I wanted my baby to go first … not sure what she thought of that *lol*

It wasn’t very pleasant, walking up to the arena with the rain dripping down my neck. Usually, Liam isn’t that keen on getting wet in the rain but being on a horse somehow makes it ok … seems like a horse makes lots of things ‘ok’ :D

As we made our way to the big arena, Jodie told us that they’d moved some of the jumps & things around so the horses would probably be a bit look-y as they always know when things have been moved. Sure enough, they both slowed down & had a good look around. I’ve come to the conclusion that, like me, Biscuit can be a bit of a worry-wart – one minute we were walking along the middle of the path, next minute we were right on the far edge, practically in the hedge as she eyed the moved items accusingly!

We entered the arena and both horses stopped and stared at the large puddle then glanced at each other, as if unsure what to do next … needless to say, we decided for them *lol*

We started with standing in the stirrups; I basically got on with it while Jodie concentrated more on Liam. Not having done it for almost a couple of weeks, it took him a while to get the hang of it. It seemed an age before she told us to sit and pick up sitting trot. And she wanted us to get the horses moving on our own, without the crop. I eventually managed to get Biscuit into a trot but it didn’t last long *sigh* Liam persevered (ah, to be young and bendy!) & he got Pepsi to trot and kept it going. I, on the other hand, felt like my legs were going to fall off and still Biscuit walked on, oblivious! Finally, after more than a circuit, Jodie ‘rewarded’ us with a crop each *heh* As Jodie walked towards me, I told Biscuit to take note, I was getting a crop & Jodie said Biscuit was watching her closely. Sure enough, one kick & Biscuit was off!! And I thought I was predictable!

Not sure what was in Pepsi’s breakfast that morning but she was off & away! A couple of times, Liam said he actually had to slow her down. But he enjoyed being on a horse that was moving with purpose *lol*

Because I was concentrating on keeping Biscuit moving during rising trot AND getting her through the puddles, I didn’t get much of a chance to see how Liam was getting on with his rising trot. But from what Jodie was saying, it didn’t sound too bad.

Being naughty & lax with my exercises over the past 2 weeks, my legs were starting to ache after a couple of circuits in rising trot. So, I went into the middle of the arena for a rest stop. Pepsi thought it was time for her to stop too – Liam said, “What are you stopping for? We haven’t finished yet.” *lol* And kept her going. Same thing happened to me when Jodie told Liam to stop so she could show him something & Biscuit took that as her cue to stop too. What a pair!

Halfway through the lesson, it stopped raining. And man, did I feel hot with my light rain jacket on!

We rode a few circles as well; my first 2 were not only sloppy but gave whole new meaning to the word ‘meandering’ as I hadn’t decided where I wanted to go *duh* But the last couple were much better, even I thought so ;o) And how pleased was Liam when he finally got the hang of it – very neatly executed.

Then it was time for canter – when Jodie told Liam he wasn’t quite ready yet, he did look a bit disappointed! And off I went, with right foot slipping in stirrup as usual. Had about 3 attempts & each time only managed about half a circuit. This is the bit that’s frustrating me now – I get to the point where I think I’ve cracked the canter, a couple of weeks pass before I have another lesson, and it feels like I’ve taken 2 steps back *sigh* But my darling son said I looked good cantering :D

As we left the arena, again Biscuit hugged the far edge of the path because those moved items were still there, where they shouldn't be *lol* We were about to walk down the path when sharp-eyed Jodie noticed a truck about to come up the path towards us. She got hold of Biscuit’s bridle & walked us up the side-path away from the truck. Liam wondered where we were going; Jodie told him to get Pepsi closer to her so she could hold her bridle as well but Pepsi was in full busybody-mode & was too busy staring at this ‘thing’ making its way up the path that Liam had to really haul on the reins to get her to turn her head & move!

Once the truck was out of sight (delivering more sand for the arenas), we made our way down the path, and Liam was quite happy for me to go first. He is definitely more confident on horseback than I was after only a handful of lessons – Jodie was walking alongside me & when I glanced back, Liam looked so relaxed on Pepsi & not worried at all.

When we left, I asked Liam how he felt about having joint lessons & he’s happy to continue :D Don’t know how I’d have reacted if he’d said otherwise ...!

Another proud parent moment – Gordon successfully graded at his karate-grading yesterday; he’s now 6^th kyu.

Riding lessons -- #3 for Liam & my #36

2011-06-03T17:03:00.000+01:00

Going to blog about two lessons – Liam had his third lesson on Tuesday & I had mine today. Feel a bit pressured to blog sometimes but can’t always find the time.

Tuesday & Liam’s lesson – it was fairly quiet at the stables when we got there. Went over to say ‘hi’ to Biscuit who was all togged up but still in her stable. Facing the wall, she flicked her ear in my direction but didn’t turn. Chatted with her rump for awhile then moved away to make sure Liam had his helmet on properly. When I turned, she’d come to look out – obviously we do this on her terms *lol* Gave her lots of fussing & I joked with Liam that he might be riding Biscuit. Imagine our surprise when Bridget led Biscuit out for Liam!! He was a bit wide-eyed, after all she is a lot taller than Pepsi, but then Liam is almost the same height as me. He had to work a bit to get mounted & was a bit ‘whoah’ about being so high up.

Jodie took his lesson (she & Richard do alternate Tuesdays) & off we went. Again, he was in the big arena. It had rained the previous couple of days so it wasn’t so dusty. He started with standing in the stirrups & didn’t do too badly at all; he stayed up more than he sat down. I was so proud :D

When he eventually sat back down, it was time to try rising trot. He kicked … and kicked … and kicked … and Biscuit thought about upping the pace … then decided against it … It brought back memories, I can tell you *lol* But Liam persevered & kept at it for a couple of circuits – she did trot for a bit a few times … In the end, Jodie let him have a crop as he’d tried so hard. I told her she was a lot kinder than her brother, Chris, who never let me have a crop as he insisted I had to get Biscuit to move on my own!!

Anyway, crop in hand & Biscuit was off! It did make us laugh. It took him a while to get into the trot but I must say, I didn’t hear his bottom hitting the saddle at all. But each time they stopped, he managed to get Biscuit moving again without too much effort. Maybe she prefers them young & male instead of old & wrinkly ;o)

Lost count of the number of circuits Liam did in trot but he kept at it, listening to what Jodie was telling him & making a real effort. And by the end, there was definite improvement :D

Jodie had another lesson straight after so the stable girl who’d walked the next lesson up walked Liam back. Back at the stable, when he dismounted he stood in true John Wayne fashion – finally!!! *lol* Richard was there & we had a bit of a laugh as Liam said, for the first time, his upper legs were hurting. He enjoyed his lesson on Biscuit but I have told him, when we start joint lessons, Biscuit is mine ;o)

Today – my lesson and it was HOT!! It was already hot when we were having our breakfast & according to the forecast it was going to be about 16C by 10am when I would be having my lesson! So I knew I’d have my work cut out for me where Madame B was concerned.

Because it’s half-term week, they’ve been quite busy at the stables with extra lessons & activity days for kids. Today, there was a pony club thing going on in the big arena, which Richard was in charge of so Jodie took my lesson – nice surprise as I haven’t had a lesson with her for ages.

While Biscuit was being readied, we visited the facilities & the row of stables close to the toilets has Phyllis – she’s a huge grey, 18hh, about 6 years old. The boys were blown away by her size but she’s a real sweetheart, very much a people-horse, loves her cuddles. Apparently when Richard bought her, she wasn’t much bigger than Biscuit but by the time she came over from Ireland, she’d had one heck of a growth spurt & Richard was a bit: “I bought THAT?!” Just as well she’s lovely, at that size. And Jodie said she’s a really safe ride but it’s a bit like driving a bus with a trailer attached *lol*

I mount up & my darling children comment on how well I managed it … suppose I should just take it as a compliment …

Because of the pony club, I had my lesson in the small arena, which I haven’t used in yonks, since my early lessons. And because it was hot, it was DUSTY!! Poor Jodie was lost in a swirl of dust a couple of times & my teeth felt all gritty *bleah*
Started with standing in the stirrups & after I’d done a couple of circuits, Jodie told me to make sure I had my leg on to get Biscuit into a more active walk. That I have never had to do & boy, does my left hip ache! For the first time, my legs were starting to ache while still standing … so pleased when she said to sit.

Then rising trot & because it’s a smaller arena with sharper corners, I kept slowing down at the corners. So it took me awhile to get into the swing of it AND I had to keep Biscuit moving as Jodie would not let me get away with stopping when Biscuit had decided to stop. Did a few circles & with each attempt, got better at maintaining it without slowing.

Then canter … It is hard cantering in a small space, so much more control is needed & I felt really bad for Biscuit – everytime she sped up, I inadvertently slowed her down. Took me a couple of tries but eventually managed a whole circuit, which isn’t that big a circuit but still … AND I didn’t have that panicky feeling even though I hadn’t had a lesson for 2 weeks :D Here’s hoping the ‘panic’ is behind me now … at least until Richard suggests jumping … or galloping … *gulp*

Enjoyed that lesson but was glad when it was over as it was hard, hot work. And glad that Biscuit didn’t have another lesson after me as I think she was quite hot by then as well.

We’ve decided that Liam will have one more lesson on his own, then we’ll start joint lessons. I really hope he enjoys it as I am so looking forward to it :D

Abbotsbury Swannery

2011-05-28T17:45:00.001+01:00

On Tuesday (24/05), we visited the Swannery together with our home-ed group. We've never been ... well Neil went, many moons ago when he was a little boy. After a wild & windy weekend, the weather was much better on the Tues although still a touch windy, but at least the sun was shining.

The Swannery is the only place in the world that has a managed colony of nesting mute swans. The lagoon is called the Fleet, from the old English word 'fleot, which means 'shallow water'. The Swannery was established by Benedictine monks who built a monastery there during the 1040s and the swans were managed as a ready source of meat. The monastery was destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution ordered by Henry VIII.

We had a guided walk around the sanctuary with a very knowledgable guide; the kids enjoyed all his information & so did us adults. The swan-pairs choose their own nesting sites, which can be quite close to the path where us humans walk, so we have to take extra care where we step. Established pairs tend to return to the same site each year. Nesting takes place from late March to the end of April. From mid-May to late June, the cygnets hatch; we saw lots of cygnets but no actual hatching. And the cygnets learn to fly in Sept-Oct time. It was absolutely breathtaking, the amount of swans we saw & the little cygnets were so adorable.

A cygnet had wandered quite a way & our guide 'rescued' it. Each cygnet has a little tag on the end of its foot with a number, I think, so any lost ones can be returned to their parents -- clever idea. The children had a chance to give it a little stroke before the guide put it 'somewhere safe' to be reunited with its parents later in the day.

There were also lots of sheep in the fields between the entrance (where the shop, cafe & playground are) and the Sanctuary itself, with lots of little lambs ... all free-roaming.

In 1824, there was a great storm that caused a drastic rise in the sea-level with huge waves that devastated the area. The original building by the herb garden, just inside the entrance to the Sanctuary was destroyed. To give people an idea of how much the sea-level rose, a post was erected with a red band around the top indicating the level -- mind-boggling stuff!!

The side of the rebuilt building by the herb garden ...

Really enjoyed that visit & a place we will most definitely be going to again, as its really not that far from us at all.

Liam's riding lesson #2

2011-05-20T16:21:00.000+01:00

Was dithering about whether to include Liam's lessons in my blog but I think as we’ll eventually be having lessons together, might as well, then he can look back & see how he’s doing.

It was a bit busy in the yard this morning; there was a guy hopping about, attempting to mount his horse … another lady getting her horse ready for a hack … Biscuit was saddled, ready for a lesson and so was Cass. Finally, Jodie brought Pepsi out for Liam and she stood surrounded by the other horses – we had to laugh as only then did we appreciate how dinky she is, being about 14.3hh.

Richard was taking the couple (who were on Biscuit & Cass) for a joint lesson so Jodie was Liam’s instructor for today. She’s taken me a couple of times & quite enjoyed the lessons. I think it’s nice sometimes to have different instructors as you get a different perspective on riding. Jodie walked alongside Liam but didn’t hold the bridle at all; whenever I looked back, Liam seemed comfortable enough.

He had his lesson in the big arena – the Riding for the Disabled lot always use the small arena on a Friday morning, and Richard had taken the couple into the middle-sized one. As Liam walked past Richard, he called out to Liam not to tackle all the jumps at once – Liam replied: “Not just yet” lol

Liam started with walking around; Jodie stopped him and, with hands on his legs, explained about leg position & how to kick the horse on. When he got Pepsi walking again, he managed to get her into more of an active walk. Jodie then talked him through the leg position for standing in the stirrups. Considering this is only his second lesson, and after last week when he was more down than up in the saddle, the improvement was amazing! He managed to stay up for quite a while each time & looked relaxed; I was impressed … & pleased for him.

Pepsi must have been having a chat with Biscuit because she was being a bit of a madam this morning ;o) At one point, Liam was kicking her for quite a bit (and starting to feel bad about it) & would the darling move? Not!! Brought back memories for me. But he persevered – even telling her to get a move on *lol* – and finally she relented.

When Jodie suggested trotting, Liam’s response was: “Okay.” Like I said to Gordon, my reaction was the exact opposite! It took him a couple of attempts but he got Pepsi into a trot all on his own. He did more sitting trot to begin with only because he couldn’t get the hang of ‘rising’. And when Pepsi had another ‘moment’, Jodie let him use the crop, having explained the proper use of it first. A bit like with Biscuit, Liam barely touched Pepsi with it before she off at a decent speed. But, like me, he kept slowing her down after a couple of bounces in the saddle.

Out of the blue, he managed to get himself up off the saddle & had a decent attempt at rising trot! In the end, he kept Pepsi going all the way around for a complete circuit, with a combination of sitting & rising trot – colour me very impressed!!!

Jodie finished the lesson on that high note & Liam said, he understood now my meaning of feeling like a sack of potatoes. And he was very aware of his bottom hitting the saddle *lol*

Liam dismounting is more like him stepping down off a very large step – he doesn’t have to do the little jump that I do :o) He enjoyed that lesson & I think it went well. He’s keen to start having lessons together, which is a good thing, but I’ll let him have a couple more on his own first. It’s going to be 2 weeks though before either of us can have another lesson – next week is full up with other stuff.

I did ask Richard how big the big arena is, just so I can put some perspective on my elation at cantering a full circuit. Typically, he didn’t know *lol* He thinks its about 60m x 40m – that’s plenty big enough for me :D

Riding lesson #35

2011-05-19T16:20:00.001+01:00

My lesson!! Only been two weeks but man, do I feel it ... decided to use that ‘free’ time for Liam & his lesson. Another hot day today, with a slight breeze and in the big arena … must remember to ask Richard how big that arena is, just to put it in some perspective.

Started with standing in the stirrups and managed to get Biscuit into a more active walk from the beginning AND using the whole arena without cutting corners … although that meant I had to duck my head past some of the leaves *lol* While standing in the stirrups, I circled a couple of jumps and changed the rein & only sat once :D

Sat back down again, we proceeded at walk – Biscuit was more responsive today, which I wasn’t expecting as it was hot – did a couple of large circles & managed to keep her moving; usually I lose the plot & she slows to a halt halfway around the circle.

We did a turn on the forehand, which I quite like doing especially when I get it right first time round, like today – turning to the left, kept the contact firm & even without letting the left rein go slack. And she’s so good, is Biscuit – when I get it right, she knows exactly what’s required of her.

Then rising trot, which was a bit ploddy to begin with before she picked up the pace – told her my knees were starting to ache … or maybe that’s just age ;o) After about 3 circuits, moved to sitting trot … wonder when that will get more comfy, although it does seem that bit better compared to when I first started trying to get to grips with it.

After a couple of circuits, Richard told me to move into canter when I was ready. Think Biscuit heard him, as I didn’t have to do much before she started to speed up. Slight foot slippage in stirrup BUT I carried on going!! Got the legs moving & kept going ... no panicking, I just got on with it. Hmmm, wonder what was in my breakfast this morning …

I think in total, I had 4 attempts – have to remember to slow her down when she drops from canter into, what Richard called a running trot, balance her and speed up again. Managed to do that once without coming to a complete halt. At the end of the lesson, Richard said my canter was sooooo much better, with more control & no flailing about. AND I had cantered a whole circuit. That surprised me & he said I really should pay attention to where I was going *lol* But I was too busy concentrating on making sure I had enough contact through the reins & on getting my legs to move without worrying about feet slipping in stirrups. Ended up surprising myself … in a good way :D

Almost had a ‘moment’ when dismounting – balanced myself nicely on the saddle & almost went forward, head first instead of sliding back *lol* A touch too exuberant, perhaps?

Biscuit was off out again, on a walk this time & while Bridget was helping the rider with his hat, I volunteered to hold Biscuit & got in some more fuss-time.

Well, I’m back at the stables tomorrow, for Liam’s lesson … must say, can’t wait for us to start having lessons together, will be so much easier to find the time to fit it in.

Riding Lesson...

2011-05-14T13:22:00.000+01:00

There are times 'blogger' drives me up the wall!!!! For reasons known only to itself, it has deleted the post I did about Liam's lesson along with the lovely comments *grump* So I shall type it up again, as much as I can remember ...

So, this was Liam's first lesson, which he had on Tuesday 10th May -- the very FIRST time he's even been on a horse! And he enjoyed every single minute of it :D

I'd given him a couple of pointers, on mounting, dismounting & the motion of the horse when it walks. I'm putting it down to him being young (13) & bendy but he had no problems AT ALL with mounting (I'm not jealous...). He was on Pepsi, she's a Welsh cob, in her late teens and an absolute angel. (Sarah started having lessons on her before she moved on).

Richard took the lesson & started off with a bit of teasing -- like pretending to be shocked when he saw that Bridget had readied Pepsi for Liam (making it sound like she was a terrible ride!); getting a crop & saying that it was for Liam in case he was naughty -- but my boys are used to that kind of teasing, having me for a mother ;o)

The whole lesson was done at a walk. Like me when I first started, Liam was reluctant to kick Pepsi too much & when Richard told him to give her another kick to get her into a more active walk, he did say he felt he was kicking her too much. The one thing he does have to work on is his posture -- he was hunching terribly & when he saw the pictures I'd taken, he was quite surprised as he thought he was sitting up straight ... except he ended up leaning back instead.

There were a set of 4 cones to one side & at the first attempt, Liam successfully steered Pepsi, weaving in & out of them!! Richard was very good with giving lots of praise when it was due. Then it was standing in stirrups time. Liam said afterwards that at the time he thought that sounded easy enough -- until he tried it! He just about managed it while Pepsi was standing still but the minute she started to walk, he was back down in the saddle. Even though it seemed as if he spent more time in the saddle than actually standing, I think he did a lot better than me when I first tried it.

He finished with more steering her in & out of the cones. Walking back down the path to the road, Richard didn't hold the bridle & Liam said it felt good being in control of Pepsi, even though Richard was there right next to him. Back at the stables, after having the dismount explained to him, he did ... just like that ... no struggling or scrabbling about! Pah!! I did tell him, he could have at least PRETENDED to struggle ;o)

It looks like he enjoyed the lesson enough to want to continue & I've booked another lesson for him next week; I think I'll let him have a few lessons on his own before we start having joint ones -- I'm really looking forward to that. Like Gordon said before, if Liam carries on with the riding then it can be his 'thing' as karate is Gordon's 'thing'. And I hope he does continue with it & that he has fun with it -- he can be an anxious little soul who could do with a confidence boost every now & again; he has a tendency to run himself down no matter that we constantly tell him otherwise ...

Riding lesson #34

2011-05-07T19:41:00.001+01:00

I’ve come to the conclusion that horses are, indeed, good for the soul. Woke up yesterday to find myself not in the best of moods, didn’t feel like going to our home-ed group or even going for my lesson. Bit embarrassing to admit that the only reason I went was because it was too late to cancel & I would have had to pay for it regardless. Even when I was almost at the stables, I still didn’t feel like I wanted to … But once I got my boots on & walked up to the office, I could feel that mood start to turn itself around.

Once I was ready, Bridget got Biscuit who was already saddled up & ready to go; Richard was already up at the arena with another lesson so Bridget was going to walk me there. Glad Bridget was on the ball – she walked ahead of us out onto the road then promptly stepped back & took hold of Biscuit’s bridle – very large truck went hurtling past & Biscuit, true to form, did a little bunny-hop *lol*

As we got to the path leading up to the schooling arena, we met Richard who had just walked down with the other student & he & Bridget swapped riders. It was HOT!!! Even though there has been some rain, everything was still so dry & dusty and I knew I’d have to work hard with Biscuit. We went into the middle arena – seem to go there more often now, which I like as there aren’t any jumps laid out, like in the big arena & there are letters around it, which makes it easier for me to work out where I’m supposed to be going.

Started off with standing in the stirrups while Richard got a chair … at least one of us was comfy then ;o) Madam’s walk felt like she was wading through treacle & I managed to get her to up her pace to a more active walk while still standing *big grin* Completed a whole circuit then did a turn on the forehand, still standing – yeah! And another circuit before sitting.

Moved on to rising trot & colour me oh-so-surprised when Biscuit again moved up a gear when I asked her to! Although a couple of times, she moved into an even faster trot, which puzzled me at first until I realised I was inadvertently telling her to – by making a pig’s ear of changing the crop when I changed the rein & unintentionally waving it about. Oopsy!!

I still have to sneak a glance at her outside shoulder to make sure I’m on the correct diagonal but sometimes I think I can ‘feel’ if I am on the right one. Although must admit that its only when Richard asks me if I’m on the right or wrong one, that I pay attention to it.

Being in this arena makes it easy to practise things like completing a 20m circle; riding through the middle to change the reins; coming to a halt at whichever letter Richard chooses ... I do struggle to keep the trot going each time I ride through the middle. I think my problem is I'm not supporting her properly when she turns; that & I need to focus on where I'm going when I start to turn. Richard had me doing that again & again -- poor Biscuit -- until I finally managed a good, focussed turn although the sort of straight line down the middle was a bit 'wobbly' *lol*

Then – oh deep delight – sitting trot. And here’s where Biscuit’s forward moving trot got slower and slower as I focussed more on me hip movement than my legs *lol* It was a bit stop-start to begin with & I kept ‘cutting corners’ & not using the whole of the arena – oh dear oh dear – but by the third attempt, we were trotting at a steady pace. Yet again, Richard said I was getting the hang of it … yet again, I wasn’t that convinced but as he is the expert, who am I to argue :D

He then ‘allowed’ us to have a break – did I say it was HOT?! I was well & truly sweaty by then; add swirling dust to that & I was sooo looking forward to a shower! We had a bit of a chat before it was time to canter … oh, the enthusiasm ...

Determined to keep my feet firmly in the stirrups, we set off – sitting trot a quarter way around, felt in control, and off we went. Lovely Biscuit responded straightaway, my feet stayed in the stirrups and I cantered A WHOLE CIRCUIT!!! On my first go!! Woo-hoo!!!!! The next two times were a bit pathetic, by comparison, but did I care?! Did I, heck!! My right foot did slip a bit but not like before … I did have my stirrups a touch shorter – as Bridget said when I was dithering, they were ankle-length so I shall remember to check that next time.

We finished with that & walked back, hot & sweaty & dusty but so pleased with myself. Back at the stables, apart from the handyman, there was no one else around. I wondered where everyone was & Richard said that was it – he was on his own for the rest of the day (it was about 12:50). Bridget is now part-time because of her little daughter & Jodie was off sick. I suppose the other girlies only work until lunch-time. Not for the first time did I wish I lived closer – I would quite happily chunter down there every spare moment I have to help out.

I ran the stirrups up on the saddle & while Richard went to put the saddle away – first time for me – I removed Biscuit’s brushing boots. When he re-appeared, he told me to put her in her stall & remove her bridle, again a first for me. Very fiddly things, bridles.

In a way, its nice that there aren’t so many helpers around – it means each time, I get to do a little bit more with Biscuit. And maybe I’ll get a chance to tack her up, groom her …

Riding lesson #33 and a Royal Wedding

2011-04-30T18:36:00.001+01:00

The Royal wedding yesterday was super-fab!! Traditional service, lovely hymns, breathtaking setting … and Catherine’s dress was gorgeous, well worth the wait.

But first, my riding lesson, which was on Thursday, a joint one with Sarah. We were nice & early, which was good after my previous lateness. Jodie was still getting Biscuit ready, giving her a bit of a groom, having a light-hearted moan that there usually isn’t enough time for Biscuit to have a really good fuss. I think the bit Jodie enjoyed most was picking out Biscuit’s hooves; all it takes is a hand on her leg & she lifts her leg & holds it up ready for the person to hold it. Richard said he’s sure if you give Biscuit the hoof-pick, she’ll do it herself *lol*

With Sarah on Cass, off we went. One thing I’ve noticed about Biscuit, she seems to want to go first when we’re walking up to the school but after the lesson, she’s quite happy for Cass to go first. Even though the sun was shining, it was a lot cooler. But the arena was very dry with swirling dust!

Did a couple of circuits standing in the stirrups, which always gives me a confidence boost. Then we took it in turns around the arena, rising trot first. I suppose because the breeze took the edge off the heat, Biscuit was a lot more responsive – only needed to use the crop once to get her into an active trot. Which I found really enjoyable & it was easier to concentrate on my body position. Then it was Sarah’s turn while Biscuit & I walked around … although every time Richard told Sarah to pick up speed or clapped to urge Cass to go faster, I could feel Biscuit attempt to move up a gear *lol*

After a couple of times at rising trot, we then moved to sitting trot … although after a bit I had to stop as I honestly felt like a sack of potatoes!! Gathered myself (in more ways than one!) & set off again, but had to really concentrate to stop myself bouncing around. I’m still not convinced that I’ve got the pelvic movement right but Richard said I was improving with each circuit & I guess he should know. But he did say that, both Sarah & I are much more controlled in the trot now – there’s not much movement in the upper body. Yeah!!

Then canter. Before we started, Richard explained about which leg the horse should strike off on … He said its great to canter on Biscuit as she knows which leg to strike off on without ‘being told’ but only when her right side is on the inside. He thinks she might have a touch of arthritis in her right leg as when she’s going the other way, she starts on the wrong leg but still manages to make it feel as if she’s done it with the right leg. He finished by referring to her as a sweetheart & even though she wasn’t facing him, I think she knew he was talking about her as she turned her right ear towards him.

So … canter … and of course everything goes to pot. For me anyway. Sarah makes it look ever so easy *sigh* I don’t know what it is but every time Richard says ‘canter’, my right foot automatically starts to slip in the stirrup … Aaargh!!!! My first attempt was a non-starter … second time, not much better but at least I managed just under half the circuit … can’t remember if it was the third or fourth time that I finally managed to keep the canter going. And it was fun! I was enjoying it so much, I had a ‘yee-ha’ moment, lost my focus & we bumbled through to the ‘end’! *lol* But I cantered a whole circuit again (not counting the last little bit …) Now if I could just get my foot to stop moving … maybe if I strap it to the stirrup …

Like Sarah said, we must have done a pretty okay job when we helped with the mucking out at the beginning of the month as Richard asked us when we were going to do it again :D Trouble is, even though we home-ed, during term-time, it’s a nightmare trying to find some free time with the boys’ activities. But, so long as he’s not expecting us to turn up at the same time each week, I might be able to find some time to spare … somewhere …

Back to the Royal wedding … loved every minute of it but, for me, the best part of all was the carriage ride. Just for that, I wish I had been in London – to see all those horses in their regalia trotting past … I fell in love with the Windsor Greys pulling the royal carriage. And I’ve learnt a few things as well – the police escort right at the front, the Sovereign’s Escort, is known as the Grey Escort because they ride grey horses. The escort is led by a mounted inspector, who rides as the ‘pointer’ &, yesterday, he was on Annabel, at 21 the longest serving grey. The Household Cavalry, which has been escorting royal newlyweds for 349 years, made up the rest of the escort.

Everything went like clockwork except for one poor horse, which slipped on the tarmac and fell. His rider fell off, tried to grab the reins but, spooked by the fall & the crowds, the horse bolted but was caught by other soldiers – neither horse nor rider was hurt. Poor dears … I did catch a glimpse of a riderless horse & that has been bugging me all this time until I managed to find out the details.

There’s loads of pix out there, in newspapers & on the internet, but predictable-me just has to include a couple of the carriage ride …

Riding lesson #32

2011-04-26T18:34:00.001+01:00

Wowser! Where has the time gone? Been through a couple of birthdays (hubby & no.1 son -- 16 already!! My baby!!!) and the Easter weekend ... and still have the Royal wedding to go!

The weather has been and still is GLORIOUS! Though a little rain won’t go amiss, everything’s so dry and dusty in the garden, our little black & white cat is more of a grey & white cat now *lol*

Bit behind … had this riding lesson waaaaaay back (oh ok, not that far back!) on April 14th. Both my boys accompanied me for this lesson – Liam (younger one) has expressed interest re: riding lessons but wanted to check it out first, see what the place is like, what the lessons are like … Gordon came along just for fun.

Didn’t start well – with various road works dotted all over the place (you can tell when summer’s on the way by the number of road works and diversions you come across!!), I ended up being almost 15 mins late!!!! But Richard was so good about it, just laughed & said not to worry and I still got my full 30 mins, even though he had other lessons after me.

First time boys have met Biscuit and they think she’s lovely … didn’t pass any unnecessary comments about my mounting up *lol* Richard found it very amusing the way they kept sidestepping all the piles of horsey-poo :D My city-children *heh*

At the arena, they pulled up a couple of chairs and Liam got my camera ready, which has a little video camera attached. Yes, finally, I have managed to get moving shots of me riding!! And man, do I need a sports bra!!!! But, apart from that, it is a big help being able to see what I'm doing at walk, trot & canter ... although sitting trot is not a pretty picture!

Now, the hard part … trying to remember how the lesson went … I do remember, it was hot so Biscuit was on her usual ‘go-slow’ but I didn’t wait too long before using the crop. One thing Richard did point out to me, which I have been so unaware of – when he starts talking to me, telling me what to do next, the way I focus my attention on him is enough to slow Biscuit down to a walk! Even though I am still looking ahead and I haven’t changed my position, my arm & hand positions are enough to let her know I’m not paying attention to her!!!! What an eye-opener that was!! That’s going to be fun to work out, especially as I don’t feel I’m doing anything different.

I struggled with the canter again *sigh* I think I was concentrating so much on making sure my feet didn’t slip in the stirrups, I wasn’t paying much attention to what my upper body was doing. But eventually I managed another whole circuit :D Nothing graceful about it but hey! Who’s complaining?! Hee-hee.

When we got back to the stables, the boys introduced themselves properly to Biscuit, let her have a sniff of their hands before they fussed her. I wasn’t paying attention to where my feet were (naughty me!) & realised the tip of her hoof was on the tip of my boot, enough so that I couldn’t move my foot away. But when I put my hand on her leg, she lifted it straightaway :D

I am pleased to report that my riding hasn’t put Liam off ;o) He’s keen on having a go so shall book him a lesson in May, I do so hope he enjoys it enough to keep going. I have told him its hard work & his legs won’t thank him but it is such fun!!

Easter break’s over now & the boys are starting back with their activities tomorrow, which means Sarah can start back with her lessons & we’ll be having a joint lesson on Thursday. In time, I hope to be having joint lessons with Liam too!

Shall finish with some pix of our garden …

London Zoo

2011-04-09T19:43:00.002+01:00

Now that 'blogger' seems to have sorted out that paragraph problem, I can catch up with my blogging :D

Took the boys to London Zoo on Tuesday, first time for all of us. And wouldn't you know it, it was cold, windy and rainy!! Everyday before Tuesday and everyday since has been warm & dry or hot & dry!!!! But we survived! I wanted to make the trip before schools broke up for the Easter hols as I try to avoid London during the school holidays.

We set off early on the train & got to London about 09:50. The zoo is close to Regent's Park and we got there just before 11:00. There was no queue to get in, which made a nice change, but lots of school children on school outings -- that's a fact of life when visiting anything in London!

We started off in the Reptile House; large & spacious, with snakes, lizards, frogs, turtles, even a little crocodile. As usual, can't remember the names of all of them ...

A mossy frog ...
took us a while to spot it!

After that we went to the gorilla enclosure but it was closed while they were re-settling the male (he's been there about a year) into a new enclosure. There was a little 5-month old baby but his mummy kept him indoors as it was cold; we did manage to get tantalising glimpses through the glass-fronted walkway though. We went off to see a few other things & came back when it was open but because the male was indoors, I couldn't get a satisfactory picture. I did manage to get one of the one of the females when she popped out for a few minutes ...

There were a few other monkeys in that area but as it was a cold day, most were opting to stay indoors. Got a good shot of this guy though -- love the expression!

They have 3 Galapagos tortoises and it was magical, having the chance to get close, even though we were separated by the glass ...

One of the pair of Komodo dragons ...

We made our way to the Outback, with wallabies & emus, and a beautiful black swan ...

By now, we were really cold!! My hands were getting numb, even with gloves on, it was a struggle to take pictures. We had a cold lunch -- I suppose that would be my one gripe, there wasn't anywhere sheltered to eat for those who'd brought packed lunches -- then nipped back into the Reptile House to warm up. We then trotted over to the Rainforest Life building to warm up some more.

Were we in for surprise -- most of the wildlife there aren't in enclosures!!! They're free-roaming!! There were a couple of keepers there to answer questions and keep an eye on things. We couldn't get over how close we could get to the monkeys. Of course, the public aren't allowed to touch them; if you reach out, they'll most likely panic & either run or might bite before running. But if you keep your hands to yourself & don't make any sudden, threatening moves, they're quite happy to wander close.

The golden tamarins were behind enclosures though ...

And this guy was too zonked to care!

But the too-cute emperor tamarins were free-roaming, and there was even a little baby. Their call is so high-pitched, they sound more like birds.

By now, we were starting to rush, to try & see as much as possible before we had to leave to catch our train home. We had a quick look at the meerkats, warming themselves under their heat lamp, then dashed over to 'Africa'.

I really wanted to see the African hunting dogs but they too were opting to stay indoors, out of sight. The warthogs were kind enough to venture out though. This one had very impressive tusks but such a forlorn expression. They are so ugly but I think there's something so endearing about them ...

There were also zebra & okapis but I couldn't get clear shots of them. With most of the animals, if they're indoors, you can still go in and see them; we saw the giraffes indoors & out. Liam said their living quarters look like giant stables!

After that, we zoomed over to the big cats -- Sumatran tigers & Asian lions. The tigers were having their afternoon siesta & the lions were dozing too. As we hurried on to the butterfly pavilion, we passed flamingos

Didn't get any pictures of butterflies as it was so hot and humid in there, the boys' glasses fogged up as did my camera lens!! But we got nice and toasty-warm in there.

We didn't get to see everything but a return visit is definitely on the cards. It was a long day -- we got home after 18:30 -- but a super-fab day.

Helping out & Riding lesson #31

2011-04-08T23:00:00.000+01:00

Have had a fab couple of days. Sarah & I went to the stables on Thursday to help out! Richard had said to us last week that we'd be most welcome if we wanted to -- he was short-staffed, with people going on holiday & Chris leaving for another job. So, Sarah & I consulted our diaries & Thursday was the only day we could do. Sarah lives literally spitting distance from the stables (I'm not jealous ... honest ...!!) so I made my way to hers & we went together. She's worked at stables before, over 10 years ago, so as far as I was concerned, she knew what she was doing.

We got there about 09:30, armed ourselves with wheelbarrow & the requisite mucking-out equipment & Jodie showed us which stables to do. We worked through the stables together, starting with an empty one then moving on to a big guy called Red, who was quite sweet-natured. Then we went to Biscuit's stall & I'm sure she did a double-take when we entered *lol* Gave her lots of fussings before & after cleaning.

By this time, we'd divested ourselves of our top layer of clothing -- it was HOT!!! I can't remember the last time I'd been so sweaty!

A little stallion called Simon was moved into the first stall we'd cleaned to wait for a colt who was being brought in from the field, ready to leave his mother. Apparently, Simon does a good job of 'mothering' the babies. We cleaned out his stall before being shown to Widget's. Jodie calmly told us he's a stallion -- both Sarah & I stopped in our tracks & stared!! But she assured us he's so gentle & lovely, you wouldn't think he was a stallion. And, sure enough, he was more like a big, soppy dog.

While waiting for Sarah to empty the wheelbarrow (we took it in turns to go to the muck-heap, tho Sarah very kindly did more than me, to give my back a rest), I stepped out to see why all the horses were busy calling out. It was lovely to hear, all of them neighing. The colt & his mummy were being brought in & he was an inquisitive little thing. But they got him safely into the stall with Simon & the mum was taken back to the field. He settled in well, I found out today.

Next stall we cleaned out belonged to big grey called Phyllis & she was big -- about 18hh!! When she looked from left to right, her head easily cleared the top of mine! She was another great, big softie. Sarah was standing fairly close to her as we mucked out & Phyllis kept touching her face to Sarah's ... breathing down her neck ... breathing down her front *lol* She really seemed to enjoy human contact. It was very soothing, just standing next to her & stroking her neck ... Phyllis' neck that is, not Sarah's ... not that there's anything wrong with Sarah's neck ...

We then took a break & watched the farrier at work, who'd been there for some time. He & his assistant were trying to remove a shoe from a horse that had a small hole in her front hoof but she was not having it -- she kept rearing up & getting herself really worked up. But, apparently, she's got quite an attitude problem that she's never outgrown. Her owner was trying to get a poultice on the hoof -- no chance with her constant rearing.

Sarah & I finished with sweeping up the yard, and checking & topping up water buckets. We were aching even before we were done. And I couldn't wait to get home to get showered. I got through the rest of the day despite the aches, even got the boys to & from band practice ... It was only when I went to bed -- OMG!! Lying on my back, I found I couldn't move to turn to the side! I ended up reaching over, trying to grab the edge of the bed to haul myself over ... giggling like an idiot wasn't helping either!! But, like Sarah said, it was a satisfying ache.

And to add to that 'satisfying ache', I'd booked a riding lesson for this morning -- ooo-er!!! It was busy when I got to the stables. The vet was in to castrate the colt & Simon; he was running late which meant I had to wait a while before Richard was free for my lesson. But that wasn't a problem -- the boys were at our home-ed group, which meet every Friday & the hall is about a 10-minute drive from the stables. I got to spend time with Biscuit while waiting for Richard.

Today was another hot day & I knew I'd have my work cut out for me, trying to get Biscuit to move during the lesson. Richard decided to use one of the other arenas today, where they practice dressage. Its not as big as the one we usually use but it was actually easier to focus on using the whole of the arena -- it was glaringly obvious when I ended up 'cutting corners'.

Started with standing in the stirrups & I was so busy talking to Richard, I didn't realise I'd done over 2 circuits. But then it was down to business -- getting Biscuit to move up a gear into a proper walk, instead of ambling along. And there was the tiniest of puddles on one bend, so I had to concentrate on not letting her slow down to mince through it.

Moving into rising trot was hard work -- I was all for it, Biscuit wasn't! After a couple of stop-start circuits, I told Biscuit that my legs were too achy to be doing all the work. She heaved the biggest sigh, even Richard laughed.

Off we went again & this time I used the crop with a bit more purpose. And the trot was so much more active. I'm no expert but I've realised how much easier it is when the horse trots like that -- I found it easier to maintain my posture & easier to maintain the movement in the pelvic area.

Richard had me do a few circles, using half the arena & the middle. It took a few attempts before I realised my mistake -- in the middle, I was making the circle too angular by turning too sharply.

Near the end of the lesson, when Biscuit started to slow down again (puddle alert!), I flicked the crop slightly & Richard said to use it if she started to slow -- not just flick it but to tap her rump with it, show her that I meant it. And when he said, "Yes, that's it. Get cross with her", I didn't go all wimpy & wishy-washy. I think I'm finally understanding the need to be firm, & just like with children, it doesn't mean you're being horrible.

A little 'plus' moment for me -- as we were starting the final circuit, Richard picked some small thing up from the sand and threw it into the bushes. We weren't near him when he did that but I think it must have passed Biscuit's line of vision & she had a little head-tossing-mini-prancing moment. There was a time I would have had a little panic but this time, at Richard's quick suggestion, I used her forward movement to get her trotting *big grin*

Back at the stables, I held her while Richard took her saddle & hind boots off then he told me to lead her into her stall :D Had a bit more of a fuss with her & thanked her for a fun lesson.

Super-fantastic way to start the weekend!!

Riding lesson #30

2011-04-01T18:09:00.002+01:00

This 'thing' is driving me up the wall!!! No matter what I do, it won't keep the separate paragraphs, instead running it all together to make one huge, hard-to-read chunk!!! grrrr ... anyway ... Another week, another lesson -- yesterday, a joint lesson with Sarah :D Its still warm but we’ve had rain the last few days; I think the garden is happier for it … everything looks fresher. Well, I had Biscuit & Sarah had Cass, her favourite. Walking up to the arena, I was ahead of Sarah, and Biscuit wasn’t on a ‘go-slow’; its nice to be on a horse that has some purpose to its walk ;o) Maybe I should tell Biscuit about GHM’s Dusty *lol* As we entered the arena, I spotted a deer up on the bank & got a bit excited. But Richard yelled at it to ‘get lost’; Sarah & I were a bit perplexed. But, apparently, the other day, during an evening lesson, 4 deer leapt into the arena, surprising the horses that were there. So glad I wasn’t there! Deer then panicked as they couldn’t work out how to leave & horses were a bit all over the place. Ooo-er! Since it had rained, naturally there were puddles, not big ones, but puddles nonetheless. I was most pleased with myself for getting Biscuit through the puddles, even while standing in the stirrups ... or maybe she's just gotten over her puddle-phobia. We then did a turn on the forehand while standing in the stirrups -- did it first time! Properly!! Yes!!! A nice little confidence-builder. Sat back down and rising trot. Went a lot smoother this time & Biscuit was moving, would like her to move a bit more briskly but hey-ho, at least she was moving better than last Friday. Sarah looks the business though ... her movements seem smooth and effortless. Then Richard wanted us to stand in the stirrups while trotting. That is hard! I keep thinking I'm about to tip forward over Biscuit's head. But kept working at it; lots of stand, stand, stand, sit, stand, sit, stand ... He then asked us to do a figure of 8 & off Sarah went, doing it perfectly (from my point of view anyway). Could I get my head around it?! I'm so useless at things like this, it takes me ages to visualise it before I atttempt it ... Richard even drew it on the ground with his foot, explaining each stage. I'm sitting here giggling as I write this, it sounds so daft ... Gordon used to ask me to help him with his drawings, when he wanted a 'mirror-image' of something. He'd watch as I struggled then kindly say, "Its alright, Mummy. I can do it." Nowadays, he doesn't even ask. *lol* Anyway, I finally managed it even though I wasn't really sure what I was doing. At least Richard didn't ask me to do it again. Sitting trot next. Sack-of-potatoes-time!! Was a bit stop-start, as well -- my feet kept slipping in the stirrups again. But managed to gather myself enough to do a passable half-circuit. As I'm fiddling about, Sarah's off & away, cantering & looking lovely. She's come a long way, has my lovely friend. Last time we had a lesson together, way back in Nov., she was a bit all over the place but now, there’s control. Dare I mention my cantering efforts? *blush* First attempt was all over the place -- reins too slack, feet slipping in stirrups, rubbish position ... poor Biscuit. Second, not too bad. But by the third attempt, I felt more in control & I was actually moving my legs! Only managed a half-circuit though. But it was so much better than what I thought it would be. I was pleased with that lesson. Like Richard had said last week, it’ll all start to come back & it won’t take me long to get back to where I was, back in Nov. And I'm pleased to say that, today, apart from slight lower backache, nothing else hurts ... a most pleasant surprise :D

Riding lesson #29

2011-03-26T22:16:00.002Z

Finally!!!! Took the plunge on Friday & man, do I ache today *lol*

The weather's been brilliant all this week, flowers are blooming, birds in full song ... methinks spring has arrived. I've even ventured out without a coat *gasp*

It was lovely seeing Biscuit again, looking very neat (she's been clipped). Mounted up with only a teensy wobble, then took forever deciding on the stirrup length but now that I've read GHM's post about a balanced seat, next time should be easier (I hope!)

Can't believe I'm saying this as its still only March but it was hot. Biscuit must have thought so too -- she was on a real 'go-slow'. As we got close to the path that leads to the arena, a bin lorry stopped across from us to gather up the bin bags. Richard took hold of Biscuit's bridle to get her across & up the path briskly before the bin lorry did its noisy thing (she does not like big, noisy vehicles) but the driver very kindly turned off his engine -- very thoughtful.

Richard & I had a bit of a chat first before starting the lesson as I haven't seen him since end of November. Then started with the usual, standing in the stirrups -- maintained my balance & didn't tip forward or sit back down. Tried a turn on the forehand but allowed Biscuit to take a step forward, so that was a bit sloppy. We chatted some more but kept Biscuit walking. Tried another turn on the forehand & this time did it ... felt neat & compact.

Then rising trot. But first, had to get madame moving. My 3-month absence + the weather made it hard work. Biscuit did not want to up her pace for any length of time, even with Richard telling her off! But I'm sure once I've had a couple more lessons with her & I get back into the swing of it, she'll start to respond better, like before ... positive thinking is a good thing ... isn't it?

Didn't take long for my leg muscles to start protesting & I really had to push myself to keep going ... though I did chicken out a couple of times & stop. So glad Richard eased me in with a fairly gentle lesson.

I do find it frustrating when I look back on my last lesson & see that I was so close to cantering a full circuit with a good position yet now it feels like I've taken backward steps. But on the plus side, Richard said, apart from leaning forward slightly a couple of times during rising trot, overall my position was good.

Back at the stables, as I took my time 'gathering' myself before dismounting, Richard asked me if I was ok & if I was ready to vault off!! Didn't quite manage that *lol* but didn't get caught up or scramble about, did land on my feet & stayed upright! Yes!! Then spent a bit of time fussing Biscuit while waiting for Chris to take her back to her stall. I loves that horse, I do.

It did feel good being back in the saddle & being with Biscuit again, despite the aches! Because of its location, the arena is quite close to nature ... there was birdsong, a few pale yellow & red admiral butterflies flitting about, and about 3 woodpeckers drilling away in the background ... fab stuff. I am now determined to have as many weekly lessons as I can manage & get back to where I was 3 months ago & then improve some more. And have more fun rides with my riding buddy, Sarah :D

Moon and Craft weekend

2011-03-21T15:57:00.008Z

After a very wet Friday, the weekend turned out lovely and sunny. Saturday morning brought a postal delivery of some craft stuff including some stamps but had to be patient and wait until the afternoon before I could try them out. Decided to make some ATCs -- fairly quick & not much planning required.

The new stamps -- skull & rose, roses, music notes, butterfly -- are from Panduro; first time trying their stamps & pleased to say the images stamp up clear & crisp. My inner 'heavy-metal' is quite drawn to the skull & rose *lol*

The stamped 'tail' on the green-winged pigeon is an Anna Griffin flourish stamp -- I think it works pretty well as a tail.

Even though I like the skull & rose, my personal favourite of this batch is the one with the butterfly; I like the way the colours have turned out -- reminds me of spring.

Saturday night was thankfully clear & after an hour or so of wondering where the moon was, it finally decided to come out from behind the houses & a glorious sight it was. May not have a fangled-dangled camera, but managed to get some passable shots. Neil said it was a bonus having a brighter than usual moon to light his way home :D

Owl Day!

2011-03-12T16:23:00.018Z

We had the most brilliant day at our home-ed hall yesterday when the owls came to visit. The children were absolutely blown away at the chance of getting up close to these beautiful birds & us adults behaved ourselves -- we let the children have a chance at handling the birds too *lol*

Sharon is the name of the lovely lady who brought the owls. She & her family run a 'birds of prey' place in Somerset & they visit, not just schools but also care homes & hospices, which I think is fab. That's where the boys, Neil & I first saw her -- about 2 years ago at the care home Neil's dad was in. They'd kindly invited the families of the residents to join in with the owl-visit. 2 years is a long time for someone with a sieve-brain to try & remember details -- I googled long & hard before the name just jumped out at me. And then arranged for a visit.

She brought 3 owls with her & 'presented' them one by one as she talked to the children about owls, their habitat, how & what they hunt, how they can be persecuted ... We learnt that not all owls make the well-known 'to-whit-to-whoo' call -- only tawny owls do that, & barn owls screech. Also, the 'to-whit-to-whoo' is 2 owls calling, not one -- the female goes 'to-whit' and the male answers 'to-whoo'.

Then the children dissected some owl pellets which she'd brought with her, though not all were that keen on handling them! But they did find bones. And after that, we all had the chance to hold the owls, which was the best part of the whole visit.

This is Breeze, a female barn owl. She kept looking up at the ceiling & making as if she wanted to fly up.

Bracken, a male tawny owl, who looked as if he could fall asleep at any moment.

The star of the show, Barney, a European eagle owl. He's just over 3 years old & had a very dodgy start. Sharon also rescues birds of prey & she got a call about a baby eagle owl being kept in a tiny box. So she went to have a look & it was a little 10-day owlet who'd been in the box for most of those 10 days! Apparently the people who had him didn't know what to do with him even though they were breeding owls!!! So Sharon took him home though she didn't hold out much hope for his survival. His back end was caked in 10-day old poo (!) but when he'd been cleaned, apart from a sore bottom there was no infestation. Also, he was so malnourished, his front half was almost concave, poor little thing. She fed him every 2 hours, even through the night and he survived! But because she was with him, looking after him for so long, he now views her as his girlfriend *lol* And with spring around the corner etc etc, no prizes for guessing what he's thinking -- she said she's got the scratch marks to prove it!!!

Barney showing us his wings, which he only does when the children ask him to do it. Us adults did ask, ever so nicely -- twice! But no luck. When the children asked, no problems.

Dissecting owl pellet & some of the found bones.

Then the best part ...

Royal Signals Museum

2011-03-10T15:36:00.006Z

We went to this museum on Tuesday with our home-ed group. Its about an hour's drive away & is part of a working army camp. Neil came as well as he's interested in communication & related stuff from when he was in the Navy. Unfortunately, my camera decided to do its dying duck impression & refused to turn on so not much in the way of pictures, but one of the other mums was busy snapping away & didn't mind me 'borrowing' her pix. But most of them include the other kiddies, so haven't got much to choose from. Never mind...

The motto means 'Swift and Sure'.

Its not a huge museum but has a lot packed in, from the earliest forms of military communication right up to the present day. To prove that I was paying atttention -- the electric telegraph was used in war for the first time during the Crimean War, and the first time the British military used telephones was in India in 1877. When the First World War broke out, there were less than 6000 men in the Royal Engineer Signal Service & by war's end, there were 70 000!

Apart from carrying messages between trenches, dogs were also trained to lay cable. Horse-drawn wagons were also used to lay cable, as were camels, oxen & elephants (depending where you were in the world) & of course pigeons were used to carry messages. There's a special display for pigeon 'William of Orange' -- in Sept. 1944, he was released from Arnhem with a message at 10:30 & arrived at his loft in England at 14:55, having flown over 250 miles. His was one of the few messages to make its way back to the UK & he was awarded the Dicken Medal, which is the animals' Victoria Cross ... makes me see pigeons in a new light.

This pack horse is carrying the No.1 Set, the first mobile radio telephone set.

There were loads of medals on display, and a section to do with Malaya (as Malaysia was known before its independence) when the communists attempted to overthrow the government after WW2, I found that quite interesting.

The children were given a quiz to work through, with the answers found in the exhibits & displays, which I thought was a good idea as it got them to have a proper look around. They also had a go at some code-breaking, using various codes & ciphers. There were a few interactive displays which they found fun too.

All in all, an educationally fun day out.

Present for Tracy

2011-03-04T18:09:00.005Z

This was really fun to make, inspired by Tim Holtz (on my bloglist), using just one sheet of 12"x12" double-sided paper. It basically involves cutting and folding, and you end up with a little mini book with 3 slip-in pockets on the side.

So decided to make one for Tracy whose favourite colour is ... you'll never guess ... purple!! The patterned paper on the spine & across the top & bottom of the pages is self-adhesive which made it a lot easier than using glue or double-sided tape. I slipped in a little photo of the 2 of us in the first pocket, a fairy charm in the second & an 'invite' to join me for a day of craft in the last pocket -- all inked, stamped etc in purple *lol*

The fairy charm that I popped in one of the pockets.

Ancient Egyptian Book of the Dead

2011-03-03T17:41:00.012Z

This exhibition of the Book of the Dead has been at the British Museum since Nov & finally got the chance to take the boys on Tuesday ... talk about cutting it close, it finishes this weekend!

The time slot for our tickets was 12:50 so we decided to have our lunch after going around the exhibition, thinking it would be an hour at the most. We'd covered just over half of it when I glanced at my watch, wondering why I was feeling so hungry -- it was 2:30!!! We didn't linger quite as long after that but sort of sped through, only pausing to look at the things that really caught our attention.

According to the exhibition 'blurb', "the 'Book' was not a single text but a compilation of spells designed to guide the deceased through the dangers of the underworld, ultimately ensuring eternal life. These beautifully illustrated spells on papyrus and linen were used for over 1,000 years, and the oldest examples are over 3,500 years old." Each 'book' was unique to the person it was written for, with their images & names inscribed alongside the spells.

We weren't allowed to take pictures of the exhibits, so I've cheated & scanned some images from the book I bought afterwards. What struck me was how fresh the images & hieroglyphs were, the colours were still vibrant &, when I was lucky enough to get really close, I could make out the brush strokes. But it was difficult to get really close, thanks to the number of people there who had no qualms pushing us out of the way but refused to budge when we attempted the same!! Obviously we have to brush up on our technique *lol*

This is from the papyrus of Ani; Spell 89, 'for letting a ba rejoin its corpse'.

This shows protective forces around the mummy in its burial chamber. Anubis is standing beside the mummy, with Isis & Nephthys kneeling at the foot and head, & Horus' sons nearby.

Spell 17 contains the words "To me belongs yesterday, I know tomorrow", two phrases which refer to the gods Osiris & Ra. This image, again from the papyrus of Ani, shows two lions, back-to-back. One represents yesterday, the other tomorrow & between them is the rising sun.

From the papyrus of Hunefer. His heart is weighed by Anubis, while Thoth records the result. The 'Devourer' waits to swallow the heart if the deceased is declared undeserving of the afterlife. The monster is described as: "The Devourer of the Damned: her front is a crocodile, her rear a hippopotamus, her middle a lion."

The ones who are declared deserving are presented to Osiris, Lord of Eternity, shown here attended by his sisters, Isis & Nephthys. The four sons of Horus stand facing him on a large lotus flower.

The first time we went to the Museum, I couldn't get close enough to the Rosetta Stone to take a picture but this time I planted my rather ample self as close as possible & got a couple of shots!

Couldn't resist this shot of a rather large Lewis chessman sat, looking a little bewildered, in the gift shop.

At last ...

2011-02-28T16:56:00.008Z

... creative muse has returned from unauthorised, extended R&R!!! About time too!

Have had this card-keeper album for awhile now but couldn't think what to use it for, apart from the obvious. Then it came to me -- why don't I use it like a filing system for all the images that I have & use in my craft? I keep all the bits I've collected in a file & after dropping said file for the umpteenth time & having all the bits landing everywhere -- for the umpteenth time -- I had my epiphany!

I have images that I've collected from magazines etc, images on cds, images in my picture folder on the pc ... trouble is, I tend to use the same ones over & over again because I forget about the others.

This album has 10 pockets, so I filed the collection of images under separate headings, like 'Ephemera', 'Fairies & Mermaids', 'Horses & Wolves', 'Cowboys & Indians' etc... & decorated each pocket accordingly. The last one contains stuff from a fab online store called Artchix (in Canada), which is why it has a large plastic pocket. So I don't forget the other images, I printed them up in 'contact sheet' format & slipped them in the pockets too. And I still have 2 pockets left.

I've also just about finished making a little present for a friend so, fingers crossed, I'll carry on with crafting.

Still haven't had a riding lesson yet ... should make more of an effort to get back into that too. I have to watch myself as I get into weird moods where I start questioning the purpose of doing certain things, especially when I haven't done it for ages ... I find myself thinking: 'whatever' or 'why bother' ...

Year of the Rabbit

2011-02-06T17:37:00.007Z

Another new year, another chance to begin again with the Year of the Rabbit ... and that is me -- a rabbit! (with Neil, the tiger *lol* -- pix taken at the Chinese Temple in KL, Malaysia)

We're slowly getting back to our routine; Neil's 'crossed the bridge' of returning to work -- was so dreading it, but it turned out ok, even the night shift; he's left for another night shift tonight ... he's spoken with his brother & relieved that that's out of the way ... And I've decided enough's enough about being 'precious' & getting all bogged down with icky memories & past hurts. Onwards & upwards!! Or maybe just onwards ...

Haven't been riding at all since December *gasp* but haven't been in the mood, also money's a bit tight at the moment so shall be patient &, fingers crossed, will get back with that in March.

Haven't really been in the mood for much, not feeling all that inspired on the creative front, either with making things or writing, though did manage to make something for Sarah's birthday -- forgot to take pix of it tho! but it featured horses + glitter + pink ribbon *lol*

Instead been focussing on our home-ed stuff, especially as Gordon will be 16 in April (my baby!! *sob*) He's decided he wants to work with animals & has put his name down as a volunteer with the local Cats Protection rehoming centre to help with feeding & cleaning, and cuddling the kitties. He started last Monday at 08:00 & was so excited ... But when I went to get him at 11:00, the woman in charge took me aside & after asking me what Gordon wanted from this 'job' (did wonder why she hadn't asked him), without waiting for an answer, said that he didn't wanted to do anything! Did that catch me off-guard! When told or asked, Gordon will do, & that's not just his mother talking; all the adults he interacts with will back me up. Anyway, after relenting a bit & admitting that it is a bit of a shock to the system, being in a work-environment, she said she'd give him another chance next Monday (he can only do Mondays).

Back home, when I asked him about it, it turns out he was thrown in at the deep end & hadn't been shown what to do. So he took it on himself to wash out some bowls, and when it came time to cuddle the cats, no one accompanied him into each cat's cubicle. Needless to say, the cats were wary of this stranger & he didn't hang around those who were growling or hissing, so his 'cuddling' time was over well before 11:00!!

Colour me very unimpressed!!!! But, hats off to Gordon, he wants to go again tomorrow, I guess to show them that he is up to the job & they didn't give him a fair go. He's decided he's going to be so 'in their face' by constantly telling them to show him what to do *heh* And he's going to ask for one of them to be with him until the cats get used to him ... I'm no professional but I would have thought that to be the common-sense approach?? I have to confess, I'm going to be so wound up for those 3 hours, from when I leave him to when I get him back again.

Anyway, rant over & back to the home-ed ... both boys have decided to be a bit more structured with their time by doing their maths & music in the mornings, though this won't be everyday as some days they're busy with other activities, like swimming & music lessons, or outings. And they've started another project -- Samurai Warriors.

That interest started with a PS2 game they've got called 'Samurai Warriors', based on actual Japanese characters. It does make me smile, the ease with which they can pronounce the Japanese names, people & places. There are quite a number of characters, so they've decided on their favourite 5 or 6 to research & compile bios on. Started that yesterday & halfway through printing up their notes today, the ruddy printer ran out of black ink!! Typical!!!!!

So, February's off to a much better start ... just need to think of a creative project ...

Not the best of starts...

2011-01-22T17:33:00.003Z

Hubby lost his dad, Bill, on the 6th of Jan & we had the funeral on the 20th. He was 88 & at least saw in the new year. Had gone into hospital after a routine blood test, his blood wasn't clotting properly & a couple of scans later, discovered he had liver cancer. Neil spent a good, long time with him on the Wed & Bill passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday morning. So we've now lost both sets of parents & the boys have lost their last grandparent. Being just around the corner from us in the care home for the last 3 years meant we saw Bill a lot & the boys had the chance to really get to know him ... & Neil re-discovered his relationship with his dad.

Its been hard ... it still is hard ... Neil's had to do a lot of the sorting of paperwork & arranging the funeral by himself. You'd think he was an only child but he does have a younger brother & a stranger person I have yet to meet. He's so secretive about his life, we've never met his partner or his children (almost teens!!) & they live locally... his own parents only saw that set of grandchildren when they were babies ... He used to live his life under the radar of the authorities, don't know if he still does and to be honest I don't care!!! He'd never visit Bill at the care home unless Neil was going too ...

But here's the icing on the cake! Just before new year's, he & his family went to France (where his partner is from) on holiday, he refused to give a landline no., the only way Neil could get in touch with him was via mobile phone so Neil had to TEXT him the news that their dad had died!!!!! Then he wanted, in fact insisted, that if it was possible to delay the funeral, he wanted it delayed until the first week of February! Why? Because he didn't want to lose his holiday!!!!!! In the Caribbean!!!!!!!!! While his kids stayed with his partner's family in France!!!!!! I cannot begin to find the words to describe the total disgust!!!!! And Neil is finding it so hard to bear! How on earth do you go on holiday when your parent has just died, knowing you will be missing the funeral?!??!!! I bet you anything the idiot doesn't have travel insurance!!!

Anyway, via various emails, Neil implied that the funeral couldn't be delayed. Apart from the 'closure' of having a funeral & being able to 'move on', Neil can't take unlimited time off work; he's got to be back on the 31st. Honestly, If I never see that man again, it'll be too soon.

I'm finding it a little easier now to support Neil properly but when his brother kicked off, it took me back to a place I thought I'd gotten over -- my mother's funeral & the selfish, horrible behaviour of my 2 oldest sisters!!!!!!! Yes, it looks like there's at least one in every family!!! Lucky me, I get 2!!!!!!!!!!

Gordon & Liam have been brilliant, very supportive of their dad ... and me, when I'm having a 'wobbly' moment. And its definitely helped, having already had the funeral ... Neil's cousins were here, as were my sister & her family, & my cousin from London; and some of the ladies from the care home who'd looked after Bill. Our respective families came back to the house afterwards & we had a good time.

A New Year ...

2011-01-01T14:49:00.011Z

'Glimpse of a Unicorn' by Anne Stokes

A new year unfurls before us, stretching away into the distance

Impossible to see what lies ahead ...

But the road isn't empty, like a blank page waiting to be filled with all-new-all-amazing adventures

Its already being covered with the 'same routine' that flows along from one year to the next ...

But see ... there are blank spots along the way

Pools of magical possibilities waiting to be turned into fantastic reality!

So lets dive in and make the most of those possibilities and maybe ... just maybe we'll be rewarded with a touch of magic.

A very wintry Christmas

2010-12-24T15:38:00.004Z

I know there are people who dream of a white Christmas but having been through 2 very heavy snowfalls this month, I'm quite happy not to have a white Christmas. When the snow first falls, its very pretty & fun to be in but after that ... ick! Living partway up a hill is no fun at all when it turns icy!! Having been stuck indoors from Sat-Tues, I was so looking forward to getting out on Wed to get the grocery shopping in!!! Sad or what?!?

I was going to do a post about the band xmas concert, which was to be Liam's first outing with the band but, apart from having an icy road to deal with, both boys weren't feeling too well on Tues so we decided not to go. I did feel bad about it & they were disappointed too but when they went to bed soon after 8pm & slept for over 12 hours, I knew we'd made the right decision.

Gordon felt better on Wed but Liam's only now starting to feel better, poor love. But by the time I went to bed last night, I wasn't feeling all that brilliant myself. Woke up this morning not feeling well at all :o(

Thing is, today is our 'xmas day' as Neil is working tomorrow but 'feeling unwell' has sort of put the dampener on the day. They're out visiting Neil's dad at the moment; I decided not to go as he's only just recovered from being poorly & I don't want to pass anything on *sigh*

And with all this cold, icy weather, haven't been riding at all this month!!

But at least we're together as a family & we get to spend some time together, unlike others who've been so messed about with this weather. Neil did a very yummy roast duck with all the trimmings; cats were most excited *lol* They got to have some treats as well. Thing is, everytime one of us goes to the kitchen, Tamu zooms out of the cat basket with a very hopeful look in his eye!

Wishing everyone out there a very safe, happy & healthy Christmas and may 2011 bring us all wonderful blessings.

Winter wonderland...

2010-12-02T14:10:00.012Z

... is what we woke up to this morning!!!

View from front & back of house...

Our apple tree...

Tell-tale paw prints...

Owners of paw prints, Kipaku further away & Tamu, his very first snow-experience!

Rose bush in the front!!

My buried car!

Out the boys went for a play... but why get your hands wet & cold with a snowball fight when you can have a lightsaber duel instead??

On another note, finished making my Xmas cards, a selection pictured below but now wondering if I'm going to make it to a post office before the last posting date to Malaysia?!!???

Riding lesson #28

2010-11-23T15:28:00.002Z

... was yesterday & for the first time (apart from my very first lesson) I was late! One minute I had loads of time to get ready, checked the clock again & I was running late!! Hate when that happens – you’d think at my age, I’d have this time-telling lark sorted *L*

It wasn’t as cold as I thought it would be – well, not as cold as last Tuesday – but still my fingers were numb enough that I couldn’t do up the strap on my helmet & had to ask Richard to help me out! One of the other stable girls who I’ve seen around a few times was already sat on a horse I’ve not seen before; about Biscuit’s height, a sort of a brown-grey colour except for a large white patch on his back. He was quite the fidget & I think Biscuit didn’t really want to be too close to him, she kept moving around so I let her walk forward a bit. Turns out the horse was going to be schooled so they were coming with us as Richard wanted to keep an eye on him too.

Biscuit & I went first, at quite a brisk walk, which was a nice surprise – don’t know if it had anything to do with her wanting to have some distance between them. And when we got to the schooling arena, she just kept on walking; usually she stops while Richard & I have a bit of a chat. While Richard was discussing things with the other lady, I had a chat with Biscuit about using the whole arena as we walked around ;o)

So, started with the usual, standing in the stirrups then did a turn on the forehand while still standing; my best one yet, I think. Biscuit was a bit ‘looky’ with the other horse doing his thing but it wasn’t that difficult getting her attention back to where it should be. The main thing the lady was doing with this horse was to get him to try jumping. He’s still young, about 5 but, according to Richard, in his head he’s still about 3!! And if he was a lad, he’d be the sort you’d find smoking behind the bicycle shed, be full of back-talk … When he’s required to stand still, he moves about; when you want him to move, he won’t; you turn him left, he tries to go right … He actually belongs to someone else who’s a bit too ‘nice-nice’ for him; apparently he needs a firmer hand. To be honest, I was quite ‘looky’ with him too – it was interesting watching her work with him, trying to get him to jump – he’d approach ok, then be all over the place & her demeanour didn’t change at all. She just kept at it until he finally did it.

Anyway … I then went on to rising trot. Yet again, I forgot to pick up a crop before mounting Biscuit so Richard went to get me an organic one. Well, Madam B knew I didn’t have a crop; would she respond to my kicks? As if!! She’d sort of trot then slow down & look in the direction Richard had gone. I’d kick her again, she’d walk, start to trot then stop. I gave up after the 4th attempt!! Then Richard handed me the stick (minus leaves), I said, “Look, I have a stick now,” kicked her once & off she went – I didn’t even have to use the blessed ‘crop’!!! *LOL*

My posture during rising trot is a whole lot better. Before I had a tendency to keep moving my upper body as if trying to get Biscuit to move by leaning forward & back. But I’m now keeping my upper body still & I look relaxed :D Still can’t work out if I’m on the right diagonal though – have to keep looking down & then we stop! *sigh* But I did manage to keep Biscuit ‘out’, using the whole arena.

Sitting trot – started off feeling like a bouncing sack of potatoes, reminded myself of the pelvic movement, regrouped & set off again. Weirdly, I didn’t think I was doing anything different but Richard said I’m getting better at it. And when I went around again, he said I was improving each time!

By this time, the other lady had headed back to the stable & I didn’t have the excuse of being distracted ;o) From sitting trot, we moved on to canter & obviously my attention had drifted – Biscuit was using as little of the arena as she could & we ended up doing quite a sharp turn at the end of it *L* Tried again & managed to get Biscuit to move out more. I was more aware of using my legs (yes!!) but I still felt like my arms were flailing about & I was generally all over the place but Richard said I wasn’t – there was lots more control of the upper body, the arms & the legs; its all starting to come together!!! Woo-hoo!!

I’ve yet to canter a full circuit of the arena without stopping but I was so pleased with that lesson. At no point did I feel like I was trying too hard, things just seemed to flow easily; apart from trying to work out which diagonal I was on, everything else didn’t seem to require much thought :D

Western riding!

2010-11-17T20:02:00.002Z

Wanted to do something horsey but different for my birthday (last month) & finally decided on western riding. Sarah had booked her dad in for a western day some time ago & I’ve always wanted to try western riding. Didn’t want to do it on my own but I needn’t have worried – Sarah didn’t need much persuading *L* The first day that worked for both of us & the stables was yesterday. Neil was off work so I knew I could leave the boys at home as it was quite an early start – had to be at Sarah’s before she took her foster son to school. But then it turned out Neil did have to be at work so had to take the boys with me; worked out fine in the end because it meant they could spend the day with Sarah’s son :D

It was COLD yesterday!!! First really frosty morning for quite a while but at least it was dry. Being suckers for punishment, we’d booked ourselves the 2hour trail ride! The stables were a bit of a drive away in an area I’ve never been to but it was quite picturesque, part of the New Forest. Waiting at the stables, it was so cold my teeth started chattering!! There were 4 of us on the ride, us plus a young couple who’d done western riding before on holiday at a ranch in Montana.

I was on a skewbald (white & brown) called Hawk & he had one blue eye; a school master about 22 years old; & Sarah was on a piebald, cobby type called Coyote. We had some time in the school arena with the lady who was accompanying us, Rachel; she gave us a quick lesson in riding western style. Which Sarah & I found most strange, I guess only because we only know the English style. But the saddle is most comfy :D Turns out, Hawk was the laid back sort who needed a couple of hardy kicks to get him going! It was like riding Biscuit *LOL*

The ‘pecking order’ when we set off was Rachel in front (obviously) then the married guy on Marius, his wife on Blue, Sarah on Coyote & me on Hawk. To get to the part of the New Forest that was the trail ride, there was road work – a lot of road work, including taking the 2nd exit at a roundabout!!! Ooo-er!! But as Rachel had told us, the horses were used to it. It was exciting … scary exciting & fun. And I think the drivers in that area are used to seeing horses out & about all the time as most of them were quite good.

Riding through the New Forest on such a crisp, cold morning with glorious blue sky was truly magical. The sound of the horses’ hooves on the ground, through puddles was lovely, watching the sun streaming through the trees, the mist … Sarah agreed when I said how lovely it would be to be able to start every morning like this *sigh*

Try as I might, I just could not get Hawk to move any faster than a walk. The only times he upped his pace was when Rachel called out from the front, “Come on Hawky” or if either Blue or Coyote started trotting *L* Halfway along, Rachel told us we’d be jogging for a while. I really enjoyed that part and found sitting trot in a western saddle so much easier than in an English one!

We saw New Forest ponies; I did spy what I’m sure was a small boar; and on the way back a sweet little deer watched us from the trees. But after more than an hour in the saddle, me bottom was hurting ... and the backs of my thighs!

On the way back, I noticed Hawk responded better on the road than he'd done on the trail … which I was thankful for as I didn’t want to get left too far behind amidst the cars.

Dismounting western style was, I think, the part I found hardest. I struggled to get my head around the idea of leaving my left foot in the stirrup! I suppose its what you’re used to but I prefer having both feet out of the stirrups & landing with both feet on the ground. When I finally got my right foot on the ground, it was wobbling enough that I thought I was going to land on my bottom when I freed my left foot ... managed to keep upright :D

Sarah & I were convinced we were going to feel the aches today but surprisingly, we both feel ok. Apart from the backs of my upper thighs – everytime I sit down, they do ache. And last night, I was so ready for bed!!

Oh! Between the 2 of us, we did manage to forget one thing – a camera!!! So no pix, which is a little disappointing but we do have the memories. And its definitely something we’re going to do again, methinks.

Riding lesson #27

2010-11-08T22:23:00.002Z

Well, what a difference 3 weeks makes!!!

Today’s lesson was a joint one with Sarah; she’s been away on holiday so we haven’t had a lesson together for almost 2 months! Last night there had been a torrential downpour but it stayed dry during our lesson and, deep delight, there were puddles everywhere! So got myself geared up to have my usual ‘tussle’ with Biscuit & her aversion to getting her feet wet. But it wasn’t just Biscuit who didn’t want to use the whole arena, Pepsi (Sarah's ride) didn’t seem too keen either *L*

Started with standing in the stirrups, which went well, then halt & turn on the forehand, still standing in the stirrups. Just about managed it …

Then we did something new. Rising trot but staying up for 2 beats then back down in the saddle for 2 beats. Sounded easy enough … Sarah went first as Richard had us take turns today so he could give us individual attention. Then me. And guess what? It was not easy! Ended up doing 3 beats up, 1 beat down, 2 beats up, 1 beat down, occasionally managing the 2 beats up, 2 beats down!!

And of course, because I was concentrating so much on getting that right, I wasn’t really paying much attention to where Biscuit was going & she cottoned on to that fast enough. Could I get her to go where I wanted to go after that? No! Wonder if I should spend time at the beginning, doing rising trot for a couple of circuits so I can work on getting her to understand that she should be going where I want us to go … Shall mention that to Richard next lesson.

Then we did 1 circuit of the double beat thing in rising trot, 1 circuit in sitting trot and 1 circuit in canter. So much for getting the hang of cantering 3 weeks ago. Just about managed to get her into canter for all of a few strides, if that! Next time around, managed to go for a bit longer but it just didn’t feel like it was flowing *sigh* But I am a lot further along than when I used to freeze at the mere mention of the word.

After that, Richard set poles along the ground for us to trot over. Again, Sarah made it look easy, turning Pepsi in just at the right angle to approach the poles. I really struggled with getting Biscuit to the right place for the straight approach; I kept turning too close, leaving her no space to get into the correct place. When I finally managed it, & she went trotting quite happily over the poles, I think I pulled her up too short at the end & she knocked her foot against the last pole – how awful did I feel!!

Then Richard wanted us to do the same again, this time standing in the stirrups while the horses trotted over the poles!!! It is such a weird movement, I just can’t get the hang of where my legs & body are supposed to be. Anyway, after missing the approach for the 3rd time, I thought Richard was going to start shouting at me *L* He walked me through it so I could work out where we should be. But Biscuit was adamant about not wanting to move too far out to make full use of the arena & Sarah, bless her, said that wasn’t making it easy for me at all. Also in her lessons with Chris, he’s drilled her enough times about making such turns.

When I did finally manage it, Biscuit upped the pace to an almost-canter over the poles but I didn’t freak out at all, which pleased me no end. She’s so strong going over the poles, I found I really have to keep a tight hold on her. My last attempt, I did get her to slow down slightly as she trotted briskly over the poles. When I asked Richard if she liked jumping, he said all you have to do is point Biscuit at a jump & she’s off like a rocket!!!! Ooo-er!! It was hard trying to reconcile my usual plod of a ride to the strong horse I had to hold back over the poles. Don’t know if I want to learn to jump with Biscuit *LOL*

RAF Museum

2010-11-07T16:23:00.014Z

Yesterday, we (including Neil) went to visit my cousin who lives in London, not far from the RAF Museum. Had lunch first (very yummy) then spent the afternoon at the museum, though we did not have time to do it justice, there is just so much to see!

At the start of the Milestones of Flight hall, is a model of the Wright brothers plane. It looks so flimsy, made me appreciate their bravery at attempting to fly in it!

The one thing I found frustrating -- it was practically impossible to take full pix of the planes as they're all life-sized! There are some models on the ground & some suspended from the ceiling.

The BAe Harrier (post WW2), the first jet fighter capable of vertical take off & landing:

Neil & boys in front of the Eurofighter Typhoon, the most modern aircraft in the RAF & can fly at more than twice the speed of sound:

Sopwith F1 Camel (WW1):

de Havilland Mosquito (WW2), made largely of wood (!), designed as an unarmed bomber, depended on its superior speed to escape enemy fighters:

Harrier Hart II (pre-WW2):

North American P-51D Mustang (WW2), this particular one is called 'Donald Duck'! The Mustang illustrates the close cooperation between the UK & USA; the Americans produced one of the best fighter airframes in the world, which was fitted with British Rolls Royce Merlin engines, making it one of the greatest fighters of the 20th century:

In the Battle of Britain Hall, there was a short audiovisual presentation of the battle, 'Our Finest Hour'. It was very well presented & the sounds of the aircraft & the Blitz gave me goosebumps. The boys said they found it more poignant than any film they've seen of battles because its something that actually happened which people had to live through.

There's a huge statue of Sir Keith Park, 'Defender of London', a New Zealander who was Air Chief Marshal & commander of 11 Group Fighter Command, which defended London & the south east of England during the Battle of Britain. He was responsible for the hour-by-hour decisions about the conduct of the battle.

His statue is framed by the insignias of the Royal Air Force & Luftwaffe units that took part in the battle:

Behind the statue is the Battle of Britain Lace Panel (65" wide by 5 yds long); it took 2 years to design & produce (1946-48) & commemorates the air battle, depicting scenes witnessed during the bombing of London:

As you walk through, there are various 'Blitz' scenes:

Bomber Hall. We were just blown away by the sheer size of the Avro Lancaster!

In Nov 1943, Herman Goering's vain boast was inscribed on the plane:

Boeing B17, nicknamed the 'Flying Fortress' because it was heavily armed and could survive, and inflict, heavy damage:

Gordon's personal favourite, the Lightning F6 (post WW2), the RAF's first truly supersonic aircraft:

The 'Whirling Rotors' section:

The forward fuselage section of a former USAF CH-47D Chinook, cosmetically restored to represent the Falklands veteran RAF Chinook 'Bravo November':

European Helicopter Industries 'Merlin', 30-passenger prototype civilian helicopter:

Westland Belvedere (post WW2), the RAF's first twin engined, twin rotor helicopter:

Definitely requires another visit, with more time to see it all!!

Riding lesson #26

2010-10-18T15:33:00.002+01:00

Third lesson in 3 weeks – woo-hoo!! This one was at 10:00 & just about made it to the stables in time. There are so many roadworks going on all over the place, I’ve had to take alternative routes, keeping my fingers crossed that I don’t get lost … I do that so easily, its like an art form *L*

Started with almost 10 minutes just sat on Biscuit, enjoying the sun & the birdsong; Richard was busy re-bandaging another horse’s leg, which had come up lame over the weekend.

Did me standing in the stirrups bit & Biscuit was a little more responsive compared to last week … but only a little. Then sat back down to get a more active walk going AND making sure we were using the full arena & not letting her cut corners. Again, she upped her pace to trot but managed to get her back to walk on the first go, unlike last week. She really tries to get away with as small a circle around the arena as she can so I do have to be aware of what she’s doing at all times – the one time I let my concentration slip, she was back to cutting corners!

Rising trot started off as hard work as Biscuit didn’t seem to want to move very fast at all. Stopped to catch my breath – felt like I was doing all the work – then set off again & she responded better. Richard said my position is improving all the time & I don’t lean forward as much I used to, & I was getting better at using my legs to keep her moving.

No sitting trot today :D But did loads more ‘canter’. Now I don’t have that knot in my stomach when Richard says ‘canter’; I don’t feel I have to psyche myself up first … just shorten the reins, make sure my feet feel secure & off we go. I was all for going right the way around but Biscuit had other ideas & slowed down half way around … & I wasn’t paying enough attention to watch for it & keep her going!!

Off we went again & this time I was expecting her slow down to trot & just about managed to get her to keep going & pick up speed – hard work though. But still didn’t manage a complete circuit. Went around again, grinning like a fool (me, not Biscuit … at least I don’t think she was *L*) & she stumbled slightly and her head went down. My reaction for that, I think, impressed Richard more than anything else I’d done for the lesson – I didn’t squawk or panic but kept my position & let Biscuit correct herself before trotting on. Impressed myself too!! Usually when things like that happen, even if I’m walking, & I slip or think I’m going to fall, it feels like my heart clenches. But not this time – yeah!!

Halfway along, walking back to the stables, Richard, who was a few steps in front, said that he could hear Biscuit slowing down … got her to up her pace into a more active walk & kept it going all the way back. Before now, I’ve always struggled to get her to walk briskly once we leave the schooling arena :D

All in all, a fab lesson, really enjoyed it & felt like I achieved various things, even though they were all small ones. What a fantastic way to start the day & the week, on a horse! But now have to wait 2 weeks before I have another one ...

Tower of London

2010-10-16T15:13:00.015+01:00

Busy week... Went to London on Tuesday with the boys, to the Tower of London. I've never been, not even when I lived in London all those years ago! Having read up on its history, we were really looking forward to it.

When you come out of Tower Hill tube station, you get a good view of the Tower straightaway. But off to the side, I spied this fantastic monument & couldn't resist a pix; took the second one from the entrance to the Tower. Wish I knew more about it tho...

This turned out to be our most expensive London outing, but I think it was worth it. There was so much to see & so much atmosphere to soak in...

This is the entrance to the Tower, the Middle Tower, built in 1280 & partly rebuilt in 1717.

Traitor's Gate; prisoners were brought up the Thames through the gate and up the steps to the Tower.

The White Tower, one of the most famous castle keeps in the world

Legend says that the kingdom & the Tower will fall if the 6 resident ravens ever leave the fortress. So, to play it safe, there are 6 birds... plus reserves! *L*

This is Erin:

The plaque on the wall reads: "The tradition of the Tower has always pointed out this, as the stair under which the bones of Edward V and his brother were found in Charles II's time and from whence they were removed to Westminster Abbey."

Resting on the bottom is the portrait...

We were lucky to catch a fantastic exhibition in the White Tower, 'Fit for a King' showcasing 500 years of royal armour. This belonged to Henry VIII:

Part of a horse's armour, obviously; fascinating detail...

All the kings' horses...

Lovely 11th century Chapel of St John the Evangelist, in the White Tower:

I couldn't resist taking a pix of this, a 900-odd page ledger!

Can't remember whose armour this is but again, I was taken with the detail on it.

"Saddle for the Order of the Dragon, possibly given to King Henry V when he was admitted into the Knightly Order of the Dragon in 1416 by King Sigismund of Hungary. It is one of a series of medieval saddles all decorated on the theme of St George and the Dragon. they are ornamented with bone inlay plates and some, including this, have inscriptions in German and Latin".

There were loads of gifts & other things on display as well. Right at the top of the White Tower is a hands-on history room. Then its all the way down again, via a spiral staircase which seems to go on forever! At the bottom is an armoury with things like cannons & cannon balls, muskets, regimental drums...

Back outside... the Regimental Museum, which wasn't open.

The Jewel House, which houses the Crown Jewels. Unfortunately this was the one place we weren't allowed to take any pix. Ah well... but it was a bit unreal, standing in front of the world's largest diamond, the First African Star, which is in the sceptre... and the Imperial State Crown which has 2868 diamonds, 273 pearls, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds & 5 rubies!!!! And the detailed work on the Coronation Robe... wow!

The boys being tourists *L*... Gordon with one of the guards outside the Jewel House & Liam with a Yeoman warder. Apparently, the Yeomen of the Guard have formed the Royal Bodyguard since at least 1509!

Over by the Scaffold Site (with not a scaffold in sight!) & Tower Green... is where 7 most important prisoners were executed, including 3 queens & their remains are all buried in the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula, by the Green. The prisoners were William, Baron Hastings; Anne Boleyn; Margaret Pole, Countess of Salisbury; Catherine Howard (Henry VIII's 5th wife); Jane Boleyn; Lady Jane Grey (only 16, poor love); and Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex.

This memorial sculpture, by Brian Catling, has this inscription around it:

"Gentle visitor pause awhile; where you stand death cut away the light of many days; here jewelled names were broken from the vivid thread of life; may they rest in peace while we walk the generations around their strife and courage under the restless skies."

The Yeomen live on site with their families, so all these houses are occupied.

The Bloody Tower...

Defenses up on the wall...

Personally, I didn't realise that London Bridge was so close to the Tower!

The East Wall Walk allows you to explore the massive defensive inner curtain wall & the four towers: the Salt, the Broad Arrow, the Constable & the Martin Tower. The one thing that struck me was how narrow everything was...

All in all, a most enjoyable day out...

Riding lesson #25

2010-10-11T16:45:00.003+01:00

Yeah! One week later and another lesson :D

After last week’s adventure, today’s lesson was fairly nondescript but still good. At 9:30, it was one of the earliest lessons I’ve had; I think Biscuit & I have one thing in common – we are not morning creatures *L*

Did the usual to start with, standing in the stirrups & it was a struggle to get Madam B moving with any kind of enthusiasm. Then turn on the forehand while sitting; don’t know why but I do like doing that. Tried to get Biscuit into more of a working walk and she went from 'plod' to 'trot'; tried to get her to slow down a little & it was back to 'plod'!! Finally we got together on the same page.

Rising trot; had a bit of a giggly moment as my coordination was all over the place – twit that I am, I was trying to kick her on everytime I was back in the saddle & not while I was ‘up’! No wonder it felt like a non-happening thing! Had to use the crop more than once though to get her ‘awake’ and moving but once she got into the trot, it was a lot better.

Then sitting trot. Spent time over the weekend trying to imagine myself as melting wax – sooooo easy to do while sat in a chair that’s going nowhere. Bouncing on a horse is a whole different matter! Richard demonstrated the movement he was looking for in the pelvic area & what I should be doing with my legs. Tried a couple of circuits but apart from a whole lot of butt-clenching, didn’t feel like there was much else going on *LOL*

Then it was like something clicked – I managed to get the pelvic movement AND was aware of it!!! All Richard was missing was a couple of pom-poms, he was cheering so loudly *L* And I was so excited, I stopped!! *duh* Tried again and got it again. Fingers crossed, I’ll get it next week.

Canter! I can say ‘canter’ now without breaking into a sweat :D And Richard said he can see I’m not tense at all, that I just get on & do it. Felt a lot more relaxed in the upper body, my left leg manages to kick her on but my right leg still does the ‘up-down’ movement instead of ‘in-out’ *sigh* Still, managed 3 circuits (with a stop after each one) without freaking out, so that’s something *heh*

Biscuit was back on a go-slow, walking back to the stables. Even Richard told her if she went any slower, she’d be going backwards. Its funny when I think back to how I used to agonise over dismounting; now I just do it without even thinking about it. Gave Biscuit a fuss while Richard untacked her. When he took her bridle off, he just said, “Off you go then,” & off she went; took herself back to her stall – second breakfast must have been waiting :D

Riding lesson #24

2010-10-05T15:35:00.003+01:00

Finally!! Been about 3 weeks since my last lesson, hate that its usually the riding lessons that have to take a back seat when I get to the point of having more month than money left but ... hey ho, such is life, c'est la vie & that's the way the cookie crumbles ...

We've had quite a bit of rain these past couple of weeks, with lovely weather in between and its still warm, too warm to wear a jacket ... at least it didn't rain on me today. Feeling pleased with myself as I've been exercising regularly -- nothing too strenuous, mind ;o) But I think I'm feeling the benefits, felt quite controlled when I mounted up, and during the lesson, Richard said he can see the difference -- I seem to be more 'hinged' around the hips. Sounds weird but I shall take it as a compliment *L*

Got to the arena & wouldn't you know it -- puddles galore! But I'd decided I wasn't going to let Madam Biscuit get away with avoiding them ... otherwise the lesson would have been a bit of a non-event!! She did get her own way to begin with as it was the usual standing in the stirrups & I was focussing more on keeping my balance. Colour me very pleased when Richard said I maintain my balance really well! Woo-hoo!! Glad to hear I'm good at something *LOL*

Then did something new -- turn on the forehand (done that before) while standing in the stirrups! Definitely required some thought but did it first time :D

Then rising trot, & after a couple of tries I got Biscuit to go where I wanted her to go!!! Yaay!! And I managed to keep that going for the rest of the lesson. Such a feeling of achievement, when not that long ago, I struggled to get any sort of favourable response from her without help from Richard. Now, after a kick & one use of the crop, she responds and after that, she responds with just one kick :D I wasn't leaning forward too much this time though I'm still struggling to maintain a correct position. Don't know if its because its been 3 weeks (ooo, excuses) since I last rode but I felt my legs were all over the place ... must have just been in my mind as Richard said I was doing ok tho I tend to stiffen up when going around bends *sigh*

Sitting trot. I still feel like I'm bouncing in the saddle, though in a controlled way but Richard said I was getting better at it. Wish I could see myself, maybe I'd have a better idea...

From sitting trot, he told me to go straight into canter & I did it, without thinking about it. I was a little worried as I only got over my anxiety 3 weeks ago & haven't done it since. So I was mega-pleased that I didn't freeze at all. Well, my top half didn't but my legs were doing sod-all!!! Second time around, managed to get my legs to move but they weren't going out-in, instead they were going up-down!! Third time around, sort of managed it, I think though I wasn't really convinced. And have to concentrate on not tensing up around the bends. But hey, I enjoyed it. In fact, I enjoyed the whole lesson very much :D

Richard had to dash off somewhere straight after so Bridget had come up to walk me back to the stables. And I had a new experience with the not-so-laid-back Biscuit. We walked past the smaller arena & there was a guy there cantering his rather large horse, honestly, it made Biscuit look like a peanut! Her ears were forward, she sort of looked at them then moved sideways. Her whole demeanour was 'not happy'. Bridget had caught us up at this point & had taken hold of Biscuit's bridle.

Then Biscuit started to sort of prance & trot at the same time, trying to toss her head but Bridget had a firm hold on her. Not only was there this horse 'doing its thing' to her left, there was a large horse-box way over to the right (she does not like big vehicles, which I was aware of) & we were coming up on the other rider's partner who had hold of 2 gorgeously fluffly German Shepherds -- dogs she didn't know. OMG! Biscuit went from 'not happy' to 'don't mess with me'!!! Which I actually found quite funny, I couldn't stop laughing. She was snorting like mad, trotting very hard on the spot (I was contemplating feeling sea-sick *L*) & generally acting like some big bad mama! By now, Bridget was telling her to stop being silly & having to be really firm with her to get her to walk to the gate so we could leave. We were almost at the road before she finally decided to calm down.

I didn't really help as I'd had too tight a hold on the reins before my brain kicked in & I loosened them, giving her more room to move her head *duh* But apparently, that was what Biscuit was like all the time when they first got her. Yet now, she's good as gold but will have the occasional flip when presented with things she doesn't like. Silly as it sounds, I'm glad I had that experience. Apart from underlining the fact that no matter how good a horse is, there are still times when it could have a 'moment', it worked wonders for my confidence -- which only occured to me when Bridget pointed out that I just sat there & didn't panic *big grin*

When I dismounted, I had time again to fuss Biscuit, which I think is my favourite part of the lesson.

Present for Liz

2010-09-23T17:45:00.002+01:00

This turned out to be a bit of a saga... Liz's birthday was back in Aug but I only gave this to her about a month later!!! I'd take it with me every Friday to our home-ed group, but the times I was there, she wasn't & vice versa. The one time I forgot to take it, she was there!! I was contemplating re-wrapping it & giving it to her for Xmas *L*

I used an existing accordian tag book that I have as a template, covered it with double sided papers, used an Anna Griffin butterfly punch & butterfly & flourish stamps to decorate plus ribbons/fibres & other embelllishments. The covers are sturdy card, covered with paper. On the other side of the tags, I wrote out some inspirational quotes.

This turned out to be fairly quick & easy, once I'd decided on the images & quotes. Even measuring out the paper to cover the card-covers wasn't that tedious. Methinks I shall bear this in mind for future presents.

Riding lesson #23...

2010-09-14T17:24:00.004+01:00

... was yesterday, with Sarah; Richard instructing us this time. Had to rush a bit as the lesson was right after our home-ed group’s art session but we made it just in time. Yard was quiet again & Richard brought Biscuit out for me. Sarah was on the ball as she’d remembered her camera & took a few pix of me on Biscuit :D I could finally see what I look like on a horse – I like it! Even tho the helmet makes my head look rounder than usual *L*.

Then Richard brought out Cass for Sarah; she’d told me about him last week & he’s gorgeous. He’s about 6 years old, 16.1, dark bay (or black, not quite sure, better check again), American TB ex-racehorse; done really well racing in America & one of Richard’s friends had bought him to race over here but it all went a bit pear-shaped so Richard bought him to bring him on. He’s a real sweetie & enjoys jumping, apparently.

I do believe I’ve finally worked out the stirrup-length issue – had them longer & found they worked well. Also used the crop in the way Chris had said & Biscuit was amazingly responsive! Got to the point where I realised I wasn’t using the crop at all; one kick & off she went!!

So, the lesson for the day was – first walk, then trot without stirrups & get feet back in stirrups while still walking/trotting. Sarah makes it look soooooooo easy!!! I struggled like mad but did manage it each time. Trouble is, while in trot, everytime I started to try to get my feet back in stirrups, Biscuit slowed to a walk *lol* – she must have been wondering what I was up to!

Then Sarah had an impromptu adventure – she took her feet out of the stirrups in trot, I think, & Cass decided to up a gear to canter. She tried to get him to stop but he seemed to be aiming towards one of the jumps! She finally got him to slow down enough for Richard to hold onto him & bring him to a halt… by which point she was hugging Cass’ neck! Well done, Sarah for staying on but man! Was I getting worried!! She said afterwards I looked like I was about to burst into tears *L* -- sounds like I was wearing my really worried look then!

We didn’t do much rising or sitting trot but the rising trot we did do, my thighs didn’t ache at all. Definitely sticking with the longer stirrups then; also with Biscuit responding better, her trot was much more active.

Then canter… Sarah went around first, a couple of circuits then it was my turn. I didn’t freeze up – at all!!! Yaaaay!!!! My right foot still slid forward in the stirrup but my left foot stayed where it was – halfway there! And, according to Richard, my hands/arms stayed soft – I didn’t yank on the reins, tho I did have them a touch too long. We took it in turns, cantering around, & I didn’t feel worried about it all, even when me bottom slid about on the saddle at one point – still kept going.

Felt quite satisfied after that lesson, like I’d achieved something – cantering without feeling anxious. Still plenty of work to be done tho… like getting my feet to move to keep Biscuit moving in canter!

(decided to include the 2nd pix even tho my face has slipped *L* but Biscuit looks lovely!)

Great British Horse Survery 2010

2010-09-12T17:13:00.002+01:00

World Horse Welfare has launched its Great British Horse Survey & is asking everyone who has an interest in horses, not just horse-owners, to take part; the aim is to create the most complete picture of the equine community in Britain.

The charity investigates nearly 2,000 welfare concerns annually, and last year its field officers carried out 10 per cent more visits than the year before. The charity aims to stamp out suffering by tackling the root causes of mistreatment and neglect. It does this by campaigning for improved treatment and tighter legislation, rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing horses in need, and educating owners on how to provide better care. It wants to see an end to cases like Amersham where 125 horses, ponies and donkeys were found in a state of severe neglect.

Roly Owers, Chief Executive of World Horse Welfare, said: “Despite the 2006 Animal Welfare Act which makes owners accountable for the welfare of their animals, we are still dealing with an unacceptably high number of equine cruelty cases. This shows there is a lot still to be done to eliminate horse suffering in the UK.

“The Great British Horse Survey will enable us to gain an in-depth insight into the overall state and perceptions of horse welfare issues in the UK today, and complement the tireless work our field officers carry out on the ground every day. Ultimately it is about supporting our commitment to tackle the root causes of welfare abuse in the UK, and to achieve this we need to galvanise everyone who has an interest in horses to complete this important survey.”

Go online at www.horsesurvey.co.uk to fill out the survey before 30th November 2010 & be entered into a draw to win one of 3 prizes.

Riding lesson #22

2010-09-04T15:33:00.004+01:00

Had my lesson yesterday with Chris as Richard was away. Don't know if Chris was under the impression that I didn't enjoy my lessons with him before as he asked me if I minded that my lesson would be with him. Of course I couldn't help replying that I minded very much, it wasn't good enough & I was leaving *L* He did laugh... maybe I should have said that I did enjoy having him as my instructor but felt I needed a different approach...

Weather was hot again & no puddles to contend with this time! Yard was busier than last week, lots more stable girls around; funny how it changes from week to week. Biscuit's walk to the schooling arena was more brisk than usual, which was nice but I didn't let it fool me for a minute into thinking that her pace would be brisk during the lesson ;o)

Started with the usual standing in the stirrups & he had me gradually lower my seat till I was sort of in a half squat position -- ouchy!! Managed to keep my balance & feeling pleased with myself till he said to pick up rising trot; I replied: "You are joking!" My thighs were ready to call it a day *L*

I actually like having a change of instructors every now & again because I learn something new. I appreciate that the instructors teach loads of people each week & can't be expected to remember what they've told whom so, for me, having a different instructor sometimes is a bonus. Chris told me to lengthen my reins, especially when warming up the horse as it encourages them to stretch & lengthen. Later in the lesson, he did comment on my short stirrups & he agreed that yes, they do 'give' better leg control but that longer stirrups are safer -- oh! So, shall be having my stirrups longer then as, being a scaredy-cat, safety means a lot to me!

When I kicked Biscuit on & she did her usual plod, he told me to use the crop. I reminded him that he'd told me before not to be 'stick-happy'; he said its knowing WHEN to use the crop. So, learnt another new thing -- kick her on, if she doesn't respond then use the crop. Sure enough, after doing that a couple of times, Biscuit was a lot more responsive with just one kick from me & zero use of the crop! Colour me 'pleased' :D

Spent a lot of time correcting my posture -- I have this inane habit of leaning forward as if that's going to make the horse go faster. I've realised that also I do this when I'm driving! As if leaning forward is going to MAKE my car go faster *duh* Had a small epiphany -- its sort of the same, driving & riding -- the upper body stays still while the hands & feet/legs do the work! Anyway, going back to correct riding posture, I felt like I was leaning so far back I wasn't far off lying on Biscuit's back but Chris said I was actually sitting up straight -- very strange! He said something about using my core muscles to keep me upright & to feel those stomach muscles working -- what stomach muscles?!!? Haven't felt those since before having children!!

Then it was into canter and... ruddy feet slipped in stirrups again!! Chris came over & positioned my foot exactly where it should be in the stirrups, told me to relax my ankle & put the weight through my heels... strangely, it helped me get the feel of it better, I suppose because he was 'showing' me by holding my foot, if that makes sense.

It was starting to feel like a repeat of last week, with the same old start-stop malarkey because my legs refused to move AND my feet still kept slipping because I was freezing up!!! But Chris was ever so good with the constant encouragement; in the end he told me to stop looking for perfection by wanting everything to be 'just-so' -- to try to keep my feet where they should be in the stirrups but if they slipped it didn't matter, just keep going because the barrier I needed to get through was to relax in the canter. Once I got through that barrier then I could work on the other bits.

So, deep breath & off we went. And Biscuit is good, she knew it was canter-time, so after the initial kick from me, she picked up her pace & was off so all I had to concentrate on was enjoying the ride. And I did what I'd wanted to do -- cantered around the whole circuit!! Yes! No marks for finesse but who cares! Chris, again, was very encouraging & when he said we'd end the lesson there, I asked if I could try it again. He said to start the canter right away -- I usually let her trot around the curve of the arena, then start the canter when its more 'straight' -- did as I was told & almost left the saddle as I leaned too far to the left! Squeaked & squawked & adjusted myself, Biscuit slowed a little, Chris was bellowing not to lean (!) & to keep going, not to let her slow down (poor Biscuit), recovered ourselves & cantered the circuit again!! After all that, if we'd had the time, I'd have asked for another go! But, it was time to go...

Had a nice chat on the walk back -- Chris' 'thing' is eventing & he was telling me about the young horse he'd bought, which he hopes will work out for him. Back at the yard (still busy) there was another lady who'd just mounted up who was Chris' next lesson & she'd never ridden before. I was thinking, that was me not long ago *L* The stable girl who came to hold Biscuit asked me if I'd like to take her back to her stable! Happy, happy me (it doesn't take much!) pretended to walk Biscuit back -- I mean, I could have just left her as she knew where she was going *L* & again, had a chance to give her a bit of a fuss.

Before I left, I asked Bridget if I could take a pix of Biscuit; its not her 'best side' as she was having her lunch but maybe next time, I'll get a better pix of her...

Riding lesson #21...

2010-08-28T15:08:00.005+01:00

... which was yesterday. The weather had been pretty awful most of the week, windy & very wet, mustn't complain as it had been so dry before, but really must it all come at once?! Thought I was going to get soaked but as it turned out, it stayed dry. Felt cool enough that I donned my light jacket... halfway through the lesson & I was HOT & sweaty *yuck*

It had been 2 weeks since my last lesson & I was determined to get the hang of cantering, to relax & not freeze & tense up like before. As Richard was already up at the arena, Bridget walked me there. Halfway along, we saw this fairly wide large van coming towards us. With one hand holding Biscuit's bridle, Bridget held her other hand up & signalled to the driver to slow down, which he eventually did when he was more or less alongside us!! Biscuit was obviously not happy even with Bridget holding her... Honestly, people can be so thoughtless sometimes!

At the arena, I knew I was going to be in for a work-out when I saw the number of puddles! And Biscuit was in one heck of a 'go-slow' mood yesterday; it was hard work getting her to move up a couple of gears, especially into a satisfying trot. And each time I'd get her moving, especially in trot, she'd slow down as she got near a puddle -- what a madam!! Ooo, mustn't get my feet wet *LOL*

Thought I'd had the stirrups short enough, the way I like them, but I don't think they were, as I found it hard to control my legs and, my ongoing frustration of my right foot slipping forward on the stirrup *aaargh!!!* So busy concentrating on making sure Biscuit was going where I wanted her to go, that we were using the full arena, that I didn't account for my own foot, which knocked a jump-stand over. Biscuit bounced to the left & I started apologising like mad which Richard found very funny. Glad to report that I stayed with Biscuit as she boinged to the left *heh*

Turns ou I am getting better at using my legs to keep her going while in trot & that I'm not just letting them hanging there like I used to. And I'm feeling a little more in control in sitting trot, I don't feel like I'm bouncing around so much. Richard's comments on those 2 points were much more encouraging :D

So when he told me to up the pace from sitting trot to canter, I honestly thought I was ready. But ruddy foot slipped & I couldn't get my legs to move to use them to keep her going, which is part of me freezing up! And tensed again & unconsciously pulled on the reins!! I said that Biscuit must get really fed up with me stopping her before she has a chance to get going; Richard said that horses are such forgiving creatures as really, they don't have to do anything we ask them to do but they do anyway because that's how they are -- I thanked him for making me feel even worse! *L*

Set off in canter again, same thing happened again... frustration building up but Richard wouldn't let me stop long enough to dwell. He insisted I keep at it, each time around a quarter of the arena & after another couple of attempts, he said I was starting to get it. But we didn't stop there -- I had to do it again till I could 'feel' it myself, & I did start to feel more relaxed & start to use my legs. And then, the lesson was over. Thing is, I wanted to go around again! I wanted to canter around the entire circuit of the arena without stopping but we'd already overrun the half-hour, as we always do. So that will be my goal for next week, to canter around without stopping! And to make sure I get the stirrup length right.

When we got back to the stables, it was really quiet, only Jodie was there, sorting out the office. So I dismounted, again by myself -- I know it sounds lame but it does give me a little thrill being able to do it myself when not that long ago, I was still being wussy about dismounting *L* Richard took Biscuit's saddle off her while I held her; he told Jodie something about brushing Biscuit, then he said, "She's getting on a bit, isn't she" & Jodie agreed -- something in the tone of their voices made me feel a bit sad, I know Biscuit's 20-something but the thought of not being able to ride her... oooo, I am such a silly-billy, I don't even own her!!

Jodie didn't come out right away to take Biscuit & Richard had to dash off to run an errand, so I finished my lesson giving Biscuit a leisurely fuss, which was rather nice.

Third Bournemouth Air Show

2010-08-24T15:12:00.018+01:00

Finally getting around to this... the air show was on from Thursday 19/08 - Sunday 22/08. Boys & I went on Friday & Sat (Neil was working), with Emma & George. Thurs & Fri weren't too bad, most of the displays were on but the weather for the weekend was absolutely dismal -- windy, wet & cloud cover too low for the jets to fly safely. Still, we've been lucky the past 2 years with brilliant sunshine & I think this is the first time in donkeys years that the Red Arrows have had to cancel.

As I'd taken a huge number of photos the past 2 years, I hadn't planned on taking too many this year... just as well, considering *L*

As before, the show started with the Royal Marines Beach Assault... except all the action was out at sea as the weather didn't make it viable to carry out a safe beach 'assault'. The Sea King helicopter took off from RFA Largs Bay & the marines whizzed down the line, unattached, onto the beach landing vessel -- couldn't have been easy as the wind was so strong!

The Dutch RNAF F-16 -- difficult to tell because of the light but the jet is a bright orange!

The Blades; their pilots are ex-Red Arrows which I didn't realise till this year.

Hunter jet, Miss Demeanour, very colourful, owned & flown by Jonathon Whaley. He was great, just kept going as we waited for the Red Arrows, I think we waved 'bye to him about 3 times before he finally disappeared.

This was the beach on Saturday... there were people out there, braving the elements & hoping against hope that something would fly -- nothing did except one brave RN helicopter!!

Riding lessons #19 & 20

2010-08-14T15:06:00.005+01:00

OMG!! I've had TWENTY lessons :D Don't know why but that makes me feel great *L*

Riding lesson #19 was on Monday 9th August, with Sarah... wish we could have more lessons together as I find it more fun. Her sister, who’s here on holiday, was supposed to join us but wasn’t feeling well enough. Richard was away so Jodie was our instructor for the day; I hadn’t realised she’s Chris’ sister and an instructor as well.

We had a bit of a wait before our lesson as there was a scout group that had just finished their ‘pony day’… just as well we weren’t in a hurry. We had to wait till they were all back, the ponies untacked & taken back to the field before Jodie was free to take our lesson as she was in charge with Richard being away.

I was already mounted up on Biscuit & Sarah was on Pepsi; that was nice, just sat on the horses, waiting and chatting. Except when the stable girls led the ponies out, back to the field, Biscuit’s herd instinct kicked in & she was all set to follow *L*

Did ask Jodie about the length of stirrups question & she said she preferred it shorter as well; felt much happier about it after that.

Finally set off for our lesson… started with the usual, standing in the stirrups, halting & moving off again a few times. Then sitting trot… after the last lesson, it took about 2 days for my back to stop feeling sore. At least we didn’t do it for too long this time. Ended up having to have a crop again as Biscuit was in plod mode, again… she was off into a faster trot without me really having to use it though!!

Found the rhythm of rising trot much easier this time, adjusted my posture as I tend to lean forward but relaxed into it much easier, not sure why, not really thinking about it I suppose. But… & isn’t there always a ‘but’… I still have the irritating habit of letting my foot slide forward in the stirrup when I’m using my leg to kick her on. I take my leg away & my toes start to point down… strangely more with the right than the left & I’m right-handed!

Then canter *sigh* I like the canter, really I do… its just that in-between stage when she ups her pace from trot to canter, I automatically freeze & start to panic! Didn’t help that my foot kept moving in the stirrup & I straightaway get that 'losing-control' feeling. But Jodie wouldn’t let up, she insisted I keep at it till I got it going. Tried saying 'canter' to her again but Jodie pointed out that Biscuit only really listens to Richard -- bit pointless me saying it then *LOL*

Biscuit kept stopping after doing part of a circuit (probably getting fed up with me pulling on the reins every time she started to pick up speed) & Jodie said to keep her going, even if its just in trot, that I’m the one calling the shots & not her. Managed to keep her going and Jodie didn’t want me to use the crop – not good to keep relying on it as I’d then never learn how to keep a horse moving. So I had the added ‘fun’ of getting Biscuit to move & to keep her moving, from walk to trot to canter, using just my legs & me. And I did -- woohoo! Though I think once she realises that things are moving from trot to canter, she’s easier to move as she seems to like the faster pace. I finally managed a canter for almost a full circuit of the arena & it is fun, though I gave Jodie a good laugh with the look on my face!

It was a really fun lesson and I appreciated the chance to get Biscuit moving without using the crop :D

Yesterday was lesson #20, again with Sarah & this time her sister, Ali, joined us. And because Richard was still away, we had Chris as our instructor -- I was looking forward to that as I haven't seen him in ages; he usually takes Sarah & she enjoys her lessons with him. There were a few 'new' stable girls I hadn't seen before, maybe they only help in the holidays & the one who brought Biscuit out asked me if I used the mounting block. I almost laughed out loud at the thought of me mounting up without the block -- I did say we should be kind to Biscuit & my legs don't work that way *L* Though both Sarah & Ali managed without the block. Sarah had Pepsi as usual & Ali had a 'flea-bitten' grey called William, sweet looking chap.

This time, we remembered to take the crops before we mounted up. I had the stirrups a touch shorter again but I think that's as short as I'll have it, any shorter & I'm sure I'll look like a racing jockey *heh* Chris started to march off, announcing, "Right then, let's go!" and... we remain rooted to the spot. A real laugh out loud moment!!

At the schooling arena, Chris said for 2 of us to go in one direction with another in the opposite -- William carried on following Pepsi so I turned Biscuit to go the other way & I had to be firm as it felt like she wanted to follow them. It was funny, listening to Sarah & Ali together -- they were so giggly! Ali's lived in America long enough that she has quite the accent & she has done a couple of Western trail riding thingies so having a proper lesson was an experience for her.

We started with the usual standing in the stirrups, which I approached with trepidation as the previous lesson Sarah & Ali had had with Chris, he'd had them standing in the stirrups for almost half the lesson -- eeek!! I was aware of the difference with the shorter stirrups; I had to re-adjust myself to keep my balance. Halted & walked again but I flubbed the second 'halt' as I was too busy looking at the rabbits by the side of the arena -- oopsy! Then trot while still standing -- most odd feeling, almost like having springs in your knees to keep yourself upright. But thank heavens we didn't do too much of that.

Then rising trot -- ouch! Really felt it in my thighs with the shorter stirrups BUT found it easier to kick Biscuit on. Though I still rely on the crop to get a more active trot. And Chris is a hard task-master. He keeps pushing to go that last little bit, do another quarter circuit, don't give in... Which I appreciate better now. I did stop in the middle at one point , citing the fact that I'm older than Sarah & Ali so needed the breather *LOL*

Sitting trot was a little easier... only a little, though. My back didn't hurt as much after the last lesson & today, it doesn't hurt either apart from my usual niggles. I felt a little more in control, didn't feel like I was bouncing around like a sack of potatoes so I shall think positive about it. When I used the crop again, Chris told me to stop using it -- I think the words he used was 'don't get stick-happy'! and to use my legs to get Biscuit going. I must say, with the shorter stirrups, I did find it easier to kick her on & to keep my legs fairly steady.

We then went from sitting to rising trot again & this time, Chris wanted us to do 2 circuits without stopping. I managed one & a bit but my legs were really hurting & I started to slow down but Chris kept at me to keep going; I struggled on but did ask him if he would catch me if I passed out *L*

We stopped in the middle of the arena, puffing and panting (me more than Sarah & Ali), he encouragingly praised us & explained the merits of pushing ourselves a little bit more each time when we feel we can't go on, to increase our endurance. Then, it was time to canter, one at a time. Sarah gamely volunteered to go first & from where I was sat, she made it look easy. She had a couple of go's then Ali had her turn & Chris told her to keep a firm hold on William as, given the chance, he'd try to gallop! As she was completing her first turn, William turned in to come back to the middle & ended up standing by Biscuit. Chris told Ali to move William away as he & Biscuit don't know each other &, apparently, Biscuit can be quite stroppy with horses she doesn't know! Why am I not surprised *L*

Then it was my turn. I was determined to the hang of it & though I didn't freeze & pull on the reins like I did on Monday, my elbows did go rigid -- she didn't stop but she did slow down. And still my right foot slipped forward in the stirrup -- Sarah said that happens to her as well. Tried again, concentrating on keeping my heels down, softening my elbows and, even though my bottom bounced off the saddle a couple of times, cantered for almost a full circuit -- yaay!! Felt happy enough with it, I wanted to go again and again but it the lesson was over.

Walking back to the stables, I'm glad I was aware of how Biscuit felt about trailers -- I heard a vehicle come up behind us &, from the sound, wondered if it was pulling a trailer. It must have gone over a bump or something as it made a louder sound & Biscuit was startled but didn't do anything silly, only shook her head & danced back slightly. Once it went past (car with small trailer attached), she was her usual relaxed self again. We were almost at the stables & honestly, people can be such morons -- 2 cars went past, one from behind us & another oncoming one, & neither slowed down!!

So up till now, someone's always held Biscuit while I've dismounted. I looked around, the stable girls were a bit busy, Chris was readying himself to take his next lesson (little girl already mounted up), Sarah & Ali were dismounting so I decided to get on with it. Its a small thing, I know, but I felt quite pleased with myself for managing it... & my dismount was better again, unlike Monday when I'd had a scrabbly moment. Noticed Sarah had run the stirrups up the leathers, so asked her how it was done & did that too, then stood holding Biscuit till someone came to take her.

Despite the pain, the freezing up and all the other struggle-y bits, I totally enjoyed the last two lessons! Now, I can actually picture myself going out on hacks & being a bit more adventurous.

Band's Carnival Concert

2010-08-11T17:36:00.007+01:00

The band Gordon's with, Come Prima, performed by Bournemouth Pier Approach on Sunday, Carnival Day. Strangely I was taking the loss of Sonic the worst, don't know why, & didn't really feel like going anywhere or doing anything but Gordon had said he'd be there, it was too late to back out so off we went. And I'm glad we did. It was a fun concert, quite an experience & Gordon enjoyed himself.

We didn't see much of the carnival itself as we stayed close by, listening to the band & people-watching. It was great, seeing people stop & listen, dance a little, take pictures... I thought it was hilarious when a group of tourists posed in front of the band for pix, even before the band started playing!

It turned out hotter & sunnier than we'd expected... thank heavens Gordon had his hat & we ended up standing behind the band (sound was better actually), in the shade.

Liam, our guard-puppy *L*