Random pics from Winter 2009-2010

Is Spring really coming?

I think it's about time I updated the Barn News page!!

Not a bad winter at all - I think there was probably only one or two days when we couldn't use the ring due to ice, but otherwise it was decent to ride in right through the winter - that crumb rubber really does the trick and thanks to Sandy who kept it well blown out!

Hats off to Kathy, Sam, Sandra and James who were definitely the boldest at braving the elements through the coldest part of winter (is it really over?), not forgetting poor Holly staunchly standing in the middle of the ring for a few hours at a time...

Thanks to Shannon and Lakie trailblazing up the back lane, we were able to do some good trail rides through the back lanes and fields. As well, from Feb on, some of us have been doing some fun trips to Ferguson Forest - Melinda and I are off to check out Limerick Forest tomorrow to map out some prospective spring rides before the bugs emerge.

And, one more thank you: to Sam and Silke who are always so reliable through the worst of the winter weather doing the afternoon chores a few days a week which gives Sandy and I a much appreciated break.

A warm welcome to Patricia and Janice with Kobe, Debbie with Banou, and Jean with Eddie, who have all joined Heather Haven since our last news. All three horses have settled in so well: Kobe is now showing his owners how incredibly versatile he is, Banou is showing Debbie that, although she may be 29 years of age, she's still able to do everything she did as a youngster, and hopefully Jean has finally got to the base of Eddie's headshaking problem and then she can start having fun again. And also, welcome to Shirley who will be doing the morning chores a couple of days a week. And, finally, congratulations to James and Dana on their engagement! (Sir William and Wish DeVille will be expecting invitations to the wedding....)

Lots of activity at the barn these days - we are setting our goals for the summer and the HH crew will be out in full force at the local Silver and Dressage Days and, hopefully, a couple of events by the end of the summer. And then there's always the Hunter Paces, and other fun stuff to fit in the calendar!

So, let's get this blog up and running and get back to the barn!