Pre Charity Show Friday – Sept 5

The stars were perhaps a bit out of alignment today. I loaded Bart into the trailer, in good time. Then, the truck would not start – a dead battery, which I had worried might be a problem after the Happenstance incident, but I was lulled into a sense of security by the last few days. Ah, well, as problems go, this was not a big one. Harry dashed over and jump started the truck, and I called AAA to install a new battery at the show grounds. A real benefit to cell phones- I was able to make arrangements as I drove to the show. Once there, Bart settled in.

I saw Jules as I walked into the show barn. She is Hillary’s dog, we have known for 13 years. She is now 16. Also, I did get the name of Kate’s gate assistant dog…

Well, I had a big cheering section today, but I was overstimulated, and did not get pictures of everyone. Susan arrived first – she bred and raised Bart, and he is always very happy to see her. I am incredibly lucky to have him.

Louise and Pam arrived, too, and Louise videoed Bart’s rounds, along with Jane. It is helpful for me to see videos, and I can pull some shots off video clips to share. Pam has a particular affinity for Bart.

Justine, too, came to support us. She and her beautiful mare, Callie, show locally, but are giving this week a miss with a trip east planned for next week, alas.

Bart was inspired by all the support, and, more importantly, by wonderful preparation by Kris. Unfortunately, rusty as I am, the course was difficult to remember, and I missed two inside turns in the jump off. Nonetheless, Bart was double clear, and there were some good moments. We finished 2nd (primary color!) in the 1 meter Jr/AO class of 3 entries.

Harry was there to watch with Weedy, but I failed to get a picture. Then, our friend Joe Walsh arrived and I never took a picture of him, either! Joe missed Bart’s round, but he stayed to watch a bit and learned some things about a different horse sport. Joe has two race horses, which is a very different game, but he is definitely a horseman.

A new battery arrived, courtesy of AAA, and the ancient truck lives to drive on, and drove us home.

Once home, the mower repairs were in progress, but problematic. They should be solved next week. The drought has kept grass from growing, anyway.

To finish the day, Jane and I went for a wander on Derry and Oisin. We are very lucky old ladies!

Tomorrow Bart and I will show again, while Harry leaves early for the “Chalkfest” in St. Louis, where he will do artwork on an underpass. He promises to get a picture for the blog!

Be safe, be well, be grateful. Slava Ukraini! Peace…