The big news today was that we ventured off the farm and went over to the National Equestrian Center to watch our friend, Louise, at the Kirkwood Horse Show. Jane and I had, at one point, toyed with the idea of showing, but we decided against it. And as hot as it was at 8 AM, we are not regretting that decision. But it was fun to see people and the turnout was tremendous.
Jane arrived in her own car, Harry and I were already there after a visit to the Starbucks drive through (where there was also tremendous turnout).
Jane arrives in her mask
The venerable Kirkwood Horse Show long ago left Kirkwood, and is now run by the most capable team of Jen and Brody Robertson. They moved to Ocala, Florida last year, but returned to run this show, despite distance and pandemic. They drove all the way with two trailers of beautiful jumps (Brody Robertson Showjumps) and their two young sons, Saer and Flynn.
Jen, horse show manager, and horse show mother 
Brody, manager, course designer, and horse show father
The very first classes were for walk / trot and ground pole hunters. This is very basic stuff, but not without danger, as one poor youngster learned. Ah well, a learning experience and a story to tell. No harm done.
I have always been partial to Flynn Robertson, the younger of the two boys. He was a remarkably pleasant baby. Now, he is a very serious competitor. I believe he was enjoying himself, but it’s hard to tell. I think he will be quite a poker player if he decides to go that route.
Last minute instructions 
Getting in the zone 
Approaching the “jump” 
Thirsty work, horse showing
Then, it was time for the cross rail hunters, and Louise rode her favorite horse, Annie. Her rounds were credible and fun to watch. Louise took up riding as an adult, which itself is not easy to do, much less jumping! And this is a “real” horse show. We were very proud of her.
Louise with her trainers, Katie and Amanda 
Focus 
Great eye and release 
Good weight in her heels 
We do this for fun!
There were so many old friends to see, but not enough time. It was a little odd seeing the masks. But it was more disconcerting to see many people without masks.
Harry takes a call 
Janet works the in gate 
Marian and Latido, her 4 year old 
Amanda takes a call
Back home, Nathaniel and Allison were hard at work, and I joined them for a while. They are hard workers, and accomplished more in four hours than I can get done in a week.
Harry spent time in the studio, with his loyal studio puppy, Weedy. It was a good day.
Finally, out in Montana, Rainy and the palomino filly have become good friends. Nancy sent these wonderful pictures.
Wait for me! 
Stay safe, stay well.
Thank you, Anne. May I say though, that I took up riding as a “senior citizen,” not just an adult. 😜 I very much appreciated you and Jane and a Harry coming out.
Louise
Kirkwood Horse Show! Oh my, I remember going to watch my niece ride, Tinkerbell, I believe. Tinkerbell was a large bay. I think Linda was in High School. Where is the show now? And, how wonderful Jen and Brodie came up to put it all together, wonderful! I’m so glad they are happy in Ocala. I would be! But, I love KY. Weedy, so faithful, love him! The piece Harry is working on is really coming alive. What a treat that you all share the process. Intriguing for sure. Do you all know that Harry’s sketchbook, 1965-2015, sits right in front of me on my coffee table in the living room where I do my reading and my internet stuff. I treasure it; the sketches are amazing. Happy Horses, Happy Days!
Louise, I hope you read this. I need to know your age in years, please and thank you. I am 74 and chickened. I am shopping for a horse to jog around. I cannot jump anymore like you do. You looked excellent.
Great seeing you all! Love reading your blogs and the wonderful pictures