Here we go! Despite being unfit and out of practice, Bart and I are joining Jane and Derry (who are in shape and very ready) to show at the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis (20 minutes from home) this week and next. Today, I went up and connected with Kris, who will attempt to school me, and put bedding into Bart’s stall for the week. We will be hauling back and forth, not staying at the show. Life is complicated.
Saturday, I went to watch Jane and others at Ali’s Boxwood. It is inspirational to watch, and great fun to spend time with friends and horses, an amusing group with a shared intense passion. It is not an easy game.
Jane and Susan came over here to set jumps for Bart, who still jumps impeccably, despite having to be roused from rest for his jump session.
Many of the birds here are looking a little ratty, as they are molting. Daughter Anne came for a holiday weekend visit Sunday, and we enjoyed time on the porch thanks to cooler weather, affording good bird viewing.
The sky is already September blue, windows are open for cool nights. We are enjoying an early sense of Autumn coming near. Today, though, Bart and I saw a magnificent butterfly weed in the back hay field. That is a summer plant, more commonly seen in July!
The orange boys were hungry this morning. With cool weather, morning chores were later than usual. It is a holiday Monday! The Pearl Brothers groomed each other as they waited to come in.
Marilyn rode through on this Labor Day holiday afternoon with Trigger, decked out in an orange fly mask and a saddle pad with orange chili peppers.
Eddy’s life is greatly improved by his “freedom collar” as we call the SpotOn collar that is connected to an invisible fence controlled by satellite. He spends his time patrolling until he is exhausted, but no more bolting off on faraway escapades. He went up to the NEC with me today and had a great time. Eddy is always up for adventure!
In the studio, the General continues to evolve.
And finally, end of summer sunset…
Be safe, be well. Slava Ukraini! Peace.
You got your lower leg back!
Agree with Christopher, you and Bart look great! Nothing lost there! Eddie’s collar intrigues me, satellite? Very cool! Poor birds, especially the cardinal, now I understand the motley Red Tail Hawk I saw the other day, molting I presume. Horse show time! I must venture out for St. Louis’ biggest event. See you there! Oh yes, the cats, there is something about them all waiting for their breakfast, patient, knowing it will appear, not a bad life! Marmalade looks pleased with himself for finding such a good home.
Wonderful pictures Anne.
Last year’s “wooly bears” predicted a mild winter and they were right. Haven’t seen one yet this year but I keep reading that winter will be harsh with lots of snow. Birds do look sad when they moult!
Your pictures of horses are truly book publishable! Thanks for a lovely post! Leaving soon to go across the pond but return in mid October and we can plan a get together at Meadowcrest. Maybe a French dinner/ luncheon!
Happy Fall; you’ll do great at the show and I’m sure you’ll be a star. I wish I was there showing with you. Give everyone a hello from me. can’t wait to hear how you do……..
Wow!! The General looks amazing! Of course I love all the horse photos! Have a great time at the show.
Gayle