Yesterday morning, while Harry was out playing golf, our friends Louise and Pam came over for a visit after their riding lessons nearby at Griffin. Not having inherited my mother’s gift for entertaining, I was stressed out. Louise is a phenomenal hostess, which is most intimidating. Nonetheless, it was really fun. Pam and Louise are good friends and fellow “old lady riders”. Pam brought carrots for the horses, so they had a great time, too. But I completely forgot to take pictures! I am an idiot. Maybe I was just too distracted with nerves for today’s schooling day.
Yesterday afternoon was spent working on the stream edge. Harry came out to check on things, and I did get a picture of him.
Yesterday evening, I trimmed Bart’s bridle path and legs, hitched up the trailer and had everything ready for this morning’s departure. Today, I decided to wear my old rust breeches for the last time. I was bringing Oisin in to his stall, and he spooked at something and knocked me down. Once again, I was grateful for the rubber pavers in the barn aisle. Alas, the breeches took the brunt of the tumble, and it was career ending for them. Luckily, I already have a new pair. Corinne is judging, and I know how she appreciates traditional breeches.
Ouch
Bart had a nice nap before we loaded up and went to the show. It seems to be a very well attended competition, though there are many young people we don’t know. Jane and I feel pretty rusty and it all feels a bit unfamiliar, but we had a good school and feel ready to show tomorrow.
This is officially the Bridlespur Horse Show being held at Happanstance Farm. It is the 79th anniversary, and Jane and I realized we really are quite old now. My first Bridlespur Horse Show was in 1970 (51 years ago!!). I was lucky enough to ride at the last event at the original show grounds on Squires Lane, and then at the first one in Defiance, at what is now Blue Heron Farm.
Jane started showing at Bridlespur 41 years ago!
Everything looks ready and festive for this year’s show
We had an oriole visit this morning, a good omen, I hope. The ordinary birds are a joy, too, every day.
“Ordinary” birds 
Oriole 
Oriole
Harry worked in the studio after a trip into St. Louis. His dogs are always with him, or waiting for him.
Mistletoe 
Weedy
This evening, all is quiet after a rainy day. We were lucky to get schooling done before the downpours. Now, time to try to sleep, always a challenge before a horse show!
Roscoe 
Harry 
Evening turnout
Stay safe, stay well. Peace.
Best of luck today and Thanks Anne.