Since Sara and Nick are going to Georgia for the week of Christmas, we had an early celebration with gift exchange at our house and dinner.
I had been talking about getting a large nutcracker for awhile, and much to my surprise and happiness, Nick and Sara bought me a chef nutcraker. It's already standing at the fireplace with my other Christmas decorations. Sara, apparently, saw my ratty "favorite" slippers the other day and decided I needed a new pair of "favorite" slippers. Close call; I almost bought myself a pair a few weeks ago. Glad I didn't.
Dave was in receipt of a big thermos so he can take a hot drink with him to Connowingo Dam for bald eagle shooting. He also got a new weekly calendar for 2013 to keep track of all the comings and goings he has with his parents. And in order to help him with his photographing, Sara bought him two photography books.
We had a nice lasagna dinner with garlic bread and salad. Earlier Dave and I had attended a High Tea at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel earlier in the day. It was very nice, pages and pages of teas. The occasion was hosted by the head of the FDA Group at the law firm where I work. Needless to say, we did not eat much of the lasagna dinner with Nick and Sara. I had made an angel food cake, but no one wanted any, and now Dave and I have angel food cake for the rest of the week for our dessert!
It was a nice evening; I think everyone was happy with their gifts. At least I hope so.
While Sara and Nick are in Georgia, I have been tasked with Horse Sitting, which can be a bit more taxing than Dog Sitting. I have a list of many things I need to do with Smash, above-mentioned Horse. Good thing I'm taking off from December 21 through January 1 so I can get out to the barn to ride, check her out to make sure all is well with her. She has a cut on her leg that has a bandage that needs to be checked and/or changed every other day.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Success! At Last at a Horse Show!
Sara and I participated in a horse show on December 2, 2012. We were reqally excited until we foundout how early we had to get up AND get Smash AND get her on the trailer. I think we would have been able to deal with her, but another person needed someone to trailer her horse since she did not have a trailer. See Sara's Sara's Blog - Adventures with Smashing! It was an ordeal coming and going.
Here are my videos of the last show. First test, eh. Second test, much improved.
Intro A Pleasant Ridge Me
Second Test:
Intro B Pleasant Ridge Me
There is always something to work on; one movement improves; another movement needs work. Always a work in progress.
Now, we practice for next year's Spring Season; I've already re-newed my PVDA membership for next year.
Here are my videos of the last show. First test, eh. Second test, much improved.
Intro A Pleasant Ridge Me
Second Test:
Intro B Pleasant Ridge Me
There is always something to work on; one movement improves; another movement needs work. Always a work in progress.
Now, we practice for next year's Spring Season; I've already re-newed my PVDA membership for next year.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Another Great Lesson!
Had my second lesson on Smash since I broke my wrist. A week ago, I was a little anxious only because I was concerned about hurting my wrist, again. The lesson was still a good one, albeit myn being a little shaky on Smash. We worked on being relaxed, getting Smash relaxed, and it all worked out.
Yesterday I went solo (tacked up by myself and everything!), and things went well. I didn't need anyone to help me catch Smash or groom her or tack her up. She was a very good girl, even on the ground. Once I got mounted Smash was still a little "up", but after walking around for a few minutes, she relaxed a little. Steph had me work on giving Smash a loose rein, then picking up the reins while keeping Smash at a walk (for some reason, horses think if the rider picks up the reins, it's time to trot). We did that in both directions, then I rode figure 8s. That is: one big circle to the right, then as you come around to the beginning of the circle, turn the horse to the left and make another big circle at the bottom of the first one. Kind of like this: But they should be touching!
Sara, Smash, and I are going to go to a dressage show on December 2. We are hoping that all goes well, and all three of us are healthy! We have the rest of this month to practice, so our tests should be top notch!
Been working on my "work dress", but spent most of yesterday after my lesson working on my counted cross stitch and watching all the shows I have on DVR. Great, no commercials! A nice, relaxing day.
So, I'm at work today, but since there are no MARC trains running, I had to drive to Greenbelt, get on the Green Line, get off at Fort Totten and transfer to the Red Line. First of all, 95 South was packed out! There must be a lot more people going to work than the MARC people think! The Metro was slow because a) on holiday schedule and b) track work is being done and the trains are being single tracked throughout the day.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Project Left Behind
Lacy Turtleneck I WAS working on until I broke my wrist. It's sitting in my living room taunting me day after day. I tried to knit with my cast on, but it obviously did not work. The cast dug into the palm of my hand, so that was no good. Now that my cast is off, my wrist is still a bit swollen andany wrist movement for a long period of time hurts like the dickens. I continue working on my counted cross stitch and, hopefully, sewing my MOD dress, a red jacket and a black and white dress I have cut out to go together. I've really been procrastinating - no reason - just haven't gotten my rear end upstairs into the sewing room.
Smash, fortunately, is feeling better, and it looks as if I will get a riding lesson on November 11 only because there are horse shows this week and next week at Waredaca. Sara and I are going to volunteer so we can earn some Waredaca Bucks, which will tremendously help with paying for lessons and board.
That is all. Over and Out.
Smash, fortunately, is feeling better, and it looks as if I will get a riding lesson on November 11 only because there are horse shows this week and next week at Waredaca. Sara and I are going to volunteer so we can earn some Waredaca Bucks, which will tremendously help with paying for lessons and board.
That is all. Over and Out.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Cast Away
Had the visit with the doctor; cast was taken off, and I was given a brace towear. I don't have to wear it all the time, but I do when my wrist starts to feel tired. My wrist is still sore, and moving it the wrong way is a BIG mistake. However, it's getting better, and the swelling is not so bad as it was on Friday. I go back to the doctor in a month. Things should be moving along quite well by then. However, I MUST wear the brace when I'm riding. I was able to ride with the cast on, and the brace is not as obtrusive as the cast was.
Sara and I ran a dog 5K on Saturday, which was a race to help fund the local animal shelter and from whence she got her dog, Jack. She also has a dog named Daisy, but Daisy did not come from the same place. There were dogs everywhere, and many in costume (and how many of them really wanted to be in those costumes?). This is why dogs bite!
Sunday morning I went to the gym, did 3.1 miles on the elliptical, went to the grocery store, and then did some glute, ab work from Body Sculpting with Gilad . My glutes are killing me today! I definitely need to kick it up a notch in the sculpting/toning areas, not to mention I'm running like an old lady! Oh, wait! I am an Old Lady!
Sara and I ran a dog 5K on Saturday, which was a race to help fund the local animal shelter and from whence she got her dog, Jack. She also has a dog named Daisy, but Daisy did not come from the same place. There were dogs everywhere, and many in costume (and how many of them really wanted to be in those costumes?). This is why dogs bite!
Sunday morning I went to the gym, did 3.1 miles on the elliptical, went to the grocery store, and then did some glute, ab work from Body Sculpting with Gilad . My glutes are killing me today! I definitely need to kick it up a notch in the sculpting/toning areas, not to mention I'm running like an old lady! Oh, wait! I am an Old Lady!
Monday, October 15, 2012
Back in the Saddle, Again
Yesterday I was able to ride! However, I didn't ride Smash as she is still on the Injured List. I rode another person's horse named Tanner. He is also a big horse, but even wider than Smash. At first I was a little leary about getting back on, but once I did some walking exercises with him and Steph, I knew things would be alright. He is not as sensitive to the leg as Smash, so today my inside thighs are feeling it! Even thoug he is a tad (a tad?) stiff, he listened to me, and I was able to get him nice and round and relaxed. Of course, he is pretty relaxed as a general rule.
It was a really good lesson with Tanner.
On the Smash front: The abscess STILL has not burst; however, Sara put some Magic Cushion on her hoof, wh ich seems to be bringing the abscess to the surface. We can only hope that it will pop soon!
No knitting lately; haven't tried to do any, but I'm still working on my counted cross-stitch project, which is keeping me busy in the interim.
Friday I go to the hand doctor, and my cast should be coming off and replaced with a brace, What fun.
It was a really good lesson with Tanner.
On the Smash front: The abscess STILL has not burst; however, Sara put some Magic Cushion on her hoof, wh ich seems to be bringing the abscess to the surface. We can only hope that it will pop soon!
No knitting lately; haven't tried to do any, but I'm still working on my counted cross-stitch project, which is keeping me busy in the interim.
Friday I go to the hand doctor, and my cast should be coming off and replaced with a brace, What fun.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Fracture is not a fracture when it's a break.
OK, new x-rays showed that the wrist is really broken. Doctor ordered a cast be put on. The good news? I was able to pick out the color cast I wanted! PINK! The bad news? It's on for three weeks, which really isn't too bad considering I already had a splint on for two weeks. October 19 I go back and get a brace.
I've been on hiatus from knitting, but on the other hand, I'm working on my cross-stitch project AND my second MOB dress. I'm slowly working on the dress and so as not to overwhelm myself, I'm doing only a few bits and pieces of the dress at a time! Once I get the bodice complete, I think I may be able to forge ahead. Here's a pic:
But in a deep teal. So, it's going well.
On the riding note, Smash has, apparently, felt is necessary to feel my pain by getting an abscess in her left front hoof. See: Smash's Abscess.
Going to attempt to run today, in the gym just in case, but in case of what, I'm not really sure) and really test out my waterproof cast, which the insurance company has deemed to be an unnecessary item, so I had to pay for that out of my pocket! But, better than it not being water proof as I am fairly active. Well, I should be more active, but I've used my broken wrist as an excuse not to "go for it" when I exercise. Of course, I can't lift any weights with my left arm until I'm healed up. Let's just hope I don't become lopsided on my right side! ha!
I've been on hiatus from knitting, but on the other hand, I'm working on my cross-stitch project AND my second MOB dress. I'm slowly working on the dress and so as not to overwhelm myself, I'm doing only a few bits and pieces of the dress at a time! Once I get the bodice complete, I think I may be able to forge ahead. Here's a pic:
On the riding note, Smash has, apparently, felt is necessary to feel my pain by getting an abscess in her left front hoof. See: Smash's Abscess.
Going to attempt to run today, in the gym just in case, but in case of what, I'm not really sure) and really test out my waterproof cast, which the insurance company has deemed to be an unnecessary item, so I had to pay for that out of my pocket! But, better than it not being water proof as I am fairly active. Well, I should be more active, but I've used my broken wrist as an excuse not to "go for it" when I exercise. Of course, I can't lift any weights with my left arm until I'm healed up. Let's just hope I don't become lopsided on my right side! ha!
Friday, September 21, 2012
No Knitting, No Running, No Nuttin'
As simple as the two fractues are, everything I do now has turned into a big chore. Taking a shower is a new adventue: first we cover the arm in a plastic bag and tape it up (hubby has to learn he can't push on the injured arm!); then it's a grand effort to get into the bathrub for the shower; washing with one arm, shampooing with one arm is not as effective as it should be. Then, the enxt effort of getting out of the tub. Toweling off is yet another challenge during this event.
I can't knit; heck, I can't even cut my own food right now. I can't walk (with all the bruising), let alone thrink about running. I did a great number on myself; however, I say, if a job is worth doing, it's worth doing well. I certainly did well on this one.
Not to be outdone, Sara went running yesterday and fell down scraping her leg all up. Good grief! But the best part (kind of) is the person in my office who laughed at me and said he would never have any falling problems because he rides a bike, came into the office this morning with a scraped hand and partially scraped arm. Guess one can get hurt on a bike! Poetic justice!
It's only been a week; I have 5 more weeks of this?
I can't knit; heck, I can't even cut my own food right now. I can't walk (with all the bruising), let alone thrink about running. I did a great number on myself; however, I say, if a job is worth doing, it's worth doing well. I certainly did well on this one.
Not to be outdone, Sara went running yesterday and fell down scraping her leg all up. Good grief! But the best part (kind of) is the person in my office who laughed at me and said he would never have any falling problems because he rides a bike, came into the office this morning with a scraped hand and partially scraped arm. Guess one can get hurt on a bike! Poetic justice!
It's only been a week; I have 5 more weeks of this?
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
No Shows For You!
As I was having a lesson in preparation for a horse show this Sunday, Smash and I walked over to th dressage ring to practice my tests. It was a windy day, and Steph and I were talking about the wind and its effect on riding. Meanwhile, "something" scared Smash and she did her little hop to the side trick, not once, but twice as the second time she stepped on the dressage ring fencing. Ack! I remember havuing her on a long rein, and as I started to fall, my thought was, "I better let go of the reins!" Good thing I did because Smash took off after she dumped me (as she always does).
Meanwhile, See this: Sara's Report of the Fall.
After I hit the ground (I do not remember the actual fall) my wrist was hurting and swelling up before my eyes! Usually, I get right back on the horse, but my wristhurt so much, there was no way. Reluctantly, I went to the ER and found out I have two simple fractures in my left arm! Good thing is, no surgery AND it's my left arm.
So, no horse show this Sunday nor on October 6. These were going to be my last shows of the season. Guess not.
Hand Doctor says in two weeks he will put on a cast, and more than likely, I can ride again. Yippee!
Meanwhile, See this: Sara's Report of the Fall.
After I hit the ground (I do not remember the actual fall) my wrist was hurting and swelling up before my eyes! Usually, I get right back on the horse, but my wristhurt so much, there was no way. Reluctantly, I went to the ER and found out I have two simple fractures in my left arm! Good thing is, no surgery AND it's my left arm.
So, no horse show this Sunday nor on October 6. These were going to be my last shows of the season. Guess not.
Hand Doctor says in two weeks he will put on a cast, and more than likely, I can ride again. Yippee!
Thursday, September 13, 2012
End-of-Season Dressage/Event Shows
I have signed up for two PVDA shows for September and October:
September 23 at By Chance Farm
October 6 at Schooley Mill
These will, more than likely, be the last two shows of the season. But, don't put that in concrete!
Sara has interest in the following: Loch Moy Starter Trials and Waredaca November 4 Halloween Starter Trials
She is also participating in a clinic at Waredaca with David O'Connor on September 18. Should be a really fun and informative clinic.
September 23 at By Chance Farm
October 6 at Schooley Mill
These will, more than likely, be the last two shows of the season. But, don't put that in concrete!
Sara has interest in the following: Loch Moy Starter Trials and Waredaca November 4 Halloween Starter Trials
She is also participating in a clinic at Waredaca with David O'Connor on September 18. Should be a really fun and informative clinic.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Learning More and More
Since moving to Waredaca in May, I have learned so much it is scary! Scary good! I have a new instructor who has helped me start from the basics on Smash (Smash is a very big horse and I have issues with feeling I might fall off!). Fortunately, Steph has taken me "by the hand" and has gotten me more balanced.
Update: September 2012
August 15 Waredaca Evening Schooling Show: I signed up to ride USDF Intro B test; Sara signed up to do two rounds of jumping: one at 2'3" and another at 2'6" (I think, anyway). Fortunately, we were scheduled to ride at better times than the show in July.
COMMENTS ON JULY 15 SHOW:
Sara was given 5:00 riding times, and of course, things were delayed, but she finished before my ride time. Smash had a short break, and then we tacked her up again, hoping that I would be able to ride somewhat on time! NOT A CHANCE! The judge was late getting there, but then she took more than the allotted 15 minutes with each rider, so the ride times were pushed back further and further. By the time I rode (30 minutes later than scheduled) I was fried, Smash had had enough and wanted to go back to her friends in the field. We made it through the test, it was not too pretty, but I did get some good feedback from the judge.
Back to August 15: This time I was scheduled to ride at 3:30 and Sara was scheduled to ride at 5:00 or so. Worked out so much better. I was the first rider in the ring with the judge, Peggy. I rode the test, and it was much better than the ride in July. My scores were better, but I still needed work on my circles to make them more round and not so much rectangles. My freewalk was ok, but I didn't release the reins down to the buckle (I'm still have issues with Smash wanting to trot when I pick up the reins, so I didn't release the reins as I should have); Smash did try to trot, but I caught her before she could really take a step. Yay, me! After the test Peggy showed me how I needed to make better circles and then she asked me to re-do the test, and she would take me step-by-step through it. Wow! That was great! How can you go wrong when being told exactly what to do and when! Really gave me more of an insight of how to approach the elements of the test. It was well worth the $25 I spent for that ride.
Sara got to the barn a little later, she walked/ran the course, tacked up Smash (who had a very nice rest eating grass); warmed up, went into the ring and had two wonderful rounds of jumping. Sara said she felt very confident for the show that was coming up on that Saturday, August 18. Sidebar: Sara had a great dressage score at the show, knocked down one rail in stadium jumping, but was detached from Smash going over the produce stand jump - her arch nemisis!
I have signed up for a dressage show on Septemer 23 at By Chance Farm with the PVDA. This time Sara and Nick have found a perfect way to get Smash on the trailer. Can you say, Lunge whip?
More practice with Smash, learning to use my core more efficiently, keeping contact with the reins, but not too much (I had been having a death grip on the reins, but no more!), using my leg and my seat to help maneuver her around. Quite frankly, I have learned more about riding in 4 months than I did in the 10 years with another instructor. I had my qualms about riding Smash, but with the consistent lessons with Steph, I am feeling more than confident riding Smash now. I figure if I can ride Smash, anyone can! Even as chicken as I was when I first started to ride her.
KNITTING: I have completed the Christmas stockings that I knit for Sara and Nick (Sara's fiance). I don't have any pics, but hopefully I can get one or two soon. Both are the Victorian Christmas Stocking by Donna Kay; You can see what it looks like here: Victorian Fair Isle Christmas Stocking. Sara's stocking is a deep purple, and Nick's stocking is a woodsy, earthy color. To embellish it I cross-stitched their names on linen cloth, put a small border on them, and stitched the names on the white area of the stocking between the heel and toe. This was Plan B. Plan A didn't work, so it's always to have something else to fall back on. As we know, there are 26 letters in the alphabet, so if Plan A doesn't work, there are 25 more letters to use. LOL.
Knitting a lace, short-sleeved pullover for myself: Lace Turtle Neck. Still working on the back of the pullover since I've been in a mad dash to finish the above-mentioned Christmas stockings.
CROSS STITCH: Haven't done much of this for probably over 20 years, but since I did cross stitch Sara's and Nick's names, and cross-stitched something for a pair of socks for Sara, the cross-stitch bug has bitten me. Found a cross-stitch pattern which is the State of Maryland. Here is a picture of the pattern: State of Maryland. Not sure what I will do with it once it's done; still thinking on it.
Phew! Guess I had a lot to say. May be more, but for right now this is it!
9/6/12 MORE: Sara went and had a pre-wedding hair and make-up session a few weeks ago. I almost didn't recognize her! The hair is really nice and the make-up really brings out her features. Pics:
Update: September 2012
August 15 Waredaca Evening Schooling Show: I signed up to ride USDF Intro B test; Sara signed up to do two rounds of jumping: one at 2'3" and another at 2'6" (I think, anyway). Fortunately, we were scheduled to ride at better times than the show in July.
COMMENTS ON JULY 15 SHOW:
Sara was given 5:00 riding times, and of course, things were delayed, but she finished before my ride time. Smash had a short break, and then we tacked her up again, hoping that I would be able to ride somewhat on time! NOT A CHANCE! The judge was late getting there, but then she took more than the allotted 15 minutes with each rider, so the ride times were pushed back further and further. By the time I rode (30 minutes later than scheduled) I was fried, Smash had had enough and wanted to go back to her friends in the field. We made it through the test, it was not too pretty, but I did get some good feedback from the judge.
Back to August 15: This time I was scheduled to ride at 3:30 and Sara was scheduled to ride at 5:00 or so. Worked out so much better. I was the first rider in the ring with the judge, Peggy. I rode the test, and it was much better than the ride in July. My scores were better, but I still needed work on my circles to make them more round and not so much rectangles. My freewalk was ok, but I didn't release the reins down to the buckle (I'm still have issues with Smash wanting to trot when I pick up the reins, so I didn't release the reins as I should have); Smash did try to trot, but I caught her before she could really take a step. Yay, me! After the test Peggy showed me how I needed to make better circles and then she asked me to re-do the test, and she would take me step-by-step through it. Wow! That was great! How can you go wrong when being told exactly what to do and when! Really gave me more of an insight of how to approach the elements of the test. It was well worth the $25 I spent for that ride.
Sara got to the barn a little later, she walked/ran the course, tacked up Smash (who had a very nice rest eating grass); warmed up, went into the ring and had two wonderful rounds of jumping. Sara said she felt very confident for the show that was coming up on that Saturday, August 18. Sidebar: Sara had a great dressage score at the show, knocked down one rail in stadium jumping, but was detached from Smash going over the produce stand jump - her arch nemisis!
I have signed up for a dressage show on Septemer 23 at By Chance Farm with the PVDA. This time Sara and Nick have found a perfect way to get Smash on the trailer. Can you say, Lunge whip?
More practice with Smash, learning to use my core more efficiently, keeping contact with the reins, but not too much (I had been having a death grip on the reins, but no more!), using my leg and my seat to help maneuver her around. Quite frankly, I have learned more about riding in 4 months than I did in the 10 years with another instructor. I had my qualms about riding Smash, but with the consistent lessons with Steph, I am feeling more than confident riding Smash now. I figure if I can ride Smash, anyone can! Even as chicken as I was when I first started to ride her.
KNITTING: I have completed the Christmas stockings that I knit for Sara and Nick (Sara's fiance). I don't have any pics, but hopefully I can get one or two soon. Both are the Victorian Christmas Stocking by Donna Kay; You can see what it looks like here: Victorian Fair Isle Christmas Stocking. Sara's stocking is a deep purple, and Nick's stocking is a woodsy, earthy color. To embellish it I cross-stitched their names on linen cloth, put a small border on them, and stitched the names on the white area of the stocking between the heel and toe. This was Plan B. Plan A didn't work, so it's always to have something else to fall back on. As we know, there are 26 letters in the alphabet, so if Plan A doesn't work, there are 25 more letters to use. LOL.
Knitting a lace, short-sleeved pullover for myself: Lace Turtle Neck. Still working on the back of the pullover since I've been in a mad dash to finish the above-mentioned Christmas stockings.
CROSS STITCH: Haven't done much of this for probably over 20 years, but since I did cross stitch Sara's and Nick's names, and cross-stitched something for a pair of socks for Sara, the cross-stitch bug has bitten me. Found a cross-stitch pattern which is the State of Maryland. Here is a picture of the pattern: State of Maryland. Not sure what I will do with it once it's done; still thinking on it.
Phew! Guess I had a lot to say. May be more, but for right now this is it!
9/6/12 MORE: Sara went and had a pre-wedding hair and make-up session a few weeks ago. I almost didn't recognize her! The hair is really nice and the make-up really brings out her features. Pics:
Monday, July 23, 2012
Riding Progress
Since moving to Waredaca in May, I am amazed at how well I have progressed in just a few months. I've gone from being stiff and tense because I thought I was going to fall off Smash (she is much larger than Bella and has a greater stride), to using my core, having leg on her side, not pulling on Smash's mouth, and learning how to come to a halt barely using the reins to slow her down (core at work here!). Yesterday I learned "shoulder in"; and what a difference it made when I rode my 20-meter circles in the test I'm doing.
Wednesday is a schooling show at Waredaca, and I will be riding Intro B for the judge to critique me. I'm hoping that it will go as well as it did yesterday when riding it in my lesson.
Sara will be riding Smash next Sunday at an event show; I'll be going as the groom and "go-fer" for the day. Ha!
August 5 - Liberty View Dressage Show; Sara will be riding her eventing dressage test, and I'll be doing my Intro A and Intro B tests. Liberty View is a very pretty place and very low key to do a show. The bad thing is all the tests are done in a 20x60 ring; usually the intro tests are done in s 20x40 ring. I'm not looking forward to the very, very long free walk across the diagonal of the big ring. But, on the bright side Smash does have a big stride, so we might make it in good time!
Two weeks later Sara will do a recognized show at Waredaca; another "go-fer" day for me.
We don't have anything scheduled for September; we did see one dressage show, but it was an hour away. Too far for a 10-minute ride! I did see a show in October that is close to Waredaca, so I might do that one. It's a PVDA (Potomac Valley Dressage Association) show, and one must be a member to ride in those shows. Sara isn't a member, so she can't participate in the PVDA shows.
Wednesday is a schooling show at Waredaca, and I will be riding Intro B for the judge to critique me. I'm hoping that it will go as well as it did yesterday when riding it in my lesson.
Sara will be riding Smash next Sunday at an event show; I'll be going as the groom and "go-fer" for the day. Ha!
August 5 - Liberty View Dressage Show; Sara will be riding her eventing dressage test, and I'll be doing my Intro A and Intro B tests. Liberty View is a very pretty place and very low key to do a show. The bad thing is all the tests are done in a 20x60 ring; usually the intro tests are done in s 20x40 ring. I'm not looking forward to the very, very long free walk across the diagonal of the big ring. But, on the bright side Smash does have a big stride, so we might make it in good time!
Two weeks later Sara will do a recognized show at Waredaca; another "go-fer" day for me.
We don't have anything scheduled for September; we did see one dressage show, but it was an hour away. Too far for a 10-minute ride! I did see a show in October that is close to Waredaca, so I might do that one. It's a PVDA (Potomac Valley Dressage Association) show, and one must be a member to ride in those shows. Sara isn't a member, so she can't participate in the PVDA shows.
June 24 Show
Sara and I walking back to the barn so Smash can take a break on the June 24 show.
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| This is a picture of me riding the Intro B dressage test on June 24. One of my only shining moments of the test! |
Friday, June 29, 2012
June 24 Show
Sara and I competed in a show on June 24 (my birthday). She did the Beginner Novice Division, and I rode two dressage tests only. Below are to pics of my riding and then Sara and I taking Smash back to the barn. We both rode Smash at this show. Smash had a full day, but she was loving the jumping, especially in the cross country part of it.
All of the dressage riders were lumped into one big division, so I did not get a ribbon. I was happy with my ride (but not so much the score) as I had learned quite a bit from my new instructor, Steph T. Wasn't the best in the world, but using my new skills was hard and my brain had quite the workout!
Sara's jumping has vastly improved and so her technique is the best I've seen in a long time. She was pleased with Smash except when Smash refused to pick up her feet and knocked down a rail in the Stadium portion. At XC they went over every jump clean. Sara also took videos with her helmet-cam. It's really an interesting view of the course, but you don't really feel or see the horse jumping as you do when watching from the sidelines.
and
From the ground:
Photos courtesy of Steve Talabac.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Going Solo!
Saturday I went out to the barn by myself wondering if I would be able to a) find Smash and b) catch her. Fortunately, the "herd" was up by the trailers so I didn't have far to go to get her. After taking the tack up to the stalls and driving the car back to the trailers, I ventured out to get Smash. Sara's trick of bribery really does work. As soon as she heard me call her, Smash came, although slowly, to me to get her treat. The ride was good; I did some work in the arena, then went out into the field. Going out was great; however, coming back was so much scarier because things were now in a different location. Gotta love them horses!
Sunday I was not so lucky; there were no horses to be seen. So, I did the, taking the tack up to the stalls and getting myself ready. As I went into the field to look for Smash, I had no idea which way to go, so I just started out along the fence line and hoped there would be some horses soon. I saw horses! What luck, now I had to make sure one of them was Smash. Yep, there she was. Another bribe and she came with me willingly. We had an escort all the way back to the gate. A black/white paint apparently thought he was going to get out, as well, or he has his eyes on Smash.
Sunday was the first lesson I had with Steph T. It was a really good lesson; we worked on walking and relaxing. Amazing how long I could let the reins get and pushing Smash in the direction I wanted her to go.
Sunday was also our 34th wedding anniversary! How quickly time goes by. It's hard to believe. We went to a, somewhat nice restaurant in Ellicott City. Dave bought a Groupon for the place, so we could try it out. Unfortunately, neither of us was impressed with the food or the service. For as fancy a place it looks, it is not so fancy with the service. The food, I would say, was "ok" only. Nothing to write home about. Good for us, it was within walking distance so we got a short hike home in the hopes we could walk off some of the food. I doubt we even walked off 1/100th of what we ate.
The food served was a lot: melted mozzarella cheese on french bread; i had a caesar salad; we both had a small portion of spaghetti and meatballs; i had a steak (eh); Dave had a crab cake; dessert was two cannolis (we had no choice for dessert; that's what we got). And I had a glass of wine in a very large glass with very small amount of wine in it for $10!
The usual prices for the food at this place are very, very high. So, if we were paying full price for the food, we would have been even more disgusted with the meal.
Our overall grade for this place would be a "C", not even a "C+". We will not be going back there unless someone else is paying! hahahaha!
This weekend I'm babysitting dogs. Two of them. For three days.
Sunday I was not so lucky; there were no horses to be seen. So, I did the, taking the tack up to the stalls and getting myself ready. As I went into the field to look for Smash, I had no idea which way to go, so I just started out along the fence line and hoped there would be some horses soon. I saw horses! What luck, now I had to make sure one of them was Smash. Yep, there she was. Another bribe and she came with me willingly. We had an escort all the way back to the gate. A black/white paint apparently thought he was going to get out, as well, or he has his eyes on Smash.
Sunday was the first lesson I had with Steph T. It was a really good lesson; we worked on walking and relaxing. Amazing how long I could let the reins get and pushing Smash in the direction I wanted her to go.
Sunday was also our 34th wedding anniversary! How quickly time goes by. It's hard to believe. We went to a, somewhat nice restaurant in Ellicott City. Dave bought a Groupon for the place, so we could try it out. Unfortunately, neither of us was impressed with the food or the service. For as fancy a place it looks, it is not so fancy with the service. The food, I would say, was "ok" only. Nothing to write home about. Good for us, it was within walking distance so we got a short hike home in the hopes we could walk off some of the food. I doubt we even walked off 1/100th of what we ate.
The food served was a lot: melted mozzarella cheese on french bread; i had a caesar salad; we both had a small portion of spaghetti and meatballs; i had a steak (eh); Dave had a crab cake; dessert was two cannolis (we had no choice for dessert; that's what we got). And I had a glass of wine in a very large glass with very small amount of wine in it for $10!
The usual prices for the food at this place are very, very high. So, if we were paying full price for the food, we would have been even more disgusted with the meal.
Our overall grade for this place would be a "C", not even a "C+". We will not be going back there unless someone else is paying! hahahaha!
This weekend I'm babysitting dogs. Two of them. For three days.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Moved to a New Barn
For various and sundry reasons, Sara decided to move Smash to a new barn. It was a good idea, and Sara is learning some new tricks of the trade, so to speak. She wants to get Smash trained up to Novice Level Eventing and sell Smash next spring. She is getting married next year and with their plans, Smash must be sold. Boo......
I have ridden Smash several times at the new place, but not without its trauma/drama on Saturday. Here goes: 1. She coughed all over me. 2. She kicked me in the thigh. 3. She reared up, pulled her bridle part-way off and ran away from me while breaking the noseband on her bridle and the reins.
After Sara and I caught her we found some makeshift reins and got her into the ring to ride. Smash was perfect! Of course, she couldn't understand what we were so upset about.
Sunday was a much better day for tacking up, etc. A huge welt of a bruise on my thigh never stopped me! We bought a new bridle at the tack shop on Sunday, so now Smash has a new outfit to go with her new barn.
I had signed up for a show on May 13, but after our two-day experience of trying to get her on the trailer, we decided it was better to scratch. And after Saturday's ordeal we feel it was a good decision.
This weekend I will be venturing out by myself to the barn.
I have ridden Smash several times at the new place, but not without its trauma/drama on Saturday. Here goes: 1. She coughed all over me. 2. She kicked me in the thigh. 3. She reared up, pulled her bridle part-way off and ran away from me while breaking the noseband on her bridle and the reins.
After Sara and I caught her we found some makeshift reins and got her into the ring to ride. Smash was perfect! Of course, she couldn't understand what we were so upset about.
Sunday was a much better day for tacking up, etc. A huge welt of a bruise on my thigh never stopped me! We bought a new bridle at the tack shop on Sunday, so now Smash has a new outfit to go with her new barn.
I had signed up for a show on May 13, but after our two-day experience of trying to get her on the trailer, we decided it was better to scratch. And after Saturday's ordeal we feel it was a good decision.
This weekend I will be venturing out by myself to the barn.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Friday, April 27, 2012
Second Dressage Tests with Smash
Intro A
Intro B
I was very happy with my scores this time. First test was a 63.something% ; the second test was a 61.something% test.
Yay, me!
May 13 is my next show; I have many things to practice before then.
Intro B
I was very happy with my scores this time. First test was a 63.something% ; the second test was a 61.something% test.
Yay, me!
May 13 is my next show; I have many things to practice before then.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Update to Update
Herring Bone Coat - Finished, but not happy with the hem; it was crooked when I sewed the lining and coat together so the wool is sagging; have to undo all that and re-pin.
Christmas Stocking - One done; second one on the needles. This one is going well, too.
NEW PROJECT!!!!!Shawl for the Wedding - I found a wonderful beach-inspired shawl to make and wear at Sara's wedding next year. The yarn I found is a silk/sea cell (Kelp) mix; no wool in this; it's going to be way too hot for any type of wool in this shawl. Order the yarn last week; awaiting the delivery of it -maybe today, but probably tomorrow.
Jumper - Fabric still sitting in the Mood bag.
Slacks - Still waiting to be sewn.
Exercise - Continuing; My left foot gave me some problems last week but it seems to be ok now. I did do strength training last week, but nothing that would have any weight put on my foot. However, I'm going to do elliptical and weights today - just to be safe!
Riding - Rode Smash on Saturday and a lesson on Sunday; the more I ride her, the better I am at getting balanced with her big stride. And a milestone! Actually got her to canter without bucking me off or totally ignorming me! See? I told you it would get better.
Christmas Stocking - One done; second one on the needles. This one is going well, too.
NEW PROJECT!!!!!Shawl for the Wedding - I found a wonderful beach-inspired shawl to make and wear at Sara's wedding next year. The yarn I found is a silk/sea cell (Kelp) mix; no wool in this; it's going to be way too hot for any type of wool in this shawl. Order the yarn last week; awaiting the delivery of it -maybe today, but probably tomorrow.
Jumper - Fabric still sitting in the Mood bag.
Slacks - Still waiting to be sewn.
Exercise - Continuing; My left foot gave me some problems last week but it seems to be ok now. I did do strength training last week, but nothing that would have any weight put on my foot. However, I'm going to do elliptical and weights today - just to be safe!
Riding - Rode Smash on Saturday and a lesson on Sunday; the more I ride her, the better I am at getting balanced with her big stride. And a milestone! Actually got her to canter without bucking me off or totally ignorming me! See? I told you it would get better.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Update on Projects
Short Tweed Jacket: COMPLETE! Just in time for the warm weather.
Long Herringbone Coat: IN PROGRESS. Outside of coat and pockets complete; need to put cuffs on the sleeves; sew lining and put together.
Jumper: Still sitting as one large piece of fabric.
Slacks: IN PROGRESS. Cut out, but queued up to be sewn together.
Our Fix-A-Test show still hasn't occurred; we have another week and a half before that happens. In May I am planning on taking Smash to a dressage show and ride the Intro A and Intro B tests. I'm not so great at getting her to canter, so I'm doing what I do best - walk and trot that horse!
I joined Planet Fitness near Sara's house so I can go to the gym on weekends, but mostly on Saturday mornings. Dave and I are going to a friend's house for dinner on St. Patrick's Day (which reminds me, I need to find something orange), and I know I eat too much, so I plan to do some cardio and weight work on Saturday morning to do some damage control.
Running - It's not been pretty, but I'm giving it the ol' college try, but what would I know about that? (Inside joke)
Knitting: Almost finished with one of the Christmas stockings; I had to change to DPNs, but they are too short for the amount of stitches on each one, and I almost lost quite a few of them on the train this morning. I have to get my longer DPNs so as not to have to worry about all my stitches falling off and then having to start this part of the stocking all over and I don't really relish having to rip out anything and re-knit on size 0 needles and lace-type yarn. Do you know how difficult that would be?
Guess that's about it; all projects are updated.
Long Herringbone Coat: IN PROGRESS. Outside of coat and pockets complete; need to put cuffs on the sleeves; sew lining and put together.
Jumper: Still sitting as one large piece of fabric.
Slacks: IN PROGRESS. Cut out, but queued up to be sewn together.
Our Fix-A-Test show still hasn't occurred; we have another week and a half before that happens. In May I am planning on taking Smash to a dressage show and ride the Intro A and Intro B tests. I'm not so great at getting her to canter, so I'm doing what I do best - walk and trot that horse!
I joined Planet Fitness near Sara's house so I can go to the gym on weekends, but mostly on Saturday mornings. Dave and I are going to a friend's house for dinner on St. Patrick's Day (which reminds me, I need to find something orange), and I know I eat too much, so I plan to do some cardio and weight work on Saturday morning to do some damage control.
Running - It's not been pretty, but I'm giving it the ol' college try, but what would I know about that? (Inside joke)
Knitting: Almost finished with one of the Christmas stockings; I had to change to DPNs, but they are too short for the amount of stitches on each one, and I almost lost quite a few of them on the train this morning. I have to get my longer DPNs so as not to have to worry about all my stitches falling off and then having to start this part of the stocking all over and I don't really relish having to rip out anything and re-knit on size 0 needles and lace-type yarn. Do you know how difficult that would be?
Guess that's about it; all projects are updated.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Completed Knitting Project - I said Project, Not Projects
Lo and behold, I finished a sweater from yarn and a pattern I bought in New York last month. Started on it right away, and as of yesterday, it is complete. COMPLETE, I TELL YOU. Gave it to Sara last night, and it does look very nice if I do say so myself.
Next on the knitting project list are the four Christmas stockings I am attempting to make for Christmas 2012. We'll see how far I get and if I should lose interest, which is a strong possibility.
My sewing projects: Tweed jacket still in progress; tweed coat - not cut out; plaid jumper - not cut out. Hmmm. Serious scheduling problems here.
Nick and Sara have decided they would like to do a destination wedding instead of a formal one here in Maryland. We discussed it, and it seems as if Dave and I will do a "send off" party before we go to the wedding destination, and they have asked or will ask Nick's parents to do a "coming home" party in Georgia. No concrete plans, yet, but with this scenario, we have lots of time to get detailed plans made.
Horse show season is coming up quickly. Sara and I are planning on doing a "Fix-A-Test" event on March 24. What happens is we ride a test, the judge critiques us, then we re-ride the test after hearing the judge's comments. It will be nice to have another set of eyes see what I'm doing.
Again, on the riding, I have attempted to memorize a Musical Freestyle to perform some time this season. The test is not difficult; I have the music, but Cathy's boom box does not work; must be too much dust, hay, in the CD player. My friend, Sallie, said she had one I could borrow, so just need to remind her to bring it to the barn. Then, it's onward with getting the music and the test movements coordinated.
Next on the knitting project list are the four Christmas stockings I am attempting to make for Christmas 2012. We'll see how far I get and if I should lose interest, which is a strong possibility.
My sewing projects: Tweed jacket still in progress; tweed coat - not cut out; plaid jumper - not cut out. Hmmm. Serious scheduling problems here.
Nick and Sara have decided they would like to do a destination wedding instead of a formal one here in Maryland. We discussed it, and it seems as if Dave and I will do a "send off" party before we go to the wedding destination, and they have asked or will ask Nick's parents to do a "coming home" party in Georgia. No concrete plans, yet, but with this scenario, we have lots of time to get detailed plans made.
Horse show season is coming up quickly. Sara and I are planning on doing a "Fix-A-Test" event on March 24. What happens is we ride a test, the judge critiques us, then we re-ride the test after hearing the judge's comments. It will be nice to have another set of eyes see what I'm doing.
Again, on the riding, I have attempted to memorize a Musical Freestyle to perform some time this season. The test is not difficult; I have the music, but Cathy's boom box does not work; must be too much dust, hay, in the CD player. My friend, Sallie, said she had one I could borrow, so just need to remind her to bring it to the barn. Then, it's onward with getting the music and the test movements coordinated.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
New York Show
Broke down and went up to NYC this year for the Vogue Live! Knitting Symposium (or whatever you wish to call it) with Betty. We signed up for several classes and one lecture and were very excited about it. For a nice change, we rode the train there and back for $49 each way. It was more comfortable and took less time than the bus.
We found an all-night deli right across the street from the hotel, which saved us TONS of money in food! The Hilton was such a rip-off! We also got a great deal with the use of the gym. We saw that we had to buy a pass if we wanted to be able to go at any time we wanted without having to be forced going only during their official open hours. When we checked in, we were told that if we did not have maid service for one day, we could get the gym pass for free! Really? I don't have to have my bed made by someone else if I can get a free pass to the gym for 2 days. It worked out great! I ended up going really early because our days were filled with classes, lectures AND a trip to Mood Fabrics. By early, I mean 5:00 a.m.!
My first class in duplicate stitch was interesting, but the instructor was young, and I believe her first class teaching. I was confused, dazed and in the remedial group of the class. I never got the hang of it, so unless I take another class locally, that will probably be the end of my duplicate stitch career.
My second class was gloves; I can make mittens, but doing the fingers really was frightening! All I really needed was to be able to see how to do the fingers in person and make a stab at it. I had great success with this class. Picking up stitches and knitting the fingers was not as horrible as I thought it would be. However, I have to many other projects (still), that knitting gloves will be put on the back burner.
Mood Fabrics was daunting and overwhelming! Rolls and rolls of fabric everywhere! Because of the way the fabrics are on the rolls, it takes quite a bit of time to go through them to find exactly what one is looking for. (Don't know how they do it on PR with only 30 minutes!)
Found two pieces of fabric: one was a heavier tweedy looking fabric to make a coat; the other was a lighter plaid wool to make a jumper. Of course, I haven't touched that, yet!
Knitting Projects: Sweater that I bought wool for at NY; Christmas stockings for four people for next Christmas (if I make it that far); finish sweater that I started before Christmas, which was going to be a present, but I decided against it; that is why I'm knitting another sweater now with NY wool; and finish off a sweater I started even longer ago. The sweater is done; I'm working on a lining of sorts that I have to sew in underneath the lace part of the sweater. I'm so close to being done, but "start-itis" got to me and now I've almost finished the, what I call the NY sweater. One sleeve to finish, block the pieces, put together, then knit a collar onto it.
Riding still, even in this cold weather, but need to keep up my riding skills (such as they are) so I don't lose any new level I've finally reached. Bella and I are planning to bring back her Celtic Musical Freestyle that Cassidy choreographed with moves from training level tests. It will be an experience for me to get coordinated with the moves and music. Another challenge.
We found an all-night deli right across the street from the hotel, which saved us TONS of money in food! The Hilton was such a rip-off! We also got a great deal with the use of the gym. We saw that we had to buy a pass if we wanted to be able to go at any time we wanted without having to be forced going only during their official open hours. When we checked in, we were told that if we did not have maid service for one day, we could get the gym pass for free! Really? I don't have to have my bed made by someone else if I can get a free pass to the gym for 2 days. It worked out great! I ended up going really early because our days were filled with classes, lectures AND a trip to Mood Fabrics. By early, I mean 5:00 a.m.!
My first class in duplicate stitch was interesting, but the instructor was young, and I believe her first class teaching. I was confused, dazed and in the remedial group of the class. I never got the hang of it, so unless I take another class locally, that will probably be the end of my duplicate stitch career.
My second class was gloves; I can make mittens, but doing the fingers really was frightening! All I really needed was to be able to see how to do the fingers in person and make a stab at it. I had great success with this class. Picking up stitches and knitting the fingers was not as horrible as I thought it would be. However, I have to many other projects (still), that knitting gloves will be put on the back burner.
Mood Fabrics was daunting and overwhelming! Rolls and rolls of fabric everywhere! Because of the way the fabrics are on the rolls, it takes quite a bit of time to go through them to find exactly what one is looking for. (Don't know how they do it on PR with only 30 minutes!)
Found two pieces of fabric: one was a heavier tweedy looking fabric to make a coat; the other was a lighter plaid wool to make a jumper. Of course, I haven't touched that, yet!
Knitting Projects: Sweater that I bought wool for at NY; Christmas stockings for four people for next Christmas (if I make it that far); finish sweater that I started before Christmas, which was going to be a present, but I decided against it; that is why I'm knitting another sweater now with NY wool; and finish off a sweater I started even longer ago. The sweater is done; I'm working on a lining of sorts that I have to sew in underneath the lace part of the sweater. I'm so close to being done, but "start-itis" got to me and now I've almost finished the, what I call the NY sweater. One sleeve to finish, block the pieces, put together, then knit a collar onto it.
Riding still, even in this cold weather, but need to keep up my riding skills (such as they are) so I don't lose any new level I've finally reached. Bella and I are planning to bring back her Celtic Musical Freestyle that Cassidy choreographed with moves from training level tests. It will be an experience for me to get coordinated with the moves and music. Another challenge.
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