The First Show

This post as been way way overdue.

Can I just tell you, I haven't cried like that since Kate helped me get on Brantley that first time in the indoor. At least I waited until the class was over and I jumped off my horse. 

After my concussion and then back injury and Brantley's abscesses (yes, there turned out to be more than one), things came together and resolved so well that I knew this show was meant to be. Friday night we had a sleep over at Cherry Croft and a bright and early Saturday morning. I have to say that I do miss my pre-show sleep overs with the Tavern girls. Up before dark, shower, yes I spent time on make up, hair, quick run to Allie's Donuts, then to the barn to feed the girls. Bonnie picked me up and brought me down to CC, pony warm and clean in a stall across from Kid. They loaded up Gigi and Kid and drove over to the show which was right down the street. I brushed off Brantley and cleaned his stall, loaded up, and we made our way.

It was an amazing turn out and an amazing facility. I remember the owner coming into Allie's to buy stuff when she first got it but I didn't even imagine. Indoor with stalls attached, awesome outdoor, fields and fields of turn out, and a trail course. Oh, did I mention the round pen? It was great, definitely wish I lived closer.

I was a little anxious especially not really having a lifeline but of course, when I always need her, Kate to save the day! I can't tell you how much it meant to me to have her there, my Dad was away with work which was fine and well, my Mom... is my Mom. Another pony friend came with her son and they cheered me on. It was just what I needed, plus, Kate took all the pictures <3

Brantley and I did the halter class (I've never done this before), and we made it work. The judge was impressed with him and his attitude, but he wouldn't trot back and I didn't braid him. 43/50 points? I'll take that! The main reason I did it was because I wanted him to see the tent and where the announcer was and you could only warm up in the indoor.

I helped tack up Gigi after the class and just had enough time to tack up and take a quick walk around the indoor before our Green Horse class was called. Luckily they didn't split up the class so it was 5 in the first two and then 3 for the Try the Canter, one right after the other.

Can I just say... Wow... Brantley was so well behaved and straight headed. There was one moment he sped up with his head up and those crazy eyes (headed right towards the judge). I saw a piece of paper had blown into the ring, later found out... It came out of my back pocket. GREAT!

We had an all around great day and Deb and Bonnie both placed very well. I did a few classes on Gigi and placed 1st in all. I still have never placed 1st on my own horse but I can tell you now, it didn't matter if I placed or not. Brantley was a gentleman. Relaxed, brave, sweet, and we seriously took a giant step and proved everyone and anyone who said it couldn't be done wrong.

Since then he's had back shoes put on and we're back out on the trails. Gave Mason a pony ride the other day after he rode his bike out on the trail with us. Finally went out on a well needed ride with the barn owner and her horse. First time over the bridges for her and first time out in the field with us. 2 hours later, it was a success. Rode in the outdoor w/t/c yesterday. Couldn't be better!

Started Lucy up for Kate again, just walking long and low. She's been very good and very quiet for me even with other people galavanting around the ring. We did a little bit of trotting but the more time you take, the less time it'll take to fix. I'm glad she asked me to help, honored even. Lucy is a great horse and K is an even better friend. Anyway I can make it so K can enjoy Lucy when she's ready? I'm down.

Quick nap before going back to work... I'm sick again YAY! And scratched my cornea so glasses all week and no contacts. WOOOOOOOOO!!!!! It never ends. Outside of ponies I'm a mess, I really need to get my shit together... PA in October is definitely needed!

Pictures to come.