Catching up

It's been a long time.

Last week TW went away for a night so me and Brack and Monkey escaped and got into a bin of food. Sme peeps thought we were colicking and TW ended up with a Sunday vet visit. She was not happy. We were fine. Oops.

Yesterday it was cold. TW said we were getting ready to get fit. All good for me. TW didnt like my keeners to get going and my buck while we were waiting for Zoe. Oops.

Today it was colder. Me and frank came in. TW was determined. SHe rode frank first and then we got ready, in the school and the keeners soon faded away. Off we tootled with Chaz. We had a lovely sunny cold hack. TW was proud. A strange man followed us with his camera . TW laughed her head off. Wierd.

We are booked on a pleasure ride soon. Hooray.

Back on it

Yesterday was a good day.

Me and frank came in. Frank and TW went out. Then it was my turn. Tack on, off I went for a pootle with Chaz!! I've never been out with him before!

We went round the village, down the bridlepath , behind the hedge then round the bench and back again. It was nice. TW says we are to do lots of walking to build up our fitness.

Later on we had another big treat! Out in the big field with Chaz, Eol and new boy monkey. Loads of grass.

TW only popped her head round to see us today, we were al eating together. Nom.

Excuse me?

Me and frank went to the yard today. I was optimistic. Frank went off first and had a grand time. But there were lots of noisey machines about so TW said we couldn't go out as she doesn't want to lose her confidence. Booooooo!!

We need to get fit and ready for next years endurance goddamit!!

FTS

TW had a new phrase today. Something like " feck this shit" . Said very loudly through the village after shed wrestled with the broken leccy fence that had been turned off. I think she was mad.

We had some cuddles at the yard and she danced around me a bit singing and swinging round on my tail. Wierdo. We had fun. Then I went back to the field. It's proper muddy. We had hay delivered today, hooray. Hope TW isn't so angry tomorrow.

Tom v Tom

It was farrier day on Friday. Me and frank came in then TW went to fetch Bee and we had a graze in the school. Nom. We are hungry. Then we tootled into our beds for a bit more nomming.

Farrier Tom arrived, frank went first. Then it was me. Game on big man. I pretended to be scared. He looked bemused. TW picked out my feet no bother. Then FT started. First foot. I stretched it out in front to try and stop him grabbing it. TW laughed. Hahahah. And gave me some mints to behave. Excellent game. Loads and loads of mints. As some linseed treats. Nom nom nom.

Round he went with me nibbling TW. Wrestle over left hind. He won. TW was embarrassed. But I was ready for him. Back round the front he put one front foot on his stand thing , clever. So I lifted the other front foot up and waved it about a bit. Ain't I clever? FT jumped out of the way a bit. ha!!!

TW says I'm cheeky. No idea what shes on about. Back at the field I wished we had some more hay, the grass is a bit rubbish.

No show

TW didnt appear today , apparently shes uber busy at work. ZM came as always though, she's nice and consistent. Yesterday TW came in what seemed like the middle of the night. She gave us polos. They were yum.

Wheeeeee

TW didnt come up til the afternoon yesterday. She was either
1. Hungover
Or
2. Cleaning
Or
3. Both.

It was lovely to see her, we all came cantering up the field for a kiss or two. She didnt have anything else on offer which was a tad disappointing.

She didnt come up at all today but lovely ZM checked us anyway. The weather is rubbish. .

Rumble

Me and TW had a rumble today. First I tried to bite her iPod. She didnt like that. Then we had a hooly  around while she sang Metallica songs at us. Jeez that was tough! Then we had a chase. Then we had a snog.

Good work!

Wrestle

We went to the yard for a bit today and when we came back TW said we could have the whole field. Me and Brack preferred to wrestle. We did some rearing and some boxing and some racing. Frank just stood with TW. Bracky nearly went on his arse. Oops.

Speed

Finally I got to get out for a hack! Goodness me its been far too long. When I came out of the field it was lovely but by the time it was ready to go it was a bit rubbish. Off we went anyway. Me and Zo. I stormed along like a super fast fit thing. TW was very pleased. It felt nice. Hope we can do it again soon.

Mints

TW was super early today, fumbling about in the dark. Me and Bracky had some extra strong mints. They were yummy. She wanted some hugs. We didnt give her any but I let her have a quick kiss.

Yesterday and today

Yesterday TW was wierd. She was singing and dancing around the field and ran round with us all. Then she got us a big bale of hay delivered and sat on top pretending to be a pixie while we nibbled round her.

Today she took frank out and me and Bee sunbathed. TW says I'm looking amazing. That's nice.

Green

The grass is growing , my poos are green. Yuck. Thought I was going to get a nice sunny hack today. But TW was more interested in her phone and iPad. Then something made her mad and we went back to the big bale. Oh dear.

Good lad

Me and TW had a pootle today. It was great. She said I felt all fit and strong again. It feels like hunting weather to me but TW says maybe next year. Booooo.

Aww crap

What a mistake! My Bucky antics worried TW so much that Frank got to go out with Harry at Hickling. I was gutted. In fact I was fair miffed so I text TWs dawgs to express my miffed ness. And they left her a pressie on my behalf . Bad dogs!

Bastards

TW shouted bastards alot today. In fact she shouted bl3ddy, f*cking c#nting bastards mostly. Disgusting behaviour. Brack thought it was hilarious and bucked and farted around her after she had dragged us baxk into our field.

I quite wanted to go back into the long grass but she wouldn't let me. So I bit her. That made her REALLY swear. Such a potty mouth.

Buck

TW finally arrived today. She took frank for a baxk and then came back for me. It was lovely, she said I seemed so confident and mature. We has a cheeky trot. Then she asked for a canter. Buck buck buck. Nap nap nap. I don't think my sore leg was ready for it. Oh dear that's sad :(

Favourite

When TW came to the field today I came straight over and in to the yard. Quick graze, brush, tack on and in she hopped. The moment if truth. I marched straight off the yard. Nappy? Me never!

Through the village in the sunshine, down to the bench nd round the illegal field with one small trot. Perfect. TW was pleased, so was I.

Love

TW took frank out today instead of me. She's promised I can go out next weekend though. Frank was naughty and TW is stressed. I gave her lots of lovely kisses in the field today. That made her happy. Then I head butted her.

Rain

Down came the rain and we came in to have our feet done. TW upset mr farrier cos she said I hated him, he didnt find it funny. That made TW laugh. I was a mostly very good boy today apart from trying to nibble mr farriers bottom. He said I could have a knuckle sandwich. He was only joking though. Hope the grass grows cos theres no hay left.

Eating

The big bale of hay isn't lasting so long. TW was shocked. We are full!

Violated

Today was a funny one!

A lady came to see me and Frank. I went first. She examined me with a camera thing that notices heat. She said I was looking good but that there was possibly an old injury to my stifle as TW suspected. So I had some lovely laser treatment and massages. I was so relaxed that I let everything dangle loose. Quick as lightning the lady grabbed by bits and popped out a few beans!! Omfg! Te lady and TW thought it was hilarious. I was mortified. My bits are never coming out again.

The lady said that I'm probably having some growing pains too and showed TW some ear massages to do. That was nice. I do enjoy my treatments but this lady was a funny one! I think we will be starting work again soon. Which will be nice.

Oh

I got left in the field today even though I volunteered to come in. Boooooo.

Bum high

TW thinks I'm bum high again so I had a day off. We all had some time in our beds nomming and frank had a plod. Bracky and Frank were very naughty baxk at the field. Poor TW.

Good boy

I was having a lovely sunny snooze in the field this morning when TW arrived. Lying down, snoring. TW tootled over and sat down and cuddled me while I snoozed. It was lovely. Eventually she got up and said her and frank were going in and I could come if I wanted to . So I did. Brack had to stay behind again as Oliver was coming to borrow his room.

At the yard we settled down with our hay while TW popped to the shop. Then she picked out my feet and tacked me up. My saddle and the sheepskin numnah. On she got. Off we went. No arguing. TW was pleased. She said lovely things all the way round the village to me. It made me happy. TW thought I was moving a little bit sticky but she thinks that might be because I'm feeling shy again as we havnt done much solo stuff recently.

Back at the yard and frank went off with Zoe and Olver. I snoozed. It was nice. I've been very good today.

Shout n growl

TW came up this evening. It was lovely to see her. I started marching over followed by frank and in we went leaving bee behind.

At the yard ZM and RM were around. TW tied me up and whispered that she really really wanted me to be a good boy today. Tacked me up in franks saddle and on she hopped. As soon as she said go I baxked up. OMG she opened her mouth and the most awful noise came out. ZM was laughing and said something about the exorcist? I stopped in my tracks, pricked my ears up and marched out of the yard. As soon as we were on the drive TW was saying all sorts of lovely things to me which was nice we just walked a few metres to the lamppost and she hopped off and we came baxk. And I got a bowl of grass soup. Yum.

She says we will do little and often for a while to see how we get on.

Teenage tantrum

TW was up early today. After a few days of drifting she was back on a mission. All good. Me and frank went in.

I got tacked up first, stood nicely like a good boy. Then decided I didn't want to leave the yard on my own. TW panicked. I did some nice reversing. All over the place. TW didnt want to smack me because she was scared of what I'd do. Ha! ZM stood and watched. I backed up near the stables, near a car and near the muck heap. Ad grabbed a mouthful of tree for good measure. Then TW opened her mouth and out came the most awful bellowing. OMFG. Off I went.

We went through the village, had a wierd moment on the bridlepath when I shook my leg about ( left hind) but carried on. Down to the bench then behind the hedge and back. Teeny trot to check for lameness. All seemed ok. At the top TW wanted me to stand still. I fidgeted. She shouted. I stopped. She got off.

Oh and did I tell you she sang all the way today? Something about Mr Bot you'll be in a pot? Rude! TW thinks I'm probably just having a little teenage moment but we will stick to short walks until the thermal imaging lady comes she reckons. I did some lovely trotting and cantering in the field for her later on.

Nip

TW overslept this morning so she didnt appear til tea time. Lots of grub, a big drink, some posing and then I decided I wanted some cuddles. It was lovely. Then I nipped her nip. Oops. She ran away laughing that I was naughty!

Freedom

This morning I didnt get time to graze but had extra grass soup. Nom.

This evening I had more grass soup with bute number 7. Then it was time to go back!

I stopped for a quick graze by the gate and then off I went. Marching super fast. TW struggled to keep up. Nostrils flaring keeping moving. By the tree I did a lovely piaffe. TW liked that. Ten we stormed to the field and in I went.

Kisses for the lads and then competition time. Off we flew, galloping, bucking, twisting, turning. TW was half horrified and half in awe. Touch wood my bad leg was ok when she left.

Grumps, walks and Iggs

Still on box rest. Had a graze in the school this morning and again this evening. Went for a tiny in hand walk this morning. Played with Iggy pup. TW said I'm contrary because I'm grumpy and keen to get out of my stable and then stand ready to come in when I want a drink or grub.

Annoying

It's annoying that I'm still on box rest.

It's even more annoying that Iggy kept harassing me.

It's very annoying that when I tried to make a break for freedom TW had already shut the gate. Gah!

I enjoyed all my grub though.

Visitors

On day two of box rest frank and Brack came to visit. Frank bit me which was rude. We grazed in the school and I had a nice groom. In the day time I was in Bracks stable then TW came up after work for a quick graze in the school then into my bed. Nom. Grass soup.

Day 1

TW arrived super early this morning. 5.30am. I was ready for her.

I had a graze in the school and a little groom then she sorted the rooms out and went to see frank and Brack. Then she came back and I went into Bracks bedroom for the day to rest my legs. Lots of people came to check me which was nice.

Later in TW came baxk and I went baxk to the school for a graze and a roll and a cuddle from TW. She sorted out the rooms again and I went back into my room. She had made grass soup for me. Nom. I slurped it good. And off she went.

Bed rest

TW came up early because she was worried. So I did some trotting for her and got an apple reward. So then I did some flat out galloping for her. It felt awesome. She looked confused.

Later in she came back and took me in, did my tootsies and let me graze in the school. A vet arrived with a student. Hmmmm. TW told him about my poorly bits. The big vet man poked and prodded me and said I didn't seem sore. Then TW had to trot me up and down. They said I was sound. TW was more confused.

Next, we went into the paddock and lunged. Vet said walk first, I couldn't be arsed so just trotted. The vet said I lunged nicely. I trotted on both reins. The vet said very occasionally I did a tiny lame looking step on both reins but he thought it was because of the lumpy ground and TWs lunging. She was pooped.

Then it was Flexion tests. Yuck. TW was scared. The student tried to do the flexing but he was crap. TW was worried I was sore but the vet knew I was being cheeky. So he did the last one, I stood like a statue. TW sniggered. The student went red. They said I was sound and the vet gave me an apple. He wondered if I was a highland cross as he says my head is like a highland. That's good, TW loves highland ponies. He says my body is like a connie. Lol.

The big vet says I should have a week in bed with some pain killers just in case something has been tweaked. He said I have a good back but can work on my schooling now I'm getting older. He says better muscles will help. TW said boring. Naughty TW!

I went back in the school and TW went food shopping. She made my bed and put me grub and treats. Then I got tucked up and off she went. All alone. Hmmm. Hope my buds are ok.

Lame

Today I'm properly lame. TW is upset. I'm grumpy and sore. I'm swollen above my hock. Brackys getting on my nerves. Franks going to have all my fun. I hope it's nothing serious.

Wet

It's been wet today. We've eaten all the hay.. When TW came up after work she fed us and opened up the whole field as she didnt want us wrecking the top of the field. I think she also wanted to see how I was moving. So I did a lovely trot down the field for her. She's been worrying all day. Braxky says I might get a good rest out of it. Maybe she will ride him for a bit....

Not happy nappy

We all came in together today which was nice. Frank went out first, then I wanted a go. TW brushed me, did my tootsies and tacked me up all nice. On she popped. All good. Asked me to walk. Nope. I backed up, turned round, backed up. We wiggled and wobbled. I got myself onto the grass for a munch. TW wasnt happy . Neither was I. I swished my tail.

TW jumped off, moved the saddle back a bit and tried again. Same thing. TW jumped off again and we walked through the village and down the bridlepath. SHe clambered on at the gate , I tried to go home, she said no so we had a wee walk down to the bench. Behind the hedge I wanted to trot so she let me. But something's not right still. We tried again a few times. TW thinks the right hind leg is still a bit dodgy but shes not sure why. She jumped off and we grazed our way bak to the stable.

Back at the yard TW removed my tack and took me in the nice paddock for a little lunge. She thinks I was moving nicely but on the right rein I looked a little bit grumpy. She gave my leg a rub then we all had some grub and pootled baxk to the field. TWs folks came to visit too. I scared her Dad by following him about. It was funny. I hope TW gets me fixed soon, she thinks its just poorly muscles I think she's probbaly right. It's a shame.

Check up

TW is slightly on strike at the moment and I'm still having a little rest. So today we all came in and saw mr Tom the toothy man. He loves me. I didnt need anything doing which was nice. I did some polo stretches with TW and had a brush. Not bad.

Stretch

I had a big old massage today. It was ouchy. She massaged out the tightness in my right hind and the muscle spasm in my left shoulder. And rubbed and massed all over. Some of it was nice. I have to rest for a few days though and can't do next step on Sunday. That's a bit sad.

Groundwork

When TW cme to the field today, I picked up a lovely big branch of hawthorn and gave her a poke with it. She moved out of the way. Very interesting. Bracky says this kind of training is called ground work and says if we work hard we might have her trained by Christmas. However Braxky also kicked me while we were earin our tea so I'm not sure whether to trust him.

Stroll

It was sunny today and windy. I was having a nice snooze lying down in my bed when TW and frank returned from their hack. She decided I could have a little stroll too. Hmmmm. We went through the village and down the bridlepath. Past the blind rottie and her two little chums and right at the bench. Had a few little trots, up past the bird box tree, back down the bridlepath dodging the evil burdocks and stopped for a graze by Zoe. It was very pleasant.

TW thinks maybe the green numnah is too tight and that might be a problem under the saddle. She also thinks maybe we are not so confident as we've not done so much solo stuff recently. Back at the yard we had some grub then eventually headed to the field for a nice drink and roll. TW was having a lie down in the field so I stomped over, that made her shift. She thinks I'm maybe a little bit stiffer than usual. Who knows.

6 sweaty miles

Today I went off in the box with TW, I wasnt so fussed as I was having a lovely sleep when she arrived but she promised me some haylage. Nom.

Off we went, over to see Oliver. It was really muggy and the flies were a bit annoying but off we went. Not as lively as usual but we did ok. I had a few moments when I thought I might just like to stop or go back but TW said behave! Oops. We did the kennels ride again, it was nice but. Think TW has been eating too many chips tbh. Had a few trots , TW thinks I might have a little bit of a sore shoulder but shes not sure. I feel ok I think.

On the way back we were joined by two big gingers who were having a paddy when they spotted us and had to catch us up and keep us company for a bit. Wierdos! Back at Oliver's yard I had a sleep in roskos bed and some haylage. I suggested that I could stay a bit longer but TW said nope. S off we went. Did some grazing at the yard and then got confused and started making my way baxk to the field. TW had to run after me with no shoes on. Oops. Then I had a shower. Phew!

No idea

I have no idea what happened today. Me and TW went into the school to do some work in the Bitless bridle. Started off lovely marching around. Did some bits. Then when we circled left to do a tea cup handle I stopped. And napped. And baxked up. And bounced on my back legs a bit. I did it a few times each time we did that move on both reins.

TW was confused. I looked grumpy. In the end she said if ur poorly tell me nicely and if ur being a nob stop it. I stopped it. I didnt want to trot though. So TW hopped off and lunged me in my saddle, still looked grumpy. Without the saddle I seemed a bit better and TW thought it might be a bit too far forward. I was a good lad for the farrier though although he didnt want my kisses.

Baxk in the field TW made us trot about. She's worried I'm a bit sore somewhere but can't tell where. I have a massage booked now for next week. Frank is proud of me :)

You learn something new ......

Today I learnt that it is not acceptable to stamp on TW, head butt TW or try and push her off the thing she was standing on. Interesting.

Early

TW was early today. Before work early. I think I heard her asking Bracky if he wanted to do some hacking next year. Frank nearly choked on his grass! She's panicking that summer is on the way out and she thinks we havnt done enough riding. Brack says who's fault is that?

Flooding

Today it was my turn. Lovely. TW was up at the field nice and early, frank was not impressed when I was the chosen one. Oops.

Quick nibble of grass and tack on and off we marched. Super fast. It's been a long time since we've been solo. I did a nice banana impression through the village watching all the scary things while TW chatted away . Down the bridlepath. We had a lovely conversation about all kinds of things. Past the bench and straight on. There was a big tractor thing and hosepipe reel far away to the right. I was scared and watched it. TW told me to ignore it. In the end I stopped and walked backwards. TW said that was naughty. Poo.

Off to the end we went then turned round and came back, turned left at the bench and went half way down the other bridlepath. There were stinky scary burdocks everywhere today. TW said it was an excellent piece of exposure work for me. Pah! I was brave though. TW was pleased. She said she would get off when we got to Zoe's field but there was something scary somewhere. I did a nice 180 spin and stood facing the other direction. TW said that was silly as we were going home. Very true.

Back at the yard I had a nibble of hay and a lovely massage. I especially liked TW doing my poll and my butt. It was very relaxing. Then she popped to the shop and me, her and the muscley dog had a relax in the yard , it was so peaceful. Perfect.

When I got back to field TW did some poo picking and fencing. Me and Brack had a bucking competition. He's fast for an old un. Excellent day. And it's been raining too.

Oh!

Frank and TW went out today. I stayed and wrestled with Bracky. I was glad when they came baxk, especially as TW let us graze on the bit outside of the field for a bit. Then I wrestled a bit more with Bee and we all went to sleep.

Wonder when I'm off out again?

Happier

TW was happier today, think its because she isn't at work. She did some jobs while we were allowed the grass outside the field. Lovely. The flies were annoying. Greedy frank had to spoil it though. I hate it when TW and him row, it's a bit scary. I'm resting a bit at the moment which is nice.

Sponge bath

It's been so hot again. Nearly 30 degrees yesterday. We've not been moving much from the water as that's the coolest point. TW came to feed us last night and after she had done we all mooched bak to the water so I had a lovely sponge bath, some kisses and a roll. And then I went baxk to sleep.

TW doesn't have any riding mojo at the moment. I'm pleased. Although its nice and cool super early in the morning........

Lazy

TW was lazy today so we were lazy too. Never mind. Here is a lovely photo of me and TW having fun in the sun at the weekend.

Race for Life

After yesterday's activity I got to rest today. It was nice and cool and drizzly almost first thing but that soon disappeared and the scorching sun arrived. I was glad for the day in the field. TW was off with Mildred to do something called race for life where she had to run round in the sunshine. I think she just walked and trotted though, shes not very fit.

I'd like the weather to cool down a bit I think, not sure I'm that fussed about doing much while its this hot.

Shattered

It was I think the hottest day of the year. This afternoon me and TW headed off to Gotham for another pleasure ride. There were lots of sweaty ponies about!

I started off super keen but by about 8 miles or so I was pooped. It was great when we finally got back. TW said that was our hardest ride yet. I think I agree. I did enjoy cantering through the calves though. Lol.

Nom

Another warm one today. TW bought us grub at tea time and a little later the hay man bought us a big bale. TW has been spending time looking at photos from the weekend. Like this one here at the end of our 15 mile ride :)

Hot

It's very hot. We are spending most of our time standing by the water snoozing.

Sixth at Sherwood

Today was even hotter than yesterday. It was my turn to go out in the box to sherwood pines. I had a nice snooze in the box and a nibble when we arrived then it was off for the vet , tack on and go. Frank  had given me some tips from his ride yesterday and I had to put on a good show to make sure he doesn't replace me as number 1 endurance pony.

I rode with a snazzy mare called ginger, she was lovely but likes wasting her energy flinging herself in the air. Wierd. We did a lot of walking and trotted when we could. Smetimes we cantered. Because it was so not we had to go round between 5 and 6 mph. Today we did 15 miles in 2hr 33 I think. TW was pleased.

Afterwards, I had a wash and drank a big bucket of sugar beet water while a man took my heart rate. Then while we waited for the proper vetting I had a pee and a roll. Oops. TW was embarrassed. It was great. Ginger copied me. Vetting done then back for a sleep while TW chatted and waited for the results. We came 6th. She was so happy .

Finally we were baxk on the road and baxk in the field. Phew!

Mañana

Frank went out today. Me and Bee stayed in the sunshine. I tried to get out when frank left but TW made me go back. Boooooo! When she bought him back I thought it might be my turn but I just got a kiss. Frank says he had a lovely time with my chum drum and his girlfriend. Lucky monkey.

Flies

Olive came over for a hack today which was nice. Just a short one. It was very warm and the flies were evil. TW is very sneezy and grumpy. I might have barged past her on the way back to the fild. Oh, and I dropped my bridle at the top of the bridlepath. So we walked back to the yard with just my reins round my neck. Hehehe.

Saddle man

I was pleased to see TW today. Came trotting to her to be caught. Frank came too. The saddle man visited. He said TW shouldn't worry as we are strong lads . He tweaked the stuffing and said they were good. I mostly slept. TW was stressing about lots of stuff. Something's making her mad , so mad she couldn't even swear out loud. Frank said we should ignore her grumps and let her kiss us. Good plan.

Tootsies

After our evening meal TW took her shoes off because they were hurting her and pootled about the field. It was wierd. I went to in investigate her toes. Very odd. We had some nice kisses too. We have a big weekend coming up.

Wierd

I don't understand why when TW brings three bowls of grub to the field, does Brack completely ignore his bowl and try and share franks? It's wierd.

Frank did some work today. I'm resting. So I did some nice gallops up to TW instead.

Hills

TW says her leg is feeling a bit better today so off we went in the box. Frank was not happy. We went to a place called Beacon Hill and met a nice girl called Nell and her human. We had a lovely ride. Round trails, through fields, past cows and calves and sheep. Mostly walking , a lovely canter. Then we went out onto some roads, through some villages and into a wood, past a fire and saw a huge buzzard.

It was really hilly , TW said its good for my bum. Phew! Afterwards we went home, I had sme grass and then went back to the boys for my grub. Frank was mad at me, I don't care.

Poorly TW and the bad Oliver.

Tw finished work early today as we had a pleasure ride to do. But she felt sad and poorly and lay down in the field for a bit. Goodness that was scary! She eventually felt a bit better so up to the yard we went and off to the ride. Exciting.

We were meant to be riding with olive and chums but at the ride TW spied another chum who needed company. Tack on and off we set, another lady asked to ride with us. That was fine. She had an Oliver. The Oliver had a red ribbon but the lady said he didn't kick she just didnt like horses up his bum.

Off we went, past a scary gate , onto a road and then onto the field edges. Trot trot trot. We trotted on and off for miles. It was fab. Me and my endurance bud at front, Oliver behind. For a wee moment Oliver got in front and the lady said please go past us again. So we did. Bad Oliver swung his bum and kicked TW square on the thigh. Ouchy. She was sore. She thought she would be sick. Couldn't speak much. But then she decided she was ok and off we went again, trotbtrotbtrot.

It was a gorgeous route. Mostly trotting, a bit of walking when TW was tired and a couple of amazing canters. Ten miles altogether, TW was chuffed. I was starving. Quick wash, back home nd to the field for a roll. Perfect. TW said she was glad bad Oliver didnt kick me. I agree.

Wheeeeeeeee

I wasnt sure I could be bothered to leave the field today. I'm glad I did though. Me and TW went to visit olive and flea for a lovely hack. We did some nice road work and practised bending left and right. Then we got onto the fields and trotted for ages and then had a couple of lovely canters. I wanted to go fast but TW said steady so that's what we did. It was fab!

Back at the yard I had a natter with Rosko and some haylage before we headed home. Then we all spent some time together in the field relaxing before TW bought us grub. And frank double barrelled me. Nobber.

Little one

Today's been a windy and sometimes wet day. TW came early and me and frank went in and had a bowl of grub. Frank did some work and then it was my turn. Back in my lovely turquoise Bitless bridle. We did some circles and some trotting and some tea cup handles and some stopping. TW said I was very good. We even practised the gate. It was short but sweet.

The anchor

It was a muggy warm day today. Me and TW headed off in the box and landed at a pub called the anchor. I was having a little nom when that Olive arrived. Then Harry arrived. Excellent. Boys day out. Off we went.

Today we hacked down tracks, through fields and along busy roads. It was tiring. TW didnt have her sticky so I didnt over exert myself. There were loads of flippin cows about. We had a few little trots and towards the end had some little cantery fun. Very pleasant.

Baxk at the pub I got on the box and slept while the peeps nommed. Then it was back home, I marched Bach to the field and had some lovely rolling in the dust. TW was impressed with my rolling. She thinks I might need clipping again. Oh bugger.

Willow

I was hoping to have a play with TW this evening. THe weather had other ideas. It was super muggy and the flies were rotten.rubbish. TW bought us some grub though and some willow from a tree. Nom.

Hoveringham

Today me and TW went off in the box to some where called Hoveringham. I do like my sport endurance rides, lots of friendly people and horses and grass to nom. It was lovely and sunny and we had an 8 mile stroll with two nice mares called Rosie and Lady and their family. There were lots of cows and quite a few bikes and lots of gates. And some bridges. TW likes bridges. She always says look out for the trolls. Dafty.

This ride was nice and peaceful , just had a few teeny trots and canters. I was sweaty by the end under my saddle so when we got back to the yard I had a nice bath and massage. Lovely. Back at the field I did a big roll for TW and then trotted and cantered down the field to show I was feeling sprightly. She does worry.

Peaceful

Today I had a lovely peaceful rest day in the field with Brack. Frank went on a day trip. I enjoyed myself.

Good bud

Finally TW reappeared today. She said she was shattered. I head butted her for fibbing and not riding me weds and Thursday but then gave her a hug. After some tatting in the field we pottered up the village to the yard for a brush.

TW wasnt sure what to do today. She tacked me up with my new Bitless bridle, it's a lovely colour and attempted to get on. I was maybe a bit rude. TW got annoyed. Oops. Eventually we both got what we wanted, she got on and I rushed forward into the school and had a crafty nom. Hehehe.

Off we went through the village. Grumpy TW wouldn't let me graze. Boring. Behind the hedge we went after the bench and tried a few trots. I didnt tack off this time. TW decided I was still not quite listening so we decided to walk the rest of the way. Along we marched almost to the end and then turned round.

On the way baxk TW wanted to practise halting. I wanted to practise eating. We had a little row. I maybe pretended to have a tantrum. TW wasnt bothered. Then I got it. We learnt that halting is a jiggle on the reins, a deep breathe in and heels down. Easy. TW was very proud. I was happy when she stopped confusing me. Bak at the bench she jumped off and I had a graze. She says I've put a bit of weight on this week. How rude.

Boring

I hoped we would go into the yard again this evening for some exercise. But we didnt. TW was worried about the big Rottie who had a poorly tummy and was bleeding. We got some grass from outside the field though and some kisses. That was nice.

Tea

TW took me and frank to the yard this evening. I had some grass and she took some photos to record my weight. Brack suggested we take pics of her but I'm not sure shed be keen tbh. On the way back to the field we walked the long way round the village. TW told me off a few times for being a bargey bot. Oops.

Ticks and bots

When TW and frank came back from their hack, me and Brack were lying down snoozing. S TW came and lay down in the field by me and had a snooze too. She said if I wanted to do anything to let her know, so I started snoring.

After a bit I remembered I needed TW. I had a scratch and then stretched my leg out in front of me so she could see it. Yucky Tick. She was pleased I'd shown her, we both had to get up and mooched to the yard. TW looked on the Internet and eventually with the help of some sudocream and some tissue the tick had gone. Nasty thing.

As it was a nice day TW suggested we go for a plod with Zoe, it was lovely. Just down the bridlepath and back in the sunshine. I do like my Bitless bridle. Nice and relaxing.

Back at the yard TW asked if I fancied a massage. She started on my shoulder but I turned round so she could do my butt. Ha!! Excellent for my tight hamstrings. ZM was impressed with how much I was enjoying myself. Heheheh. Then it was baxk to the field for some sun with my boys.

School

I like these days when we all come in together. After a nom in the school we all went into our beds and I got ready to ride. Bitless again, I do like it. More room for nomming.

We just went in the school today. We practised marching over poles, lots of changing reins and circles, did a small amount of trot and then did the intro a pattern just in walk. ZM came to watch us for a bit and storm arrived to get ready for his jump outing. A bit distracting. TW was pleased with me though :)

Afterwards we did sme more nomming and then the boys went to the field and I had a wobble massage. Lovely. Then it was down to the field to see the big bale of hay that had arrived. TW popped up later to see us again. That was nice.

Early

TW was up super early this morning. We tootled up to the yard and I had my tootsies picked out and TW checked my back. No signs of ticklish ness. Tack on, prolite and mattes pad. TW thinks its too much, what does she know?

Through the village we marched, down the bridlepath, nodded to the boys and Zoe and storm and marched on. Trotted through the field then baxk on the path we practised walking and trotting with tiny aids. TW thought I was a bit sluggish at times, silly billy. There were machines everywhere hiding in the hedges. Cheeky!

We popped through the hedge and turned right, wanted to canter but something scared me and I stopped dead. Oops! Marched a bit further and then turned round and headed home. A big buzzard flew up from the grass and into the tree. It was huge! More trotting and a tiny canter but me and TW were both a bit spooky so we decided to keep walking instead. Back at Zoe's field TW jumped off so I could nom then we headed back to the yard and back to the field. Roasting.

One year

It's one whole year since I came to be with TW and my buds. The day I moved the rain was hammering down. Today it was lovely and sunny. It's been a good year I think. Lots of nomming and cuddles and adventures.

During the last year I've had some lessons, been to a jump clinic and had two goes at x country. I've done a dressage test, been hunting with the bloodhounds , raced round a racetrack and done plenty of pleasure rides and my first competitive ride. I've been out in the snow, the wind, the rain and the sun. Gained and lost two wart things, shaken my head, had my ear bitten, cut my mush open and had some toofy pegs pulled and had plenty of back massages. I've bucked TW off, spooked TW off and plopped her off over my shoulder a couple of times jumping.

Mostly I've hacked and snoozed and nommed. I've been to lots of new places and met lots of new friends. It's been a happy year. I wonder what we will do next? TW fancies camping and holidays. That sounds nice. After a snooze.

Please sir can I have some more?

( are you sensing a musical theme?)

Another boiling hot sunny day. Sadly TW was back at work today, really disappointing. It was lovely to see her at tea time though. She had three bowls of sloppy grub. Nom nom nom. Me and frank wrestles over them and I licked all the bowls clean. TW said my back seemed un ticklish today. Excellent.

Battle in the sun

Off we set in the box , hooray we landed at the nice pub and Harry was waiting for me. TW said we were Bitless today. Nice! I had my prolite and sheepskin on today.

Off we set, I was a little bit more wary than last time. Like a banana said TW. We went the opposite way round today, behind the mare and foal field and round. Found another track which makes less road work back to the pub. Bonus.

We marched along in the sunshine, lovely and relaxed. U til we got to the cross roads where we went wrong last time and ended up in the pheasant field. I decided I wanted to go that way. TW said no. Harry's human said maybe Bitless isn't best as me and TW wrestled. She won eventually. never mind!

Up the steep hill, through the woods, the fast field, the gates, the golf course. Lots of nice cantery spots but today we just walked ( apart from steep hill). TW said the brakes need more work heheheh. As we headed baxk down the tracks we practised some nice leg yielding and bending bits. TW was very impressed. Back at the box the humans had some pop and crisps while I snoozed on the box. Then it was home. Some nom while TW cleaned the sheepskin and checked my baxk. No ticklish bits today.

Baxk in the field I got down to nomming. I think the grass might get fenced off soon so best make the most of it.

Tom time

When TW arrived at the field right and early she said it was Tom time. Excellent. Frank wasnt so impressed when he got left in the field with Brack.oh dear.

Firstly I nommed by the box while TW had a cuppa and the muscley dog ran around. Then I had my tootsies picked out and out my red rope halter on and me and TW set off through the village for a summer stroll. We had a lovely time. I nommed hawthorn and cleavers and grass and rose hip and all kinds of other stuff. We practised walking nicely and not stealing food until TW said so. Nom nom nom.

We went past Molly munchkin and her pal and into the next village. TW let me choose what to do o I decided to head back. I think we were out for 90 mins in total. Nom nom nom.

Baxk at the yard we went into the school while the muscley dog played and TW sunbathed. Then it was into my bed for some wobblings and massaging. TW thinks my bum is a bit tight and my right shoulder and my right side is sensitive a bit from the saddle problems. I enjoyed the wobbles and was lovely and relaxed. After a little doze we headed back to the field , I played with TW for a little while, had a drink, followed TW and then settled down for a snooze in the sunshine. Perfect.

Shade

I'm hoping that today I s my last rest day. It was a mostly nice rest day though. We did lots of nomming at the yard in the sunshine  which was lovely. Then the hoof man came , not so good but I survived . Next I decided to stay in my stable for a snooze in the shade while the boys went in the school. Had lots of kisses from people on the yard, more nomming in the school then back to the field. Nice lazy daisy day.

Bit bored and Brack

I spent the morning with Brack today. I couldn't believe it. TW took frank out and left me behind :'( . Me and Bee had a nice enough time though. Brack says I'm to be careful as frank is in love with TW again at the moment. I'm not worried though. I sulked a bit and ignored her just to make sure though.

Frank won his first rosette today at the dressage place. He's chuffed. I'm happy for him, he'd like his own job I think. Bracky says he has the best job.bless him.

Wobbles

Yet another rest day. I had lovely treats though. A nice groom, some carrots and then Lucy came to visit and did me something called a Bowen treatment. It was gorgeous. She was very good at knowing what I needed doing. She even did a bit on TW when I asked her to. Very kind. I told her that I would like th e prolite pad under my saddle too. And that TW has annoying knees! Se showed tw how to do some wobbly things on me too to help stimulate my skin and muscles. it was fab. Hehehehe. We are going to have sme lessons with her to help us work together better. Should be good.

Don't believe it

TW took frank for a hack in the pouring rain today but then she fed us all and turned us back out. I stood by the age as she was leaving to let her know she had forgotten to ride me AGAIN but she just gave me a kiss and said see you tomorrow. This resting is odd.

Resting

Another sunny day, I spent it in the field with my buds, chilling and nomming. It was nice. Had some cuddles with TW and showed her I was moving nicely round the field. She thinks my saddle needs a bit of padding on the left. Oh dear. She can figure that one out.

Next step

I fancied a rest day in the sun today. TW had other ideas. Off we went in the box. TW was worried as I was sleepy. Silly worrier.

Today we did our first competitive endurance ride with my chum Blue. It was great fun. Firstly I had a fidgety vetting. They liked my show cob trot. TW was embarrassed.hehehe. My heart rate was 42. After a bit of wrestling I was tacked up and off we set.

It was roasting and at times it was a bit stoney. They were lots of roads too. I was a very good boy, no spooking. We did as much trotting as we could but had to go slower on the stoney bits. I'm not keen on trotting on roads ever tbh. Then we got to sme amazing canter loops. That was great fun, loads of lovely fast canters and trots and some nice relaxed marching along. Phew! It was sweaty.

TW hoped we would do the 13 miles in 2 hrs 36 but we did it in around 2 hrs 10 I think. She was chuffed. I was fair pooped and knocked over my water before tw and zm cold slosh it on me. ha! At my post ride vetting my heart rate was 44, everyone said well done and we got a lovely rosette.

I'm hoping that TW can get fitter and improve her balance as I think that will make it loads easier to go faster. I think I'd like another go. After a few days rest. And maybe a massage or something?

Back to school

After the rubbish weather yesterday, today was a sunny one. I had a play with TW in the field and she felt a bit sad as she thinks my gummys are a bit bruised from last weeks hunt ride antics. I'm ok though.

Then we went to the yard and frank had a tantrum. Oops. I had my tootsies picked out and a snooze and then off we went in the box. Lesson time again. Bitless lesson. Excellent!

I was excited as soon as we got into the school as there was some lovely big colourful jumps about. But apparently they weren't for me! Rubbish. Lovely instructor lady noticed straight away that TW was back in the bad habits, legs forward, leaning back like some wierd cowgirl thing. So we worked on that. My steering was a bit rubbish to begin with but again that was because TW was rubbish, she needs to learn to keep the reins the same length and to keep her hands low or I wiggle about all confused.

It was very exciting at the school, there were ponies that made me jump, and baby cows running about which I wanted to watch. TW was pooped, lazy daisy! After a while we got to do some poles and then a teeny cross pole. Phew after. Few laps of that I was tired too! TW was very pleased and so was the lovely instructor lady , LIL says sometimes I'm a bit sharp and maybe everything isnt just TWs fault. TW was confused by that! Hehehehe.

Snooze

The weather was nasty today so we all came in and had a day snoozing and eating. Very nice. TW came back in the evening and we all went out in the sunshine. Lovely.

Just for me

This evening a new saddle fitter came to see us. She says that I don't have to share saddles with frank anymore . I have the secondhand soft leather saddle with the mattes pad. We walked nd trotted and cantered on both reins which was nice. TW said I can't rein back yet. So I did a lovely rein back for everyone. TW shook her head and ZM laughed.

The saddle lady says I have ribs like a tb and thinks I'm going to grow alot more. TW was scared. I just laughed.

Bots brakes

Dear worrier

Thank you for a very lovely day. I really enjoyed the sunshine. I really enjoyed the road trip. I really enjoyed seeing Rafi and nomming grass.

It was a very lovely ride. Weren't there lots of horses out? Shame there were no hounds about but they're having their holidays I think. I think you enjoyed your port. I enjoyed going very fast and being a strong bot. Rafi was surprised I reckon. Were you surprised?

Hope we can do it again soon, will we go Bitless next time?

Mr Squire

Xx

Bot in control

Today I had some time with TW it was nice. I had my tootsies picked out and a quick from, tack on including a snazzy purple bridle and red reins and off we went. TW said the saddle seems to be ok on me at the moment ( apart from the lumps and bumps). The purple bridle was Bitless. Interesting!

We were going to go in the school first but TW couldn't be bothered so off we went out into the village. First Bitless hack!!! We were nice and relaxed. Had a tussle at the top of the bridlepath as I wanted to eat. TW won.

On the path we bumped into the old lady. She stopped and said I was gorgeous. Then she said her old dog had died. TW was very sad and when we went on our way she had a little cry. On the first bit of the track we had some steering issues, I span round right a few times. Not sure if that was my fault or TWs tbh. Never mind.

Right at the bench and behind the hedge. A teeny movement from TW and we were off...yee haw. Trot trot trot. Nah ill keep trotting ta. Hehehehe. Eventually I walked. Time to trot again, this time I was quicker and went off into a lovely trot and before TW could speak I was cantering hehehehehe. Amazing. Baxk to trot, then trot bot was in full flow. TW was laughing but tried everything to get me to walk. She says we need more practise. A bit more trotting, another naughty canter then it was time o turn round and come back.

The evil weeds were every where today but we stayed nice and relaxed. At the bench TW got off and we had a chill and a nom then it was back to the yard for a snooze. I quite like this Bitless malarkey.

Moody mare

Bracky says TW is a moody mare today, I think he's right. It started off badly when we left the field. She tripped in sme brambles which spooked me. So I ran forward, knocked her over and possibly even ran over the top of her legs a bit. Whatever way, her legs are sore and brusised and a bit cut. Oops. Sorry. I walked in nicely with frank after that.

Frank went for a little hack and then after some faffing I got dressed up in something called an Equi ami and lunged. Phew. It made me sweat. I did not enjoy it. Neither did TW. More practise needed. Then I had some kisses and grub and treats. Result.

After a bit we went bak to the field. Me and TW had a fight over sme grass. She got very grumpy. When we got to the field she wanted a kiss but I marched right off. Oops. I needed a drink! She sat on the grass looking all sad and thinking I didnt love her any more! Oh dear! So I trotted all the way round to her which made her smile. Ten frank cantered down and we had some birthday wrestles.

TWs favourite part was the two big bucks and farts I did in Bracks face. HA!

Hay and mud

The weather is not so nice at the moment. I'm covered in mud. I'm nomming hay. Tw is worrying. Oh dear.

Sunday hack

It was a nice sunny Sunday morning. TW and ZM were up early and me and frank came in for a rest. But I didnt get a rest. TW tacked me up and I went for a hack with a girl called Red. It was nice.

We went up the hill and across. Had a few trots. Red did a bit of snorting like a dragon ( it's a coloured thing, frank does it too) and had a few little spooks. I just stomped along. Smetimes I was at the front, sometimes I was behind and sometimes we were side by side. I quite fancied staying behind and going to sleep today but TW wouldn't let me.

On the hill we had a few trots and past the space centre we had a lovely canter. Red zoomed off like a rocket but TW wouldn't let me race her. We cantered nice and bouncy, hide a teeny trot and then cantered bouncy again and then walked. TW is a strict one sometimes. It was grand though.

On the main road I had to box Red in to protect her from the traffic. TW said I did good. It was lovely to get baxk in my bed for a chill. TW massaged my back and thinks I maybe have a small tight spot on the right at the back so she gave it some nice rubs. Then I went to sleep. It's been nice to have a quiet weekend at the yard.

Confident

I had a lovely lie down and sleep in my bed today. Afterwards me and TW went and had a little play in the school with a little jumpy. It was great fun. TW was very proud of me. Normally when we jump I'm shy and struggle to go over jumps. Especially as TW is nervous. Today I was much better. TW not so much.

We did some little uprights, slightly bigger cross poles and then there was a bigger upright. Unfortunately I didnt have enough energy cos of TW for the big upright , and my back legs knocked it down. So ZM did the little one again and we ended on a good note. TW was very happy. I had fun too. I hope she gets more confident soon. I think I'd like to have a go at jumpcross.

All hail ( hairy) Mary

Today was a very exciting day. I had visitors. I waited patiently all morning, mooching between our three stables and then stood waiting expectantly in the yard. Then, we heard the sound of hooflets on the drive. They'd arrived!!! TW was pleased to see the humans too.

My special visitors were Hairy Mary and Storm her big adopted brother. Storm was a last minute replacement for my best bud Rosko who's having a break. Storm was a good enough replacement. Hairy Mary and Storm are my biggest buds yet, HUGE even! Not ponies! Off we set through the village, I was front for a little while but HM soon overtook. Girls!!

Down the bridlepath, waved at Zoe and her human and then on to the village. The big dudes stopped to coo over Molly munchkin , I was not impressed. Over the busy road and then trotty past the petrol station. My that Mary is brave! I was impressed. TW was very impressed by HMs rider , she would love to do what sue does! Humans are funny creatures.

Along the road we marched , right past the donkeys and nice pony who shouted help, up the hill where it got windy and then into the woods! They were lovely. The humans liked the blue bells. I've seen lots of bluebells lately so frankly wasnt so fussed. Wierdos. Winding through the woods we went, had some nice trotties and then at the end we turned round and came back with me in the lead. Lovely! Storm boy pulls some funny faces at me so when we were baxk on the road I ran past him and made TW kick his butt!! Hahahahah!!

Before we knew it we were back at the yard,  7 miles of fun with my new big buds. Loved it! Their box is weird though, it looks funny. I hope I can ride with the big buds again, they're very well behaved and march fast which I like. HMs Sue has another bud too, his name is Solly. TW says he would get on well with Bracky.

Snuggles

TW popped up twice today. The second time she bought grub. Brack and frank acted like they were starving. That was confusing.

After we had eaten I had a little lunge, walk and trot. It was windy. I wasnt so interested really. Never mind. Afterwards me and TW had lots of cuddles and kisses. Frank was watch us with his beady eyes. The next thing him and Brack started galloping from the top of the field. Frank flew straight at TW. Me and her just stood snuggling and ignored him. He wasnt pleased.

A bit later on the four of us stood together and had a big group juggle. It was lovely.

Variety

I had a nice sleep in my bed this morning and then me and TW did a bit of schooling. I wore my new Bitless bridle, it looked very nice. We just did a little bit in the school while ZM watches. Some walking and halting. Changing directions and trotting. Canter on both reins ( much easier on left rein) and then we did intro a test accept TW forgot the walk on the long rein thing. Dumbo.

TW says we should have some lessons again soon. I enjoyed some sun bathin in the school and then me and frank went back to the field to sleep.

Auntie Steph

It's nearly been a whole year since I moved over from Ireland. So today was a lovely day. TW and me  trundled out in the box and when we got where we were going I had a nice munch on grass and dandelions. Next thing I know, auntie Steph turned up! X country time!!!

Rosko was a silly billy at first and deposited his girly on the floor. I think that's naughty. He's not really naughty though. Anyway, then we were off. We jumped hedges and logs and tyres and all sorts. It's was great. We did steps in and out of the water. TW was super proud.

Afterwards I had lots of cuddles and noms and then headed back to the field. Phew!

Confused

Frankie went out with TW today. When they came back I waited patiently for it to be my turn. We had some snogs and then she went. I followed her to the gate. You've forgotten me!!! She was sad and said it was my rest day and to have a relax. But I wanted to have some fun again!!

Maybe to tomorrow. I hope so.

Pub

I'm liking this sunny stuff. Today me and TW headed off to something called a pub. It was nice, they had lovely hawthorn for me to nom. At the pub we met up with my buds, Harry and Rosko . They are my proper good buds.

We headed out onto the road and then eventually came to a tiny gypsy place with a funny mare and foal. TW loved them. Then we were off on a lovely bridlepath. It was excellent. TW was very happy. I was very happy too. We did hills and pheasants and fields and a wood. Perfect.

Back at the box the humans had grub and then we headed home. I had to rush back to my field as TW had to go to work. Shame. Hope to see my buds again soon.

Oh the bluebells are blue.......

The grumpy Scottish man sings a song about bluebells being blue. Today me and Rosko went to see them. We had a lovely walk around a place called Rutland water and through some woods full of bluebells. It was excellent. Really warm too. Fortunately TW had covered me in neem and fly spray so I didnt do too much head tossing.

TW hoped somone might sell her n ice cream on the route. How unprofessional? Silly worrier. There were lots of lambs running about and two roses behind us got chased by a sheepy! Wierd! I think I did a good job of looking after Rosko though. I'm trying o teach him some sneaky nom tricks too. Hehehe.

Piss taking ponies

TW says we are piss taking ponies. Not sure what that means?

She was up bright and early and we had grub. SE was pleased we were all in the correct place. When ZM came to see us later she tested the fence and was impressed to see it was throwing out 8000v. Unfortunately we had knocked some of it down and were in the no go zone. Oops. Frank went back like a good boy, me and Bracky declined. ZM was shocked at my audacity. Hehehehe. In the end ZM opened up the fence so we could get to the water if we needed. And texted TW . Oh dear.

TW wasnt best impressed that she had to come up again this evening after her course. Fortunately when she arrived me and frank were in the correct place . Bracky wasnt. TW opened up the fence a bit more and we wondered back in to the other side of the field.  Followed TW round a bit. Wondered back out again. TW said we are hilarious. I wonder why?

After a good nights sleep

TW said she had a good night sleep last night. So she was all motivated for riding. Excellent.

Firstly she rode frank and I had a nibble and nap in my bed. Lovely. Then we swapped over. Me and TW trundled out of the village and today we went right. Oh. Interesting. TW started singing. That always helps.

The big busy road was busier than normal. Didnt bother me though. Yu have to good in traffic. I think me and TW both spotted the flappy asda bag over the road at the same time. Oh poo. Not in traffic though, not sensible.

Onto the bridlepath we went, walking, trotting, walking. It was lovely. At the big house the dog was barking at me. Eejit. I'm not so keen on the gravel on the track. TW said I was like a banana, in the end she made me go straight.

Round the little graveyard there was a tree across the path so we jumped into the field to go round it. Onto the nice grassy path. Trotting. Walking. Trotting. Did a gate. Loads of dogs everywhere. Cyclists. We weren't bothered though. Cantered up a very steep hill, good for building muscles I reckon. Up to the railway bridge. More dogs. Under the bridge and on a bit further and then round we turned. Trotting , trotting, trotting. Baxk through the gate. Sme canters, more dogs. Phew.

Back on the gravelly path all of a sudden smething started itching. I shook my head. Up and down. Left and right. On and on. TW was worried. I was annoyed. TW said have a stretch. I had a nom instead. When we started again the sharing had stopped. Result. TW says she was bad for not putting fly stuff on. She's going to get a net for my nose too. Wierd.

More trotting and then at 5 miles she got off and I had a graze by the sheep. Lovely. It's the longest ride we've done just the two of us.  Baxk over the road and into bed for a drink, some apple and a lovely bowl of grub. Nom. TW had a chatter with the others who had arrived and then we went bak to the field for a role and graze. Nice.

Late

TW was late to see us today. No matter we have plenty to eat and lovely company. As she was feeling a bit tired and grotty we did some lunging again. I went first as frank wasnt interested. Four lots of five minutes , walking and trotting and trotting and walking. TW said I was very good, I concentrate well but sometimes I get in the zone and then I jump when TW tells me to do something new. Oops.

After the lunging TW took the headcollar off me. I just stayed with her and had some kisses and steamed up her goggles. That made her smile. Then it was franks turn. He wasnt impressed. Before she went she put franks LW rug on me as it was windy and due to be wet and cold. It makes me a bit sad when she goes away, especially when she doesn't give us grub before she goes.

Buds

Twice in two days!!! Rosko came over to see me today and we went for another hack. I think he likes me. Bracky says he likes me ALOT! Not sure why him and frank think that's so funny. Zoe said she liked roskos bum , Bracky says Rosko likes my bum. Wierdos!

Today we went down the bridlepath past thebench, and down to the middle bridlepath and then came back to do the first one. We had some trots and a few little canters. TW likes us trying to do halt to trot stuff now. Whatever. We also did some sneaking between gaps in the hedge to do some little up and down hill stuff. Me and TW love that. Frank was super jealous.

Working in the warm weather is a bit more tiring I reckon.

Pootle

Sme good news today, the nasty wart thing on my boy bits has gone. TW was very pleased.

Today we set off in the box for Rosko land. We had a lovely pootle together, mostly walk, a bit of trot and a tiny canter. We pootled so gently we were out for nearly two hours. It was very warm though. The flies weren't so bad in Rosko land. He's a cheeky monkey though, trying to pootle even slower than me, his human kept making him walk faster. He kept rolling his eyes. Hehehehe.

I then for to have a lovely sleep in Marleys stable then it was baxk to the yard and off to the field where I had a big drink and a huge roll. TW was pleased because after my big drink I tootled back to giver her a kiss. She wants us to have a bath soon. Hmmmm.

Lunge

Today in the sunshine me and TW had some lunge fun. Trot, trot, trot. In the field. I wanted to canter but I slipped a bit so that wasnt nice. TW said lunging is good exercise. Maybe we can lunger her tomorrow?

Sensible

Off we went in the box to thoresby. I like thoresby. The sun was shining and there was grass for nomming. Perfect.

We started off with Rafi amd Tess and two new dudes but Tess and the dudes were far too fast. Phew! I was puffing after the first two miles. TW and me decided that a steadier ride would be sensible and Rafi said he would join us. So the others raced off and we tootled along. Walking, trotting, walking, trotting, few little canters. It was gorgeous. We saw lots of friendly horses and people.

Today we did 10 miles in just under two hours. TW was very happy. I did some more nomming and watched a daft pony refusing to get on his trailer. For ages! I was astonished. I drank some water though while I was waiting. TW was very pleased.

Back at the yard I had my grub and went back to the field. Lovely role, lovely drink, more nomming. Good day.

Shims

When TW arrived at the field we were all stood round the big bale nomming from the inside out. SE set about poo picking so we drifted after her and started on the grass. Yum. It's growing a bit I reckon. After a while she vanished for a cuppa and then started moving electric fencing. She did this as there had been some accidents with the fence at the top of the field. Plus she saw me pinging the tape with my teeth and frankie lifting it up with his head. Oops.

Later on I went in and the norm man was there again. He shared his cuppa with me and poked me a bit. I ignored that bit. He padded my saddle pad with some shimmy things and then had some grub and off he went. Then me and TW and Zoe and ZM set off on a hack with no whip again.

It was roasty hot. I was marching along mostly nicely apart from on the nasty bit where all the sharp things are. At the bottom we turned right and trotted mostly all the way along. Excellent. On the way back we trotted and did some nice cantering too. Lovely. Finished off with a trot behind the spooky hedge and then TW jumped off and I got a quick nom. Back at the yard I ate some grub and had a doze before going back to the boys. Oh, and I did my exercises again.

Bitless kisses

It was windier than it was meant to be today. And noisy at the yard as the workmen at the house are banging away. TW fancied doing something different so she dug out a red rope halter and decided we could do some schooling without a bridle. Hmmmm.

The builder men shut the gate for us and we started practising walking and stopping. It was easy. The banging noises didnt bother me much. TW told the annoying barky dog exactly what she was going to do to him and then he shut up. We did stopping and starting and turning and walking over a pole. Then we did some circles and little trottings and then a few teeny canters. It was different. I liked the pole, I want to jump soon. I think I quite like the Bitless thing too.

When we finished I went back to bed for some nibbles. The muscley dog had the silly pudding dog with her today. He jumped up the stable and licked my face. Wierdo. Frank went out for a bit so I had a sleep and then we ate some grub and I did me exercises. Today I did carrot stretches to. Yum. We have a another big bale of hay in the field now. Excellent.

Core

TW was up super early today with a bale of hay. Nom. She put a slice in a bowl for me and tied me in the corale thing. Nom. But then I had to do some exercises. Sternum lifts ( hard ) back lifts ( not so hard) , hoof in the air things ( very hard) , backing up ( really really hard). Something to do with strengthening my core. There were no carrots or polos though.

After my stretches I went back into the field and had a big bowl of food and some more hay. Much better. I hope TW does her core exercises later .

Inside out

Today I had a visit from a lady called Gillian . She watched me walking and trotting and backing and turning and then she poked and prodded me all over. Wierd! Afterwards she wrote in the little star notebook and gave TW a list of exercises for us to practise to help build my muscles. Sounded interesting but a bit like hard work. I got some polos though.

Kick bracken in the head

I am hungry.

Nice and early TW bought three bowls of grub to the field. One for me, one for frank and one for Brack. Well that's what Brack thought. The third bowl was really for me so I positioned myself so it was by my feet while I had my head in the other bowl. Silly Bracky! TW tried to warn him. My kick got very close I think.

After nomming grub TW bought me a WHOLE bale of hay. Frank and Brack shared the slice left from yesterday. Nom.

Did I say I'm hungry?

6 weeks

TW says we have 6 weeks to get fit. Hmmmm is that BOTH of us? Could be interesting.

Today we went off in the box to a place called Elvaston Castle. It was lovely and sunny but super windy. Lots of my friends were there but we met up with Harry and his owner. Excellent! TW said we would have a slow plod about. So we did. Then she worried that there was something wrong with me as I wasnt whizzing about. I thought that's what she wanted? Frank said well played though as he reckons I might get a) a rest, b) more food and c) a massage. Interesting.

We mostly walked and had some trots and a couple of nice canters. We followed blue arrows around two loops. Quinny did it twice with his gang. At one point the wind was so strong that a tree went crack and then dropped a big branch. Oops! Me and Harry weren't bothered though.

I am very hungry .

Good day

After a rainy night , today was sunny. It's warmer too although Brack says there's more rain due. TW came and put me and frank into our beds and I got to have a lovely nom while TW and Frank went out with Zoe and ZM.

Now, when they got back TW wasnt sure what to do. Rest, lunge or ride? She quickly decided to ride and said we could practise our trotting. Nice. I was feeling nice and relaxed today and TW sang to me which helped even more. We just went down the bridlepath and when we got to the bench we started trotting, we trotted all the way along, turned round in trot and trotted all the way back . It felt good. At the bench we turned right and trotted some more, I was nappy as it was the wrong way. TW made me do it anyway. Trot all the way down the first bit, trot back then trot along the last field. Lots of trots.

TW says we need to build up our trotting. I think she needs to get fitter then. Back at the yard I had some grub, ate some neem, got covered in neem and fly spray and then went back to the field with frank. Lots of fun.

Take two

We had another evening hack tonight. This time with Zoe and ZM. Archie and a man made me spook , TW got cross. I didnt spook after that. TW was happy. We had a lovely tootle down the little bridlepath, did some wiggling from side to side and even had a few little trots and canters.

TW said I felt better today. My new supplement has come from mr Hilton herbs. It's yummy.

Spooks

TW decided as it was a nice evening me and her could go for a nice relaxing hack. Lovely. I stood so nicely for her to get on, she was chuffed to bits. Unfortunately there were some nasty dogs making horrid noises in the village and that set off my spooky threat system. I had a couple of rattly spooks in the village and then off we went down the bridlepath.

Trot and canter along the hedges, TW wanted to trot I wanted to canter. For some reason I ran into the hedge twice and scratched my eye. Ouch. We did some lovely cantering though and then TWs legs got tired. But we decided to have one last lovely fast canter. And I spooked again. TW flew through the air and plopped on her knees in the field. I stopped and had a nom while she sorted herself out.

Off we trundled to the bench, TW got back on and we cantered back along the hedge. I was pooped. TW was a bit sore. Ten it was baxk to the stable for a nom. On the way back to the field TW touched my chest when I wasnt expecting it and I did another huge spook. Oops. SHe poked and prodded me all over but couldn't find any sore bits but she did find another two lumpiness. I think they are fly bites. Yuck.

Check up

TW keeps examining me . Wierd. She keeps asking me if I will be ok to. There is alot of  poking around under my rug, today she was practically lying down nosying. Very wierd. I obliged by letting everything hang out. That made her chuckle I think. Frank says the herbal remedies will be appearing. Any moment now. Hope they taste nice.

Polos

I was having a lovely snooze today, lying down in the hay bed and nibbling when TW and frank left the field. I couldn't believe it!! What about me? I was sad.

Later on they came back and I got my ruggle off and had lots of kisses. TW said I needed a rest after my busy day yesterday. So I spent some time nomming and snoozing . Frank and brack were spooking and being scared at something in the hedge. i wasnt interested. It was pleasant enough. After a while TW took me to the yard for some grub , squuezing oast a huge big skip trasnporter thingy. no bother. a nice big vet man came to see me. He looked at my sheath and said I might have a sarcoid. It made TW very sad. If it gets worse i will probably have to have some cream from Liverpool to see if it will make it better, she said it might do some damage to the area around the sarcoid though. That doesn't sound nice.

To cheer us up we had some snogs and TW gave me some polos. That was nice. Then I went back to my field and back into my ruggle. I didnt want TW and the polos to go. Bracky said she needs to go to look at sarcoids on the Internet and to find special supplements as she likes doing that. Frank said I'd done a good job in worrying her, he said he hopes I'm ok. I'm sure I will be.

Flies

TW tricked me this morning, she came and poo picked and vanished. I thought it was a day off. It wasnt. Off we went in the box to a place called Catton Park. It was a long way away. But it was sunny. And as always the people were friendly.

I settled down for a graze and then me and my chums Quinn and a new gal called Lady ( who came from the same place in Ireland as me) set off for the 10 mile pleasure ride. I wanted trot, so off we set, nice and jaunty. A lovely big grassy hill spread in front of us.....off I zipped. Gah! Nearly got away witht the 20mile ride! Next time!

At the beginning it was all a bit hectic so after a few fast bits we decided to just mostly march along. I was good at that. Lady and Quinny are a bit more argumentative I think. At one point we saw the most stressed out mare EVER having a proper paddy. I think it was the flies. They were NOT nice.

My stupid numnah slipped right back again today. TW jumped off and sorted it out. Then we all had a tussle while TW hauled her fat butt back onto the saddle. Sorry guys!! The last part of the ride was on a huge cross country course. We had a paddle in the water complex which was lovely on my tootsies. Before long we were back at the box, 11.5 miles in 2hs 15 not bad considering we walked most of it and had a stop for the saddle issue. It was a lovely course, loads of lovely verges. Next year I would like to do the longer route I think.

After a quick rest at the box we headed back home , quick grub then off to the field. In the field I impressed TW with some lovely rolls and super marching about to show her how nicely I was still moving. Ten rug on and back to the hay with the boys. Lush.

Sunshine

Today was a no riding day as TW was sorting out the field. Such a shame as its been a lovely day. We spent some time snoozing and nomming in our beds while TW picked poo and moved fencing.

When TW came back she decided to give me a quick clean up. Then she found a little wart thing that made her worried . Bracky says the vet will be out to knock me out and fiddle with me before you can say boo. Oh dear. I hope it's nothing serious.

We did some more nomming and some little humans came to visit. Then it was back to the field ( naked!) to nom the big bale that had appeared. TW and ZM Amber did some more field maintainance then off they went. Hope it stays warm. Hope I'm not too cold in the night though, at least I have lots of hay!

Pooped

It was a mentally draining day for me today. By the end of it I wa shattered!!

TW arrived early, when we saw her me and Brack cantered up the field to get the hay. There wasnt any. Headcollars on and TW and us three boys muddled our way through the village. It was windy. We were hungry. We were fast.

There's loads of building work going on by the yard. Very noisy. Te builders are nice but there's all sorts of crashing and banging going on. It was scary. It was even more scary when farrier tom came. I really don't like him. He gets grumpy as he thinks hes upset me and because I don't like holding my hind legs up. TW stands with me though and that helps.

Afterwards the boys went back to the field and my chum Harry came over!! It was so flipping windy though. TW got one of the builder men to walk to the end of the drive with us past the skip and lorry. The other builder men stood and watched, they're very friendly. We went over the road and all the way to the top of the bridlepath, I've never been that far before. On the way back we had three lovely canters. Harry enjoyed it!!! We did 5.5 miles in total , I was shattered which was a bit embarrassing. My silly numnah slipped back under the saddle which was annoying. At the end of the ride I was yawning and shaking my head a bit. Oh dear.

Back at the yard we nommed and snoozed and I drank loads of water then it was back to the field for more snoozings.

Relief

The NOB is back, some more of our fence posts have reappeared, TW came to see us twice and gave us loads of hay and there was even some grass to nom today. Could be worse. It was proper windy though.

The good, the bad and the Iggy

It was a mixed bag day today. 

The good: the little muscley dog has taken upon itself to take tw running after work. They've been twice now. Very good.

The bad: the nice horsebox man thinks the NOB might not last much longer. I'm very sad. TW is very worried. Frank is terrified hes not going to get any fun out of it. Even Brack is disgruntled as he had plans of kicking some veteran showing butt this year.

The Iggy: Iggy was being told off for running off on his walk. Mr grumpy Scottish man was very cross. S when MGSM wasnt looking Iggy snuck in between his legs and proceeded to knock him over. He's now in A and E. oh dear. 

Early

TW and the bale of hay arrived ally this morning. We weren't so fussed today. She checked the fence and then toddled off to work. Oh and she did a barrow of poo picking too! Madness!

Operation fit bot and fit TW

When TW arrived at the field I was ready for her and keen to come in. That surprised her. She didnt realise I have a plan. She does now.

TW was tired as she hadnt slept properly. She thought I'd be tired after yesterday. She soon learnt better. Quick nom, pick the tootsies, tack on, run round the mounting block a few times and we were off. TW has the bleep bleep on her wrist working. Even better.

March through the village, nice and relaxed (3.8mph in case your interested) then down the bridlepath. Lovely. TW made a fatal error as we got to the first hole in the hedge so I took my lead. Through the hedge and off we went. TROOOOOTTTTTTTTT!! I really wanted to canter but TW said no way.

Down the field, round the corner and onto the bridlepath again. Nice and balanced. TW thought I'd tire now. I don't think so. 9mph storming ahead. A few wiggles as I tried to get onto the edge of the field to canter but again TW said no. BORING!! Onto the village and left onto the second bridlepath, still storming along. A few jumps sideways just for good measure, an occasional couple of strides of walk and then off again. Perfect!

At the end we turned round and stormed along again, eventually I slowed a little bit and TW wondered if I was tired? Nope! S we had a couple of lovely canters too. And played chase the jogger. It was only a short hack ( 3mikes said the beep beep) but we were both pleased. Back at the yard I had sme noms and then went back to the field for a rest.

The boys were really impressed with my first day of getting TW fit. We had a natter and some hay then I rested for a bit, waiting for TW to come back at tea time. Unfortunately a spy came by and said I maybe wasnt well as I wasnt eating. Te spy told ZM who told TW. TW came back ALOT earlier than she had planned to see if I was ok.

Are you ok Botty she said? Hmmmmm I said. Then ate an apple, chewed her face, gave her kisses, ate hay poohed, peed, tried to knock over the poo barrow, followed TW round the field, gave her more kisses, snuck under the leccy fencing, fought with Bracky and frank and followed TW round sme more. And posed for photos. And ate. TW thinks I'm ok now.