As people may or may not know, I’ve been searching for a horse to replace my beloved Heart of Flame, and have struck out every time I thought I’d found “the one”.
Again, it looks like fate has turned away from me again, as I thought I’d found the perfect horse. He’s a Lusitano, and is as gentle as a lamb. However, when I went for a ride, it felt like he was pulling to one side. The best way to describe this, is to imagine a car with tracking problems – it pulls to one side. Well, that was how this horse felt.
So, as it stands at the moment, I am waiting for an independent report on the horse, as the last thing that I need to do is buy him, and discover that I have more vets bills than my damned insurance will cover.
Needless to say, I am on the verge of giving up, as this search has caused nothing but heartache for me, but part of me is whispering “keep the faith – you’ll find one” – especially as I have really missed being able to go for an early morning ride.
Ah well, time to call this quits – I need to get some sleep.
Back when I get the chance…
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
Showing posts with label Horse. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Horse. Show all posts
Lightening DOES strike twice.
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Karen
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As I type this, I’m heartbroken and soul shocked. Why? My beloved horse, Heart of Flame has died. We think that it was a heart attack, but until the post-mortem, the results will not be confirmed.
I got this news at 04:00 this morning, and am still numb to the extent that I doubt anything will touch me for a while. My beloved has been a real tower of strength and has said that he will see me on Saturday night, as he is really worried about me.
Needless to say, I can type no more, and will be back when I am in a better frame of mind.
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
I got this news at 04:00 this morning, and am still numb to the extent that I doubt anything will touch me for a while. My beloved has been a real tower of strength and has said that he will see me on Saturday night, as he is really worried about me.
Needless to say, I can type no more, and will be back when I am in a better frame of mind.
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
A quieter day…
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Karen
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Well, today is starting better than yesterday – mainly because the phones are a darn sight quieter.
I feel brighter than I did yesterday (that’s not that difficult) as I know that Flame is in good hands, and all I can do is pray. As for us being able to compete again, well that is well and truly in the lap of the Gods, as I don’t know how strong she will be after this, or more to the point, how much her confidence has been damaged by this.
Aside from that, I am now more chilled out – and am looking forward to this weekend. Simply because I am getting a haircut. I decided that I would try and grow my hair again, as I was getting bored with it being short… That was the plan, anyway. The reality is that I’ve changed my mind, as long hair is not really practical – I’m having to use a hairdryer to get it dry enough so that I can leave the house, after I’ve had my shower in the morning, as it’s so cold at the moment.
So, I’ve decided to go back to the three S – Short, Spiky and Stripy – as I’m bored, and it makes life so much easier for me in the morning, and will allow me to show off some of my pretty earrings (including the ones that are the outline of a lizard!) The only drawback is that I’ll get cold ears, but I can overcome that with a hat…
I guess I should call this quits, as I’m supposed to be working…
Back later if I get the chance…
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
I feel brighter than I did yesterday (that’s not that difficult) as I know that Flame is in good hands, and all I can do is pray. As for us being able to compete again, well that is well and truly in the lap of the Gods, as I don’t know how strong she will be after this, or more to the point, how much her confidence has been damaged by this.
Aside from that, I am now more chilled out – and am looking forward to this weekend. Simply because I am getting a haircut. I decided that I would try and grow my hair again, as I was getting bored with it being short… That was the plan, anyway. The reality is that I’ve changed my mind, as long hair is not really practical – I’m having to use a hairdryer to get it dry enough so that I can leave the house, after I’ve had my shower in the morning, as it’s so cold at the moment.
So, I’ve decided to go back to the three S – Short, Spiky and Stripy – as I’m bored, and it makes life so much easier for me in the morning, and will allow me to show off some of my pretty earrings (including the ones that are the outline of a lizard!) The only drawback is that I’ll get cold ears, but I can overcome that with a hat…
I guess I should call this quits, as I’m supposed to be working…
Back later if I get the chance…
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
A stress less day? I'd love one of those!
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Karen
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It’s one of those days that I can really do without. My beloved horse has injured herself some how, and is now being operated on to repair a bone fracture in her nearside hind leg, and an order is causing me severe stress as well.
The horse first. She showed signs of lameness a couple of days ago, and I found a stone that had bruised her foot. I checked her yesterday morning, and she was holding the nearside rear hoof off the ground, and flinched when I went to get hold of her leg to check the foot. Not a good sign. So, me being me, lead her into the box, and got her comfortable (no fighting from her – she must have realised that I was trying to help her!) and called the vet to come out last night, when I could be there to see what the verdict was. I’d already warned him that she was unwilling to let me touch the leg, so he brought his portable x-ray with him…
That was when the bombshell landed. She’d broken the cannon bone, and it needed surgery. Thankfully, my insurance covers such nasty things, so I called my supervisor, explained that I would be late in today due to a personal matter and left it at that.
The horse ambulance arrived at 08:30 this morning, and we got her loaded with the minimum of fuss, and she left for Newmarket, where the operation is to take place today. I’ll be without her for about a week (subject to how the operation goes) and will just have to take it from there as to what happens after that.
Honestly, I'm really wishing that I’d taken today off – I'm starting to get a migraine, and I know full well that its stress induced.
Back when I get chance...
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
The horse first. She showed signs of lameness a couple of days ago, and I found a stone that had bruised her foot. I checked her yesterday morning, and she was holding the nearside rear hoof off the ground, and flinched when I went to get hold of her leg to check the foot. Not a good sign. So, me being me, lead her into the box, and got her comfortable (no fighting from her – she must have realised that I was trying to help her!) and called the vet to come out last night, when I could be there to see what the verdict was. I’d already warned him that she was unwilling to let me touch the leg, so he brought his portable x-ray with him…
That was when the bombshell landed. She’d broken the cannon bone, and it needed surgery. Thankfully, my insurance covers such nasty things, so I called my supervisor, explained that I would be late in today due to a personal matter and left it at that.
The horse ambulance arrived at 08:30 this morning, and we got her loaded with the minimum of fuss, and she left for Newmarket, where the operation is to take place today. I’ll be without her for about a week (subject to how the operation goes) and will just have to take it from there as to what happens after that.
Honestly, I'm really wishing that I’d taken today off – I'm starting to get a migraine, and I know full well that its stress induced.
Back when I get chance...
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
How dangerous is horse riding?
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Karen
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This post originates from the BBC website - I'll put my thoughts to it after the main post...
****************************************
The sacked drugs adviser Prof David Nutt famously compared its risks with those of ecstasy. But just how dangerous is horse riding?
There are dangers associated with horse riding. Anybody who has ever ridden will know that.
In hunting, point-to-point and eventing, often quite sizeable obstacles are jumped, opening up the possibility of a bad fall.
"It is one of the more dangerous sports, even though the safety equipment is very good," says Lucy Higginson, editor of Horse and Hound magazine.
"There have been quite a few fatalities in Britain over the years. Most people accept riding is a risk sport. The reward and the thrills more than make up for it."
In his paper earlier this year, Prof Nutt noted that riding in the UK was associated with 10 deaths and 100 traffic accidents a year. He coined the tongue-in-cheek "equine addiction syndrome" or "equasy" when suggesting it might be more harmful than ecstasy.
Dr John Silver, emeritus spinal injuries consultant, researched serious injuries in professional rugby union, gymnastics and trampolining, and horse riding, over a period of many years.
He found many serious accidents resulted from a "mismatch between the skills of the participant and the task attempted".
"It wasn't necessarily that the task was too difficult for a top international rider. A lot were occurring in eventing, people were attempting cross country tasks against time and they couldn't do them against time."
Many other serious accidents happened on the roads.
"Cars, horses and riders are a lethal combination," he adds.
Higginson agreed that eventing was perhaps the most dangerous part of riding. Many television viewers will be familiar with the daunting height of some of the obstacles jumped.
"They are just very large, very heavy animals. If the horse falls over that's when it's most worrying."
But, she emphasises, accidents happen in more mundane circumstances.
"It can happen to people out hacking [riding at a walking pace]."
Safety equipment has become more widespread with many riders not countenancing the idea of jumping without a helmet and chest protector. There are even air bags for horse riders which are strapped to the person's body and triggered by a release cord when a rider begins to fall.
In his paper Hazards of Horse-riding as a Popular Sport, Dr Silver cited a study from 1985 that suggested motorcyclists suffered a serious accident once every 7,000 hours but a horse rider could expect a serious incident once in every 350 hours.
Dr Silver also cites a figure from 1992 of 12 equestrian-related fatalities from 2.87 million participants. He also notes that in the period from 1994-1999, 3% of all spinal cord injury patients admitted to Stoke Mandeville Hospital were the result of horse riding. The majority of people admitted to hospital in such circumstances are women.
The British Horse Society says there are no centrally collated figures on horse riding injuries. There is no obligation to notify the society about any incident.
And of course, to fans of the sport, many of whom regard it as as much of a way of life as it is a mere hobby, any recognition of the dangers must be tempered by the positives of the sport.
At the time Prof Nutt's controversial paper was published, the British Horse Society pointed out the health benefits of the sport, in terms of providing good exercise and therefore prolonging life, in its attack on the comparison to ecstasy.
Mark Weston, director of Access, Safety and Welfare said: "The health benefits of horse riding are well known, how anyone can maintain that taking a class A drug has such benefits beggars belief."
****************************************
I don't dispute that horse riding can and does kill / seriously injure people – I can honestly say that I’ve been badly injured riding in various events and general hacking, as have close friends.
But the difference between horse riding and something like ecstasy is the fact that at least you know what you’re dealing with when it comes to the horse.
Unlike ecstasy, you know that the horse hasn’t been tampered with, and contaminated with drain clear or borax. And when I have been injured, that’s because I’ve been an idiot, and overestimated my ability. But that is, as far as I am concerned, just one of the hazards of my hobby – because you’re dealing with over half a ton of horseflesh – with a mind of its own, and no mechanical interventions.
Guess I should get on with some work, but I have got TNFI...
Back later, if I get the chance...
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
****************************************
The sacked drugs adviser Prof David Nutt famously compared its risks with those of ecstasy. But just how dangerous is horse riding?
There are dangers associated with horse riding. Anybody who has ever ridden will know that. "It is one of the more dangerous sports, even though the safety equipment is very good," says Lucy Higginson, editor of Horse and Hound magazine.
"There have been quite a few fatalities in Britain over the years. Most people accept riding is a risk sport. The reward and the thrills more than make up for it."
In his paper earlier this year, Prof Nutt noted that riding in the UK was associated with 10 deaths and 100 traffic accidents a year. He coined the tongue-in-cheek "equine addiction syndrome" or "equasy" when suggesting it might be more harmful than ecstasy.
Dr John Silver, emeritus spinal injuries consultant, researched serious injuries in professional rugby union, gymnastics and trampolining, and horse riding, over a period of many years.
He found many serious accidents resulted from a "mismatch between the skills of the participant and the task attempted".
"It wasn't necessarily that the task was too difficult for a top international rider. A lot were occurring in eventing, people were attempting cross country tasks against time and they couldn't do them against time."
Many other serious accidents happened on the roads.
"Cars, horses and riders are a lethal combination," he adds.
Higginson agreed that eventing was perhaps the most dangerous part of riding. Many television viewers will be familiar with the daunting height of some of the obstacles jumped.
"They are just very large, very heavy animals. If the horse falls over that's when it's most worrying."
But, she emphasises, accidents happen in more mundane circumstances.
"It can happen to people out hacking [riding at a walking pace]." In his paper Hazards of Horse-riding as a Popular Sport, Dr Silver cited a study from 1985 that suggested motorcyclists suffered a serious accident once every 7,000 hours but a horse rider could expect a serious incident once in every 350 hours.
Dr Silver also cites a figure from 1992 of 12 equestrian-related fatalities from 2.87 million participants. He also notes that in the period from 1994-1999, 3% of all spinal cord injury patients admitted to Stoke Mandeville Hospital were the result of horse riding. The majority of people admitted to hospital in such circumstances are women.
The Answer
A complete statistical overview is not possible but a figure of 10 deaths a year has been cited
This is over 3-4 million riders
Many more suffer head and spinal injuries
The British Horse Society says there are no centrally collated figures on horse riding injuries. There is no obligation to notify the society about any incident.
And of course, to fans of the sport, many of whom regard it as as much of a way of life as it is a mere hobby, any recognition of the dangers must be tempered by the positives of the sport.
At the time Prof Nutt's controversial paper was published, the British Horse Society pointed out the health benefits of the sport, in terms of providing good exercise and therefore prolonging life, in its attack on the comparison to ecstasy.
Mark Weston, director of Access, Safety and Welfare said: "The health benefits of horse riding are well known, how anyone can maintain that taking a class A drug has such benefits beggars belief."
****************************************
I don't dispute that horse riding can and does kill / seriously injure people – I can honestly say that I’ve been badly injured riding in various events and general hacking, as have close friends.
But the difference between horse riding and something like ecstasy is the fact that at least you know what you’re dealing with when it comes to the horse.
Unlike ecstasy, you know that the horse hasn’t been tampered with, and contaminated with drain clear or borax. And when I have been injured, that’s because I’ve been an idiot, and overestimated my ability. But that is, as far as I am concerned, just one of the hazards of my hobby – because you’re dealing with over half a ton of horseflesh – with a mind of its own, and no mechanical interventions.
Guess I should get on with some work, but I have got TNFI...
Back later, if I get the chance...
Karen
Now some things you hold on to - and some you just let go
Seems like the ones that you can't have
Are the ones that you want most
Rumblings in the distance…
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Karen
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And it ain’t the delicate sound of thunder either. It’s the sound of a manager starting to take his irritation out on someone who has decided to call time on her role here.
No – it’s not me – it’s one of the others, and because she’s had the decency to let him know what she was doing, he’s been like a bear with a sore ass. If she makes the slightest goof up, then he nails her, and yet me? I make a goof, and it’s a case of ‘oh well, these things happen’.
Seems like my time has come
And now I'm moving on
I'll be stronger
Aside from that (and I freely admit to trying my best to stay out of the line of fire for the time being), things seem to be improving for my best mate. I won’t say that he’s overjoyed with things at his company, but he seems happier than he’s been for a while – I just hope that this continues!
However, he’s still in pain with the injuries he sustained in the car accident back in March, and is still seeing the chiropractor, whom he refers to as a sadist.
Why he ends up in so much pain after he’s been is a mystery to me, as I seem to get off lightly compared to him – although just recently, I will admit to feeling like I’ve been run over by a steam roller!
But, I have been told that I should give up horse riding until this problem with my shoulder is sorted out. That went down like a ton of bricks with me, and I will admit that I said ‘sod it’ last night, and went riding… Oh my god – did I pay for it!
I dismounted after a fairly gentle ride (10 miles – I usually rack up 25 when I’m out in an evening) and my legs felt like jelly, and my back and shoulder felt like there was a demon hoard taking carving lessons on my bones!
It's my life
It's now or never
But I ain't gonna live forever
I just wanna live while I'm alive (It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, "I did it my way"
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It's my life
I didn’t get my sympathy from my best mate (and to be honest, I didn’t really expect to get any) as I’d gone riding against instructions, but he seemed more concerned that I hadn’t injured myself any further.
Ah well, suppose I should think about doing some work, but I’m suffering from a severe case of TNFI…
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don’t have wings
No – it’s not me – it’s one of the others, and because she’s had the decency to let him know what she was doing, he’s been like a bear with a sore ass. If she makes the slightest goof up, then he nails her, and yet me? I make a goof, and it’s a case of ‘oh well, these things happen’.
Seems like my time has come
And now I'm moving on
I'll be stronger
Aside from that (and I freely admit to trying my best to stay out of the line of fire for the time being), things seem to be improving for my best mate. I won’t say that he’s overjoyed with things at his company, but he seems happier than he’s been for a while – I just hope that this continues!
However, he’s still in pain with the injuries he sustained in the car accident back in March, and is still seeing the chiropractor, whom he refers to as a sadist.
Why he ends up in so much pain after he’s been is a mystery to me, as I seem to get off lightly compared to him – although just recently, I will admit to feeling like I’ve been run over by a steam roller!
But, I have been told that I should give up horse riding until this problem with my shoulder is sorted out. That went down like a ton of bricks with me, and I will admit that I said ‘sod it’ last night, and went riding… Oh my god – did I pay for it!
I dismounted after a fairly gentle ride (10 miles – I usually rack up 25 when I’m out in an evening) and my legs felt like jelly, and my back and shoulder felt like there was a demon hoard taking carving lessons on my bones!
It's my life
It's now or never
But I ain't gonna live forever
I just wanna live while I'm alive (It's my life)
My heart is like an open highway
Like Frankie said, "I did it my way"
I just wanna live while I'm alive
It's my life
I didn’t get my sympathy from my best mate (and to be honest, I didn’t really expect to get any) as I’d gone riding against instructions, but he seemed more concerned that I hadn’t injured myself any further.
Ah well, suppose I should think about doing some work, but I’m suffering from a severe case of TNFI…
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don’t have wings
Knackered, and glad it’s Friday
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Karen
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I slept like a log last night, but I’m still tired. I guess it’s as a result of going to see the chiropractor, who managed to put several of my vertebrae back into position, after I was kicked by Flame.
Ok – I admit that the body armour took most of the impact, but there was still damage done. Thankfully, my chiropractor has been able to sort most of it out, but I still have to go back to see him on Tuesday night to finish the job off.
Aside from that, I’m worried about my daft friend, who has to go to the hospital today, to see what can be done about the ringing in his ears. The poor guy has been suffering with this for quite a while, and he’s finally gotten fed up enough to get his GP to do something about this for him.
Guess I should call this quits – I’m supposed to be working, but to be honest, I can think of quite a few places that I would rather be, other than here!
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen.
Learning to fly, but I don’t have wings.
Ok – I admit that the body armour took most of the impact, but there was still damage done. Thankfully, my chiropractor has been able to sort most of it out, but I still have to go back to see him on Tuesday night to finish the job off.
Aside from that, I’m worried about my daft friend, who has to go to the hospital today, to see what can be done about the ringing in his ears. The poor guy has been suffering with this for quite a while, and he’s finally gotten fed up enough to get his GP to do something about this for him.
Guess I should call this quits – I’m supposed to be working, but to be honest, I can think of quite a few places that I would rather be, other than here!
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen.
Learning to fly, but I don’t have wings.
In the office, and in pain...
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Karen
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My shoulder's killing me, and I'm beginning to wish that I hadn't decided to drive today. Thankfully, Mum's insured on the car, so if my shoulder is as painful when I finish at 17:00, I'll drive down to see Mum, and then ask her to drive home.
What doesn't help me, is when I get smart ass comments about me going horse riding. I wouldn't object in the slightest if I had been riding,but the closest I've been to a horse was going to see Flame this morning, and giving her a treat - a couple of apples that I'd picked up at Sainsbury's on Sunday.
But, the thing that's worrying me is Saturday. I'm supposed to be going to Cosford with my daft hog riding friend. Ok - I know that doesn't sound too bad, but it's about an 80 mile drive - most of it motorway.
But, I guess the way to deal with it is dose myself up with painkillers before I go and meet my friend, and try my best to hide the fact that my shoulder is killing me.
Failing that, I'm just going to have to grin and bear it, and admit that my shoulder is giving me a great deal of trouble, and take the consequences head on.
Guess I should call this entry quits - I need to get some bits and pieces sorted out.
Back when I get the chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Back in the saddle? I wish.
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Karen
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Well, I've got my body armour, but I'm not fit enough to go riding yet. The armour fits nicely, but it still hurts to breathe when I've got it on, and that tells me that I'm still recovering from the injuries that I sustained when Flame kicked me.
Ok - I know that it could be an awful lot worse - and I could be in hospital recovering , but I was hoping to be able to start riding as soon as I got my armour. So, it means that on a nice sunny afternoon, there's no buggering off down to the farm to get Canute (or Flame) saddled up, and disappearing off into the the hills.
So, I guess that it means a few more weeks of being careful, and not doing anything bloody stupid, until I can breath without pain when wearing the armour.
Time to call this quits - I'm supposed to be looking on the web for a new digital camera...
Back when I get chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Ok - I know that it could be an awful lot worse - and I could be in hospital recovering , but I was hoping to be able to start riding as soon as I got my armour. So, it means that on a nice sunny afternoon, there's no buggering off down to the farm to get Canute (or Flame) saddled up, and disappearing off into the the hills.
So, I guess that it means a few more weeks of being careful, and not doing anything bloody stupid, until I can breath without pain when wearing the armour.
Time to call this quits - I'm supposed to be looking on the web for a new digital camera...
Back when I get chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
And it's not just me getting hurt...
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Karen
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Not the sort of 'phone call that you really want to recieve. I got a call from the farmer who keeps an eye on Flame for me, to say that she had blood pouring from a wound on her off-side rear hock...
I will admit to breaking numerous speed limits in an attempt to get to her as fast as I could, and was praying that it wasn't anything nasty, and that Tony had called the vet...
I got to the farm, just as Gianni (my trusted vet) pulled up. The pair of us walked into the yard, where Tony had managed to get Flame into one of the loose-boxes. If I didn't know better, I would swear that she knew he was trying to help her, as normally she's a real sod to get into a box.
Thankfully, no major damage, but the cut still needed a fair few stiches to close it up, and I've been told that she won't be fit enough to do any serious cross-country work for at least a month.
Ok - I can live with that for the moment, as I'm still trying to recover from my injuries. But I know that as soon as I (a) get my body armour, and (b) am fit enough to ride, then this restriction will bug the hell out of me. Tony must have realised that was the case, as he's said that I can ride his big hunter - Canute, until Flame is fit again.
That's really sweet of him, but it will be like going from a Ferrari to a Reliant Robin in terms of performance, as Flame is bred for speed and agility, whereas Canute (bless his huge heart) is more of a plodder.
But, they say that beggars can't be choosers, so I guess that if I do want to go riding before Flame is fit, then I'll be scrambling up onto Canute's broad back.
Time to call this quits - I need to get some rest, as my ribs are killing me.
Back when I get chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
I will admit to breaking numerous speed limits in an attempt to get to her as fast as I could, and was praying that it wasn't anything nasty, and that Tony had called the vet...
I got to the farm, just as Gianni (my trusted vet) pulled up. The pair of us walked into the yard, where Tony had managed to get Flame into one of the loose-boxes. If I didn't know better, I would swear that she knew he was trying to help her, as normally she's a real sod to get into a box.
Thankfully, no major damage, but the cut still needed a fair few stiches to close it up, and I've been told that she won't be fit enough to do any serious cross-country work for at least a month.
Ok - I can live with that for the moment, as I'm still trying to recover from my injuries. But I know that as soon as I (a) get my body armour, and (b) am fit enough to ride, then this restriction will bug the hell out of me. Tony must have realised that was the case, as he's said that I can ride his big hunter - Canute, until Flame is fit again.
That's really sweet of him, but it will be like going from a Ferrari to a Reliant Robin in terms of performance, as Flame is bred for speed and agility, whereas Canute (bless his huge heart) is more of a plodder.
But, they say that beggars can't be choosers, so I guess that if I do want to go riding before Flame is fit, then I'll be scrambling up onto Canute's broad back.
Time to call this quits - I need to get some rest, as my ribs are killing me.
Back when I get chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Preparing for the weekend...
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Karen
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Well, under normal circumstances, I would have been preparing to go out on the lash with Julian and co, but due to the fact that my ribs are still highly traumatized, and I'm under strict instructions not to do anything daft, I'm having to do as I'm told for once, and it doesn't suit me at all.
Having said that though, there are compensations to having to spend a quiet weekend for once - namely the fact that I can spend some time at home with Mum... Ok - I'm the first to admit that I don't see as much of Mum as I would like to, simply because of the fact that she's working every other weekend, and I have this habit of buggering off with Flame. Or at least I did until I got booted!
Having said that though, there are compensations to having to spend a quiet weekend for once - namely the fact that I can spend some time at home with Mum... Ok - I'm the first to admit that I don't see as much of Mum as I would like to, simply because of the fact that she's working every other weekend, and I have this habit of buggering off with Flame. Or at least I did until I got booted!
But, this weekend has been quieter, simply because I'm too damned sore to do anything, and I've made the most of it by going and getting my hair cut again, and getting the copper highlights put back in it. Only this time, I opted to go shorted than normal for me!
Don't ask me what prompted me to get it cut as short as I did - suffice to say that I'm a lot happier than I was - even though I do look like a hedgehog first thing in the morning, as my hair is all spike!
Aside from that, I've also been to get measured for my new body armour... Unfortunatly for me, the manufacturer has stopped making the 1/4 inch thick plate, so the insurance company has authorised my saddled to get the 1/2 inch thick plate - with me still paying the same excess!!
Time to call this quits - it's my turn to give the maurading moggies their last snack of the day..
Back when I get chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Mangled by the sawbones, but it's good news.....
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Well, the sawbones has spoken - and I'm off to see the physiotherapist again - this time for a three month stint of intensive physio. But, at least he was positive, and said that if I felt that the pain was worsening before I was due to see him again in three months time, then I was welcome to go back and see him.
If this physio doesn't work, then I've got to go for a course of jabs (not my favourite option, thank you very much) but I guess that it's preferable to having an operation on my shoulder! Ok - it would only be a minor operation to see what's going on in the joint, but I still don't like the idea of being operated on.
So, it boiled down to the fact that the shoulder is in the throes of acute tendonitis, and that I should continue to use the wheatie, Ibuleve gel, anti-inflammatory pills and painkillers. I was also told to consider acupuncture, as I'd already said that I wasn't averse to considering alternative therapies.
As well as getting the shoulder seen to, I was also examined by the consultant in A & E who treated my rib injuries on Saturday. He was quite impressed with the bruising, and told me that I wasn't to ride for another 4 weeks, but I was to get the same standard (or better) body armour if I intended to continue riding, and more to the point, intended to survive that sort of impact - as the last time he'd seen this sort of injury, the patient ended up in ITU, then the morgue as they had succumbed to the injuries sustained.
Talk about getting shaken. I swear that I had a guardian angel looking after me on Saturday, and I know one thing - Dad would say that it was money well spent if the armour had saved my life. So, I guess that I shouldn't begrudge having to pay the £50 excess on my horse insurance - especially as I get like for like with the policy!
Guess I should call this quits - I've got work to do, but I've just got no interest at all - guess that I'm just bouncing like a demented tigger because of the news from the hospital...
Back later, if I've stopped bouncing!
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
If this physio doesn't work, then I've got to go for a course of jabs (not my favourite option, thank you very much) but I guess that it's preferable to having an operation on my shoulder! Ok - it would only be a minor operation to see what's going on in the joint, but I still don't like the idea of being operated on.
So, it boiled down to the fact that the shoulder is in the throes of acute tendonitis, and that I should continue to use the wheatie, Ibuleve gel, anti-inflammatory pills and painkillers. I was also told to consider acupuncture, as I'd already said that I wasn't averse to considering alternative therapies.
As well as getting the shoulder seen to, I was also examined by the consultant in A & E who treated my rib injuries on Saturday. He was quite impressed with the bruising, and told me that I wasn't to ride for another 4 weeks, but I was to get the same standard (or better) body armour if I intended to continue riding, and more to the point, intended to survive that sort of impact - as the last time he'd seen this sort of injury, the patient ended up in ITU, then the morgue as they had succumbed to the injuries sustained.
Talk about getting shaken. I swear that I had a guardian angel looking after me on Saturday, and I know one thing - Dad would say that it was money well spent if the armour had saved my life. So, I guess that I shouldn't begrudge having to pay the £50 excess on my horse insurance - especially as I get like for like with the policy!
Guess I should call this quits - I've got work to do, but I've just got no interest at all - guess that I'm just bouncing like a demented tigger because of the news from the hospital...
Back later, if I've stopped bouncing!
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Sore ribs...
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Talk about having a guardian angel looking after me...
I got kicked in the ribs on Saturday - by Flame as I tried to jump clear of her, so that she could deal with a dog that was chasing her. The result? My body armour plates got smashed to pieces at the front, and the back plates also got broken.
So, I spent Saturday morning in the local A& E department, getting examined by a consultant, who couldn't believe that I wasn't more seriously injured after being kicked by a 17.0h horse! I guess that it goes to show that the initial investment in the body armour was well worth it - as my later father bought it for me for my birthday... It wasn't cheap when he bought it for me, but he was of the opinion that you got what you paid for - and I got 1/4 inch thick Kevlar plates...
Ok - I've got badly bruised ribs (and it makes breathing VERY painful), but it could have been a lot worse - I could have still been in hospital with broken ribs, and internal injuries. But, to be on the safe side, I've got to go and see the consultant on Thursday morning - before I go into see the sawbones about my shoulder.
What really irritates me though is the fact that I've had to claim on my horse insurance for a new set of armour. Admittedly, it's better (from my viewpoint) to pay the £50 excess, instead of the full £600, but it still galls me that I've go to go up to Walsall on Sunday to get the new armour fitted. Add into that, I'm banned yet again from horse riding for another 4 weeks, and you get one unhappy little tiger.
But, on the positive side, my friends have been really good about finding ways to take my mind off the pain, and I have to admit, I am eternally grateful for their support.
Guess I should call this quits - it's nearly time for me to take some more pain killers...
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
I got kicked in the ribs on Saturday - by Flame as I tried to jump clear of her, so that she could deal with a dog that was chasing her. The result? My body armour plates got smashed to pieces at the front, and the back plates also got broken.
So, I spent Saturday morning in the local A& E department, getting examined by a consultant, who couldn't believe that I wasn't more seriously injured after being kicked by a 17.0h horse! I guess that it goes to show that the initial investment in the body armour was well worth it - as my later father bought it for me for my birthday... It wasn't cheap when he bought it for me, but he was of the opinion that you got what you paid for - and I got 1/4 inch thick Kevlar plates...
Ok - I've got badly bruised ribs (and it makes breathing VERY painful), but it could have been a lot worse - I could have still been in hospital with broken ribs, and internal injuries. But, to be on the safe side, I've got to go and see the consultant on Thursday morning - before I go into see the sawbones about my shoulder.
What really irritates me though is the fact that I've had to claim on my horse insurance for a new set of armour. Admittedly, it's better (from my viewpoint) to pay the £50 excess, instead of the full £600, but it still galls me that I've go to go up to Walsall on Sunday to get the new armour fitted. Add into that, I'm banned yet again from horse riding for another 4 weeks, and you get one unhappy little tiger.
But, on the positive side, my friends have been really good about finding ways to take my mind off the pain, and I have to admit, I am eternally grateful for their support.
Guess I should call this quits - it's nearly time for me to take some more pain killers...
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Roller-coaster of a weekend....
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Well, I have to admit that the weekend was somewhat of a roller-coaster ride for me. Saturday morning was OK - Mum and I went shopping in Solihull, and I decided to hit Waterstones, and I bought four books!
One was on the development of the atomic bomb, and the other three were Terry Pratchett books - the next three in the Discworld series (Mort, Sourcery and Wyrd Sisters).
But the rest of the day was quite emotionally draining, simply because I decided to move my beloved horse closer to home and spent the rest ofthe afternoon making sure that she was ok, and settling in.
I also had a call from my daft hog riding friend to let me know that he was at his friend's house in Redditch ok, and that he would try and see me on Sunday.
Sunday. What can I say about that, apart from the fact that it was a really good day. I decided to go horse riding in the morning, and I was a bit late getting back - like about 10:15, and I will admit, I did pong a bit!
As soon as I walked in the house, Mum told me to buzz off for a shower, as, and I quote "you stink". Thanks Mum!
I had just started to wash my hair when my mobile rang. It was my daft hog riding friend. He asked if I was still going into Stratford, and said that he would love to meet up with me - and would be bringing someone with him - his friend from Redditch! Ok - not a problem there, as I'd spoken to this lass, and was curious to meet her...
Well, I got to Stratford, and met up with the pair of them and I will admit, it was a really good laugh, as the pair of us kept double-teaming the poor guy, and he said that he was getting fed up with the pair of us ganging up on him!
That made us laugh, and I have to admit, I really enjoyed myself, but I could sense that there was something bothering him...
Wanted you to know I love the way you laugh
I wanna hold you high and steal your pain away
I keep your photograph; I know it serves me well
I wanna hold you high and steal your pain
One of these days, I'll listen to my instincts... I spoke to my friend late last night, and suffice to say that he ended up pouring his heart out to me - both in an e-mail and on the 'phone.
Obviously, what he told me will not be relayed here, but all that I shall say is that I now understand awful lot more than I did, and am more determined than ever to do what I can to help him.
The worst is over now and we can breathe again
I wanna hold you high, you steal my pain away
There's so much left to learn, and no one left to fight
I wanna hold you high and steal your pain
Guess I should call this entry quits - I'm supposed to be working, not blogging.
Back later, if I get the chance.
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Walking towards the edge...
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Ever had one of those days when you burst into tears for no reason? Well, I've just had one.
The day started out well enough, and Rachel and I decided that we wanted to go horse riding in the Malvern Hills. Carole thought we were nuts, but agreed to take the pair of us (and our horses) so that we could go where we wanted...
So, we got to Malvern, no problem, and agreed to meet up with Carole when we got to the end of the route that we'd planned to use.
We started riding, and my phone bleeped - I'd got a text message from my daft friend. He'd gone to Swindon to see friends, and promised that he would send me a text to let me know he was there ok. I read the message, and that was it - the tears started rolling down my cheeks.
Don't ask me why, but luckily for me, it was sleeting, so I was able to say that my tears were caused by the sleet hitting me in the face.
Whether or not Rachel believed me, I don't know, but she was polite enough (if that's the correct term) to keep her peace and not ask questions. But, I did notice that she seemed to keep a closer eye on me after that - almost as if she was worried that I was on the verge of some kind of breakdown.
The day started out well enough, and Rachel and I decided that we wanted to go horse riding in the Malvern Hills. Carole thought we were nuts, but agreed to take the pair of us (and our horses) so that we could go where we wanted...
So, we got to Malvern, no problem, and agreed to meet up with Carole when we got to the end of the route that we'd planned to use.
We started riding, and my phone bleeped - I'd got a text message from my daft friend. He'd gone to Swindon to see friends, and promised that he would send me a text to let me know he was there ok. I read the message, and that was it - the tears started rolling down my cheeks.
Don't ask me why, but luckily for me, it was sleeting, so I was able to say that my tears were caused by the sleet hitting me in the face.
Whether or not Rachel believed me, I don't know, but she was polite enough (if that's the correct term) to keep her peace and not ask questions. But, I did notice that she seemed to keep a closer eye on me after that - almost as if she was worried that I was on the verge of some kind of breakdown.
Ok - I appreciate the fact that she was worried about me, but I gave her even more reason to panic towards the end of the ride... I went to dismount from Flame, and that was it - the world started to spin, and the only thing that saved me was the fact that Rachel was quick enough to grab hold of both me and Flame!
As soon as I was able to stand on my own two feet (albeit leaning on Flame), she insisted that I called my GP and got an appointment to get my blood pressure sorted out, as she said that I was a danger to myself! For once, I didn't argue with her - I obviously wasn't feeling 100% - I'm usually a stroppy little sod when I don't feel too good!
So, I've got the appointment on Monday - at 08:40, so that means I get a bit of a lie-in - one of the benefits I guess....
Suppose I'd better call this entry quits - I want to buzz off and watch CSI on channel 5...
Back when I get the chance...
Karen
Learning to fly, but I don't have wings
Post Christmas madness
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Well, either I'm getting more cynical in my old age, or people are becoming less tolerant as the year moves towards its end.
Mum and I were planning on going to Milton Keynes today, but as usual, the great British weather decided to intervene to change our plans - meaning that Mum and I ended up going into Coventry.
Since the closure of a couple of the big(ish) stores, the city seems to be dying on its feet. The only department stores that the city has, as BHS, Debenhams and Marks & Spencer - but you get all of these in Banbury - where the parking is a damned sight cheaper (and easier), and you get Marks & BHS in Solihull - as well as Beatties and John Lewis.
I know this sounds like I'm knocking Coventry - far from it. All I'm saying is that the city council needs to do something to attract another big name store to the city - otherwise people are going to desert the city for places such as Banbury and Solihull...
I'm not mentioning Birmingham, as that is a totally different league - that's more akin to places like Sheffield and I hate to say it - London (without the outrageous prices!)
Despite that, (or should that be in spite of that!) I did quite well in the sales.. I managed to get some of my favorite perfume - Dior Addict - (the original one) and a couple of turtle necks and a new black wrap, as mine's looking like it's seen better days...
I also got myself a book - it's the Fast Set - and details the history of the land speed record - from the starting days at Daytona beach, right up to the current record holder - Thrust SSC - the first non-rocket powered car to supersonic.
Aside from that, today has been a quiet day, which probably has been the best thing for me, as I'm still recovering from the pounding that I took yesterday (after I'd posted my blog entry - I went horse riding with Rachel in the Burton Dasset country park - and Flame threw me off - thank God for body armor!!)
Guess I should call this entry quits, as I'm due back to work tomorrow... (boo, hiss!)
Back tomorrow - if I haven't gotten to the stage where I hate looking at my computer!
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
Taking a tumble..
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I knew it was too good to last. I got thrown off Flame on Sunday...
Ok - I'd better explain what happened... Carole, Rachel and myself decided that we were going to spend a day riding in the Malvern hills...
That was ok, and we got there in one piece, and had gotten the horses tacked up, and the others were mounted up, and waiting for me, as I'd been checking to make sure that Flame's girth was tight enough, in order to stop the saddle slipping...
As I went to mount up, there was a lad with one of these stunt kites that makes a screeching noise as it flies, and I'd seen that Flame was not very happy with the noise, so I politely asked if he would wait for me to get on Flame and get moving, before he launched the kite...
Unfortunately for me, he launched the kite when I'd gotten in the saddle, and didn't have my feet on the stirrups... Which was a blessing in a way, as Flame went up on her back legs, I went off backwards, and she shot off like she was in the St Ledger!
Carole was an angel, and went after Flame for me, whilst Rachel made sure that I was ok, as I'd landed flat on my back. Thankfully, I'd got my body armor on, and was only bruised and winded, but that didn't stop me from going mad at the muppet who'd launched the kite...
"I didn't think the horse would react like that" came the dumb reply. Thanks. Even though I'd asked the muppet not to fly the kite, as there was a good chance that something like this could happen...
Thankfully, Flame was unhurt by her run, and I was able to get into the saddle - albeit rather painfully. The rest of the day was un-eventful, and I admit to walking like an old woman when I did dismount from Flame...
Ah well, suppose I should log off and bog off, I'm supposed to be going to see my other half!
Back later, if I get chance.
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
Ok - I'd better explain what happened... Carole, Rachel and myself decided that we were going to spend a day riding in the Malvern hills...
That was ok, and we got there in one piece, and had gotten the horses tacked up, and the others were mounted up, and waiting for me, as I'd been checking to make sure that Flame's girth was tight enough, in order to stop the saddle slipping...
As I went to mount up, there was a lad with one of these stunt kites that makes a screeching noise as it flies, and I'd seen that Flame was not very happy with the noise, so I politely asked if he would wait for me to get on Flame and get moving, before he launched the kite...
Unfortunately for me, he launched the kite when I'd gotten in the saddle, and didn't have my feet on the stirrups... Which was a blessing in a way, as Flame went up on her back legs, I went off backwards, and she shot off like she was in the St Ledger!
Carole was an angel, and went after Flame for me, whilst Rachel made sure that I was ok, as I'd landed flat on my back. Thankfully, I'd got my body armor on, and was only bruised and winded, but that didn't stop me from going mad at the muppet who'd launched the kite...
"I didn't think the horse would react like that" came the dumb reply. Thanks. Even though I'd asked the muppet not to fly the kite, as there was a good chance that something like this could happen...
Thankfully, Flame was unhurt by her run, and I was able to get into the saddle - albeit rather painfully. The rest of the day was un-eventful, and I admit to walking like an old woman when I did dismount from Flame...
Ah well, suppose I should log off and bog off, I'm supposed to be going to see my other half!
Back later, if I get chance.
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
I'm off to see the sawbones....
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Scared. I've been to see the doctor again about my shoulder, and have been told that I need to keep resting the arm (boo, hiss) and that a referral to see an orthopaedic surgeon to get the shoulder sorted out.
Ok - I know that it could have been a lot worse - I could have been told that I needed another jab in my shoulder again, as I reacted so badly to the last two jabs!
So, until I get this sorted, I've been told that the only real treatment that I can have is rest and painkillers... Thankfully, I've not been banned from horse riding - but I accidentally on purpose neglected to mention that I was still riding...
Hmmm - suppose I should think about doing some w*rk, but I've got a severe case of TNFI...
Back when I get chance.
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
Ok - I know that it could have been a lot worse - I could have been told that I needed another jab in my shoulder again, as I reacted so badly to the last two jabs!
So, until I get this sorted, I've been told that the only real treatment that I can have is rest and painkillers... Thankfully, I've not been banned from horse riding - but I accidentally on purpose neglected to mention that I was still riding...
Hmmm - suppose I should think about doing some w*rk, but I've got a severe case of TNFI...
Back when I get chance.
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
Preparing for the journey...
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A strange title for a blog entry, I grant you... But it will become clearer as you read on, I promise!
As part of my job requirements, I've got to travel to complete some training, and I will admit to being somewhat apprehensive about it, especially as I'm going to be the only female on the course.
Thankfully, there will be people I know going, so it shouldn't be that strange for me, even though I'm beginning to wonder if I've bitten off more than I can chew...
Having said that though, I thought the same thing when I was going to do the presentation at the company conference, and I survived that ok - even if my line manger was worried that I'd chicken out!
I've also managed to sort out the problems with my other half. I've agreed to meet his parents when we get back from our break in the West Country.
He wanted me to meet them this weekend - no chance of that, as I've got to get myself ready (i.e. packed) for this training course that I'm going on next week... He's also given up on the idea of me moving in with him. For the time being, anyway!
As well as that, my daft friend has been in contact with me... I left my 'phone at home this morning, and when it's not turned on, any calls I get go to my voicemail. I checked my 'phone this afternoon, only to be greeted with this...
Short stuff! Hello darling, it's only me. What do you mean you can't get to your phone at the moment? You mean you've left it on a high shelf and can't reach it?......
Needless to say, I was somewhat indignant at being called short stuff... Ok - I admit I'm not tall, but I don't need reminding of it every time I speak to this fella!
Mind you, I know it's not meant maliciously, so I get my own back my calling him ratbag... Despite that, he made me laugh, as he was bemoaning the fact that he was at work, and I was able to escape into the sunshine.
He also sent me a text message, telling me to take care out in the sun... I get the impression that he's scared that I'll do something daft, like get burnt to a crisp whilst I'm riding Flame.
Speaking (ok - typing) about Flame, Rachel has very kindly agreed to look after her for the four days that I'm away - I get the impression that she's going to be using the time to re-build her confidence in horses.
By her own admission, she's ok when she's with either myself or her sister, but on her own, she's still scared that something will go wrong. So, as Flame is placid-natured (that's the only reason I let Amber get on her!), it's the best thing that she can do.
Time to call this blog entry quits - I've got to get ready to go and see my other half, as he seems to be determined to spend as much time as he can with me, before I go on my training course.
Back tomorrow, if I've finished the packing!
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
As part of my job requirements, I've got to travel to complete some training, and I will admit to being somewhat apprehensive about it, especially as I'm going to be the only female on the course.
Thankfully, there will be people I know going, so it shouldn't be that strange for me, even though I'm beginning to wonder if I've bitten off more than I can chew...
Having said that though, I thought the same thing when I was going to do the presentation at the company conference, and I survived that ok - even if my line manger was worried that I'd chicken out!
I've also managed to sort out the problems with my other half. I've agreed to meet his parents when we get back from our break in the West Country.
He wanted me to meet them this weekend - no chance of that, as I've got to get myself ready (i.e. packed) for this training course that I'm going on next week... He's also given up on the idea of me moving in with him. For the time being, anyway!
As well as that, my daft friend has been in contact with me... I left my 'phone at home this morning, and when it's not turned on, any calls I get go to my voicemail. I checked my 'phone this afternoon, only to be greeted with this...
Short stuff! Hello darling, it's only me. What do you mean you can't get to your phone at the moment? You mean you've left it on a high shelf and can't reach it?......
Needless to say, I was somewhat indignant at being called short stuff... Ok - I admit I'm not tall, but I don't need reminding of it every time I speak to this fella!
Mind you, I know it's not meant maliciously, so I get my own back my calling him ratbag... Despite that, he made me laugh, as he was bemoaning the fact that he was at work, and I was able to escape into the sunshine.
He also sent me a text message, telling me to take care out in the sun... I get the impression that he's scared that I'll do something daft, like get burnt to a crisp whilst I'm riding Flame.
Speaking (ok - typing) about Flame, Rachel has very kindly agreed to look after her for the four days that I'm away - I get the impression that she's going to be using the time to re-build her confidence in horses.
By her own admission, she's ok when she's with either myself or her sister, but on her own, she's still scared that something will go wrong. So, as Flame is placid-natured (that's the only reason I let Amber get on her!), it's the best thing that she can do.
Time to call this blog entry quits - I've got to get ready to go and see my other half, as he seems to be determined to spend as much time as he can with me, before I go on my training course.
Back tomorrow, if I've finished the packing!
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
What a rush!
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Well, this weekend has been a real blast from start to finish. Yesterday, I spent the day in the Malvern Hills, with my friends Carole & Rachel, and my god-sprog, Amber.
We’d decided to go trekking in the hills, and had taken the three horses and Kipper – Amber’s pony. Carole’s husband, her youngest daughter Elian and my other half elected to stay with the transporter, as the three of them couldn’t ride, and the two fellas wanted to listen to the rugby.
The ride itself was just what I needed – even if I couldn’t do what I really wanted – and that was give Flame her head, and gallop off into the wilderness.
But, I understood the reasons behind it – we have an unwritten agreement that none of us goes out of sight / earshot of the others, in case there’s a problem that requires the others to assist or in the worst case scenario, go for help.
The funniest part of the day was when Amber decided that she’d had enough of riding Kipper, and demanded to be allowed to ride Flame. Under normal circumstances, I wouldn’t have had any problems with that at all.
This time, it was a little different, as I was worried in case something spooked Flame, and she bolted with Amber on her. But, being a typical three-year-old, she gave me no peace until she got her own way, and I lifted her up onto Flame’s back.
Once she was on Flame, I went to take the reins over Flame’s head, so that I could lead her, only for Amber to insist that she was going to hold on to them instead!
Thankfully, I’d had the foresight to take a lead rein with me, which was clipped to my belt. I un-clipped the rein, and attached it to Flame’s bridle, and led Flame along the path, with Kipper trotting alongside me, as I was holding her reins!
All I can say is thank goodness that Kipper didn’t decide to play up; otherwise I’d have been in real trouble! But I guess the mere fact that I kept her well bribed helped...
Now onto today. Today was a matter altogether, as I was meeting a friend of mine in Stratford-upon-Avon, and I don’t mind admitting I was quite apprehensive.
Simply because this was the first time that I’d actually met this fella in person. Ok – I guess I’d better explain what I mean. This person (who shall remain nameless until he says I can name him in my blog) and I have spoken and e-mailed all sorts of silly jokes, shared personal information about ourselves, but never managed to meet face to face.
At first, he seemed to be a little guarded, but thankfully soon began to relax, and make me laugh with his silly jokes / antics. I soon came to the conclusion that he’s as daft as a brush, and has a real heart of gold.
As he wasn’t familiar with Stratford, I decided to do the tourist-guide bit and show him the sights (and avoid the tourist traps!) But there was one place that I knew he’d enjoy visiting – The Garrick Inn. It’s one of the oldest pubs in Stratford, and does some really good real ales – something that we both have a weakness for!
We also went Hog spotting. Ok - I’d better elaborate on that. My friend is a Harley Davidson fanatic. (He has one himself, so that’s the reason he was doing his best to educate me about Hogs…)
We also watched an entertainer by the riverside, and we were only able to catch the end of his act… He’d got three batons – two were unlit, and the third was lit.
He was planning the put the batons down his trousers, and was making jokes that it was usually at that point where he hoped that some beautiful single female would come rushing up to him, begging him not to do it… Not my friend.
He stood behind me, and yelled “Go on Steve – do it!” I don’t mind admitting that I was laughing, as I was thinking the same thing, but just lacked the courage to yell anything.
So, this fella, Steve, went through with the show. Down went the batons – both the unlit batons and the lit one! I was quite impressed, and my friend muttered something about “bloody crazy northerners!”
As the afternoon drew to a close, we started to walk back to my car, as my friend was parked the other end of the town, and I wasn’t unkind enough to make the poor guy walk though an unfamiliar town to find his car.
As we walked, I felt his arm go around my shoulders, and will admit to being a little bit surprised! When I remarked on it, he quickly took his arm from ‘round me, and looked like a puppy dog that had been told off for playing with its favourite chew toy!
I will admit, I hated seeing the look of hurt in his eyes, and made sure that he knew I wasn’t worried about him putting his arm around me – all my instincts were telling me that I could trust him.
So, I decided to return the favour, and slipped my arm around him, and snuggled up to him, making damned sure that he knew that I was comfortable with the contact.
I dropped him off at his car, and as he wasn’t quite sure how to get to the M40 motorway from Stratford, I said that the best thing he could do, would be to follow me, as I was going to be heading towards the M40 myself.
Before he got into his car, he gave me a kiss and a cuddle! I didn’t object in the slightest, and gave him a cuddle of my own before we parted, having made him promise that he would let me know he was home safely.
To be honest, if things were different (i.e. we were both single and lived closer to each other) I would seriously consider asking him out. But, as we’re both attached, and live miles away from each other, I’ll settle for having a damned good friend that I know I can turn to when times get too rough, and I feel like I’m going to break.
Time to call this entry quits – I’ve got bits and pieces to do before I retreat into my pit.
Back tomorrow, if I get chance.
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
We’d decided to go trekking in the hills, and had taken the three horses and Kipper – Amber’s pony. Carole’s husband, her youngest daughter Elian and my other half elected to stay with the transporter, as the three of them couldn’t ride, and the two fellas wanted to listen to the rugby.
The ride itself was just what I needed – even if I couldn’t do what I really wanted – and that was give Flame her head, and gallop off into the wilderness.
But, I understood the reasons behind it – we have an unwritten agreement that none of us goes out of sight / earshot of the others, in case there’s a problem that requires the others to assist or in the worst case scenario, go for help.
The funniest part of the day was when Amber decided that she’d had enough of riding Kipper, and demanded to be allowed to ride Flame. Under normal circumstances, I wouldn’t have had any problems with that at all.
This time, it was a little different, as I was worried in case something spooked Flame, and she bolted with Amber on her. But, being a typical three-year-old, she gave me no peace until she got her own way, and I lifted her up onto Flame’s back.
Once she was on Flame, I went to take the reins over Flame’s head, so that I could lead her, only for Amber to insist that she was going to hold on to them instead!
Thankfully, I’d had the foresight to take a lead rein with me, which was clipped to my belt. I un-clipped the rein, and attached it to Flame’s bridle, and led Flame along the path, with Kipper trotting alongside me, as I was holding her reins!
All I can say is thank goodness that Kipper didn’t decide to play up; otherwise I’d have been in real trouble! But I guess the mere fact that I kept her well bribed helped...
Now onto today. Today was a matter altogether, as I was meeting a friend of mine in Stratford-upon-Avon, and I don’t mind admitting I was quite apprehensive.
Simply because this was the first time that I’d actually met this fella in person. Ok – I guess I’d better explain what I mean. This person (who shall remain nameless until he says I can name him in my blog) and I have spoken and e-mailed all sorts of silly jokes, shared personal information about ourselves, but never managed to meet face to face.
At first, he seemed to be a little guarded, but thankfully soon began to relax, and make me laugh with his silly jokes / antics. I soon came to the conclusion that he’s as daft as a brush, and has a real heart of gold.
As he wasn’t familiar with Stratford, I decided to do the tourist-guide bit and show him the sights (and avoid the tourist traps!) But there was one place that I knew he’d enjoy visiting – The Garrick Inn. It’s one of the oldest pubs in Stratford, and does some really good real ales – something that we both have a weakness for!
We also went Hog spotting. Ok - I’d better elaborate on that. My friend is a Harley Davidson fanatic. (He has one himself, so that’s the reason he was doing his best to educate me about Hogs…)
We also watched an entertainer by the riverside, and we were only able to catch the end of his act… He’d got three batons – two were unlit, and the third was lit.
He was planning the put the batons down his trousers, and was making jokes that it was usually at that point where he hoped that some beautiful single female would come rushing up to him, begging him not to do it… Not my friend.
He stood behind me, and yelled “Go on Steve – do it!” I don’t mind admitting that I was laughing, as I was thinking the same thing, but just lacked the courage to yell anything.
So, this fella, Steve, went through with the show. Down went the batons – both the unlit batons and the lit one! I was quite impressed, and my friend muttered something about “bloody crazy northerners!”
As the afternoon drew to a close, we started to walk back to my car, as my friend was parked the other end of the town, and I wasn’t unkind enough to make the poor guy walk though an unfamiliar town to find his car.
As we walked, I felt his arm go around my shoulders, and will admit to being a little bit surprised! When I remarked on it, he quickly took his arm from ‘round me, and looked like a puppy dog that had been told off for playing with its favourite chew toy!
I will admit, I hated seeing the look of hurt in his eyes, and made sure that he knew I wasn’t worried about him putting his arm around me – all my instincts were telling me that I could trust him.
So, I decided to return the favour, and slipped my arm around him, and snuggled up to him, making damned sure that he knew that I was comfortable with the contact.
I dropped him off at his car, and as he wasn’t quite sure how to get to the M40 motorway from Stratford, I said that the best thing he could do, would be to follow me, as I was going to be heading towards the M40 myself.
Before he got into his car, he gave me a kiss and a cuddle! I didn’t object in the slightest, and gave him a cuddle of my own before we parted, having made him promise that he would let me know he was home safely.
To be honest, if things were different (i.e. we were both single and lived closer to each other) I would seriously consider asking him out. But, as we’re both attached, and live miles away from each other, I’ll settle for having a damned good friend that I know I can turn to when times get too rough, and I feel like I’m going to break.
Time to call this entry quits – I’ve got bits and pieces to do before I retreat into my pit.
Back tomorrow, if I get chance.
Karen.
I walk where others fear to tread
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