The Things I do..!

No Tobogan needed..

2010-01-17T20:42:00.005Z

What a difference a week makes. Temperatures have risen to dizzy heights compared with the Arctic depths we experienced then. So it was nice to still find enough snow to enjoy higher up in North Wales's Carneddau.
Me and Jim took ages getting up high! Holiday bellies, soft legs and hard winter boots took their toll on our humour. But of course the rewards of a blue sky on the summit, celebrated by a hot choc from the flask spurred us on to a rapid, fun way of returning,,,

Llandwyn Sunset

2010-01-04T23:50:00.002Z

Yesterday I had one of lovliest walks, at one of my favourite places, Llandwyn Island. No two visits are ever the same. This one was quite special given the calm sunset in the cold clear winter air.

Half Pass and Wild Ponies

2009-08-30T21:06:00.007+01:00

This wild pony cantered past me, close to Aber Falls. His flowing mane mirroring the cascading water.

On Friday I'd booked a classical riding lesson at Pen Llyn. I'd driven down earlier and went for a walk on the beach, then something caught my eye and I found myself half way up the hill behind, before suddenly realising it was time to go...
So it was straight into things...not quite late! The very talented pony I was riding needed little warming up. Soon we were shoulders in...leg yielding, all things I know. Then Lucy described travers to me. Must admit it all sounded a bit complicated at the time, but with her help, we soon sort of managed that. Before I had time to chew over that.."how about trying half pass?" Well ok!? So we did. Now I've had chance to think about it and read elsewhere what it's all about, I'm very pleased with my achievement. Like learning many new skills...I felt a little confused and not totally with it. Next time I'll know what to expect and do, a little more. Also for the first time since I started riding, I had some muscle pain the day after...right in the middle of my bottom. Clearly this is new ground for me!
Very inquisitive foal, high up on open ground above the falls, with Anglesey and Puffin Island in the distance.

On the way home I stopped to have a contemplative walk to see the spectacular waterfalls at Aber. It had rained all night. I haven't the camera to do the falls justice, but caught sight of one of the many wild ponies living in the surrounding hills. It's flowing mane mirrors the water falling over.
Aber Falls from a distance...

End of an Era..

2009-08-26T21:41:00.003+01:00

Ready for take-off! Probably my last 747 departure...but who knows what the future holds?

In my working life I am a Licenced Aircraft Engineer. In 1985 I started with a major airline and was quickly introduced to the Boeing 747. I have worked on them all through my career so far. Today I probably departed my last 747. Our contract has finished and we have relinquished work on these magnificent aircraft in favour of more modern types. All our 747 work has gone...so a sad day in some respects. Of course there are still so many flying, that I'll be able to see my favourite aircraft for years yet. But I'll miss getting my hands on this most impressive machine.

Lovely Lusitanos

2009-07-06T19:52:00.003+01:00

Last week I attended the first day of the Lusitano Breed Society's 25th Anniversary show at Hartpury Equine College in Gloucestershire. My interest in these horses stems from a chance trail ride I took a couple of years ago in one of my favourite parts of North Wales. More recently I have been lucky enough to be able to take riding lessons at Pen Llyn Lusitano Stud and Riding Centre. My riding ambition is very simple. To be able to ride a good horse well. My realisation as I now progress a long and forever lengthening, but interesting path, is that to ride well requires so much more than I ever imagined.
In the collecting ring, Purebred Stallion Tigre warming up. Something approaching the picture of where I see myself one day!

The Pen Llyn horses stole the show with very strong results in all classes entered, only coming second when one of their own had taken first!. The show stopping stallion Uivador Da Broa took 1st, in the class of the show, with an amazing performance. I was both humbled and inspired by both the quality of the horses and the skill of the riders. I left with a clear image of where I'd like to go and am lucky to have found the right people and place to attain it

Mussels...

2009-07-05T18:37:00.004+01:00

Mussels are delicious! For me they bring back memories too. Long ago on those dull wet days on holidays to Wales, when the sand was no good to play in and the sun hid well away. My parents needed to be quick to keep four young boys from squabbling and fighting! There is much truth in the saying "the devil finds work for idle hands", which often started out in some sand slinging, but quickly escalated into all out sticks and stone fights! So what a pearl the mussel is. Who can find the biggest and best mussel? Everybody busy and food for the evening sorted out...
Lots and lots of good size mussels in a surprising location...

I find it very hard to pass up the chance of picking mussels. I'm always looking and have had some lovely ones from my closely guarded locations. I found a new spot recently and though they were well barnacle encrusted, proved heavenly once cleaned and cooked. There is something so rewarding to finding your own food, preparing it then cooking and eating. What a treat...

Quick fried onion and garlic, pinch of herbs then steamed over a camping stove..ready in minutes, irresistibly tasty!

Ponies of Trwyn Talfarach

2009-06-16T21:54:00.008+01:00

View across Porth Neigwl at breakfast!

I think it was probably nearly midday before we set out for a walk. This was on my recent little camping trip to the end of the Llyn Peninsula with friends. We'd spent all morning slowly barbecuing and eating a hearty breakfast, whilst slowly cooking in the clear bright sun ourselves!
Sheer delight..finding the herd on the steepest, trickiest part of the headland.

Last year I'd visited this headland for the first time and had been delighted by finding a small herd of ponies. The land is owned by the National Trust and I presume they have put the ponies here for conservation grazing. This is a wild and beautiful place and their presence just seems to add that little extra surprise.
Boss hoss in the middle watched me very closely and I kept my distance..

We followed the rough path that leads to the rocky outcrop which marks the end of sensible walking. Sat eating our butties, admiring the views. Up till now there was no sign of the ponies. Although this was not my main aim of the day, I was curious as to where they were.
I was so busy watching below that I hardly noticed these two to my right. You couldn't have asked for a prettier pose!

By way of a distraction I looked down to the sea below and wondered if I could possibly, safely, make my way to the water. The going was steep with rock ledges half covered in ivy, long grass, heather, bracken and gorse. Every now and then I found little tracks..pony tracks. Then almost unbelievably there they were, right below on the lushest most inaccessible part of the whole headland. How I wished I'd not said I'll only be ten minutes to my friends on the cliff top. I'd 've gladly stayed here all day.
View from Trwyn Talfarach across Porth Ysgo towards Bardsey and the Irish Sea beyond.

We continued our walk with a rugged descent, with Choughs dancing in the air, to a rarely visited beach, where we were overflown by a Red Kite. I managed to confidently guide us up a non existent path in the heat of the day. Sandals and shorts now not such a good idea. Which eventually took us on to farmland and an interesting chat with a friendly farmer about the sheep shearer shortage. Perhaps an idea for a second income?

Orange UFO Sightings

2009-06-06T02:26:00.004+01:00

A casual comment and an assumed spec on the lens of my camera, half made me think of UFOs. Today I looked in a daily paper and saw that there have been several recent reports of strange orange lights in the sky over the UK. Having looked at my photo more and tried to zoom in on the strange orange coloured ball in the far right of the picture, I have no explanation

Picture taken on 29th May, mid afternoon. Follow the horizon to the right in the picture. There is a small spec, which I thought was dirt on the lens. On zooming in, it is definitely something in the picture. It could be a balloon of some sort, I'm just surprised I didn't see it, I was on the hill top for sometime generally just being aware of my situation and orientation..

Carn Fadryn..a short walk with a view

2009-06-03T18:33:00.005+01:00

Last week I was lucky enough to spend a few days on the Llyn Peninsula, in North Wales. On my first day, by way of a stop on my drive further South, I climbed Yr Eifl and Tre'r Ceiri. Sadly I have little to tell from these hills except cold wind and thick mist and stumbling around in ankle snapping boulders hidden in heather and bilberry!
Carn Fadryn viewed across farmland from the West close to the village of Dinas

By way of a reward for the previous days efforts, I decided to finally set foot on a delightful hill, CarnFadryn, which sits centrally in the peninsula. Like its higher northerly neighbour Tre'r Ceiri it boasts an Iron Age hill fort. Though not as impressive, it is nonetheless thought provoking and I found myself trying to imagine life in such a place so long ago.
The track up out of the village leads to a gate, where the direction changes, following the wall to the right, before ascending.

There is easy parking in the village which takes it's name from the hill behind. Today the sun was beating back a sea mist which kept me cool in my tent earlier. Now the day was almost hot and I chatted with a couple who had just come down and spotted their first ever Grass Snake, basking in the heat.
Looking North East lining Garn Boduan up with the distant horizon of Yr Eifl and furher right into Snowdonia. The Irish Sea and the town of Nefyn are hidden in the mist. Perhaps there's even a UFO in there too...

To the left of the chapel a track goes boldly straight at the hill. After a small gate such an aggressive route is softened by the path skirting round in an anti-clockwise manner, so as to ease the angle of ascent! After a short steep climb with a little meandering through the heather, the hill fort was breached and the summit trig point in sight. My reward for the day, far reaching views and the sea mist clinging to the north coast, adding to the impression of altitude given from such a hill which punches bigger than its size!

Cwm Llafar Horseshoe..dogs, bogs and a hitch-hiker!

2009-05-25T15:27:00.014+01:00

What a strange combination, a sunny bank holiday weekend! With such perfect weather it seemed criminal not to venture out, but I knew I'd not be alone. Got myself up and out with a mountain walk in mind, but as I drove I still had no plan as to where, though I was driving to Snowdonia.
In the end I stopped at the side of the A5 just out of Bethesda by Ogwen Bank in a shaded lay-by above the river. A cup of tea and a glance at my map and my mind was settled.a walk I'd not done before...with my own little addition from the usual route.
View of the Cwm Llafar horseshoe from the start above Bethesda, Dafydd on the right Yr Elen left...gnarly dogs through the trees in front!

I left the car where it was..in the shade and crossed over and into the small forest of Braich Melyn. They've been logging here and the smell of pine wood in the warming morning air was soothing as the cooling last dew in the clearings was refreshing. I touched the edge of the village and followed the Afon Llafar upstream through old trees and a boulder garden which made for some lovely waterfalls which are probably rarely visited.
Now the landscape changed to farmland and sheep pasture, with a distant view of my intended climb. I don't like walking over farms, even though there is a right of way, I'm always aware that I'm probably not welcome. Even worse when the path goes through the farmyard...there are always dogs..I'm not keen on dogs and they usually know it. So after a worrying woofing at...I was very happy to be out on open moorland!
The dark cliffs of Llech Du on the left appear to bar the way. A diagonal climb over large scree first right then doubling back left unlocks the way up.
My big decision! To climb Carnedd Dfydd in front of me I had a choice of branching right and taking the gently rising grassy slopes of Mynydd Du. I could already see a couple of walkers take this route. Or continue up the narrowing valley and try and locate a scrambling route which I remember reading about sometime ago, through Crib Lem. I chose the latter, the valley scenery was worth the risk that I might have to turn back...I wish I'd brought my scrambling guide book along!
Part way up Crib Lem, looking up towards the summit of Carnedd Dafydd.

Took a lunch break beneath the dark cliffs of Llech Du, above which the ridge leads up to the summit. I watched a couple of small groups take a steep path to the right of the cliffs and between a waterfall, continuing up a stone- fall and doubling back to the left. Soon found myself in the same place and enjoyed the quick height gain.
The scrambling starts at the very top of the cliffs and I felt slightly daunted by the continuous stretch of rock steps and hurdles in front. It's always the same the first time on a new route, but as ever one step at a time and never climb up something you can't climb back down...I got myself in state on Tryfan in the past and still remember the sickening feeling of thinking I was stuck.
In the end I enjoyed the climb. The rock is good and gives nice hand and foot holds. There is no real direct exposure, but a very definite feeling of being on the crest of a ridge with the obstacles coming fairly constantly for an hour or so.
Looking back down the ridge, watching climbers progress. The Afon Llafar winds distantly below.

I'd shared my climb with a handful of others, helping and guiding each other when necessary. So it as a bit of a shock but not really a surprise to meet the huge walking groups already up from other routes. I like sharing the mountains..but groups numbering more than five or six just don't look right. We're talking coach loads! So I raced up Carnedd Llewelyn and beyond without stopping. Took a solitary break at crags overlooking Yr Elen, the final peak of my horseshoe. Looking down into Fynnon Caseg (Mare's Spring), I could just make out two mountain ponies by the shore!
Yr Elen is a mountain to savour, majestically standing centrally in the range with Anglesey and the Irish Sea beyond

Yr Elen stands alone from the other mountains. From here I could see back to my whole route and plan ahead for the way back. There is no path marked on the map across quite a large open area. In reality there is a very steep scree path which gives way to grassy slopes to the North East and the crags at Foel Ganol. I stayed with high ground as long as possible but knew I'd have to go cross country to pick up the Afon Llafar and challenge the inevitable bog. Which despite the recent rain was quite cross-able by stepping from tussock to tussock! To avoid the farms and dogs I even took on more open bog to pick up the far corner of the forest and make a different return. I was even rewarded by a meeting with a strangely solitary mountain pony who sniffed the air, snorted then carried on eating!
Wild mountain pony...hardy as the hills...look at that mane!

As a measure of my feeling of well being and openhearted- ness gained from such an enriching day...I found myself acting totally out of character and stopping to pick up a hitch-hiker! The gentleman in question carried a very large rucksack...which turned out to be a packed para glider...I hope. Anyway on the drive to Capel Curig I found out that Ian is a senior member of the North Wales Hang gliding and Paragliding club. He'd spent the afternoon chasing thermals above the very mountains I'd walked on. On further conversation, with things aviation, it turns out that his son is member of flight crew for the same company which I work for...small world!

Yorkshire Coast...for a change

2009-05-02T18:42:00.012+01:00

The original plan was a trip to North Wales, a place I know and like so much. However a late change in the weather forecast made me uneasy. Now I'm not scared of rain but I do prefer sunshine. So after a little thought and a glance at a map, the decision was made. A trip into the unknown, an adventure in Yorkshire!
Robin Hoods Bay with crumbling cliffs and the tide dropping over the rock shelves.

So after an early start and a surprisingly easy drive, we found ourselves parking just above Boggle Hole, a small wooded inlet, towards the Northern end of Robin Hoods Bay. Blue sky, fresh, slightly cool Easterly breeze and warmth from a hazy sun. Perfect!
Typical scene in the village where it's easy to see why smugglers easily lost customs men through the network of alleys and steps.

The dropping tide invited us for a long walk South following along the crumbling cliffs which hold fossilised secrets ready to be discovered. Sand Martins fluttered almost like bats around their cliff top nest holes and a few Fulmars cackled noisily from impossible ledges. In the distance towards the sea several figures could be seen bending down sifting through the exposed seaweed...Winkle pickers!
The Bay Hotel where fishermen wait for the tide to float their boats to an easy catch..

We left the car parked at Boggle Hole and now walked the short distance along the beach North to Robin Hoods Bay village. Now there were lots more people and the feeling of the seaside holidays with kids in rock pools, dogs barking and winter white flesh bared to the first sun worth worshipping.
The village from a distance looks unimpressive. Up close, it's an amazing little place with crazy quaint houses almost tripping over each other and falling into the sea! Really has to be visited to be appreciated and the fish and chips are enormous and gorgeous.
Despite the tacky image, this place sold the best ice cream of the day...and we tried some!

Just up the road or round the headland is Whitby. Once famous for its fishing fleet and the ruined Abbey of St Hilda, now a bit more kiss me quick mixed with Bram Stokers Dracula, vampires and Goths! We stumbled in on one of the two weekends annually that Whitby plays host to a gathering of Goths. They really made the day with some fantastic costumes parading in whole families of generations dressed to the nines in corsets, cloaks and canes. As if ordered from below, the sun vanished and a swift thunderstorm swept across and out to sea leaving a close muggy misty evening.
Whitby's somewhat strange harbour entrance points directly North...following the brief storm.

So a chance to leave the dockside pub where it would be all to easy to stay and climb the well worn steps up to the abbey for some last photos taken in hope more than certainty and with a pleasant result. Which summed up a perfect day out really. Yorkshire is really quite nice..
St Hilda's Abbey makes a spectacular backdrop to Whitby's cramped streets and busy harbour.

Introducing Henry..

2009-03-29T15:37:00.006+01:00

I have taken Henry on loan at the riding school. He is a Warmblood Bay gelding, standing 16.2h and at a rough guess 10-12 years old. Very handsome he is too! Henry came to the school some two or three years ago and was immediately popular, probably due to his looks..possibly to his detriment. He was initially overworked and almost inevitably went lame and had a back problem. On his recovery other new shiny horses had taken the limelight and the poor lad became an also ran in popularity and he generally languished without turnout or work.
Henry the Horse! Never stands still for very long and is quite bargy...needs to get out more!

Luckily for Henry he was taken on loan last Summer by Helen. Horses thrive with good regular attention and care. So with good feed and a warm clean stable his rehabilitation from obscurity was swift. With one problem. Horses like people have different characters. Now with proper weight and potential fitness Henry started to act himself...no longer squashed with overwork. The opposite...bursting with energy...nervous energy! He is a very spooky horse...easily worried. So on his re-introduction to the school, unfortunately he managed to make a name for himself bucking riders off. Not maliciously, but as a result of nervous tension. He is not really best suited in a school. A riding school horse should be steady giving the rider confidence. Henry is the opposite. He takes confidence from the rider...he needs a steadying hand to reassure his nervous nature.
I'm about to get stepped on!

So he's now in my hands. The challenge is to try and apply the same skills learned from looking after Heather, though Henry is so much different. On a day to day basis he is dirty and wet in his stable, though he seems to be settling a little now. He is happy to be groomed and picks his feet up quite well. Though I've been told he has poor feet, they're lots better than Heathers were. He has very elegant fine legs and a big plus, no white hair or pink skin, which so often seems to be more prone to infections. He's fine haired and thin skinned, which means he's a bit sensitive to brush, but stays clean and his coat comes up shiny without much effort. He had his teeth rasped in the week which was needed but revealed no trouble and he behaved very well.
Henry's in lovely condition and just needs some more fitness to get him working nicely.

I have got my work cut out though. He has poor stable manners, which are already improving. A walk in hand across the yard is close to an epic adventure. To turn him out is close to suicide with two leading him! To fetch him in is fraught as he will not be separated. I've had to get someone else to catch another to bring in alongside. None of these things are his fault. He's just not been handled enough and had regular boundaries applied. I can understand why...he is very strong and intimidating. Taking the couple of photos of him ended up with me having what is probably a broken toe as he jumped on my foot...ouch! Ridden work is coming along and I'll write more soon.

An Invigorating trip..

2009-03-08T19:15:00.006Z

I'm currently on a training course through work. So far I've done four weeks out of seven, in a classroom with no windows, supplied with foul supposedly conditioned air. Not only that, but the course is presented on computers..so for much of the day the room is dark and I'm looking at a laptop screen. To keep from falling asleep I'm drinking far too much chemical coffee and hot choc from a vending machine. I'm getting up early to study...plus doing another three hours or so at night...all on laptops! Normally my work is varied and I'm sort of free range with big bright horizons, with plenty to do. So not surprisingly I'm starting to suffer and badly needed a day out!
Spectacular view of Llyn Ogwen from the shoulder below Tryfan's North Ridge

So with an unexpected free day..grasped the opportunity and headed for the hills..after picking up a good friend, Giles, who I would guide for the day! Feels like it's been grey for weeks. Imagine the sight of blue skies across the Irish Sea in one direction and snow capped mountains their summits defined keenly against the sky in the other. I really had to concentrate on driving, as it was so tempting to admire the view!
This guy, with no gear and little idea(Giles) kept following me! Could have left him to the goats, but gave him half my hot choc instead..

The snow was a surprise and not forecast. So my plans for the day had to be adjusted accordingly. I had intended a walk to the top of Tryfan following the same route to the far South Peak via the Heather Terrace path, that I walked back in June with Liz. I had picked the Heather terrace as a loose connection to the horse I have loaned and lost this week. The path with the flower of her name is fittingly beautiful, yet as rocky and hard as the mare herself. A fitting tribute.
Tryfan's goats seem to have had a good year, with plenty of young kids..

We had the place to ourselves. As we gained height towards the North Ridge the snow became deeper. No footprints. So the snow was fresh..last nights..so not icy and a delight to crunch through. Unfortunately this made the route-finding all the more tricky and I was aware of a worsening weather forecast. Eventually we found the elusive path...well the terrace and made our way along. By the time we'd got to the South end the cloud was descending and snow was being blown in the increasing wind. No time for bravery..after attempting to make snow angels on a precarious slab and nearly falling off. We decided to get to the valley floor and head home.

My attempt at making mountain snow angels nearly ended up with me flying off the side!

Heather has been sold....gone

2009-03-07T21:48:00.003Z

Someone came to try her on Monday. By the time I got to the yard on Wednesday, I'd missed her by half an hour..sold, loaded and gone. Even though I knew this might come, the reality hit hard and I can only say that I'm devasted.

What is most frustrating is that no one sought my knowledge gained daily looking after her. Heather's new owner will have to start like I did...no clues, a blank sheet. Whereas I know so much and would willingly pass on every detail to make her future that much easier. I feel very disappointed and let down by the people who should really have had her interests at heart..yet constantly put up barriers to her welfare.

My last sight of her was when I called her in at dusk on Tuesday. She came, bringing half the ponies with her. Limping lame on her fore again, I noted. It was raining and really pretty ugly, so didn't take her rug off...just let her eat her bucket of feed...gave her a scratch where she likes and turned her back out...saying goodbye, as I always do. She didn't linger by the gate with the rain.

Change of Seasons

2009-02-28T12:22:00.016Z

This Winter has been the coldest in quite a number of years. However with the increasing daylight and budding branches, it's quite obvious that Spring is just around the corner. So I thought it might be time to reflect over the past few months looking after Heather, who has been the only horse or pony on the yard to live out throughout.
Heather on another cold frosty morning, immobile! Whilst her shadow, Ouzo defrosts breakfast!

Really it was still Autumn when she got Mud Fever. This bacterial infection of the lower legs must be the scourge of so many horses. Essentially constantly wet skin breaks more readily allowing the bacteria in mud easy access to infect. The easiest and best prevention and cure is to take the horse out of the mud and into the dry..a stable for example. There are plenty of proprietary lotions and potions on the market which can then be applied.

Horse or Water Buffalo..with electric tape between her hind legs!! The start of the Mud Fever when the weather was still warm but wet in late October.

I was caught out by how quickly the infection spread. From the first little scabs appearing one day..too all four legs having big areas of infection all the way up to her hocks and knees with a patch on her belly which is technically Rain Scald, but the same bacteria. She became sullen and her lower legs all became swollen with movement being obviously painful and difficult for her. I really needed to get her in from the wet and was promised a stable within a week...which we never got. So I turned to an old remedy which I reasoned was the only course open to me. Pig oil and sulphur. The logic behind it is simple. Applied to clean dry legs, the oil acts as a barrier to the wet and as a carrier for the sulphur, which is an anti-bacterial agent. The beauty of this is that even for a horse living out, re-application needs only to be repeated every couple of weeks. It worked..though not instantly and with a side effect. Combined with the falling off scabs and rashes and possibly an adverse reaction to the sulphur, much of the hair on her lower legs started to come out.leaving her with bald chicken legs!
So I stopped using the oil and sulphur and now wash her legs every couple of weeks with hibiscrub and towel dry. She has had no recurrence and the hair has grown back nicely. Not a bad achievement...I think we can put that down as a victory.
By clicking on the picture you can see Heather's balding lower legs a result of the Mud Fever.

The next challenge came in the form of one of her field mates...a mare called Boo. As the grass in the field diminished, the horses ended up challenging each other for the hay that we put out. Even though there was only the three of them, it put Heather and Boo too close. Both obviously quite dominant, neither prepared to back down. Boo took to biting Heather and ripping her rug. Heather just stood there taking it!! I spent hours stitching and gluing her rugs. I even found her without one. Boo had shredded the buckles at the front. I bought a new Weatherbeeta Landa with a neck. First day on it was ripped. At this point I started researching. Someone suggested a bite repellant spray. This worked to some extent but the can cost £5 and only lasted three days!
Not a go faster stripe, no, the white on her side is the filling revealed by yet another rip from Boo, standing with Ouzo in the distance.

The Landa rugs have a ripstop 600 Denier weave..which is good enough for everyday turnout, but useless against horse bites! So after some deliberation I bought a Masta Check-Tech which has a triple weave and is a heavier 1200 Denier. I think it was the cheapest heavier weave rug I could find. Well it proved bite proof....another success! Not long after this Boo was taken out of the field anyway so Heather can wear the thinner skinned rug again without fear of a shredding.
Yet another stitch up! This time Boo managed to tear the buckles off Heather's rug. I fixed it!!

I've got used to having the car like a mobile tack and feed room. Putting on a warm coat and gloves then walking through the yard. Passing the warm cosy stables with happy horses munching neat hay nets, to the dark cold field which in the frosty and snowy weather seemed like a different world. Not that Heather seems particularly bothered by the cold, in fact I think she probably prefers Winter to Summer. She's not been head shaking since about November and quite happy to have no flies hanging around. Just as long as there's something to eat!

Happy to be out alone, so long as there's something to eat!
I've continued to hack her out with that ever elusive canter on her right rein my goal. I've learned when and where to ask and in some places with a carefully timed spin to the right she picks up right lead every time. The hard thing is getting her to do this riding away from home, she's quite willing to spin for home, but not a habit I really want to encourage. The ice and mud have also limited our outings.
Out and about, Heather keeping a wary eye on the hedgerows, always alert to a possible ambush by a squirrel !

So in the New Year I decided to try and start schooling her again. My knowledge of horses has increased and I now realise that she was never bred to do pretty things in a small arena. This is no ballerina. She has a very broad chest and stands with her fore legs wide apart suggesting a big heart and lungs and her thick winter coat and feathered legs give away her cold blood lines. She was probably bred as a light/medium weight hunter and is almost certainly Irish Draught crossed with Thorough Bred.
What a responsibility! Where on Earth has he taken me? Doesn't he know the woods are full of dangers! He's lucky to have me look after him...silly rider!

With this in mind I kept things nice and simple with nothing more than walk and trot round the outside with only simple rein changes. I managed to avoid having any fights with her and undoubtedly she then collected up and softened quite nicely. I would then take her out for a canter out of the school round Banky Meadow. Unfortunately sometime soon after this she began to go lame intermittently. Trotted up okay but after only a short time ridden, lame, limping slightly on her near foreleg.
Another good feed.

Some three weeks ago I took her out on a cold grey day. We went down Kickety Brook. Halfway round she went lame again. I made a sad decision then that this was possibly my last ride with her. The head shaking was also making a return, possibly with the increased daylight and possibly early pollen. No I have pieced together enough clues to formulate a considered answer. She has muscle wastage on her almost none existent top line. No ammount of work or feed has ever made any difference to this. I think she has arthritis to quite an extent which prevents her from achieving what she should be capable of. Which is all compounded by her head shaking which compels her to stand still to relieve the discomfort.
Heather with a rare visit to the field from Henry

Having said all that I have looked after her and worked out her ways. She's a very tough cookie, very independent for a horse. She can quite happily be the only horse in the field. She seems to attract other horses, but cares little for them, pushing them around. Very brave when ridden too. In some respects she's easier alone, as in company she is always glaring at the others. Alone she gets nervous and can be reluctant and hesitant, but when told to go, always does..which takes trust and acceptance. Not easy but predictable and reliable.
Heather like I've ever seen her before..now I know I'm trusted and accepted..after nearly 3 years.

So it was with great sadness that I was told that firstly she was for sale. I did wonder who on earth would want to buy her? Then even more grief on being told that she was leaving by the end of the week and not to return. For a number of days I went down to the field wondering if she'd still be there. I have become emotionally attached to her, I've learned so much from her. At the same time I've given her possibly the most stability and security she's had in recent years. From a semi-feral horse to a trusted friend who delighted me yet again in the morning by letting me near her lying in the field. She has not gone yet. I don't want to buy her. I have earned her trust and I marvel at her spirit. I've been touched by the same magic that has enchanted men through the ages, the spirit of the horse is priceless.

Snow.!!

2009-02-02T20:50:00.005Z

Heather this morning looking quite happy with the nights dusting of snow..wondering why I've stopped to take pictures! Where's breakfast??

The weather provides us with endless conversation and interest, as do the changing seasons. It's been almost a year since Heather, the horse in my charge, has lived out. So we've lived through almost every kind of weather in that time. Still seems quite strange to me in my life away from the yard that when I return...she's still there...stood in the field! 24/7. I've had many peaceful moments stood in the field too, taking a welcome break from the 21st century, with the horses and ponies. Feeling the wind blow, seeing clouds roll away leaving the Moon to light the fox sneaking silently across the snow.

Looking a bit wary as we get close to the gate, there's deep mud just below a thin crust of snow and ice. She had a couple of slides on ice recently and doesn't trust the stuff anymore..

Snow! A rare and welcome treat. This Winter has been more like those I can remember from my childhood..cold and icy. I took these pictures today in a rare gap in the weather. An hour later and the cloud and snow fall returned. However here in Manchester we've escaped the worst, so it's hard to believe what all the fuss is about elsewhere.

Content and happy horse after a good feed and brush...ready for anything! Maybe some more snow?

Escape from the Fog!

2009-01-01T17:58:00.008Z

Well I'd be a fool not to take advantage of the most settled spell of weather we've had in months. For once it's possible to plan ahead and make arrangments without having to worry. Since visiting my brother in Cardiff, the wind that plagued our walk in the Brecon Beacons has eased, giving way to calm. The downside to this has been some fog. New Years Eve started off very cold with freezing fog in Manchester..which lingered all day. Not that it bothered me one bit, because my brother Jim and I set off early to North Wales.
View from Plas Y Brenin over the frozen lake towards Snowdon

The fog stayed with us all the way through Cheshire and we didn't shake it off till we reached the coast. From then on it was dazzling...all day. We parked up by Plas Y Brenin, with a cold frosty minus 4 C down by the frozen lake. Early in the day the view towards Snowdon from here is always impressive. We spent quite a while taking snaps here and in the surrounding woodlands, which had been transformed into a bejewelled Winter wonderland.
Llyn Y Foel which sits nicely in the Cwm below Moel Siabod..iced over and rumbling!

It would have been so easy to stay in the valley along the partially frozen Ogwen. The cold air felt so clean and there was just not a breath of wind..perfect calm and serenity. Glancing up Moel Siabod, the climb for the day looked, steep and distant and totally un-necessary. However we slowly left the forest and focused on the climb.
Spectacular views and a little exposure on the ridge Daier Ddu looking back down to the lake

I really like this mountain. Moel Siabod stands alone and is quite centrally located within the park, with views from its peak possibly the best of any. It has interesting ridges with a lovely lake in the glacial Cwm, with perilously steep sides. Very impressive but easily attainable for most people. However to reach the best ridge which is approached from the East, a fearsome bog must be crossed. This bog is also possibly haunted by a friendly ghost in the form of an old woman. I was walking here previuosly with a friend whose footwear was going to be a serious issue crossing. The woman appeared suddenly and we chatted. Given her frailty and ordinary cothing, I was surprised that she'd come so high..it's a steep rocky climb. She told us that her husband had died and his ashes were scattered on the lake..she visits daily in his memory. So I asked her how she crosses the bog..daily? We followed her instructions and crossed with barely a splash. Looked back to wave, but she'd disappeared...as we climbed higher we kept looking, but there was no sight of her. She can't have moved that quickly....very mysterious!
Jim posing on the summit accompanied by a parrot!!

Which brings me back to why we decided to come this way today. The bog was frozen solid!! Ha! Even better and strangely, the air temperature was rising well above zero here. We sat by Llyn Y Foel for quite a while. The frozen surface every so often gave a resounding rumble and crack, increased and concentrated by the amphitheatre like surroundings. The water level was draining slowly below the lake and the ice was trying its best to follow, with impressive sounds.
We tried a couple of things but Jim got the best results for a quick descent on the ice!

Eventually we started the engaging climb of the East ridge, known as Daier Ddu. By staying to the right there's easy scrambling with lofty views back tothe lake below, whilst further round to the left things are easier on grassy slopes. We took our time and enjoyed the company of fellow walkers ranging from hardened mountain men to family groups spanning generations. All the time marvelling in the uniqe conditions which were making this a day to remember.
Fairytale Winter wonderland return to the valley..how are some trees white and others not touched..magic!

We found the top and admired the all round view. Which, though not disappointing, couldn't match the magic of the frozen lake and the amazing conditions of the ridge climb. The flip side of Moel Siabod is grassy and domed, with hardly a hint of the rocky ridges of the South. We did however make the most of the icy conditions in trying a few novel ways of descending. For my efforts I have a bruised elbow and had a very soggy cold bottom. Jim made good use of his pack as a makeshift tobogan! All this reminded me that it has been years since we had ice like this..and what fun!

Beacon n Eggs !

2008-12-29T22:15:00.007Z

Mark, one of my two older brothers lives just North of Cardiff, South Wales, in a lovely little village. At short notice I'd arranged a visit and on early Saturday morning found myself struggling to get myself on the road early to beat the traffic. Luckily Mark texted me late the night before saying a good hearty breakfast awaited my arrival. So it was with this thought that I managed to summon enough...just enough energy to go...
Bleak aspect to the relentless climb to Corn Du...the picture doesn't do the cold wind any justice!

My efforts were well rewarded by a swift effortless drive and a timely arrival! Breakfast was every bit as good as I'd hoped, bacon, eggs, beans n toast. Just the kind of stuff to base a good day out on. Not far North of Cardiff is the Brecon Beacons National Park. This was on Marks suggestion where we drove, with the idea to walk to the highest peak in Southern Britain, Pen Y Fan. What a great way to spend a day!
Final frenzy to the summit of Corn Du with a hint of the mist to come on Pen Y Fan to the right..

I haven't walked in this range before and hadn't realised how accessible the almost twin peaks of Corn Du and Pen Y Fan are to the A470 road. We started close to the Storey Arms, just South of a small wood, along with many other walkers. Despite the clear blue sky and wall to wall sunshine, the most noticeable thing was the icy Easterly wind, which was blowing relentlessly into our faces. Bracing against this and pushing hard up a fair slope brought us sight of Corn Du. From here summit fever took hold and we soon found ourselves glorying in the achievement and celebrating by taking lots of pics of each other and getting very cold hands.
Mark, racing ahead for a closer inspection of Fan Y Big!

Pen Y Fan is barely more than a good stones throw away from Corn Du and our next peak. Up till now the sky was cloudless. Then almost as though to make things more interesting, a cold mist descended and Pen Y Fan hid...not to re-appear all day. Moody mountain! Once on the top, we did get fleeting glimpses of its North escarpment face, plunging vertically at first, in shadow and all frosty and foreboding. Exposed and cold we descended a little and found a spot out of the wind for a snack and time to decide our next move.
Looking back across to Cribyn, the North face all cold and still frosty.

Looking East, the next peak, Cribyn looked temptingly close and beyond the interestingly named Fan Y Big was definitely worth a visit. Maybe my map reading is a little rusty and perhaps my legs not quite as well used to hills recently. But the steep grassy descents and climbs between these summits really made for a testing time. Nonetheless enjoyable and the views worthwhile. Mark did really well. I'm far more accustomed to slogging up and down hills, yet he kept on going...showing more than just physical strength, as the last climb was hard.
Delightful Wild Welsh ponies, seemingly oblivious to the cold and poor grazing.

With the Winter sun lowering and shadows lengthening, the constant cold was now feeling all the keener. We retraced our steps and now made our way back. We timed our return to the car park exactly to make our rendezvous precisely for a drive back home with that glow that comes as circulation returns. Made all the easier by that dozy feeling and anticipation of a big pan of curry on the stove and steaming piles of rice!

Kauto Star..??

2008-12-26T17:47:00.008Z

Boxing Day and a chance to ride. Beautiful cool clear weather and I had a plan for something a little different. I spent yesterday like many other people, eating and drinking and watching far too much tv! I really seem to have lost the knack of eating three Christmas dinners though. Anyway sunshine and blue sky soon had me up and about today.
Not quite Kauto Star...Heather today happy to be going out.

I've not kept up to date with Heather's progress here recently, I'll try and fill in some gaps soon. But essentially, she's living out, un-stabled 24/7. This has both advantages and drawbacks, but I'm keen to try and adapt to anything thrown my way. Over the holidays many of the other school horses have been turned out as well, and I half expected some trouble in the field today. Last Winter it was when all the "hooligans" were out that Heather got kicked. Fortunately I found her safe, stood in the deepest mud where the others probably wouldn't go. Not doing much to help her Mud Fever, but that's another story!
Down the lane from the yard as on so many other days...but never with such a shadow!

Soon brushed off the worst of the mud and tacked up. The wind, well breeze had picked up from the East and I was surprised how cold it was, despite the sun. I almost changed my original plan and decided to stay safe in the back outdoor school. There have been a couple of accidents out and about with riders falling and I was all too aware that there'd be plenty of walkers cyclists and loose dogs around...plus I had little light road work in mind.hence my hi-viz tabard.
87 South Drive....the house where I grew up and never in my most imaginative thoughts, dreamt I'd ride here on horseback!

So off down the lane with the sun on our backs. Quickly over the green bridge to the other side of the river. I wanted to hack over to Chorltonville and ride past the house where I grew up and where I re-settled until recently. Most people I grew up with or knew there have moved away, but I really secretly hoped to surprise an old friend...no one there would know me on horseback!
Lovely hacking through Chorlton Ees and somehow managing to find the place to ourselves.

Heather behaved impeccably all the way. We even managed to dodge a big ride from another yard..some ten or more horses heading for a pub. We didn't trample any children or kick any dogs and she stopped and waited and moved on when asked...very good horse. We went past the old house and continued down memory lane and though I was concentrating on riding I was feeling quite proud. We didn't see any familiar faces but I was pleased to be heading back to the yard without any problems...we were quite a distance away.
Urban contrast! Heather judging the graffiti under the M60 motorway..

On the way back we headed through Chorlton Ees. I really love riding through the woods there and as we were homeward bound, Heather had that extra spring in her step. Strangely enough she had her only spook of the day here....at a little girls pink bike! Blowing and snorting. It was at this point that one of the many friendly walkers we passed today commented on Heather's resemblance to a famous race horse, Kauto Star! After another such comment later on I decided to find out more...Yes at a quick glance and it seems her race double did quite well today...so that's two happy horses. As we returned to the yard, I turned round to see who was trotting so quickly behind us. A riderless horse with stirrups banging and reins flapping...rider was later found safe!

Marathon Mayhem and Personal Victory

2008-10-26T05:54:00.007Z

So finally the time had come. The weather was every bit worse than the forecast. Or so it seemed to me and probably the best part of the 1500 or so fellow competitors. The wind was funnelling straight down the Pass of Llanberis, carrying a sharp steady rain, from Pen Y Pass, four miles up the valley. Gusts were strong enough to knock runners sideways and large people were useful to hide behind! The gradient isn't really that steep but steady, though today it was tough and I was conscious of starting comfortably. I was a little disappointed that it took 39 minutes to reach the top of the climb.
Minutes before the start at Nant Peris, with the climb up to Pen Y Pass in the background

A change of direction and now downhill. I found it difficult to find a good rhythm and I was worried about my left knee. I was cold and soaked to the skin. We were now running on roads still open to traffic which made for an unwelcome distraction and I was trying hard to relax. After only 7 miles my left knee pain began! At least I now had something to focus on...
Moments after finishing the 2008 Snowdonia Marathon....and taking tightly fitting cap off!

Beddgelert is at 12 miles and had good cheering crowds outside warm cosy pubs...and the start of a steady climb up towards Rhyd Ddu, where a year ago I'd stood watching this very race. My knee was not getting any worse and I'd kept myself well hydrated and fuelled. People infront of me now seemed to be slowing. At 13 miles I glanced at the time 1:56. I realised that my dream of finishing in under four hours was probably out of reach...if only the weather was kinder! Somehow or other I was now starting to eat up runners and my confidence started to rise. Somewhere at about 17 miles my race number which had been flapping annoyingly on it's two remaining safety pins, finally ripped free in a very strong gust. In a field near Betws Garmon there is a sheep now sporting number 754.
Timer and T-shirt!!

At 21 miles is the so called Welsh Wall...the climb up from the village of Waunfawr to the exposed tops leading over and down to the finish at Llanberis. Had I gone too fast in the last few miles? Something inside me said under four hours...But I was now confronted with everyone infront of me walking!! Surely this was wrong. I was not sure what to do as this was the only part of the course I knew nothing about...apart from its notoriety. So I kept up a steady slow jog. I was hurting yes..but no worse than in my training on the Orme. Then I saw the way down to the finish...steep. Great, I had the legs and the head for this. This is my kind of ground. This part of the course is on rough track, muddy and rocky. I descended like a madman...the gale force wind now pushing from behind, the rain couldn't keep up!! Fantastic...a glance at the time and I knew I was in! I sprinted over the line with the broadest smile that hid the tears as every possible emotion burst out at once. For a moment I was totally overwhelmed...this was a mammoth achievement. I finished 347th out of 1500 in 3 hours and 56 minutes...with legs to spare!!

Countdown to the crunch..

2008-10-21T18:03:00.004+01:00

This will be my last update on my on going training, simply because the race is this Saturday at 1030!
Following my last update my mood was upbeat and confident, despite hurting myself on my 21 miler. However only a couple of days later I aggravated an old back injury, which was uncomfortable enough to almost stop me running for two weeks. With some careful stretches and lots of hot baths..and cold beer, I nursed my self fit enough to get on my feet again.

Evenings are dark and leaves are falling..my two month old shoes smell like a cat's peed in them...and have they lost their spring?

So last week I decided to get one last long run on the Orme under my belt to hopefully boost my confidence back up. I wanted to make sure I still could make some sort of distance, but was very aware that any injury now could impact the big day itself. I completed three circuits, sixteen miles. I ran defensively...what almost felt slowly, but trying to remain as relaxed as I could. I only dropped a minute each time round but felt so much happier in myself. I also managed to stave off the stiffness I'm prone to, in my neck and shoulders by periodicly letting my arms flop by my side as I ran. There is always a down side though. At thirteen miles my left knee began to complain....not good news. At the end I was okay and my knee was fine later, but I know it would have got progressively worse.

I've done my shopping and will use all this lot to some extent on the day...not forgetting plasters, of course..

My race number is 754. Jos has promised to drive me there on Saturday morning and help pick up what's left of me at the end. I'm looking ahead at the weather forecast and hoping for a nice day. Though it looks like it's going to be windy...just hope it's not raining too! This is after all reputadly the toughest marathon on the calendar...I'm starting to understand why! I know I've got the stamina and strength to finish...I don't know if my knee will hold up, I'm hoping for the best!

Running Madness..

2008-09-27T23:38:00.006+01:00

After last weeks 16 miler round the Great Orme, I'd already decided that this was the perfect spot for my continued training..and especially my sternest test, a 21 mile run. There are many schools of thought regarding training for a marathon. I happen to believe in laying down hard mileage to get used to the punishment, both physical and mental, which will make or break a good run on the day.
My running companions for a while...

So this week I got up even earlier and drove to Wales through mist and fog, to find blue skies and sunshine! Still a nice coolness to the morning as I set off running through Llandudno, from West Shore. The smell of full English, or perhaps Welsh breakfasts was wafting from every hotel and B 'n' B and the sun reflected off the sea past Little Orme across the bay. This felt more like a holiday.
Setting a cracking pace...which I just couldn't match!

The idea was to run four circuits, which would total just over 21 miles. To keep things interesting I alternated my direction, first anti-clockwise to give a longer slower ascent, with a steep descent...to the other way round with a sharp climb and gentle roll down through town. So for my first circuit I enjoyed the splendid sea views and relaxed into a nice stride, which took just forty five minutes..bang on the pace I intended.
Just over 3 hours for just over 21 miles on undulating road...I'm quite pleased and know I can't go any faster. If I can match this pace in the race I'll be very happy!

Curiously there don't seem to be any other people using this area to run. Plenty of walkers and a few cyclists, but I was alone. The final circuit was my undoing. I'd just changed direction, so had hammered my legs down the steeper descent above Llys Helig, and was now climbing the same slope. I made the top by the cafe but the energy had gone from my legs and each stride seemed to jar through to my bones. This was now very tough..even on the level ground. Almost unbelievably I also got stung by a wasp that got down my left shoe?? If I hadn't been the furthest from the car, I think I'd have used this as an excuse to stop...but had to keep going. Every ounce of me was hurting and it was such a relief to finally, what felt like stumble back to the car through town. Despite feeling so slow on this last round, my time only suffered by just two minutes when compared with the previous. So that's it now...till the race I will not go any further, distance wise. I will treat the downhill sections with a little more caution. It took some Ibuprofen and a days rest till my knees were happy again. But I'm generally pleased...no other aches or pain.

Burghley X-Country Day

2008-09-07T19:36:00.010+01:00

For quite a number of years I've watched the BBC TV coverage of the Burghley Horse Trials. The bravery and courage of riders and horses competing through the rolling countryside over impossibly sized obstacles, makes this a thrilling spectacle! So at last I was making the trip down to see all the action first hand..
One of the first riders to to finish the course comes home through fence 32 infront of Burghley House

This Summer's weather has again been trying its worst to spoil things. So after the the last few days rain, I wasn't sure if the cross country would go ahead. However almost miraculously Saturday was relatively bright and dry, as things go! We arrived in good time and spent little time queuing, and found ourselves parked quite close to the heart of things!
Belgian rider Karin Donkers jumps fence 30 The Flower Frame

There's a huge tented shopping area and I did have a small list of items to look for. But the crowds were busy and the place was so muddy that in reality I would be wasting my time. Plus I had that impatient anticipation of the event to come that shopping was really the last thing I could focus on! I did notice though, that there were several icecream vans with no custom...something which I remedied through the day!
After a fast down hill gallop it all went horribly wrong as Sparrow Hall takes off vertically and too early falling on the fence throwing Marie Ryan over onto her back!

Just before the start time of eleven, we met up, all too briefly with Debbie, a very good friend, who goes to Burghley every year for the whole four days. She showed us the scoreboard and the course secretaries tent, where we obtained a list of the running order and riders. By now it was time to start and the crowds were excitedly gathering at the course sides to see the competition unfold.
Sparrow Hall still panicked by the fall and having a leg trapped in his reins...

We watched the first couple of riders off from the start before beginning to walk round the course in reverse...as the majority seemed to be doing the opposite! This plan failed because the sheer numbers of people made every fence crowded..but it was always easy to get a view. What a tremendous feeling to be so close to the horses galloping by at a thumping speed, at barely arms length! Just as sobering, seeing a horse clip an obstacle and hear the resounding crack of hoof against wood and the inevitable topple and spill. We saw a couple of falls and plenty of near misses. We cheered as a crowd on valiant efforts and the feeling was ecstatic! What a brilliant place to be...what a fantastic competition!
Nicola Wilson on Opposition Buzz flying over the impossibly vast fence 19, the Cottesmore Leap..

Though the ground stayed in remarkably good condition, the heavy going obviously took its toll on many horses...some finishing..just, but plenty being retired. We managed to get round and see almost every fence. However just as I thought I had all day to continue enjoying the competition, the commentator announced only a handful of riders to run! The day finished with a heavy shower as we watched William Fox-Pitt on Tamarillo almost stumble at the sharp drop of the Leaf Pit, before recovering to post the best time of the day! Eventual winners of the competition.

Running progress..

2008-09-04T17:52:00.008+01:00

In the last few weeks I've really stepped up my training for the 2008 Snowdonia Marathon. The knee pain that almost stopped me in my first week, has long passed. With barely five weeks to go I'm now trying to lay down some long runs and mileage, to ready myself for the ardure of race day..25th October!
This GPS device has been quite useful in my training, thanks to Tom for letting me use it!

One reason I've written less here than usual, is my pre-occupation with running. If I'm not actually running...I'm recovering from my last run...or thinking about my next one. Fatigue is a constant shadow in my life and I've done well to stay illness and injury free. When I last ran these sort of distances I was much younger and thought nothing of a quick ten miler...while the adverts were on, as it were. So it's been hard work, but I've been creative in my training and generally enjoyed my self inflicted pain
I "ran" up Snowdon itself, lurking in the mist, but it was a very hard lesson...

I've run far and wide..through muddy fields and slippery river banks. Stupidly thought I could run up a mountain and probably caused some concern to passers by with my red face and stumbling across misty rocky crags! So pavements and roads are now like a glide to my ever stronger legs. I seem to have put on a little weight..which I presume is muscle. My upper body is shrinking whilst my legs grow! Perhaps I'll have to learn to walk on my hands after this is all over, to redistribute things..!
At the top, the seagull in the picture was laughing at me and people were giving me concerned looks...but not making eye contact!

Someone from work thoughtfully let me use his GPS device to aid my training. So I've now become a collector of miles. If only it was money in the bank! However it's been useful to know how far I've gone. To date, eighteen miles is my longest run. This coming week I'm aiming to run four circuits of Marine Drive on the Great Orme. This will make a total of twenty one miles in similarly undulating road conditions. This should be the pinnacle of my training and I can then go on with confidence...The rewards being as much beer, chips, curry and icecream as I can eat!!
The descent of Snowdon was swift and my feet were on fire, so you can imagine the sensation of cooling them in Llyn Padarn, the lake by Llanberis where I'll hopefully finish my marathon.

Wild Welsh ponies and a lash of wet weather..

2008-08-26T19:37:00.007+01:00

A surprising and magical meeting..a herd of wild ponies on the headland with views to Bardsey

I defiantly announced " I'm going camping this weekend come what may!" Brave but stupid words spoken as bravado in front of work colleagues who I knew would give the desired answer. " You must be bloody mad...have you seen the forecast?" Yes I'd seen the forecast and I was hoping and praying that something dramatic would happen to change it....after all they quite often get it wrong! Well for once it was very accurate..it rained...very much, but mostly from one direction. The rain was blown by the wind...which was far stronger than forecast. So strong that five miles away,in Abersoch, 45 small boats were smashed on the beach on the Monday evening.
Idyllic scene with Cilan and Bardsey top left with nothing but sea beyond

I was glad of Jos's company..for a while it looked like I was going to be "Billy no mates". I also delayed our travel a day because the forecast for Saturday was abysmal. So it was nice to arrive at Treheli in warm sunshine. I'm always uplifted by the view down across the wide bay, the sea and waves, which usually results in an excited, frenzied clatter of camping paraphernalia. So all pitched up..what next?
Cheesy grin can't deflect from the fact it's peeing it down...but it was fun and the chilli was great!

As the tide was in, a walk on the beach was out. I've been here so many times but have never been to the point or headland that lies South West of the campsite. Trwyn Talfarach. So we set out on the steep climb that takes the road up to Rhiw. The crags from which the village takes its name are notorious with us camp dwellers below as the "weather machine". At close to 200 meters above the sea, these crags are the first higher ground that the predominantly South Westerly wind hits, freshly ladden with moist sea air. The resulting lee-side is quite often misty and wet. So it was going to be nice to see the otherside of the "weather machine" and perhaps find an off switch!!
Morning after the storm..nice waves forming off "winkle pond"each one slightly different!

Beyond the craggs is the high point of Penarfynydd with a trigg point. The views here are far reaching and evocitively maritime. The land ends in points, past Aberdaron anchored safely in it's bay, pointing towards Bardsey, resting place of so many ancient saints and the Cetic Sea beyond. There's powerful peacefulness here that easily sells some of the faerie stories that almost make you hear a whisper on the wind.
Even in the depths of Winter have I ever seen so much water on this campsite..Aug 2008!

As though by magic, we stumbled on a herd of wild ponies! I counted ten and they let us approach just so far...before trotting off. All this time I never knew what was beyond the "weather machine", now I think I might just visit again. We didn't find a switch and things got very wet and very, very windy. The campsite was ravaged and the inhabitants dwindled, leaving only the hardy stalwarts to enjoy the morning after.This is a good place!

Lesson from a Lusitano Stallion..

2008-08-21T00:54:00.011+01:00

I discovered Pen Llyn stables near Llaniestyn, about three years ago. Still very much a beginner horse-rider, I'd only just started cantering in the school and booked myself on effectively my first hack. I rode Tia, an unremarkable mare who looked after me well and I enjoyed every minute. Despite being the only rider in a large group to decline the invitation to canter. We rode the local lanes and through fields on the lower slopes of Carn Fadryn on a lovely warm Summer's day, in the heart of the beautiful Llyn Peninsula in North Wales.

Early first steps in walk

Pen Llyn is also located conveniently, only five miles or so from my favourite campsite, overlooking the wide open bay at Porth Neigwl. The beach here is a gold mine for beachcombers and the waves bring surfers from miles away. I had recently planned a camping trip and knew the weather forecast was poor. Previously I've found it all too easy to make excuses not to go, only to regret the decision later. So I made a reason to go. I booked an hour classical riding lesson for Monday lunchtime.

A wet and windy sleepless night in a cold, damp tent is not the ideal preparation for probably the most interesting and important riding lesson to date. However pulling on familiar boots, polished just for the occasion, soon settled me into a positive frame of mind. My camping comrade Jos came along with his camera and we arrived early!

Perhaps a little too early as we were shown to the indoor arena and watched a group lesson in progress. A mixed ride of horses were being ridden in more advanced moves than I've ever seen...let alone attempted. So I was starting to feel a little concerned that I'd taken on a little too much. Almost suddenly the arena emptied and before I knew it and with little time for introduction, I was up in the saddle on board the handsome Lusitano stallion Rez. I barely got time to look at him before..maybe just as well as I was feeling a bit intimidated by things by now anyway.
Leg Yielding

I need not have worried. My instructor, Lucy, put me at ease by starting off very slowly with nothing more than walking Rez into a contact on both reins. Then moving onto shoulder in at walk and trot. Followed by familiar circles and serpentines at trot, then some leg yielding with some invaluable tips from Lucy and some pointers on some of my weaknesses.
Flying Change

My "driving" seat is a problem and poor Rez thought I was asking for passage. So every now and then I was asked to extend him down the long side in trot. We cantered large, then circles, on both reins, before trying figure of eights with flying changes, which he gave with little more than a nudge. This whole ride was an experience I will remember for a long time. Rez is probably used to far more advanced riders than me but never made me feel out of place or took advantage. Lucy obviously knows him very well and had me weighed up quite quickly. Coming on close to an hour later I was ready to finish. Everything had gone so well, mentally I was switching off...full to overflowing with all the different movements and actions I was trying hard to coordinate, the concentration and emotion spent on riding such a beautifully talented horse.

I was invited to try some Spanish Walk and Passage, which Rez is obviously well versed in. However it was the more simple, familiar school figures, done well, that gave me most satisfaction. Possibly because I know where I might struggle sometimes, perhaps cantering on the right rein on a circle. Whilst I'm sure there was plenty of room for improvement on some points, in general I think my riding has come on very well and that I justified my ride on a Luso. I hope I'll return very soon for more...

One question that keeps coming up in many of my riding lessons. I understand the the concept of asking and needing impulsion from the horse. How exactly it is achieved is slightly more tricky. In my simple view I ask with my legs. The horse responds by going faster. If I am to keep a soft hand, how do I contain the speed and change it to impulsion? Am I approaching this wrong?

New Shoes..as promised!

2008-08-11T21:37:00.003+01:00

A week has gone by without me running a yard! Which isn't to say I've done nothing at all. My work has me on my feet a good deal and I've been horse riding and swimming. I've started to take Glucosamine supplement in a slightly desperate hope of improving my knee trouble. Of course I'm fully aware that any effect will not be quickly noticeable...but I've got to do something!
Are these the shoes in which I'll run the 2008 Snowdonia Marathon..??

Each day through the week my knee has got better. I'm still having a 400mg Ibuprofen at breakfast but the effect of it lasts longer through each day. So I went and bought my new running shoes. Apparently I supinate, my feet have high arches and I run on the outside of my foot. This narrows the shoe choice right down. Anyway after some deliberation, mainly at the price...how much?? I got Asics Nimbus Gel. Far too fancy looking for my taste, but at least they're not dayglo green, like some! Tried them on a gentle three miler out along the river and today on a five mile uphill run on a treadmill. They feel good and though I have some reaction from my knee, it's not like previously. So fingers crossed for my marathon attempt!

Willing Horse...

2008-08-09T22:03:00.010+01:00

The horses have been moved back to the bottom field. The advantages are that the field is on the yard and visible. However it is low lying, poor to drain and the grass has not had a chance to recover sufficiently. On the plus side again, some damaged bales of haylage have been left and the horses have constant access...so Heather has quickly chosen her own bale and started tunnelling through with gusto! On the downside, this means she doesn't have to forage and has well and truly parked herself...fat mare even sleeps next to it!
The worst of a few cuts and grazes on her hind legs, which caused some lame-ness.

Bordering the bottom field to the left is a golf course. The contrast between the horses scrapping for food in the mud and the immaculate fairways and greens next door could not be more stark! So perhaps it's really no surprise to find Heather with an number of cuts and grazes from the barbed wire fence separating. The temptation must be immense because the grass definitely is greener next door! She managed to cut both hind legs and the minor infection filled both legs and she was lame to some degree. In the general scheme of things a minor annoyance....
Astonishing new hoof growth, can it all be down to Cornucrescine?

Heather's poor feet have been a constant battle for me. Before I knew her, she'd obviously suffered some neglect here. However I've picked out, cleaned, dressed and nourished her feet for more than two years....daily! That with regular attention from the farrier, I think I was starting to become resigned to her feet being a conformational fault. I had being using Effol a hoof moisturiser for quite a while, without any real difference. So last visit from the farrier, I asked his opinion. So for the last six weeks, I've been using Cornucrescine. Perhaps it's a coincidence with increased Summer growth from the brief spell of good grass. But since I've been regularly massaging Cornucrescine into her feet, particularly into the Coronet band, where hoof meets flesh, the results have been astonishing. The new growth is all too apparent...hope this continues!
This horse appears to be developing a round back end..!! At last...

When I first met Heather, she'd not long returned from a long stint living out. She's never really slotted into the riding school and had no tack or saddle. She is an odd shape and it was difficult trying to borrow a saddle from another horse who might need it for a lesson...let alone it fitting her. So I searched and found an old, beautiful English GP saddle, that fitted her...but it's very heavy. I've been told it is a copy of an old Police or Military saddle. An amazing piece of work and so comfortable to ride in. For a while though I suspected the deep knee rolls might be interfering with her shoulders. Possibly compounding her long standing canter lead problems. So I'd been looking around for something different.
Measuring up for a new saddle..

Didn't take long for me to narrow my search down to the Thorowgood T4 Hi-Wither. This is a synthetic saddle with changeable gullets to alter width and removable fish to adjust height. I'd decided another second hand leather saddle might take ages to locate. So splashed out at Robinsons! I followed the fitting guide carefully. That with plenty of reading up elsewhere and I think we ended up with a reasonable, well, good fit.
Part of the saddle fitting guide, which s easy to follow and use.

It's comfortable to ride in and best of all I'm sure Heather really appreciates it. Since her injury, on the few times I've asked, she's picked up correct canter lead on her stiff right side. The new saddle seems to help and she's not put a foot wrong so far. In fact left unchecked she willingly continues into a gallop! With all this recent improvement, I'm also wondering if the Top Spec Feed Balancer is helping things along, she's been fed this now since February. I'm sure she's gradually muscling up and her hind quarters no longer look flat and weak! She's developing a rounded full back-end!
Initial fit looks promising...

So now she's sound and with a new saddle that she likes. Time to step up the work and try and get her fit and more difficult, supple. As usual I'm up for the challenge and to be perfectly honest I enjoy every moment in this horses company..

Fitted and ready to go..!!

Excuse not to run...

2008-08-03T22:47:00.003+01:00

Only a week after entering the Snowdonia Marathon, I'm starting to wonder if it's going to be possible. About this time, a year ago, I started having trouble with my left knee. So much so, that I mentioned it to my Doctor, on an occasion when I'd accumulated enough ailments to feel a visit was warranted! So I was sent for an MRI scan. This revealed a tear in the Medial Meniscus. All this took so long, that by the time I had the results, my knee felt much better.
Faithful old trainers may need replacing if I'm to make a serious attempt.

So I knew there might be a problem. During the last week I've done three five mile runs. One of which was at a good pace. This is when I felt the old injury. Yesterday I decided to put things to a real test, and ran twelve miles on a treadmill in the gym...taking just about 1 hour 37 mins. My knee hurt all the way through and was very stiff this morning. So realistically the marathon attempt seems out of reach. I did take one 400mg Ibuprofen at lunchtime, then went for a mile swim. I've since been riding too and the knee is not painful. So I'll take it easy with the running this week and see how I go. No matter what, I think I deserve a new pair of trainers!

Tripped up, down a Mountain!

2008-07-29T19:08:00.007+01:00

Was definitely a wrench leaving Manchester on a warm sunny morning, knowing that my destination was already grey and damp. The forecast wasn't great but good enough and I'd taken a peek from the webcam that sits on Elidir Fach, looking across to Snowdon. Mist and light rain...typical mountain weather. So by the time I arrived in Nant Peris, I was pleased to find the cloud above the tops and felt optimistic for a good day. On a practical note I have a couple of grumbles. The car park toilets were locked...not good at the end of a two hour drive fuelled on coffee! I also noticed with disgust that a pay to park machine was being installed by workmen. This car park is underused and traditionally has been used as an overspill from the always chocka Pen Y Pass car park further up. I've always seen not having to pay as a reward for keeping things running smoothly, as it were, and putting up with a long walk in.
Looking South West from Carnedd a Filiast across the Marchlyn Mawr reservoir to Elidir Fawr

My first ascent was in front of me. Elidir Fawr stands at 924 metres commanding the backdrop to the North. This is a hard slog. A path cuts diagonally up, relentless in direction and slope, though always up, interspersed with bogs. Not until the last hundred metres or so does the grass give way to rock and loose boulders. So it was with relief that I stumbled into the summit cairn crater. Since the mountain stands alone, the views are far reaching with all the familiar tops easily recognisable. Keeping on a Northerly theme, I descended steep scree and skirted round the far end of the Marchlyn Mawr reservoir. This is part of a hydro-electric power station deep with in the mountain and well worth a visit to the impressive man made caverns within. I was soon climbing once more, amongst flowering Heather to the top of Carnedd Y Filiast. The views now down into the Ogwen Valley.
The Atlantic Slabs, former sea-bed like crazy paving gone mad at 45 degrees!

The obvious path across to the next peak of Mynydd Perfedd skirts the edge of Cwm Graianog. Here without a doubt are some of the strangest and most impressive rock formations to be found. A former section of seabed perches crazily at forty five degrees, halfway up a mountain! I did cautiously venture on, but soon retreated after slip on some moss made me remember the saying about rolling stones gathering no moss!
View from my new found path, looking at the head of the Ogwen Valley, with Tryfan central.

I was looking forward to the next part of my adventure. The obvious and popular way ahead is to now follow the ridge and stay high.I've walked this many times and it is very satisfying. However the views into the Ogwen Valley are not as good as perhaps expected. Just before the steep climb to Foel Goch, there are two stiles. So shunning the ridge, I took the second stile and descended a steep grassy slope into Cwm Bual. On good advice, I easily located a stile painted blue and crossed it following a broken wall and fence line. Soon I was on a feint but obvious path that contoured round and headed up the valley about halfway between the valley floor and the ridge above. What a delightful little path, never in doubt and entertaining enough. With views into the Cwms above, crossing small streams and short-lived scree, flowering Heather and a different slant on familiar slopes! I passed beneath an enticing looking puzzle of rock formations marked on my map as the "Mushroom Garden", so have left further reason to return! The path even deposited me exactly at the climb from Llyn Idwal to Y Garn.
Refreshing waterfall in Cwm Padraig, useful for washing away blood and sweat....

Y Garn is an impressive mountain in its own right. Today it was getting just a bit part in my day. The cloud had covered the tops now and a slight drizzle kept me busy climbing as the closer I got to the top, the lower the cloud seemed to come! I didn't even stop on the summit. My mind was already ahead of me and I was feeling a bit tired after the excitement of discovery earlier. So I soon found myself on autopilot running down familiar slopes of scree. Then in an instant I caught a toe...fell onto my elbow, banged my knee, rolled over on my pack and was on my feet still descending wondering what was about to give! Unbelievably both hands had mere pin pricks on the palms, my right elbow was grazed and slightly cut and I had dirt all over my right thigh and back pack..that's all! So I slowed and counted how many blessings. Found the scenic route down through Cwm Padraig and stopped a while to refresh my self and wash by a waterfall. This is a brilliant way to spend a day!

I've Entered The 2008 Snowdonia Marathon..

2008-07-27T19:44:00.003+01:00

Oh dear..what have I done! I keep telling myself "I only entered," but I know full well in myself I'll give it my best efforts. Quite a number of years ago I ran two marathons, the Stockport and Manchester finishing in 3hrs41 and 3hrs 22 respectively. It's no coincidence that I haven't been stupid enough to repeat the torture since!
The start of the 2007 Snowdonia Marathon. This year I'll hopefully be competing..not watching!

A couple of years ago I used running as part of my fitness regime for a successful attempt to climb all 15, 3000 foot peaks in Snowdonia. With my new found fitness I did have thoughts of making a grand effort in perhaps the New York or London Marathon. However the hype these events carry with them put me right off. So last year, I was secretly envious of my brother's entry in the Snowdonia Marathon. Well on 25th October t will be my turn. I started my training with a ten mile walk climbing the peaks of Elidir Fawr and Y Garn. Followed by a five mile run yesterday along the river banks locally. If nothing else, my increased exercise will enable me to eat more curry and chocolate and drink more beer...so bring it on!

Breakout..!!

2008-07-18T22:16:00.005+01:00

Big change in things since only a week ago! First a foremost..maybe I was being blinkered to how much grass there was in the "graveyard" field. There is none left...what there is is soured. Heather is losing weight and her field mate horses are looking even more skinny. Early this morning around six, some of the ponies escaped and invaded the village, looking for breakfast in peoples gardens! Luckily all were caught and returned without incident. Heather is a good horse and will stay put in the most barren mud pit...shaking her head like a poor nodding donkey at all the pesky flies!
Definitely not flattering, but truthful, and this was a week ago..the grass is running out

I've put her back onto more or less Winter feed regime...it's all I can do to try and keep her weight on. I've been trying a new fly repellent idea from Your Horse magazine..a tablespoon of Kerosene in a gallon of water. I think the flies are very determined! Has made her mane and tail nice though! After a chat at the yard with Sandra, it seems the Chemist in Asda still sells Citronella oil. So we're now back on the old fly formula! Only wish the rain would stop rinsing my efforts away.
Allowable snacks on the hoof..look at all that grass! But I say when and for how long..I'm boss hoss!

I've ridden her for an hour or so each of the last four days. Just out and about locally. She's been good. She walked at a pace today..always difficult for her..she prefers to trot slowly! I've asked for more canter and she's willing and even picked up on the right-hand lead when asked a couple of times. Perhaps because I've given her plenty of grass snack breaks, she's also quite happy to be told where to go, even if it did mean not going home quite when she thought she should. Has this "witch" finally realised I'm in charge. I never thought she was naughty or evil. I've taken all opinions and suggestions on board and mixed them with my own and somewhere a couple of years down the road, think I've got a good idea of what this horse is all about!!
I keep a deep a seat and low heel while she's eating out. She's away from home on her own, so on her toes! I have to let her have all the rein to eat and she does spook!

We're on another tub of the NAF Shake Relief and so far no result! I'm starting to wonder whether the fact that Heather is living out and constantly in bright light and exposed to flies, is making her symptoms worse? So even though I'm cursing all this rain, perhaps it's a blessing for her! Seeing that her leg injury seems settled, perhaps it's time to start riding in the indoor school again. She hardly head shakes in there. All for next week, I'm back in work tomorrow, but at least I know tonight she's on good grass, after the breakout, they were moved to a temporary enclosure at the back..fewer flies too!

Horse Talk

2008-07-10T15:58:00.007+01:00

Back in early June, when I last updated on Heather horse's progress, I think I was hoping for more rain! The ground was like concrete. Completely the opposite now. Barely a day goes by without rain of some sort. Heavy, sometimes thundery downpours seem to have become the norm for the afternoons. So now the ground is soaked, huge puddles everywhere and almost as much mud as in the Winter! Whilst the temperature is pleasant enough and the long hours of daylight are useful, I can't help have a nagging feeling that we're in for another disappointing Summer.
Heather happy in the "neutral zone" of the "graveyard" field looking forward to her tea!

The school horses and ponies, including Heather of course, are now in what is in effect the Summer paddock...known as the "graveyard" as it adjoins St Martins churchyard. This is a lovely field, with shelter in the form of trees and hedges, good drainage and there was good grass! With up to twenty hungry horses at a go, the grass can't grow quick enough! If I'm not riding, I bring her into a small sectioned off safe zone by the gate to feed and fuss her. She's always accompanied by Ouzo, and jealously watched by the others.
Looking impressive and ready to go out and about on a lovely sunny day

Until recently I've been making my own fly spray, to help keep her more comfortable. When the weather was drier there seemed to be far more flies. I'm using a recipe I found on-line somewhere and adjusted to suit. Main active ingredient being Citronella oil. I was buying the oil from Boots for about £3-50 for 100ml. For some reason or other, they've stopped selling it...something to do with it being an unlicensed product. My "fly spray" mix, including black tea and cider vinegar was applied using a household bottle spray...same one lasted all last Summer. I found an article in a horse magazine saying that kerosene heavily diluted in water is a good fly deterrent..so I thought I'd try substituting the oil for kerosene. Seemed to work quite well, only trouble being the seals in the squirty bottle dissolved and the bottle started to disintegrate. I also have to make sure no one smokes around her!! Anyway the rain has made it all seem pointless. No sooner have I sprayed her than a shower comes and washes it all off.
Trotting across the "canter field" which has recently become too boggy to walk in!

We've been out and about too. Last week when she needed her feet trimming and shoes, I realised I've been riding her for six weeks. In all this time she as only stumbled on her injured leg twice. Admittedly there have been days when I wasn't at all sure if she was sound, but we've carried on and things have been fine. It's hard to tell because she's never been right in the first place and on bad ground, with a slippery layer of mud it's even harder to tell. Well the long and short of it is she's putting on weight with the good grass and needs exercise! To her credit, she's done everything I've asked, though she's become more spooky and shies more than she used to. This really adds to the enjoyment of riding her, laughing at what makes her scared and giving her the confidence to push on. She is brave, things do worry her, but she will always go in the end. On more than one occasion we've been chased by loose dogs. Now I've never been keen on dogs and for once, it's probably me who is more afraid. Whenever a dog chases, I stop Heather. She stands like a statue, despite leaping, barking dogs. The owners never seem to get the idea into their heads, that Heather isn't in the slightest bothered..but one day she might just kick one of these silly pooches.This only goes to strengthen my theory that she's an old hunting horse. The other day one woman was so engrossed in her mobile phone conversation, that she hadn't realised her dog had been hassling us for quite a while. I lost patience and turned Heather to face the dog. We advanced and soon turned tails.ha! Poor dog ran very fast away from us, only stopping well past its yabbering owner, still unaware!
On the way home from Banky Meadow.

One thing that has not changed is her head shaking. I have previously written on here about her condition. When worked for five minutes or so in trot, she begins to snort, soon followed by anything from thrashing her head, snatching at the reins, putting her nose to the ground sometimes accompanied by a whole body twitch as though she's wired to the mains! I've had some success riding her in a full or half nose net. Though best of all last year we took part in a trail by Liverpool University Vet School, on behalf of a supplement manufacturer. The magic powder which worked so well in alleviating her symptoms is now on the market. Made by NAF and called Shake Relief, it sells at £38 per Kilo, which would last less than a month. Not cheap. I have bought some and she's been given it for a week now, with little effect. However it took three weeks in her trail last year for the powder to work. I'm hoping to be able to manage her on a smaller dose once it has become established, in conjunction with the net.
There's always something...this time it was a stick...but it could have been a snake..it could!

Being round horses can be hard work in itself. There seems a timeless continuity that levels out other things in life. Even after a hard days work at the airport and other pressures, I still find myself lingering at the yard, it seems right.

Helvellyn and beyond..

2008-07-02T20:47:00.008+01:00

Another trip to the Lakes! Against my own better judgement, though with a reasonable forecast and so a good opportunity, I was driving up the M6 on a Saturday morning! With one thing and another the journey to Glenridding at the far South end of Ullswater, took slightly longer than expected. Strangely enough I didn't really seem to care. The pleasant drive along the lakeside had softened my outlook and relaxed me to the point of possibly not bothering putting on my boots. Rather just sitting on the beach and watching the steamers come and go. I'd parked the car by the Glenridding waterfront by the pier and was the only car parked at 8am. The crew of the lake steamers were just stoking up the boiler on one of the boats. For a few moments it did drizzle, but again this was not important and instead my attention was taken by the Union Jack flag on the stern of one boat as it just fluttered momentarily.
Striding Edge on the left of Helvellyn, with Catstye Cam on the right.

I managed to get myself together and soon faced what for me is always the mos difficult part of a day in the hills.. Finding the way out of the village! I've never been here before and tried my best to navigate using the map, through farm yards and cut-throughs. Who was I trying to kid! There is only one place signposted out of Glenridding...Helvellyn! So I trusted myself to follow along and let things unfold.
Cotton Grass made this bog quite an attractive place to be...

Now I was beginning to rue my slow start. The weather was nice enough and the first climb steep, so I was soon down to tee-shirt and shorts. However my original idea of starting the day with a traverse of the infamous Striding Edge was starting to look like a pilgrims route to the promised land! So many people on sponsored walks all wearing the same shirt..I felt out of place and not in this club. So I had a quick re-think.
View looking back down Swirral Edge to Catstye Cam, hiding Ullswater beyond.

I was looking South West towards Helvellyn, Striding Edge inviting me to the left, Red Tarn straight infront, but to the right Catstye Cam. A look across further up to the adjoining Swirral Edge clinched the decision..hardly a person to be seen. So I gave up some of my hard earned climb, and ran down Birkhouse Moor. I stopped in a beautiful bog full of Cotton Grass and crossed Red Tarn Beck at the foot of a lovely waterfall probably visited infrequently. By the time I was on Catstye Cam's top, the North wind was making itself felt and I could see a squall heading my way. The views were fantastic and I lingered long enough to take in "my mountains", as there was no one else around. This all changed very quickly as the passing shower contained hail...and it hurt. So I was soon cursing my luck whilst fighting a flapping coat and trying to find my hat and gloves!! Summer in the English Lakes.
Helvellyn viewed across Grisedale from St Sunday Cragg.

I found Swirral Edge fun. Lots of impressive looking rock with some exposure but with so many options that even the most wary would find a route to suit. I was a little disappointed to reach the top so quickly, I was just getting going! There were plenty of folk already vying for a place on the sheltered side of the grand summit shelter...so I did the essential of re-folding my map in the lee, for my onward progress!
End of a long walk, now descending from St Sunday Cragg with Patterdale, Glenridding and Ullsawater welcoming

This was really just the start of a big day ahead. I turned South now and shed some clothing! The sky was brighter again and I could see all of my intended route and beyond. Soon passed the peak of Nethermost Pike and quickly skirted the summit path to another of those brilliantly named hills, Dollywagon Pike. Followed by a knee trembling descent on zig zags to Grisedale Tarn, where I daren't stop for fear of not being able to get going again! I now scaled Fairfield on what sometimes felt like vertical scree. I'd been on top of Fairfield on my last Lakes visit, so this route was a sort of continuation. The descent to Cofa Pike was steep and tricky with stones rolling out under my feet like marbles. From here I could look down the U shaped valley of Grisedale with it's green lower pastures leading back to Ullswater. Now only the steady ascent of the beautifully named St Sunday Cragg stood before me and a chance to take my boots off and dip my feet into the cool waters of the lake!
Relaxed lake-side, mid afternoon and a deserted beach in full sun..too good to resist!

Mid-afternoon Saturday in Glenridding was jammed! The car park I'd left a few hours ago was full to bursting! Despite this, there was hardly anyone down by the lake side. So I sat watching sailing craft float by and took my shirt off to let the sun massage my tired shoulders.Another great day...

Camping Chaos..!!

2008-06-24T15:47:00.010+01:00

I'd been looking forward to this little trip for so long. I really like outdoor life and enjoy camping for its simplicity and freedom. Last Summer was so wet and grey that it was easy to make excuses not to go, consequently to my regret I didn't spend one..not one, night out under canvas...shameful. So I'd set a date in my diary with friends Giles and Jos, which happened to coincide with the Summer Solstice, and hopefully pleasant conditions....
Besides the sea and sand, there are millions of pebbles on the beach at Porth Neigwl, delightful!

There always seems so much to take. Even though we were camping together, we each took our own tent. After all it is nice to be with friends...but not to wake up face to face! But we did share the cramped car and stopped at Caernarfon to do a communal shop..which provoked the inevitable first bits of friction. Tough decisions over the decadence of bottled water against tap..organic garlic...free range eggs! Thankfully compromises were forthcoming and we now drove the last part of the journey with improving weather and anticipation. We arrived to find plenty of space to pitch and no sign of the hoards of hippies I'd half expected. This was in no small doubt, due to the weather forecast, which so far was proving accurate. The wind was stiff from the South West and there was very low cloud bringing a steady but light drizzly rain. Not to be outdone, we went for a long walk on the beach, where the wind was lighter and there was magically no rain!
Walking back along the beach to the camp site, anything above a hundred feet is in the cloud..

We got lucky in the evening and cooked a great big pan of chilli over the BBQ coals. Then the rain returned.and as though a punishment, just as I made a comment "it seems to be getting brighter" the tent got lashed by the heaviest downpour yet! So we drank beer and told tall tales of savage times when camping..little did we know! By about 3am I was outside my tent holding onto it for dear life! I realised I couldn't do this indefinitely and how stupid I must look, so a quick fix was to pull the car up close. I later re-pitched. A tent further up the site was shredded, its occupants dumped the remains in a bin and went home. Giles's old tent took a hammering, broken zip and split side. Jos lost thee guy lines. There was no let up in the blowing gale all morning and to his credit Jos made the best full BBQ breakfast and all without burning down the hedge where there was the only shelter from the wind. At least the rain had stopped.
Gale force winds whip up the sea and give a hint to the Porth Neigwl's English name, Hell's Mouth

There were some mumblings of going home and signs of mutiny, so I quickly put in place a plan of distraction. We lashed down as best we could and left our tents to their fate. Drove firstly to Aberdaron right at the end of the peninsula. Here we had late morning coffee at Y Gegin Fawr, a delightful cafe with quite a history, accompanied by a blackbird fledgling and dusted regularly by sand blown from the beach. Further up the Llyn is Porthdinllaen. Arguably this lovely little hamlet overlooking the beach at Morfa Nefyn is famous for its pub, Ty Coch, and a fine place it is too. My problem now was getting my non driving duo back to the car!! Anyway the best thing was that the wind was easing and the sun was well and truly out.
Crashing waves at the head of Porth Dinllaen, halted in their march on Yr Eifl on the horizon.

At last our perseverance was rewarded by the kind of evening that can only be truly appreciated by someone who has been to this place. Campsite now almost empty we sorted out the necessaries for tonight's BBQ. Now we could sit at the edge overlooking the bay enjoying the late sun, watching Buzzards hunting over the cliffs. Rooks returning from a day in the fields. Gannets still dive bombing helpless fish further away and a Heron watching carefully over a rockpool left by the ebb. As we tended our food a grey cloud and unmistakable curtain of rain swept across the bay. We'd had our bad weather, now instead this shower tracked south and entertained us with a huge rainbow that spanned the horizon for what seemed like hours. As we finished eating later, we watched and marvelled at Venus rising in the east above Cilan. Though I was still awake, I think I'd entered the calmness that I know can be found here. Perhaps the storm was a good way of finding it. I fell asleep to the gentle sound of small waves tripping up on the beach below.
Barely a few hours previously the sea was white..now a sunbathers delight!

There's nothing that compares with a great nights sleep in a tent. I tried my best to savour the moment and linger, but the early sun was roasting me out of bed. Not that I had anything to complain about..this was perfect. Later Giles walked with me along the subsided old road, where nature has taken hold very quickly. From the cracks in the fenced off section Teasel grows and stands proud above the broken tarmac. There's an old stone cottage surrounded by unkempt garden of honeysuckle and fuschia which adds to the spellbinding charm of this whole wild place. We walked down the steep foxglove and bracken lined slopes to look out over Porth Neigwl from what we call Winkle Pond. A small inlet where a couple of crab and lobster boats fish from. We just found a cool rounded boulder each to sit on and just drink in the the whole scene. Totally emmeresed, but not for long enough,
Tranquillity found at "Winkle Pond"

Before long we were packing up and driving back to Manchester, the only good thing was that the well earned sun came along too!
Undamaged by the gale force winds, Common Spotted Orchids add beauty to this special place.

Puffin Island Wonders

2008-06-15T09:21:00.010+01:00

A fair forecast, a chance to catch up with old friends and meet new, tempted me out onto the sea for the first time in quite a while. The plan, fairly straightforward, was to launch at Llanfairfechan and paddle around Puffin Island, some five miles distant across the Eastern end of the Menai Straits.
Mary knows the way ahead! Early into the crossing to Puffin, Great Orme in the distance.

Llanfairfechan is a pleasant enough old sea-side town. Now easily overlooked and by-passed like its near neighbour, Penmaenmawr, by the very road which made them popular in Victorian times. The A55 used to bring tourists and trade to these small coastal towns. So with the advent of the Expressway, time has stood still and if anything there was an air of dereliction about the area not long ago. The new road takes the rushing crowds further on to Anglesey and the Llyn, to sunnier sandier beaches. While quietly and discretely these forgotten towns have been slowly recovering and re-emerging in their own right.
Bumpy water along the cliffs on the North side of Puffin Island, looking West towards Pen Trwyn

The small slipway and shingle beach is a pleasant and quiet enough place to launch. From here we set off, a little later than expected, but still in good time to make the crossing to arrive at Puffin by local High Water at half past one. The Met Office forecast for the day gave a force 3-4 NW-N wind, which proved accurate. One bonus being more sunshine than predicted!
Mary..It's behind you!! The friendly seal emerges at the back of her boat

I was pleasantly surprised how quickly I found my "sea-legs" and it was as though I'd been paddling only yesterday. Though the breeze was not strong, it was Northerly. The sea here is shallow, with mud and sandbanks exposed at low water. So in only moderate winds, the sea can become quite unpleasant. In fact the crossing seemed to pass quickly, taken up with chatting and catching up. There is always a point on any crossing though..when it seems no progress is being made. Similar to walking in the hills and the never reached summit that always seems so far off.
Very inquisitive young seal comes out of the water to see what Maurice has for lunch!

We rounded the Eastern end of Puffin, where there is a Seal colony. Today however there were only two or three to be seen. It was just about High Water, so most were probably out hunting. As expected, the water became quite bumpy with the cliffs exposed to the North. I'd been slightly nervous about this, but again should have had more faith in my ability. I'm sure that riding a horse and kayaking have transferable qualities. Core body strength, whilst remaining relaxed and balanced.
A very cute pose! Do I know you??

The island is home to many breeding seabirds. The higher cliffs and surrounding water and sky were full of life. Razorbills and Guillemots everywhere..some so full of fish they could hardly fly! Of all the gulls, Kittiwakes are my favourite, with better manners and a more refined attitude all round compared with some of their squabbling relatives. And yes...we saw Puffins! Only recently has the island been rid of rats. So it's a delight to see these comical birds making a return.
A quick play in the building tide race in Puffin Sound, before heading home

The tide was already running in Puffin Sound. But a quick cut through soon had us land discretely on the tiny beach of white shingle. Here we had quite a surprise with a young Grey Seal playing fearlessly amongst our boats. Seals are very inquisitive, and very often sneak up behind our boats, they're also wary and the first eye to eye contact, usually has them dive below, with a big blow! so we were even more surprised when our seal came out of the water and sat on the each with us! Is this possibly an ex rescue animal? Nonetheless a charming encounter which topped an amazing day so far.
A dazzling day finished on a very bright note....Llanfairfechan not too distant now

I'm sure I was not alone in wanting to stay longer, but the now ebbing tide would soon empty the water from this estuary area. It had become quite hazy and the coast where we were headed now looked quite indistinct. I paddled with Mary. Whilst Maurice and Julian drifted off somewhat as Juilan tried out his sail rig..to some good effect. We went through an area of what I can only describe as gloopy water, where we were bumped around a bit and though we were paddling, didn't seem to be actually going anywhere. The sea became quieter...the sun came back and suddenly we could see Llanfairfechan in the distance! All of a sudden a huge flock of birds rose from the water infront...hundreds of Common Scoter, they'd been feeding on the muscle beds submerged. Further in the distance we could see the unmistakable black wingtips and bright white of Gannets searching for fish and Sandwich Terns sporadically dropping in emerging with beak-fulls of sand eels! I can only say wow...what an amazing day. We landed and packed up in the sun...this is how it should be...

Lovely Day on Tryfan

2008-06-08T07:55:00.009+01:00

Tryfan is a very impressive mounain. Part of the Glyder range in Snowdonia, defiantly standing alone, imposingly, above Llyn Ogwen. Not as tall as its near neighbours to the South, what it lacks in height, it more than makes up for in attitude. Across the valley, the attractively named Pen Yr Ole Wen tries hard to match with it's steep South West attack. Not forgetting the two huge brooding brothers Dafydd and Llewelyn, whose dominant mass guards the Irish Sea to the North and give the Carneddau their rugged reputation.
Typical rock architecture of Tryfan's East Face looking from the Heather Terrace

Tryfan is for mountaineers. There are very few grassy bits to be seen. Any of these are usually boggy. It is the kind of place that isn't for stopping and reflection. This is an action packed novel to be read from cover to cover without interuption!
Along the Heather Terrace path looking South towards Bristly Ridge and Glyder Fach

The most popular way to climb Tryfan is to scramble directly up the North Ridge. This is a classic route, very exciting with some absorbing puzzles to overcome. Higher up the ridge becomes more exposed and constrained. So on busy days impatient traffic jams form, which detracts from my own mountain pleasure. There will be plenty of time to sit in real traffic jams, possibly on the drive home on the A55!
Mountain mayhem...at just over 3000 feet, the jamboree that is the summit on a fine day!

So on a lovely sunny Saturday, in half term holidays a more subtle, but equally satisfying route to Tryfan's strange summit of Adam and Eve, was called for. Liz and I left the car parked down by the lake shore. The climbing starts quickly anywhere on this terrain. We were soon gaining height looking for the start of the Heather Terrace path. This route ignores the obvious North Ridge and skirts a natural shelf along the East face of the mountain. There are many graded rock climbs along this side and the path once located leads like a guide book to challenging cliffs and dark damp gullies. I'm always in awe of climbers! There were plenty already clanking and jingling their way up. In the meantime we took in the sun and the views. Yes the sun was very strong and I'd forgotten suncream!!
Looking Northwest from the summit. Pen Yr Ole Wen to the right, the Glyders left along the Ogwen valley to the sea and Anglesey distant in the haze.

The Heather Terrace is a beautiful place and it is obvious how it got it's name. Gradually climbing, it finishes at the pass which separates the Far South Peak from the rest of the mountain. A short section of scree to negotiate had us warming up to a sweat. It's on these occasions that with your face looking down, working hard, that little bits of the mountain come in view. In amongst all the loose rock were quite a variety of well hidden flowers. It is to my annoyance that I can't remember what they look like. Nor did I take photos! Which of course means I will have to return. Hope the goats who live up here don't find them ..
Crazy blocks of rock seem to cling recklasly to the impossibly steep slopes, to the lake below

We were now on the push to the top, scaling the South ridge, against the tide of people descending this way. Before long we found the summit. I'm lucky being able to climb here out of season and mid week. Today it was pretty busy! Bunch of macho lads playing on Adam and Eve....young family with grumbling kids...old folk with dogs, being dive bombed by seagulls! Which also goes to show how on a good day just about everyone can get here, and why not! The views are amazing....
Llyn Bochlwyd viewed from Tryfan, showing the reason for its nickname Lake Australia!

We took a very steep descent path off the West of the mountain. Which follows one of the deep gullies, which then runs out by the side of the Milestone Buttress and down to the lake. The chaos of van sized rock slabs strewn around is everywhere and so characteristic f this range..the Glyderau. I think a lose translation of the Welsh word means litter. It is as though a giant threw his toys out of his pram once...like a child dumping a load of lego bricks.
Paraglider above Llyn Ogwen.

Whilst descending this path, looking down towards Llyn Bochlwyd..or Lake Australia, from its shape! We watched someone setting up and launching a paraglider. Gradually as we descended the steep rocky path. This paraglider swooped and rose in thermals. What a fascinating sight. I know that Liz had the idea that next time a glide from the top would save all the aches and pains of the rocky path down. True...but this thing kept going up! So ended a very, very satisfying day

Do Horses like Cricket...or just eyeing up the grass?

2008-06-02T19:40:00.008+01:00

Heather and Ouzo mirrored...possibly posing, as a flock of birds fly from the grass!

This time of year is fantastic..though very tiring! I seem to wake early with the birds singing and the early daylight. If the sun is shining and there's a blue sky, there is no way I can stay in bed. The weather has been generally fair and warm. At last...at long last, we got some rain. So I had a good chance to take Heather out and not feel guilty about how hard the ground was.
Heather down the lane, making sure everything is in order, blowing at anything out of place.!!

During the week I picked up a horsey magazine in W H Smiths. By chance there was an article on having horse leg injuries properly scanned for full diagnosis of injuries. A tale of warning, told of a poor horse with a missed stress fracture! I don't know what Heather's injury was. But she's had the best of my limited but enthusiastic attention and a good dollop of Mother Nature's best. So cautiously, I'm starting to take her out again.
Fallen tree along Kickety Brook halted our progress...then the flies started to bite!
Fetching her in from the field has become quite varied. I've learned that when she's in season, she will totally ignore my call and probably show displeasure at my approach...to which she gets a smack with a rope. On other occasions, I've caught her napping..literally and made her jump out of her skin by sneaking up on her...dozing! Once or twice I've called her, like last night, she's looked straight up and whinnied across the field. Started trotting towards me..then as Ouzo has joined in, picked up the pace. Then inevitably all the others see them running and, as horses do...run too!
Not much short of a stampede develops, into a big ruck at the gate. With one lucky fat mare being pulled from the chaos!
I'm so glad there was a river between us and the cricket ground..she looked very interested in the wicket!

I've taken her out a couple more times. once just after a big rain shower. I'd already decided that apart from exercise, a crossing of the "green bridge" was needed. This horse menacing structure has long been feared by many a brave steed! Not only does it clank frighteningly under shod hoof, it has a roaring weir in the crocodile, (logs) infested water below. Not to mention the road bridge carrying 50 mile per hour juggernauts just to the side!! So I wasn't surprised to find two riders attempting to cross from the other side...unsuccessfully! Heather waited patiently. Eventually the others gave up and it was our turn. With a little encouragement we were on. Oh but what a fuss. In the rain covered bridge, she could see her own reflection! Obviously she hasn't realised how scary she looks and shied from her own image!! She also poo-ed herself...at which she spooked on the return. After all, that wasn't there before!!!
The proverbial hungry horse with her head firmly wedged in yet another bucket of feed...

On another occasion I took her out on a very pleasant morning. I intended taking her down to Banky Meadow. We found the way down the lane blocked by vehicles dredging the ditches. Without wanting trouble, I turned round...now in the direction of home. Then asked her to go onwards over the green bridge. In the past this would have caused a big fight...but she went. Onwards down Kickety Brook, for the first time in months. To find our way blocked by a fallen tree. Which Heather was disgusted at and snorted so! Not to mention all the flies that seemed all to have been starved of horse flesh and now had a victim!! So we beat another retreat..in the direction of home. But I tested her again...turning left along the river...not right. She wasn't happy but I easily pushed her on with only leg..no smacking needed. We even stopped to watch some cricket across the river, before turning for home. Now that's something not many people have done! Watch cricket on horseback!!! Felt terribly "British" don't you know! Think it was all lost on her, the grass beneath her feet was far longer and tastier than the trimmed stuff on the wicket. She must think I'm strange!
Heather looks on jealously, at Ouzo's four legs in a line balancing act! Cheeky pony..

Her injured leg is standing up to this. No sign of stumbling or obvious lameness. On her weak right rein she is still stiff and not straight...possibly added to by the injury. However tonight I rode. On the way home I let her extend on this rein. She straightened...her action much better. She's also looking very good...in nice condition with a shiny coat. I'm so pleased!

Cuckoos and Skylarks

2008-05-27T20:11:00.015+01:00

My recent paddle on Windermere, reminded me of some of the beautiful and impressive landscape this area has to offer. Sometimes it's all to easy to overlook places close to home. However a quick visit to any Lakeland town or village, is proof enough that this is a Worldwide tourist destination. There are so many jaw dropping, awe inspiring landscapes globally, yet the English Lakes still captivates so many, with coach loads of visitors from far and wide.

Approaching Waterhead from Windermere. Fairfield Horseshoe in the background

Today I was looking to re-acquaint myself with some classic Lakeland high fells. I parked up at Waterhead, by Ambleside, the destination of my recent paddle! On yet another lovely, sunny but hazy morning. My goal being to climb and walk the Fairfield Horseshoe, which gives the Victorian town of Ambleside its scenic backdrop.The waterfalls at Rydal Hall, which because I've previously walked in the opposite direction, have never seen!

Ambleside sits peacefully at the Northern end of Lake Windermere. From luxury hotels to campsite, four star food to fish chips, it's all to be found here. Not to mention enough outdoor shops to keep the small army of happy trippers kitted out in waterproofs and Wainwrights. Cleverly I thought, I'd timed my walk through town before the shops opened. Though with the smell of bacon in the air, I couldn't help notice...well drool at fine, full fry up breakfasts being served up in B n B's, along the way.

My route took me through the parklandof the Rydal Estate, with its fine hall. A cheeky Chaffinch tempted me to take his photo...waiting just long enough on each fence post, before flying, mockingly to the next! There are formal gardens here which I might someday find time to discover. But on this occasion a visit to the waterfalls below the tea-rooms was all I had time for. Though with the mossy coolness and magical captivation that waterfalls seem to hold, I can easily see why a Summer house was built here, overlooking.

Looking down onto Rydal Water from Nab Scar, Grasmere on the right and the Langdales distant.

Nab Scar is a steep way up! Of course the rewards of quick climbs are usually good views. So every now and then I stopped to catch my breath, keep the sweat out of my eyes, turn round and look down on Rydal Water. With more of neighbouring Grasmere visible with every inch gained. All the time to the hypnotic call of cuckoos, rising from somewhere, down in the woods below.
Great Rigg on the left, followed by Fairfield, Hart Crag and Dove Crag at the head of Rydal Fell

The path from now is clear and though still climbing, far less intense. This is the first time I've walked in this direction. Indeed most people go anti-clockwise. Which is exactly why I've done the opposite. So far I have not seen another person! The views are becoming more open and extensive. However the cloud also seems to becoming darker towards Fairfield, the highest point of the day. So I keep a good pace.
The attractively named St Sunday Crag viewed from Fairfield tempts me North and to Patterdale and Ullswater...but not today

At Great Rigg I stopped a while. I let myself fall onto deep, dry, springy grass. Normally this would be wet and soggy, but in this current dry spell, felt more like a big spongy doormat. The views into Rydal Fell and the head of the valley are spectacular from here. Shared only with Skylarks. Probably my best moment of a great day...just lying in the grass, watching and listening to them, with all of Lakeland as a backdrop.
Looking down Rydal Fell to Windermere, with Coniston visible far right above Heron Pike

I didn't hang around on Fairfield. The wind was cold up there and it felt grey and unwelcoming. The summit is indistinct, with a typical wind shelter and cairn, which in poor visibility can be hard to locate.. Today, though, the views were far reaching and scenic, but I had the urge to keep moving, downhill from now on....mostly!
From Scandale Pass looking North onto Brothers Water and Hartsop, Martindale beyond.

One thing I do enjoy about being in the hills alone, is descending quickly. I realise this is not to everyones taste or capability, so in company I take this into account. But why not exploit gravity? I also get quite a buzz from running, just in control and balance, down steep slopes. Just like galloping a horse, or running a white water rapid, there's an edge! That just survived feeling..
Directly in line from Red Screes, Middle Dodd overlooks Brothers Water, with Place Fell looking on just breaking the horizon

So in a very short time, the rocky Dove and Hart Craggs were passed. A quick glance at my watch and the map. At this rate I'd be back in Ambleside for lunch! So a detour..an addition, took me down a boggy slope, following a National Trust boundary. At Scandale Pass I met my first other people....
Almost back in Ambleside, Wansfell Pike has lush green pasture to its lower slopes

Here again I had a choice of routes. I love the Lakes for this. There are so many options, which makes this kind of roaming the fells so enticing. I'd seen Red Screes on the map and in the distance all day. Now I was looking up its slopes. Before long I was halfway up looking down onto Brothers Water and another idyllic vista, begging exploration...for another day though. I understand that the campsite and nearby pub are excellent.
I cannot recommend highly enough, the delicious ice-cream and coffee from the lakeside cafe at Waterhead.

From the top of Red Screes my new views were down into the infamous Kirkstone Pass and across towards the Kentmere Fells. I ran most of the long sloping descent into Ambleside, slowly changing from high fell to walled fields of dangerously horned looking cattle! Through the throngs of happy shoppers, to a seat at the lakeside cafe. So I earned my delicious whippy icecream. It was so pleasant sat in the warm sun that I stayed for a coffee...and admired the pretty waitress. Can't wait to return!

Fantastic News...!!

2008-05-20T22:41:00.006+01:00

Today I rode Heather!!!! Much sooner than I thought possible. Everything seemed right and buoyed by last weeks progress...thought, let's do it...let's go! First of my days off, sunny, breezy and cool. Just perfect. I dragged her saddle out with the rest of her tack. A little ashamed, I've never got round to cleaning it in all the time she's been out of action. I suppose I've been in denial and not wanted to wash away the memories of that last ride...so long ago.
Heather tacked up for the first time in months

Brought her in as on so many other mornings, but today was different. Tacked up without a fuss...except I forgot her girth!! Quick trip to the car and tried fastening it up. To my great surprise, she's actually put on weight! Few adjustments here and there and yes, we're one hole down on her "normal". So again my hard work and effort through the cold grass-less times have payed off.
Down the lane....will you look at all that mane!!

There were a few people around...and I told a couple. But really as I got on at the mounting block, it all felt slightly flat. Where were the fanfares and flags....speeches and announcements. Instead we slipped our moorings and went up the drive off the yard as though it was any horse on any day! But this was very special. I'm sure she knew.
Showing no ill effects, but ready to go back to the field and friends....

Off down the lane. She was striding purposely and completely sound. No limp...no stumbling. She was quite spooky and on her toes. In reality she didn't put a foot wrong. We got to the river all too quick. This is where I'd intended turning round for home. I tried to let her eat grass, but she wanted to keep moving!!! So we walked down towards Banky Meadow. Here we turned at the start of the "sandy track". I hope she keeps this forward going walk...what a delight! We trotted for a hundred yards on the way home, both diagonals. I'm still not absolutely sure, but that's good. She is not far off totally sound, and probably just a little stiff. I can't believe I just rode the three legged horse of a few months ago.
I went shopping for treats! So whisky for the horse...fruit and veg for me, ...right??!

Ouzo was calling and happy to see H return to the field. I went shopping and bought Heather more delicious treats and a bottle of whisky for myself. Rewards all round for a perfect first ride.

Very Good News...!!

2008-05-19T00:50:00.006+01:00

During the week, the farrier visited and Heather had a trim and new shoes. I took the opportunity to trot her up for his opinion on her progress. It's difficult for me to tell how she's going when I'm close up to her. So it was good to get his view, which I value. The verdict....she's level. This is very good news. When she was initially injured I wasn't the only one who feared the very worst. So this is a major milestone.
Ouzo standing infront of Heather

More good news. Her feet are in the best condition yet. Testimony to my religious care and attention and Wayne's judgement and skill, in trimming and shoeing. He has suggested I should think about getting her back in work. Tempered slightly with the concern that the bony growth, now quite evident at the point of injury on her leg, may interfere with her movement.
The grass next door looks greener....

So my original estimate of June looks to have been about right. Whilst I feel good about having got so far. I dare not celebrate anything yet, in as much as I don't want to feel disappointment if things don't go well. It's been a long wait and I'm not going to rush in now. Particularly as the ground everywhere is set like concrete. The weather has been fantastic recently....just when I could do with some rain!! All through the Spring it rained and rained...now it's dry, oh apart from one wet night.
But not as good as a bucket of breakfast!

Heather herself has been a little devil in the field. Though the grass in her field is very short, poor and over-grazed...it obviously tastes very good! She no longer comes to a call and during the last week has been in season. I have been threatened by her, as have most of her field mates! I don't know what goes on when I'm not around, but she seems to be picking up lots of cuts, bruises and bites! She gives in to me though. I know her well enough to realise that her threats are just that, if returned equally...she's just a big bully.

Mountain high!

2008-05-15T21:57:00.010+01:00

I'd finished another hard shift at work. Lots of things pointed to having the first of my four days off, just relaxing. So why was I rustling things together, late at night and setting my alarm clock for...well too early! Told myself it could all just as easily get packed away...I didn't realy have to go. Indeed I rolled over after the alarm went off. It's so much harder doing things by yourself....no one to tut tut if you're late. What made it more difficult was I hadn't even decided where I was going to go...well somewhere in the Lakes or Snowdonia. Then it dawned on me, after a short doze....I was totally free to go and do whatever I liked....now if that isn't worth doing...then what is!
Having that first lovely hot coffee helped me decide my destination. The weather has been so good for more than a week, with wall to wall sunshine forecast yet again. So it had to be somewhere spectacular...where I wouldn't go alone in marginal conditions. Crib Goch, in Snowdonia. A high knife-edge ridge walk with un-rivaled views coupled with knee trembling exposure...oh yes, a good choice.
To spice things up further I also chose to climb from the North ridge approach. One major advantage to this route is being able to park the car free and almost anytime in the village of Nant Peris. Most people scrap for a slot in the Pen Y Pass carpark and pay handsomely.
After a short walk out of the village, soon found myself at the small bridge over the Afon Nant Peris at Blaen Y Nant. Here the Afon Gennog joins from the South, draining the very slopes I was about to climb. Conveniently a wall follows the river on the East side. So following up was easy despite there being no path to speak of. Behind me now rising were the slopes of the Glyderau. I stopped and watched climbers on the lower cliffs roped impossibly, yet progressing steadily up the shear rock.
Infront the slope climbed steadily for me. I was looking for a waterfall to the right of a huge rock bluff, with the grand sounding name of Dinas Mot. Once reached I took a break and looked round admiring the view and feeling good with my effort so far. I remember mentally noting that this would be a tricky place to be in poor visibility! But not today so onwards...
Glaslyn and Snowdon from Garnedd Ugain
Soon I was on the characteristic red coloured scree of the North ridge, or in fact the whole mountain. The name Crib Goch, translates to Red Ridge. I could already make out the ant like silhouettes of walkers on the ridge proper. I also felt pleased in the fact that I was the only person approaching from this direction....where the rock is quite loose!
Jagged rock of Garnedd Ugain
The ridge itself has to be seen to be appreciated. On my first ever visit I was awe struck and quite intimidated. I crawled along, hardly daring to acknowledge the sheer drop, particularly on the left. This is like walking on the ridge of a house roof. By my third visit....despite my fear of the first time...I went up alone. Though this is no picnic walk....Crib Goch is within the reach of many people. A day never to be forgotten.
Looking back at Crib Goch
Having said all that, it's a bloody hard slog too. Without streams or lakes, it's dry as well!! So after negotiating the pinnacles, I sat in the peace of Bwlch Coch sipping the last of my water!! Soon negotiated more rock achitecture and avoided the trig point of Garnedd Ugain. Instead I dropped to a rarely visited spur, Gyrn Las, looking over the whole of my journey so far, and down to my descent route.
Unique view from Gyrn Las
I briefly joined the Llanberis path from Snowdon's summit. At Clogwyn station, I more or less dropped straight down without trace...down steeply and anonymously...descending steep scree and grass slopes. Right down into the valley. Found a lovely little stream and waterfalls, which must pound in spate...but today were quite magical and put a lovely freshness to a truely magnificent day!

A Lakeland cruise...

2008-05-13T20:06:00.011+01:00

Last year was unusual for me. I can only remember visiting the Lakes once, on a very, very wet day by Derwent Water. I also only paddled on a handful of occasions. So with the recent improvement in the weather, I decided to put both things right in one hit!
I faffed about with gear the night before. So on a gorgeous bright morning soon had things loaded and smoothly heading North. In fact it took only an hour and twenty to get to the South end of Windermere...to Fell Foot Country Park, whose gates were locked! Passing locals assured me the gates should be unlocked very soon. So not wanting to waste time, what better thing to do than have a second breakfast! I even managed to get changed just as the gates swung open...
Without much trouble I soon had the boat down by the water, on a little bit of gravel shore in between two slips. Now suddenly I felt the warmth of the sun, reflected, by the gentle lap of the clear water. Looked like I had the lake to myself...unbelievable...my own lake.
Mind you I'd set myself quite a task. I intended paddling from end to end, return. A distance of twenty miles, which I'd set six hours aside for. I was very aware not to go too fast, but the boat was gliding effortlessly on smooth water and the World seemed right and I felt great. The scenery is beatiful and becomes more dramatic the further North up the Lake.
I'd been passed by "The Swan" on it's way up to the same place I was headed...Waterhead by Ambleside. For a brief moment I thought of "The African Queen" sinking the German Navy boat in some film! So easy was the paddling that I let my mind wander...
Belle Island looks like the end of the lake from the approach. But the map showed there to be another third of the lake beyond. By now there were a few yachts out and about and with them came the wind! So I took some nice little surf waves across to Ambleside and landed two and a half hours after setting off.
By now the sun was toasty warm. Too early for lunch...so had the most delicious whippy ice cream. In fact really the best I've ever had, from the little tea room right on the promenade by the lake. Was totally immersed in my own world..shared with passing ducks, swans and geese when the RAF did a low pass and I nearly fell in the water!
This somehow seemed to break the spell. The wind was against me all the way back, right in my face, or more annoyingly just off the quarter. I put my head down and put some effort in. Didn't look at the pretty landscape. My right thumb was blistered and my tennis elbow was serving a whole new ball game in pain! But I won through, actually arriving back to Fell Foot in two hours twenty. Where once off the water I realised the day was a scorcher and not all wind and waves!

Caught in the act...

2008-05-10T19:35:00.006+01:00

Resourceful, bold and inquisitive...Heather is a thief and at last caught on camera!! Out of a field of other horses and ponies, she's the only one to brazenly put her head in the back of the hay store and stand there for hours. She seems to have no "full" switch inside and I'm sure one day she'll burst!
I had to use all my cunning and the zoom on the camera, to sneak up and papparrazzi style snap the money shot! Despite my best efforts she caught wind of me, literally and with a swish of her tail the greedy mare turned and spotted me!
Next came the sweet and innocent "look how lovely I am, such a good horsey" face as she approached, asking for treats!! No fooling me. Secretly I'm proud she's a bit of a rogue. Tough girl, she knows how to look after herself. I've known her for nearly two years now. The more I learn the more I wish I knew her past life. I know she's seen a lot...I've the feeling she's not had things easy, but she's a fighter for sure.
I've had fun bringing her in from the field. She's a habit of having a "lie-in" of a morning. Gave me quite a shock first time. All the others stood grazing...Heather lying motionless in the corner of the field. Eventually a twitch of an ear and reluctant roll...she's not a pretty sight in the morning. With the increased daylight, I'm guessing that she's up and active very early and takes this morning nap once the sun is high and warm enough...but before the flies are active.
I let her approach me...then I turn and run away, towards the gate. Usually with a little whinny, she plods into a gentle trot and catches me by the gate. I get a chance to see her moving. Though she's improved so much in the past weeks. She is still lame on the injured leg. She seems to have plateaued in her progress. So again it's hoping and waiting. In the mean time I'm enjoying looking after her and watching her get up to the things that horses do, when left to themselves..

1st BBQ of the Year..!!

2008-05-04T19:47:00.007+01:00

Saturday was such a lovely warm day. Came home via the shops for something or other. Think I was looking for inspiration for eating later on. The thought of food is rarely far from my mind, but for some reason it was in the green grocers that I thought "BBQ tonight!" Quickly calculated up that I had nearly everything somewhere or other, including food. Which is what I was in the greengrocers for, salad, of course!
Sent a couple of texts and left a message here or there. Rattled around in the back of the garage and found the barbie looking rusty, but ready. Shoke out the spiders and woodlice. Found some briquettes, from two years ago..last Summer was so wet, I hadn't even opened the bag I bought then! Firelighters and dry-ish wood. Soon had it all stoked up and a lovely little fire crackling away by my feet as I savoured a cool beer...ahh!
Ended up being just me Jim and Jos. Could have been more and a good party, but even if it was just me it would not have mattered. There's something so basic and earthy about having food cooked outside, after a cold wet Winter! Last years re-frozen burgers got eaten as did plenty of German and Polish sausage. Downed with more of any sort of beer and even some Normandy cider. Jos grabbed the camera and caught a true to life snap of the brothers...towards the end of getting stuffed. Have to add Jim had just returned from a week of kayaking his way round Northumberlands coastal pubs!!
What better way to end off an evening like this. Throw a few twigs on the embers and enjoy a few tales by the fire. I'm looking forward to plenty more impromtu BBQ's this year. There seems no point in organising them in advance, the weather usually wins. I'll just make sure the fridge is stocked and the wood is dry...

Springtime Walk....

2008-04-27T22:27:00.006+01:00

At last the North winds have gone. Hopefully not to return soon. The week has mellowed into April like sunshine and showers. The temperature has risen to dizzy heights for the year and it really feels like Spring!
I've had this in mind for a short while now...but waiting for the right opportunity. Take Heather for a walk! The accute days of her injury seem to be melting fast with the warming weather. I'm now looking at her rehabilitation back to work, with a bit of luck.
Anyway that was the idea from the comfort of home. In reality taking a horse for a walk is not to be taken lightly, as I know from past experience! It's strange how time dulls the memory and we willingly undertake things we vowed never to do again. Or is that just me? By the time I got to the yard some sensible arguments were popping up in my mind. The wind had picked up and things were blowing about...she'll be spooking at everything as she's not been out of the field for so long. With the warm weather and it being a Sunday, there'll be lots of cyclists, walkers and dogs down the lane. There's bound to be trouble! Isn't she getting enough exercise in the field anyway? Yes all true. But I'm now putting her bridle on for the first time in a while...so I'll have some control. She might be perfectly fine and the grass on the riverbanks is so long and lush..!!
So kitted in my riding hat, body protector, boots and gloves off we went. She's a horse not a lion and I had a whip to keep her in check and a pocket full of carrots and polos...what could possibly go wrong. Out down the lane she was fine though very wary. Once at the river it took all my effort to keep her where I wanted, her head was stuck in that long tasty grass. Stuffing so much in her mouth she couldn't cope! Noticed too that she was seeking out dandelions to eat, of which there are plenty..
She coped well with loose dogs around her legs, other horses being ridden by, a tractor and numerous cyclists. Wasn't till halfway back along the lane when some other horses turned out decided to run that I got trouble. In an instant she grew tall. I've seen this before and it's quite scary. It's as though I'm no longer there...she's a horse and there's a reason to run....and she tried! If she wasn't wearing the bridle I probably wouldn't have been able to keep her. After probably two hundred yards of blowing...pulling, snatching and spinning I finally managed to make her realise that she was safe with me! Walked back onto the yard looking like nothing had happened....I turned her out without a rug...naked for the first time in ages. Hope this warm weather continues.

Unlikely Friends..

2008-04-20T15:14:00.008+01:00

There are three permanent residents in the field. Heather and the two ponies, Cookie and Ouzo. During the week most of the school ponies are turned out with them, plus some of the other horses. So it's interesting to see who gets on with who. Heather is without doubt an Alpha mare and probably considers herself top of the pecking order. She remains very standoff-ish from most of the herd...or else they just keep out of her way! She monopolises the best food source and sees off any not worthy to eat with her. Quick to move others on with an evil face or a warning salvo of hind hooves!
So it's puzzling that her shadow in the field is the smallest pony...Ouzo! They do look a very odd pair around together. I'm wondering if Heather thinks Ouzo is a long lost foal? Or more likely doesn't see her as a threat to her status. Ouzo definately benefits from a degree of protection, but is no pushover herself. I have seen them come to blows, well Heather lunges and bites at Ouzo, but often gets a rain of pony kicks in return, which she just seems to accept.
Ouzo also has learned that I feed Heather. That I also might have a spare carrot or two. So the other evening when I went to call H in...wasn't surprised to see Ouzo heading for me from across the far left of the field. No sign of Heather at first..perhaps slightly out of earshot. She eventually came into sight from round the corner, well behind Ouzo. She pricked her ears, whinnied whilst throwing two big bucks and a bronc and burst into canter. She soon caught up with Ouzo, baring teeth as she went and accelerated into a very unbalanced gallop...now closing in on the gate....! All the others in the field were in the far right corner...till now. Every one of them now heading full speed at the gate too. So the inevitable crazy crash happened and a big fight broke out....but was all over just as quickly. I was just relieved that they all stopped. But so good to see her move like that and not to get a bad reaction following.
In fact since, I've trotted her up a couple of times...just slow and short steps, but she almost looks sound. I'm so pleased because for a while she didn't seem to be improving much. It's now over ten weeks since she was kicked and crippled. So with the recent progress I'm thinking my guess-timate of rideable in June is still possible. So I feel confident enough now to show some pics I took on our last ride, the day before her injury.
We'd crossed the green bridge and turned left along the river to Kickety Brook, where we had a nice leisurely trot. I was still slightly sore from my fall and the ground was not good either. If I'd known what was to happen the next day, I'd have stayed out longer with her. As it was on our way home the way was blocked by a digger loading a lorry noisily with earth. We stood off and she waited patiently. Even when we were hemmed in by a dumper truck, chugging away behind!
So I'm looking forward to riding her again sometime, hopefully in the next couple of months, when perhaps the weather might turn warmer. I'm waiting for Spring to break into blossom. It seems every tree and bush is just waiting to burst into life...just waiting for a warm day!!

Thought she'd won the Lottery...

2008-04-13T20:10:00.006+01:00

The weather forecast proved spot on. A quick reminder of Winter, with snow showers and hail..strong Northerly winds and relentless rain. Many times I've thought of Heather out in the dark..in the mud, with no shelter . As I've lay warm and safe tucked up with a hot drink! Just glad I'm not a horse. Well no, that's not true. Sometimes I envy her simple life. Biggest decision of the day is who to be friends with and is that a hosepipe or a snake?
The Swallows that arrived last week have taken to sitting on the wire and looking very fed up and unimpressed. Though on days like today, when it finally stopped raining, the flies came out with a vengeance. Swallows suddenly into action deftly swooping and diving. They have most of Europe to migrate to, so I'm wondering why some come here and obviously return. The yard is somewhat untidy, with its mix of buildings and stables...and of course, horses. So no shortage of flies in reality. Also with all the hay and feed which inevitably gets spilled, another of our resident birds are House Sparrows. Theyre demise has been attributed to modern farming methods, where everything is clean and nothing left or overlooked. So the yard is a haven for more than just horses and all the better for it. Though we could do without the rats...
Meanwhile I've been getting used to having no stable to base myself from. Really it's been more of an adjustment for me than for her. I've realised that despite all the nasty weather and the poor ground and lack of grass. Heather is really quite happy to be out. Even at it's coldest and windiest, I've put a hand under the rug and at worst she's not exactly been toasty warm but certainly not cold. I've constantly now got a smell of carrots and apples in the car. Some people buy air fresheners!
Her leg this week is about the same. She can walk perfectly well..virtually no sign. I can tell, by listening to her footfalls on concrete, when her near fore strikes in walk. But to look at her there is no sign. In trot, a different matter. Still very obviously lame. So I realise that from now on progress might be slow. However I did take her for a good walk around the indoor the other day. It's been a while since we were in here. So I was pleased to see her not stumble in the loose sand as she previously had here.
During the week a bale of haylage was found to be rotten. It found its way into the field for the outdoor underclass to sift through. Heather and co thought they'd won the lottery!!! The feeding frenzy was short lived, as they soon ate the good bits leaving lots to soak up the mud...

Homeless Horse..

2008-04-05T14:57:00.006+01:00

At last Spring seems to have arrived. Helped along by the clocks being put forward last weekend. The extra hour of light in the evening makes the gloomiest of days brighter. Although today the wind has turned and is blowing from the North, there is talk of snow showers. Generally the weather has been warmer, with a definate smell of Spring. Indeed during the week at dusk bats were out and the first swallows arrived at the yard yesterday. They looked tired perched on a wire, it still constantly amazes me how far such frail birds migrate.
Heather no longer has a stable! This is the latest challenge which has been put upon me.. Someone bought a pony and so with Heather out most of the time...we've lost our stable, it was the only one available. I do feel that we've been evicted and I got just a few hours notice. I've been told it will only be a temporary measure till a better stable can be found for the new pony. With that in mind I've left my metal cupboard, as moving it may prove too much for its rusty bottom. Obviously the big problem is that I've had to move its contents into the car..or bring it home. Most of it has just been dumped in buckets for now. I need to put some shelves up in the garage really. As usual, not enough time. I have washed her stable rugs and fleeces, plus her lightweight turnout, in my washing machine at home. Something of a risk probably, and I'll be finding horse hair in all my laundry for a while, I'm sure.
As for looking after Heather...hopefully the worst weather is behind us. It has been good to bring her in on stormy nights and to let her have a full haynet to herself once in a while. There is still little growth in the grass, but at least she can keep herself amused nibbling at what's there. My feeding regime seems to be going okay. Combined with the one haynet that I spread out in the field feeder each evening, she so far hasn't lost much weight. It is quite amusing entering the field with a full haynet. I put it over my left shoulder and have a doubled up lead rope for protection in my right. I call Heather over and enter under her protection! I walk along the boundary with the golf course on my left and H on my right. She sees off any horses or ponies eager to get a snatch at the hay. Then I make a dash across to the feeder, she slots in behind me and keeps then away till I can climb up and ditch the load. Like circling sharks they come...!! She has a very good strategy and parks herself broadside on to one side, whilst the others have to argue for places on the other. However, she obviously doesn't get anywhere near a full net to herself. I have found her once or twice hanging suspiciously around the hay lorry.
Her injury still seems to be improving. I've seen her cantering and trotting with the others, though still quite lame. She walks quite well now and for the first time the warmth in her injured knee seems to have all but gone. With this in mind, I encourage her to trot, to and from the field at feeding time.
The downside to the warmer weather is an increase in flies. There are plenty of the little annoying black flies around. I hurriedly had to find some fly spray..lurking at the back of the cupboard since the Summer. I even found one horsefly stupidly trying to pierce through her rug! All in all I feel there is progress and I'm sure she prefers living out. Now that I have knowhere to store anything, it's just making sure I bring what I need each day. If she continues to make progress at the same rate, I'm guessing she might be sound by June. Hopefully...

Easter at the Yard..

2008-03-24T21:49:00.006Z

I no longer feel I'm looking after a crippled horse. This is great and something of a relief. Though already it's getting hard to remember quite how desperate I felt, that night just a few weeks ago finding her injured.
For my part, adjusting to Heather now living out, has focused my mind on the new challenges of trying to maintain her condition in less than ideal circumstances. With also, making sure she is recovering from her injury. The field where she now lives, is far from ideal, with more mud than grass and prone to flooding. So when possible I've brought her in for a haynet and a good feed. In fact bringing her in for a feed is more or less my chance to catch up with her and ask her what she's been up to! So far she hasn't told me a thing...
Seriously though, I'm determined that if she is to recover, it can only be quickened by giving her good feed. So over and above what is available on the yard, I've made efforts to come up with a diet that should help. She is now eating Top Spec Balancer, bulked up with Dengie Alfa A with oil, together with a handfull of mix and garlic. Nedless to say she's getting carrots, swede, apples and pears too! The balancer has all the supplements she needs. I'm particularly worried about her feet and determined not to let things slip here. Incidently she had shoes and a trim in the week and things are looking good here...except for the still cracked near fore foot, but good growth is coming. The Alfa A with oil was recommended by the Equine Nutritionalist from Top Spec feeds. Since there are times when bulk roughage, in the form of grass or hay might not be available. The Alfa A gives something towards making good the shortfall and is a slow release form of calories. I'm hoping the garlic will come through and help her with the inevitable annoyance of flies once the weather finally starts to warm up!! She certainly loves all the food I offer and would willingly eat a tub of garlic if allowed!!
The early Easter holiday brought a blast of polar weather, in the form of piercing gales sharpened further with hail and snow, directly from the North. I went to visit my brother, Mark, in South Wales for a couple of days. I left feeds made up for Heather and haynets. Though in the end hay was put out in her field and she wouldn't come in for Natalie, to be fed. Silly stubborn mare. Anyway she came in for me on my return. Glad to get a good scratch and tried to push me about!
I started writing this blog a few days ago. Heather was still improving on her dodgy leg and I even trotted her up in the yard on Monday. Still quite lame, but onlookers remarked on her progress. Unfortunately on Tuesday when called in, she came across the field enthusiasticly, but limping lame again.. The small wound has all but gone now. However her knee is still warm and slightly swollen. By the next morning she'd improved and tonight she is looking level and reasonably happy walking again. This is going to be a long process, with no certain outcome. At least the weather has warmed up a little

Sunglasses...

2008-03-18T07:07:00.008Z

With some time off and a favourable forecast, I threw my walking stuff on the floor on Sunday evening. I've learned from experience that if I get everything packed and ready the night before, I inevitably unpack it again for some silly reason. On the other hand if nothing is done, it's all too easy to just not bother, and stay in bed!
Thankfully I awoke to a glorious sunny Spring day. No hanging about and itching to get going. I took great delight at watching stressed out commuters stuck in traffic jams heading into Manchester...all the way from Warrington along the M56. How do people do this every day?? Madness!! No such hold ups for me, my only problem was a dazzling sun, which stayed with me all day, forcing me to wear sunglasses!
I parked the car at the village of Rhyd Ddu, which lies to the Southwest of Snowdon. Last time I was here I was supporting Jim in the pouring rain, running the Snowdonia Marathon. No trouble today, but just realised I had no suncream.
I haven't been out walking on a day like this for a long time. At this time of year everything is so fresh and the colours so vivid. The air was cool and clear and almost tasted sweet. the sun gently warming, with hardly a cloud to notice. I took the Snowdon Ranger path from the West. Still dizzy with the flavour of the morning air and the devouring all the scenery. Hardly noticed that I was steadily climbing, till I started encountering some ice and left over snow.
They were clearing the railway line to the summit, to no doubt continue work on the new visitor centre and cafe. I didn't stay here long..too much noise for such a lofty peak. So I descended South on the Rhyd Ddu path and found a sun trap between some rocks, to have a short break.
This is a great way off this mountain. The ridge of Bwlch Main has steep drops either side, yet is easy to cross with a good path, so no scrambling is needed. But it gives an exposed feeling, which sharpens the senses and focuses the mind. The whole day was a sensory over load which left me refreshed and quite tired!
Sat in the back of the car facing the beatiful Nantlle Ridge, whilst getting changed to return. Something caught my attention and looked up, to see two paragliders riding a thermal.Everything about the day was perfect and I took my time basking in the sun. For a final treat walked up into the village and sat having a delicious coffee at the Cwellyn Arms.

Nothing happened..

2008-03-10T20:19:00.004Z

With all this talk of storms and general gloom and doom thought I'd best get equiped for the worst..
Splashed out on a new pair of wellies!! I went out to spend...wanted posh ones. Ended up with the best fit...nice and cheap and quite green! Now just waiting for the storm, so far, nothing's happened!

Gathering Storm..?

2008-03-09T19:42:00.003Z

Heather has been out for a few nights now and seems to be coping quite nicely. Fortunately she seems to have been able to steal almost ad lib amounts of hay. After her first day out's antics, I was not surprised to find her limping, the next day. However she also seemed to be in some pain, when putting weight on the poorly leg. There was some swelling and warmth in her knee, but nothing any worse than before.
Since then, each time I've fetched her in for a feed in the evening, she's walked quite well. Today she seems the best yet. I managed to get her a breakfast this morning before turning her out again. All the ponies in the field except Cookie were in for the busy lessons of the weekend. Poor Cookie was getting very upset about being left on her own. When they are out together, they choose to keep quite a distance, but having Heather somewhere in sight seems enough!
Tonight Cookie has all her pony friends back. I've brought Heather in for some tlc and a night in. The weather forecast is for a storm to sweep through tonight, strong winds and heavy rain. Heather walked to the gate to meet me, so I got a good look at her. Almost no sign of lameness in walk. Good progress.

A Very Exciting Day!

2008-03-04T18:39:00.004Z

A decree came from high up that Heather should go and live out. I knew this would come at some time, but was hoping for a couple more weeks in, or a more gradual change. As it is, she's gone from 24hr box rest to 24hrs living out! The idea behind it all is that the extra movement from being out will benefit her recovery. I have no arguement against this and she does seem to move better after a while. Unfortunately keeping her condition is going to be difficult. It's not quite Spring yet and she will lose weight. Not to mention keeping her feet in one piece!
At least I managed to negotiate her a place in the "graveyard" field, behind the church. This field has some grass and is well sheltered. So this morning wrapped her up and took a very excited horse to her new home. She launched herself full speed into the field, squeeling and bucking with delight. No thoughts of her injury!! Ran straight across to meet the others, two ponies, Ouzo the smaller and Cookie. Three of them in a lovely big field. Within a short while Heather had her first of many rolls and soon settled into munching mode. All good so far...
I returned tonight to bring her, her tea. Hardly out of the car when people were telling me how she'd escaped, taking the ponies with her. Someone was taking Ouzo out, when H apparently galloped from the other side of the field and barged straight past..with Cookie following and Ouzo trying to keep up. Fortunately at the road, they went left and headed for the yard, instead of right which would have taken them into Ashton village! They thundered through the yard and ran straight to the bottom field...where she now is. Many people remarked at how fast Heather was moving!!
I went to find her. I've been let down by my camera battery! The yards hay store is an old lorry parked in this field. Heather had opened the doors and pulled out two or three bales and was sharing them with the ponies...who are too small to reach up there. I wouldn't put it past them to have planned this. Anyway she had her tea, with extra oil and I left her by the gate with it open. She walked straight back into the field...no hesitation. It will be cold tonight and the silly mare is now in a field with no shelter and little grass. After all the days excietment her knee looks a little swollen and she is limping. Hopefully she'll calm down soon.

Stable Horse..

2008-03-03T22:20:00.005Z

Time goes so quickly...is there no stopping the days rolling over, or even a way of wedging the minute hand to stop the hours sliding by! At last I feel myself again, ready to take on challenges and looking forward! But just as I feel fit and well, my time off is at an end and it's back to work on Wednesday.
During the last few days, I've fallen into a new routine of visiting the yard in the morning. Heather has her constitutional walk around the yard and a roll in the indoor. If it's been nice, I've tied her outside while I've mucked out. She's had some good grooming sessions and plenty of attention.
Once in a while I get a reminder of this horses stubborness and attitude. On our little walks around the yard, I've been trying to get her to walk as fast as possible. She loves to just amble about at her pace, which is far too slow. Does her no good, she drags her poor leg by the toe and seems to be making no progress. On the odd occasion that she gets excited about something, miraculously her stride is perfect! But trying to motivate her involuntarily onto this degree of movement ends up in a fight! "Walk faster..Heather" "No!" "WALK FASTER NOW" "Do you mean that!" "YES NOW!!" ..."Make me, if you dare!" "GET ON and don't be so stupid" This whole argument is a physical battle of intimidation, her barging me, flashing her face and pinning her ears..me shoving her back, digging her with and elbow and smacking her side with the lead rope. With this horse once you ask a question is asked, you have to be prepared to back your decision all the way...she can be very disagreeable and doesn't back down! You can see how she got kicked..!!
Her knee is still slightly swollen...there is still some warmth in the same place. After being in her stable, once walking, her limp subsides and the more effort she gives, the better she looks. She did however trot a few paces accidentaly, and she is still very very lame.The weather has turned from mild with gale force winds over the weekend, to bitter snow showers straight from the Arctic! Changes are afoot...

A Definite Improvement...!

2008-02-24T18:42:00.007Z

A few days have passed since I last updated here. Shortly after I last wrote, my sore throat and fever, turned into a very nasty lung and chest infection. For a couple of days I was really quite ill and had to pass Heather's care to Carol at the yard.
I returned on Saturday. The weather had turned milder and has stayed that way. Something which I'm sure had a bearing on Heather's recovery. Each day we've walked around the yard or the indoor school if possible. She has shown improvement almost daily. She is still limping, but now and then for a few strides she walks well, with almost no head bobbing. As she puts weight on the injured leg, her head bobs up momentarily. The swelling has stayed down and there is still only a slight warmth in her knee compared to the other.
Horses love to be out in the field. They are very social animals and yes they do "play" rough. I never really thought about the term "horseplay". I remember it being one of the things forbidden as well as running and diving at the local swimming baths years ago. Now I can put a picture to the word and I can understand exactly why this conduct is not welcome at the baths! So injuries will occur, it's just very unlucky for her that she took a kick in the knee.
One thing I knew she would be missing by not being out....obviously fresh grass and company. No, the first thing she does every time she goes into the field...rolls! She always rolls in the same place, well for the first one anyway. I'm not sure exactly how many rolls per day she has, but judging by the mud, I'd guess at three or four in a day out. So today I took her in the indoor when it was quiet for a walk...and a roll! Now it obviously just didn't smell right. She had a good sniff around and pawed the ground here and there, but then looked up disinterested. We walked around and as we came back to the most likely spot, I pawed the ground with my foot. Mmmmh...must be good! Short while later, she was down having a good scratch and roll....followed by a satisfying shake and snort!
Took her out for a good groom in the breeze. She's losing her winter coat quickly. One thing I've noticed is that she seems to have developed dandruff! Thinking of renaming her Snowflake! I don't remember this last year, but perhaps it's as she's staying in and not moving about as much. She certainly loves being brushed and scratched almost everywhere. So in general lots of progress. I'm feeling better too!

Fresh hope...

2008-02-19T21:40:00.005Z

Everything is becoming a little bit strange! For the last week or so, coinciding with Heathers relapse, I've been struggling to shake off a raging sore throat and fever. I'm still definately not well and finding all of this slightly surreal. With all the very clear weather, especially this time of year, it's difficult to ignore the low dazzling Sun. Or the equally bright Moon and stars in the evening sky. I'm wondering if there's not something in the fact that tomorrow night there is a total eclipse of the Moon, which is waxing to Full the night after! Whilst not being a believer in gypsy mumbo jumbo, I cannot deny that there are strong forces at work here. So seeing as things aren't as good as they could be, hope that things might take a turn for the better after say the Lunar eclipse.
Just in case none of that works....Yesterday evening on instructions from her owner...I made Heather walk out of her stable. She was bearing some weight on the bad leg before, so was pleased to see her move out again, even though she is so desperatly lame. For me leading her it's not so bad, I'm just concentrating on keeping her going and looking out for anything that might trip her up...there is half a tonne of horse next to me. Whilst obviously not happy, she didn't seem in pain and her movement did improve somewhat. Anything is better than her being totally immobile. So we got to hose her leg again. Then stagger around the yard again, which was busy with lots of horses and people in and out of lessons at the riding school. So I felt lots of eyes looking at me and asking what I was doing torturing this poor horse??
Another cold clear night and followed by a gorgeous day. Felt warm in the afternoon so I thought I'd go to the yard and see if I could move Heather about before the place got too busy and whilst there was still some heat in the Sun. Well she let me pick up her near fore leg, reluctantly, but nonethe less. Which is again progress, meaning she can bear full weight again on the bad leg. So out we came. Hop-a-long Heather out in the sunshine. Took her to hose her leg and have a stretch. Tied her up without a rug for some fresh air, whilst I made up a nice fresh bed for her. There's no increase in the swelling, still little heat and she seems happy enough. So we seem to have reached a manageable state again. The weather is changing and a new lunar cycle is starting soon.....

Bad News...

2008-02-17T19:26:00.003Z

This morning Heather was cripple lame again on her off fore leg again. I wasn't totally surprised as I'd noticed a change for the worse since her miraculous recovery earlier in the week. She is stablebound again and looking sorry for herself for the first time. I feel devastated and helpless..
The weather is very cold, but dry and sunny. Today I cut an old pair of wooly socks and managed to get it over her foot and shoe, up onto her knee. I've brought ice packs and held them against the only slightly swollen knee. Don't really know if it's doing any good. Very depressing to see her hobbling again and I'm afraid I'm not being very strong for her and fear the worst. The Bute is now finished, though I now doubt this was really having any real effect.
I've since found out that the vet tried but could not sucessfully inject antibiotics because she reared and struck out. Was it this perhaps that triggered a fight or flight adrenaline rush that saw her soundish for a day or two?? Because when I tried poulticing that evening she was fighting mad and not hobbling. She would only have had oral antibiotics for a few hours by then?? Oh so many questions and so much frustration. I don't know if I'm cut out for this horse lark after all. Not when it's on someone elses terms. Her owner may look at her tomorrow?? I feel like giving up....

Quick, Quick...slow...

2008-02-16T21:18:00.004Z

Wednesday and Thursday, Heather's progress was remarkable. She walked across the yard to have her leg hosed with hardly a limp. As usual I had to fight to keep her from dragging me to the field, where she so obviously wants to be...
However yesterday and today she has gone backwards. This evening in fact her first few steps were decidedly stilted. What has changed? She still seems happy in herself, though no longer pulling for the field as much. I think that's just getting used to a new routine. She finished the antibiotics yesterday. The wound has dried. Any swelling on her knee has remained constant with no heat. She's happy for it to be poked and prodded. Her leg moves with no signs of discomfort. We're still on the Bute, painkiller, though her last dose is in her breakfast.
The weather has gone from being warm and Spring-like. Back to being cold. Tonights forecast is for yet more frost. Whilst she is wrapped up warm in a full neck quilted rug and her lower legs bandaged. Her knee is open to the cold and I'm wondering if this could be the cause of her relapse. I've been advised against bandaging her knee as such. However a thought passed my mind that I might use some old socks with the toes cut off to slip over her knee without being too restrictive. Anyway, my train of thought is that if she could walk almost 90per cent fine. Then there can't be anything broken or torn...as in bones or ligaments...Bute could not hide that. I'm hoping there's no infection...but there is no heat and the swelling is constant...but not much anyway. Fingers still well and truely crossed. She is a hard and brave horse.

Not Far Off a Miracle..

2008-02-12T21:32:00.001Z

Only a few days ago I was choking back tears whilst encouraging Heather on through the mud and the dark...on three legs! Horses are beatiful animals, whose grace in movement comes from balance and almost imperceptible strength. So to see a horse in distress...so hopelessly crippled is, disturbing. Especially if that horse is the one you know best.
This morning, again, I was unable to meet the vet, due to work. However things went very well. Firstly Heather did not try to kill anyone! Secondly and more amazingly,,,,she went for a walk on the yard!! Got all excited and even trotted when she thought she was going out! I'm not the only one who is totally astonished. Even with some improvement yesterday I thought we'd be stable bound for weeks or worse..
So tonight I've walked her down the yard to hose her leg. Got to pick all four feet out, again something which I thought would be a problem. With Mary's help feeding treats, I poulticed her wound and even bandaged both fore legs, without last nights fight. She is still on painkillers and anti-biotics, which she happily eats with her feed. Speaking of which...she always leaves the apple till the end...eats the hard feed, then the carrots and has the apple for dessert! I am so relieved that she's on the mend. Any infection seems to be under control, it remains to be seen how much, if any long term damage has been done to her knee. Fingers crossed!

A Visit by the Vet..

2008-02-11T22:35:00.000Z

Today, Monday, Heather was seen by a vet. Unfortunately I was at work, but managed to visit mid afternoon. Her examination revealed nothing obvious to her total lameness. The vet would like her referred to Leahurst animal hospital. Unfortunately the costs are prohibitive. The scab which had formed on the small wound was opened up. She has been prescribed anti-biotics. I'm not sure which but the vet administered either a painkiller or anti-biotics intravenously, which provoked Heather into her mad rearing and striking out temper. Having seen this for myself, in the close confines of a stable, she makes a very scary patient!

By the time I visited in the afternoon, she'd calmed right down. Welcomed me as a long lost friend and I took the headcollar she'd been guarding giving up earlier with ease! Happy horse!

In the evening I had my orders to perform before the vets follow up visit tomorrow. Pick open the wound and hot poultice. Apply bandages to both forelegs. Give her anti-biotics in her feed. Well she wasn't happy with the first bit!! Managed to pick her scab now and then whilst mucking out around her. Plenty of carrot bribes needed to fend off gnashing teeth. Got the poultice ready, with her nice and calm. Put it near her and all hell let loose! This went on. Tried all sorts of things, from being friendly and scratching her favourite spots to shouting and kicking her back!! No good... Tried bandaging her good fore leg. Same big fight...big fright too! Almost gave up. Carol came to help. She kept her busy with Heather's head in a bucket of feed, covering her eyes, whilst I hurriedly got the poultice on with vet wrap. Phew! But the bandages will have to wait. We quit while ahead and alive! The vet will re-visit tomorrow and see what comes out on the poultice. Meanwhile she's so greedy that feeding the anti-biotics is not a problem. As for her condition. She's still extremely lame. However, judging by her stable stains, she lay down last night, first time since her injury. More importantly she got up, without even wrecking her banks. So she must be feeling a little better.

Big Trouble..

2008-02-09T21:40:00.000Z

I'm feeling quite emotional about this, so will try and stick to facts. Last night went as usual to go and fetch Heather in. I knew there was food down in the field, so she wouldn't come to the gate. Found her as expected guarding her own stash. Thought she was being awkward when she wouldn't move. Soon found she was cripple lame on her right fore leg. Had a quick feel of her leg in the dark and felt nothing untoward. Encouraged her on for about a hundred yards where she stopped. Not moving...

Fetched help, between three of us, we tempted, cajoled and smacked her to her stable on three legs. Not a pretty sight. Though typically brave of a horse who has become so trusting. On closer inspection found a small cut on the outside of her off fore leg, just below the knee. Was worried she had a puncture on wire or something. But more likely an unfortunately placed kick from another horse. Cleaned the wound and dressed. She seemed oblivious to it and happy to eat!

This morning found her in good spirits..ears pricked and a happy whinny. But still hopelessly crippled. The dressing removed showed no blood, but a weep of what is probably joint fluid. Not good at all. Still little swelling or heat in the area. Her owner was notified of her injury last night. By the end of the day there was some swelling around her knee and she was becoming protective of it. I was going to apply a dry dressing and wrap, but gave up. Seemed to be bothering her too much. So pretty much left alone, though clean. I am very worried as to her condition and think we are looking for a miracle to pull her through. She is not a valuable horse...but is well loved.

Rain...Lots of Rain!!

2008-01-23T22:08:00.000Z

Over a week and a half since I was catapulted off Heathers back! The ground was wet then. However, hard to imagine then just how much it was going to rain. We've had rain at night, in the morning, at lunchtime and sometimes at tea too! It has been heavy coming in showers, or persistent but lighter for hours! Overall it's been very, very wet... Consequently everything resembling a field has turned to sloppy mud..not a time to have leaky wellies! The river has come out of its banks and now receded, but left all manner of debris high and damp everywhere. The nights are slowly getting shorter..painfully and thinking of pain..my poor back is still hurting. Welcome to mid January!! He says listening to rain on the window...
Last Wednesday saw a visit to the yard of Andre Majewski, Equine Dentist no less. A very interesting chap with an almost unenviable job. He'd travelled from Harlech in North Wales, to see amongst others on his huge list, Heather! So sometime mid afternoon stood chatting in her stable with Andre, as he prepared to work. He used to be a farmer, but now changed careers. I'm used to this sort of chit chat from dentists, to calm the patient. Yes I was nervous as to how Heather would react to having some of the eighteen inch long rasps in her mouth. I was looking at Andre's fore-arms as he went in, searching for scars, but saw none...and he has all his fingers, so figured he must know a thing or two. So when H started to pull back and get agitated, was impressed by his soothing words in Welsh and gentle face massage, which transformed her behaviour!! He spent half and hour or so and was thorough to the end. A bonus of his visit was yet another estimate of her age. Sixteen. The vet thought fourteen, Carol twelve. When I took her on loan, I was told she was eight!! My estimate from pics on the web led me to eighteen. All really irrelevant, but interesting.
Despite my poorly back...well err...backside. I've ridden on every opportunity, except my group lesson last Thursday. There's a great difference in schooling and hacking at your own pace, to an hour of demanding orders in the school from my instructor, Ange. I'm also still finding canter very painfull and hoping things come good for tomorrows evening lesson. I believe I'm riding Zotto, who's probably the school top ned, whom I've not yet had the pleasure of yet. So fingers crossed..
Wayne, the farrier went on holiday!! This has meant that Heather and her dodgy big feet have gone unattended for two weeks, too long. I was quite concerned, with all the time and effort invested in her feet...especially with all the mud trying to help her shoes off. Well we made it through. She was first to be seen this morning and is now sporting natty new shoes. The worst foot, her near fore, with the crack doesn't seem to be getting any worse. In fact generally..as with the rest of her all round, things are looking up. She's generally a happy horse now and almost willing to work. Until I'm fully fit to ride hard...I'm working on trying to get her moving laterally. We've just about got turn about the forehand...now have to try..on the forehand. Oh and I've discovered a strange little soft spot on her. She had a cracked heel on her near hind last year. I was checking the area and scratting her heel, noticed she was wibbling her lip and crunching her teeth in pleasure....silly mare.

I Took My First Tumble...

2008-01-13T20:10:00.000Z

Today, after almost three years of riding and plenty of nearlies, I fell off a horse...quite spectacularly!
Heather's been in most of the week with limited turnout, the weather's been awful and I've been worried she'll sink in the mud if she's out too long! So on my first day off today, looked forward to taking her out for a ride, before it rained again!
We went up to the A56 bridge on the North side of the river as usual. She ate a bit of grass as usual for a reward, then we turned for home. We'd already covered the ground and I knew it was good enough. So asked for canter on her stiff right side. Was taken aback when she gave it...fantastic, let's go! She was going so well, I let her have her head and kick on...pretty much full tilt!
Then without any warning or any obvious reason she threw the anchor out...buried her feet in the turf and dropped her right shoulder! For a fleeting moment I recall seeing her neck close-up, quickly followed by the sky, just before a sickening thud on my back! Before I realised fully what had happened, I'd rolled, sprung to my feet and was trying to get hold of her as she pranced about looking all shocked!! My lower back was hurting, but I was moving okay, so quickly got back on. Then realised I'd dropped my whip, so got off again to pick it up..Then remembered I had my camera, so took a couple of pics of our skid marks.
From the pics it's obvious to me what caused the big upset. She normally spooks at ducks and yellow flowers along this stretch. Right in our way and along the side are devilish "skeleton plants", which the wind blew in our path,as we were passing...dried stalks from the Summer!! I felt fine riding home and boasting on the yard about my first fall.
Went to the gym and swam a mile before sinking into the jaccuzzi for ages. But by the time I'd driven home my lower back had stiffened up. Bought a box of Ibuprofen, lots of chocolate and a bottle of champagne. Which I'm polishing off as I write...and I'm feeling just fine. In fact I'm quite looking forward to falling off again! Very exciting!! Quite rewarding...But pleased I was wearing my body protector...with the mud on the back.

These boots were made for riding..

2008-01-08T22:00:00.000Z

I only started riding in April 2005. By June that year I reached a point of no return. Buying my first riding boots was a statement of intent. Unbelievably now, I picked a great pair of Mountain Horse, Mountain Rider II boots, half price from Robinsons!! Wish I could find such a bargain again. They've been fantastic for me! Not only have they seen me through all my riding lessons and first tentative hacks. They've been on my feet for the best part of two years diy livery. Anyone involved with horses knows the rigours that involves, for any footwear. Sadly during the wet Summer they started to split at the sides from the sole. I did buy a new pair then, but have hardly worn them as the old ones are so comfy...like slippers. This Winter has finally put a practical end to them, it's so wet and muddy. They are now leaking too much. I'm just not sure I can let them go...but what use are a pair of boots I can't wear?

New Year in Snowdonia

2008-01-06T20:23:00.000Z

They say a change is as good as a rest. I wasn't sure this was going to apply. Having spent far too long faffing around looking for and packing things I probably wouldn't need. I now found myself driving through the heaviest of squalls along the A55 to North Wales. My brother Jim, last year found a great place to stay, right in the heart of Snowdonia. I missed out... So I jumped at the chance to join in this time around.

I was to join the others at the cottage later. So my choice of destination along the way, was a visit to the Great Orme. I've always been drawn to this amazing lump of limestone, which looks completely out of place. Not surprisingly, Viking invaders approaching in their longboats many years ago, mistook this for a sea monster. The only monsters now are the goats which perilously skip across the sheer cliffs. In Springtime, these are home to thousands of chattering seabirds, vociferously arguing for nesting sites. I parked at Llandudno West Shore, looking to walk around Marine Drive. I wasn't quite prepared for the strength of the South Westerly wind blowing full force off the sea. Barely made it out of the car, could hardly see as my eyes were constantly streaming. Seriously thought of giving up within a few yards. The sea was wild...everything grey and it felt dark before it should have been. By the time I'd walked all the way round, the wind had eased, but my face had that tingling weather beaten feeling.

Not surprisingly I felt quite drowsy and was happy to meet up with the others at the cottage. We ate and drank well, whilst catching up and chatting about our days exploits. With a fair forecast for the next day, a scramble up Tryfan's North ridge and Bristly Ridge was suggested.

Tryfan is an exciting mountain. Unlike most hills nearby, it has almost no greenery...just rock! So even the easiest routes to its curious summit of Adam and Eve, involve some basic rock climbing or scrambling. We picked a tricky route, which meant it was ours exclusively! Though after the short lived difficulty, we joined in with a steadily increasing throng of climbers, all converging towards the summit. All getting equally wet and cold, as the days fair weather never came. Instead it rained. Which turned the descent into a slow scrape over slippery boulders, eroding time and daylight. Not to mention enthusiasm! So Bristly Ridge was left to lurk in the greyness for another visit.

Not to be outdone by the weather. We charged ourselves with a strong coffee and raced across Anglesey to see the sunset over the Irish Sea. Which we missed by minutes...but that wasn't really the point! South Stack lighthouse was standing strong and we were welcomed to Ireland by text on our mobiles!!

New Years Eve, Jim and I drove down the Lleyn Peninsula to escape more drizzle in the mountains. We visited a favourite beach, Porth Neigwl and walked over the headland at Cilan. On our return to the beach, the tide was dropping. Walking along the strand line is always interesting. We found two Triggerfish within yards of each other washed up. Another sign of the much talked about global warming? Certainly these fish are not regulars here. Someone was liting a beach bonfire. Now that would be a good way to meet the New Year....!

We welcomed in the New Year at the Tyn y Coed Hotel. Memorable for me, because I won a game of Pool! We were then treated to a fantastic fireworks display and more drink. A nice night without that weighty expectation of a New Year celebration in the city.

Next day I got up thinking of going straight home...whilst dressing for a mountain walk!! So it was that Jim and I raced up Snowdon from all the way down at the Pen y Gwryd. Yes it was misty and grey, without a view, but we moved quickly. Perhaps on a nicer day when there's a view it's more appropriate to slow down.

I returned to see Heather Horse, expecting excitment and welcoming. Instead got a look of death with ears flat back. "Where have you been??"

Our Christmas Ride...

2007-12-23T16:05:00.000Z

This time of year always seems so busy. Christmas is knocking on the door and I'm forever unprepared for it. I've never been able to get myself organised in advance, that'd be cheating and to me, diluting that festive feeling. However the mad rush and crush, that comes anywhere near something resembling a shop at this time of year, has me quickly beating a retreat! Consequently I'm not very good with presents and cards. Which doesn't mean that I don't like this time of year. I just wish it was less of a frenzy and competition.

Since my last post, the weather has turned cold. Jack frost has been a regular visitor. The lake which formed in the bottom field shrank to a decent pond size. Now it has frozen solid and the kids are sliding on it! Horses and ponies fortunately seem to be giving it a wide berth!

This week has been the London Horse Show at Olympia. I managed to catch some of it on television. This is my original inspiration and interest in horses. Years ago, on Winter's nights like these. I remember sitting next to the Christmas tree in the huge living room in the family home. Log fire roaring, probably with homework to do. But for some reason I loved watching the show jumping. Perhaps it was fun to see the odd rider fall initially. Nothing like a few spills to get the interest up! But later I think I began to appreciate the horses movement. All that power, with grace. There is something so magical about a good horse and rider combination. So even now with my enhanced knowledge. When I watched the other night, I was not looking at details. I was looking through the eyes of a fourteen year old boy, innocently enjoying the show.

Back in those days I did dream of someday riding out along the river banks near home on cold frosty mornings. Recently I've realised these dreams. I still sometimes have to pinch myself. However, dreams are just that. In reality frost, ice and horses are not the best mixture. So I've been keeping a weather eye out for a chance to ride. Both the outdoor schools have been frozen solid. The indoor used almost exclusively for lessons. So when the forecast was for rain, then clearing, yesterday afternoon. I made sure I got on with my Christmas duties before.

Was grey, cold and wet. But the rain had melted the ice and frost as I tacked Heather up. She hadn't been ridden for six days, with very limited turnout. So was hoping she'd be nice and light. Dressed her up in her hi-vis rain sheet and off we went...

Down the lane from the yard, the ice in the puddles had melted. The top layer of mud was soft, but there were still frozen ruts beneath. So we just walked, giving her stiff legs a chance to loosen up. Nice to see some of the Winter visiting birds like Redwing taking advantage of all the ripe berries on offer. The wet Summer seems to have been good for something after all..

We followed the Banky Meadow route. Along the sandy track, which runs next to the Carrington Spur, a very busy A road. Heather got a little bit giddy and for a few moments had me slightly concerned. I'm not used to being on a flighty animal. Usually I'm having to try for every step. I think the noise of the traffic was the turning point for her. Suddenly started jogging with her head held high. When I put leg on she did a mini buck, bronced off her fore legs and gave a little squeel!! We had a bit of sideways and some more jogging and squeeling. Took quite a while before she settled. Fortunately we meet no cars on the road to the rugby club.

Went to visit the youngsters who are still in their unofficial paddock. They still look as good as could be expected for being out with no attention. The grass in there field looks poor now though. On the outside I let H graze for a while, while I took in the Winter scenery. The Sun starting to set below a clearing sky. Geese flew overhead and the Moon started to rise up from the opposite direction. Time to head home, where before long, the yard turned to ice. So we did well to get out as we did. I'm working through Christmas, so this was really our Christmas ride...another good one. No two rides are ever the same..just the way I like it.

Too Much Rain...

2007-12-10T20:29:00.000Z

So far this month, the weather has really turned wet. The air temperature has ranged from Winter's worst freezing to a strangely Spring-like mildness. The wind has blown from every direction, from a breeze to a gale, sometimes all at once. Making for some very confused days! Above all it's been wet! The bottom turnout field has a lake forming and migrating ducks are looking to over Winter with us! So with a rare break in the rain, drove to the yard with one purpose. Get out and ride.

Rachel very kindly puts Heathers morning net in for me most mornings. This is such a help to me, especially when I'm working. I'd find it impossible to get away from the airport at such a busy time.

So on this morning, found Heather, happily tucking into a plump netfull. I knew there'd be trouble as soon as I put her tack on the stable door. She gave me a dirty glance, flicked her ears back, swished her tail and stamped a foot! Went on eating and gave a big sigh. Pretty obviously saying, "go away and don't bother me!" I can sympathise because I'd be pretty angry if someone put a big fat fry-up infront of me, let me nibble the bacon, only to then confiscate the lot. Plus then forcing me to go and run in the cold!

Still no excuse for the behaviour I got next. Took her rug off and started brushing her. At times like these it's good to be sharp witted. After only a few strokes of a soft body brush, got the first turn of her head and threat of a bite! Pushed her away and carried on. This went on. Now moved to her hind quarters, out of biting range. She's never kicked at me in the stable. Twitched a leg in warning yes, until today. Not once, but three times. I kept brushing and she got a jab of my knuckles in her flanks if she threatened to kick. Not to mention a good shouting at!! She eventually let out another big sigh, settled down and let me finish in peace.

I have noted that on occasions like this, she usually puts out a good performance when ridden. So happily we were soon setting off down a very wet lane. With almost as much water as mud, with very little ground so to speak. Quite a strong gusty wind blowing from somewhere in the North, making me wonder whether I shoud have put gloves on!

With all the recent rain the river was very high. The weir under the green bridge was washed out. With a big standing wave just downstream of the new kayak egress steps. A point of interest, should I ever decide to paddle on rivers again.

As we crossed the bridge I was on the look-out for any of the bits of tree and logs floating down. Ever wary of her fears of anything croccodile shaped! I think she was told tall stories when only a foal. Because unless she lived in a zoo previously, she wouldn't know a croc from a lion. Perhaps there's the trouble. Must bring her some pictures...

To keep things fresh, we went left on the opposite side. The track goes up through a nice little wood, then over a stile. Opening out to a field, bordered by the river below and paths running round and across. Soggy and slippery in places but good enough for a careful canter elsewhere. We had it to ourselves and enjoyed every minute. She got quite strong any time we vaguely pointed in the direction of home. So I was careful and aware to slow her gently on the greasy turf.

Next, took her up towards Kickety Brook, along the swollen river. We had a difference of opinion along the way. Which ended with her flicking her heels up, then trying to walk down the bank towards the water!! I think she realised she'd made a bad mistake. Thankfully I convinced her my way would be easier in the long run.

We went well together from then on. Had some nice trot and a short canter. Before finding the track flooded infront. This section often has water on it, which is not deep. I also know the ground underneath is good and not muddy. So after carefully checking it at walk, turned round and cantered fast, through..making a splendid splash. Fantastic fun!! She's very brave.. Reluctantly headed for home, knowing the lower banks this way would be flooded. She was tired..though I think she was putting it on, when we returned. The wind had really picked up and getting quite cold. So she got her haynet back.

Good to Catch

2007-12-08T21:01:00.000Z

I've been looking after Heather for eighteen months now. We've both been learning together and there have been plenty of testing moments along the way. She had been turned away for a few months before I started loaning her. During this time she pretty much established herself at the top of the herd. So not surprisingly she was very difficult to catch. I didn't know her then, but it apparently took a few days of patience and bravery to finally bring her in.

In those early days I was warned she may still be difficult to catch. Indeed the first time I tried, she'd let me get so close....only to trot off as soon as I got too close. This lasted half an hour or so. I just kept following her round. I did cheat, having a bucket of feed. Which made me very nervous, as all the others soon spotted it and I became some sort of pied piper. Every horse and pony in the field wanting to be my friend, except the one I wanted! However after this first test, she became more willing to be caught. I stopped bringing a bucket with feed, a more discrete carrot stashed in a pocket worked just as well. So through the first Winter, things were all going well.

In early April we found ourselves temporarily homeless when her stable block was demolished! With no spare place for her, she went back to living out. Not a worry for a horse who'd spent so long out without much attention previously. I did wonder, though, if she'd get used to her freedom too much and become difficult again. I needn't have worried and a few times she came to greet me as I brought her a haynet. In fact this is probably when I first started to call her over and magically she came. I was so pleased and proud to have her seem to acknowledge me like this.

That was until she went into a field with fresh, lush grass in June. Went to catch her one morning, having left her out the previous night. I got the shock of my life when she snatched the carrot out of my hand...pinned her ears back, bared her teeth and span round showing me both feet!! Then proceeded to chase me out of the field.. Scary stuff! Managed to catch her in full flow on a pic. Took lots of bravery and cunning to catch her, two days later. Used one of the willing girls from the pony barn!

Since then there has been no repetition of that silliness. Things have got so good that I can reliably call her from the gate and most times she comes. Which was always my aim. Sometimes I don't get to the yard till after dark. So knowing I don't have to go searching a dark muddy field gives me the confidence to turn her out more..good for both of us!

Two consecutive nights last week gave two extremes though. On the Thursday I went to call her in. I hit the metal gate with the clip on her lead rope and call her name. I got a distant whinny. With all the recent rain, ducks have taken to roosting in the field. Next thing I heard was panicking duck sounds and some serious splashing! Out of the dark loomed the distinctly unbalanced Heather cantering straight at the gate. Stop!! Thought she was going to jump it. Skidded to a halt infront of me and greeted me like a long lost friend. What fantastic feeling to have her seem so keen.

Next night. Called from the gate. Silence. Waited, called again...waited ten minutes..nothing, no horse! Strange. Went looking. It was cloudy and I could make out all the others in the field, all ponies. Went round the whole field looking at the fences and surrounding ditches. Certainly no sight nor sound of H. I was getting quite worried as she'd been out all afternoon, most unlike her not to be around. With out any doubt she was not in the field. Started to go round again, when suddenly she appeared by my side! Very relieved..also a little angry. Where had she been? She was not interested in her haynet..mmmh! Wherever she went, she ate well!

Night Rider!

2007-11-27T22:31:00.000Z

At last I've knuckled down to some long overdue projects at home. I have know one to push me and one thing I know about myself. I'm not a homemaker. I constantly find myself torn between society's "rules" and expectations..and my own desires for a simple life! I've got new carpets coming in just over a week and I've suddenly realised that I need to do some prepartion. Somehow or other, as DIY projects tend to. Painting skirting boards has turned into stripping wallpaper..which turned into repairing plaster...which meant another visit to B and Q. A fate almost as bad as visiting IKEA. My conclusions are that people who willingly embark on such madness, as painting and decorating must have a serious problem in life. There can be nothing more soul destroying. That's how I felt this afternoon. I needed a very quick fix, of what others may see as my own madness...

Heather had new shoes today. Which went well with my silly painting plans, as I wasn't sure when the farrier would turn up. So after my second visit to the yard at two-ish, found H, with new footwear. Chucked her out into the mud and unable to face more stripping, went shopping!! Which is probably when I decided to ride out in the dark!

To be perfectly honest, everything slotted right into place. I needed a reward for my trials of the day. I've been wanting to hack out in the dark for quite a while. I bought a hi-viz sheet and leg strips ages ago. She even has a hi-viz headcollar for the field, though she doesn't need it, as she comes to a call most times. Like tonight!

So, all tacked up, me with a headtorch and a red bike lamp strapped to my leg..off we went. A perfect night to try this. Mild...some cloud to reflect the street lights of nearby civilisation and hardly a breath of wind. Off the yard no probs and splashing through mud and puddles down the lane, which seemed soo dark! Heather was quite lively, ears pricked, she was obviously more aware than in daylight. She did misplace a foot now and then, but put that down to new shoes. Surely with the number of carrots she eats, she must have near perfect night sight.

Kept it simple and stayed this side of the river and went round Banky Meadow. Was interested to see how her head shaking would be. I'd taken her net off her bridle. True to form, during the whole ride she was perfect, no head shaking. This horse goes well in the dark...and in the rain...a challenging enough combination for most riders! Though as usual, without anything else to bother her, she was quite spooky. She's good though. More than once she started shying and blowing. Despite me being almost blind..I pushed her on...I think she was looking for re-assurance. So she didn't really make too much fuss. Riding in the dark definately tests your balance!

We said hello to the youngsters. I'm growing fond of the chestnut who always leads them and is very bold. Before trotting off homewards. Almost unbelievably, we came head on with three other horses. Lit like Christmas trees. So we weren't alone after all. Another totally different ride on a horse who just seems to go from strength to strength. Fantastic!!! I'm looking forward to some moon lit canters next time...

Cantering Issues

2007-11-21T21:42:00.000Z

Unfortunately on Sunday Heather lost her rider during a school hack. I'm not sure of the exact details, but helped in the recovery of horses and rider, which involved emergency services. The rider was quite badly injured and I wish her a speedy recovery.

In my recent posts I have mentioned quite a few times, that Heather has great difficulty in cantering on the right rein. That is as though circling clockwise. She is noticably stiff in trot on this side also. It's taken a while for me to find this out. Firstly I had her napping to deal with..planting feet. Any canter was a huge bonus not so long ago. Then with the realisation that head shaking was the root of all her ills. The magic powders supplied by the vets school at Leahurst gave me a chance to get her fit through the Summer. So at last I've been able to find out and start addressing the latest issue, with a horse who perhaps could go well by the name of Puzzle!

My attempts to get her to canter on the correct lead by just riding her in the school and using the conventional aids are just not working. I've got her so finely tuned that on her favoured left rein, we can reliably halt to canter. This gives me quite a buzz and her impulsion and power cannot be doubted! Other way round and it's all a big jumbled mess of her trotting..running so fast or shuffling onto the wrong leg. I think she's as frustrated as I am and we usually bounce to an awkward stop.

Recently I've started lunging her for the first time in a while. She had some lameness in the Summer in her fetlocks which I thought might be aggravated by lunging. With this long behind, it was suggested I might progress with her cantering issues on the lunge. She is reasonably easy to lunge...as usual getting her to move is the hard part. The scary bit is then making her work! This is after all an alpha mare! You have to be ready to be charged..!! This is still her reaction to the lunge whip. Demand and she charges in towards you. You have to be quick and solid, point the whip at her shoulder and push her out. Now we're moving!

I read somewhere that a horse always picks up the correct canter lead after a jump. So I set up a small pole on the ground at my end and raised diagonally to a foot and a half outside. Lunged her over it..trotted towards then demanded canter as she went over. On both reins she picked up the correct lead. The theory works!

So today I set up exactly the same pole in the same place. Instead I rode. Just the same. Started everything off on her easy side. Then switched. Six out of six correct canter leads on the right rein after popping the little jump. This works! Another reason to feel totally elated and thrilled. The big bonus being that she really seemed to enjoy her schooling. Might have to include a little jump or two more often. I now have a starting point from which to work. I'll continue with this method, then perhaps drop the pole to the ground...then eventually lose it. Can't say enough what a boost this is to me. Riding and educating myself and this horse has been the most fruitful challenge...