Buffer Zone

Much relief! Local fencing guys arrived today to construct a buffer fence. I can now safely keep Laddie as a colt for a little longer without having to worry about his proximity to Cloud and his Mum. The girls stayed in the yard, out of their paddock, whilst the job proceeded; they tolerated the air compresser post rammer very well after a bit of initial reassurance from mum.
The mob earned themselves some new fans with their looks and equanimity!!

More photos

Liz Joyes came to visit the boys today and brought her camera. A great day for photos as Jeremy brought Cloud and Maybellene home yesterday; Cloud has made a positive start under saddle and Maybellene is due for a spell after 6 months in work. Maybellene is certainly enjoying having company after being cossetted in her own paddock since weaning Laddie. Laddie immediately remembered he was supposed to be chatting up Cloud, but fortunately she let him know, in no uncertain terms, that she's not interested...at the moment.

Photoshoot

Chestnut = Canyonleigh Paeon (rising 4y.o.); Black/bay+ Bloomsbury's Sir Galahad (9 months old)
Tried to get some action photos of the boys this afternoon, with Stevie's help .Typical!! They're more intrigued, than spooked. But I'll practice more over the next few days.

Rocco up-date

Great to hear from Kate Chadderton who rang yesterday. She's heading into winter, currently teaching in 5 degree temperatures in Maryland, USA, as we head into summer. She's flat-chat with teaching, dressage and one-day-events but took time out to update me on Rocco's progress. She sent through some photos from yesterday's lesson with his new owner, Lisa Kurr. He's obviously enjoying his work and Lisa's care.
Thanks, Kate!

Back in the land of the living; re-hipped

Great to be back at home with a new hip replacement (ceramic and poly-carbon) after 2 weeks in hospital. The fresh air is all the more valued after being restricted to air-conditioned space for so long.
Many thanks to Caron Wakelin, Stevie Shakoff and Margery Cribb for feeding and managing the boys in my absence.
Stevie took Maybellene to Alexander Park for her second competition outing, stepping up to Preliminary level. She worked like a trooper and scored 2 solid results, but outside the placings this time round.