Well, after questioning whether I’d even make it here this year, all came together and I arrived in Florida on Monday morning with four horses in tow: Deacon, Finn, Thomas, and Whistler. The trip down, driving through the night, went fine and uneventful. The boys were glad to get here though, and were immediately turned out so they could move around a bit. Later Monday afternoon, Thomas’ new owner came to pick him up. We’ll miss him, but are so happy he has a great home with Conor and will continue where he left off, running Prelim this winter with Conor here in Florida.
Monday was the day for getting organized, buying grain and groceries (food for all of us!), having a nice dinner out and then getting to bed early after essentially being up for 36 hours straight.
Tuesday all the boys had a light hack around the farm and I worked on getting them all clipped and cleaned up. On Wednesday, I took Deke and Finn over for a lesson with Leslie Law. Unfortunately it was a very rainy day all day long. I got my lesson in with Finn (he was incredible; feels so good!!), but the rain just wouldn’t let up and it got too slick to continue with Deke’s lesson.
Thursday Whistler had his first cross country school at Longwood. He was great. A bit hesitant at first at the water, but quickly overcame his reluctance and then seemed to enjoy it. By the end of the school, he was really getting into a nice rhythm to the jumps. I was pleased with his progress. He needs to build up his strength and stamina, but who doesn’t after living in the cold and wet of Ohio for the last couple of months. Thursday afternoon I had to run my mom to the airport so she could head back north–back to the chores around the barn at home. Then that afternoon I started working for Ronald Zabala. I’m going to help him out with his horses in the afternoons; earn a little extra money and keep myself busy.
Fi has been having a ball running free, chasing squirrels and playing with other dogs on the property.
She’s gonna be “buff” in a few weeks! But she sure sleeps well at night.
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