On Saturday, Gordon and I participated in our first horse show, just for fun. The event was organized to raise money for Sacha's Park, a kids' park that will be accessible to children of all abilities.
I think you can tell from this great photo taken by the very talented Deborah Wilson that I had an excellent day...
And of course I had to be clutching my iPhone! I think Gordon had just handed it to me because he'd been taking photos. While that is my horse, it is not my cowboy hat nor my sparkly shirt. When I got there, my friends set to work making me over for competition!
I had no idea I need a sparkly shirt!
Kim put hers on me, but the first cowboy hat they found was too small for my big head (I do have a very large head. When I was in the Navy, I wore the largest women's hat size available.)
But they finally got me sorted out, and I decided I like cowboy hats very much and now need to buy one!
Gordon came in to a filthy horse Saturday morning, but he got her all cleaned up...
...and soon we were out there doing our stuff!
This was some halter or showmanship class that I knew absolutely NOTHING about, and I had to go first. I managed to fake my way through it but I certainly didn't win any prizes!!
But for the walk/jog (trot) classes...
I cleaned up!
Two first-place ribbons, which was quite a shock to me, although in the past couple of weeks I feel like I've made some big strides in my riding abilities.
Gordon did great too!
Between us I think we brought him nine ribbons, and I tied for reserve champion! Hilarious. And I wasn't competing solely against ten-year-olds. There were four adult participating. :)
Most of important, though, I had a blast and we raised funds for a great cause.
I went back to my normal clothes when I was finished riding, although I didn't give my teacher Rose her hat back until I went home after supper! :) I think our horses Sandy and Roo had a fun day too.
We take lessons and ride at Havencrest Farm, which is just over the border in Quebec. Rose and her mother Linda teach me and Gordon and they are just the best instructors. We have so much fun, and ride in a safe environment. I have learned so much from them!
All in all, a fantastic day. Not much in life makes me happier than being on my horse.
Congratulations Natalie! A wonderful day had by all. You and Gordon look great!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much! We had the best time. So much fun and camaraderie. :)
DeleteFantastic photos and you guys look great . Congrats on your ribbons as well . Thanks for sharing , Have a good day !
ReplyDeleteYou wear that hat like a pro, and judging by all those ribbons, you're the real McCoy!
ReplyDeleteYay for you, pardner! Congrats!
ReplyDeletelooks like a great time...and for a good cause too
ReplyDeleteCongrats - and I think you should get a sparkly cowboy hat.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! Yes, you need a sparkly shirt and other accoutrements, but if you start showing you'll figure it out. There is a lot to know. Mostly, I am glad the fundraiser was a success and I am glad you and Gordon had fun.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your success. It's great to go out and do something with little pressure and do well.
ReplyDeleteWow, congrats to you both. It's obvious you had a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteso much fun!!!!Huge congratulations to you both! xoxo catchatwithcarenandcody
ReplyDeleteMy! You've have a busy couple of weeks with all kinds of highs and lows. Congratulations on the latest high! You both look like you know what you're doing out in that ring. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteVery well done! I wish I could still say the same about being on horseback. My riding days are over.
ReplyDeleteHello! This is my first visit to your blog and I had such an enjoyable time reading your post and seeing your photos. I've never owned my own horse, but when I was a teenager I got a job as an exerciser for a local stable. It was the best job ever! I love that first black and white photo and think that you should frame a copy of it for your home. Great job winning all those ribbons and for helping build the park. I do hope that you will come visit and maybe even follow me back. I'm a retired wife, mom and grandma . . . just enjoying life on our little acre of land, gardening, sewing, quilting, making music and just plain loving life.
ReplyDeleteHappy to meet you, your new blogging sister,
Connie :)
Congratulations on your ribbon haul! Sounds like a truly wonderful day.
ReplyDelete