Best. Dog Walk. Ever!

OMG I'm getting married!!!!!!!!

hahaha nobody's going to accuse me of burying the lead today ;-P   And yes, it is so very worth capital letters and exclamation marks.   Lots of them.  In fact I think it deserves more.  So for good measure:  Chris proposed this afternoon and WE'RE GETTING MARRIED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woohoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I try really hard not to include the really personal parts of my life on here.  Some of my friends have told me they like being mentioned -- they get names and stories.  Some are okay with me retelling stories, but I just do so without names.  And some things, simply, don't belong on the internet.  But this one, this one I'm claiming for myself.  And with a roll of the eyes, Chris agreed to me writing about it *g*

So let's recap the weekend shall we?   Saturday was pretty standard -- taught some, rode some, knocked out a few walls (okay, so my definition of standard might have changed in recent times -- sobeit).  Regardless, other than that I had a truly decent ride that I was legitimately happy with, and shooting paintballs indoors is all kinds of entertaining, there was really nothing to write home about.  Or even blog ;)

Sundays Chris and I have come to consider "lazy Sundays".  As in we try not to book anything ambitious or do anything reasonably productive.  At first this was challenging for both of us as we tend to be a *little* type A...  But, especially after the crash course in Cuba, we've gotten quite good at it.  And I can't speak for Chris, but I, at least, have grown fond of and am fairly protective of my lazy Sundays.  So today we had not-very-much planned.  A friend of mine was here from out of town, so we were meeting him for lunch.  And we'd spoken vaguely a few days earlier of taking advantage of the almost-spring-like weather to take the dogs out for a decent walk.  That was the entire extent of our plans -- that I was aware of anyways ;)

So lunch was great.  I didn't get to see C last time he was in town, so really good to catch up.  After lunch we dropped by some other friends of mine who live in that town, but unfortunately they were away.  Ah well.  Had some free time and weather was nice so went for a bit of a drive.  Only issue is, by the time we got back I was feeling really motion sick.  Boooo :(   Hasn't happened in *ages* but is so less-than-pleasant when it does.   Fortunately, I know from past experience that if I just stay very still for a while and drink some water, I'm usually fine.  I also know that if I ignore it, it gets worse, not better.  So despite the fact that both Chris and the dogs were pretty excited for the aforementioned walk, I begged a half-hour to recover.

Fortunately it worked and shortly thereafter we were off...  Headed to the rail trail with two very excited dogs.  Sun shining, temperature all kinds of civilized.  Trail was wet in places but entirely navigable.  So we're having a good time walking along, enjoying the weather and the views.  Rail trail in that section follows the river, so some stunning views.  At one point we could see deer grazing on the opposite bank.  Super cool.  Only thing is, the trail is mostly wooded, which means not as warm, which means it's still snowy.  Not really a big deal, except Chris managed to get both feet soaked.  Booo.  I asked if he wanted to go back, but he said no, so all good.  But then I hit an issue that had never occurred to me -- you see when I get motion sickness, I'm uber sensitive to it for several hours afterwards...   And the slipping and sliding on the snow was making me nauseous.  I suggested we go back and follow the trail the other way -- where it'd been out of the woods and therefore no snow.

But Chris wanted to keep going; said there was a bridge just up ahead -- we'd go there.  Okay, I can suck it up.  Once I realized he had a destination in mind sobeit.  And yes, you'd think I might've clued in.  Might've had the slightest idea.  But you had the first paragraph, you *know* where this is going.  I did not ;-P   And in my own defense, Chris - for reasons surpassing understanding - seems to actually love this little town of his and often will take me places just to show me something.  Like our random drive that morning, was to look at a cool farm.  And it's almost always something worth seeing, so I've learned to go along with these things...   He also offered to turn back, but the combination of a specific target (cause lets be honest, the rail trail goes a lot farther than we could walk in one day!) and the fact that we magically ended up in an area that the snow had all melted so I wasn't feeling worse worked out and we kept going.

Anyways - sure enough, we could shortly see the bridge he was talking about.  Or, more accurately, what used to be the bridge -- all that remains are the stone pillars (supports?  I admit to being too distracted to Google the correct terminology right this second.  Proposal to get to you know!).  I suspect Chris might've had a specific spot farther along, but I saw two benches.  And, of course, was oblivious to his plans...  And was still feeling quite ill and knowing if I sat for even five minutes, I'd feel a ton better and be able to actually enjoy the rest of the hike.  So I dragged him and the two dogs over to sit down.

Bench in memory of Gertrude and Allen.  Would like to know their story...

So we sat for a moment watching the stunning view of the river, well framed by the stone remains.  The dogs were being reasonably civilized at our feet -- neither pulling on the leashes or being silly. Nobody around anywhere -- our own private paradise.

And all of a sudden he had a ring in his hand and was asking me to marry him.

I'm still shaking as I write this.  I am so totally unbelievably happy.  The yes was a given :)   Fortunately I was wearing sunglasses so he didn't see how teary my eyes got.  Yup, about some things I am very much a girl.

We sat for quite a while watching the water, enjoying the moment, and just being together.  I love that we can be quiet together; I need quiet to function.  It was...  Absolutely perfect really.

When we got home pretty much the first thing I did was call my parents, and then my aunt Linda.  Those calls were a lot of fun to make -- I think they're almost as excited as I am :)  That was awesome.  Then we met up with Chris' parents for dinner.  They were super enthusiastic and very welcoming -- almost made me get all kinds of teary again.  Who is this person? ;)  I sent a message to one of my best friends asking her to call me if she was still up -- she lives in France and the time difference was not in my favour here...   After dinner called and texted a few close friends -- again so much fun.

And then...  The Facebook post.   I don't do "relationship" statuses as a rule.  To me, relationships are private and don't belong on the internet; the same reason for the absence from the blog.  Actually I remember when Chris and I started dating, having a conversation about it and saying that I couldn't imagine actually changing it until I was engaged to somebody...   Hahaha so jumping from several years of "none" to "engaged" with nothing inbetween -- got all kinds of fun comments!   My phone rang just as Chris was posting, so I approved it and then went away to talk.

When I came back, Facebook had exploded.  It was an almost overwhelming top to an unbelievable day.  The cheers and love and well wishes from everybody was so wonderful.  Those I'm close with and some I haven't seen since high school -- and yet all took the time to "like" and comment.  Took only a second or two, yet actually meant so much.

So yes, between this and whatever my soon-to-come next career will be, suffice to say this is yet another year of major life changes *g*    Should make for some entertaining blog posts if nothing else ;)

So happy.  Incredibly, over-the-top, she who writes compulsively can't come up with the words, happy.

Thanks Chris.  I love you.

Does it still count as a learning experience if you stay *on* the horse?

My editor once told me a story should have a point.  I'm not sure I always agree with that, but for those who do the point is simple: my pony was awesome!   The end.

The longer version isn't much different -- just longer :)   In review, I decided on Sun to take Lexi to a clinic I knew nothing about with a clinician I'd never heard of.  Brilliant.  But I liked the idea of the clinic and was disappointed I wasn't going to get to see the Tuesday version, so decided I'd give this a go.

My last post reviewed how much longer everything takes for the first couple outings of the season; fortunately I had the *very* civilized ride time of noon.  This gave lots of time for the silliness that just happens...  

And sure enough, I went to hook up my trailer and it was like this:

Booooo.  It has to be *on* the block for my truck to fit under it...   Laura and I deemed we couldn't lift it, or even move it slightly *sigh*   But fortunately Frank could!  hahaha he lifted it up so I could slide the block back underneath and we were good to go :)  As far as unexpected delays go, it really wasn't too bad...

Quickly got Lexi ready.  Her braids were embarrassingly atrocious -- the only thing worse would've been her completely wild unbraided mane.  But it was made up for it with the ever-important stunning tail *g*  Which, I'll admit, I even wrapped before leaving.  I don't think I've ever actually used a tail wrap before, but I know how nervous she is about trailering so...  Why not ;)  Pony loaded like a prostar -- but then promptly had a meltdown once she was on.  So I headed out quickly in hopes she would settle and the drive was uneventful.

Unloading, however, I genuinely thought she might flip the trailer :(   Was trying to figure out how I could safely get her out alone when Becky arrived.  "You were gone for long enough, I thought I should come make sure you were both still alive."  hahaha Yeah for extra hands!  With her, had Lexi off and calmer in seconds.

Stalls were in the arena, which was awesome from my pov as it gave Lexi an hour to settle in the arena I was going to ride in.  Pretty sweet.  Kitty's lesson was just starting when we got there, so L wasn't even alone in the arena.  She settled pretty much instantly.

So the clinic itself.  Had to wear a funky jacket with bright pink stripes on it.  Have you met me?  ;)  All the other jackets were green, but no, I get the pink one.  Sheesh.  Ah well.  The point, however, was to be able to clearly see any misalignment in position.  Russell also placed a white dot on the back of the saddle and on the middle of Lexi's croup so alignment would be very obvious.

Yes there are pictures, but they're on the other computer so can't get them tonight.   Later :)

It was deemed that I sit quite straight.  Yeah!  I *think* I'm fairly aware of my flaws as a rider, but you don't know what you don't know right?  So there was definitely a moment of hmmmmm I wonder...  

Russell videoed a bit at the beginning -- super high frames/second rate so when we watched it back it played in slow motion.   Had his computer hooked up to a TV screen so we could watch mounted and auditors could see as well.  Really interesting and useful.

He asked what I wanted to work on (I'm quite certain she was the greenest horse of the day by several years).   I said we were mostly there to let her see the world, but if we could get forward and into some form of contact, that'd be wonderful.

Well at about that point, we got all sorts of practice experiencing the world.  MH's three great danes darted in the ring barking.  And here we have why I always have Sasha in the ring with the horses...   I'm not sure Lexi knew exactly what they were (dogs?  odd looking ponies?  giant goats? -- yes she lives with a variety of critters) but she kept it together.   Gave them a good stink-eye and grew a hand or so, but didn't react otherwise.  I was so very impressed.  She was actually far more concerned about the auditors who arrived late with noisy fast-food bags ;)   Those she hasn't seen before!  hahaha

It was interesting to note that when he asked how I felt about the speed, we differed in answer.  I felt she was too slow; he said no - she was moving and tracking up well.  We settled on she was moving but behind the leg, and worked to fix that.We did a lot of work on getting her in front of the leg.  He took my dressage whip away, preferring instead the "pony club kick".  It probably looked fairly ugly, but it worked.  He also focused on my well known bad habit of reins too long *sigh* -- and the video made me cringe, because of course as a coach, when I see it, I know how wrong it is...   And an unknown habit of turning my right wrist slightly.  Totally random, but when I fixed it, it helped.  The other one was "if you cluck, you know she's behind your leg."  Such a simple obvious statement, but absolutely correct.  And an instant auditory clue that I need to solve that problem Right Now.

I was concerned about my recent habit of my legs doing strange and unusual things entirely of their own volition.  He decided I was doing too much to support my horse and that I needed to teach her to carry herself and create her own impulsion and once that happened, my legs would fix themselves.   A little easier said than done, but even within the hour or so a noticeable difference.  So that was a huge relief!   Again, the pony club kick played a big role *g*

Also interesting was he had me do far more with my hands than I'm accustomed to -- but the end result with my horse was fabulous, and on the video it looked like I was doing nothing.  So subtle aids, but more of them.  And how did he pick up on that one?

He got on my horse!   Woohoo!   First time I've seen Lexi ridden.   He asked permission several times -- didn't seem convinced that I actually was totally okay with him getting on.   Rode around for a while -- employed the pony club kick himself.  And shortly she looked like a really impressive horse!   One that could actually go somewhere and do some stuff ;-P

Yup, just like that.  Complete with pretty tail...

Anyways yes, had me fairly stoked for the horse I could have...   When I got back on she still felt the same, but now I had a better idea what I was aiming for -- and I think we got moments of it.  The video seems to imply so.  I know we would've if I'd actually managed to shorten my reins!  Ugh.  This summer's goal -- fix that particular bad habit.  Sheesh.

Have always found the use of video to be particularly beneficial in my own riding.  Forever grateful to friends I manage to bribe to film my schooling even snippits...  So very useful.  So this clinic which incorporated slow-motion video was brilliant for me.  Russel was an excellent coach -- very positive, but with a good eye and reliance on simple basics.

And to round it out, MH's stable manager Becky was super-helpful.  Above and beyond helping me deal with my silly pony and settle in.

So all round an excellent outing.  Photos and maybe video later :)

But I have a lesson tomorrow am, so off for now.

Spring cleaning

By the end of show season each year, I can go from not even considering going anywhere to out the door with show turnout in well under twenty mins.  Slightly longer if I have to braid, but generally fast.  Everything is clean, organized and ready.  And that includes the horse.

Right now however...

Oh dear.

So Lexi's been in work for a couple weeks now.  I fear it's going to take forever and a day to get her fit *sigh*, but at least she's working consistently, has three gaits (usually), and is navigating from one side of a jump to the other (we won't give it the lofty title of "jumping" quite yet).  All good.

She also more closely resembles a lama having a bad hair day then a fancy grey TBX.  'Sok - realistically won't  be showing till June at least; lots of time for her to shed out, build some muscle, have a bath or two and just generally look like a horse.

Sadly I'm not even exaggerating...

Oh and our arena's so dusty that every piece of tack I own has a layer of filth on it I suspect may need an ice pick to break through.  But this is what spring's about right?  Eventually the sun comes out and the mud dries up and we can clean them (and us!) up, and the world is good again.  Perfect.

Except spring has yet to...  well... spring.  Ugh.   And on Sunday I randomly decided to enter a clinic.  On Wednesday.  Not too worried about the fitness level as focus is on details of rider position, so she mostly just needs to be there.  But turnout...

Right, remember that twenty-minute turn around time?   It doesn't exist at the start of the season.  Especially at the start of the season after a move.   Oh dear.

So I went to the barn early today.  Rode my horse, using the logic that a tired horse is more likely to stand patiently than a fresh one.  Okay, step one, tired horse in cross-ties.  Now, priorities...

About that...   Please refer back to the above picture.   Where does one even start?

Well let's see the challenges:
- every time I groom this horse I take off a small pony in shedding hair
- her mane...   Oh dear, I don't think I should even mention the mane...  Long flowingness yes...  but flowing in all directions in copious amounts.  And short little stubby pieces for good luck.  On the plus side -- she's so finicky about her mane (wait, the plus side is coming!) that I actually deal with it every day so she gets used to it.  This is almost working.  It does not, however, mean that the mane is neatly pulled, braidable, or even able to get a comb through.
- her tail, of the long flowing variety that every little girl dreams of, has seen neither brush nor shampoo in months.
- all the body parts that are traditionally trimmed....  Umm yeah - can't even see them.
- she closely resembles the above photo in colour.  Except, unlike the lama, Lexi is traditionally grey.

What she could potentially look like ;)

Where would you start?   Well let's go with what's going to make the biggest difference.  It's too cold for a bath, so elbow grease will have to do what it can for the colour.   And not too bad...  There are a few marks that aren't quite presentable, but at least the average person could make a stab at guessing what colour she's supposed to be.

Clipping?   Right.  Not going to happen.  My horse has yet to meet clippers and isn't big on new experiences.  I have neither the time nor the patience for that game today.  And my clippers need to be replaced.  I also don't want to trim around her fetlocks as we're entering mud season so I'd prefer she have at least some protection.  So, shaggy it is.

The tail...  Hmmmmm potential there.   Except it's currently one long dreadlock.  Ugh.  Okay.

So a few years ago I rented an apartment that had previously been owned for several years by a smoker.  I spent the first few weeks cleaning the walls.  Gross yellow stuff poured down the walls seemingly endlessly.  Cleaning Lexi's tail was worse.

But after several shampoos (thanks to Lilly for *finding* said shampoo!), multiple buckets of water, some conditioner, and a whole lot of patience, we had a barbie-doll tail again :)   Woohoo!

Okay, progress...  Now about that mane...   Ummmm nope.  Sorry.  So I threw the worlds worst braids in and deemed it done.  Will pick up some hairspray tonight or tomorrow and do what needs to be done ;)

Scissors trimmed up her oh-so-attractive beard and the lama was transformed into something that vaguely resembles a horse.

Next up - tack.  That'll take an hour or two, but shouldn't be too complicated ;)   Shoveling out the trailer otoh...

hahaha well we'll make it there tomorrow.  Unfit, shaggy, sort-of broke...  But with a really great tail.  That's gotta count for something, right?  ;)

Wish us luck!

Ever had the kind of day where you trip over a sunbeam?

Okay -- so this winter Lexi pretty much had off...  Can't imagine why.  Regardless, the last couple weeks she's been slowly getting back into work.   She's a fun horse.  More challenging in unusual ways than I'd expected.  But the only thing I don't care for is that from the beginning though has always been behind the leg and rather lazy.  Not my usual type.  There's a whole lot of TB in her, but I've yet to see it.

Anyways -- decided after seeing a video (ugh, video...) of me playing around on her the other day that it's time to get her in front of my leg and going forward.  Fine.  Goal established.

Alright, well I don't know who told my horse about said goal.  But "you want forward, I'll give you forward."  She was super quiet grooming and tacking up -- normal at that time of day.  Head down to the arena -- she grew a little walking around.  Fair, given that I set up a course since the last time she was in there.  First sign I might be in trouble -- we had to discuss standing to mount.  This hasn't been an issue for a very long time.

Ummmm okay.  Start walking.  Very hollow, very high, very add.  But still in a walk.  And a short icky walk of varying numbers of beats.  Blah.  Okay up to trot.  Ummmmm trot traditionally has two beats...   Nope.  Cantering.   I don't know where she thought she was going to go in an indoor ring, but she was going to get there today.   Reasonably agreeable -- other than one massive buck (so glad she didn't repeat that; a second one would've tossed me) she would let me steer and was holding her line, but faster and faster...  Minor series of hoppy type bucks -- those were pretty funny although I was a little concerned they might lead to the real ones again.

Around and around...  Switch direction and do the same thing the other way.  Kid on a merry-go-round.  Faster than I remember merry-go-rounds being as a kid, but fairly amusing.  And conveniently she's still not very fit, so eventually she got tired and deigned to trot.  On the plus side, my concerns about her not having enough speed for xc are pretty much gone now ;)

Rest of the ride was amazing.  Forward.  Awesome, huge, floaty trot.  So much fun.   Did have a good laugh when she tripped over a sunbeam though.  Sadly, I'm not even kidding.  We'll put it down to not having seen sun in a while ;)   

I have no idea where this horse came from, but I'm really hoping she sticks around!

I was in the middle before I knew that I'd begun...

Crazy long day and slightly exhausted but not the least bit tired?   Are you new?  If so, consider yourself forewarned -- that's a wicked combination.  This morning seems a very long time ago.  And honestly, nothing interesting happened.

Let's see...

Well just left that on that phrase and spent an couple *hours* watching Lizzie Bennett.  Had a good laugh at her talking to "imaginary Charlotte".  I think I need "imaginary Jen" ;)   Hahaha - was totally addicted to this series and then my world blew up and it kind of got forgotten, but today it was remembered.  For anybody who needs a new fun time waster, you're welcome:

Wow -- looked at that one having just finished episode 100.  What a change.  So sad there are no more :(   Now what? ;)     Lots of good one liners -- that's probably why I was so addicted.   Was silly for the first ummm 85 or so and then quickly became remarkably darker.   Far more so than I remember the book being, but maybe just because it's updated to current times. Today's line was about close friends/family when something goes wrong:  "It's not about doing anything; it's just about being here."   Just struck me somehow as being very accurate.  And sometimes the hardest thing to do when you really want to help.  Or, for that matter, the thing you need most...  That's what Sasha's for :)

Said super puppy is sleeping at my feet while I type.  She does that a whole lot more since Bailey's been around.  Apparently puppy sitting is exhausting :)   Really want to get Sasha back in agility and give her something fun to do.  And me, tbh.  I need a new hobby till either the weather gets better or I get employed *g*  Really hard to plan anything though not knowing if/when I'll be working.  Puppy class I'd sign up for is Thurs afternoons, but as soon as I'm employed that won't be an option...

Sleepy Sasha

In the interim though -- trying to get all those things done that I wanted to do "when I had more time". hahaha -- or, more accurately, that I felt I *should* do when I had more time, since I tend to fit in the things I really want *g*   Things that should get done: paperwork, cleaning, editing, wading through boxes in the basement...  Things that are *actually* getting done: riding my horse, playing with my dog, catching up with friends, relaxing at C's (which effectively eliminates *everything* in the should category in one move), reading, going to the gym -- okay that last one is usually in the should category, but it's good stress relief and makes me feel better, so for now... ;)

AND I had my first swimming lesson ;)  hahaha yeah, random eh?   Partially inspired by hopes of future beach trips and partially by being somewhat appalled how incapable I currently am trying to make it from Point A to Point B effectively in the water.   It. Was. Brutal.   Seriously.   Half-hour lesson had me more physically exhausted than two hours in the gym would've.  Coach was good -- tough, but effective ;)   Only four people in the class, so lots of attention.  Two are really strong, one less so.  All very welcoming. Good environment.  But yeah, crashed pretty hard after.  No lessons this week for March Break, so we'll see next week. Avoiding the gym mostly too since it's all chaos.

Having lots of fun with Lexi.   Sadly she seems to have forgotten where her legs are in the few months off, but she's remembering quickly :)   Lunging today involved the barrels.  oohhhhh, awwwww....  hahaha but absolutely no drama whatsoever.  Those who remember the first effort will understand *g*  Fairly impressed about that.  And amazing form.  So once again, have hope for the future *g*   Would love to free jump her again, but setup not ideal for that.  Ah well.   Just have to wait till she's confident enough to play that game with a rider :)   Signed up for a clinic end of April -- so have to keep being productive now ;)  Looking forward to riding tomorrow.  It sounds like I might even have a babysitter, so that should make the barrels a complete non-issue.  Should.  Theoretically.

35 degrees and sunny

Subject line wasn't a daydream -- it actually happened!

35 degrees and sunny.   Sound like a dream?   Yeah, me too.  But a couple weeks ago it was reality.  No, I haven't lost it.  With the aid of travel miles and a suitcase, I found myself in Cuba.  In a heat wave.  You can hate me now >;-P

If it makes you feel any better, the day we left my alarm clock went off at 2:30.  Ummm that'd be am. Which means I hadn't technically fallen asleep yet.   Got to the airport, checked in, wandered around for a bit, and boarded the plane.  With a disproportionate number of very young children.  Argh.   Fortunately once we took off, they all settled.

Most amazing feeling to leave in record low winter temps and get off the plane, outside, to feel 35 degrees and sunny.  Amazing.  It suddenly doesn't matter that you'll be waiting in endless lines, because...  You're warm.  And really, this winter, what else matters?

Getting through security took quite a while, but wasn't any big deal.  My bag was literally the last one loaded onto the baggage carousel.  There's always that moment of panic of "did it make it"?   Or Chris, who just assumed I missed it and it'd be over with the other stacked ones ;-P   Such faith!  But it did make it, it was just last.  In this case though, it really didn't matter since the buses weren't leaving anybody behind.  Not like getting off the plane in Europe and fighting your way out for the first cab so you can get on your way.  Nope, here you're on island time.  Manoeuvred our way past the very helpful men offering to drive us there *g*, paused briefly at the one selling drinks, and found our bus.  It was surprisingly well organized and efficient.  Yes, I actually typed that sentence.  Sarcasm free.

The drive was about an hour and a half.  We had a tour guide who gave a run down about basic Cuban etiquette (summarized: tip everybody) and some traditional tourism info about the areas we were driving through.  Mostly though we were warm and happy.  That was what mattered.  A good section of the trip was over a causeway -- most of the tour sites say go *despite* it, but since I'm a huge fan of water, I actually really enjoyed it.

At the resort we were greeted with a welcome cocktail for checkin.  We were a little confused as it seemed as though we should collect our luggage, but eventually it was made clear it would be delivered to our rooms. Okay.  Then we hit another pause when they wanted to collect our passports "to be picked up in two hours".  Ummmm no.   A surprising number of passports were left there, but neither Chris nor I were that trusting.  We were told it was because they were required by law to photocopy them.  Okay - nbd.  We went to the front desk and let them photocopy them there.   We also wanted to upgrade to the "Diamond Club" so figured we'd do that at the same time.  Which would've been a fabulous plan except their credit card machine was down and we didn't have cash yet.  *sigh*  Oh well.  Almost time for the beach!

Head upstairs and the room was lovely.  Except...  It had two beds stuck together.  Which would've been perfect, had I still been travelling with Kerri.  Our bags arrived, but we chose not to unpack, deeming future us could deal with the whole issue.  Instead went in search of food.  Found it -- or Cuba's substitute anyways.  A large buffet, but meh quality food.  Not bad, in that it was all edible, but definitely not something you'd be proud to serve somebody.  After lunch with some running around we managed to get our room changed and our upgrade accomplished.  The staff member who came with us to help us relocate our bags to our new room was awesome.  Friendly, enthusiastic, and full of helpful advice.  Helped regenerate a good mood :)  Well that and, 35 degrees and sunny.

Boardwalk to the beach

And so the rest of the day was spent on the beach.  As were the next several ;)   OMG that beach.  I like the ocean.  I like beaches.  As a result, I've been to a lot of them.  This one just might've been the nicest one *ever*.  The only possible exception was hidden in the Whitsunday Islands, and, realistically, that's way out of budget to go back and compare ;)   Don't get me wrong, I loved the beach in Varadaro.  But this one was better.  Significantly.  To compound it's natural beauty, the staff did an phenomenal job of keeping it clean.  Both from tourist garbage and the ocean's natural decorations ;)  Oh, and did I mention the ice-cream guy who wandered around late morning every day?   Think of the one who used to roll through suburban neighbourhoods on a bike.  This was a push rather than a bike (ummm beach people!) but otherwise exactly the same.  Complete with a ringing bell.   Now being 35 deg and sunny, the ice cream melted at a ridiculous rate.  But was easy enough to stroll into the ocean to clean off ;)  Kinda the absolutely perfect finishing touch to the beach.

What more do you need?

Oh wait, if that wasn't enough, there were little catamarans on the beach that were going out for short sails every day -- these were included with the vacation so we went out twice.  Nice way to break up an oh-so-stressful day of beach and pool.  I know, life's rough.  Did I mention 35 deg and sunny?

Beach catamarans

Actually, in the interest of full disclosure, I should be honest.  It did rain twice: once, on our first morning, when we were in the meeting about all the excursions and "things you should know"; it was done by the time we were ready to go to the beach.  The second time was when we were on a bus on the north side of the country -- apparently that rain didn't make it to the resort.  hahaha but other than that, legit 35 deg and sunny the whole time we were there.  Significantly warmer than the last time I went.  Apparently they were having a heat wave.  I was pretty stoked about it.

So the beach was stunning.  Unbelievably so.  Unfortunately the rest of the resort we probably wouldn't return to.  Our beach was shared with one other resort that everybody we spoke to loved -- so that would probably be a smarter choice.  For instance, in our hotel room maid service was okay -- but often the floors weren't swept, the coffee was never refilled, and the mini-bar only sometimes.  We usually had hot water or cold water but not always at the same time and once had none at all.  Others we spoke with were having more dramatic issues though, so we just learned to be strategic about when we wanted to shower ;)   As to the food, we very quickly figured out that it was much better if you went to the grills rather than the buffets, so we did that for most meals.  We booked our a la carte meals with the diamond concierge -- I tell you, that upgrade was well worth it :) and were good to go.  Upgrade included better service in the meal areas, waiter service on the beach and super staff in both locations -- maybe all over the resort, but definitely seemed above and beyond in those areas.  We quickly came to have some favourite staff :)  Upgrade also included different types (presumably better quality) alcohol, but tbh, I wouldn't know the difference ;)

To be honest, I thought I'd be bored out of my little mind.  We spent a *lot* more time on the beach than any other resort-type vacation I've been on -- mostly because there really wasn't anything else to do.  But I was so exhausted and just done that it was actually amazing.

Sat and listened for a while; this guy was smiling and singing away.  So expressive.
PC - Chris

We did go on one excursion, to Trinidad.  That'd be Cuba's version, not the one you're thinking of >;-P  If it had been an hour's drive instead of a three-hour drive, it might've been okay.  Honestly though, I felt it was too long a trip for too little.  We met some interesting characters and yes there was definitely some interesting architecture, but it was a long, not-so-interesting day.  I think also the fact that I was so fascinated by Havana when Ker and I were there, made the comparison harder.

In Trinidad
PC - Chris

Ah well though, even though we were super late (island time) we made it back minutes before our dinner reservation.  We might not have been dressed appropriately, but they fed us anyways ;)  All good.

Note the island time...  All the clocks were like that.

Our last day was spent on a dolphin-free dolphin-patting expedition.  hahaha perhaps I should clarify.  This trip involves snorkling and visiting the dolphinarium to stand on a platform and have them swim around you.  The first part appealed, especially for Chris who'd never snorkeled before, but the second didn't appeal to either of us.  Conveniently though, once a week they run a trip for those with "moral objections" that does snorkling at two different sites instead of the dolphin visit.  Tbh, I wasn't entirely convinced two snorkel options would be worth the cost of the trip, but C seemed excited about it and, well, I'm generally pretty happy to spend a day out on a boat :)  Sobeit.

Turns out Chris' pocket-camera works reasonably well under water :)
PC - Chris

Soooo glad we did.  Possibly the best day of the trip :)  The snorkeling was, comparatively, meh.  Kinda on par with the food comparison realistically.   But while I've never been a food connoisseur, I learned to dive in the Great Barrier Reef -- so my expectations might be a little warped ;)   Chris, however, is both a strong swimmer (I swim at least as well as I play rugby), and new to the sport -- so watching him take in the experience was all kinds of fun.   The first site was a small reef that was unfortunately all-but-destroyed.  It was quite shallow, and hundreds of beginner snorkelers had long since crushed and squished just about everything.  The second one though was 3-4m deep -- far enough that with nobody having any dive gear it was reasonably undisturbed.  Crystal clear water AND it was a wreck.  Which, I've never done any wreck diving so I was pretty fascinated by it.  It was awesome. In the most literal sense of the word.

Chris investigating the wreck

Back on the boat -- mini, out of order story here...  When we first got on everybody was finding places to sit on the benches etc -- benches were all covered under a tarp and surrounded the bar.  I was slightly ahead of Chris (single file entrance) and asked if he had a preference.   Nope, me neither.   Then at about the same second we both noticed the nets at the front of the boat.  Nets with people lounging on them.  Wait!  I have a preference!  hahaha fortunately for both that preference was the same.  The nets were, admittedly, less than comfortable, but being out in the sun, lying down on a giant catamaran...   That can't be beat.  And they were significantly *more* comfortable after the first swim when we kept our towels out to lie on.  Live and learn ;)

Amazing day on the catamaran!

So this wonderful creation sails us to a *stunning* seemingly deserted beach with one of the biggest sandbars I've ever seen.  We went for a walk along the sandbar, played with the camera, made some sand art, and just generally enjoyed life until the boat threatened to sail away without us.  We weren't the last back on board!  We *might've* been second-last ;-P

We started by just photographing other people's sand art - I mean really, one person's
"Cuba 2014" is the same as another's, right?   And vacation *is* all about laziness.
But then Chris drew this one, entirely to humour me I'm sure :)  And it worked.

Last stop was lunch, although it was well after lunch.  This is the only part of the day I was disappointed in. First, I was expecting a beach picnic or bbq or some variation.  But no, they took those who object to the dolphinarium, to the dolphinarium for lunch.  Ummmm poor planning guys.  And then lunch was, imo, the worst meal of the trip.  I think Chris enjoyed his more than I did, but I basically ate crackers and pineapple.  Random combination, I know, but you make due with what's there.

Then it was just the sail back.  The rest of the day we'd been motoring rather than sailing, but on the way home they raised a sail and killed the engine for a while.  Admittedly drifting rather than sailing, but it was an absolutely perfect end to the day.  And the trip.

I think I had that goofy grin on my face the whole trip!

Coming home was long line after long line after long line.  Getting out of the country is more tedious than getting in.  BUT, do-it-yourself customs when we got home was fabulous.  Unbelievably fast.  One of the few good things about returning home :)   We also have a new appreciation for 5-star washrooms (ummm to clarify what claims an island five stars: a door, a seat, tp, a toilet that flushes, and paper towel to dry your hands), and clocks that tell time.

So yes, it was amazing.  Especially in this winter from hell.  And I can't wait for the next trip!

Till next time...

Welcome to Bailey :)

I am writing a Cuba post -- really I am!   But it's not working out the way I'd like -- mostly because, well, it's -20 outside and somehow the beach seems very far away at the moment.

I only *wish* I was exaggerating...

Right.  Remember March Break the year-before-last?  It was 20 deg and sunny.   That's +20 people.  We were riding outside in t-shirts.  I'd like that back now.  Trying to plan show season and clinics is challenging when you don't even want to go outside.

Planning the next trip, however?  That part's easy ;)  Ambitious, but easy *g*

It helps offset the job hunting, which is frustrating at best.  Finding lots that would be suitable -- even in the area I'd like to be, but feel like I'm merely sending resumes into a black hole *sigh*  Ah well, I'm sure something will appear.  It always does :)   And in the meantime, I'm at least getting some editing done.

And the gym.  Ah, the gym.  The biggest change from working at the barn?  Arm strength.  Which makes perfect logical sense, but somehow didn't think of it.  Legs and abs are good from riding, but really, what do you use arms for if you're not mucking stalls and hauling water buckets?  Typing just doesn't require much skill.

Starting swimming lessons next week.  A sentence I never thought I'd say after the age of about 12 *g*   But while I can stay afloat well enough and generally get from point A to point B, I do not swim well at all.   Pathetically poorly really.  Definitely time to fix that :)   You know, in preparation for the next beach vacation ;)

And for the cuteness factor of the day, Mum's new puppy, Bailey:

Super happy Bailey and Sasha get along brilliantly.  Bailey and Sherlock?  Not quite so well >;-P   Bailey bounces when she runs -- I get that that's a puppy thing, but it doesn't make it any less cute.  She's also both brave and smart enough that she should pose an entertaining challenge ;)  Super cool dog.

I'm back.

Alright so it's time to get back to business...   Some of you may be aware that my darling grey mare (lately irreverently known as Her Royal Greyness) has been, ummmm, shall we say less than a priority as of late...  I can count on one hand the number of times she's been ridden since November, and on both hands the number she's been worked in any way, shape or form.   From she who has always been 100% dedicated, this is unheard of.  But then, my world did kind of implode.

Anyways -- I decided to run away for a week and allow the real world to start when I got back.  I got back on Thurs.  Figured I'd start riding back on Friday.  Deemed sleep was the better option *g*  AND it *was* Valentine's, so felt I really shouldn't hang around after work to ride.  Saturday the pieces finally came together and my high-as-a-kite pony got lunged.  All good and appropriate for the first work in who-knows-how-long...  Sundays I've been trying really hard to keep as "lazy Sundays" that I can either hang around and do nothing, or spend time with friends and family, or - get this - both!  hahaha but I *am* making a concerted effort (at least until show season) not to book anything then.  So it was a given she'd have yesterday off.

Today all ready to go.  Hit the gym, got a number of chores done, on my way out the door...  And Jen calls. Jen who moved to France last summer.  Who I never get to see and very rarely get to talk to anymore.  Yes, she outranks Lexi.  Esp an unfit, untrained Lexi...  Sorry all, but two-legged family before four in this case.

Alright so I hang up at the last possible second before I have to go teach.  Feeling moderately guilty and disappointed with myself for not working my horse, but sobeit.  Getting to the barn however, I discover I only have one student.  Strange -- although not so strange when I realized it's reading week and suspect all the uni students have gone home...  But still, unexpected.  And usually when a group lesson ends up with only one person, I do a half-hour private instead.  But then it occurred to me, why not ride?   Wouldn't be the first time I've ridden and taught at the same time.  Admittedly that's usually reserved for cross-country, but hey -- it's all good.   And the one rider who was there was both competent (so if Lex was an idiot, I wouldn't have to worry about causing trouble for her) and easy-going enough to go along with this whole idea :)   So figured we'd do the whole time, but I'd ride as well.   Realistically Lex wouldn't last an hour anyways, so I was reasonably certain that my student would still get a decent amount of coaching time.

Sounds great right?   What could go wrong with this?  Lexi's been ridden at night before.  Once.  Months ago.   She hasn't been ridden since about two weeks before vacation.  Barn manager told me she was spun today.  She's been ridden with other horses eight times in her entire life -- including the five clinic days ;)  And the last one was the Hyde clinic in October...   Oh, and one boarder, two kids, and Sasha were also all in the ring.  Definitely setting us up for success ;)

And I won't be lunging before mounting.  She's slightly cold backed and hasn't been sat on in ages.  Arguably a poor life choice, but sobeit.

You know what?  She was awesome.  Stiff and cold -- there was definitely a rather large buck hidden there when I got on, but she never threw it.  She was super nasty to the boarder's horse -- going to have to work on riding her w/ strange horses...  And the rider (who was finishing up as we got there) was awesome about giving us extra space.  We played a little bit of follow the leader with Athena, which gave us more forward gaits than I usually get.  So that had me grinning.  Then she even managed some independently.  Cantered - on *both* leads - calmly and mostly under control.  I say mostly because the steering left something to be desired ;)   But I have faith we'll get that back shortly.  Even jumped a couple small fences.  Woohoo!   She's feeling very gangly and uncoordinated...  But then she's grown since she was last in work and she's super unfit, so really -- what could I expect?

Then she really earned her gold star, by remaining focused in the walk and a little trot while my student was cantering and doing other such fun things; an impressive surprise.  Of course it's possible she was *slightly* tired at this point ;)   Earlier, when I'd gotten off her earlier to set fences, I had asked Faith to hold her -- reasonably certain she wouldn't go anywhere...  To put this in perspective, Faith's still several years from being a teenager and thus very short.  I wish I'd had a photo as child comes up to Lexi's shoulder and pony's head was *way* over hers...   We're in an indoor ring, L's ground manners are good, and F has grown up with horses.  I wasn't too concerned but kept an eye on them just in case.   When we were done I gave Lexi to her to hold for a bit (after declining her offer to hop on and cool her out for me -- don't quite trust Lex *that* much yet!) and pony's head was down by Faith's hand, and she followed Faith around as quietly as could be.  Super cute, but one tired pony.  After all of about half an hour - mostly at trot.   We're going to have a LONG way to go to be event fit by summer!   But that let me set fences for the rest of the lesson while Lexi cooled out :)

So yeah -- did we do anything impressive?  Nope.  Anything even moderately acceptable to be seen in public?  Nope.  But you know what?  I had *fun*.  With my horse.  Imagine that :)   It's been a while.  And she was significantly better behaved than I'd even dreamed.  That counts for a lot.  Her pony brain was challenged and she still tried.  A good sign for upper levels :)   Lots of carrots...

And side note -- I was SO happy with Sasha.  She was playing with a lunge whip and when told to leave it -- did.   Lexi was growing noticeably concerned about the giant snake coming up behind her -- I wasn't sure how that was going to go.  Esp as she tends more toward the fight than flight instinct...  Yes I like my horses to get used to *everything* -- part of why kids and puppies are welcome in the ring when I'm schooling young ones, and why all my schoolies no longer blink at anything -- but sometimes even I have to draw the line ;)  Good puppy!   I've actually been super happy with several tests of Sasha's training lately.  Not that there's not still lots to work on, but still...  Can't wait till we can go back to agility :)

Oh yeah - I was in Cuba for a week.  It was amazing ;)   And yes, it will get a blog post.  Too long for tonight -- thought I'd just write this short one instead.  Yes, I said short.  You're not new here ;-P   Summary of Cuba post:  35 degrees and sunny on the most beautiful beach I've ever seen.  No need to hate me - I'm back in reality now.  Tanned - but back >;-P

Back to work. Sort of.

So lots of people make new year's resolutions involving gyms and fitness...  Not so much my thing.  But it has turned out that as of the new year, my full-time workout no longer exists...  And, well, I hate winter.

I'm sure you can see where this is going.

First, as of Monday, I'm finally working my horse again!  Woohoo.  Her Royal Greyness (credit to Jael for the name -- it suits her this week) is less thrilled.   Monday I figured I'd be smart and simply lunge her.  It was dark. The walk to the arena icy.  She's not stupid -- walked down as civilized as could be.  Entered the arena.  And EXPLODED.  Seriously.

After I got her down from the rafters, I got her going in something that vaguely resembled a circle, occasionally in the correct gait.  Rebecca once described her lunging session as lunging a cat -- I'd steal that line, but cats stop and go to sleep every once in a while *g*   Mine was more trying to direct Sasha after she caught sight of a frisbee-riding squirrel.   Only issue, Lexi hasn't been worked since November.  Yes, you read that right.  Never in my life has a sound horse I've been responsible for had that much time off.  Unbelievable.  But really, when your world turns itself inside out and backwards, riding the barely-broke and very temperamental mare when it's cold and miserable out kinda loses its appeal.

But see, now the world is starting to settle, and show season is only a few months away.  And my horse is definitely not ready to go out in public (they consider swinging from the rafters cheating...)  And I suddenly have a significant amount of free time so...   Horse is back in work.  But not fit.  Not even remotely fit.  So by the time I got her stopped she was thoroughly lathered (did I mention she's exceptionally fat and fuzzy?  Yeah -- kinda looks like an overgrown Thelwell). 

Yup - seems about right

Lex gets cooled out and left to dry while I teach.  Hours later she was *finally* dry and could be groomed and blanketed for night.  She was sound asleep by the time I finished blanketing >;-P

Tuesday -- had a lesson.  Yeah really.  Miss mare was *still* super high about being in the arena but also clearly tired so the edge was off.  Much shorter lunging session which didn't involve any true insanity and I hopped on.  As Miss Mare is clearly unfit, focus was entirely on her pilot.  Ummmm perhaps I should've mentioned the pilot was rather unfit too.   I don't think I've ridden more than once or twice -- for probably ten mins each -- since the last ride on Lexi.  Hop on to show somebody something or fix a problem.  But no actual *riding*.  Hmmmm.   And I lived off cookies and chocolate for three weeks.  And then did nothing but sit around trying to stay warm for one.   Oops.

Lesson was *amazing*.   Fixed a lot of tiny details.  One of the best I've had in months.  But I was beginning to fear how I'd feel the next day when half an hour after dismounting I was already sore.  hahaha   Oh and Princess?  Made her dislike at having to work when tired *very* well known.  I was less than amused.  Can't really blame her, but still.  Sheesh.

Seriously.  I'm not exaggerating.

Fast forward to Wednesday.  Now Lexi legit needed a day off, so after ensuring she'd be turned out for the day she got left to complain to her friends and enjoy her round bale.   I, however, am not so smart.  You see, I was resenting how quickly I got tired after riding and have been pretty down lately, so decided I need more exercise.  And I hate winter.  And I'm not *really* ready to go back to mucking stalls if I don't have to...  Sooooo only option left is the gym.

Yes, you read that right.  The gym.  Not just my favourite pilates studio (product check:  they're awesome -- if you're near Oakville and interested in yoga, pilates, or spinning -- go there.) but an *actual* gym.  Like with machines and everything.  Oh dear.

Now after the previous day's lesson my legs were a little sore and my abs definitely feeling it, so I wasn't going to be up to much of a fitness test, but figured I'd at least stretch a bit and get loosened up.

Right, you're not new here.  Now several of the machines I don't know how to use, so I intelligently avoided those.  At some point I'll get somebody to teach me to use them.  Did about ten mins on the elliptical to warm up and the first eight or so were brutal.  But then the lactic acid in my legs went away and I was fine, so did another ten.   Actually warmed up.  Sweet.

Did a little bit on the ab ball because, well, my abs were sore so clearly they needed more work.   Then a bunch of arms and upper body work -- those were all good.  Had to laugh at one of the older style machines with actual weights (as opposed to the stack where you move the pin).   Clearly it was set for somebody much larger than I.  For a laugh I tried to move it the way it was set -- I could lift myself off the ground and it didn't budge.   I very carefully removed the four GIANT weights and replaced them with two tiny little circles *g*  hahaha awesome.   But then I could actually use it.

Was heading out and saw the old-school rowing machines.  For some reason those always amuse me, so played with it a little.  And then there was a top-of-the line ab cruncher (ummm yeah, sure that's officially what they're called *g*).   On the way to the changeroom.  I had to.  Tried ten lbs.  Stupidly easy -- even tired.   Okay, how bout 40?  bahahaha that almost killed me.  Esp with the machine arguing with me about both range and speed so I couldn't cheat.   Hmmmm back down to 20.  Still pretty easy.  30?  That's probably right.  Except by now pretty fatigued so just finished one set and left it at that.   Walked a lap or two on the indoor track, just cause, and left it for the day.

Thursday, I couldn't get out of bed.  People say that all the time but it wasn't lack of sleep -- for some reason I slept reasonably well....  Imagine that ;) -- I woke up ready to go, went to roll over, and I actually heard my abs mock my effort.  Sorry lady, that's just not going to happen.  *sigh*  In the end, threw a leg off the bed and let gravity do its job.  Less than graceful, I'll admit.  More resembling a bad comedy routine actually.  Somehow navigated to the shower and set it to scalding to try and unfurl my muscles.  Brutal.

Don't kid yourself -- I was *not* this graceful.

And time to work the horse again.  Who looked at me like I must be joking.  She wasn't wrong.  hahaha settled for an easy, short, stretchy lunge session.  Seemed a good compromise.

Friday, the day after the day after, I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised.  Abs still sore, but not nearly as bad as the day before -- I could actually breathe *g*  One of my favourite things to do actually.  Had to visit the accountant (reality still interferes occasionally) so had time for one of gym or horse.  Her Royal Greyness was less than thrilled with my choice.

Now, to be fair, I suspect she's legitimately muscle sore -- since I am too -- but such is life.  And first thing I noticed is that certain muscles are only sore when you sit on the horse *g*   hahaha oops.   But so be it.

To set the stage.  The arena door was frozen open. Kids were playing with Sasha in the distance.  Loudly.  Other boarders were leading horses in/out (note, all of them chose to ride in the arena where the door actually closes... Imagine that >;-p).  And I chose not to lunge.  All things considered, she was amazing.  But certainly not a horse I'm ready to take out in public *g*   We had some awesome power trots and a random "I can't do anything but canter! Must. Canter. NOW!" moment. ummmm okay... It lead to a beautiful canter and a puzzled horse who kept looking over her shoulder as though to see what I would do about this.  hahaha love it. And then the nappiness came back *sigh* All sorts of bouncing around, but the reason I suspect she's feeling it a little is that it was really low key. Like she *wanted* to have a temper tantrum and deposit me in the nearest pile of manure, but was just too tired to expend that much effort. So instead of bucking and rearing we got what felt kinda like cantering in place *g* That being said, she's worked four of the last five days when before that I hadn't sat on her since November...   So there's hope -- while it wasn't pretty, it was far less ugly than the meltdowns she was having in the spring.  Good pony.

AND I even got to ride Lissy for a bit -- *she* was a little superstar and made me appreciate what it's like not to have to work quite so hard.  Someday, that'll be Lex.  Preferably sooner than later :)

And now that I'm getting some exercise again, I'm feeling much better, far more energized, and the world is good.   Just need to catch up on some sleep now and I'll be set :)   And then I can finish my second book...  And do a massive house cleanse...  And design our new xc course...  And lurk cheap vacation sites...  And, and, and...  Yup -- I'll be taking it easy :)

Looking for work in March if you know of anything ;)

“Many years ago, I resolved never to bother with New Year’s resolutions, and I’ve stuck with it ever since” – Dave Beard

It has been a week of chaos. Almost controlled chaos, but chaos nonetheless.  That's the short version.

Christmas was great.  All presents delivered and seemingly enjoyed.  Good time with family and friends.  Stephy even came out to help me get the barn done in record time!  Sweet :)

Boxing day was back to the reality of moving.  Between Chris, my dad, Jamie, Rebecca, Kirby and I we got a ton done.  All the boxes moved and two loads of hay while Jen did all the barn work.  Exhausting but effective.

Friday was a day of just horse care and setting up for Saturday.  Ah Saturday.  That's a day that's been already erased from my memory.  But, just for you, I'll dig deep for the memory.  A ton of incredible people pitched in to accomplish the theoretically impossible.  Several loads of stuff and nearly 2000 bales of hay moved.  True story.  Seriously.

Sunday we were all pretty tired, but the games continued as we moved all the equipment and, more impressively, xc jumps.  Woohoo!  AND thanks to Jamie, also got all the fence boards that were destroyed in the ice storm repaired.  Starting to come together. 

Nice dinner cause, really, by this point somebody else was going to cook >;-P   And, actually, for once, managed to go to sleep early.  Exhaustion counts for something.

Monday morning we moved the last two horses.  Nina wasn't sure she wanted to get on the trailer, but with Rebecca and Kennedy's help, we managed it and everybody arrived safely.  Pleased to discover the power was back on.  Woohoo!  Then...  Can you imagine?  More packing!

Eventually it was New Year's Eve.  Crazy day.  As some of you know, New Year's isn't my favourite holiday.  In fact, most years I skip it entirely.  This year though, I had no choice.  And the timing of the new start was so cliched my editor would never have let it stand.  Sometimes though, you just have to sit back and watch the show.  My parents helped me finish packing and cleaning.  A run to Laura's, another run to the dump, a final conversation with the landlords and we parted for the last time, on good terms.  Not a bad finish. 

I even managed to catch a short nap before going out for the evening.  Yes, you read that right >;-P  A party with Chris's friends -- and sure enough, the first night in years I'm not responsible for night check, I end up in a barn *g*   hahaha but at least it was for a tour and not with any responsibility.   Parties aren't usually my favourite thing and New Year's even less so, but have to say I actually had a really good time.  Quite a pleasant surprise when you go in expecting nothing and end up enjoying yourself.  We had several new year's -- celebrating with each time zone in the country.  I figure I made up for all the last few years in one *g*   hahaha

So then, theoretically, as of Jan 1, I was on vacation.  You read that somewhere right?  Off until the 6th?  Right...  Well I did actually sleep most of Jan 1.  Slept in, had traditional New Year's pancakes, veged on the couch for hours, had a nap...   All good.   But then I was at the barn the next two days.  Classic eh?   And I have a mountain of stuff to do over the next couple weeks.  But mostly set up for what *needs* to be done by Monday.  Everything else is waiting for next week as I'm going to make every effort to actually take a WHOLE weekend off.   You think?   It's a more reasonable goal than five days ever was *g*   Am pretty excited about some of the upcoming projects though.  So that's all good :)

And, I have high hopes, I might actually get to read a book :)   Imagine that.   Or better yet -- write one >;-}

Have no idea what 2014 might bring, but reasonably certain it'll be quite the adventure.  Stick around and see.