Heeeeeeeeey,
So today I had the most successful, relaxing and enjoyable lunging experience. I always find lunging important, but tedious. I find it an essential task with Nixon, to get out his fizzyness and get him listening, which in return makes for a much more enjoyable and productive ride.
I’m sure any horse rider would agree, it’s always astonishing when you just have to think what you're going to do next, and your horse is already doing it, before you even have a chance to ask. So I decided to lunge him using only body language and the odd encouraging sound. To my surprise... it worked! In fact, he was more alert and even intrigued at my new method.
I’ve always been taught to talk to him at all times, but actually sometimes it’s nice to shut up for a while, and take in everything. Every day it amazes me, how we can connect, learn from and communicate with such a large, wild animal.
Nixon always knows how I’m feeling and when I need lots of cuddles, and I wouldn’t change him for the world.
Heeeeeeeeey,
Oh, and hello October! Eek I’m feeling chilly at the thought. I think it’s all getting a bit scarily close to the end of the year, so I’m definitely going to make the most of the last three months.
Firstly, I would like to introduce a new feature.... Nixon Knows. I have been wanting to post something a little more horsey for a while now, but was unsure how not to bore my non-horsey readers. So I have decided to give you weekly snippets, insights and probably amusing stories, from things that Nixon has taught me about horse owning. I will also be asking other horse owners for their stories and advice, so if you would like to be involved let me know.
This is my first piece of horse owning advice! Nixon likes to be treated a bit like a king and if he’s cold, hungry or bored... well he’s not worth knowing! This time of year sees him at his worst, mainly because horses have to get used to the sudden temperature change and much like us, I don’t think they like the cold all that much.
The Solution: Rugs, food & lots of attention later.... one happy horse.
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Following on from the introduction of my stepping stones challenges, part 2 will be commencing next Monday, and it’s quite a big deal for me. It’s something that I find quite scary anyway but I’m going to be doing it ALONE. I will tell you all about it next week.
Happy 1st of October, enjoy it - fresh month and a fresh start.
Gemma xx
Heeeeeeey,
Im writing this whilst wrapped up in my duvet, which can only mean one thing, goodbye summer - and what an amazing few months it has been!
Time flies so I'm taking this moment to sit and reflect over what has been happening amongst all the madness of everyday life. Gosh, where do I begin. Everything has been such a whirlwind of trips out, new experiences, music, giggles and not much sleep in between.
I thought this would be a great opportunity to share with you some of my fave summer products, the things I couldn't have survived without & why:
*Equine
Derby House zebra fly rug
I knew I definitely wanted to get Nixon a funky fly rug and this seemed perfect. There was a sale on at the time too, and I think it cost around £25. I had read online that the stripes confuse flies, which was an additional type of prevention. Overall the rug has lasted so well. It only slips slightly to one side, during the day, which is not a big deal compared to fly rugs I’ve tried before. Aside from being slightly grubby and faded it has absolutely done its job.
Supreme Products - Mane and tail builder
This is something I’ve used for a while now. A couple of years ago, a pony chewed half of Nixon’s tail off and it didn’t grow back until I started using this. Now his tail is longer and thicker than it ever was before. As he has to wear rugs all year round, it takes its toll on his mane, so this stuff is great to keep it growing.
Velcro Fly fringe
Nixon has always worn a stretchy elastic fly fringe, which daily turned into a beard hanging from his chin. This year I opted for a velcro side fitting. It’s been so great in comparison. I’ve only had to adjust it twice, other than that, it has stayed in place and did its job.
*Hair & Beauty
Soap & Glory - Glow job
I literally couldn’t have survived without this. It’s basically a face moisturiser with bronze beads that burst and give a lovely bronzing glow. I used it instead of foundation when I came back from holiday, but it's even more perfect now that my tan has faded.
Revlon lipsticks (Coral queen & Funtime Fuschia)
I love bright lipsticks and these have been perfect for day time and evening wear. Very bright, vibrant and long lasting and the perfect finish to an equally as bright outfit.
Hair bands & clips
I don’t leave my house (unless to go to the yard) without a large hair accessory or statement necklace of some sort. I collected lots up from various shops throughout June and have reapetedly worn every single one. Flowers and bows are my favourites.
*Life
Live Music
Nothing makes me happier than going to gigs. Over the last few months I have had the pleasure of seeing:
McFly x2
Mumford & Sons
Paloma Faith
The Script
An actual holiday
It was so nice to get away for the first time since three years ago. A week off from the hustle and bustle of life, without a worry in the world.
Goodbyes
There have been lots of goodbyes & lots of changes. But chapters have to end for new, exciting ones to begin.
Paul Mckenna
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the man is a genius!
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I’m such a summer baby and I really hate winter, but I now feel ready to accept the shorter days, the morning chills, the extra layers and lots of welly time. Hope you're ready too?
Gemma x
