Jennie here

I have the best boss in the world! Sarah rocks. I’m sure you all already thought this but let me just explain why she’s extra spesh this week.

We’ve all been working extra hard because we have a very short space of time to get the next mag written and printed before it hits the shops. I turned the ripe old age of 23 on Wednesday though (Happy Birthday to me) so I stole a sneaky day’s holiday to go shopping to London with my Mum and Dad.

I had a lovely time and to round off a perfect day I got invited by an air hostess friend of mine to go to San Francisco in California, USA, next Friday for a long weekend. Only problem is that’s when we send the mag to press. I had to beg Sarah to let me go and after she sweet-talked a few of our colleagues into helping out on the mag that day she agreed!

I’m soooooo excited, and very grateful. So there won’t be a blog entry from me next weekend but I promise to update you with a full list of items I bought and sights I saw in a couple of weeks.

In other news, I had my regular lesson on Shylock but Jane instructed me this week as Bev was at college. It was a bit of a disastrous lesson, really. At walk all was fine and Shylock went really well and I got him doing the movements around the school perfectly but at trot it all went wrong! I missed the markers and we just turned as and when Shylock felt like it. I got very frustrated with myself because I just couldn’t understand what I was doing differently.

We did run through a mock dressage test which I tried to follow while Jane shouted instructions to me. I just about managed to follow it although I found downward transitions from canter to trot quite difficult as there’s not much time between B and F and E and H on a big horse! I at least understood what was being asked of me, even if I couldn’t actually do it and it definitely helped me learn where all the letters are.

Hopefully, my brain will be back in gear next week. Speak soon x

Jennie here

I have just returned from a fabulous mini-break in California! My friend and I did a lot of shopping, squeezed in some sight-seeing plus, some amazing ‘all American’ meals! We certainly made the most of our two days in San Francisco and I was shattered getting home but it was totally worth it. I bought Laura and Sarah some lovely hand stuff for them to use at the stables cos they always say how dry their hands get. Designer Shaun has been playing with my piccies too and made some of them look really cool using different effects!

Anyway, back to work…
Before I left I had a busy day with eventing couple Clayton and Lucinda Fredericks. It was absolutely crazy – their yard is possibly the busiest one I have ever visited. Of course, there will be more gossip on them in up-coming issues of H+P but I just have to tell you about Barley.

He is Clayton and Lucinda’s daughter’s Shetland pony. Ellie is only four but seems to be following in her mum and dad’s footsteps and loves to ride. Barley doesn’t have his own stable – he just wanders about the yard and basically does what ever he wants!

While Clayton and Lucinda were riding their massive horses, little Barley was feeling a bit left out and went and stood right in the middle of the school so they had to ride around him. The horses seemed to be used to it though and Lucinda explained that he’s actually a good de-sensitisation tool – their horses don’t really spook at anything cos they’re so used to Barley randomly appearing!

I haven’t had a lesson on Shylock for a couple of weeks, not that I was too worried this week cos the weather has been awful. I am a bit of a fair weather rider and didn’t fancy riding in the freezing cold, snow and rain that we’ve had. When I spoke to Bev she was getting a bit worried that I’m slacking and getting behind in my lessons but I’ll be back in the saddle next Tuesday. I promised her that I’d put in loads and loads of effort.

I’ll let you know how I get on. Have a good weekend, everyone. x

Hey all,

Jennie here

Well, Laura and I have had quite an adventure this afternoon – we went to give blood. Laura hadn’t done it before and was a bit nervous, but needn’t have been as she was finished really quickly. I on the other hand, having had no problems donating before, didn’t make a full donation. My vein collapsed and that was that – no more blood. I was very annoyed! Anyway, at least I tried.

Had a lesson with Shylock on Tuesday. It was a lovely day and he was chilling in the field when I arrived so I had to go and catch him. He was such a good boy and came over when I called him, not like Breeze who used to just stand at the other side of the field and make me walk miles to get her!

Anyway, once he was all tacked up we were ready to ride. We worked on 20m circles first of all in walk and then in trot. I struggled to hit some of the markers which was really frustrating but we did get better as the lesson went on.

At the end I had a go at serpentines (again) and although I managed to guide Shylock perfectly in walk, his stride is so big that I simply ran out of time to give my aids in trot and it all went a bit pear-shaped. (I seem to be noticing a pattern here, I’m sure I’ve written all of this before!)

Jane assures me it will come, but I’m getting very cross with myself. Bev said it was good that I realised it was my fault and not Shylock’s. Thanks, Bev! I think
I need to get back into the habit of regular lessons. Hee hee :) x

Hey all,

Jennie here

Well my lesson this week was long but very successful. I got to the yard early and had Shylock all tacked up in record time so I led him out to the school and got on board - little did I know Jane had a lesson booked in before me.

I figured there was no point getting off and waiting around so I got to work on warming up. I didn't do anything but walk, but I practiced my turns and got him going round in 20m circles accurately.

I also listened to what Jane was telling the other pupil closely. Even though she wasn't speaking to me her constant reminders of 'legs' and 'sit up' helped me get my position correct.

This saved a lot of time at the beginning of my lesson. We worked on getting Shylock to move from small circles into bigger 20m circles without me having to pull my rein out and lose the bend. It was actually really easy because we were both warmed up.

We did a bit of cantering but he was a bit excitable afterwards! I feel like we're really coming along together. I am missing hacking though so I've asked Laura if I can go and have a hack out with her on Thomas at some point now the weather's getting nicer.

I think that's rather brave of me since he ran off with me last time I rode him!

I'm off to the Birmingham NEC today to have a nosey around the British Open. I've got my camera all charged up so hopefully I'll get plenty of behind the scenes snaps for you to see . Hope I don't annoy any of our showjumping mates too much though! Maybe I'll see some of you there too? Say 'hi' if you see me...
x

Jennie's cheeky snaps taken at the British Open Showjumping Champs last weekend!

Ellen Whitaker was happy to pose outside her stables.

Current eventing Young Riders Euro Champ Amy Young and Highville. Amy won both individual and team gold medals last year. She was at the British Open competing in the indoor eventing comp and was second and the highest placed Brit!

Amy's just signed a sponsorship deal with Airowear and Troxel as she's always worn their body protectors and hats.

Mega-star eventer Jeanette Brakewell was also competing at the comp.

Tim Stockdale was busy competing in several classes.

Hi
Jennie here

I have yet another new pony! Jane and Bev decided I would perhaps benefit from a smaller mount, rather than 16.2hh Shylock (since my legs barely came below his saddle). I was gutted cos I had really fallen in love with the big man, but could understand what they meant – he’s a big horse to collect together and I just don’t have the strength to do it.

So, this morning I was introduced to Desmond a little bay pony with a small white star and two white socks at the back. We’d met before when he used to come on hacks with me and first pony Breeze when we were in training for our sponsored ride last year but I’d never ridden him. After Jane pointed out which one he was in the field I wandered out to bring him in…and he ran off. I shouted at him that I hoped this wasn’t a sign of things to come in our relationship!

Back in the stable I gave him a jolly good groom (I can now appreciate how annoying hairy ponies are; the stable was covered in clumps of hair when I’d finished going over him with a rubber curry comb!) Jane kindly leant us Harvey’s dressage saddle which she said would make things easier for me. Desmond was a very good boy taking his bit and just opened his mouth as soon as his bridle came near him.

Bad habit number one was quickly discovered though; Desmond does not like having his girth done up. He turns his head round to you and snaps his teeth together when you do it. Oh, and bad habit two is that he trumps – a lot!

Once on board we started with some square turns in walk. It was strange being back on a pony after Shylock. Desmond is a typical school pony and a bit more stubborn than Shylock but he is very responsive if you do the right thing. He highlights your faults which is useful. I have a tendency to sit to one side and getting him to turn in the other direction without readjusting my seat meant he just stopped!

Desmond is half Trakehner and when I took away my stirrups I found it hard to sit into the saddle. He has a VERY bouncy trot. I gradually started to get used to it but I did find myself gripping the saddle on occasion to balance myself.

Next week I’m going to have two lessons and as and when I can fit them in around the magazine work this will become the norm.

Hey guys and girls

Jennie here:

Had another lesson today…pretty much the same as always so won’t go on too much. Desmond broke wind a lot and I didn’t do my girth up tight enough to begin with (cos Desmond tries to bite me when I do it) so when I tried to get on the saddle slipped round! Won’t be doing that again.

Riding was pretty good. My legs wore out quick cos I’ve had a few weeks off but I did get Desmond flexing down and bending and my lines are getting straighter across the school. Also wasn’t too bad at leg yielding (on one rein at least, I was appalling on the other!)

Went to interview William Whitaker this week. Got to admit I have a bit of a crush on him; he is so sweet, really helpful, an AMAZING rider and told us THE funniest cringe which made him seem even sweeter. Look out for that corker in future H+P issues.

Uncle Michael was there too and he gave us some top tips for jumping which will be in H+P soon too. This was after our photographer Angus confused some random bloke on the yard for Michael. Laura about wet herself at his massive slip-up (and she wonders why I don’t take her anywhere)!
Much love to all xxxx

Guess who I got back on board today? Breeze!

Jennie here:

It wasn’t as bad as all that really. She’s a lot sharper after her break from regular lessons and generally a bit more willing. I got her going really nicely in trot and canter. Getting her to go straight after our square turns though was well hard. It was like riding a drunk!

Oh and while I was down there two of the colts were being gelded which was a bit of an eye-opener for city-based me! It was really interesting to learn what happens but I did feel a bit sorry for the ponies cos they didn’t get much privacy!

We also went and watched a Tim Stockdale masterclass with this week. He passed on one heck of a lot of info in a couple of hours. Don’t worry though, we’ll pass it all on to you too in future issues so you won’t miss out.

Thanks for voting on my 'new boyfriend poll' on the website. The girls in the office thought they should shut me up on men once and for all and put it to you guys to sort my love life out. I think I’m gonna take your advice and stick to being single for a bit! I’m not sure I’ll dedicate all my spare time to ponies but I will make sure I enjoy myself, I promise.
Ta ta x

Hey all

Jennie here:

Had some good news when I nipped to the stables the other day. Shylock’s owner is well on the road to recovery and she’s able to start riding again. So, Shylock has gone back to live at her yard. I was sad to see him go though. I did love that big guy but I'm sure he’ll be happy to be back at home in his own stable.

Been loving the brill weather this past week. I’ve got a bet on with Laura though that just because we’ve got heaps of photoshoots organised next week (being half term) that it’ll chuck it down all week. That tends to be how the H+P office luck is running at the mo!

We shall see. I hope for all our sakes that it’s nice so we can get all the snaps we need and you guys have an ace time at the stables during your week off. Have fun whatever you do.

Bye for now. X

Hey guys…long time, no speak. Sorry about that.

Jennie here:

It was half term last week (hope you all had a good one). I spent Thursday on a photo shoot with Angus, one of our trusty photographers. It was an uber busy day. We took FIVE discs of photos! One might say we were a little extreme but at the end of the day they’ll get used. We always need new snaps for you guys to look at. I just hope you appreciate them, we certainly worked hard and our models Daisy and Tom were so good! Thanks to them.

I’ve just heard I get to go to the launch of The National Riding Festival next week. I get to have a lesson with Mary-Ann Trevor-Roper who, amongst other things, trained the celebs on the last series of Only Fools on Horses. I’m well excited about it. I think it will be good to have a lesson with a different instructor to see what she says about my riding and of course I’m keen to ride another different horse. It’s all good experience. I’ll let you all know how I get on.

This weekend I’m headed to the beach with my friends which I’m really looking forward to. I hope the weather’s nice!

See ya soon x

Hiya!

Jennie here:

Well, I went to Yarmouth last weekend and had loads of fun with my friends. The weather was pretty dull but that didn’t stop us heading to the beach.

On the way we spotted some horses pulling carriages up and down Great Yarmouth’s sea front. I snapped some piccies of them for you to see, although we didn’t take a ride cos the people in the carts looked freezing!

A very well behaved carriage horse! He didn't even need holding on to.

Yesterday, I got the opportunity to have a lesson with Marie-Ann Trevor Roper, one of the trainers who worked on the Only Fools on Horses TV show last year.

I visited Mudchute Equestrian Centre, right in the centre of London. It was amazing to find a riding school surrounded by busy roads and sky scrapers. Mary-Ann was instructing lots of journalists throughout the day to help launch this year's Petplan Equine National Riding Festival.

Look out in future issues for snaps of the gorgeous pony Pickles, who I rode. It was really good to have a lesson with an instructor other than Jane or Bev and I feel I got a lot from it.

This Sunday I’m going to a local competition in Keyso, Bedfordshire. Make sure you and your pony are looking your best at any show you go to, just in case I turn up. And of course, good luck!

Speak to you next week, I’m sure. x

Hiya!

Jennie here:

There is much excitement in the H+P office today…Laura and I are off on our holidays. Not together, though. Oh no! We need a break from each other! I’m going to Spain for a few days with family which will be nice and sunny. Laura is heading to Ireland where I have told her she will get rained on for the entire week…ha ha ha!

That leaves poor old Sarah in the office on her own. Well sort of…today we had another ‘assistant’ in the office. Only this one wasn’t as helpful as Sophie, our work experience student. Fudge the dog has been sitting under our chairs so we can’t get close to our computer screen, whining at any loud noise and he’s been trumping like a ‘man on curry’ (as Laura says) which has been unpleasant to say the least.
Fudge is going to keep Sarah company, while we’re away. Unlucky, Sarah!

Hey H+P bloggers
Well I had a lovely little trip to Spain with my family. The weather wasn’t as hot in the north of Spain as it is in the south (go figure!).

We did a lot of sight seeing. The landscape of the Basque region is pretty mountainous and on one sightseeing trip on a very windy road, next to a sheer drop off a cliff into the sea, I spotted a herd of wild horses.

“Stop the car,” I shouted to my Dad! I hopped out and took some snaps so you guys could see them too. There were several foals. Even though they were wild they didn’t seem too phased by me papping away.

They did get a bit rattled when my baby cousin started screaming from the car that he wanted to get out and see the caballos (horses) too, and off they trotted!

Back at the office it’s been none stop. Lots of photoshoots to go on and heaps of articles to write. I’m very much ready for the weekend to start. Here’s to a good one. Speak soon. x

Hey all
Jennie here:

Well, what’s happened this week? … err, not a great deal really! We’ve been , busy getting your next instalment of H+P ready for the printers so it’s been a touch stressful at times.

We had a night off on Wednesday and went to ‘the dogs’ with the rest of our company, that's greyhound racing. I’d never been before and I was very excited at the idea of winning lots of money. However, my lack of betting experience showed and rather than backing a winner I seemed, without fail, to ‘back a loser’ in every race.
By race three I decided I’d have as good a chance as any if I picked the best looking horse, I mean dog!

So… whilst watching them parade I pointed to a cream colour greyhound and announced to Laura that I would be “voting for the bay coloured one”. (Can you tell I was out of my depth?!)

Laura looked at me in disgust. “Jennie,” she said, “for starters it’s not a horse but even if it was, it’s a palomino, not a bay! And you don't 'vote' you bet!”

Oh the shame. I’m off to study my dog (and horse) colours. Have a good weekend. x

Hello again

Jennie here:

Well, it’s been a long time coming but I have finally booked myself another riding lesson. I’m going to get back in the saddle as of next Tuesday.

I’ve started going to the gym again to try and strengthen my muscles so I can actually steer Desmond (or whoever I end up riding this time).

In spite of my efforts I’ll probably have many an amusing story to report on next week so watch this space.

I’m having a cheeky day’s holiday on Friday which means Laura is going to be left in the office all on her own. She’s not happy and therefore is being especially annoying and unhelpful this afternoon. Cheeky so and so!

I think you guys are all due to break up from school around now so enjoy the start to your holidays! x

Jennie here:

I’ve spent the day knee deep in stinging nettles, splashing through water-logged fields chasing ponies in Crocs (no, my feet do not look pretty now) all to get you guys some awesome posters. You best pin them up all over your walls.

Had a lesson at the beginning of this week. It was so nice to be back on board Desmond. He was feeling a bit slow though as he’s been working hard. Now it’s summer holidays and Breeze is still feeling temperamental (and a bit lame) he’s got loads of lessons to do. Once I got him cantering though, he felt great.

Jen and Desmond

Check me out on our latest podcast. I get to introduce Ellen Whitaker as she chats about riding at last year's HOYS.

Have a good weekend. It’s going to be a quiet one for me. x

I was recently lucky enough to get a lesson from top celeb trainer Mary-Ann Trevor-Roper as part of the National Riding Festival 2007.

A lesson in London
As part of the Petplan Equine National Riding Festival 2007 I was invited to Mudchute Equestrian Centre in central London. I was lucky enough to have a private lesson with Mary-Ann Trevor-Roper, who helped train the celeb riders in last year’s Only Fools on Horses.

I got to ride Trigger, the festival’s mechanical horse too. He travels around the UK visiting schools, riding centres and shows inspiring people to have a go at riding and encourage past riders back into the saddle. His rhythm felt a bit different to the pinging pony rhythm I’m used to cos he’s a ‘horse’!

A new instructor
Having a different instructor to normal was really helpful. Although Mary-Ann said the same things, hearing them explained in a different way made things click.

Pickles the pony
I got paired up with London boy, Pickles. He’s a 15.1hh, 20-year-old, chestnut, Hackney x Gelderlander. Pickles used to be used for driving but now he loves to jump and can clear 3’ 3”! He lives at Mudchute on a working livery basis so he’s used to having different riders on his back.

Getting a grip

Mary-Ann spotted that I sometimes loosen my grip on the reins. She told me to imagine I was holding a baby chick, which would keep my hand closed and my thumbs pressed down on the top of the reins securely.

Balancing act

Mary-Ann got me changing my diagonal by staying raised for two beats instead of sitting. It’s a great way to see if you’re balanced in your stirrups – if you’re not you’ll fall backwards.

Doing less

I rise very high in rising trot because I push away from my stirrups. Mary-Ann told me to rise from my knee joints and not lift too high off the saddle. This is a much slower action and therefore stops your horse jogging.

Let it be
When I ride my right leg has a tendency to slip back behind the girth. This imbalance then makes me lose my left stirrup. Mary-Ann said the key is to just ‘let my stirrups be’ and allow them to hang the way gravity intended …vertically.

Breathe easy

Mary-Ann told me to hum to myself while I rode, as this would take my mind off riding and in turn relax my upper body which would then make my posture better.

Love this pic! Pickles was really well behaved. He listened carefully and gave a lovely collected canter.

Don't forget you can get a half price riding lesson voucher from the Petplan Equine National Riding Festival on the main site. We've 100 up for grabs and there's just a few left... don't miss out.

Pictures: ALEX FOLKES/FISHNIK

Hey everyone

Jennie here:

Well this week seems to have come and gone without a riding lesson. I’m useless. I have actually seen my fair share of nags this week though…

I took two photographers to the Quainton Stud Grand Prix competition. The action in the ring was pretty exciting, but the rivalry between our two snappers was intense. They were popping up all over the place trying to get the best ‘paparazzi pics’ as there were heaps of celeb riders wandering about. It was a really relaxed show.

Spotted
o Will Funnell looking for his groom in the lorry park. He had to borrow someone else to hold Billy Birr in the end

o Tim Gredley giving Ellen Whitaker a cuddle when she fell of Kansallier (don’t worry she’s okay)

o SWAG Kathleen (Ben Maher’s girlfriend) and her pooch Lou Lou

o Jessica Marshall getting tips from Tim Stockdale on how to ride the course

o Michael Whitaker coming out of the poshest port-a-loos ever

o Geoff Billington donning a pair of Aviator sunglasses (soo cool!)

You can see all the pics in H+P. How exciting?! Have a good weekend all. I’m going to spend it all in the sunshine! x

Hey guys

Jennie here:

Just wanted to let you know about this really cool comp that’s running before HOYS this year. Your very own horse could be appearing on the wall of fame at the Birmingham Arena from October 3-7.

All you have to do is send in a funny pic of your fave horse or pony to My Horse & Me! Competition, Press Office, Grandstand Media Ltd, 7 Waterside Station Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 4US.

Have you got a pic like this?

The best rib-ticklers will be selected to feature in a huge gallery in the HOYS pavilion at the famous event.

The three funniest pictures, picked by a panel of judges, will each win either a Nintendo Wii or Nintendo DS as well as the new FEI endorsed My Horse and Me video game.

My Horse and Me is a mega riding game for your PC, Wii or Nintendo DS, although it’s not out until the autumn. The games been approved by the FEI as it’s so realistic. Players become totally involved in the game so they feel they’re really riding and looking after their horse.

Check out some of the graphics from My Horse and Me

So what are you waiting for? Get happy and snappy! For more information on Horse of the Year show and the picture competition visit www.hoys.co.uk

Now, the challenge is to find one of Breeze doing something amusing…

Hi

Jennie here:

Sorry about the lack of blog action lately. We’ve had an obscenely busy couple of weeks.

Ponies UK took place at Newark Showground last week and the H+P team were there meeting all your gorgeous show ponies and admiring you guys in your posh togs. Gorgeous!

The most random thing I saw was a bikini clad miniature horse. I wouldn’t have batted an eye lid if his owner had been dressed up too, but no, he was just strutting around in a teensy weensy yellow bikini!

Then it was a quick move to Shelford Manor last weekend for the start of the Pony Club Championships. We were beginning to get a bit tired at this point and things got pretty silly on the stand on Monday when Laura and I roped in some firemen to jump the Mini-Jumps clear round showjumping course. We've been raising money for the Lincs and Notts air ambulance appeal and charging people for a jump round. The boys got a clear round too, well done them!

Tuesday I did some Pony Club Press interviews and met some ace teams from Co Antrim, Brocklesby and Burghley. Look out for their stories about their Pony Clubs in future issues of H+P. Thank you to them all for their help.

So, a long weekend ahead of us now (hoorah!) and apparently the sun will be shining for most of us. Loads of time to get riding, then. Have fun x

Hiya

Jennie here:

We’re all going on a summer holiday…

Well I am anyway! It’s finally arrived after months of excitement I go on holiday to Zante (one of the Greek Islands) on Sunday for a whole week!

I’m going with one of my horsey mates called Liz. She loves doing cross county at Twin Trees Equestrian Centre when she gets the chance. But Bex, the other girl I’m going with isn’t very horsey, so I doubt there we’ll do much riding while we’re away.
I can’t wait to lay by the pool and do nothing but sunbathe and drink fizzy pop. It might not be everybody’s idea of a great holiday but after a really hectic couple of weeks with H+P I’m ready for a break.

So… I shall catch up with you all when I’m back. I’ll be straight back into things on my return with several celeb rider yard visits lined up. I haven’t done any of those in what feels like ages so coming back won’t be too bad! Take care, everyone. x

Honies…I’m home!
Jennie here:

I know you’ve all missed me desperately. My holiday was awesome and I wish I was still laying by the pool right now.

But, there is one good thing about being back in the H+P office. There’s still time to draw an awesome pic of your fave horse and pony to enter the Get Arty for The Brooke competition. The best entries, received by December 14, and accompanied by a short sentence about what they mean to you, will be displayed at an exhibition in London. Plus there’s a chance to win a trip to Alton Towers and loads of other cool stuff too.

So, if you’re the arty sort and want to show your support for equine abroad – draw a pic of your fave nag and in one sentence describe why he’s so spesh. Log onto www.thebrook.org/getarty for more info on how to enter.
Now where is Desmond to pose for a portrait…x

Hi everyone

Jennie here:

Hope your week at school has been fun. I had a nice road trip to Devon at the beginning of this week, with Puffa clothing company. We visited some of their sponsored eventers who were super-nice. You’ll see what we got up to in future issues of the mag so keep your eyes peeled.

The rest of this week has been office based, starting work on the new issue which is choc-a-block with amazing stuff. You’re in for a treat!

Speaking of treats… natural horsey treat company Naglets are running an internet competition at the mo. They want you to think of a name for their Special Halloweeen bat-shaped treats. Send your ideas to naglets@gmail.com. The winner will receive a Halloween Hamper next October with treats labelled with their winning treat name and their name.

There’s no trick, it’s just a treat for your pony if you win. Get your witches' hats on a come up with a spooky name for Naglets’ Pumpkin and Devil’s Claw flavoured tasties. Entries close on October 21st. Check out the whole Naglets range at www.naglets.com they’re fangtastic!

Hello all

Jennie here:

It’s almost the end of the month – I can’t believe it. Christmas is coming, and don’t I know it. I’ve been glued to my computer screen this week checking out all the awesome stuff you’re going to want on your wish list for Santa.

I’ve also been putting more fashion pages together which I have loved – there is soo much cute stuff out there. You guys are going to look HOT this winter.

Speaking of winter – it’s defo here. Hating this weather at the mo. It’s good for Laura though, who’s running a massively long way on Sunday when she takes part in the Great North Run. I shall be sitting in front of the TV and looking out for her (nothing too strenuous for me)!

Have a good weekend x

Hey there,

Jennie here:

It’s finally happened, and knowing what a shop-a-holic I am, I’m surprised it’s taken me this long, actually. But, I have finally bought my first horsey accessory.

No, unfortunately I don’t have my own pony to be buying such things for, but I do have a new house. I know, I’m not really making any sense. Let me explain…

I’ve moved into my new house and therefore I’ve had to buy lots of stuff like ironing boards, hoovers, light fittings, not to mention sofas, TVs etc. Anyway, I needed a laundry basket and my mum, having read H+P and spotted some Tub Trugs and thought they would be ideal for the job!

So off we went, I got a yellow one (to match my blue and yellow bathroom) and mum got herself a red one (to match her red kitchen utensils). Now all I need is a pony…

Hi there

Jennie here:

Bet you’re all very excited to be on half term now, aren’t you? Don’t forget to take lots of piccies and email us with news on all the horsey stuff you get up to this week.
I’m very excited today too cos I’m finally getting back in the saddle. But you’ll never guess whose…Tippy’s!

Sarah and I are going for a hack out on Gizmo and Tippy later on today and I can’t wait. Tippy is fitter than she has been for ages after her ten mile ride with Sarah last week. I’m expecting her to be quite a fresh ride for me after such a long break from lessons.

Unfortunately, this isn’t going to be a regular jolly. But I have a western lesson coming up which will be a challenge in itself with a whole different saddle and position to get used to, without having to overcome the fact I haven’t been on a horse in months. And so, Tippy is kindly going to be my warm up. I’ll tell her all you said ‘hi’. Have a good week x

Howdy partners!

Jennie here:

I have found my riding niche! Western riding is sooo cool. I went for a lesson last week at CW Western Training centre in Surrey. I LOVED it.

Not wanting to give too much away (as you’ll get to see the awesome pics in a future issue of the mag) but it was actually pretty easy compared to regular riding. Western is all about giving your pony the opportunity to think for themselves first, before you use your aids to tell them what to do.

You can imagine my surprise when I said ‘walk on’ and my pony actually did it. I could have been there for hours with the likes of Breeze or Desmond.

I was a natural (I think!). I had a go at barrel racing, trail exercises and everything! It was wicked. I rode a pony called Picasso who was a very lovely Appaloosa X Arab.
I want to find a school which teaches Western a bit closer… as Surrey is a bit of trek for a weekly lesson. Any suggestions? x

Hi everyone

Jennie here:

Unfortunately, I don’t have any horsey goss to fill you in on this week. I was poorly last week and therefore didn’t get to go to Your Horse Live. Gutted!

I’m feeling much better this week, although I still have a bit of a sore throat. I hope you’re all staying healthy in this cold weather.

Laura and Sarah have been telling me about their early morning experiences in the cold and dark at the stables. It sounds horrible and I’m very glad I can stay in bed of a morning! Have you had any frozen pipe nightmares yet?

Also, who’s started their Christmas shopping? I plan to get mine underway this weekend in Leeds. I’m going up to visit my friends for the weekend, which should be fun. I have a list as long as my arm. Don’t forget to check out the Christmas gift guides in the December issue of H+P, which is out right now. That should make your shopping trip totally hassle free!

Have fun x

Hi everyone

Jennie here:

I can’t believe it’s time to write my next blog again, this week has gone so quick and Christmas is getting closer.

In fact, it seems as though it should actually be next week - as the H+P office is ALREADY decked out in decorations. Sarah had a festive five minutes on Tuesday and literally covered the office in tinsel.

She said it was cos it was the only chance we’d get to decorate as we’re going to be really busy with the new mag before Crimbo. I think she’s secretly getting excited about the big day. I’m just finding it a bit stressful – I have no idea what to buy for anyone and the tinsel is only adding to the stress!

Oh and guess what? Laura’s ‘farm’ is at full capacity again. Apparently she’s got piglets all over the place and a calf too. I can’t wait til I go and stay at her house in a couple of weeks time cos she says I can have a cuddle with one of them!
She’ll make a country bumpkin out of me yet! x

Hiya

Jennie here:

Yet more tinsel has appeared in the H+P office. It’s getting beyond a joke now. It’s properly putting me in the festive spirit though and Laura has officially said I can get excited now as it’s December! Yay.

Oh and guess what else is happening in the H+P building? We’ve decided this year to be more environmentally friendly and instead of sending everyone Christmas cards we’re donating money to Oxfam to help people in Africa build a toilet. It all sounds very strange but apparently, they really need them.

Horsey charities like the Brooke do appeals at this time of year so why not do a similar thing with your friends? Or, if you’re struggling to come up with a gift idea for someone, why not log onto one of the horsey charity websites for other cool ideas like adopting a pony or a donkey. Then, next year you could take a trip to visit them. That would be so cool.
x

Hiya

Jennie here:

Oh my gosh I’m so excited. It’s the H+P office Xmas party this afternoon and we’re all busy getting glammed up in the office ready to head out for a lovely dinner. Rather than paper and pens, my desk is currently covered in makeup and hair accessories.

Unfortunately, Tippy doesn’t get to come cos her table manners leave little to be desired but she is getting an extra treat from Stella (who's getting her in from the field so Sarah can stay at the party).

Do you guys have Christmas parties and presentation evenings planned at your riding stables? Send us piccies of what you do…we’ll post a couple of pics from our party on the blog soon so you can see us all glammed up, instead of wearing jodhpurs!
Gonna’ go and finish my hair now though, so speak soon x

Hi all

Jennie here:

Well the Christmas party was a very eventful afternoon – H+P won awards for the best cover of the year for the April 07 issue and yours truly won the accolade of writer of the year which I was beyond chuffed with. Julie who does our advertising also got a prize for being fab. Didn’t we do well?!

We’re all really gearing up for the Crimbo break now… everyone is using up their last days' holiday and there will be a poor show in the H+P office as a consequence over the next week. Don’t worry though, we’ll still get the mag done – we wouldn’t let you lot down.

Laura is bringing me in a baby Christmas tree. It’s defo going to be small cos she’s bringing it in her little car and I have to get it home in mine. I’ve bought some cute white lights and deccies for it, just have to get a base for it during my lunch or else it’s going to be decidedly wonky!

Soooo excited. Two weeks to go! x

Hi everyone

Jennie here:

Well yes, Christmas came and went, along with New Year. Both were ace but the best was still to come...

On January 2 me and five of my best mates went to the O2 arena in London to see The Return of the Spice Girls! The concert was absolutely amazing.

David Beckham was there, along with Posh Spice’s three children and everyone cheered when they went and sat in their seats. George Michael was there too supporting his best mate Ginger Spice.

I didn’t stop dancing for the whole two hours and we all remembered the words to every single song, which was surprising as it was like ten years since we first heard them.

Geri and Mel C’s solos were real highlights but Stop, Lady is a Vamp, Mama and Wannabe were my favourites performances.

The girls’ outfits were all designed by Roberto Cavalli who is one of Posh Spice’s good friends. They all looked gorgeous but my favourite outfit was Geri’s original Union Jack Dress with a new twist – it was covered in sequins. Baby Spice always looked so pretty.

Laura is going to see them tomorrow (Saturday) and I wish I was going with her again. So jealous.
x

Hi everyone

Jennie here:

As I’m sure most of you are aware, the RSPCA raided a farm in Buckinghamshire last week after a tip off, and found more than 80 emaciated horses, ponies and donkeys.

They were all under fed and watered and had overgrown feet.

The RSPCA also found 31 dead horses. A further three were so poorly they had to put to sleep there and then.

The tragedy has seen some of the UK's leading equine charities pull together to help take care of the surviving animals.

Some of the sickest were taken to the Horse Trust at Speen for care but Redwings, the ILPH and The Blue Cross have all taken on their fair share.

Each of the charities has been overwhelmed by the public’s support and have received offers of practical help and large donations of money as well as essential horse kit.

It’s important to remember at this time though, that it’s not just high profile cases that these charities are working on. They care for hundreds of rescued equines and constantly need your support.

If you can help in anyway log on and donate at:
www.redwings.org.uk
www.homeofrestforhorses.co.uk
www.ilph.org
www.bluecross.org.uk
www.rpsca.co.uk

Hiya

Jennie here:

Have you heard about Rory the three-month-old Miniature Shetland who thinks he's a dog? He was taken to live at the Essex Horse and Pony Protection Society in Pitsea after his mum rejected him.

Rory was very poorly and needed feeding every 15 minutes so stable manager Sue Allery kept an eye on him in the Sanctuary’s office, which he shared with Chocolate Labradors, Alfie and Millie.

They took a big interest in Rory. Alfie would even lick off his milk moustache and they were happy to share their dog bed with him.

As a result of their friendship Rory has picked up some very funny canine traits. He fetches a stick, plays frisbee and rolls over to have his tummy tickled. His little hooves give the game away though!

Visitors are welcome at the Sanctuary every Sunday. Check out more info at www.ehpps.org.uk

Rory playing fetch.

“I’d much prefer to drink from a bowl, please!”

Rory the Miniature Shetland and Labrador Millie playing together.

“Can I have some of your dinner?”

Hiya

Jennie here:

Who’s trying to think of cool stuff to do in their half term (other than spend all day on the yard!)? Well think no further, I have news of a super cool, FREE day out!

You need to get yourselves along to the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment HQ in Knightsbridge (opposite Hyde Park) in London on February 20, 2008 at 3.30pm.
HRH The Princess Royal will be revealing the BHS Equestrian Hall of Fame Wall of Honour.

There will be stacks of Laureates there to see their commemorative plaques on the Wall. We've had a tip off that Pippa Funnell will be there (chance to nab some autographs), and the legendary Shear H2O who is honoured as one of the great horses of all time.

It’s totally free and members of the public are welcome to go and hobnob with the all time Equestrian stars - plus have a look around the Household Cavalry’s HQ while you’re there.

That’s your half term made, I reckon. Have fun! x

Hiya

Jennie here:

OK, guys… not a massive amount to report on this week. But I’ll fill you in on a few little snippets.

I had a few very lovely days off from Horse+Pony things mid-week and spent some time at Centre Parcs with my friends. We went on the LONGEST bike ride ever during which me and my three friends got stuck in the mud and I fell into a bush. My hand is scratched and my Ugg boots are ruined. All good fun though and well worth it!

In other news, away from Centre Parcs… the top ten British riders invited to this year’s British Open Show Jumping Champs have been announced.

Visitors to the show, which takes place at the Birmingham NEC from April 3-6, will catch glimpses of John and Michael Whitaker, Nick Skelton, Robert Whitaker, Tim Stockdale, Robert Smith, Ellen Whitaker, William Whitaker, David McPhearson and William Funnell as well as a selected few riders from overseas including defending champion Jessica Kurten, com