November... not really a quiet month!

Well where did this month go - just like the others... in a flash! It has been a quiet month in some ways and yet I have felt in a whirlwind most of the time. I think I will just have to get used to the feeling from now on? Pip has had an easy month; he has had some physio resulting in plenty of stretching exercises. His back was sore as his saddle no longer fits him now that he has built up so much muscle - the reason I look so perched on his back in recent photos and so that is being sorted out - but still lots of positive aspects this month- my vet Steve Brooks has committed to taking on Pip's health and welfare by way of sponsorship which is a huge relief to have his support and back up if and when needed. My employers TWM Solicitors have agreed to allow me extra time off in the next 9 months or so till the Games together with flexibility in my working day to allow me to ride in the morning which in itself is a great release of time allowing me the dark evenings to deal with endless paperwork and - dare I say it -  red tape! Last night I glimpsed the 51 page document on the "Manufacturer Identification Guidelines" for the Paralympics or permitted  sponsorship logos to you and me! Quite a minefield. There is also already a  'social media guideline' paper for reference.  It is quite a maze of information and procedures to be dealt with - BUT forget all that for the moment - the main news is that - incredibly - at the 11th hour - and with the help of friends and friends of friends - and even strangers! - who have all been so outstanding - I am going to Portugal on Sunday the 27th for an international competition on a borrowed horse! There will be a full report next month but I am filled with excitement if not just a tiny bit daunted by the prospect - a new experience for me! As I said with the help of friends and their contacts I am riding what looks to be a lovely horse provided by trainer Nuno Manta who is going to the show as trainer to Maria Quinta a top Portuguese grade 4 rider. Nuno has been unbelievably helpful in arranging the horse for me and helping dealing with the show organisers as the deadline for entries approached while Maria has offered me a place to stay! It will be a tremendous opportunity and I am so excited - I can hardly believe my luck!!