A Family Hack!

What a great weekend we had!
Rowan and Iona joined Jessica and Naomi for a hack. We were lucky enough to have ponies Minnie, Buster and Hamish join Kitty so everyone had a ride. Rowan and Iona rode very well, tacking up and then nearly perfecting their rising trot. Well done Rowan and Iona!

Constance and Mummy in Isle of Mann

Pony Club Tests

Jess and Naomi were pleased to pass their first pony club tests last week.

Naomi passed the Pony Club Efficiency Test and Jess passed her bronze.

Our First Show

What a great day we had today.

We showed Kitty, at our first ever show at Greenmeadow.

Jess entered best pony over 13.2hh and came fourth.

Naomi then entered the best pony club pony. she won a rosette, commended for a clear round which included negotiating obstacles, poles and a JUMP!

Jess then tried her hand at show jumping, but nerves got the better of her and she came off at the first, Better Luck next time Jess!

No time for a rest, Jess then entered the best trekking pony and came third, another rosette and prize money too!

Last but not least Naomi entered prettiest pony, prettiest tail and pony the judge would most like to take home, and won another rosette. Well done.

It was a great and memorable day. Kitty is our star.

Naomi in prettiest pony Naomi with our "Pretty Kitty"

Naomi
Leading the Class

Jess competing for Best Pony

Family Get-Together at the Forest of Dean

Everyone made it to our annual cycling get together at the Forrest of Dean. Initially the weather was not generous but finally we enjoyed hot sunny weather. Constance really enjoyed the cycling this year both in her trailer and front bike seat with a top view. Next year we want to take Kitty, our pony, spotting lots of great hacking trails. Iona and Rowan joined us in our caravan for two nights when their tent got wet, but whatever the weather we cycled every day!

champagne Chelsea

Gill and Alison enjoyed a great day at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Whilst others tapped on thier laptops, on the early train to London their decedant day started with a champagne breakfast. Exhibits at the show were inspiring and the day ended with an Indian meal.

Hacking Out

Naomi and Alison enjoyed a great evening hack with Buster and Kitty trying out some untested local trails.

Wedding Belles

Heard the one about the groom without the bride?

After 20 years of cohabitation our friends Kevin and Bella finally tied the knot, but nearly without Bella. A few days before the big day she was admitted to hospital with pneumonia. On the big day she had still not been discharged, but was allowed a few hours release to attend her own wedding. Carried down the isle, she still looked beautiful and gave a fab speech. We all enjoyed a great time at Buckland Hall, danced to the band and drunk wine into the early hours.

Cousins and Friends

Constance and Freddie have become best of friends. Like all good friends they share everything. Freddie invited Constance to play on his babygym, and Constance says he can join the cute Smale kids gang!

Meadow

Constance and Daddy as we walk up to see Kitty.

Pony Club

Jess and Naomi had a great time at pony club. Jill and Bill visited us for the day.

Naomi on her way to pony club

Pony Clubs newest member!

Constance "rides a little pony"


The Smale's start young! Constance rides too!

One great leap for Jesskind!

Jill & Naomi watch as Kitty and Jess leap the cross fence

Naomi rides through the river on Kitty

15 CHICKS A'HATCHIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi all! Just 2 weeks ago 15 young chicks (pictured above) were hatched at Smale & Minett hatcherys! 4 silkie bantams (eggs aquired from Germany), and 11 of Kev's eggs (mixture of Sussex, Maran, and Black rock). All are well and now stratchin around the garden.

Riding riding and more riding!

We have been out with Kitty nearly every day, taking her for walks along the line.