Tuesday 31 August 2010

Willow Tree falls whilst ponies in use.

We are fortunate to have lots of different trees around us, including Oak, Apple, Willow and Silver Birch. We are used to trees getting blown down in the wind, particularly our Willow trees-in fact when we moved in there was one down for us to deal with!
Sunday was rather wet and windy and to keep the ponies happy, I decided to do the experiences in the ponies' normal field, rather than the orchard. We hid in the stable to do the pony pampering part of the first experience then got drenched whilst my little visitor rode. It dried up for the second experience but shortly after we started riding I suddenly heard that familiar cracking sound which precedes a tree going down! We watched as the canopy of the tree glided, as if in slow motion, gracefully to the ground. The ponies in the field were startled by this and ran off. I managed to hang on to the little girl riding AND Poppy, to reassure her (Poppy) that there was nothing to worry about. Poppy did a sterling job and didn't move an inch.
Needless to say, regardless of all the weather could throw at these two families, EVERYONE thoroughly enjoyed their visit.

Wednesday 25 August 2010

New horse on way

Whilst trying to look for another pony for the parties, I stumbled on a gorgeous mare for sale who I hope will become a brood mare for me.
She's very well bred-her father is stunning, and the mare is extremely pretty too.
I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that she'll pass the vets test-

Saturday 21 August 2010

Horse safety

I'm very conscious that children are safe around our ponies, whilst at the same time giving enough freedom for them to enjoy their experience.
I've put together some tips on being safe around ponies which give some insight into the reasoning behind the safety tips.
Simply email me and I'll forward them back to you.

Learning to ride-Amanda's top tips

I'm frequently asked by both horsey and non-horsey mums about where and how to teach their child to ride. In response to that I've come up with my top tips about learning to ride including where to ride, what to wear for riding and what age to start riding.
Don't forget we can provide a great introduction to riding, ensuring children feel confident around our tiny ponies before jumping onto a larger pony at riding school.
Feel free to ask any questions and I'll do my best to respond.

Wednesday 18 August 2010

Back off holiday now

Well the phone didn't stop ringing whilst I was away and I've managed to squeeze a few more people in for pony experiences.
The campsite we stayed at in Dorset had rather intermittent wi-fi, making it pretty difficult to stay in contact with the world. Whilst I couldn't send emails at least I could read them, sometimes. Very frustrating!
Since we've been back I've managed to shoot a (rather amateur) video of the ponies which is on you-tube and on the Cheshire Pony Parties website. I'm amazed at how quickly I was able to do this-it was so easy.
Off to plan my next video!

Monday 9 August 2010

Enchanting, bespoke, luxury children's parties now available

I've just added the ultimate 'Perfect Pony Party' at Cheshire Pony Parties -THE most enchanting, bespoke childrens party for the most discerning of parents.
The parties are designed to be all inclusive, covering party food, cake, party bags, transport to and from our idyllic orchard, gift for birthday child, hot drinks for parents oh and the ponies and my team's wealth of experience and knowledge of horses/ponies.
All our party guests are treated as individuals so everyone goes home with wonderful memories to cherish.
We haven't forgotten the adults either with inside and outside seating, complimentary hot drinks and a variety of publications to read whilst not on photography duty!
Our current, standard parties are loved by both children and parents-just imagine your child's Perfect Pony Party.'Take a peek here

Saturday 7 August 2010

Training pony to drive

Have been thinking for a while that I need to train Jinny to drive to keep her weight down-I'm too big to ride her and my daughter already has her own pony to ride.
I put the driving saddle on today and the driving reins. She wasn't keen with me standing behind her (this is usual as horses can't see behind them and are prey animals!) and tried to turn round to face me (which is usual). Once she realised I was staying behind, she settled into it really well. I was rather surprised as I could position her where I wanted her-we could go in straight lines or go on a circle-usually they wiggle around at first!
I'll try her like this for a couple more days then I'll put the breeching straps on- they go round their back legs and sometimes they protest!
It'll be great to have a driving pony again-we have a little carriage that I hope will fit her. At least we can practise in the orchard before going out on the road.
Can't wait!

We're off to The Royal Horse Gala

I'm very excited as I've booked for the children and I to go and see this amazing display which last came to the UK 16 years ago.
They have 16 stallions who will perform to music - some to flamenco music.
Having seen the Spanish Riding School of Vienna a couple of years ago I know this will be spectacular too.