Finally a report on my Germany Trip!! Would have done more from over there but Katie’s computer decided to sleep in and not wake up!! I haven’t had a chance to do pictures yet either!
I had a great 2 weeks with Katie in the small town close to Oldenburg at the farm, Gestut Nymphenburg. The farm is very old with the customary all brick buildings. The indoor riding hall is very big with lovely footing. Outdoors the green is almost blinding when the sun it out, which is certainly not as often or as bright in San Diego!! In the area and surrounding the farm there are fields and fields of corn, used for cows and biofuel, and trees of all shapes and sizes. And when I say shapes, I am not kidding. They keep then trimmed and pruned perfectly so they can be sold for landscaping! Trail riding through them was beautiful. I got to ride some wonderful horses and hang out in the barn daily. It was so nice to put faces (Equine and People) with names. They were so welcoming.
We also went to Warendorf to watch the Bundeschampionate (National German Young Horse Championships). There were some amazing young horses but I was particularly struck by the quality of the ponies!! I shared Katie’s 22nd birthday with her as well when I was there. It was a weekend full of very incredible food and fun with Herr von Fircks, Johanna and her sister Cosima. And as well we had quiet mom and daughter time.
All in all a great time. Now I am home to focus on the USDF regional finals for Samantha, Ellie and Me and CDS finals for me. It will be held Oct 7 – 10 in LA. When we get our times I will post the info.
Once again I reflect on how lucky I am to have those in my life to make all the travel I have done a possibility. Thanks guys.
Elizabeth
