Wednesday, Aug. 14 Work and play

Corn in the valley

This post covers a few days, I don't want you to think that our time has been all work and no play.   True, we have relied heavily on the services or Mr. David's Grooming Salon and Mobile Beauty Parlor,  Mr. David's Brick and Masonry Services, Mr. David, the Plumber, and Mr. David's Mobile Tractor Repair.

(please save me from Mr. David....where are my ears????)

my Massey Ferguson technician, Mr. David, works his magic

Mr. David brought his Supervisor along to make sure the bricks are layed correctly

Today, while I was attending the Walnut Hill Carriage Driving Competition, Mr. David's Lawnmowing and Bushhog Company arrived and worked diligently to tame the green stuff surrounding the house and  pasture.   I have no pictures, however, because the camera was busy photographing sleek horses and fancy hats.

flags from each country represented at the competition

entry tent sets the mood 

flower filled entry to the Patron's tent

beautiful chestnut on the cross country course

ringside seats

   Walnut Hill Carriage Driving Competition is one of my favorite parts of summer.  It celebrates its 42nd year this week, and I've probably been seated in one of those white chairs for 37 of them.     This year, Jesse and Erin will join Dave and I at Friday's Ascot Night to enjoy a picnic on the lawn and a line up of special classes.   Can't wait...

"When is it my turn?"

next in the ring

In addition to the highly polished, perfectly groomed horses, lovely carriages, flowers galore, good food and drink, tons of dogs, and a real live organist accompanying each class, there is a "lane" of white tents filled with all sorts of interesting (if you're into horses) things....and - hats.

oh look, a surrey "with the fringe on top"

horses of all sizes and colors

carriages of all sizes and colors

lots of work goes on behind the scenes, bathing, braiding, grooming, harnessing, mucking out stalls

spanks?

and....the winner is

OK, tomorrow I'll get back to work, I promise.