SPHT II

Needless to say last weekend was a major milestone for Stewie and I. It was the one year anniversary of my 3rd trimester and his fall with Boyd that left many unknowns. It has been an exciting and stressful year, and I am so happy how the weekend went! First of all, our little girl Hailey was with me all weekend, and was the best lucky charm. (Thank you Katie Peoples for the help babysitting all weekend!) And while Stewie did not start off great, he finished strong. Apparently being able to see the training xc did not benefit us, and we scored a 42. My disappointment, however, did not last long, as he jumped brilliantly around a very difficult xc track. Saturday morning I was so happy to be sitting on that little jumping bean!

Go Stewie!! Thanks Ashley Keller for the pic!

Sunday was also successful as Stewie jumped superbly around Marc Donovan's sj course. The rail at 4A was pilot error, and luckily Stewie forgave me later. Students Maxine Preston and Tracie Marino had solid performances too. Tracie finished her first event post-baby, which speaking from personal experience, is tough! Maxine was 8th in her 2nd prelim, and she and Ned had outstanding jumping rounds. I am very proud how far Maxine has come as a rider and competitor. She has only scratched the surface!

I need to say "thank you" to my good friends Pooh Hoblitzell and Theresa Foote who came for the weekend. Pooh's knowledge is so useful behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly with the care of an advanced horse. She never misses a beat and I am grateful for all her help. Theresa was every one's cheerleader and chef, and what felt at times, my personal assistant. I am thinking of marrying her. (I hope Chuck does not mind). Speaking of Chuck, I was happy he was there to share in the monumental weekend. He was as proud of Stewie as I was.

Next for Holly Hudspeth Eventing is The Fork, where Stewie will tackle the CIC*** and Maxine the OP. If all goes well we are off to Rolex. I cannot believe how fast this spring has gone! I need to give a huge thanks to these companies who believed in me through a pregnancy and injured horse. Prime Performance Nutrition, Devoucoux, Cavalor, Perfect Products, Kentucky Horsewear, and Fools and Horses, I cannot say how much I appreciate being associated with such great people and products! Thank you for everything.