Proud, proud coach!

First off, it is a good thing I have waited until the next morning to gush about the team.  This entry would have been twice as long had I written it when I got home.

I am so very proud of the Souhegan Riders.  You all did an outstanding job. We ended up bringing home a mess of great ribbons, but most importantly, everyone rode at their very best.  Some rode better than I had ever seen!

I have to admit, I was taken down memory lane as the bathing and braiding crew got to work on Saturday afternoon.  The silliness increased as the hours wore on and I had a blast chit-chatting with the girls as we got everything prepared.  

We have promising braiders coming along.  Mae, Kelli and Katie did a super job with their first horse show braids.  Erin and Ally M went to town with the clippers and Allie W bathed until she could bathe no more!

The early birds, Anna, Alicia, Ally M, Julia, And Emily helped get us loaded up and out the door.  Assistant Coach Mollie came early too.  She wasn't there to help the night before because she was GRADUATING!!  Congrats Mollie.

Once at he show, it was smooth sailing as all the riders worked in pairs to get themselves ready and help one another out.  The horses were all very well behaved and there was no mischief at the trailer... at least from the horses!

I'd like to say, "Yeah for hainets!"  We had everyone all tucked in and only a few hairs poked out on anyone.  I threatened to cut off stray hairs and they all disappeared.  

Poor Erin cleaned tack and clipped horses the day before, and was unable to finish her day in the saddle as her hip was killing her from a previous fall.  We missed you and hope you are better soon!

I cannot say enough how proud I was that everyone, parents and all, had great supportive attitudes for the entire day.  We had a massive cheering crowd.  Our huge banner and matching saddle pads were done right by everyone's turn-out, rides and sportsmanship.  I imagine we turned a head or two for good reasons!

I know how thrilling it is to win a ribbon, and a blue one at that.  Even if the judge didn't think your particular ride was stellar, know that I thought every one of you rode your very best and you were kind to your horses, teammates, and parents.  Thank you for that.  You are on your way in your horse careers.

The O'Connells have gone above and beyond in their support of the team.  We are so very lucky to have owners who care and want to provide for us the way they do.  Endless thanks to them.

Our hospitality tent was a great treat.  So too were the coolers full of drinks and piles of snacks.  Next time, I will be sure to assign a very important food group for the horse shows: chocolate!

I cannot wait to praise you all in person on Thursday for our "fun" ride.  I know you may not think you can have too much fun with me watching, but I will try to let loose a bit!

I really am tickled with pride.  Good work everyone.