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2024

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Well, what can I say—2024, you’ve been a bit of a tough one, to say the least!

I know I’m a lot more fortunate than many others, and I am truly grateful for that. I’ve worked hard for everything I have in life—like many of us, nothing has ever been handed to me on a platter, which makes me appreciate everything so much more.

The start of 2024 brought a heartbreaking family bereavement. We lost a very significant and special part of our family, and it’s something that continues to affect me, my family, and those who were fortunate enough to be touched by my auntie’s warmth and love. She was truly a rare, extraordinary woman, full of kindness and strength. The world feels like a much smaller place without her in it.

In April, Joey and I were lucky enough to head off to pony camp at Stockland Lovell with some friends. It was a fantastic three days—there’s nothing quite like spending time with good friends and your ponies. If you’ve never attended an adult camp, I highly recommend it.

When we got back, Joey had some swelling on his off-fore. Sadly, we had to withdraw from our first event of the season. Despite cold hosing and ice vibing, the swelling persisted, so the vet was called for a full workup. Although Joey was only 1/10th lame on his near-fore (not the swollen leg), the advice was rest and Bute.

After four weeks, x-rays revealed he had a ‘broken-back pastern axis’, on the near fore. Remedial shoeing with 3D pads was required until his feet improved enough for normal shoes. Eventually, we got going again and made it to the British Riding Club Arena Eventing Championships. We were a little rusty but managed a clear round—Joey was just thrilled to be back doing what he loves most.

Then July came, and we had to make the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to our beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Louie. At 16 years old, Louie had been with us since he was just eight weeks old. He was my rock, running partner, yard companion, and sofa cuddle buddy. In true JRT style, he was nippy and only liked being touched on his own terms. We’d always joke, “Louie, don’t touch him!” and, of course, no one ever listened—his cute looks were always too tempting.

Around August, my autoimmune condition started flaring up again. I have arthritis in my knees, which often results in swelling and stiffness. On top of that, I had some gut issues. Given my auntie’s battle with bowel cancer, I didn’t hesitate to get checked out, and thankfully, all results came back clear. Things settled down briefly, but by November, my condition worsened dramatically.

I was referred back to rheumatology and had to increase my medication, along with a steroid injection that gave me a few days’ relief before the symptoms returned worse than ever. Both knees and my right elbow were affected, making everyday tasks a challenge. Now, in late December, I have just got my MRI appointment through and continuing with the new treatment plan. Things are improving slowly, but it’s a constant battle. I plan to rest up over Christmas as much as possible—though, as you all know, that’s easier said than done!

Joey, too, has had his challenges. He’s been battling tension in his shoulder, neck, and wither areas, which worsens over time despite treatments. We’ve stuck to slow hacking and straight lines since May, but in November, the vet was called again. Joey’s issues were confirmed as immense tension rather than outright lameness, so we brought in the incredible Polly Hutson for her expert physio treatment.

Polly suspected my saddle could be contributing to the problem. Upon inspection, she thought the tree might be twisted, but further checks with AH Saddles revealed it wasn’t twisted (thank goodness!). However, the flocking was unbalanced, especially on the right side, and there was too much at the front, causing issues at the back. The tree was also adjusted wider to better suit Joey’s shape.  My last saddle check wasn’t done by my usual saddler.

We’re now waiting for our next check-up with Polly in January, and I’m hopeful this will continue to improve Joey. Only time will tell, but as any horse owner knows, the waiting and worrying can be exhausting.

The Equestrian Life has taken a bit of a back seat this year, but I want to thank every single one of you who has placed an order or interacted with a post. Every like, comment, and share means the world to small businesses like mine—it lifts not just the algorithm but also my spirits.

As we look ahead to 2025, my hopes are simple: a happy, sound Joey pony and a healthier, happier me.

If you’ve made it to the end of this long post, thank you for following along on our journey. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎄✨

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