Dogs and Ponies and Fun, Fun, Fun, Oh My!

It was my "day off."  

A few weeks ago, I told Bill that I would like to spend Saturday, May 26 at two Spokane horse shows---one sponsored by an the Inland Empire Arabian Club; the other, a dressage show.

My plan--if it would work out--was to take Terra, who rides Lefty, to see different styles of riding and showing. 

By golly, that worked out, and, as an added bonus, my daughter-in-law Debbie came along too.  

Barbara and Laurie both showed horses from Thursday through today at the Arabian, while Laurie also rode some tests at the weekend dressage show at the Spokane Sport Horse Arena, a phenomenal eventing and dressage venue southwest of Spokane. 

In addition to watching Laurie and Pache, we also watched some advanced dressage classes in the indoor arena, one of which included our friend and neighbor Gail Redinger who lives on North Center Valley Road.

It turned out that our original plan for places to go and people to see grew as the day went on.  

We learned that the annual Memorial Day dog show was in full action at a facility next to the horse show venue at Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds.

And, Chaps, the restaurant, was open and bustling.  Plus, my niece and her kids and friends had come to stay at the cabin in Sandpoint. 

So, we packed it all in---- a tasty lunch at Chaps, a fun walk through the dog show, taking in specific classes in both horse events, a visit which included some garden gifts from our friend Shiraz, delightful desserts at Dairy Queen in Rathdrum and a quick visit with Laura and the gang. 

Twas quite a day and pretty amazing that we accomplished so much on this, my day off, where Bill helped out at home with the watering and the animals. 

I loved every minute and am hoping that Terra was inspired even more to pursue her love of horses.  She was, indeed, a patient young lady to put up with Debbie and me and our teasing for the whole day. 

Thanks to all involved for making yesterday's "day off" very special for this old retiree.  It was a much appreciated treat from start to finish.

Happy Sunday.  Enjoy the photos.    

Gail Redinger

Dusty Dog

Dusty Horse with Barbara

Laurie and Pache in the warm-up ring. 

Gail again. 

This beautiful Irish Setter won the sporting breeds at the dog show. 

Two years old and needed no one to babysit him.  I'm told this is a hunting clip. 

Valerie Biladeau with her Friesan-Arabian

Great lunch at Chaps, which has been featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. 

Love!

Terra, Debbie and Laurie on Pache, waiting for Laurie's dressage test. 

Thank you, Shiraz, for the English cukes and the lemon basil.  Much appreciated.