So I know I’ve been very slack on the writing front. Life has been moving pretty fast for the TPF gang in Aiken this winter!

Where to begin… Our new boys (and by boys I of course mean horses) have settled into the system pretty well. “Happy” (officially known as Mighty Nice) is easily going to be the new barn favorite. Since coming to us from Ireland in January, he’s quickly developed a reputation for being in everyone’s pockets and is very cooperative around the barn. Phillip just won the Red Hills CIC** on him last weekend in Florida. Not bad for the horse’s third intermediate! 

William Penn, aka “Penn,” is a 9-year-old Irish horse who’s also a sweetheart in the barn. He’d already gone advanced in Europe, but Phillip is finding some definite gaps in his training. He’s has had some great lessons with the Captain, and Phillip feels the partnership will steadily improve over the next few months.

Aiken has been as hectic as ever. Between showing, training sessions and everyday life it’s been non-stop for the gang. For me personally it’s been an odd winter. All the old boys stayed north, as Phillip wanted to concentrate on the new guys.

But Chip and Milo arrived this week so they could start revving up for the four-star season. Once again, we’re aiming for Badminton in England… Will a volcano stop my lifelong dream of grooming there again this year?!?!

Fernhill Eagle and Milo are being aimed at Rolex Kentucky, and Isabella, a great mare owned by Susie Beale, will probably go to Jersey Fresh now. Woodburn is still north enjoying a 20-acre field. He’ll come back to work after The Fork and hopefully go over to Burghley this fall. 

Well, I’m writing this whilst Phillip is driving, and we’re just pulling into Pine Top for cross-country with a trailer full of the younger horses. So I it’s time for me to put the phone away and get into gear. Hope everyone’s seasons are starting well!

Until next time,

Emma