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EBONY’S BLOG - December 2009
Living with the Herd and People at
The Shelley Centre for Therapeutic Riding (RDA)
 As I look out from my room it suddenly struck me, it’s amazing, it only seems a few days ago that I was looking out at the trees with their rich green foliage and now, it has changed to the rich autumn colours of yellow, gold, and brown and soon, with a frost or two and a strong wind, the leaves will be gone, leaving only ghostly branches against the sky. Winter is upon us and our thoughts turn to Christmas but, before I ramble off on that subject let me take you back to the end of the summer, 30th September to be precise. Many of you may now be aware that the RDA is celebrating a 40th Anniversary. As part of these celebrations, on that day, a mammoth riding lesson was held; it was called The Worlds Biggest Riding Lesson! During the day over 200 Centres, world wide, took part with some 5000 riders in all enjoying the day. The Shelley Centre, with its usual enthusiasm, took part. I understand from talk within the Herd that the day had its moments? Marion was directing her Drill Ride only to be thwarted by a leader having a senior moment where left became right and vice versa……Ops! I’m sure you will agree, it wouldn’t be right to name names in public for fear of embarrassment so I won’t mention Jan Derbyshire, our Chairman, in case she pulls the plug on me? Of course, the Herd found it all very amusing and the stables were abuzz with the news for the rest of the day but, that aside, the day went well and was enjoyed by all. An added benefit to the day was that Shelley raised in excess of £800 through sponsorship of the entrants and I think we should say, well done and thank you to everyone, whether as Rider, Helper or Donor. Christmas for us, the Herd, is nothing special as you can guess but, the People are now talking with hushed excitement of the coming celebrations. Shelley kicked off (Another pun?) with the Helpers Supper toward the end of November at The Lion at Leavenheath. As to be expected, it was well attended and I’m sure everyone enjoyed themselves (They’re keeping quiet as they pass by my door but, with patience, all will out?) I might be tempted to tell later, we shall see? By the way, did you visit our Stand on 29th November in Hadleigh when the Christmas Lights were officially turned on? Sorry that I couldn’t make it but, I did send copies of my Blog featuring Strikey for the Helpers to hand out. However, the big Christmas event for Shelley is the annual Carol Service held in Shelley Parish Church; I know of this from the talk about the arrangements and past services. I wish I could be there myself but……yes, it’s the power cable thing again. This year it will be on Saturday 12th December, although attendance is limited to Helpers, Riders and Family or by special invitation only. Everyone comes to the Centre first off for mince pies and sausage rolls and for the adults, a Hot Toddy. It’s great for us, the Herd, as we get to have our stables decorated with tinsel and lights and we usually get spoilt with extra carrots from our friends; I just enjoy it and watch and who knows, perhaps Santa will visit (I wonder what my present will be this year; a new polishing cloth or a tin of real wax or…….?). When all are gathered, lead by Camilla and Squidgy, the whole party goes in procession, with Lanterns lit, to Shelley Church. From what I hear it is a truly “Family” affair, with our Riders taking parts as the Shepherds, the Three Wise Men and the Animals; there is even a real baby to take the part of Baby Jesus in the Crib with the parents as Joseph and Mary……a truly touching, warm event. With the days counting down to Christmas Day, the excitement mounts as, on our final days before the holiday, I can tell you Santa will be visiting. While you enjoy your Christmas Turkey, the Herd will be happy enjoying their hay and more carrots…… I, on the other hand, will be in my room giving my circuits a well earned rest on shutdown. To think, this is my last Blog of the year so from me, the Herd and the People of the Shelley Centre, may we wish you all a Very Happy Christmas and a New Year filled with contentment and peace……I’ll be back with more news Next Year.
 Ebony
Further editions of my blog will be uploaded shortly - make sure you come back soon! Meanwhile, if you want to catch up, ‘back-issues’ can be viewed by clicking HERE.
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