I haven't felt much like posting lately as there isn't much to report. We are still at Blackgrounds but now HS2 have fenced off our barn and have put security cameras all round... The don't need the barn yet so why they cannot just wait until it is actually needed is puzzling.. The foals and pointers have been crammed into stables which means a lot more work mucking out and also they were all so happy in the barn. Anyway, life goes on but in a very different form.

We are taking Secret Getaway to Barbury races tomorrow. As it is her first time over fences she is going in the three mile maiden rather than the two and a half mile mares race. Hopefully they will go a bit slower and also we should be able to find out if she is a stayer, whereas in a shorter race we wouldn't find that out. We watched Larkhill on 'live stream' today - Lots of fallers but great racing. Smoking Pigeon (Velvet Dove's six year old son) had his first run in a very hot restricted and gave a great account of himself. He was contending for the lead until two from home when he run out of puff and came fourth . The other horses had all had a run this season so a great effort and he jumped really well. SO proud of him! Archie, his brother seems to have some ability so an exciting prospect for the future.

Popaway is coming with us tomorrow to keep Secret company - She is furious about her beloved barn being taken over by HS2 and hates being outside. So, rather than standing in a stable she can stand in a lorry. I wonder what she'll make of it? She loved her racing so much that it will be interesting to see how she reacts. Hopefully she will give Secret some tips on the journey there.

I saw the Northern lights yesterday. It was quite extraordinary. Doug had already told me he had seen them the night before but I just thought he was going bonkers. It was a real spectacle and I feel very privileged to have seen them. The wonder of nature.