Almost Thanksgiving already! Sorry I am so late with this newsletter (download here)—time got away from me. The incessant rain has dragged me down. I was so discouraged about having to cancel the hunter pace after doing so much work to get the trails ready. And the trails are in terrible shape —muddy and eroded —I wish we could send some rain to California.
Some Recent Programs and Activities
The September member-only ride scheduled for Bluff Point was moved to Machimoodus when we learned that another group was holding a ride at Bluff Point the same day. The footing at Machimoodus was very good. As usual, I didn’t think to take pictures, being a photographer is not in my blood. Liz took a few pictures at the end.
The September 20 general meeting was held at the fire museum. We had a lovely meet and greet with veterinarian Erin Trawick-Smith. She talked about her background and interests and we shared stories about our equines.
October felt like it rained every weekend. We were forced to cancel our Hunter Pace for the second year in a row due to the wet conditions. Dave’s field where we park the trailers was just saturated. So bummed. Thankfully we have savings to pay for insurance and stuff like that. Hoping for better weather next year. If anyone has any ideas for a fundraising ride or something, please let us know.
The Annual Chili Ride on November 11 was relocated from Chatfield Hollow to Pattaconk due to large piles of stone in the cul de sac at North Chestnut Hill. Five of us enjoyed a 2+ hour ride followed by hot chili, cornbread, and delicious desserts. See pictures by Lisa Reneson, Liz Kennedy, and me[!] on page 3.
In lieu of a Christmas Progressive Ride this year I will be hosting a ride from my farm on Saturday, December 8. We will be doing a loop in Kenilworth Forest fol-lowed by brunch at my house. Non-riders are welcome to join us for the brunch. I will need a head count for shopping and if anyone wants to bring food, if you can let me know I can plan the menu.
For many years LCRVHC has held a ride on New Years Day at Hamonassett Beach, but when CTRA started doing their ride the same day I was concerned that other park users might be overhelmed by the large groups of horses and complain. What would you think about possibly doing our ride on December 29 or 30 instead? Let me know what works for you!
We are looking for a host for the Winter Holiday Party. If you have room for a small crowd and would be willing to host this potluck party the club will provide punch and a spiral ham as well as papergoods. OR—how do you folks feel about maybe having it at a restaurant instead? If you think this is the way to go, we are open to suggestions for restaurants that could accomodate us.
Please see the Upcoming Events box on the first page and the Calendar on the last page for more activities. We still really need ideas for the calendar!
I hope to see you soon.
Melissa
PS In 2018 membership was down a bit. It’s really a bargain. Only $15 annually for individual, $25 for family. If you have friends you ride with or know people who are interested in trail riding with small groups or working on local trails, spread the word. And please, tell us what you want to do as a club!