Well after a crazy busy holiday period, it's back to reality and back to the day job! Although work didn't really stop for me as I was lucky enough to be working on the Events Through a Lens team as one of the official photographers at the Liverpool International Horse Show. What an amazing experience and one that I am so grateful for. Liverpool is one of the very best shows with great acts and great competition but it was such a shame it was cut short due to an awful fire in a nearby carpark. Thanks to the professionalism of the show organisers and all of their support teams and the emergency services, the situation was dealt with calmly and efficiently and everyone was evacuated safely. It was surreal seeing the horse being loaded in the road but just incredible the way everyone pulled together and helped each other out. 

So now it's time to think about resolutions and plans for the year ahead. At the end of the first week back at work, it’s a great time to review, refocus and re-energise. In all the mud and rain, it feels like winter is never going to end and it can be hard to stay motivated without goals. Horse and Hound had a great article on goal setting with great tips from Charlie Unwin, Kate Honey and Nic Turner, something I'm definitely going to have a think about.  http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/features/setting-horse-riding-goals-640605

When I was asked recently, what were my horsey goals for the year ahead, it got me thinking, what do I really want to achieve? A good question! I just want to get out and about with the pony and have some fun with him staying fit, healthy and happy - and hopefully I'll get my competition mojo back - more dressage, more showjumping, more hunter trials and to step up a level in ODEs! On the fun side, I’d really like to find the time to try a bit of horseback archery, so watch this space. 

In terms of photography goals, I want to continue learning and trying new things - I've been lucky enough to meet some inspiring photographers who have taught me a lot and I can't wait to learn more! I have so many ideas for Pony & Pup and will have to sit down and think about what can be achieved this year and in future years.

The last year was hard on a personal and professional level but I took the opportunity to re-evaluate what was important and I’m hoping for happier times in 2018!  There's still a long way to go but I'm so excited for the future, I don't know what that will be yet but I'm just going to work hard and enjoy the journey. For now, the destination doesn't matter.

So in the spirit of doing more of what makes me happy, here’s hoping for more horsey adventures, more photographs and more fun times with family and friends.

Happy New Year!