Christmas in The Netherlands

This year we decided to stay in The Netherlands for Christmas, the first time since Paula was born, and that is 16 years ago! We had family over both days for dinner and drinks, and because it was very mild weather we took our visitors for a walk in the dunes with Beau. Paula and Dorien also had to look after two ponies during Christmas, so they came along as well. Especially on Boxing Day it was very crowded in the dunes and on the beach with strollers, getting some fresh air in between meals. Too busy for the horses...

Now it is prep time for skiing, and more fresh mountain air!

Dorien (on the bike) and Mary are watching Paula ride Beau in the dunes

Dorien is walking Bo and Jack, Paula is following with Beau

The Boyz from the Hood, our nephews on the beach

Paula and Beau

Beau is allowed some grass on the way back to the stable

More Beau and a Dutch tradition

This weekend Beau was taken outside the stable again, but now with Dorien sitting on his back, and following a different route through the dunes. Mary and Paula were holding him on a leash, to keep him assured in this new environment. As Beau was acting very calm, the leash was unclipped, and he followed us like a obedient dog. At the end of the path we turned around, and Beau suddenly bolted away in a canter, scared of something we didn't see. Dorien didn't panic and brought him back under control; 500 m further they were both waiting on the rest like nothing happened. It is all about confidence, also for a horse, and strange noises or shapes need getting used to!

It was Sinterklaas at Madurodam handicapped stable and Paula and Dorien were asked to play as his helpers, Zwarte Piet (black Peter). They dressed up, got themselves face-painted and played along during the lessons. As many of you know Sinterklaas is the Dutch equivalent of Father Christmas, who brings presents to all children in early December. Due to the age of the girls (and the fact that they got a huge present with Beau!) we didn't do much ourselves; but this way they still participated in a typical Dutch tradition.

Beau, Dorien and Mary, when everything was looking fine

Dorien and Paula at Madurodam stables, playing Zwarte Piet