No snow in the hills here

I'm getting used to my routine and feel like I belong.  I am focused on the needs and training of the horses and humans. It's full immersion and I like it.
Competition results have been improving.  Banner and I went to Temecula last weekend and rode in the Preliminary Rider division.  Our dressage was ok and put us in 10th against over 20 riders.  In show jumping, we had a smooth and fast round with no rails down.  The 3rd day was cross country and we went clean!  We had time penalties and I ended up 10th.   It was the first clean go I have had on Banner in a while and I am really pleased.  Boyd Martin had no problem going clean with Banner at Prelim in July but Boyd rides better than I.  I am really encouraged about Banner and very grateful he is sound and happy.  He gets to go out in a grass paddock at night adjoining his buddies. At first light he starts running around because he feels  good and wants to come in and eat grain. There are few hard and fast rules here but one of them is no running around in the paddocks.  We try to keep the horses settled so they don't injure themselves and churn up the hillside ground.  Tomorrow I will go out in my bathrobe and bring him in very early.  
Connie Arthur, has been teaching me and I am riding much better.  I get to ride one of her horses Maggie in Beginner Division at Ram Tap next weekend.  I jumped Liam the stallion a bit and it went fine.  I am working on my release in the air over jumps and getting Banner's forehand more up for dressage.  Oh and I have to learn to go faster!
I am located 40 miles west of Yosemite towards Modesto. The property is adjacent to the beautiful Tuolome River.  I have a room and share a kitchen with the worker, Pat  (he says hi.) and the owner and manager live on site too.  I don't go to town much but for food shopping, bank deposits, voice lessons and meetings. I have no TV access and it's a very simple existence. 
I will be with my Aunt Priscilla's family in Bay Area for Thanksgiving and get to see Anna too.  Steve traveled by air to the Galway Downs event in Temecula to visit and plans to return here to Lone Tree Farm with Cash in Dec. when Donner summit is passable.
My voice lessons have opened up a new world for me musically.  I rehearse here when I'm alone and found the venue in Oakdale for open mic night.  I expect to meet some musicians soon.
I am grateful for my health and family. I feel well and practice yoga and meditation every day.
I am learning more about patience from the horses and just from being here. It's a wonderful place to work  and I'm grateful I came.

PS Today was a high of 70 and this evening it's about 45. There is no wind.