Blue Skies and Gentle Breezes

It's Official!!!! I am now a genuine cowgirl!!!!

2011-12-18T16:28:00.000-08:00

First time team penning with Duke last night! We had a blast and Duke LOVES playing with the cows; he knows what his job is but he does try to take over. Here we are teamed up with a father/daughter team (Rudy and Rudi :D) and we penned all three cows on our second run!!! Woo hoo!!! Duke and I enter the arena behind Rudy and Rudi (Duke is the bay with his tail braided). Video captured by a friends helmet cam (I really need to get one of those!). Duke was a wee bit exuberant last night; on our last run he showed off his impression of a Lipizzan stallion performing 'airs above the ground.' That got a few whoops and hollers from the crowd. :)

Things are slow at the tree farm this year, sales down by half of what they were the last six years; as of today we've sold 38 trees, in previous years it's been 80-90 trees. But we still have our regular customers who return faithfully every year. I keep hearing people say they just aren't in the spirit. If you haven't got into the holiday spirit yet, well here's a little something that may help. :) Watch how silence fades in....

http://youtu.be/uH8FvERQHtM

Yep, I'm still here...not often...but I'm here

2011-08-21T22:09:00.000-07:00

My friend Debbie saw this group perform at the Weippe Rodeo this weekend and was amazed by these kids. I watched this video and was amazed too!

One quick note on the quote mentioned in the video; it was Winston Churchill who originally said, "The outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man."

The Stallion and the Foal

2011-03-07T21:23:00.000-08:00

Anyone who ever saw the documentary "Cloud: Wild Stallion of the Rockies" knows all too well the fate of unprotected foals in the wild. But nature is not always predictable, and this video is an amazing montage.

Video by Pam Nikoles Photography. For additional information, please read the video description for the story behind the photographs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JKKWF0ZUGk

Backwards Determination

2011-03-07T06:48:00.000-08:00

Duke backs up into his stall from the opposite side of the arena, which is 60 feet across. This from a horse who hated to back up when I brought him home almost three years ago.

Small steps brought up to this place, we started with backing out of a round pen. It's easy to get frustrated when trying to teach a horse to do something he normally wouldn't do. I know I did. But his mama didn't teach him English, so I needed to learn his language to communicate. It took a lot of time and patience. But now Duke offers to back into his stall...I think he enjoys it. :)

30 day PNH blog challenge, Days 24 through 30

2011-02-28T23:58:00.000-08:00

Day 24-A time PNH made things harder for you and your horse.

I've thought and thought about this, but nothing comes immediately to mind.

Day 25-What is the most challenging aspect of your relationship with your horse.

Gaining Duke's trust in me. He's very skeptical and easily offended. Very sensitive and I have to really monitor my body language and energy.

Day 26-What is your favorite obstacle to play with.

Ground poles because there are so many different ways to play with them; forwards over, backwards over, sideways, between two parallel poles, dragging, make a turnaround box...mazes, many possibilities.

Day 27-A time you have impressed someone with your PNH skills “I Like your horse.”

There's a young girl at the barn, a 4-H member who recently purchased her first horse. The horse, a buckskin gelding, is not well suited for her and isn't a beginners horse. He's very high spirited and she now realizes he's too much horse for her. While playing with Duke a couple of weeks ago, the young girl made that very statement to me "I like your horse." It's a great compliment to receive when someone notices.

Day 28-Love, Language, Leadership: what is the easiest for you and what is the most challenging.

Love is the easiest...although sometimes it does get tested. Language is the most challenging; learning Duke's language and expressing it effectively requires mental fitness and focus. I tend to get easily scattered and need to overcome this.

Day 29-If you could ride one of Pat or Linda's horses which one would it be and why?

Oh boy...I'd love to ride Magic...she's such an amazing horse. I've been a fan of Magic from the first time I saw Pat and Magic together. She's such a lovely mover.

Day 30-What have you learned about yourself since you have started doing PNH.

I can be a raving perfectionist (to a fault), I take things too seriously...but, I am more comfortable going outside my comfort zone than I used to be, and I'm learning how to have fun, again.

30 day PNH blog challenge, Days 19 through 23

2011-02-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

Before I started this 30 day challenge I knew writing one entry a day would not be possible; but that wasn't my goal. My goal was to find inspiration to write again. I've lost my interest in reading and writing. I want to get it back...to redevelop an activity I once enjoyed but quit because of burn out, depression and time contraints. So onward and upward...

Day 19-A time you were able to help a "normal" horse or horseman using PNH.

After finishing a ride a few weeks ago as I was leaving the barn another boarder riding her Arabian mare struck up a conversation with me. As our conversation began to wane, she expressed frustration with her quality of circles, in that her mare was bracey and not following her nose. Two things immediately came to my mind, the human head weighs between 10 - 14 pounds and most people (myself included) tend to look down and watch the horses head when they ride. As she rode I spoke about these two points, she stopped as if to think about and absorb the words. When she exclaimed she hadn't thought much about her head position, I smiled with the admission it's a point I have to work on every time I ride because I catch myself doing it. I explained the principle that horses can feel the riders focus and when the rider focuses on the horses head, that brings the weight of the head down and impacts the riders balance, and therefore, the horses balance as well. I suggested she keep her head up and focus her eyes on where she wanted to go. To use her eyes and swivel of her head to direct the horses direction. She tried it, immediately noticed a difference and was amazed. It's a hard thing to remember and I always find myself reverting back to looking at Dukes head when I need to focus on where I want to go. But then I remember his head is not going to fall off and I change my gaze to a point ahead of him and where I want to go, and voila! I immediately feel a diffence in my body and Duke's, especially his trot; it goes from flat and hard, to round and soft.

Day 20-A PNH clinic or lesson that was inspirational. If you have not been to a clinic or had a lesson what educational material has been particularly inspiring.

The Liberty and Horse Behavior dvd, particularly when the 'horsenality' segments where Pat and Linda demonstrate the different characteristics of four of their horses.

Day 21-Criticism you have about the PNH program.

Several times I have heard Pat advise students against following or trying other trainer or clincians methods because it will confuse the student. The problem I have with this viewpoint is that Pat himself was a student of and learned from many different teachers; he openly admits this in almost every demo or lesson I've seen. He's always talking about, and crediting Ray Hunt, Bill Dorrance, Tom Dorrance, Ronny Wills and others...as his mentors. All these men provided him with a well-rounded education and enabled him to turn his love for horses into a lifelong career. I believe him when he says he and Linda want to make the world a better place for horses and humans. But I am skeptical of anyone who discourages their students from exposure to outside influences. That is too cult-like in my opinion. PNH is not a cult, but I have read people call it a cult and refer to the students as brainwashed.

Parelli has covered a lot of educational ground during the past 25+ years, and they have given me the tools I need to develop my horsemanship skills. But as an open minded person I like to explore several options and resources, that is what I learned in high school and college. I have found the quality of PNH educational materials, content and distribution to be among the best, that is why I have stayed.

PNH needs to trust their students and realize that it's okay for us to observe what is out there and evaluate if it's right or wrong for our journey. Through observation we are able to gain a broader understanding of this discipline. We are keen enough to know the difference between quality and quick-fixes.

Day 22-How do you explain PNH when people ask what you are doing with your horse.

Hasn't really come up a lot, yet, but I just say I'm using natural horsemanship and let Duke do the rest of the talking.

Day 23-SADDLING: do you use the PNH saddle and/or theraflex pad if not what do you ride in and what does your horse think of it.

I have two Fallis Balanced Ride saddles, and I use the theraflex pad. The theraflex pad solved a problem with my 50 year old Fallis saddle which has a really wide tree that brought the gullet down on Duke's withers. The theraflex pad and two shims solved that. I recently acquired a new custom made saddle from John Fallis designed for a high withered horse and will use the theraflex pad under a wool saddle blanket.

Interestingly enough, I'm wondering if Pat is still using the theraflex pad. Recent Savvy Club dvd's with him riding show him using different saddle pads and blankets, but not the theraflex. Or maybe he's using it under neath.

30 day PNH blog challenge, Days 16 through 18

2011-02-16T22:57:00.000-08:00

Day 16-What is the most challenging horsenality for you to work with?

I've only had one horse who is a Left Brain Extrovert with Introvert tendancies, but he can go Right Brain in a flash...and it's the Right Brain Extrovert who I find challenging.

Day 17-What is your favorite game?
Driving...because there is so much that can be done with that game!

Day 18-A time you have seen Pat & Linda live. If you have not seem them live would you like to, what do you think it would be like?

Celebration Reno, May 2009. Exceeded my expectations.

PNH 30 day blog challenge

2011-02-13T21:17:00.000-08:00

Day 15-How is PNH perceived where you live, board or ride at?

So far, so good. Since beginning PNH almost three years ago, I've never had anyone express harsh words about it at the barn. Actually, just the opposite is true. If people don't know we are Parelli students, they soon figure it out. Everyday my friend Debbie and I can be found playing with our boys. Sometimes people will stop and watch us play, especially when we have the Big Green Ball out and the horses are chasing it around. People ask us questions, and are always impressed with how well behaved the boys are in hand and under saddle. The barn owner affectionately calls us the Parelli twins. When someone is having a problem, they seek our advise; more Debbie than I as she has more experience. I believe our horses serve as ambassadors for natural horsemanship methods. They are not perfect, but they are great partners and amazing teachers.

30 day PNH blog challenge, Days 11 through 14

2011-02-12T23:46:00.000-08:00

Day 11-Pat and Linda don't where a helmet….do you? Why or Why Not?

At present I do not. It is something I think about everyday.

Day 12-Your favorite horsenality to play with and why?

Can't say, having never played with every horsenality yet.

Day 13-Post a video (could be an audition) of you playing with your horse

Here's an older clip of Duke and I playing about a year ago.

Day 14-What PNH tools, clothing, tack etc. do you own?

Oh boy...let's see. 3 rope halters (blue, green and black) 2 12' lead ropes, 2 22' lead ropes, 1 45' rope, 2 carrot sticks, 4 6' savvy strings (3 white, 1 red), 9' finesse reins, Western Theraflex pad with 2 shims, green ball, purple long sleeve shirt, several t-shirts and a sun visor.

30 day PNH blog challenge, Day 10.

2011-02-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

Day 10 - Post your favorite picture of you and your partner and write about it.

Me and Duke after a ride at the arena with friends. I think it was taken in February or March 2009. It's the smile on my face, and the softness of Duke's eyes that always pulls me to this photo. I'd had Duke not quite a year when this photo was taken and he were just starting to bond with each other. Our ride that day was fun and I think I may have been working toward our first canter in the arena. I remember being very relaxed and happy that day, and throughly enjoying my time with Duke.

30 day PNH blog challenge, Days 5 through 9

2011-02-07T23:16:00.000-08:00

Day 5 - What is your favorite DVD, Celebration, Tour Stop etc..etc…moment?

Reno Celebration May 2009 Kalley Krickberg playing with the Atwood Ranch yearlings. When the livestock trailer entered the arena and the yearlings began following that trailer around with Dean Martin singing 'Return to Me' in the background...it brought tears to my eyes.

Day 6 - What is your dream with your horse?

To experience what it means when there's nothing you can't do when your horse becomes a part of you.

And maybe someday participate and finish a 50 mile endurance ride.

Day 7- A time you turned a moment of frustration into a moment of "Hmm How Interesting?"

Last week during a session of weaving between cones. Duke kept knocking the cones over, rushing ahead of me and just wasn't into the exercise. We were playing on the 22' line and a friend helped me realize we needed to go back to the 12' line and slow down.

Day 8 - What is your horsenality, what is your partners horsenality and how do you make them work together?
I'm a left brain introvert, Duke is a left brain extrovert and until recently he was an introvert. The more we travel on this journey, the more he reveals himself to me. With this recent change I need to study the extrovert personality more, but I'm finding that as long as I play with him everyday, he's more and more eager to get out and do something.

Day 9 - A moment you have had with your partner that would not have been possible without PNH.

Loading Duke by myself in the trailer with calm confidence. For me, that was a major turning point in my journey.

30 day PNH blog challenge - Day 3 & Day 4

2011-02-02T22:30:00.000-08:00

Day 3-What is your partners favorite game?

Hmm, when Duke's playing with other horses, definitely the porcupine game. On those occasions when I have a chance to observe him interacting with other horses, he uses his teeth to move the other horse, everytime. He's not afraid to back down from a more dominate horse, either.

When Duke's playing with me, it's the driving game. Lately I've noticed when we're playing this on the 22' line and I send him to an object, he's engaged and asking lots of questions; he never used to ask questions. On the 12' line he really enjoys the driving game when I'm in zone 2 or 3. For now, that's his game, but in six months or a year, it may be a different game he enjoys more. He's really starting to put more energy into the circling game than he used to and whether that has to do with a more dynamic extroverted nature, or something else I cannot say at this time.

Day 4-One BFO (blinding flash of the obvious) moment you've had?

Oh boy...there's been so many! Most recently it was during a session weaving four cones on the 22' line that wasn't going very well. Cones were falling over, Duke was rushing through the pattern, getting ahead of me, and I was getting frustrated. It took a friend pointing out to me that maybe the foundatoin was weak and needed strengthening. Sure enough, we went back to the 12' line and slowed down; the cones stayed upright, Duke stayed calm and walked within the pattern of the cones. Lesson learned: when things don't appear to be working check for holes in the foundation.

30 day PNH blog challenge - Day 2

2011-01-31T22:09:00.000-08:00

Day 2-What is your favorite savvy and why?

Liberty. No rope, no reins, no saddle. Just me and Duke...totally free. Liberty is one of the most challenging savvy's but it's also so much fun.

Liberty takes me back to the carefree days of my childhood when I lived in Southern California. I can remember Saturday mornings waking up early before anyone else in the house and eagerly hopping on my bike for a 9 mile ride from North Hills (fka Sepulveda) to Canoga Park. Waiting for me there was Pee Wee, a bay gelding (didn't know what breed, didn't care) whose owner had recently become a mama and was unable to devote time to him. I spent hours just hanging out and playing with Pee Wee; something I now know as undemanding time. I was in heaven, just being in his pasture with him. sometimes I'd stand on his water trough and he'd walk over so I could get on his back. He'd walk around, graze, stand...didn't matter because I loved this time with him. Now it's called bridleless riding, but back then it was just being there. On the ground, if he ignored me I made it a game to get his attention. I would spend hours with him, totally losing track of time and upsetting my mom more than once.

Sometimes when I look at Duke, I catch a brief glimpse of Pee Wee...and for just a moment I'm back in that pasture, playing...carefree once again.

30 Day PNH Blog Challenge - Day 1

2011-01-30T21:50:00.000-08:00

Found this today over at Brooke's blog Our Horsemanship Journey. Okay I'm up for a challenge.

PNH BLOG CHALLENGE

Day 1-How did you find PNH?

It was a change from cable tv to satellite that led me to PNH. In August 2007 I had just reconnected with horses through some friends who raise Morgans; it had been 24 years since I'd last been around these beautiful creatures. Around that time, one Sunday morning Sam and I encountered a new station called RFD-TV and on that station a show called Parelli Natural Horsemanship was on. Here was this cowboy wearing short chaps (chinks I later learned) playing with a beautiful black Friesian gelding...and I was hooked. It was immediate affinity. Everything this guy did made sense to me and I felt I was watching not only a cowboy, but a master horseman. I wanted to learn more and turned to the internet to find out who this Parelli guy was (wasn't there a tire company by that name?). One thing led to another and while I had always dreamed of having a horse someday, finding PNH was the first step toward that dream.

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Just a moment

2011-01-29T21:41:00.000-08:00

Hmmm, what have we here?

Left brain (flash) right brain

2010-12-02T23:32:00.000-08:00

Interesting session with Duke last night. Played for over an hour. Inspired by some tasks suggested on Parelli Connect (a new social media for Parelli students) I set about to see if:

Duke would put his front feet on a pedestal with me 22' away from him.
Put his hind feet on a pedestal.

Sent him to the pedestal at a casual walk from the end of a 22' line. Both front feet on the pedestal. Check.

Switch to the circling game at a trot and sent him to the pedestal from the end of a 22' line. Steps up and places both front feet on the pedestal. Check. And at a canter on the same line. Check.

With enthusiasm.

Okay.

Now to work on task #2. Hind feet on pedestal.

This one is gonna take some time.

Started by asking him to back up to the pedestal and just stand next to it. He did and it was so uplifting to see him doing this with ears forward and a happy, engaged expression on his face. Asking questions.

Duke hasn't asked me questions for a long, long time! Is this what being provacative is?

Several attempts made it clear that I needed to stop and step back because at this stage of his learning it was too soon to expect him to place one, let alone two, hind feet on the pedestal. Everytime his hoof touches the pedestal, Duke takes a small step away. He's not sure exactly what I want. So out come the hoola hoops. Make it easy.We'll start with these and work our way up. He never quite got both hind feet in...but he was trying. My communication could have been clearer too, so I'll work on that.

Move on to something else. We can come back to this later.

At this point the most interesting thing happened. Duke went from left brain introvert to right brain extrovert in a flash. He did this performing a task he has performed dozens of times before. Dozens of times, and each time he was calm and rather non-chalant. But last night something was different. We were playing 'follow a feel' on the 22' line. I thought it might be a good way to send Duke off on a circle, rather than using the same old back up cue using rthymic pressure to push him away from me. As I have done before, dozens of times, I slowly placed the rope over Duke's head, then looped it around his body, back behind him and then stood, waiting for him to follow the feel of the rope, turn 180 degrees then face me. Usually he stands straight for a second, then turns his head away from me, bending his body around as he follows the feel of the rope. Usually. Last night he stood there, looking at me, ears foward. Asking. I took up the slack ever so slightly to encourage him to turn his head the other way, which he did, and then BAM! He quickly whirled completely around 180 degrees and began to back away from me. As if in fear. 100% reactive. No calm slow left brain, been there, done that response. This was a complete departure from the norm.

What changed?

Why the change in behavior? I repeated the exercise several times, and each brought about the same response. Stand for a moment, looking at me, then WHIRL around, hooves flying and try to get away. Even Debbie commented how odd his behavior was.

After thinking it over, I got to wondering if the rope resting just above his hocks was causing the problem. So we tried again, only this time I kept the rope higher and let it drape behind his rump. He was better and slower this time, so we repeated the exercise, and again got a slower more confident response from him.

Hmmn, how interesting.

On that positive note we ended the session. I still don't know exactly what caused the big change from left brain to right brain because we've done lots of desensitizing on the hind legs...lead by the hind legs, friendly game, the tarp wrapped around his hind legs and he took it all in stride. Meh. Didn't care, not a bother. Now I have something to think about, and it will be interesting to see what happens when we play tomorrow. Didn't have time tonight, had to get my hair cut, but we'll give it another go tomorrow.

We need to get ready for our Level 2 auditions: on-line and freestyle. If I'm going to reach my goal of passing both by the end of the year.

Come to think of it, I'm seeing a lot more extroverted behavior in Duke these past couple of months. Hmmm.

Thankful...once again!

2010-11-25T10:16:00.000-08:00

Wishing all my on-line friends a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving.

Take a moment to reflect what you are thankful for!

Another new goal...

2010-11-21T11:51:00.000-08:00

Found this by following Parelli instructor Petra Christensen's trail. I'm inspired, awestruck and so ready to try to recreate some of the obstacles in this course and try it. The rider is Mark Bolender riding bridleless on Checkers during the Mountain Trail Championships at the Oregon Horse Center.

Time...and time again

2010-11-11T15:02:00.000-08:00

Ugh! I hate being sick! I'm home nursing a severly swollen throat with chills and stuffy sinus'. Double ugh!

Duke, on the other hand, is healthy and happy. Yesterday the farrier pulled his shoes for the winter so now he's barefoot. He's put on his teddy bear coat...getting all fuzzy and turning from summer slick red to winter rich chocolate brown. I love running my hands across his long neck and feeling his plushy thick coat. Think I'll forego blanketing him this winter, unless the temp drops down below 20 degrees; let him go au natural! The cut above his eye from three months ago healed nicely and is no longer visible, thanks to Vetricyn. Anyone with animals needs to keep it on hand! Seriously.

Been getting several rides a week in, bareback and with a saddle, working on upward and downward transitions, leg cues and side passing. During a session last Sunday I realized the problem with side-passing was me...I wasn't using my seat properly. So I set Duke up to side pass to the right over a pole, only this time using my left seat bone to push him. It took a couple of tries but he did it perfectly, without any bend in his body or neck. Each time we accomplish success like this, I am reminded that Duke already knows everything he needs to know when I'm in the saddle, and I'm the one who needs training.

Last Saturday night I thought I'd try my hand at team penning, but in the end I wasn't quite ready. I was tense and nervous (this was my first rodeo!) and didn't set it up to succeed. Had I been thinking properly I would have taken the time to warm Duke up in the little arena, away from all the noise and other riders before we headed to the larger upper arena where the event is held. So for me, I'll be taking baby steps toward this goal. Next time we'll warm up like we always do in the lower arena, then just hang out and give myself time to get used to the sights and sounds of the upper arena. It's all very fast paced and as a Level 2 student I'm not quite there in my training. However, my friend Debbie (who has been there for me through it all!) expressed an interest in riding Duke for one of the rounds; he is after all a former ranch horse who spent the first eight years of his life on a cattle ranch. She offered to pony him during the warm up after I realized I wasn't ready for this. Duke took to it like milk to a cookie as I watched from the sidelines. He ponied great, never rushing ahead of Debbie and Ringo, nor dragging behind them. He showed interest in the cows and moved with them whenever Debbie stopped by them. Funnily enough, everytime he'd pass by where I was standing, he'd look my way as if he was searching for me in the crowd. At least that's what Debbie said...I think he was looking for the gate.

Met up with my brother Mick and sister-in-law Char on Sunday while they were visiting from their home in the Portland area. Turns out they are both into horses and have two beautiful Arabians named Bay (short for Baythoven) and Boo. Who knew!!! One day I receive a friend request on Facebook and lo and behold, it's my brother. I have to admit when I saw Mick's photo of him wearing a cowboy hat, holding Bay you could have knocked me over with a feather. At first I honestly didn't think it was him. My brother...into horses?! Cool!!!! We spent two hours swapping horse stories at a local Starbucks. Sam was a real trooper, and if all that horse talk bored him, he gave no outward sign of it. It's been a long time since I last saw Mick and Char (1998) and seeing them again was a real heart warmer, and a great way to start the week. BTW Char has a blog too, cleverly titled Canterbalance...pop over and check it out!

Fall trail challenge

2010-11-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, October 23, Duke and I participated in our second trail challenge held at Lewis Clark Saddle Club in Clarkston, WA. This challenge was quite different from the one last May and more challenging. There were a few tense moments, and Duke was definitely on his toes, more extroverted than normal. All in all, we had a lot of fun and learned a great deal. This was a real test of our relationship. And I have my homework assignments.

But I'm gonna have to have a serious talk with my cameraman-husband, because at times I'm not sure what he was recording.

Once upon a cold, dark night (re-visited)

2010-10-30T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, here I am with a great place to write and yet when I sit down to do so, nothing happens. I used to write so well...it flowed like water. What happened? I need to reconnect with that part of me again, because buried deep beneath all the layers of my life I know the writer in me is stirring.

So, until I find my muse (or vice versa), I'm reposting a previous entry I created in 2005 when my blog was a part of the AOL J-Land community. You can find the original entry here.

With Halloween just around the corner, many are sharing scary stories. Sandra, owner of Sandra's Scribbles often finds a ghost story to share. And our beloved Blogfather, John Scalzi is prompting us to write, to draw on our own experience and relate a bone chilling, flesh crawling, hair raising Halloween story. Well, maybe not flesh crawling.

Okay. If you thought I was a little bit crazy before, well I'm about to remove all doubt from your mind.

Somewhere between fear and imagination lies the truth. And many years ago I learned the line between is often blurred. During the time that followed I have struggled to grasp the meaning of what happened to me on a cold dark night. Even now I do not fully understand exactly what happened; but I do remember.

It is September 19, 1978. I am a newlywed of just three months, spending the night at the home of my in-laws. They live in a split-entry house with four levels and the guest room is downstairs, in the daylight basement. A few hours before, at 12:45 a.m., I received news of my mothers passing. It is now 3:30 a.m. and I can't sleep. I keep wondering what life will be like with her gone. I feel cold, chilly, and alone, even as the heat of my husband's sleeping body radiates next to me under the warmth of several heavy blankets.

When I feel the internal urge, I get out of bed and silently make my way through the dark house to the bathroom across the hall. I switch on the light, shut the door and go about the business that called me out of my bed. The events of the night play out in my mind, and I think about what the days ahead hold for my young sisters. At only 12 and 14, they are so tender and young, too young to lose their mother.

I finish and wash my hands, struggling with the loss I feel in my heart. Looking up at the medicine cabinet mirror, I stare at the reflection; is the person looking back at me strong enough to deal with this? Do I have what it takes to help my sisters cope with the heart break I must deliver to them? Beneath my eyes the bags and dark circles belie my age. I am only 21 yet I look to be in my 30s. My mothers illness has taken its toll. I rub my eyes, take a deep breath and step away from the sink.

Without warning, I begin to shiver, as if the temperature of the room suddenly dropped several degrees. I shake it off, rubbing the skin on my arms vigorously with my hands, eager to slide back under the warmth of those heavy blankets on the bed. But when I reach out and grab the doorknob, an electrical shock stabs my fingertips. I stop and pull back my hand. Thinking it is static electricity created by rubbing my arms, I reach out again, and quickly withdraw my hand when the vibration of electrical energy touches my skin.

What?
I look down at the linoleum, then at my bare feet. How can I be getting shocked? I glance at the sink, step toward it and touch the metal fixtures. Nothing. Slowly I wrap my fingers around each knob. No shock. Okay, so it wasn't static. It's nothing. Feeling relieved, I turn away from the sink and cast my sight on the door knob. That's when I hear it. An inner voice that stops me in my tracks with the words, Don't look.

Look? At what? Gathering my wits about me, there I stand, thinking about being shocked by a door knob while standing barefoot on the linoleum floor in my pajamas listening to some voice telling me not to look...at something.
Nonsense! This is crazy, I tell myself. Not to mention silly and stupid. Again I reach out, ready to take control of the situation. Even as I wrap my fingers around the door knob, my sense of touch vibrates with electrical energy. I withdraw my hand, staring at it in disbelief.

What's happening? This can't be real.

Don't look. You must not look.

Slowly I back away from the door. Look? At what? Is there something out there?

Get a grip. I shake my head. I've been reading too many Stephen King novels.

This is just my imagination getting the best of me. I'm tired, physically and emotionally. It's late at night, everyone in the house is asleep, and my overactive imagination is working overtime. Go to bed. Just open the door, turn off the light and go to bed. You've done it before, hundreds, if not thousands of times in your life. Do it again, like before. Open the door.

Even before I reach out a part of me resists. I am tired. I need sleep and I am not going to get it standing in this room. Once again I reach out, only to stop and withdraw when the shock of electricity hit my fingers.

Don't look.Again, I back away from the door. My heart is pounding in my chest, I hear it thumping in my ears. My pulse is racing. This isn't happening. This isn't real. I know what is real. This is not real. As if to convince myself, I do everything I know is real. I wash my face, splashing the cold water on my skin, willing myself awake. I'm still dreaming. I brush my teeth. I brush my hair. I run in place. I do jumping jacks.

And still the knob shocks me and the voice reminds me, Don't look.

I'm going crazy. My mother's death has pushed me over the edge of reason and sanity. There is nothing out there I tell myself. There is no need for fear. And yet my feet refuse to move, silently disobeying the order given by my brain.

It comes on suddenly, a sense of disturbance in the air. A feeling of unrest. In my minds eye I can see something, beyond the bathroom door, up the stairs, past the kitchen and dining room, where the drapes are open, on the other side of the sliding glass door. It's there, in the car port.

At first I think it is my mother's spirit, checking on me, wanting to know how I am coping. Dressed in white, she waits for me, calling out my name. The feeling permeates every pore of my skin, drenching me with an overwhelming feeling of helplessness. I lean against a wall, propping myself up, my mind swimming with thoughts, desperately trying to make sense of the here and now. It wanders back in time to conversations about the weakness of the human spirit; particularly when dealing with the loss of a loved one. I remember stories I heard and read about people who, faced with the death of a loved one, claimed to be visited by something. Each person thought it was the spirit of the departed, bound by love, unable to leave the other's side. It made sense; what could be deeper than a mother's love for her children. Maybe what I sensed was my mother's spirit nearby, hovering, lingering, wanting just one last look, before moving on to the other side.

No. It is not your mother. It wants to hurt you.

What?

What wants to hurt me? Mom wouldn't do that!

Don't look. It wants to hurt you.
I feel like the room is shrinking and the walls are closing in on me. I need to get out of here! I want to get out of this room. A part of me needs to confirm I haven't lost my mind and there is something out there. But I'm too scared. There's nothing out there. It's just my imagination getting the best of me. I try the door again. Shock. Okay. I won't look. Just let me out. I'll keep my eyes straight ahead. I won't look up the stairs. Just let me out of here!

Don't look.

Out loud, I say it. I won't look! Tentatively, I lift my arm and reach for the door knob. Nothing happens. I wrap my fingers around the metal and take a deep breath.

Do it. Go! Open the door, eyes straight, and move quickly. Don't look!

I turn the knob and with the other hand I switch off the light. My chest feels like it is about to explode! I jerk the door open and bolt across the threshold toward the guest room. As I pass in front of the stairs and the open drapes an ice cold chill runs down my spine.

Go! Don't stop or look.

My knees feel like Jell-O, my feet feel like concrete and I lose my balance, slamming into the bedroom doorway. I stumble in the darkness, bent over with my arms out, searching for the bed. What just happened? I feel the comforter and follow the bed, flinging my body down onto the mattress, then under the covers. He doesn't move. I feel like I've made enough noise to wake everyone in this house, yet my husband lies beside me. Undisturbed, the sound of his slow breathing fills my ears.

I don't feel safe, just yet. I feel like whatever is out there is now right outside the window above me head. Go away! Whatever you are, leave me alone. Go away! Fear racks my body and I shake as I pull the sheets over my head, burrowing myself under the safety of the covers. Go away. Leave me alone. Seconds pass, the tension in my muscles begins to ease, I close my eyes and slowly drift away...to sleep.

When I wake up I am alone in the bed. I check my watch and remember what happened last night. What had happened? Whatever it was, I knew I could not, would not tell my mother-in-law, or my husband. Neither would believe a word and write it off as a bad dream. They would do their best to convince me it never happened. I imagined it all in my sleep and it was just a nightmare.

Thing is, it was. At least the part about losing my mother. That morning I remember the haunting feeling of being abandoned. Sitting on the edge of the bed, with the sound the words I didn't want to hear resonating in my ears, I realized my worst childhood fear had just come true. My mother had abandoned me. And that little girl who suffered from the nightmares which woke up her, and everyone else in the house, now found herself alone in the company of strangers.

Until this moment I have shared this experience with a handful of people. My sister and a few close friends, as well as religious and spiritual advisors. A couple of pastors and priests scoffed at my words, explaining the events of that night as just the workings of my imagination as they patted me on the back and led me to the door. But the majority, they listened intently and many came to the same conclusion. The death of a loved one makes a person weak, spiritually. On that they all agree. From there, their interpretations vary. Some say in my weakness, the devil came to take my soul. Others say the devil only exists if you believe that it does. As for me, I think there is truth in both sides.

Throughout my childhood, I had nightmares; dreams in which my mother abandoned me. On those nights I would cry out for her and she always came to my side, her gentle voice soothing away the fear as she held me tenderly, rocking me back to sleep. She said she knew when the nightmares would come because an angel told her. My mother always said I had an angel at my side, silently watching over me. She said the angel spoke to her, but I never sensed it, or even heard it speak to me.

Until that night. I wonder if it was the voice of the angel I heard, telling me not to look, warning me. Guiding me through the darkness and reminding me...I am not alone.

A good hair day (revisited)

2010-09-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

I originally posted this entry almost five years ago, in November 2005. It deserves another visit. May all our returning service people return home safely from their tours of duty to open arms. God Bless 'em, today and always.

"Today is a good day," the woman said as she walked through the hair salon.

There was something in the way she said it. A calmness in her voice that pulled my attention to her. Ev stopped cutting my hair momentarily and looked up as the woman sat down in the chair at the station next to us. With a smile, Pam draped a shampoo cape around the woman. "Oh?" she remarked as she cocked her head, eye brows raised in curious expectation.

"Yes," the woman smiled. She looked up at Pam, then said, "Today my son is back on American soil."

With those words everything stopped. She held our attention. There were only four of us in the salon, but with her words I was taken by the sense that I would carry this moment all my life. Ev dropped her arms to her side as I turned in the chair to face the mother, swallowing the lump I felt in my throat. "You must be relieved," I heard Ev say. "Does he get to stay home for the holidays?"

The mother turned to both of us. She radiated with a glow; a peaceful serenity of total calm surrounded her. "He's home to stay," she replied, her words floating in the air like the promise of a new day.

Pam asked the question we all formed in our minds. "Where was he?"

"Iraq." It was a simple one word response, filled with such emotion I wondered how many times she had said that word before, her voice then filled with uncertainty and a mother's fear. The uncertainty of wondering how much longer, how many more times would she say that word. The uncertainty was gone, replaced by pure joy.

For the next few minutes she shared her joy with us. Through her words I learned. Her son served in the National Guard, called to duty almost two years ago. Now he was returning back to everything he left behind, his family, his home, and even his job. His employer was holding his job for him. I learned the most dangerous part of being in Iraq for the soldiers, is the trip home. The soldiers do not fly out of Iraq, they must make a long journey across the country...a journey across open terrain in which they are vulnerable. A journey that for some ends much too soon.

"That," she said, "is when many of them die. On their way home."

As she calmly spoke my thoughts turned to them. Silence followed.

It was an ordinary day that started like any other. Normally I make my hair appointments late in the afternoon, after work. But when Ev offered the lunch hour time slot, I took it. I'm glad I did.

I am a creature of habit and while I don't always resist change, I thrive in the mundane and routine. In the structure of that routine I find security. Then one day, I changed the routine and did something differently, with a few second thoughts. Now, I realize that change can bring us blessings. I felt blessed to be there that moment. It gave me the chance to witness first-hand one of the happy stories. After months of hearing and reading so many negative accounts of this war, for me, this one moment helped to counter balance some of the negative. Not all of it, by no means, but some of it.

The mother finished sharing her story with us, then eased her back into the chair as Pam lowered her head down to the sink. The salon was quiet as Ev turned to me and lifted her hands back to my head. I turned my thoughts inward, silently remembering all the news reports, all the numbers, all the anger.

It was the opening of a simple door, and a simple change in my schedule, that brought me to the moment. A moment I never expected...a moment I will never forget. Guess you could say it was a good hair day.

Moments ago, as I was preparing to save this entry, I heard the sound of a car door outside. I looked up from the computer screen, out through the window and watched a young couple with a baby walk into the tree farm across the street. For years I have watched families walk amid those trees. Today I watched this young couple, undeterred by the blowing wind or cloudy skies, their baby carefully bundled against the cold, moving carefully between the trees, searching for and then selecting just the right tree. Creating a tradition. It is a time for traditions, old and new.

Change, it seems, can be apowerful thing. Sometimes change is good for the soul.

~~Create a new tradition this season; do something out of the ordinary!~~

~~Forgiveness is a choice to release the other person from the need to make them pay for what they did that caused harm. Forgiveness is the key to restoration in a relationship.~~

Dave-isms

2010-08-18T21:49:00.000-07:00

Dave-isms = musings and comments from Duke's veterinarian expressed during examinations and general conversations.

"In my next life, I want to come back as your horse."

"Don't worry, that cut is a long way from his heart."

"I like this horse."

Healing

2010-08-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

Getting better every day...almost healed after only two weeks.

Day 18, Tuesday August 17, 2010

Probably would have healed a lot faster were it not for the numerous times the scab was rubbed off by Duke scratching it, or me accidently knocking it off while bridling him.

Saturday Sam and I, with friends Frank and Barb, ventured south to the small town of Joseph, Oregon for the 14th Annual Bronze, Blues and Brews Festival. Nestled in the peaceful and beautiful Wallowa Valley, Joseph is named for Chief Joseph, famous leader of the Nez Perce tribe. While the first theme of the event was bronze, it quickly became obvious to us that the primary focus is the blues and the brews. There were very few bronze sculptures (Joseph is a major bronze foundry of the Pacific Northwest), there were several bands, but there was lots of brew. We had fun, got too much sun but probably won't go back next year.

Passing by a buffalo farm on the way to Joseph, Oregon

There are two bronze statues in this photo. Can you find them?

Sam, me, Frank and Barb enjoying the blues and brews.

Sam and I with our new 2005 Jeep Wrangler in front of Lake Wallowa

Returning home on a lovely stretch of road called Rattlesnake Grade.

Birthdays and head wounds...

2010-08-05T23:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning I took Duke for a ride to our local fairgrounds to check out their 100' round pen and huge riding arena. It was something new to do and we had a great time. Amy brought the girls over but they're just not ready to climb on Duke's back yet. To them he must seem like a giant! That's okay, we have plenty of time...

Relaxing with Duke after a nice long ride at the fairgrounds.

When Duke and I returned to the barn I noticed a nasty cut above his left eye, and for the life of me I can't figure out how he cut himself. He didn't have the cut when I loaded him at the fairgrounds, and I didn't notice it when he stepped off the trailer. It wasn't until he was in his corral that I saw it. I was a little panicked and called a friend who got me calmed down and pointed me to a great product called Vetricyn, which I've seen advertised heavily on RFD-TV. My tack room is stocked with several first aid products, but with a wound so close to the eye the risk of the medication running into his eye is too great. My biggest concern was get the wound clean without getting soap or medication in his eye. Vetricyn can be sprayed directly on the wound without damaging or hurting the eyes. All the while I'm cleaning the wound, Sammy is calling wondering where I am (I'm at least an hour late in returning home by that time). I explain the situation, he's pretty sure I'm exagerating until I show him the pictures. A quick trip to a local pet store and I returned to tend to the wound. This stuff is amazing!! Within 20 minutes of spraying Vetricyn on the wound, the swelling reduced by half!! If you have animals, you need to check out Vetricyn! It's not just for horses.
Duke annual dental work and vaccinations were coming up, so we visited the vet on Monday to have the wound checked out (ironically it was shaped like a check mark). I thought the vet would opt to stitch the wound, but in the end it was best to cut the flap of skin off so the wound could heal cleanly.

Day 1: Saturday, July 31. Right after I first noticed the wound.

Day 3: Monday, August 2 after our visit to the vet. Still swollen and looking very painful.

Day 6: Thursday, August 5, swelling gone and healing is underway. He even looks happier.

I've been going out twice a day to apply the Vetricyn, but we've reached the point where we can cut the daily treatment back to once a day.

Dukey loves his kitten.

We have several barn cats, two of which had litters this spring. Three of the kittens from a feral mother adopted me last April and they've been living in Duke's hay room ever since; they just showed up in the room when they were about three weeks old. Only two remain now, exactly one month before making the decision to put Rumbeau down I had to make the same decision for one of the kittens who did not have any use of her hind legs. She just dragged both behind her; a visit to the vet revealed she had no hip joints. As I debated taking her home with me, the vet took me aside, and offered guidance as to the amount of care she would need. She would not be able to urinate and defecate on her own, she would require constant care, and such care demands 100% comittment from every family member. Then the doctor left me alone in the room to make the decision. It was a very difficult decision, the kitten who I had named Honey was barely six weeks old at the time. Concerned that I would want to hold the kitten during the procedure, the vet explained this wasn't something I would want to see because of the way she would have to put her down. I hated having to do it, and even today I still cry. Born to a feral mother who probably didn't get enough nutrition during the pregnancy to feed herself, let alone her babies, I just wanted to give the kitten a chance for a normal life. Her brother and sister, who I've named Boots and Bitsy, are happy, healthy and thriving today; and Dukey loves his little babies.

Sam turned 55 on Sunday. We celebrated the occasion with dinner at Amy's on Saturday and dinner with friends on Sunday. Amy prepared a wonderful grilled steak dinner and our friends put together a crawfish feed (fresh from the Snake River). Both were scrump-dilly-lish-ous!!!

Snake River crawfish....yum!

Moving closer....

2010-07-24T17:54:00.000-07:00

What a view!

Wow! Double wow!

Best trail ride ever today! Duke blew my socks off today during an early morning trail ride at Hell's Gate State Park. The partnership is really blooming and the bond is deepening. I rode him on a loose rein for one and half hours. He listened, didn't fight, just stayed relaxed. Every trail ride up to this point he always had to be in front, the leader. I learned right off the ineffectiveness of holding him back. But then I discovered a technique called quartering. I tried it earlier this year during the Poker Run and it worked. We start with it right off the bat...within a few minutes Duke is calm, not fighting the bit and rushing to be in the lead. Today, for the first time, Duke and I spent the entire ride following our friends. It was so wonderful, for a change. Yes!

Just a nice, relaxing ride. Woo-hoo!!!

Thank you Parelli!!!!

I'm starting to get the hang of this. Finally!

Debbie and Ritz taking a break with the Snake River and the city of Asotin in the background.

Doc and Danel taking a break.

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After the ride with Duke at the trailer.

Maybe I'll submit a little piece of our day to Life In A Day. Have you submitted something yet?

Never enough time

2010-06-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Rumbeau Cox

January 31, 1998 - June 7, 2010

I've tried several times to write this entry.

Last week Sam and I said good-bye to Rum.

It was time to let him go, and put an end to his pain.

We knew it was coming, but it's never easy.

He was always there for us, and will be deeply missed.

Irreplaceable. Unforgettable. Rumbeau.

12 1/2 years of memories...

We recovered his ashes. We'll bury him at the cabin, he loved it there; but I'd like to take some to the North Fork of the Clearwater River this summer...he always loved swimming in the Clearwater.

Oh, the trails to travel!!!

2010-05-23T22:14:00.000-07:00

Sam and I returned this morning from a quick trip to Georgia to see my nephew, Mat, graduate from high school. Wednesday we flew into Atlanta, rented a car for the drive to Lincolnton and arrived at my sister Chris' in time for fried chicken dinner with macaroni and cheese and brown crowder peas. I could get used to southern cookin! Spent Thursday catching up, Mathew graduated Friday night and the next thing I knew our departure was looming on us; we had to leave Saturday afternoon to make the drive back to Atlanta in order to catch an early Sunday morning flight. Leaving was hard for Chris and I, maybe more for her...it was, as it always is, a tearful departure.

In Atlanta another reunion awaited us; several friends who moved from Idaho to Alabama made the trip to Atlanta to join us for dinner. After several drinks in the hotel lounge, we were headed downtown (thanks to our designated driver) to experience Fogo de Chao an authentic Brazilian steakhouse. Wow! What an experience, the food was amazing, the environment was warm and friendly--I can't believe we got a table on Saturday night! I've had what I thought were delicious steaks before, but nothing I ever had came close to the meats we sampled at Fogo de Chao. I wish we had one in the Seattle area...I'd make the trip for that reason alone!!!

Just over a week ago, on May 15th Duke and I entered our first competition together, a trail challenge organized by a local saddle club. For me the greatest challenge was getting there, then getting over my nerves. I haven't done any riding in front of an audience, and I was extremely nervous while Duke and I warmed up. He sensed it during the warm up and a couple of times I thought I wasn't ready for this, but remarkably when it was our turn we entered the arena and the nerves disappeared as I focused on Duke and the obstacles. Duke was awesome! Except when he pooped on the plants the club borrowed from a local greenhouse! Oops! There were 11 obstacles and we've only practiced 2, open/close a gate (not captured on video) and walk through 'L' then back through 'L'. Everything else was completely new to us. His personality came out through it all, from his snatching a bite of foilage from the brush obstacle, to playing peak-a-boo at the end of the tunnel. The last obstacle was a old spongy mattress covered with artificial grass carpet...an obstacle many horses refused to cross; but my boy Duke never even hesitated. I am so proud of him, he really enjoyed it...although he wasn't too sure what to make of the miniture horse at first, lol! You can just see him thinking 'What the...?' All in all we had a blast!! It really ended too soon, but we will definitely do another trail challenge this fall, if not sooner. :)

This time, I handed my camera to a friend who was not riding. When she asked me if I wanted photos or videos without hesitating I responded 'Video!!!' It's been uploaded to You Tube (of course).

We're having fun now!!!

This horse of mine...

2010-04-06T00:12:00.000-07:00

Every now and then he blows me away.

It's like he can read my mind. He's always one step ahead of me.

I need to give this boy of mine more credit.

He deserves it.

Saturday Duke and I had one of the best sessions ever! And I really needed it. I'd had a tearful morning...been feeling a bit emotional lately and it all bubbled to the surface Saturday morning. So when I headed down to the barn that afternoon I was ready for something good. I don't know if he sensed my emotions were fragile or what, but from the moment I put the halter on Duke he was unusually compliant and extraordinarily willing to please me. It started with picking out his hooves; as I moved from hoof to hoof there was no fight, no brace...no resistance. I remember thinking to myself Wow, that went really well.

We played around at liberty in the round pen a little bit, then out to the trailer to tack up. I decided to ride in my older Fallis saddle (for several various reasons) and wow, what a difference going back to that saddle made. Duke was amazing. He was soft with just the right mix of go and whoa. On a whim I thought about practicing our side pass so we can open gates. Not one of our strong points (that should read not one of my strong points)! Opening gates by side-passing has been a goal and Saturday after he figured out what I wanted he was side-passing like a dream!!! Oh, you want me to walk sideways toward the gate! Usually he wants to push the gate open with his head, lol!

Our list of goals now are:

Briding without the brace
Confidence in Zone 4
Restoring our draw

That's the short list...there's more but for now those are my immediate concerns. His attitude toward the trailer is improving every week. We have sessions almost every day and bit by bit he's improving. Trailer loading has become a game to him and I'm finally figuring out how to turn everything into a game to keep him engaged, confident and wanting more. I'll have to set up the camera one of these days...it will be interesting to watch that.

We've been trail riding at Hell's Gate State Park twice this year. Great times both days. It was sunny and warm in February, but cold and rainy in March.

All Morgan trail ride, Hell's Gate State Park, February 28, 2010

L-R: Dona and Duke, Barb and Elvira, ? and Squirrel, ? and Sabrina, Ray and Chelsea, Cary and Martina. Not pictured: Leigh and Ember.

Sheriff's Posse Poker Run, March 21, 2010

Barb and Elvira, Dona and Duke
El and Duke are looking very Morganesque in this pic.

Riders returning in the rain. March 21, 2010

From Baby Steps

2010-02-15T12:13:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I don't realize how far I'm come on this journey. I think it's about reflection and taking the time to reflect. I have the perfect place to do this with my journal, and I need to give myself time to write about it. So, I'm making a promise to myself to spend more time reflecting on our journey.

Besides officially completing Level 1, Duke and I have gone out of our comfort zone numerous times the past two week. And I'm finding myself moving away from 'Oh no' and thinking 'Oh boy!' more often.

First, there was the goat. And through this goat I experienced a successful It's not about the... from start to finish. :) Duke met a goat face to face a couple of weeks ago. At first he was skeptical and a little nervous, then he became curious, and within a few minutes Duke was sniffing and licking the goat. :) The key was approach and retreat. I had been riding when the goat came in with a young girl. When I saw this opportunity my heart skipped a beat. This was something I wanted to do for some time. Before purchasing Duke in 2008, his former owner told me about an experience he had while riding Duke when they encountered a herd of goats in a small field. Duke refused to pass by the field and went into flight mode. I'd seen the behavior once before when I brought Duke into the arena while a girl was practicing goat tying. At the time my confidence was minimal so I kept the approach and retreat session short and our distance from the goat long as we made our way to the round pen located at the far end of the arena.

But I couldn't shake the lost opportunity from my mind.

What kind of leader was I? A safe one, for sure, but at some point we'd have to leave our comfort zone. Fast forward to this month. We're enjoying a lovely, connected ride when we hear the sound of foot falls on the bridge outside the arena. From Duke's back I can see over the wall between the arena and the hallway and I see the top of someone's head bobbing up and down. I watch as they round the corner and approach the gate, leading a goat. Duke's head immediately went up and he stopped in his tracks. Stay calm. Go slow. Oh boy! Now we get to play with a goat! I will admit the riding session was coming to a close as it was getting a little boring for Duke. Well, our session was about to get very interesting.

As I dismounted the girl saw Duke's reaction and offered to leave. The look on her face when I asked her if she would mind if I introduced Duke to the goat was priceless. When I explained that this was something we needed to do, at first I don't think she believed me. Maybe she wasn't sure she heard me right. She kept saying 'I know most horses don't like goats, so if you want to keep riding, we can leave.' I convinced her this is good, and I've been wanting this kind of opportunity for some time.

Slowly we approached the goat, who was completely unaware of us, nor did he seem to care. Duke's ears were forward, he appeared calm but his head remained a little high. I wanted to switch over to the halter and lead rope (better tools for the task), but they are on the other side of the arena. When we turned away from the goat to fetch the halter, Duke's life came up and he began to dance around me. Okay we'll face the goat again, and back up to where the halter is. Nope. Dance...dance...dance. Hmmm. What to do...what to do. Adjust to fit the situation...use the tools I have. If we were on a trail ride and the halter was back at the trailer, I'd have to use the bridle and reins. I wasn't keen about doing this with a bit in his mouth, so I unclipped the right rein from the bit (I love these Parelli reins!) and I now had a 22' lead rope.

A few steps forward, watching Duke's reaction (ears, eyes, head, mouth), he's relaxed. Take a few steps back. Stop. Breathe! He's blinkin' and thinkin'. Ears forward. Head has lowered. Forward a few more steps. Watch. Back a couple. He's curious...this is good. The entire time I remained calm, not once did I hear the echo of my heart pounding. Yea!!! This is what confidence feels like...finally! I'm moving a little closer to horse savvy!!!

We repeated this and I'm guessing it took between three and five minutes before Duke was standing in front of the goat with a mere few inches of separation. Through it all Duke remained curious. I noticed him breathing more when he stretched his neck out to sniff, then touch the goat with his nose. Check the goat's rope to be sure Duke doesn't get tangled up in it. I backed him off one step, and watched him confidently approach the goat again, head down, breathing normal. All this time the goat was still ignoring Duke and I, but then he turned around and the two were face to face, eye to eye. The goat's owner observed how it must feel to be a goat having something that size coming toward you, but the goat was calm and perhaps curious too. Clearly he wasn't afraid of horses.

Duke got closer and closer sniffing and investigating this strange little creature until the goat was almost under his neck. When he started licking it I wondered how long it would take before curiousity turned to dominance. I've played enough with him to know two things: 1) he comes down quickly from fear and 2) once he gets past his fear of something he immediately wants to dominate it.

Time to move on. I thanked the girl and she expressed a grateful and hearfelt thank you; I think she was in shock. Maybe in the back of her mind she was thinking this isn't how most horse owners react...they always want the goat to leave. :)

This time when I turned Duke away from the goat to retrieve his halter, nothing changed. He calmly followed me, relaxed and confident.

What goat?

Since it was time to clean his stall and corral, and I knew the goat would be in the arena for a while, I wanted to further maximize this opportunity. After switching over to the halter, I left Duke tacked up and tied him to a pole near the goat...about 20 feet away. Allow him time to take this all in, give him another perspective of the goat while I clean. Twenty minutes later when I walked past Duke to take a wheelbarrow load to the designated dumping site, he was standing quietly, facing the goat, watching. Smile.

Chores complete it was time to untack Duke outside at the trailer. By this time the girl was talking to a new boarder, a young man who recently offered to train Duke for me (that's another story). As I walked past, I noticed they were talking about horse training and I overheard him commenting about how few trainers there are in this area (not quite true, but...) and how he normally charges $49 per hour (funny, he quoted me $7 last month). Someone was definitely struting his stuff and it wasn't Duke. Outside at the trailer, we get untacked and go back inside for a little roll before dinner. Duke must have been thinking about that goat because as we came down the alley his attention was on the arena. Ears foward...where is it? Around the corner, through the gate, there's the goat and without hesitation Duke walked right up to the goat, ears forward and curious the entire time. As if they were best buds...reunited; the same way he greets Elvira when she visits. Again I thanked the girl, and again she thanked me with a tone of gratitude and relief. It was amazing. We walked off to find the perfect place to roll, then back to his stall for dinner.

As I stood watching him munching away, I remembered something...a moment, a gift Duke gave me. During the initial approach and retreat, after I decided not to fetch the halter, Duke and I had just retreated from the goat. It was during that quiet moment as I was debating whether it was time to get a little closer, Duke slowly turned his head to me, softly touched my right hand with his nose, then turned his attention back to goat, licking and chewing. Even now it brings tears to my eyes. What a truly beautiful gift for him to offer. I noticed it at the time and remember thinking He wants to do this. Trust him.

Trust him. I haven't allowed myself to trust Duke. There's this part of me that holds back. The toxic remains from a word of caution carelessly offered by a person just minutes after she retold the story of the time she climbed on the back of a green three year old mare she didn't know, with no preparation, only to find herself later trying to stop a runaway who only wanted to return to the safety and comfort of the barn. And she's giving me advice. Don't you trust him! If she only knew. When it comes to horses, everyone has advice. They give it because they once had a horse, or rode ponies as a child. But they always give it...without thinking, without knowing. I'm learning being a horse owner doesn't make one an expert on the subject; I own a closet full of clothes, but that doesn't make me a clothing designer.

Everyday I thank God I found Parelli. Parelli keeps me safe, sane, well-grounded and on the path to continuous improvement. Better your best. Never let it rest. Get your good better and your better best.

Well, this entry took longer than I originally planned. Another reason I don't write so often, it takes me hours to write one entry. Okay, we can work on that! There are more baby steps to write about, but I need to wrap this up and move on to some household duties before heading down to the barn today.

We passed Level1+!!!!

2010-02-10T22:11:00.000-08:00

We received our score card today for our Level 1 audition; we passed L1+!! Possible scores are L1, L1+, L1++. I'm so excited. Duke was awesome! We received a L2 friendly, and a L1++ relationship.

Reviewer comments: Well done! For your Level 2 make sure to stay at the end of the 22ft line. Good job!

Woo hoo!!!!

Duke says that's pretty cool!

Parelli Level 1 audition - check! PASSED 1+!!!!

2010-02-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

We did it! Finally, after riding the fence, hemming and hawing, making the decision to go forward only to be side-lined for two months by a persistent hoof abcess, Duke and I completed our Level 1 audition. I submitted it to Parelli for evaluation this morning. :) Yea!!! Last I heard Pat Parelli himself is personally evaluating all the auditions, so I'm really excited about that!

I'm very pleased with how it turned out; was nervous at first but once I forgot about the camera my nerves disappeared. Duke was awesome, but I definitely need to work on my draw. He used to come to me with a lot of energy; last summer I could send him 100 feet away, get his attention and he'd canter or trot right back to me. Something happened and now my draw is broke....OR I spent way too much time in Level 1 and he lost interest (I'm thinking the latter). I have to really keep things interesting for him.

In the Parelli program, Level 1 is all about safety and building the relationship. Basic horsemanship skills must be demonstrated, but Parelli isn't looking for perfection. As Pat says, "It's not the technique that matters, it is the respect that follows." I admit I got hung up on the perfection thing...but mainly because my rope handling skills were lacking. I was constantly fumbling with the rope, stepping on it, and completely unable to manage it and the carrot stick (the tool you see me using...it's not a whip, but an extension of my arm).

Compulsory skills for Level 1: friendly game, massage all four legs, porcupine game (move horse around using direct pressure), driving game (move horse around using rhythmic pressure), touch-it (ball), yo-yo (drive horse away and draw back to you), figure 8, squeeze game, sideways game, walk/trot forward then stop and back up keeping horse out of personal space, back through gate (or stall door in our case...up a short hill no less!).

I had to find royalty free music...that also created a delay finding just the right music to accompany us. What you can't hear was all the background noise going on that night...another horse munching on his dinner, a tom cat yowling, one of the barn cats crawling around on Debbie (my camera person) although you can tell when he jumped up on her at the beginning of the tape. Just before then, you'll see me laughing after I untied Duke...that's because two of the barn cats were playing at Debbie's feet. You'll see one walking away from the camera at the very end. We see them almost every day, sometimes they sit by the door, waiting for us. They actually belong to a neighbor, but prefer to spend time with us. Must be because we're so much fun!

So anywho, enjoy the video. I'll post my results after I receive them. Yee-haw!!!

Turn back the hands

2010-01-19T21:53:00.000-08:00

Someone once told me when it comes to writing, stick to what you know. This is what I know.

Last night while writing my last entry I was struggling. Struggling with a name. As I read what I wrote, I repeated the name, over and over, Roberts, Roberts, Roberts. Something didn't seem quite right, something didn't connect. I knew it, but didn't listen. And in doing so I set myself up to tarnish my own credibility. Not a good thing. Deep down inside I knew Oral Roberts would never make that kind of statement, he was not that kind of leader. I knew he passed away recently. But I didn't listen to my own inner feeling. I made a huge error in judgement; I should have proofed my entry. If I offended anyone, that was never my intent.

That is one entry I wish I could do over.

Again, thank you Dan for setting me straight. I appreciate your comment and am grateful you took the time to correct my statement.

Lesson learned. Next time I'll engage my brain before I put my fingers in gear.

A eulogy for credibility

2010-01-18T20:08:00.000-08:00

If change is good, where does that leave consistancy?

I'd rather watch Jay than Conan. I want to be entertained, not bored. I want to laugh, not yawn. To watch a show in it's entirety, not grab the remote the second the show begins.

I've got nothing against change...BUT, I don't like what I'm seeing in my country and for the first time in my life I'm wondering what the future holds for this nation and its people. It all starts somewhere...

We have comedians who aren't funny. Reality shows driven by scripts. And Hollywood seems to think the movie-going public needs doom and gloom, end of the world films to take their mind off daily headlines. Politicians have lost touch with the people. And then there's ~~Oral Roberts~~ (I stand corrected, that should read Pat Robertson, thank you Dan); does he ever engage his brain before he puts his mouth in gear? His comment last week about the Haitian people exemplified ignorance; was it really necessary? If he is the face of Christianity, no wonder people are turned off by religion.

Has credibility passed away? Is accountability a lost characteristic of humanity? Where are we going?

Twenty some odd years ago, after seeing movies like Running Man, or Robo Cop, I told myself the world I live in would not turn into that. It's not what I want...it's not acceptable.

I have a dream...

Highlights and Pickings

2010-01-10T10:56:00.000-08:00

2009...a year of discoveries and affirmations

One year ago the following was unknown to me. Here is a glimpse of the little things that I discovered along the way.

Best Wedding Entrance EVAH!!

I love this!!! It puts a smile on my face everytime I see it. The expression of delight, joy, and happiness is so evident on everyone's face...every generation present is swept by the moment! They all got it! What better way to create a new beginning! Now that's originality.

iFinds on iTunes

Every now and then I find an unknown treasure on iTunes. In late summer, while wandering around iTunes, I noticed their 'Free Download of the Day' and it piqued my interest. So I listened. From the first chords I knew I loved this song. It's sad and beautiful. And a treasure...well written from the heart. Love it!

Another freebie I found. I love this song!!! I also have Love Me Too Much from the same album, Love This Mess, but Big Sky is my fav.

Our Family Grew by Four Feet

Meet Oliver aka Louie. He joined our family the day before Halloween. A co-worker's husband found him on a golf course when he heard a strange sound coming from a bush. He investigated to find this three week old kitten staring up at him, alone, crying and shivering. He must have been crying for some time because the first few days after I brought him home his meow was weak and inaudible. Nothing a little TLC couldn't take of. It took awhile to name him...Oliver seemed to fit at first since he was an orphan, but Sam noticed something and started calling him Louie..."because he's evil"...and well, he does have a very high play drive. Now he's fully recovered and running the house.

The Best in 2010!

2010-01-01T07:07:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year everyone!

Many projects...little time

2009-12-27T13:20:00.000-08:00

I'm still around...just haven't felt like writing lately.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with their loved and dear one. I did. :)

A wish for all...

2009-12-24T09:27:00.001-08:00

Rest in Peace Brit...

2009-12-20T13:01:00.000-08:00

Signed on to read email and read headline of Brittany Murphy's passing. So unexpected...too soon...much too soon. Loved her in Clueless and Girl Interrupted, but my fav is without a doubt her music video appearance in Tears For Fears 'Closest Thing to Heaven.' Now she truely is...

A Survivor's Story

2009-11-08T20:18:00.000-08:00

Had techical difficulty with the video (sorry Karen) so, I'll try another option.

For F and B

2009-11-05T22:41:00.000-08:00

Brrrrr...what happened to fall?

2009-10-12T11:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's been in the mid 20s for the past five nights. Highly irregular for October. Decided to blanket Duke since his winter coat isn't quite filled in yet. He's done a thorough job of getting it dirty already. Yep that's my horse.

I bought another Fallis saddle about a month ago, it's much newer than the first one and very different. Have only ridden in it a couple of times, yesterday being the latest. Pics to follow; forgot my camera yesterday so I didn't get any pics.

Spending lots of time on ground work, rehearsing for my Level 1 skill audition. A Parelli friend and I spent a whole Saturday afternoon working on it two weeks ago, it was a lot of work, and hot that day (hard to believe, but true). We had fun and this is the first time I've seen myself playing with Duke; quite an eye opener. Got lots of good footage, and several out takes. Duke was fantastic, but after a couple of hours, the rebel clown in him came out. Playful guy that one...with a twist of naughtiness. The look on both our faces at the end is priceless. Oh my Dukey horse, he keeps me on my toes...always thinking! He's waaaay too smart and I'm way too slow. After this, he earned the nickname RC, for Rebel Clown. We started indoors, and worked through the skills/games, but after a couple of hours Duke started making up his own games. During the squeeze game between me and a barrel, he made it clear he wanted to play dominate the barrel, so we moved outside, ending up in the parking lot with two chairs. Here are the out takes and the reason why I affectionately call Duke my Rebel Clown.

Different World

2009-10-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth...

2009-10-08T00:10:00.001-07:00

My dad would always ask me if I had whenever he hadn't heard from me in awhile, cos he was certain I had fallen off.

Truth is I returned home from the Parelli Celebration completely and totally inspired. The Celebration was excellent, it exceeded my expectations. We laughed...we cried...and Sam really enjoyed himself. He went back to work and when asked about it, Sam summed it up by saying "Anyone who is thinking of having children should attend a Parelli event and learn about the program. It's not just about horses."

I whole-heartedly agree. Parelli = love, language and leadership...in equal doses.

Duke and I have been playing and working on passing our Level 1 skill tests. Our relationship is evolving every day and Duke is slowly revealing himself to me. That's one thing I've learned in recent months...when it comes to Duke I have to take things real slow.

More later...I promise. With videos of us playing.

Keep it natural!

Ahhhh, finally spring has arrived

2009-04-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

What a week this has been! Mostly good, packed with duties and desires, and lots of out of the ordinary activities.

But first, in one of my previous entries I think I may have given the impression that Duke is traveling to Reno with me, but he is not. When I asked should we, I was contemplating a purchase option between regular tickets priced under $100 a piece, or Gold Savvy Club tickets loaded with lots of benefits but priced at $350 a piece; after thinking it over for several weeks, I decided on Gold. :) Why not?

Last Saturday I had 3 ton of hay delivered after finding a local farmer selling his hay at a very competive price, $150 a ton, delivered from his farm 70 miles away. I've been buying hay from a local feed store at $9 a bale...thats $297 a ton!!! The average weight of a bale of grass hay is 55 pounds, Duke eats about 18 pounds a day so one bale lasts about 3 days. I can get a half a ton of hay in Duke's tack room, but lacking a place to store a ton or more limited my feed options to the local supplier. When I learned the owners of the boarding facility allow us to use unoccupied box stalls in one of the arenas for hay storage, at no extra cost, I jumped on it!! Then I found the farmers ad, gave him a call and after a few weather delays (snow...in April...whaaaa?) finally got Duke's hay delivered. Now instead of paying $9 a bale, I paid $3.94 a bale. And this supply should last about 10 months.

Not having to haul hay for almost a year is a huge bonus for Sam, as he has hay fever...or maybe that should be suffers from hay fever. Bad...real bad. Love knows no boundaries like that of a man who willingly hauls and stacks hay for his woman, hay fever and all; he steps up every time, without hesitation. No complaints, barring the sound of sneezing and nose blowing.

Duke and I have finally started cantering, or should I say I finally found the bravery to canter Duke. Fear has kept us at a walk and trot up to now. The third time I rode Duke last year I was nervous and kept him on a very tight rein, which he responded to by breaking gait into a trot, especially when pointed toward the gate of the outdoor arena. I kept pulling on his mouth and doing everything wrong, until finally he decided he had enough and he bolted into a gallop. I kept my seat (somehow!) and stopped him with a gentle one rein stop. Right then I decided I wasn't getting off just yet, I needed to stay with him and work on the relationship. After that ride, he didn't bolt again, but the question of would he do it often entered my mind. That's when I realized it was time to sharpen not only my riding skills, but my equine psychology skills as well. That decision proved to further enhance my relationship with Duke as I learn to better understand the nature of his complicated mind.

At times I can't believe I used to canter and gallop horses all the time as a teen, back then I only knew two gaits, walk and canter. I rarely trotted a horse (too jarring!). In late March, Duke and I took the plunge and cantered (aka loped) a short but controlled circle for the first time. We've done it several times since and each time we improve our balance a bit; he getting used to cantering with my weight and the tack, and me getting my mind and body in sync with his. I never realized how much is going on during a canter, as a kid I just did it. I have since learned better!

Duke play races with a young colt in an adjacent pasture. Notice how they mirror each other?

When we canter, my favorite part is the rocking horse feel of Duke beneath me. Then there's that split second moment when I first ask him to go into the canter; when I feel him making that first stride I also feel my heart stop momentarily as he shifts his weight in order to lift his front legs and then reach under his belly with his hind legs. It is such a thrill! But we only canter after we properly warm up, spending the first 15 minutes of our ride at a walk reviewing cues and aides, then on to a nice soft jog (trot) for a few minutes. Then, if we are in tune with one another, and Duke is listening to my leg cues and responding to my hands, we will go into a short canter for about a minute. We're taking baby steps here, working to build up Duke's body condition and my riding skills. Slowly we are working toward the goal of total collection (mental as well as physical). He's such a patient and forgiving teacher.

On Sunday, Duke and I embarked on our first riding adventure of the year outside the confines of the arenas. We participated in the annual Sheriff's Mounted Posse Poker Run at Hell's Gate State Park on the Snake River. I've been wanting to get Duke on a trail ride since I brought him home, but again the fear kept me back. Riding him at the cabin last Labor Day was a huge step for us, and that went so well, I was never scared or fearful that he would spook or bolt on me.

Our trail partners Sunday, Ember with Leigh Ann up, Martina with Cary up (hidden) and Elvira with Barb up. I need to remember to hand my camera to other people so I get in a few photos when I'm on Duke.

200 riders turned out with their horses and trailers for the ride. There's a lot of money tied up down there.

On our trail ride Sunday at Hell's Gate Duke took very good care of me. He was in his element and loved the trails! He steps right out and sets a nice easy pace; the only trouble I had with him is he wants to be the leader and out in front, at all times. I few times I put him behind the other three horses we were with, and he wanted to pass them every time; at one time he saw some horses ahead of us and for a moment I thought perhaps he'd try to get a head of them. Fortunately he didn't, because the three in our group were having a time keeping up with him. We had to stop, circle back, slow down (ha!) many times to allow them to catch up. Duke didn't like waiting for the other horses, until we hit a very steep, deep sand hill and he had to stop halfway up to momentarily 'blow' (catch his breath). All in all we had a great ride and a wonderful day, and I can't wait for our next trek to Hell's Gate SP. The only bad thing that happened is I lost my watch; we back tracked most of the way we came, but never saw it. Oh well, I had been thinking about getting a new one anyway.

Untacking Duke after the ride. The weather was perfect, an exceptional day! Like my new Aussie hat? It's an early birthday present from Sam, that I found at a recent Back Country Horse event.

Riders returning from a day on the trails.

I'm a huge fan of George Strait and I have most of his CD's from 1989 on. I love his new song 'Troubadour.' Click this link to watch the video. ->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aca3s7l_Db0

Mirror, mirror in my stall...

2009-03-09T22:56:00.000-07:00

Every day I play with Duke reveals something new...a little gem I can treasure. Today was so different from yesterday.

This weekend, after rewatching the problem solving segments of the Liberty and Horse Behavior DVD's, I set off for the barn Sunday afternoon fully intending to get a ride in (so much for paying attention!). Well, at the very least a little time bareback to work on my balance. That was my plan. Duke, on the other hand, had other plans in mind.

Pat often tells his students that while we may be responsible for having principles and goals, it is the horse who is ultimately in charge of the timeline. And Duke takes his duty very seriously.

Right now he's probably in his stall, feeling pretty smug.

When I arrived at the barn Sunday, the moment I stopped the car I realized I had left my key to the trailer (where I keep all my riding gear) on the dresser at home. Drat! Perhaps that was a hint which I could have heeded. Instead I called my friend Barb (who has the other key) and asked her to bring her set as she was heading down too. In the mean time, I got Duke out to play with him to see what side of the stall he woke up on.

Duke greeted me at his door and he was ready to get out. I wanted to use my 22' lead rope, but the latch mechanism was stuck (Parelli lead ropes have a nice brass swivel latch that locks securely...sometimes a little too securely), so I opted for the 12' lead rope, haltered Duke up and off to the arena we went. Inside the arena I tied Duke up and set up my iPod to play my Born to Ride playlist on my portable iBox (music really adds an extra level to our play sessions). Duke watched my every move, ears forward, patiently waiting for his chance to get down and have a good roll.

Sometimes I get into the arena with Duke and just go completely brain dead.

I used to be sooooo imaginative...what happened? I untied Duke and he began his quest for the perfect rolling spot. He soon found it, got down and rolled to his hearts content while I stood by, contemplating my plan. Check out his mood, gauge his behavior today and see what shakes out. On any given day when Duke's finished rolling he gets to his feet, shakes of the excess dirt, blows the dust out of his nose, blinks his eyes a couple of times, licks his lips and waits for my cue. When he got to his feet, shook his head, then arched his neck and starting trotting around with a LOT of energy I knew he was in a different mood. He wanted to play, but I misread his behavior and wanting to stay on task because I was going to ride today, I gently reminded him of the purpose I had in mind.

I have so much to learn.

And lucky for me, Duke is willing to teach me. I need to remember that.

We were at odds the entire time and what I missed in all his actions was that no riding was taking place. A half an hour passed and by the time Barb showed up with the trailer key, I thanked her but declined to take it. She's not a Parelli person but has a basic understanding of horses, and knowing Duke she didn't need any further explanation. But I couldn't leave well enough alone. I really wanted to ride Duke bareback. I turned the halter and lead rope into a hackamore (a bitless bridle with reins) and asked Barb for a lift up. From the moment I set myself on Duke's back, the game was on! He lurched forward and refused to stand still. He willingly gave me lateral flexion to the left (bend his head and neck toward my knee as a means of control) but he was stiff, rigid and bracey to the right. He refused to give; he runs about 50/50 on right lateral flexion. Sometimes he's soft and willing, sometimes he isn't. That was my second sign. Won't stand still. Won't give me his head both ways. These are classic indicators that the horse is not ridable. I circled him at a walk to the left but he was tense, high headed, and I felt him pushing against the pressure of the halter when I asked for a stop. Time to get off. I didn't feel safe, and it's been a long time since I felt that way on Duke's back.

Barb went off to clean Elvira's stall, and I set about to have a different conversation with Duke. What was up with him? Through several versions of the porcupine and driving game, I got the message. He wanted to play! Not with me on his back (thank God!) but on-line. The past couple of weeks I've tried something new with Duke, where we move around the arena, at a walk or run (me running...he's trotting...or loping). I mirror him. He mirrors me. And it's really added another level to our sessions together. With all the games we play, Duke learns new things quickly, but quickly gets bored with repetition so I have to be provocative...at all times. He's also very much a 'what's in it for me' kind of horse Left Brain Extrovert with Introvert tendancies). Duke and I spent at least ten minutes (not counting the rest breaks for me to catch my breath) running and darting around the arena. My favorite part was when I glanced over at him and saw him doing his playful head shake...the same kind he does when he's playing with another horse, or by himself. That was pure joy for me. :) This was followed by a very brief session of 'stick to me.' Duke matched me step for step. Just a couple steps back and one forward but that's all I needed. Horse-human harmony. I'm still smiling about it.

We then moved to the round pen for a little play at liberty but the dirt was muddy and slick so I kept that session short. After we mozied outside for a little grazing time, then went back to the stall. Dinner for Duke, mucking for me.

No matter what, there's no such thing as a bad day at the barn.

What did I learn from this play session? The two things Pat keeps saying and I keep forgetting: put the relationship first; and principle before goals. And if I forget again, Duke is there to remind me.

Of building bridges and dreams...

2009-02-09T22:19:00.000-08:00

Duke and I after playing in the arena for over two hours last Saturday.

For months I pondered it. Could we? Would we? Should we? Oh gawd I'd love to! I want to!

So I decided to do it. The other day I bought two tickets to the Parelli Celebration coming to Reno in May. I'm so happy I'm dancing inside!!! Woooooo hooooooooooooo weeeeeeeee! Even Sam is excited about the prospect of spending three days with Pat and Linda Parelli.

I know it may be hard for someone to understand what this really means to me, so I can summarize it by saying if not for Parelli Natural Horsemanship, I would not be enjoying the relationship I have with Duke. Pat and Linda made it all possible. It could easily have gone the other way, my dream could have died, and I'd be yet another first time horse owner who got frustrated and gave up because she didn't know what to do and when to do it. I came close, but chose instead to patiently persist in the proper position. :) They gave me the tools I needed to build my bridge from dream to reality.

And what a beautiful bridge it is...

Let the countdown to the celebration begin!!!!

Here's a teaser of what's in store...from the 2008 USA tour.

Trippin' Through the Snow...

2009-02-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

...better late than never. Cliche, I know, but true.

Right after Christmas the hubster had a serious case of cabin fever. After being tied to the house and tree farm every weekend since Thanksgiving he wanted to get outta Dodge. So we did. Might as well take advantage of the low fuel prices too (I can't believe I actually filled my tank for under $20 not so long ago...of course that was short lived...nice but short lived).

With record holiday snowfalls in our region, it was a perfect time to take the Jeep on a four wheeling run. Friday, December 26 we headed to the mountain towns of Waha and Winchester. On Saturday, we headed to our cabin in the mountains of Clearwater County.

Fancy footwork...

2009-01-25T10:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I realized something, it's been 8 months since Duke came into my life; notice how much my journal entries have dropped? And I can say with certainty that he has certain traits and characteristics. He is very complex, like me, so in that way we relate to each other. He can go from being soft and obedient to bracy and disobedient in a heartbeat. He's always thinking, very mouthy, confident, naughty, dominant, and playful. He keeps me on my toes and teaches me something new everyday; he is an awesome teacher.

What has he taught me?

To be patient, again
To relax and not be such a direct line thinker
To be as gentle as possible but as firm as necessary (assertiveness)
To say "Oh boy!" instead of "Oh no!"
The fine art of moseying
Leadership

I could go on, because it's something new every day.
Thankfully for me he's also patient...most of the time. And one other thing I've learned is he gets bored with arenas. Bored! Bored! Bored! This time of year we have to stay inside, in the arena to play, whether on the ground, or in the saddle. I love playing on the ground with Duke. I love riding too! But the ground work is so important. If you don't have respect on the ground, you won't get it in the saddle.
The other day I was playing with Duke and had one of those moments...a moment where I was able to work my way through a situation with him. To keep him engaged in the activity, I have to be provocative and mix things up. Repetition isn't his thing. When learning something new, once he gets it, move on.

So, this time I decided to get out some barrels and ground poles; two and three, respectively. The barrels to play a 'squeeze' game to help both of us become more comfortable with trailer loading, and the poles to keep Duke's mind engaged during the 'circle' game we play. I thought, if he has to think about where he's putting his feet, he won't be so bored with circling. Additionally, lately I've noticed him tripping over his feet, even though we pulled his shoes and trimmed his hooves on January 5th. Could be laziness or boredom, but I thought perhaps an exercise in moving over an object, and having to pick up his feet, would be useful and beneficial.

I set the two barrels on end about three feet apart, and the poles off to the side in a V pattern, but with the extra pole in the middle. We played on-line (on the ground with a halter and lead rope) with the barrels, backing Duke in between, which is difficult for him because he's not confident with objects behind him. From there I sent him forward into a circle, using the barrels as obstacles in his path to keep him from getting bored with the mindless act of going around and around and around in an endless circle. At a walk then a trot, we went around one barrel, then between the two, then out away from the barrels, then back around one, change direction, and go the opposite direction. My timing was off several times and the lead rope hung up on the barrel causing Duke to stop when he felt the pressure, so I need to work on that. I get so into watching his movement that I often forget I have a lead rope in my hand.

Then we moved over to the poles, starting Duke off at a slow walk first so he could negotiate the placement of the poles. Immediately Duke offered to trot. The first two circles he completely avoided the poles, first skirting around the outside, then skirting the inside toward me. Oh boy! The third time I positioned myself properly putting Duke right over the poles. Going over he hit them with his hooves and stepped on them, knocking them around while tripping and losing his balance...and his confidence. He genuinely looked frustrated and very sour. So we went off to other games...touch it, sideways, porcupine...all things he knew giving him time to gain back his confidence and me time to think of a different strategy for him. Then I had a thought...what if I went over the poles with him, both ways, so we do the exercise together? Back to the poles we went, walking together this way over them, and then back in the other direction. I gave him a moment to think before I took up my position and I sent him over the poles again. First at a nice calm walk, then Duke offered to trot and this time I watched as he crossed over the poles, placing his feet perfectly between each pole, never hitting or tripping as he moved. He looked like he was prancing...so beautiful!!! As soon as he finished his expression changed to excitment as he happily trotted right to me, licking his lips, ears forward, attentive and ready. If he could talk he might have said, "Wow! That was fun!" Considering our past experiences with poles at a trot always resulted in him clumsily striking them and tripping, this moment was a major breakthrough.

And with that, we called it a day.

I've also learned to end our sessions on a positive note. We'll both remember that next time.

The journey continues...

Duke's Snow Day

2008-12-21T08:26:00.000-08:00

We got more snow on Friday and it's snowing now. Our tree farm is doing okay, sales are down from the past, but we know it's because of the economy.

Sam was sick this week, on Wednesday and Thursday. He's doing better today but there for awhile he was just miserable. It's one of the hazards of having a tree farm; we stand outside for hours in the bitter cold, or somedays we spend our time going in and out of the house, going in and out of the cold air really hammers on a person's body.

I love the snow, not so crazy about the cold or driving in the snow; too many crazy drivers out there. Getting out to see Duke every day is a challenge; the road closest to my house is a steep, winding hill outside of the city limits and low on the counties priority list (it now looks like the street I live on, pic below), so to be on the safe side I go the long way. It's an extra 6 miles out of my way, but the roads are maintained and pretty bare. Yesterday when I went to feed Duke and clean his stall my fingertips and toes were so cold I couldn't feel them, and I was layered in clothing. Had my CuddlDuds on (thermal under garments), jeans, turtleneck, sweatshirt, winter coveralls, a Pacific Trail coat, two layers of gloves (knit and ski but not too tight), and my heavy Columbia boots. In this cold we increase the amount of hay we feed to help the horses generate enough body heat to keep warm. I'm keeping track of his weight to ensure he doesn't gain too much and prevent another laminitis event.

Friday when I took him out for a little walk in the snow Duke's energy came up and I could tell he wanted to play. I thought about turning him loose in the outdoor arena, but hestitated because of the ice and concern about him getting all worked up and breathing in too much cold air. Yesterday, I decided to stop worrying so much and I turned him loose. I thought maybe he'd roll around, trot some, canter a bit, but I never thought he'd do what he did!!! And here I was worried that all that extra hay I'm feeding him would make him heavier.

Apparently he's feeling pretty light on his feet. :) I just hope he never does that when I'm in the saddle! :O

Pre-winter whinney

2008-12-18T21:30:00.000-08:00

Brrr, it's getting a bit chilly out there. Tuesday it was 2 degrees, right now it's snowing. Duke has quite the winter coat...he looks like a big plushy toy.

But he still enjoys his daily roll, mud and all.

Pre-snow rolling, of course.

Last week during his daily turn out he engaged in a little friendly game of sparing with another gelding.

Mr. Tough Guy. Ears pinned, nostrils flared, seriously mean look. "Back off!" He looks very serious, but this is all what makes horses who and what they are. Everything they do is driven by order, establishing a hierarchy...a pecking order. In a herd of two or more, there can only be one leader.

When I'm around, when it's just me and Duke, I'm the leader. It's taken me months to earn Duke's trust. Every day he tests me because horses vote for their leader every day. Every day he checks to see if I'm paying attention, if I'll let him get away with this little thing or that. He's teaching me a lot.

And when I watch him interact with another horse, I've observed something interesting. The dominance games he used to play on me are now directed at other horses.

Another gelding checks out the scene.

Keeping it real

2008-11-24T21:49:00.000-08:00

Between my new job and Duke, my daily schedule has stretched my time. I used to work 8 - 5 Monday to Friday and my evenings were always open, usually spent here on my computer. Now I work 7 - 5 Monday to Thursday, then 8 - Noon on Fridays (love that!). After work I change into my horsey clothes and devote the next two hours to Duke (cleaning his stall and playing with him). Most evenings by the time I get home it's 8 or 8:30, I eat a bite for dinner and then it's time for bed.

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Before I got Duke I truly thought I'd done all my homework about horse ownership. Oh boy, was I in for a major shift in my thinking. There is sooooo much I don't know.

Duke is no ordinary horse and he has issues, having spent the last five years of his life as a pasture pet and basically allowed to do whatever he wanted, when he wanted. On the ground he was disrespectful of my space, pushy, dominant, willful and greeted me with pinned ears and hard eyes. In the saddle he pushed through the bit, wouldn't stop or listen to my leg cues, was bracey, and definitely had more go than whoa. On the other hand, he is calm, smart, gentle, friendly and very curious.

In May I became a student of the Parelli Natural HorseManShip teachings. I'm currently studying Level 1 (Partnership) and on the brink of beginning Level 2 (Harmony). When I'm ready, my goal is to have my Level 1 skills assessed by a professional; I've learned this can be done by video and YouTube is an excellent outlet for these assessments. It's a bit scary but it's what I want to do.

The relationship I now have with Duke is due in large part to what I've learned from Parelli. At the stable there are always people ready to hand out advise, but I've learned to filter most of it away from me. At one point I had to bring in a professional trainer to address three critical short comings in Duke's training: trailering, backing/stopping, and pulling back when tied. She was a huge help and much better prepared to deal with these areas than I.

From Duke I am gaining valuable insight into the horse. Man I thought I knew horses, but I didn't know nothing. And you can't fake it with horses, they will see right through any bluff or pretense. They keep things real. Very real.

The journey continues...

Music for the video is "In Your Shoes" written and performed by Katie Drake (niece of Pat Parelli)

Need for Speed Against Domestic Violence

2008-08-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

Something worth while....

http://relay.avonfoundation.org/site/PageServer?pagename=nfs_main

The company I now work for, Public Consulting Group, has a relay team involved in this.

Yep...you guessed it...more horsey stuff

2008-08-12T10:10:00.000-07:00

Meet Monte, born 7/16/08.

Cute lil fellow he is. And what about that background...isn't it gorgegous? Monte is one of the foals born to my farmer friends who raise Morgans, wheat and hay. Who wouldn't want to wake up the this sight everyday?

Horseplay...

Last weekend we brought my friend Barb's mare, Elvira, down from the farm so she could be closer (the farm is an hour away). A couple of days later, we turned Duke and Elvira out in the large outdoor arena so we could clean their stalls and corrals. The two bonded immediately, and are now fast friends.

Rock 'N Rollin'

Duke gettin' down and dirty.

More horseplay...

Still shots from a very long video of Duke and El playing.

Sharing a quiet moment after one of our daily rides. My hair's a mess and I've no makeup on...but Duke, he don't care.

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Tags: Morgan horse

Speculation

2008-07-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

http://www.stopoilspeculationnow.com/

Came across this while on hold at Delta Airlines. I've read a little bit, seems legit. Worth looking into because there is nothing wrong with the American people learning more about this issue. This is a huge problem and the time has come for us to stop it.

If what I've learned is true, did you know that:

* most trade activity is all on paper

* current barrel price levels have $30-$60 in unnecessary speculative cost per barrel

* speculators buy and sell oil just to sell it again, rather than use it, thus driving up the price over and over

This being an election year, I'd be most interested in hearing McCain's and Obama's plan, or at the very least, their ideas to restore the balance of supply and demand within the oil commodities market. Does either candidate have any solid ideas?

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Tags: oil speculation, traders, supply and demand

Words in motion...

2008-06-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

So I cut the video in half...it's almost like being a magician.

After so long...

2008-06-22T00:19:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here on the couch writing, and wishing I was riding, again. Tomorrow I'm either riding early in the morning, or early evening. Sam is on call this weekend so he has to go into the office for an hour or so, and after he got home we went to Applebee's for a pancake breakfast in support of a local American Legion baseball team. Then is was down to the feed store to get Duke's hay and beet pulp. Then we stopped at the house so I could get changed into my riding clothes and Sam wanted to find the electric clippers to clip a bridle path on Duke. Sam never found the clippers and we concluded that our youngest had run off with them.

By the time we arrived at the stable it was almost noon, and getting very hot. After we put the hay up and visited with a friend who'd brought his granddaughter and her pony down for a ride, I saddled Duke and led him to the outdoor round pen. I wanted to use the indoor round pen, but it was already being used.

Once inside the round pen, after a brief lungeing exercise I slipped off his halter and put on his bridle. Sam stood by, camera in hand, ready to capture these moments in time. Getting up into the saddle is starting to get a bit easier for me and I no longer need someone to boost me up.

Duke did great! After he quit playing with the bit in his mouth, and settled down (I'm not sure who was more excited about this ride, me or Duke). The day I bought him he needed work on his stops, but today his stops improved. He still needs work on backing up, and I may ask the trainer at the stable to work on that for me. We walked and for the first time, trotted. He has a real floating trot, it not jarring like so many horses are. It felt nice and smooth...oh so floaty. Tomorrow we'll canter for the first time. I can't wait to feel what his canter is like...I wonder will it be a rocking horse canter or a glider chair canter. We'll see tomorrow.

Of course he had to poop, and smell another pile left by some other horse.

Sam took lotsof pics, as you can see, and even a video of us trotting around the pen. The file is too large for me to upload to AOL, but if I can get it uploaded somewhere else, I'll add it later.

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Tags: Morgan, horse, ride, summer, fun, learning

One more day...

2008-06-20T23:40:00.000-07:00

So, Duke's 30 day stall rest period is nearly over. For the past month I've been counting down the days...June 21, the day we ride again. That's exactly 30 days. Duke's been doing so well, he's ready, I'm ready and the time is near. I've told everyone...June 21, we ride again. At night I have drifted off to sleep dreaming about it. Saturday...Saturday...Saturday. Then this morning I thought today is a good day to saddle him, ease him back into the routine. And see if my shoulder would handle hauling my 28 pound saddle onto his back. Today after work, and physical therapy, I headed down to visit Duke.

I'd like to say I got the saddle on Duke the first time, but I can't. It took two tries. But I did it.

He looks so good tacked up!

My saddle is a Fallis Balanced Ride built in 1961; I found it on-line in a saddle shop in Iowa. It's a little different than most western saddles, and has the brand M-7 (M Bar 7) carved into the cantle. I've often wondered what stories this saddle could tell. Did it belong to a cowboy working a ranch? Or is the carving from something else? Who knows...and while it's history may be interesting the best thing about the saddle is, it's mine.

Now the plan was to take Duke for a walk and just let him get used to having a saddle on his back again. And after a little work out, I had a thought, and went for it. I climbed up and went for a short sweet ride. It was very short ride, as I only had his halter and lead rope on, but it felt so good to just do it. He was ready, I was ready and I thought, why not. Could I, would I?

I did.

And I can't wait for tomorrow.

I'll say one thing. The 30 days we had just hanging around, spending undemanding time on theground paid off. In the beginning it was a little rocky, he tested me as all horses do. He thinks he's the leader, and he's got all the other horses cow-towing to him. And that's fine, but in our relationship there can only be one leader...me. Duke is teaching me so much, about him, the nature of horses, and even myself. He now trusts me, completely, if he didn't trust me or feel safe he would never roll around on the ground in my presence. Horses, being prey animals, are not so trusting of humans, being predators (yes, we are in the eyes of a horse). So I've learned that if a horse is willing to expose his soft underside to you, take it as a good sign, and a complement.

Yesterday during our little walk I turned him loose in one of the round pens and then began to initiate some play with him in the pen. I'd done this before, from the safety outside the pen, but yesterday I decided to stay in with him. And play he did! I cavorted around the pen while he stood watching me like I was some idiot, and then he got that spark, trotted away from me, and kicked up his heels when he'd reached the opposite side of the pen. From there he trotted around the pen, following the edge of the panels while I stood in the center, watching. Then he stopped, turned toward me and slowly walked to me and softly rested his face on my belly. What a horse! He has my heart that Duke does, and I believe it goes both ways.

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Tags: Horse, Morgan, play drive, fun

They're here!! Yea...babies!!!

2008-06-18T21:30:00.000-07:00

Texas' lil colt only 12 hours old. Born sometime early morning, June 16.

Awww, he's sleeping.

Sweet dreams little guy. Don't cha just love the crescent moon on his forehead? Or is that a Nike swoosh?

And, of course we also have a wee baby girl...

Cream Ridge filly only 2 hourse old. Born 10:20 pm, June 17.

Interesting side note: both foals were born during a full moon cycle, and this is no accident. Mares in the wild often foal during a full moon, as they have done for thousands of years. It's instinctive, and innate...so much so that even domestic mares wait until cover of darkness to foal, even though the threat from a predator hardly exists. Mother nature is strong and powerful.

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Tags: foals, newborn

On the mend...

2008-06-11T23:08:00.000-07:00

Oh, I'm getting very, very noncommittal with this journal. And it's not because I've nothing to say, heaven knows I'm not short on words or the expression of what's on my mind. No. The problem lately is time. Time can, will and does slip away. I really shouldn't say it's a problem because I'm not wasting time. I will confess to one thing...being obsessed with my horse. It's funny but there are times when I'm standing next to him, leaning against his rotund side with my arms resting on his back as he munches busily on his hay...and I'll take in a deep breath, letting the essence of the horsey smell linger momentarily...I smile. This is my horse. Finally, I've realized a dream. And I almost have to pinch myself. But I don't, I just rest my head against his ribs and listen to the rhythmic sound of his teeth grinding happily away on his forage.

Duke is responding so well to the treatment. Last Friday I took him for a little walk in one of the indoor arena's at the facility. He was so glad to get out of his area and stretch his legs, but I could tell what he really wanted to do was find a nice clean place in the dirt so he could roll around. For a brief moment I almost let him, but decided against it for safety's sake since he might get tangled up in the halter or lead rope, and then might panic. So instead we walked, nice and slow. He was a bit excited but I kept moving his feet. Then, Sunday morning Sam and I took him for another walk in that same indoor arena, and in the arena is a round pen, about 40 feet in diameter. I walked him into the round pen, slipped off his halter and watched as the spark lit in a fiery frolic of horse and hooves. I quickly stepped outside the round pen and watched him be a horse again. Kicking, bucking, running, snorting...and free. He threw dirt on Sam and me but we didn't care. Duke is back to being Duke again. :) Within seconds he was kneeling, then flopping onto his belly before pushing himself over onto his back. Sam laughed and said, "Duke, you're too fat to roll over." And for a few seconds it seemed that he was...but then I watched with a huge grin as Duke's momentum froze momentarily, his front leg curled against his stomach and his back legs sticking straight up toward the roof, kicking and twisting...and then he rolled completely over. He was so happy he rolled several times before getting back to his feet, and then taking off running around the perimeter of the pen. And then, a couple of minutes later he settled down and stood quietly as I reentered the round pen, slipped his halter back on and we continued on our walk. I really enjoyed that, and look forward to the next walk I plan to take him on tomorrow night.

He was such a trooper during the treatment. He didn't fight us when we had to give him the bute. And as for soaking his hooves in the ice water, he absolutely amazed me and everyone else at the stable. Every evening Sam and I would bring a large bag of ice, and gently ask Duke to step into the tub we purchased for this purpose. At first he didn't quite understand what we wanted him to do, and he'd step out of the tub after a few minutes. But then he figured it out. It must have felt good to him, because he'd stand in that tub of freezing ice water for a half an hour. Every now and then he'd shift his weight and try to step out, but I'd press against his shoulder and he'd stop. One of the other horse owners who has the stall next to Duke's stood with us during a session and couldn't believe he stood so patiently and quietly for so long. At one point she remarked that her next horse is definitely going to be a Morgan. :)

And, in the next few days we're expecting two foals to hit the ground. One of the mares at the stable, named Texas, is due any day. And so is one of the mares owned by my friends who have the Morgan farm. They are expecting Martina to give birth either tonight or the next. Then next month another mare of theirs, Coalette, is expecting her second foal. When it happens is anyone's guess, but I will get photo's of Texas' baby because her stall and run is just across the hall from Duke's. Exciting times are ahead.

And best of all, my 30 day waiting period is almost over. Saturday, June 21st is the day I'll finally be able to take Duke for a little ride. I've watched him when he sees other horses being rode just outside his area. He always watches the other horse and rider intently, and whinneys. Then he'll look at me, and back at the horse and rider again. Last time I watched him, toward the end I could swear he let out a deep sigh. Duke thrives on interaction, and I think on some level he misses that. My friend Barb took a lot of photos the day we picked up Duke and I finally got copies of those pics from her. She got several really good ones.

Duke giving me a good sniff and a quick nuzzle.

Looking good enough to grace a magazine cover.

In the moment...big smile inside and out.

At Duke's new home, he's making new friends...

Duke's lady friend, Painted Lady.

Another friend, a two year old jenny mule.

Does this tail make my butt look big?

No feet...no horse

2008-05-23T22:59:00.000-07:00

Well, my first week as a horse owner took a difficult turn yesterday. Last night during feeding I noticed Duke favoring his front leg and I was beside myself trying to understand why. He was sound when I purchased him on Saturday, everything was fine. What happened? And how could it have happened so quickly. Lots of things crossed my mind, and I feared the worse. Last night I cried. Every horse owner understands four simple words...no feet, no horse.

First thing this morning I contacted a local vet, the best horse doctor in the region. I had already planned to have him do a 'new horse' exam this weekend. I met up with him this afternoon and he confirmed my worse fear, Duke had a minor case of laminitis. Unfortunately, Duke is an 'at risk' horse for laminitis according to the vet for several reasons. Fortunately, we caught it early enough that the prognosis for full recovery is very good. What puts Duke at risk is first his weight, he needs to lose 100 pounds. Second, he had a severe bout with it three years ago, which his prior owner fully disclosed to me long before I decided to purchase Duke. I've done a great deal of reading about laminitis since learning of Duke's history, and everything I read gave me hope that while it could recur again, it is preventable through careful diet management. And third, he's large boned. But it was neither of these reasons that brought it about this time. The vet believes stress is the reason this time; the stress of a new home and new owners. While Duke has outwardly taken the change in stride, internally it was another story. Horses are like that, especially a horse like Duke. I've watched him carefully every day for signs of stress, but he never exhibited any outward signs.

It was frustrating, to say the least. Duke can't have alfalfa hay because of the high concentration of protein in alfalfa (which caused the bout three years ago), so I searched everywhere to find him grass hay (it's in short supply). His prior owner also fed him sweet feed and beet pulp to supplement his grass only diet. But I've heard some unfavorable views on sweet feed and so after consulting my other horsey friends, decided against the sweet feed and pulp. The vet agreed Duke doesn't need the extra bulk at this time. In the end, one of the last things he said was he's never seen a horse with such a great disposition (even in the pain he was in) and my decision to purchase him was the right one. We have a friend who also recently purchased a horse (a quarter horse) and the same vet rejected the first three horses he considered buying. This vet will tell it straight and honest, he knows how much is at stake with these horses and their people.

So, from here treatment consists of: reducing Duke's daily food intake from 20 pounds down to 10 pounds (he's not going to be happy about that!), administering a dose of horsey aspirin twice daily, soaking his feet in ice cold water every day and 30 days stall rest. No riding, no exercise. So, photos of me riding Duke will have to wait.

It's been quite a week.

As for the new job, it's been hectic too. But in different ways. New job, new people...Duke's not the only one feeling the stress of adjusting to change. But it's going very well. It's a nice change not feeling constantly overwhelmed.

Tuesday, before the lameness reared it's ugly head, Sam took photos of me and Duke after I played with him in the round pen. During a break in lounging, Duke and I posed for one shot and somehow we both managed to close our eyes at the precise second Sam pressed the shutter. Like minds Duke and I....like minds.

One...two...three...close your eyes!

Hey, I see other horses over there! Let's go check 'em out!

Eyes open and forward this time. Notice the one ear turned toward me, a sign that his attention is focused on me.

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Tags: laminitis, equine, treatment

What is it about girls and horses...

2008-05-18T23:12:00.000-07:00

Introducing...Diamond B Duke

The first meeting

Meeting Duke for the first time and leading him out of his corral while my friend Barb (Elvira's mom) takes our picture. Looks like Duke's posing for the camera, doesn't it?

Duke struting his stuff. Getting warmed up by Keith, the seller.

Our first ride.

He has the sweetest face and the kindest eyes. They are so unusual in that they are a very light brown, rather than dark brown. And he's just gorgeous. Still has a bit of his winter coat to shed (it's the darker brownish black you see on his neck and body). Duke is getting settled in and adjusting to many changes. It was difficult taking him away from his home and after a couple of delays he was loaded and we were on our way. It was hot, 97 degrees and I worried about him, but he seemed to take it all in stride, and now he's home with me. He's all mine. :)

More to come...time to get rested for my new job tomorrow!

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Tags: Morgan horse, first horse

Change...there are changes afoot

2008-05-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a weird day. Surreal, but not different. It could have been, perhaps should have been, but through it all it was just like any other day. The one exception is that yesterday was my final day at the job I've held for the past twelve years.

May has been a month of changes.

It was bitter sweet and a difficult decision to make, one that Sam's been urging me to make for at least ten years. And it was time.

So today begins a new day, and another new chapter of my life. I am currently not employed, but that will end Monday morning when I stroll into the office of my new job. It's a major change for me, from fiscal officer to administrative assistant, but I was ready to step back from the over whelming demands and pressure cooker I've worked in since 1996. I'm so excited about this new opportunity that presented itself to me last month, now I'll be the right hand of the operations manager for a company that helps people put their lives back together. Great changes. Oh yeah...life is good.

And then there's tomorrow. My search for a horse has brought me to a happy trail, he he. At this time tomorrow I'll be on the road to the Yakima area, with horse trailer in tow, to bring home the new brown eyed boy in my life. His name is Diamond B Duke and he's a 13 year old bay Morgan gelding with a soft eye and a huge heart. I've been in constant contact with his owner, whom I was put in touch with last month after looking at a beautiful 10 year old black Morgan mare (whom I didn't take, see layout below). On the drive to the mountainsabove the community of Kamiah a friend told me about Duke, just in case the Morgan mare we were about to look at didn't work out for me. Well, she didn't and once home I got a query off to Duke's owner, introduced myself and one month later I'm one day closer to making my life long dream a reality. I may seem calm in my writing, but believe me I'm jumping for joy all over the place. Duke's owner, like many horse owners, screened me very carefully and throughout the process I could see he loves his horses and wants them to only go to a loving home. He closed one of his last messages to me by saying, "This makes my heart glad that he is going with you. It sounds like a perfect match."

Pictures, and Duke's layout, will follow, after I bring him home. :) I'm sooooooooooooo happppppyyyyyy. Last month, Sam purchased a beautiful horse trailer for my birthday present...the one I really wanted. He's such a great guy, and a wonderful person. I'm so lucky to have him in my life. :)

It's a 2006 Trails West 2 horse slant load with sealed tack room. Hard to believe it was used, the previous owner only used it three times before she realized she couldn't afford it.

Horse compartment.

And, if you love horses, you'll love watching this. Click on the link below.

Tags: career change, decision, Morgan, horse

And they're at the homestretch...

2008-03-27T00:02:00.000-07:00

First, I want to send a warm thank you to Sam (gaboatman) for his caring email during my recovery from surgery earlier this month. And for reminding me that I do have a place to turn. Thank you Sam for your support and friendship, and to those of you who sent wishes for my speedy recovery.

My shoulder surgery was on Monday, March 3 and everything went as planned. I'll spare you all the boring details but do want you to know I was pretty out of it that first week. I must admit I really enjoyed the one week off from work and it was made even better when Sam (my husband...not gaboatman) stayed home to take care of me the first two days. The only down side was I got a bit spoiled being waited on but I really enjoyed it. A lot. Maybe too much. ;)

I'm on the mend now, free of that restrictive arm sling (ugh!) and making progress in physical therapy three times a week...which unfortunately has created a problem neither I nor my physical therapist could have seen coming. All this intense work brought on a painful case of tennis elbow. And that's the last thing my shoulder needs right now. So it's lots of ice packs and anti-inflammatories for me until we get on top of this new, annoying development. Am I frustrated...just a weee bit.

On the bright side, I have horsey news. :) On a whim last Friday I contacted one of the local boarding facilities to see what is currently available; turns out they had one of the best stalls (with a large run) available if I wanted it. The icing on the cake is the fact that last January when I inquired about these stalls I was told none were available and there was a three year waiting list to get one. Soooo what happened? You know, I didn't ask. I just paid the lady for March and April and called it mine. Yee-haw!!!

And that brings me to another new turn in my horse world. Turns out Norma may, or may not be coming home with me...time will tell. She has quite the motor in her, too much for my current riding ability and is basically more horse than I can handle. Ray is working everyday to soften her and get her to relax and he says she is responding, but there is still some concern. So in light of all this, I've been scouting Morgan horse ads in search of another horse. I have found three others, two mares and a gelding, but none are located here in town. This weekend the plan is to visit the closest one. I haven't totally given up on Norma, and just two weeks ago I needed a horsey fix so I took up my grooming supplies and paid her a visit. Ray was gone so it was just me and Norma, spending time together and getting used to each other, just in case.

Norma and me.

Either way, I'm ready. I've got all my tack and tools...now I just need the horse. Be it Norma or another, I am sooooo ready for this.

Oh yeah, and I need a horse trailer. A two horse slant load bumper pull with front dressing room. Gotta have one of those too.

Someone recently told me the horse was the least expensive part and I was a bit skeptical. I'm not anymore.

The search continues.

"Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion. It seizes a person whole and, once it has done so, he will have to accept that his life will be radically changed". -Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Spur of the moment

2008-02-20T22:40:00.000-08:00

I visited with my doctor last week and he immediately referred me to the orthopaedic surgeon; business must be slow at the surgeon's office because I got my consult within two days. Saw my GP on Wednesday and had an appointment with the surgeon Friday morning. That was remarkably fast! Last time I had to wait about three weeks for my first consult, back in 2003. No, this isn't the first time I've had trouble with my shoulder, the last two times it was the right shoulder. In 2003 I went in for a frozen shoulder (fixed by physical therapy) and in 2001 my deltoid caused me some grief (also fixed by physical therapy). So, they know me pretty well at the physical therapist office. Okay, I'm rambling.

Back to the present. There are three issues with my left shoulder that need fixed. First, the shoulder is frozen...duh, second I've got some bone spurs that need removed, and third, the end of my shoulder blade (acromion) is hooked (where straight is the norm) and needs to be reshaped. The surgeon wants to get me in ASAP but first my health insurance provider has to approve the surgery, which they did today. Tomorrow I'll know my surgery date. Doc says I'll be in a sling for about two weeks and in physical therapy for about six weeks. And then I'm done. I asked if the bone spurs would come back, and he said no...not on the left side. But, maybe on the right. Then again, it may never flare up. That's what I'm hoping for.

The good news is that by mid-April I'll be healed up enough to ride again...just in time for my birthday. I wonder if Sam knows what he's getting me for my birthday. :)

Monday I had the opportunity to go to Walla Walla to look at horse trailers. My friends who own the morgan farm wanted to purchase a 4 horse trailer and they were going with Ray, the gentleman from whom I'm buying my horse. I didn't find a trailer, but my friends did.

Sooo, about this horse of mine. She comes from excellent Morgan bloodlines and Ray's had her since she was foaled. Her name is Ida-Ho Norma...maybe not the prettiest name, kinda plain...but what she lacks in a name she makes up for with looks. I have pics her grand sire, Mortana Pat (also owned by Ray) and her great grand sire UVM Promise. Norma is her registered name, but horses often have another name, a stable name. I haven't come up with that...yet.

Mortana Pat with Ray up (1987)

UVM Promise (1977)

And yes, she's just as beautiful as they are. You'll see. :) Her sire is Desiderata Alderon (Desiderata is one of my fav poems) and her dam is Ida-Ho Mary Lue (who just happens to be a full sister to Mirzay).

For those of you wondering what happened to my tag offers, I've put them on hold. After having problems with PSP, I uninstalled the program, but now I'm having trouble reinstalling it. So, I took this as a message to step back, slow down and take a break for a bit. Thing is, I'm coming out of a really bad state. In short, for the past five years I was dancing on the edge of work place burn out...and depression. Last year, last summer, circumstances put me over that edge and I rapidly found myself overwhelmed...sometimes with even the simpliest task, like watering my plants, or writing in this journal. And even flexing my creative arm became painful...just another demand.

When I spoke to my doc about this, I summarized it simply when I told him, "I feel like I've lost my joy."

My work requires a high sensitivity to details, is hyper stressful and recently I've learned professionals within the economic development field are prone to burn out, generally within three years. I've been in economic development for almost twelve years. My work place is unprepared to help me through this, but my boss is trying to understand. Problem is there are a lot of demands on her as well and several of us can see her heading toward burn out too; she's been with the organization for six years but only the director for less than two. I've learned there is a down side to being passionate about your work. This is especially true when sacrifices are made for the common good, and little is given or acknowledged in return. At the request of my boss I took a couple of weeks off in October, my first two whole weeks in over nine years. I've learned a week vacation here and there every few months won't accomplish the balance I need to decompress from the demands of work. I've learned a lot about limitations and boundaries, and maybe it's time to change employers. So, I'm keeping my options open and my ear to the ground for a new path to take.

And, I think I'm going to give Norma a nice simple stable name. I'm thinking...Joy.

"My treasures do not clink together or glitter, they gleam in the sun and neigh in the night."

<'\__~
//\\ 20379

Over my shoulder

2008-02-05T23:38:00.000-08:00

Hello my friends,

I know...it's been a very long time since my last entry...over a month. Eeee gads, how did that happen? Well, there is a complicated reason, which I'll get to later, in another entry, and there is an easy reason. I'll tackle the easy one now.

One word. Horses. I feel like a little girl again and I've renewed my love...ummm, okay, obsession...with horses. I haven't felt this giddy in years, and it feels so very good. I feel alive again! This obsession of mine must not be too excessive, because Sam isn't sick of seeing and hearing horses...yet. :) Oddly enough he's even getting into it. A few weeks ago he came home and immediately told me about a two horse trailer he'd seen for sale. This is fantastic, and so not like it was when I was a horse crazy child; I drove my family, especially my older sister Lyn, absolutely crazy. Seriously, I did. And I don't think they ever got over it, tee hee. I know I didn't...but the dream of owning a horse just wasn't practical and so I tucked that dream away...deep into the recesses of my soul and left it in a restful slumber until such time in the future when circumstances were more favorable.

Finally, that time is here.

And since I've decided to awaken my long slumbering childhood dream, I've realized I am starting from square one and there is much work to do. The horse, of course (which I've found, btw), a trailer to tow the horse (for trail rides at the cabin, and maybe more), saddles, bridles, hay (currently $150/ton thanks to the hay shortage...ouch), a place to store all the hay, hoof care, stabling...oye! At least we already have a heavy duty pick-up to pull the horse trailer. I'm sooooo excited!!!!! At night I find myself dreaming of hoof falls and four beat gaits, swishing tails and kind eyes. So, that's where I disappeared to this past month..I've been researching everything horse related.

The horse I found is a 16 year dark bay Morgan mare and she is gorgeous. I have a photo of her with her current owner but the sale won't happen until later this spring for two reasons. First, my left should is messed up and I must get it fixed before I do anymore riding, and second the mare hasn't been rode much lately and the owner/trainer wants to spend time working with her before handing her over to me. I've been undergoing physical therapy for my left shoulder since before Thanksgiving; it's really causing me immense distress. It started as a little annoying pain in early August and escalated into an inflamed rotator cuff. There's talk of either surgery which I'd rather avoid, or manipulating the shoulder under a local anethesia in order to tear through the scar tissue that is restricting my range of motion. Progress with physical therapy has plateaued and the pain is getting worse each week...sometimes it takes forever to get dressed in the morning. I'll know more in the next few weeks what will happen after I see my doctor next week and then get my first consult with the ortho surgeon. And so, I wait...

In the mean time, I HAVE to share this video I found. What you are about to see is a young woman named Stacy Westfall doing bridleless reining. She is fantastic, amazing and such an inspiration to me. The flying lead changes are smooth, flawless, and send the crowd into a awestruck frenzy. WOW!

20290

New Year wishes for J-Land...and beyond

2007-12-31T13:39:00.000-08:00

Have fun...be safe!!!

Dona

A wee milestone

2007-12-29T07:29:00.000-08:00

Oh, my counter is about to hit 20,000. Hmmm...who will it be???? I wonder????

19991

Merry Christmas!!!

2007-12-24T09:27:00.000-08:00

Just have time for a quick entry. I'm at work for half a day and have sooooo much to do before tonight. We are hosting our annual Christmas Eve party for Sam's family, I've got several dishes to prepare (almond pretzels, garlic and onion foccoica bread, mini macs and a couple of dips for chips) and I need to finish Jordynn's Christmas stocking (it's only about 60% finished). Wish I had time to visit each and everyone of you today.

To all my friends and angels in J-Land I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

19948

Brrrrr :)

2007-12-20T12:52:00.000-08:00

Tag offer #24 - Brrrr

It's the most wonderful time of the year...and the craziest! I love this season, but it certainly takes it toll on me. Having the tree farm is a fun opportunity, but running it puts me behind the 8 ball once Thanksgiving comes and goes. I just finished getting my Christmas cards out yesterday (gonna have to start making them in the summer!). It wouldn't really matter were it not for some friends I have in England; once again their card will arrive late this year. Oh bother.

With all the sights and sounds I find inspiration in the hussle and bussle outside my home, but once I get there my muse disappears into the ethers leaving me feeling un-inspired and much too tired to create to my hearts content. Hence the lack of tag offers this past two weeks. In my mind I've created a dozen or more siggy tags throughout the day, but finding time to bring those visions from the ether to digital reality is a no-go...for now. Not to fear, a cute little number has found it's way to this page and hopefully into your hearts as well.

Da rules...ya know I gotta do it!

Place a request in a comment below with the name you'd like on the tag

Name change only

Offer open until I close it

Thanks for looking!

Dona

19884

Tags: Tag offer, who wants one, WWO, PSP, Paint Shop Pro, winter, snow, snowmen, fun

Baby it's cold outside

2007-12-01T17:07:00.000-08:00

Tag offer #23 - Snow window (below)

Brrrr...it's getting cold!!! It snowed all day today and this put many people into the spirit of Christmas tree shopping. And so the weather brings me to the perfect tag to put on offer on this first day of December. :) No doubt by now you know the rules, but just in case you don't:

Name requests can be placed in a comment below

Name change only

Offer expires Friday, December 7 at 9 p.m.

Business was booming at the tree farm today. Thought I could get some of my Christmas cards made in between customers but we had so many I only finished one card. Took my Jeep down for a new set of tires first thing this morning. After six years and 30,000 miles the factory installed tires were worn and ready to be replaced.

19751
Tags: Tag offer, PSP, Paint Shop Pro, winter, snow

It's that time of year...

2007-11-21T07:02:00.000-08:00

Tag Offer #22 - Gingerbread dreams

Time for another offer because it's getting close to that time of year. :) Have lots of Christmas themed tags floating around and I've seen dozens of great tutorials every day...oh, sometimes I do wish I had more time for J-Land and making tags. Anywho, the rules are simple...

Name change only

Offer open until I close it.

Thanks for looking!!!

And...from my heart to yours, here's wishing my American friends a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving. Take time to reflect on what you are thankful for...

"My friends are my estate." ~Emily Dickinson

19657

Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer, who wants one, wwo, Thanksgiving

For all seasons...

2007-11-12T22:19:00.000-08:00

Tag Offer #21 - Girl for all seasons

Inspired by recent events and experiences of my own life I've created this tag featuring artist Suzanne Woolcott. It's a little fun mixed with a serious message. If you like this tag and would like one with your name just follow these rules:

Offer expires Thursday, November 16 @ 9 p.m.

Name change only

Place your request in a comment below.

Says it all, doesn't it? How many times have we found ourselves trying to be everything to everyone? Our options today are endlessly varied and it seems when the door to a new opportunity presents itself to us we take it because we know we want it. Without hesitation we eagerly step over the threshold, ready and willing we rush headlong into another experience because we believe deep in a place we keep to ourselves that it's the right thing to do, in the name of personal or professional growth. But sometimes, we get so involved in the opportunities laid before us that we forget one thing...ourselves. We are so busy being so much to so many we can easily lose touch with our center...that which makes us happy. We can expand and stay centered, we can grow and stay true. Growth can be painful, we know. But in the end it will hold its own rewards.

19575
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer, who wants one, reflection, growth

The chill of an early fall

2007-11-06T19:53:00.000-08:00

Tag offer #20 - Give thanks

Last year at the county fair I took a few pics of the exhibits, and I just found the perfect use for the pumpkins picture. Thanksgiving will be here before we know it.

If you'd like one of these tags for your journal:

Put your request in the a comment below

Name change only

Offer expires Monday, November 12 @ 9 p.m.

Oh, I almost forgot!!! Last night I was chatting with my friend Barb and I learned that three foals are due in 2008!!! :) I knew Coalette is pregnant, but didn't know that Martina is as well. And, lately we've noticed that Elvira is getting very barrel-bellied. One might think she's just getting fat, but that's not likely. El is the newest, and lowest member of the herd so she doesn't get first pickings at feeding time. Horses have a pecking order, and Ember's at the top in this herd, with El and baby Tia at the bottom. Many times I've watched Ember and Susanna chase Elvira away from her hay pile. That's just the way horses are and always have been. So, the fact that El is getting fatter could mean she's in foal, which is very exciting because Mirzay is the sire. Since both El and Mirzay are both black, it will be very interesting to see what color the foal turns out to be. :)

Of course fortune has its part in human affairs, but conduct is really much more important.
~Jeanne Detourbey

19530
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer, who wants one, WWO, Thanksgiving, pumpkins, fall

Shift Happens

2007-11-06T10:21:00.000-08:00

Something worth watching...

And having watched this, I now realize why getting away to the cabin and going camping is so important to Sam and I...it is our way of connecting to a deep rooted longing for simpler times.

Video embedded with permission. Please visit Karl Fisch's blog, The Fischbowl (http://thefischbowl.blogspot.com/) for further information.

19511
Tags: Shift Happens, Karl Fisch, The Fisch Bowl

A no-no is a no go...

2007-11-06T07:05:00.000-08:00

Was playing around the other day and came up with this tag. As soon as I saw the tube I knew exactly what to do with it. The tag is snaggable. Just right click on the tag and save to your computer.

The beauty of empowering others is that your own power is not diminished in the process.

~Barbara Colorose

19501
Tags: copyright awareness

Monday...Monday

2007-11-05T13:01:00.000-08:00

Tag offer #19 - Sorry...offer closed.

Soooo, yesterday as I was fetching the tag to add to my entry, my original intent was to post the tag below...however, I changed my mind when I saw that Matt Hughes tag and it had never been included in an offer. Couldn't have that I thought to myself, that tag needs to be seen!!!

On the the current tag, this is a cute lil guy from Dudley's Bear Den. Thought I'd take a break from the usual glam gals, fairies and seasonal stuff as I was needing a wee shot of cutesy. I think being around the grandbabies and shopping for them is starting to spill over onto my tagging as I'm finding myself drawn toward all things cute. But I'm not complaining.

The rules, as usual:

Offer expires Thursday, November 8 @ 9 p.m.

To request a tag with your name, please add a comment below

Name change only

Planting the C.E.A.D.

It's easier to go down a hill than up it, but the view is much better at the top.

~Henry Ward Beecher

19475
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer, who wants one, wwo,

Framed...again

2007-11-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

Tag offer #18 - Framed -- Sorry...offer closed.

Sometimes I get to making so many tags I forget what I made until I see the tag sometime later; like today's tag. I created this last month for a challenge in a PSP group I belong to and totally forgot about it until just now. I had planned to offer a different tag in this entry, but when I saw this one again and I immediately decided to go that way today. This tag features artist Matt Hughes work, who adds a real Victorian theme to everything he does.

Same rules as usual:

Name change only.

Offer expires Wednesday, November 7 @ 9 p.m.

We had quite a few trick or treaters at our home. The grandkids came by, Dilynn was a lion, and Jordynn came as a flower...so cute!!! I go a little crazy with the candy buying and we always have a little left over. We ran out one year (that's no good!!), so ever since then I make sure it doesn't happen again!

Sam's off at hunting camp this week and I'm getting caught up on my movie watching, last night I watched 'Dreamer' with Kurt Russell and Dakota Fanning and loved it!!! This morning I enjoyed 'Music and Lyrics' with Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant, which I've been wanting to see since it's release at the theatres. Loved it too! It was funny, deep, and does a bit of a parody on popular 80s bands.

At work, my office is back downstairs again. It was nice having my own office upstairs, but being separated from my co-workers just didn't work in the long run and created many problems. On the other hand, I made a wonderful friend in Jaynie, the Port's office manager and we became kindred spirits this past three years. It's good to be back downstairs with the crew, but I admit at times I miss the easy conversations Jaynie and I always shared. It's good to know she's just a few steps away.

Gotta go now, time to update my sidebar.

The future is made up of the same stuff as the present.

~Simone Weil

19438
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer, Who Wants One, WWO

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T06:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween J-Land!!!

Wicked Night

2007-10-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

Tag Offer #17 - Wicked Night

Sorry...offer closed.

Yep, it's another Halloween tag up on the offering block. Expires Tuesday, October 30 @ 9 p.m. Name change only!

And thanks for looking!

Planting the C. E. A. D. (Copyright Education Awareness & Development) Respecting artist's rights. I am a copyright compliant tagger. All tags created within my journal comply with the artist's Terms of Use (TOU). Within the tagging community a war is brewing between taggers and artists, due entirely to the lack of respect for artists work; everyday the list of free to use artists grows shorter and shorter as more artists move to protect their livelyhood from illegal and sometimes improper use. I understand how easy it is to be unaware of this issue as I used to post any and all graphics to my journal without a care or any thought about the word copyright. I have since changed my ways. It is my heartfelt desire to be a part of the solution and not part of the problem. When creating a tag, I ask myself one question...in making this tag and displaying it in public, am I infringing on the rights of another person? If the answer is yes, and even if I'm not 100% sure, I don't create the tag.

In the spirit of copyright awareness and cooperation, please remember having the ability to include tags in our journals can be fun, but it comes with responsibility. We all know it only takes one person to ruin the fun for everybody else. Spoiler alert...there are copyright violation patrols on the net. Have a care and be aware.

Plant the C.E.A.D...

19356
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, Who Wants One, WWO, signature tag, siggy tag, tag offer

Nurturing mind body & spirit

2007-10-24T20:54:00.000-07:00

Tag Offer #16 Pictures fade

Sorry...offer closed.

Boy what a week this has been! Definitely one for the memory book, in many ways. I created the tag above last week when I found the tutorial; it was one of those tuts that immediately inspired me and I knew I had to create one. And now with the fires going on in my former home of S. California, this tag has another message.

If you'd like me to create this tag for you, place your request in a comment below. Name change only. Offer open until I say so. Thanks for looking!

This morning on the news they announced about 500 thousand people have been evacuated from their homes in Southern California...unbelievable. On a local news station in Spokane this morning they said that the evacuation is the largest non-military movement ever; the last event that affected so many people was the Civil War. So many people being affected, it's mind numbing.

For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. I recently found an amazing place on the web, called The Daily OM. It's my kind of place and since I discovered it, I've found myself visiting The Daily OM every morning. It puts me in an excellent frame of mind everytime. I like their message and found immediate affinity in the words and images. Check it out ---->The Daily OM<---

The universal human yearning is for something permanent, enduring, without shadow of change. ~Willa Cather

19290
Tags: Tag offer, PSP, Paint Shop Pro, California, wild fires.

Tag Offer #15 - Halloween

2007-10-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

Tag offer #15 - Witch night

Good morning J-Land! Time for another Halloween tag offer.

Sorry...offer closed.

Da rules: Offer expires Tuesday, October 23 at 9:00 p.m. Name change only.

Thank you for looking!

19230
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer, Who Wants One, WWO, halloween

Tag Offer #14 - Breast Cancer Awareness

2007-10-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

1Tag Offer #14 (Who Wants One) - Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month so I'm making this offer a bit different. Rather than one tag featuring the work of one artist, I made several tags featuring different artists...because we all are different...yet the same. To request your tag: Above each tag is a number, 1 through 5; when requesting please indicate whether you want tag #1, or #2, or #3...and so forth. Limit one tag per name. Offer expires Wednesday, October 17 at 9 p.m.
Sam and I are heading to the cabin this weekend, so I'll start creating the tags when we return on Sunday. Thanks for looking!!

Sorry...offer closed.

Sooooo, I've been back to the farm to see and ride those beautiful Morgans again!! :) Spent the day there a couple of weekends ago, and, this Saturday I'm going back. Can't wait!!!! This could become a regular habit and I have no problem with that. In fact, I am giving some serious thought to the idea of making my childhood dream come true...the dream of having a horse of my own (finally!!!). There are a lot of details to work out in advance, and I have my eye on two beautiful, well-trained Morgan mares. Truth be told, this is a dream I abandoned long ago with the notion that perhaps when I was older the time and opportunity would better suit my life. And when I least expected it, the time came, and the opportunity has presented itself. I feel so alive, energized with this posibility. I'm smiling again; just being in the company of horses feeds my soul endlessly with hope and renewal, diminishing the stress and strains of my work life. And for that I am grateful. I've also mastered digi-scrapping and created several layouts with photos from my last visit.

Life, like a roller coaster, has its ups and downs, its twists and turns, but riding over the top of life's highest thrills and hanging on through it's darkest tunnels offers the greatest ride of all. ~Unknown

19168
Tags: Breast Cancer Awareness, PSP, Tag Offer, WWO, digital scrapbooking, digi-scrap, Morgan, horse

Just Beautiful

2007-09-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

Tag Offer #13 - Beautiful

Sorry...offer closed.

I'm so glad you all are enjoying these tags! I truly enjoy creating them and am having a blast doing so. Inspired by a tag created by Donna (This, That and Hockey), I recently purchased some tubes by Rachel Tallamy, who is rapidly becoming a favorite artist of mine. If you'd like this tag with your name, please include your request in a comment below. Offer closes on Wednesday, October 3 at 9:00 p.m.

And if you like those cute little dolls you see in these entries, they are snaggable!

Thank you for looking!!!

19003
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer, who wants one, WWO, Rachel Tallamy

Tag offer #12 Fall Friends

2007-09-21T00:33:00.000-07:00

Tag offer #12 - Fall in with friends

Sorry...offer closed.

Got another autumn inspired tag featuring the art of Barb Kermis. If you'd like one just add a comment below and include the name you want on the tag. Offer open until I close it.

Thanks for looking!!!

18923
Tags: PSP, Paint Shop Pro, tag offer, WWO, autumn

Tag Offer #11 Halloweeeeeeeen

2007-09-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

Who Wants One #11 - Witch 'n kitty

Sorry...offer closed.

Just a cute 'n simple siggy tag to kick off the upcoming Halloween season featuring the fun and wacky art of Queen Fish. If you'd like one with your name, simply add a comment below to make your request. Offer open until I say so.

More Halloween and fall themed tags to come!!

Christy, I took my camera with me to the horse pulling comp, but the event was held in the evening. I didn't want to use my flash (not to spook the horses), my batteries ran outta juice and the low light didn't bode well with horses on the move. I'll post what I can...later this evening...but the quality is lacking.

18897
Tags: Tag offer, Paint Shop Pro, halloween, PSP

Color me thoughtful

2007-09-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

WWO #10 - a'nuder autumn tag

Sorry...offer closed.

Harvest activities are under way here in Idaho, marked by rodeos, county fairs, and combines chugging away over a sea of golden grain. So marks the ending of another summer and autumn is just around the next corner, so I'm offering a beautifully animated tag featuring the fantasy art of Matt Hughes. Offer open until I close it (notice will be posted to this entry at a later date). Name change only. To request this tag please add a comment to this entry and include the name you'd like for the tag.

Halloween tags are in the works and will be posted soon!!!

Sam and I were at the cabin last weekend, but on Saturday night drove into the small town of Orofino to watch the horse pulling competition taking place as part of the towns county fair celebration. It's a bit like a tractor pulling contest, but we're talking real, live horse power!!! We saw a total of twelve 2 horse teams in three classes (light weight, middle weight, and heavy weight). Watching these horses was simply enchanting...to see huge lumbering draft horses prancing gracefully like dancers around the arena...I was captivated. They love what they do and it was obvious they came to compete. What an experience!!!

Thank you for looking and have a peaceful day. :)

18873

Tags: Tag offer, WWO, autumn, PSP, Paint Shop Pro

If wishes were horses...

2007-09-12T02:52:00.000-07:00

Who Wants One #9: Autumn is a second spring...

Sorry...offer closed.

Going a little seasonal this time, but I have a couple of other ideas floating around in my head. If you would like to request this tag please put the request in a comment below. Name change only, offer open until 9 p.m. on Monday, September 17.

So, last time I wrote we were getting ready for the Hot August Nights concert with Eric Burdon. There were four acts that night, three local bands entertained us before Eric took the stage. It would be unfair to compare any of the locals to Eric. But of the three bands, two understood the importance of practicing and one...well let's just say either they just formed two days before the concert, or they were having a painfully bad night. Eric Burdon, on the other hand, rocked the park, performing for almost two hours. He played almost all his oldies, but leaned more toward his 2006 blues album, much to the disappointment of the crowd. I wasn't disappointed and really enjoyed how he reworked some of the oldies, but apparently I was in the minority because a lot of people got up and left before he ended the show. They came to hear him sing his 60s catalog, he came to promote his new album. Ah well, it is his music and not everyone understands or appreciates the quality of artistic license.

The next morning was an early one, as I had a date with several Morgan horses...it's been a very, very long time since I've been in the saddle. Twenty-five years if you count a brief trail ride at a Rent A Horse stable in Sacramento, thirty years if you count the free-spirited do what I want, go where I want rides I enjoyed as a teen. This time, I was a little nervous and apprehensive at first and took it easy, spending only a half an hour in the saddle; no point overdoing it this early. For so long I've put aside my wishes to ride again...my life has changed and that's that. But the winds of change blew in a fortunate twist when the daughter of a friend married a farmer who also raises Morgans (America's first horse). Oh, they are so perfectly beautiful and I've been away from the company of horses for much too long. Our friends have nine horses, three stallions, five mares and one foal (sooooo cute!). Mirzay, Carlos, Marty, Elvira, Flaming Ember, Coalette, Martina, Susanna, and Tia.

At 23 years old, Mirzay is picture of health and beauty. He is a three time National reining and cutting champion (American Morgan Horse Association title) and many time halter class winner. Isn't he gorgeous...the black stallion, Morgan style. In his time he has sired dozens of prized foals, but his days as a stud will soon be over. Then he'll enjoy long life of leisure grazing in the pasture mixed with occasional trail rides. His owner Cary adores his Mirzay...they've been together since the beginning and share a bond that is strong and tender.

This is Leeann and her 12 year old bay mare, Ember. Ember thinks and acts like a princess. I've been around a few princesses in my life, but they pale by comparison to Ember. She's a bit lazy, but very well trained and once she got into the groove of things, Ember became poetry in motion.

Barb and her 13 year old black mare, Elvira...a birthday present to herself this past January. Elvira is a lively stepper and is, without a doubt, the best trained horse I have ever rode.

Me and Elvira taking a leisurely walk in the pen...that's Mirzay watching us in the background. Funny thing about getting on a horse after a twenty five year absence, along with those years came just about as many extra pounds and well, my first attempt to 'hop' onto the saddle was, ummm, less than graceful, lol!!! Okay, I couldn't even pull myself onto the saddle! Oye! What a weaking!!! What happened!!! I used to be so good at this...it was second nature. Heck, I used to ride bare back! Oh dear, what have I got myself into? Second try was a little better if you don't count the part where I grunted as I tried to hoist and balance an extra twenty pounds of body weight on a fifty year old frame while swinging an equally heavy right leg over Ember's back without kicking her. Good thing no one had a video camera! Geez, that was a wake up call. Luckily, after that it got easier as my mind and body began to syncronize and remember that yes, we know how to do this. We've done it hundreds of times before. I can't wait to go back...hopefully this weekend. :) I should mention I did go faster than a walk...Morgans have such a easy gait at any speed...and I was amazed at how quickly some of my riding skills returned to me. I've still got much to relearn and master and it will take hours of riding before I regain the skill level I once possessed. Leeann's husband Cary offered words of encouragement by telling me 'It's just like riding a bike, once you learn, you never forget.' True, I'll admit, except bikes don't have a mind of their own, lol!

Two month old filly, Tia and her 15 year old black mother, Coalette. Tia is 'blowing' her coat and the soft baby fuzz stands out against the sleeker undercoat.

Susanna, a four year old bay mare. She's a real beauty. Next time I visit the farm, she'll be at the trainers.

Carlos, a two year old chestnut stallion. He's for sale by the way.

Susanna (left) and Marty, a one year old bay stallion following me as I walk around the pasture to visit and photograph Carlos, whose stall and pasture is on the opposite side of the barn. Marty is the farm's future junior stallion.

Not pictured is Martina, a thirteen year old bay mare. She was at the trainer's getting another 30 days training and riding.

I truly enjoyed my day on the farm...it was much needed food for this old soul.

I've been down with some bug for over a week. Ugh! Started as a sore throat a week ago Monday and it just got worse. Was off work last week, but didn't feel up to doing much of anything short of sleeping. I'm finally feeling better, and returned to work this week, but I'm not quite back to 100% yet. By two o'clock I start fading, so I'm taking it easy for now.

There's more to tell, but it's late and I need to get some rest. Hopefully I'll have time to write some more after work tonight.

Horses are nature in its finest form. ~Pat Parelli

18801
Tags: Hot August Nights, concert, rock, Eric Burdon, 60s, Morgan, horse

Tag - Peace...I'm Out

2007-08-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, time for a little music and since George is playing on the tv, I'm inspired to add one of my favorite songs by him to this entry. So here's to a guy who looks great in a pair of Wrangler's (aside from my hubby Sam, of course).

Tag Offer - Peace...I'm Out

Sorry...offer closed.

Tonight I've got a fun little tag featuring the art of Popeye Wong and a cute little sixies sweetie. If you'd like a tag of your own, just put your request in a comment below and I'll get your tag to ya within three days of your request.

Oh, and I almost forgot! BTW, the cute little dolls like the one below are snaggable. Thank you Barb for reminding me.

Thank you for looking!

18665
Tags: Paint Shop Pro, PSP, Tag offer, Who Wants One, WWO

Tag Offer - Improved :)

2007-08-21T20:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry...offer closed.

So I was playing around with my rose tag I offered a couple of entries back, trying to figure out how to animate the reflected image so it looks like water ripples. Couldn't figure it out then, but I did tonight. Better late than never, eh? I tried and tried Sunday night but just couldn't get it to work, so I posted it as is. Tonight I was messing around and voila! :::smacks forehead:::: I figured it out. Wish I coulda remembered that on Sunday. If timing is everything, mine is running really slow.

So anywho, if you'd like one of these tags featuring the photography of Rainbow Coffi, please leave your request in a comment below.

We're watching ABC's Just For Laughs. Have been for the past month and so far every week this show had Sam and I in side-spliting laughter! Tonight it's not as funny so far, but some of the pranks in past weeks were absolutely hilarious!!! It's on Tuesday nights at 8:00 and 8:30.

Tags: tag offer

Who Wants One #8 - Best friends

2007-08-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

Tag Offer!!!

Closes Monday, August 27th. If you'd like me to create the tag below for you, please leave your request in a comment below.

Got a few tags made yesterday, so I'll be posting them here over the next few days. I'm smiling because I just visited Donna at This, That & Hockey and she created a tag with the same tube the other day, lol! We seem to be connecting on a creative level in many ways, as we have aquired many of the same tubes and scrap kits, yet our tags are always very different and unique. Gotta love the freedom of creativity!!!

Sorry...offer closed.

Thank you for looking!!

18600
Tags: tag offer, who wants one

Another getaway gone

2007-08-20T22:38:00.000-07:00

Camping was great! The weather was perfect, not too hot, not too cool, and with the exception of smoke from nearby wildfires the sky was a cloudless palette of blue. The company was warm, the food was yummy, and our time was...as always...too short. We made the most of it since it's prolly the last camping trip of the year. Saw lots of wildlife this trip, on the drive up Wednesday night we saw four moose; three cows and one calf. It got a bit tense tho, because the first cow dashed out right in front of us (no fun at any time, but especially when pulling a 15,000 pound 27' foot travel trailer). The cow ran across the road and disappeared into the trees but her calf got confused, turned right and started running down the middle of the road in front of us. At first we thought for sure the baby would run to the side and get off the road, but it stayed on the road. We would stop so the calf would stop too and then just stand there. So, we'd start again slowly, hoping the baby would move to the side of the road; nope, the calf started running again. This went on for about a half a mile, I was becoming rapidly distressed at the thought the baby would never find it's mother...but what could we do? The mother, however, must have been running alongside the road in the trees because the baby suddenly turned to it's left and ran into the woods. Yay!!!! Whew, that was close. This happened again a few miles down the road when a different moose ran out infront of us and we thought for sure we'd spend the night following her forever, but finally she turned from the pavement and ran into the woods. One thing is for certain, moose are huge animals!

This weekend it's Hot August Nights, the 26th annual end of summer event marked by a classic cars Show and Shine, and classic rock concerts. Friday night it's Gregg Rolie, founding member and lead vocalist of Santana and Journey, followed by Richard Marx. Saturday night belongs entirely to Eric Burdon and the Animals. We're going for sure on Saturday night, haven't decided about Friday night. I always look forward to these concerts; the music rocks and the party is the best.
WWO #7 I'm offering another tag featuring the art of Rainbow Coffi. Offer is open until next Sunday, August 26. If you like and want one of your own, please place your request in a comment below and I'll get your tag to you soon.
Thank you for looking!
18579

Tags: Camping, outdoors, mountains, recreation, river, Idaho, traveling, weekend, concerts, Hot August Nights, Who Wants One, WWO, Paint Shop Pro, PSP, tag offer

I feel a tropical breeze...

2007-08-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry...offer closed.

WWO #6

Feeling a little tropical today. Never been to Hawaii, but I would love to travel there someday. And so it is my dreams of the islands were I found inspiration for todays tag offer, featuring the work of Michael Landefeld. He's an Adult Content artist so I won't link to his website as I know many of you have children who may be present in the room if you click. :) To request this tag, all you need to do is:

add a comment to include the name you want

name change only

tags will be e-mailed to your e-mail addy within three days of your request

offer closes Sunday, August 19 at 8:00 p.m

Thank you for looking!

Sammy's getting restless and wants to do something today, so this will be another short one.

Tags: Who Wants One, WWO, signature tag

My Life As A Domestic Goddess/Diva

2007-08-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone!

Got a brief minute for a quick entry before I get started on my Saturday shuffle (read as Honey Do). Sam's already outside hitting his list, so I better get started on mine. We're going camping with friends on Wednesday night and I need to sew a canvas carrying bag for a folding table we bought last year. I purchased the material and supplies back then, so I better get this done, soon, lol!

WWO #6

Sorry...offer closed.

Instructions for requesting this tag:

add a comment to request a tag

name change only

offer open until I close it

tags will be e-mailed to the requestor

Thank you for looking!

Tags: Who Wants One, WWO, Gulinski, signature, tags

More trip pics :)

2007-08-09T00:29:00.000-07:00

Sorry...offer closed.

WWO #5

I've been a busy lil bee <grin> so I thought, what the hey! I've got an idea for another tag. This one features the lovely fairy artwork of Renee Biertempfel, one of my faves. And here's the rules:

name change only

add a comment to request your tag and I'll e-mail the tag to your AOL addy

if you want your tag e-mailed to a non-AOL addy, please use the following format -> userid at internetserviceprovidername dot com in order to prevent spammers from harvesting your e-mail addy

tags will be delivered within three days of request; if more time is needed I'll let you know

offer closes Tuesday, August 14 at 9:00 p.m. Pacific Time.

Thanks for looking!!!

The pics above were all taken in Montana. You can click on any of the pics to enlarge the photo. :) It was so hazy the day we went to Glacier National Park and my pics just aren't very crisp. But there were waterfalls, everywhere; I've never seen so many concentrated in one area. Some were close, some miles away, some flowed along the valley, some next to and beneath the Going to the Sun Road, and some just seemed to come from nowhere out of the mountain face. Amazing beauty everywhere.

Enjoy!

More to come...oh, I have lots!! But I'll not bore you with all of them, lol, it would take forever to upload.

Hugs,

Dona

Tags: WWO, Who Wants One, Montana, Glacier National Park, mountains, wildlife, rivers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, Flathead Lake

Big Skies...Wild Breezes

2007-08-08T01:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry...offer closed.

WWO #4

Inspired by our recent journey to Big Sky country (and a very easy tutorial), I created this fun and sassy siggy tag to satisfy the cowgirl in me...or you. It features the artwork of the one and only Popeye Wong. If you'd like to request one of these tags, please remember:

name change only

place your request as a comment below

if you want your tag e-mailed to a non-AOL address, please use the following format-> userid at internetserviceprovider dot com This will prevent spammers from harvesting your e-mail address...unless of course you love spam

tags will be e-mailed within three days of your request

offer closes Monday, August 13 at 9:00 p.m.

Thank you for looking!!!

MEET ME IN MONTANA

There's just something about Montana...it's not the beautiful open skyscape or the endless pastoral landscape that goes on and on forever. I think it's the people and the way they re-define the words customer service.

I'll explain.

The day before our vacation began, the power windows in our Dodge quit. The warranty period is over and only two loan payments remain on the truck so naturally this is bound to happen. Sam calls our local Dodge dealer Friday afternoon, they hem and haw and tell him the earliest they can have a looksee at the truck is Tuesday; no good since we'll be in Montana by then.

Saturday morning we hit the road, with our sights on Missoula, and Sam jokingly observes we may end up with a new truck by day's end (he's not happy with his at the moment). Sam has family in Missoula...a couple of cousins...who are expecting us and time with them is always a parh-tay! They have three Harleys (Road Kings...sweeeeet!) and a honey of a Mustang in their garage. One cousin works inthe automotive industry and upon hearing of our troubles makes a quick call to his buddy at the local Dodge dealer, who explains service isn't open on Saturday, and they are booked solid on Monday but if we bring the truck in first thing he'll see what can be done. Long story short, Sam heads to the Dodge business before 8 a.m., and by 11:30 the truck is back with windows working perfectly. And our local Dodge dealer just lost two very loyal customers.

Valley carved by glaciers. View from Going to the Sun Road.

We spent Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at Glacier National Park (beautiful!) and Tuesday night a nasty storm hit the area. It was so bad the Weather Service issued tornado warnings. The skies opened up, rain and hail poured down, thunder and lightening kept us up, and one family decided in the middle of the storm that it was a good time to pack everything up on hit the road...in the middle of the night. When we went to bed this family was scrambling around their campsite getting their trailer loaded and hitched...they were gone by midnight. Don't know where they thought they were going since the only road from the park headed right into the storm.

Going to The Sun Road

This sweet little baby mountain goat doesn't like being on this on this metal trail.

Glacier is site of the famous Going to the Sun Road, and man what a drive that was!!! If you go to any National Park in the future, make it Glacier and travel this road. It was amazing! Unfortunately, nearby wildfires made for very hazy photos (insert frowney face here) but nontheless the scenery was spectacular. Glacier is filled with waterfalls, around every corner water cascades down the mountains in the distance, and even alongside, and then under the Road. TIP: Take a bottle of hand sanitizer with you if you travel on Going to the Sun Road as not all the rest rooms were equiped with hand soap.

On the lookout...could it be another spy? <grin>

Sunset on Lake Pend Oreille

Our campsite neighbors.

Thursday and Friday we stayed at Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho at the Beyond Hope RV Resort, located on a game preserve and there were deer...everywhere. Sam and I took a little nap in our lawn chairs outside our trailer Friday afternoon and we woke to find two bucks and a doe casually grazing less than three feet away from us. I didn't dare more so as not to spook them, but I soooo wanted to get up and grab my camera. Some didn't look healthy at all which may be due in large part to their grass only diet, which has little nutritional value for deer. They require bushy vegetation and moss, which wasn't readily available in the area. But I was fortunate to capture some of my favorite photos during our stay there. This was my first visit to the Lake and it provided many beautiful opportunities for some spectacular photos.

Buck in velvet. When I framed this shot, he was looking straight ahead; snap, he's moved.I'm not happy with how I framed this (cutting off his rump) but I was focusing on his antler's and getting close enough to pick up the velvet texture.

Pend Oreille wetlands north of East Hope, Idaho.

That's all for now. It's late...more later.

Tags: vacation, Montana, Dodge, trucks, Glacier National Park, Going to the Sun Road, thunderstorm, Idaho, Lake Pend Oreille, deer, wildlife,

WWO #3

2007-08-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry...offer closed.

Hello my friends!

I know I've been very quiet lately...I'm okay, just been busy traveling, working and thinking...been doing a lot of thinking.

Thank you, everyone, for all your heartfelt words, thoughts, and most of all, friendship. The support I received...and continue to receive...from this community is deeply appreciated; your words and thoughts helped me through a very sad and difficult time. No words can express the depth of my gratitude and respect I have for each and every one of you. Again, thank you.

Right now I've just got time for a quick entry for a tag offer. This time I'm offering a beautiful winged tiger from the art of Abranda Sisson. The rules are simple:

*Name change only.
*Enter your request as a comment and provide your e-mail addy if you're not on AOL.
*Tags will be e-mailed as soon as reasonably possible...three days from the day you submit your request being a reasonable time. If I encounter some unforeseeable delay, an entry to this journal will be posted to advise you of the status. :)

Happy Friday everyone, and thank you for looking!!!

Hugs,
Dona

P. S. Congratulations to CS for passing that exam. ^5 (high five) :)

Tags: tag offer, WWO, Who Wants One, gratitude, Friday