Mustang Michelle

Facebook for Mustang lovers

2012-02-02T11:25:00.000-05:00

There are several groups on Facebook you may consider joining:

HAPPY MUSTANGS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/bjwhitt/358170104212045/#!/groups/101061729976483/

ADOPT A LIVING LEGEND

https://www.facebook.com/groups/bjwhitt/358170104212045/#!/groups/238461099565230/

KIGER MUSTANGS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/bjwhitt/358170104212045/#!/groups/KigerMustangs/

WILD HORSE MENTOR PROGRAM

https://www.facebook.com/groups/bjwhitt/358170104212045/#!/groups/bjwhitt/

MUSTANG TRAINERS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/bjwhitt/358170104212045/#!/groups/mustangtrainers/

LOGICAL SOLUTIONS

https://www.facebook.com/groups/bjwhitt/358170104212045/#!/groups/130938963664776/

AND SO MUCH MORE... Get out there and join the conversation.

Endurance Etiquette on the Trail

2012-01-09T20:46:00.000-05:00

Tips from Karen concerning trail etiquette

Endurance Etiquette on the Trail

Merry Christmas to you and yours

2011-12-22T10:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T21:16:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone is doing well. We have been busy with school and riding.

Mustang Dreams....: Bee Hive Update...

2011-10-25T21:53:00.000-04:00

I just love the hive pics.

Mustang Dreams....: Bee Hive Update...

Takeshi's Castle - Roller Derby

2011-10-06T07:47:00.000-04:00

I love when Karen posts cool stuff.

2011-09-06T22:19:00.000-04:00

Mustang Dreams....: Cicada kinda summer....

Oh yeah....

2011-08-25T20:30:00.000-04:00

I have to share the message I received from a former student tonight.

hey, just wanted to shoot you a message to thank you:) i just started geometry and now i realize what an amazing teacher you were!! i miss you. :/ anyways, i have the highest grade i my class on the 4th day because i was the only one in my whole class who did several summer assighnments giving me extra credit. thank youuu!!

It's things like that remind me why I teach. I really do love my job and my kids. =)

Deep thoughts...

2011-08-21T21:59:00.003-04:00

"The key to a long lasting relationship is finding someone who compliments you."

Notice I didn't say completes you. Completes, to me, implies you can't live without the other person. Compliments implies that you good enough on your own, BUT you are even better with that person in your life.

This is the crap that goes through my head at the gym. I have to do something for that hour plus. Listening to music just isn't enough when you are going full speed ahead and getting no where. SOOOO... I think.

Erik and I have been together almost 15 years. That's a long time to be with someone. I started to think about how and why we've made it this far. This is what I came up with:

The thing I love most about my husband is that he's always allowed me to be me. I am a handful, and I know it. I am stubborn, hard-headed, strong willed, independent, blah, blah, blah... Erik's never tried to change any of that. He's always accepted me as I am with all my flaws. He's supported me, my hopes, my dreams, and my passions. In return, I try to do the same for him.

Why am I posting this??? Well, this afternoon I spent some time pampering my ponies. Everyone got a haircut (including bridal paths). Then, I bathed them and cleaned sheaths. As they stood tied to the trees drying, I admired them and smiled. My mind went back to the deep thoughts from earlier at the gym. My boys are so happy together. Each one has a personality which compliments the others. You have no idea how happy this makes me. Life is good. =)

Rocky (not too bad for 19)

Linc sporting his first bridal path ever (not that you can see it )

Took me a while to decide on a long or short mane for Ranger.
I went with short for the same reason I finally decided to cut bridal paths... it's just easier to keep up with.

The 3 musketeers

Linc heard me getting buckets and struck a pose.
Tonight, the boys enjoyed oily bran mashes.

A quote worth sharing...

2011-08-20T10:33:00.001-04:00

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. ~Albert Schweitzer

I am feeling some pony & friend withdrawals at the moment. It usually happens around this time of year. It's still too hot for some to ride, and I get wrapped up with school. I am looking forward to October when the adventures will begin again and my fire is rekindled.

Something to look forward to (one day)

2011-08-17T22:32:00.002-04:00

You know how I love to set goals. After reading this email from KD, I have decided this adventure is for sure on my bucket list of things to do.

My dear friend Marilyn Whitford used to do cross country and endurance riding in years past and has regaled us with those tales around the campfire. Now that she is a little more seasoned, she has switched to mules and riding not only every local trail she can find, but casting far and wide for riding adventures.

She did the Grand Canyon by mule earlier this summer, along with an America by Horseback Ride at Circle E Ranch in Tennessee, a ride at Leatherwood in North Carolina with some of her mule buddies and just returned from a week in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, riding alongside her mule trainer/mentor Brad Cameron. Mind you, this was camping in a tent on a bedroll with possible grizzlies running around at night.

Relax and enjoy the slideshow of the gorgeous vistas of the Canadian Rockies by muleback.

Click for the photos........... Marilyn's Grand Adventure

Can I get an AMEN!?!?!

2011-08-12T19:10:00.005-04:00

Saw this on a friend's FB, it pretty much nailed it for me and had to share. Please pass it on. For those interested in purchasing the poster, it is available at www.holstee.com. Use discount code 'newfriend' and get $5 off.

Summer is coming to an end

2011-08-10T10:18:00.001-04:00

In some ways, I am sad. I always enjoy the extra time at home with Cory and projects. However, I am looking forward to cooler weather, new students, and adult time.

We took one last summer camping trip to 7 Bar L. It was hot, but we made the best of it.

Best $25 I've ever spent

Me & my Ruby

Self portrait

Spent Saturday at the Spring

Erik spent a few minutes with us before heading back to camp

Donald & Cory

Chele

I named this guy Lil' Dude

Can you tell I made Donald take a pic with Lil' Dude?

Picnic lunch

My girl

Bill & Marcelle

Playing wit the pups

Ruby has to stay cool too

Cory & Poppy

Me & Ranger

We always eat good

I think we wore Mr. Bill out

It cooled off after the rain. Had to make a fire. ;)

Cory & the pups were so worn out. They slept in the next morning.

Louise (Donald's mule) was a little off, so he took a spin on Rocky.

Donald leads the way.

Bill & Marcelle on the bridge

Donald holds Linc for me while I take pics.

Donald looks good on a short ears

The spruced up the little house at Suwanee. Looks good!

Cory tries to keep cool.

We came home on Sunday to a broken AC unit. Thankfully, Erik was able to determine the problem (a broken blower motor). The people at the supply house were very nice. They warrantied it out. We only had to pay for shipping.

Cory had her swim banquet on Tuesday. It was our best season yet, so we are a little sad it's over. Looking forward to 2012.

Cory with Liv & Mallory

Cory was pick MVP by her coaches

Saying thank you to Emery. She's stepping down as head coach next year.

Silly daddy

Cory and Dale

Cory & Kaitlyn

Cory & Mia (who had to cut her hair short like Cory's)

Cory & Emery

HERE are the rest of 7 Bar L pics.

HERE are more swimming pics.

#357 Rusty Executive - America's Favorite Trail Horse

2011-08-09T22:30:00.001-04:00

Our friend, Traci Woodard, and her hubby's horse, Rusty.

Keeping busy

2011-08-01T12:47:00.007-04:00

Despite the heat, we have been staying busy with swimming, camping, cleaning, demolishing, clearing, and riding.

OTST team pic

Some friends and I braved the weather at River Rise

Good friends, good ponies, & good drink - couldn't ask for more

Double trouble

We took a trip to Poe Springs to cool off

Striking a pose

Kayakers

It was COLD!

Peace!

Donald & Christina

Erik gets brave

Thing 1 & Thing 2 (according to Cory)

Cory & Ruby

Cory & Poppy

Birthday party for Dale

Schooling night at JEC.

Using herd instincts to get Bonnie to approach the scary opening.

KD & Stylin

Me loving on Ranger. Christina on Addy

OTST car wash

Big thanks to Walgreens

Erik brought the big truck out to attract customers. The kids loved it.

Erik shows Cory how to jump her bike.

She did it.

Erik & Donald tell me I am #1. (like I didn't know that)

School supplies - Check

Me & MiniMe at Dolphin's practice

My MIL & friend help demolish our old fence

Opps, that was not supposed to happen

We had the top of a tree cut down. I was afraid it would fall on the house in a storm.

We've got plenty of wood for camping now.

I constructed a temporary fence till we can chain link the front. It's redneck, but it works.

Well deserved drink after all that work

Baby sitting Parker. He's sweet, but I am reminded why Cory was my one and only.

We tye died shirts for Champs with Cory's swim team. Think I got more on my hands than the shirt.

Cory's hands

DeAnna's hands

Beach time with DeAnna, Chase, & Brody

Cory & Brody

Taking our friend's niece, Annie (green), on her first solo trail ride.

Dale was Cory's "little." He wasn't sure what to think about Champs.

Waiting at Champs Clerk of Course

Riding Ranger bareback in the dressage arena at JEC.

Lunging Rocky

Waiting for her relay.

Now that swimming is over, summer can finally feel like a vacation. Cory and I hated leaving at 6:45 every morning. I just hope my dogs get the memo and let us sleep in. :)

My new decals

Saw this online and had to borrow it...

2011-07-24T08:11:00.000-04:00

Things You Wish You Could Tell Non-Horse People
1. A Pony is NOT a Baby Horse

2. There is a distinct difference between being Bucked-off and FALLING-off

3. Trotting is NOT the same thing as Galloping

4. The horses in the field are NOT blindfolded

5. The horses in the field laying in the sun are NOT dead, they're just napping

6. Jumping is not what you see in the old western movies

7. You cannot just throw a saddle on ANY horse, and expect to ride it

8. Yes it IS hard to ride a horse, no it does NOT do all the work and NO you don't just SIT THERE

9. Yes, in the wild horses didn't live in stalls, wear blankets or get their feet trimmed, but they also did not do dressage or jump 3' with an extra 180# on their backs.

10. There's a difference between galloping for fun and being run away with.

11. Just because my horse is a boy does not mean he is a stallion.

12. Kicking a horse in the ribs and yelling "YAAAHHH" isn't the appropriate way to start.

13. An awful lot of the big names in the movies actually couldn't really ride that well. The horse deserved his own award for tolerance.

14. I'm 23. I have a degree in equine science. I'M NOT GOING TO GROW OUT OF IT. ITS NO LONGER JUST A PHASE!

15. In real life, horses do not whinny constantly like they do in the movies.

16. She's not "white", she's a grey.

17. No, he will not automatically kick you if you walk behind him.

18. Not *all* horses are either Beer Horses (Clydesdales) or Race Horses.

19. Just because you are a good rider doesn't mean you no longer need a trainer.

20. Not ALL baby horses are COLTS! Girl horse babies are called FILLIES!

21. Getting a pony and keeping it in your backyard for the kids is not a good idea.

22. The nails in shoes are NOT sticking into the 'feeling' part. They horse really can't feel the nails. I promise.

23. Rearing is not cool.

24. just because you have children, and I have horses, does not mean that the two groups shall be joined together, EVER.

25. No, these full chaps are ONLY used for riding horses, and no, I won't wear them in the bedroom!

26. ALL chaps are Butt-less. If they had a butt, they'd be leather pants, wouldn't they?

Sgt Reckless - Korean War Horse Hero

2011-07-12T10:45:00.000-04:00

Is it fall yet?

2011-07-11T12:35:00.000-04:00

We've not done much riding these days. We spend most of our time beside the pool and in the gym instead. It's so stinkin hot. I miss camping and hanging with my friends.

Cory, my MIL, and I at one of her swim meets

My mom surprised Cory with a visit

Playing with my new camera

Cory shows me her dive

Fun times with friends and family

My little fishy

Me & my mom

Hubby & mom

Got this in an email and had to share

2011-07-06T13:52:00.000-04:00

Long but well worth the read...

What took you so long in the restroom? (This is hilarious!!)

FOR ALL THE MEN IN OUR LIVES WHO ASK WHAT TOOK YOU SO LONG?

When you have to visit a public bathroom, you usually find a line of women, so you smile politely and take your place. Once it's your turn, you check for feet under the stall doors. Every stall is occupied. Finally, a door opens and you dash in, nearly knocking down the woman leaving the stall.

You get in to find the door won't latch. It doesn't matter, the wait has been so long you are about to wet your pants! The dispenser for the modern "seat covers" (invented by someone's Mom, no doubt) is handy, but empty . You would hang your purse on the door hook, if there was one , but there isn't - so you carefully, but quickly drape it around your neck, (Mom would turn over in her grave if you put it on the FLOOR! ), yank down your pants, and assume "The Stance."

In this position your aging, toneless (God I should have gone to the gym!!!) thigh muscles begin to shake. You'd love to sit down, but you certainly hadn't taken time to wipe the seat or lay toilet paper on it, so you hold "The Stance".

To take your mind off your trembling thighs, you reach for what you discover to be the empty toilet paper dispenser. In your mind, you can hear your mother's voice saying, "Honey, if you had tried to clean the seat, you would have KNOWN there was no toilet paper!" Your thighs shake more.

You remember the tiny tissue that you blew your nose on yesterday - the one that's still in your purse . (Oh yeah, the purse around your neck, that now, you have to hold up trying not to strangle yourself at the same time). That will have to do. You crumple it in the puffiest way possible. It's still smaller than your thumbnail.

Someone pushes your door open because the latch doesn't work. The door hits your purse, which is hanging around your neck in front of your chest , and you and your purse topple backward against the tank of the toilet.
"Occupied!" you scream, as you reach for the door, dropping your precious, tiny , crumpled tissue in a puddle on the floor, lose your footing altogether, and slide down directly onto the TOILET SEAT. It is wet of course.

You bolt up, knowing all too well that it's too late . Your bare bottom has made contact with every imaginable germ and life form on the uncovered seat because YOU never laid down toilet paper - not that there was any , even if you had taken time to try.

You know that your mother would be utterly appalled if she knew, because, you're certain her bare bottom never touched a public toilet seat because, frankly, dear , "You just don't KNOW what kind of diseases you could get".

By this time, the automatic sensor on the back of the toilet is so confused that it flushes, propelling a stream of water like a fire hose against the inside of the bowl that sprays a fine mist of water that covers your butt and runs down your legs and into your shoes. The flush somehow sucks everything down with such force that you grab onto the empty toilet paper dispenser for fear of being dragged in too.

At this point, you give up.. You're soaked by the spewing water and the wet toilet seat. You're e-x-h-a-u-s-t-e-d. You try to wipe with a gum wrapper you found in your pock! et and then slink out inconspicuously to the sinks. You can't figure out how to operate the faucets with the automatic sensors, so you wipe your hands with spit and a dry paper towel and walk past the line of women still waiting. You are no longer able to smile politely to them. A kind soul at the very end of the line points out a piece of toilet paper trailing from your shoe. (Where was that when you NEEDED it??) You yank the paper from your shoe, plunk it in the woman's hand and tell her warmly, "Here , you just might need this".

As you exit, you spot your hubby, who has long since entered, used, and left the men's restroom. Annoyed, he asks, "What took you so long, and why is your purse hanging around your neck?"

This is dedicated to women everywhere who deal with a public restrooms (rest??? you've GOT to be kidding!!). It finally explains to the men what really does take us so long. It also answers their other commonly asked questions about why women go to the restroom in pairs. It's so the other gal can hold the door, hang onto your purse, and hand you Kleenex under the door!

A Friend Is Like A Good Bra...
Hard to Find...
Supportive....
Comfortable ...
Always Lifts You Up...
Never Lets You Down, or Leaves You Hanging,
And Is Always Close To Your Heart!!!

For the ladies

2011-06-29T15:34:00.002-04:00

My dad used to get annoyed with me for not changing my own oil any more. This just goes to show I was right for putting away the tools and pulling out my debit card. =)

Oil Change instructions for Women:

1. Pull up to jiffy place when the mileage reaches 3,000 miles since the last oil change.

2. Drink a cup of coffee.

3. 15 minutes later, scan debit card and leave, driving a properly maintained vehicle.

Money spent:
Oil Change: $24.00
Coffee: Complementary
TOTAL: $24.00

Oil Change instructions for Men:

1. Wait until Saturday, drive to auto parts store and buy a case of oil, filter, kitty litter, hand cleaner and a scented tree, and use your debit card for $50.00.

2. Stop by Beer Store and buy a case of beer, (debit $24), drive home.

3. Open a beer and drink it.

4. Jack truck up. Spend 30 minutes looking for jack stands.

5. Find jack stands under kid's pedal car.

6. In frustration, open another beer and drink it.

7. Place drain pan under engine.

8. Look for 9/16 box end wrench.

9. Give up and use crescent wrench.

10. Unscrew drain plug.

11. Drop drain plug in pan of hot oil: splash hot oil on you in process. Cuss.

12. Crawl out from under truck to wipe hot oil off of face and arms. Throw kitty litter on spilled oil.

13. Have another beer while watching oil drain.

14. Spend 30 minutes looking for oil filter wrench.

15. Give up; crawl under truck and hammer a screwdriver through oil filter and twist off.

16. Crawl out from under truck with dripping oil filter splashing oil everywhere from holes. Cleverly hide old oil filter among trash in trash can to avoid environmental penalties. Drink a beer.

17. Install new oil filter making sure to apply a thin coat of oil to gasket surface.

18. Dump first quart of fresh oil into engine.

19. Remember drain plug from step 11.

20. Hurry to find drain plug in drain pan.

21. Drink beer.

22. Discover that first quart of fresh oil is now on the floor. Throw kitty litter on oil spill.

23. Get drain plug back in with only a minor spill. Drink beer.

24. Crawl under truck getting kitty litter into eyes. Wipe eyes with oily rag used to clean drain plug. Slip with stupid crescent wrench tightening drain plug and bang knuckles on frame removing any excess skin between knuckles and frame.

25. Begin cussing fit.

26. Throw stupid crescent wrench.

27. Cuss for additional 5 minutes because wrench hit truck and left dent.

28. Beer.

29. Clean up hands and bandage as required to stop blood flow.

30. Beer.

31. Dump in five fresh quarts of oil.

32. Beer.

33. Lower truck from jack stands.

34. Move truck back to apply more kitty litter to fresh oil spilled during any missed steps.

35. Beer.

36. Test drive truck.

37. Get pulled over: arrested for driving under the influence.

38. Truck gets impounded.

39. Call loving wife, make bail.

40. 12 hours later, get truck from impound yard.

Money spent:
Parts: $50.00
DUI: $2,500.00
Impound fee: $75.00
Bail: $1,500.00
Beer: $20.00
TOTAL: $4,145.00

But you know the job was done right!

No good deed goes unpunished...

2011-06-26T17:37:00.001-04:00

That was the conversation Donald and I had first thing this morning after I noticed his finger bandaged up. Apparently, he had jammed his finger while trying to help a friend with their horse.

Wouldn't you know, the same thought applied to me today?!?!?!

Chele, Julianne, Cory, Donald, and I met at Jennings for an early (sort of) morning ride.

I rode Linc.

View from the Dawn cam

Cory and Donald have a staring contest while Chele offers Dawn some water.

We had a nice ride - not too hot, no bugs, horses were well behaved.

As we were heading back towards the trail head, we came across a young couple walking. They had been playing on the dirt roads and gotten their truck super STUCK. They didn't have a phone or water, and they really had no idea where they were going.

We offered to help. Julianne let the boy friend use her phone. No one answered, so they decided to walk back with us since they seemed all turned around and confused.

This is where I went wrong. I noticed the girl huffing and puffing as she walked. I offered to let her get on Linc. She had been telling me about her horse they used to have and her mom's horse. Stupid me thought she could ride.

She's on Linc. I am jumping on the back of Rocky with Cory.

Boy friend leading the way.

Things were going great for a while. Linc was walking slow and taking care of his passenger. Good ol' Rocky didn't seem to mind lugging both me and Cory.

Somehow, we got a little spread out. Linc being Linc, started to trot to catch up. All of a sudden, I heard the girl screaming bloody murder. Linc got scared and started to canter. The girl leaned forward and goosed him in the flanks. He hunched up and off she went. She never once picked up the reins or said "Whoa!" Thankfully, we were on a soft, sandy road. Julianne (the nurse) hopped off and checked her all out. She was shaken up and sore, but for the most part she was fine.

WTF!?! I thought she could ride. Now what???

Well, we got her up and brushed off. Poor Linc looked like he lost his best friend. You could just tell he wasn't trying to be bad. He's become my Mr. Reliable. I would pretty much put anyone on him these day.

Everyone agreed she needed to get back on. We didn't want her to be scarred for life.

I decided to hand walk her all the way back.

It was hot, and I was tired. BUT... I made it all the way back on foot. Thank God, Emery and I have been going to the gym. Walking in 98 degree temps with jeans and boots ain't no joke!

Their family was at the trail head waiting for them. They hopped in the truck and were on their way. They didn't really say thanks, goodbye, go eff yourself, nothing... Go figure!

Never again will I be so stupid. That could have turned out VERY bad. She could have gotten hurt and sued me for the little bit I have. Thankfully, luck was on my side for a change.

Take it from me... Let them walk!

YEEHAW!!!

2011-06-25T22:09:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Liz and Heath, I have my truck back. Can't wait to make like horse poop and hit the trail! WOOHOO!

The problem was with Injector #4

Staying positive...

2011-06-22T13:34:00.001-04:00

Sometimes that is a hard thing to do when you feel like nothing is going right. You know the saying, "If it weren't for bad luck, I wouldn't have any luck at all." That is the story of my life at the moment.

First, I had to put my daughter's pony, Beauty, down. She had impacted, and I had two choices - surgery or humane euthanasia. Thankfully, this was something I'd already thought about. Beauty was 24ish years old. She'd been loved and lived a full life. Colic surgery is expensive, and I couldn't see putting my family in severe debt. As hard as it was, I chose option number 2.

A day or two later, my husbands 50" Panasonic Plasma TV died. No warning, no storms, no power surges, just poof... DEAD! It irritates me because the TV wasn't even 3 years old. I bought it for Erik when we moved into this house. It was a birthday, anniversary, you name it gift. $1200 down the drain. Now it's black with no signs of life (unless you count the two red blinking lights of death).

If that was not enough, my truck is ill. I took it to have the oil changed on Thursday. On the way home, I stopped at Shell to fill up. That night, it started running rough. Friday morning, I bought an air filter and took it back to the shop to get the fuel filter changed. Cory and I go to drive it home, and it was still messed up. Back to the shop it went. Monday, they tell me they think it may be an injector and quote me $1000+ in repairs.

UGH!!! You can see why I am frustrated.

Anyway... A couple of days ago, my friend, KD, posted on our yahoo TROT group about her recent "Woes and Pros." She'd been going thru some rough times too, but instead of bitching and moaning like I was, she was trying to focus the positives.

Can you say reality check??? So here's my attempt at being positive...

Beauty - I am grateful that she came back into our lives. We had tried to rehome her with Miss Marilyn, but for various reasons, it didn't work out and she came home. We'd spent lots of time with her in the last few months. I thank God everyday for the passion and the skills she taught Cory in the 6+ years we had her.

TV - Although it's a fairly new TV, technology changes quickly. I plan to replace it with something 3D ready when we get the money.

Truck - Things could have been worse. I could have been hauling my trailer. I could have been broke down on the side with a full load. What a pain that would have been! We have picked the truck up from the first shop and have taken it to our friends, Liz & Heath. They have a diesel repair shop. I know it will be fixed right, and I will be on the road before I know it. Love those guys!

Other positives...

I have rejoined the gym. Over a year ago, I dropped my membership to save money. I did "OK" at keeping my weight off (gained back 10 of the 20 pounds I lost 2 years ago). Although I am super sore, I am happy to be feeling healthy. I missed working out with Emery.

Oceanway Tsunamis swim season has begun. Cory has moved up this year. She is now with the 9-10 year olds. She's focusing on getting her strokes right and is having a ball.

My 3 pony boys are getting along better. The loss of Beauty has brought them together. I am still very pleased with Ranger. He is a pleasure to work with. Cory's really embraced helping me with the horses. She's learned to lunge both Rocky and Linc. We are working together to keep everyone exercised. She even rode Linc bareback the other day. :)

Erik's job has been keeping him busy. Times are tough, and it's good thing when you have "too" much work.

So there you have it. I thank God for my husband, my family, and my friends. They are there to lift me up and/or kick me in the ass when I need it. Life is good!

Bravo Canyon America's Favorite Trail Horse Finalist.wmv

2011-06-10T20:50:00.000-04:00

One of my favorites competing for America's Favorite Trail Horse

Tacky tack blog

2011-06-06T19:28:00.002-04:00

Look, my picture made it to the blog. ;)

http://tackytackoftheday.blogspot.com/2011/06/classy.html

Family Fun Time - May 29, 2011

2011-05-30T11:40:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, we spent the day at Nana and Papa's house. Papa is such a big kid. He spent half the day running back and forth to Gander Mountain trying to find the perfect tube to play on.

Papa showing us how it's done

Allen gives it a try

Uncle Johnny feeding the fish ;p

Seth tries too, but just doesn't have the strength to pull up the front.

Cory's got a loose tooth

Seth shows off his grill

Drew was a tubing fool!

Kevin has a good time too

Chef Linda telling us to chow down

HERE is a link to the rest of the pics and a video of Papa.

Just shoot them....

2011-05-30T10:30:00.005-04:00

It seems that I hear statements like this all the time from family and friends. These are people who don't understand the relationship I (we) have with the horses. I don't want to imagine life with out them. They bring me such joy. They make me feel alive and connect me to the world around me. As I bee-bop down the trail, I look at the nature surrounding me, and I think how lucky and blessed I am to be alive.

Anyway... I had to get that off my chest. Although I haven't been updating my blog lately, I have been riding.

Ranger is coming along nicely and seems to be the right fit for our family. His personality is very similar to Linc's.

Ranger's first beach ride

He's so hadsome!

Ranger and I standing in the Suwanee

Linc is becoming a family horse. He will always be "my" horse, but he doesn't seem to mind toting Erik and Cory around.

Linc willingly walks into the waves now

Linc trying to get some Cory love

Linc and Cory making their way down the bank

Could he look any goofier?

Cory on Linc & DeAnna on Rocky

Rocky is going strong. He's Cory's main ride, but every now and then I get to sneak a ride in too.

Checking out the new Jennings trailhead

Love this pic

Rocky giving me the "you don't expect me to cross that" look

Mother's Day - Rocky and Cory share a special moment

It's amazing how much he loves Cory

Rocky takes good care of DeAnna at Pumkpin Hill

Cory also rides Beauty regularly.

We are so happy she's back home

This pony loves to hit the trails.

In the water... WOOHOO!

Looking for shells and shark's teeth

Mother's Day ride

I just had to throw this pic in here too. I wouldn't want to live without my pups either.

Wake up call at 7 Bar L.

MugWump: Reining Torn Apart

2011-05-30T08:59:00.001-04:00

You've got to love MugWump. In this post, she shares her two cents on the recent reining VIDEO circulating the internet and get horse lovers' panties all wadded up.

http://mugwumpchronicles.blogspot.com/2011/05/reining-torn-apart.html

Cabbage

2011-05-08T10:04:00.000-04:00

Chele did a great job with Cory's cabbage. :)

Julie Goodnight On the Road: A Smile in the Face of Adversity

2011-04-16T16:21:00.000-04:00

Julie Goodnight On the Road: A Smile in the Face of Adversity

It's been awhile....

2011-04-12T21:25:00.001-04:00

Click the pic for some photos from Mar/Apr 2011.

mugwump chronicles: Everybody Knows Sumpthin'

2011-04-11T10:37:00.000-04:00

I really enjoyed this post. You might too...

mugwump chronicles: Everybody Knows Sumpthin'

Free FCAT breakfast

2011-04-07T12:30:00.001-04:00

FYI:

More than 800 McDonald’s restaurants in Florida will serve students taking Florida’s Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) a free breakfast. The free breakfast includes an Egg McMuffin, choice of a 1% low fat white Milk Jug milk or a small orange juice, and a package of Apple Dippers. The free breakfasts will be available on Monday, April 11 — the first day of FCAT testing. The offer will run from 6 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Click the link below to see what will be tested each day.

Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test® Spring 2011 FCAT Schedule

On a personal note, this will be Cory's first year taking the test. I can't help but be a little nervous for her. She's definitely got herself all wound up and stressed out.

Wishing her and the rest of the students across the state best of luck!

I'm around Stage III

2011-04-06T07:59:00.001-04:00

Funny stuff from Birgit:

My view from a recent land purchase of Ranger

Stage I: Fall off pony. Bounce. Laugh. Climb back on. Repeat.

Stage II: Fall off horse. Run after horse, cussing. Climb back on by shimmying up horse’s neck. Ride until sundown.

Stage III: Fall off horse. Use sleeve of shirt to stanch bleeding. Have friend help you get back on horse. Take two Advil and apply ice packs when you get home. Ride next day.

State IV: Fall off horse. Refuse advice to call ambulance; drive self to urgent care clinic. Entertain nursing staff with tales of previous daredevil stunts on horseback. Back to riding before cast comes off.

Stage V: Fall off horse. Temporarily forget name of horse and name of husband. Flirt shamelessly with paramedics when they arrive. Spend week in hospital while titanium pins are screwed in place. Start riding again before doctor gives official okay.

Stage VI: Fall off horse. Fail to see any humor when hunky paramedic says, “You again?” Gain firsthand knowledge of advances in medical technology thanks to stint in ICU. Convince self that permanent limp isn’t that noticeable. Promise husband you’ll give up riding. One week later purchase older, slower, shorter horse.

Stage VII: Slip off horse. Relieved when artificial joints and implanted medical devices seem unaffected. Tell husband that scrapes and bruises are due to gardening accident. Pretend you don’t see husband roll his eyes and mutter as he walks away. Give apple to horse.

Trust me. Despite a lack of bounce-ability, aging on horseback isn’t so bad, as long as you know what lies ahead. And as long as you keep your sense of humor.

Amoosing video of showjumping cow

2011-04-05T21:50:00.000-04:00

Julie Goodnight On the Road: It's Not "Just" Trail Riding

2011-03-28T15:22:00.000-04:00

Julie Goodnight On the Road: It's Not "Just" Trail Riding

You just never know sometimes....

2011-03-15T11:05:00.001-04:00

A very good friend of ours, Mike Woodard, was recently diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

http://lakeasburyridingassociation.blogspot.com/2011/03/get-well-soon.html

LARA & NFAHC are hosting a benefit trail ride for Mike Woodard. The ride will be April 16th at Jennings Forest. Cost is $15 per rider and includes lunch. The host clubs are donating food and Jennings Forest has waived the $2 use fee to help our cause. Please RSVP to khladyfish@comcast.net if you would like to participate. You don't have to pay in advance, this is just to plan for food purchases. If you don't want to ride, but would like to volunteer to help on the day of the ride, please contact Jim Will or Lisa. There will also be a silent auction, so if you have any gently used items that you would like to donate for the auction, please bring them with you so we can display them for bidding.

Another way you can help is to donate blood for Mike. He has an account with the FL-GA Blood Alliance. You can log on to http://www.igiveblood.com/ and donate in his name (acct #0190.) Thank you for helping out!

http://lakeasburyridingassociation.b...-for-mike.html/

This was Erik's first time EVER donating blood

He was trying to be brave. Seeing his own blood makes Erik faint.

He did it though.

For me, it was nothing new.

Fliers for the Obstacle Challenge and the Trail ride can be found HERE. Please consider posting them at you local feed and tack stores. Mike and Traci are good people, and they apreciate all the support and prayers.

THANKS IN ADVANCE!

Welcome home dad!

Poca Update

2011-03-15T07:42:00.002-04:00

I received a note from Crystal this morning. I am so excited. I had to share.

Hi!

Poca is doing wonderful! I have been asking her to trot and canter today. She went straight from a walk to a canter the first time I asked her. You really did a great job with her! She is a very smart horse, too. We love her soooo much!!

Take Care!

Crystal

First ride on Ranger

2011-03-10T12:36:00.002-05:00

Saturday, Chele, Pinky, Cory and I met at Guana Preserve for a lovely afternoon ride. It was the my first ride on Ranger since he moved to my house. I was very pleased with him.

He seemed ready to go as I hooked up the trailer

I lunged him for a minute or two to make sure he was cool with the drinks hanging.

Off we go

Rocky was happy to be out and about again.
He was not happy being left behind while I was at Cracker.

Pinky and Doc

Doing well

At our snack break

Chele & Dawn

Enjoying the ride

Ranger loves Cory

HERE are the rest of the pics.

LOOK AT YOURSELF AFTER WATCHING THIS.mp4

2011-03-06T09:16:00.000-05:00

Such an inspiration!

Fun Times at Cracker

2011-03-02T08:04:00.000-05:00

Cowboy Poetry by Doyle

2011-03-02T08:03:00.000-05:00

Levi's Jeans Commercial - Woman on horse jumping over a Train

2011-03-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

KD sent this to me. Thought it was kind of cool!

2011 Cracker Trail Ride

2011-02-28T21:17:00.000-05:00

Jenny is holding a flag at 25 seconds.

KD and I walk across around 1:05.

Video from the Cracker Ride

2011-02-28T20:56:00.000-05:00

Florida Cracker Trail wraps up in Fort Pierce

Cracker Trail 2011

2011-02-28T20:45:00.000-05:00

Click the picture for a link to KD's pictures.

2011 Cracker Trail

2011-02-28T20:43:00.000-05:00

Click the picture for a link to Jenny's pictures.

Florida Cracker Ride 2011

2011-02-27T21:01:00.001-05:00

Click the pic to see Cracker Ride photos (warning there are LOTS).

One more day till Cracker...

2011-02-17T15:51:00.000-05:00

The shower is up and running

Solar panel installed to (hopefully) keep the batteries charged

Oil is changed & tires are rotated

And... Clothes are packed.

All that's left is to pack pony feed and the cooler.

Hilarious Florida Bullriders

2011-02-08T21:05:00.000-05:00

New beginnings (sort of)

2011-02-07T12:44:00.002-05:00

The same day we delivered Poca, I picked up my new horse, Ranger. I say "sort of" because I have known Ranger since he was a colt. His momma is KD's horse, Stylin. At 2 years old, KD sold him to Chele.

Ranger (back then Ringer) and Stylin

Such a clown

Ranger on the left & Stylin on the right

Jenny on Ranger. His first ride.

Chele loved Ranger, but due to family circumstances, she had to sell him.

I have worked with Ranger several times over the years. At one point, he even came to our house for "summer camp."

Me on Ranger & Chele on Dawn at the Ravines

Ranger's adjusting well. I was surprised how nice Rocky has been to him. It only took a few days to incorporate him into the herd.

I am super excited about working with Ranger. KD and Chele gave him a nice start. I know he is going to make a fabulous trail horse, and who knows what else we will accomplish...

Equine Athlete - Ambrose: Random thoughts on "Conditioning the Endurance Hor...

2011-02-07T10:55:00.000-05:00

Equine Athlete - Ambrose: Random thoughts on "Conditioning the Endurance Hor...: "Conditioning Conditioning is what you do after your horse is legged up and you have a few miles on them. But the same principle follow..."

On the chopping block

2011-02-03T14:46:00.002-05:00

I don't now if you've heard, but Florida is looking to shut the doors on several state parks. I think this is sad. Two weekends ago, Cory and I squeezed in an afternoon ride at Pumpkin Hill today. We were riding the purple loop when I spotted an eagle flying overhead with something in its grasp. We watched it land in a huge nest in a tree not far from us. We got very quiet and could hear babies. All of a sudden another eagle flew out of the nest and perched itself on a nearby tree to stand gaurd. It was such an awesome experience!

They moved the gazebo so you could observe them

State Parks on the Chopping Block

The Department of Environmental Protection offered this list of 53 state parks as potential closure targets to help Florida close its $3.6 billion budget gap.

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park, Haines City
Atlantic Ridge Preserve State Park, Stuart
Big Shoals State Park, White Springs
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park, Flagler Beach
Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach
Cedar Key State Museum State Park, Cedar Key
Colt Creek State Park, Lakeland
Constitution Convention Museum State Park, Port St. Joe
Crystal River Archaeological State Park, Crystal River
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, Bushnell
Dagny Johsnon Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, Key Largo
Deer Lake State Park, Santa Rosa Beach
Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, Gainesville
Don Pedro Island State Park, Boca Grande
Dudley Farm Historic State Park, Newberry
Dunn’s Creek State Park, Pomona
Estero Bay Preserve State Park, Estero
Fort Cooper State Park, Inverness
Fort George Island Cultural State Park, Jacksonville
Fort Mose Historic State Park, St. Augustine
John Gorrie Museum State Park, Apalachicola
Judah P. Benjamin Confederate Memorial at Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, Ellentn
Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park, Tallahassee
Lake June-in-Winter Scrub State Park, Sebring
Lake Talquin State Park, Tallahassee
Letchworth-Love Mounds Archaeological State Park, Tallahassee
Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, Islamorada
Madison Blue Spring State Park, Lee
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, Cross Creek
Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park, Woodville
Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park, Olustee
Orman House Historic State Park, Apalachicola
Paynes Creek Historic State Park, Bowling Green
Peacock Springs State Park, Luraville
Perdido Key State Park, Pensacola
Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, Ponce de Leon
Pumpkin Hill Creek Preserve State Park, Jacksonville
Rock Springs Run State Reserve, Sorrento
San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park, Alachua
San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park, St. Marks
Savannas Preserve State Park, Jensen Beach
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, Stuart
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park, Fellsmere
Suwannee River Wilderness Trail/Nature and Heritage Tourism Center, White Springs
Terra Ceia Preserve State Park, Palmetto
The Barnacle Historic State Park, Coconut Grove
Troy Spring State Park, Branford
Wacasassa Bay Preserve State Park, Cedar Key
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, Palm Coast
Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, Port Richey
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, Islamorada
Ybor City Museum State Park, Tampa
Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park, Holt

Additionally, three parks—Egmont Key, Three Rivers and Forest Capital—are proposed to be returned to their primary owners, whether or not those owners have the capacity to manage them for conservation and public access.

In the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Committee, members seemed concerned but not willing to simply remove these cuts from the table. One suggested these lands should be sold to put them back on county tax rolls. Another suggested enlisting cash-strapped local governments to manage them. A third suggested closing them “except on weekends.”

Contact your legislators and ask them to stand up for our State Parks. Find your state legislators (you’ll need your zip+4) at: http://www.flsenate.gov/Legislators/index.cfm?Mode=Find%20Your%20Legislator&Submenu=3&Tab=legislators

You can help Audubon of Florida protect these parks by speaking up for them! Head over to the Florida’s Special Places Facebook Page and tell us how these parks are important to you, personally! We need you to speak up on behalf of your parks – let’s see if we can get support for each one. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Save-Florida-State-Parks/196556007022136?v=wall

Don’t have a Facebook Account? No problem! Email your Special Places nominee to FLConservation@Audubon.org. Tell us how each of these threatened parks is important to you and your community. Florida’s public lands need your voice!

Forward the Audubon of Florida’s latest email to your friends, family and co-workers so they can stay up-to-date with the threat to our State Parks. http://fl.audubonaction.org/site/TellAFriend?msgId=10581.0&devId=0

Saying goodbye

2011-02-03T14:20:00.002-05:00

1/22/11

Some friends took Cory and me down to San Felasco for the first time. What a wonderful place to ride!

I had orginally planned to take Linc (still trying to get him ready for the Cracker Ride). However, Poca was begging to be rode, and I decided what the heck. After all, it was our last weekend together before taking her to her new home.

Heading out

Pit Stop

Nice pic taken by Jenny

HERE is a link to more pics. If you've never been to SF, I highly recommend checking it out. (FYI - It's on the chopping block by the state. I just can't imagine why. The place was hopping when we were there.)

1/29/11

Chele, Cory, and I delivered Poca to her new home in GA. Her new mom is a senior in college studying to be an orchestra teacher. Poca will be staying at her grandfather's place (60 acres). She's got a cute, little barn and pasture all to herself.

Eating grass

Oh no, the trailer is leaving without me.

It was sad letting Poca go, but I really feel like she is a much better fit for this family. Her new mom called me on Sunday to say how much they already love her. Matter of fact, all the kids were riding her around the neighborhood already.

Storytime With Lukas, The World's Smartest Horse

2011-01-27T21:29:00.000-05:00

Endurance Granny: Focus & Passion

2011-01-26T10:37:00.000-05:00

This is worth reading (and remembering)

Endurance Granny: Focus & Passion: "What draws us to the horse? One of my earliest memories is the huge draft horses that were used as working animals on my grandfather's..."

Hackamore Parelli Knot

2011-01-25T07:54:00.000-05:00

Dear all other sports,

2011-01-24T21:31:00.000-05:00

Riders4Helmets.com

2011-01-20T07:56:00.000-05:00

‎10 years ago, you wouldn't have caught me in a helmet. Then Cory came along and I realized I needed to set an example for my kid. I also wanted to be around to watch her grow. I still do a lot of reckless and stupid things but going without my helmet is not one of them.

http://www.riders4helmets.com/

Endurance Horse Longevity

2011-01-19T21:28:00.001-05:00

Endurance Horse Longevity

If the link doesn't work for you, try visiting Karen's Blog here:

http://enduranceridestuff.com/blog/

PROUD Mommy!

2011-01-17T21:15:00.001-05:00

Cory and Rocky completed their first 25 mile linited distance endurance ride. I am so proud of them both.

The Gator Run

We arrived on Saturday, set up camp, and relaxed. Chele tries on Cory's new hat.

Camp dogs - Poppy & Ruby

Heading up to vet in

My big girl

Julianne & Romeo show us how it's done

Linc & Rocky watch & learn

Cory presents Rocky to Dr. Doug

Back at camp. We have time to play before the riders' meeting.

Cory loves the new glove Chele got her.

Dinner, awards, and riders' meeting

Water stop on our second loop

This is not something we see very often... a sweaty Linc

Julianne has to unbridle Romeo so he'll drink

Still smiling after 21+ miles

Coming in

My Ruby

Can you tell I am happy?

These are the moments we'll always remember

Getting her time

She couldn't get off fast enough

They had a scale. We forgot to weigh before the ride. Romeo was 888, Linc was 916, and Rocky was 958 (or something like that).

Getting the all clear

Awards - we came in 38, 39, & 40.

Walking back to camp. Romeo & Indy pose for us.

Cory with all her goodies.

Pics from the photographer on the first loop. Look at how serious Cory was.

All A's - Rocky's on the left. Linc's on the right.

HERE are all the pics.

I owe Chele and Julianne BIG thank yous. I am still very new to all of this stuff. They keep me sane and point me in the right direction when I am feeling lost. I don't know that I would have the guts to try this stuff without them.

An interesting read - Mustang Diaries: Summit Update

2011-01-09T18:05:00.000-05:00

Mustang Diaries: Summit Update

A perfect weekend for riding...

2011-01-09T17:03:00.001-05:00

On Saturday, 9 of us met at the Jennings Live Oak entrance and rode the yellow loop. I believe it's around 16 miles. We walked most of the time and took a few breaks, so it took us almost 6 hours to complete.

Rocky modeling his new, lime green tack.

On Sunday, Julianne, Cory, and I met at the Equestrian Center. We decided to go splorin and managed to find our way to Sal Taylor and then Diamond D. I am so excited about this. JEC is a lot closer and has nice features (like water and a washrack). To know that I can save gas and ride to other places is also a good thing.

Romeo was very interested in the cows

Linc wanted to give this one a smooch

Do you see him Mom?

Rocky was bored with cow watching.

Some more DD critters

FAT pony!

Linc wanted to smooch him too

Wild Horse Wild Ride

2011-01-06T07:51:00.001-05:00

A fabulous video! Maybe in a few years when we have a bigger place, I will feel up to the challenge again.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2011-01-04T12:46:00.002-05:00

The holidays have come and gone, and I find myself feeling very blessed. I am grateful to have a wonderfully supportive husband, a well-behaved & loving daughter, and great friends & family.

We spent Christmas Eve at Granny's with my husband's family.

Granny always cooks too much food. It's all so good!

The kids exchange gifts

Granny opening her gifts

Erik playing with his gift from last year (mentos & diet coke)

We woke up early Christmas morning to open gifts before heading to Carly and Johnny's for breakfast.

Cory has an obsession with water bottles

A new hat and chair for camping

Daddy surprised Cory with a Wii

He also got her a camo jacket

Opening gifts at Aunt Carly's

Brody is just too cute!

Chase giving rides on his new golf cart

We headed to Nana and Papa's for an early dinner.

Margie prepared quite a spread

Cory and Riley

Everyone waiting very patiently

After dinner, Cory and I drove to Thomasville, GA to surprise my mom and step dad.

Waiting for them to answer the door

Grandpa David was shocked

Cory chilling with her great-grandparents

Making shakes with Grandma

We spent New Year's at McCulley Farms with several of our friends.

Guided trail ride on Friday

Traditional New Year's food

Cathy cantering Busta on Saturday.

2010 had many ups and downs for us, but in the end, I think we are better off because of the challenges and experiences we dealt with.

I am looking forward to new adventures in 2011. So far on the agenda, complete another 25 LD with Linc in January and the Cracker Ride in February. Poca has a sale pending, and I already have a new horse waiting in the wings. (I'll share the details later in cast something changes.)

HERE are the rest of the Christmas pics.

HERE are the rest of the New Year's.

Still fighting old demons...

2010-12-30T21:47:00.004-05:00

Selling horses sucks! There is no way around it. Especially when you really do love the horse.

Now that I have that off my chest....

A woman came out today to look at Poca. We had communicated via email for a few days, and I was under the impression that Poca was a good fit for what she wanted. I had told her in no uncertain terms that all we've ever really asked Poca to do is walk. The same goes with her previous owners. She seemed ok with that.

Fast forward... Girl comes from Ocala with trailer in tow. Although Poca has been on a horsey vacation for several weeks, she was an absolute angel. She stood still as always while saddling and mounting. She walked around calmly. She neckreined and even gave me a sidepass when asked (good considering she is still learning that). I thought she did well.

NOT! I was not prepared when the girl asked me to canter Poca around the paddock. I told her that I'd put her on the lunge line and show her how she moved, but I wasn't comfortable doing it under saddle. Essentially, I chickened out and blew the sale.

So after she left, I did some soul searching. Why wouldn't I canter Poca? I know how to ride. Right?

This is what I came up with:

I have always cantered Poca on the trail. I've never asked her to canter in a circle in an arena or pasture.
I didn't think it would look good. I knew she wouldn't know what I wanted, and it was gonna be sloppy.
The BIGGEST reason of all - I was scared. Apparently, I am still fighting Faith and Izzy demons. I was afraid Poca was going to do something stupid, and I would come off and/or get hurt.

LOL, I thought I'd remind you of a few of my old battle scars before moving on.

This is where Faith kicked me

My rope burn

Where Faith stepped on me

Anyway...

I knew I had to face my fears and bust out my big girl panties. I took Poca over to the trailer and swapped saddles. (I love my endurance saddle. It's less bulky and allows me to actually feel the horse underneath me.) We headed back into the paddock and trotted a few laps to warm ourselves up. Then, I played it out in my head. I knew what I needed to do. Inside rein, sit back, outside leg... I took breath and asked. At first, she just tried to trot faster and turn sharply. We slowed back down, regrouped, and went through the motions again. This time I also kissed to her and said canter. There is was. A canter! It was not pretty, but it was there. We slowed down and changed directions. Same routine and tada, another canter!

I cannot tell you how relieved I was. There was no bucking. She didn't even fight it. She was just unsure, but she figured it out. Surprisingly, after 30 minutes or so, she was even picking up a canter from a walk.

They say things happen for a reason. Maybe I chickened out because this person was not the one for Poca. Maybe Poca was not through with me yet. Maybe I needed to be reminded that I have the ability. Either way, I am looking forward to working with Poca more this weekend and finding her the perfect forever home.

Jacksonville Horse

2010-12-28T22:22:00.000-05:00

A new site for Jax horse lovers

Jacksonville Horse

Only Linc...

2010-12-23T12:33:00.001-05:00

My farrier, Rob, came out to trim the horses' feet today. I decided to pull Linc's shoes off till Poca sells. This is what we found in his front right.

http://www.letssaythanks.com/

2010-12-22T09:03:00.001-05:00

http://www.letssaythanks.com/

Looks like Santa is not done yet...

2010-12-21T21:32:00.001-05:00

Beauty update...

2010-12-20T21:19:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite pics of Cory and Beauty

I had a little case of the blues tonight, but then an angel sent me the most amazing update on Beauty. I thought I would share it with everyone.

From Marilyn:

Beauty, Wendy and Pokey Joe (aka Rudolph) were a big hit at Church yesterday. After worship everyone came into the fellowship hall for lunch and caroling. I surprised everyone with a CD of "Rudolph the red nosed reindeer" and in walks my Dad with Pokey dressed like Rudolph. He "worked" the room like a pro and everyone was thrilled... then we went out back and gave everyone pony rides with under 3's on Pokey, 3-8's on Beauty, and over 8's on Wendy. Wendy was a little surprised by the flashes on the parents' cameras but Beauty and Pokey were perfection. We made lots of happy faces and our faces were happy too!!

From Mandarin Lutheran:

Today after service, we enjoyed a wonderful time singing carols, lunching on pizza and visiting together. Though the weather outside was what some would call "frightful", kids of all ages enjoyed pony and horseback rides on Black Beauty and Wendy. Rudolph even crashed our party and was the biggest hit! He kindly stayed around to give the littlest party goers rides ~ their smiles were absolutely the widest smiles of the day!

A special BIG "Thank You" goes out to Cindy Misner for working so quickly to coordinate everything and to Marilyn Whitford (and the Whitford/Carter family) for the live music sing-along and for supplying the four-legged entertainment.

We are truly blessed at MLC, and are so thankful for the gifts that God has given each of us!

The fruit of the spirit is love, joy and peace. - Galatians 5:22

Lazy day

2010-12-20T14:44:00.002-05:00

I guess I am not the only one who doesn't feel motivated to do anything...

It really must be something in the air. As I was leaving to get Ruby from the vet, I found Cory's babies curled up in her bed.

Padré The Mustang Brings A Taste Of The West To Dressage At Devon | The Chronicle of the Horse

2010-12-20T12:40:00.000-05:00

Padré The Mustang Brings A Taste Of The West To Dressage At Devon The Chronicle of the Horse

Taking my own advice...

2010-12-20T11:16:00.010-05:00

Twice this past week, I have had to take my own advice. "SUCK IT UP!"

#1

I am part of the Faculty Council for National Junior Honor Society at my school. In a nutshell, we review the applicants and decide who gets inducted and who does not meet the criteria. Our 2010 ceremony was on Thursday, and I had to read the bit about Character. Easy enough, right? Not for me... I am terrified of speaking in front of adults. I know this seems strange coming from a teacher, but I don't find the students as intimidating. Adults make me break into a sweat and want to run and hide. But I didn't and instead, I thought of those 3 little words that I so freely share with all my friends. Everything went fine, and I survived.

#2

I usually don't travel alone on my horse adventures. I almost always have Chele, Liz, KD, or someone else to hold my hand. However, this weekend I found myself all alone and wanting to go to the endurance ride at the Black Prong Equestrian Center. Three things almost stopped me - money, unconditioned horses, and FEAR. Caren (on FB) suggested I go and volunteer. I mulled it over, trying to think of a reason why NOT to, but I couldn't find any good ones. So on Friday, I google mapped my route, loaded up, and headed out. It was almost dark when we left, and for a brief moment, I almost wussed out. Then, that little voice in my head said, "Suck it up!"

FYI - Google and GPS's are great EXCEPT when you are pulling a 3H gooseneck and they decide to take you thru the middle of downtown Gainesville on a Friday night. OMG, if there ever was a time that I wondered WTH was I thinking, that was it! A few extra gray hairs and a few wrong turns later, we made it.

Everyone was settled in for the night by the time we got there. Cory and I got settled. Life is so much easier with our new trailer. We flipped out the Hi-Ties, rolled out the awning, and enjoyed an easy dinner together.

Morning came all too quickly. Cory and I hopped out of bed and wandered around looking for someone to point us in some sort of direction. (I felt like such an idiot.) Eventually, I met Connie. She asked if I'd like to scribe for the vets. Sounded fine to me.

There were 4 vets - Doug, Laura, Anne, and Julia (wish I could remember their last names). Our day began about 9ish when the riders from the 100 started rolling back in from their first loop and ended about 12:30 that night. Oddly enough, the last 2 riders were from the 75. I absolutely loved my "job." The vets were fabulous and fun to hang with. I was impressed by the riders. Most seemed like they took great care of their horses and were concerned about what was best. I never really got the impression that anyone was there to win a race.

The next morning, Cory and I woke up to cold and misty weather. Our original plan was to ride one of the loops. However, we decided against it. We'd had so much fun the day before. Rocky and Poca were quite content even though they were hi-tied 24+ hours. Why mess up a good thing? We enjoyed some breakfast and headed home (in our pjs).

Poppy is waiting for her share

Ruby waits for a bite too

TAC Campaign - 20 year Anniversary retrospective montage "Everybody Hurt...

2010-12-16T21:11:00.000-05:00

I believe this is the most powerful video I've ever seen.

Be safe this Christmas and throughout the New Year.

TROT Cowboy Christmas

2010-12-16T15:37:00.003-05:00

A few weekends ago, several of my closest friends and family gathered at 7 Bar L for our end of the year Cowboy Christmas Party and Campout. Miss Marilyn had a full weekend of fun planned including ride out times, eating, partying, gift exchange, fire side sharing, cowboy church and lots of fun games.

HERE is a link to the MANY pictures that Chele, Traci, and I took. Below are a few of my favorites.

My handsome hubby

Anna & Layla

Susan

Cory

Marilyn & Bonnie

Traci & Mike

Bobby & KD

KD & Stylin

Traci & Tucker were almost unstoppable in the games

Me & Cory

Marilyn taking the egg & spoon race very seriously

Mom & daughter - KD & Jenny; Stylin & Maybe

Cathy & Traci

Me & Susan

Mike & Marilyn

Jenny crackin the bull whip

Cory riding Linc

Fireside sharing

Erik on Linc

Erik & Cory cantering up the hill

Maybe & Jenny take fun seriously

Cory & Rocky cone weaving

I love how relaxed Linc looks here

Broom ball

KD & Chele

Susan & Clyde

Jenny & Millie

Mike shows off his chaps

Marilyn leads Cowboy church

Jenny had a fabulous backhand

Rocky is such a proud horse

Relaxing by the fire first thing in the morning

Erik had too much fun Saturday night ;)

Heading out

Chele & Dawn

My psycho dog, Ruby

Simon's Cat in 'Santa Claws'

2010-12-14T21:30:00.000-05:00

Now this is something my cat, Zanny, would do!

Endurance Riders - The World's Unsung Equestrian Athletes.

2010-12-13T07:59:00.000-05:00

FOR SALE - Poca Royale

2010-12-11T22:10:00.001-05:00

After much thought, we have decided to sell Poca. Please click the link below more info.

http://pocaroyale.blogspot.com/

Endurance Granny: Why Endurance?

2010-12-10T10:05:00.000-05:00

Endurance Granny: Why Endurance?: "Many would consider riding Endurance or Limited Distance a hobby. To personalities less driven than mine that may be so. Hobbies for me have..."

Sometimes you just get a wild hair up your ass...

2010-12-08T22:38:00.001-05:00

I was tired of the old layout and felt the need to change things up. So watcha think of the Cory & Rocky inspired the tie dye & purple?

I may not have a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out, but....

2010-12-08T18:34:00.006-05:00

I have memories that will last a lifetime. I belong to a lot of "groups" and read a ton of things. Every once in a while, I come across something that I can REALLY relate to. The following was posted on ridecamp. It is a bit long but soooooo worth reading!

http://considerthis.endurance.net/2010/12/angie-mcghee-something-to-show.html

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

Angie McGhee: Something to Show

All my life my mom has had one major lament: “I just wish you had something to show for all that money you’ve spent on horses.” My mom on the other hand has lots of stuff to show for her money …I’m talking mountains of stuff. She has so much stuff to show for her money that she’s looking for a larger house at age 75.

I guess we all want a little “something to show” for our time on this earth. After all, that’s how we keep score isn’t it? When you play Monopoly the one with the most houses and money at the end of the game is declared the winner. Nobody cared that my personal game goal was just to get to be the Scotty dog and buy all the Railroads. They still told me that I had to put away the game because I “lost”. Fortunately for me, I kind of liked putting away the game and I really hated buying those houses, so who’s to say I “lost”? This sort of logic was probably an accurate predictor of what sort of endurance competitor I would later become.

The problem with counting the money (and stuff) at the end of your life to see who wins is that you’re never around to enjoy the victory. You may know you’re ahead, but third quarter leads aren’t that satisfying, because we all know “It ain’t over till the buzzer blows”. It’s also a difficult job for the scorekeepers. Do you only count resale value or original purchase price? If one person keeps an elderly uncle’s oil painting which seemed ugly and worthless at the time, but turns out to be worth millions (though still ugly), do they beat the person with a 3,500 square foot house that was filled with top of the line (at the time they bought them) furniture and appliances…even if most of it is on its way to the landfill soon after the counting?

I've helped “count the points” at the end of a few people’s games and decided that no matter how great the stuff seemed to you at the time you bought it, it’s a rare item that is worth having when you’re ready to pass it on. Since my instinctive urge is to enjoy things today, use them up and wear them out; I hadn’t given much thought to what sort of things were permanent. However, my mom’s comments got me thinking about it. This inspired me to set out on a quest to find what would really last; something that would remind others that I had existed, because I’d like to leave something behind that my descendents could remember me by.

My mom is very practical; she thinks I should invest in real estate. “You could have paid for a rental house by now” she says. So, is a house something that will “last”? Not really. I see what’s left of houses all the time when I’m riding through the woods. One leak in the roof and the rot sets in. A beam rots through, the roof collapses and in what seems like no time at all the vines have pulled down the walls and only the stone chimney remains. Houses don’t last as long as I want my memory to last. On the other hand, daffodils do. I’ve ridden by spots in the woods where daffodils that look as new as the year they were planted come up with the first hint of spring and surround what used to be someone’s yard. All that’s left of the house is the outline of the foundation, but the daffodils are in excellent condition. I contemplate these things as I ride and figure it’s got to mean something…probably something about the futility of hard work.

What about wealth? Should we attempt to build a fortune to pass on so our kids will never know what it feels like to do an honest day’s work? I think the Paris Hiltons of the world have answered that question. So how do we avoid accidentally making too much money and ruining our offspring’s lives? We must know how to recognize when we have made “enough” money, then have the self control to stop and go riding.

My brother is wealthy. He is a very hard worker and loves every minute of it. Even his recreational activities make money. Making more money is his profession and his hobby. If you asked him how much money he wants to make the answer would be “more”. One day he commented to me, “Do you ever think about how much money you could have made if you’d been doing something where you got paid instead of riding?” This seemed like a ridiculous question. I hadn’t missed any meals and always paid my bills, so I obviously hadn’t needed any more money. Personally, I never understood why he continued to work after he had covered all his financial commitments. To me that was like continuing to drink when you weren’t thirsty any more. I simply answered his question with a question. “Have you ever considered how many interesting things you could have seen and done if you had been riding with me instead of making more money?”

I wonder how my brother and I will be remembered by later generations. I know from quizzing my grandmother about my ancestors that most people do well to get a one word summary of their life. “He was a”: “teacher”, “fiddler”, “cripple”, or “tough” was about all she bothered to tell me when I asked about a person on the family tree. But there were a few she’d elaborate on simply because there was a good story attached. Her favorite was my great-great-grandfather who was murdered. The story went that he was bragging and flashing a big wad of money and the preacher’s son murdered him for it. The money turned out to be Confederate and worthless. So I suppose: “Be stupid and die”. That’s one way to leave a legacy. There were others my folks told me about; “Aunt Bird” who was born premature and slept in a shoebox for a crib; my grandmother who was so strong she could hold a chair at arm’s length longer than any of the teenaged boys; the second cousin who bought a mountain and mounted huge theater speakers on the roof of his cabin so he could listen to the “Sons of the Pioneers” while he rode his horse through the woods… all these people are referred to often in family conversations. What I gather from this is, “be dumber, tougher, or stronger than people expect, or do what makes you happy whether it’s normal or not and there will be something to show for your life…a good story. At least in my family, the farther you distanced yourself from normal the more likely you were to be remembered.

So, what do I have to show for my life? What have I done with the money I made with the job that I got with the education I’ve been given? I got to thinking about it and realized that most of it bought me nothing but memories… and maybe some character. I guess most of the memories are about getting my character. As a matter of fact, looking back at my riding career I realize I have acquired so much character that if there was a character bank my balance would be staggering. I would love to be able to leave some of it to others who haven’t had the opportunity to go through some of the things I’ve survived.

I think I’ve spent my money well. The lack of tangible possessions is a blessing. My mom and dad raised 6 children on my dad’s one paycheck. Still, the stuff that she’s got left to show for it is crowding them out of their house. Considering we have only two children and we have two paychecks, it’s terribly lucky for me that I have my horses to protect me from a much worse fate. They take money that would clutter up my life with possessions, and through shoeing, hay, grain, vet bills, entry fees and fuel spent going to rides manage to make it disappear into thin air. No need for storage or maintenance, it’s gone for good!

What else should I have done with that money? Buy 277 toaster ovens, 22 microwaves, 17 refrigerators and dozens of washer & dryer combinations? How many bedroom suits and matching color coordinated comforters can one person handle? I’ve already got stereos, and computers everywhere, should I have bought even more? There would be so much stuff we’d have to add more rooms onto the house and those would be full too. I can just see me now, I’d be one of those old women whose house has a tiny little path winding between her mounds of possessions. It gives me chills thinking about it. Thank goodness for the horses!

So, instead of lots of material junk to sort out when I go, I’m leaving my grandchildren an eccentric grandma to reminisce about. They can look up my AERC record if they need to prove the stories are true. I can write down enough interesting anecdotes from those miles to let each descendent pick a favorite for their own. As for my other possessions, if I time things just right, the money should be spent, the hay should all be eaten, the horse should die, the saddle should wear out and I should expire pretty much simultaneously. If handled properly we should all compost very well taking up precious little landfill space. If someone has to sum up my life very briefly I have no doubt they’ll say, “She rode horses…a lot”. I leave that along with a very large mountain of rich manure behind the barn, which I hope my family will scatter around some daffodils.

Endurance Granny: Limited Distance Riding for Dummies

2010-12-03T08:57:00.000-05:00

Endurance Granny: Limited Distance Riding for Dummies: "So you want to be a distance rider but you don’t have a clue how to get started. This short primer is for you! #1. Grab a horse that is tr..."

American Cowgirl - I want to be like her when I grow up!

2010-12-01T20:07:00.000-05:00

Some blogs I like...

2010-12-01T10:24:00.004-05:00

Endurance Granny

Steph's Endurance. She has an adorable calendar on sale.

This reminded me of some of our adventures, Life Lessons from and Unlikely Endurance Rider

Faith update

2010-11-30T21:00:00.000-05:00

Elise shared some pics of Faith with me on Facebook. I just love that Terry adores her.

It makes my heart happy!