All Horse Stuff

Loving the furries

2012-01-25T17:02:00.000-08:00

~Pond view on a soggy ride out on the mare~

Since our "Snow by design" happened, it quickly (nice) melted off, we've had nothing but liquid skies falling upon our Pacific NW parts. Sadly, this has brought some flooding and casualties.

Where we live is HIGH on a hill...my man and I are "Perchers", the reality agent said of us, as he took us around looking for houses almost 20 years ago. Every time we went downward, into a valley or somewhere below the main road system, we were unsettled and never liked the homes. We were NOT "Nesters", which is the opposite of those who would rather be high on the landscapes.

Anywho....

We got to pick up our 2 rescue kitties last week! While this rain is terrible for riding my mare outdoors, like we love (though I have)- it is "Purrectly" great loving on these new to us cats.

Glory B's first look, after she rode home without a peep, purr or yowl.

The little ball of movement tabby girl, was very nervous...we could barely get her to stay put for more than a few seconds!

The first evening with us, she hid under the couch, only coming out for small amounts of time. She yowled frequently, throughout the night.

At 8 wks old, she was living in a feral colony of cats . She was rounded up, taken to the vet's. She was spay, micro chipped, got her first set of vaccine's, then fostered to be tamed- with kids and a dog. Then, she went to the shelter and living with 30 or so cats- in a very small space for a week or two.

Now...she was looking for any friendly cat face she could find! She looked in the mirror, she looked in the reflection of our fireplce screen, and in our antique secretary's glass front door, each time only to see herself.

As For Uncle Norm Thompson, he rode home well too. Upon release,

he went straight for the smallest room in the house, our bath. It was nice not to have to separate them, since they had been living together already at the shelter.

I had set up the animal print, micro fiber "Cushy Bed" on top of the chair for him...though he was not inclined to be "up" yet, I discovered.

I moved it down to the floor and he quickly took me up on the offer. He settled into the "Cushy Bed" I had purchased -just-for-him- kneading, purring and maybe a little slobbering too!

He appeared to L*OV*E his bed!

Norm Thompson's records have his age at 18. He lived in Vernonia, Oregon with an older lady that rescued him, he was homeless. At one time, I know he was an indoor kitty for someone, as he is declawed (shudder).

He adores being brushed and sitting in our laps. He has been eating on the hour, it seems. We weighed only 5 pounds last Weds. I have decided to give him whatever he'll eat, since he is all skin and bones. I have purchased a nice assortment of natural cat foods that are grain free and also a RAW meat feed.

Norm was rescued from a euthanasia's fate 4 years ago, after the

older woman in Vernonia, Oregon he lived with, died. She had found him and took him in, with MANY other strays.

Her family intended on taking all the cats and having them put down, after she died. A neighbor rescued Norm. He came to "PAWS shelter" in Willamette, with 6 others from that home. I do think while having shelter and a bed...he did not thrive very well in the 20-30-40 cat environment. It's stressful.

He has gained a pound since he came to live with us last week! 6 pounds of bony but soft, furry Norm~

First morning- on his level-

So, since the second day with us, in the Heinrich Household, these two kitties have settled in well. Norm, going from not wanting to be touched, to seeking us out!

He got up on the couch with me, the second evening, while we reclined before bedtime.

The girl, GloryB, sought B-man's lap that second eve. She is such an exotic tigress~

Mostly she plays hard, being a 10 mo. old, then crashes hard too!

We are very happy that we got these two. They are very compatible. Norm, needing his space, and glory being totally respectful of him. She doesn't even eat his food, she thinks the "Rad Cat" Raw cat food is ick. And he doesn't eat her dry kibble either.

When she wishes to play, she signals us with a meow. She leaves the old boy alone, though she is cordial to him.

At night, we still have not allowed them into our bedroom, I am VERY MUCH enjoying my uninterrupted sleep!

While we miss Freyda big cat, I totally don't t miss her waking me up all hours of the night!!!

As we begin to have the rituals of our every day lifestyle permeate into the cats, they also begin to have some habits. Glory settles into" Her Royal Chair", each night. It is So cute!!

While Norm is either in his soft "Cushy cat-bed" or oft times- in this chair here~ Just like my first cat -"Mike Madison Cat" used to. I've never blogged about him , but he was a massive Grey Tabby boy, that truly stole my heart. He lived one year shy of Norm at 17. He loved to sit here too.

Good Night sweet kittys, see ya in the morning~

A Spot of Snow

2012-01-17T20:23:00.000-08:00

Totally delightful it was, to recently get out to the stable to see the trees and trails blanketed with puffy, white SNOW!

Of course it was delightful for me, because I did not have to drive in town in the stuff, or even far in it while in the country. It was mostly centralised around the stable- perfect!

The mare has been very uppity of late...because of new things. She is a sensitive soul and reacts to any new changes. This time, a new horse (and human) Boarder had come 2 days earlier. She is by far-not nearly as weirded out about the cute "Sam" gelding, as she was about the RED HORSE OF DOOM- last fall. But she and Theo, her turnout buddy, were definitely looking like they didn't sleep much, the night before!

Sam is a 15 yr old Missouri Fox Ttrotter/ Arabian mix. Interesting. He has a fine head and bigger boned legs. He looks to be about 15.1

He enjoyed some grass and the deep cover of his turnout, as he kept an eye on me~

So, this snowy day the mare had a rare attitude of "LET'S GET OUT AND GO"!

I have only experienced her like this when something at the stable is bothering her..she wants to leave it..and maybe not return. She is so easily read. It is truly strange when she chooses every route that takes us farther and farther away, and not the usual- quickest way homeward.

I bundled her up and me too..and off we went for a dusk ride at 4 pm. Since the bright white stuff was present, it made it seem not as late as it was, and kept us visually able to ride longer.

A cute little squirrel ran across our trail. he had a hold of a large cone to eat for a cold winter's night's dinner. See him, off the left ear?

I have been riding with a polo wrap on my mare's hindquarter. It's called the "Promise-wrap". It has seemed to help her with balance. It is a "TTouch " method to encourage hind end engagement.

It can be used with horses that spook, giving them a feeling of containment; and also reassures horses that spin or bolt.

I had none of those things...just a very free flowing walk, as we took our tour of local nature, in it's wintry veiled self.

Love this shot about dusk time, the mare walking and bobbing in an engaged walk. Somehow, I got her black covered ears in focus -and all the rest of the world, was a wintry white blur!

Just a quickie ride for us girls this day..."out and back" is what I call this kind of ride. Only about 2 miles...of total blisful stuff!

Home again we came and all was looking so different and new...even the paddock seemed intriguing to Wa. She stared hard, down the treed run... snow ( even though there was not much under the trees) always has a way of making the world look NEW and BRIGHT.

Thanks Wa mare...hope to sneak another OUT and BACK tomorrow sometime....and....

....Tomorrow...we pick up our 2 rescue kitties from the local shelter. The shelter owner had all the volunteers say goodbye to Grandpa Norm T. kitty. Today, I got him a special cat bed that is so ultra padded and soft..even my husband approved. He just actually thanked me for thinking of Norman, and making sure he was able to have it cushy!

Viewing New Furries

2012-01-16T11:52:00.000-08:00

This regal cat was overseeing our departure the other day, as we headed out to meet some furry felines, potentially to adopt as our own. We have never seen his white majesty before; peering out from his hillside manor, "Purrfectly" centered in the picture window! We actually turned the car around and made a second pass by to smile,laugh and take his photo.

We did not have a succesful go of adopting that day. The Oregon Humane Society is having specials on adoptions- 2 for 1 and now, only $12

. Recently, we viewed a rather HUGE kity named "Walter".

This was his second time through the O.H.S. He had been adopted several years ago, ere now. The older person simply allowed him to free feed...OH MY! Weighing in at 28 pounds...he could NOT walk on the slick floors.

SEE VIDEO HERE

Since he had been in the Local OREGIONIAN News paper, and on the local news also- as one of the largest cats the Humane Society had ever had on premise, he brought in MANY people that wanted to adopt him. Lines of folks were waiting outside the next day, after the news spot. We had called to put him on hold...but he was just too popular. I'm glad he got adopted and the new owners are being councelled on how to care for him and give him a safer way to diet to health! We had some experience with this , so that's one of the reasons why he attracted us.

Meanwhile...all the folks that came into the Human Socienty that day also had a love craving for a feline friend. Out of the 4 kitties we had viewed that morning to see - ALL were Adopted that day, just before we arrived. The remaing cats are all very OLD or very Sick . There was a recent -95- cat horder rescue- and most of them landed at O.H.S. They are just too needy for us and so, we keep on looking.

Other Cat Adoption facilities are very exspensive...$85 a cat. Since we want 2, that is out of our budget for now.

We got a tip on a neat Salem rescue from another blogger friend...and went online to see the cats and kittens there. A great place it was and nice looking, better adjusted animals. So- we may drive the hour or so to look.

But yesterday, we went local again, to a place called "PAWS" animal shelter in Willamette. It keeps difficult hours for us to arrange for both of us to go at once. Once there ,we were thrilled with the health of the animals, though -way too many- for a small space.

I was drawn to several and my man was being drawn to another OLDER kitty. There is one at O.H.S. called "Patches" he yearned to take too. For some reason his heart wants to give an older kitty it's final home..this one, at" PAWS"-" Norm Thompson", looked like it could go to meet Freyda, Elsie and my Mike Madison cat, sooner than most.

The heart wants what the heart wants. They have a service there that helps you pay for the Elder kitty's needs- all the way through . I am not sure I want heart ache so soon, as it's still raw now, but that said,

I'm inquiring today about him for my man....AND......

I think,

I found my girl..

We played for like 15 minutes and I petted her, over and over again in the hour and 1/2 we spend there, looking at all 40 or so cats. She only has a number on the band around her collar -2604B. I was trying to come up with a name..they are all named after Hollywood stars or famous people. I thought of Gloria Estefan, with her unusual beauty and lovely talents. Her nick name would be "Glory B" ...though..don't ask me, it just rolls off my toungue!

OH GOODIE...it's finally noon..I can go see the cats again, and talk about the future of two of them!!

Travel the road

2012-01-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

happy mare, on the road homeward

Firstly, I wish to thank all my friends here that have kindly supported us with sentiments of healing and mails of encouragement. We are doing much better after our shocking loss. We've been on the hunt for a furry companion and also, been open to one "Finding us". The whole heart rendering event has caused our eyes to open to others needs- that is a real blessing.

Focusing upon others is very healing in itself... it is proven to be "an instant reward", giving of time and monetary resources .

We all travel the road of life and must navigate twists, turns and endure unexpected "Pot Holes" that cause damage/loss sometimes.

Strange but, it truly wasn't just the loss of our pet, it became a BIGGER -generalised loss- that kinda overwhelmed us. It is making us face down many areas in our marriage and life that NEED ATTENTION. It has become the forced change- that is motivating chosen change!

Traveling this road of "LIFE"..is much easier and sweeter, because of the company along the way. Those that come alongside in kindnesses and encouragements are the road crew, if you will, marking the turns ahead clearly, and helping fill in the pot holes of roads traveled frequently.

Wa mare and other horses of the stable have been interested beyond the fence line of thier stall runs

I have had some neat, new learning processes helping me- to help my mare these days as well. I love the Jane Savoie "Motivation from Moshi". I get the free e-mails from her every month and sometimes, that includes VIDEOS! I am a hands on learner...you can try to tell me something 3 times or, you can show me once!

This New Years greeting from her and Moshi was exceptional!! It confirmed my new motto...that was inspired by my HOPE radio station's quote-of needing to MOVE AWAY from where you curently are, to make successful change.

See Jane's inspiring rendition by going to her site and signing up for 'Motivation by Moshi".

Last month Jane had helped me learn the sensitive art of flexations. It is a much smaller a motion asked of the horse than I realised. The rewards of a loose, flexible poll in your horse -are great! A gateway to the rest of the body.

My mare has had such a different response to learning and me asking certain things- that caused her to freeze up or become rigid before.

The other discovery was when My sister sent me "The Intentional Horse" link that had the " TTouch" method of using the "Body Wrap" for ground work.

I've since borrowed a book by Linda Tellington-Jones that I hope to be a major source of change for both my mare and me.
Funny thing is: I use so much of her ways, already - unknowingly!!
Some I've gleaned from body workers I have hired, some from my sister..and the rest from my mare directly, as I touch her and she responds. It will be GREAT to now apply the training directly/correctly with the intention of learning, healing and trust.

With not having much energy to ride the past 2 weeks, I have resorted to groundwork and massage-taking short rides out, only on nicer days. The massage, I have found has truly energised the mare. It released any tensions she may have had. As I skim this "TTouch behaviour training book", I now see how much I have improved her, by all the massage. I mean I KNEW IT WAS HELPING..but now I know why I have had breakthroughs.

Like a day ago, our last ride out, we took our time...though I tested her resolve by thinking trot, right after I got on. NOTE: I had let her buck and roll in the arena before I tacked up...and boy did she ever buck and roll!!
So after jumped on my bareback softsaddle- Not only did she trot willingly off..she offered a brisk canter as well, once we turned the corner to the straighter trail. The mare also high blew her air out and I knew- she was with me all the way! She then ascended the slippery slope down to the other trails. There was no balking, no hesitation, just my mare picking and choosing her own way down a muddy trail with me resting my hands upon her withers in agreement, that she could choose the right steps without intervention from me. She had begun to "Fubble" immediately back in the stable, after I put the bridle on. She has only ever lip sticked her right side...blowing foam and bubbles out there. She over bends to that side. Recently, I have concentrated upon massaging that side, for her to be able to bend away from it. I also have been concentrating on poll release to the left more...this day>>> she foamed both sides!!! A first, and another first..she Foamed the ENTIRE time we were out riding the 7 mile loop! All the way back to the stable, her jaw (attitude too) remained loose! We had only 2 areas of stress and rushing on our ride. They are the places she usually does an inverted action and hollows and tries to bolt forward...a wooded, slippery trail. I concentrated upon lowered , balanced hands while asking for halt every 5 or 6 steps by closing my upper thighs and breathing out. I only resumed on our path after she blows air out- in a clam snort. It is rather cute...her resolve to comply!
I love this...we are seemingly traveling A NEW ROAD!

If I have one NEW YEARS GOAL to be had in my horse life with my TB Wa mare this year...it is to gain the respect (which I perceive as qualified and earned trust) in the arena, as well. Not a forced respect from methods taught to me in the past, in a manner of dominance or through boring repetition's that have caused my mare to have a sour attitude and much body soreness.

A recent photo shoot, the mare was ground tied and relaxed~ keeping her eye and ear upon me

I am going to read this "Horse Behavior and Training Book" by Linda T.J. cover to cover, as I learn the techniques, and how to apply them.

As I mentioned, I use so many already...Like the "Half Walk" we recently discovered through the
"Balance rein".
It is a rope or leather around the horses neck, that can be used while riding in different percentages along with the bit or bridle reins.

I discovered it while trying to calm my mare's "rushing through" things she dislikes. Instead of using a direct rein to the bridle or bit- connected to her face, I use the breast collar and a smooth squeeze of my upper thigh to ask for a half walk, slower pace. She is not offended and the sort of "half halt" action allows her to keep her head low- and creates a connection to her feet in concentration. The book shows Linda T.J. riding different horses with the rope alone, over Cavellettis and jumps. While my mare has responded to the breast collar..I will need to make one of the "Balance Rein" ropes for us, out of climbing rope material. I need to be able to hold it off her neck and use it higher on her neck, as well.

Good things are happening... Once I got rid of our recent saddle pain, the mare has begun to become more attentive to me again, as someone who cares and can be trusted. ( of course checked in with feed, feet, teeth, environment too- as one always should)
I have so much hope for much more improovement. I truly wish to partner with my mare and achieve many calm and relaxed rides outside, and inside of the arena.

Starting New

2012-01-04T11:11:00.000-08:00

A little sunshine for New Years Day in Oregon- after a weeks worth of dismal winds and rains-

My B-man and I are starting to make some progresses towards a New Years trend so many of us go for.

Cleaning out the old ( materials goods of clutter & habits) getting ready for the new.

It is like Spring cleaning, in the middle of winter and for us, our hearts feel like it's a bleak midwinter. But, it is certainly Not without HOPE. My man and I have been taking time to count blessings.We have had so many and continue to be blessed, beyond measure!

Of late, others immediate need, has us coming alongside those who are hurting and ailing for their own losses this season. A rougher start than usual, the tragedies we are seeing around us, have caused a break in our thought /life processes. A jump start if you will, to addressing what really matters to us.

~Honoring PEOPLE in our lives~

All else seems to fade and actually tarnish the soul, in comparison.

Basic, respectful collaboration, concern and communication -

is what seems like GOLD to me right now. Simple ways, and mostly- humility of intent-.

I am putting myself to the test of this, and trying to be as real and open as possible. Tending to hide myself away if scared or threatened by facing somethings, I get very OVERWHELMED Sometimes. Ignoring something, and putting it off- for the pain of facing it head on, is a common disastrous practice I have.

So- right now, it is a minute by minute process for me to overcome my bad habits.

Trails this week are looking like I feel...flooded and slick.

New decorated trails- New Years Day ride-

We seem to be numb somewhat, with a crushed heart, missing Froo-Froo Freyda cat...but, we are now remembering funny moments with her. There are so many!

But, for as many of those wonderful, loving times we remember...coming home to -an EMPTY- Cat less house- is terrible- and it is everyday.

We now are on the remedy for this every day reminder of what is missing .

We go to visit a member of my mother's cated household today. The day after Christmas, we went to a "cat adoption team's" facility.They were not open, yet through looking into the windows, I found my cat. My man is a tougher sell...he is quite emotional about it, so we look further.

The mare has been so GREAT. We have only put 10 bareback miles on the trails since the 24th. I had -0- energies to ride- the weather was crap-ola- .

We did put some miles in the arena though,with the "BODY WRAP" lunge.

She sure LOVES that, it seems to be quite relaxing to her, as her brain wraps around the sensations- of the Polo Wrap configurations-wrapped around her! Her top line and lower wither pockets, right behind the shoulders, have developed a very nice muscling again. I'd say, we are back where we started for fitness, before the Ill fitted "ANSUR KONKLUSION". AND -happy to report that the mare's mental status is back before then too..( I sure thought it was how much we rode and not pain)

.NO pinning ears, NO pawing the air when the saddle is simply placed on the back. And, no batting an eyelash- AT ALL! Even when I tack up fast, to get 40 minutes before dusk rides in!!

It was -THAT SADDLE- and not the girthing, that she disliked!

I have news on the saddle front too...but will wait to share till Ido so with the ANSUR Sadderly Co.

Shadows of the old are disappearing and some light is now shining on NEW thoughts and Good NEW directions to head~

Nice Sunshine for a New Years Day-

I pray your New Years Moments into days so far, have been motivating/encouraging as well.

Assessing behaviours and attitudes that could use spiffing up or sometimes-discarding altogether.

As I listened to my HOPE radio station the other day, they offered us listeners a quote that I thought worthy.

" The first step to getting somewhere,

is deciding you are not going to staywhere you are".

~The Comforter has come~

2011-12-29T13:17:00.000-08:00

We had a huge heart break & loss over the Holiday and am relying upon "The Comforter"
that came at Christmas time ~to heal our broken hearts.
The song from "Jars of Clay" , "The Comforter has come," is my strength~

Our Freyda Kitty has gone~ It was so sudden, we still think she is here.

Some things I am not able to bear doing at present, sitting here at the desk- is one of them.
Please excuse my absence, for a time, while I regain myself...one day at a time, with my B-man.

Be well freinds, I'll blog off for now- but will be posting sometimes for the mare, at her blog...she can get me to sit down and do it for her, I think.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all~

Christmas mare

2011-12-20T13:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Secret Stable Santa~

My mare has been extra good and definatley deserves some good horse lovin' from you..not lumps of manuer or anythig of that sort.

Here are some of the ways, and not even all the ways, that she has been simply the best mare ever!!

She has met me in the middle of her turnout if not at the gate, when she hears me call to her from the stable~

She is trying new things and giving it her all~

She has put up with my hurridly grooming and tacking up for the winter quickie rides of late, no stink eye at all!!! And she has gone riding with me at dusk time, out in the FOG, and not being able to see predators...if they were there~

She approached some killer llamas the other day...only a teenie-weenie bit of mare looking. When they came at us, though the resident mare squeeled and fought them off us, she stood her ground and trusted me~

She has NOT exploded once in arena sessions lately~

She has asked me to scritch her in places she would not allow me to touch before~

She always takes my breath away and gives me such refreshed outlooks on life~

Oh, I could go on and on- but I know you know her well, so please give her special loves while I'm away from the stable and let her know my heart is ripe and full of LOVE for her, my mare Washashe.

Thanks Secret Stable Santa!!

The Intentional Horse

2011-12-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

While the mare is quite dejected looking here, for this photo op,

(she instantly puts on the bored face- anytime I grab the camera) she truly had a fabulous, longer-framed lunge session with this handy 'Polo Wrap" encouragement. It really made her think and she was relaxed and reaching down, the entire session, in focused time.I was very impressed.

My sissy sends me lots of horsey stuff to read she finds over the Internet. Lately, she discovered a very informative site called, "The Intentional Horse". I have enjoyed reading about various stable management articles, responses to them and also, testimonies.

-HERE-

"The Intentional Horse" Adds a cool technique called "the body wrap" to our horse loving tool bag.

It was designed by LINDA TELLINGTON JONES. It causes the horse to answer a question you present to it, while free lunging or traditionally so, with Cavesson and line. It is a Bio mechanics session that is designed to naturally, with out devices to the face, cause the horse to use it's body more effectively for top line development and balance.

It is exactly what I am looking for to rebuild my mare again, after she hollowed for months, due to poor saddle fit.

While December has been bright..it also has been like 20 degrees and sometimes with fierce and biting winds!

This Body Wrap method is going to come in handy for the times we don't want to go out "IN IT"!

The mare ZOOOMED around the arena before we started this WINDY day. Lots of sounds and motions about our world, that got her excited!

Just a few days ere this frigid one, we found ourselves in a gorgeous, surreal setting...one that took my breath away and the mare seemed very content to look on as well.

Frozen Ponds.

It was like Christmas lights, across the blurry waters~

I do love my phone's camera, it seems to take pretty nice shots..as long as we are still!

Hope Your season is Bright and Cheery~ Be well

December Bright

2011-12-09T06:13:00.000-08:00

C C C COLDDD ~ and freezing....but nice and bright!

Christmastime Festivities are happening right and left. Day times, night times, visiting family, friends, with extra cooking involved and of course, the "S " activity. It is Decembers norm.
There is also a fair amount of working going on now too, so sitting here to read/write and visit , has been waining for me. Not to mention our computers illness towards functioning at all.
No worries mate, it's all good...just life at December's- H.Y.P.E.R. S.P.E.E.D. -( Having You Put Extra Routines- Shopping/Parties -Eek, Eek- Daily)

I'm sure you all can relate, on some level.

I have still been able to get out and see my mare, even if for only an hours time, stealing away from my personal hyper speed- life's schedule. A view like this one from horseback, can reset ones counter to O!

Below, is a pure documentary shot of how one fast paced day started recently. Thought I had gotten a nice white WASH CLOTH out of the vanity to wash my face with.... A nope, it was a roll of TP!! Had to take the pic of that blurry- blunder. HA!

Some days seemed to washed up, for the rains were threatening . I rode anyway... My gear protecting me from the droplets of cold- wet. My mind receiving a clearing and defogging, as we strode.

I have had some surprises too, getting back at DARK...it really comes fast these days. The last time I allowed it to overtake us, by miscalculating just when it got dark while riding ..(and the mare HATES that!) I was greeted upon return by a gal at the stable. Surprised to see me walk in at dark , She said..."OH!!...you look cute, let me take a photo of your mare and you! "

She was watching me fail at attempts to capture a good self photo-

I added festive lights ...'tis the season to be jolly....

These days of Holiday preparations ...Recalibration, from the H.Y.P.E.R. S.P.E.E.D. human, to a slower-paced-human - occurs for me, as I ride my mare and breathe deeply in, the countryside with views.

WHAT A GIFT!!

Mind adjustment   does starts to take me (us) over...we are whole by the time we return again.

Christmastimes are planned and busy for all. I bid you joy and friendship now, should you not see me around these bloggin parts for a spell, I'll return shortly.
I leave you with some visuals of a favorite 7 mi Loop ride.   It is the one we take most often when we have no goals- but -to see what we may see, stretch our legs and commune with God in nature.
ENJOY...and make sure you also....find your sweet spot for recalibration- in these H.Y.P.E.R. S.P.E.E.D. days!!!

                     Our friendly Shadow Rider leads the way down the lane, outside our stable~~

We look on areas that have been changed...and remember them for the times we had in the shade of "Big Fir Lane"~

We continue up the road around some young Christmas trees, and head towards a farm that has many animal friends to visit~ These furry friends used to scare my mare and she would NEVER ask to go up the road where they lived. This day she asked, I obliged~

These 2 Alpacas are the only ones interested in us...the older ones seem bothered by the horse presence, and pin their ears and look foreboding. The young ones come running and bucking to the fence line!

It is always very amusing to me and seems to be interesting too, for the mare!

Cute little, fluffy thing! This one actually wants to sniff noses with my mare, but we decide to just look on~

Ooou...the older of the two is turning into a ear pinning, and rather moody sort, like the others.

He stood there, all shaggy haired, and glared~

We finally head to the other side of the acrerage, riding the service road around the tree farm lands. The crisp, clear sky this day allowed us to see just the tip-top of Mount Hood, as we turned Eastward.

Onward to another friend en route, of the equine ilk~ a little Arabian mare. She hears us from a far with my "bear bell" , that now doubles as a festive "Jingle bell". It alerts the mare of our arrival near her field. She shares this field with large llamas, parting them as she runs to us normally. This has made an impression on my mare...that they aren't as tough as they make themselves look, standing 6 feet tall. This little 14 hand looking mare, is their boss!

There she is, way at the top of the field.

She comes trotting, nickering, all chipper to see us again. She always wants to meet my mare. But again we look on, and are friendly from a distance~

The rather unfortunate thing is -this mare has a rope halter on 24/7.

When we tarry, I am always afraid I will witness her hooking it one the metal post tops, as she puts her head over, trying to visit with us~

Having seen the little mare, and my mare having partaken of some winter grasses , we then continue on down the treed lanes~

At the end of the lane, there were some fabulous ferns, still in Autumn glory. The Summers green is gone now, and by mid winter, they will have dissapeared altogether till springtime.

They are a reminder of how things change always; seasons, times, good times and bad... and right then...my attitude towards anything that hindered me, just an hour prior!

Though my mind had relaxed into a peaceful calm, my mare was on high alert for the section of trail we traveled. It's a turning point for home or 2 others directions. It nears a busy road, and also enters a forested section that has always gotten her nervous.

We tarried and looked at the ferns longer. I asked her to relax herself and after she finally did, I treated her and we moved to the next part of this restorative ride~

I chose the roadway this cold, frozen day. The trail was far too shady, while the road had sunspots for us!

We neared some of the many ponds that are on the lands we ride. Serene, reflective and so quiet- it was.

On our home stretch now. It has gotten considerably colder, in the hour and a half we were out . Our friendly Shadow Rider, that lead the way to this restorative riding, and popped in to see us here and there, rejoined us for the last time~

Frosty- hard grounds in the shaded areas~

I used my mare's "Ruby slippers", as someone called them before, to protect her feet from bruising on the crunchy wniter grounds.

While pretty, it is not too friendly for anyting but cautious walking~

We now see the long-hill in the distance. It is the final trail we take upwards, towards the stable. Since the muds have come and the steeper trail is very SLICK.; my mare again has gotten nervious and sometimes misbehaves, wanting to go faster. I understand she hates the slipping. Anything she hates, she tries to get over with- quickly.

The mud begins on the flat, we pick and choose out way through~

Ah, the hill...and this day, since the ground was mostly frozen on the hill trail, there was no slipping and the mare calmly walked it~

Hello Big boy! Theo greets us at the turnout paddock gate~ Don't worry, she'll be back out with you, in no time~

The mare hears Theo calling, as I untack~

A short roll and romp in the arena, she greets me at the gate and says...hummm....!

Back out to the pasture, Theo greets my mare, his girl bud~

They head for the remains of lunch, Theo always behind~

He stops at the first pile...my mare seemed to know better, as he would move her off it for himself.

As I watched, he moved her off the second pile too. Then, even before I had gotten into the stable, he again moved her off the first pile of hay ...so she went back -towards the second- hay pile. Theo's mom and me had put a third pile down too, as recommended for feeding horses in pasture( always put one extra flake down-and further away)..so she went on further, to that one. And good thing, he had moved again, 10 minutes later to the second pile.

I have noticed her being really hungry when I get to the stable, I think it is due to him claiming BOTH PILES of hay since they are relatively close to each other...hence the need for a third pile, further away. He can't manage 3!

My mare has to really be persistent to eat with him in the field, he is a hay hog!!!

The end of the perfectly refreshing day with my mare was topped off by a perfectly vibrant sunset!!

All is ready in my heart and mind to start afresh the next day. A little country time always does that for me..no words, pressure or concerns. Just beauty, fresh air, along with my with my Bay Beauty mare!!

Please be well and save some special times out-just for yourself!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Resembling your horse

2011-12-03T09:40:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about the ways you and your horse may resemble each other?

Now that may be an -out of focus- concept to some, but to others, and they may not admit to this, have definitely thought, "why yes, my steed and myself- we share many (or none) similarities."

These two are such a great team at my stable. They obviously share the fair haired, physical likeness. Behind the scenes, to me, they share a deep thinking, sensitive- quick to adjust nature, after a cautious consideration period.

Of course, this is not based on any study or scientific-anything- just my perceptions as I spend time with /around people and their horses.

I recently watched these two, doing ground work at a clinic at my stable. It was neat to see how watchful, alert and willing this mare was, trying very hard to understand what was being asked of her. A trait, I've noticed, she shares with her girl.

How many (funny, annoying, amazing or otherwise) ways do you line up or resemble your horse??

Just one (for now) of the ways I resemble my mare is: the knack of putting off nature's call ...till...you finally, just have to stop and go!!!

This has been tried and true, proven over and over again through the years I have had my mare. The most HILARIOUS TIMES that could have won us the $10,000. prize money on "America's Funniest Videos" was in a boarding facility not long after she came to me. We'd go out riding for several hours at a time, nothing unusual there...but when we went with male riders..I did not feel comfortable answering nature's call in the woods, so I would wait till we got back to the stable. I then would immediately go to the outhouse.

I knew I would have to do this at this barn so I taught her to stand patiently so for me by the outhouse door. She would receive treats, if she stood close. She never once pulled me from the outhouse, before it was time!! The small, tall box like container I went into became a nice break for her, as we rode the arena at that stable.

The first time we could have won the prise money was the most hilarious....

We returned from riding several hours, trip on down the lane between arena building and hay house to the "Outhouse"... you know the rest -except-!!! My mare went at the same time!!! Yea! I was laughing inside the outhouse, knowing what was happening! It not only occurred that once, but nearly every time I came back and did the routine from rides. Too funny! I really should have had someone try to video!

So now, knowing she has the knack of waiting and putting off, and it can make a ride tense, so I whistle for her to go, having taught her to do so. She normally "goes" when she sees me arrive at the stable...it's habit now. BUT-she sometimes waits for the return from a ride...like this, just the other day;

I put her in her stall with the cooler on, to wick the moisture from her back. Wa mare walked outside to see where her horse friends were. She then came inside for a bite of hay and outside again..... and started to come on back ....but before she stepped upon the matted porch area, she suddenly stopped- and spread em!

OH YEA...FORGOT, I have to STOP for a second, and do this!!

Yesterday, thinking about this concept of resembling one's steed, I asked another riding partner if she thought there was a way she resembled her steed...she seemed taken aback by the thought. She only thought of her steed's attitude towards certain aspects of life...he gets grumpy and angry. She did not see herself like that. And that is not what I mean either...they are NOT US- and we ARE NOT THEM!

Having been around this gal, I've noticed that she is- calm, easy going, meted and measured. To me, her steed is JUST like that...not overtly active, not very distracted with much other than the details of direct concern (food , comfort, safety) .

And even when something comes up, he seems to decide to remain calm. He is the perfect riding horse partner for my mare and me. If we wish to walk by him on the trail, he may not walk up and keep up ; he is not competitive, and would rather take second spot behind. Likewise, this gal is one that likes to go with the flow and be at peace.

Though yesterday, he was able to ride next to us for short times, and it was nice to look at her as we talked, for a change!

I really am not ANTHROPOMORPHIIZING...it's something I have noticed, I don't go looking for the similarities, they appear.

I'm just sayin!

Thankful Riding

2011-11-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

Thanksgivingtime is always a reflective, and usually, humbling time for me.There is much need, and sometimes suffering that is brought to our attention.

We have it so-very-good, most of us!

Thanksgiving , the holiday itself, is a recognition of blessings of freedom and family and tidings~

Riding through the woods, while maybe being something that is not very beneficial to society or helpful to the needy- monetarily, or recognised by anyone as anything but "pleasurable to me" .... is an avenue I take to connect to God through thoughtful and prayerful petitions of intercession.

I greatly enjoy and look forward this alone time, riding solo, for the pouring out of prayers towards all I am aware of, in need. I make sure to commit my known blessings and also, the ones I am unaware of always , in safety.
It does fill me with a sense of awe. El Roi, a Hebrew name for God that means: "The God who sees and hears", is there to meet me while I ride and also, I am certain, attend to those mentioned in prayer. Not because of who asks(me) -but because of who is listening!

My Prayerful riding habit is another activity I am very THANKFUL for!

Such a peace of mind I get and connection, as I prayer-ride though the woods. My mare does wonder sometimes about me, always peering back at me while stopped.

Thanksgiving day (yesterday) was amazing-I got to Ride my mare in the Morning, and also go to be with my mother in the afternoon. WOW..Double whammy of blessings!

My boarding facility was ultra quiet yesterday, as all were either at holiday gatherings or going to them. I have to mention too, before I go out and prayer-ride, I prayer walk the stable aisles and pasture to my mare, thankful for the Fabulous Facility I am in now. I love how my mind is at rest knowing of her good care. Plus, I love how clean it is always, me coming to find fresh water/stall and a happy-happy mare!

It was cold and somewhat wet yesterday, as we strode though familiar places. me bundled up and the mare with her wind -stopping ear bonnet. I heard some shooting in nearby places, so I put on the Blaze orange bandanna as well, over her neck. She appreciated the bit less ride and was calm on most of the mud slicks we have to ride through these days.

The horse sign photo at the top of this page was a new addition on a country road near my stable. Seeing it this week, made me spout out-loud a hearty "THANKS LORD!" for this new safety feature addition to the country road near my stable and others. All the properties that line this particular busy road, are ALL HORSE PROPERTIES!

We are blessed..and I just wanna say...I see it, I feel it, I acknowledge it!

phone, color enhanced pic of mom yesterday...we went out for ourThanksgiving feast ~

Now you know- that if I read of need- 'cause you mentioned it on your blog or mine...I always pray for you. The photos I often post here, of woods, streams, mountains and beaches , they are where I take your cares, and lovingly, give them away!

A SPECIAL* Box

2011-11-23T06:14:00.000-08:00

This is one special* box.

This Fed Ex dude may not have thought so, specially when I raced into the office, and yanked him out of it abruptly to help me retrieve the box from my truck. It was so huge and getting it out of my home, through our gate and into my truck- was a feat. It isn't heavy at all -( I've carried Saddles heavier) BUT- it is cumbersome and if anyone had parked near us, I would have had to ask them to move, to be able to get both truck doors open. It's the worst parking lot EVER! For how tight it is, it's a wonder I keep going back at all, to visit businesses!

I do though, and on the way there, I noticed the regular U.S. Post office lot..was FULL. I am glad that I went to Fed Ex, for the insurance built into the charges. I trust them more than the regular postal service..isn't that sad?

So the Fed Ex dude had put the BIG *BOX down already, when I got the idea to photograph it, before I sent this particular *BOX away for the third time....hopefully not to return to my doorstep again.

This *BOX held my favorite Jump Saddle 3 years ago, as it traveled back to Bend, Oregon to be fixed up by it's original saddle maker, Hans Biglajzer.

It was Wa's second saddle that we both loved till she filled in, and it became too tight. It weighed all of 10 pounds.

When I sent this saddle back to it's maker to be re flocked,

Hans remembered the little saddle. He had made it for a Dr.'s daughter, in trade for a surgery his wife needed.

It was my sister's first saddle, as a teen in Pony Club, and the first saddle I sat in as a 3 yr old.

Now that BIG* BOX like I said, has taken a saddle cross country in Oregon twice. I have a HUGE tube inside that a saddle fits on and some retired couch pillows, that are placed on either side of the saddle's panels. Filler stuffing on top and in front..it's pretty cushy in that *Box!

NOW....

I send MY NEW ANSUR saddle away to another whom read my blog, and ikes ANSUR's thoughtful technology too. They thought to add a more forward riding habit , maybe even jumping, to their tool box of skills. They, like myself, know that this saddle is made for a broader backed, less prominent withered horse.

I brought the KONKLUSION saddle home last weekend, after putting all the blocks back on it. I never used any of them, I liked the thin, closer feel of the panels on my mare. I had a habit of always cleaning the saddle after each ride, so it really was not dirty at all. I gave it the once over anyway, to spiff it up for it's potential New owner.

Off the saddle went and I am filled with hope and also; a great feeling inside of me knowing that -I want the saddle to FIT their horse - as well as feeling great to them . If this is not the Perfect match, it will be shipped back and I will sell it to an unknown person. This potential buyer gets time to make sure it's right!

I pray it is all they need it to be, fitting the horse's personal shape and , I hope they fall in love with it as I did.

Happiest of Thanksgivingtimes to you all, my friends in Bloggerville. May God Richly bless you, His beloved

The Wrong ANSUR

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

My, my...this issue of saddle fitting- It is a pain in the Patooty!

My senative TB mare so totally agrees!

I rode my TB mare near 15 months with the cushiest of all bareback saddles, the Cashel "Soft Saddle", in order to heal her back from the last saddle we had tried in 2010...looking for an Answer for the next saddle solution....

While the last used Dressage saddle I found to ride the mare in during May, June, July of 2010 was nice for the gullet/ shoulder width & had a raised pommel fo good wither clearance, it bridged terribly.

It also rode up against her shoulders as we rode, due to the girthing billets that fell straight down, while her girth channel was forward. Yea, I've learned alot about saddle fitting on this journey.

At my wits end for saddling problems, I knew my mare needed time to heal while I figured out what next direction to go in for saddles. I got her the physical therapy for her body accordingly... and I also knew riding without a tree, would be therapy as well-mental and physical.

So we did, we rode with our bareback softsaddle ...

And we rode......

JUNE 2010

All the while I was monitoring her back and making sure she was comfortable with how I was sitting on her. I used A sheepskin pad by" ENGLE" under the layers of closed cell foam of the Softsaddle,and my "Thinline pad" over that.

She got happier and happier...me too!

August 2010

In late August of 2010 my mare sustained an injury due to a fall..the next week she was attacked by a cougar, having been left out to pasture with her pasture buddy Pantz, on a "nice night" in Sept. She still had some open wounds that must have attracted the cat enough to think -she was an easy target for the smell of blood(weakness).Both mares had wounds on their hind quarters from the attack, as well as deep tissue muscle/tendon damages to legs.

I did not ride her again, till I moved to my new boarding facility .

October 2010

We took long ride walks, on the bareback saddle to strengthen her again, while doing stretching and deep tissue therapy every week .

I was still researching saddles and had begun to venture into the thought towards a treeless saddle.

Healing nicely, with my sister aboard during our walk rides~

November 2010

I got the okay to do lunging in circles finally, from my therapist...so we began some core work for her back~

December 2010

She was finally sound and could step up nicely~

She shaped up and began to use all of her body again..it* took* so* long* it seemed...but injury is like that...months and months for things to heal! And heal they did. All the therapy and time down, with careful habits, paid off.

March 2011

My saddle searching was still going and after using my stable mate's ANSUR saddle for a few rides and the mare seemed to enjoy it....

So then, after tons of research, I decided on the "ANSUR Treeless saddle". Though treeless, it was not structure- less. The technology was right on for airflow to the horses back and the gullets seemed pretty nice. I looked at so many companies, and this one was the smartest design going for billet/stirrup placement, overall balance and wonderful craftsmanship too! No Velcro holding it together, no wide layers upon layers. The structure in the saddle is truly dynamic for it's shock/trauma absorption .

My NEW saddle, unveiled in the break room at ANSUR Co.

Every time I had mentioned some of my saddle fit issues to the owner, that I had experienced with my mare before, she told me would not be issues with this design. I had to rest my worries on trusting that all I read and was told about the saddles- was true!

LORD knows I was optimistically naive, but willing to trust, I had moved forward and made the decision.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Looking back, literally so, at this photo of all the saddle models behind us, and the one model down front(my choice) I now see what I have come to know as fact...different pommel and gullet sizes.

See the difference?? The 3 behind are a much different Gullet structure- being of a higher pommel and lower "point of width"- where the gullet will rest upon the horse in front.

Had I known this difference would make such a HUGE difference for fit on my mare-OBVIOUSLY- I would have spent all my HARD EARNED CASH$$$ more wisely!!!

The other jump saddle in the ANSUR line, does have the wider Gullet/higher pommel that would work...and I ALMOST choose that one. I sat in both and was directed from the owner to make the choice purely by, " how I felt in the saddles".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-NOW- while all this is said and written down here for the world to see- I do not wish to dissuade anyone from the ANSUR saddles. NO! That is not why I write this post. I do so to tell of MY OWN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE and to also WARN the frustrated horse owner that may be looking into one of these smartly hand crafted and designed saddles. PLEASE BE SMART AND SADDLE FIT YOUR HORSE ALWAYS!

I was OPTIMISTICALLY DOOPED into the phrase's in the brochure and online that said,... "one saddle for all your horses, that fits all your horses! This solves all your fitting, refitting, flocking, re flocking and saddle fitter expenses."

To tell you the truth...I SHOULD HAVE HAD MY HORSE FIT, and I WOULD HAVE WILLINGLY PAID for it!!! I did not do it, and paid for the expensive, but lovely saddle instead-that does not fit!

While my TB mare has a fairly typical body type for her breed, she is much rounder than most TB's and after riding with that wonderful bareback softsaddle for so long, making sure I had air flow, using my "ENGLE" sheepskin pad, and shock absorbsion "Thinline" over that, the mare was looking great!

She had developed quite a nice top line through the engaged lunging and trail work we had been doing as well.

So -the only other written warning I read did NOT cause me to think for a moment she'd be in this catagory- "For extreme conformations"..."we offer supplemental padding to use "temporarily" under the ANSUR"..." while the horse is developing a healthier shape". That totally did not dissuade me either, to maybe inquire about a saddle fitting- since she was full in her back musculature. It just never occurred to me that-" the SADDLE could be wrong" by being all together too narrow, without wither clearance for her.

It was kind of the point of me choosing this line and type of saddles

They were flexible and without rigid form

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am not the first person to make a saddle fit mistake, I know...but for how much I spent on this wonderful saddle, ordering it new and making sure all involved KNEW HOW DIFFICULT my mare was to fit...this being saddle 6 in 5 years. SOMEONE SHOULD HAVE HELPED ME MAKE SURE it was going to fit my mare!!! Sad but true...you- yourself, are truly your only advocate sometimes, for so much in life!

So, after riding the "ANSUR KONKLUSION" for 3 months..the mare becoming more and more unwilling to be saddled again, to acting out going down hills again. The last straw was the day I went for my first arena lesson In over 2 years (having waited till I thought she could mentally handle it for not having pain in body) ...OH MY..she exploded!

I said..this is NOT right and got off, took the saddle off and within a week she began to shed her summer coat to tell me the tale of woe...WHITE HAIRS EVERYWHERE on her withers and pockets.

My treeless saddle pad had actually kept me from noticing how TIGHT and CLOSE to her withers the saddle had settled to..being fully flexible.

NO GIRTH, just me aboard!

Sorry for the blurred shot there..my sister was holding an angry mare-and- taking the photo of no wither clearance, once I got on the saddle.

I contacted the owners right away, I was so disillusioned that this could happen! I was assured kindly, that they could help me and they asked for photos of everything..horse from like 10 angles, and saddle, girth and padding. I complied, knowing that I had researched all of what I used with my new saddle!

Here, a photo from the first time I put my new ANSUR saddle on her, it does seem that there is clearance for her...yet the gullet padding sits SNUG against her withers on the sides. Since it is not a wood tree, I was not too worried.

first time KONKLUSION saddle on the mare in JUNE 2011

Leather girth used while riding the ANSUR...though it does have elastic on the other side.

Always able to pull girth away from my mare, making sure it's not too tight~

FIRST > I was told my girth should be thrown away. Elastic is the enemy of these saddles and though I read all there was to read up on at the web site and brochures- NO WHERE did it say that I could RUIN my saddle with my girth choice. I had watched the girthing video my stablemate of "EQUINEMINE" blog had done for the company's web site. I knew NOT to over tighten the girth, I've always known that!

THEN > the saddle expert came on out to see the saddle and the other things regarding my mare. He saw that it sat right on her withers and asked me what I wanted to do or thought could be an acceptable solution. Having thought so much about this, because I had spent near $ three thousand dollars on this wonderful saddle- that was to be the end all for us, I believed.

I said, " a new Gullet system or trade for a saddle that fit or have the Co. sell it, them knowing the clients that are looking for them..and a saddle credit."

He Then > brought me his saddle to put on my mare..it was a newer model, that had a much larger pommel and wider "point of width" ( an unrecognised term at ANSUR, he said) for the gullet. It looked good too!! It sat far above her withers and wider away from them. It could be perfect...if I had only known to choose that style!!!

FRUSTRATINGLY > have gotten NO ANSWER from the owners since the expert came out...he ended up giving me two foam shims to "Tape" to my $3,000 saddle gullet...which I did and it was ridiculous! Tight fit plus 3 inches more..makes TIGHTER!

I wrote a very detailed and sensible email, describing my continued problems and desperate need of help for finding a solution to this... to receive a note from the fitter saying...glad the shims worked and you go ahead and ride your saddle!

WHATTT?

So, with no solutions...I now write this blog post..I am dismayed with the lack of P.R.

NO ANSWERS FROM ANSUR.

Looking back I see my part in this problem. I was sorely mistaken to think that a saddle could fit - WITHOUT BEING FIT!

I would gladly pay for the fitting to know I would not be hurting my mare AGAIN, with the wrong saddle choice.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I had to send some really ugly photos of the mare to the owner..who probably thought, "oou, what a swaybacked and underdeveloped horse, no wonder she has problems!" But, the fact is, she really got hollow and lost her tone on her topline, as the saddle began to really hurt her and sit on her withers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I begin again...healing the mare and hoping she may look like this again by spring- fit with her back muscled up again, and, with no white hairs of the poorly fitting saddle!

~Post Script~

I do have some VERY HOPEFUL and good news to share soon, about selling my 3 Mo used ANSUR KONKLUSION All purpose saddle!!!

A Good Clip

2011-11-19T18:05:00.000-08:00

While enjoying the nice fall days and riding out normally, I had discovered that my mare was sweating, but not drying off normally.

She has her new winter coat in full bloom.

I would put her wicking cooler on, after allowing her to roll some of the moisture down in the arena after rides.. but even with that...the wet hair remained on her chest, flanks, belly and hindquarters. I resorted to also towel drying her off with little results to my liking, or hers...she hates me rubbing her, all all!

So the trace clip it is- for my mare this fall.

phone photo

While I did not have to use it last year, with the mare healing from injury and not being worked. This year, it is different altogether...we are regularly hacking out doors and working in the arena on the long lines and lunge.

The BIG DOG CLIPPERS by Oster, my sister used for the broader areas, were really loud. They have 2 air vents, to stay cool and blow air as you clip. They are like 30 years old and work perfectly, as she takes good care of things.

Wa once or twice, hopped up, as my sister went under her belly area and the air blew, and hit her somewhere else! She moved not out of position, but was nervious. I decided to use my smaller body clippers, without the air venting for the small tight areas- and under her belly. The pencil drawing- converted photo above...shows how the mare watched, as my sister clipped, almost holding her breath.

She was so good!

We would use the BIG DOG CLIPPERS till they needed to be cool- sprayed and cleaned. Then I would use my smaller, refining Whal clippers, till they would need to be shut off and cooled down.

The mare just stood contently waiting for the next break from clipping and of course, the "goodgirltreat" that followed.

phone photo converted to oil

I love this Pony Club Manual book.

It has so much(covers about everything) GREAT information in it and of course, the kinds of clips and why to use them.

All done, we went into the light for a better look.

phone photo

I tried it out yesterday...seeing if she would get wet or not while hacking.

It was plenty cold out, so I employed my quarter sheet. She seemed to appreciate that. I appreciate my 3-step Blue B-day prezzie from my sister!

..UM...we both got really, really wet because it started to SNOW as we strode .

phone photo

As the mare and me took turn after turn, away from the stables we were refreshed by the sights. Now normally, she would have a somewhat contrary opinion ..maybe asking or sometimes-telling me- which way to head (home!)...but having the flakes floating about...it made all things look so new- for the both of us!

Our Pond view was very beautiful this day. We watched and waited while it snowed around- and not on us. We were in a reprieve under big fir bows, away from all the wet, luscious flakes.

phone photo

Oh, such a sweet ride we had, trotting making transitions from extended to collected. Wa does have a smooth- as- butter collected trot, that even riding without saddle stirrups is to swoon over. She also gave me a very nicely controlled canter up and around the Christmastide farms. The snowing day somehow erased any opinions she may have had towards anything adverse!! No rushing, no tossing...It was the best.

And she was not in the least wet when we returned...nothing our cooler did not wick off in 10 minutes.

She was yawny...per usual, as I took the gear off.

Nice knowing that with this trace clip, there are no worries about my mare having cold, damp hair after riding. With some freezing nights we have had of late. Her blankets now keep her warm too, in the higher elevations of her stable location.

So all has been well on the horse front. Posting lately has been difficult, as our computer is fizzleing out. I have another post scheduled for Monday (I went ahead and scheduled it to post, as I never know if this blame computer will allow me to work online or not.) about saddle fit woes of my NEW "ANSUR KONKLUSION".

And, some more news later on such a blessing of a development with this saddle delima. Its all good.

November Goodness

2011-11-10T17:04:00.000-08:00

"Falling Back" an hour last weekend, coming out of the daylight savings time, is making us step up the ride TIMES-in order to not be in the dark.
I readied my mare....and then hurried up to wait for my sister to pick us up.....Wa mare did not seem to mind as she grazed by the drive. It does get dark so much quicker, we had to be on our way home, before the State park we were going to this day closed.

Until I get the" Load leveler bars" installed on my trailer, Sis will be taking us places. I will feel much better about hauling mine, one that weaves if alone making the trailer rock. AND- safer knowing the ball will never come off the hitch with them installed- for when I assume the care/responsibility for others horses as well.

.. Um...for this sunny weekend -EVERYONE else- had the same plans- Head to the Equestrian park!!! I

While it was still on the crisp side- it was dry! Look at the parking lot...almost full!

Sunny goodness we've had in these parts of Oregon mostly for November. What a gift to ride being able to remain dry. Off we strode, on down the trail at McIver State Park. I went first, to start with, simply because my mare has begun to balk, not wanting to go down the hill and over the bridge. She'll follow fine, but the balking at going first is what I wanted to face today with her. She and I were riding with the cushy bareback saddle and she was booted..so aside from maybe a little stiffness, no pains coming from tack... (no excuse!).

It was GREAT to NOT have to wear our BLAZE ORANGE vests and neck covers on the horses!!! I do love seeing my mares mane and neck. But untill our hunting season is over, riding here in the horse park, will be one of the only places I get to see her naturally.

My "Turbo Trailrider" stablemate took this the day before, from her phone~

Most the times I have ridden in our local horse park here, there can be a full parking lot like it was this day, but you hardly ever end up seeing many riders, for the vast space the park offers. It is kinda cool. NOT the case this day for us sisters...we met with many various riders. I normally execute a yield, as my mare is "personal space challenged" and can intimidate other horses with her uppity ways.

I never wish to endanger anyone over right of way..so, if they have not thought to stop out of the way on a narrow trail, I make sure I have myself off of it, and out of the way for them to pass us by. We did this quite a few times, with willing steeds and no incidents. Sometimes people thank us for yielding..sometimes I thank God- I did it -cause they amble and allow their horse to reach out towards us or even get close enough to touch.
I'm sorry, but to me this is not right( unless they want to get in a tangle of hooves) and so I like to take charge and get the heck out of their ways!

My sis and Pantz mare lead the way mostly, while I made sure my mare had her attitude for leading in check. She was pretty great this day.

Down by the river, we paused for the watery sights below after we had trotted the straight "Dam road", to the end.

Pantz was good today mostly, but once I headed back to allow others to pass or went further away to take a photo...she'd get uppity and not stand for my sister. Pantz rarely stands normally anyway. My sis and I have plans to do some training next time out for "coming and going- away and back" with these two horses. Mine could care less to head away from Pantz...but Pantz..ooou she flips somewhat.

My mare's issues stem from a nervousness with new horses. I mean-remember when there was that new horse, "The RED HORSE OF DOOM" I called him, at my stable for a few weeks, while the owner was selling him-??? She was beside herself and he was not ever close to her. So my point is...she just has issues with strange horses..she takes it personal if they look at her and she can be a handful. I would practice calming her and having her behave while around them...but they would not be NEW would they if I could practice with them!

So, this day...my sister was on me about my attitude and the way my mare acted around close encounters on trails with strangers. To me, I have overcome SOO MANY obstacles with this mare and to try to make her walk calmly ,closely by a new to us stranger..is asking alot. I would much rather yield, as I said before..I KNOW how that situation ends up like...safety and a controlled environment for all.

So Once -I listened to her- actually just got guilted into keeping my walk pace up behind Pantz as we passed some strangers on the trail..their side was cliffy, ours was on the upside. Then, what does my sis do??!! SHE STOPS..CRAP-OLA...! I said, "Hey, don't stop please!!! But, it was too late, my mare wigged out and began to canter in place before I could turn around...those poor other riders! The first horse took her at her word( her bad evil eye going out towards them) and began to act up himself, wondering where he could escape to...it turned out okay, as I made her go by quickly but...after apologising profusely so to them, I told my sis, I would not do that again!

We chilled out for a second and then resumed the end of our ride that crisp Fall day.

My sis was mad at me, telling me I brought it on somehow. Well, here is where I differ greatly from her. I rather think I'm a realist and though sometime I may try to change a situation and turn it into something else..I was So NOT PREPARED to wing it today- and knew I did not have permission from the strangers to involve them in my training issues of a hyper-sensitive- TB mare!

So all that aside, we did have a great ride...the mares were relaxed and though we canter twice ,for like 200 feet, and trotted up the "Dam Road", they were very wet for thier winter coats are in. So we put theirs coolers on them for moisture wicking as they mucnched grasses.

We also made a plan for the next time my siter is in town...days from now, to have a "clipping session" for both the mares. I have had to towel mine dry several times in the past 2 weeks for not wanting to put her blanket on over wet hair.

So...trace clips it is...I am excited, I alway love how they look -and-

love how they work, even more!

Sighing and snorting

2011-11-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

The mares Pantz and Washashe, having a good munching on the fall grasses just a few weeks ago...after the weather we've had recently, grasses don't look so much like this anymore! The weather has changed for all, and drastically so!

Hang in , those who have Snow in October!

Everything seems to be on the slow down around here...there are much wetter times afoot and colder. The mare is already in her blanket days, mostly because till a week ago- we had the warmest, nicest autumns...I was riding in short sleeves, but the mare...she started to have Toxic Bug Bites. She is ULTRA sensitive and the mild weather brought some nasties about...I showed up after being gone just overnight to find, a dozen welts-on the mare's hind end-ooozing a very crusty serum. When I picked them off, they left a bald patch, the hair came right off! She was not fond of me attending to them, but they itched as well as hurt so, I got the job done and applied "calm coat" to them all.

They were right on down to her legs as well. Having the blanket on stopped 90 percent of them and now, with freezing temps-hope that kills those suckers!

Last week my sis came over to ride, and we enjoyed the sunshine~

I've gone back to Bareback riding...oou that does feel good. Happy SNORTING happens often, from me and the mare! Well, I sigh.

The few times I have ridden out on the Tristian dressage saddle..it has not been comfortable...so it will be for flat only, after I have it customised for the mare soon.

~A sad note~

Took a farewell ride too last week, with my sweet Blond Beauty girlfriend...she also has the blond beauty horse, Skye~

We have been through some times together..good and some rough, but always ending sweetly.

She met a neat man and decided to go on adventure with him...so she gave a short notice, packed up all, and drove cross country with her steed to his ranch.

Last week, we met for our last ride (this year-this place).

We sure had some times of high adventure this past year...my favortites were the times we rode into the sunsets!

Our horses will miss each other as well, they found some interesting things to ponder while we rode together too!

I had gone out to see her off last week...but after 2 hours, I went on my ride before the weather turned on me...of course, she came while I was out riding, and when I returned...I found a huge hole where her trailer used to be in the row..and just small remnants of her leaving...as I bawled my eyes out!

She leaves such a HUGE hole in my heart too...

We hopefully will share more times together, as she may move to Sister's, Oregon sometime- if all goes as planned.

For now, memories of our times together will be there always~

Our Joseph trip. Morning stroll with horse and friend

So my solace has been found while riding out alone these past few times...the mare seemingly happy, snorting as we ponder the surrounds of where we ride.

When I returned from our good, yet wet ride yesterday...the mare had donned a fall display upon her fuzzy nose band. She looked right at me, as I captured the image.

Love this mare-o-mine

Hope your lessons, rides, times and plans are coming along for the best this Fall.

I am just enjoying the slower pace and looking forward to this new chapter in life's book of times.

Imagine. . .

2011-10-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

Always being the one to take the photos and video of any horseback ride....I have the horse that stands, walks straight and actully likes to relax, as I focus upon something else...

...HA! This is me focusing upon the phone, getting it ready to take a photo or two- I got caught! The mare was enjoying the walk home, after the 10 miles we walked.

My sister actually did get me in a few shots riding...the one that was going to be the best was a video on the surf the second day of our Autumn beach adventure...so..Just Imagine now- in the "photo" below, lazy tides going out, me and the mare walking in them..her looking gorgeous, me looking on.....

I was going to make stills from the video...and have some nice photos..BUT...the setting on the camera did not get changed and this is it!! The above photo! I do like it, as it is not posed...we were walking and talking...I smiled alot as my sis had the camera on me for like 5 minutes..tehehe. Oh well.

The mornings were so nice at the Bay Ocean House. The water and Sunrise over the Tillamook Bay are always dreamy. My sis caught me taking shots of the Bay, after feeding the horses.

We had farm fresh Omelette's/ Greek yogurt and coffee from the 2 horsey mugs I brought.

My sister told me that, "While I got mom's boobalas, she got her talent for cooking" which is NONE...!!

We had a fantastic sisterly time..I loved cooking for her and we never had to go into town till the day we left, as I brought along all the provisions.

We sat in the hot tub every night, and had several rounds of coffee through out the day.

For the rest of the time......

looked at the ocean's tide, through the ears of our mounts~

Went head long into the winds~

Pondered the sands of time~

Followed the lead mare~got our feet wet

Stood for moments at a time, taking in the serene views~

Had smiles inside my heart for my sister...as she took a gander back to me, smiling as we left the shore for the dunes~

Of course for me, photo editing on my phone photo's, is always a treat!

Made this into an oil~

These few, I turned into a memory collage, for us both~

One never knows the number of his/her days or times of life. Yet, while having the times of your life, being consciously aware to have a thankful heart , we may celebrate God's goodness openly and with all~

Thanks for sharing these times with me!!!

Wind through the mane....

2011-10-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

. . . can carry cares away

Seaside refreshing

2011-10-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

There are no wasted moments, for a photographer at heart.... even a jaunt into the scrubby bushes-to hide from any onlookers - to do you know what.

I looked up and saw this pink sky view, as the horses wondered why I had suddenly gone out of sight. I love my mare...she actually kept stepping towards the woods I was in, to get a better look at where I could be.

I'm impressed with the camera's capacity to take lovely images on my "smarty" phone..I call it that cause of the words it makes up as I try to quickly TXT someone...if you don't proof read..sometimes you say things -you don't mean to!

After a heck-of-a morning trying to be relaxed and "on vacation", yet leave in a timely fashion for the Bay Ocean House in Tillamook, Oregon, I was confronted with this (avert your eyes if you are sensitive to eyes with massive blood showing in a burst vessel..yea, I woke up to looking like this! I was not too concerned...I have seen them before on friends and they randomly happen. Sometimes because of lifting too much weight...I had only packed the trailer a day before for this trip and nothing out of the ordinary was carted and heaved around.

Well my husband was way more concerned than I and since I knew my sis was not in town yet from her own part of the Oregon coast, I thought okay, go see the eye Dr. I found out 2 things. It is not anything to be alarmed over and that I have 20/20 vision! WOW, thought it was worsening but..guess not! The Dr. was so funny too..he said, "I could get my husband in trouble or- I could take it easy, allowing everyone else to do work around me because I couldn't". I just said," I will do all my own work and leave for vacation, if there is nothing seriously wrong, thankyou!"

Leave we did after my sissy helped vet near 17 horses that she also helped to rescue last week. My other sister works as an animal control Deputy in Lincoln Co. Oregon. They rescued the 17 horses from a terribly rancid personality in Seal Rock that neglected them for over 2 years time by never letting 4 of them out of a stall, never cleaning the stalls and leaving blankets ON 6 horses -year round -for 2 years!!! That is not all, but that is mostly the worst. These horse are all highly bred and papered. They are on a beautiful web site called Raingate farms. The woman once was prominent in showing breeding and selling the horses...she somehow went awry.

We got to the B.O.H. beach house after dark..and I was upset a little that the first beautiful day for riding, had passed us by. We had 2 free days and nights..one was now gone. BUT...I came around to see the worthwhile efforts of my sister volunteering for such a worthy cause

Early morning view from the kitchen window of a horsey wind chime..and mountains behind~

Sunrises are so warm and wonderful looking~ fishermen are on there way out to the bar of the ocean, during high tide~

Horses fed and stalls picked...all is right in the world

Time for another cup of coffee!

The day was beginning nicely and becoming brighter as the morning sun rose higher~

We sisters made another fire and contemplated the days events...A bay side ride for starters, we decided. Heading out an hour before low tide would make for the best ride..should we decide to go for the ocean shore side.

The Herons were everywhere...some 10 birds could be counted, as we drove the 3 miles to the Bay Ocean Spit parking lot.

We followed Pantz mare along the bay side road...she was really "Kickin' Walkin'" fast like!!

It was perfectly wonderful weather, being near 60 and no wind this day as we rode along the Bay of Tillamook. The mares were good and pretty calm this day.

We found a little sandy 200 foot beach and tried to ride on it...but it was pretty sinky- deep- sand. Made for nice photos though!

We got to the end ofg the road and my sissy acted like she did not remeber me saying I did not want to ride the beach this day with hoof boots on...fearing I'd loose them. She insisted we go forth...my mare was fit and ready for the turning homeward...pretty uppity. I knew I'd be in for a battle of wills and having my trainer sister there...I was not up for her and my mare so I simply asked her to pony me back...which, in itself is hazardous.

My mare is so competitive..to be near another horse, no matter it was Pantz, is a whole- nother- level of uppity! While taking a lesson a week back, I learned a technique from my sis. It gets my mares attention and she can have an almost instant release from me asking for her head lowered and longer..IF she yields as I ask when she become inverted and high headed...

I choose a side, when walking with others on the side of me. I choose the opposite side. In this case, the right. For three strides, I close RT my hand/ and apply RT my calf by lowering my heal, and ask for an eyeball. I release for 3 and re ask if she has not gone longer.

If she has lowered her head,and has become attentive to my aides- I then lower my heals/squeezing the same hand as, about every other every third stride...just to communicate-Yes- keep it there.

WOW, it was a wild ride...but since we had done this technique before..she settled into it after only a few rounds of asking. I LOVED how she settled into my hands..and then I could let the reins out, keeping my hands closed and a contact-though longer. As we walked along, it was my leg that kept her neck long.

Smart mare, she is!

It was about 4 pm as we got back to the trailer...Pantz had the slightest amount of foam in her mouth..it made my sissy so happy...this mare NEVER relaxes enough to have a loose jaw and foam!

Hand grazing and another round of Strong Java we had upon arrival...we had ridden/ WALKED 10 MILES this day!

Sunsetting on the Tillamook bay second day on the coast with my sissy...made for more pink clouds

Night 2 of our times away..it was so cool, just us sisters...looking after the horses and me cooking for her....more to come..."~'

An Autumn

2011-10-18T13:23:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends!

I know that I have been absent from the Internet.

I have really wanted to tell you about all that is occurring but- Out of respect for certain parties...wanted to wait for word on solutions first, to a delima with my mare, discovered last month.

My sister above and her mare Pantz, enjoying an Autumn sit near a pond & lunch. And -of course, reviewing phone photos. We both have been using our phones for photography of late.

We have been taking the mares out together each week to get in shape for a BEACH OUTING tomorrow...it's finally here!

My mare really-really liked- the one, tiny bite of Almond butter and jelly sand which I gave her!! But, " such food is not horse food"..., I told her..to her disbelief!

We are having an altogether wonderful Autumn so far...yea some colder foggy days but then today, of course I have to work, is forecasted for 70!

Last week while out and about riding, my mare showed some totally scary behaviour. She was unable to walk at all.... just little short steps.

I was out about some 4 miles when it happened. I jumped off and checked her by lifting all legs and it seemed to stem from her shoulder...the left one. She could NOT lift it. This MUST have been due to the vaccination shot of Flu/Rhino, she recently had. That is the ONLY thing I could come up with. I hand walked her ever so slowly home and massaged her, gave her another Ledum round ( Homeopathic for puncture wounds) after we arrived. The next day she seemed good. I tried to ride on the third day, after the shot...again, about 3-4 miles out...she locked up from using her right shoulder, this time. Again, we gingerly hand walked home. I gave her another massage, and had been placing ledum and Arnica in her feed since the first indications of pain showed.

I finally got my order from SPRINGTIME INC. of Spirulina waffers. They are a whole food enzyme that assist people, dogs and horses in purifying the blood, assisting in allergies and breathing problems, detoxifying liver and kidneys and ulcer helper. It reduces inflammation, stimulates the immune, and is a nerve tonic of sorts. I began giving her just a couple..she'll actually eat them out of my hand!

The time, massage and supps seemed to help...on the Autumn ride with my sister, some 5 days after -was a goodie!!

Some of you may notice something different...it may be too subtle, so I'll assist you in the noticing of it.

This is NOT MY NEW ANSUR SADDLE.

My current dilema is that my saddle has hurt my mare's withers. I did not see it coming and by the time it did...white hairs on the top and sides were there, after she shed her summer coat last month. Her grunting had increased, but I had taken her Easy Walker shoes off and thought it to be softer soles in front..I was wrong.

I've been depressed and left to decide that- NO MATTER WHAT- ALL SADDLES NEED TO BE FIT..and NOT just buy the consumer-me- that is under the belief that this is the one that will work, not reading anything suggesting one make/model in the line is different-but in looks- than the other, for horse body confirmation/structure.

After spending 5 years and 5 other saddles looking, well , you all that know me best here do know- I put alot of research into the decision for this treeless saddle. Don't get me wrong..it does have a structure in there- A "Flex CORE" one that is the most comfortable saddle I've ever ridden 1-4 hours on!!!

While it started out with 2 fingers of clearance.... there was NONE for the padding in the gullet to start with. See how it rests on her withers?

It has now settled to NONE when I sit upon it---without a girth! Sorry for the blurred photo..my sister was holding -an angry -TB mare to illustrate and took the photo too!

( you should have seen us doing that stunt to prove that the girth is not the problem, pulling it down upon her back!!!)

Obviously, I lived to tell the tale!

So, in order to not ride without stirrups the entire time at the coast and at home after...we went for a quick fix-used saddle shopping.

We arrived at a favorite local tack store..and my sister started to call out the make of all the saddles she recognised, before we looked..she was always right! She cracks me up.

She got to one saddle....this one...and suddenly gasped and started fondling it, like a lost family member...

She had correctly called it as well, a "Stubben Tristian". I sat upon it, on the fake half horse stand they had in the tack store. It felt very good to me. She then told me, after close examination, it was her old saddle. She knew because of 2 things..a divot out of the front pommel leather and an extra whole she had punched in the stirrup leathers, on near side only.

WOW...I was smitten ...I measured the gullet "Point of Width"..it was the right looking amount. I checked it out to do a 3 day trial. It was near perfect..but the cantle was one inch below the pommel, making it have me sit too far back. I remedied that with a closed cell "Cashel pad".

So my friends..while I may have given myself an ulcer because of stress surrounding this whole thing.... it really distresses me to think my choice was incorrect in my expensive saddle purchase... this inexpensive ( $200) solution may be alright short term for trails.

I still believe in the ANSUR Saddles. The" FLEX CORE" structure is the MOST comfortable I've ever ridden . Nary a back ache did I have, in the past 3 months! I think my mare too, as her back/shoulders never hurt her. It's this model that sucks for her..and the saddle fitter that comae out from the Co. showed me that by putting his "Excel" model on her..giving her 3 inches of wither clearance top and plenty for the sides too!

If I had only been informed of the differences...I WOULD HAVE chosen more wisely and definitely differently!!! I ALMOST got the right one...the choice would have been CLEAR to me which jump saddle to get if I had known one had better wither clearance! I was not the treeless saddle expert..but I tell you what..I am gaining in knowledge now!

My back is killing me already, from the few rides I have had on my Tristian...I had to order an "Enlightened Equitation"-" Seatbone saver- from Heather Moffit! A gal at the stable owns one and allowed me to use it..it did help!

So, tomorrow..it's off to the Beach with my sissy- and also -my Cashel bareback-Softsaddle- I KNOW that is compy for me and the mare!!!

Wish me luck, send me prayers and just plain have hope , like I do that the ANSUR CO. honors me in the ongoing quest to correctly "saddle fit" my TB Wonder Wa mare!

See ya all soon, and I do hope to catch up with you all...and get OUT OF MY FUNKIFIED state of mind!

Sentimental

2011-10-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

To be honest, this wonderful horse head pendant actually came long before the bridle in the post before did~
My husband, knowing of my love of everything equine, on a boyfriend weekend away (don't repeat that terminology) went antiquing and found this for me...thrilled I was to actually receive the goodies this time, As he usually would just "tell me" he found some cool thing, and not buy it!

I have been wearing it alot lately and as I hung it up in the boudoir, upon the mirror, I found it reflected the other side of the horse perfectly.

I love this metal peice of equine art and I love the man who gave it to me ~more!! Yup, I'm sentimental these days...Autumn does that to me, makes me reflective and happy. Our Anniversary is in a month too, perfect!

Before the Horse. . .

2011-09-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

...was this Bridle!

Sounds kinda nostalgic, doesn't it?

Well, someone asked about the bridle this summer, think it was Terry. I have wanted to tell the story of it, so here goes...

Firstly- It's a Halter/Bridle combo. Endurance riders use them alot, or trail riders like me. See this snap-

It removes the bit from the halter, so one may allow the horse to be tied and eat.

Handy for long rides. I don't trailer with the halter though..as it wouldn't break if it needed to-though I use "Blocker Ties" in my trailer, I wouldn't risk the messing it up.

So the story goes.... Years before I had my mare, I was on a trip with my husband to Ocean Park, near Astoria. We love to antique and were in a rather huge building with 3 floors of stuff . My husband went upstairs for a time...then, he came and found me to say, " You really have to go upstairs right now, there are things up there YOU will want to see." He had recently brought up the question, " what is it you really desire to do..like a hobby?" I said, "I already do all I want to do..."... and he said, "what about horses?" I told him that was a HUGE thing to think about..because, "Once I start back onto horses, you'll NEVER get me to stop!"

I went upstairs to find all sorts of cool tack!! But I fell in love with this universal halter/bridle!

As I came back recently from a trail ride, I simply took off the bit and fastened it to the saddle's grab strap.

It makes for the BEST Oregon wet weather gear too, being synthetic!

I found these cool rubber reins to go with it, a few years ago at an endurance conference.

Snap them onto the halter ring and you have your tether for walking~

(note tail**)

I recently found my rear Renegade hoof boots(that are too large)fit perfectly for her fronts! She has Ruby slippers for the rocky roads now!

So, that is my story of the bridle before the horse...at $25, it was a really great purchase and I do not see it wearing out anytime soon! And..it is just in time for our seasonal changes to wet.

I made sure recently that the mare's very long and draging on the ground-tail- got a wet weather change too.

Soft brush side to tail bone-large flat on horse duplicates the natural way they travel, with the tail raised.

WHAT ya doin' KK girl??

Before, during, after

(see above** picture- and how the brush tecnique makes the tail easy to cut ..it hangs so evenly)

Oregon Rains...bring them on!

Second Spring

2011-09-24T13:55:00.000-07:00

Autumn arrives in Oregon . . . .

. . .and is making a great attempt of looking like spring! We like it, since it skipped us in these parts the first go.

I know that the weather in many of my blog friends worlds has been really messed up and also, downright scary. I think of you all the time. Thanks for checking in and letting us know how you are...hang in and know we are doing our best to send some better stuff your way.

The City of Roses sends many wishes for you(via prayers and pics) and the next season- for it to be calmer and also, riding freindly!

Giving my mare a break from jaunting about the countryside...Pantz mare went along for this ride to our Mount Hood, Twin lakes area with Big Skye horse and his rider. Her first time there, it was really fun to share.

With the temps being in the upper 80's..should have worn swimming gear!

Thanks Pantz for another special day in the wooded wonderlands with you~

Sending our friend JENI and her two mares a special wish...MOVING ON TO BETTER THINGS...Hoping You and yours are well taken care of and happier this season!!!

Confidence Riding

2011-09-22T09:45:00.000-07:00

This is Pantz, my sisters 21 yr old Appaloosa mare. She inherited her for a dollar about 5 years ago, the current owner was afraid of her. while my sis is a TB fan of dressage & previously enthusiast/avid eventer, she has enjoyed her very much. They did Competitive Drill Team for a few years and now she mainly trail rides, with me.

My sister moved Pantz to my barn "at the time, late last summer, it was -way the heck -out in the country.

The mares below, enjoying a romp through in the large field they had to start with there.

My sister does not live in the Portland area permanently yet...so I looked in on Pantz, as I did my mare and had the privelege of riding her anytime. This was the second time I had had Pantz at a stable with mine, and it was really fun.

My sis and me would take the mares to all my favorite riding spots, it was so nice to have her there more often, and so convenient to ride together from the barn!

Late in the season last year, while I ponied my mare from Pantz, we had stopped by a nearby pond for a rest. I was about to head on home again with the mares. Suddenly- in less than the time it would take to breath in and out-I was heading right for the ground, off of Pantz. She had done a tuck and roll move and was no longer under me, but the ground was!

I looked up once to see the mares standing there...but my mare, was pushing Pantz to go. It was terrible to see them running off and to track them to find, they had done the unspeakable!

What happened the NEXT WEEK was part of the history that lead me to happily move to my current stable. Too many chances for harm, availed themselves-plus- I wanted closer boarding w/arena and other amenities.

So, it has been a whole year since I have ridden Pantz solo, on the trails. I really did not think about it too much. Lately though, my sister really wants to get her in shape for an upcoming beach trip we have planned for October. I have endeavoured a few times to go over to her "new"current facility and retrieve her to ride at mine. (that is another post-"Pantz's move") While I am very confident trailering and riding solo...the doubtful thoughts had begun to hit my mind, " What if something happens? What if she dumps me and gets away again?" It was disconcerting for me to have to face these thoughts. And you know...these things are always present. I, while being confident in my skills and also very safety conscience while solo riding; am able to come off any horse, at anytime and have accidents occur, just like anyone can. But, it was the fact that I came off-while standing still, that had me scared somewhat.

Pantz was so good for me, trailered over to place and waited in the arena, while I got my gear out~

(phone photo)

My sissy's place is only 4 miles away. Pantz, she loves our arena, it's so soft to roll in! I set her up with some hay and water, as I groomed and tacked. I did NOT allow her to say hello to her best bud-My mare, Wa- out back in turnout..as I thought it would be upsetting for her. They never saw each other, yet did answer each others call, once. One thing I do know about this mare Pantz is- she takes over and will not listen if she is upset..it takes alot to get her back.

She was great and I only had to confirm who was the boss once or twice..she is such a bossy lead mare...she does challenge sometimes should you waver.

This is something I really caught onto this ride, being extra vigilant is Pantz's thing.... look at those ears below!

While my mare would be looking over the pond and the ducks and whatever else would be swimming around...Pantz here, is concerned about her back. It was very hard for her to keep her head straight at all...I call her "Looky Lou". She always has her head craned around to make sure the Lions are at bay! It is really annoying, when You are trying to do something, or get on...she is terrible at being still. THAT is what we practice the most, when I ride her. and THAT is where she dumped me last year..in a moment of still.

Pantz, vigilant mare In a still moment, before I mounted up to go forth...

She was happy to be out and took to the trail, eagerly so.

I was amazed at how quickly she was ascending the first hill- looser rein and no leg (both things I have to employ with mine) when- she spooked! I was not ready..but it was not a bolt or spin, thankfully...it was one of my mare's spooks too....a crouching stump, hidden cougar! Tall grasses hiding a 2 ft stump...ever since last years cougars attack...both my mare and this one, are wary of the stumps!

I don't blame them.

Our ride(s) were very insightful to me...as I rode along looser reined, Pantz did become more aware of things..spooking more often. Now this is opposite of my TB mare..the more contact Wa mare has with leg...the more wound tight she becomes. This mare it seems, becomes less relaxed and more aware, having to take care of things herself on a long rein-translation-LOTS OF SPOOKS!

I learned a great lesson from this mare Pantz...she is confident with leg on, boundaries set and a light and constant contact. She gave me such confidence between the two days I picked her up to ride! I practiced being a strong leader...as we cantered down a road...and I felt her pushing away from something as we neared..I put the outside leg on and actually looked to the other side of the road...wow..she stayed straight as if there were only the middle to travel, instead of jumping to the far side of the scarey object. In this case...an out house, tucked into a campground...we went back to investigate.

I am happy to have had the alone times with this mare to ride and to connect with her. She has helped restore my confidence again.

I just love you Pantz!

Worth the Wait

2011-09-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

There are a few things that have come to my celebrating-attention!

(phonephoto)

One year has gone by, as of this month, that I've had the mare boarded in the BEST facility ever- for us. She has been the calmest TB mare since the move. We have made some awesome friends and riding partners here... PLUS, I have been able to rehabilitate the mare's health, also attitude towards the trails; through a better fitting saddle," Easy Walker horseshoes" and also, mental conditioning. We have logged in 340 miles alone from JUNE- AUGUST 2011 and ridden hours and hours of front, middle and back of the group rides!

Now, I recently found some white hairs on Wa's withers and pocket from pressure. The thing about this is-she did not tell me about them personally so, by behaviour like before, when the saddle actually hurt. So,I am having faith my new" ANSUR" saddle still is the right fit overall. I have made some changes in padding...the "HAF" pad, I adore, will be for my bareback rides under the "Thinline" or Cashel "Softsaddle".

Below is from last week , Yes poachers have been spotted, pointing riffles at horses in the private woods next door...so "ORANGE VESTS" are appropriate! I particullarly LOVE this one I am borrowing till mine comes in the mail...it is a waterproof, woven net and does not add heat to the neck .

My ANSUR saddle with the thinline pad under...and under those, a dosey mare~

I have been following Edward over at "My Equestrian World" and he has had some new padding venues to try too, trying to fit his NIKO horse. I've enjoyed following his venues to create healthy, happy horses, he has quite the herd.

He found a Wintec riser pad to solve his problem.

I am unable to raise the front pommel area at all, so a riser pad will not do, or it will set me off balance in my saddle. I sit perfectly over my legs at present, being able to" two point" at anytime and any pace- or stand to change diagonals, instead of sitting to accomplish the change. It is something my siss taught me to do from time to time, to make sure I am over my legs.

I am able to push this little cotton pad up into the gullet, over my mare's withers. So far so good says the sweat patterns. I do have one more option to try, and today I will. My "ENGLE SHEEPSKIN" pad. While they slipped before with a tree'd saddle, my "KONKLUSION" ANSUR saddle doesn't move- being a "FlexCore tree".

(phonephoto)

So this pad, I found on the "Thinline "site, years ago on clearance- is doing a nicer job for us. I have used it several 90 degree rides(Oregon's September heat wave) and the sweat patterns tell me the pressure has decreased.

So, we have been celebrating our Boarding Anniversary by riding with my sister tons, at the trails just across the street from my stable and the ones below too...Pantz sure wishes she could be here with her bestest mare bud in the world, and my sister now regrets not taking the offer last year with me, as I moved. But $ and also she needed me to test the waters...now that they are proven so perfectly wonderful, at least she may ride with me here. Her place is nice for care and the price is right. And, it sports an all weather outdoor sand and pea gravel arena. My mare prefers an outdoor arena so, I will go there now, for lessons.

Some shots of us from the past 2 weeks. We are getting fit and ready for a BEACH getaway- in October. Though during the heat wave, it was always at least 10 degrees cooler- while riding in the woods!!

Down the road she goes, Pantz mare, with my sister aboard.

Next up- another Anniversary ...riding through fear.... I had to get back on Pantz myself, after last year disastrous fall from her -as we stood- and were not even moving!

CLEAR the way!

2011-09-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

Our stable went on an clearing expedition

I am so proud of my WA mare, riding rear position ~

Clearing started right away, on the normal trails we ride to get to where we were going to blaze one later

...and the eating began....

Mounted up again, we rode further onto our destination point

Through trails and some roadways we went....

Armed with large limb loppers, we arrived to our spot...

Two riding trail blazers took one end of the trail and two of us took the other.... this was ours...um, really, was there a trail here??

In a years time...the trail had sprouted up and small trees where literally-right in the middle of it....

Big Skye horse...where did you go?

Wa mare says, "KK, please don't go too far away!"

She was the only one that did not eat at all- the entire time we cleared. Was a bit nerve racking for her~

We had cleared and cleared till- we could do so no longer...sore hands and arms and needing a break....my partner and me went around to see the other's progress....nice work...but they must be just about to us, on the other end!

We see the horses.....

They finally appear

We follow them, as they get to where we stopped, and sigh relief!

We took a new way home, and I learned about several more miles of trail systems to expore for future rides!

Epsom Salts were my friend that night!

Hope you are all having wonderful "Summer Sunset" times.

That's what I call the last fun times of the summer; they are just as the beauty of a sunset, a thrill of color at the end of the day.

And in some of my blogger friends casses...the summer is yet to come..hang in, it is just around the corner!

I have heard stories

2011-08-30T10:37:00.000-07:00

Recently I had heard of angry bees attacking some riders/horses, as they accidently rode (stomped) by ground bees. I have only been riding in certain areas, not near home, and had the familar...stomping hoof and look from my mare to know.."Lets go- Bees"! was announced and we trotted or cantered off and away from harm.

My Stablemate, here above....I call her my "TurboTeam- Trail Rider", 'cause she was the one that told me that is what she though I was. We have been riding more and more together so, it seems to fit that she is a Turbo Trail rider too!

She had mentioned a scarey event near our barn where Theo here- I call him Black Beauty- suddenly started to escalate to explosion level, and she bolted off of him to avoid what came next- as he got stung repeatedly. I have avoided that area, altogether.

The handsome Turbo-Team riders above ...decked in new- purple rope reins- that snap on. She has watched me get off and walk my mare, needing more room in front of my mare than a leather rein length affords. And sometimes, those leather reins (if not supple) can be imposssible to quickly take off the bridle! So she found these reins online, for about $25. They are 11 feet long,easily clip on and off the bridle and perfect for her large Black Beauty Warmblood, Theo.

We headed out for a smooth 8 mile loop ride into the cool forests, across the street. It was grey and somewhat dampish...as September approaches this week. It was a nice ride but- on the way back...my mare suddenly stopped, she went sideways a few steps and I was wondering-what the ? I turned to look at her back end and she appeared to have 3 objects on her...I thought BEES!

Then she dipped her head down quickly and came up just as fast, in a semi rear...I exclaimed to my partner something was going on, and bolted off her, as I felt what my freind had described about Theo...a building of energies under me. I quicky saw that my poor mare had an angry bee right on her muzzle and then, as she rubbed...it left a huge stinger and the welt was now appearing too.

Crap, I had to get that stinger out but now she was frantically yawning...my rider partner said walk her for a time and we headed towds home till she settled. I then looked at the sting area that had now swollen to half dollar size! She let me push the stinger out and we again walked towards home.

Once Home, I quickly got my saddle pack out (should have had it on the horse!) And found the "STING-KILL WIPE" I always thought I might need for a human...but today- My Wa mare got its soothing effects.

She objected at first. The area was that softest spot, right behind the nostril flare. Then, she got into allowing me to rub it, I think the product soothed her and it felt realy good.

Here are the ingredients-

It could have been worse, and I am happy it was not. I will carry my pack with me at all times now...even for the short, out and back 8 mile loop, things can go awry!

...You can stretch right up and touch the sky...

2011-08-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

SPRINKLERS!!!

Considering a path through the sprays....

Do dado Cha - do dado Cha-

"In the Summertime, when the weather is hot, you can stretch right up and touch the sky-

When the weather is fine- You got riding, you got riding on your mind !"Have some fun, take a ride, go out and see what you may find!!" (Lyric change-mine)

It's a fun memory song from the 70's...never knew what the lyrics were till I sought it out recently,on "You tube". They were not what I expected. Still, I hum this song, "In the Summertime" by Jerry mungo and now, think of riding and sprinklers!

The mare and me on a hot summers day, went up to a nearby Farmer's field. It has a nice, soft footed sawdust track around it. We have hand galloped this track before, and the mare really loves it, even to gallop on past the trail home, she'll keep on her highblowing pace-to gallop on.

This summery day in the warm goodness of it, we came across about 21 large, sprinklers... the path we normally take had overspray happening...and to veer off, was not to be done into the harrowed, soft dirt to the left. So we considered our path to take, watching the timing of the spriknklers. The mare was alright with the varried voices of them all. Some with a lower tone, as the water leaked and sprayed water randomly, out of both sides..spraying us a little. Some with a higher pitch and quick to come around towards us, in watery spraying.

After watching the patterns for a time..I asked the mare to venture forth....

She answered...are you sure KK??!!

Yea, My mare..I am sure...let's go try, and see what happens!

She was so good to try for me, not balking but pensive somewhat. I imagined us trotting through-no matter what spray occurred we'd keep on keeping on...well, that was not the case this first time through. We started and she was fully aware "WHERE" the sprayer was going and when It started to come around behind her..she definately wanted to keep moving forward. So, after we had entered the 21 sprayer lane of cross firing water jets...um-there was really no turning back!

I kept my wall leg on, so she would not evade or side step to the plowed part of the field on the left. I also had to have a short cross for reins, to keep her from bolting....all in all she was pretty centered and looking ahead to the next. In fact we were almost through all of them and I had that feeling- that it could have been a disater- but had turned out nicely. THEN, she spied something at the end of the field (farmers equiptment) and thought to stop moving through. I said with a confident squeeze to both sides at once, we are still going to ride on!

We made it to the other side...ALIVE!!

It was alot of fun trying something completely different with the mare...a summertime adventure!

"Sing along with us-da, da, dadada, de, de, dedede- we're always hap happpy. Life's for livin' that's our phil-os-ophy!"

PERFECT

2011-08-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

My "MUST RIDE MONDAY" partner with her Mustang Cazi, myself with my mare, went to "Twin lakes" on Mt. Hood, last Monday...it was the PERFECT setting for a Birthday ride!!

Indian Paintbrush flowers, dotted the trails~

Dappled sun through the Evergreens, made the ride have just the right amount of shade for a summery day~

The lower Twin Lake is so perfect...we relax in the beauty

Oh, watery fun now with the first of the 2 lakes...Cazi, whaa!

He starts to paw like he always does...sprinkling us with his water wake!

Now Waaa??!!

OH!!

I can't look!

Cazi, you can be just as silly as...well, me!

"Must Ride" parners, Mustang Cazi and his girl~

Upper Twin Lake

We stopped for a munch and so did the horses, as Wa packed her own lunch today as well....

Love ya Cazi man!

A little more fun in the water...

The breezes whip through our hair...what a refreshing summer's day!

Homeward we go now, God's Nature has proveded the perfect setting for celebration this day! I loved it~

There is always a party to be experienced, in the outdoors!

AARP Rider

2011-08-12T08:22:00.000-07:00

Yup..I have become one of those members so, the day before (last Sunday) I celebrated a little with my mare by accomplishing something I have wanted to do for awhile...a 6 mile loop trotting day. I made her walk some (had to ask) she and I really had fun . She was in rare form . Willing, forward, but not rushing and I found a nice groove, in the rhythm of her trotting. Right diagonal is easier, always has been, and left really took some flexibility to remain that way...it could be that she threw a shoe last week...but I rather think it would be that way anyway.

I lengthened my stirrups a notch, and off we flew, trotting corners, up hills and down hills. It is really awsome for balance -hers and mine.
Sometimes a simple two point worked better than posting. We had so much fun...started out with nice braids..all balled and short, exposing her beautiful neck...um, we trotted most of them loose!
HA!

Thanks Wa mare, your rock!
6 miles in 57 minutes...

Wa on walkabout

2011-08-06T16:08:00.000-07:00

Yes, that is my mare's eye in the hands of my vet professional.

While having a nice summery day out with my man, 2 wks back on a Sunday, I got "that call" from the stable owner. I was told, " My mare got lost"...But no, she did not get out, as I thought, she had gotten stuck in the thicket of the out reaches of her field. Scared me half to death as I was unable to make it to the stable under an hour and half, from where we had jaunted to, in leisure that day. I quickly called my sissy who happened to be in town.

Here's what we know....Some passers by the property fence line on horseback, saw my mare ensnared in brambles and wedged next to the fence line, kicking and furious with the deer flies and bots that were attacking her. She was unable to move anymore, for the sturdy batch of brambles had cut into her tender skin.( I know, I have found many places with skin ripped up, recently, on her back!)

They the Horseback riders called out to whom ever could hear-"HELLO-HELLO, There is a bay horse stuck in the thicket out here!!" Apparently my PBO had just settled down to bath in the sun and heard them, THANKS GOD!

She came to see and then had to go fetch clippers and gloves and probably iron clad clothing -as when my sis and I walked the parameter later, trying to reconstruct it all-My PBO had to cut through the thicket to get my poor mare out...it did not look like a path of any sorts!

All that to say, she had something in her eye and the vet had to be called out. My sister rushed to help, I am thankful was available- though- my PBO would have been a wonderful help as well. My sis is Wa mare's first human mother, having been there for her birth and raising her, she's first on my emergency call list.

I arrived in time for the instructions and to pay the bill..wooo...it's like our vacation costs-w/o the fun!

Blessings of the timing were, My PBO being there, my sis being available, I had a very light week that week..and was able to come out several times a day to administer the ointments. My wonderful PBO was great to help out with the evening rounds of applications and Bannemine. Wa mare, She now has recovered wonderfully so! My vet came by again, 3 days later, to put a special fluorescent liquid into Wa mare's eye. it will show any remaining tears or debris...all clear and practically smooth. WHEW!

THOUGH I had plenty of time to learn......and I am able to do anything with flesh and wounds and such, with my horse(not people)...for the life of me, though given 4-7 times a day to administer the ointment to my mare's eye- I NEVER WAS ANY GOOD AT IT! I had the darnedest time "pushing" the lids in and down..I ended up smearing most the goo in...effectively creating the "Arabian Show horse" look on one eye...really greasy- shiny and all! Which, made it more difficult for me to get a grip on the lid! She healed all on her own practically...not sure how much help I was! She was an excellent patient too.

She got most the week off and the first time we rode out together, I had her wear her fly mask for the shade effect, her eye looked dilated still to me. She was great, and so I have been riding nearly every day since...letting her choose the paths and taking it easy mostly around home.

Here's what I think happened: while adventurous under saddle, Wa mare NEVER likes to go anywhere that the brush, trees and brambles touch her. If she has no clear vison of the ground,she balks. Having been in this turnout for near 7 months on and off, she would have NEVER entered a thicket on her own- loose. While walking about, I noticed some twine, I inquired..it was for the older grey mare that was set to eat grass that day, on my mare's and Theo's fence line. In all the time she and Theo have been out there, it is the only change .(aside from red horse of doom a mo ago, and Theo hearded Wa away then too)

Theo is fiercely possessive of Wa..I really think the close proximity

of another horse on common fence, made Theo herd Wa around,and she got pushed into getting away from him..into the wooded area...I know she traveled so near the fence she probably got shocked several times and where we found her fly mask ripped off... I am certain of it.

I feel TERRIBLE she had to go through that! So glad it is over for her. I wish my boarding facility had enough room for her to have her own pasture, but alas...and the mare Iwish for her to be with, her owner is too afraid of them becoming too herd bound to each other.

Other news and partially why I have been absent from visiting all my blogger friends-again- Pantz moved to another barn and I have been super -duper busy helping my sister with that.

Doesn't this photo I captured on my phone, look like a painting?!

I love to draw and paint..so I am endeavoring this, it inspired me!

More to come on Panz's move but - I'll leave you with a "SMALL WORLD" note...

you know how when you meet someone somewhere, like in another country or state..and they are from your home town you say," it's a small world"...Well, on Wa' (forced)walkabout

day when she got herself into a mess...the folks who found her and went for help...are Pantz's new barn owners friends...they told her the story a day later,about how they found a bay mare in the brambles, on their ride!

I am sooo very happy it is a small world!