tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9341368329807665512024-02-07T00:36:54.777-08:00canterbalancewilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.comBlogger252125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-82100040976113636292013-01-01T20:33:00.002-08:002013-01-01T20:33:30.111-08:00Happy New YearWow! I cannot believe I have let so much time go by without updating my blog. It's not that I haven't been riding because I have. Regularly too! Boo and I are still working on rhythm, suppleness, and connection. I think we may be working on that forever. Boo knows how to do it...I sometimes struggle. When we have those three things going for us we go ahead and work on straightness and collection. We can only manage that for short periods of time. <br />
<br />
I am much more comfortable on Bay now too. I don't ride him as often as I ride Boo but we have come a long way together. I have a couple of friends that help me keep Bay exercised. I found I just couldn't keep up with both horses and still have time for anything else. I was burning out. The ladies help me on Monday and Wednesday. I ride Bay on Friday, and the DH rides him on the weekends. He's been taking him to cow sorting clinics. It's so funny. He has gone from dressage horse to cow horse! I think I have the DH interested in looking into western dressage. <br />
<br />
I'm still working on my photography. Having a great time with it. Looking forward to posting a few things here now and then. I'm also looking forward to doing some reading and catching up on all the blogs. wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-84212258631619375232012-08-01T21:10:00.000-07:002012-08-01T21:10:42.065-07:00Boo again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47fAjovtuW4BRc-TQRdktlqLNigUQcDvk0g19SAR6L4DwOZnX3LnTxuh2709LwR0tbFiSrhmCWVGqkUtzqaNYlytOZREIiVMC-CMbp09fuMil_CGC9MuEYu-SGXxunumhflZd1XwfIaw/s1600/356-2+resized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47fAjovtuW4BRc-TQRdktlqLNigUQcDvk0g19SAR6L4DwOZnX3LnTxuh2709LwR0tbFiSrhmCWVGqkUtzqaNYlytOZREIiVMC-CMbp09fuMil_CGC9MuEYu-SGXxunumhflZd1XwfIaw/s320/356-2+resized.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Another shot of Boo. I took this as a class assignment for a Basic Equine photograpy course. Do you think I should have cropped out the barn door? Because the background was so dark I thought leaving it in gave it a bit of context...not sure if it's to distracting...<br />
<br />
I've finished my course and am waiting for the final critiques. I'm not going to take another class for awhile. I am just going to practice the things I've learned for the rest of the summer. I'm also working through a workbook for photoshop. I bought myself photoshop CS5 and there is a lot for me to learn there. The workbook will help me get familiar with the basic stuff. I need to have that down before September because I am going to go to Photoshop World in Las Vegas. Hoping that sitting through the seminars there will really help me elevate my images to another level.<br />
<br />
I have been riding both horses this week. I noticed that my stirrup leathers were worn, so I replaced them yesterday. Now I am squeaking with every stride. I had visions of the leather breaking through at the most inopportune time! Tomorrow is Bay's day to be ridden. I have to admit that I get butterflies thinking about it. Guess that's the sign that I am pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I can only hope I'll end up being a better rider for it.<br />wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-14627222852989925362012-07-28T21:10:00.000-07:002012-07-28T21:10:48.465-07:00Riding BaythovenI have only ridden two horses consistently in my life. I started on a lesson horse. Two years later I bought Boo. I've been riding him ever since. Bay has always been my husband's horse. He's always been ridden by the hubby and what ever young lady was sponsoring him for 4-H, OHSET, shows, lessons, etc. I've been on him maybe 5 times in 6 years. Now that I'm going to be the one keeping him exercised I am going to have to learn what it's like to ride a horse with a completely different personality than Boo.<br />
<br />
Bay is more laid back than Boo. Some people read that as "lazy." I guess he is a bit lazy. He doesn't want to work, so he puts up a bit of a fuss in order to see if your up to the task of getting him to do what your asking. Frankly, I am not quite sure I am up to the task.<br />
<br />
I plan to start slowly. Lots of ground work to get him to listen to me on the ground. I guess we could call this the getting to know you phase. Lots of walk/trot. Since he almost unseated me when I asked for the trot on Thursday, I figure we will just stick with getting the trot right before I move on to the canter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahceUli5on3jH-2CQVaTVEd2J9je1pND13bvP-7usOvwbNiw0QI3BSErZtuKFqsK-SzMBRQhaOajwDNBWkYVfs2ShJyS2eX7JmWV7UfbFN113R6CDf_p-KWdgR5E4RGSGtAfr9SlLhto/s1600/038-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgahceUli5on3jH-2CQVaTVEd2J9je1pND13bvP-7usOvwbNiw0QI3BSErZtuKFqsK-SzMBRQhaOajwDNBWkYVfs2ShJyS2eX7JmWV7UfbFN113R6CDf_p-KWdgR5E4RGSGtAfr9SlLhto/s320/038-2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Bay is a beautiful horse and his gaits are smooth. Once we get a relationship going I think we will be fine. He's only 15 and Boo is 23 so I'm kind of hoping that Bay will become my main riding horse when Boo is ready to retire. wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-86457817177169299752012-07-26T22:33:00.001-07:002012-07-26T22:33:41.193-07:00Beautiful Boo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaa0laFk0o-iXd0xCWbQSy9fmWyW2QQbDDzWyzdlfJ7H-2y8p6vhs0FH1EzUT2wCs7ep5vbHyYs24yt6vatpFL2jd1nhE_2sLNF-czlfh7mavwA5CERO4ufrlJO-pqEuop88-SAjhFdE/s1600/357-1-contrast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPaa0laFk0o-iXd0xCWbQSy9fmWyW2QQbDDzWyzdlfJ7H-2y8p6vhs0FH1EzUT2wCs7ep5vbHyYs24yt6vatpFL2jd1nhE_2sLNF-czlfh7mavwA5CERO4ufrlJO-pqEuop88-SAjhFdE/s320/357-1-contrast.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It's been awhile<br />
since I've written anything for the blog. I hadn't been riding...I kept trying to get back on a regular schedule but it never seemed to stick. In June we made the decision to move the horses once again. This time we brought them closer to home. It's an older barn and they only get half day turn out, but I am riding again and that is what I'd hoped for. Sarah has decided to move on from Baythoven starting in August. It's time for her to try new challenges before she goes off to college in the fall. We will miss her but we understand. So, now we are looking for another sponsor for Bay and, in the meantime, I am riding both horses. The hubby really only has time to help out on the weekend. If this doesn't whip me back into riding shape I don't know what will. <br />
<br />
I've also been pursuing my photography journey. I took this photo of Boo at the new barn about a month ago. I'm having a blast with this. I'm trying all kinds of things but horse photography is my absolute favorite.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to getting back to blogging. I've been reading and keeping up with everyone. I doubt I'll be able to write daily, but I am hoping for once a week at least.<br />
<br />wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-87958594481251219362012-02-15T19:35:00.000-08:002012-02-15T19:35:02.431-08:00Being there for Boo<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">Hmmm…wouldn’t you know that Baythoven would come up lame less than a week before OHSET’s (Oregon High School Equestrian Team) first meet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The horse goes through down times just fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s like he has an inner clock that says show season is coming up, it’s time for some lameness issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel bad for Sarah because this is the only showing she was planning to do with Bay this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve called in our vet and she’ll be out on Friday to check him out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed that it will be easily taken care of.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">I am ashamed to admit that I haven’t been out to ride Boo in quite some time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a matter of fact I have only been making it out there about once a week to groom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been letting my health problems dictate to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t keep doing that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, today I put on my barn clothes and made the 30 minute drive out to see the boys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boo was the only one happy to see me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bay gets his attention from Sarah and doesn’t feel the need for mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boo, on the other hand, only has me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was more than ready for a little grooming and treat time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once I got him cleaned up I tacked him up and put him on the lunge line for about 15 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We just did a light workout.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s not in any better shape than I am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a matter of fact he’s gotten a bit chubby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is in good company because so have I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s still pretty fuzzy and I didn’t want him to get too sweaty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once we finished with the lunging I decided to cool him out from the saddle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I climbed on and spent about 20 minutes just walking around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is the first time I’ve been in the saddle since October.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It did feel good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was a bit nervous but it all worked out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Halfway through the ride I realized I’d climbed up there without my helmet which is something I never do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully, he was a good boy today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">When I turned him back out in the pasture he watched me for a bit before he went off to join his buddies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been the only constant in this horse’s life for the past 10 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today I realized that I need to make more of an effort no matter what’s going on in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love him, and I think he kind of likes me too. <o:p></o:p></span>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-58492509738654025092012-02-11T23:15:00.000-08:002012-02-11T23:15:13.334-08:00A Change In FocusSarah isn't going to show Baythoven this year in the class A shows. That means I don't have to keep up all those cumbersome memberships so necessary and vital to the show circuit industry. If Bay isn't showing, as far as I am concerned, there is nothing in those memberships for me. I do plan to keep my ODS membership. That one always has educational opportunities for members even if they are not into showing. A primary ODS membership comes with the "Flying Changes" magazine and it comes with a USDF membership which gives me the "USDF Connection" magazine. Maintaining my connection with ODS will also give me the opportunity to help out at some of the shows. I'd love to learn to scribe and I am hoping to get that opportunity.<br />
<br />
I've decided to invest the money I would have spent on memberships into photography classes. Of course I am thinking that my photography will take a decidedly equine bent. I've already signed up for two classes. One class in photography and one in photo shop. I am jazzed about this turn of events. It feels right. It feels like a big adventure!wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-72644085884628014692011-12-13T09:06:00.000-08:002011-12-13T09:06:14.162-08:00GratitudeI made my way out to the barn on Sunday. The weather had warmed up a bit and I wanted to check on the boys. When I got there they were turned out into their pasture and were grazing side by side. They paid no attention to me whatsoever until I made my way into the pasture with some horse cookies. It was then they decided I was their long lost benefactor.<br />
<br />
As they ambled across the pasture toward me I was struck by just how beautiful they both are. Even in they're dirty blankets, even with their manes in a tangle and shavings clinging to their tails. They are both pretty fuzzy. I think Bay may even be fuzzier than he has ever been. His tail is longer than I've ever see it. It's past his hocks now. Boo's tail has grown too. It wasn't but a couple of months ago that I had banged it just above his fetlocks. Now it's dragging on the ground again. Looks like I will need to go out and wash it and bang it again on the first available 50 degree day.<br />
<br />
I haven't been feeling well lately, but today for that few hours spent with my horses, I forgot about everything but how much I love being with them. I have heard it said that people who have something that speaks to their soul, no matter what it is, will become so engrossed in it that they will lose time when doing it. That is exactly what happens to me when I am with the horses. Time slows down and eventually I lose track of it altogether. I know I am not alone in this. I know that almost everyone who will read this blog post knows exactly what I am talking about. Aren't we lucky to have that? I know I'm grateful for every single moment.wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-82817722672337884562011-12-11T09:26:00.000-08:002011-12-11T09:26:13.826-08:00Sunday Stills<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkjj9ToCeKbvsO8lx-BuYC9hwbSWB-itkDLCjpoci4TF0q-LdXyHpdU9P9fg8pLHfiPo3zstW1XIeLeoXM4g_Ga-kYDmbXp6grWLjK4ch-XvyGKjFHvqb6KQH9FUaht_V0mYKrdgnArQ/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkjj9ToCeKbvsO8lx-BuYC9hwbSWB-itkDLCjpoci4TF0q-LdXyHpdU9P9fg8pLHfiPo3zstW1XIeLeoXM4g_Ga-kYDmbXp6grWLjK4ch-XvyGKjFHvqb6KQH9FUaht_V0mYKrdgnArQ/s320/030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-45902358015772338342011-12-09T17:44:00.000-08:002011-12-09T17:44:16.845-08:00Wondering About BlanketingI am sitting here in my office. The sun is filtering in through the windows. Everything is warm and cozy inside. Outside is a different story. It was 25 degrees when I got up this morning. That is unusual weather for the Pacific Northwest. Oh, we get cold weather but we don't usually get it for more than a few days in a row and then it's back to the 50's for daytime highs and lows in the 40's to upper 30's at night.<br />
<br />
I understand that for many people this is just your every day winter weather. It's far worse in many parts of the country and around the world. At least this has been a dry cold spell. Still, it's not that normal for us and I find myself wondering if I'm doing right by my 22-year-old gelding. I have him stabled about 30 minutes from home. The elevation is a little higher and the temperature is a few degrees colder than it is here at home. I have a light blanket on him (no fill) with a neck cover. It's just to keep him dry and to break the wind. He has a very fuzzy winter coat of his own, and I've always felt that was enough for our normal temperatures. Now, with these temperatures, I am second guessing myself. Should I be putting on a heavier blanket? It's still getting to the upper 30's and lower 40's during the day...<br />
<br />
He is outdoors during the day and indoors at night. He seemed fine the last time he was checked. He was warm and dry under the blanket. His weight is still good. I'm concerned that if I put on a heavier blanket he will just sweat under it. I've had that happen before. I've heard other people say they've beefed up the light turnout sheet in this cold weather. <br />
<br />
What do you all think?wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-86371902935343888332011-12-07T08:52:00.000-08:002011-12-07T08:52:59.131-08:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa6YWFU20VyKVP4JydlXTFTXbFekSnzlayyaRO2JDfxWJvE-XYsbiLlJxFpI1_o7fwud6VymiI9ksG4Sg7WAYXXEWZvCkhePtSrBtQRWiWHVq3qPQ51-anU80yOcBxMAD0Yz39sE0Suc/s1600/2011+Christmas+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa6YWFU20VyKVP4JydlXTFTXbFekSnzlayyaRO2JDfxWJvE-XYsbiLlJxFpI1_o7fwud6VymiI9ksG4Sg7WAYXXEWZvCkhePtSrBtQRWiWHVq3qPQ51-anU80yOcBxMAD0Yz39sE0Suc/s320/2011+Christmas+Tree.jpg" width="191" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKmuHf2KhmCmrwZsIj3gXOFOA9_BTSlq3EgPqDRBnq57PTPGspP0MSiUuWZqy2vmye7mh8BG8HNP9IhqZy3V8k92g0gdZOS9mgV91B7YIHN7vTQ9uG7vmo9QWTlGi_8lqH3DUM1U3agY/s1600/012+Poko%2527s+ornament.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKmuHf2KhmCmrwZsIj3gXOFOA9_BTSlq3EgPqDRBnq57PTPGspP0MSiUuWZqy2vmye7mh8BG8HNP9IhqZy3V8k92g0gdZOS9mgV91B7YIHN7vTQ9uG7vmo9QWTlGi_8lqH3DUM1U3agY/s320/012+Poko%2527s+ornament.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlc6OXAIMGTbXeiCA3iBWi3Vk_QWnzJSE1nQ6I3BE-LNRfTqpslsxfHxiNTMR00X9NO8BixQBRAWhg2IEUnldewc144Z4kaASX8ETPBx7bpdMkPqUDcnM8rt7QU5XJbNmtxlubd1YnVw/s1600/014+Swan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlc6OXAIMGTbXeiCA3iBWi3Vk_QWnzJSE1nQ6I3BE-LNRfTqpslsxfHxiNTMR00X9NO8BixQBRAWhg2IEUnldewc144Z4kaASX8ETPBx7bpdMkPqUDcnM8rt7QU5XJbNmtxlubd1YnVw/s320/014+Swan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-41354813741977160342011-12-05T16:03:00.000-08:002011-12-05T16:03:31.051-08:00Learning About Equine Photography<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">I spent some time this fall taking an online photography class.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a fine art photography class and the emphasis is on capturing the essence of the horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I heard about the class from a good friend who is a much better photographer than I am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She encouraged me to give it a shot and I am really glad I did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve owned a Canon Rebel XTI for about 3 years, but I was lost when it came to taking pictures off auto mode.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With this class I would be required to get off auto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">I was pretty nervous in the beginning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was worried I wouldn’t understand the assignments or even how to upload them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am definitely not a techie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, the emphasis here wasn’t going to be about the technical aspects as much as it was going to be about beginning to define our own vision regarding the essence of the horse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">All that was needed for the class was a DLSR camera and some version of Photoshop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bought PS<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Elements 9 from Amazon and I was set to go.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">I didn’t turn out to be the star of the class.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also wasn’t a total bust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t get a photo that I thought worthy of printing and framing as fine art, but I did get an idea of where to begin my photography education which I intend to follow up on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am planning to take some of those technical classes to help me better understand the capabilities of my camera.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m also planning to take some classes in photo shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve developed a better understanding of what fine art photography is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The class was well worth the money and the time I’ve spent on it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">Although the actual goal of using photo shop was to take a good photo and then enhance it with photo shop techniques, I did learn how to make an interesting sort of photo out of what most would consider a real dud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are a few examples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">The website for the class is </span><a href="http://www.learntotakephotos.com/"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;"><span style="color: blue;">www.learntotakephotos.com</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UvAWwBVaSnHvuRWatz1niQvoiyeoNqO2ui-e70RGcYZGjfLmPaXHbTUrggdsOgKruy8P4RCC5eAwquqrFAs9zV5j4BKYS8-tPDha7J-Qt0oyNcJp8oxAPxrXBKRjlKFjd7he-7AiNZg/s1600/Electrify+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-UvAWwBVaSnHvuRWatz1niQvoiyeoNqO2ui-e70RGcYZGjfLmPaXHbTUrggdsOgKruy8P4RCC5eAwquqrFAs9zV5j4BKYS8-tPDha7J-Qt0oyNcJp8oxAPxrXBKRjlKFjd7he-7AiNZg/s320/Electrify+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAUlNOGFsvC2d0ebJXurNTbmL36wb4xbZ9FnRJYompZzSRiCIuhsSgbWu0U_z-3fGaOndnEQWTd-mBwGpQTNtc-2d0S-C3Nf3wzp6SbdqEaWMpcLQg_SD-RcY-lNMhawCcWu6fvg7ekc/s1600/Born+In+A+Dream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAUlNOGFsvC2d0ebJXurNTbmL36wb4xbZ9FnRJYompZzSRiCIuhsSgbWu0U_z-3fGaOndnEQWTd-mBwGpQTNtc-2d0S-C3Nf3wzp6SbdqEaWMpcLQg_SD-RcY-lNMhawCcWu6fvg7ekc/s320/Born+In+A+Dream.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5l97WsVA4tL7Tzi6zxavO4HbfNQcHKJJAb3JmP6X-lNBN_hErxTDrqcEaxZWJB2uafzOuDH-L1KzVKalwRkQt8g17wu6803mJOutAVfjslFH7C4TAvaessNHfwOQR2dkP9Ou4aBrXnQ/s1600/291web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5l97WsVA4tL7Tzi6zxavO4HbfNQcHKJJAb3JmP6X-lNBN_hErxTDrqcEaxZWJB2uafzOuDH-L1KzVKalwRkQt8g17wu6803mJOutAVfjslFH7C4TAvaessNHfwOQR2dkP9Ou4aBrXnQ/s320/291web.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-62105080458181726852011-12-03T23:46:00.000-08:002011-12-03T23:46:03.373-08:00Sunday Stills<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3pJmN3u29KVXjDKZTdg-8WunubFKrjJtRemjpv0SQWqigffMkpM8Fzftxyt1tJV013lGByQmQaRFpqaRT6E4S3ZlwNJxqiFZHnnj2wKOxr5h22k3UfeFoUA9LErAKPY4MIX4URT5lvlk/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3pJmN3u29KVXjDKZTdg-8WunubFKrjJtRemjpv0SQWqigffMkpM8Fzftxyt1tJV013lGByQmQaRFpqaRT6E4S3ZlwNJxqiFZHnnj2wKOxr5h22k3UfeFoUA9LErAKPY4MIX4URT5lvlk/s320/015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Back Lightwilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-56850392227081854902011-12-02T19:18:00.000-08:002011-12-02T19:18:15.698-08:00I Have Been Missing In Action<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Vc5ExfVYA3B1lqIDJnWqpsEoBkCimYG0ns-FkZGXXgVLFqZiW60ZcU_OZ3l9Zh9c_vfiGcAYMZo_dVIRncwGhf3jQBuXbQYZKF1dJsm4sApgjJQbgejfQS_V2vLdUGk9K9k-OoMH0dU/s1600/160_edited-1web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Vc5ExfVYA3B1lqIDJnWqpsEoBkCimYG0ns-FkZGXXgVLFqZiW60ZcU_OZ3l9Zh9c_vfiGcAYMZo_dVIRncwGhf3jQBuXbQYZKF1dJsm4sApgjJQbgejfQS_V2vLdUGk9K9k-OoMH0dU/s320/160_edited-1web.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
I have many reasons but no good excuse. My last entry was in mid September. It was just a short blurb about the Pendleton Roundup. We had moved our two horses to a new barn just a few weeks earlier. It had not been our choice. Our old barn had gone self-care. The new barn was nice. It was no further away. It was just something new to get use too.<br />
<br />
Both horses have settled in nicely. It has not been quite so easy for me. It's difficult sometimes to accept change. It's difficult to lose the connections with old barn friends. It's sometimes difficult to build new connections, especially if a person is not going to the barn very often. Such is the situation I have made for myself in the past few months.<br />
<br />
To top off all the difficulties I've been having dealing with change, I have also been dealing with some health changes. It is amazing how incredibly slow the health care industry moves. In mid October I visited my PCP due to some recurring symptoms I had been having. They had been ongoing for a couple of months prior to the visit and were beginning to scare me. About mid November I finally received all the test results we had been waiting for only to be told I needed to be referred to a specialist. It took almost two more weeks to get an appointment with the specialist and that is not going to happen until December 30th. I've been waiting...and waiting...and waiting. I've put my life on hold and it is finally dawning on me that no matter what I end up dealing with health wise, I just cannot continue to do what I am doing.<br />
<br />
I must get back to the things that sustain me. I need to get back to being with my horses. I need to get back to being active. I need to push through the unfamiliar, and the doldrums, and the pain and just be present. So here I am.<br />
<br />
I'm back.wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-12111074735352550272011-09-18T18:30:00.000-07:002011-09-18T18:30:42.466-07:00Fantastic weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPkpgtq4bU1A8FhK4EVeSoRZMihBX-k1VYTJK5oIjbRA7CnybapDWJdzkJTg4wtyDjunahFFgS-YTnnebNzuTaajavj49uVb54az99ijbZC2SQC7gBUMFmGlg8mrd_EGsC63xbXsP22s/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPkpgtq4bU1A8FhK4EVeSoRZMihBX-k1VYTJK5oIjbRA7CnybapDWJdzkJTg4wtyDjunahFFgS-YTnnebNzuTaajavj49uVb54az99ijbZC2SQC7gBUMFmGlg8mrd_EGsC63xbXsP22s/s320/016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt;">We had a great time at the Pendleton Roundup once again!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The DH and I, along with our daughter Jaimee and my dear friend Joanne, managed to be there for the rodeo on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We met up with other family and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We saw the big parade on Friday morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We shopped until we nearly dropped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent some time at Crabby’s Underground, the Rainbow Room, and of course out on Main Street listening to the bands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a lot of fun, got little sleep, and drank a few beers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I must have taken about 500 photos, and I learned a ton about what not to do when taking pictures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I'm always a little sad when it's over...I'm also grateful because these old bones just ain't what they use to be!</span></span>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-34851290051262765452011-09-15T23:23:00.001-07:002011-09-15T23:23:55.050-07:00Pendleton Roundup 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjlGLyNuaUQv-WicsH8Ku9Qz25wY1uzVLjMRPk1f2aCOLR67cYm7uYQ2UyLmYU-4Oj1U_zBJ7ZFPdQOswYu9bu7ztVMF8UxvLLaJ31-SIAjowtoYt3hHhca9Cjv4QsmO5X57COZ3JOtQ/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjlGLyNuaUQv-WicsH8Ku9Qz25wY1uzVLjMRPk1f2aCOLR67cYm7uYQ2UyLmYU-4Oj1U_zBJ7ZFPdQOswYu9bu7ztVMF8UxvLLaJ31-SIAjowtoYt3hHhca9Cjv4QsmO5X57COZ3JOtQ/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-18451965277345421402011-09-14T21:36:00.000-07:002011-09-14T21:36:26.568-07:00The boys are doing well in their new homeThe horses have been in their new home for a little over two weeks now. They are turned out to pasture together and they seem to be getting along well. My first time out I lunged Boo in the outdoor. That went pretty well, so my next time out I rode in the outdoor. He was pretty excited and not listening to well, but we managed. I’ve ridden him a couple of times in the indoor, and he does pretty well in there. There are some trails to ride out there, so I think I’m going to have to get Mick out there and explore those before the rains start up again.<br />
<br />
Both boys call a bit when one or the other of them leaves the pasture. They seem to be doing that less and less though. We took Bay to the ODS Championships last weekend, so Boo had to spend the entire weekend in the pasture alone. He did alright though. He had a couple of mares in the pasture next to him and other horses in sight. Boo has some scratches on one of his hind feet. I always thought that was something that happened during the muddy season, but these came on right before we left CEC and the ground was dry. I’ve been treating it with Vetracyn. Looks better, but not completely cleared up yet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-av8Pad_q0_mQ9IQTRDzoEw_htTSbp1szgsBfo6Bs5vNNJ6d62l8gbRRNkElkBzkPQ9YGc1bOH3wKuK7BGpumID3QnBcy1UYsYsdYwreFbl2ypEkdUlAJxH2xupSTabD9VFpl-cuuL4/s1600/210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-av8Pad_q0_mQ9IQTRDzoEw_htTSbp1szgsBfo6Bs5vNNJ6d62l8gbRRNkElkBzkPQ9YGc1bOH3wKuK7BGpumID3QnBcy1UYsYsdYwreFbl2ypEkdUlAJxH2xupSTabD9VFpl-cuuL4/s400/210.JPG" width="267" /></a></div><br />
<br />
For any who may be wondering I’ve finished the cabinets in the kitchen. I have the island left to do, but that won’t happen until the end of the month. My sister is going to be out here from Cheyenne and all projects are on hold while she’s here. I’ll post a picture when the islands finished.wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-15615716520158241162011-09-13T17:29:00.000-07:002011-09-13T17:29:53.434-07:00Oregon Dressage Society ChampionshipsTraining Level 3rd Place<br />
First Level 6th place <br />
<br />
Tough competition, but they placed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Wq1C1fKnGnqqlZNhplqWGlP85COunMQtf9qLY2Pyk_NyeXRy2Ju177L-FA5tx-pXQV2R1cB_XTouP0BK32bldBkI84ntTSev2qoaqF8zpz2rFYW-7HkjhmKWWJc2MZ4GNLGjQIN1Cs4/s1600/180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Wq1C1fKnGnqqlZNhplqWGlP85COunMQtf9qLY2Pyk_NyeXRy2Ju177L-FA5tx-pXQV2R1cB_XTouP0BK32bldBkI84ntTSev2qoaqF8zpz2rFYW-7HkjhmKWWJc2MZ4GNLGjQIN1Cs4/s400/180.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMn2D2y_ox2xEg9uzS58oU9vezrSi8b7yuUrqEfuTHcB2XWS3nwMqs8xW4Q2bNxTuhAIX_JIWlm6bn08YWZSGzcpHOS-OQtvIBtyBqZBGM9f0-xZxY3GXNMdxqxBvPxcbiZTzVCBvlLk/s1600/143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMn2D2y_ox2xEg9uzS58oU9vezrSi8b7yuUrqEfuTHcB2XWS3nwMqs8xW4Q2bNxTuhAIX_JIWlm6bn08YWZSGzcpHOS-OQtvIBtyBqZBGM9f0-xZxY3GXNMdxqxBvPxcbiZTzVCBvlLk/s400/143.JPG" /></a></div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-54128646856511776772011-08-14T22:10:00.000-07:002011-08-14T22:10:13.904-07:00It's a busy summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtlsZYcYS-EwkKoy32RHLB4fjn_jNYAQaLwjMM2SN9KU0cGfScR_2M2o4b-jrqiFpmjItVxyZ1v-5G7UQO0Ex1fk8obXJrBluh0DcqYSN_Av_9nR-qFpfrkZgCkfkaVOmaS0aXfWXElXY/s1600/024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtlsZYcYS-EwkKoy32RHLB4fjn_jNYAQaLwjMM2SN9KU0cGfScR_2M2o4b-jrqiFpmjItVxyZ1v-5G7UQO0Ex1fk8obXJrBluh0DcqYSN_Av_9nR-qFpfrkZgCkfkaVOmaS0aXfWXElXY/s400/024.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I made it out to the barn on my first day back from vacation. It was a wonderful vacation full of family and fun, but I really missed Boo, Bay, and Miley. I gave Boo a good grooming. Is it weird that he is still shedding? Does anyone else have a horse that is doing that here in the Pacific Northwest.<br />
<br />
We didn't work hard, but we did work on staying on the bit. He was a good boy, and we did all three gaits and called it a night. I'll go back out on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
Three of the horses that have been boarding at the barn have already moved out. Two more will be moving on the same day that we will be moving our horses. While I was cleaning Boo up after the ride a family walked in looking for the barn owner. They were moving in. It was surreal for me. I'm normally pretty friendly to everyone, but tonight I just felt deflated. It's hard to watch people coming in all happy about their new boarding barn when we would rather not be leaving.<br />
<br />
I pick Miley up tomorrow after her bath. Leaving her behind was really hard to do. My only consolation is I know she would have hated being in the car so much. I admit I am a little bit OCD about Miley since losing Poko. I called the kennel midway through our vacation just to check on her.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow it's back to my painting project in the kitchen. Sure wish it was done already.wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-35819762518186103742011-08-08T21:46:00.001-07:002011-08-08T21:46:53.178-07:00Old Faithful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOMWXpaCXhCtLlS8A72bRZgz6e9U53dSiNk2t8eTuzI-bvxqUGo_m_OnLfOHl631Ekf_GOkkVPSgWnwg5Az1OzH6eXl3eJAEvuevL1MS3sEg8uYU2pOqDoPNLYRTOoNIcFP8p0__73m0/s1600/114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOMWXpaCXhCtLlS8A72bRZgz6e9U53dSiNk2t8eTuzI-bvxqUGo_m_OnLfOHl631Ekf_GOkkVPSgWnwg5Az1OzH6eXl3eJAEvuevL1MS3sEg8uYU2pOqDoPNLYRTOoNIcFP8p0__73m0/s400/114.JPG" /></a></div><br />
wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-67547040547183457622011-08-08T05:43:00.001-07:002011-08-08T05:43:50.014-07:00Road Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixh7QmLj81ZfGiXclPKH4VQwrzIhAyi3000uz9pF7jR8AneMxYDzGc8DUZrpx2-FRtnUqwzC0wXF16KCxtr7YAnU1glvsBaW98Fu0aXEl6MyLbSFzavfHLJmFShn3lJei1gQWFCycdfkI/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixh7QmLj81ZfGiXclPKH4VQwrzIhAyi3000uz9pF7jR8AneMxYDzGc8DUZrpx2-FRtnUqwzC0wXF16KCxtr7YAnU1glvsBaW98Fu0aXEl6MyLbSFzavfHLJmFShn3lJei1gQWFCycdfkI/s400/028.JPG" /></a></div><br />
wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-86712841764173583492011-08-01T21:18:00.000-07:002011-08-01T21:18:39.646-07:00This is it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLawNEGKBmAlgyxIQCJ1WvTnPhJZfGg4F5CNMYLw35g-jQCgmTALSMSi79Zyyhef-SURePmNssPTyXLN_lNFA8oALVJVooMxi6NL0U3hqKz7GylLrya0UxHOYE5m_IhcXftbjHkcyPEFo/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLawNEGKBmAlgyxIQCJ1WvTnPhJZfGg4F5CNMYLw35g-jQCgmTALSMSi79Zyyhef-SURePmNssPTyXLN_lNFA8oALVJVooMxi6NL0U3hqKz7GylLrya0UxHOYE5m_IhcXftbjHkcyPEFo/s400/001.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-VGg17ICTE40cjoLbT_kmjWaYqaMzLSduOZlUgobp1JWNS9xBkd8_EQuI1IwBE50VFel1i0njXe0Q3IbQlS3hd-vd17xdsSZJ6uusX4gErb0WCkAh6gUKA6dkFdiPfI0V8a0a7P7qCL8/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-VGg17ICTE40cjoLbT_kmjWaYqaMzLSduOZlUgobp1JWNS9xBkd8_EQuI1IwBE50VFel1i0njXe0Q3IbQlS3hd-vd17xdsSZJ6uusX4gErb0WCkAh6gUKA6dkFdiPfI0V8a0a7P7qCL8/s400/002.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAOp0Z8jyZNDKJH72IB1vlI5yVI2KsJZSkq-XdO4TzAgUvcOuZvaijE9Sk7Q1emtwNGV16q2dThv6i9f1F8lqVXeMLzvcO8BI8JwGXHJaSbt6uTHILOKrJbmk354681IZFA-AUS31900/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAOp0Z8jyZNDKJH72IB1vlI5yVI2KsJZSkq-XdO4TzAgUvcOuZvaijE9Sk7Q1emtwNGV16q2dThv6i9f1F8lqVXeMLzvcO8BI8JwGXHJaSbt6uTHILOKrJbmk354681IZFA-AUS31900/s400/005.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZJ9MRusuC5IBsewV9NhxAnxx25d7GMen4xaugxxhSN-lbtzhnSpUNwATAY51N-fJuzTVHRDA37weoPfhBlUZQ_w49iRMsMQ51qklNYMVjXF1XG55t39CvOQN-3xPYryuVhZBFBwMvfw/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZJ9MRusuC5IBsewV9NhxAnxx25d7GMen4xaugxxhSN-lbtzhnSpUNwATAY51N-fJuzTVHRDA37weoPfhBlUZQ_w49iRMsMQ51qklNYMVjXF1XG55t39CvOQN-3xPYryuVhZBFBwMvfw/s400/007.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Well...I did it! I committed to a new barn for the boys and gave notice at my old barn. I have to say that I feel lucky to have found the place. Judy, Sarah's mother, actually is the one who found it. I think she was pretty sure that I would like it. It reminds me a lot of CEC. There is turnout every single day. As a matter of fact they are out 27/7 during the summer months. In the winter they have nice cozy 12X12 stalls and both have no mud runs off the back of the stalls. There are automatic waterers and big watering tubs in the pastures. There is an indoor arena with cedar footing and an outdoor sand arena. There's even indoor plumbing for the horses people. The price is right. More than I have been paying, but not more than I can handle. The only drawback is it is still a 30 minute drive from my house. I can deal with that though as long as the horses are happy and healthy. They feed eastern Oregon hay and the same grain the boys are already on. The best part is our trainer can come out to the barn and work with us. I want to thank strivingforsavvy for sending me a list of barns to check out. I'll send you an email and let you know how things went there. I took some pictures I'll share with you. I'll save the arenas and pastures for another time.wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-75758260983918221102011-07-29T20:59:00.000-07:002011-07-29T20:59:29.989-07:00Barn Shopping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenRoIV5sh-w2jUbPH46kghUW52P2DrVfsVS0zi_siDQd-TclWNf-5z9DKamGb3IwGRg7o3q4a4MJvqWcFBwWnqewK8gdjGY-ZaDavxnGGw9AqUW9xU9pwHYHlGyM4x8N4GE5xfAjIOPQ/s1600/049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenRoIV5sh-w2jUbPH46kghUW52P2DrVfsVS0zi_siDQd-TclWNf-5z9DKamGb3IwGRg7o3q4a4MJvqWcFBwWnqewK8gdjGY-ZaDavxnGGw9AqUW9xU9pwHYHlGyM4x8N4GE5xfAjIOPQ/s400/049.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I have been looking for a new barn for a couple of weeks now. First I made a list of all the barns I could find, and then the dear husband and I spent a weekend doing drive-by shopping. If the place looked like it might be a possibility I made a note of it. If not, I crossed it off the list. This past Sunday we actually visited two barns. One has possibilities, and one is completely out of the question. I realize that I have a long list of wants and that I am probably going to have to compromise. I just haven't figured out yet what I can live without and what I cannot.<br />
<br />
There was a time when two available stalls would have been enough for me. Not anymore. I've had the horses for a few years now, and I've learned a lot in that time about what horses need to be healthy and happy. First and foremost they need a safe and secure facility with good feed and clean water. Secondly, they need caretakers who know about horses. No amateurs need apply when it comes to being a good place for my horses. The horses being healthy, safe, and well-cared for is the most important thing. <br />
<br />
Of course I want it to be affordable. I am getting dangerously close to maxed out with what I can afford to pay. It definitely limits my choices. If I could afford to pay more I could get the second item on my wish list which is proximity. If I had only one horse I could have proximity. I have two horses. Looks like I'm going to be driving a ways to and from whatever barn I choose. I can live with that. CEC wasn't exactly in my backyard.<br />
<br />
I want my horses to have turn-out. When I first bought them I was in a barn where there was no turn-out. They spent everyday, all day long, in their stalls except for the hour or two they were in work. I didn't know any better. When we moved to CEC the whole concept of turn-out really made me nervous. I was terrified they would get hurt...and sometimes they did...but they were happy and I could tell they were happy. I finally came to the realization that they were horses and they deserved to live like horses if I could manage it. So, turn-out is a big deal for me.<br />
<br />
I want them to have a roomy stall with good bedding. I want a decent sized arena with good footing. I don't like dark and gloomy so good lighting is essential and there must be good air circulation. I want a safe place to store my tack. I want someone to put on and take off blankets when I can't. I want mud control, fly control, good drainage, and the manure pile to disappear on a regular basis. Part of any boarding experience is the social aspect. I like having barn friends to ride with. I like young people and I like having a few people closer to my own age too. Having trails to ride would be an added plus, and last but not least I want to be able to continue working with my trainer.<br />
<br />
So...was I able to find all this or did I have to make some compromises. What do you think?wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-34741606317758592812011-07-23T23:54:00.000-07:002011-07-23T23:54:13.565-07:00Today my heart is brokenRest in peace beloved Poko...we will miss you always.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJO41hFTJpJuSsk8Pas0XeSII07Ge7c3rK-VUzjSXAt1-70TIRJ-vqq8ftPU7IPJqC5B77bAvk8A40XpiWxbblls35QLlKshU_EK8CG54euT8EkS1A9y92ifyGT_Jbyu0QYSewCW4Xq4/s1600/POKO_Happy_WEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJO41hFTJpJuSsk8Pas0XeSII07Ge7c3rK-VUzjSXAt1-70TIRJ-vqq8ftPU7IPJqC5B77bAvk8A40XpiWxbblls35QLlKshU_EK8CG54euT8EkS1A9y92ifyGT_Jbyu0QYSewCW4Xq4/s400/POKO_Happy_WEB.jpg" /></a></div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-9119856041060846602011-07-20T07:47:00.000-07:002011-07-20T07:47:22.850-07:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRYrwD0QQMwuD-TfDagctyspv1BxJLfGWr1zaa2woGfhWbeLGhdnfjPyttubV8dE835wVzbnYprLlqXE042hqIlxl53ceANaWO5_HlZlK58ClL9L_FLqT_eBpnv3dFJc05Hw-tn9Le1Q/s1600/DSC_0703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="268" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRYrwD0QQMwuD-TfDagctyspv1BxJLfGWr1zaa2woGfhWbeLGhdnfjPyttubV8dE835wVzbnYprLlqXE042hqIlxl53ceANaWO5_HlZlK58ClL9L_FLqT_eBpnv3dFJc05Hw-tn9Le1Q/s400/DSC_0703.JPG" /></a></div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-934136832980766551.post-83242255472102329072011-07-16T08:03:00.000-07:002011-07-16T08:03:42.164-07:00RibbonsA few posts back I told everyone that Sarah and Bay had competed in our Arabian regional championships and that they did well. I only had a cell phone picture to post. This past week Sarah mom, Judy, gave me a dvd with a few pictures she had taken over the course of the show. <br />
<br />
Because the show was over the 4th of July holiday the DH and I were very very busy. That's a time of company from out of town and rodeo after rodeo after rodeo. We managed to make it out for the rides, but on the day of the championship we had somewhere we had to be by shortly after 5:00 p.m. So, we had to load Baythoven up right after Sarah's last ride and head back to our barn. Sarah stayed with everyone else to find out the results in her classes. In main ring classes and in a lot of the sport horse classes the winners are announced and ribbons are awarded before they ever leave the ring. That is not the case in dressage. Every test has to be ridden and scored individually before the outcome is known. Hence, there is no big presentation unless you can stay and wait through everyone else, and even then there are scheduling conflicts,and you may have to wait until the end of the show before there is a ring to use and people available to present your ribbons. So there are no grand photos of Sarah on Baythoven wearing his ribbons...yet...we will be having a photo session in August to get those championship photos. In the meantime we have these :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX15g2NSl2kCZMuhbEaWbGrS6EQfb-7zcpoGQpMuyRbHDMn9t-BuQ4MumqFp3ByIZqAcXxq3pDaI7W6ZCFI5EKz-I49znE3EuebLFShDaaSvy2cei0IO4ONV9ig4xdoqfpnAwMaeuit84/s1600/DSC_0661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="268" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX15g2NSl2kCZMuhbEaWbGrS6EQfb-7zcpoGQpMuyRbHDMn9t-BuQ4MumqFp3ByIZqAcXxq3pDaI7W6ZCFI5EKz-I49znE3EuebLFShDaaSvy2cei0IO4ONV9ig4xdoqfpnAwMaeuit84/s400/DSC_0661.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKkjldMwwzEbqOekGQNBQlBWc7NZhxk26HNtItHR6cn31suAjwZv_uq4aEoWsWnLR-2d4lmYtvwLg_5MV-nxiIlwW5UZM2SXnUIpjgfH808CPYVcDmuvU6BqSAkFgt5dWdKzTlSqsNnY/s1600/DSC_0671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKkjldMwwzEbqOekGQNBQlBWc7NZhxk26HNtItHR6cn31suAjwZv_uq4aEoWsWnLR-2d4lmYtvwLg_5MV-nxiIlwW5UZM2SXnUIpjgfH808CPYVcDmuvU6BqSAkFgt5dWdKzTlSqsNnY/s400/DSC_0671.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLxZ0cs46BGEmWFLzdr1DIsVb_1xbx2CJr18EZ1YvWgJFdry-QnnXanKK8U04yfUdrLOg5jSMeOOeOHW9Djv3ECZZhLjDcSsQHOPY_ZtJNyPzK-wFrao2uLefq2wX9YUCsgkrWO_cQk8/s1600/DSC_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVLxZ0cs46BGEmWFLzdr1DIsVb_1xbx2CJr18EZ1YvWgJFdry-QnnXanKK8U04yfUdrLOg5jSMeOOeOHW9Djv3ECZZhLjDcSsQHOPY_ZtJNyPzK-wFrao2uLefq2wX9YUCsgkrWO_cQk8/s400/DSC_0722.JPG" /></a></div>wilsonchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18085470527006328839noreply@blogger.com2