Own A Morgan & QH

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T09:45:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's With Texas Chapter 10 ( Moving On )

2012-01-31T06:00:00.002-07:00

Texas January 2012

I have been called a wild child on more than one occasion... admittedly I would have to agree with that assessment....on occasion. I would have thought of myself .....perhaps as a reserved wild child, even though I have always run with an older racier crowd I always held something back, I have never felt like I could do anything with total abandonment. With life all up in the air and not being quite sure where or what I wanted to be doing I was kind of leaning towards the wild side. ....I don't think I need to elaborate. I am not going to make excuses either...it is what it is, being honest about it ... with the hmm....lets say alternate lifestyle and what not.... I wasn't very happy and I wouldn't say I was having a whole lot of fun either.I only had one thing going on in my life that was a constant, that is probably the only thing that kept me out of deep sh#t I'm sure.....cause there was plenty of times that bad stuff should have happened and instead somehow was barely averted. That one constant....you may have guessed.... would be Texas.I believe it is a serious responsibility to be the sole caretaker of an animal,it is not in me to do it half assed ....so yes I do take it all the way. I'm quite sure that if at that time in my life I hadn't had that responsibility, I would still be here.....having Tex in my life made the choice of going down the right road a lot easier than it might have been without him, he toned down my relapses into wild child mode and even though he couldn't know it, his constant presence in my life kind of shoved me in the direction I needed to go......it was time to put on the big girl panties put the past where it needed to go and get on with life ....and so get on with it we did!!!!!!!When Spring was upon us the work began. I was riding everyday and preparing Tex for competition ( mostly barrels)by early Summer we were ready to go for it.....and so..... go for it we did.

Sunday Challenge " Nature's Frames"

2012-01-29T09:11:00.006-07:00

I could have tried to make this weeks challenge more interesting( Nature's Frames) but with the continuous snow and wind I really wasn't all that inspired to go brave the elements. I would much rather do this particular challenge in the Spring or Summer when there are much more interesting... pretty things to check out.

OK I cheated with this one. I pulled this out of the almost forgotten. I was going to go to the same place and get this pic in the snow but I ran out of time, and really I'm kinda ...just a little ....no a whole bunch sick of the snow!!!!!!!!!

And last but not least another oldie...it is so nice to be reminded of something besides snow.Well that's it for me. I'm off to see what you got. Later.

Have A Great Week

Had to add just one more....well he was posing .....

OK now I'm really done.

I lied, Dave just got back from a foray into the bush and this is what he came back with. So the photos aren't mine but I had to put them in. This is about as close to Nature's Frame as you can get.

I don't think this little one was overly impressed with the hounds baying at it from the bottom of the tree.....can't say I blame it.

Dave said there were 2 kittens but the other one was in a different tree so he didn't get a picture. Mom sure looks like she is keeping an eye on the situation.

Pretty cool huh...I wish I had been the one on the other side of that camera. OK I really am done....I promise. FYI these cats were not harmed in any way....well other than they were detoured from whatever they were doing ...they were not being hunted to be killed just treed.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T09:39:00.000-07:00

Tuesdays With Texas Chapter Nine ( Life Goes On With Or Without You)

2012-01-24T13:24:00.004-07:00

Life got pretty rough for awhile after Rick's decision to not be here anymore. I went and stayed with my friend and left the horses at home....I use the word home loosely, it quit being a home when the sound of a gun shot destroyed the peaceful, safe place I considered a sanctuary. I pretty much got a routine down for the chores but the longer I had to keep going back there the more it bothered me. I have to say I don't even remember where I moved the horses to...I know I could no longer afford to have them, so I had to make the decision to let them go...it was hard but had to be done. I found good homes for them ...the one that bothered me though was Dandy, I think it was because I had been around him for a long time and he had belonged to my friend....so I felt the pull of guilt over that one. In case you're thinking how could she ...I did not let Tex go....that was already something that was etched in stone...something that would never happen. Even though I wasn't 100% I had to go get a job...bills to pay ....blah blah blah the usual stuff everybody has to deal with. I was still feeling pretty raw and would rather have run away and done just about anything else....however life goes on whether you are ready or not. My faith and trust in people was at an all time low but the one thing I had that I could put my faith in was this, no matter where we moved or what gateway he stood in ...as sure as the sun will rise...I could count on this.

How can a greeting like this every morning not put a smile on your face.

For 32yrs no matter what life has thrown at me I have been able to rely on Tex for comfort and companionship and for 32 yrs he has never failed to come through for me.

Sunday Challenge "Birds"

2012-01-22T12:21:00.000-07:00

This weeks challenge is Birds. Now you would think that would be easy....not so. I'm putting it down to weather, although besides crows we don't really have that many birds that hang around here. I went with good old faithful. This Pigeon arrived here in the summer and has decided to stay, why I don't know. You would think it would get lonely...also it has a pretty stressful life here.If the cats aren't tag teaming the poor thing the dogs are forever trying to get a chance at it. I think I would have kept flying to a more peaceful location....who knows maybe it likes living on the edge...maybe it likes the adreneline rush. Whatever the reason here it stays.

This is in the summer

This is now, looks to be doing almost the same thing, although he tucks himself in a little deeper now...I don't think it has been enjoying our -20 temps.

Well sad I know but that's it for me..all I got. I'm off to check you out.

Have A Great Week

Wordless Wednesday ( Almost)

2012-01-18T00:56:00.000-07:00

It would have been Wordless Wednesday except... I just have to say one thing...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHIRLEY

(Ride A Good Horse)

It's a bit of a Milestone this one....and just has to be mentioned. Congrats on getting there and looking pretty darn good doing it. Hope you have a wonderful day.

Sunday Challenge " Corners"

2012-01-15T09:32:00.001-07:00

This weeks challenge was Corners (play with light - shadows) I'm not sure I did very well. I ran around with camera in hand and took a bunch of pictures....I didn't really like any of them but I settled with these. I don't think know that this is what was being asked for ......so I did my own thing. Light and Shadows are a foreign thing to me, although I kind of got that in the first shot....well sort of...can't you see the shadows:)

Gotta run ...waiting critters. I'll chack ya all out later.

Have A Great Week

Birthday Girl

2012-01-08T15:58:00.001-07:00

Today is Sage's Birthday. She is eight.

At one time I had lofty plans for Sage...she was going to be the next Super dog...or a great Sheep dog....or an amazing agility dog...however due to an injury those plans were thwarted. It seemed that the injury was going to be the end of her....but she is a fighter, it was slow going but in time she recovered. ( Mostly)

Even though Sage is unable to do a lot of things....she can't ride with me anymore...she'll never herd sheep and she'll never do agility she has managed to carve out a lifestyle that keeps her mind and body active and alert. Her need to herd makes my heart skip a beat from time to time, however I let it go because I think she has to do it to stay happy and healthy.

Would Sage have ever achieved my goals...who knows....I don't waste to much time on the what ifs. She will never get to be the next Super dog...... but what I do know is Sage is my Super dog, a wonderful companion, she loves me and she puts a smile on my face everyday.

Sunday Challenge

2012-01-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

This weeks challenge was odd but fun. Light painting ....who knew.... I didn't quite get what I was after but I came close. The idea was to play with the settings on your camera ... Shutter speed and the like,which by the way I am not good at .....big surprise right :) Tried to do this with my new camera no luck at all. This is what I got with my old one ...at least it tried to get something. The first two are off the tv, that second one is kinda creepy don't ya think....it looks a little alien to me.

This one is from a pocket size flashlight, I was trying to make an S...almost got it too.

Well that's all I have. I bet there is some very cool light paintings out there . I'll be checking you out.
Have A Great Week

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

Tuesdays With Texas Chapter 8 ( More Rough Patches)

2012-01-03T07:00:00.008-07:00

This is a tough chapter for me it takes me back to a time in my life that the only good thing I had in my life was my horse....which by itself would be OK.....now if only there wasn't all the other crap that was going on too.
We had settled comfortably into our new life style. I was getting stronger all the time. I was able to ride every day for longer periods....Tex and I were really learning how to ride with each other. During all this riding and getting back to health( or something like it)I started to notice a big change in my partner Rick.....it was not a pleasant change. The more time I spent getting out and about seeing friends and slowly but surely getting back to a bit of normalcy....the more withdrawn and unpleasant he became. I am not going to go into any details here but I have to say that his behavior finally made it impossible to be with him.I guess I have to give a little info or it just won't make sense.Rick decided the best way to keep me from going was by threatening to not allow me to take my horses....specifically Tex....who under no circumstances was going to be left behind. That particular threat didn't concern me too much, I knew I could get my horses....but I did not want to be there because honestly he was scaring me ....a lot. I told him I was moving out and the threat he uttered then stopped me in my tracks....he said he would kill my horses......Yes you read right. Honestly would he have done that, I don't know ...I would like to think that I would never be with someone that could do such a thing.....but the fact that he said it was more than enough proof to me that it was time to move on. I stayed at my friends house that night and her boyfriend gave me a ride home in the morning. When I got there the first thing I did was check the horses...big sigh of relief.... all well there. As soon as I opened the door to go into the house I knew something was wrong....The house was cold , my birds were squawking and pretty upset.I went into the living room and found Rick, he had decided to do the chicken sh#t thing and take his own life....it wasn't something I could have anticipated.... never would have thought he was the type, how does one handle that. So needless to say the next few hours were a bit of a blur with all the appropriate people scurrying all over the place.In stressful situations my self preservation mode kicks in, I shut myself down.The noise from all the people became a dull roar, I just tuned them all out. I went and did my chores. At least that was a sane activity I could deal with. I went and sat with the horses while they munched away, unconcerned with all the people and noise surrounding them.Tex knew things weren't right and he came and stood beside me.....still as a statue....my sentinel....blocking out the sights and sounds.....steady and calm.....once again there as my support. He stayed with me until I had to go deal with all the other crap.

Sunday Challenge

2012-01-01T03:10:00.004-07:00

This weeks challenge really was a toughy. Your favorite pic of 2011. Well I have a few so picking just one.....? When I really started thinking about it it was an easy choice. The chances of me seeing Texas like this again could be slim, so in spite of all the dirt this is my favorite for 2011. The other part of this challenge was to tell what our photography goals are for 2012....this one is a no brainer for me.......Learn how to use my (any) camera properly!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm really looking forward to seeing what ya all got. Happy New Year

Have A Great Week

Time Marches On

2011-12-31T15:21:00.000-07:00

I lead a pretty boring existence and I have to say for the most part I like it that way. I have my routine and I like things to stay the same ....however every now and again I get a little flutter of......? after all time is running away from me. It seems like just a short time ago these were new things happening ( They may not be new anymore....but they are still ongoing)

So this is where we are now ( Closing out 2011)

Kali was a gift from Shirley ( Ride A Good Horse) for my Birthday...will be two yrs ago....already... in the Spring. She has been a gift that just keeps on giving.

Shirley and Sparkle ( Weanling) This is where Shirley breaks my arm and talks me into thinking it would be a good idea for me to take her home.....the horse!!!

Shirley kisses her baby good-bye ....just kidding about the arm breaking...she didn't have to work to hard at convincing me that it was a good idea.

No more baby face

Just about grown

Here we are at the end of 2011 Kali and Jazz are almost grown and going to need to do stuff in the coming year.A few fun things happened this year. I got to do things with Shirley ( Ride A Good Horse) We didn't get to ride but we did other things. We went to the Supreme in Red Deer where I got to meet Sherry ( Fern Valley Appaloosas) and see Crystal again from (Ranch Riding) we also went to the Dog Trials and I went to the Auction that they did. That's the most stuff I've done in a long time. I guess I will have to make a New Years resolution (s) More riding, more fun, more friend things. One thing I can do now though is wish everyone that reads this blog.

A Very Happy- Safe - Prosperous New Year

Experimenting

2011-12-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Well I'm fooling around with my Christmas present. Yes I got a new camera....now the problem is I don't know how to use it. This morning I thought I would go out and try the action shot mode ( Sports) I like the camera and if I ever get it figured out I may even get some good pics. Something to get used to is the size of the thing...I'm used to slipping my other camera in my pocket, this one bounces around and gets in the way....probably not the one to take to do chores with but that's when the critters run around and make for some interesting shots. So a few things I have found is this camera has very little zoom capabilities, if the subject is right there that doesn't matter much though. I did find that it will take that action shot and doesn't get fuzzy if you move along with the subject. So here's Jazz coming.

I followed along with her as she went up in the air...you can't really tell but she does have all four feet off the ground....( not quite Beamerish)but almost.

Then she spun around and did a few circles

And then she wound down to a standstill....I'm sure she was thinking she deserved a breather.

So a few things I found out, my old camera would not have taken these pics without either being fuzzy or having missed it altogether, the new camera not as distinct and crisp as I would like....guessing that's the operator and not the camera. I'm thinking that it would be a good idea to go find some courses that teach photography ....or the basics of cameras...if there is such a course.

I didn't get a chance to bring this any closer because I needed to take the shot fast and I had to give the dogs heck for harassing the horse. All in all I think I will eventually get to liking and hopefully taking some decent shots with it.

Merry Christmas/ Happy Holidays

2011-12-23T09:40:00.002-07:00

This is one of my favorite Holiday greetings.My Mom sent me this a couple of years ago ...I think, I love it and watching it a few times has given me a little bit of Christmas cheer back....must be the song. I will be leaving this up until Christmas ( day) is over. Turn it up and enjoy. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

Not Today

2011-12-20T19:28:00.001-07:00

I just don't have it in me today for storytelling but Texas will be back next Tuesday. I will leave you with a few pics of him though, taken just the other day ( Sun) Tex will be 35 in the Spring.

That face, what will I do when I don't have that to see every morning. That is a day I just can't think about.It's coming and I know it has to but man...just thinking about it makes me cry. Later...See ya next Tues.

Tuesdays with Texas Chapter Seven ( It Became A Tradition)

2011-12-13T16:59:00.002-07:00

So Chapter 6 was a little bit about Tex and a whole lot about me. Not a lot happened for awhile because I was still a walking mess I was unable to get a whole lot done. Everyday I got a little stronger and was able to spend more and more time with Tex. I managed to get in a lot of short rides as that was all I could handle. When I first started trying to ride again I got blisters I'm sure you can imagine where and anything with seams on the pant legs would rub my legs raw....I started riding and well just wearing sweats.....much better, it took about two years for me to get back to normal....well almost normal, I still have issues that have hung in there but you get used to that kind of stuff and just carry on. Along the way Rick And I purchased a really nice 10 acre property, by then I had another horse so we moved everything over to the new place, it was so nice... peaceful and somewhat private ...my kinda place.I was now at a point where I could ride longer and..... better ....no more hanging off the side....trying to figure out why my horse kept trying to put me in the ditch. I have to tell you this. When Tex was still at my Moms and it was some of my first rides we would be going along the side of the road and he would keep going in the ditch....I would keep correcting him and then back in the ditch we would go, it used to make my arm sore just correcting him. I would get so frustrated with that horse and then I clued in....the horse was doing exactly what my body was asking him to, all my weight would fall off to the right side and my left leg would be up against his side( I couldn't feel it) but he sure could so I guess he's thinking stupid woman ....you want to go in the ditch.....the ditch it is. When I finally figured that out and quit being mad at my horse...I was kinda proud ...just a bit... I had trained that horse better than I thought. The good thing that came out of that was I had to make a conscious effort to ride better balanced and along the way managed to learn not to rely so much on my legs. Thanks to Tex being such a good fellow I was able to learn how to ride a different way...he also learnt how to take my cues differently we became a team of sorts and managed to get by quite nicely.
This was our first winter in the new place and I was so excited about going out and getting a Christmas tree. I had to go find old photos so please forgive the not so good pics. To change the subject here a bit,while looking at these pictures I was surprised that I remember all the stuff about Tex but I can't remember whose child is on the horse with me and for the life of me I can't remember what flippin dog that is in the background.

Anyhow back to the tree

My friend Shirley and I went out and cut down the tree, I have to say it was pretty gruelling...still not super strong, by the time we were done I felt a lot like Gumby but boy was it worth it. Shirley and I got really a beautiful tree. It was quite entertaining on the way back. Shirley was riding my other horse which had belonged to her for a fairly long time..big beautiful Buckskin ( Dandy) Now I never even thought about it when I tied the tree on behind Tex...none of us had done this before....it never occurred to me that it might rile anybody up. Tex was good.... his usual laid back self took right off through all that deep snow and never batted an eye....you'd think it was old school to him. We hadn't gone far when I could hear a big rukus behind me....there's Shirley doing everything she knows how to keep that horse on the ground. I had no idea what his problem was. She finally gets him calmed down and away we go again....no sooner do we get moving and Dandy's thrashing around and being a total jerk. We finally clue in .....he was terrified of that tree moving through the snow....he 'd damn near stand on it as long as it wasn't moving....but as soon as Tex would start pulling he was air born.....must have thought it was some giant green fire breathing horse eating monster. Now I gotta tell ya I thought it was amusing....however Shirley not so much. Here I was sitting on this perfect little gentleman laughing my face off and Shirley was doing everything she could just to stay on......(I get why she got a little crabby )( Not Shirley from Ride A Good Horse the other one) Anyhow as long as she stayed well back, the rest of the ride home was uneventful. For me the experience was great Tex was such a good boy, he stood while we chopped down the tree...he stayed patient while I tied it and then tried to get on with the rope going every which way. He dragged that tree home like it was a toothpick...it was a fair sized tree. He proved to me once again that he would do whatever task was asked of him. So Christmas tree fetching became a bit of a tradition after that. Tex dragged home many more trees over the years ...it is something I really miss being able to do with him....but I'll betcha if I asked he'd still try.

No Challenge Today

2011-12-11T15:47:00.003-07:00

I decided to opt out on this weeks challenge (Pets) The post I am doing has been rolling around in my head for awhile... the pet challenge kind of pushed it to the forefront.
The Webster's Dictionary definition of Pet. " Any domesticated animal kept as a companion" So first ,when I think of pets I think of things like Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, maybe Birds, Snakes etc....you know what I'm getting at. I don't think of my animals as pets and frankly I kinda find that (term) denigrating to animals in general. I guess there are a bunch of people out there that may find me weird....so be it. I am a firm believer in everyone having the right to their own opinion whether I like it or not. Anyhow to get back to the point of this post.

I have been blogging now since 2008 ...I think. I started blogging because my friend Shirley( Ride A Good Horse) turned me on to it. At first I thought cool, good way to advertise horses and what not. I had no idea how it would grow and become a part of what I do on such a regular basis. I have been amazed at the people I have met through cyber space. There are truly mind boggling people out there, people that have opened up their lives for the rest of us to observe and follow along. We get to see their children and grandchildren growing and going off to do things with their lives. We get to see how other people Farm (Ranch) and live life daily. We get to share in their joy and (sadly) sometimes sorrow. For those of you that may be like me and don't travel far from home, we get to travel the world, we get to see all the color and experience other cultures without ever leaving the comfort of our homes.....I love it ..if someone had told me how much time I would one day spend on the computer compiling my own posts and avidly poring over the many blogs I follow along with....I would have said not. I would have thought to myself....ya right when hell freezes over. Whew that got to be a bit of a rambler....anyhow my point is this.
When I first started blogging I didn't really show that much of myself because after all it was only a tool to be used for my own use. I never said much that wasn't pretty generic. I also never left too many comments that weren't all that generic.....however along the way I guess I have managed to piss some people off...I will not apologize for doing so because it would not have been intentional, I am not the mean girl....don't misunderstand me......I can be mean....but normally am not so without provocation. What I am trying to say here is that I have been feeling like I have no voice , I must be careful what I say or how I say it. I feel like I am just a shadow skulking around the edges of the page...hiding my personality-.. humor or lack thereof... I may not be a person you want to follow along with ....I may be that person you just can't stand or......maybe I am the kind of person you get a kick out of.....maybe I might have stuff to say that you like.....whatever the case may be there is going to be some changes to this blog....don't worry I'm not going to do anything drastic, I just want to get back to feeling like I do this blog for me, if I lose more followers along the way I guess I can live with it. When I started noticing that I was losing some followers it hurt my feelings ....because I do like that people visit my blog and leave comments I would be lying to say otherwise....but if I have to spend all my time being careful and picky about what I say is it worth it to have them. This is my space and I am going to put on here whatever may come to me......think of my blog as Television.....don't like it .....turn it off. I will also be limiting my comments to others blogs because sometimes I have an actual opinion and as I found out a sense of humor that may not be appreciated as much as I think it should be...(ha ha got ya) Seriously though sometimes I think I am being funny and to others I guess I'm not. So folks that's my rant for the day....it has been coming for awhile....I really do hope some of you stick with me.
Have A Great Week

Tuesdays With Texas Chapter 6 ( Life Throws A Curve Ball)

2011-12-06T12:09:00.001-07:00

Texas 2008 (31yrs)

Chapter 6 ( Life Throws A Curve Ball) or 2 or 3

Tex settled into his home really well, at first I thought he would be lonely coming out of a herd and being alone......come to think of it he didn't have that many friends over there anyhow. We spent a lot of time together and then crap happened. I vowed I wasn't going to get into personal stuff in this story ....but unhappily it is all part of our story...so I will not dwell on the stuff but just rattle it off ....that way you will understand just why this horse became such an important factor in my life.

I already had issues with an Ex husband so having more chucked my way was a bit heavy...anyhow one carries on. I ended up with some weird sickness and honestly I wasn't all that sure I was going to be around much longer. I ended up in the hospital becoming an unwilling guinea pig...poked and prodded and .......well lets just say I make a terrible patient. Stuff gets a bit mixed up in my head here so I could be off on some of my recollections...but I'll do the best I can. Arrangements were made for Tex to go live at my parents place...still not sure how all that came about ,anyhow one less thing for me to worry about. I don't really know how long I was in the hospital but I was getting worse and not better so I decided if I was dying I was going home...at least then I could see my horse and well you know...Well I was quite a mess, I was so skinny clothes hurt my bones, OK to personal....I will shorten this up ....it took me a long time to be able to get around so Tex was still at my parents place.....(by the way thanks Mom because I'm pretty sure she was responsible for Tex being looked after)

I don't know how much time went by, I would go visit my horse but I couldn't do much.... then the big day came and I decided I was going to go for a ride....and I discovered I couldn't ride. First I couldn't get on...so I cheated then I had no balance and I kept falling off the side....poor horse didn't know what to make of this development so what does a good horse do....stands as still as a statue....that was my first ride. Somewhere along the way I got better enough to take Tex home again....couldn't ride but at least I could spend time with him..... grooming and well just hanging around.

During this time, many trips to my doctor were made ....nothing good ever came from that.(I have to add here that one of the things I had going on was to do with my legs.I had no feeling in them below the knee so walking was a bit strange. I used to have to look at my feet to make sure they were actually on the floor )I was more or less told to get used to my condition and my biggest concern...riding.... I was told to forget about that. So for those of you that know and don't know me....those are fight'n words...not ride....not in this lifetime. I believe having Tex at home helped in my recovery...I had to move to take care of him ...and instead of sitting or laying around all day I would go out and spend time with him....he seemed to get that I had problems, he was always very careful where he put his feet, I used him as my support to hold me up and he would never move away and take my support until I was already moving away from him. He always made himself accessible to me....you have to understand Tex is not a big horse but because I could only use one arm even putting a halter on was tough....he would lower his head so I could just slip it over his ears......Now some of you may snicker here but I truly believe that horse saved my life.....and that wouldn't be the only time.

Sunday Challenge "Backlit"

2011-12-04T06:00:00.002-07:00

This weeks challenge is to back light your subjects, the examples shown were leaves... so pretty hard to find that around here right now so I thought I would try some other stuff. I'm not sure I have met the challenge but ...I tried. I think it also would help to have light that didn't come in the color of gray.

Then

Now... you can just see some veins in those ears....well you can if you look hard enough.

That's it for me....I know weak effort...but really I couldn't find anything like the examples shown. Well.... and also it probably doesn't help that I have a tendency to march to a different drum. ....hey it's all part of my charm.....and if you believe that.........LOL :) So I will be expecting to see some cool stuff from you all.

HAVE A GREAT WEEK

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

Tuesdays With Texas Chapter 5 ( The Homecoming)

2011-11-29T12:12:00.002-07:00

Texas 2009 (32yrs)

The Homecoming

I start this chapter with rather un - fond(that's a new word) memories. During the remainder of the summer I was separated from my friend...rather all my friends. I will explain briefly. S and I had some disagreement....over who knows what....well I do remember........ but best to let sleeping dogs lie.( And maybe things might be kind of jumbled in my mind) anyhow because of our differences I quit going to the stable everyday .....not at all....so I never got to see Tex who I already felt belonged to me. At some point we had agreed on a price of 400.00 but because of our problems that had never come about.So while I was away ...(I'm not really sure what they did with Tex) but there was a young girl that used to hang around the stable, she also had taken a shine to Tex but I was the only one who had been riding him. Her parents were looking to buy her a horse and she really wanted Tex...so they went to look at him. Apparently her mother was horrified by the horse she thought he was ugly and looked mean ( not a mean bone in his body) because of his odd blue eyes.....good thing for me .....No Sale. As the summer wore on I became more and more bothered by not being able to see " My Horse" so I went down to the stable and paid 16.00 for a two hour ride and they wouldn't give me my horse. I was told he was being worked because he was for sale. So I rode something else, when I left there to go home I was heartbroken ....they were going to sell my horse. I had not a cent and no where to keep a horse....I really had no business even thinking about owning a horse...I could barely afford to keep myself alive......but. When I got home my boyfriend asked what was wrong, after I told him what was going on he disappeared for awhile. When he came back he handed me the money for the horse....I couldn't believe it...I could get my horse. I was so excited, I didn't know what to do first....then reality struck home.... I still had no place to keep Tex and no money to feed him. I went from a huge rush of happiness to a big crash of disappointment. Rick told me to go pay for the horse so nobody else could buy him and he would figure out the rest. I went to pay for the horse and was told he was now 500.00, so I gave them what I had and asked them to keep him for a bit ...thankfully they agreed to that. In the days that followed Rick pulled in some favors from his friends. One guy offered up rough cut planks for fencing,( we lived on a lot that was about 3/4 to 1 acre) another of his friends came and built a lean to for housing and storing hay.....and somebody else delivered a ton of hay....everything was ready for Tex. I have to add here if I didn't thank Rick enough( and his friends) at the time for all he did to get me that horse I do so now.....I don't think he knew how much it meant to me to be able to bring that horse home.

Sorry these pics are terrible but they are pictures of pictures that are about 31 yrs old. These were taken the day Texas made it home. I think even though they are bad pictures you can still see I was quite happy. I think up to that point I can say that was the happiest day in my life. Our time together really began from that day....We would have many adventures together over the next.... few......many years.

Barn Bird

2011-11-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

This bird flew in here sometime early summer and never left. At first it would fly away as soon as it saw me, now it lets me get within a few feet of it. He (She) how do you tell... is still always on the alert though and the minute I move or try to get closer it flies away. He needs to stay on the alert because there are three dogs and three cats watching it's every move.

A Challenge Of A Different Sort

2011-11-27T11:37:00.002-07:00

I had to pass on the Sunday Challenge because it was beyond my feeble camera skills....I really did try though. So instead while doing chores this morning I thought I would see if I could get my video on the camera to work...it kind of did.....but I am still having problems with it, it almost looks like the proper challenge ( Bokeh) this week only in video. At least it is doing it's thing in color again....although you would have a tough time seeing that ....it really is that grim looking out there today. I have no idea what is going on with this camera, I used to take a fairly decent video now everything is out of whack. The good news is now that we have a new Internet provider( Flexinet) the videos upload in record speed....problem with that is are they really worth looking at with such poor quality. Oh well I'm going with them anyhow.

This cat is priceless, she loves to ride the Quad and help do chores....really hard to get a pic of this when I need my camera hand to give the machine gas.

Well if you want to see some rather unusual pics you can go check out everybody else's Sunday Challenge shots.

Have A Great Week

Talent Abounds

2011-11-26T12:03:00.004-07:00

Shirley over at Ride A good Horse has a really good idea for Christmas shopping. I swear she reads my mind or something. I was going to do a bit of a plug for Fern Valley Appaloosas anyhow but now I will also add anyone else I can think of. These are the only two I have pics of and that's because I actually have these things sitting and or hanging around.

Sherry does very professional well done calenders.... with excellent photos.....as you can see by the date I am in need of a new one. Sherry also has a book out called Telling Tails, both of these items will make great Christmas gifts.

Sydney over at Bitless Horse Science VS Tradition makes some really nice stuff from Braided Horsehair.

This one was sent to Lisa at Laughing Orca as a prize from my blog.

This one I had specially made for me I sent Sydney the bead in the middle, it has a story but I won't bore you with the details...lets just say it has a special meaning for me. These items were made from my horses tails. The old guy Tex and Mattie my little black Mare. Sydney makes all kinds of things... all of which would make excellent Christmas gifts.

Here are a few names of some other talented people as well.

Gizzards And Calf Fries

Tellico Turnings tellicoturnings@tds.net - He makes lovely hand turned wood stuff -to many things to actually name thus the (Stuff) Can be found at (Retired And Lovn' It)

Just Another Day On The Prairie ( Gorgeous Photography)

Thoughts From The Road ed@tellicoimages.com ( Extremely nice Photography)Can be found at (Thoughts from The Road )blogspot

And those are the only ones I can think of right now, I'm sure there are many more super talented people out there so go check out some blogs it will boggle your mind the stuff these people can do. Ican think of one more ....although I don't know how happy she will be with me for saying so.....but I'm going to anyhow. Shirley over at Ride A good Horse is a talented artist.....I'm going to see if I can talk her into doing a portrait of my old horse ....and also Shirley is a good Seamstress ....one of the things she makes that I really like is Small Saddle Bags (Horn Bags) They are great for packing your lunch, camera etc. They are light as they are made from fabric rather than leather....anyhow they are marvelous. Husbands - Boyfriends you can't go wrong with this kind of gift.

This Is Interesting

2011-11-24T12:57:00.004-07:00

I found this over at The Skoog Farm Journal, it's pretty neat, a bit long. I was so impressed with how well behaved the horses are with those lights bobbing around their ears etc. Gail I thought you might enjoy this.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0Zh2YBB8nE&feature=player_embedded

Happy Thanksgiving To The American Visitors

Tuesdays With Texas Chapter 4 ( A Lesson For Me)

2011-11-22T12:03:00.003-07:00

Tex Summer 2010 (34 yrs Old)

And the story goes on
I left off with Texas as a 3yr old part way into training. I started using Tex a lot to take out the trail rides, at that time he was a good lead horse before I kinda ruined him.....oh I'm getting ahead of myself - he could lead or take up the rear. I used to like being in the back because then you always got a first hand view of the entertainment.....and trust me no matter how well you checked the gear and matched horses to people .....something always happened. On one particular day while in the rear I thought I would incorporate a little training as well. I never expected our so far uneventful ride would turn into a bit of a gong show, with Tex and I as the main attraction. We were pretty close to home maybe only 20 to 30 minutes out, we were just kind of ambling along, the trail got narrow with pretty steep hills on either side. I decided that was a good place to get Tex going up and down hills properly.....well I guess it was one of Texas's no way days( again)we started up the hill and he decided he didn't want to go, it got a wee bit scary hung up in the middle of a really ....really steep hill. So I applied a little spur pressure....well probably more than a little....lets just say he took exception to it....however we made it to the top of the hill. So we sat there for a bit thinking on the experience...when my friend S heading the ride asks if everything is OK, my reply was yeah go ahead we'll be along. She later informed me we had made quite a racket and had the whole attention of the ride. So anyhow I'm ready to go and I'm looking down that hill and I'm thinking to myself......you idiot ....it was pretty daunting.....what do you do - what goes up must come down......and believe me we came down. We were only about 1/4 of the way down...now you have to remember Tex was just a youngster with no experience on how to go about managing such a monumental task. I did all the things I thought I was supposed to aid him in this lesson and then the #*#% hit the fan. I don't know if he bucked or what happened but the next thing I know he and I are rolling down the hill...we landed in a heap at the bottom with me stuck underneath him. He scrambled to his feet and all the while I'm still underneath him.....do you think he would move out of the way ...not a chance, when I figured out I was not dead or injured and capable of movement the adrenaline took over and I got mad. Here's this horse standing over me ( insert sarcasm - aimed at myself) not helping the situation in the least....had I taken the time and kept my cool I would have noticed the poor horse was shaking like a leaf.........instead from underneath him ( I admit shame at this point) I kinda put the boots to him to get him away from me....that could have gone so wrong.....thankfully he was smarter than me and just moved off and away from me. Meanwhile just on the other side of a little creek S and the other riders are watching us with their eyes big as saucers......big oops didn't know we had an audience....not my proudest moment...... for sure! Anyhow I gathered up my poor scared horse and we carried on home. When I put Tex in the tie stall to take his gear off I could see he was trembling uncontrollably, he was also pretty mad at me (rightly so) I could tell he didn't really want me touching him, I carefully and quietly took his gear off and then I started checking him out, I talked to him and ran my hands over him until he finally quit shaking. He had a few cuts and scrapes ....all minor thank goodness. I groomed him and fed him a few treats and got ready to turn him loose......I was feeling pretty crappy about myself and how I handled the situation.....I think Tex could feel my angst and about then he decided to forgive me.....he stuck his nose in the crook of my arm and just rested his head there for a bit....my feelings for this horse bubbled to the surface and I started to cry.....I'm going to say it was a delayed reaction to the near miss rather than the fact that I'm a big baby. That day was a huge learning experience for both of us.

Too Cool

2011-11-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

Here's one for ya, this is pretty cool. My Mom sent this to me, thanks Mom it was well worth the watch

Sunday Challenge " Portraits"

2011-11-20T11:59:00.003-07:00

This was a tough challenge for me.....well who am I kidding they all are. I had to go to the archives and a few recent shots because when I went out to get some new pics my camera wouldn't function....try toooo cold!!!! So this is what you will get. I don't know about portrait quality but these were some shots I like.

Kali( Pathetic- Done Well)

Two brothers, almost always together......sadly no longer part of the clan.

Mattie, last year....would not give me a frontal shot if her life depended on it. She was kinda crabby.....gee I wonder why.

My beautiful Sage, it's pretty hard not to get a decent shot of her.

And again

The next two are of Moxie and they were plain #*#* house luck.

Well that's what I have...I have no tips because I am not a very good photographer....however I will say that these Sunday challenges have improved my abilities a lot. There are things I know to look for now that I didn't before,Oh I can think of one tip....if you want more color in your photos don't take shots in the snow.

Have A Great Week

After The Ugly

2011-11-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

Cheyenne ( Cheyenne Chronicles) this post is for you. Cheyenne has said he loves the snow...... so enjoy. This is nothing, we are just getting started. This kind of day is what makes winter around here a bit more bearable. The East Kootenays are known for the amount of sunshine and blue sky we see in the winter.....for the last few years though this area would be hard pressed to prove it. Anyhow hope you enjoy the snow......it's a wee bit blinding out there right now........out come the shades.

Interesting Video

2011-11-18T06:00:00.002-07:00

While checking out Cedar View Paints I came across a really neat Video. You should check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIo3ZfA9da0&feature=player_embedded

A Touch Of Melancholy

2011-11-17T14:32:00.001-07:00

Well I guess it's just that time of year for me....and many others as well. I am so not a winter person, I don't ski ( or any other snow sports) I don't snowmobile or any of that kind of stuff, I live almost at the bottom of the ski hill...a little ironic....oh well we won't go there. This morning when I went to do chores.

One of the things I do like about winter and snow, is watching the animals and all their silly antics.

No matter how depressing I find this season the animals around here are able to make me smile at least a couple of times a day.

By the time I finished chores we were back to this.........heavy sigh.....Ok I know it is pretty early to be whining already.....I will try very hard not to be to much of a downer this winter.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

Was There Ever Any Doubt

2011-11-14T10:55:00.001-07:00

Monday morning, I certainly never had any doubt; winter has been creeping in for quite some time. What I find interesting is the difference in the weather between Lethbridge and here. I would have thought theirs would be worse because it usually is.
On the Way to Lethbridge on Fri.

Sat.on the way home as we are getting closer to BC

In BC

Monday morning chore time.

Afterthought - This note is for my visitor from Boyle, Alberta, since you have visited me a few times now I thought I would tell you that many years ago I lived in Boyle. I believe the population then was 600....603 counting my husband and daughter and myself. Wouldn't it be cool if we knew each other back then. How long have you lived there. I have to say it was a long time agoooo for me.....about 30 ish years....holy crap!!!!!. Anyhow thank you for the visits. I hope this blog is interesting enough that you return again.

Sunday Challenge "Potluck With A Purpose"

2011-11-13T09:00:00.001-07:00

This one was a toughy, I'm not sure I caught the spirit of the challenge but I'm going with it anyhow. The challenge is to have a bad pic and a good of the same subject matter or along the same lines. This one was especially hard for me cause most of my pics are not that good .....but ya gotta try. These are also from the archives....sorry.

These two make it fairly hard to get the action shot but I sort of got it.

Bad

Better

I was trying for the horse up closer and the trees more behind. Wrong location and to far away.

Bad

Still wrong angle but a little better

Bad

Much better

Well that's it all I have. Off to check you out while I wait for the farrier.

HAVE A GREAT WEEK

A Love Story Chapter 3 ( Tues. With Texas)

2011-11-09T09:51:00.004-07:00

When I decided to start this project I thought it was going to be a breeze, as it turns out I am really having trouble going from thought to word. If I had you in front of me I could talk all day about this story but I am trying to span three decades and I am discovering I am not that great a writer so I am going to jump ahead a bit in the hopes that I can find my voice. As it turned out.

Texas is the name of the horse I had developed such an interest in. It turns out he wasn't all that frail just young. D had taken that Arab mare and her foal and traded them for Tex.....I kinda missed that little gaffer....not for long though because I became quite busy. Tex turned out to be a Three yr old unbroke gelding that required a fair bit of my time. ( I had already told S and D that I wanted this horse) As Spring started turning to Summer I divided my time between taking out rides and training this young horse. This is where I have to tell you that yes I had been around horses pretty much all my life.......at this point my life was still fairly young, I think I had just turned 23, I had no formal training when it came to horses but I was going to take whatever I thought I knew and pass it on to my young charge.Tex was a pretty quick learner not to say we didn't have some trouble......on this one occasion I had saddled Tex up ...pretty early in the morning I was hoping to get some time on him before I had to take out rides. On this day he decided to act like he knew nothing and it was his first time under saddle....he made it very clear that he was having nothing to do with a training session on this day.....he would not go forward....he would not take a step in any direction.....it got to be very frustrating....it was starting to warm up people strated drifting in ....there was lots of work that needed doing but I couldn't just get off and leave it at that....that is not how I did things. So I tried everything I knew to get that horse to move, he could tell that I had reached my breaking point.....instead of trying to do as asked he did the opposite ...he started backing up he backed all over the yard into horses over a few people....I have to say I was almost reduced to tears. The final straw was when Tex backed up right under the hitching rail until the saddle seat would allow him to go no further....that was it he wouldn't budge he planted all four legs and stood like a statue. Now what, I was at a total loss nothing left in my arsenal which was pretty bare to begin with. I stepped down and tried to lead him out....nothing, so I did what any embarrassed ....humiliated.........person would do I went and got D. This guy can ride anything, he gets on and horses fall all over themselves to please him, he is well was ....we're all kinda old now an accomplished bronc rider if anybody was going to make this horse work it would be him. With some help we coaxed Tex out from under the H'n rail, then D hopped on.....nothing....he asked kindly nothing...no try nothing.....D got a little stonger with the ask ....nothing then he gave him a little spur action....well something happened, I have never seen anything quite like it before or since, that horse started to (this is really hard to describe)swing his left shoulder out (rather violently) then his right he kept doing that and added a bit of speed ( he kinda swung himself out from under D) and the next thing ya know D was on the ground. Tex just stood there looking at him. D got up and he was not happy.....ego thing don't ya know....by then we had a little audience gathered. Anyhow D grabbed the reins stepped back up got himself settled and asked the horse to move ahead, it wasn't 2 seconds before D was on the ground again, this time he still had the reins in his hand. He got up walked over to me and said get this F#%##%% horse out of my sight. So twice he's got the guy on the ground and never bucked once. Lets just say he hadn't endeared himself to D......good thing for me. Oh and by the way still don't know what got into that horses head but I got back on and he was a doll, did everything I asked, no fuss no refusal you would think he was all trained and ready for the big time.

Computer glitch no computer on Tuesday....better late than never. Have a nice day.

A warning

2011-11-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

For those of you that loved to watch Eric Lamaze and Hickstead doing their thing it is a sad day, if you haven't heard Hickstead died. The reason I'm putting this on here is that I recommend you don't go see why.....I did and it will rip your heart out. It is not something I think should be publicized....so be warned....suffice it to say it looks like he had a heart attack....you really don't want to see it.

Dogs

2011-11-07T11:51:00.001-07:00

Well it turned out to be a dog day Saturday, Shirley ( Ride A Good Horse) and her dog Tess and myself and Kali ( Tess's Daughter) went out to see P and the sheep. The good news for Shirley is Sammi has found a home and it appears that she is going to do well with her new person.....yay Sammi....no that's not her new owner that's P. I forgot my camera so no new pics with her person. She seemed happy though. It was hard when we were all leaving because Sammi thought she was coming with us and so seemed a little confused. She wasn't sure if she should go with Shirley or P or just stay by my truck and wait to get in....I found that part a little sad but I'm sure she is already over it.

Sammi's new owner is thinking she will do agility with her and she will probably take her to work the sheep once in awhile as well, I think she will keep her busy...or should I say they will keep each other busy.

So this pic is Kali and her Dad Moss, I am going to work at getting a pic of them side by side and both with their ears up so you can really see the resemblence. These pics are fuzzy, I think I must have taken them with Shirley's camera.

This shot is Kali snarking at her Dad ....look how unconcerned he is ....he is watching the sheep.....this is really a case of not Daughter like Father, I don't think Moss took his eyes off the sheep for more than a fraction of a second at a time....very involved.

This is how spoilt this little brat is....the other dogs do not go on the furniture.

Who could say no to this face.....I have a lot of trouble with that......however she does get told no when it's something important.....really.

And I just had to throw in a few of my beauty Sage. Sage got to go out to P's with Kali and I the other day, she thought she died and went to sheep heaven. For those of you that may not remember or are new to this Blog, Sage was injured ( badly) about 4 yrs ago so any future she may have had working sheep or doing agility came to an abrupt end. She has only seen sheep twice and she was more than willing to get out there and do her thing....P let her play while she was trying to get Kali interested.....such a vast difference between these two even though thay are related....Sage wants to work so bad....it's sad but don't feel to sorry for her she has a job here at home.....she keeps the horses in line and that keeps her mind busy.

Look at that face ........need I say more.

To see more pics of dogs working sheep head over to Ride A Good Horse, Shirley has some good pics of all the dogs working ( Moss - Tess - Druid - Sammi - Quill)

Sunday Challenge " In The Dark"

2011-11-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

This weeks challenge was definitely that.The challenge was to get some shots in the dark. We were able to light them up or just point and shoot into the dark. I have huge problems getting pics in the dark, even though my camera has that setting they very rarely turn out. The first few shots are pre dawn .....so still in the dark.....I think the last of the three turned out well even though it was starting to get light ......er.

The little green spot you see down in the right hand corner is a street light across the highway.

The last pic is a creepy eyed monster roaming around in the night.....not really.... it's Kali having a last pit stop before bed.

Well that's what I got, off to check you all out.

Have A Great Week

It Has Arrived

2011-11-04T10:18:00.000-06:00

In one word !!!!!!!!!!YUK!!!!!!!!!

Who Decides/ Right And Wrong

2011-11-03T13:19:00.001-06:00

Ok guys this is something that's bothering me and really got me to thinking who does decide, what is Animal Abuse? I have my own opinion on what I think the definition of that is and a lot of that would be really obvious stuff but that's not really what I want to talk about. I want to talk about the more subtle aspects of the topic. I want to talk specifically about horses. I want to start out by saying that for the most part and in my small circle I don't see a lot of what I would call Animal abuse but like I said.... small circle ( I'm sure it's out there) Anyhow it was my misfortune the other day to see things that really bothered me, I saw a bunch of horses that pretty much look like S### but the really sad thing was seeing a pathetic foal that I believe is a weanling standing in the mud on three legs( Ok this is where I may start to get off the beaten path but bare with me)this foal looks like a miniature pony baby( for all I know it is) the mother is a regular horse size, anyhow this foal is bones with hair and the mother is not much better. I could see only part of the injury to the front of the foals fetlock area, it looks to be a large deep gash, I'm guessing from being caught in something. There is also another horse in with these two and it goes after the foal.....that can't run away from it so he hobbles painfully away as fast as he can.....it looks horrendous.......So this brings me to my point. All these horses look like they need deworming, they all have food( although it doesn't look that good) and lots of it. They are standing in crap and the endless mud day in and day out.The area that the foal is in is small.....and I mean small......mud and on a hill. There is free feed hay in the pen but they look like they are starving so I'm getting there........my point is who decides what is right or wrong....now this is a no brainer for me........Wrong .....Wrong.......Wrong and oh so Wrong.....but even though I feel this way other people may not. After all there is food all over the place, they are not living in falling down fences with wire all over the place, it's not like their feet are rotting off or anything......but is this kind of care Ok or is it a form of animal abuse. I think I have some pretty high standards when it comes to my responsibilty for the care of all my animals but I'll bet people could come in here and knock me too....I have some fences in dire need of repair are they dangerous ....maybe but I keep my horses out of those areas. My poop isn't always cleaned from the pens right away is that unhealthy....maybe. I haven't had any sick horses or cuts and scrapes that don't heal properly. I feed my horses what I think is good horse hay but I'm not an expert...... so what do I know.... I could be feeding crappy hay. Our horses are on a regular deworming program and they are somewhat chubby and sassy, they show a zest for life....but just because they don't have the obvious symptoms of worm infestation doesn't mean they don't have any. I guess I'm trying to figure out if I'm just being a judgemental B#### and should mind my own business or ? What do you think .....what are your parameters for animal abuse.... what is acceptable....... and really... who decides?

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T06:50:00.000-06:00

Sammi And The Sheep

2011-11-01T21:42:00.001-06:00

For Shirley over at (Ride A Good Horse) this is her dog Sammi working sheep. Shirley dropped this dog off last Thursday and these pics were taken today Tues. It was a real treat to see how fast this dog is picking this stuff up, I really enjoyed watching her work....way to go Sammi....anyone looking for a good dog this little girl is for sale. In this first pic she is being asked to walk up.

This pic she is being asked to come by

Sammi did really well in this pic, P asked her to go further out and then come by which she did a good job of.

Shirley in this pic and the next one see how Sammi's head is turned away from the sheep, she looks like she is going to leave, she is trying to do what P is asking....the ask is for her to go further out but she's not quite understanding....after P asked her to do it differently she nailed it.

P had her change direction and just stay quiet around the sheep, she is good at keeping them calm and together.

Again she has her come from a lie down to a walk up she does that very well.

Here to she is asking her to come by.

And again with a direction change.

This pic is of her being very good ,P had been working her up to this she wanted her working further away from the sheep and still following the asks. P had asked her to go way out and come by which she did beautifully

She finished on that note and called her in, Sammi was happy to be getting such praise. She seems quite taken with P and I think it's mutual.

A Love Story Chapter 2 ( The Beginning)

2011-11-01T06:00:00.004-06:00

So as promised this is the first installment in however many it takes to tell this story, from the beginning. As I said previously it all started in 1981, location Lac La Hache, BC a very dreamy location for a love story to unfold.....oops sorry getting carried away by memories, anyhow some friends of mine that I will refer to as S and D decided to build a Riding Stable, they had the perfect location right beside a busy resort. They built the fences and a tack shed and a row of about 15 or so tie stalls, it was all very professional looking. D and S then went about shopping for the horses that would be doing all the work. As time went on I started spending more and more time there, I started going out with the rides and test riding the horses as they were brought in......most of them were pretty good.....with a few culls as well. For the most part S and D were picking horses that were really suited for their future jobs, sometimes though I had to wonder what D was thinking , one time he came home with a little Arab mare with foal at side....of what use was that .....except to eat hay and cause trouble which she did.......the reason he came home with her was because she was almost free......whatever. After listening in on a discussion about this little mare the murky thinking of D started to clear somewhat.....you see D is a bit of a wheeler dealer, always a deal to be made or a trade or what have you. After a few days had gone by I just kind of got used to that little mare and her foal. About a week or so after that when I arrived at the Stable I saw an odd colored kind of frail looking horse all curled up, asleep in the middle of the pasture......well of course you have to know my curiosity got the better of me, over I go and get right up to it....wasn't sure if it was OK or not, I whistled softly ....nothing....I whistled a little louder, this time he raised his head and opened his eyes, he stared straight into mine and that was it for me....I was a goner. I knelt down and gently stroked his face, he never once took his beautiful blue eyes from mine. I knew that was it. I was going to have this horse....I was smitten.

Just as a FYI this picture was taken a week or so ago.

Sunday Challenge "25 And 50"

2011-10-30T14:45:00.000-06:00

Today's challenge was different, we were to go 25 steps stop, and take three pics. Then take 50 steps,stop and take three pics. They could be in any direction, inside or out. The first three are.... naturally the 25. ( East)

See all that Barb Wire down. That fence runs along the highway for quite a ways, it was refenced last year with new Barb Wire, posts, the whole shooting match. This area has a large Elk population and they travel back and forth across the highway......now if you don't have much experience with Elk....they are poor jumpers......needless to say most of that nice new fence looks like this section.

The next three are of course the 50 steps. I walked for awhile West of the 25 until I reached A nice meadow ( walked my 50 steps) and saw a bit of shining light.

Well that's it for me.Nothing stunning or out of the ordinary. Off to check you out.

HAVE A GREAT WEEK

A Herd'n we will go A herd'n..........we won't go

2011-10-29T00:52:00.000-06:00

Thursday was an interesting day. Shirley came over with Sammi and we loaded up into my truck and headed out to see some sheep. I was pretty excited to see what this little girl was going to do.

We started off with P bringing the sheep all together with the help of Quill ( Kali's Grandad)Watching this dog work is quite exciting, to see some really good pics of him Check out Ride A Good Horse, Shirley got some great action shots, that dog knows how to take care of unruly sheep.

Sadly my pics are too far away so you don't get to see the real action, it is really hard to get the sheep and the dog in the same pic.....at least for me and my camera.

P and Quill worked for awhile getting the sheep settled it was fun to watch ....and educational.

Below is Shirley's dog Sammi, P released her to see what she would do, this dog is very keen and she learns fast. Sammi is for sale so anyone interested in a good dog can get in touch with Shirley

( Ride A Good Horse) Sammi will be staying for a week with P, I'm betting she will look like a pro when the week is over. She listens really well. P Told Shirley that when they first released Sammi it would be chaos....it was, Sammi thought it was a game.....but at least she had the right idea, she had no qualms about getting right in there and trying to do what she was bred for.....I was quite impressed by her. In this first pic you can see she has her head and tail up....mostly just wanting to chase.

P let Sammi chase the sheep around for awhile then called her off, back on the leash she went to watch for awhile. She remained excited and watchful of their every move the whole time.

Then it was Kali's turn ,before I say how well she did let me just say here for the record....I am not a dog trainer...however I think I know my dog pretty well. I knew before we even got there that Kali would be afraid of the sheep....she has never seen one. Kali is also very attached to me and runs to me for comfort and safety in any new or strange situation. Can you see where I'm going here. Kali comes from working dog stock so she should have a good instinct and a will to want to work sheep....or anything......and let me just say around home she tries to herd anything she thinks she can move.....horses .....Sage.....the cats....I think you get the picture. I have to say even knowing what I know about my dog and being pretty sure she would have little or no interest in the sheep, I have to say I was still just a teeny weeny ....well maybe a bit more disappointed in her response.Sadly the first thing that happened, before she got a very good look at the sheep the whole big flock came running right at her....was she interested ....not she hid behind me.....not a great start. She spent most of her time looking at me to see what I was doing. Even when I waded amongst the sheep and pulled at them and moved them about she just wanted no part of it. P took her out on and off the leash to try to get her excited nothing........she was much more interested in rolling in their poop.....now that she was a champ at.

Every now and again I would catch her showing a little interest in the goings on but not much. She did like it when P pinched a bunch of wool and let her mouth it. After awhile and a valiant effort on our part we gave up and back on the leash she went.

After sidelining Kali it was Sammi's turn to go back out and boy was she up for it. Sorry the pics are so bad but you can still seethe different body language....tail and head down, this time out she was watching the sheep and really paying attention to where P was asking her to be,it was very cool to see such an inexperienced dog start to display such skill.....awesome in fact.

The next few shots are of the beautiful scenery you get to see surrounding where P lives.

I just want to finish off this post by saying, Kali is going back to have another go at the sheep. I think P is going to put her out there with a couple of other dogs and just let her follow them around and get used to the sheep. I am going to stay away and let her get comfortable with her surroundings and get cozier with the sheep. The word timid got thrown around a few times while we were there, I don't want to use that word because Kali is quite brave when it comes to other things, she is highly sensitive though and because I am not a wonderful dog trainer I think I am hindering her progress. I believe if she is around the sheep enough and gets used to them it will be hard to get her to want to stop.
Now having said all that and the fact that she should want to work sheep if she doesn't it's not going to break my heart and I won't be a big mess of disappointment. I hope she does but you know maybe every BC isn't meant to be a great herd dog......at any rate I guess we will find out. Keep you posted.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T06:00:00.002-06:00

A Love Story ( The Introduction)

2011-10-25T11:55:00.001-06:00

This is a story of a love affair that has spanned decades.It all started in 1981when I first set eyes on a well built handsome blue -eyed guy. We locked gazes and that was it, we were going to belong to each other.....never a doubt or a second thought.Our relationship had a slow start, we worked our way up to a shy friendship and then gradually added some mutual respect and to go with that some future expectations. It didn't take long to figure out that we were a perfect match for each other....not to say that there weren't some rough patches along the way because there were.Now if you want to hear about the rest of the story you will have to follow along, from now on Tuesdays will be dedicated to the telling of this story....if you are interested see ya next Tuesday.

2011-10-24T18:13:00.001-06:00

Well here I am it's Monday but hey I have a good excuse. I couldn't post on Sunday because I was getting a new Internet provider.....wahooo this is what I call high Speed internet.I sure hope it stays this fast and also it hasn't cut out on me once....yet..... again Wahoo....simple things please simple minds.....wahoo. So anyhow Sunday's Challenge was Rocks And Rock formations, this was such a neat challenge that I don't care if I'm a day late. Kali and I went out searching for just the right Rocks and we managed to come up with a few.

The next two shots are from the archives just a little cheating. I like this spot and didn't have time to stop for new pics.

Well that's it for me. Hope you all have a great week.

Horses And Safety

2011-10-21T12:25:00.001-06:00

There are some good blogs out there posting about Horses and Safety, I have been reading some very good tips being offered. I have decided to add my 2 cents worth to the mix. I am not a trainer nor do I profess to know all that much.....what I do know though is that over my many years spent with horses I have had some of the displeasure of injuries and near misses...mostly due to my own ignorance. A lot of what the other bloggers are talking about I practice so I will try to add something slightly different. This seems like such a simple thing and I would have thought it is just something everyone does.....most people probably do. My tip is about the benefits of training your horse (s) to go through gates without a fuss. My horse(s) stand patiently (outside my personal space) while gates are being opened ,they are then asked to come through and they then come all the way through around the gate and turn to reface the gate.They end up well out of my space, it is then possible for me to close the gate with no horse(s)blocking my way or getting tangled up with other horses.As I said this seems like a no brainer....but when I was young and without proper guidence,the gate thing got me on a number of occasions causing me a bit of pain.....I have been crushed against gate posts, stepped on and pinned.,banged in the head and face(by horse head) I have been sandwiched between horses that wouldn't move around the gate.....so as I got older and some what smarter I started training all my horses to move all the way through and to swing around the gate end which generally puts them a fair distance from my left shoulder and allows for me to close the gate with no interference. I am not saying this is "the way" to train your horse but what I am saying is I have dealt with other people's horses that do not go through gates very well and these are just accidents waiting to happen, this method works for me and keeps me safe from future pain ....so to end this, do whatever works for you and stay safe too.

Open Spaces ( Finally Out Of The Arena)

2011-10-20T11:47:00.003-06:00

Jade and I finally made it out of the arena, Sunday was the big day. We did a little arena stuff first....just checking to make sure she wasn't into kicking up her heels and being goofy. She was excellent....need not have worried. So from the arena it was time to load up. I don't know what her problem was with that, Jade has always loaded well and never been a problem....something was off?????Needless to say that wasn't tolerated for long,loaded she was and that was that.I took Tucker and Kali with me( Sage just can't do it anymore) I was hoping Tucker would get Kali to follow along....which he did....yay Tucker...he has his moments.

Jade ready to go.

This is what we were looking at as I was finding a Rock for mounting.....yes I have to have help in that department...even with the little guys I have to cheat.....and Jade is not little.

Jade was finding the whole process interesting...which I was quite happy about. This is our first ride out of the arena and also by herself...so I was ready for anything.

Kali waiting for us to catch up.I took the opportunity while it presented itself to do a little one on one with Kali....even though Tucker was close by he just doesn't get it...which is OK because I don't care whether he does or not. Kali did really well she is getting the different signs I am using for Wait/ Down/ Come.She is a smart dog, I wish I was a dog trainer....or at least a little more informed than I am now....whatever, it is what it is.

Jade spent a lot of time checking things out which I don't mind ....as long as the body doesn't follow the head and we still have forward motion.She did OK with a few corrections, she was really relaxed and interested in what and where we were going.

I think Jade was finding the scenery as pretty as I was....or maybe she was just looking to see if any of her friends were around.

It was here that Jade was starting to get a little tense and it was here I wondered if she would trust me enough to do what I was asking.You can't see it but up ahead the trail started to go into the trees, they are very close together and it is really dark in there. This trail goes for about 10 mins in the dark before you pop back out into the open and the sun, it was here that I knew the real test was about to begin.....will she trust me? The answer to that question was a yes. She willingly walked into the dark horse eating forest...she was quite tense( poised for flight) but she kept moving forward about halfway through she started crying a bit and then decided nothing bad was going to happen to her.This ride is one big circle so the scenery you see when you start out is the same as when you come back. Shirley ( Ride A Good Horse) might recognize this place ( Stock Dog Trials)

And remember the place I said was for sale and it was only 1,3 something million. Nice view though.

This last pic Jade was getting a little annoyed with me. (Look at the ears)I was trying to get a picture of how loose her reins were. After coming out of the dark she was totally relaxed ...had not a care in the world, we finished off the ride with me being happy with my dog and happy with Jade's performance.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T10:46:00.000-06:00

Sunday Challenge " Focusing On The Foreground"

2011-10-16T12:33:00.001-06:00

Well this weeks challenge proved to be a lot difficult for my feeble camera skills. As hard as I tried this is all I could come up with and I don't think this is what Linda was asking for.

These pics were taken yesterday when I was out with the KBCH.The pics may not be so good but the ride was really good.

I am going to say my foreground shot goes with the rest of the landscape because we were kind of part of the landscape....ya ya I know.....that's my story and I am sticking to it.

Well that's it for me. I will check you all out later, gotta go saddle up a horse.

Have A Great Week

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T11:40:00.000-06:00

Creeping Closer

2011-10-10T13:38:00.000-06:00

Brooding skies, and clouds abound god forbid there's snow on the ground. Well it may not be down here yet but there's sure snow in them there mountains, it's coming, it seems like everyday it creeps a bit closer. Now being as I'm not a winter person I am already finding the signs and thought of it depressing. How awful we only have maybe 6 or seven more months to go.

Food For Thought

2011-10-07T14:40:00.002-06:00

Here's a first, no pictures. I would have had pics for this post

( cause a picture is worth a thousand words) but my camera just wouldn't take any under the lighting conditions. This is an add on post to my previous one about the little holiday.

While in Red Deer for the Canadian Cowhorse Supreme Show,correct me if I'm mistaken on the name ( Working Cowhorse/ Cutting/ Reining) I started to notice something you don't often see in other venues. Shirley and I were in the arena that was hosting the Reining horses, after watching for about an hour or so it became apparent to me that there was a huge gap in horse gender.....the majority of the horses showing were young Fillies or Mares with a smattering of Geldings and a few Stallions. As a Mare owner I know the value of my girls, they are all heart and work oh so hard to make me happy.Now before any of you start throwing darts at me about how good your gelding is just let me say, the best horse I have ever ridden - owned is a gelding, there is nothing out there with more heart and try than this little horse and after 31 yrs in his company I feel pretty confident uttering that last statement. However to carry on with this train of thought, I have to say I took a fair bit of pleasure in the discovery of how many equine females seemed to dominate this particular venue. I am so tired of hearing comments such as: I would buy this horse if only it was a gelding/ or how about this one We don't allow mares on our Ranch/ To bad it's not a gelding. And some of the drivel about how mares always cause problems( Maybe it's that male mentality that causes problems) It was a refreshing change to spend time around horse people that are not so uptight and old school about their thinking when it comes to Equine partners.Anyhow I just wanted to say how nice it was to see so many Mares being appreciated for what they bring to the table.....or in this case the Ring. As a side note : It was discussed why there were so many Fillies /Mares in all the disciplines shown at the Supreme and the statement that stuck with me most was. .....quite simply put....They work harder and have more oomph (Stallions as well) My own experience with Mares would have me agree. I don't know if this is why nor do I care, I just loved seeing so many good working/riding Mares. Well that's my little food for thought.

So before anyone gets offended ....this post is not intended to start a battle about which gender is better, it is just an observation and my own humble opinion.

Little Holiday

2011-10-04T19:41:00.000-06:00

Leav'n on a road trip.......this was Thurs. morning while I was getting ready to go on a little bit of a holiday with Shirley.( Ride A Good Horse) A BC Sunrise. We were headed to Red Deer for the Canadian Supreme. ( Cutting/ Reining)

This is for sure not a great pic ( Entrance to the National Park) but if you look closely you can see the road runs up and through a fairly small opening.... ( not sure what you call it)I think it's not much wider than the road.....I wouldn't want to be passing through there when a semi's coming the other way....talk about some kinda phobic!!!!!

The next pics are just random as we go along

Same as the one above but up close so you could see all the yellow going on.

This was some of the stuff I got while we were at the Trade Show........New riding boots which I have been in desperate need of...they were on sale. A new Headstall....you would think that would be an easy one....not so

Now don't anybody rip me a new one but I am a creature of very plain taste. I am not into shiny and gaudy or just plain ridicules THIS IS JUST MY OWN SENTIMENTS / TO EACH THEIR OWN A lot of the tack was pretty heavily decorated and so did not meet my needs....however after looking at every booth that had tack I finally managed to find this one, it has the quick change for bits and a full buckle for adjusting the headstall size. I only found maybe a half dozen headstalls I liked and this was the only one that had the quick change, everything else was screws or ties....both of which are a royal pain in the !!!! This headstall is made from harness leather so it should last the rest of my lifetime and then some.

The best get though was from a fellow blogger named Sherry. Sherry gave both Shirley and I her book titled Telling Tails....the only thing better than the book was getting to meet Sherry in person. You know how when you talk to people on the phone etc (or in this case we type to each other)you get a certain idea of what that person is like....well I had my version of what I thought Sherry would be like and lo and behold the real deal is even better than I thought. I just finished reading her book last night ....it is AWESOME. The stories the poetry and the photos......AWESOME you all need to get one it is AWESOME. I'm not quite sure how you get one but you need to go on over to FERN Valley Appaloosas and find out. Aside from meeting Sherry we also reconnected with Crystal ( Ranch Riding) and Charlene both of them were out here last year for a blogger Ride/Camping week- end. It was really nice to see them again. Unlike the other ladies my camera would not take pics inside that arena so I don't have a group pic to show you.

This last photo was the tail end of an Alberta Sunset, closing out the first day of our little holiday.

It was an interesting two days. I saw some stuff I didn't like ( which I will keep to myself) I saw some beautiful amazing horses and some really talented riders. Overall I really enjoyed most of the show.

I had a good time, it was a much needed breather, I love my life and my routine .......but sometimes you just need a rest. We were only gone for 2 days but it felt like a week, I missed my dogs and horses and the cats( cause they keep me in stitches) Dave wasn't home or I might have missed him too.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-28T12:37:00.000-06:00

Sunday Challenge " The First Signs Of Fall"

2011-09-25T11:13:00.000-06:00

Suprisingly this one was not an easy challenge for me.In some cases the first signs of fall are obvious...well maybe not to you looking at my pics. Around here getting some color back into my Sunrises is a first sign of Fall.

Another first sign of fall is these little guys scurrying all about and collecting food for the coming winter. This one was so angry at me for interrupting his collection, he came down the tree to the pile picked one up and then quickly made his way back up the tree, he was so disturbed that he had to turn around and let me know just how put out he was....got a chuckle out me .....cheeky little thing.

What should be a first sign of fall is the Poplar trees turning ....but for some reason they are slow to do so. So far this is all they are doing. I am surrounded by these trees and they should be all yellow about now, especially because of the silly weather.I guess like everything else nothing really knows what it's supposed to do, we are having such extreme weather temps?????

These Maples started turning quite awhile ago....again stressed out with the weather...don't know what the heck they are supposed to do.

Well that's it for me,sorry for the not so great photos.....this camera is pretty close to quitting on me. Well I'm off to go riding, it is a nice cool day with no sun....perfect!!! I am taking advantage this while it lasts. Check ya all out later.

HAVE A GREAT WEEK

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T07:12:00.002-06:00

Sunday Challenge " On The Road"

2011-09-18T20:14:00.000-06:00

This weeks challenge is stuff you see on the road or near the road or from the road.....whatever.... after four goes at getting this challenge done I don't really remember what it is anymore so this will have to do. These are all from roads in my area of traverse .....and trust me I don't go far. As you can see I don't have to go that far from home to see beautiful scenery, it surrounds us here. I also had to use oldies so some is better than none.

Well it's almost dark I gotta go feed , hey it is still Sunday...well at least it is here. I'll check you all out when I can. Later

HAVE A GREAT WEEK

Oxymoron - Reluctant And Excited

2011-09-16T13:08:00.000-06:00

Ok here goes nothing. These ...except for the first one are photos of me riding Jade for the first time after her 1 month training. I went and picked her up on Mon., it has taken me this long to post this because....well I'm not going to make a story of it but short version I really don't like my pic being taken and since I have gained a bunch of weight I am quite self conscious about it.....and now I really hate my pic being taken. I saw a video of my ride and was really put off by it but it was a learning experience and one I am going to share with you. I'm not going to go into a lot of personal stuff and or excuses but I do just need to say..... years ago many years ago I had an illness that has left me with a few residual problems...one being it is really hard for me to ride a horse and use my legs properly but over the years I have learnt to adjust and ride differently, I'm sure ....quite sure it isn't always pretty and or proper....but I don't care" I'm Riding" Anyhow the learning experience....watching the video showed me just how much of my riding skill ( I'm not saying I was all that great before)I have lost, in part because of lack of leg use and balance but a huge difference is the weight.My riding ability is hampered a great deal by my weight gain. The video was glaringly apparent and you can see it in the still shots. I can see how far forward I am leaning I guess I think I am sitting square in the middle of the saddle....Sadly Not. So not only am I trying to distribute the weight but I am so screwing up the balance of my horse and the signals I am sending....no wonder I find it hard to get results. So all this time I was blaming my legs and other stuff on my shoddy riding ability when a lot of it .... a whole lot of it is my weight problem ( and the head problem that goes with it)I have been so self conscious about how I feel and look up there that I have been riding less and less so time to solve the problem and get back to riding. Jeez it almost turned into a book sorry. Jade is such a fun horse to ride she makes me feel excited about going out and doing horse stuff again.

These pics are a bit fuzzy, not sure why but it is a blessing really.

I have to interject a comment on this photo, we were in the pre backing mode and I was gathering up my reins and just getting ready for the ask which is why I look like a chicken about ready for take off. That !!!is not how I ride.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T08:25:00.000-06:00

Sunday Challenge (Shiny Things)

2011-09-11T01:02:00.001-06:00

So this weeks challenge is Shiny Things. There is quite a lot to choose from but you had to know there would be a few of these kicking around.

Jazz is shiny even when she's dirty. This horse is so shiny she shines in the dark....yes I did try to catch that....but no such luck, you will just have to take my word for it...or you could come visit.

This is the metal rim of a barrel lid shining in the sun... I almost went blind taking this pic.

Moxie has a pretty high gloss.

The side emblem on my truck.

The sun shining off the Greenhouse

Well that's my contribution. I'll be checking you all out later. I bet there will be some interesting stuff.In spite of the stirred up memories that will be going around today please try to have a good week. Later

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T14:34:00.000-06:00

Sunday Challenge " Potluck"

2011-09-04T05:00:00.004-06:00

A friend of mine found this ball at one of those re-use places, they thought the horses would like it.....not!but Sage thinks it's the greatest thing since sliced cheese.

See how up headed and alert these two are.......guess what they are looking at....yup the big ball, Sage had it aimed right at them and it was going at a pretty good clip, Moxie took off so fast she went down in the mud, I'll tell you she didn't stay down long she was up and gone all in one motion....that ball wasn't going to get her.

The next two shots were taken at Wycliff where the Stock Dog Trials were.Wycliff is in between Kimberley and Cranbrook, it's funny how that area is so different from everywhere else.It is tucked away like it exists in its own little world.

Fisher Peak from a different perspective. This is the mountain range I see from the east side of our house.......hmmm I'm not even going to get into that suffice it to say from this location it looks a lot more up close and personal.

This last pic was taken by Dave on one of his trips with the horses.( White River Area?)

Jade at the two week mark, look at that side pass one handed yet. I'm lov'n it, she is finally learning how to move those feet around and put them where they belong.

This cow w/ owner was waiting at the Vet Clinic in Cranbrook....nice cow.

The Vet Clinic is almost in the middle of town(no fences or corrals) so there is a fair bit of noise all around, that is the most unconcerned cow I have ever seen and she likes to pose for pics....what a sweetheart.

This little pile of fluff you met over at Ride A Good Horse. Tooooooooooo Cute!

Look at Merle, his whole being is only as big as that pretty Retriever's head. HA HA Ha I kill myself.

Well guys that's it for me all I got...all she wrote. I look forward to seeing what you all put up. Later.

Have A Great Week

I Wouldn't Have Bet On It

2011-09-02T18:31:00.000-06:00

Well for those of you out there that actually know me .....you will understand the title of this post. Never ....ever would I have thought I would one day be using this. After checking out some of the indents and channels that are now part of my skull I have decided it is time to help myself out some. Bloggers meet Troxel a lot of you are already familiar with this device. This is a Cheyenne(Western) Helmet....honestly I couldn't tell you the difference...it has leather on it....maybe the English ones don't? It also has a bit of bling ...had I known that I probably would have taken something else.....but hey what the heck it might not be a bad idea to look a little girly ....cause boy I''ll tell ya ....it looks goofy......I don't know that I will ever make it out of the arena with it but that's where I worry the most about getting dumped because that's where I push the horses the most to do things they don't want to. There are no guarantees out there and a helmet is not necessarily always going to save you either but I am starting to think it might help and that's a good enough reason for me.

In Training

2011-09-01T08:09:00.001-06:00

This is a video of Jade in training. It's too bad I missed the spin....she looked like a reining champ out there.....well not quite but it was pretty anyhow.This is at the two week mark, yes he is an awesome trainer but keep in mind she did have a 1 month training period quite some time ago. Oh what the heck .....he is an awesome trainer. I won't have to think twice before sending him anymore horses. I think when Jazz is ready Terril will be the trainer. Thanks for letting me use your camera for the video Shirley......oh yeah and getting it here....what would I do without you.

Family Ties

2011-09-01T06:54:00.000-06:00

This is Moss( Kali's Dad) and Kali.When I don't see them together I think they look a lot alike. In these pics I don't think they do as much. One day soon they will be side by side in a pic and then we'll see how much they look like each other.

Dog Day

2011-08-31T22:35:00.000-06:00

Hey out there, whew finally got er up....it only took how many days, these pics were taken last Thurs. and here it is almost Thurs again. So it was Stock Dog Trials( Canadian Champion ....I think)Ask Shirley( Ride A Good Horse) she always knows the important stuff. In this first pic you are looking at the Dad to my Kali pup. He's a handsome one.

I loved this dogs markings, I think his owner loves him cause he does his job rather well.

This guy had some good dogs as well, in his first go which we missed he managed all the elements. I can't remember if he did with this dog or not but he did get them all in the pen.

This dog Soot .....very aptly named was pretty heated up he couldn't get enough of that water.

I took a lot of pics but unfortunately a lot of the dogs work is at a distance so I missed out on a lot of action. It was a good day though ....got to see some nice dogs doing their thing...got to visit with Shirley and apparently I won a bunch of stuff in the raffle they had on Sunday....good thing I had some friends there that took the stuff for me otherwise I wouldn't have gotten it. Well that's it for this post I need to hit publish before I lose this whacked out machine. Later

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T06:00:00.001-06:00

Sunday Challenge ( The Letter B)

2011-08-21T17:35:00.000-06:00

You had to know when you saw what the challenge was going to be that the chances of seeing some Border Collies was pretty much a sure thing. Sage and Kali doing their favorite things.....Sage playing Ball and Kali playing Sage.

After kicking up a lot of dust Sage decides it's too hot and too much like work. Kali just wants her to keep on moving so she can do her thing.

Here's something you probably didn't predict....I don't like to be too predictable.

How about a Beamer Baby.

A Beautiful head

Body shot with a B....y face

Sorry this shot is not as clear as I had hoped for but you can see the Brand (Diamond Lazy H)

And who doesn't like a Big Butt (Equine that is)

Hard Luck Pony

2011-08-20T22:00:00.001-06:00

I will apologize now for that first pic. It is a poor picture but alas the only one that would upload and go to the right spot......but of course that would happen right..... Anyhow on with the story. Some of you may know of my Mare Jade but here's a bit of a recap. Jade went away for a month of starter training when she was a 4yr old.she was there for 1.5 days before she injured herself (fairly badly) so out of commission for quite some time over a year plus she was in foal so needless to say nothing was done with her, she foaled out ( now that was a story) and slowly healed.Once she was fit I took it upon myself to restart her training( something I am definitely not in a position to do)anyhow that was pretty unsuccessful as she was not a very willing participant.So last Nov. horse is now 7, back to the trainer she goes.By the way unless you are lucky enough to own or have ready access to an indoor arena Do Not Take Horse For Training Just Before Winter. So Jade comes back from trainers with what I am calling a Super Flu.... in spite of my best efforts it was passed along to every Equine on the place with the exception of ....get this ...the most susceptible ....the old guy. I guess he's so old now he's immune anyhow I am getting off the beaten path. So Jade comes home sick and yes of course it's winter....can't ride. So in the Spring ( this Spring) I decide she must get ridden, I was pretty happy with her considering how little she has been used. I thought her sensible, willing and pretty quick to learn......surprise.....not so. My last ride on Jade had me second guessing my assessment of her she is definitely not ready for me and she needs a lot more work so last Monday off to the trainer she went. When you see the pics that follow you may recognize the fellow. He is the guy that did such a nice job on Dave's Skookum horse and also you might remember seeing him over at Shirley's riding Chickory. I told him I am expecting a lot from him and my horse....the time for crap and excuses is over. This horse is now 8yrs old and if she isn't going to have the right kind of mind to suit me then she has to be good so she can find a new home. I will go check them out at the two week mark and take some pics.

This pick was taken last Nov. at about the 1 week mark in her training.

This is the trainer hard at work on Dave's horse. I just can't say it enough ...He did an awesome job on that horse.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T14:33:00.000-06:00

No Way

2011-08-16T14:58:00.002-06:00

This pic was taken at 6:00 am August 16, you can just see the temp -2. I am officially concerned about what we are in for -2 in August ARE YOU KIDDING ME.

Sunday Challenge " Close - Ups Or Macro"

2011-08-13T10:01:00.006-06:00

Finally got er done. Didn't get the shots I wanted to use but what the heck I'll take what I can get. I don't do the Macro even though I do have that setting, mostly they just turn out blurry. Anyhow this is what I came up with.

This is my first ever attempt at growing Squash ....look at this little gem wahoo I'm so proud of myself......you know what they say? Simple things please simple minds.

Well that's it for me, I'm off to see what you all got ....then I'm going riding. Have a great week . Later.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-10T13:57:00.001-06:00

Sunday Challenge " Sunsets Or Sunrises"

2011-08-07T05:00:00.001-06:00

Not so easy, we have had no color in our sky for quite some time. I have cheated again and resorted to archives. So all I have is Sunrises, this is going to sound stupid but in this location I rarely see a Sunset....from time to time I see a bit of pink but just barely.You will just have to live with the many Sunrises I have captured in the last year. Hey the good news is they are colorful and it posted on time.

These pics are not tweaked at all so what you see is what I saw.Have A Great Week All catcha on your blogs. I'm betting there will be some spectacular photos.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T15:40:00.005-06:00

Sunday Challenge " Ethnic Food"

2011-07-30T17:49:00.006-06:00

This weeks challenge was a toughy for me, I lead a very boring exsistence....I go nowhere and eat out seldom. I am also a creature of habit and very rarely change my eating habits.....also rather boring. Anyhow I did want to do this challenge and on the day it is intended....so this is what I came up with .....cheat ....cheat ......cheater. I had this mag. laying around so I took pics from that....hey Ed never said you had to be actually eating these foods, I will apologize now for the bad photos my camera really is on it's last leg so to speak....some days it almost works and then well.....other days........whatever.

Thai Pork & Papaya On Couscous
Thai Peanut Noodles With Shrimp

Chicken Enchiladas With Salsa Verde.....what is Verde?....isn't that French.?....is this a French Enchilada?

Chicken & Black Bean Quesadillas

LightAnd Easy Prawn Pasta ( Tuscan)

So that's it....all I got. It seems to me that all these meals are a hodge podge of enthnic blending....I hope this at least meets the spirit of the challenge.......hmm some of these look quite edible I might have to try a few....having said that I'm not a great cook either .....am I daring enough to give it a try? Hey you guys Have A Great Week. I'm off to do chores and then I'm going riding and then I'll check out your posts. Later.

Forever Late (Sun. Challenge) " Farm Animals"

2011-07-29T15:00:00.011-06:00

Well I finally made it. I didn't get to use the pics I was really wanting too but something is better than nothing. this farm belongs to some friends of ours, it is small but jam packed with interesting critters. These are..... hard to tell but a herd of Alpacas are they a herd if there is a bunch?
Again hard to tell...a rather large very indifferent Pot Belly Pig. Our friends weren't home so due to the guarding and big time growling of the farm watchdog I didn't dare go in to get a pic of the pig on the other side of the wire.

Everyone should have a donkey....purpose....who knows but it is cute.

What respectable farm wouldn't have a few of these running around( This farm for one) Again they sure are cute though.

A few horses lounging about in the shade....does anyone recognize those Blue Roans oops sorry you can't really see the one in the Lean To, I thought it was a different pic. Shirley might know.

A Llama that was really unimpressed with my attempts to get a decent picture.

And oh look another Llama that has the same inclination as most other farm animals......in this case the grass is definitely greener on the other side. Why it didn't just walk all the way through is a mystery to me.....maybe it's trained!!!

Well that's it. My feeble attempts were too feeble I guess. The lady of the farm has chickens of course but they were through wire and did not turn out. She also raises all kinds of birds most of which I can't name, so really one of the most interesting farms I've seen, as far as different not usually seen farm animals goes. Well gotta run. Have A Wonderful Week- End.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T14:33:00.006-06:00

A Little Trip To Creston

2011-07-23T10:04:00.009-06:00

Dave and I went on a mini road trip to Creston, to see Shirley and the rest of the clan( no Ted) We were on a bit of a mission. Thanks to the barter system we were dropping off an Armoire that needs refinishing and in return for that we gave Ted and Shirley a hitch for their truck.....now she'll have no excuse for not being able to come on over this way and go for a ride Wahoooooooooo!!!!!!!Anyhow there was not much exciting to take pics of but I took a few to start of with. Guess who ....excited to be going to see friends and family.

We had a bit of everything along the way Sun, Rain, Clouds etc. This was the view from Shirley's yard.

These next shots are of Flowers and stuff around her yard......boy they sure keep that yard and area nice and tidy.

Shirley's flowers are looking very nice, containerized and otherwise.

Look at that Garden, there is stuff in there that is ready to eat......and stupid that I am Shirley picked me some carrots and radishes and I forgot them......airhead uh but you see I have a plan I will return when the peas are ready.....I love peas right from the pod Hmmmm Hmmmmm good.

So after the tour of the yard a bit of visiting Dave returned with a load of Hay and it was time to go. I can't wait to see what the Armoire looks like all spiffed up. Shirley is going to take a before pic....because I forgot and I will take an after shot then I'll do a post to show you.....it is quite a nice peice of furniture. Later. I will post you Sunday's Challenge tomorrow mostly because I have to go to someone else's farm to get the pics. Later. Have A Great Week

Sunday Challenge 2 Weeks Ago

2011-07-21T20:18:00.001-06:00

Well it's finally here ...hey I'm getting better it only took me 2 weeks this time. The challenge was " The Letter F" things places etc. So for Fun I thought I would try something slightly different. I took writer liberty and went for a loose definition of Flora and Fauna....this is what I came up with.

This pic of the baby in the hole is courtesy of Dave " Big Game Guide" We did see a few Deer but unlike the ones here in Kimberley the ones out there actually run away when they see you ....so no pic ops.

Well that is it. Boy I would be handy if this machine would upload pics this fast all the time. Hopefully I'll catch ya all this coming Sunday. See ya. Have a Great Week- End.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T16:58:00.003-06:00

A Crappy Day In Paradise

2011-07-14T18:36:00.001-06:00

When I woke up Thurs. morning I never could have prepared myself for the start of the day. I went out to do chores just like every other day, less time consuming than usual as Dave was gone with three of his horses.I started by feeding the old guy first(Tex) then I went to put hay in the feeders for Jade , Jazz and Blue, usually these three are not together but with the others gone I didn't want Jade by herself....trying to avoid problems.....As I was feeding the girls showed up but no Blue, I called him and kept forking the hay still no Blue so I called him again. This horse has become quite like a dog as far as coming when he's called....so I went looking. Much to my horror and all you horse people know what I'm talking about....when I got over to the corner I saw what I thought was Blue caught in the fence......I was wrong ,what I saw was the poor fellow looking like he was caught in the fence but it was so much worse. I don't know why or what happened to him but Blue was dead. He had not a mark on him and no signs that he had been struggling. I guess I am an emotion driven person, I can't believe that in such a short time that little brat wormed his way into my heart. He went from a scrawny wormy wild bad attitude nut job to an amazing sweet natured beautiful would have been a great horse, in less than a year. I will miss him waiting for me at the gate first thing in the morning. I guess I will just miss how much he had already become a part of the routine around here.