My Life's Journey

Hello 2012!

2012-01-12T21:06:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year World!

To be easy on myself. I didn't set any resolutions for this year. My resolution is a given - Get Employed!
I didn't do my usual first ride of the year on New Year's Day. It was icy from a little bit of snow fall. It was a great vegetation day. I now have Netflix through the Blue Ray.

As I suspected the new year would have employers moving forward. Holidays are over and budgets are refilled. Famine is over feast is on. I have been receiving phone calls and emails. I did find out I didn't get the position at United Health which was okay.

SR contacted me about a position which would be 60 days temporary and if it was okay to give my info - ah ya, PLEASE! It is working with Mitel equipment and over in Golden Valley. Although, VoIP very similar to the SX2000 which I am versed at. I was called within twenty minutes. They wanted me to start Monday but HR had to decide whether to handle the position as a contractor or a temporary employee. They decided on Temporary Employee so my background is being checked and I have taken a drug test. When I dropped off the paperwork, I was told to expect to work Monday unless something comes up in my background. AWESOME! I think it is a good sign that a drug test and background has been done. I see it as an investment in me already. I am hungry for work and routine. Of course, money will be wonderful! Gas to go see Josie, the ability to pay my second mortgage and some self-esteem.

A celebration bareback ride was necessary. It was pretty warm and I didn't want to stress Josie too much. She was a very good girl. Her mood dictated a few strides of canter.

With windchill, the temperature was around zero degrees this morning. After the crazy short walks of yesterday, I decided to add jackets to the Jacks. Pix and Wy were on board. Smudgee handled the idea better than she has so far. But she is acts goofy, slinking and trying to roll the jacket off. AFter bringing her indoors she doesn't want anything to do with me so she will be sporting the jacket until bedtime. Immersion therapy at its best. The result has been a very mild Smudgee. When we took a nap this afternoon, she did go under the covers with the jacket. I take this as a big step for her. As she didn't want to even jump on the bed and lay on the puppy pillow the rest of the time.

Yesterday I packed up the TV and ventured off to Best Buy again. Agent Mulder (tee, hee, hee, hee) decided they would send it off for repair. He thought it was a capacitor in the DVR. Even when it isn't on? It will be three to four weeks. No TV downstairs - bummer! No Netflix, no Wii and I am not sure if the DVR is actually recording my channel 11 line up. I suppose I can take the upstairs TV downstairs from time to time. A courtesy TV would have been nice.

I will be spending the next four days relaxing and getting things done around the house and readying for a work week. My first since March 31, 2011. That is ten months. Talk about a vacation record.

Wishing you the best for this year. Hopefully the tides will change. If not we will be okay.

iLive!

Looking forward to ending 2011

2011-12-31T10:57:00.001-06:00

Today will be a day of closing 2011. Last hunt with the pups, last ride with Josie, last entries of AQHA hours and the last post of 2011. I am looking forward to the new year. This year more than others. Next year will be a new start. First ride of the year, first hunt and a new year of posts.

Looking back, I feel I have met the challenges presented to me. It has been a very difficult year. I still wish I knew what I was here for. I am being strong and have decided that one of the things I am being taught is to accept help and to not be so proud.

I am very thankful for the peeps I call my friends without them I know I could have handled it but it would have been much harder.

What's been happening. Let's see, met with a recruiter last week. Possible temporary contract loading new laptops for Midwest Dairy. I hope I get it. It fortifies me when I can be a contributing individual.

I thought I had totally screwed up my Unemployment and mentally, had the dogs and I out on the street. A frantic early morning Monday call to CR got me grounded again. A text from the bank on Wednesday was a gift from heaven. I would get my check! Thank you! Thank you! It might be bad but it could be a hell of a lot worse.

Leaving Ms. Pixie at home. Smudgee, Wyatt and I went for a walk at the barn and for the first time crossed the creek on foot. The ice is thick enough for a gal and her three dogs. The creek is the lowest I have ever seen it. It is a different perspective and I developed an appreciation of how hard the horses work going through the trails.

The first big hill had me puffing a bit and feeling it around my thighs. It was easier after that. Smudgee and Wyatt were in heaven. Bounding ahead, hearing or smelling something and snuffling around for it. While walking I did a little trail maintenance, throwing fallen limbs off to the side. Such a nice peaceful walk. Smudgee found a deer leg and the first thing I thought was I will never get that away from her. I did a bait and switch - offering the treat, her dropping the leg, covering it will my foot and giving her the treat almost simultaneously. Wyatt was trying to chew the leg from under my foot. Nobody is getting it. I found a nook in a tree where I could balance it.

I was delightfully surprised when I received an email from DogWorks about an agility fun night for Thursday. Yahooooo! I thought it was going to be two weeks before we could play again and here we are with a chance to strut our stuff. Smudgee can be a amazing little girl. We walked into the building to a cacophony of dog barks. The energy was palpable which Smudgee picked up immediately. After a little stretching we went in to see what the deal was. What I see is full sized dog walk and full sized A-Frame. Miles (this man has two wonderful shelties that he has taken to the big time - I idolize him) saw me and came over to explain what was going to happen. He said we will take a wait and see attitude with Smudgee and the Dog Walk. We didn't tell Smudgee that and she had no problem crossing but on the downside she cheated about half way down. M said it was because I had slowed too much. She likes to be with me on the course and not too far ahead. The hardest part for me is learning the course quickly. Watching others helps and keeping a repetition of tire, left tunnel, jump, jump, dog walk and tunnel going in my head works for the most part.

There were quite a few dogs and people. Most were walking 1-7 and looked like the professionals. I should have brought a crate as there was no room for tying up the girl. Instead, I carted her along with me. It is a bit difficult to walk a course with your dog wanted to check everything out but it didn't need to be perfect. This was a good thing as any mistakes made were this handler's fault. The longer we were there the more relaxed I was. We did the 12" first and then up and then back down again so we didn't have to change the heights so much. Only two of our class members showed. Not sure who all Suzie invited.

Smudgee was astonishingly obedient, not wandering to check other dogs out and a minimal amount of hoovering if something was on the course. She loves her agility more and more. I had decided not to do the weaves after speaking with M as I didn't want to mess anything up. The were expanding the channels for my classmates and in the end I decided to go for it. While the other pups needed a couple of entries, Smudgee got it first time through. We ended on that perfect note!

Agility for me is like jumping Josie, there is a high from the rush that is just incredible. Talk about your natural high. Both Smudgee and I were wound up on the ride home. I had thought for sure she would be nodding off but nope. She was attentively watching the traffic on our way back.

The pups and I have been averaging four miles a day the past week and a half. Without the snow hunting has been unsuccessful. We found two hot spots in the field this week. Wyatt verified but no voles.

Josie's feet are still looking very good. Supplements when not over done are amazing. She is not as fuzzy as she normally gets by this time of year. She is creme color ponies and crisp apple strudel (My Favorite Things). Her raccoon eyes look beautiful. With all this dryness, the horses are itching their faces and some are not as good as others. I keep my fingers crossed the Mare doesn't do anything like her ear notch. As usual my best rides are empty arena rides.

Met with L and E for post Christmas get together. L gave us a certificate for a lesson with H!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OMG! I am soooo excited. I will have to go into debt for gas so I can get a few rides in before a scheduled lesson. See what I mean about having the BEST friends?!! I will have to video it so I can catch all the details. Riding, listening and trying to do is a challenge.

Waiting to hear back on a couple of positions I applied for. Hoping it is due to the holidays that no word has been heard. With that, it is on to the New Year. May 2012 be a better year and if not we will do what we need to do to make it bearable.

See you in 2012! Have a great ride :)

I live in Minnesota and it is 46 degrees outside. This is crazy!

2011-12-18T20:48:00.001-06:00

The walk this morning was chilly but tolerable. Who would have thought the day would progress so nicely.

I satiated my addiction to CastleView, did a few things around the house and took the dogs for a nice walk to tide them over until my return. My main goal today was to see Josie. I figured the barn would be way crowded what with this unseasonable nice weather. Sorry Polar Bears!

Josie had her head in the feeder when I went to catch her. Only one person at the barn. Sweet! She was a filthy mess which took some time to clean up. J and K showed up and then barn owner. It was so good to see everybody. AT was there! I haven't seen her in ages. I still see her as a young girl. I really miss barn socialization.

Jose's foot cracks look good. She is holding up well barefoot. She hasn't grown out the nail holes yet. Time to order some more foot supplement.

We didn't have the best ride but I didn't have high expectations. It has been almost two weeks since my last ride. My horse is what keeps me grounded and I miss her greatly. My heart is heavy. If things don't change soon I will have to do the unspeakable . . .

I am feeling rejuvenated with my Mare time. The pups gave me a sniff knowing where I had been. Sorry kids. Sometimes I need a break.

My new favorite song is by Billy Currington, Like My Dog. Toby Keith's Red Solo Cup is one of the funnest songs I have heard in a long time. It really sticks in your head. Who hasn't drank beer from a red solo cup?

How strong are you? I know I am very strong and will get through this. Some days are much better than others. I am trying really hard. Going to networking get togethers and HIRED workshops. Now that I have full Internet access I will be taking all the free classes I can get.

It is so tough being at the age companies steer away from. I have so much to offer and am much younger than others my age. Waiting for my resume to be given the once over after the workshop. I think I have improved it. Will see what chica says.

All for now. Ride baby ride!

No kennel cough!

2011-12-17T21:13:00.000-06:00

Due to kennel cough, Smudgee and I were the only students for agility last Saturday. We did a lot of really good work. I have to remember she is not a tall dog and keep my hand down a bit. She sure did enjoy being the only dog. No waiting for the next dog to go. Her weaves were nice after the first snafu. We have started naming "bottom" (this will be the command to stop at the contacts of the teeter, a-frame and dog walk) and she is really doing well. I could see her hesitate and begin to offer even when we ask her to. She is one smart dog! This could work for or against me.

I spent the last week silently praying she would not get ill. They all had it last Spring. Kennel cough is Bordetella and they all were given an update at our last visit.

Waking this morning, joyous joy! Still not sick. We are on! All was well until we went to do the weaves. Just not a good day for weaves. It was nice that none of the dogs were perfect. Smudgee is blazing fast. We did a tunnel, two jumps, me racing to beat her so I could do a front cross to take her through a star of jumps. The star work we did last week paid off and we did them very well.

Living the dream . . .

What is with people?

2011-12-17T20:03:00.002-06:00

First, Monday, I am walking the pups and get charged by a dog that has attacked three other dogs that I am aware of. Pixie and Smudgee proceed to attack each other as is their norm. The dog falters and I kick in with "YOU GETTTTT!" in my inner bear voice. The dog ceases its charge. The owner is no where to be seen. The dog came from the opposite side of the building and I know it lives in the end unit. I walk around and the woman has her front door open with a glass screen door. She is busy cleaning and is clueless as to what has just occurred. I yell, "You need to keep your dog on a leash. I know it has attacked three other dogs and I will not hesitate to see that it gets put down." I am such a viper! She doesn't respond except to call her dog which proceeds to ignore her (great control there lady). We continue on our way. I guess a letter to the association will be in order :) She may not know who she is messing with. The gal that got the GS lady to move out - LOL!

Then yesterday I take the pups for their morning walk, release them in the field (mind you I keep a close eye out in all directions for other dogs) only to have Pix hightail it back the way we came. Smudgee decided she should join her naughty mother. I had called but no response. Apparently, I hadn't gotten up on the right side of the bed and was a little growly. I walk back to find them eating bread. Smudgee takes one and runs. CRAP! All I need is for one of them to get hit by a car. Wyatt has decided he wants to be any where but around me right now which gives me pause to look at myself and think would I come to me - NO!

I get Pixie on a leash and already had Wyatt. Acutally he never made it off his before the naughties did their thing. Putting on my best poker face and voice. I play at getting Smudgee. Eventually, I get the bread or should I say what is left of it, from Smudgee. I tell Pixie this is all her fault and get everybody home alive. Kenneled everyone, grabbed hot dogs, a tug toy, the long, light agility lead and Smudgee. Let's turn this into a training opportunity. She headed down the slope so I said "Leave It". You could see the wheels turning. Have I said lately how smart Jack Russel Terriers are? She came t me and was greet with a hot dog and much "good dogging". We go away and then walk back by she starts down the slope and then without any word from me. She comes back to me.

Why do people put food out? It really doesn't get to what ever animal they intend to take care of.

Went to two HIRED classes this week. Networking on Monday which had a speaker that gave a session about Stress. It was very good. Wednesday was Resume Workshop. I have now reworked my resume and am waiting for the gal to give it a once over. I sure hope this helps. I submitted my case for financial help and am hoping to hear back on that soon. The counselor I was assigned said they can probably cover one class which is really good. I need to find a class that starts sooner than March.

Tails

2011-12-01T10:19:00.001-06:00

Yesterday on our second walk which was to tide the pups over so I could go ride, Wy and Smudgee had an all out brawl. I had let Smudgee go first, then Wy and before I could release Pix, they were going at it very viciously. Wyatt ended up with two punctures on his front left leg. The one he had previously been bitten on. It is a good thing Smudgee has a bad bite or it would have been a lot worse. Wyatt got Smudgee under the chin. We have Zero Tolerance implemented now.

She has been watching her P's and Q's. Pixie had the look of "Who's the good dog now?". Wyatt is not too happy to be back in the balloon collar.

Josie is doing well with her shoes off. I have been putting iodine on to toughen up her soles and luckily the ground has been soft. I lunged her in the round pen and she had a good time kicking up her heels. I am glad I decided to lunge instead of ride her bareback.

The other night (Tuesday) as we were drifting off to sleep, Wyatt began trembling and then rocking side to side. He had a fearful look on his face. I did my best to remain calm while inside my head I was freaking out. He didn't go into a full out and out seizure but this lasted for a couple of minutes. I am calling it an episode. I set him on the floor and held him. He returned to normal very quickly. This was so frightening. I can't remember for sure but want to say something like this happened when he was two or so. Another thing to keep track of and mention at his next check up.

Thanksgiving turned into a fun time as N came up to visit P, my neighbor. We played cards and dice games. I had a wonderful ride on Josie. I would ask and bam! I had it.

Dr. B's fund raiser was Saturday night. They made a lot of money but I am sure it didn't put a dent in the cost of chemo and radiation. I so hope he is the one out of four. As I sat watching him, his children and girlfriend, tears welled up in my eyes. I do not deeply care for a lot of people but he has a spot in my heart.

Things are getting tighter and tighter. I really wish an employer would give me a chance. Still waiting to be assigned a counselor for HIRED.

No agility this past weekend but the weekend before Smudgee was beyond awesome! She took all the jumps in a row and with a little assistance began staying on the dog walk.

Status

2011-11-11T20:07:00.001-06:00

After direct inquiry, I found out I didn't get the job so I went to Work Force to turn in the application to see if I can qualify for money for schooling. I thought I would receive one on one but it turned out to be a group thing. Got all the items together and emailed. Will try for Network Administrator. This is the piece I am missing for VoIP.

It has been a rough couple of days. I went to the barn myself and was tearful on the way out. J said you look like you are about to cry. Yup! That would be me. I worry so much and it is tearing me apart. E happened to be there and I asked how much damage pulling off Josie shoes would cause. He said he really couldn't say but that trying it to see what happens would be the only way to know. Thinking that I am doing injury to Josie is weighing heavily on me. It is just a snowball rolling downhill, getting bigger and bigger.

I am doing my best to be strong but am caving pretty hard today. Cleaning and playing ball with the pups helped a bit. It is very nice to have support and help of friends. It is difficult for me to ask for help. Not sure why.

Tried to give Wyatt some time away from the B's

2011-11-11T19:41:00.001-06:00

Just me and Wyatt going to the barn. Left to the sound of Smudgee screaming. Apparently she felt she should be going with.

Wyatt was way perky on the drive out to the barn. He hung out while I visited. Then he happily tagged along while I got Josie. As usual, he wanted to stay outside when I brought Josie in. He came in with a boarder, but I knew to put him in the rig. Nap time while I rode. I had an awesome ride. Josie and I warmed up quickly. She was in a great mood. Very responsive. I decided to work on leg yield and canter departs. We cantered from the trot, from the walk and I tried a halt canter depart for the first time. Oh glorious! Leg yield to the right is pretty solid but left we need a lot of work. One of our canters, we went on the the quarter line and I asked for yield to the right and she was right there. We were dancing.

Took Josie a while to cool out. Her winter coat is thickening up and with all that cantering she got sweaty on her chest, neck and flanks. I had Wyatt join us for the walk back to the red barn so Josie could have her well deserved dinner. I went in the barn with Josie and left Wyatt outside.

After getting Josie settled in her tie stall, I came back out and Wy was there. I noticed a mark on his upper, inside left leg. Closer inspection revealed a good sized wound. No idea how or when it happened. At this point K came along and I mentioned Wy's wound. She said she heard growling commotion and a yip and saw Wyatt coming away from the house. Well that explains that!

The ride home he was licking it and it was pretty long and deep by the time we arrived home. Vetericyn is my new animal medicine of choice. Cleans and heals. I strapped on the balloon collar and he was good to go.

I started thinking maybe he needed stitches but we are going to take the chance that it will be fine.

Just Do It!

2011-11-01T11:47:00.001-05:00

Took only Smudgee on a trail ride. She was most impressive. She does love to scamper ahead. When we arrived at the water crossing, a simple "Go Swimming" command and she headed across. Josie and I caught up with her on the other side. The grounded leaves make it hard to see the trail so we ended up off-roading a few times. Heading back Josie jumped straight up, all four leaving the ground. She did this twice and then decided it was nothing. What a goof!

Agility and Cross Creek Fun Show on Saturday. Smudgee went through all the jumps this time. We ran weaves to tunnel and back to weaves again. When we got to the A Frame, we schooled the hoops on the ground then added them to the A Frame. Smudgee isn't quite getting it. At one point she jumped over the hoop. Hopefully, she will be like she was with the jumps and there won't be an issue next week. Last week Dick had said she should be able to go far in agility.

"No news is good news" worked for a couple of days. After waiting a week, I am feeling like I am probably not in the running. I really want this job. It will challenge me and I will learn so much. Today, I sent a direct "am I still being considered for the position" email. If not, I will be hanging out at WorkForce, taking advantage of classes and getting their assistance to figure out what I want to be when I grow up.

Enjoying my mobile hotspot. I went a little crazy and used up most of my five gig downloading upgrades. These were IOS upgrades and pretty large. My visions of canceling cable have been pushed aside. I will have to continue to take advantage of free wireless spots for these larger items.

Okay, I have hit Get Mail at least ten times in ten minutes. I should probably get out of here for a while.

People cry, not because they're weak. It's because they've been strong for too long.

Must be strong! Will be strong!

Previous Week

2011-11-01T11:22:00.001-05:00

Previous week

Sunday

Cloudy, rainy day, great for going through closets and getting more space in the second bedroom. Went through old clothes that I have been keeping with the thought that I might be able to wear them again. One was a size two - ya! Not going to happen. All the suits I had were more than ten years old, the jackets were snug and the skirts and pants didn’t fit at all. I must say it was a little depressing but I have reached an acceptance. I will lose two inches but do not see myself being the size I use to be again.

Ended up with two large bags and one grocery bag. Somebody is going to hit the jackpot when they go through these donations. Now I just need to drop the stuff off.

A little help from my friends and I was able to enjoy sesame chicken and apple pie.

Monday

Killing time until a decision is made for the position I want. Took the pups for a two mile walk. We have been averaging four miles a day. I will be glad when squirrel season is over but then again that means it will be cold. The proverbial double edged sword.

A lovely sunny day, forecasted to be in the 60’s.

I had a splendid ride on Josie today. We have been doing very well as of late. I had the arena to myself and enjoyed focusing on us instead of worrying about traffic. I had in my mind to watch my shoulder hunch.

After finishing, we went for a trail ride with P and J. As we neared the water crossing, J said, “There’s the eagle.” All this time boarding, I have heard of the eagles being spotted but had yet to see them. I saw him immediately. He watched us come near and decided to take flight. What an awesome sight to behold. Josie and I watched as he flew along above the water. BEAUTIFUL!

There is nothing like the sound of leaves being scatter about by the horses hooves. I couldn’t hear the other’s over the sounds but that was okay. Gazing around at all the remaining colorful trees.

Ice Princess takes on a new meaning . . .

2011-10-17T20:38:00.000-05:00

I have been suffering greatly in my neck and left shoulder. Not sure what has caused this. Had to go see Sue, the best deep tissue massage gal ever. Now I am feeling beat up but I can tell it is much more relaxed already. I will be wrapped in ice for the next few days but should live.

I am very glad I signed up Smudgee for agility class. I have something to look forward to and focus on practicing until the next class. She was pretty impressive at class. I told Dick she wasn't fast and was cautious. Sure enough she put on the speed.

Josie was amazing the other day. She was sweet standing in the cross ties. We had the arena to ourselves and used every bit of it. The footing is getting better but isn't quite there yet. I am hoping to get out on trail before the hunting season starts.

TV has been acting up and it had seemed to give up the ghost last night. So, I took pictures of the connections on the back, made a bed for it in the back of the rig and off to Best Buy we went. Guess who fired up first try? Yes, we even let it run for a while and could not replicate the issue. Why didn't I think of taking a picture of the screen? It has been working perfectly ever since.

I recycled my old PowerBook. It was still working but I have been Feng Sh'ing the heck out of my home. Because it had a screen, it was ten bucks but turned into a wash when I was given a ten dollar gift card. The agent that helped me said he had never seen one like that and asked when I got it. I had to think back. Way back! I won the first pick of all Macs when pre-McK employer changed to PC's. Sooooo, that would have been around '96. I told him I also have a Mac Plus that still works. With the death of Steve Jobs, this will not be recycled for a while. Hmmmm, wonder what it is worth now - LOL!

Smudgee has been showing a little maturity lately. For the most part walking better on lead. We have been putting in enough miles with the cooler weather. Wyatt has been walking on egg shells after Smudgee put a hurtin' on him. She had him on his back and I grabbed her by the scruff and gave her an airlift escort to her kennel.

Not getting to ride enough but life is still good!

Traveling up the roller coaster hill

2011-10-17T20:03:00.001-05:00

Telephone interview completed, thank you email sent and now I wait. Interestingly enough, I hadn't heard from Robert Half and I received two calls in one day.

Dr. B was out to take care of Josie. He looks good for dealing with lung cancer and going through chemo and radiation. The Cancer Club is getting bigger and bigger. John my guy at Ford has been battling lymphoma. I didn't even recognize him.

There will be a benefit for Dr. B in November. I think I might have something for the silent auction.

Trail Ride

2011-10-13T20:46:00.000-05:00

My Happy Place

Post Trail Ride

The Roller Coaster

2011-10-11T09:32:00.001-05:00

From the valley, heading up the slope. I have a telephone interview scheduled. I can use the day to burn off my excitement so I can be cool, calm and collective for the interview. Oh, please, please give me a chance. I am wonderful. I show up, work hard and learn quickly.

Sitting at Morrie's getting things done on Coal. One thing I didn't need to almost a $150 off the bill.

I think this calls for a celebration ride!

Life is much better today.

This is a depressing post :(

2011-10-10T12:55:00.003-05:00

We have taken a few trail rides that have been lovely. The colors are so beautiful. Smudgee has decided scoping out front is her spot but she checks back with us. She is a smart dog. Smudgee got in a tussle with Riley. J said R asked for it but Smudgee is not to fight - ya try telling her that. Her and Wyatt got into it the other day.

Nothing on the job front. Things are way tight. AND now I will be just plain gloomy. Pixie decided to have her anal gland act up again. It burst yesterday and I got it drained and cleaned up. I am hoping to avoid a vet bill. Josie is scheduled for fall shots on Thursday. The car needs an oil change and tire rotation. The TV is going out but I had smartly paid for two year coverage so that shouldn't cost me anything (please!). My items on Craig's List haven't even had a hit. The x hasn't called to let me know he has a friend to help carry down the hide-away and dresser. These items I had hoped to post for sale to hit the back to college crowd - fail. The window replacement project has whittled down to only doing the sliding door. This is the most costly and the second widow can get fixed by replacing the glass. Who knows I could end up losing the place (opps there I go again).

It is bad enough not being able to find a decent paying job but all the emotions that come along with this situation, SUCK big time. Some days the self talk just doesn't cut it.

Hoping for more positive posts soon.

Still putting up the good fight. All and all life is good.

Freshly Hatched

2011-10-02T08:29:00.002-05:00

Today I sent my first Tweet. I have been going back and forth about checking it out and finally decided when DownUnder sent an email about following Clinton Anderson. Done deal! Conan seems to be pretty funny so I added him. Slowly checking it out.

Enjoying the mini-mansion. Nicely tired Jacks. Gotta love it! Snufflings but no vole yet.

Josie was in a great mood last night. Very enjoyable ride. Josie coughed quite a few times during my ride. Janet said a few of them are due to the high winds of last week. I will keep a close eye on her. Need to get Dr. B out for Fall shots.

Smudgee is signed up for Beginner Agility. I probably shouldn't have done it due to money constraints but I feel it will be a good investment in my mental health for the next few months.

Getting back on the exercise horse again. I am sick of this and the only way to get around it is to do something about it.

Kind of mad at Apple. I had to purchase iLife in order to burn my vids. Why would you provide the ability to import the movies and edit them in iMovie and not supply iDVD?

Several items for sale: antique dresser, hide away couch, laptop, monitor, mini-stepper, bridle, halters, Ariat breeches (28") (while I might be able to lose some inches, I don't see myself at micro size any more.) I have listed a few items on Craigs list but need to add pictures and list some more.

Much Feng Swaying going on. Pardon the spelling but you see what I mean to write.

Tweet ya later!

The search continues

2011-09-20T08:21:00.002-05:00

I am spending more and more of my day going to all the job websites and browsing through job descriptions. I am giving my resume out like candy. I purchased a couple pairs of pants, three jackets and a few sweaters for job interviews. All I need now is shoes.

My weekends are open again. I tried to sleep in on Saturday but the pups would have nothing of it. Work was being done on the arena so I stayed home. Save gas, save money.

Patiently waiting for help moving the hide-away bed and antique dresser down so I can post it for sale. I have missed the students back to college rush but hope it will still move quickly.

The last day at Canterbury was a lot of fun but sad. Even though the work was hard and sweaty, I enjoyed myself. Such a feeling working all day with horses. CR is a wonderful friend to take me in and put up with my physical limitation, spend the time to explain things to me. I learned a lot. Josie wonders what has happened to her push over buddy. You work with enough horses and you have no tolerance for bad behavior.

Hoping to have more to say soon.

Truly unemployed now

2011-08-26T11:45:00.002-05:00

Smudgee's birthday and the last day of my severance fell on the same day. I am trying to keep it together and be in charge. It is hard.

The furnace is installed and the air circulates through the house much better now. It is nice that it is bought and paid for. Still waiting for their final inspection so I can have the city do their inspection.

Smudgee is doing very well in class. I practiced with her more this week. We need a better connection. She wants to go off and sniff around for food. With the success I have experienced with Pixie on the new Iams, I am switching the Smudginator to it. She felt a little peaked last week so I fed pumpkin with her food. She seems fine now.

I sure hope Joey Zorn comes through with a good quote. I would like him to do the windows. One company didn't call me back the second time and the other said they wouldn't be responsible for the siding - WHAT? You are an exterior company.

I sure am hoping I am not throwing money away and end up losing the house. I am holding off cancelling the phone so I can have Internet access (as slow as it may be), Netflix has to go. If I can just hang on until the car gets paid off which would be next summer. I have been preparing a couple of computers and a cd changer to sell. I do need to eat and have gas money. I am holding onto Josie as long as I can. Things need to get better soon.

How is that for timing, I just received a call back from Mark at Merry Maids. I am going in Monday to fill out an application. God helps those who help themselves and that would be me!

Suddenly I feel like going for a ride. Happy place here I come!

Life is what you make it . . .

2011-08-18T09:09:00.002-05:00

Within ten minutes of being on the four wheeler I became stuck, very stuck. I tried to back up and it wouldn't budge. Checking the physical layer, I noticed it was in two-wheel drive so I put it in 4X4, shifted to low and whispered a little please to the powers that be. Very slowly applying the gas, moving inch by inch and yee! We are out of the mud. Splattering mud as I hit the gas, I went up to tell of my exploits.

Getting ready for survival

2011-08-15T21:18:00.006-05:00

Sometimes you have to do the unthinkable, yup, taking the little bit I have set aside for retirement (ya! like I will get to retire). This will take away a huge credit card payment, pay for a new furnace, windows, sliding door, drain cleaning and some much need shower plumbing and a vanity top. I should be able to survive on unemployment but need a job soon to keep the Mare.

My big try at gardening to take money off my board caused havoc with my tendonitis and I ended up losing money by having to visit Sue the best deep tissue massager.

We had a big splurge and went to Norris' farm in Luverne, MN the last weekend in July. I set up my tent by the lights of Norris' cadillac, sweating and being eaten up by vampire bugs. I actually did a pretty good job. Smudgee decided to make a doggie door out of one of the vents located near the bottom. I should be able to repair with some more screen and am making a mental note to stack gear there in the future. I slept really well with a pad, a heavy sleeping bag and the new thin Coleman bag I purchased. The older pups are veterans at traveling and sleeping but Smudgee isn't good about settling down. She sat on the console pretty much the entire trip. Her eyes would just start to close and she'd keep struggling to stay awake. She has decided the grain mills are very scary.

We stayed from Friday to Monday. We added the extra day cuz, hey, I didn't need to be any where. We definitely couldn't fit everything we wanted to do into two days. The first full day started with checking out the surroundings. Pat and Norris were kind enough to let me set up the kennels in a back room so they could get some relaxing done and I could enjoy myself. Smudgee knows horses but cows are quite a different story.

Tuesday’s Performance Puppy class was more enjoyable with the cooler weather. Smudgee and I need to work a bit more on our connection. She was spectacular at the tire and tunnel. Practicing front crosses and rear crosses. Need to work the travel board some more.

Wednesday brought a long awaited vole kill. Pixie found the nest but Wyatt circled out and found the creature. He gave it his best but got bit and dropped it. Pix came in for the steal and she decided a trade for a treat was a good thing. Grasping it by the tail and holding the carcass up as high as someone of 5’ 1” can so Smudgee (able to leap four feet) was not able to grab it away, placed it in the poopy bag.

Old post notes - Nothing on the job front and the government shutdown is not helping anything at this point. I logged into the Robert Half website and can take quite a few classes on line that are VoIP related. I am getting a little nervous now. Mondays are the worse. I don’t want to settle but may need to do what I can.

I attended a Canterbury press conference on Wednesday. Quite the turn out. The Mayor, city council members, an owner (representing all the owners) and Paul Nolan (representing the Jockeys) spoke. Paul made me cry. I have been feeling bad for CR already and it keeps getting worse. She had started to have a good year with a win and then bam! No racing. She barely gets by anyways and this makes it so much worse.

I do not see the good in this shutdown. It is only hurting us. Why? Everytime I turn around it is something else. The latest was Miller beer - I can live without it but why should liquor store owners be put to risk also.

I bit the bullet and had CR cut my hair. One of the perks. Very slight angled bangs. One of the few times I haven’t cried afterwards. I might have her adjust it slightly, just slightly.

Thursday I took a lesson with Heather. She was pleased with our progress. I am able to get Josie round and keep her there (unless there is some big distraction).

Stormy all day today. Pixie has taken to being upset now. Leaping up and panting like crazy. Her daily dose of Benadryl seems to be working.

Watched P.S. I Love You again. One needs to be happy with the cards dealt and leave it at that.

The longest two weeks . . .

2011-06-29T11:32:00.002-05:00

Smudgin was calm for about a day and half, then she suddenly felt better. Not good! I purchased an inflatable collar instead of the cone of shame she sported the balloon of bliss. What a wonderful product. She could eat and drink, navigate through the house and had a built in pillow for sleeping. I took her stitches out on Monday which was two days early. Her guts have not fallen out so all is well.

Posting of my resume resulted in emails to become a State Farm Rep and Call Center Supervisor and my favorite US Meat rep - hmmm . . . no, thank you. Received a call from Rob of Robert Half and set up an appointment for Monday at 11:00. the downside was having to go downtown. I have been trying to recall the last time and it was either a ball game or PBR. Luckily their office was kitty corner from the IDS. I love navigational landmarks. Parking is OUTRAGEOUS - $14 bucks. The meeting went well. After a few minutes, R mentioned a Telecom test. I continued to smile while yelling TEST! in my head. I thought I had performed horribly to be pleasantly surprised at being above the average score.

Josie, Josie, Josie . . . another shoe torqued off. This time it was the black foot. This was okay as Ernie's spooning on her right may be doing the trick (knock on wood). I need Ernie to spoon with Josie again. Spooning is hammering the tips of the shoe upward toward the heel. My plan to make it through Ernie's vacation didn't make it through the first week. I did get three rides in. Team Johnson is doing very well. Still adjusting to the excess stimulation of the open doors. I am getting to where I can get her focused back on her work but another horse coming in takes a while to settle her back in.

For having a week off Performance Puppy, Smudgee did very well. It took her a few times to remember elevated two on two off. It was pretty hot in there, hanky required. I am very happy I decided to shave her again, she wouldn't have been able to make it through the hour. She was pretty slow in the tunnel. I am wondering if there were treat smells or urine as she is usually pretty speedy. Must practice tunnel and two on two off.

We added a lowered version of the dog walk without the contact ends. This was for hind end awareness. Once up on the board they needed to walk back and forth turning in either direction. I figured being a small dog the girl should ace this. After one dog demonstrated what to do, she was pulling toward so she could try - gotta love that. Smudgee was doing very well and then one hind leg slipped down which caused her to be more cautious. She liked turning to the left better than the right. Just like with horses you need to work both sides with a goal of strengthening the weak side so they are basically ambidextrous.

Government shutdown boo! They are running Friday's card on Thursday. Poor pony horses, riders and outriders. CR hired two more people for groom hotwalker. I am getting to do more horse related work. I took Carm to the jogger. She did really well until we got there and she was spooked by the guy coming out of the booth. The jogger is a huge hamster wheel on its side. She was alone in there which turned out to be a good thing when there was a direction change as she slipped under to the next slot. I had already been considering calling CR after the spooking at the booth but cowboy'ed up and got her back to the barn by myself - whoot hoot. CR has three horses running on Thursday. I also have permission to take George to the pool when he isn't scheduled for other work.

Oh, look it is time to go saddle up Mare. Hoping to arrive just as Ernie finishes her shoe. Until next time then.

Another catch up post

2011-06-15T20:46:00.003-05:00

I told myself June 1 I will start looking for a job, next I find myself in the middle of cleaning my garage. The new way of finding a job didn't measure up to garage cleaning.

I have the Groom Hotwalker down now. I have even been allowed to feed. The horses have now accepted me. I get nickers in the morning when I arrive. When on the walker I see them perk up and look at me as to say, "Will you take me?" What I am seeing is that the hardest part of being a trainer is dealing with the owners. This makes me glad I am just a groom. The work is still hard but I can tell my stamina is building. Mentally this helps a lot. I find Monday morning blues to be a bother probably the spurring needed to get myself out there.

With the upcoming vacation of our farrier, I decided to have Josie's feet totally redone instead of a "fix it". This time of year she tends to grow faster and I end up not getting to ride for a couple of weeks. Twice now the farrier has had truck problems that have coincided with a shoe loss which resulted in a loss of riding time. I wanted to take advantage of the time off to ride more while still balancing not using too much petrol.

Smudgin finished her Performance Puppy I and has completed her first week of Performance Puppy II. She received high praise last night. I was wondering how we were doing. Smudgin tugged really well tonight. She likes the raccoon tug but prefers real fur. We started elevating her two on two off board (this is a training method for contacts on agility equipment that requires the dogs to touch the beginning and ends on the A frame, teeter and dog walk).

Today she had her spay surgery. Due to a slight overbite she should not be bred. All went well but I decided to have her stay over night. I thought she would scream at being there and it turns out she is being a very good girl and just watching what is going on and being cute.

I think Pix and Wy are way enjoying their mini vacation from the Smudge.

To keep busy and my mind of the poor little girl's situation, I went over my resume again and posted it on several sites. Finally! I have gotten over the little speed bump. I did a few searches with negative results. I will probably need to do another resume for Admin type work.

After a one shoe layoff, I had two rides with each better than the last. The Mare looks wonderful, a little chubby but wonderful. I missed a trail ride with the gals. Hopefully next time.

Enjoying my once in a lifetime three month vacation but eager to resume employment.

One Tired Johnson

2011-05-12T11:39:00.000-05:00

My first weekend on the back side gave me the kick in the pants I have needed. Tough to get to sleep early on Friday with the excited feelings surging through my body and flashes of a wheelbarrow and a 12 inch ramp on my mind. Smudgin decided to wake me some time around 3:00, not necessary when my alarm is set for 4:30, REALLY not cool. She pounced, prodded and stuffed toys in my face. She totally ignored my growling while Wy and Pix left the bed less this was directed at them. She finally grabbed a bone and I was able to grab a few more much needed winks.

I had gone to bed with a wet head, something I haven't done for as long as I can remember and the grisly site revealed at the flip of the light switch was ghastly to behold. I will avoid that in the future. Baseball cap required, the new fav "Fight like a Girl", brought the unruly curls to bay.

I arrive at 6:00 am, receive admittance at the Stable Gate and am put to work immediately. I learn to pick stalls, put horses on the walker and hot walk "worked" horses. The wheelbarrow and ramp go well as long as I do not fill the wb with much straw and horse apples. I was left to hot walk while CR handled her training responsibilities, ending up with someone's loose filly running through and around our walker. I yell, "Loose Horse!" and expect folks to come running, didn't happen. I kept her from our walker until she bored and went to bother someone else. Next a stallion is lose and attacking the mares on the walker. Everybody comes to help. What a beautiful sight.

I learn where and how to get a horse jogged. Next thing I know it is time to feed again and top off water buckets. My day is almost over. I decide to go to the new owners meeting and assist CR with getting straw and hay hauled and unloaded. I enjoy my first Kentucky Derby at the track. I am filthy and under dressed, surrounded by dresses and hats, but a beer in my hand, horses on the big screens, the satisfaction of exceeding CR's expectations on my mind and I am happy as a clam.

Taking my shoes off at the end of the day reveals a three inch blister along the outside of my right foot -youch!

Sunday is a repeat of Smudgee trying to get me to play-Grrrrrr. Today the wheelbarrow gets the best of me. I am a bit sore and slightly
weaker and thought I could do it only to slide slowly back, still trying to move it forward when I lose and have it come back at me and end
up a tangle of me and wheelbarrow. I tried so hard to keep it from falling and dumping out. I provided quite the show for the jockey and CR.

I am pretty sure CR is helping me make it through the day. This work is hard but very satisfying. I have five days to get better for the next weekend. I will be wearing thinner socks next time.

Smudgin is doing well in Performance Puppy. I totally forgot to practice two on two off. I was a bit uncoordinated during class. Our last class of obedience 1, we pass and take second in the heel off. If I would practice more we might have had a better chance of winning.

I have become in charge again. To Do list is added to and items are checked off, appointments made - get er done is getting done.

Getting a routine . . .

2011-05-06T08:34:00.004-05:00

A month off work has done wonders. I am probably the most relaxed person in the world. This is very easy while the paychecks are still coming in.

The perfect job came up through TekSystems but they decided they wanted someone who has worked with the equipment sooner than ten years ago. They are missing the entire package that is me. Oh, well not meant to be.

I have put away most of the crap I brought home. I even culled a little bit more.

Smudgee and I have started Performance Puppy. A way to train and build our relationship while we wait for her to be old enough to do agility. She gets scared easy. We start with a full minute of play. The first class we had started and we were playing very well when they added a distraction. One of those kid toys like a lawn mower that pops as it is pushed. She did not like that at all! We had to keep moving farther away, almost to the lobby, before she would play again. After class I spent time with her and that toy. She doesn't have a problem now. This week's class we did play time and she did well. The next item on the agenda was restrained recall - she totally blew me off and ran elsewhere. There I am trying to be the biggest party. LOL! Wyatt was never like that! We started two on and two off. In agility the dog has to put at least one paw in the contact area. For instance the teeter has contacts on either end. The instructor brought out the teeter. Smudgee was fine until a dog went across it and it banged down. She wanted to exit stage left so bad. She wanted to bark and growl at it and then the dog would make it bang again and she wanted O-U-T! I took her over to it before it was put away. I thought Wy as into self preservation. Smudgee has raised the bar. I have a feeling the Fourth of July will not be fun at all.

The pups have been enjoying long walks at the barn, swimming (so far Smudgin is only a wader) and rolling in indescribable things. Smudgee puts the dodge on when we get home as she is not the biggest fan of baths. Last night was a close call, she made it out of the sink onto the counter.

Josie must have got wind we were having a schooling show. She pulled a shoe last Monday (black right front). I should have told her we weren't going to be in the show. Ernie was having truck troubles and didn't make it out all week. She got her shoes done on Thursday this week.

After getting her mess of a tail sorted out, I led her to the indoor and had a wonderful bareback ride. I braved a few canter strides but couldn't quite trust her after so much time off and bad footing for her.

I went to the Horse Expo but wasn't really impressed by the speakers and everything has glitz and glitter - not me.

Josie has been styling her tail, a combination of dreads, braids and mud beads. I had washed and banged it to avoid this. I am a fan of leaving her be for the most part but will be trimming her leg feathers the next chance I get.

This weekend my little girl dream of working at the track comes through. I will be helping Chris on weekends. Trial basis for the dogs to stay at Lisa's. I see Smudgee as being the weak link for this. It is totally worth giving it a try.

Well, off to another busy day. Living large!

Snow!

2011-04-20T09:41:00.003-05:00

While still beautiful the snow is really getting old. It is interfering with training not to mention my To Do List.

Yesterday, we went to the barn after working out. Yes! Working out again = skippy! Took the pups down the lane for a short one. Brought along liver today. Smells like hell but very effective.

A Little History

2011-04-20T09:37:00.002-05:00

Blog Notes

Smudgee exploded in kennel. I felt so bad for her. She just looked miserable. I had ended up staying a little later at work. I had planned to work, let the dogs out and go back to work. She had poop all over her, all over the inside of the kennel. After about two weeks in the kennel she has been moved back to the X Pen.

I got Smudgee into the vet the next morning. Poor little one. A few pills and she is much better.

Friday went by myself to the barn Josie came galloping up much different from the night she trotted up like a pony wanting to be careful due to the ice but wanting to hurry.

Saturday up before the birds. Smudgin has her own schedule? I am not arguing with her while she is on Meds for the poopslide.

Having a much needed warm spell. The dogs were crawling out of their skins with the lack of exercise.

Desensitization clinic today Heather out did herself this time. She had literally all the bells but surprisingly no whistles. The white across the top of Josie's eyes was showing. I did mostly mounted. This is Mare's fourth I think. This means I step it up. She get the balloons touching her and rubbed all over - this I did from the ground. Afterwards we played soccer and had the most fun.

Sunday we took a walk and found we couldn't cut across the park so we walked around which involved a short road section. All was going well with the pups all on "Look" when a huge noisy truck cam clattering by. Smudgee was scared to death. Any headway I had made about cars has been set back quite a lot.

Watched DVD kennel games - this will take a concentrated effort. I have now purchased Smudgee a larger kennel which will help with the kennel games practice.

Quarter Horse hours are 1014.50! I have received a lovely Montana Silver Smith's rectangle conch noting the 1,000 hour mark. Only 4,000 to go for our buckle.

Friday night Horse warming party. Allison bought a horse from some where in California. I had intended to ride but ended up having a couple of brews mmmmmmm!

Soccer Saturday night big fun. Not the usual suspects but still fun. Josie and I did our best not to be ball hogs.

Saturday March 5th. Cat sitting at the mini mansion. Loving the fenced back yard. Rode Josie had a wonderful time. After a bit of warm up for us both we proceeded to work. She is moving very well. I am remembering all the mantra items and the ride is just lovely.

I am amazed Smudgin has grown so much she had better stop. She fits her long legs now. I found out 15 inches is the max. She won't be that big.

Tuesday's walk had the two girl's on the coupler. Funny watching them pull each other instead of me.

Unemployed and so far loving it!

2011-04-13T21:08:00.002-05:00

I am in my second week of unemployment. A huge burden was lifted on April 1. The long wait was finally over. Hoping I can undo the damage. I have started an exercise routine, dog and horse training schedule.

Friends showed up for potluck and then cake at work. Happy hour afterwards. I had a great time. LH was kind enough to give me a ride home.

Within a few days I decided to take an additional month off. I am diggin' this!

Josie had her teeth floated and Spring shots given on Monday, April 5th. Her mane looks very sharp after being pulled. Her mane has never been so thick. The hair is coming off like crazy. I like to call it hair transference.

Smudgee is in her fourth week of Obedience I. She was referred to as the Star Pupil today. I glow with pride. I haven't been as good at practicing as I should. But hey! I am on vacation for two weeks then it will be time to knuckle down.

Pulled a bloated tick of Pix - GROSS! She seems to be fine now. I was told to put vasoline on it. I had tried rubbing alcohol and then an extinguished match - taking care not to blow her up. It wouldn't back out all the way. I did manage to get head and all. I have now applied Frontline to all the pups. Fingers were crossed with Smudgee's application but she tolerated it with no issue.

I have had to buy fat breeches and fat shorts. Quitting smoking is the priority. It is now the norm. I have a couple of weeks left of the Chantix. One wonders if that doesn't affect my weight also. I was going to start a boot camp but my back was out for about three days. Now I have been doing my floor work and when walking the dogs we do a little bit of running. Smudgin' needs to come of age before she can jog. She seems to run hot like Pix so she might not be a fan of jogging like her Mom. Time will tell.

We have a JRT fun day coming up and a trial next month. I decided not to show at the CCS Dressage show. Too much pressure for the Mare and Il Well more for me - the tests are new this year. I have them but just haven't taken the time to memorize.

We had a dog show at the barn. Wyatt was first (unleashed) and second (leashed). He got crazy for agility. It was just a U shape and he made it in 30 seconds with knocking down I think it was two jumps. He needs to do some grid work to improve his bascule. Pixie was a big hit with her Bang trick. I had taken care not to practice. I found she doesn't like to get dirty and won't do it with a jacket on. After the fact i thought of quite a few more tricks that may have made our placings better.

All for now. i will have to upload the notes I have taken.

Snow and more cold

2011-02-06T22:57:00.003-06:00

The cycle continues a little snow a lot of cold, rinse and repeat.

Checked out a new store last week, Bone Adventure which is a wonderful little store. The store I would like to own. I saw collars I have never seen before. I picked up a brick colored martingale with fleece on the inside for Smudgin. Smudgin HATES it! She doesn't want to come near me when I want to put it on her. She has been okay with using Pix's leather one. What the heck is the difference besides smell. She is way tooooo smart.

The poor little dear has had the runs since Saturday. Saturday night I started her on rice, Sunday am she was a bit better and by Sunday night it was much better. I was worried about going to work and leaving her. At least these were runs she had control of. The bell was ringing a bit though.

Smudgee has displayed a bit of possessiveness about sitting on me and growling if Wyatt wants to join. I have been letting her know that that is not acceptable behavior and it has diminished. Wyatt is very appreciative. He has been walking on egg shells lately.

Josie was so happy to see me she left her hay and came trotting, that is it might be slippery trotting so she looked a bit like a pony. While getting her ready she was nuzzling my chest quite a bit. After being bitten I am a bit leery but she didn't pull anything. Hmmm absence does make the heart grow fonder. She spooked once at the dip by the garage door the tractor comes in at but otherwise was fine. We didn't do too much but the work we did was good. Oh, Mare! I so needed that. Thank you :)

I lost back that pound which is surprising as I am at 13 days no smoking. I was accepting of the fact that I would gain some weight. I purchased a 100 ct. Tootsie Roll Pops at Costco. That will keep me busy for a while. They were out of my usual bubble gum but having a different taste is probably a good idea. Another interesting fact besides saving money, I am getting back about two hours a day. Overall, I am feeling fine with a craving now and again which I try to divert. I would like to buy myself an iPad at six months - hopefully I will be gainfully employed so I can.

Went to Diane's annual Super Bowl Party. My first test of alcohol with no cigs - luckily no one there smokes. I don't think I am ready for any big tests yet. I bought one of the Costco pizza's for it. It was a hit. Diane loaded me up with left overs and wouldn't take any pizza. I will forgo the crust and cut some bad points that way. One couple bought mud pie - so much for watching my points tonight. I had over 55 for the day and didn't count everything - YIKES! There goes my extra points for the week and I must increase my activity too. Averaging 10,000 + steps throughout the day. I would be interested to see what running is like these days.

Making my medical appointments while I still have insurance. Two left to make. One of which I dread. Oh, well it has to be done.

Life is smelling pretty sweet!

It has been 11 days . . .

2011-02-03T20:58:00.001-06:00

since I quit smoking. I did break down last Friday and had one. For me this is really awesome. I appear to be lucky and not have the bad dreams and feelings of depression others have had on Chantix.

I have way lost my temper twice though. At least I don't internalize - ha!

I noticed that Smudgin's ears have returned to normal. My theory that it was her molars seems valid.

Total Puppy is going well. She was a little leary of the tunnel this past Wednesday. I am glad I had climbed into the attic and brought down all my agiity stuff. The short tunnel I have is now set up in the bedroom. She is taking it just fine. We introduced heeling this week. She was a star! Her Look is getting better and better. Her recall in class was awesome. She was straining at the leash when the instructor was holding her for me to get across the room.

I don't know how the instructors deal with puppy class folks. Some just don't get it. One guy didn't even know his pup had taken a poop - he had even stepped in it. Be aware of your puppy. Interact with your puppy. Have fun with your puppy. One thing I have learned is I have to empty everything else out - the fact that she didn't down the last time I asked, that I have this and this to do. I like the zen place that's me and my dog working together.

Just when I thought Smudge was over her car attraction she lunges at one again. I will not be able to allow her any freedom like the other two if she keeps this up. I will not lose another dog to a car. Little Big Man was the worst as I had to carry his body in front of me on the horse for quite a few miles until we got home so I could bury him.

The fights have qwelled. I do not allow Smudge to get snarky with Wyatt. From watching she is picking fights with him even when no toy is involved. Well, little miss that is just not acceptable in this Jack Pack.

Josie pulled her shoe again! Same foot. ARGH!!!!!!!!

Life is good and it even smells better now . . .

Happy Graduation Smudgin!

2011-01-25T21:53:00.002-06:00

Even though she was very naughty Thursday night, she graduated. Smudgee's trick was back up and then jump into my arms. Right now she jumps to my knee. Eventually she will jump straight up. Let me tell you White dog can JUMP! She as smashed into my face a few times in her exuberance.

Josie pulled her left front (this is a white foot). I thought we were doing really well with the supplements and all but NO! Grrrrr!

So far I lost 9 total pounds. Five in one week! Tells you how chubby I was. I gained one back on my weigh in Sunday. I am attributing this to weather too cold to move around outside. I know. I could have ran on the trampoline. I also started Chantix on Tuesday with a quit day of Tuesday, January 25 and that would be 2011.

The dogs have been having a few battle royals. This weekend's was the worst. Smudgin's underside of her ear was scratched slightly and the outside lower triangle had a mark. Please don't have a vet bill due to pack fighting, Kids! She is challenging Pix too. Pix has been more stern with Smudgin. I too have been doing my part.

Thank goodness this week the weather has been warmer. We have been going for walks again. I have lost the pound I gained and have been doing very well at quitting smoking.

Work has kept me busy. I came in during the three day weekend to meet vendors and then had a system problem on Monday. I put in enough time to take that Friday off - SWEET!

Trying not to think too much about how fast time is going by. March 31 is getting here quicker than expected. I am bummed as they have now moved the Go Live date to March 18. Doesn't give me a heck of a lot of time to work with the system. I hope they realize they do need a "Me" and keep me. I am not looking forward to being unemployed. My mind is a bit undecided as to what I want to do. I know I need to make enough money to support the kids. The savings from not smoking will be pretty big what with the price per pack. Although this will be offset by the increase in the price of gas. It went to $3.20 and is now holding at about $3.17. Bastards!

Friday night I went to the gun range. My very first solo. I was nervous but appeared cool. I had the kid go over the range rules just to be safe and asked about how to operate the target mover thingy. Bill's has a toggle switch where BV has a key pad. I like BV's much better. Bill's ripped my targets at the top. He told me if I hit the hanger that the target is on to let him know - I think he thought, "Oh, a girl. Won't be able to shoot." Later, I asked about cardboard - $2.00 per. I ended up spending $25 and went through a 100 rounds. I am extremely accurate at 15 feet and 21feet. When I get the target way out my accuracy takes a downward curve. I kept my last target to compare with last time and there is definite improvement.

Once when I had just finished shooting seven rounds, I happened to turn to see a guy had been watching me - I had put two bullets pretty much dead center - ha!

I told B of my adventures. He is my mentor in all things gun related. He said, "T, if you don't realize it by now, you are a really good shooter." You know me I like being the best at whatever I do - I swelled with pride.

Smudgin's Total Puppy Thursday class didn't have enough enrollment so we are switching to Wednesday at 6:30. I have to remember she will always be better at home and without distractions. She is way ahead of a lot of full grown dogs already so just have fun! Speaking of being way ahead. She is as tall as Wyatt! Go Legs! Go!

Josie hasn't had her shoe reset so I have been saving the gas money. I visited on Friday which was the coldest of the cold snap. I feel comfortable knowing J keeps an eye out on her.

I was really excited to attend the Janet Foy Clinic to introduce the new tests but NO! have to work. Oh, well. I have the Instructor's booklet. I better start memorizing.

Life is as good as it can be! Enjoy :)

Not doing so good at visiting the Mare

2011-01-15T21:30:00.002-06:00

and trying not to beat myself up about it. At least I have been walking more, joined Weight Watchers online and have lost six pounds.

I made it out Wednesday to visit Josie. Friday it was snowing and Happy Hour at Cowboy Jack's with the neighbors sounded more appealing than a dangerous drive out to Cologne. Today I was all set to head to the barn when I receive a call from work saying Qwest will be out Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. Okay fine. Then I receive a call back asking if there was any way I could go there today. My luck we don't have staff in the Operations room during the weekend any more so I have to go. After waiting another two hours to see when they were going to make it in. I am told noon - IT IS NOON! One of the co-workers happened to be in working out so Qwest was let in while I drove like a maniac to get there. Two hours later I get to go home but may be called back. No chance of riding today.

Found out J won't be able to be in Smudgee's Total Puppy Class. I had been so excited to have her in the class. My plans are to enroll Smudgee in Obedience I and Performance Dog. Performance Dog is a new class for us. From what I understand we will work on increasing the dog's focus. I am game.

J had come to observe the class week. I was embarrassed as Smudgee wouldn't down when asked to down - challenging me. It is a Jack thing - way to smart. We worked on that during the week. She was much better this class. Legs is doing loose leash walking very well. You wouldn't know it when we are on a walk about. I know it took a long time with Wyatt and Pix, well, she can be good but seems to choose not to.

Smudgee was a hoot during puppy play time on Thursday. She was chased and was chasing. She takes advantage of her size and scoots under the chairs. Franklin hot on her heels. She is now telling him to back off. Thank goodness!

Monday I was so excited to find one of Smudgee's lower fangs. I had been bumming thinking I would never get a tooth and I see it on the floor. Yahoooo! Toooooooth! I exclaimed. What a tard!

Smudgee and Wy have been figuring things out. I have now picked up all toys and broken up a couple of battles. Smudge has growled at him when he has tried to jump into the chair or when asking to come under the covers. I need to get this under control now before she gets bigger. I think she is pretty much Wyatt height now. Girls are just bitches.

The nice thing about three pups is the built in heating elements they are. I am toasty warm when watching TV or during the chilly nights. I love toasty.

In light of recent incidents, I have order two 15 round 9mm mags and some ammo. Prices will probably go up and availability of larger capacity mags could be an issue. I do need some range time and now I will have plenty of ammo. I found out Bill's has ladies night every other Wednesday with $15 for range fee. Not bad. I do like BV Pistol better but it takes much more time and gas. I just love target shooting. I need to work on my 50' distance accuracy. I need to bring my front sight up more. I was a little flinchy after the burn from the casing but I think I got it back before we left.

Make the most of it!

Ghosts of posts past or blog catch up

2011-01-15T21:13:00.001-06:00

Smudgin has been more and more consistent at ringing the bell to indicate she needs to relieve herself. Not to say we don’t have accidents from time to time. The last accident was a bit rude on her part. I have two round dog beds on the couch. I was distracted doing something and look over to see the little snit in an all too familiar position on Pix’s pink bed. Oh, Smudgee!

I have a three day weekend and hope to hear the lovely tinkle of bells and not the icky tinkle of puppy tinkling.

The 19th she will be four months old. I am so looking forward to the loss of those needle teeth.

With her new found jumping on the chair ability she has grown very mischievous. I do not let her out of my sight. One of my To Do’s this weekend is to puppy proof a bit higher up. If anybody is going to try for the counter it will be her. She made the jump from my rocker/recliner to the couch. That is about a three and a half or more foot spread – I was delighted at her prowess but momentarily concerned about her joints but figure soft to soft was okay.

I have managed a few rides which have been amazing. I am sporting a small pinch bruise on my forearm from a naughty nip. She has been very good about her nipping for quite a while. Perhaps the lack of attention and work has manifested thusly. She is looking very good. If you will remember last year she lost the tip of her ear and I had no idea what happened. Well, it happened again but thankfully she retained her cute ear tip. She must be pushing it with the other horses at the hay feeder. My little imp does not like to back down.

Experienced one of the biggest snowfalls during my years here in Minnesota. Saturday night I strapped on my snowshoes and hit the snow. The first quarter to half mile I was dinking with the poles. The lowest part would shorten. As usual a little slow on the uptake I finally figured out the different areas to tighten and awayyyyyy I went. I sunk up to high thigh a few times. Thankful for the poles to help me out of it. I learned walking on the top of the plow piles where the sidewalk would be. I wore my tinted goggles and had a very blonde moment when I questioned the fact that everybody was driving with their parking lights on and no head lights. Well, it dawned on me it was the tint of the goggle lens. Duh!

Smudgin got her Rabies and last shots for a while. Yeah! Last puppy class she was asked to play with the big pups. She spent a few minutes dodging Franklin – a hairy basset hound looking pup. Some how Franklin was distracted and Smudgee made a beeline for the border collie pup. They tore around a bit and the BC decided Smudgin was a bit more dog than she was. Next, the Smudginator was taking after the goldens and Eskimo pups. Ya! She is holding her own now. Now that is puppy play time. Looking forward to next weeks play time.

I am finally ready for some range time. Glocked and loaded! I need to clean it first and then it is bang bang time. I am amazed how involved the entire process is. Even down to purchasing ammo.

We are in the warm cycle. Warm leads to snow which leads to snow and again and again. I took the pups with to the barn for a much needed run. Smudgin’s recall is coming along wonderfully. She looks up to Wyatt which comes in handy. She tags after him while Pix dashes off and about. Having better control over Wyatt eases my nervousness about letting Smudgin off leash.

Smudgee was submissive to the Cross Creek Pack. She is fitting in better. I did notice a scratch on the top of her right eye – no idea how that happened.

Colder weather has prevented me from bringing the pups to the barn. I stillhave been remiss about riding. Gonna work on that.

January 1, 2010

I brought the New Year in the best way I know how, by riding.

Luckily, I have been taking notes as I would never remember everything and I sure ain't been blogging . . .

2011-01-10T22:35:00.006-06:00

Notes to be posted when I use my lap top next.

I have been busy!! Survived the Christmas depression time. Sold two TV's and have fliers up for my trainer and mini-step. My second bedroom is looking better and better.

I had brought Smudgin aka Legs along. We played a bit and I kenneled her like I have before. I stepped from the room to be on my way to catch the Mare and YIKKKKKK, YIKKKK, YIKKK, screams Legs. Uh, oh, correction, back out, hearing quiet (you can hear quiet you know), praising quiet and leaving again. Okay, it is quiet, I can catch Josie. Little did I know she began screaming pretty much as I left the barn. DARN IT! We have separation anxiety. Shoot!

She looked happy enough on arrival . . .

Josie has been slightly neglected but is managing well. On Sunday, I called to her from the end of the lane. She made a point of turning around, that is pointing her butt at me with an I am ignoring you stance that I am familiar with. I called, walking closer only to have her look back and then away again as if to say, "I am mad at you, get a clue, talk to the hiney!". She couldn't resist my charms for long and walked to me, slipping her nose into the nose band of the halter for me to tie it in place. I gave her one of my special homemade treats and promised many more. I walked her to the barn telling her how sorry I am for this once or twice a week visiting. I tell her I thought she wouldn't mind being without saddles, brushing, blow drying, no work, etc. She gave me the look which meant its the treats and you, silly human. I wonder if it really is in that order or is she still giving me a hard time. I am hoping I do not get the nip again.

Entering the barn to the very slightly muffled screaming of Legs, I quickly cross tie Josie and begin apologizing for the pup screaming while making my way to the lounge where I had bundled her. Needless to say she was very happy to see me but I told her quiet, left the room, waited to hear no screams and went back in to tell her how good she was. We went outside with me toting the kennel and assorted blankets which I stuffed into the rig and set her up again. She remained quiet, at least I could not hear any screaming.

I rode Josie bareback for a few minutes which was probably better as she hadn't been worked for a while. She was giving her usual dirty looks at Indy, loving looks at Frank as we would pass by. I fed her and turned her back to the herd and ran back as fast as I could.

Smudgee was not upset like she was the first time. Oh, Smudgee I would never leave you.

I felt like the worst mom ever! When we got home we practiced her being all alone while I took the rest of the Jack Pack out. She made a bit of noise, was reprimanded and then enthusiastically told how good she was when she quieted. Guess I need to do more short stints.

Time flies when you're having lots and lots of fun!

2010-12-02T19:44:00.002-06:00

I had been managing to ride more and more each week. I have been having really good rides when I do get my butt in the saddle. This week though between the weather and just not feeling like dealing with the cold, I only went to visit Josie on Wednesday. I did bring the pups and with no one in the barn, Smudgin was unleashed and romped around checking everything out. With the extreme cold weather, I usually do not bring the pack to the barn. No pupcicles.

Smudgin has been attacking the bottom of the stairs of late. The puppy gate keeps her out of there but I don't always have it up. She took a six inch strand of carpet out. Grrrrr! She has managed to jump on the couch and chair and with this new found ability she has stepped up the naughty puppy side.

Class went well this week. I discussed whether Smudgin should be moved up with the big pups and it was decided to wait and see how this puppy play time went. Well, it went extremely well. Little Pepper has decided to come back at Smudge which makes her back off. Way to go little Pepper! We started working on "come" in class. I have been schooling "here". So for the first time we didn't do as well. I thought I was set with my hamburger and ground chicken treats but I was hooked up with the instructor who had fake crab. Nothing like your dog barely coming to you and then being all over the other person. Hmmmm I have been wanting steak for a while . . .

It is suppose to snow tomorrow. I am very glad as Josie needs a break from the hard frozen ground. It takes a bit to warm us both up these days. Perhaps it will be enough to put on the snowshoes.

The other week we were tooling through the open field and I am not sure if Wy got an already dead vole or if he made a quick kill. I showed it to Smudgin and she was very excited. The most she has done is follow Pix and kill the nest.

I am amazed at her growth spurt. We had a photo shoot the other day and I will have to upload some new pictures.

We are a Quintet!

2010-11-09T20:17:00.006-06:00

What you smell Uncle Wyatt?

Smudgin on the hunt!

Smudgin and Wyatt napping

Life has been happy kaos. Who cares if I will lose my job in a few months. I had been going home at lunch to let Smudgin out of the kennel. This worked well for the first two weeks. Friday I had a meeting from 10:30 to 3:00 so I set her up for the day in the kitchen with the X-pen. I have now decided this is the way to go. This also works for those 1:30 a.m. wake ups. I have to get dressed and take her out. Well, this way I can cheat and she can just go on the puppy pads. She is holding her number two for the day which makes things much nicer. Images of puppy poo spread all over her and the floor - ick!

I have purchased puppy pads that you can wash. This are the only ones that hold up to the Smudgin test.

Smudgin has lost her puppy fat and her legs have gotten longer. She holds up well on our walks. The first couple of outings I looked like the scene from 101 Dalmations where Pongo wraps the leashes around the Darlings legs to introduce them. Of course in my version it is just me with three dogs wrapped around.

Smudge is very good at sit, down, beg, roll over and has been learning to ring the bell to ask to go outside. I was a bit worried about the biting but we have that pretty much under control. I think it was a phase. The needle teeth marks are fading fast.

We start puppy class Thursday and she gets to meet Dr. Pierce tomorrow. I am going with getting her microchipped. Ain't nobody taking off with one of my dogs!

I must mention that her sleeping in the kennel at the end of bed has gone astray. She starts out there but early morning crying and I grab her and tuck her under the covers until she wriggles too much which means "really gotta go potty".

Wyatt has been really, really good. After several NO'S! and be nices he will let the pup hold onto a toy in his mouth and will let it go if she pulls. He has never played so well with another dog. He has also been sighted playing with her while she darts in and out from underneath the bed.

Pix is Smudgin's play toy. They play so well together. She also enforces the law with the little one. Pix is doing much better after her latest anal gland debacle. She is almost finished with the Prednizone for whatever was wrong with her skin.

Pix and Wy have really been very obedient. I have had to cut back on their chow as they are all getting treats for being such good dogs! They have been patient with having to wait until I take the pup out and come back in for them. They have also been spending more time in the kennel so I can have some one-on-one with Smudgee.

Pix came across a vole nest and Smudgin got a whiff and taste of that. We will probably clear out all the pests in a mile radius - LOL!

Sunday I had a BEST RIDE EVER! Josie is just amazing. Which made me decide to enter the Dressage Schooling show. Who knows what tomorrow will bring. I will show while I can. This will be our last time with the old tests. Time to start memorizing the new ones.

We entered the key hole, barrels and obstacle course for the Fun Show this year. We had 17 seconds for key hole and 27 for barrels. As I just started keeping track of our times it seems very slow but progressing from just trotting to actually cantering around the barrels our time has improved. We took two fifths and a fourth. I had practiced backing during the waiting times. Did I over practice? Did I try to hard. I will go with I tried to hard. The pressure of competition ;)

I had the pups waiting in the rig while Josie and I had fun. I had taken them for a short walk to tide them over until I could spend time with them again. I brought everybody up to the barn so I could enjoy some of the tasty grub. One gal came running up and before I could say "Don't pick up the puppy", she had picked up the puppy and Smudge and wiggled out and was falling to the ground! I have super fast reflexes and catch her on the way down. Because she was a younger girl I didn't say anything but "You picked her up before I could say don't pick her up". I had to get away from her at that point. Thankfully Smudgin was not hurt at all. As a result, no one is to pick her up unless they kneel down and she would only drop a little distance.

Back to the kaos!

Smudge, Smudge, Smudge

2010-10-19T22:06:00.000-05:00

We are all adjusting our routine. Two shame on me accidents. I really need to get up earlier.

Pix has tried bossing her around three times now and “protects” her from Wy and other dogs. Yesterday morning Pix tried to boss her out of the closet and Smudge told her she wasn’t the boss of her – Pix backed down a bit. This morning when Wy was indicating this was his toy she growled and barked back. I think she will be holding her own soon.

Wyatt is firm about his toys but hasn’t been over zealous. Pix tells her that Ellie Elephant and chicken are hers. Pix has played with her a few times which I like as Wyatt doesn’t “play” with other dogs.

When I went at mid day to exercise Smudge, I ended up bringing everybody to work as the weather was so nice. Smudge was a HUGE hit. She really got her share of socialization. I took the pack to the barn last night and again, go figure, Smudge was a huge hit! Her first experience with a horse in shoes walking down the aisle made her want to run the other way. I went with her and then picked her up for the next horses to be led by. First one, a little struggle and then the next one much interest and no fear (of course not the Alpha Bi!ch was holding her and had her back.

We went for a walk to just shy of the lake. She cried in the kennel most of the way home. You think she would have been exhausted. Nope she wanted to play when we got home. And then there was the next accident. Darn it! They wake up take them out, they play take them out, they drink, take them out, they eat, take them out. You would think I would have better timing. I am being trained again ;)

After a trip outside, we all hung out with Smudge getting to be on her back “reading the newspaper”. The first steps of my “I am Pack Leader” training. This morning we actually managed settle. With her on her side, head on the floor, sign and relax – resistance is futile. What a good girl. She is beginning to understand sit and sit in the kennel will make the door open as opposed to crying and pawing at it. I feed her from my hand for bonding.

She is settling in very well and I can see her Smudge personality coming through. I can’t wait to take her to the Fun Day!

2010-10-17T19:26:00.001-05:00

I now have a total of 863.5 hours in the saddle with Josie. Won't be too long before I receive the silver conch and will only need 4,000 more hours for my silver buckle.

Josie and I had a lesson on Thursday. I needed a fine tuning. We had some problems with Josie popping her left shoulder when going to the right. I know I have been told before BUT I need to remember think shoulder fore. More mirror watching is in store for me. I can feel it but like to verify.

Pixie has been having a reaction of some sort on her skin. I was hoping a bath with Relief shampoo would do the trick. I remember she had some when I got her back last time. I don't know what it is but it sucks! Poor Pixie just looks miserable. I will have to take her to the vet before she loses any more coat. We know how she doesn't like to wear clothes and she will be needing some if she keeps going as is.

This week at the barn Wy and Pix started playing together again. I had mentioned before Wy has been a bit mean towards Pix. It was great to see them playing like old times. Pix got a case of the zoomies and the race was on. Wy is a smart one, knows he can't keep up so he waits for her to zip by again. Silly puppies.

The Mare has been very sweet lately. I attribute this to the decline of bugs, cooler weather and lack of wacky hormones being out of season.

Josie had a bit of build up on her dock. Tail washing and conditioning - check! I gave her a trim to keep her tail out of the mud that should be a constant any day now. It has been dry lately. I believe I see a difference in her feet after being on the hoof supplements. I am now having the internal debate in regards to putting borium on her. I think I will wait. She lost her pads last year and borium is expensive and I don't quite trust her feet yet. I will probably be kicking myself but I am just going to go with snow pads again. One must stand behind her decisions.

Life is warm and fuzzy . . .

One should post more often but . . .

2010-10-17T00:11:00.003-05:00

life keeps coming at you in every direction. Nod and smile? I think not okay, yes. I have been very busy at work which makes me think and why don't you feel you need a me? I am in a happy place. My blood pressure has gone down. Conversation with Chris with her upcoming third year as Race Horse Trainer at Canterbury has given me a position as . . . well yet to be defined. So I will make some extra cake while collecting severance. During our conversation "this will not cover your house payment". You know I really don't care if I lose the pad. Just don't let me lose the kids and I can deal.

Pixie back from her last pack of pups. I really, really want Smudge - the cutest JRT ever! Wyatt has been really snippy at Pix this time. She is currently going through a "skin condition" I am hoping to avoid a vet bill but it isn't looking too good. Another bath today resulted in her being more comfortable. I remember her having a little skin deal last year but nothing like what she is going through this time.

Josie and I have survived two off property trail rides. I do have to say poor site planning Carver. There is the area where the rigs park and you saddle, then you cross a dirt road. No problem you can see a long ways either way. Then you go through an area with huge rocks with brush and trees to your left and right and then boom! There is the bike trail. Each time has resulted in spooks. A little time before encountering drame would be wonderful.

The first ride Rainy leading the way, Josie and I were next to Josie's herd mare Jessie when six bikers whiz by. Jesse startles so does Josie but nothing bad. My first thought is this is going to be a long trail ride. I get into it and relax as we see bikers off in the distance. Josie usually letting me know in advance they are near. P and J are excellent to be with. Michelle is awesome! Josie doesn't want to walk with the others, she loves Jesse. I think she is Jesse's upcoming second. She is an alpha mare in the making. She likes to freeze when spooky stuff comes up. I am okay with this. I do laugh when I think we want to Event. She can't be stopping and looking at what scares her. We will be eliminated or pick up outrageous time penalties.

Our second outing I look forward to - been there done that. Good life likes to toss your a curve just to keep you top in your game. Thanks life! I see through the trees and bushes a bike, a breath and think we will be fine - been there done that! Ya! RIGHT! Lead mare Tuff spooks big time, Josie spins to the left only stopping as there is another horse in her way. The way it happened I hit my head on her greatly muscled neck. Later driving home I have a headache on the right temple - related? I think so. Back to the ride - I think crap! This is going to be another long ride. How will she be when Mr. Donkey starts braying at us this time, hmmmm?

The first ride I rode in my western saddle and dressage bridle, this time I use my dressage bridle with my multi-purpose jumping saddle. MMMMMMMM comfort and good I survived the earlier yahoo.

As I was getting Josie ready I hear jingle, jingle, jingle to the 99th degree. Two riders have a full set of bells and one has a rhythm bell set like mine. Josie perks but not an issue. This is different down the trail later. Fine! Your horses are use to the bells from hell but ours aren't. One should always care about how what they do effects others. Not these chickys.

Trail riding is exhausting. Later rides everything is a canter depart to the Mare. Why? We mostly walked and trotted to catch up. Why?

I took a lesson with H as I was having some difficulties with Uber Mare. I have now watched the video three times.

Tonight's ride - I got it! Brain and muscle melded into feeling - how wonderful. Josie, previously canter impaired, has decided canter is a really good thing. You always have to look back and see where you came from. She use to get so upset about cantering, now it is her choice for evasion. I get my best canter departs then which results is nice canter departs when requested.

After the first trail ride, I decided me, the pups and Josie should go out on the property trail. Hee, hee, hee. I thought this will be so easy after the two hour rides and encountering the unknown. She was iffy and then walking over a bent over thistle caused her to leap in the air with all fours. Just can't get a break when it comes to riding. Thanks for keeping me on my toes Uber Mare. The pups had a wonderful time and Josie and I bonded that little bit more.

Dear Lord, thank you so much for all the horses in my life that have brought me so much joy and pain. It has made me appreciate what I currently have so much more. So many times I feel not worthy of Josie. Sometimes I feel she is a blend of all the horses I have had. Sometimes I see a little Tilly, a little Senda and amazingly a it of PJ so short in my life and even Strawberry my Welsh Pony - that would be the Mare side.

Josie has been on the hoof supplements for a while now. I believe I see a difference in hoof. I ordered her next few months supply and have been very diligent about applying Ernie's concoction. Hooves are slow in growing so time will tell. My next decision is whether to put borium on her shoes. I would like to ride outside on the snow and ice so I am leaning toward it. Being she only wears front shoes - should I. Will ask farrier and vet and see what they say.

Life is AWESOME with a mare like Josie!

Uber Mare in action

2010-09-22T21:43:00.001-05:00

Nice shot of Josie rocking it at the Dressage Festival Under The Stars.

Success at the Festival Under The Stars!

2010-09-21T19:46:00.002-05:00

The big day or should I say BIG NIGHT finally was upon us. I had not been feeling nervous which I found surprising. I went to the barn to see how dirty the little filly had become over night. Her socks will still white and her tail was glistening from the previous day's scouring. Barn Manager had kept them on the dry lot due to all the rain the pastures were hazardous.

After checking on Josie, I took my gear up to load into Becky M.'s trailer. A very nice Featherlite straight loading step up. Very similar to my old trailer. Next, came the mare to wash off her hooves and a couple spots that were not her leopard spots in her socks. I had B load Garth first and Josie practically pushed me into the trailer so she could get in. She knows there are nummies in there.

It took us an hour. B and I passed the time swapping horse stories. About a half hour into the drive I felt the first little butterfly in the pit of my gut. I mentioned this to B and she said STOP and we laughed.

Josie unloaded and began gazing around. This is the most action she has ever seen. She was showing the whites on the tops of her eyes as she took in all the sights. I picked out her day stall. She wanted to follow me back out. No, girlie gotta get your water and some more snacks and of course our gear. A few trips later we were settled in.

We did a ground run through of our routine. Nice way to warm up trotting through the drill. Felt another butterfly but brushed it away.

Diane W was the organizer of the demonstrations rides and she called the meeting for 6:30 and we are second up. Good! Enough time to saddle and warm up a bit. As I am chilling I look up to see a hot air balloon. Hmmmm . . . Josie will be fine about that. Then I notice five more!!! Please let them leave before I mount up.

Hunted up Sarah. She had Sterling there. What a beautiful Stallion - Gypsy Vanner. No other BW folks were there. Oh, well. I am Josie's biggest fan and that is enough for both of us.

Pam showed up. She was very helpful, holding the Uber Mare while I saddled. We need to work on this some more. There was no place to tie her and I was worried about her dumping the white pad in the muck. But no worries. We got her ready to rock. Morgan was very kind and waited while I mounted and walked with Josie and I to the warm up arena. Josie was a little big but not huge. She was enamored with the Friesian Sport Horses. I don't know if it was them with their long manes and high crests or the contrast of very white and very black. She did not want to take her eyes off them. I walked for what seemed like ever and then asked for trot. When Josie didn't explode I managed to give her a few inches of rein. Ahhhhh Thank you! she seemed to settle a bit more but was still looking at those darn Friesians.

To get her attention I started circled and bending her, putting her to work. She settled in pretty well. I asked for a canter and after a half circle later I brought her down to the trot and was feeling such an amazing sense of accomplishment. I CAN do this! This had me relax a bit more. I did ask for the other lead but apparently Mare decided I was demanding and gave me nothing. I didn't want to start something so I pretended that was okay and we trotted some more and then took a break to watch the vaulters.

The Friesians came back over and Josie was turning her self inside out to watch them so I let her. Enjoy girlie girl.

Exhaling deeply we enter the arena to line up outside the ring inside the arena. White boards and letters - didn't give it a second thought. We were on the side with the seating which looked pretty filled. We are beginning. Josie was behaving like an angel. God bless her horsey soul. I sat and posted when needed. We had our best performance of our drill. Thank goodness. I was worried about elephant pile ups but it went very well. Josie who stood still in all the practices was a bit antsy at the halts. At the final halt I see my right leg is back holding her butt in place. I hugged her as we excited the arena, high-fiving my partner Alice. WE DID IT!!!

Josie didn't want her portion of the celebration beer but greatly appreciated all the treats. Oh, my girl! You so deserved it.

Life really is really good!

Come on T get it together . . .

2010-09-13T20:37:00.005-05:00

I am doing much better now. Time as always is the best medicine. Some Miller Lites for back up are good too. I spoke with my recruiter and am staying to the very end. Going for the help desk job that came up is not a good idea. Right now I don't know what a good idea is. I like what I do but now what do I want to do? Kind of flying by the seat of my pants here. Afraid of making a wrong choice. I am a plan person, must have a plan. Mind you my plans have been changing by the hour but this plan has held for a week - this must be the plan that will work. At least I can live with it.

Taking a week off work really helped. I have had more self talks than I have had in a long time. NDM 2.0 (new determined me) now :) Everything will be okay. You will survive this. You can do anything if you put your mind to. I CAN DO THIS! How can I make enough money to support us and still be happy. I have considered so many different jobs and shot down each and every one. What am I suppose to do??? Hey! Big guy! I am trying to help myself but I need a tiny bit of direction.

This past week I didn't accomplish as much as I wanted to in regards to uploading my resume, selling tv's, etc. BUT I did get new tires on Coal. OMG! It was so worth the money. It is quieter, less bumpy, safer and my gas mileage has improved and not to mention the rig even looks better. I am no expert so I had questioned the wear on the tires when I went for the 60k spa treatment for the SUV. Yup! Needed new tires better now than when I am unemployed and totally freakin'.

Josie is doing much better. We have made it to Quad practices and I must say we are doing pretty good. I realize Josie hates Quad but all the more reason for her to do it. She has only kicked out that one time but when we are in single file or filed as pairs are her ears ever pinned back.

Speaking of pinning her ears. The Mare has had her first full blown in season. Ick! Mares can be nasty. I thought she had a cut on the inside of her leg - nope just ooze making its way down her leg. I was thankful as that would have been a huge cut. I think she has bisexual tendencies. She loves Nelly but teases Frank. They now call out to each other. The longing looks back when we are leaving to walk up to the arena - young love, ahhhhh ;)

I started the Mare on supplements for her feet. The cracks that I have worked at for a couple years really went to hell when I was resting my tendons. We are trying Biotin 2X. Hopefully she has grown enough foot for the farrier to do what the vet wants. I have not been riding except for Quad just to not put too much pressure on the cracks and abscess and keep her sound enough for Quad. The abscess is closed up now. I have been putting fly wraps on her legs as the mosquitoes and flies have been horrible! TOTALLY forgot I had the wraps! Ya! DUH! Dumb Bunnie.

Here is Uber Mare modeling the Fly Wraps

The demonstration ride is this Saturday. We do not have a specific time yet but a meeting is scheduled for 6:30. Heather gave us all Salden shirts as she is sponsoring us. Black shirts and breeches, white pads and a diverse group of horses. I know Josie and I really have to move out for some of the threading and such to work out. I think we have been doing half steps which is the beginning of Piaffe and Passage. Uber mare is just, well, so UBER! We ought to look pretty good. Our name is something like Circus de so Neigh. One more practice and it is SHOW TIME!

Life is still good you just have to go with what you have. Chin up Chicky!

I am a Survivor - I will survive this . . .

2010-08-31T20:30:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, August 24, 2010 I was told I would no longer be employed as of March 31, 2010. I have always wanted to know but really knowing has upset me. I mainly have a handle on it but it has been tough. TOUGH TIMES NEVER LAST . . . TOUGH PEOPLE DO! I am not myself right now and I don't like that. Wy is worried the pack is doomed. I am a bit concerned myself. I have stated and will state again under no circumstances will I lose Josie. I will do what ever I need to do.

I have been making lists and thinking of what I can do to survive. I would get severance but received no offer of stay pay which means I don't have to stick out until March. Although the money would be nice what are my odds of finding a job in 20 weeks? I have placed a call to my recruiter but it has been two days now. Time to follow up with him. I just want to see how the market is, are the openings for my skill set? I have to figure out what to do so I can ease my stress level.

I was already worried about Josie. She had an abscess on her left front at the coronet band. This is a good place as it resolves quickly. The clouds of mosquitoes and hoards of flies are not helping though. I had Dr. B out to check her - yup abscess. Bute and soaking and a major change to how she is trimmed. I have decided to treat her externally and internally to get more hoof growth so the farrier has more to work with and we can totally resolve her little cracks. The best I have been able to do is get is a quarter inch or more from the coronet band.

Feeling sorry for myself was not a good time to place an order with SmartPak. I only went to order Biotin II for Josie, really I meant to . . .I will be replacing my current worn out Ariat freebee bag with the Ariat Gear bag and a couple smaller items. I should be a professional horse and rider tack shopper. I would be awesome!

So I have a smile on my face and hope in my heart.

Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

2010-08-16T20:45:00.003-05:00

I signed Josie and I up to be in a 8 to 10 horse Quadrille demonstration ride during the Festival Under the Stars at the Washington County Fairgrounds September 18. We have had a meeting and it is doable. I have to pay for trailering. I started getting a fluttering feeling which means I am stepping out of the comfort zone but feeling good about it. The true test will be how will Josie be with the other horses.

During the meeting we discussed names but have yet to vote on those or ones that have come up since.

Thursday was our first practice, I opted not to ride and walked between the horses. Good choice as it really started storming. The sirens were going off but stopped. Josie and I would have been stuck in the barn as the lightening was fierce.

This past Sunday we practiced outside at the walk. I had ridden Senda in Quadrille way back at Eagle Creek but I am unfamiliar with the terminology - flanking, cross over, etc. We are also doing leap frog which is just like it sounds. Josie kept her opinion to herself almost the entire ride. I was very proud of her. I am giving myself a pat on the back for being relaxed. I wish we could have moved out of the trot - next time.

This is going to be such a good experience to be at a recognized show with Josie but without pressure. Sweeeeeet!

Here are some shots of the kids:

Mama's Out of the House

2010-08-15T22:09:00.001-05:00

I met J to hand off Pixie. Time flies when you are boiling in the heat and humidity. Pixie is scheduled for her c-section Tuesday, August 17, 2010. The pups will be taken two days early to get them before Pixie would try to deliver them. With last year's complications we are going the safe route.

Wyatt is sticking like glue to me. Just like old times. He tells me when he needs to go out. He tells me when he is scared (Oh, wait! That is already a day to day occurrence.)He is enjoying the extra attention. Still doesn't want to go out at twilight and checks for little dude down the way.

With all the humidity and heat, I have taken it really easy with Josie. My Thursday lesson was rescheduled to a very hot Sunday. Josie was dripping wet when I took her out of the pasture. We just did some trot and walk work. Spiral in and out - properly. I really need to watch the tape of this lesson. I spent quite a while cooling her out. I had ridden 12 miles a few hours earlier and was all done in and I don't have the hair covering she has. She let me rest the cold sponge on her poll and wipe around her face.

Internet Access Whore or The Money Pit of Technology . . .

2010-08-14T22:19:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago, I had purchased a camcorder, tried to hook it up to my Powerbook Pro. Well, I could only get jpegs when they should be movies. Just to be safe I attached to my PC and it works. I did a little research and guess what? I needed new operating system software that supports this camcorder. Argh! While I was online the iTouch mysteriously appeared with and engraving in my shopping card. I have been resisting for so long. I LOVE IT!

Turns out iTouch's download is 22 hours via dial-up. I tried three times and would get to around the 18 hour mark and get knocked off for some unknown reason. Couldn't use the iTouch which is burning a hole in my hand wanting to be used and used NOW! I try one neighbor, she's not home. I try the next and he is preparing to leave and myself, I needed to go ride. Yes, they have Comcast. Later that night it took 13 minutes to download! I go home get my iTouch up and running and figure out how to transfer music, movies, etc.

Saturday, my OS upgrade arrives - whoo hoo! I install it and iLife the other necessary link in this upgrading process to get stuff off my camcorder. I was to go on a trail ride but opted out to ride later after I finish my upgrade. Guess what? Snow Leopard and a huge update and some of the other programs had some. I pick the smallest ones to run. Thinking I can just bring it to work and get the download. I see my other neighbor and decide to ask him. I made need another huge download and should keep M for that. "So what do you have for internet access?". "Comcast. Sure you can use it". Can you say Amen, Sista! It took a bit longer to do plus the larger updates for the other items but I was up and running with the hour. Now, just to find time to play with the camcorder before I lose the memory on the camcorder's card.

Then I am looking at System information through the Apple Menu. Checking out all my cool stuff. This version is smart enough to tell you that while you don't need to replace it right away you should start the process. So bought a replacement. I next go to update Quicken (checkbook) and am not able to. I am hoping I just need to register. I would rather not spend any more money on technology unless it is music or apps for my iTouch.

Hot and Humid!

2010-08-03T19:53:00.005-05:00

The pups' Frontline has been on for 24 hours time to refill the pool. It is very miserable. Wy and Pix did their normal business, ate and got stuffed back into their kennels. I didn't want to take a chance bringing them along to check on Josie, my one-shoed wonder Mare. We will play later.

The drive was nice and peaceful. No Wyatt freaking and trying to get in my lap as a result of taking the cruise control off by touching the brake, sure it was a sign of his imminent demise. You really have to appreciate Wyatt's will to live. Everything is danger. Pixie has taught him a bit about gusto but Wyatt can't shake his long held beliefs that everything is out to get him. Hmmmmm again a similarity between myself and my animals. I must get it from them, yea, that's it.

I pulled up and see Josie following one of the geldings to the far end. She isn't to the lane yet so I yell "JOSIE! Josie Girl" she flicks an ear and her head turns so her eye confirms it is me and she keeps walking. She wanted nothing to do with me. I mean work and it is so hot. I can see her shoulder is dark with sweat. I give her one more chance, she gives me one more ear flick. I'll come back for her. Maybe she will come to me then.

New kid on the block a 14 hand black QH. What a cutie! I have never seen such a small QH. He looks like a pony and is a bit on the chubby size. He has a cute face and looks to have a good eye. I want to ride him - he is just too cute!

After catching up on what's up at the barn and helping a bit with the gates, I go back to fetch Josie. Ha! She is right up there. Must have come for more water - good girl! No colic for you. Mare has retained her one shoe. Thank goodness who knows how long it would have taken us to ouch, ouch, ouch up the driveway. She has salt marks in her sweat from the humidity and heat. Come on Mare, I got a plan for you. I perceived a small ahhhhhhhh when the cold water hit her legs and then neck. A little ooooh went it went over her back and loins (gee this is sounding like a romance novel). She seemed to appreciate my efforts to make her a bit more comfortable. Anything to make Uber Mare be a good girl for our possible lesson Thursday.

I decided to go the the Eight Horse Quadrille meeting. This would be for a demonstration at the Fall Festival at the Washington County Fairgrounds. This would be good exposure for Josie - the big time without the pressure. It would be very good for me - the big time without the pressure. I would be at a recognized show, with my horse but not competing what could be better. I worry about Mare being growly and myself not being able to remember the pattern. The best case scenario would be to be an alternate that ends up going along but doesn't do the quad - LOL! We have a meeting this weekend to learn more. I am proud of myself for even considering this. Busting loose - that's me!

Tomorrow is another biking night. A little research to see where going past French Lake gets me - Medicine Lake is what I am hoping for.

Dare to do it!

Wonderful Weekend

2010-08-02T21:37:00.002-05:00

Thursdays ride was AWESOME! We are both getting it. I was softening without thinking about it. Josie became rounder and easier to ride. Oh, lovely day!

Friday night was spent with BW friends. Too much to eat and chocolate cake and dessert to die for. We watched the promo for Big Bang. This is what the network saw to invest into the show. They changed the main gal and Sheldon and Leonards' friends weren't in it but it was hysterical anyways.

I have been reading Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series. I didn't realize how much I am like her. A neighbor had mentioned she thinks of me when she reads about Stephanie's exploits in the bail bonds business. I was seen reading the book by some co-workers and they all said how much I was like her. Hmmm not sure about this being a good thing but I guess it means I am very entertaining, low self control, spontaneous and snit happens to me. I am now reading book 12 which is the book that got me started. Well, along with the comment of my similarity to the main character.

Accomplished much at home. Finally, trimmed my ficus tree - it will look better soon. Pups toenails done. Only made Wyatt's dew claw bleed a bit.

Pixie is looking like a slightly deflated football with legs. I am pretty sure she will have more than the three pups Jill needs to break even. I am guessing five without any one being gargantuan like the male from the last litter. I keep telling Pixie sorry and that she is taking one for the team but the look in her eye makes me wonder if I will be forgiven. It will all be over soon little girl.

Went to ride Saturday to find Josie had pulled her left front shoe. Grrrrrr! She is fine and was more than happy to remain in the pasture with her herd. I have started to notice a less full look in her forelock. I have seen her trying to graze under the fence. The poor girl thinks she isn't getting enough to eat and has to forage for more - reminds of, well, me!

In pursuit of my muchness, I came home and prepared my road bike for a short journey. Took a while to find my clip on shoes, helmet and gloves. All were a bit musty from sitting in the storage container for so long. I decided to venture West on Bass Lake Road. I had spotted a park when I drove that way a couple of weeks ago. I am definitely out of shape and really appreciate a good downhill. My battery is dead so no way of knowing how fast or how far. If I continue to ride I will reward myself with a new battery. The park is pretty nice and the paved trail very smooth - much easier than the sidewalk trail that I took to get there. I find a map and see that I could potentially bike to the Coon Rapids dam. There will be quite a few training rides before that is attempted. I would also use my camel pak - one water bottle won't cut a ride that long.

I try not to think of the poor puppies left stranded in the air conditioning with their full bellies.

Everything seems to be holding up. Legs are tired. This is very evident on the return and the steady hill on the home stretch.

Sunday, more chores were done, pups played with and horsey treats baked. I was going to clean tack but got side tracked trying to connect my Powerbook Pro and camcorder. After a couple hours and in between processing sheets of horsey treats, I decide that I need to upgrade my operating system and iLife. Uh, oh! This could be very, very dangerous. I have been wanted an iTouch forever, okay since I first saw one and have withstood the pressure all this time. My iPod is still hanging in there but I hear the drive turn more and more these days. I would die without my tuneage! Plus, it doesn't have all the bells and whistles the iTouch has. Oh, look! They are offering free shipping! Okay, if I don't spend too much in other areas (Chipotle, beer and Blended Chia tea) and this is my next Christmas and the birthday after my next birthday present. (This could actually aid in weightloss.) I had already bought the camcorder for this year's Christmas and my next B-day. AND I try to sell my old TV's and that little mini step thingy, I can do this. Sure I can. If I am going to lose my job I will get stay pay and severance. I may never be able to buy one ever if I lose my job. This way I have one. Yes, justified. I GET AN iTOUCH, Mac Snow Leopard and iLife upgrades.

All right, now I am anxious for my shipments. Perhaps I should take Monday off so I can sign for the package. What if I miss the delivery guy? What is a girl to do!?!? I want it and I want it now! I am proud to be a forerunner in the instant gratification front that our society has become. Must not be biking hard enough and expending enough energy. I will bike tonight!

I biked! I biked! I went south on 61 and went to French park. This way was hilly and a lot more of a workout. The first big hill and my legs were beyond feeling the burn. It reminded me of a mtn bike race start at a huge hill at Buck Hill. I could barely use my legs. Today, I did make it up without stopping, a little winded but in the saddle.

The pounds will hopefully be melting off soon. At least my muchness has increased. Suppose to be a hot humid one Tuesday. Plans are to exercise and then go visit Josie.

iLive, iRide, iDance!

She is definitely Preggers!

2010-07-25T23:14:00.007-05:00

After two weeks of I think she is, maybe she isn't, oh, I think she is - She is very pregnant. Pixie has been suffering from morning sickness. She just doesn't want to eat her plain kibble. I now have to give her Highness kibble mixed with rice or Benefil or meat with a dash of water added. So Wyatt isn't jealous he gets a minor spoonful of goodies with his kibble. He has been enduring Pixie standing at her dish and growling if he looks her way - mind you even though she won't eat a bit of it.

Pixie is moving slower and slower. I don't think I would say she is glowing. This time her belly is expanding downward but is starting to go sideways as well. Her little teats are starting to increase in size. She is pathetically needy. When it is 95 and high humidity she loves to sit in your lap or lay on your belly. Me not liking it so much . . . I generate enough of my own heat thank you little Miss!

She is still playful and gets her exercise but at a slower rate. Wy and I will be at the barn and she will be just starting down the driveway. Poor pitiful Pitty Poo.

Pix and Me

Wy and Me

Josie and I both have stepped up our dressage standards. She is to give me a response and if not I quickly ask firmly and then can whisper again. I received my dressage DVD lesson with Heather and had forgot quite a few things. I went ahead and signed up for another lesson on August 4. I am too nice and it has been tough being firm. I think we need a relaxing trail ride but the vampires are so bad it isn't even enjoyable.

Looking forward to my next ride as always. Trying not to let you down Mare, please bare with me. I just want us to be as awesome as I think we are capable of. I want to dance and dance with you.

The vacation's over now . . .

2010-07-12T20:40:00.004-05:00

Thursday, July first Josie pulled her shoe the opposite from last time. I swear she knows when Ernie is on vacation and I have vacation planned. No matter what I am having her done at a five week internal next year or not taking my vacation close to the Farrier's. I fix that ebil little Mare.

We had a schooling show since we are all stranded due to the Strangles epidemic. I finally made it over 60 with a 62.6%. The ride felt just wonderful. I rode every step. Josie was relaxed and forward. I will have to post the Judge's comments as I am very proud of them.

I am pretty sure Pixie is preggers but am waiting for the 4 week mark. She is very needy, seems to be getting a little thicker and is tired a lot. Right now everything she does is a SURE SIGN OF PREGNANCY. I sure hope so. This male was a little rough on her. Her back has been sloughing scabs.

Wyatt was at first glad to have her back and then got angry as she was getting in the way of his play time. He can be a bit aggressive - toy in his mouth, shaking his head and stiff legged bouncing at Pix. She could easily take him but yet she yields.

One of my biggest projects was carpet cleaning on my workation. I have the machine, why I don't do it more often I don't know. It is a hassle though. I decided to leave the entertainment center in place but move everything else. I should have also left the bed in place but am glad I went ahead and moved it. Nothing like laying face first on a freshly cleaned carpet. MMMMMMMMM

I was just a whirlwind. Throwing out expired canned goods. Dusting the very tops of the cabinets. Just a cleaning fanatic.

Finally on Thursday Josie got shod. I don't think I could have withstood another day of cleaning. I rode Thursday afternoon. She was very happy to be at work. I had picked up some new Stubben leathers which are my size. No more 10 inches hanging out of the keepers. These don't even make it to the keeper. They might after they get more broken in but I don't even feel them where the old ones would get pushed up out of the keepers as I used my legs.

Friday was a video lesson with Heather. I was very pleased with the ride. I had some of my questions related to Josie answered. All horses are different and there are many different ways to achieve things. I want most to be correct in her training but I am a softy. I had purchased new spurs to assist in easing the use of my hands. My other one's were a bit too long and these are just right. I have them positioned low enough on my boot so that I only use them when I need to.

I am doing my best not to nag and had asked the girl nicely to move off and when no reaction was given she is quickly asked with leg and a tap which sends her flying forward - yes, a response - good girl! She is a quick study and remained in front of my leg.

Heather was impressed by our work. I am so looking forward to receiving the DVD. So busy doing as requested to improve the contact and to receive submission from the Mare and I didn't retain everything I was told. I do like Heather's style of training. The Mare responded nicely and became supply and easier to ride as I followed H's instruction. I could feel Josie's back come up and feel her carrying herself and moving like a Grand Prix horse beneath me. Dressage turns my little cow pushing Quarter Horse into such a glorious mover. Riding in Heaven once again. I LOVE IT!

We had very nice canter departs. We did trot serpentine half halting at the center line and then allowing her to trot forward. What a lovely feeling.

My ride Saturday was outside and I did a pretty good job of replicating the work.

Josie begging for more treats

Bleached out Josie at the watering hole

Riding in Heaven forever and always!

The Biach is Back

2010-06-24T22:25:00.001-05:00

Pixie is back from being bred. Wedge is the daddy this time. I negotiated for Pix to have a c-section instead of birthing the pups and while under be spade.

Wyatt and I had a lovely time while she was gone. We ate McDonald's and turkey sausage. We went swimming with Josie and played soccer in the Updoor. I must say the degree of difficulty playing soccer in the updoor is X 10. Damn the corners!

Josie and I had two glorious rides one started outside and then went indoors due to the rain. The second was Monday inside and during a jumping lesson. She was very nicely going and responsive. Now last night it was what I have become to call our typical pre-show horrible ride. She was close but just not quite there. I will attribute it to the traffic. All kinds of people showed up that normally don't ride on Thursdays. I figured as much and waited until a bit later. The updoor was partially soup so I had no choice but to go inside. You know, I never thought to try the pasture but that might have proven to be more than my arm could take.

I must say my tendinitis is much better but it is still there. I am a bit scared to do anything that would cause another set back. Soccer wasn't the best idea as Josie pulls to bite the ball.I managed to self massage and ice my way out of that.

Note to self Josie had pulled her left front shoe off but was reset so I could enjoy my four day weekend.

I purchased a new camcorder and am anxious to start recording my rides more diligently. Hopefully figure out how to upload to Utube in the process. That is a story in itself. I can't put a mini disk in my Mac, had to make a copy onto a regular DVD and haven't taken the time to try again. If not going forward I will be able to.

Will I ever heal?

2010-06-15T19:20:00.004-05:00

Where to start . . .

Very busy at work. Survived my first Disaster Recovery Test. Now all focus will be on the upcoming VoIP conversion.

For the past month they have been redoing the landscaping - a week to remove the rocks and plants, a week to who knows what then a week to put dirt out and a week for the plants and finally a week for the rocks. I was thinking okay I won't mind this after we got use to being without our hedge that kept the dogs from seeing everything. With their new found panoramic view, I have been having to lay down the law. What's with the barking at every little thing. Wyatt has a very nice tempo to his barks. It is BARK, one, two, three, BARK, one, two, three - rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat.

I have taking to owning the door and sliding door - thank you Cesar. Just when you think it couldn't be worse the plants they were putting in front of my place arrived. I am sorry but these are BUTT ugly! I will be writing a letter to the Board. It took several days for the property manager to return my call. I don't like them messing with my property value and curb appeal is an important factor. These days any advantage to selling your unit must be preserved. It also looks like a serial killer cut the holes for the plants to be placed in. You think some weeds will make their way into this offense bushes?

Ugly Plants - Moon something or other

My last jumping lesson (two weeks ago already) I really tweaked my right shoulder and bicep areas. My right side said finally enough with taking over the responsibilities of the left, I need a vacation and want to be pampered too! I thought I was better but NOT! I have decided to postpone our jumping career until I am closer to 100%.

I have been taking it easy but have started back doing the Biggest Loser Workout. I skip the arm weights and just do circles and such. I have so many areas to ice now - my freezer is a quarter full of ice packs. This past Saturday, Josie did something to her eye which made me stumble upon some wonderful ice packs. I have two sheets of them ordered from Amazon. The gel works okay, the clay works okay but there is nothing like real ice.

Back to Josie's right eye, it turned out to be nothing. Dr. B had me give her Bute and then ice it. By the time I left Saturday it looked almost normal. I left notes so the barn staff would call if she flared up again. So far we have survived the Strangles epidemic. We are still going straight into the arena and back to our barn. It has be horribly wet here no outdoor riding at all.

Josie's Eye

Pix is off to the breeders. She will be having a c-section and getting spade (this is part of the deal). Wyatt and I are enjoying the Pixlessness. She is a great dog but there is nothing like the bond Wy and I have. It is freaky scary how he knows what I am thinking. Monday we went for a long walk. It was relaxing. There is an area where I can take his leash off and he remains at my side or not too far ahead and always with the check backs. Maybe I will pull out some agility equipment tomorrow night. I think Wy will like that. Hope I can remember my agility turns and crosses.

The Check Back

Walking nicely

I had a pretty good ride on Josie last night. I am doing a lot of transitions. She was in a little bit of a mareish mood but once reminded she shouldn't give the "I Will Kill You If You Get Too Close" Looks she was better.

I take her back to remove her gear and cool off, when she takes a misstep. I look down to see no shoe on the front left - WTF! I start to go through the mental video of preparing her for the ride today. I know I cleaned mud off the outside of all four feet and I think I missed picking that foot. What a horrible partner I am. I felt just disgusted with myself. I never ride her if she is missing a shoe and if I do it is very lightly. Here we were cantering and canter to trot transitions and back to canter, walk to canter. Oh, bad Mom! BAD MOM!

I should have known though. I scheduled Friday off and she seems to do something every time I take vacation. I think she was disappointed that Dr. B didn't need to come out. I just know she wanted to spend some of my saddle finally sold money. That darn Mare . . .

Well, at least it is Tuesday and she can be on the Fix It list for Ernie. Hmmm I think his vacation time is coming up soon. She takes advantage of that time too. You silly Mare.

The new water heater has now passed inspection. I haven't received the first bill yet and believe me I am not looking forward to it. Please let the furnace keep going until next year. Please, pretty please. I'll be good, I promise!

All in all, Life is still good!

We are alive and mostly well . . .

2010-05-31T20:45:00.003-05:00

Wyatt and Pix

Proof that Uber Mare recognizes my rig

Josie shed of winter coat

Highlights:

Still resting arm/hand and let me tell you it is getting old, very old. One of the reasons I haven't been blogging. Sorry constant reader. Better but not 100%. Jumping Sunday seemed to have stressed it a bit again.

Jumping is going well. I had pretty much quit the lesson before it started. Spoke with H and she pointed out that I wasn't even trying. Well, one has to try at the very least. I was glad I did. Courage is doing things inspite of the fear you feel. I was very courageous!

Pixie killed her first squirrel - had a hard time getting it away from her.

Wyatt, well, at times is braver than ever and then he gets freaked and earthquakes over a freakin' fly!

Josie remains AWESOME! Totally, undoubtedly awesome.

Still guarantined :(

Uber Mare Strikes Again

2010-04-29T20:52:00.001-05:00

The One, The Only . . . Uber Mare! Josie, Rebel Rosebud, Beer Drinking Buddy and Mare

Here is Uber Mare's new dressage pad

Can't type much - still resting the tendinitis. Grrrrrr!

Show - went very well. Still haven't broke 60 - so close. Mare decided not to pick up the right lead canter, she proceeded to pick up the left lead at my next request and when I brought her back and asked again her tail whipped through the air - boy was she mad. I have watched to footage a few times and think to myself well, serves you right then. We received a Third and Fifth placings.

Drum roll please . . . we received two Seconds one in trot poles and one in 18" verticals. We ended up inside due to rain and let me tell you those jumps looked big and came up quick. Warming up I trotted around the outside and had an inner dialog which thankfully NDM won out on. I was close to withdrawing and hadn't even attempted to take a warm-up jump. NDM said just try one. I picked the vertical with the flower boxes underneath. She sailed over it. Okay LET THE CONTEST BEGIN! I was very pleased with our round. I am totally amazed that my little mare can trot over an 18" vertical. These two were on the diagonal. Watching the tape is very funny as I expect these to be jumps and I voice my surprise at the trot effort by said Mare. This means we need bigger jumps - thanks Mare ;) I reved up the engine for the three remaining jumps which we jumped very nicely. I gave a very happy WHUP! At the end of our round. I was most happy to have done it for one and had a clean go round. Uber Mare looked very happy on the tape and this pleases me most of all. I really think she is starting to like it.Go Team Johnson - two portions of eventing are under our belt now.

I jump therefore I am an Eventer!

2010-04-19T23:33:00.003-05:00

I opened an email from Tiffany to find this attached. A baby picture of Josie. She is in front on the left side of her dam. She still has that cute expression but her star isn't as prominent. She looks so different without the black markings she has on her legs now. Tiffany also sent a yearling photo. I won't embarrass Josie by publishing it. She sent a picture of her sire. What a handsome boy!

Rebel Rosebud

Concentrating so much on jumping and the upcoming jumping portion of the show, I have been pretty laid back mentally about the dressage. This is good. I am where I want to be. Josie and I are tuned in and if we both do our part we should have an excellent ride. Outdoors is already a non-issue.

I had seen Sue, my miracle massage gal, Wednesday for a half hour. She was very kind to squeeze me in. It helped but I needed much more so I scheduled an appt. for when she returns from vacation but still could only get a half hour. It is also a matter of timing as to fix me it is going to be painful and I will be sore before it gets better. Don't want to get worse for show day. I had made a chiro appt. for Thursday which went well but again no cure my problem. By Saturday I was ready to go to urgent care but switched from Ibuprofen to Aleve and it was better, not much but better. I rested my hand most of the day Saturday. Holding my magnet from my bone breaking landing from Tilly. Not sure how much juice is in it but it seems to help.

Oh, back to AWESOME Thursday. Our lesson wasn't until 8:00. We were inside once more. The updoor has some small lakes remaining. More practice for my timing. I told H about a 100 more jumps and I will have it. Doing these lessons with just a few days between has really helped us both. Josie is getting steadier and I am getting braver. We are confidently making our approach and the jump has gotten so much easier. Is it easier or my position has improved and repetition has given us muscle memory? I know I am very, very addicted.

With a private lesson you don't have your test pilot to go first and you have to keep going and going. I was pretty tired after but so jubilant!

Friday's work was halt transitions with canter departs on a straight line. She took the leads I asked for. I wanted to mix up the stopping point so she didn't get into the habit of stopping at X but I wanted to be on straight lines. While we are not totally straight it wasn't the "here is my left profile" I was experiencing the other ride. I think some of it is due to my hand. She does whoa on command so I might be whispering to her a bit during our tests. Took lots of breaks for my hand. It is very irritating to not be "normal".

I believe this was the day it was incredibly windy. We went the opposite route - through the pasture and then back down the lane. NDM was hanging on by a thread. NDM wasn't trusting the right hand either. Josie was not her normal self which I don't blame her. The trees sounded like they were straining to keep from ripping out of the grown or losing limbs with the creaking and cracking we were hearing.

Saturday I went to the barn late and ended up going on a trail ride with P instead of doing dressage. That was fine with me and I am positive Josie didn't mind. More much needed rest for my hand. I rode with my right hand a lot but had to use it at times.

The pups ended up with a total of 19 ticks. Four on Wy and 15 on Pix. The next morning I found two more - Black Jack! P said her dogs didn't have any. Pix must have hit a nest and then kindly shared with Wyatt.

Sunday begins with our 11:45 semi-private jumping lesson. H asks if I was brave enough to jump outside. I replied yes and that I was hoping she would let us as this is our last lesson before the show which is to be held outside. We had only been doing straight lines and I have seen H's courses previously. We did our first roll back today. Not too shabby but could be much better.

Josie was fine with everything except the big X. I could feel her not wanting to go and tried encouraging her but ended up with a stop. H fixed it and then had us jump the vertical and then try again. Nope! H then made it with one side down and Josie went through. H put it back and Josie said F NO! We stopped and she folded down to her knees. Later I find she had skunned up her cannon bone. About this time I say I think I am going to excuse myself from the 18" vertical class. I was also thinking of tell H to get on her and get her through but no, I want to do it and I will. H gets us going again and I change my mind back. I will stay entered in the class. One there won't be any of those big X's. Two, we will be fine. We do the roll back and bending lines very nicely. H had us go through again as she so liked how Josie jumped. My confidence was bolstered once again but I am disappointed we couldn't do that X. We will though. I am already thinking of ways.

M and I went on a trail ride afterwards. We went through the up and down's which I knew had a couple of logs. We walked over the first one, a pretty big one and then continued down a little hill to the small one which we popped over very nicely. We get to the bottom of the hill and I turned to M and said, "You wanna do it again?!?!". Her immediately reply of YES! was all I needed. We go back over turn around and do it again. How wonderful it is to be jumping outside and then on trail. M says she would like to do the other. We both notice the little leafing limbs. We dismount and while I hold the horses she pushes these branches over a sapling. She mentions that she hope it doesn't come loose as they jump. I had already said I wouldn't jump it. We watch as they take the first little jump. I ask Josie and she complies by jumping and we catch up to see them take the bigger one. I am feeling a twinge of "I wanna!". I walk Josie over the big log and watch M take it again. I ask Josie to trot and we come to the jump. I am hearing H's voice in my mind and do what she says and we sail over. Oh, how lovely it felt. I get Josie to trot again and we take the smaller one once again. If I wasn't high on jumping I sure am now.

I ask M if she is going to be able to keep this a secret and tell her that I don't think I can. We were together, she had a cell phone and we both had helmets on. What the heck. We get back and she gets to the barn before me. I catch up and H is there and I ask did you tell? She hadn't so I immediately blab. It was awesome. I can be an eventer again. YAHOOOOOEY!

Life doesn't get much better than this . . .

Dissension in the ranks . . .

2010-04-13T22:14:00.003-05:00

I am more than use to Pixie disagreeing with me but Josie has, except for "In Season" time, gone along with my ideas - stupid or not. Not today! She was of a mind today. With the rain, came the mud, with the mud, came the mud filled Mare. She didn't have very many mud free spots today. At least it was dry. More Buckskin is peaking through her creamy coat. Looks like we are in for dapples again this year. I love dapples!

The area she will allow me to use the curry comb on is dwindling daily. Now I am not to use it on her back. I pull out the rubber scrubby and go to town. Today this is not taken too well by the Mare. I reply with, "You bring this on yourself. You know when you put it on, I take it off."

In order not to have to sweep the barn aisle, I have her outside which means no cross ties. I remain hyper vigilant less the Mare gives me a head butt as I clean her up. This is her replacement for not being allowed to nip. She likes to work all the angles.

I realize I forgot her darn Mattes pad (goes between the pad and the saddle - saddle fitter instructs me to use this). It use to be that I could really feel the downhillness of her. Not these days. I decided not to ride in the updoor due to the scattering of lakes there.

My wrist and hand have been bothering me lately. I knew I put off seeing Sue, the massage queen, for too long. I do not think my neck is out. I really think I have kind of a tennis elbow thing with the tendon from the elbow to the top of my hand being painful and at the hand, numb and burning. It wasn't bothering me when I rode even though it has been going on for almost a week. Today it is really bad. I cowboy up and ride through the pain. Trying to leave my whip in the right hand but dang it I really need it in the left. Actually, if I go through my check list it turns out I don't need it. Sorry Josie.

We start out a little pissy at each other. I mumbling, "Leg means go!" and her response of, "Fine! Better?". She decides she doesn't like Garth tonight and pins as we pass. No! Mare not acceptable.

I really must let things happen as oppose to trying to hard. Mare likes softness but at times needs firmness. Ever the balancing of aids, praise and correction. We are getting pretty good at reading each other. She does push to the edge and not just with me. I watch her in the herd and her coat tells the tale for sure!

Our canter transitions have improved so much and my softness is getting her to respond to my legs better. I think our canter circles were better than our trot circles tonight and that is saying a lot.

I feel the pre-show must have perfection/we suck feelings coming on. NDM - HELP! NDM - You can do this. It's just a ride, just a ride, just a ride, just a ride. Since I signed up for cross rails and 18" verticals, my two dressage tests will be no big deal as I will be focused on - OMG! I am going to jump outside - YIKES! NDM - HELP! NDM - You can do this, you know you will have fun and be laughing at whatever Mare throws your way. Yes, no big deal and we will have a blast.

I am looking forward to the test scores and comments as we have progressed and G has judged us before. Mental note to self. Grab those and read them once again.

Back to our training . . . we worked on some halt/trot transitions. The first was Josie showing her left profile (not that bad but NOT straight), second was her right profile. I am feeling a little frustrated at this point and we stand, I breath and rub her withers. Let's try once again and the third we are synced up. We were dancing and Josie had an ear on, if not both as to ask, "What, when and how fast?". That is my good girl, Josie.

We end with a fantastic halt on the quarter line. We quit for the day - it was perfect.

It is dark and windy for our journey back to the red barn. Suddenly, coming down the hill, from under the pines . . . a mountain lion! Josie is ready to bolt the opposite direction. I enclose her with my aids and tell her laughing, "It is a cat, Mare, just relax". It is so nice to be riding like I did in my youth. We continue on with Mare every wary for any marauding wildlife with Buckskin on their menu. At last we make it back to the herd where we are greeting with a neigh from a new friend, Nelly.

Life - gotta LOVE it!

White Girls Can Jump (with the help of their little Buckskin mare)!

2010-04-11T20:51:00.001-05:00

Friday - I decide to work on the continued breaking in of the field boots. I hope they drop down or I develop callouses pretty soon. I have scabs on the underneath of my knees so I wear them and then give my skin a couple days to heal before wearing them again. I decided to be NDM and ride in the updoor. The horses were pretty frisky. NDM got taken back for a few minutes. One horse who is normally very calm was freaking out in the updoor. I am pretty sure I fed Josie a little of this vib before I realized I wasn't in my NDM persona. I quickly switch to my wonderful alter ego NDM.

I stuck with it and had a pretty decent ride. I decided to go inside to canter more than a portion of the circle. I was a little too tense to let Josie go. NDM - don't forget NDM!

The pups and I went for a short ride down the lane. It was getting dark and I was pretty tired.

Saturday I got quite a scare. As I was descending the steps I felt something weird in my right knee. Quite painful actually. I took Ibuprofen and iced it. All the while thinking if I can't do my jumping lesson I will be PO'd!! Walking up the steps it was uncomfortable but doable. I took it easy and decided to try riding and see what happens. I loaded up on Ibuprofen and saddled up.

Josie was a bit sluggish today. She is partially shedded out. Her head and neck and a bit where the girth lies behind the elbows is her beautiful summer color. The rest of her hair is coming out in major fashion with her bite marks showing her summer buckskin coloring. She has definitely been enjoying her hay lately. At first I thought it was the pad I was using but nope she has filled out.

As we went on she became more forward. I took it a little easy hoping my knee would be fine. It was - thank goodness. More pills and ice tonight and during the day tomorrow.

Finally jumping lesson day has arrived. The day went slowly - very uncommon for a weekend day. I made a point of resting my knee and watched a couple of the Harry Potter movies. A few games of fetch for the pups.

Not knowing if Josie would be as dirty as she was the other day, I leave for the barn at 4:00 my lesson isn't until 6:45 and I want to be on and warmed up. She is reasonable clean.

The horses are already grained and eating hay. This was unexpected but very much appreciated. I had been worried about taking the girl away from her hay. Now she will have had an extra hour to eat hay.

I looped her lead around the hitching rail and begin the hair transference process. With the little wind it ends up in my mouth, spluttering I finish brushing her. I am ready almost a half hour before I am to have my lesson. We take our time and go into the indoor which I have to myself. I tune Josie up to my left and right legs. She is a bit stiff to the right but not uncommon. With my leathers at 9, my knee is feeling pretty good. We do a little canter work. I work on not trying so hard and Josie responds willingly, almost as if to say I love it when you get it right.

H comes in and we discuss how we are going to start Josie. I told her the schooling show isn't the priority it is starting Josie right. She tells me what she had in mind and I agree whole heartedly. This is going to be good.

We warm up over the poles on the ground and then H has us canter in two point the long sides and then sit with leg on and canter the short side. She wants this done smoothly so Josie stays the same. This is really good work for my legs and the right calf has started to squeal in protest. We take a break and then Begin going over small x's. Shortly H makes a bigger X and then we are ready for a vertical. She sets it up so one pole is across the tops of the blok and then the other pole is one side up and the other down for a ground line.

I am not helping Josie very much and begin to get better at putting my leg on and half halting to collect and let her see the fence. We make it through - yahooooooo! We had a very nice bascule over the first fence (H said the look on my face was priceless!) and then I kind of lost my supporting Josie and then got it back for the third fence. She is quite a trooper that Mare. She goes but doesn't give a lot of effort. This became apparent to even me when we went over the first vertical and her hind leg steps on the pole, breaking it in half and we land ungracefully and stop (this was bad to do) before the next fence. We stood while H fixed it so we could continue forward. Forward always forward. I do give myself credit for not looking back which is a common mistake.

We come around and H advises that Josie may really jump this first one big due to what had happened. I'll say she did! We caught plenty of air as she deer jumped it. I was proud as I stuck with her and rode on to the next two fences. YES! My confidences rises a little bit more. We go through a few more times and end with Josie doing a fantastic jump as I finally got my snit together and rode her forward to the fence. I threw my heart over it and she followed. We quit on that good note.

While maybe not a big deal to others, this has me riding high as we complete another goal I had set. This brings us one step closer to Eventing. It is going to be a great summer.

Both of us are hot and sweaty as we wander down the road to get the pups to go for a cooling ride. Once we take a right up the lane, I ask Josie for a nice trot and ride her with my heart soaring higher at every step. We did it! We did it!

Josie is most pleased with herself and cannot wait to get her grain snack and join her buddies at the feeder that is after her apple treat.

This was the most wonderful day!!

Totally worth it

2010-04-08T22:54:00.002-05:00

It is a beautiful day but a bit chilly. Josie has had her remaining snow pad removed with her latest shoeing. The wheels are balanced and aligned.

I am delighted when H tells me she thought I was late 30's early 40's. One of the very few things I am happy to take after my Dad about.I had created and sent out a flyer for my Mayday! Mayday! I am fiddy (50) b-day celebration. Going to have it at Cowboy Jack's. I am hoping I can get a ride there and back so I don't have to take a taxi.

Josie was still eating close to the barn and started trucking over when I called. She is letting go of quite a bit of winter coat. I was covered head to toe in little buckskin hairs. My sleeves looked as though I was growing a coat of my own.

I am riding in the updoor today. It is wet and a bit heavy. We scope it out as we walk our two laps of walk warm up. The rail is packed down but has a couple of squishy spots. There are a few deep areas down at the C 20 meeter but easy enough to avoid. After a bit of slow going getting use to the footing Josie and I are warmed up and ready to have some fun.

I have her listening well to my legs now. If I do everything I am suppose to do it happens. If it doesn't I go through my mantra and double check that I am correct. This usually solves the issue. After some very nice trot circles I ask for the right lead canter and she makes the most spectacular transition to canter. WOW! I exclaim jubilantly and we take a few strides and transition down. Oh, my goodness that was the most wonderful yet. NDM says okay let's see what happens to the left. She is now in anticipation mode which helps but WAIT Josie! I haven't asked. She knows my body enough that my mental thoughts of now, now and boom she responds by cantering - yes you did! Well, Josie yes and no but I will take this. We try again and while not as awesome as the right lead it is by far out best left lead. I feel the power of her little QH butt, her legs pushing off, the air time. Oh, how joyous!

On that note we do a little more trot and leg yield zig zags and we are done! We go get the pups. Pix that little so and so!!! Decided to sneak off and eat cat food. Grrrr! We had to go back as she wasn't responding to voice commands. Come on! We are losing daylight.

We take a left at the end of the first part of the lane to venture up the steady incline - great muscle builder. All is good and going well. We make it to the driveway and I turn her nicely around this little pine and then all hell breaks loose! The pups decided to catch up with us and hit some crunchy leaves. At this moment Josie leaps forward, my hands following her head, and I stay with her and we settle back down. Boy! That was a little more excitement than I was looking for. My already sore tendon, the one that has been bothering me but had cleared up (although earlier in the ride I got a cramp in) starts to ache again. My neck feels a little whip lashed. Hmmmm . . . I do my little neck stretches and crrrrrrack! Awe! Much better. We then wander down the road as if nothing has happened.

I get another pile of hair the size of a small dog off Josie. She gets her snack and a big kiss from me. What a wonderful gal you Mare!

Yeeeehaaaaaw! Live is good!

Ticks, ticks and more ticks

2010-04-04T22:36:00.002-05:00

Easter Sunday - no Trot Pole lesson so I get to sleep in. Nope! Wy has us up at 7:00. I play a bit on FB after the pups do their morning rituals. Little bored with dubbing so I putter a bit. I want to be at the barn to catch the 1pm trail ride. I thought P and J were going but M and her sister. Okay we can do this.

I rode with just the bareback pad. Way trusting Mare on this one.

We lead a lot of the way and step into the water. I forgot I need to keep the pups down stream. I hear M say, "Oh, NO!". The reason why was Pixie swimming like mad ended up passing underneath Josie. Josie and I were for the most part oblivious with our attention focused on the crossing. She had been smelling and playing in the water and took a step with her right hind and bumped Pix sending her further down stream. I am just glad the Pixinater has no fear of going under water. We finish the crossing. I was laughing and encouraging Pix to join us. I think she was just a bit more squirrely than usual after that crossing.

The gals I rode with did the short circuit and headed back. I got them to go around the pasture and arrived back at the arena barn. I felt the need to keep riding. We went back to the rig and then took off again. The pups were more settled on this ride. We trotted and walked to the crossing. I made sure the pups were in a better position for this crossing.

We walked and trotted along the trail. Everybody was enjoying their selves. We went the back way to the top of H's Helacious Hill. Viewing it downward, I decided we would cut back on our original trail and leave that for another day (and a saddle).

At the return crossing Pix got even with the Mare. As Josie, standing a few steps into the stream was sniffing the water and getting a drink, I catch Pix out of the corner of my eye, flying through the air, almost level with Josie's back as she dives and goes under. The effect on Josie was OMG! and then as Pix surfaced - Oh! It was you. I swear I saw a smirk on Pixie's face. That debt is paid in full.

Everything seemed fine as I washed and conditioned Josie's tail. While the conditioner set I washed up both the pups. Pulling ticks off here and there. Tonight they get their Frontline Plus. I walk Josie back to our barn, put the dogs in the rig and get her a little snack. I immediately became suspicious as she gentled took a few bites. Gosh darn it! Not colic . . . if so seems a very mild case.

She isn't sweating, not distressed but not herself. I finish separating her tail by hand and then release her. She heads under the barn's cover and lays down on her side, rolls just itching one side. This would not be uncommon since she had gotten wet twice and her tail washed. I watch to see what she does next. She lays there, now with her head up. Her buddies come over to see her and then one makes her get up. She is still not distressed. She wanders to the middle of the paddock and lays down again. She goes to her side and lays flat out. I feel a little panic butterfly but quickly squash it. She is fine. I was hearing slight gut sounds but not her normal rumbling when I checked these earlier. She comes out of the flat out position and just lays there resting. I keep an eye on her for about an hour. She starts to perk up and act herself. I think we are safe.

After a while J comes to feed. I tell her about Josie and we decide to give her just a mouthful of grain. I check her while she is in the tie stall. She had eaten all of it. Lord knows she won't starve and can just have hay. I watch her for a while and she is eating hay and drinking water. I stuck around for three hours watching her. Thank goodness she came out of it. Must have just been a bit of gas.

While I wait I pick tick after tick off the pups. Much better now than later when they are on me!

So much for getting things done around the house. It is time to prepare for the work week.

Life is what it is and we need to go with it . . .

Getting to some old To Do's

2010-04-04T21:36:00.002-05:00

I spent the morning dubbing old videos onto DVD. I have been meaning to get to this for quite a while. I started on old horse videos and came across my very first dressage test at Heiland Hills. Good thing we had been doing lessons there as about half way through a train came through. This train track is very, very close to the dressage arena. Tilly and I continue doing our test. My riding left very much to be desired. I had no concept of contact or bend. Tilly had to concept of obedience, suppleness or being on the bit. At one point his hind end went out over the arena decorative chain and then back in again.

Ahhhh, Tilly you are still dear to my heart. A child only a mother could love. He would do anything I asked, well mostly and without too much complaint (okay some bucking). This is the place where Tilly broke my ribs and part of my vertebrae off. Naughty boy! After that he didn't get to put a foot out of place. One should have always been that way but this is the way we learn with horses.

Looking at the sky to judge the weather on the drive to the barn, I wasn't sure where I was going to ride. From the distance it looked like it was raining. Upon arrival it was extremely gusty but it was only damp.

I am getting ready to ride in my barn again. It is very nice. I can have the radio at whatever station I want and it is quiet. Just me and Josie. I like it like that. It gives me a chance to read her and get a feel for how it may be. She improves with age like a very fine wine.

We rode up the drive and turned to go to the updoor. A gal was getting a lesson. Seemed like too much horse for her. Within minutes she got off and the trainer got on. This horse was similar to Josie by way of scowling as we pass. I remind Mare that isn't acceptable and we continue on. She is definitely more trained than last year. Our ride is wonderful. I am relaxing more and more during our canter work which Josie definitely appreciates.

She likes to peak at the red barn when we are at that end of the arena. Don't worry you got your grain and ate hay for an hour. There will be hay left still. Leg yield and actual circles was our main goal for the ride. Not so shabby if I say so myself. Trot is nice and round. Transitions up still require more work. Twenty or so days to the show plenty of time for more improvement. If we get it we get it, if not we continue the journey.

Cooling off was fun. We got the pups and wandered down to the railroad tracks and back. The pups were way full of themselves. Josie has gotten use to the crazy jacks and their mock battles.

I put Josie away and stroll to the barn to find that one of the horses is injured. He is in cart training and kicked the long pole part of which there is two and the horses stands between - can you tell I don't know much about carts? My observation inclined me to think he may have cut a tendon. I didn't say anything. There was blood every where. B was holding him while the owner waited for the vet. I found out the next day that he has to be on a month stall rest. Just missed the tendon. Very lucky on that. I do hope they give up with cart training. The last incident he was careening around the indoor. I am glad I wasn't there to see that.

A nice cold one is waiting at home . . .

I got the fever!

2010-03-28T21:53:00.004-05:00

Friday's ride was wonderful. We warmed up indoors. There were two other riders, one was in a lesson. After warming up, I over heard they were going to practice tests. It was so nice outside, so I decided to give the updoor a whirl (hoping not literally). Josie was very, very good. We practiced pieces of our test. The Mare was obedient and again nicely forward but under control. The canter felt awesome. I could feel her coming underneath herself behind. She is really paying attention now that NDM is at the helm. I know she is on and I am on when I make a small request and she responds immediately. This indicates to me she is through and balanced.

Sunday's Trot Pole Lesson was awesome. I asked H about the show and how she judges the cross rails. We do not have to salute, do the courtesy circle and then start. It is judged on time and number of rails down.

She had us doing figure eights today. As we finished going through in both directions a few times, she put them up a notch. Going through a few times after that the bloks were set on their ends so they were at their tallest. This will be about the height for the schooling show except standards will be used.

When I was questioning H she said, "You could do the 18" vertical class." My response was, "Not until I have a private lesson." This caused me to note my confidence level. I was ready to be first going through after H made changes to the course. I am keeping my upper body in position better. I am staying with Josie no matter what she does. I want more. We are ready to jump! I was tempted to take Josie out in the field after and see how we did over the little jumps but will wait until I get some instruction. I don't want to mess up our progress. Plus, Josie was good she deserved a hack out on trail.

Wyatt and Pix are liking this routine of going for a trail ride after being stuck in the rig while I ride. So many sights and sounds and foremost SMELLS!

As we reach the boat landing we come across a rider and a pedestrian. This is really good practice. Josie likes to stop and I am working on keep her moving toward things she questions. The other horse and rider are young so I do my best to keep the pups close but the smells, oh, the smells . . .

We made our way to the water crossing. I hadn't made my mind up as yet whether I would cross. I just keep going a little further to see. Josie was handling so well I decided to go for it. There is standing water which I allow her to sniff and move the water with her nose twitching it back and forth. We went across the swollen deep crossing. Josie takes a drink about a quarter of the way in. As we reach the middle, I felt the water come up over my toes, I pulled my feet up Josie's side. I must have tickled or surprised her as she surged forward a bit. The water was up to her belly but not at swimming level.

Pix was taken down stream a bit but she doesn't panic. Wyatt ends up about two feet farther down from where he starts, where Pix ends up 20 feet from where she starts. We pull up to wait for her. She comes crashing through the brush to catch up. Josie was eager to go forward but she needs to learn to stand still and be obedient. Her training has been really showing through lately. The crossing has the dogs wet and squirrely. So many dead fish to roll in and so little time. There were coon tracks every where in the mud. Easy pickings for the eagles and coons.

There is standing water about four inches deep through which I ask for trot and get it. Good girl! Josie likes to avoid mud so I make a point to have her go where I want. Not to mention I have good breeches on and do not want them snagged. She is dutiful and appreciates the breaks I give her. We practice leg yielding left and right. Very responsive and in the bridle. She has thick foam lipstick as she absentmindedly chews the bit as I follow her walk motion with my hands. I concentrate on keeping my thumbs up. As Bruce Davidson would say, Taking the reins is like shaking some one's hand".

I have Josie walk up the first big hill. The dogs are running point up ahead. Walking produces better fitness and gets her butt and back working. With her ears pricked forward we continue along the trail. It is about this time I notice that Josie has a three foot, about the width of your thumb, stick stuck in her tail. I think hmmmm this isn't bothering her maybe she would be a candidate for a cart. I then begin to take Josie off road to get the stick off. We turn left, we turn right, we go over a log, we walk through some growth. It keeps following us. Maybe a little speed will help so we pick up trot. Nope, even crossing the water again won't dislodge this stick. Josie is a tail clamper, feeling that is her private area so I can't reach back to lift her tail to get at it. I decide to forget it maybe that will get the stick to let go.

This water crossing I got my feet wet. I was hesitant to bring them up as we were headed home. Josie likes home. Home is good food, rest, water, relaxation and a good roll.

After crossing the rail road tracks Josie, I, Stick, Wyatt and Pix turn left to cross more standing water. Josie was a little preoccupied by it when we originally walked by. I have been all about pushing it lately. That NDM is wonderful to ride with. I ask for trot to get Josie using to splashing water. She is game for it - that great mind coming into play again.

No eagle sightings for me. Others see them all the time. Why don't I. I haven't bucked up enough courage to ride with my camera yet. The pups run off most critters and Spring blooming while started isn't in full swing.

Death of a second horse to the same family at the barn. About ten days ago this family lost a horse. Autopsy at the U revealed a hole in the stomach which the intestines had made there way through. There was talk this can happen to geldings. Another reason to be glad I have a mare. He had this for quite some time. You would think there would have been symptoms along the way. I feel very bad for the horse. What a horrible way to die.

Their second horse just turned 19 and was found dead in the shelter. It is sad and reminds one of their own losses and the frailty of such large animals.

Pups reluctantly got their fish smell removal baths and I a cold beer.

Monday I was tempted to go ride but decided to get chores done to take advantage of the better days ahead.

Tuesday I receive an email that the VoIP project is starting soon. It hurts, the SX2000 has been my baby for almost ten years now. So far I know I have a job until it is completed. There is a lot to do and I hope I don't lose my summer because of this. I can feel emotion bubbling in me but joke about the dooms day clock has officially begun to tick to help me deal with it with laughter.

I had a full body skin check today. I pass - no cancer looking skin spots and questions answered about spots I was suspicious of - yahoooooo! I have taken to wearing Oil of Olay's lotion with sunscreen on my face. I need to get my outdoor survival kit together. Mine and Wyatt's sunscreens, bug spray, hankys, etc.

Josie was dirty but cleaned up easily. Tonight I am breaking in those Ariat Field Boots - do or die trying! The second stretching and wearing them for about seven hours while doing chores has them started nicely. Thin breeches and those nylon stockings will do the trick. I am surprised they were so much better than the previous painful attempt. I ended up with only two serious rub spots under the knees. As the boots break in they will drop down and it won't be an issue. I took a few walk breaks with my feet dangling but made it through walk, trot and canter and a run through of the tests as I had the arena to myself. Another high point of nice weather is there is much more room to ride.

It is so nice to be having so much fun with Josie. We can risk a little bit more each ride. Our canter in the updoor was an excellent example.

It is official - I have two private jumping lessons scheduled with H. I told her not to be surprised if I show up in my eventing safety vest. I know I will wear it at the show - too many factors there.

Back in the saddle again . . .

2010-03-25T22:59:00.001-05:00

The farrier replaced Josie's shoe on Wednesday but I didn't make it out. No, I had the great idea to tramp through the woods with the pups after covering the field a couple of times. We found a pair of critter holes to try excavating. Pix gave it her best shot at digging it out. Wyatt just rants and then digs at the other hole for a bit. If Pix goes deaf it will be because Wy barks right in her ear. By saying, "Dig, dig, dig, dig!" he shuts up and digs for a bit.

Pix was thoroughly enjoying herself. She is very focused when it comes to working a hole. At one point, Pix looked up at me with a huge clump of mud stuck under her tongue. She took time out to get that out of the way. She had started panting and slowing down so it was time to move on. We followed a deer path to come out close to the paved path. Heading home watching the dogs be more relaxed than they have been in quite a while. And happy, very happy.

After dinner, I sat on the bed watching LOST and Facebooking, when I felt something on my neck. Argh!!!!!!!!!!!! It was a tick! He got a quick burial at sea. GAWD! I hate ticks, yuck, yuck and double yuck! The rest of the evening I felt them every where. You don't want to just assume that you just have the creepy crawlies and have to check each time. I hope the pup's Frontline shows up soon.

Pix has cut her pad playing with Elie Elephant so I headed to the barn by myself. Poor Wyatt has to keep her company. I do miss them but it is very nice focusing on Josie. Speaking of Josie, when I arrived she was in getting her grain.

Oh, oh, oh!!! Bad times is a coming. Surveyors are marking to change the small portion of two lanes to four. It will be right outside the summer pasture for the red barn horses. BASTARDS!!!!!!!!! The horses were all in an uproar Tuesday and some wouldn't go into the barn for their grain and later didn't want to eat their hay. Josie ate, yup, that is my food oriented mare all right. She might be distracted but she still stuffs her mouth. Hmmmm we are more and more a like when I think about it.

Back to the Mare. I let her eat hay for a half hour. She kept her shoes on overnight. Without having the bell boots on I was a bit worried.

Although it was nice, it was pretty chilly. Since I hadn't ridden her for a few days, I decided to ride inside. There was one lesson going on so I could ride pretty much as I wanted. Josie wasn't too rambunctious but nicely forward. I didn't feel anything so she hadn't torqued anything when she pulled her shoe. Yes!

I only rode for 40 minutes or so. I wanted to ride easy for both our sakes. We practiced a few halt to trot transitions and some canter work. Did a little leg yield and called it a day.

She was a bit sweaty on her chest and under the girth but with the cooler temps and her massive hair loss she wasn't overly wet.

Snacks were dispensed, hairs brushed and bell boots applied. Rest my Mare for we will be working outside this weekend. Must prepare for our dressage tests and cross rails class. Egads! I am insane ;)

Life is rocking it!

Now, why don't she write . . .

2010-03-24T12:37:00.003-05:00

Apparently, when I am not able to ride, life isn't as interesting - to me anyways.

I took myself to dinner and a picture show on Friday. I saw Alice in Wonderland and I LOVED IT! This was in 3D mind you. Is that the most incredible thing EVER! It has really come a long way. I jumped a few times and squealed a few more. I did notice that no one else squealed. Tim Burton and Mr. Depp together - nothing is better than that. If you loved his run as Captain Jack you will love his table runway prance as The Mad Hatter. I would so love to see it again. I think it was just me but my eyes were a bit goofy for a few minutes afterward.

It was still light when I arrived to release the hounds so we went to our field. Hoping for better luck today - nope n o t h i n g ! Not even carcasses.

Saturday they had forecast rain, with this is mind I cranked up the radio and started cleaning. I got a bit annoyed when I couldn't find my snow shoes to put them in their bag. I looked high and low only to find them in the cupboard by the front door. Finding them was a fluke, I never put anything like that in there. I'm losing it I tell you (you have to have it to lose it comes to mind) ;)

The pups were bored and disgusted with me until the vacuum was fired up. Frontal assaults began with me shouting, "No! Leave It! Get!". This did not work very well. Next trip downstairs the pups will find themselves kennelized (get it penalized - hardy har I crack me up!)

I keep looking longingly outside at blue sky. I know it is chilly as we were out at dawn. I finally couldn't stand it and vowed to finish cleaning later if I could ride now.

Josie has her head in the feeder, raises upon hearing me call her and then plunges her greedy little mouth back in. Crap! Along the fence line avoiding the juicy (not in a good way), deep (again not in a good way) mud. She finally comes to me when I am about 15 feet away. Stubborn Mare! I notice her left front foot looks like it is missing a pad and shoe. She is now good about letting me check her feet in the field. Maybe it is that she realizes I probably won't drag her through the muck and the mud if I see she has lost her foot wear. I like that it came off and no need to worry about a nail in between the wall and sole like last time. Well, Josie! Here is a good scratch, here are your treats and there is your feeder. As I walk back with the halter I mumble to myself how much this sucks but mostly I am glad she is okay.

The pups and I take a walk down to the lake to make the drive worth while. It is very flooded. The water is up over the trail that has been worn down after many years and many hooves passing through. I couldn't even see the normal water crossing we take. In past years the fish have ended up on the wrong side when it was receded. I surely hope that doesn't happen. My dogs love dead fish. They love it so much they want to smell like one. I really need to write a note to through some dog shampoo in Josie's locker.

We say our goodbyes and head home.

I retaliated against the cleaning gods by not finishing cleaning. I had to cancel trot poles so I will clean in the morning. Ha!

Tuesday I had a vacation day so I could meet Dr. B to start on Spring Horsey stuff. I started with teeth as it is too early to do shots. This way the hit won't be so bad to the checking account. She had a few sharp spots. Dr. B pointed them out and I got to stuff my hand in Josie's mouth to feel them. Since she was groggy I took the opportunity to thin and shorten her mane. It looks really good. She is still able to hit me in the hip when I am doing the mane around her withers which she cannot stand. One more thing off the to do list.

A task I had been putting off was burning a picture CD for Jill. Check that one off too. Now I just need to mail it.

Can't complain but Life has been better . . .

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

2010-03-16T21:53:00.000-05:00

Strep has invaded the barn! One horse was out for training and the facility she was at wasn't nice enough to mention it. This horse is pregnant but should be okay. I had heard her coughing, I think it was Saturday night, her first night back. It sounded more like choking so I peaked in, her head came up and the natural inclination is to put your hand out there. Yup that's what I did. Then I went back to Josie. Sooooo if Josie doesn't get sick within the next ten days we should be okay.

I was going to take the day off of riding so I could do the Census and a few other things but after receiving the strep notification email I decided I better head out.

I thought it would be a perfect night to try the Ariats I had stretched at Bob's. I didn't wear the same breeches as I had when I initially tried them after getting them back. Nor did I use my most thin socks. Ya! I was okay for a bit and then the pain set in. I dismounted and limped out to take them off and put my mtn. horse boots on for the rest of the ride. I was suffering horribly trying to get the left one off when a cramp hit my calf. OMG! Does that ever hurt!!!! I getting sympathy and laughter from my barn mates (Josie may even snickered a bit). I am taking them back ASAP to get stretched again and will not wear them except with the thinnest breeches and socks. AND that would be after wearing them around the house a bit.

Once the circulation returned to my legs I mounted again. We did just a little work. Josie was not wanting to bend to the right today. My neck is out a bit on the left so I think I was the major problem. We called it a night, snacks were served and I headed home to stinky dog.

I had taken the pups out in the field to hunt. Guess Wy wants more than Sunday night bathings.

CamoWy

CamoWy the worst side

I thought Pix had gotten a live one but am not sure. Not sure if she mangled the head or something else?

I will have to stop soon as the babies will be showing up in the nests.

Life could have been worse today.

Monday, March 15, 2010

2010-03-15T20:24:00.001-05:00

Time just woooshes by! Mid-March already. One little hunk of snow left in the yard. High 50's are drying things out well but they are forecasting white stuff on the weekend coming up.

Thursday, LM videoed the girl and I. Josie was very, very dirty! J said I should have seen her earlier - you couldn't tell what color she was. I cleaned her up as best I could, with L waiting I didn't do my normal thorough clean up. Josie was in a good mood. I warmed up and on my cue LM started recording us. The arena was a little busy so I now have footage of Josie's game face. I will have to take some stills from the DVD. What a character my girl has become.

At first watching the DVD I thought OMG! What a hack! After watching it about ten times I am seeing how nicely we both are doing. I am riding her from front to back. I can see from the DVD that my upper body is improved but I still need to work on it. I am not putting my leg as far forward as I think I am. Say turning to the left, I should put my left leg forward to give her something to "bend" around and use my outside leg back to press her into my other leg "post") to turn and keep her haunches from going out.

Josie started out a bit sluggish. Must be tiring slogging through the mud and then rolling in it and carrying it around all day. I made a point to do some turns on the forehand in both directions so I could see if she steps with her front feet as her haunches (hind leg crossing over) move away from my leg.

Our canter look pretty good. LM thought my downward canter to trot was good. It feels like we are falling on the forehand but the vid shows an immediate power transition down. Josie steps well under herself. As I rode I took more contact on the reins and got Josie rounder. We have some nice trot work with the energy we want.

Of special note - I have footage of her leg yielding off my left leg. I think we have made it over that hump - BoooooYA!

There is nothing like watching a movie where you are the star :)

Friday was a b-day celebration for CR. I had told her I would give her a head set I had so I gift bagged it - hee, hee, hee.

Saturday soccer night. We had different folks this time. Josie was covered. I mean COVERED in mud! I should have put a hanky over my face the dust clouds were just rolling off her. I rode with the bareback pad but used my dressage bridle so Josie couldn't bite the ball. We had a lot of fun. She was very good about cantering. I had the foresight to let her run and buck a bit while the arena was empty. After tearing around a bit she got a sweet look on her face and walked to me. She felt good to get that out of her system.

With the time change I didn't stay too late. I knew it would be best for me to get out early in the morning to clean her up for our Trot Poles class.

During the time I spent trudging through the mud to get Josie the pups had rolled in something very terrible. Josie peaked out of the shed but wouldn't come when I called her. Darn it! Sunday baths are becoming a habit again.

I was most happily surprised when she wasn't too dirty the next morning. I could have slept in but if I had I would have had a mud pit for a horse. That is how things work.

Trot poles went very well. I put my leathers up a notch to see if that would improve my position. Oh, yes! Very much so. H had us leg yield from one set up to another. Good thing I have been practicing. Josie and I had one stall. She wasn't use to the white bloks being side by side. I paid for four lessons (save a tree and a check) so I have three left. I will have to ask H to let me know when she thinks we are ready for jumping. I am getting antsy. The Trot Poles are good as we are learning bending lines, bringing the horse straight to the jump, having a good tempo, etc. I am definitely feeling stronger.

Since the dogs were already filthy and Josie and I needed cooling off we went down the lane, over the tracks and to the water's edge. Josie didn't want to walk in the middle of the path. After getting my new breeches snagged on the thorny branches, she didn't get a choice. I toyed with the idea of taking the water crossing but decided against it. I will wait until we have company. It is very wide and I didn't want to get my new jumping saddle wet either. There will be time enough for that.

Bath for the pups, a little bit of chores and then a nap for me. It will be hard enough to get up in the morning.

I have gotten back to my eating lifestyle but not the working out part. I have been able to walk the dogs a bit more but no where near a last chance workout workout.

We have hunted the field a few times now but still only vole carcasses. Must have been a tough winter for them.

Ahhhhhh, life is most good!

1001 Voyeurs!

2010-03-09T22:36:00.003-06:00

Am I my own best visitor? Hmmmm . . . Thank you constant readers - I couldn't have done it without you :)

Proud to say I have fit into a pair of my not-so-fat pants. Yippee!! I haven't worked out for at least a couple of weeks. Must get back into the life style.

The snow is fading fast. More rain today.

As I have two little white dogs, I am leaving them at home so they stay that way. I bet the farm is NASTEEEE!

I have been looking forward to my ride all day. The Mare was very wet but happy to see me. I so love it when I don't have to slog through the mud to her. Hair is coming off by the curry comb fulls. I was surprised that she was losing hair on her belly. Last year there were areas she saved until last and that was one of them. Maybe this is just an initial release. She was not happy to have her wet hair brushed. Out of understanding I didn't do too much detail work. Her rubber bell boots are staying on. These ones are very hard to get on and off so I am leaving them.

There was only one other rider in the arena - yes! I opted to forget my riding boots this time. I remember thinking no, not the Ariats I just had stretched out and then didn't grab the other pair. I had to ride in my Mountain Horse paddock boots. These have a good inch sole. Too lazy to shorten my stirrup leathers must be punished for lack of memory. It is minor things like this that can have a big affect on your body position. I was surprised they fit into the irons (the boots are pretty wide). I thought I was going to be riding without stirrups but no worries.

We did our new warm up. Guess it isn't so new any more. I am liking it. We both get warmed up, energized and reach a nice forward tempo. I was a little hesitant to ask for canter as she had a wet back and can be a little cold backed in this situation but we had not an issue. It really reinforces my sitting up and back when I think there might be a buck in it for me. Josie had dried quite a bit by this time and the trick would be not to get her soaked so I wouldn't have to dry her. She would definitely get a chill in these weather conditions. I also forgot my hat hmmmm I worry about me sometimes.

I did some spiral in and out. I worked on using my left leg less and my left rein more to get her to respond by moving into the outside rein. It went pretty well. I still have some residual tightness/soreness in the muscle or tendon. It is a pretty good indicator that Mare is blowing me off and I am letting her when I feel it. I switch tactics and she responds very nicely.

In efforts to cut down my 10+ years to AQHA's 5,000 Hours Buckle, I have been extending my riding time. I sure wish I could just ride all day. My riding would progress so much faster. My legs would get stronger. I would be so much happier. Of course, not just Josie but other horses. While I am dreaming I might as well add more horses that would be mine. What the heck!

Josie felt wonderful today. She is giving me more at the leg yield. I am really seeing cross over (in our good direction). I figure any movement off my left leg is a plus. I am getting better at asking with my leg, not enough response then asking with whip and leg. Yes, that gets her over and saves wear and tear on that tendon.

Have I said lately how much I love my Josie girl? Beauty, brains and a heart of gold (most of the time), that's my Mare!

Life is much better when you are over your cold and getting a chance to ride . . .

Sunday, March 7, 2010

2010-03-07T20:20:00.002-06:00

Back in the land of the living - thank goodness!

The doc wasn't sure what I had. If it was shingles it was very, very mild. The weird rash/inflammation on my knuckle - again no idea. Shingles are softer like the chicken pox ones. This is hard. He asked me if I burnt it - I really don't think so. I have been cooking with Olive Oil but it sure doesn't seem like a burn - it has evolved. It doesn't hurt unless I hit it. He gave me some ointment for it. It seems a bit better but looks worse as I have scraped it and poked it accidentally.

I did make an appointment for an entire body check. This had been put off due to my nose being halfway removed! Thought I better get a baseline started. I must mention it was very nice not to pay a co-pay since I am paying the max monthly now since it seems like I am going to the doctors so much more. The weird skin thing scared me a bit so rather than put it off I got in right away.

Friday was Syd's going away party. We chipped in for money for a helmet for her and had a pizza party. She is going to Hilltop, a very prestigious horse farm in Maryland. It wasn't what she wanted but with jobs few and far in between she decided to go for it. It was impressive that they contacted her. Good luck and this isn't good bye! I must admit she caused me a touch of concern when as we were all leaving afterwards, she found she had locked her keys in her car! Luckily, she had a spare in her tack box. I have known her since Eagle Creek when I had Senda. She was maybe 13 - just a babe. It is my pleasure having known such a good person and very capable rider. Presto is also going to Maryland, although he will never set foot on Hilltop. Until we meet again :)

The pups and I went to play soccer Saturday night. We had to wait as people kept showing up. We dined on left over pizza and chips. Here I had been eating so well and now pizza two nights in a row. The life style kind of went to hell while I was sick. No energy for shopping and chopping. Work out was not possible. I keep over heating when I have coughing attacks.

In between playing with the ball, I worked Josie. We had issues cantering to the left. She was throwing me out of position. I did the look over my outside shoulder trick and that seemed to help.

Sunday we got up early as we had Trot Poles. It has been a few weeks since out last time. We got in early for some warm up when I realized my peacock stirrups (rubberbands on the outside so you don't get dragged if something bad happens) were backwards. Although my K2 jumping saddle is broken in, it was with effort I swapped the leathers. No time to think just start going over poles - this works for me.

H made a skinny (a jump that is barely bigger than your horse). Josie walked over it fine but as we trotted up to it she lost sight of it and popped over it. I went with her very well. Go Team Johnson! H kept mixing things up. She liked Josie's energy but I need to "Package" her more. Hell, it is all I can do to do everything else to get over the poles. So much - eyes up, breath, keep your hands together, chest up. I will be glad when all is second nature. I asked and she said my upper body was doing much better. She kept saying she liked Josie's energy. My reply was I didn't want us to fall down. My legs and stamina was really good considering. It helped that we were doing a course and only one rider could go at a time. I kept going second. Josie had a couple of nice semi-jumps. H put a flower box out where the skinny was and that caused another pop over.

With the weather being so nice we went for a walk to cool off. The pups thoroughly enjoyed it. Wy was two-toned. Thank goodness I had stripped Pix. That would have been way the mess. We rode almost to the water crossing. I would have pressed on but didn't want the pups to cross the water - it wasn't THAT NICE. I can tell how much we all enjoyed being outside. Josie was most pleased with herself. Pix disappeared for a bit but caught up with us. Little butterfly girl as always. I didn't want the ride to end so we walked down to the red barn and back. I pretty much had to pull myself off. Bath was added to my already too long To Do list. Oh, well. It was more than worth it.

This day was most excellent!

Ugh!

2010-03-04T22:44:00.001-06:00

I missed out on a really nice week due to a horrible cold. Saturday, I rode and had a wonderful ride. We are getting it!

Saturday evening I enjoyed the First Annual Rib Fest with my cool town home neighbors and Sunday I felt like I was dying. I had smartly cancelled my trot poles lesson as I figured I would have the beer flu. I felt horrible, my skin hurt, the nose was running and my throat was sore. I laid up all day resting. I knew I couldn't call in sick as there were huge moves happening. Tuesday I also had to be there for more moves. I dosed up on Nyquil each night by Wednesday morning I was not able to wake. I think I turned the alarm off instead of hitting snooze. I woke at 7:15 - suppose to BE at work at 7:00. I decided to email in that I wouldn't be making it. By the time I got into email my lovely Taske server was hiccuping - wouldn't you know it. An hour later and after responding to my boss's email wondering whether I was coming in today, I try to sleep with no success. I would just doze off and the pups would bark at something.

I feel better Thursday but have noticed a skin lesion on my hand and decide it is related to the cold virus. Internet surfing skin lesions is not for the faint of heart. There is some nasty snit out there - yucko! I believe I have Shingles. I am very lucky as my whole left arm was feeling weird but the lesion on appears on my knuckle. BUT it hits on everything.

I rode lightly. It is very warm for Mare right now and not having been worked since Saturday, I thought we should both ease back into it. She is shedding out - mixed feelings there believe me.

Life is still good but has its price . . .

Thursday, February 25, 2010

2010-02-25T22:00:00.001-06:00

Today we test to see if resting my tendon did any good. I did my Last Chance Workout - check, rode Josie - check. I felt it a little when riding and during my workout I just didn't kick up so high but otherwise did everything normal.

The pups were very happy to be out at the barn. I have become an afterthought once we get there. So busy greeting everybody. Pixie with her little squeals when it is one of her favorite peeps. Wyatt was even siding up to Janet while we were watching a lesson. Guess he knows who the alpha is :)

I felt really bad or like I pulled a fast one when J told me I owed the farrier a fiver. Shoeing with pads is extra each time - major Opps! You don't want to piss off your farrier. He is the foundation of the horse - no feet, no horse. Ernie has been great with the girl. Each year her feet look better and better. I have to take some credit as I apply hoof stuff every time I am out.

Tonight I rode in my jumping saddle. Ahhhhh it was so comfy. Josie and I tooled around at a nice walk, trotted two laps in both directions and did a bit of canter on a circle. There was a lesson and I didn't quite trust my ability. Trying to take it easy on the leg. We did some nice stretchy trotting. I was able to move the mare over a few steps and then back over.

If I could have rode at the show like I did today, I know we would have broke 60. It is coming along and I just need to wait for it. If, scratch that WHEN I get this same kind of work out of her in the updoor arena then I will have it for a show.

I did decide to scratch from trot poles just to give my tendon another week off. We are having a first annual Rib Fest among the cool town home peeps - the gals from the hood is what Norris calls us. Too funny! I figured I would probably be a bit hanging so my tendon is a great excuse.

Dropped my Ariat field boots and my Petrie dressage boots off at Bob's in Wayzata. It is a bit scary leaving my precious dressage boots. They will be fine and better than they were. Dude tried to talk me into replaces my leather soles with some treaded rubber crap - uh NO! I bought these specifically for the sole they had. I can't believe they will be ready to pick up Saturday. Thinking maybe I should have my breeches on and normal size socks to see if the boots were stretched enough. Well, duh! I will either be going or coming back from the barn when I pick them up.

I went to Stoneridge Equestrians afterwards. They were having a sale. I bought a baklava made by Mountain Horse - regular $21.95 and I paid $5 - suweeeet! I was looking for boot cut breeches. I guess I am ahead of the times - they didn't have any. I bought a pair of Irideon - black with leather knee patches. These are most comfy. Guess I will have to wait until my next on-line shopping spree. I should probably get my taxes finished before I spend more $$!

Today - Most Awesome!!

Monday, February 22, 2010

2010-02-22T20:45:00.007-06:00

On our first walk of the evening, we saw a robin. To me that is a sure sign of Spring but I found myself feeling concerned for him. There isn't much access to worms with all the snow and I would assume the worms are pretty deep in the ground right now. He looked plump and should be fine for a bit. I hope he eats bird seed.

The pups enjoyed an outing in the field. They dug deep in one area. The ice isn't too bad right now so I figured we would be okay. Too funny! Pixie growling away as she frantically dug and Wyatt bark yelling in her ear. A couple of times I caught him chewing his leash in frustration while digging and air biting at Pix's ear. We have seen plenty of vole holes but no voles. There were what appeared to be relatively fresh tracks but the pups had little interest in the scent left behind.

I was going to exercise tonight but my left either illiopsoas or pectineus muscles are strained. As I sat for periods of time today at work, I could really feel it upon standing and my first few steps. Lord knows I have enough stuff to do. Vacuuming was my priority. So much sand, horse hair, my hair and dog hair. I will get around to dusting another day :)

I have once again read through my tests at least eight times. I am excited to get back to training. Josie and I will be using the jumping saddle tomorrow night. I have signed up for trot poles and want to see if my working out will have helped the soreness I feel after having my stirrups short for jumping.

Sunday I slept in until I woke up - let the pups out very late to ensure I could. I slept very sound after all the excitement and long day.

Since I didn't stop to eat junk food on the way home last night I treated myself to a blended Chia Tea frap -mmmmmmmmm. Even went venti - double mmmmmmm!

Josie was happy to see me. I had decided just to ride bareback and move her around a bit but once astride, I asked for some bend and into the bridle and sure enough got it. Oh, Mare! I knew you could do it. One day you will give this to me every where. Stick with the plan - slow and steady gets an awesome horse.

We cantered both directions. There was a little delay in her left lead but at least she did listen. We will work on precision, bend, contact, and relaxation before our next show.

I didn't ride her too long or too hard. I gave her her gain dinner and kept the pups at bay so she could enjoy it. I should have given her some electrolytes - mental note to self - before show, at show and after show.

I am mystified why others are so closeted about their tests? I feel I have earned every point and am willing to share. Just a curiosity thought.

Moe has had his name changed to Double OO Seven - he looked magnificent and did exceedingly well in his tests. I can pick out great horses when it isn't my money on the line.

Josie, How do you really feel about all this show stuff?

Is it my turn?

Josie in her show stall - let me out!!

Today is a good recovery and reflection day.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

2010-02-20T22:28:00.007-06:00

Today is show day. I'm up before dawn, showering and even putting on mascara. The pups are aware and caught up in my excitement. I feel bad as I am leaving them for a very long time today but better to sit in the comfort of the den that is home than to sit in the cold all day in their canvas kennel.

Surprisingly, I am not feeling too nervous, more excited than nervous. I am looking forward to a great ride with the Mare. The drive goes by quickly as I plan my priorities to get ready. I get things organized so I am ready to load my gear in the trailer.

Josie barely finishes her breakfast of grain, gets a few bites of hay before I catch her and bring her to the trailer. She has no idea what is up but being the good mare she comes along willingly. As we wait for Dolly to finish her breakfast, I let Josie hoover up the hay pieces left from loading hay bags for the journey. A couple of times I had to keep the girl from loading herself. So nice to have a horse that actually wants to go in the trailer. We leave a bit ahead of schedule. This calms me a bit.

We get the horses settled in the stalls, hay fed and water buckets filled. Josie puts her nose into her hay and doesn't come up for air for a while. Not appreciated but I brush her while she eats. A fed Josie is a happy Josie.

I find myself focused and busy organizing my things and thoughts. Making sure I have what I need where I need it. I am first up out of our group with a ride at 10:55. Just a 10 minute warm up beforehand. To get Josie ready. Normally I would ride for 45 minutes but have lately succeeded in 20 minutes (thanks to NDM). A different location changes things. We had planned on leaving at 7:00 to use the hours before the show to warm up. Once the ride times were received we opted to leave later, use the 10 minute warm-up and first test as a warm-up.

I risked and asked for canter departs on both legs - check, practice a few downward transitions, turn on the forehand to remind her what my legs mean. Good.

My plan to use our first ride as warm-up would have worked but with ride times of 10:55, 12:09 and 2:28 you just have to take what you can. I had already decided to leave her saddled and just loosen and tighten the girth as necessary. She reacted very well to the arena. Satisfied with a big sniff of footing. These has become a habit with her at new locations. Hey! Whatever makes the girl happy. She found it acceptable. Does she remember being there before? The two far corners caused her to pause a bit but once passing things she was okay with it. I talked to her and told her what a good girl she was. Like I have to tell her!

Inside it was very warm. To Josie it was like going from winter to summer in 10 seconds. She is sweating just standing in the stall, let alone working. She is drinking very well so I won't worry about her.

My warm up focus is disturbed by some one's trainer in a very loud voice telling her student what to do and her loudness is interrupted by her equally loud cell phone. I do my best to deflect these irksome sounds. Focus on the mare, focus on breathing, relaxing and sitting up.

I decided to try something new this time. I took a swallow of Patron. A little shot of courage. For the first time the butterflies were barely there. I ride my test, just getting Josie relaxed and listening and not trying to force her into the bridle. I received six's, seven's and a couple of five's. Sarah's comments were "Very obedient pleasant horse! Just needs more swing over back and better acceptance of the bridle for more points on every movement - lateral bend will help you achieve this goal."

S is a fair judge. I agree with all of her judgements. I would rather have the truth and reality than sugar-coated scores. This ride was given a 59.57.

Was it the Patron or treating it as a warm up that made this be our best ride. Actually, no, because the next test had a couple of pilot errors, and a NO! I don't want to pick up a left lead canter.

I need to use a watch instead of my Blackberry or perhaps setting timers on my BB would be best. I missed a few minutes of my warm up for the next test. No worries. We get a four as Mare decided to blow off my left lead canter cue. I am surprised to receive a seven for our medium walk. Quite a few "hollow" remarks but got a great energy on our left lead canter (this was probably in response to Mare get your @ss into the canter - it took the short side to get it - naughty, naughty, naughty). I had my whip in my left hand to help with getting her off my left leg. Going from canter to working trot I waited too long realized my mistake and had an unbalanced transition. Our halt received a seven! Not square but straight.

We had 67.50 for 20 minutes or so to have it be reduced to 58.70 due to an error in calculation. Believe me I had been very happy with Josie and was SOOOOO excited to receive a 67.50. I had stepped outside and did a yahoo. I hadn't been a passenger but had been riding and trying to assist the girl and had a couple of unfortunate mistakes. Good thing I learn from my mistakes.

S's comments were "Nice position of the rider. Improve effectiveness - keep horse more forward and help her develop lateral and longitudinal suppleness to meet Tr. Lvl. objectives."

I was trying to get her more forward so I knew I didn't have what I needed. I have never received a "Nice position of the rider" and am most pleased with this as I have been working on this for quite a while. H mentioned that this was the best position of my upper body she has seen on me.

Back to waiting. This time I was ready too soon before my warm up time. Josie sweating in her stall appreciated the outing and the cooler aisle way. We are both excited to begin our next and final test. Funny how we mirror each other.

We were done in by a pee spot! Cantering away, using my inside leg and rein to turn, turn, turn and Josie's front left foot hits the spot and we slip. I gave her, her head and probably quit riding for that split second which all in all caused her to break - we got a 4 and we had been doing so well. Next, between E and K I was having trouble with my foot in the iron and lost it in the transition receiving another 5. We recover to finish with six's and a 7 on our free walk - nice activity and stretch. Then I space out to ask for a transition from canter to trot and end up making it unbalanced and early getting a five and we argue down the center line with her coming against my hand and haunches to the right receiving another five.

S's comments: Nice, obedient test. Increase roundness and consistency of impulsion for higher score. This time we got a 7 for our gaits and 6's for the rest - awesome!!

I rode for every point I got and was overall very, very happy with this test. Unfortunate pee spot and pilot error once again.

What a relief when all three of my rides are finished. I feel good with our progress. No butterflies after the first mild ones. I share a beer with Josie after our last ride. Coor's Light, not our usual Miller Lite. Josie didn't mind too much. Come to think of it I didn't either. She licked up her handfuls and then licked the back side of my hand to get every drop.

She was most pleased to have all tack removed. Mare you should really appreciate not having been saddled three times. We both look forward to returning home. We wait for the last rides of H and watch a lovely ride. I laugh as H encounters a different pee spot which Seamus proceeds to jump over. I think I will stick with my slip. Just goes to show you that things happen to even the best riders.

A asks me, "Why do we put ourselves through this?" I laughingly reply, "I just had that thought and my immediate next thought was . . . Okay! The next show is April 24, I have plenty of time to improve!" How funny is that! She then asked what tests will I do and after a moment's thought my reply is "I will stick with T1 and T2 until I can get the rides I get at home at the show". Then I will know I am ready to move on. Not to say that we can't work on bits and pieces of T3 and T4.

I then found out that out of 23 horses, Josie and I were seventh!!!! With some California split thing we are Reserve - just out of the ribbons. I am extremely happy with our day.

Josie loads and unloads well, eager to join her pasture mates and hoping for more hay after her good ride apple and homemade treats. Good job Mare and see you tomorrow!

I realize I have had a big grin for 30 miles as my facial cheeks begin to ache on the drive home . . .

Today was a MOST awesome day!

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

2010-02-15T20:23:00.001-06:00

EW called and spoke with me in regards to my qualifications. It wasn't an interview but I was nervous. I know I said Yup a few times. Back to the waiting game. I so hope they decide they need me here.

Left work late and rushed us all to get to the barn. A little worried when I merge onto 212 to find all lanes full and very slow. Turns out a cop had pulled over someone. Nothing like a good gawker slow down. There is nothing to see, move along folks.

Coal, the SUV, received a bath the night before and I have been dodging puddles ever since. It shows how dirty the inside windows are - gotta get on that while it is "warm".

Josie was at the farthest feeder, I gave a holler and her head popped up and she started towards me. About two-thirds of the way she picked up a nice trot. Oh, my Josie girl! Two homemade treats for that! We had purpose to our walk to the arena. Not sure what Josie had in mind but I knew what I wanted to do - school, school, school.

I had cleaned and conditioned all our gear. Lederbalsm is good for the skin but black Kiwi shoe polish - not so much. I forgot a saddle pad. Luckily, I had an extra in our locker. I also was using a Mattes pad as her regular pad was still drying. The arena was almost at maximum capacity but the most of the riders were good to ride with. Josie hasn't been as growly at other horses since NDM showed up. Tonight we rode with a new horse. She did her usual, "Hmmmm, you are kind of cute, who are you?" then ten minutes later, "You creep! Stay away from me." I chastised her and continued on. It was over, that was it - good Mare! Lesson learned.

Difficulty getting her off my left leg again tonight. Will I have to deal with this forever? Am I not being clear enough? I know that leg isn't as strong but I exercise it. Is it resulting from tension because of work? I really made a point to pay attention to my hunch syndrome, glancing when possible into the mirrors.

All and all it was a good ride. Practicing round circles when traffic allowed and ending on a good halt transition - enough for today. What will be, will be. I know what I need to focus on a bit more when riding - transitions, transitions, transitions and of course, circles.

May the circle be with you!

Monday, February 15, 2010

2010-02-15T19:52:00.003-06:00

Tides of change are drifting around me. The VoIP telephones have arrived and are stored in the building. No position is guaranteed and there was talk of stay pay and severance. I have been now been waiting two weeks to speak about my qualifications. For years now I have been waiting for this time to come and it is still dragging it's feet. Whatever way it turns out I will enjoy the experience of assisting in the installation of a Cisco Call Manager and will tear down yet one more Mitel SX2000.

If you knew what turns your road would take would you still choose the same turns? I know I would have made a lot of different choices. Now I can say I am happy with where I am now. Let's just stay forward and see where it leads. What will be, will be. There is nothing you can do but take it in stride. Be strong warrior, be strong!

My current path is towards a schooling show. I am working on being calm and focused. Ride every step, relax and breathe. Josie and I have been working on actual circles. I was able to run through the test Training 2 and identified several weak areas with the help of a small audience. I received really good feedback. SP even marked the 20 meter touch points on the center line. This really helped to shape my eggs into circles.

The Mare is easily distracted but is getting better at coming back to me. Perhaps I should say I am getting better at asking her for something that puts her mind back to where I want it.

I am not pulling any more mane. She doth protest too much! It is still a bit uneven and longer than it should be but . . . IT IS a schooling show.

As always looking forward to the next ride and for me to have learned the previous one and make a little headway the next ride.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

2010-02-09T20:07:00.005-06:00

Decided to shoot for a much needed My Pretty Pony night. I am still reveling in the awesome ride I had the other night.

I am getting Josie prepared for the schooling show. Before the temperature dipped again I needed to get her tail washed and conditioned and the stains off her socks.

She has misplaced her bell boots (these keep her shoes on) in the deep snow. One has been located but the other may never be seen again.

I am slowly pulling Josie's mane to make it look better and to show off her pretty neck. She isn't the biggest fan of this makeover step. This is after two different pulling nights and two small bags of carrots.

Should have done a before and after. Josie had venice turpentine stains on her socks and her tail was raggedy.

As she was drying, she had much to keep her attention. Here she is watching the driving cart being pulled down the aisle. Luckily the folks asked if she would be okay with it. We opted to leave the wash stall.

I must mention she was very good today. NDM hardly had to do any poking today. See she is a quick study.

The pups enjoyed the outing immensely as they remained free the entire time. Wyatt set up shop behind me in the wash stall while I washed and conditioned and then separated Josie's tail hair by almost a strand at a time. This was taught to me years ago. I don't normally brush Josie's tail and then do strand by strand starting at the top. Her tail hair is not coarse as it once was and untangles rather easily these days. Need to keep up with the tail care regimen.

NDM rocks the houuuuuuuuse!

Sunday, February 7, 2010

2010-02-07T20:48:00.003-06:00

Been thinking (imagine that) about some of the troubles (minor) I have been having with Josie. Dr. Audrey was at the barn and we were talking about mares. She has no problem with her mares. She doesn't tolerate even ear pinning. I watched her working on a mare that had previously been very fractious. Striking out, biting and rearing while being adjusted. The mare wasn't so bad this time but I watched Dr. A give corrections and the mare responded well. When pain is involved that is one thing but still Dr. A said still they should not do things like that. Right then and there I decided to crack down on Josie. What I have worried about is her to other people. They don't know she is only going to lip. Her reaction to hair dryer and saddling has becoming increasing annoying (even though it is funny) and I want to avoid escalation and ground manners also translate into saddle manners.

Josie responded extremely well to the new determined me. She didn't react to other horses, she warmed up in 20 minutes instead of almost an hour. Look how much time I have wasted! While riding this way, I had an AH HA moment times 10! A realization that I do not ride determined. Hello, Terri! When does she settled down - when I ride determined. I am mentally kicking myself in the arse!!

Josie was obedient and very responsive. We worked on canter departs, trot/halts and halt/trot. She was soft in my hands and I had control of her within the trot. OMG! It was just wonderful. Once is luck, twice is skill. I cannot wait to try this tomorrow.

Saturday - Josie was respectful of the NDM (new determined me). It is funny how you get accustomed to things and then make a change and notice how much affect that little change has made and how much more enjoyable things can be. We again warmed up quickly. She did forget once and pinned her ears but immediately stopped her behavior when she realized she had gotten my NDM's attention. I rode through bits and pieces of the Training 2 test. The arena emptied and I was able to do the test in it's entirety. We have a few weak spots but I am very pleased with our progress. Darn it - didn't bring Josie a beer again.

I had J hold her while I got the pups from the rig so we could do a mini-trail ride. I was just beaming as we went down the lane. The pups were ecstatic and were running and playing. The as we were almost to the railroad tracks, Josie, with her supersonic hearing halted and began to grow. It dawned on me that when it is nice for us to trail ride, snowmobilers also think down the same track of thought. Yup! Now I heard them. Josie started to shake her head and get a bit antsy. Part of me, Chicken, thought slide off BUT, gosh I am loving her more and more, NDM said, NO! Stay on, you can do it! So stay on I did. I grabbed a bit of mane and put Josie in between all aids and asked her with them and verbally, "Josie, WALK ON!". She took an obedient step forward and I could feel the "But scary, loud, WTF is that coming!" going through her. She is thinking, "I must run, I am a flight animal". I repeated and she shook her head in a way that said, "I am going to go ballistic now". So I said, "Josie, NO! Walk on!" This time she took two steps and the snow mobilers were along the tracks which are on the other side of some bushes and up a grade putting them above us and quickly they are passing us. Chicken me thought, "Uh, oh, this is it she is going to dump us!" but my new bestest friend, NDM said, "NO! You have control, lighten your aids and ask for her to go forward again. YES, YES, YES we did it! The adrenaline rush came over me but I didn't have that crippling sensation. I felt supreme victory. I got Mare going forward again and decided to turn after fifty feet to get the hell out of there before the snow mobilers turned around or more came along.

I had figured Wyatt had high tailed it but he was with us as we went forward. I thought he would be under the rig waiting for us to return. Maybe he likes NDM, too. NDM can protect him from all eVil!

There is nothing that compares to this! My confidence has gotten a bit bigger similar to the Grinch's heart growing and growing. Soon it will be second nature to be NDM. This makes my heart soar like an eagle.

Sunday - most excited to finish chores and get to the barn. NDM wants to ride! I have had glimmers of needing this. It is becoming a good habit. I show up to ride like I use to. I am not a passenger, I am not a victim. Wow! Is this what other people feel like all the time? If you could bottle this or put it in a pill you could make million, no trillions!

The barn was packed so I waited a bit to get Mare. She came a running through the snow. See! She likes NDM, too.

We warmed up in good fashion. The arena was packed so I was easily able to determine if NDM was going to get 'er done! Oh, yes. She pinned, got her NDM reminder and didn't pin the rest of the ride. One of the mom's watching her daughter ride said, "You look like you are dancing.". NDM had Josie in front of the leg, on the bit, her tongue was wiping her lips, she was chewing the bit and responding to my every touch. Yes, that is what dressage is about. Oh, Josie you make me so glad.

We were trotting and changing within the gait, picking up canter (correct leads) at will. Our circles were circles! She moved off my right leg, straightened and then moved off my left leg. I was calling out rail or inside when circling, and just in charge of my ride. I LOVE NDM!!!

I received quite a few compliments on how well Josie was doing. This makes me very proud.

This was a ride that I didn't want to end. This was our BEST ride ever. If I get half of what I had today we will be in the 70%. Oh, I am just gushing! JOSIE You Are THE BEST horse! You always have been but now you are even better.

I pulled a little of Josie's mane yesterday and today. I have about two more small bags of carrots worth to get her looking real good.

NDM is good! Very good! I am hungry for more! (Can I have more !'s ?)

Thursday, February 4, 2010

2010-02-04T20:39:00.001-06:00

Wow! Quick week. Most busy at work. Never did hear whether we are getting 6 more weeks of winter. I think in Minnesota it is a mute point. Tuesday's ride we had a bit of redemption. Still seeking the bliss. I am trying to "engage" my core more - also known as "suck in the gut". This seems to help with my sitting to far back on my bum.

I brought the pups along for a much need yahooing. Pixie got her hair done by Sidney. One of these days I will have to take a picture. It is just too cute. Sid used the moisture from Wy's blanket to shape Pix's hair. I miss Pix's eyebrows. They are still there but not as defined as they use to be. Snow and ice give her a trim as she digs for creatures. Speaking of which we haven't found a one. I haven't been encouraging it due to the thickness of the ice. This has been our best year for Pix not having cuts all over her paws.

Tonight I bit the bullet and drove so I could ride. Josie had her nose buried in the feeder. She lifted her head to acknowledge me but then buried it again. Sorry Mare, we have work to do.

After a good warm up I started asking her to spiral in and out so we would make round circles. These helped. It gets me using my legs and hips instead of my hands to turn. We had a few head strong moments. Sometimes Mare can be a bit stubborn. It was like a victory when she decided to do what I was asking. It is not as much work girlie. Still working on transitions - halt to trot and trot to halt. Being these are the first and last things the judge sees it is very important. If I have her into the bridle they are much better. I will still need a good hour warm up before we do our tests for the North Run Schooling show.

She is responding well to canter aids. I overheard a lesson and I like the idea - "Think trot and then trot". By thinking trot you automatically half halt which balances your horse which makes for a better downward transition.

I took my name off the next two weeks of trot poles. I really want to focus on our dressage for the tests. Found out ST will be the judge. I am a little worried about riding for her. Heck, I worry about showing period!

The CC Schooling show is set for April 24 - darn it! Horse Expo weekend. I have decided not to attend the HE. I ended up spending too much money anyways. I wonder who the judge will be.

So many things to do before the show. Josie has hoof medication stains on all her socks. I am going to try to scrub them up this weekend. The snow has helped a bit but she needs a soaping for sure. I may even get a much needed tail wash in. Last time I conditioned she was a bit flaky on her dock (actual tail bone). I want to get my gear ready so it is rubbed out and just need a wipe off. Good thing I am anal about cleaning up my gear after almost every ride.

I have been thinking about my next ride and am looking forward to it. I hope Friday is quiet so we can run through the test. I keep working on bits and pieces but would like to run through especially Training 2 as I don't know it as well. I must sit up, be firm, yet relaxed, half halt to balance, ask softer but clearly. We will be just fine. We will have our best tests ever!!!!!!!

May the force be with you!

Sunday, January 31, 2010

2010-01-31T19:25:00.002-06:00

I planned on a nice, easy bareback ride. Turns out I ended up with the arena to myself. Unlike last week's chaos, this night was extreme bliss. We warmed up for a while and just relaxed, reveling in the solitude. Josie was very responsive and obedient. I am sure it was my relaxed state playing a big part. I have noticed if there isn't a horse in the arena she will glare at herself in the mirror - Josie you so funny! We worked on bend and counterbend. We practiced some halts and halt/trot transitions. I could power up into a nice forward trot and bring her back. Our canter departs were good - if I remembered to sit back. We did the most lovely canter circles and then did a simple change from left to right. Got it within two steps. It was awesome. We walked a bit and finished after that. I wished I would have brought some beer for us to share. We soooooo deserved it.

The harmony and bliss we experienced is what I strive for and due to circumstances beyond my control - which is my big problem - I am not always able to achieve. I wish Josie could understand what I mean when I say, "I am trying Josie" or "I am sorry Josie". Luckily she has a good work ethic and actually a sweet disposition.

Now Sunday was a totally different ride. I don't know what I was doing wrong. It wasn't overly busy, we were in our jumping saddle which she loves. I have gone over and over it but just feel we were clashing for some reason. I tried to do everything I had done the other night but she was just irritated. I had noticed it when I was getting her ready. She was in a mood. Let's get it out of our systems and be ready for the show.

Believe me there was a lot of "I'm trying" being said. I didn't work out before hand and had slept wrong and had a lot of tension at the bottom of my neck and into my shoulders. I should have taken some Ibuprofen. It really made me appreciate the ride on Friday. Sorry Josie, I will try harder.

As you can see Josie's mangled ear has healed very nicely. Perhaps flies won't be an issue come summer.

The Victory V from the front

Back side of Josie's ear

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

2010-01-26T22:36:00.001-06:00

Back to single digits again. BRRRRRR!

Played with the pups to lesson my feelings of guilt before leaving them while I go to the barn. I found it interesting that both, after watching me pack up which would normally have them at my heels, went into their kennels. I think they decided it was in their best interest to stay inside their nice comfy home. See how smart JRT's are!?!

I pulled in to see not too many cars which means the arena may not be too crowded. One rider in the indoor and appearing to be finishing up, two getting ready (one a pasture mate of Josie's), it ought to be enjoyable tonight. It was pleasant not having to be barking commands at the pups - Out, Leave It, Off, etc. I love them dearly but it sure is nice to focus on just Josie.

Josie was at the far feeder. Hoping not to require pasture trudging, I holler "JOSIE, Come Here Mare". I am pleased to see her leaving the feeder and walking very carefully to meet me. It is scary watching them walk in, you see irregular steps and a shortness of step that looks like lameness. Make no judgements until she is in and moving in the arena. She is fine, thank goodness! I am not as paranoid about it since PJ but I still have twangs of fear.

As part of the warm up we cantered in both directions. Her trot and forward thinking improved. Due to the cold weather, the tractor is back in the indoor. I didn't even walk her by it first. I mounted and went about our normal warm up. She looked but marched forward as I told her good girl and rubbed her mane by the withers. As we started trotting, she felt sticky and after triple checking my position I asked for more forward and she responding very nicely. She isn't curling these days and has a nice training "frame". She quickly quit making faces at the little Arab after a bit of focus on me Josie, focus on me.

Our training tonight focused on halts and trotting off from halt. She was given a chance to trot from walk and didn't respond immediately. After a few steps of trot, I asked for a halt, asked for the trot again. She responded the same so I applied leg and a bit of whip. We trotted forward a bit and then repeated. She immediately went forward. What a good girl. Once is luck, twice is skill - Mare has skills.

Our changes of bend doing serpentine has become much smoother. Still not as well off my left leg but using the rein as described in Twisted Truths of Modern Dressage has improved this. This book is definitely a re-read several times over. I will need to return it and will have to put it on my wish list.

While we were warming up I watched wistfully as S and Presto were doing half pass. Hopefully one day . . . but right now we are on track and adding baby steps to jumping is enough for us to work on.

I took pictures of Josie's ear. The scar along the backside of her ear has come in with all black hair. It looks pretty cool and will be another guide to "right" as if the Victory V wasn't enough.

'Til we ride again!

Thursday, January 21, 2010

2010-01-21T21:29:00.001-06:00

Blessed Thursday! One more day to the weekend. Located a plumber to get a quote for my bathroom as I broke yet another handle. I am going to go with one handle for hot and one handle for cold.

My rebounder arrived today. I got it set up and started bouncing and Pixie was begging to come up so I stopped, she hopped on and I started bouncing lightly. She sprawled out but hung in there. Wyatt put is paw up to ask. Knowing him a barely made it move and he shrank down into it. I got the rebounder back to myself, bounced for a bit and then sat on it - suppose to work your abs that way. Both pups jumped into my lap without asking so I kept the bounce level as it was. In a weird way I think they kind of like it. I am most impressed with Wy's bravery these days.

Decided with freezing rain not to drive to the barn. I did The Biggest Loser Last Chance Workout which I had first done on Monday night. Oh, my! It was definitely easier the first time but I was wringing with sweat when I made it to the cool down. Mountain climbers were a bit easier this time. Mind you week one and two are for beginners no telling what is in store for the next level.

This Tuesday's ride was a bit better. There were two folks lunging which makes it hard for us to work. One Josie gets growly, Two I get growly and Three we can't do serpentines, etc. to get her mind busy and off attack mode. I stuck with it and kept at and eventually she quit wanting to be growly. Once we were down to one lunger. I was able to really get busy. While I am readying "Twisted Truths of Modern Dressage" I am trying some of the instruction and it seems to be helping. We finished up on an excellent balanced canter to the right. I got Josie hotter than I would have liked as it takes a while to get her dry enough to return to the herd. I had to blow dry which tonight she particularly didn't like.

Can't remember if I wrote about this before but we had an incident where she knocked me to the ground while I was putting her caveson through the keeper. Later when I let her go and watched the reaction of one of her boyfriends, I decided that she tried to get very friendly with me. This is a big no no! There wasn't much I could have done at the time as I was on the ground and moving away as she had fallen a bit on me. I did yell JOSIE! But in my surprise and shock didn't know what to think of it. I bring this up because on Tuesday we were walking from the red barn to the arena to get ready, I felt a nudge on my right shoulder, heard a deep nicker and saw her left foot come up. I immediately turned to face her and whack, whack ,whacked on her chest with the lead rope. She was surprised and backed up. That will teach you missy! I had discussed the first incident with my race horse trainer friend CR and she said we could try to recreate it. I was a little worried I wouldn't fair as well the second time around. But, Ha! Got ya Mare! I love you but you need to respect me and I ain't your girl toy. I have never had a horse do this and will continue to keep my guard up.

Looking forward to riding this weekend. I need to decide what tests we want to enter for the North Run schooling show.

Boucing is good!

Sunday, January 19, 2010

2010-01-17T20:36:00.001-06:00

Only 4,442.5 hours to go until I receive the silver buckle.

I had an excellent ride on Friday. We did our best leg yield ever!!!!! This would be off my left leg, our mutually agreed upon difficult side. We were both hot and sweaty and very pleased with ourselves. I laugh when I prepare to dismount, Josie gives a little nicker. It isn't thank god she is getting off finally, it is mmmmmmm rock candy time!

Sunday trot poles. I mounted earlier this time to warm up better but wasn't able to due to the jump lesson happening, a person trying to lounge and another rider. After a few minutes of walk in both directions, we managed a few trot circles and canter in both direction to warm us both up and it was time to begin.

Again, this time, my right leg was crying of tightness at the beginning. One wimping instead of two is much easier to deal with. Josie and I took a few minutes to be nicely forward through the trot poles but we didn't have any stops. I wasn't as good this time at the beginning about keeping my upper body back. It became apparent when she did slow a bit when the X's were made a bit larger. I really have to have the I am on a mission thought process. Must be more mentally aggressive. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR! GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR! Yeah! Watch out! Jumper coming through! I think I might listen to my mountain bike racing music preferences when I am driving to our lesson and see if that helps.

The one error we had was caused by the rider ahead of me not doing what H said so I didn't know what to do for some ungodly reason it just threw me. I must stick to the plan no matter what. Will do! I even opted to go first a few of the times. This in itself shows an increase in confidence.

After our lesson, me and the girl grabbed the pups out of the SUV and hit the trail. The car gauge showed 37 degrees. I was a bit disappointed to find that the lane had been plowed. The pups didn't mind. Less work for them but I had had visions of Josie plowing through the snow. Turns out it was plowed to the end after the turn so we got to plow. Josie was careful but forward. Her adult snow pads are working wonderfully no snow balls. We went over the tracks and listened to the snow mobilers on the lake for a minute and then turned to cross over the tracks and then turn left to go around the jumping field. We had to break our own trail after the first corner. I don't think the pups were digging it as much as I. Scampering across the top only to fall in can get a bit annoying. I couldn't keep a close eye, they may have been slow if they caught a scent and were snuffling about. Josie was sweet as pie and didn't do anything naughty.

Life is totally awesome especially in the saddle!!!!!!!!!!!

Reached 500 Hours for the AQHA Riding Program

2010-01-10T20:57:00.002-06:00

Whoot! Hooooooo!

We did it. Josie and I have 500 hours under saddle (and bareback). I had messed up and didn't get my times submitted before the end of the year. I knew I was really close. I heard back from Wendy at AQHA requesting I fax them to her so she could enter them. I noticed on January 3, 2010 I reached the 500 mark. It use to be that I would have gotten our picture in The America's Horse magazine but the response was too great so we will be on the web.

Today was a trot pole session. The temps were up so the pups came along for the outing. A much needed release for them. They were really getting on each other's nerves.

I love this time of year (that is with snow on the ground), Josie is usually clean and is quick to get ready.

H set up a course of 6 fences, bloks with two poles on the ground, later to make X's. We had a few stalls which were and almost always are my fault. I knew I needed to stop doing what I was doing. I had been being better about keep my upper body up/back - do not jump ahead - let your horse do the jumping and come up to meet you. I know this but . . .

This lesson was excellent!The next fence would come up quickly so I kept my leg on Josie "GO!" and telling myself, "Wait, wait, wait" and we had a few very nice jumps once H made them into the bigger X's. I was very pleased and my confidence is coming along nicely. There is nothing like being told "it is dangerous to let your horse stall out in front of a fence" - I am throwing my heart over now, without jumping ahead. It was much easier after that. We had a nice tempo and it was much easier to ride it.

I can already tell the difference in my legs. It was only my right burning today and after two rounds it was gone. Josie was very pleased with herself and so was I - in her and myself.

Life is totally awesome today!

Thursday, January 7, 2010

2010-01-07T21:16:00.001-06:00

I have been a bit of a house potato this week. Except for going to work which is unavoidable. I managed to drive to the barn to give Josie her wormer and give her a once over. Two nights this week we were able to walk around the entire complex. That Musher's Secret seems to work very well when I take the time to apply it. Pix is first as Wyatt licks his off by the time I finish applying it to everybody feet.

I had heard predictions of -35 and we accumulated maybe three inches so I opted not to ride last night. I had signed up for Sunday trot poles so I must ride Friday and Saturday. Hopefully the weather will cooperate. Josie hopefully got her snow pads either Wednesday or Thursday so she will have had time to acclimate to them.

Wyatt is getting cabin fever . . . he has taken after Pix a few times. It is more than playful in attitude. She hasn't taken his toys or anything. Pix then remains in the background, the safe place. I am thinking no matter how cold it is, they need to go to the barn and get out of this winter rut.

Life is good but friggin' cold!

Sunday, January 24, 2010

2010-01-04T21:23:00.002-06:00

Friday night's ride was a suicide mission. I thought the barn would be quiet due to the weather. No such luck. I had ridden with these folks before so I kind of knew I needed to keep an eye out and thought this will be good warm up arena practice for us - people careening all about. Well, that might have worked but not with them having cavelletti set up. My eye's widen in horror as I see one young gal canter through trot distances. WTF! I am not the best with kids so I keep my mouth shut and focus on me and the mare. The dad then commandeers the other end of the arena to work his mare. Maybe you could have set up the poles later so we all could use the arena? Not saying anything I continue riding and circle when I need to so I balance Josie and keep her busy and focused on me.

There wasn't enough room for Miss Growly and another horse to pass left shoulder to left shoulder on the rail because of the poles set up. I had one near miss there. My plans for just forgetting about yielding went by the wayside. The positive thing was Mare and I dealt with her growliness and went to work even though it was on the rail. I would flex her to the inside if passing and then when I went by lunging kid I flexed her head to the outside. These seems to work. It was self-preservation all the way. I called out what I was doing to give advance warning - QUARTERLINE!

The best was when dad and kid almost collided. This girl and her friend decided that cantering side by side on the rail would be fun. I think I became growlier than Josie at this point. The furrow in between my eyes became the Grand Canyon. I try to remember they are just kids and keep working but I know I am getting pissier and pissier. Dad kept going through the jumps and I finally decided enough was enough - dismounted and got the hail out of there!

Meanwhile outside it is raining and then freezing. We minced our way back to the red barn. How we made it I will never know. You would slide without even moving. I walked Josie down the hill in the snow. It was all I could do to make it back up the hill. The pups were flitting around with ease. Show offs!

Saturday I worried about Josie breaking a leg. I let the pups out one at a time on a fifty foot line and then went from the patio into the snow to pick up. Wyatt couldn't figure it out. He kept pulling to go farther and I am saying, "No, you just go potty." He finally gave in. Pixie, amazingly, picked up on it pretty quickly.

Sunday with no trot poles I slept in as much as the pups would let me and then did the Biggest Loser Last Chance Workout again. Much easier but still very difficult. I really need to do the other days which are sculpting and toning, etc.

I was going to work on my two point for position strengthening but got side tracked. I rode for almost two hours. After some nice relaxed warm up. We worked on halt transitions and halt to trot in preparation of the tests. We worked a bit on canter departs and cantering without walls. Didn't get the totally awesome canter of the other day but very good for me and the mare. She got a little tense but then made it through and she became more relaxed about it. The downward transitions from canter to trot started out a little bad falling on the forehand and then rushing to get balanced. I focused on my position (keeping my chest up - feeling like I am behind the vertical which puts me where I should be) to keep her balanced and presto - much nicer transitions. We have come so far. I have to remind myself of the days where we could barely turn and canter freaked us both out. Ahhhhhhh! She isn't green any more. Love it! It is nice to work on fine tuning these days.

'Til the next ride!

January 3, 2010

2010-01-03T22:02:00.007-06:00

Wyatt and Pixie with the frozen orange.
Pixie watches as Wyatt plays as she knows better than to get between Wy and his toys.

Wyatt Playing Roll It
Anything round works in this game. We came across this a bit down the street. It now resides on my porch for future sports activities.

Grain - Good to the last morsel

Here is a better picture of the matching jackets (Pix hates hers!)

I have so enjoyed my time off. I would really have no problem, other than money issues, with retiring. I rode New Year's Eve - just an easy bareback ride with very nice contract, relaxation and forwardness on Mare's part. I like to take the old year out and bring in the new riding. Due to staying up way too late I didn't ride until after 5 pm on New Year's day. It was awesome as we had the arena to ourselves once again. We practiced bits of a test, picking up the trot from halt and halting straight. Our downward transitions leave a lot to be desired.

I have been working a bit more on leg yield. We are very good going to the left but alas to the right we SUCK! I review by turn on the haunches, spiral in and spiral out on the circle. We start the leg yield at the walk and later at the trot. Before we are both too tired I make sure we have good results and then quit with a positive even if it is minor. Drilling is not a good thing. Mare gets a bit fussy as she likes to do things right.

I had signed up for trot poles at 12:30 on Sunday, little did I know at the time it would be -23 in the morning. I did some of my floor exercises to make sure I was supply. That was fine until I finished putting on multiple layers for survival. I looked like the little boy in "A Christmas Story" but I was warm.

Josie greeted me at the gate - thank goodness. My eyelashes were building icicles from the trek from the arena barn.

Heather set up a zig zag of trot poles. We warmed up by trotting straight down the center line over the middle of the zig zagged poles. Later she set them as tiny X's which we trotted through doing a circle to come back and take the next jump (the zag - LOL!). We did pretty well. I really need to concentrate on sitting up and not "jumping ahead" especially when we are only doing trot poles. I was pleasantly surprised when Josie took the last one as a jump. I went with her very well. The adrenaline was flowing and I was capable of jumping anything (hee, hee, hee). She settled back down to trotting through the poles. We then took the little X (zig) and turned a circle to take the next zag. Towards the end she set the last zag as a true X and we popped over very nicely. I feel my jaw drop with the feeling. It is like a ride that you are terrified of but love to do. A few thousand of these and it will be no big deal.

I have mentioned before green on green isn't good but I take such pleasure and satisfaction doing everything myself. I am knuckling down and taking some lessons so we can start to jump on our own. I need more mileage. I am going to pull out the 101 Jumping Exercises as there are so many things we can do to improve my base of support without even jumping. Team Johnson is getting ready for eventing - oh yeah!

Riding is Zen in 2010! Life is awesome!

December 29, 2009

2009-12-30T12:18:00.002-06:00

The Back Side of the amputation!

The Victory V or what is left of Josie's ear

Wyatt enjoying the show The Sing Off

Matching New Jackets (Fido Fleece)

Wyatt and Pixie are sure they have something under this ton of snow!

After taking a bit of a hiatus from blogging, I am back with a vengeance - hee, hee, hee. While Josie healed I focused on exercising and just being me for a bit. It has really helped with my riding focus. Sometimes you get a little too serious and need to chill. Since we can't go out on trail without difficulty, I just didn't ride seriously. Games with the ball and riding bareback just to move her. Now that we are back at it, I can totally tell the difference in Josie and mine's attitudes. And that would be for the better :)

What a WHITE Christmas!! By Friday the snow was up to if not over my knees, even though I am a bit height challenged, that is a lot of snow. I had the week off except the eve and luckily could work at home. I was happy about the snow until there was talk (is email considered talk?) of postponing Orphan Christmas. EEEEGADDDSSS! The Horror! The Horror! Yup! Postponed to Saturday. Poor planning on my part, nothing to eat or drink to make this oh so hard holiday bearable. Orphan Christmas has been a crutch that I am obviously not ready to give up yet.

Third times a charm - found an open liquor store and a meal from McDonald's and that was my Christmas Eve. I was a bit woeful and tears were shed - this was before the beer. Too icky to go to Josie for horsey sustenance to make it through. The pups filled in nicely, licking away my tears and being goofy. They do not like me sad - I don't like me sad. I know I am much, much luckier than a lot of people but I can still feel sorry for myself from time to time. One can't always be strong.

To keep busy and not dwell on what couldn't be helped, we snow shooed and hunted. At least the snow shoeing was successful . . . the poles I bought myself for Christmas last year worked wonderfully. It really makes SS a lot easier.

Saturday I had a really great ride. Things are really falling into place now. Leg yield to the right is weak for us. You'd think without the extra weight of her ear tip Josie would be able to glide right over but no. We both need more strength. To the left I can really see the cross over and reach. We were both steaming sweat and tired afterwards.

Tuesdays ride was even better. Reminding and using my left leg better really made an improvement to our leg yield. We are a work in progress and getting better everyday. You should see us picking up canter leads at will. Tuesday I had the arena by ourselves towards the end of our ride and was able to do a Training test and was really impressed with both of our efforts. Team Johnson rides again!

Life is very good but much, much better now that Christmas is over . . .

OH! One last thing - cancer free for all of 2009 - YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

2009-12-15T20:47:00.002-06:00

Extremely cold today. Left the pups at home. They aren't adapting to the cold so keeping them comfy warm while I go to suffer in the cold. Just kidding the money I have been spending on warm clothes has really paid off.

I tried once more to get a McD's cola glass - no such luck. The drive went fast as I was busy stuffing my face with tasty fries and a Ranch BLT. Naughty, naughty but that will be it for a while. Back to the diet.

I really felt the need to check on Josie. It has been gnawing at me. I keep having images of hamburger meat ear. I brought my bridle along to be ready if I should change my mind about riding. It was -4 when I arrived at the barn. I pulled up and Josie walked up to the fence. Yup! She recognizes the little rig.

Noticed this in the drafts - will post as is.

Monday, December 14, 2009

2009-12-14T21:28:00.001-06:00

I went and watched LO take a lesson from Janet Foy. I really like JF. She gives good analogies and reviews what she has gone over. Kans and LO did splendidly. We will have to watch the tape. Overall I think I did a good job with only phasing out while watching and listening a couple of times. LO was to ride the next day but she got moved up to earlier and I decided not to go.

Saturday, I had hoped to ride outside. I opted for inside. She came running when I called her. Josie still hadn't lost that nasty scab. I thought for sure she would have rubbed it off by now but she hadn't.

She was happy to be moving around. We both ended up sweaty. I took the bridle off the normal way hoping to dislodge the scab. It helped but was still hanging in there. After the bridle comes off she likes her mouth and ears rubbed. I took advantage of that and got the big hunk to come off. The back of her ear now resembles hamburger. GROSS!!!

The pups were enjoying the "warm" weather. Speed bursts down the driveway to get Josie.

We had some snow overnight so the pups and I went on a hunting expedition. Several tracks and holes but not a vole in sight. Pix found a nest which she quickly dispatched - the nest, no voles. It wasn't too long before Wyatt signaled it was time to go home. This is done by trotting determinedly to the street. He would rather hunt in the comfort of his home. Pixie would stop from time to time to pick snowballs off her front legs. She enjoys me taking them off when we get home - free belly scratch. Otherwise we were pretty lazy Monday.

I watched Taking Chance and highly recommend it. You can't thank a soldier enough for risking their life and in this case losing it.

I watched "Bolt" a very cute Disney movie. My next dog will be Bolt but hmmmm maybe not a good idea. Kind of like don't name your horse Buck.

Pix is over her season - thank goodness! I am thinking of having her spayed by a vet that P takes her pups to. Out of town vets are much less expensive. I have to call and get the details.

I figured out how to reduce the size of photos and will have many to post once I get around to putting them on a memory stick. I forgot just how cute Pix's pups are. Oh, I do miss that little girl. I wish I had enough property to have more animals. Oh, well.

Today was a lazy day.

2009-12-10T22:26:00.001-06:00

Finally made it out to check Josie's ear. The ride out was lonesome as I left the pups at home. Way too cold for them.

As you may or may not be able to see it is healing. It is very gross. She wouldn't let me cut off that chunk you can see. It is probably better to let it come off naturally but I know she will end up ripping it off if she scratches her itch.

Something I found via google when searching horse ear injuries: "The horse's ears are rarely injured because the horse usually tries to keep them out of harm's way. But occasionally an ear will be bitten by another horse, or caught in a fence and torn." I seem to get the rare with my horses. Senda with Fungal Gutteral Pouch infection which had eaten through the artery and PJ with the unknown right front foot syndrome. Again, I will take this one any day over most injuries.

I lunged her but was a bit limited as trot poles were set up. She was a bit frisky, really jumping into the canter before I could finish saying "AND (And Canter is my usual command to request a canter depart), any encouragement sent her into a head shaking buck off. At least I know she will be decent tomorrow night having gotten that out of her system. Since her injury we have been taking it easy but now we go back to work.

My order arrived today. The Mountain Horse pants fit well. I was worried about the length but they have snap adjustments. I took off what I will call the boot strap. The portion that fits under your boot. I will keep them just in case but I feel they are unnecessary. I can tell they will be warm but the test will be Friday whether they are warm enough.

Life is great today.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

2009-12-08T20:32:00.004-06:00

Winter arrived with a vengeance. They keep changing how much snow we will get. I am thinking pretty hard to measure when it is blowing all over the place!!

I have two very squirrely JRT's. Snow means big game hunting. Sorry kids but it will have to wait until tomorrow after work.

I am glad I filled up the tank and got groceries. The only thing I had to do on the way home was to take advantage of a $5.00 off coupon for the pups' food.

I must note that I received a check for medical reimbursements so I only have to feel half as bad about the money I spent. It is amazing how I can justify and actually I wasn't feeling too bad about it anyways. These items will last for years and with VoIP coming into the building who knows if I will have a job or be able to get one that supports us in the manner we have become accustomed to. This is a good skill to possess but perhaps I wouldn't spend so much if I didn't have this uncanny ability?!?!

My idea for a inside dog park has been taken. Darn it! That would have been so much fun. I want to go take a look at it. Maybe it is only big dogs and I could open a small dog park.

I really wanted to go check the Mare tonight but there is no way I am venturing out to be at the mercy of idiots behind the wheel.

Time to pull out the Doc Martins

They take some time to lace up but they are sweet, sweet, sweet. The plans I have for them are for hunting in the brush with the pups. You never want to be in a hurry to get in or out of them though. Now that they are broken in they are just lovely. Looks like they could use a shine. Maybe tomorrow if I am still unable to visit Mare.

I am finishing the next to the last of Charlaine Harris' Sookie novels. I loved this passage:

There were definitely parts of my character I didn't approve of, and maybe from time to time I had moments when I didn't like myself much. But I got through each day as it came to me, and so far I'd survived everything life had thrown at me. I could only hope that the survival was worth the price I'd paid.

It is such a pity that it takes so long for one to be comfortable in one's own skin. So much time wasted - precious time. I am glad that I do what I want and when I want. I do what makes me happy and content. Who knows what will come next. I hope you can say you are happy.

Life is good today . . .

Monday, December 7, 2009

2009-12-07T20:11:00.005-06:00

Pix

Wy

Sharing a meal

Josie finally let me clean her ear up on Saturday. Or maybe it was you don't have any choice I am cleaning your mangled ear! It looks better in a horrible way. I put some Aquaphor on it. Kind of a medicated Vaseline. Now I will just let it go as it needs to dry up. After I clean it up it bled and there is a big blood scab again. It must itch like crazy as she isn't minding me cleaning inside and around the bottom.

I tried out my flannel lined jeans. I must mention they are Carharts - no wonder they were expensive but they remind me of jeans from years gone by as there is something to them which makes them worth the expense. I had initially washed them in cold and hung them to dry. This time I washed them in warm and then dried them at medium. They are still a little baggy but fit better while still allowing me to wear a pair of breeches.

Did I mention that I have lost three pounds!?!? Eating rabbit food and not drinking pop plus a few two plus mile walks and exercising - the magical key. Now that it has gotten colder the pups are not fond of taking walks so I have put the Wii into action. I did hula hoop and boxing. Went jogging with a wii mii. Kind of funny as he knocks a few people down. I really want to get that mini trampoline but have put it on the back burner. The reason being I innocently went to Smartpak.com to purchase large bell boots for Josie. I was told to put those on over her mediums and she shouldn't be able to pull them off. Plus no shipping AND my AQHA percentage off. What a deal! Then I looked at and bought a pair of breeches and winter riding pants. I have no control!! I also bought a present so ka-ching! I am all set for winter now. I WILL STOP SPENDING MONEY! Ya and pigs can fly . . .

Life is better today . . .

Saturday, November 28, 2009

2009-11-28T20:38:00.000-06:00

Here is a picture of us playing soccer. Josie doesn't have her game face on just her notched ear. This isn't a good example but will do for now.

Friday, November 25, 2009

2009-11-25T23:50:00.006-06:00

Mare, Mare what did you do?!?!

I get there and the horses are waiting to go in to eat grain. Josie comes up and she looks fine. I remember seeing a bit of hay in her right ear. I gave her a treat and she went in to eat her grub. A little later she comes out stops to get a treat and this is what I see:

My comment on FB was something to the effect that she must have tired of being called cute and wanted to toughen up her image.

Maybe it was all my comments about Josie's game face.

I now have been calling her Scarface, Scar, Notch and Evander. Does she like art - Van Gogh is her idle?

It just amazes me that J had watched her walk and out and she didn't do anything that she saw. Josie had about 10 or 15 feet to get to me and she looked like hell. I checked her stall and the only thing I see that could have done it was a space in the wire she would have really have had to maneuver to get her ear there and there is no sign - hair, blood, etc. Can I get a CSI crew to figure it out?

So now we wait. She won't let me touch it. It looks really gross and she has a hunk sitting on her ear that I want to pull off.

Poor Mare.

Today isn't a good day . . .

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

2009-11-24T19:44:00.001-06:00

Made a trip to Fleet Farm. Picked up wormer and a couple of long underwear tops. I have been out of my black phase for a while now. I bought PINK! I can't believe it. Since the big BC I have taken to pink.

I am going to try lined jeans this year. I tried on several brands with different interiors but ended up with Dickies which had flannel. Of course they were the most expensive. Yes, I have broken down and bought more fat pants. Grrrrr! Dieting and exercising but just not hard enough. The walks come and go with the weather. I would still walk but feel bad if I leave the pups at home.

I purchased a huge turkey to fix. I think it should be thawed enough to cook on Friday.

Listening to the weather report I might be riding with snow flakes falling. I sure hope so. That is THE coolest thing.

I took the night off riding as I will be free for five days - oh yeah - FIVE DAYS!

I have a chance to road trip to Arkansas hmmmmm I have never been there. It would be quite the trip over a weekend hauling horses down and back. The pups are welcome. I just can't decide though. Mostly worried about the old body handling sitting for so long. I think CR said 37 hours. With Pix still in season and both of them cramped up for that long I would feel guilty. You would think I was raised Catholic - no harm meant. I will just keep pondering about it. Maybe sleeping on it will bring a decision.

My new addiction on FB are various farm games. FB was having a difficult time the other night - I lost all my neighbors but they returned the next day. These virtual pets are a lot cheaper to take care of.

Making life good . . .

Sunday, November 22, 2009

2009-11-22T22:17:00.001-06:00

Took a precious vacation day on Friday. The germaphobe I have become is still concerned about having enough days in case I get ill. I so love three day weekends.

I am impressed with how productive I have been on the home front. Things are finding their way to places that work best. Things that need to find a new home are relocating to bags and are just waiting for a donate call. Dust is making its way to . . . hmmmmm, I am thinking it recycles itself.

There was a few scary moments taking the huge 27" up the stairs. The dogs were smart enough to stay well out of the way. I am thinking it weighs 100 pounds. Being awkward doesn't help. Thank goodness for the wiggly, yet stable banister or I might have ended up at the bottom trapped under a huge TV.

Friday I had a very, very nice ride. I had promised the pups, Josie and myself a trail ride so I didn't want to disappoint. Both Josie and I needed a good cool down after all that cantering! We went by ourselves. I started out a little apprehensive but began singing to let hunters know we were coming and to let any deer that were hunkered down, ready to spring out the same. Oh, it was just lovely! Wyatt crossed the stream to our left and as the current brought him closer to us (me and Josie) he was swimming for all he was worth. The leaves were quiet, not the cacophony of sound like our last ride. I am pretty sure a deer bounded off with Pixie in hot pursuit - this may have been a result of my singing I am not sure. Pixie realized quickly she had met her match for speed and rejoined our peaceful stroll. With Josie's dinner time approaching we made our way back out of the woods.

This week I watched Marley and Me. Wyatt was watching quite a bit of the movie with me. They were both sympathetic when the ending came. It was a bit frustrating as the dvd had quite a few skips at this part but enough was left for me to cry like a big baby. Then the thoughts of my own pups mortality started creeping in. I kept telling myself, "You will do what you have to do and you will know when you have to do what you have to do", "You have loved and loss many times, you can do it again". Of course, this dredges up the most poignant of my pet losses and the tears stream down. If it weren't for my pets I don't know how I would have gotten through all these years. My four-legged family, the ones I can truly count on besides myself. Sometimes you get tired of being strong. Well, anyhoooo . . .

Saturday night Josie and I played soccer by ourselves - the pups were in attendance. Wyatt on Josie's heels as we trotted around. Pixie sniffing around the world's largest cat box. Wyatt taking breaks when he decided Pix had found something worth his time to investigate. I had been warned the horses were a l i t t l e w i l d today so I let Josie run around on her own. She sure is a nimble girl. I had the ball in the center of the arena and she'd head straight for it and then swerve off at the last second.

I cantered 20 meter circles in both directions and then decided to go large and go large we did. Cantering fools we were. Not sure if Josie enjoys it as much as I do. She is so easy to ride bareback but if she were to buck, truly buck I might be kissing the cat box!

For Sunday I hoped to have the arena alone but ended up with two lunging horses. The little miss doesn't like to share her arena so after a few minutes of going along the track not being able to circle to put her mind to work and off giving her game face, I made the call to go outside to the updoor. Even though it was cloudy it was a warm day. All was good until she heard the four-wheeler signaling hay is being set out for starving ponies. She kept trying to gawk and I kept keeping her busy. We even cantered both directions. The transitions down were not lovely but they did happen.

I am currently reading the new Stephen King book "The Dome" boy he sucks you into it right away. W hope your cute little porcupine doesn't meet the same fate as the one in the beginning of this book! I had just finished the Iliad and was going to start the Oddessy when this arrived in the post. I have three books of Charlaine Harris' True Blood, Sookie Stackhouse series waiting for me to pick up at work. I have a feeling my productivity is going to go south in a hurry. But you know what? The dirt and disorder will still be there waiting for me and I will have enjoyed myself immensely.

Life is good today!!

Monday, November 16, 2009

2009-11-16T19:40:00.001-06:00

Friday night I had the dirtiest horse ever! Josie rolled in the freshly plowed up paddock. Why when it is raining out would you want to roll in wet mud? With the arena empty I let her run around a bit to speed up the drying process. I spent more time cleaning her up than I did riding. I scraped off the mud and proceeded to blow dry her. She seems to like the blow dryer to the face. We have made a game out of it and she seems to tolerate her body being blown dry if we play.I will have to take a picture of her enjoying the warm air. It is pretty funny. I have to be careful that she doesn't take a hold of the dryer with her mouth. It seemed to take forever but I had an area dried up for the pad and saddle. Thank goodness it was already a dirty pad - even though it was my best jumping pad and it would be WHITE! I let the rest go and saddled her.

Mare was a superstar tonight. She settled quickly into work mode. Ever the pleaser she is. She really loves her jumping saddle. One of the boarders had put out ground poles so we walked through both directions and then trotted through. The first time trotting through I didn't keep her forward and we died going through. The second time through I counted as we went - keeps me breathing and gives us a beat to dance to. I thought she was going to jump the last two poles to make it through. We took a moment to establish a nice pace on the track and then came through perfectly.

Saturday I was bitten by the ambition bug. I cleaned out closets, organized, put away summer clothes, stuffed boxes in my attic. My To Do list shrank a bit. I now have another bag of stuff to donate. The dogs were most disgusted with me and thought life as they knew it was over until I started packing up to go to the barn. Happy dancing began and off we went for a much needed night of soccer. We hadn't played for about a month now. Jonesing for some soccer!

Josie was clean compared to the night before. I let her run around before mounting but she didn't do the yahoo bucking of the night before.

We had three players and the horses had already played before. We did a little warm up taking turns moving the ball around. Josie and I worked on a new maneuver - backing into the ball. Didn't work so well but she will come around to it. We pressed P and Rosie and got them to back off. I don't know who intimidated more with their game face - me or Josie. I wasn't able to bring the ball straight to the goals this time - WT_. Here I am thinking I have more control of the ball. Josie used her head again when we needed it. She just amazes me! It was really a lot of fun doing more of a scrimmage than waiting for other players to get their horse use to the ball.

Sunday went for an hour and a half walk with the pups. Wyatt had his nice little sweater on to start with. Pixie isn't a fan of clothes so I don't press the issue until it is needed. By the halfway mark I noticed Wy panting and removed his sweater. The walk was pretty uneventful. I thought oh, good the pups will be tired but then a squirrel made an appearance at they became most fresh again. The squirrel was very gutsy. If we weren't by the busy road I would have let them at him as he remained on the ground. Lucky for you today Mr. Squirrel.

After a little lunch - did I mention I am now eating like a rabbit? I am sick and tired of the increase in size. But shame on me I made some fried pork rice - mmmmmm - must ration portions. Must have portion control . . . oh but it is soooooooo delicious!

I did more cleaning up but still need to actually clean. I can leave messages to myself in the dust these days. I finished my tack inventory on Sunday. Now, I just need to update the document (it is on the list). The tack locker is nice and tidy, well, for now anyways. I moved the saddle rack from the kitchen to the second bedroom. My, but my kitchen is so spacious now. It will be huge once I remove the large plastic container.

Monday over at last. We did an hour walk today. Pix was marking every corner. Thinking she is finally coming into season. Now I just have to come up with some cash to get her spayed. I should probably find out just how much that is going to be.

Life is still good today.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

2009-11-08T21:45:00.007-06:00

Mare's forelock is slowly growing in . . .

I removed the case to prevent the vignette but then moved when I snapped this shot.

Typical Wyatt posturing (or lack there of) when the horses are making too much noise . . .

This is a weekend to keep close and remember when it is the coldest part of winter. Saturday was sunny and warm - 60 something. What a lovely day for a trail ride. I had ridden Josie last night pretty hard so I figured she would be good today but decided to ride Western instead of bareback. The horses have been a little fresh with this nice weather. One boarder suffered a broken hip and needed a partial hip replacement. I had been house sitting all week and had limited gear, as a result our ensemble was half and half.

I warmed Josie in the updoor. A set of riders went out and I could tell Josie wanted to go with. I told her we were scheduled to go on the next tour. I had told the pups we were going for a walk so they followed along smartly. I told them out when I went into the arena and usually I am listened to. I look back to see Wyatt following along at Josie's heels. I got him to leave but he kept coming into the arena. Pix stayed outside of it and rested. Hmmm role reversal?

The leaves covered the muddy areas and there were times we slipped a bit. The path was dense with leaves and as we walked through you couldn't hear anything with the swishing of legs through the dry leaves.

Turns out I was glad not to have gone on the first trail ride. We had returned to our barn, I was sitting on Josie when there was a clatter on the driveway. Josie and I were both startled and turned to look to see Frank running towards us - uh, oh sans rider. Turns out she was okay. Well, there is our two, things happen in three's so I am being very careful.

Sunday, I started outdoors but quickly moved in as she was very preoccupied and high. Twitching at leaves fluttering. Saddle breaking in is coming along nicely. It is starting to fit like a glove. Josie quickly settled when I brought her inside and she was seeking the bit and responding to half halts. I worked on off my weak left leg, doing transitions and spiraling in and out. We had some extremely nice canter work. I give on the inside rein and she finds room to go to. We finished with both of us out of breath and sweating like crazy.

The past two days I have been trying to get her to roll in the indoor - she will have none of that. So we walked and walked to cool off. Dinner was waiting and she was anxious to get to it so I cleaned her up as best as I could and let her at it. The pups and I milled around waiting for her to finish so I could get more of the sweat off her. I have a feeling next I see her she will be very dirty from mud rolling.

Must do chores tomorrow and then Tuesday we ride again. Is it Tuesday yet?

October 31, 2009

2009-10-31T20:08:00.000-05:00

We had our Fun Show today. What fun! Josie was very, let me call it, spunky. At one count there were 18 horses in our indoor. Warm up was interesting to say the least. I just wanted to get the girl moving. She had her game face on that's for sure. Went western for safety and comfort for both of us.

Egg and Spoon - held out pretty well until she wouldn't move off my left leg and kerplunk went our egg.

Water glass - This went much better but we weren't in the ribbons

Barrel Race - 31 seconds. Like I said she was spunky and bouncy today. We have been steadily decreasing our times on barrels and at this rate we will be in the 16's in a few years.

Obstacle Course - Woot Hoot! 5th Place!! Josie thought the tennis balls we had to pick up from the barrel and drop into a feed pan with sand in it were apples. As we get to the feed pan, she express interest, but I press her forward and then she had a dramatic pause when I dropped the "apple" topping, pressing forward we navigated the cones very smoothly. Backing went very well and then it was time to cross the "water" which was two poles with a blue tarp underneath. I thought for sure she was going to jump so I sat up but she stepped through. Mind you no one was able to warm up on any item. The bridge was no problem. The phase I was most concerned about was dismounting and picking each foot up. Most horses had left the arena and usually when I dismount she gets her rock candy treat. She stayed still and I went around as quick as I could. I would have liked to see the times to know how close we were.

I had to keep the pups crated so they were excited to be out. Can you blame them - horse people bring the best potluck items. There was much sniffing and vacuuming of the floors. I filled a plate and then got Josie treats and prepared her for her return to the paddock. I felt bad taking her away from her hay but I think I more than made up for it.

Hung out for a while and then went home to crash for a bit.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

2009-10-27T21:30:00.007-05:00

Here is a big for Josie's sake stepping onto the soap box now topic. As a lover of the beauty and power of horses, I am appalled by the Blue Tongue World Cup Eponatv YouTube video. How can a rider of any caliber ride a horse in hyperflexion for nine minutes. It was said he rode this way for a couple of hours but the video length was nine minutes. The horse's tongue was blue, protruding and hanging lifeless. The horse was tense and not ridden from back to front - what is the benefit. I am sure the horse was settled and listened to the aids after that, with every muscle trembling and thinking be good so he doesn't do that horrible thing to me again.

Here is the link. It wouldn't let me do it correctly so either this will work http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hIXGiV4N4k or try doing a find for Blue Tongue World cup.

I feel very strongly about this so I signed a petition in regards to Hyperflexion or Rollkur. Here is the link http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/antiHF/index.html

I added the following:

Please stop Hyperflexion or Rollkur! A lifeless blue tongue! How appalling not to mention you can see how upsetting this is for the horse. There is now way that to be ridden continuously in this position is not harmful. Think of how you would feel if you had to hold something up for an hour - you couldn't do it and would stop. Most horses only want to please. In this position they can't see, it is not natural for them to move this way. I hear only those experienced should perform this technique - NO ONE should. To see the eyes of these horses, spooking as the horse is scared by not being able to see and kicking out as the horse speaks in the only way they can. Will you not listen?

While they may be able to prevent it during warm-ups at competitions these people will still do it when training. You shouldn't do anything you wouldn't do if someone was watching. Well, that doesn't cover it as it is amazing what some will do even if someone is watching. I have said it before and I will say it again I am so glad I grew up when I did. It is getting hard to put up with all the political correctness, the entitled and the things people do to animals - shooting a horse grazing in a field because they were bored. PUHlease!

There is nothing that puts more joy in my heart as to call Josie and have her head swing up with nostrils fluttering and hearing her nicker to say "You are here! I am happy to see you". I can see how she is feeling in her eyes. They brighten when she is happy and can smolder in anger if she isn't pleased. Let me tell you I try to avoid being on the receiving end of that look.

Josie does everything she can to understand, and I likewise, especially given our language barrier. I listen as best as I can and speak softly. Do what I can to be consistent in all respects. I feel it is true harmony that I have with Josie. She trusts me to keep her safe and to ask what I know she is capable of. I think back over our time together and the progress we have made - simply amazing. We both have increased our strength and overcome our balance issues. The trust bond intensifies daily. I know I sound like a sap but I so love her. I wouldn't trade her for an Olympic champion. She is MY champion! Just like with the pups, I hope that I can be as good as they think I am.

I always look to myself, my position, etc. to see where I am at fault. Mare tries so hard. Soooooo anyhoo . . .

I didn't do my exercises before riding as I had planned. It was sunny with clear blue skies with no so bad a temperature either. I bolted for the barn after puppy care and loading up Coal with the necessary gear.

The pups and I followed along for chores. Wyatt didn't move out of the way of the 4-wheeler and I thought for sure he had a tire impression on his hiney. Thank goodness J is an excellent driver and I don't mean in the Rainman way.

I noticed Josie had wandered to the distant feeders and was prepared to pull out the mud boots. She looked up so I took a chance and called to her Jooooooooooooosie! Come on girrrrrrrrl! She started making her way avoiding mud and mean horses. Treats for you girly-girl.

Our ensemble today featured our Albion K2 saddle. Slowly but surely we are getting it broke in. I had planned to ride in two point and give Josie an easy day but traffic in the arena was a little dense. With her building winter coat even with the door open I knew we would both get sweaty. She very much wanted to canter tonight . . . your leg is back . . . and pop into a lovely canter . . . transition her back down and pop back into canter. My seat is nicely following this most expressive movements. Oh, Mare! No, not what I mean. I check that I am making my aids clear, she gets it correct. Go figure! When it was time to canter I try to make a point of exaggerating my leg so she knows this button means canter. My what lovely strides you have little Mare . . .

Life was really good today!

Monday, October 26, 2009

2009-10-25T21:45:00.003-05:00

Hmmmmm! I really need to step up as far as blogging. I now have seven, count them, seven followers! That is on FB. Here at Blogger.com I have three.

Got my pearly whites cleaned Thursday. Besides being finished my favorite part is the polishing. I like the sensation and the taste. I love the feeling of clean teeth afterwards. My tip is to take some Ibuprofen before hand.

I have been incessantly reading Charlaine Harris' books about Sookie Stackhouse. The True Blood series is based on these books. Sookie is a telepath living in a world where vampires have made themselves known and are incorporating into the world. She is constantly bringing in new characters and makes use of werewolves, shape shifters, fairies, witches, goblins, etc. I really like her writing style. Sookie is an awesome character. I hope she makes it through the next books. She has taken quite a few beatings and has been very near death. Bill her first love is a vampire. No spoiler alert - I don't want to give anything away in case you begin reading this serious which I highly recommend.

Last night without a book to read I watched "Enchanted". What a cute movie. Love the chipmunk. True love's kiss - mmmmmmm dreamy.

Instead of soccer we all went to Pizza Ranch. I know, I know with trying to diet and exercise PR isn't a good idea. Man! Can I put away food from a buffet. I amaze and delight my friends. I can proudly say I went home and exercised and then again in the morning. You must pay my hungry friend, you must pay.

In efforts to save time and trying to diet/eat healthy, I made several chicken breasts on the grill and froze them. Great for salads, sandwiches or eating just as they are. I am avoiding eating out again and making good lunches to stick to it. I need to be good more than bad - I usually say, "You have to be bad sometimes to be good" and there has been more bad than good for quite a while.

Sunday I had to wait a bit to ride. We were going to try for soccer but it was too busy. The Mare was a little happier today. Not brushing mud off every where has improved her ground manners. I lunged her first since I hadn't ridden since Thursday. She was a little yahooey but not insane bucking crazy. Thus I didn't have any qualms about hopping up bareback padding it. We warmed up or should I say I warmed up with a little walk and then trot. She is really getting it these days. I am pleased with Mare. I got her to roll right into a canter, correct lead in both directions. The other day we had an issue getting the correct lead on the right canter. Not sure but think it is me as usual. I try, Mare, I try!

Amazingly enough her bell boots have been staying on in this deep mud. Around the feeders it is like soup. I am most fortunate when she has remained on this side or comes when I call. I have only had to put on the tall rubber boots twice. I sure hope I am not jinxing myself.

The pups have been very squirrely. Game on takes a different meaning with them. Much snuffling and zig zagging following the scent of this or that creature. They both need baths very badly but I just haven't had the time. Must make the time though, sleeping with them under the flannels can be a bit odorous (them not me). We have been increasing our walking distance. It is hard to find different ways to go when you have only so many outlets.

I have decided not to enter the costume class at the fun show. I may change my mind but doubt it. It will be fun to watch and I will get to vote.

Looking forward to a great ride Tuesday night. That is after I exercise!

Ahhhh but life is good today . . .

Thursday, October 22, 2009

2009-10-23T10:52:00.003-05:00

Ready for snow now. My winter paddock boots arrived right on time. With the early snow I have more Christmas presents on order. With Smartpack I took advantage of the Barn Buddie shipping discount and my AQHA five percent off. Every little bit helps. So many folks to buy for these days. I need to sit down and do some card creating to supplement my gifts.

It appears that fall makes Josie crabby and really excites the JRT's. Josie is not happy when being groomed and saddled lately. I think it has to do with her coat coming in. She has never been a big fan of having mud removed either. I have accepted this and try to do minimal grooming. Don't want to upset Mare. She can be vindictive as proven when someone tried to show me how to get her to stop biting and when they finished she bit them. So besides having a time of the month, she also has a time of the year except this one lasts for four months. Joy, oh, joy! (Immense sarcasm here).

Josie reminds of Tilly and Strawberry at times. Wyatt reminds me of Little Man from my farm days. Pixie I have no comparison for. She is her own unique self.

I had a great ride on Tuesday night and decided to take Thursday night off from riding and play with the pups. Earlier in the week Pix had located a vole nest. I wasn't sure if she got full size or what but it was soon revealed later during our walk she had gotten three babies. I have stayed off and out of our hunting grounds to ensure we have some winter fun. I hope it works.

Monday, October 19, 2009

2009-10-19T20:46:00.003-05:00

I like how the Blackberry cover is putting a vignette on these pictures.

Josie still looking like the little kid that gave herself a hair cut. The devil horns are not as prominent now.

Josie girl requesting a treat.

I am at the 444 magic number for AQHA Riding incentive program. I have been racking up the hours by trail riding.