tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69486345767873637782024-03-05T11:55:19.602-05:00WITHERUN FarmEquestrian news, semi-serious commentary, and humor from the perpetual weenie rider, owner, and aspirational barn biddie of Witherun Farm.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-23851891225738793872014-07-09T14:03:00.002-04:002014-07-09T14:03:19.180-04:00The Transition from Horse Owner to Barn Owner<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Rico is home where he belongs, and my world is back on its axis. Inky did not return but he's only 10 minutes away, I get daily updates from my daughter, and I can visit him if I really need an Inkster fix.<br />
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Meanwhile, we've taken in a retired mare to keep Rico company, so I'm in the process of making the transition from a horse owner to a barn owner with the daily responsibility for another person's much loved animal who arrived as a complete stranger to both Rico and I. Fortunately for me, she's a healthy, well trained, sweet horse with wonderful, easy owners.<br />
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It's an enlightening journey. Every decision made has to be carefully weighed not only for what I feel is correct, but to also provide reassurance to both myself and the mare's actual owner that she is getting the best care possible in the environment that her owners have carefully chosen for her. So far, I've only had a few moments of panic. <br />
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So I want to take this moment to introduce Rico's new companion - Felicity. She's the bay. It's really hard to get a photo of either of them alone - they're like high school sweethearts, including the occasional, overly emotional disagreements!<br />
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Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-66119901306220422952013-12-02T18:46:00.003-05:002013-12-02T19:01:45.188-05:00Empty Barns and Rudderless Ships<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">The barn is empty, sort of. It is still inhabited by our faithful barn cats, my ancient and faithful Tahoe, and around 175 bales of hay. But Rico and Inky have moved for the duration to our trainer's lovely new facility, complete with indoor arena for trouble free winter riding. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm feeling very much like a ship without sails or rudder to give me direction. My morning routine of feeding, stall cleaning, pasture maintenance, etc., has been replaced with a quick trip to someone else's barn, where I can visit my horse, take a quick ride, throw some hay, and then leave. The soft nicker that greeted me upon opening my back door for the past 8 years has been replaced by screams for the barn owner who now feeds him and turns him out with his new herd. I am only the person who comes every day, gives him a little hay, and makes him WORK, so obviously not his favorite.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I do not know if Inky will ever return. For all his quirks, I love him, and will miss him if he does not, but his girl likes the freedom of leaving the day to day care to someone else, and the ability to ride year round. I sent Rico along to give her time to adjust to the realities of boarding, both financially and emotionally, and to delay the finality of replacing Inky so that he could return if boarding does not work out for them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But barring a complete turn around in my personality, injury, illness or death, I have decided that Rico WILL be coming home in the spring I'm one of those bizarre creatures, called a horsewoman, who loves the daily routine of cleaning stalls, pasture maintenance, and just being able to walk out the back door at night to listen to the sound of munching hay. Caring for Rico is the rudder that keeps me on course.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I will spend my winter dreaming of spring. At least I'm riding more. And when I get really depressed, I remind myself that I may be horse shopping in the spring! Or sooner.</span></div>
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Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-732621396700336632012-12-12T21:57:00.001-05:002012-12-12T21:57:38.563-05:00Tribute to an Incredible Horsewoman<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">We lost a special horsewoman to cancer today. Kim H. was not a glamorous or famous woman. She did not win the Medal Finals or go to the Olympics. In the years I knew her, I never saw her ride. She was just a hard working barn manager at the local hunter jumper barn where I take lessons. A woman who knew every horse in that barn like it was her own child, could tell you which horse was "not quite right", which one needed bute, bandaging, soaking, worming. She nursed them tirelessly and well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">She was a strong woman, with a strong personality, and wasn't shy about giving her opinion of a horse or a person. A wicked sense of humor that some people didn't 'get', but I loved, and I count myself as blessed to have been a person that she seemed to like, because when it came to her horses, her standards were high. A lot of really good riders didn't make the cut with her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">She was a loyal friend, a good caretaker of her animals, and a force to be rekoned with if you didn't treat your horse right. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Godspeed Kim. You will be sorely missed by those you leave behind, but I know there are a lot of very happy horses that have gone on before us running to greet you at the Rainbow Bridge.</span></div>
Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-6074473687045441982012-10-15T17:37:00.000-04:002012-10-15T17:37:10.535-04:00Nostalgia on Life as a Barn Rat<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">My daughter is riding for our trainer's adult equestrian team. For some bizarre reason (maybe just token politeness, LOL) I've been asked to join several times, but can't change my schedule to make it to practices, so I'm not able to participate. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Their first meet was yesterday. I did my booster duty, enjoyed being a spectator and cheering for the team. It was a beautiful day, and I think everyone had a great time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And inside I was was so envious of the riders it hurt. I miss the camaraderie and the friendships of riding with a group. With my schedule, I can only fit in a private lesson early in the morning. I miss those group lessons with other adults. I miss the different feedback you get from both students and instructors in a group lesson. I miss being the barn staple that was always there to help the beginners find their way around and tack up their horses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For some, riding is a end in of itself. For me, it was a chance to bond with other horse lovers. To nurture the beginners, and celebrate with my barn mates when someone had a good show or a great ride. To mourn when a much loved friend went over the bridge. To pitch in for a barn cleanup, and lend a helping hand when needed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I keep my horses at home, and love it. But sometimes, I just really miss being a barn rat in a barn full of other barn rats. </span><br />
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Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-29491334771166134392012-10-01T12:27:00.001-04:002012-10-01T12:27:13.786-04:00Accepting Setbacks Gracefully<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">The weather is perfect for riding. Rico and I have been getting along beautifully. My confidence has grown in direct porportion to my strength and balance in the saddle with thanks to my trainer and a wonderful mare named Ladybug. After my last ride on Rico, I promised myself that we would canter the next weekend. I'm not totally stupid - it has to wait for the weekend so that someone is home to call the paramedics. :D</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: large;">Alas, it was not to be. Monday morning I found my boy with an eye swollen shut. I was fortunate enough to be able to get the vet out within the hour. Diagnosis is a scratched cornea, prognosis is good if I can get ointment into his eye for several days and the swelling doesn't come back after stopping the ointment. Stopped the ointment on Friday and hooray, his eye looks good, but in my usual overprotective manner, I decided to give him a few more days before riding him. So - no weekend canter joy for us!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: large;">My graceful way of accepting this minor setback was to take myself off to the Capital Challenge horseshow Saturday and treat myself to a new Devocoux close contact saddle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: large;">Retirement will have to wait another 6 months I guess. :D</span><br />
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Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-8013462194781724922012-08-12T21:54:00.002-04:002012-08-13T11:51:14.077-04:00I Think the Goat Won This Round<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Its been an eventful weekend. As they've eaten down almost all of their fenced in area, things have certainly gotten interesting. I'm glad I've read so much on COTH about goats! Yesterday was jsut te beginning. One goat decided she really liked getting her head stuck in the fence. 6 times in 2 days. And she wasn't very cooperative with our efforts to free her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This morning as I went back to feed the horses, I found the gate between their pasture and the goats was wide open. I'm sure I sprouted several new gray hairs when I saw that open gate and couldn't see the goats until I got down to the fence. Amazingly, all the goats were still where they belonged, down in one corner of the woods. Horses were up by the barn but there was clear evidence that they'd been down in the woods 'visiting'. Owners came out this morning and said they'll probably move the fencing tomorrow or Tuesday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then, around 5:30 I go out the throw the horses some hay - goats are all yelling down in the woods - and I notice a bunch of them are on the WRONG side of the fence. Total 3 ring circus trying to round them up and get them back where they belong. A few of them made the mistake of going into the horse's paddock and Inky literally tried to kill them. I now realize that we have a very nasty, territorial horse with other animals. I guess we won't be getting any goats as horse companions. Get everyone safely back where they belong, reinforce fence, call goat owners to let them know what's up and reassure them all goats are accounted for and safe. (Where IS that sweating bullets icon?)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Owners come back out, say yup, they've run out of fun things to eat and are ready to start getting into trouble, so we decide to drop a few small trees to keep them occuped. 2 husbands, and 3 teenage boys playing Paul Bunyon while Cindy and I watch laughing our heads off and enjoy the spectacle of boys AND men being boys. I sure was missing my video camera!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Dumb and dumber are locked in their stalls tonight just to be on the safe side.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And of course, I now have poison ivy.</span></div>
Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-89841134416011115962012-08-10T13:18:00.000-04:002012-08-10T13:33:21.986-04:00Land Clearing the Green Way.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll admit to being something of a closet hippie amd am a firm believer in Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. I try very hard to keep the environment in mind in my daily life and am very conscious of the fact that the earth has a finite amount of natural resources. I compost. I don't dump 1/2 full water glasses or old water bowls from the pets down the drain, I dump them in my plants instead. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">I desperately wanted to get the 'back 40' cleaned up and usable. Its almost an acre of land that is a wasteland of downed trees, deadfall, poison ivy, briars, and weeds. We tried several years ago to have a contractor clean it up, but the results were short lived for the expense and aggravation of having the heavy machinery brought in.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">Then I learned about goats! Amazingly, Dave agreed it was a great idea. We found a local farmer who rents their herd of goats for land clearing. They put up the fencing and check on the goats daily. We get the weeds and undergrowth knocked back so that we can get in there and clean up without having to wear armour. We put money back into our local agricultural economy. The goats are fun and entertaining, eating to their hearts content, and our land is cleared without heavy machinery. Although the horses took a little bit to accept that they weren't the dreaded 'horse eating goats' eventually they also decided that they're kinda cool.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all, a win/win, I think. </span><span style="font-size: large;">And did I mention how cute and entertaining they are! </span><br />
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</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-78556656491312706472012-07-09T16:00:00.002-04:002012-07-09T16:00:49.263-04:00Finally - Weather Relief & A Healthy Horse<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">The ridiculous heat wave of the past few weeks has finally broken and I might finally be able to ride Rico again tomorrow. 90+ and even triple digit temps combined with a stable cough have made riding him the past few weeks an idea that was quickly dismissed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, I baby my horse. But really, its not like we're training for the Olympics. </span><span style="font-size: large;">But the weather has broken, and the vet has given him a clean bill of health, so tomorrow morning its go time, and I am so looking forward to being on my boy again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Unless, of course, its raining.</span> <br />
</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-67703433899048457072012-07-02T18:21:00.001-04:002012-07-02T18:23:59.648-04:00We Finally Hung the Sign!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Since the man was adamantly opposed to hanging the sign on the mailbox (he still insists were NOT a farm), the sign is now proudly displayed on the barn between the loft access door and the peak of the roof.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was quite a comical scene of me, my parents, and my uncle (all in their late 70's) trying to figure out the best way to hang the sign as well as manipulate a 20' ladder to get it up there! I'll post pics tonight!</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-48152132782915662822012-03-13T13:58:00.003-04:002012-03-13T13:58:22.175-04:00Witherun Farm in Pictures<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/76077084@N02/sets/72157629577715013/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/76077084@N02/sets/72157629577715013/</a></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-83430043008709364872012-03-12T13:15:00.000-04:002012-03-12T13:15:59.023-04:00Spook, Buck, Bolt, Crash! NOT This Time!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">The weenie rider is slowly growing into her big girl panties! The woman who was afraid to canter a year ago sat through one of Rico's classic *spook*buck*bolt* episodes without losing her seat, courage, or balance. Then put him right back to work. I don't know who was more shocked that it didn't work for him this time, me or him! </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Those brutally challenging Thursday morning lessons are getting the job done. Thank you Catherine for knowing exactly when and how to push me out of my comfort zone.</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-26265342950090145462012-03-08T13:42:00.004-05:002012-03-08T13:47:33.541-05:00A Program Worth Supporting<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://worktoride.net/"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">http://worktoride.net/</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is something I've always dreamed of doing. Using the power of horses to change young lives! Thank you Lezlie Hiner for your hard work and dedication!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And yes, I did put my money where my mouth is in the name of the horseman who generously gave me my start at the age of 11.</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-31760714394934066772012-03-05T18:16:00.000-05:002012-03-05T18:17:35.749-05:00Am I Torturing My Horse?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Inky left for equine boot camp on Saturday. The plan is to let our trainers have a go at him for a month, two if necessary. We discussed various alternatives for Rico, but in the end, our only option was to leave him at home alone. We were hoping our trainer would send us one of her inactive horses, but that did not happen. I've been unable to find a suitable temporary boarding situation for him. I can call around and 'borrow' a horse to keep him company, but this would probably just result in a rough transition for both Rico and the borrowed horse, who would possibly have to be returned almost as soon as it settles into a new environment and routine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Most of my readers are horse people, so you know that 'alone' is not a happy thing for a horse. I tell myself its only a month, and so far, he seems to be doing OK, although he is displaying signs of loneliness. At least he's in a familiar place where he feels safe and knows the routine. We'll know in a few weeks if Inky needs to stay longer, and if so, I'll start calling around to see if I can borrow a companion for him for the next 6 weeks. </span><span style="font-size: large;">But I feel horribly guilty. Should I try harder to either find him a temporary boarding spot where he'll have equine companions, or borrow a horse now? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please weigh in, gentle readers. Am I torturing him needlessly? </span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-21550173561202175892012-03-02T19:27:00.002-05:002012-03-02T19:27:21.962-05:00Chardon - I Didn't Want to Think About it, But I Must<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">I posted this on a thread on COTH today. I did not want to think about this, as its become such a horrifying trend, but I guess it bears repeating simply because the subject is so serious. So please forgive me for being redundant, and also for preaching, but this is something that bears thought by everyone old enough to read and think about it.</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"The truth of the matter is that teens emotions are deeper and more extreme than many people are willing to accept, and the vicious partisianship, rhetoric, and rancour being set today in public life by our politicians, pubic figures, and press are contributing to the emotional upheaval that is pushing them to turn on each other, and even themselves, in unspeakably vicious and violent ways.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today's teens are surrounded by viciousness and violence. From video games to political elections, they are bombarded constantly with the concept that he who can intimidate his foe, get the last word, the last shot, or the last dime, is the winner. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If public figures and parents can't show self restraint and respect for others themselves, how can we expect these overly emotional, vulnerable kids, to not give in to that combination of an overwhelming sense of anger and helplessness that leads them to take desperate actions. Every kid in that school now has to live with the loss of someone they knew, the realization that it can happen to anyone, anytime, and the nagging question of 'did I somehow contribute to this problem?'. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When in reality, its not the kids who caused this problem, its the example the adults have set for them."</span></div>
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</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-69965072829022839422012-03-02T17:21:00.000-05:002012-03-02T17:52:48.659-05:00I Want to be a Barn Biddie!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">For some reason, this thread is first trainwreck that I actually took an active part in contributing to the pile on. I don't really know why this got me so riled up. I'm really not a person who cares what other people think. (To a fault.) Maybe the fact that I'm a middle aged woman who dotes on her horse but has no serious riding goals is the reason I was annoyed at having the whole demographic dismissed as a subject of ridicule. Not because the shoe fits, but because it is so easy to create the stereotype that all middle aged women with the means and time to hang out together and dote on their horses without having serious goals are troublemaking biddies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?t=343649"><strong>http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?t=343649</strong></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I've decided that I aspire to be a barn biddie. I can think of nothing more blissful than the idea that I would actually have enough time to hang out at the barn with my friends or spend so much time riding with them that I could actually be in someone else's way! Please God, will you someday give me the time to be a barn biddie? I promise to be the biddiest of them all if you grant me this wish.</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-13457320924240712992012-03-02T16:58:00.001-05:002012-03-02T16:58:17.487-05:00Why Am I Stressing? He's NOT My Horse!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Inky officially belongs to my daughter. Tomorrow will be the first time in 3 years that he will be separated from Rico for more than a few hours. He is going to the equine equivialent of boot camp, our trainer's very busy hunter jumper barn. For a month, maybe two.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Why am I totally stressing out. He will be in good hands, our trainer is the most knowledgable horsewomen I've ever known. Her horses are all sane, fat, and shiny, even the ones that come to her skinny, dirty and neglected. Its only a month and </span><span style="font-size: large;">he's NOT my horse! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Its the overprotective tigress mom thing all over again. Does anyone else have this problem?</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-77287791209013326342012-03-01T16:04:00.002-05:002012-03-02T16:40:03.629-05:00Am I Actually a Mare Person<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm beginning to wonder. I love geldings. I have geldings. I love their goofy personalities. But I am always put on the mares at my trainers barn and I seem to do really well on them. Much better than I do on my own geldings. Is it just that they're school horses, or am I actually a 'mare person' without realizing it. It just seem that I have always ridden better on mares.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Are mares really a 'different' ride than geldings?</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-24472388396391578942012-02-28T16:54:00.000-05:002012-02-28T17:45:58.129-05:00Horse 2, Fence 0<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">I am beginning to wonder if Inky just has a deep rooted hatred of fences. I've never had a broken board until he arrived on the scene. But I have to say that Sunday morning he really earned his honor badge in fence destruction. At least he has enough sense to stay off the perimiter fencing.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">His $89 turnout sheet has also gained my admiration for its fortitude. Not even a snag. I have no hesitation at all in recommending the Tack of the Day 1200D turnout!</span><br />
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</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-63975066192851286872012-02-23T13:56:00.004-05:002012-02-23T14:17:20.234-05:00A Good Lesson is Priceless!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">I both love and dread Thursdays. Thursday is lesson day at my trainer's barn. At 7:30 A.M. I love my trainer, I love my lessons. But I am NOT a morning person, and dread getting up at 0 dark hundred (6 AM), throwing feed at Rico and Inky, and then schlepping up to the barn. A more motivated person would be up at 5 AM and putting their own horse on the trailer for the lesson, but I am *just*not*worthy* of the title 'motivated rider'. Especially in winter.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was late arriving because of a flat tire, rushed tacking up the delightful Ladybug, who was full of enough piss and vinegar to show me teeth and a back hoof that required a sharp reprimand. We even had a little squealing contest with the pony in the ring at the in gate. The kind of start that would give anyone a slightly dim outlook on what was next. Add to that the fact that I hadn't ridden the week before due to flu, and I was sure today's lesson would be a struggle both physically and mentally.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Au contraire! As soon as pony menace was out of the ring and miss Ladybug and I were at the mounting block, it was like she suddenly decided there was no where else she wanted to be but in that lesson. For the very first time ever, she stood like a rock at the mounting block. She even waited like a perfect lady for me to get my feet in the stirrups. And it only got better from there. For some reason, I actually felt strong and balanced. I was actually able to control my leg and upper body. This mare, who is generally difficult to keep on the rail moved straight and forward today. I was even able to get her into the corners at the canter! Did she somehow understand that I needed at least *one* thng to go right today? I think she did. It was the kind of lesson that reminds me why I get up at 6 AM, and do a commute I hate to a job I only tolerate so that I can afford my horses. And why I think these animals are the most loving, generous, and beautiful creatures on earth. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><strong></strong></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><strong>Because a good ride on an otherwise crappy day, is pricesless!</strong></span></div>
</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-31220628304132601232012-02-14T18:12:00.000-05:002012-02-23T14:10:18.971-05:00Winter blues and decisions for spring<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">The winter blah's have taken hold. Its not the cold, but the lack of sunshine, I think, because we've actually had a wonderfully mild winter. But my wonderful routine of riding in the morning before work has been destroyed by the incessant voice in my head that insists that cold weather and 7AM sunrises make riding no fun. So following the path of least resistance, I give in to the 'rack monster' and stay in bed until its too late to cram both morning chores and a ride into the time allowed before I have to leave for work.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But spring is around the corner, testified by my friend Leann's daily facebook count down to spring posts! And Inky will be going to our trainer for March, leaving Rico without an equine companion. I do have options. He can stay home alone for a month, which is a sad situation for my Mr. Herdbound Socialite, I can take in a short term companion who will hopefully enjoy being spoiled rotten for a month instead of traumatized because its in a strange new environment, or I can send Rico somewhere with an indoor for riding or training for a month. I did call a local trainer. It would be nice to have someone re-install his work ethic and trot rhythm again.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The problem is, I am NOT good boarder material. In fact, I'll truthfully admit that I'm a control freak. After 15 years of the daily responsibilities for my horses, knowing all their little idiosyncrasies, and doing things 'my way', I am just not able to relax and enjoy letting someone else do it. Its not that I don't trust others, or even that I think that my way is the 'only way'. I just think my poor little delicate flower will have a total meltdown and just wither away because his human caretaker isn't around to interpret, explain, and cater to his every little whim and idiosyncrasy. My brain knows that the change would probably make him a better, or at least more adaptable horse. My 'maternal instinct' insists that only I know what he needs.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I guess its just simply that I need something to mother, now that my daughter is all grown up and doesn't need me. Life would be so much easier if I did not have the maternal instincts of a tiger.</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-15479688411305685342012-02-08T16:45:00.004-05:002012-02-23T14:10:35.000-05:00Creating Witherun Farm<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">So yes, I am officially out of control. After consultation with my virtual friends, I decided to finally officially name the farm. Then of course I had to have a sign. Now the blog.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But really, the farm is the fulfillment of childhood dreams, thoroughbreds, white fencing, and all.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, the plan is to paint the fencing black. And my thoroughbreds' racing days are over. In fact, Rico actually prefers that his working days are over as well, but we're negotiating.</span></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-42803898846001421512007-12-06T12:37:00.001-05:002012-02-08T16:50:36.750-05:00What Parents Should Teach Every Child (and Each Other)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong>1. All Life is Precious.</strong> This includes all God's creatures and the unborn. Random death and violence, even if fictitious, should be disturbing and horrifying, not entertaining.<br />
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<strong>2. Human Dignity Is NOT Optional. </strong>Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, especially the old, the handicapped, the poor, and the unattractive. <br />
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<strong>3. Evil Triumphs When Good Men Do Nothing.</strong> Stand up for what you know to be right, whether it is popular or not. If you see someone being mistreated, intervene for them. Don't be afraid to get involved.<br />
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<strong>4. Respect the Earth and Conserve It's Resources. </strong>Reduce, reuse, recycle. Don't leave your trash for someone else to clean up. Don't waste water, paper, electricity, or fuel. If we waste our resources now, wars will be fought over what little is left.<br />
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<strong>5. Live Within Your Means. </strong>Some of the happiest people on earth are those who live simply. Save for the things you want, the sacrifice made for them will make them all the more precious to you. Keeping up with the Joneses will only make you a slave to your appetite for 'more, bigger, better.' Remember, even if you catch up with one Jones family, another will come along to raise the bar.<br />
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<strong>6. Work Hard, but Don't Live to Work.</strong> Give an honest day's work for an honest day's pay. There is nothing wrong with ambition, but don't sacrifice your integrity, sanity, or loved ones in the pursuit.<br />
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<strong>7. Live in the Present, Plan for the Future, Leave the Past Behind.</strong> Create your happiness in the here and now, but set goals and dreams for the future. View past mistakes as lessons learned, leave them in the past where they belong. You're character is what you are today, not what you were yesterday.<br />
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<strong>8. Live With Integrity.</strong> Never <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">compromise</span> your knowledge of right and wrong. Teach it. Live it. What is right is not always what is easy, but the more you practice it, the easier it becomes.<br />
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<strong>9. Be Kind to Yourself and Others. </strong>Practice compassion. Forgive yourself for mistakes. Forgive others for mistakes. No one is perfect and no one should expect perfection. Learn the difference between mistakes made from ignorance and bad behaviour by choice. And learn to admit and correct mistakes when they are made. Also remember that a kind word or smile may bring someone up from the depths of despair, and a cruel one can push someone over the edge. <br />
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<strong>10. Argue With an Open Mind</strong>. If your ideas and opinions are in conflict with another... ask questions. Learn why they feel the way they do. Name calling and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">stubbornness</span> only perpetuate misunderstandings and your own ignorance.<br />
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<strong>11. Take Care of Your Health</strong>. Teach your child the importance of eating a healthy diet and getting the right amount of exercise. Set an example by making healthy choices for yourself and your family. Cook healthy meals, keep junk food consumption in moderation, and exercise with them by taking walks, playing catch, skating together, bicycling, whatever. Not only will your family be healtheir, they'll benefit from the quality time together.<br />
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<strong>12. Have a Sense of Humor.</strong> Don't take yourself too seriously. Laughter truly is the best medicine. Don't be afraid to laugh at yourself, it will make your days brighter.<br />
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<strong>13. Live Honestly, Love Passionately, Learn Humbly.</strong></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-1122480607713465132007-11-28T11:17:00.001-05:002012-02-08T14:46:25.729-05:005 Simple Things that Make a Life of Joy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><strong>1. Cultivate Kindness.</strong> Tell the tired <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wal</span> Mart cashier how much you appreciate her hard work. She may be the slowest one in the store today, but a kind word is a great <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">motivator</span>. Yes you've been in line forever, and everyone around you is grumpy and impatient. Don't get caught up in the negativity. Make it your challenge to help them put things in perspective. Be pleasant. Be patient. Smile and start some pleasant small talk. After all, isn't your presence in the store a contributing factor to the crowds and long lines? Cheerfulness and kindness will make the wait seem much shorter than complaining and unpleasantness.<br />
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<strong>2. Take Responsibility.</strong> If you drop something, pick it up. If you make a mess in the microwave, clean it up. Go a step further. If you see a small task that needs to be done, be a grownup and do it. Even if its not your mess in the company microwave. I'm not saying we should all be martyrs, but if more people would actually have a mature attitude about doing the little things, then there would be fewer 'big' things that need to be done.<br />
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<strong>3. Old Fashioned Manners.</strong> The reason for them is simple... it makes living shoulder to shoulder and cheek to cheek bearable for us all. When our day to day encounters are pleasant and easy, anxiety, aggression, and stress levels are magically reduced. Polite driving keeps traffic moving smoothly. Holding doors keeps foot traffic moving smoothly. Teach your adolescents and teens to stand so that the elderly and infirm can sit. It builds character! Remember that rudeness is an indictment of the person who practices it, not the recipient.<br />
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<strong>4. Talk About What's Important.</strong> Too many children today are growing up in a 'values vacuum.' How many of us discuss the importance of honesty, integrity, and compassion. We run them from activity to activity so that they will be well-rounded, well-adjusted individuals, but forget to teach them that 'teamwork' goes beyond the sports <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">arena</span>. We cultivate their educations, their self-esteem, and even encourage them to be generous to charities and the needy. But we also need to remind ourselves and them daily that we are all responsible for making our day to day encounters with friends, family, co-workers, salespeople, and co-commuters as pleasant and enjoyable as they can.<br />
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<strong>5. Remind Yourself That You are NOT More Important Than Everyone Else. </strong>In my mind, this is the number one cause of all unpleasant interactions between people. We all have deadlines and demands on our time, and we are all coping as best we can. That does not give us a right to insist that our issues take priority over another. When we allow negative attitudes and actions to determine our behaviour, we only add to our own stress and everyone elses'. It becomes a vicious circle of stress, anxiety, and aggression. Break the cycle by forcing yourself to think of the positive effect of a smile and kind word versus impatience and rudeness.</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948634576787363778.post-10715021483581221472007-11-21T14:34:00.000-05:002007-12-06T11:07:50.276-05:00What's Missing in Today's SocietyHow many of you have seen this.... a crowded bus or metro train... teenagers sprawled all over the seats. An elderly or disabled person struggles to get on the train and there are no available seats. Its <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">obvious</span> to anyone watching that they are in distress. But does anyone move, or offer their seat. Sometimes, yes. But rarely is that generous person under the age of 45.<br /><br />Yes... this infuriates me! Who are the parents of these kids? They are probably the same parents who insisted that the toddler say please when asking for a cookie, but then didn't bother to teach the rest of those lessons. Holding doors. Standing for a lady. Shaking hands when introduced. All the little things that make life a little more pleasant for everyone we come into contact with. They are probably the same parents who cheat in HOV lanes, rush to fill that empty spot in front of them so another vehicle can't, run red lights, tailgate, and leave their exploded food all over the microwave in their office.<br /><br />My feelings on this subject may seem a bit extreme to some... but take a good look around you and you may see my point.<br /><br />Civilized behaviour isn't just about saying please and thank you, or even about turning your cell phone off in a movie theatre. It's acknowledging that we should all <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">feel</span> responsible for each other's feelings, comfort, and happiness. When we are trained to think of the effect of our behaviour on others, we make the world a better place, set responsible examples for our children, and, hopefully, make ourselves happier and less stressed on a daily basis. When we inconvenience ourselves in small ways in consideration of another person, the rewards are far greater than whatever <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">avoiding</span> that inconvenience would have been. Yes, I had to stand for 10 minutes so another could sit. Big deal. It felt good to be nice, and it made that little old man feel special. Definitely a greater reward than 10 minutes on my butt would have been.<br /><br />As a parent, I've tried to teach my kids that we're all in this together. That it's their responsibility to look after the people they come in contact with on a daily basis, no matter how casually. I'll admit to having more success with my son than my daughter, due most likely to their entirely different dispositions, but I never give up trying. And frankly, even my daughter exhibits a level of maturity and manners that far exceeds the average teenager, thankfully. The most important thing to me is to talk to them about having civilized values, and to set a good example. Not to just lecture them, or remotely say "what do you say...." when they ask for a cookie. True manners come from making conscious choices, not from saying please and thank you out of habit.<br /><br />For all of you out there who are confused and bewildered by the rudeness, aggression, and unpleasantness of your daily contact with 'society', think about what you are teaching your own children. What example you are setting for your co-workers, other drivers on the road, and, most importantly, your family.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18110880049147134268noreply@blogger.com2