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SWAP
FEED FUND
MAKE CREDIT CARD DONATIONS TO THE SWAP FEED FUND... CALL
FOSTER FEEDS AT 304-269-1333, TALK TO CHARLIE TO GIVE A DONATION TO THE SECOND
WIND ADOPTION PROGRAM FEED FUND, WE GO THROUGH 6 TONS OF FEED A MONTH. YOU CAN
ALSO PAY FOR ADOPTIONS AND PURCHASES THIS WAY!!
monthly counters started on February 13, 2010 for the website, because this is a
free counter, it will only show about a 1/4 of our total numbers, so its
not an accurate depiction of all of our visitors, just gives an idea about all
the people that visit our site. We do love our international visitors. Welcome!
Visitors By Country
Top 100 Visitors
Last 100 Visitors
Visitors Map
Daily Stats
Congrats to our President for the nomination and eventual induction to the
ROTC Hall of Fame at West Virginia State University, nominated by the former VP
of the University, the induction will take place at the Embassy Suites in
Charleston, WV October 14, 2010. A former military school, rich in a history of
national defense has only inducted just over 100 military retirees to its Hall
of Fame, many of them general officers. Congratulations on this huge honor.
Stay up with our President/Executive Director, all the
directors, volunteers and riders. All the CSS/SWAP supporters and adopters are
having a big time sharing stories, pictures, lots of good stuff about their
horses. Our President is at her max friends so she is full but we are going to
set up a fan based page so everyone can be added. So sorry to the 200 + people
who have asked for a friendship.... we'll get our fan page up soon.
Benefit Wines is a unique online retail wine shop that partners with
non-profit organizations to raise funds. Every charity partner has their
own unique wine label. Supporters enjoy fine, organic wines while
supporting their favorite cause. Cheers!
Raise $1000. for Second Wind
Adoption Program and have a 1 in 70 chance at a 15 carat Ruby/Diamond
Ring! ... mail donations to Rt. 2 Box 24A Jockey Camp Road, West Union,
WV 26456
The Wish List of Our Needs:
More than anything we need a large donation to help us pay off our farm, we just
owe 70k. With a farm paid for, we will never worry about the program and schools
closing.
We are looking for 2 to 3 people to do work in exchange for a place to live.
1. New or lightly
used truck and 3 to 6 horse trailer, our equipment has seen its better
days, we've been using both for nearly 14 years to pick up horses and move them
to their new homes.
2. A Farm in any
location for low cost long term lease or donation to expand our program
to develop a retirement farm for our now aging horses returned to us from
adopters who could not retire our horses. Our highest priority locations
initially are Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland,
or Delaware.
3. New or Lightly
Used Farm utility vehicle (like a john deere gator), farm tractor,
& manure spreader
4. Tack and large
horse items donated... like carts/buggies, racing bikes, jog carts,
harnesses, saddles, horse trailers, blankets/rugs to use or sell on SWAP
Shopping. Supplies to use around the barn or office.
5. A bulk feed bin
that will hold anywhere from 6 tons to 9 tons of grain donated or at low cost or
even a break on the cost of purchase and instillation.
6. A volunteer or low cost
employee who can help us fix our
database that lists all adopters, donors, supporters and horses/dogs/cats
in the program.
7. Some sort of a cloth
facility like Cover-all or Farm-Tek
building to increase our abilities to be able to take more horses and
have an indoor area to work and train horses in winter, donated, grant or
partially donated. anywhere from 50 x 200 to 72 x 300.
8.
Monthly Sponsors for our light
use, elderly or retirement/sanctuary horses/dogs who's possibilities for
adoption are very low, ie. Orphy, Jelly Bean, Dixie, Allie, Kochese, Darlin, Mr.
Darcey, JoJo, Freckles, Lucy, Bandit, Max, etc.
9. Volunteers
to commit to doing one fund raiser for SWAP horses at your location during 2010,
it can be a golf tournament, a bake sale, book sale, lemonade stand, car wash,
setting up an information stand at a horse show. This is a great way to kids to
get involved in helping horses.
10 Anyone interested in
free high quality top soil
(manure already composted) and manure for gardens, you can pick up for free by
the truck load at our WV location (bring a loader). If you are a gardener and
only need a small amount, pick up in a truck or we'll be selling it by the feed
bag full at $2.00 a bag (in a bag that is usually used for 100 lbs of feed).
This is beautiful clean top soil. This offer will only last so long because we
will be leveling the manure pile this August when its dry enough to get a dozer
in there.
11. Someone to do
dozer work on the farm, level arena/round pen, do terracing on the hill
sides to keep water out of the barns and level the top soil and manure pile to
increase the level of that land in that bottom so we can put our methane
digester in and indoor arena. Volunteer or at a reduced cost.
Reporting Neglect:
Please, if you see neglect (ribs and hip bones showing or no
food available), its critical to call the sheriff of the county where the
horse/animal is located. Have the address where the horse is located or
directions to the farm, pictures and the owners name (if possible). If the
sheriff does nothing email our cruelty case workers Tom and Ruby Fleming at
tomfleming64@cebridge.net or email
PETA's cruelty case workers Stephanie or Tori at
sbell@peta.org,
or
ToriP@peta.org Remember horses can not speak for themselves so
we must speak for them!! All reports are kept anonymous.
Getting Help for Your Horses/animals if you can not care for
them:
If you can not feed your animals, whether they are horses or
other animals, if you are adopters, call SWAP HQ immediately, if not, call your
local horse rescue and plead for help, if they are full then call your animal
control officer or sheriff to release ownership of your animals so they can get
them help Before they are starved to death, do not wait until they are starved,
its critical to get help early. Contact us if you do not know what to do. call
304-873-3532 or email
secondwindadopt@aol.com. Many counties have pet
pantries so you can get feed when times are tough.
If things are getting tight with costs, go to a less expensive
grain like a simple stock pellet supplemented with corn, according to Ohio State
Corn is the leading horse feed in the US according to their research, many large
equine schools and large farms feed these all natural feeds because of what they
get for the price, a lot of negative stuff has been written about corn but no
one can support it with actual proof and research. We feed a simple all stock
pellet from southern states and we supplement with cracked corn for those who
need more calories, here is the link:
- http://ohioline.osu.edu/b
- 762/b762_7.htm
TOP TEN WAYS YOU CAN HELP PROTECT HORSES
(ASPCA and SWAP Suggestions)
1. BE THEIR VOICE - your vote is your
greatest weapon against injustice, so register and actively support horse
protection and preservation legislation.
2. LEAD BY EXAMPLE - Walk the talk. Don't support or attend cruel
horse activities such as Tennessee Walker events using "soring" techniques -
painful techniques to make the horse walk a certain way, or events that use
drugs to make horses achieve results. High-diving horse acts are cruel, as are
rodeo events that don't promote respect for animals and their health.
3. BE AN INFORMED CONSUMER - products made from horses like Premarin
(pregnant mare urine pills for estrogen replacement), are created through
horses' suffering. Your spending dollar is a weapon.
4. SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE - inform people what happens to horses after
their short careers are over (slaughter plant bound), or where Premarin comes
from, talk to them about over breeding, the hazards of over using young horses
or not training a horse. Engage them in discussion.
5. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL HORSE RESCUE OR SANCTUARY - these organizations
make life better for horses.
6. VOLUNTEER - your gift of time is valuable to horse groups and if
you have special talents, so much the better.
7. REPORT CRUELTY - if you witness abuse or neglect, report it to
local animal control or your county sheriff. Someone cruel to animals is cruel
to humans, too.
8. PROTECT THE AMERICAN WILD HORSE - mustangs have a special place in
our history and you can support federal and local legislation by writing emails
and letters to your government reps.
9. KEEP YOUR HORSE SAFE AND HEALTHY - if you own a horse, maintain
its health with regular hoof, medical and dental check-ups. Make sure they are
companioned as horses suffer living alone - even a goat makes a good companion.
Feed what the horse needs, if you are seeing ribs and hip bones, the horse is
not getting enough, if you can't afford to buy more feed, then give the horse to
someone who can, just be sure to check the person out and make sure they are not
selling the horse to slaughter or just going to turn out and sell the horse to
anyone that has the money. .
10. PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR HORSE'S CARE - your health and finances
change so what happens to your horse of you can't care for it anymore? Research
your options, including a pet trust. Horses live into their mid 20s and early
30s now - that's a lifetime of commitment.
Crossed Sabers Stable:
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As many as 60
million visitors per year |
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As many as 530,000 hits in one day |
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Visitors from 113 different
countries |
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Website Visitors from every
continent of the world |
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Thousands of adoptions (of 68
different breeds) in homes today with SWAP |
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Horses adopted in 46 states and
Canada |
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14 Year History |
Preparing for a Cold Winter:
HAY: Get
your hay now before the prices become outrageous, get enough for the winter
(good planning is 2 bales for every 3 days for one horse or 10 bales per month
per horse, so to make it until the middle of June (first cutting), you're
looking at 90 bales per horse at the very least (from September to June). If you
have good thick grass that has been mowed and fertilized then depending on where
you live in the US you might just need 60 to 70 bales. For good grazing its
recommended that you have 3 to 5 acres of mowed, seeded, fertilized grass per
horse. Remember Grass is dead in WV from Oct/Nov until about April and every
state has some months where the grass does not give the horses their calories or
nutrients it needs to sustain life (USDA has details of that for each state).
They may be grazing in the winter but they are not getting anything from the
grass to survive. I know most know that but I say it because we had an adopter
last year in WV that thought if they were eating grass that was all they needed
and she nearly killed 2 horses.
GRAIN:
Remember on average horses need 1 lb of concentrated feed (grain) for every 100
lbs of body weight, so on average horses need about 10 lbs of grain a day, more
when its very cold or if they are living outside in a run because much of their
calories go to keeping them warm. Some horses need more so its critical to
watch to make sure their ribs and hip bones are staying meaty and covered. If
you see ribs, the horse is too thin and needs more calories, not supplements
but more calories.. Easy keepers may be round but it does not mean they are
healthy, most easy keepers need a multi vitamin to stay healthy.
WATER:
One of the most critical things needed in winter is clean fresh water all the
time, anywhere from 5 to 20 gallons per day per horse and everyone knows what a
pain that is when there is ice and snow on the ground but its critical to
preventing colic. Get your electric heaters, defrosters now, heated buckets,
what ever it takes to make sure they have good water in front of them all the
time and at least 10 gallons (2 flat backed buckets at the very least). Here we
keep 100 gallons troughs in the stalls since we have big stalls, its much easier
than frozen buckets in winter, all we do is break the ice and remove it most
days and put a heater in them on really cold days. We use a sump pump to empty
water and scrub troughs each week which keeps water fresh and clean.
SHELTER:
Domestic horses need shelter, they are not wild and can not survive outside
without shelter or some kind of heavy waterproof rug to keep them warm during
snow/ice and freezing temperatures but the best is a closed in shelter that is
free from drafts (meaning its closed on all 4 sides with some sort of
ventilation). Wild horses first of all don't live very long, living outside in
the elements is very hard on them, secondly wild horses move in cold
temperatures to keepselves warm and they often times move over thousands of
acres to keep warm or to find cover or water. No domestic horse can not do that
on 5, 20 or even 100 acres. Just because your horse has learned to survive in
bad weather does not mean its good for them, they need shelter in bad weather.
CARE:
Its important to make kids take care of their horses but they must have adult
supervision on a daily basis to make sure horses are getting what they need.
Trust me, I usually have 30 year olds working in our barn and I still have to be
there daily to make sure things are done, that they have clean water, especially
when its cold because our young helpers want to get out of the weather and then
the horses are left at risk for colic. Every day check your child's work, do not
leave your horses care to a child (completely).
The Woman I will Be
- I shall wear diamonds and a wide brimmed
straw hat with ribbons and flowers on it
- And I shall spend my social security on
white wine and carrots
- And sit in the alley of my barn and listen
to my horses breathe.
- I will sneak out in the middle of a
summer's night And ride the dappled mare across the moonstruck meadow, if
my old bones will allow. and when people come to call, I will smile and
nod, As I walk them past the gardens to the barn And show, instead, the
flowers growing there
- In stalls fresh-lined with straw. I will
shovel and sweat and wear hay in my hair as if it were a jewel. And I will
be an embarrassment of all who look down on me Who have not yet found the
peace in being free To love a horse as a friend, a friend who waits at
midnight hour
- With muzzle and nicker and patient eyes For
the Woman I will be when I am old.
The perfect analogies for why we
have the life school tied into SWAP and animal welfare work:
"Everyone thought we took this
broken down horse and saved him but really he saved us"
Jockey Red Pollard from the
movie Seabiscuit
I rescued a
human today
Her eyes met mine as she
walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her
need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too
exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.
As she stopped at my kennel
I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't
want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers
get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.
As she read my kennel card
I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look
forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.
She got down on her knees
and made little kissy sounds at me.
I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her.
Gentle fingertips caressed
my neck; she was desperate for companionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I
raised my paw to assure her that all would be well.
Soon my kennel door opened
and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would
promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would
promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her
eyes.
I was so fortunate that she
came down my corridor.
So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors.
So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.
I rescued a human today.
Baggage
by Evelyn Colbath
Now that I'm
home, bathed, settled and fed,
All nicely tucked into my warm new bed,
I would like to open my baggage,
Lest I forget
There is so much to carry -
So much to forget.
Hmm, Yes, here
it is, right on the top
Let's unpack Loneliness, Heartache and Loss,
And there by my halter hides Fear & Shame
As I look on these things I have tried so hard to leave-
I still have to unpack my baggage called Pain.
I loved them,
the others, the ones who left me,
But I wasn't good enough - for they didn't want me.
Will you add to my baggage?
Will you help me unpack?
Or will you just look at my things
And take me right back?
Do you have the
time to help me unpack?
To put away my baggage,
To never re-pack?
I pray that you do - I'm so tired you see,
But I do come with baggage -
Will you still want me?
A young boy was walking along the beach
- as high tide came in.
- With every crash of the waves
- he noticed that dozens of seahorses were
being cast onto the beach,
- where they lay gasping and squirming.
- Hurriedly, he ran to each seahorse he could
find
- and gently tossed them back into the surf.
- A man watching all this approached the boy
and said;
- "Son, what you are doing won't make a
difference",
- to which the boy replied,
"To
that seahorse .
. . it will".
Some folks said they missed my great goals
list for 2010, so here it is back again
1. Spend an hour a day with your horses, not just
feeding, training and turning out, but real quality time doing something that is
enjoyable for the both of you. Grooming or hand walking is a great way to bond
with your horse and good for both you and the horse.
2. Get your loved ones more involved in your
horses. Divorce is the biggest reason we see horses coming back to us. Don't
just share the work, share the fun too and find something they really enjoy
doing with horses.
3. Learn a new discipline, go to a clinic, a
horse show, or equine affaire. Come to one of our clinics or watch a training
video. If you are an adopter you can check out books and video's from SWAP's
Library for just shipping costs. Take a lesson at least once a month or Bring
your adoption horse here and we will help you. The better you are, the more fun
you will have.
4. Make a plan for your horse after you are gone
or if you have a major injury, let your Will Executor know your plans. Make a
plan for emergencies or financial bumps along the way for your horse. Have a
plan if you or your horse gets injured, even for the tough times of year like
winter (or summer down south and for a drought winter when hay prices
skyrocket). Ask friends, family and neighbors to be part of your plan, most
people that don't have horses or a farm love the idea of getting away and
helping. And people can not resist someone when they are asking for help for the
welfare of an innocent animal.
5. Get yourself healthy and in better shape to
prevent injury, to live a long life and to more enjoy your horses. Eat 1-1-1
(one ounce of dark chocolate, one ounce of fresh walnuts, one glass of red wine
daily) and 2-2-2 (2 servings of fresh vegis, 2 of fresh fruit and get 2 sources
of fat free calcium). Drink 100 ounces of spring water a day, get a whole house
water filter. Change over to Sea-salt. Take one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
every morning to keep your body alkaline (cancer and disease can not grow in an
alkaline body). Eat more fish and chicken and less red meat. Get a good air
cleaner and do daily deep breathing exercises, get outside in the fresh air and
sunshine for at least 1/2 hour every day. Get away from high fat food, processed
foods, fast food, can or boxed food, sugar or artificial sweeteners, soda and
don't eat anything if you can't read all the ingredients and know exactly what
is in it. Clean all vegis and fruits thoroughly, buy organic, buy ocean caught
fish, not farm raised, buy fresh meat and raw milk, not packed or processed. Eat
only natural carbs (potatoes, rice, oats) bake/broil or steam everything. Get 8
hours of sleep, reduce stress/risk (reduce commuting by car pooling, tight
schedules, cell phone use in the car, watch or read the news only once a day or
better yet once a week. Do one hour of walking, yoga or weight training every
day and it will make you strong, lean, you'll look great and get wonderful
complements from friends, coworkers and loved ones and the horse work will be
easier and more enjoyable.
6. Stay clear of negative people and those very
negative chat rooms and bulletin boards, they seem innocent but every time you
go to them you lose a bit of your positive self, they are truly emotional
vampires that will leave only a shell of a person. They are not based on the
truth, they are based on harassment, complaining, whining and dishonesty. We all
become tomorrow what we are around today, every person we come in contact with
defines who we are tomorrow so be careful who you choose for friends, even the
websites you go to as each of them affect who you are tomorrow. Do you want to
be a bitter, miserable, complaining person or do you want to be happy, inspired
and honorable, all that is affected by the decisions you make today. Stay away
from Toxic people and Toxic websites/forums that are negative or that spend all
their time talking bad about people and their horses. What you are around today
and what you are doing today is what you will be tomorrow. Stop Complaining and
be Thankful for what you have. If you become a target of harassment or anyone
saying anything negative about you, if you are doing only good, positive things
and not hurting anyone then ignore them, its all based on jealousy and a sick
sort of wish to be like you. They have the problem, not you.
7. Read at least one book on training your horse
and one on care each year, if for nothing else but just inspiration. SWAP has a
great library of books/videos that adopters can check out for just the cost of
mailing it.
Click
here to see our Library
8. Get carrots/apples every time you go to the
store, your horses will love you for it and always come running when you call.
Don't feed candy or anything sweeter. Carrots are sweet enough. Get rid of the
sweet feeds and you'll get rid of the hot horse once and for all.
9. Realize that if you are having a problem with
your horse, more likely than not, the problem is you. Learn more, practice more,
ask in a different way, be patient, change their environment or daily schedule
to better suit them. Taking better care of a horse always brings out the best in
that horse. Good feed/hay, time to rest in a quiet stall out of the elements,
lots of fresh water, time to be with you and time to just be a horse, time with
their buddies, farrier and vet care always done is a good start. The biggest
part of this relationship puzzle is you, not the horse. If you are struggling,
then you need to learn more and get better.
10. Ride at least once a week, regardless of
weather. Use this time as your down time for healing, your therapy, your time to
relieve stress and the pressures of daily life. Even if you don't ride, go sit
and read a book in the pasture with the horses or sit in the barn and listen to
them munch on dinner, away from the crowd and noise of your day. Enjoy the peace
and quiet, enjoy hearing happy horses eating dinner or grass in the pasture.
11. Spend time leisurely grooming your horse once
a week. Rubber curries are shine makers. You will have a beautiful horse and a
very loyal friend who will do anything for you.
12. Come and spend a week at SWAP HQ,
volunteering and focusing on helping a horse and giving will change your life
plus it will be the best vacation you ever had. Help an animal in need, whether
fostering, being one of our state reps that goes out to check on our horses in
their homes or helps us approve adopters in their area. Find horses in need and
help us find them homes. Buy a horse at a slaughter auction, get it fat and
trained and we'll help you place it into a good home. Foster and volunteer for
your local small animal adoption program. I promise, the good things you do will
come back to you a hundred times over. Every person has a talent they can offer
and if you help one horse or one dog or cat find a good home, you have changed
their life forever.
13. Know that every goal is obtainable and it
starts with a single step. Take that first step today!! No matter what it is or
how big, YOU CAN DO IT!! Every goal that is written down will come true
(really!). Every famous person, every great or notable scientist, author,
trainer/rider, parent or friend started out as just a thought, just a goal.
Remember to take one step today to reach your goals.
14. Start every day with thinking about, what is
the most important thing I can do today to change my life and make it better. Do
that one thing and in 30 days your life will be totally different. Can you
imagine what your life would be like if you did that for 60, 90 or even 365 days
a year. The opportunities are endless.
15. Want to keep your horse sound for life? (That
should be every horse owners number one goal) do a long slow warm up (cold
muscle is easy to injure, a warm one is nearly impossible to injure). The very
best cool down is hand walking your horse for 1 hour after every work out. Yes,
get off the horse and walk with it. Its great exercise for you and a good time
for you to bond. Stop riding your horse during cool downs and stop using a hot
walker, do something good for you and the horse, hand walking. Its also the best
rehab for over work and injuries, the only thing better is hydro therapy and
swimming your horse. Allow soft tissue and hard tissue to become more
conditioned before going into any training program... that means 3 months of at
least 3 days a week for soft tissues and 10 months of work for bones to become
strong enough to jump or do any strenuous training program. Don't start any
upper level work, jumping or extensive training until the horse is fit and at
least between age 4 and 6 and has been conditioned for at least 10 months
(especially if the horse has never been jumped/worked or not been jumped or
worked in the last year).
16. Appreciate what you have and be thankful.
Instead of looking at what you don't have, look at what you do. Thank those
people who have helped you and supported you. The more you give, the more that
will come back to you. When you give something away or give something to
someone/something in need, you make space in your life for something good to
come to you. We are all very blessed, if we just take a moment to look around
and enjoy those things.
17. Get used to using favorite mantra's and
visualizations every day, simple ones that are easy to remember, like 'I can do
this, I will do this', 'this isn't going to get the best of me' or even, 'I
deserve the best' or 'the gift of love, caring, and support always comes back'
and take two minutes every morning as you wake and at night as you go to sleep
to visualize the life you want, the you you want to be, Our thoughts become
things, what you see is what you get, if you expect the best, the best will
happen, change your self-talk from negative to positive and I promise your life
will change for the better..
18. Each person is put on this earth for a
reason, each of us has a mission. What is yours? Seek and you shall find,
finding is a journey ... in the journey and the search you'll find your life
purpose. If you died in your sleep tonight is there something you haven't done
that you need to do or want to do? Someone you need to mend fences with, burnt
bridges to fix? People you need to tell them how much you love them? Have you
fulfilled your purpose in your life? Ask yourself, Why am I here? How can I make
this better? Who do I want to be? Who am I suppose to be? What reason was I put
on this earth? What is my purpose?
19. Be an inspiration to your family, co workers
and friends. We all fall on our face, we all make mistakes, we all get
discouraged, most times we all get up and try again.... sometimes we need a
nudge. Instead of being negative or doing negative things, be their inspiration.
You do believe they can do it, so why not tell them. If their self talk is
negative, then you be their positive self talk.... eventually they will start to
say it and believe it too. Life is self fulfilling, failure feeds on itself or
causes more failure, achieving does as well. So if you or your love ones are in
a negative cycle, break the cycle by changing your thoughts, your self talk,
achieve something small to get yourself and your family back into the cycle of
achievement.
20. We all file a flight plan every single day
for our life. Where is your flight going today? Just like a pilot flying, the
winds, the gravitational pull will change your flight and take you off course,
so you must make small corrections along the way to make sure you make your
destination. Have you selected your destination? Have you picked the steps in
your flight plan to get there? Every goal is really that easy, pick the goal and
figure out how to get there. The easiest way to pick your flight path/plan is
find someone who has done it before you, then do what they did. Its all baby
steps you know. Just keep an eye on that destination and keep saying...."here is
my destination, this is where I'm going, this is where I am now, this is how I'm
going to get there.... I will arrive at this time on this day. You can do
it..... its just like getting in your car to go to the store, its just deciding
where you want to go and how to get there, then take that first step. You can do
it!! No matter how big or how outlandish you may think your dream to be... it
is obtainable.
21. Laugh every day and try (as hard as it is
sometimes) to find the positive and the humor in each situation (and have at
least one bite of a truly decadent desert once a week). Life is just too short
to not enjoy it thoroughly.
22. We learn the most and do our best work when
we have fallen on our face, when we are struggling, when we are worried, scared
or frustrated, when we are anguishing over something or troubled by it. It is
then that you have true motivation, when you think clearer. The most brilliant
ideas come to people when they feel lost, frustrated, or at the bottom, helpless
or hopeless. Cherish these times because its when you can come up with your best
ideas to your biggest problems and challenges. You see, there is a reason for
the rainy days.
23. You can't make everyone happy, its useless to
try and wasted energy to think you can. 50% of all people will not agree with
you at any given time, don't worry about it and don't let it stop you. 50%
becomes a lot of people when you are in the public eye. As long as you are not
hurting anyone and you are doing the right thing, then go ahead and do it. If
you are wondering what is the right thing to do, its usually the harder thing to
do, the toughest path to take. The easy way out is rarely the right thing to
do. Instead of worrying over what someone thinks of you or says about you, do
something amazing and outstanding to inspire them or at least have them sitting
on the side lines being jealous, secretly saying, "wow, she has guts". One
person with purpose becomes the majority, one way or another.
1. There are at least two people in this world
That you would die for.
2. At least 15 people in this world Love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you Is because they want to Be just
like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, Even if they don't Like you.
5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you Before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists, loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, Something good comes from it.
10. When you think the world has
Turned its back on you, take another look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.
Always in hope and admiration, Celeita
YOUR BANK ACCOUNT
A 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud man, who is fully
dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with his hair fashionably combed and
shaved perfectly, even though he is legally blind, moved to a nursing home
today. His wife of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary.
After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, he
smiled sweetly when told his room was ready.
As he maneuvered his walker to the elevator, I provided a
visual description of his tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been
hung on his window.
'I love it,' he stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just
been presented with a new puppy.
'Mr. Jones, you haven't seen the room; just wait.'
'That doesn't have anything to do with it,' he replied.
'Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or
not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged .. it's how I arrange my
mind. I already decided to love it. 'It's a decision I make every morning when
I wake up. I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the
difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of
bed and be thankful for the ones that do.
Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open, I'll focus on the new day and
all the happy memories I've stored away. Just for this time in my life.
Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw from what you've put in.
So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank
account of memories!
Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank.
I am still depositing.' Remember the five simple rules to be happy:
1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less.
Our
lives with horses...
Our lives with horses are rich with feeling. You know this if you've
ever.... choked back tears watching a new foal wobble to his feet for the
First time ...or watched your good horse wobble to his feet after surgery....
or seen the ends of the reins float straight out as a reining horse spins
beneath them . . or chuckled to yourself as you watched a tiny tot on a
patient pony trot through a barrel pattern at a saddle club payday ... or felt
the building tremble as an eight-up hitch of feather-legged giants towed a
hand-carved beer wagon into the arena ... or had your heart stop when you saw
your horse lying motionless in the pasture on a sunny day and waited
breathlessly for an ear to flick ... or cheered at the screen when 'The Man
From Snowy River' slid Dennie down the mountainside, .. or when Seabiscuit
made his final surge to beat War Admiral ... or cruised along the highway and
seen a horse in a pasture and wondered what he's like to ride or pictured him
as a prospect ... or sucked in your breath as a horse and rider approached a
six-foot wall ... or sworn a solemn oath to your horse that together you would
triumph ... or flipped through the TV channels and stopped when you saw a
horse even when it was a commercial ... or laughed aloud when you rubbed your
horse's face and he rubbed back ... or gotten chills hearing Dave Johnson's
'and DOWN THE STRETCH THEY COME!' (or 'Run for the Roses' circa 1980 ish?)
... or stood in awe at your horse in morning play as he sprinted around the
pasture, then stopped, head erect, and snorted defiance at the rest of the
world
... or been thankful to see wild horses grazing casually at the foot of a hill
... or felt calmed by the sleekness of a silky
haircoat beneath your hand ... or felt your jaw drop as you watched a Lipazzan
perform a capriole ... or if you've ever seen someone in the grocery store
wearing a certain kind of hat, or boots, or buckle, or have a certain cut and
length to their jeans, and felt some remote kind of connection ... or felt
warmed by a soft nicker greeting as you entered the barn ... or slid your hand
under your horse's blanket to straighten it out, only to pause in the glowing
feeling that you get when you touch the
warmth of his coat... or riding on a trail with your horse, thinking how that
trail over there looks nice and almost without asking, your horse has sensed
your slightest movement in the saddle and he's now taking you there. ... or
pulled up to your barn where you board and only your horse greets you with a
welcoming hello from the sound of your car or your voice.
HEROES AND HORSES
SOME NOTABLE HEROES AND THEIR HORSES ARE MENTIONED AND WE KNOW YOUR HORSE IS
YOUR HERO AND VICE VERSA.
1. Kanthaka - Buddha's horse, the one he used when he was still Siddhartha
the prince, to escape from his father's palace and begin his journey toward
enlightenment. Kanthaka's hooves made no sounds as they fled together and he
is often depicted being lifted on his four feet by benign spirits.
2. Pegasus - the mythical winged horse parented by Neptune and Medusa and
ridden by Bellerophon to rid the world of Chimera, the monster. Athena, the
Greek goddess of wisdom, was able to capture and train Pegasus when he allowed
her to place her golden bit in his mouth.
3. Phosphorus (Light Bearer) - the great Roman racehorse immortalized by the
4th century Roman poet Ausonius (at the emperor's request) in a beautiful
eulogy: Fly with haste to join the wing-footed horses of Elysium; may
Pegasus gallop on your right and Arion as your left-wheeler, and let Castor
find a fourth horse for the team.
4. Babieca - famed white gelding of El Cid, Rodrigo Diaz of Bivar, the
Spanish hero who united Christians and Muslims against a Moorish onslaught
from Africa. Babieca lived to be 30 years old and carried El Cid into all his
battles. Babieca means "crazy" as Rodrigo made a crazy choice since the colt
was the runt of the herd.
5. Bucephalus (Ox-head) - beloved horse of Alexander the Great who bore the
Macedonian hero on his back from Greece to India. Odds against a horse living
past 20 in that era were great, but Bucephalus, in his 20s, endured until he
fell in battle in India.
6. Sleipnir - the eight-legged war horse of Odin, the Norse god, was able to
fly without wings and shape-shift.
7. Balios and Xanthos - a grey and bay, both sired by Zephyros, the West
Wind, who together pulled Achilles' chariot.
8. Vivasat - a Hindu sun-god who often took the form of a stallion.
9. Al Burak - Mohammed's horse, on whose back he ascended to heaven, was
brought to him by the archangel Gabriel
10. Chiron - the centaur who taught Achilles, Jason and the first physician,
Ascelpius, all he knew.
11. Rakhsh - blue-eyed and dappled red horse of the legendary Persian
warrior, Rustam. Rakhsh was highly intelligent and saved his sleeping master
from a lion's attack, killing the predator.
There are many more famous mythical and real horses and we will be adding to
our list. Can you help us add to this list?. thank you Harmony Horse Works.
The question is not: "do you support horse
slaughter."
The question is: "do you support the cruel, terrifying
transport for days without food and water in their journey to death?"
The question is: "do you support the torture and abuse of
the killer chutes, even for crippled horses, pregnant mares, wild horses,
protective mares with foals by their sides?"
The question is: “Do you support the horse slaughter
factories that lie to their consumers about the many chemicals that taint the
horse meat, and call it Organic?
The question is: do you support the breeder who breeds
hundreds of horses just to pick out the good ones and cash in the rest to the
killer buyer?
The question is: Do you support the person who uses the
horse its whole life and when it gets to an old age sends it to slaughter as a
thank you?
The question is: “do you support the slaughter workers who
cheer a horse on that struggles extra hard for its life?
The question is: Do you support the killer buyer who not
only buys up the strong, fat and healthy horses and leaves the meek weak and
unhealthy for society, but also bids against the good homes and horse rescues?
The question is: “Can you see though the lies of the ones
who stand to loose a buck with the end of horse slaughter?
The question is: Do you support ripping the last of our wild
horses away from their families and peaceful lives to be slaughtered?
The question is: As a nation, can we allow this to continue
and still call ourselves a civilized country?
The question is: "Can you look at the footage of innocent
horses with their eyes gouged out, hooves ripped off, legs broken, beaten by
the workers, faces smashed in from being on the transport trucks, horses
stabbed in their spines, horses conscious for the entire killing process and
do nothing?
That is the question, so what is YOUR answer?
Resolve to make the world a better place for animals
(credit: PETA)
| If you haven't already done so,
have the companion animals who depend on you spayed or neutered. These
simple procedures help protect your furry friends from many types of
cancer and prevent thousands of animals from being born only to end up
abandoned on the streets or dumped at severely crowded animal shelters.
|
| If you live with a dog,
pledge to walk him or her every day, even when it's cold outside and you'd
rather hide under a blanket. If you share your home with cats, set
aside some "kitty (or horsey) quality time" every day to play
with, brush, and bond with them. It's sometimes too easy to overlook our
feline friends, but they can get bored and lonely too. |
| If there is a lonely "backyard dog" in your
neighborhood, try befriending his or her
guardian. Start by politely talking to him or her about the dog's needs,
such as companionship, daily portions of fresh food and water, and a
weatherproof doghouse filled with straw. Many lucky dogs have had their
lives changed because someone like you cared enough to intervene.
|
| If you're shopping for yourself or buying
holidays gifts for your loved ones, stay
away from fur, wool, leather, and companies that make or sell products
made from the skins of animals. |
NOTE: Crossed Sabers can not fully guarantee the accuracy of every page
on this website which is huge (38,000 files and over 300 pages). We do not
have the personnel or time to keep it up to date and accurate for every
situation as this Stable and all its programs have always been a dynamic
entity, ever changing and improving itself to meet the needs of horses and
horse people. We do try to make sure each page is up to date and accurate but
the best thing to do If you have a question, is email or call us. Additionally
Crossed Sabers can not guarantee anything that anyone says about us on line,
we have no control over other people and their websites, forums or ads, all we
can tell people is if you do not know the person, their name, address and
their experience, age or history/background/education and location do not
trust what they say. That is true for everything on the internet. Some things
said about us have been grossly inaccurate and did not come from CSS, some
come from past employees we fired for cause (for hurting horses or stealing
from us), people that are pro-slaughter and hate our mission and what we do
for horses enjoy trying to make us look bad, some are horse traders that we've
helped put out of business and some are people we helped put in jail on
neglect cases. Again, if you have questions about us, our services, our
company structure, how we are licensed, how we pay taxes, how we do things or
anything at all, please feel free to contact us, just don't assume that all
you read on another website is accurate because 99% of it is not true,
especially if you read it on a forum, blog or chat room and don't assume that
it came from us, just call 304-873-3532 or email us at
secondwindadopt@aol.com,
or better yet, come and see our operation and you will see how we do things. I
can guarantee it's 1000 times better than what the liars and frauds say who
are jealous of our work.
All programs and services listed on this website, including
SWAP is a part of Crossed Sabers Stable which has been licensed in WV for the
last 13 years. The Mountain State Horse School and Second Wind Adoption
Program, Inc. and Crossed Sabers International Horse School, Inc. was
incorporated on 4 Sep 08 to address the education needs and life challenges of
people and horses.
Buyer and Seller Beware!! Update on the
Robin Hollingsworth of Blacksburg, SC
(she has several alias's and about 10 fake names) fraud case for those
of you who have been asking. The SC prosecutor accepted a plea bargain from
her and dropped the case if she paid the people she ripped off (the people she
took money under false pretenses from when she sold them horses she did not
own), she did that so she was let go but the 3 arrests will stay on her record
and the record of what she did to all those people is still on the books and
will stay there. If she is caught again I'm certain she will go to jail but
people who are cheated by her must stand up and testify.. If more people that
she ripped off would have not chickened out and backed out because of fear
(Quote from them was we are scared of her, she is crazy) she would be in jail
right now but beware, she is still loose and still taking free horses or
companion horses that have things like ringbone and navicular and drugging
them and then selling them as high level jumpers and competition horses on the
internet. Her daughter works with her, Amanda or Mandy, she helps her rip
people off. Beware, I'm getting calls almost every month where Robin has
committed more crimes against people, taking horses, not paying for them,
bouncing checks, buying vehicles and horse trailers and not paying for them.
BEWARE OF THIS WOMAN!! If you want her history or to check a person's name
against our black list (our do not adopt to, do not sell to, do not buy from,
do not hire or even rent to list), then contact us.
BEWARE: Do not buy a horse from anyone you
do not know, ESPECIALLY ON THE INTERNET, unless they have websites like ours,
their names and addresses listed and they show they have a long long history
on their website and do not buy unless you go to see the horse and have it vet
checked and you have contact with the vet, not the seller or even trainer
telling you what the vet said. DO NOT GIVE YOUR HORSE OR SELL YOUR HORSE
WITHOUT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT AS TO WHAT IS TO HAPPEN WITH THE HORSE, RESELLING,
USE/LIMITATIONS, FACILITIES NEEDED, ETC. It you sell or give away a horse with
no agreement, they could go to slaughter the same day you release them or they
could be sold and misrepresented, living a life of neglect, abuse, over use
and miss use the rest of their lives. We hear stories all the time where a
best friend or neighbor, the nice lady you gave the horse to sent the horse to
slaughter or is neglecting it and there is not a thing the owner can do now
because they no longer own the horse and they made no written agreements
signed by both parties. If you need help doing written agreements, back ground
checks on buyers and sellers, just contact us, that is part of our 'SAFE
SELLING' SERVICES. Your horse's life depends on you being safe and thorough!
BEWARE: People are selling horses on the
internet that don't even exist so beware, the horse industry is full is liars,
cheaters, and thieves, even we have had to deal with them from potential
adopters who were in jail applying to adopt, to employees and former trainers
who totally ripped us off by stealing tack and tools, asking for huge advances
and then leaving after they get them, people who don't even know us or had any
experience with us slandering us on forums, harassing us and our supporters,
interfering with company operations and even adopters who don't think twice
about breaching their contract or forging their vets signature on applications
& annual updates or even selling their adoption horse to programs like ours
and even 501c3's public charities selling horses to slaughter auctions or
being put in jail for neglect and animal cruelty. We are bringing each person
that has wronged our horses to justice one at a time and winning all our cases
but that does not protect the general public from these liars, thieves,
con-artist and cheaters. Your horses life can easily be ruined forever, they
could end up in a fate worse than death so buyer and seller beware, your
horses life depends on you keeping them safe and you being thorough with doing
things like getting references and making sure the people have stable
employment, that they really own the farm they say they do, doing background
checks to check for criminal records. The horse world is full of dishonesty
which ruins it for honest people that really care and always try to do the
right thing, such a shame. Just be very careful and get proof that your horse
is going to a good home, get more than a feeling because we promise you about
50% of the time when it comes to horses, your feeling that its a 'nice' person
or a 'good' person' is wrong. And even when you pick a good home, they can
turn around and sell or give away to a bad home.
HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and
height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay 'them'
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches and negative people pull
you down. People who like to cause trouble will shorten your life and make you
just like them... miserable.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening,
whatever. Never let the brain idle. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop.'
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen.. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who
is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love , whether it's family, pets,
keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable,
improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next
county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER :
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the
moments that take our breath away
| |
Happy Endings for 2005
most
pictures are thumbnails, just click on the pic to see the big picture
from adopter Bev Dee at Bright Futures Farm with Stretch, Arturo and
Bright, one of our very early adopters who has since started her own
adoption program but has always kept our horses and given them a great
home. Thank you Bev for all the great things you do!!
 Quincy with the
Sussman Family at home in Virginia Beach area.
Hi Celeita and Theresa -
My apologies about not getting photos to
you - I need a new digital camera because my close-ups were blurry. But
I thought you might like to see Melody in the pasture with Jack. We have
been riding, and the farrier has been out twice since we got her and she
is an absolute angel for everything. She is just a delight. I will be
getting more pictures for you soon.
Warmest Holiday Regards - Marisa
Marisa E. St. Claire DVM
Merry Christmas from
Ben and Lillie in Bemidji. They are still the
cutest Fjords ever!!! Thanks, Mary
Hi Ladies,
She's fine. We didn't know
exactly what time she was born and Holly was being stubborn
about letting her nurse so the vet put in a feeding tube and made
sure she was getting the colostrum we milked from Holly as well as some
they had brought with them. By later that afternoon Holly began to let
the foal nurse and the blood test the following day confirmed that she
received enough. The girls have decided to name her Lily and if we can
get the others to cooperate I would like to register her with USTA as
Amberlaager. Have you had any other contact with Necole ? I emailed her
a picture of Holly and Lily and the list of mares bred form but she
hasn't responded. I'm still waiting to hear from Mike Lawson as well to
try and iron out that end of it. Do you have any other contact
information for Necole such as a mailing address so I could mail her the
form to sign that I will fill out and provide a postage paid envelope to
send back. Thanks for you concern.
Merry Christmas
Michael Bruno
Greetings from Michigan! I thought you
would like to know that Jamie (and her sidekick, Bella, not a SWAP horse)
are relocated to an absolutely wonderful stable only five miles from my
home! At the time I took Jamie in July, there was no space at Misty
Meadow Farm, but I was able to move the girls on November 6, and they are
enjoying their new home, and Dave and I love having them so nearby. We
are able to see them most days. Even if we don't ride we can at least
distribute pats treats. Misty Meadow has a website if you would like to
know something about it: mistymeadowdressage.com. The stable also has a
full-time trainer, Jessie Myers, who is wonderful with horses and riders,
too. She is training Bella fulltime, and gives me occasional lessons on
Jamie.
Jamie continues to be a sweet,
confident, self-possessed mare. Other than bossing Bella (only about
food, and this has been largely solved with a huge double-sided manger in
their turnout; Jamie finally gave up patrolling both sides at once!),
she really has no vices. Her ground manners are impeccable. If she
hasn't been ridden for a week or so, we lunge for a few minutes before
riding, more as a precaution than anything. She is an angel with the
Ferrier (her feet are SO much better now, and she remains barefoot and
sound!), and even with the dentist she gave no trouble. And no tranq.
I ride her several times a week, and
once a week let a little girl Julie (age 11) takes a lesson on her with
Jessie Myers. Julie's pony has an injury and can't be ridden. Julie is a
good little rider, adores Jamie, and they get along very well. If her
pony isn't well by spring, I would like to let Julie ride Jamie in some
local pony club shows, so that she doesn't miss getting her second level
horsemanship ranking. It involves a short course of 18 inch to 2 foot
jumps. I don't think it would be any hardship for Jamie as she could
almost step over. She has shown no lameness whatsoever since I've had
her, and I keep her on Ensemble Joint Supplement. When I had her trimmed
this month, I asked the Ferrier if he could detect any hock issues. He
said that she is slightly stiffer in her right hock, but shows no
tenderness. And he said that it's not at all unusual for a horse to be
stiffer on one side. Anyway, I didn't know if this would be a problem
with you, and wanted to be sure it was OK before I said anything to Julie.
I've been looking at your website -- so
many wonderful horses. I just wish I could take more, but not having
facilities of my own, it would not be responsible of me. You and the
horses do remain in my prayers and I have passed along your site to
friends.
Please do let me know if it would be OK
for me to let Julie take Jamie to pony club this spring. I think it would
be very nice for both of them.
Best wishes for a merry Christmas and
safe and happy New Year,
Shannon Van Horn
Mom to Jamie, aka Windjammer
Teresa – All the horse magazines talk about Cushings and that worries me
to death (of course, everything worries me to death …). Miss B does seem
to have a slightly thick crest on her neck. I’ve asked people at my barn
what they think about it … but apparently they don’t think very much.
Actually her neck is skinny, but there does seem to be a fatty line up
there … just a little. I don’t think it’s my imagination. I was just
diagnosed as pre-diabetic … so I have to watch myself. And I have to
watch her too. As for being hyper! HA! The only time she gets hyper is
when she thinks I have a treat. Isn’t it amazing how horses can’t learn
some of the basic stuff when you try to teach it over and over and over
again … but they can learn what a plastic bag of carrots is in about 1.2
seconds (and they NEVER forget it). At least they have their priorities.
I am giving Miss B (and me) a Christmas present as soon as my yearend
bonus arrives in January … a new saddle made just for her. I haven’t have
a NEW saddle since 1971 (it was $50 and from Mexico). No joke. I always
get someone else’s old saddle. We are getting one of those Imus 4-beat
saddles for gaited horses (www.gaitsofgold.com). I sure hope it works for
her. We enjoy trail riding (she doesn’t like to be the lead horse,
however) and I want us both to be very comfortable. I sent Imus photos of
B taken from the rear and from above (I was standing on the back of a golf
cart facing her butt) and they told me that she is over developed on the
left shoulder compared to the right shoulder – probably because the
improper fit of her current saddle. I hope they know what they’re talking
about. Guess we’ll find out. Also – I gotta get a Christmas card off to
you guys with a little holiday cheer in it. All the other horses at Second
Wind need to get as chubby as Miss B! (LOL) By the way, my polo shirt
arrived a week ago and I like it. Maybe I will get a chance to wear it
this weekend. Anyway – I’m going to go look at “Best and Worst” and see
what you guys are saying on your Web site. Have a great holiday! I love
the photos of the horses playing in the snow!! Pat
Wow, Celeita and I were just talking about you today and wondering
how things were going since we hadn't heard from you in a while.
Thank you so much for the great feedback about our resolutions!
Have you looked at the Best and Worst of 2005 page yet? There are a
couple of notes on there that you might like ;) We just thought it
was a good time to acknowledge some of the people who make all
our efforts worthwhile.
I'm sure the apples and treats are fine for Miss B as long as
she's not too hyper - don't fix things if there isn't a problem,
right? The only other thing you want to watch out for with a lot of
sugar is Cushings Disease, which tends to affect the older
warmbloods so I don't think you need to worry about it. We give out
lots of carrots here, but we're feeding a low-sugar pellet to
everyone, and anyway we just can't stop ourselves :)
Thanks again for writing and have a wonderful holiday season!!
In a message dated 12/15/2005 1:34:40 PM Eastern Standard Time,
ppape01@7-11.com writes:
I love the NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS on your home page. I am emailing
them to my friends. But now I’m worried! I do give Miss B carrots,
but she also gets Winnie’s treats (not too many … but some…I buy
them through Parelli). They have molasses. Should I quit feeding
those? I go back and forth on that one. She also gets Granny Smith
apples. I hope that’s OK. She sure does love them. You ought to
see her drool when she has a big ol’ mouth full of them. She is SO
funny! Of course, she gets more food than she gets exercise so
maybe I should cut back somewhere.
Also – I have already made plans for her if something happens to
me. I have a friend (an attorney for Exxon) who would get in touch
with you and make arrangements to return B to Second Wind. She has
it all in writing, though it’s just between her and me; however, I
trust her completely. In addition, she’ll take my cats (and would
have taken my dogs if they were still alive). I made these
arrangements two years ago before taking a trip out of the country.
It is very difficult knowing that you may go before all your pets
do. And it’s a concern that you will outlive your horse (B gets
better care than I do and she’s young … so she may outlive me).
Anyway, just wanted you to know the resolutions are good ones.
Thanks, Pat
Alexandra Murnaghan and WB mare Sahara at home in Florida. Thank you
Alexandria for the donation to get Kips teeth done. We'll be calling the
vet this week. What a lovely pair and what a great young lady for
remembering the horses that are still looking for a home with a Christmas
donation.
 Megan
Dent and standardbred gelding, Tropic Knight "Knightly" at home in Ohio,
thank you Megan for the wonderful note. Knightly deserves a great home,
there really is no other horse like him. She's quite special.
.jpg)
Dear Teresa,
I'm glad that you got the film clip that Ashley sent out
yesterday. Cody has been settling in very well. The ferrier has been
by and says that his feet are fine. The vet came yesterday and
floated his teeth. The vet said that it looked like it had been awhile
since his teeth had been floated. Ashley stayed close to Cody and
walked him around when he started to come out of the anesthesia.
Today, we went over and Ashley ran Cody on the lunge line for
about 20 minutes (off and on). Cody likes to take breaks after about
ten laps by going in and getting a hug and some attention.
There were a couple of Amish men there. They are working on
getting the new stalls up and Cody will be going in one. They were
very complimentary of Cody's confirmation and his trotting. But most
of all they talked about his good disposition and his behavior with
Ashley.
We have attached some pictures. Ashley thinks that Cody is the
best Christmas present ever since he is the "perfect horse for me"
Merry Christmas!
Bob Wilkinson
Well she came a couple of weeks
before I wanted but she's gorgeous and healthy. Holly's great and
being a beautiful mom and of course she waited until no one was around
to deliver. They have been out running in the snow everyday since
Friday. What a great sight. I hope to have some action shots for you
soon.
Michael
Hi
Celeta,
Holly had her foal today and mare and filly are doing fine!
Here are some pictures....no name yet, but we will keep you informed.
Mike and Laura Bruno
Hi, this is Lindsey Matlock, I was just
letting you know that the horses (Smitty and Maiden) are doing
wonderful! I will send Christmas pictures soon! Kevin and I bought a
handsome blue blanket for Smitty's christmas gift, but gave it to him
early as winter has finally come to our area. It is going to be 40 to 50
for this week, but last week we dipped below freezing, so both of our
babies are bundled up, nice and warm. Smitty was a little wary of the
new blanket but was glad to have it once he saw the frost outside!
We have begun riding Maiden and
Smitty; they do wonderful. I have not had any bolting problems with
Smitty yet under saddle; the only time he has run away was from a
"scary" tarp he discovered his first day in the indoor arena. Since then
I have led him over it, and he has accepted it as scary but bareable. He
has also come to accept his pasture buddies as "normal" even though they
mostly stand 3-5 inches shorter than him. They're QHs! He has
established himself as the 2nd biggest boy in the pasture of 4 geldings.
They get along well now, grazing and playing together, sunbathing on
nice days.
Maiden was very happy to find a
friend in Star, a gelding in the pasture she occupies. Star is a bit of
a ladies man since he has managed to befriend ALL of the mares in that
pasture! Even the herd leader Sonny has come to accept Star as a sort of
brother; Maiden is fitting right in with her fellow mares. Her best
friends are Star and Bunny, a young mare who possesses as sweet a nature
as Maiden herself.
We have discovered that Maiden does
not care very much for a saddle and bridle, but LOVES to ride bareback
with a halter! Kevin is not comfortable bareback since she has a bit of
a high spine, but I rided her fairly comfortably if I leave her stable
blanket on (it gives a little cushion!) My backside is a little sore
from riding this way this morning, but we hope that with lots of love
and food that spine might not protrude so much. She is getting good
muscle tone, and has developed a healthy appetite.
I'll write again as soon as I have
pictures developed.
Thank you,
Lindsey
Hi guys. Bandit arrived and looks fabulous! He is a sweetheart, and
joined into our routine very well. He is so tender with the girl who
will be riding him. They spent most of the afternoon hanging out in
the field, grooming, and walking the pastures. It was sweet. I will
forward pics after the santa surprise. Take Care, KT
Serious Business "Big" and Sonny at Katie's:
"My treasures do not clink together or glitter
They gleam in the sun and neigh in the night"
Old Arab Proverb
Another Christmas for Jazz & I and I just wanted to let everyone
know that we both continue to be blessed and happy...
Everyday, is a beautiful adventure...a new reason for us to love
one another EVEN MORE!!
We wish for you .....
A lifetime of LOVE,
HAPPINESS,
and SHEER JOY!
Have a wonderful Christmas Season,
If you ride, ride like the wind on your closest friend!
God Bless and keep you!!
Merry Christmas!!
Judy & Jazz 2005
Brioso is doing great. We
have been able to reduce his feed to a normal level (yeah!)
and have a person interested in leasing him.
I took Bri to a few
lessons at Mary Flood. She really likes him.
Janet
Here's a couple of pics of the boys in the first snow-
Walter loved it so much he even laid down for a bit once he
calmed down- his first reaction was to run around like crazy! No
big deal to Petey- guess they have snow in Ill!
Teresa.
I am
going to send pictures this week. Yesterday I turned Ziggy
out in the snow and the first thing he did was go roll in it.
He was tossing his nose into it and then he pawed and rolled.
He is so funny.
When I
brought him in, he had a snow ball in his shoe, he was so
good, he stood there and would not move unitl I picked his
foot, with NO halter on him. He is a good boy.
Jodi
Hi Teresa!
I believe in what comes around goes around. Misty WILL get
hers sooner or later. If you guys ever find out anything about
her, please let us know. We'd love to help prosecute her!
Yes, yes yes the girls do look wonderful. As their mommy(ies)
we have a slided view so it's nice to hear from others that they
think our babies are gorgeous too!
Yep on the age thing. I wish people knew how valuable mature
horses are. Much more settled in the brain, very few uh oh's. If
someone is not looking to compete and want a companion and trail
boss, it's the best way to go.
It was good hearing from you. I hope all is well at the farm.
Give kisses to all the babies waiting to be adopted and I wish
for them a loving and caring home!
Happy Holidays
Michelle
PS Will give a hug, kiss and treat for you today and
everyday. Spoiling them is our pleasure
Hooray, they look wonderful! Thank you for the
terrific update and for being such great horse owners.
I'm glad we could get your girls back for you (and I hope
Misty gets what's coming to her one day). It's so true
about older horses; I rode my pony up until she was 28 and
she was in great health and very peppy. Have fun with
your girls and give them some treats for us :)
Teresa
Hiya Celeita,
I just wanted to write and give an update about
Duckie & Chantilly. First of all they're doing
fabulous! Secondly, we're estatic that the girls are
happy and having fun again. It took a while for them to
loose the hollowed look in their eyes and fill out their
bodies. I am happy to report that their ribs are no
where to be found. Chantilly is back to sticking her
tongue and Duckie making kissing sounds because their so
tickled with their spoiled lifestyle. The other day the
wind was up and they begged for their first game of tag
since they've been back. Happily snorting, bucking and
running around like they we're two again instead of the
19 and 20 that they're turning. Both girls are scheduled
to go to a Natural Horsemanship Training in the spring
to reintroduce them to riding. We are terribly excited
to get back in the saddle again and off exploring the
trails. F.Y.I. to those who might be concerned about
adopting an older horse. As long as the horse is feed
healthily and given lots of pasture room to roam to keep
muscles in good working order, there is no reason why
mature horses cannot be ridden easily and safely.
Kisses to our babies...there's no time for
retirement...there's still tons of playtime left and our
girls happily prove that everyday! I attached some
pictures. I will send more with other updates.
Thanks again,
Michelle Lowe
Virginia
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Hey! Here are the pics of Sweetie [Sweet Sachet] and Rebekah
from that first week home right after we pulled her mane and
bathed her. FINALLY .... Wolf camera retrieved them for me.. I
was so glad. Hope you like them.
Addy is doing great. Hes a great big
fat hair ball. LOL. Living large. I have some pics from our
Salisbury Parelli Tournament that I want to send to Emily. I did
the ground and riding portion with him. He was stellar...except
for that 8x10 horse eating blue tarp. LOL. We got there...we hadnt
been off the farm other than local trail rides for a while. (if
you want an idea of what a tourney is about heres a link:
Untitled Document ) He was having a bit of a honk and snort
over being in a new place...so we spent a while just wandering
around ...hes the kind of horse that if you wander over the same
ground 2x...on the 3rd wander he'll adopt a been here done this
attitude. The 4 challenges selected from the list (on the link)
were tarp in circle.. slolam...sideways and squeeze over a jump(s).
We finished 2nd in the standings due to that horse eating blue
tarp...LOL. He went over and got on it...but when the wind puffed
it up...he was 'outta here!!'....LOL. He did both distances of the
slolam perfect.. he was the only horse to be able to complete the
sideways over both obsticles (a ground pole at 12' away and a 2
foot wall 20' away)...and he was the only horse to complete both
jumps (12' away while you sat in a chair...and 20' away while you
sat in a chair). Christine (the girl who heads or study group in
salisbury) was only able to beat me because she accumulated all of
the points on the tarp. She could not complete the far away wall
on sideways...and did not complete the far away jump. I got the
extra points for pets on the face...Addy always comes in for a pet
when he gets things right. They were thinking they would get
another tourney in prior to the end of the year...but I dont know
with snow starting already. Often here on the shore we dont get
any snow until after christmas. For the riding portion they
removed the tarp and set up the figure 8 challenge. We aced all of
that...accumulated all points but others did it at higher speeds
so got more points than us. I did the challenges in the natural
hackmore and bareback. We just walked the course. Id have done it
at a higher speed if Id have brought my regular saddle...but he
was still a bit 'up'. He was a big hit there...they at one point
asked me to move him out into an extended trot while he was on the
22'...they were enchanted with his movement. I was very happy with
him...there were about 25 horse & rider combinations there...so we
did great. These tourneys are going to get bigger...Ive found that
theres a study group in Dover and another study group in
Annapolis. Its a very exciting time to be involved in pnh. Im
giving serious consideration to applying to be on the savvy team
for next octobers tour stop in Upper Marlboro. We should be out of
level 2 and officially level 3 students by then. Addy is my horsey
soul mate.
Chris
Good morning, Ladies!
Just wanted to let you know that Diane seems to have almost
completely settled in already, just fine in her new "digs"
here...such a sweet, easy-going girl! She has eaten & drunk well
and I even gave her some warm bran mash when we got home Sunday
night (to make sure she got enough water in her after the 8 hr
trip), which she gobbled right up and then tried to wipe her
sloppy muzzle on me...ha. What a sweetheart though...I'm loving
her already. : )))
I'm sure Diane was a WONDERFUL
Momma...so, yes, probably the best babysitter for all those
youngsters at CSS, too!
Poor little things lost
their Nanny...whaaaaa...
She'll have a handful of
little ones to help watch over here then in 2007...if all goes
well getting that Lippy stallion!
Keep your fingers crossed
for us (mentally anyway...ha...) & I'll keep you all posted for
sure.
Another "thank you for such a
great horse"...and was nice to see you
all again.
Keep up the good work & try to stay
warm...15 degrees here this am...with a 50% chance of snow.
BRRRRRRRRRRRR!!
Happy
Holidays,
Angie
I forgot to fill out a
"facility change" form when I was there, for our new place.
We should be closing on it
next Friday...with possession the 28th, then.
I'll make sure & send you a
form before we move anyone there, of course...probably that
weekend (Dec. 30-Jan.1).
Should be sooooooooooo
nice to have them all there together again & in the "back
yard"...as you well know! : )))
Larry has had his friends coming over to look at our "moose" as
he calls Ziggy! They are getting along well. Larry goes in and
gives him a rub and tells him what a nice horse he is! It cracks me
up though when his buddies come over! They are all used to the cow
horses and nothing over 15.2h. It is a hoot!
Jodi
Hello,
Sunny is doing great. She fit right in with the other horses. Have
you found a home for Jack yet? He sure is a pretty horse. You all have
a nice holiday as well.
Laurie
Played in the round pen with "Ziggy" yesterday and he is such an
excellent boy! He moves when you ask him to and stays right with
me!!!! I was going to saddle him, however, my girth (52") was not
big enough! So, today we are off to find one to fit the "little
fella"!
No hurry in getting back to me about the others, just when you
have time.
Thank you again. We are having fun!!!!!!!!!!!
Jodi
OHMYGOODNESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HE IS HUGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love him already and all I have
done is put him in a stall. hehehehe
He is so adorable.
So is the kitten.
Talk to you tomorrow.
THANK YOU< THANK YOU THANK YOU>
jodi (Ziggy's adopter, she also adopted a tiny stray kitten that
our barn manager brought in)
Bru seems to be doing fine. She is the boss of the pasture and won't
let the boys near food that she wants. I think Quin thought he'd be
clever and pee on her pile of hay when she came down to get grain; when
they had eaten their grain and went back to finish the hay, she went to
their pile instead. His plan backfired! She has a thick coat and has put
on a good bit of weight.
When the vet was here back in
September, I had planned to have her check to see if Bru was pregnant,
but Bru was in very obvious heat at the time. The vet said that with her
in heat it was a 90% chance that she wasn't pregnant. I hope that's true
because that idiot vet also tried to tell me that my geldings had not
actually been gelded. (I'm changing vets!) Anyway, we agreed that it's
probably only Bru's left hock that is arthritic; I think she gets a
little stiff, but it doesn't keep her from running or donkey-kicking at
Quin.
She has had no problem with worming and has been an angel for the
farrier. He said he'd like to take her home himself. To be honest,
though, I'd like to spend more time with her and the other horses as
well. I guess it's just a busy time of year.
Since we've had Bru, Katie has eased into spending more time with
her. Starting by just handing carrots through the fence, she now hugs
and loves on her. Leading Bru out of the pasture has made Katie more
comfortable, and she pets and brushes her. Unfortunately, no, though,
Katie has not ridden her. The colder weather and earlier nights have
really put a damper on all of our horsey activities so I don't expect
that to change for awhile.
Bru is really such a sweet horse (although I know a bay gelding
that might disagree) and loves to get attention. We're very glad to have
her. Thanks!
Will keep you posted if there's any change.
Cindy
Hey there!! I hope everything is going well with you. Lacey (Dakota) is
doing great and is in foal to CR top Button. She is due in April.
here are some more pictures of Pizazz, my favorite one is the one
that all the boys are drooling over her from the other
paddock......the grass is greener, or
should I say prettier on the other side of the fence......
Daniela
Thanks, Celeita, actually I have emailed Sharon already about
Skye. She sounds like a lovely mare & Sharon has been very helpful
with information about her, too. I'm planning to pick her up near
the end of December since WE ARE BUYING A FARM IN
SPENCER, INDIANA...we accepted the sellers' counter
offer on Saturday, have closing set for Dec. 16th and will get
possession December 28th.
YIPPPPPPPPPPPEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!! We are very, very
happy, of course!! I will bring you the addy info. & can fill out a
change of location form this weekend for the horses. We'll probably
move them all there the middle of January. The farm has perimeter
fencing but will need interior fencing and a little work on the barn
first. Otherwise it should work very well...and we are very excited
to get them in the backyard again!!
I think I'd still rather come
pick up Diane myself and do have time this weekend. I'll get back
with you later in the week to figure out the details.
Thanks & have a SUPER week!
Angie
Yahoooooo, that's great news. Super! We'll be here this weekend, come
anytime. You can stay over if you need to, just let us know. Celeita
Hi Teresa,
Pizazz is doing great, she loves my quarter horse Dancer, and he is
totally in love with her. The other day I walked her off the property
and down the road a bit to get her used to the new surroundings and when
we came back, Dancer let out the most pitiful whinny I have ever heard
out of him..... he was sooo glad that "his" girl was back.... :-)
She obviously has not been handled for a while, so we are taking it
slow together....no rush, since she is a youngen... but she is extremely
willing and smart and trying to please, just not very confident, but
that will come in time. I know you haven't actually met her, all I can
tell you, is that she is just such a lady. Even the way she takes treat
from your hand is ever so gentle and careful and dainty. The other day
she bit a mint in half....definitely not like my percheron, who will
suck in your whole hand into his lips for his cookies :-) I am sure,
you can tell how excited I am to have her!
If you get a chance, would you scan and e-mail me her pedigree? I was
curious on what her momma's line is. I have dad's, but don't seem to be
able to pull up her info through the internet. Her sire has quite the
impressive bloodlines (I am so excited about it, because I am from
Germany and his ancestors are all german and most I had heard of
before).
Well, all I can say is that I got my christmas present early this
year and nobody is going to be able to top this one for a very long
time.
Anyhow, I will try and e-mail you some of her pictures tomorrow.
Yours for ever grateful,
Daniela
Did I mention Sahara is enjoying 68 deg weather under blue skies
today? Bubble bath yesterday. Candy cane today. Did I mention that
she has it better than I do?Alexandra said she was sending you
some "Christmas" pics of Sahara. They are very cute. She is out at
the stables almost every day after school. I told her that if her
grades dropped I was sending both of them back to SWAP!
-Pete
Sahara and Alexandra:
 
Hi Celeita,
Pizazz is looking well, but by no means fat as Paula let me to
believe. It was very strange to pick her up, because the care taker was
video taping the whole thing. She trailered wonderful and is indeed a
very sweet girl.
I can't thank you enough for believing in me and letting me adopt her
because you made my lifelong dream come true and I am walking on
clouds....
I will take some pictures of her in the next couple of days and send
them to you. Also, she was on the same brand of feed that I feed as
well: Seminole...she had her on a 10% grain, I feed 12%, but that is no
problem what-so-ever. She did well her first night and all seems
great.....no obvious distress in her body language at all. She has the
most beautiful and lightfooted trot just watching her move! She will be
perfect for dressage and down the road I can't wait to send you the
progress notes.
I'll keep you posted on Pizazz and please let me know if there is
anything else that you need from me.
Daniela
Howdy! Kisses is doing well. She is getting to
know my other horse and enjoying my nice, cozy barn on these chilly, wet
nights. I have not ridden her yet. She is very sweet and nice to work
around.
Are you able to use the 3 blankets I left for
you? I hope they fit somebody.
We held our annual charity auction last Sat. and
I think I have talked our group into making a donation to you...maybe
$100-$200. We have given money to the Leesburg Equine Rescue in the
past and I told them I would like to see us give some money to a WV
group. I'll keep you posted.
Thanks. rosie
Hi Celeita,
Hope everyone is doing great. Came across this picture and
thought I would share it with you,it's of me and Chester out jumping.
It's not the best but it's one of the few that I have of me riding him.
Chester is doing great.
Take care,
Janette Cordoza and Chester in California
Hi Celeita, first of
all....all the girls are doing well. Jillian's foal is
now weaned. She is 7 1/2 months old and 14 hands! She is a monster! And a
sweet one to boot! Willow's foal is also weaned. I popped on Willow one
day
for a hack out in the field, she seemed to enjoy it but does she have
energy! ;) Curly still has Eloquence on her side. Elo is only 4 1/2 months
old so she still has some time with mommy. Curly is not minding at all
though! She thoroughly enjoys mommy hood! Maria
Just a quick update on Doc and Sukhoi. Doc
is just finishing his second month of training at DWD Farms in
Manchester. He is doing well and can consistently pick up his
right lead canter on the first attempt. It will still be a while
before he builds up enough muscle and flexibility on that side to
stay with it for longer periods of time, but he is a hard worker
and likes to please! We have decided to board him over the winter
months so that we can continue to work with him. There is a very
nice farm in Manchester that has a large indoor arena and
lessons/training available (watershipdowns.com). If you approve,
we would like to trailer Doc there on Sunday. As for Sukhoi, we
have finally solved her tack issues (the full-figured girl is in a
County xtra wide dressage saddle) and will be starting her basic
under saddle training. We may board her as well during the winter
months, so that Mark can work with her on a consistent basis. We
will let you know if this becomes a possibility.
Thanks!
Vicky Gordon
Certainly Vicky that is fine, moving a horse for training and for
short boarding periods is fine, even over the winter. We just ask that
people contact us when they are changing their permanent residence. It
sounds like a great place and that both horses are really coming
along. So happy both are doing so well. Did you all decide against
getting another horse? All the best and thank you for considering us
in the moves. Celeita
hey guys,
Zahara is doing great. She has had some physical issues, it turns out
that her hocks have to be injected, which is sad, but once that's done
she will be ready to get back to hard work. Now we are just working on
her trotting, lead changes, cantering, it has been very fine and
enjoyable. So that will be done in three days, which is exciting. Also
she is getting body clipped because she is a fuzzy girl. However, she is
getting very well adjusted and she is nice and relaxed, doesn't spook
anymore because our training has been going so well, which is a huge
improvement. She gets ridden everyday and she loves to run out in the
pastures with me. It's kind funny she'll like run along side me and
follow me and stuff. So I just wanted to update, and tell you how things
were going. Also I had a question, why was Zahara's sister put up for
adoption. I hope all is well.
Arianna BrownHey Arianna, Thank you for writing. About the
injections, remember all injections shorten the life of a joint so its
critical to keep them to a minimum. The more you do, the more likely
Zahara will eventually be permanently lame just from the injections, we
really try to stay away from injections when ever possible, especially
when we want our horses to be sound for life, as I'm sure you do to and
would never want to do anything to hurt her. What was it that makes you
or your trainer think she needs injections? Just wondering, because I
know she was sound.
Horses usually need about 6 months of daily flat work before
starting to jump and especially to jump at any height or more than
once a week and it has to start out really light and low, maybe your
trainer is moving too fast with her and her muscles and bones can not
keep up with the work load. Hard tissues (bones) usually take about 8
month to a year to become stronger, especially for jumping and this is
several months after muscles are conditioned. This is not my opinion
but the opinion of most lameness specialists as they just did research
covering a large number of horses over several years and posted it in
The Horse Magazine.
Can you tell me your work schedule and jump schedule with her
(how much and how high you are jumping, how many jumps at what height
during each training session and how many jumping sessions per week)?
She was pretty fit when she came to you all so I would expect that
with 2 or 3 months of flat work you could start jumping (very light
and low for several months). Maybe I can help you keep her sound
without the injections if you just tell me your current schedule. All
the best, Celeita
Well, good, Celeita...I'm
glad that you found some hay for now anyway. Sure is an ordeal always,
isn't it? I wish I could grow my own!! We go through a lot too...not as
much as you I'm sure though : ))) !
The girls are all good
here...fat and happy, starting to grow furry coats. I can't believe it's
almost winter again...seems like it was just August yesterday. Where did
the summer go? Poppy is finally starting to fill out now, too...she has
been a tough project though!! And what a tough keeper...whew...but she
impresses us every day with her perky spirit. What a character...
Looks like you are still
full up out there...scary heading into winter, I'm sure. At least I hope
you have good help again...to keep up. Never an easy job...and be sure
that we are ALL in awe with all you do out there...keep up the good
work!!
Well take care & hope you're
getting some fun riding in before the temps really drop on us again...I
am. : )) !
Angie
Hi Celeita & crew,
Beau and I have been working with a dressage trainer at my
neighbor's twice a month. We just got done with a session and I
thought I would send you an update on where we/he is since its been
three months already. The weather has not been cooperating with me
lately (no indoor) and Beau hasn't been getting consistent work so its
taking us longer to get things together. I know he has the training
and its just a matter of me getting things right so I'll keep at it
until we find that connection. He is defintely not an "easy" horse to
ride and he's making me really work but that makes it all the more
rewarding when he offers just what I'm looking for. We're slowly
building our "relationship" but I think that we may be a really good
match once we get things sorted out.
He's really filled back out and the trainer commented that his body
looked better (gaining muscle now) today than it had a few weeks ago
so that's good to hear. He also threw a few "Whee" bucks in the
session today so I think he's feeling good! My digital camera is
broken but I'll try to get a photo to you in the next few weeks. He is
such a beautiful horse that I think he could get away with murder
sometimes and I would still say "look how cute he is" His coat is
really bleached out and I'm hoping it darkens up over the winter but
I'll have to wait and see.
Hope all is well with your herd,
Jen
Good Morning Teresa,
Daisy is doing well.
She gets hay 24/7 and
is on Senior feed. She eats
very well. As you can see from the
photo, she is putting on weight nicely.
She does have 2 cuts on both hind legs.
I shaved her legs, scrubbed the cuts, and
had to sweat the leg that was really
swollen.
The legs are looking much better now.
Did you hear about Levi's accident. He
is OK, but
his trailer got smashed. He is coming
here Thursday
to pick up my trailer so he can keep
working. Thank
goodness he is OK.
I'll send another picture in a few weeks.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Ann, Doug & Edwin White
Hey Teresa,
Just wanted to let you know that Sahara is doing really well. She was
body clipped this morning and looks and feels much better. She's been
doing great on the flat, and my trainer let us jump crossrails today.
She jumped them like she'd been jumping her whole life. Anyway, she has
settled in and is loving her new life.
Take care,
Alexandra
PS. I am sending you a CD with pics of Sahara. There are pics for the
appraiser and some "fun shots" as well.
Hi everyone!
This is Lindsey, I' m writing you a
message about Maiden and Smitty (my phone battery is about dead). They
are both doing very well! Maiden has adjusted better thus far; she has
"adopted" a six month old filly named Dawn. Dawn has a mother, but she
is just old enough to start being independent and exploring by herself.
If she gets scared she whinnies-- and Maiden comes running! She LOVES
that baby! I'll send pictures. Smitty is still adjusting; we are turning
him out during the day with some mild mannered geldings, but he cries
and whinnies if Maiden is out of his sight. Fortunately her turnout is
right next to his; as long as she's within sight he's fine, and he seems
to be having fun with the other boys. He and Dandy seem to play a lot;
Dandy is the biggest horse in the field except for Smitty. (Dandy is
Tennesse Walker/ Saddlebred cross). They run back and forth across the
pasture together and play chase! It has been 70- 80 degrees this past
week, so all the horses are frisky. It's cooling down though; today the
high was 71. They are both happy and eating well!
Talk to you later,
Lindsey and Kevin
I forgot to tell you- my mom was
contacted by Maiden's original owner? They talked for awhile, and her
original owner seemed happy that Maiden had found a good home. Kevin
and I are there several times a day, grooming and feeding. They both
seem happy! We got to hear about Maiden's foals from the original
owner; she was telling us about them. Very neat! Thanks,
lindsey
Peanut the young Arab
with his adoption family - he is such a special boy and they've done a
great job with him!
hello, I had my sister take a pic of windsor yesterday when we
turned him out (its been raining for days and yesterday it was
beautiful!) he was nice and clean but look at him now!
hope all is well.
Alaina Banyay
Funny Alaina, he looks good. I guess we are thinking that maybe the
first pictures must have had a funny angle to make him look thin. That
boy loves to roll doesn't he? He used to come in with mud in his ears
and all over his face, he would find the wettest biggest mud hole and
lay in it. He loves his free time, doesn't he? Thanks for hanging in
there and taking such good care of him. I'm glad you are enjoying him.
We just loved him here. He's a great old man. Celeita
Emmy the Connemara x
TB youngster with adopter Anne
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Our recently adopted
boxer mix Sheena plays with Executive Assistant Teresa's adopted dog Troy
(Dalmatian x Great Pyrenees who was adopted from SWAP last summer).
They certainly have a lot of fun together :)
-
Celeita ,
I owe you an update. Whim and I are having a ball!! We ride in
the
Pisgah Forest three days a week now with a friend and her horse. I
am taking lessons and gaining my confidence back. Whim is being
very
very good out in the trails with his new friend.
Thanks for hanging in with me during my down and hopeless feeling
time! All is well.
Love, Colleen
- Hey, this is such great news. Beautiful pic, too. Looks like
you all are having
- a super time. Bravo to an amazing team!! I'm so proud of you
Colleen for working
- through this. I knew you could do it. Big Kudos! Give that boy
a big kiss and a big
- carrot for us. Celeita
  Teresa and Celeita,
Attached please find some more
pictures of Key to the Diary (aka K.D., Kade, and Key)
adopted by Emily Johnson - April 2005. There is a picture
of Emily and K.D. at the D2 Hunterdon Hills Pony Club Rating
in October. There are also pictures from the Tewksbury
Trail Association Hunter Pace (1st Jr, and 1st Fastest Pace)
and the Covered Bridge Train Association (2nd Jr., Fastest
Pace - no ribbon), and from Hunter Farms at Princeton, NJ in
the Hunter Ring (ridden with a hackmore). They appeared in
an article in the October edition of "Todays Horse" on page
17 and were also on the cover of the North Hunterdon
Weekender. K.D. is a challenge but is responding well to
Emily's loving time and effort.
Regards,
Robert Alan Johnson
Compliance Group
GSKCH GMS Central Quality
Well Cat looks 100%
super, almost headed to chubby now...but then she wasn't in
that bad of shape to begin with and is young, too of course,
so she has been easy to work with. Poppy on the other hand
has been a project! Her hair coat is FINALLY normal after
battling that rain rot the last couple of months and
doctoring all her scrapes and rubs from the long trip
here...poor thing. She still has trouble with her hind legs
stocking up some days (from the added weight she has to
shift to them to favor that front knee) and she has been
ouchy a couple times on the opposite front foot, but I've
been watching her very closely for founder and she's not
headed there...yet...worries me though, with all the weight
she has to put on it... She has come up in weight A LOT but
she still has a bit to go, poor thing. She was just in
horrid shape when she came & lost a bit on the trip even, I
think (and she had NONE to spare!!). I will try to take some
photos for you this weekend...been meaning to do it and just
haven't had the time.
Otherwise, all our
horses are good. Enjoying these cooler temps and spending a
good 12-16 hours out romping, grazing and napping...fun. I
wish it was like this year-round! Oh well...winter will be
here before you know it...
Take care,
Angie
Classy is getting exercise and the girls
are enjoying her so much- esp Brynna. She is a great horse
with plenty of spunk. We are blessed to have her!
Hello- Yes, its working out fine. I rode her a couple
times bareback and she does just great- she did try to turn
around on me once without command and also go to a corner to
eat grass, but horses, like kids try to push the boundaries,
I guess! She seems happy. We give her lots of treats. This
week both my girls have strep throat so I've had to go there
without them. The vet came out on Wednesday and gave her a
full exam- reaffirmed her soundness and said her scrape is
healing just fine. The vet (a woman) also modified her diet
a bit, less cracked corn and stick with the pellets.
Classy's feet look great. She is so sweet. She seems to
enjoy being turned out with one of the mares. The other two
horses are in a separate pasture. They graze near each other
but don't interact much closely. So far so good.
Will send more photos soon.
Betsy
Teresa and Celeita-
We are just loving Classy. Last nite we
showed up at her stall at 4pm and she was relaxing in her
stall. Its been quite cool and rainey here so they were turned
in early by the landlord. Of course we had treats and an apple
core which she ate happily. My girls and I brushed her, picked
her hooves and put a warm blanket on and she lifted her head
high, curled that upper lip and smiled at least twice in the
cross ties! Very cute! I think she loves all the attention and
doting! Will send more photos later-
Betsy
Hi! I just wanted to let you know that Roulette is home
safe and sound. I sent an email to Debbie to let her know, too.
:>)
I can't remember if I told you Teresa on the phone today or
not when you asked me what the vet said...
What is on his back is rain rot, so I started the scrub and
betadine solution treatment today, per his advise. I am also
having a farrier out next week to do his hooves, which can
definitely use some work, and I'm increasing his hay and grain
intake a little per the vet's recommendation (all of which was
what I knew anyway). Debbie's friend had let him go a little
bit when he was at her farm, no fault of hers, but he'll be in
tip top shape soon. The vet said is was nothing that a little
care couldn't cure and thought he was a sweet boy. :>) In fact,
everyone who has seen him thinks he's incredibly pretty and so
sweet. They can't believe how quiet he is. Sid was excited to
see him too, but they haven't been introduced yet. I'm giving
Roulette some time to adjust and in a day or so, will begin a
closer acclimation. Roulette is just so cute how he settled in
so easily and happily.
Jennifer
Thanks to you guys and Debbie for such a precious gift!
i was taking some pictures of my colt, and not to be outone,
i got the "aren't i cute, too? " look....and well, this is the
result. i took her picture and told her she was!
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Moonstruck
Hi Celeita - just a quick question. I would like to change the
location of where I currently have Skyler boarded. There's no
problem....everyone gets along with everyone and Skyler is certainly
a favorite there. We are having difficulties with the footing at our
current barn. Between all the vet/chiro/accupuncture exams I have
been through with Skyler, I really feel it is in his best interest
to find a place with softer, more stable footing.
The difference in his way of going between our current barn and
at shows, as well as Kathy Adams' barn, makes me realize that good
footing is vital to his continued well-being. I have kept Joanne up
to date on all of these details. I have made arrangements to move
Skyler to "Devoncroft", which is Pam Wooding's barn in Hope, NJ. Pam
has been a dressage judge for 30 years and has her own place. She is
fanatical about her footing and the care of her horses. Kathy Adams
knows her and she actually suggested that I approach Pam about
boarding there. Pam is married to a retired vet which makes things
even more interesting! Pam also has several older retired upper
level horses that she works at maintaining.
I wasn't sure if I needed to fill out any particular form for a
change of boarding location. Joanne is already aware of my plan. I
have taken a couple of lessons with Pam already and she loves Skyler.
Thanks! Nancy
Hi Ya'll !
Just wanted to give you a quick update on Robbie !
Sunday, Robbie and I had the fastest successful join up
I've ever had with a horse in the round pen, saddled him up, (thanks
to Alex, had a snaffle wide enough for him :-), and OH, MY ! What a
dream ! He's absolutely WONDERFUL !
Brought him home today (he was delivered at the Bar
Fifty where I work, Levi's trailer was too long to turn around at my
place right now) and showed him around. He loves his big stall (12 x
18) and private paddock. Introduced him to the herd (Alex, Big Boy &
Tina), they hit it off great.
After close watching with Alex and Big Boy in paddocks
on either side of Robbie, I turned him out with them in the big field,
and did they ever have fun ! Raced around and around for 30 minutes.
Robbie found the big pond/little lake, and dove right in ! He swam
around for another 15 or 20 minutes, with us laughing fit to fall down
watching him swim around, head to shore and try to get the others to
come in and play with him ! They finally did go in and all four were
swimming around like a flock of geese !
By then it was getting late, brought them all in and
dried them off, Robbie looking at me as if saying "you want to do what
?!?" when it was his turn with the dryer :-)
He's settled in nice and warm for the night, and has
quickly earned a big place in my heart ! Thank ya'll soooo much for
letting me get him !
Debbie
P.S. Got a pic of me on him, and pics of him playing,
will send them along as soon as I get them developed !
Lady Deborah and
Alex
"My Life for a Horse"
Hi Teresa-
Well the BIG surprised happened yesterday
and my daughters were indeed very
surprised. Brynna esp my older one, kept jumping up and down and kissing
Classy, hugging her, etc.......she really is the sweetest mare. My
daughter is on cloud 9 and is THRILLED to have Classy. (I'll send photos
when I get them developed) She is just crazy
about her. This morning at around 7am she was turned out with
the whole herd (2 other mares and a young gelding) and it went fairly
well, and did she ever prance around to have all that extra room! It was
fine at first except she got fussy toward the end b/c Tony the almost 2
yr old kept chasing her. She bucks and runs away but he keeps going-
very goofy. Anyway, we saw Classy again at 6:30 pm and she was in her
stall happily eating hay and had just finished her evening meal. (She
doesn't finish all of her morning meal, but will eat it and her dinner
together thru the course of the nite). My girls played the silliest game
of peek a boo with her and she went right along with it. They run around
the outside of the barn and call her and she turns in her stall to look
out her window for them. Then they come running back into the barn to
rub her nose. She seems to just love kids AND all the attention. Karen,
the stable owner, agrees that Classy is great for kids and seems to
really be happy to be doted over by the girls. She is so dirty now and I
cant wait to bathe her, and her cut on her rear end is healing nicely.
She is a GREAT animal and we are really looking forward to working with
her more now that she is healing up when the rain stops and we get her a
new saddle. Her vet apptmt is Wednesday.....Bye
for now-
BetsyWhat a hoot. We are
all laughing Betsy.... what a great surprise. Makes me want to be a
little girl again. I'm sure they will have years of great memories to
make with each other. all the best, Celeita
Thought you would like some pictures of Trevy with
Kelsey Berney. He has been a dream for her. Still doing ground work,
but he is a quick learner. Thanks for allowing us to adopt Trevy.
Jan Atkins (Kelsey's Mom)
here's a new picture of Moon [on the right] in a smaller pasture with
raabaa. her cough left on day 2, and we'll be turning her out into the
mare pasture this weekend. i understand the gal that had her used to
use her to wean babies, and since i only have the 1 this year, i have
decided to put raabaa and moon in with the mare and foal once the mare
has good weight again. that way, when time comes to pull mom out, baby
has two aunties left to commiserate with.
Here is Classy settling into her new environment-
she is a beauty and a very sweet girl!
Betsy
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Hi Celeita,
How are things going for you guys out there. I just realized I
hadn't e-mailed you pictures of Chester. I took them back in June but
my internet runs so slow it's hard to send pictures.
I just started a 2 year old gelding for a friend of mine. She
wants to do western pleasure with him so she took him down to a trainer
to evaluate him for finishing touches. The trainer asked her who
started him and she told her about me and the lady told her I don't know
this trainer but she sure did a wonderful job with him. She had said I
did everything right. I was a pretty big ego boost since it was my
first horse starting and this was only two weeks under saddle.
I noticed you had a horse by the name of Rochester on the web site
that might be sent back out to you. If you would be interested I would
like to see about fostering him if that's a possibility. If he needed
to be picked up I can go down and pick him up. He's about four and a
half hours from where I live now. I just wanted to run that by you and
let you know that I can help out. Let me know what you think.
Here's some pictures of Mr. wonderful (Chester). My farrier I am
working with out here was just out and he told me couldn't believe that
Chester was the same horse he started with back in April. For some
reason he really has gotten real comfortable here. Everyone loves him.
He's right down by the maintenance shop for the gated community and Ken
the supervisor went out and bought a bag of goodies for him just so he
could see him trot down to him every morning.
Hope all is well.
Take care,
Janette Cordoza
Moon is safely here but didn't arrive until 9:30 pm, so it
was quite dark. the carrier had to pay the vet, so i was
scurrying for more money and didn't even see her unloaded, but i
did come out of the office in time to see a few spins and bucks
in the paddock. she found the water and the bucket of alfalfa
pellets and a tiny handful of sweetfeed i'd left for her to
munch on, but was grazing on grass like she hadn't eaten in
years when i went to bed. since she is round and fat, we all
know that is bunk. must be yummy grass (why we bought here)!
of course, there was no eating until after she'd gotten rid of
all the beans, and then had a holler about and met her new buddy
through the fence. raabaa wasn't overly impressed, and they are
ignoring each other this morning...she's so busy just looking
around.
she had pretty persistent cough last night. last night it
quieted down, and you have to be right with her to hear it
now, though, so suspect it was just the last of the night air
ride. this morning, i have left her to walk her paddock looking
out at her pasture and new friends, she sure is funny to watch -
she looks yearning almost, but i want to keep her away from mine
for just awhile in case she caught anything on the haul. it's
killing her - she wants to go for a full gallop and get to know
all those horses!! see what i mean?
In order, Lady Rebecca (Val's Gal), 2 year old; Marjorie
Gaylord, 2 year old;
Sarajevo Promise, weanling; Minnie's Magic, yearling.
Hi Celeita. Thought I'd forward you some pictures of the
"gang". In order of appearance....Lady Rebecca (stable name Val's
Gal) out of Some Kind of Soul (2years old), 2 year old, Marjorie
Gaylord , out of Swiftconquistadora (Minnie's sister), Sarajevo
Promise (weanling) out of Swift, and Minnie's Magic (yearling) out
of Swift, . Minnie's Magic is named after her aunt Magic Minnie.
She's never far from my thoughts and always in my heart. I confess
I cried when Sara was born this spring. She's the carbon copy
of Minnie's foal that I lost, down to the few white hairs in the
exact same spot in her forehead. So I named her Sarajevo's Promise,
which is the name I'd picked out for Minnie's foal. She may be
gone, but will never be forgotten. When Sara was born, I felt I'd
gone full circle. The 2 year olds will shortly be heading to
Vancouver to be trained and raced in partnership. Very excited at
the prospect and I'm really looking forward to visiting there to see
them race in the spring. An added bonus is that Scarlett's daddy
(Dixieland Brass) lives very close to where she'll be and I'll get a
chance to go see him in person. Rhett picked up another 3rd place
check (photo for second and I still think they made a mistake!) so
we're still waiting for him to break his maiden. As for Mama
Scarlett, she's hanging out in the backyard, fat as a pig and on a
perennial diet. I can't believe this mare came to me starved, as
she seems to pull calories out of thin air! She puts a capital E on
the term "easy keeper". She's had the past 2 years off of baby
making, and not sure I'll be breeding anything in the spring
either. Since I haven't been able to convince myself to sell any of
these babies, figure I'd better stop making them for the time
being! LOL But I sure do love all my girls! The boys too, of
course, but they need to get off their behinds and WIN some races so
I can pay future stud fees! haha Hope all's going well on your
end. Kristie Update from Kristie: Hi
Celeita. Rhett ran a really strong 2nd in yesterday's 25K mcl at
Laurel. Think he was only 1 1/2 lengths behind the winner. Go Baby
Go! Kristie
Teresa,
The same thought occurred to me shortly after Meg
arrived here..so we re-thought the diet routine until we knew for
sure..She was just over weight so to our regret no Baby Mega-moos in
the near future. She has trimmed down some looks a lot healthier
actually and I know it has to be less stressful on her joints.
Snickers and her are both doing great....She still isn't 100 % sure
whether or not she likes to be ridden..but usually goes along with the
rest of the group once they get going.. Snickers.. seems to be a
favorite with all the neighbor kids around...probably gets a little
toooo many sweets and treats but doesn't seem to mind. As far as the
buckets go...it's no problem or hurry while we can still use them we
understand that it's been a tad busy on your end..so just send em
whenever you have time but don't worry about making it a priority..
Thanks and have a great day.
Tom and Cheryl
ok thank you any way she's doing good i rode her yesterday with
some people from my bran and we are going to ride today to her weight is
doing good i will send a picture of her as soon as i get one i haven't
taken my camera out in recently i think the reason she looked a thin in
the one picture was because the was she was turned in it because i took
more pictures that day and she looked good but she wasn't turned in then.
but i will be sure to send out a picture asap
Olivia
ps we had a wonderful ride yesterday its the first time we have gone
on a trail in a long time and she was acting like we go on one every
time im there and was very relaxed
Hi All,
Doitright Tobe (Tucker) finally made his first level debut sound in
all four feet! I am pleased to say, he earned over 60% on both tests and
earned 5th and 6th place ribbons. This after a season of a cracked hoof
and a problem with his pelvis or stifle...whichever caused which.
If no one is impressed with the ribbons, add this to the mix. The
show took place at the NJ Horse Park, during the BLM Regional Championship
Show (we were not in the Championship classes) which was booked to
capacity, on Saturday, October 8. Now why would I stress the date? Because
that was the day Tropical Storm Tammy paid a visit to our "fair" state.
Classes were held for the intrepid riders in torrential rains with gusty
winds. To top it off, the judges were forced out of the booths to sit in
cars and trucks plastered right up against the dressage ring with...are
you ready for this...windshield wipers going! More than one horse, even
some of the upper level horses, spooked repeatedly at the moving wipers.
Tucker's first pass down the center line towards "C" and the wipers
was a bit erratic, but with my trainer in the saddle, he made the turn and
passed by throughout the rest of the test with nary a worry. He looked as
settled as an master. Both tests were steady and lovely with the main
faults being not enough difference in the lengthened trots and canters.
Having just come back from the pelvis issue, he wasn't quite schooled in
them, so that is quite understandable. Everything else, including the leg
yields scored really well.
It was pouring during both rides so we didn't bother with videos.
The footing was good but a bit "sticky" so I also think that might have
contributed to some of the missing "forward" on the lengthened gaits. One
of my friends, competing in her third show won a blue in her class, much
to our delight and another friend put in a good ride in her championship
class. All of these horses are relatively young, so we are quite proud of
their performances in miserable weather conditions.
Tucker is quite proud of himself and fully intends to move on up the
levels with a positive outlook. Of course, carrots after every ride do
help. Next season we'll be aiming for second level by fall.
Still Grinning, Jean D.
They
are doing very well- maybe a touch spoiled, but they are both just so good
and sweet! We got a new farrier who was out today and their feet look
great (the last guy just didn't do a great job on Walter) and the vet is
due to come back on Wed for the rest of the shots she had planned to do in
the spring until I spoke to you and found out Walter is due now. We're
finally getting to the point where we have everything we need for them. I
may have mentioned I had some trouble finding a saddle that fit Petey
well- but finally did and have replaced all of Walters things (halter,
bridle, etc.) with new stuff! We are also extending our pasture by about
another acre as they could use a little more room and I am trying to get
the farmer behind us to lease us another 3-5 acres, just for more grazing
field as they do love to be outside as much as possible. They seem to be
very happy here. Thanks-
Holly Beauclair, VP
Carteret Mortgage Corporation
Hello Celeita and
everyone!
Everything is good-
Just wanted to let you know that I will be taking Andrew to the Marion
DuPont Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, Virginia for surgery on his
injury
from the adoption fraud.
I'm sure you remember seeing how well we were doing with the proud flesh
in
my update pics- by mid-July the wound was closed over. yay!
All was well until he came in from evening turnout with a new cut to the
lower edge of the scar. The vet came out. It was to the bone, he
prescribed
TMS. (and wound care with prescription ointment) About three weeks into
it
there started to be discharge and draining. I called for a follow-up and
xrays a few days later, as there was no improvement and the discharge had
become pus.
The vet stuck a swap into the cut and was still hitting bone and heartily
agreed with doing the xrays!
The xrays revealed a bone sequestrum- basically a dead piece of bone and
abnormal bone growth.
Interestingly, it made us think again about the cause of the recent new
cut-
I figured it was hitting himself stamping at a fly or maybe a kick in
play-
but now, after the xrays, I'm thinking that once the injury closed over,
it
cooked the infection around the bone sequestrum and then it blew out, like
an abscess.
Andrew's surgery will be done under anesthesia and they will cut away all
that abnormal tissue and then go in and scrape the bad bone away. *ouch*
My vet urged me to take him to the Medical Center instead of having it
done
at his practice because it is a bit more complicated of a bone sequestrum
than they are used to removing plus the fact that the Medical Center is an
actual hospital. I agreed- it's more expensive at the Medical Center
($2000
vs $2500) but worth the extra expense to help Andrew get as close to
normal
again as possible!
He'll be going in the next week or two, for two nights, and then stall
rest
for 4 to 5 weeks.
I'll let you know how it goes!
Sara
Dear Sara, Poor
Andrew. I just want to strangle Robin Hollingsworth and throw her in jail
myself. I can't wait for the grand jury when she actually goes to prison
for all she has done to people and horses. Thank god we got him back and
you have him now.
And now this, this
poor boy. I'm very sorry he's having to go through all this, its so sad.
I'm sure it will get better, most injuries do with time. Hang in there and
thank you for giving him such a great home. Celeita
Dear Celeita and
Everyone,
I am happy to see that Amira has been adopted by the lady in PA. I
knew someone would see her potential again. Did her foal get adopted?
Is the lady aware of her breeding? I sure hope Amira is purposefully
bred rather than the way it happened the last time, and her
bloodlines are realized.
Love to read over what you are up to and the horse with the pumpkin
and witch's hat was so cute! I hope you have lots of hay for this
winter. I live in VA now and feel closer to the horses, almost like I
could go see them if things were different with Alex. He is getting
better from his autism, but still not talking easily or voluntarily.
But we are grateful for his getting better anyway.
Are you going to be at the International Horse Show in DC? I don't
think I can go unless I take Alex on a Saturday, but it is a great
place to show what you do and maybe get donations?
Thank you.
Mary Ludwig
Mary, Thank you so much. Great owners like yourself make our job so
much easier. Its so sad we had to go get her but we just could not leave
those horses in such a neglected situation any longer and it was not
getting better even though we were trying to work with her. Its best this
way, she is in a good home and we also got her baby adopted as well.
We would love to go
the WIHS but honestly we don't have two pennies to rub together to do
anything fun, every penny has been going to get ready for winter, we still
only have 300 bales of hay left and that won't get us through this month
so we are in desperate need of finding someone who will deliver some,
since we don't have the equipment to pick up. I think by next summer we
will be putting the farm on the market, the horse adoption market just
isn't there and we've always depended totally on adoption fees to
continue, we rarely ever get donations, nor do we have the people to do
fund raising. Sad but true, we will continue to track all our horses in
homes and will place them into fosters if they have to come back to us but
unfortunately the farm will be gone and we will be greatly handicapped in
doing our mission.
Thank you so much for
being so supportive and for caring so much about your horses. Emails
like this make our day. Celeita
 Seth and Caitlin
schooling
Hi Teresa,
Yes, Caitlin is a lot bigger, having grown over six inches taller
this year. As far as self-confidence, I think Seth gets a lot of the
credit. She LOVES him, and he's taught her so much. Although Tess is
will always be loved, she's a short stirrup ride and Caitlin is beyond
that competition level now. Rides on Tess are easy, fun rides. With
Seth, according to Caitlin, it's challenging and exhilarating!
Carol
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Here is me and Caesar.. I don't have any armor pics
of him yet. He is not too crazy about it right now,
but is dealing with it. I will work on it soon.
Thanks!
Jere
Hi!
Its 8:09 on Tuesday night and we've arrived home and settled Sweetie in.
She did very well with Rebekah today riding walk/trot and Tammy and her
farrier were extremely helpful and kind helping Rebekah feel comfortable.
Tim (the farrier) rode her first in just a halter and lead on a western
saddle, and then we traded out Bekah's english saddle. Sweetie seemed to
make the adjustment to a little rider and seemed careful and cautious
immediately. I was astounded by Rebekah's confidence which is pretty
uncharacteristic of her with horses (especially such a large one.) I will
update you regularly and send pictures.
Rebekah is very excited about her. She wanted to write to you
personally. So the following note is directly from her.
Blessings,
angela
Hi Miss Celeita and Miss
Teresa,
I really like Sweetie.
I think she will really work out for me because she's a dream. I walked
and trotted her in the ring and worked with her on the ground and I felt
comfortable with her and most of the time she did what I asked her to do.
But sometimes she tried to do things her own way. She's really pretty,
except her mane and tail need some work. I'm going to groom her at 7:30
a.m. tomorrow. She got nervous when we brought her home and sweated a
lot and she didn't know what to think of the cows. The first time our
horses met her, they didn't even squeal so I think they are going to be
friends. Thank you so much for allowing me to get this horse. I
really like her a lot.
Love,
Sweetie and
Rebekah
I'm so glad to see that Trevy got adopted. I have had my eye on
him for a long time and wondered why people weren't fighting over him.
He is going to be a terrific horse for some lucky person. Here are
current photos of Miss B. Fortunately, the miserable hot weather of
September has broken, and we have mild weather now, which makes her perky
and pesky at the same time. Today she actually PRANCED in the round
pen. I have never see her prance in the almost-two years I've had
her, so that was interesting! She continues to learn and mature and become
more wonderful all the time. Pat
Hello,
Just a quick up-date on Rock Doctor. He went to DWD Farms to
start his training on September 26th and has settled in nicely. I
was concerned about his transition but Danny's farm has a very relaxed
atmosphere and she is very dedicated and particular about the care that
all of the horses receive, so his transition has been an easy one.
He is turned out during the day and in his stall at night, and his feeding
schedule is very similar to the one ate home; aprox. 4lbs sweat feed twice
a day and as much hay as he likes throughout the day. We did add a
joint supplement (cortaflex HA) as he is getting more consistent and more
difficult work. The farrier came out to put shoes on, but said that
Doc had great feet and did not need shoes at this point. Doc appears very
relaxed whenever we visit. In fact, I'm starting to wish that he
would at least pretend to miss us just a little when we visit. I
think he's settled in too well! It is a relief to know that he's
well taken care of though. He and his turn out buddies took a few days to
establish a pecking order but now he is very close with the other two
geldings he is turned out with and they frequently groom each other.
Danny started his training soon after he arrived and is very pleased with
his progress. She says that he is very smart and feels that he has
movement that most thoroughbreds don't have, i.e. he is a very good
dressage prospect. He is starting to pick up his right lead
consistently and is mastering the basics. We hope to have new
pictures soon and will keep you updated. We do plan on keeping him
there through the winter, and will contact you once we reach the 90 day
point.
Vicky Gordon
Well after a hectic week we have everyone moved
and settled in. Farino has been so funny: he has taken on the
'herd leader' role for our little herd of four. He has kept every other
horse away from 'his crew' and he is the only one with a few scratches.
After two days of his leadership my 25 year old mare was looking decidedly
exhausted from keeping up with a pack of youngsters! (She's doing much
better now, and is learning to take a break under the trees!!) Our friend also
moved her horses from our original barn to this new one two weeks ago and they
have also joined the 'post Winding Way' herd. Everyone seems much calmer
out here. There is no stress and they've learnt remarkablely quickly
that they only get fed by us and don't have to pester other people when they
come up to feed theirs. I'm just thankful we moved in the autumn
when the grass is on the way out. The pastures here are very well kept
up, and coming from half dead pasture that had been flooded numerous times,
our crew think they are in heaven and have absolutely no interest in the hay
bales provided for them. All in all it is a good move and we are
thrilled to be there.
Take care & best wishes,
Jane & Farino
Celeita,
Just a quick note to let you know that we went to the
Peace Point Endurance Ride in Bethany, WV October 1st with Buck (Lakevale Boy
N). Mike rode him with the idea of just a middle of the pack completion.
Buck had other ideas. He finished strong, 6 minutes out of
contention for top ten. He came into each vet check at the pulse
parameters and looked like a million bucks as he trotted out at the end.
The head vet said he'd like another dozen like him -
strong trot out, good recoveries, and a gentleman in the checks. Buck ate &
drank at every opportunity and generally took great care of himself. If
this horse ever refuses food, there is something SERIOUSLY wrong with him.
LOL
I'm attaching pictures of Mike & Buck. I say to
STB doubters - Just look at picture #3 and tell me that STB's can't gallop!
Mike's smile in picture #4 sums up the entire weekend.
What a great ride - we were so happy to support the only
Endurance ride held in WV this year!
Linda Flemmer
To KD's Foster Mom Janet,
You would be pleased to know that Emily and KD are
doing very well. I have attached at picture of the winning the Jr. Division of
the Tewksbury Hunter Pace in Tewksbury, NJ. They also won a blue ribbon for the
fastest time. The following weekend they rode in the CBTA Hunter Pace and had a
time of 1 hour and 8 minutes (ideal - 1 hour and 35 minutes). KD is coming
along extremely well and has tremendous potential. We are very far past "not
being mounted from a block" and "a one person horse", etc...
Hope all is well.
Regards,
Bob Johnson
Here's the photos of Gold Sider. You can see
the boot he wears for his sore foot.
Here's photos taken yesterday of Hank (Hackinator).
Kim Mullen
ends..._small.jpg)
Celeita,
Just a note with a question about fulfilling my
obligations to you with regards to Jazz...
I was wondering if there is anything I need send to
you regarding her stabling, health or anything to be in good standing on my
contract.
Jazz continues to thrive and be a source of constant
love, joy and companionship and is a great riding partner, to boot! We have
been riding allot of trails and she is really loving it!!
With the cooler temps (thank GOD!!), we've been able
to make some really nice longer trips and the extra time we get to spend
under saddle is really paying off!! She really looks forward to out little
"trips" and is looking absolutely awesome!
I treated her (and myself) to a nice new Courbette
saddle and a pretty fancy stitched bridle, which has made her even more a
pleasure to ride!!!
Can't tell you how much I appreciate you bringing her
into my life!!
We'll be having a "Birthday/Homecoming" party for her
on or about the 12th, planning to let the horses "bob" for apples and have
some fun with them all in celebration of out happy times!
I'll send photos!!!
Just let me know if there is anything I need to send
you to be "legally" in sync with you!
I am still trying to get everyone to adopt from you!!
All my Best!
Judy Kirkman and Jazz
From Zahara's adopter:
Thank you very much for asking about her. She is doing awesome! I ride
her everyday and she needs some minor training, but other than that, she is
just what I was looking for. She loves her new home. She gets turned out in
huge grass paddocks all day and of course we are showering her with love and
treats. Thank you very much for giving people like me a chance to own such a
beautiful horse.
-Arianna
Here are some quick snapshots of Sheila. Her mane has come
in very
full and pretty! She has a great personality, and I am
surprised
that although she is very sweet, none of the other horses can "push
her around". I wanted to get pictures before her winter coat
started
coming in, but she is already beginning to grow a thick coat.
I will
try to send you more seasonal updates.
Hey Celeita, Just wanted to drop you a note and keep you up to
date. Reba...has put on 67lbs. She is undersaddle with our
little rider and doing a fabulous job. She is now pasturing well,
eating well, and stalling like a dream. Her coat is a bit rough
still, but we are giving a ton of supplements and keeping her
hydrated. That was a significant problem. Sonny....is a gem.
He is so trustworthy. He has made our youngest daughter feel so
confident. He is a master in the ring and in the field. I do think
he has some navicular changes, but I keep him regularly shoed and
supply MSM daily. We call him the teddy bear at our barn and love
him to death. Orphy....is fabulous. We have been having his
rider do beginning dressage movements and he does great. He is a bit
of a hard keeper, but we just keep feeding him. He has the most
adorable ears while riding...they flip back and forth. Yeah!
Jolly....is the king of the barn. He is showing how well trained
he is in every thing we do. He started with Kaleigh in the dressage
arena without fail, and only once in a while we will have a buck due
to what I believe is soreness in the hind from his past jumping. I
really think he is more suited for flat and low level jumping. Not
that big stuff they did where ever he was. His is a beautiful mover
and Kaleigh has started a new training program with him. Brendel...we
completed our training. He is so much better. I still do not think
he will be a great show horse or even a school type animal. He still
gets spooked and tries to run, but not like before. We have a small
advanced rider that does well with him. She also is parelli trained
so it translates beautifully. Unfortunately she is buying her own
animal and we will need to find someone else to work with him. He is
still the cutest in the barn. I was wanted also to talk to you about
two of your animals....Art and Kip. Both look like a good fit for
us. I need to know a bit about Art...why he is in the program and
where his soreness is coming from. And Kip...Not knowing if I can
afford him, what would be his best and worst issues. I would like to
add a new horse for Kaleigh to take into the eventing world, Jolly
and she would like to stay on the flat. To help you...Kaleigh is
very trained in jumping, and dressage. She has an extremely balanced
working seat with a strong left leg. She understands collection,
bending, balance and aids. She is 5ft 8in. and weighs about 120. She
is a strong rider looking to slowly get into the eventing arena.
(she needs more time to train in the cross country area.) Let me
know your thoughts.... Take care, Katie Murphy
Hey Everybody!
Just wanted to let you know that Magic is still
wonderful! We have a show this Saturday, doing open
walk-trot. If you all aren't busy you should come and
see him! It starts at 10 am and we are either the 4th
or 5th class in. We've also started our canter work
(finally) and he loves to "go fast," never even bucked
the first time we did it, he's such a sweetheart!
Anyway, come see us!
Love,
Jenai and Magic
Teresa,
I wanted
to keep you updated on how Little Man is doing. He has
settled in just great, he actually stomps his feet when we leave the
barn. Getting a little on the spoiled side, with lots of treats. I
will have him gelded within the next couple of weeks, working with
the Vet to set-up an appointment. I also have been talking to Matt
and Tanya Burke with Optimum Training about putting him into a
training program for a couple of months, so he gets a good start on
his ground work. I also wanted to mention that when I
met with Tanya and Matt we discussed showing him if he has the
potential. Matt said that the registration papers would need to be
in my name in order for me to show him in Armature Owner halter
classes. Since I know that you normally don't transfer
the papers until I apply for ownership I was wondering if I could
get an exception and have him registered in my name with the
agreement that if he ever had to be returned to Second Wind that I
would pay to have the papers transferred back. If there
is a way we can work around this I would greatly appreciate your
assistance. Matt is going to come out and evaluate
Little Man and set him up on a training program. I have provide
Matt and Tanya with a copy of Second Winds contract and mentioned
that if we move him to their facility that they would need to sign
the paperwork so I could send it in to stay in compliance with
Second Winds contract terms and conditions. I also
mention to Matt and Tanya that you have Moonstruck, hopefully if
they are impressed with Little Man they may want to adopt her. I
will also be training with Little Man so this will be a win, win for
both of us to give him a great start with two wonderful and highly
talented Arabian professionals. Don't want to mess my
little guy up and want to give him the best start possible so we
have a long life together. I'm already very attached to my guy, as
I'm sure you can tell. I actually have gone and sat on his paddock
fence and just watch him for hours. I'm going to also
have Tanya and Matt train him in halter, and we may show him later
this year, or the early part of next year. I also had one of the
guys that is very knowledgeable with Arabians at the barn take a
look at Little Man to give me a closer birth date and they are
telling me he is a very young two so we will need to wait until he
gets closer to three to put him under saddle. I'm going to also
have Dr. Garza look at his teeth. Bonnie and I have been emailing
back and forth and she is going to send me pictures of when he was a
baby and a copy of his Sires papers. If it is okay with
you once I get both parents' papers, I'll sit down with Tanya and
Matt to come up with a good registration show name for him. Of
course he will have a barn name and then a show name. Bonnie
mention that she would also send you out the paperwork and kit so
when I come up with a name we can get him registered. I
think this guy and I were meant for each other....we have just
seemed to have clicked. My daughter also is attached to
him already and talking about getting another horse so he has a
buddy when I move him out to our barn.
Levi called to check and see how Little Man
was doing, he was a really joy to work with. I'm going to give his
name to the Optimum training since they often need a hauler. Matt
said they currently have been using Cox Transport.
Thanks again for bringing such joy to our
lives. I know that it is only going to get better from
here.
Rebecca Solter
Copy and paste
http://www.photoreflect.com/scripts/prsm.dll?myphotos?a=235474
into your internet browser's address field to see pictures of
adopter and donor Nancy with Skyler, her adopted 4th level dressage
horse at the Jersey Park FEI Championships! What a team!!
|
_small.jpg)
_small.jpg) Dixie and Dundee
Thank you we will send more later
wanted to get some to you - we also will be building a new
barn in a few months and along with that doing more pastures. We
sit on 40+ acres and as you can see Dixie Girl likes to roll and
itch herself. The vet said they are doing great and the farrier
also has visit us twice since we had gotten them.
Talk to you soon
Emily and Jody |
Forgot to send you these from two weeks ago. Lovey looks great!
Back to normal weight and such a food hog. Still have to lock the
goats up to feed them or Red climbs up into their barn, finishes
their feed, then backs himself out. Too funny
Would you send me Red's former owners name and phone? I have started
working him on trail obstacles and want to know what he did well on
and what he had problems with. I can open/close gates on him but not
consistently. It will help to know how he has been trained to
approach. He's great on bridges but seems to struggle with backing
up thru the L [hay bales] (unless he's leaving the goat barn which
is a straight shot) Also forgot to tell you Lovely is "trotting"
now. She is finally understanding it's OKAY and seems to be enjoying
it. Still some crow hopping at first but settles in nicely. Now we
need to work on stopping. She's not paying attention to the bit so I
might try her with a snaffle/roller and lite curb chain until we get
that under control. Also need to know when their teeth were done
last and when shots are due.
Thanks....luv you guys
Thanks again! She is now at pasture - I led her around to see
the fenceline
on Saturday AM so I would be close by for the next two days; then I
left her
in the pasture while Chester and Jack were in the small pen, but she
just
stood with them by the fence so I let Jack and Chester out and they
are all
getting along together marvelously. Jack is in heaven - he has a
girlfriend.
It has been years since he had a mare to hang out with.
She now has 10 acres in which to roam about, which I have seen take
the edge
off many horses. My old TB (I got him when he was 5) was somewhat
hot,
although spook-proof, and once he got into a large pasture - 15
acres (at my
parents at the time; this was 20 years ago) he became darn
near mellow. I
took him back for lessons at the stable where I got him and they
were so
impressed with how dead-calm he had become. They had a nice place
but only
10 acres for around 25 horses so turn-out was limited.
Celeita recommended we give her a week or two to settle in before
riding,
which I have seen be a good thing for lots of horses so we are doing
that.
She does seem quite happy with the geldings :)
Warmest Regards - Marisa
Hi Celeita, I haven't written in a while on purpose. Will got
really sick in July, and the lab is still out on what it was. I
tried to call but only got the machine, and didn't want to write
until I knew, but the verdict is still out... so....
From what my vet said it was a strain of Equine ehrlichiosis, a
form of Potomac horse fever. I had had him vaccinated against it,
but as I found, with research, the vaccine only covers one of the
many strains of the disease. I found out from the vet many horses in
the area contracted the ailment.
It all started one night when I was brushing him... His back legs
were stocked up. I didn't think much of it since it had been rainy,
and there were these two 'slip' marks in the pasture near my barn.
Now Will has great get up and go, but not a whole lotta stop at his
age. I just assumed he slipped while running around, and couldn't
stop. I hosed his legs, and applied vetrolin. The next morning the
swelling was gone, I thought nothing of it.
UNTIL....I had to keep the boys in because of a really bad
thunderstorm one night, the next morning when I went out to feed
them, Will had no interest in his grain. It was oppressively humid,
so I thought colic, and ran to the house for the phone. He still
wasn't eating when I returned. I took him out of his stall and
checked his sides...nothing...no sound..I immediatley started
walking him, waiting for the vets office to open (I had no banamine).
When the office opened (two hours into walking), I was instructed
to leave him and get banamine at the office (only 10 mins away). It
seemed to help. I called my friend Stacey ( a vet tech) and asked
her to come up and watch him (now out with Monty) all day. My vet
assured me it was a mild colic, and I should go to work.
Well Stacey came up, and on a great day for Will to be shy (he
wouldn't go near her at all in the pasture). When I got home he
still looked sick and Stacey suggested temping him (never thought of
it prior for a colic, the vet said he was fine). Well we did and it
was 105. Called the vet back and told them (I think prior they
thought I was just the overbearing horsey mom).
The vet was right up, and I couldn't have picked a better one, he
leads CT in all fields of vet medicine. He asked if Will had been
vaccinated for Potomac (he had), then he gave him intervience (sp?)
tetrocycolyne (sp?) and banamine. This procedure had to go on for
three days. I'd have to look up how many cc's it was of both, but in
my next update I'll send the paperwork. It was scary because the
high fever could've made him founder, so it was touch and go for
over three days. The vet said that if he did founder, it would be
really bad, and there wouldn't be much we could do for him but to
put him down. I was so afraid for him, he wasn't himself at all.
The vet likened it to Will having the flu, but in all my 20+
years owning horses I've never seen a horse on the verge of giving
up on himself until then, and I've seen alot. He was so ...dead...
all over, it was if he didn't care either way, and Will's a fighter,
he'd of never gone down like that.
Well, after the three days of treatment, he got slowly better. He
was off of grain for almost two weeks (vet said it was normal) and
lost at least 200 lbs, but slowly the appetite has come back, and
his spirits are definitely up. He gained the weight back on pasture,
grain, hay, and love within a month. He's back to his old
(young) self of running with reckless abandoment like a child. There
are no side or ill effects from the disorder (knock on wood). Like I
said earlier, I still haven't gotten results of any blood work back
yet, although we pretty much know what it was.
He is all better now, and will be forever Monty's constant
companion (they can't live without each other). Can't wait to start
riding him next year (he'll be 5). As always he is a constant joy, a
lippy boy,and a fun one to watch race around the pasture. Adam and I
love him, and can't imagine life without him. We knew him from the
start....Best of luck with all you're doing, if I had a million
dollars, I'd adopt them all... Let people know, they all don't have
to be 'broke' to ride to make them special, we have a very special
one right here. He constantly proves all of us wrong...lol...............................love
alice and wild willie
Alice, it sounds like you and Will have had a rough time of it.
I wish you had let us know so we could at least offer some moral
support . . . I can only imagine what you were going through having
to see him like that. Thank goodness he's all better now and
that he had you watching over him. You've always taken such
good care of him (is he really almost 5 now? unbelievable),
and I'm sure he knows that you saved his life.
I'm going to post your email so everyone knows that the
vaccine isn't 100% protection. Give Will a kiss for us and
take care,
Teresa and Celeita
More info from Alice on Potomac horse fever:
I found a small article in my latest The Horse magazine about
Potomac that I'd like to share with you. You could also post this
information on the site.
Potomac Horse Fever (PHF)- caused by the bacterium Neorickettsia
risticii, horses get PHF through accidental ingestion of infected
aquatic insects, including mayflies and caddis flies. The disease
causes diarrhea, colic, and occasionally abortion. The development
of severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or laminitis can
lead to death or might necessitate euthanasia.
"Vaccination may be considered in areas where the disease is
endemic, but I don't recommend this vaccine, since it doesn't
offer complete protection," says Marteniuk. While at least six
strains of PHF are thought to exist, the vaccine is made from a
single strain. Vaccination in at-risk areas consists of an initial
two-shot series, followed by an annual booster.
The Horse October
2005 page 56
Surprising news. I've also read on another web site that flies,
such as mosquitos may carry a role in the contraction of PHF. My
vet certainly believes it was most likely caused by mosquitos,
since they are abundant in the area.
We may never know what caused Will to be sick, but at least he's
well again, with seemingly no lasting effects from PHF. I will
also continue to vaccinate him with the one current vaccine
available, and hope they revamp the vaccine to include the rest of
the suspected strains out there.
Hope this helped
Alice & Will
I just wanted to thank everyone there for giving me an
opportunity like this. Zahara is a magnificent creature, and I have
never seen anything more beautiful in my life. Thank you so much.
Arianna Brown
What a sweet note, Arianna, thank
you. We are very happy to welcome you to the SWAP family, and
we're always available if you have any questions or concerns. Make
sure you go over the paperwork we sent on settling your new horse in and
taking things slowly at first. I'm sure you know all about it, but
we like to provide as many tips as possible to our first time adopters
:) Zahara is a very talented girl and I know the two of you will have a
great time together. Thank you for thinking of us and please keep
us posted on your progress,
Teresa and Celeita
Hi Celeita,
Tucker (Tobe)--sorry that's so confusing, but my
other Toby had the name first--is doing well.
His foot is fine, so he went to a show on Labor Day
weekend. In the first class, in the big scary ring by the grandstand, he
was going well until he suddenly just "shut down" at the right lead canter
in front of the judge. My trainer finally excused himself. He told me
afterwards that Tucker felt like he just didn't want to fully engage and
that he thought he was sore in the back end.
The second class, despite still not going forward as
much as he should have, the kid earned a 61.8 for first level. Darn good.
Still, my trainer said he didn't feel right and was not completely happy
with the performance because he knows he can go much better.
Got the vet out again. We thought it might be his
hocks, but as it turns out, he had thrown out his pelvis on the right. He
got a full chiropractic adjustment. I know have to trot him for
25-30 minutes 5-6 days a week, with lots of hill work. Fortunately, I have
some nice hills in the pasture and paddock, so I don't have to venture out
into the wild "big fly" country of the woods where he bucked me off.
(Gigantic fly attacked him) My vet says he should be fine for the
October show. 10/8.
I am suspicious that Tucker probably knocked himself
out of whack when he jumped out of the little paddock where he was
supposed to be confined while his foot healed. My vet just said there were
dozens of ways it might have happened. I guess this is just going to be
the summer of misfortunes.
Top that off by the fact that Tucker stepped on my
big toe to lame me up just before the Labor Day show and then, the morning
of, lost his front shoe. The show farrier put one back on him and the show
TD gave us a new time to ride, so that worked out, but what a day.
The funny thing is, so much of what's happening with
Tucker happened with my first horse. With him it was one thing after
another for the first several years and then, he was my love and joy. He
too was a troublemaker and very mischievous. Then, I've had PJ and Toby
for the last 20 years and they are completely different. Some vet issues,
of course, but not all the action adventure. Nothing like a silly young
horse to brighten my life.
I tell everyone Tucker is kind of like a big 1200 (or
more) pound puppy. Last night, when I went out to fix the fence--good,
slipboard, wooden fence with post and rail cracked (now, who did that, I
wonder)--he walked right along with me, ready to "help" at a moment's
notice. Had he not given me a nip on my back, I would have been delighted
with his company. As it was, I kind of had to use the fence rail to fend
him off so I could get the work done. *sigh* *grin*
If past experience proves out, like my first horse,
Tucker is going to be an absolute star--someday. *lol*
Hugs,
Jean D.
Ramses is
doing so amazing. everyday with him is a miracle and everyday he does
something new to amaze me. His personality is to die for, and he learns so
fast. We trail ride now every single day, and he loves it. We usually ride
down to our state park and he's so good with the little kids. He just
stands there and doesn't move a muscle. And plus he loves the attention.
We actually went swimming one day in the lake, me and him were both scared
out of our skins, but he jumped right in and i think neither of us have
ever had that much fun, he didn't want to even get out. He's all golden
dappled now. He has to be the most beautiful horse i have ever seen in my
life. On the 25th we're riding for a couple who the wife has cancer and
the husband has just passed away. My mom has actually started riding again
and her and ramses are so good together. Our school is actually
considering starting an equestrian team, which would be awesome to compete
with Ramses. but i just wanted to give you an update on him!
Thank you!
Claire
Wow, great update Claire!
We love hearing how you and Ramses are doing together. He was always one
of my favorites (such a handsome boy and a super personality!), and it looks
like he has a wonderful home with you. How cool that you went swimming
together; I guess nothing is beyond you two :) The pictures are great; he
looks very happy and I can't believe how much you've grown up (do you get tired
of hearing that?). Just keep an eye on his ankle that had the chip and have
fun!
Teresa
Hi Celeita,
I hope all is well. I think of you whenever I go out
to work with my new buddy, Nico. Did you get the pic of him with his
blue bow on top of his head?
He is doing VERY well. We have him adjusted to his
new feed and have been patching everyday with Lifewave. He really
looks forward to his sessions. I think he is the first horse that I
have had that talks to me as I come down the barn aisle.
He is learning to really stretch is neck out of withers
and use his back. I can already see his back coming up. we are
just at the walk and will do no more than that until my vet comes up to
check him.
Hi all,
Highland Tooter arrived at my place yesterday. What a cutie! His pictures
don't do him justice. He has much more presence and personality than a picture
can show.
Also, you were so right about Levi Hostetler. What a wonderful guy (with a
very nice rig, lol). He made sure to deliver my horse in excellent shape and
even brushed him on the way!
I've decided to call Tooter by his "first" name, Highland. Around my house,
to "toot" means to fart, so I thought it best to call him something else! So,
Highland it is, unless he earns some other nickname along the way.
I have to tell you what he did last night. I'm always amazed at what horses
can communicate with body language anyway, but the quick, sure way he
established himself in our small herd last night bowled me over.
We have 2 geldings and 1 mare in a large pasture. The lead gelding, Viper,
thought he was going to let Highland know that he was boss. Viper rushed at
the
fence toward Highland and pinned his ears. Highland never flinched and acted
like he was unimpressed. Highland had gotten himself frothy with sweat over
the
course of the day pacing the fenceline, so I let him out for both our peace of
mind. Once out, he pranced up the pasture. The mare, Molly, and Viper both
rushed at him as though they thought they would intimidate him. Highland
kicked
at each of them in turn -- good, double-barreled kicks. Both Molly and Viper
turned away and stood next to Bally's paddock, waiting for him to get done
with
supper.
It was as though Highland knew he had won. He pranced around with his head
up. When I let Bally out after his supper was gone, the 3 of them followed
Highland up the pasture out of sight.
It was the fastest establishment of Herd Boss I've ever witnessed. :-)
I can tell I'm going to have loads of fun with Highland. He's a big
personality in a comparatively little package, even though he's stout as a
tank! I
never knew Standardbreds could be built like him.
Thank you, Celeita for the package of info on Standardbreds. It's going to
help me a lot. One question for you, however, that I could not find an answer
to
in there: How do you get a Standardbred to pace instead of trot? I watched
Highland quite a lot and he trotted the whole time. Granted, it was a
beautiful,
extended, floating kind of trot! But I'd also like to see him pace; the
paperwork from the donor stated that he was indeed a pacer on the track. So
any
hints you can give me would be most appreciated!
Teresa, THANK YOU again for the suggestion!! :-)
I'll send pictures as soon as I get them developed!
-Kristi
Hi Kristi,
We're so glad you like him! He really is a cool horse and
certainly knows
how to handle himself :) I'm sure you're going to have a great time with
him. To get him to pace, you can get a walking horse or gaited horse bit
(we
rode him in a snaffle here which is fine for w/t/c) and let him get used to
that
for a while. Then start working on getting lots of bit contact and
driving
with your legs. Don't drive for speed because that will push him into
the trot,
so keep reinforcing with the bit that you want him to go slowly and he should
stay at the pace. You can work it some by alternating which rein you
pull
on, too. It helps in the beginning to have him tracking right because
that is
the way he raced. STBs are also trained to go off the kiss. If all
else
fails, you can get pacing hobbles. Most STBs do trot in the pasture but
will pace
in a harness automatically, and it doesn't take much to get them to pace
consistently undersaddle. To get him to rack (once he has a solid pace
undersaddle), there are weighted bell boots for just that purpose that aren't
too
expensive. You can also check out our STB page on the website for more
info.
Teresa
Teresa,
Thanks so much for the info! That really helps; it sounds a bit like riding
dressage and getting a horse to round. :-)
I'm attaching some pictures of Bally. I've sent these before, but maybe the
email got misplaced. Also, I'll be taking more this weekend of both Bally and
Highland and I'll send some of those. I'll get them on a CD when I develop
them so I can email them to you.
Thanks again!
-Kristi
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Hi Celeita & Co.,
I wanted to let you know
that Marcus is back home again. He had a good summer in Canaan Valley
and looks just great. He was trail ridden a couple of times a week.
He was a bit of a nervous boy but with no real incidents until last week when
he bucked Laurie off. She still likes him, though, just is really sore
and not feeling much like riding so he’s back home again.
I have found a wonderful
dressage barn in Terra Alta, WV (Terra Alta Lake Farm, Carol Burdick owner).
They bring in a Centered Riding instructor a couple of times a year to do a
weekend-long clinic. I have our pony there right now learning a couple
of things she did not yet know, including driving. When she comes home
at the end of this month, I’d like to send Marcus there for a one-month
evaluation in both dressage and trail riding. What forms does that barn
need to fill out under your rules?
Suzanne
Hi Suzanne,
Thanks for the update! You
don't have to fill out any forms for him to go to the trainer's unless he will
be there over 90 days so you're fine. It sounds like he could use some
confidence building :) Just keep us posted and give him a kiss for us,
Teresa
-
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- Rock Doctor and Suhkoi at the Gordons'
-
Hello,
In our adoption update we discussed sending Doc and
Sukhoi out for training. We have decided to wait until spring for
Sukhoi's training, but would like to pursue training for Doc at this time.
We would like to start his training on October 1st and if approved,
will be sending him to DWD Farms in Manchester Michigan. Their web
address is dwdfarms.com. Most of the information you might need can
be found on this website, but I did not know if you needed the trainer
Danny to sign anything or if you needed additional information.
Please let me know. Doc will be in training for basic dressage and
beginning hunter/jumper. After his first month of full training we
will be lessoning on him with Danny, as he continues at her facility in
half training. Though we will not be riding him the first month, we
will be visiting 4-5 times per week to make sure that he transitions to
his new environment and to let him know that he is still part of the
family. Manchester is about a 25 minute drive from where we live,
which makes this very doable for us. We are looking forward to
working more with Doc and possible showing him next spring. We have
had the vet add potomac and west nile to him and he has a current coggins.
We will have Danny's farrier put shoes on Doc once he arrives as he will
be getting more work on different surfaces. If there is anything
else we need to do, let us know. Thanks!
Vicky Gordon
We only need the change of
facility form done if he will be at the trainer's for over 90 days. If
that's the case, the form is available on the website and if necessary I can
email it to you. It sounds like you guys have a great plan for Doc and
we're very excited about his future showing career with your family :)
Keep us posted and thank you!
Teresa
Hi Celeita - I am honored that both of my donated horses are appearing in
your photo collage on your home page! Just wanted to let you know that
Skyler and I have qualified for the end of year Eastern States Dressage and
Combined Training Assoc (ESDCTA) championships (at Training Level) to be
held on Sept. 25 at the Horse Park of NJ. We will be doing Training level
tests 3 and 4 and depending on our combined energy level....First level test
one. I just had some major dental work done for Skyler and had his incisors
reduced - a yucky concept, but what a wonderful difference it made in the
TMJ symptoms he was experiencing. He had quite a cross-bite and this has
also majorly remedied the feeding issue we had with him. He was throwing his
food around and tossing his head while trying to eat and now he puts his
head in the bowl and goes to it without fussing. I let Joanne know about the
dental work and she said that she did have to monitor him carefully and had
him floated regularly. The chiropractor suggested the incisor reduction due
to the balance/flexibility issues and she was right on the mark! It has
really improved his ability to bend to the right and improved the left
haunches-in dramatically. Wish us luck! Nancy and Skyler
Hi! I need some info on Walter ASAP as the vet is
coming this afternoon and I want to make sure we get everything we need
taken care of! It looks like there is something on the disk that might
answer my questions but it will not open- I can see lots of great
pictures- but what I need is shot dates. I know I was told that he
wouldn't need any shots for awhile- but really need the names and dates to
make sure we're on top of things! He's a great horse- I absolutely love
him. He's just so sweet. Still doesn't much like to cross tie but I
rarely need him to as he just stands still when I ask him to and I can do
whatever I want. The farrier was here last week and agrees that he
doesn't need shoes. Walter really enjoys going out of the fence and just
riding around the neighborhood, he really likes to go "visit" the
neighbors, just loves everyone. I now have him coming when I call him,
backing up when asked, standing perfectly still when asked, etc. Of
course, he already was great at my riding commands, so we just did a
little work on voice commands and he is great. He did seem to think I was
nuts when I taught him to walk backwards in a straight line, but it comes
in handy as both horses like to crowd into my tack room with me when they
get the chance and of course they block the door! So, we are doing great
and just thrilled to have them!
Holly
Beauclair
Hi Celeita!
Melody arrived this morning around 7 AM.
She is just beautiful ! We put her in the small paddock where she can
get to know Chester and Jack over the fence, and the goats are in the
pen by her for company too.
Poor Alexis, she got on the school bus 10
minutes prior to her arrival. Levi called us at 5:30 Am to give us his
ETA and Alexis thought SHE should be allowed to skip school today in
honor of melody's arrival.
Levi IS wonderful, I gave him breakfast
and coffee before sending him off to Baltimore. We did get all her
things, including her very nice bridle. No worries, we will put her name
on everything in the unlikely event that we all drop dead and you have
to get her back. My hope is that she lives until 40 and dies of peaceful
old age on our farm.
I mailed the original forms on Friday;
let me know if you didn't get them. I made a copy before I sent them.
Thanks so much. We are so happy to have
Melody!
Warmest Regards - Marisa
I just got back from my first clinic with Beau. I trailer him a mile
(he's just getting into shape so I didn't want to ride him over and over
do it) to my neighbor's for the clinic so I got to see how he loads and
how he reacts in a new situation. He was so good. He went right on the
trailer and was a little tense at the neighbor's barn but not overly so.
He was great in my session and I totally love his personality. He needs a
lot of lower leg which is perfect for me since that is one of my major
riding faults and the only way to keep him off his forehand is to keep a
lower leg on. He was great today and I can't wait until our next outing. I
wanted to take a photo to send to you but when I got there I realized the
camera had been left open and the battery was dead. I'll send you one
soon.
Thanks for sending Beau to me.
Jen
Hi Celeita, Just wanted to send you an update on Missy.
She has put on some
weight and she's so happy here!! She's made friends with Classie a yearling
percheron, and the first time they were separated Classie jumped a 4 ft
fence to follow us!!! I just started working her in the roundpen about 2
weeks ago and I've ridden her a few times too. She's really good and
remembers all the basics, bending, leg yielding, etc.... We have had a few
challenges with her ground manners though. She's perfect for me, but when
anyone else is handling her she gets nervous and goes into flight mode. It's
tough, but it makes me feel special because she doesn't care what I do with
her... I attached a pic of us. It's not great, and I'm riding bareback
because my saddle was still in New Hampshire...
Rebecca
Hi Rebecca,
Thank you so much for the update; we were wondering how you
and Missy were doing. The picture is gorgeous. You look just beautiful
together; it's amazing what kind of connection the two of you have. I
guess you are just meant to be together. Congratulations and keep us posted
because it looks like you both have a great future ahead of you :)
Teresa and Celeita
Note: Rebecca (and her parents) first adopted Missy from us when Rebecca
was 13 and Missy had been sent to us from the track because they couldn't
handle her. Even though Rebecca was young and Missy was sensitive, we
approved the adoption because Rebecca had a solid plan for training Missy and
she had the drive and determination we were looking for in our adopters.
She certainly proved herself to be an excellent horse owner and she and Missy
were a great team in the show ring and out. Circumstances forced her to
return Missy a few years ago, but when she saw that she was up for adoption
again this summer, she called us immediately and adopted her back.
Clearly these two were meant to be together!
Hi Folks:
Just a note to let you all know we are alive and well!
Thank you all so much for your concern. We were
truly blessed. The eye of the storm passed directly over
us. Things became so calm we took the opportunity to run
down the barn to check on everyone and they were all fine.
We received no damage to our home. The barn lost half a
roof. My son's car up in Hattiesburg at college was
demolished when a tree went through it but he was sitting up safe and sound
on the third floor of the dorm when it happened. We
were without any power or water for two weeks but have it all back now.
Each and everyone of our animals were unharmed and doing fine.
Richard had to take the tractor and a large water tub down to the pond and
fill it several times a day to keep the animals all watered (the horses
consume about 30 gallons a day).
Special note to Celeita: Bigs Si (Silas) is
AOK! He came through it like a champ. His
beautiful long mane(now about 30-36" long) took a while to untangle as the
wind whipped it around a bit, but other than that he is his usual wonderful
self!!
- Hi C,
- He's had no health
issues except the needles going in his skin for his shots. Training has been
going well. I have had a guy riding him for me until this weekend, we have
been training him on roping cattle (calves) and he is loving it. He's the
type you introduce him to it once and the second time no problems. Took him
to a cattle round-up this weekend in Southern Ohio and he did a great job,
better then me since this was my first time on a horse since surgery. Logged
a lot of miles with only a few problems. Still no hauling horses but the
boarding business is going strong.
- Ray
- Ray Wortman and QH Gelding, Mikey
-
- Thank you Ray, sounds great. I'm so happy that he's found a job he
really likes. I didn't know they did cattle round ups in Ohio anywhere. Was
it around Jackson or where? Glad to know the business is going so well. That
always helps when you have an injury or rehab. Take care and kiss that boy
for us. Celeita
Celeita--
Hope
all the rescue horses are doing well. Cat looks super now...nearly back to a
dark bay again, too (since our horses stay in days with fans & go out at night
in the summer) and Poppy is getting a bit more peppy...she drug Alan outside
nearly last night to get to the grass! Too funny...I think she's going to be a
hoot, so much spunk. Good for her... : )) .
Well
hang in there....
Angie
Hi Celeita,
Jere here from Pittsburgh..
Caesar is doing just fine and I am very happy with
him. I think he likes his new life as he is very easy
to deal with. He has a good herd of friends that he is
the boss of :)
I wanted to ask you to keep me posted on any horses
that you have or possibly may have that would fit the
following bill..
For jousting and medieval gaming..Trail riding, no
jumping.. At least 16-3 hands gelding or mare and
under 10 years old.. Large breed obviously..
Thanks for your time!!
Jere
Ocean is showing this weekend then he won't go again
until Capital Challenge. Leona and Waldo were turned out in a 48 acre
pasture w/their herd mates. As of this evening they are well and getting
fatter. The herd is checked on 2x's a day.
Thanks
Emily Devey
Falcon Camps
Celeita,
I just visited your sale website and read about
the rescue from the adopter in TN.........Now I understand why you retain
ownership of the horses and I want to apologize for neglecting to update you
on Sheila.
I adopted Sheila last September for my son who
is Down's Syndrome. She is so sweet! She is healthy, shiny
and beautiful. The farrier trimmed her again this week. I will
borrow my son's camera this week and get some pictures to send you, but I
wanted you to know that this is one pony that you have sent to people who love
her and are so blessed to have her. After looking at the pictures from
TN, I also want to thank you for having the heart and the energy to do what
you do.
Brioso is doing great. I
will take a few new photos of him. We actually cut his feed
back, he has gained so much weight and he has been ridden
consistently all summer. No problems with soundness at all.
We took his shoes off to help with his contracted heels and trush.
At some point they will go back on.
Janet
I know you're busy (ha! That's our life now :-). Just
wanted to give you some updated photos of the kids, Brite, Stretch
and Arturo. Brite is now wearing glue on shoes. His LF
ankle finally started to change, and not for the better.
He's sound with shoes, but we can't use nails. Too painful.
the vibration aggravates the arthritis in the ankle. He's
totally comfortable with glue on's. A bit of a loaner, and
likes attention on his terms. Love him dearly, and probably
will never ride him again due to the ankle, but that's fine.
He's happier that way anyway!
Arturo is fine. No problems, and a joy to ride
(even though I don't get to do so nearly as often as I'd like, so
the photos are of some of our friends riding). I never really
"re-trained" him from racing. Didn't need to. I can
ride him with a three or four month stretch between rides, and he
doesn't mind at all. He enjoys work, but he also enjoys his
play time. He plays hard, is very intelligent, and curious.
Probably, and I hate to say that I have one - but my favorite just
because of his personality.
Stretch - well, what can I say - his personality is Baby Huey
through and through. Very sensitive, extremely intelligent,
although at times he doesn't lead one to believe that (he's the
"fence tester" - will touch it with his lips, then if it shocks
him, he'll go back about four more times because he just can't
believe it did that to him!). Still hasn't grown into his
feet, and so at the trot and canter, he's a bit clumsy, but I love
him dearly too. He's now 17 hands, and I had a woman argue
with me last year that he's a Warmblood not a Standardbred.
(Ya'd think I know what breed he is!). So, I let her believe
he's a warmblood. Doesn't matter to me! Only change
for Stretch physically is a small osslet on the RF coronet.
Doesn't bother him. He's still sound and has feet like
rocks!
Added a couple of photos of my circus horses (not really, but
they love to work and you can do anything with them, as you will
see). Ziezo and Zorro are Gelderlanders. My friend at
the Ky horse park retired them here and they are such a joy.
Enjoy.
- Bright Futures Farm Equine Adoption Program
Thank you Bev, everyone looks wonderful. I love the picture of
Bright and Arturo together in the pasture, they look very happy.
Stretch looks huge but sounds like he has that lovable STB
personality. Thank you so much. I'm sure you are as busy as we
are..... just no rest for anyone in this work. I hope things are
going well. Thank you again for everything that you do and for
giving our 3 babies good homes. We're real proud to have you as an
adopter.
PS. Loved the pics of the retirees... what a hoot. Celeita
Just a Note: Bev Dee adopted from us and wanted to start her
own program and eventually quit her full time job, she came to all
our clinics, spent some time with us to cover all the ins and outs
of adoption, handed over our forms so she could use those and she's
been doing a great job with her own program for several years now in
Erie, PA. And she kept her SWAP horses too. Bravo!!!
Thanks! Phenom is going to go on 35 acres for a few
weeks that our friend owns in St. Cloud. It is 10 minutes from
my house and there is no boarding there. He is the only horse
on the property and there is a stall/ run in that he has. I
will be taking care of him....feeding morning and night.
Someone lives on the property so they can keep an eye on him while I
am at work during the day. After that I want to move him to 5
acres (on the same road) that we just bought, so there won't be any
liens! =) He will be at home finally!!!!!! The 5
acres is already fenced but I do not want to put him there this week
because there is no barn.....we are going to build a 2 stall barn
ASAP. I will look at the form and mail it back to you. Let me
know if there is anything else that you need!
P.S. I rode Phenom after he came back from Ocala (attitude
training) this week. He is great! =)
Amanda
I just had Jill's paperwork out yesterday morning and was just
wondering.....odd she said she could never be ridden, it really
doesn't say
anything like that on her papers. :( She is a great mare. Most
likely we
would be doing trail riding. I don't have a ring, but ride in an
open field.
I was just wondering as I've had her two years now and she showed
absolutely
no signs of anything. Very healthy mare, and go figure she's turned
into an
easy keeper with great feet! She had horrid feet when I got her,
most likely
from wearing shoes for so much of her life. She has a nice thick
hoof wall
now. She is a dear I just adore her. Did you only get the one set of
pictures from me? I had originally sent two sets and see you only
posted one
set? The other pictures were even better! :)
I'll try to find them and send them off!
My vet liked Willow's first baby so much that she decided to
buy the foal that was in Willow at
the time, Echo that was born in May. She offered to pay the stud fee
and do
all the vet work for her (thus the foal is sold already, I say
leased out).
However the mares reside on my farm. Willow did go to the vet's for
foaling, as I do with some of my mares and I usually take them there
to wean them. I
figure I have to separate them so better to have one at the vets if
it
needs to go somewhere. All the mares are at the farm on Applegate
Road, the Book
farm that was in my application, there is a chance we may be buying
a farm
soon, so if we do I will add that one to my application in case we
need to
move them, it is about 1 1/2 miles from the other farm.
Jillian...do you have copies of her paperwork? I
know that Nicole the
second adopter rode her, flat and jumping...she gave me videos. Now
from
reading over her Cornell discharge it said for her to be off for
three
months and then start back into work gradually and said nothing
about
jumping. I don't know that I will ride Jillian, but she is such a
nice mare
I wouldn't mind doing it! I just don't think she's the kind that
looks like
she enjoys flatwork from the videos I have. She's good but shines
over
fences. It's up to you, if you want to see copies of her paperwork
I'd be
glad to show it to you....if you don't have it. She is doing a good
job
being a mom and enjoys that just as much. I just don't like to limit
them
to"only being moms". :) Trail rides are nice for the broodmares,
nice hacks
at the walk with trotting to get away...like a shopping day! If you
want to
see her vet reports I made copies and it is from Cornell directly,
so I'd be
more then glad to share anything with you. I just don't want her to
be in
any danger and I don't want to go against your policy either! The
mares are
doing really well, they are so fat this year! We've had good grass
and the
farmer made knock out hay this year. Everyone is happy. Maria
Hi Celeita,
I spent about 3 hours working with and on Nico. I am in
love with the guy! He is so sweet and well behaved and
trusting.
Anyway, after 3 shampoos he is clean. His mane is pulled
and his scratches are looking better. The cuts on his hind
legs [from a trailer accident] were so deep that he had skin hanging
off of his hind pasterns and yet he let me doctor them.
He has many sores over his body...........I'm not sure how he got
them but they are on the mend [they are trailer rubs from the long
ride from WV to CA].
As for his physical exam.................I can't find ONE place
that he is sore. I watched him free lunge in the round pen.
He lifts his neck happily as if getting ready for an upper lever
frame, and then there is his back. No connection there at all.
I don't think he knows he has a working back. And then there
is his rear end that propels him around the arena beautifully.
So now the test for soreness: No soreness in the back,
haunches, loins, rear nor neck upon palpation. In fact, as I
worked on him he dropped and let me clean him............no pain
there!
Then I asked him to bend in both directions for a
carrot...................OK, this horse can stretch so far he gets
his nose on his haunches in both directions. Certainly no
stiffness. He can also stretch down and out of his withers as
far as I ask him..............
Soooooooooooo,,,,,,,,,,after he gets shoes, I will restart him as
if he were a youngster and build up his back and get a good
connection from the back to the front. Only then will I start
to ride him. I don't think the process will take long but I am
not going to rush him. Dr. DeRock is going to come up here in
a few months to see how I am doing and assess him at that time.
Thanks so much for this great opportunity............we will make
you proud! Fondly, Pam and Nico
Hello Celeita,
I just got back. Nico is first on my list to work with today.
He seems to be sooooooooo sweet. I have a great pic to send to
you when I get reorganized.
I am going to start working on his entire body today and really
pinpoint all of his sore spots and start alleviating them.
Thanks so much for the opportunity to work with him.
Also, when you see the pic, you will see how sweet Levi was to me.
He is a kind man and except for Nico's scratches he was in good shape.
I saw the sad news about your trainer's baby. How very
sad.............no, it is more than sad.
PLEASE have her call Dr. Slagle at 916-791-2911. He is the
expert on Transfer Factor and was the one who put me on it when I was
diagnosed with cancer.
I have recommend him to many of my students and they have all been
helped...........a baby has to have all the help she can
get............why do things like that happen to the innocent?
Please give my best to the family and tell them that my prayers are
with them.
Take care yourself. I will send the pics as soon as I can.
Sincerely, Pam Park
You bet...we've been giving both
Cat & Poppy (as our daughter Emily has started calling her...though one
night she said "Hoppy" instead, which actually fits, poor girl...)
carrots, apples & sugar since they got here and boy do they LOVE them!
They've gotten used to our routine, of course, and Cat just starts
"singing" when she hears us open up the grain cans. Makes me happy that
they're thankful and a bit sad, too, that they had such a hard time for
so long...sweet, sweet girls. Well take care & good luck out
there!!
Angie
These are recent photos of Hold Tight adopted by Anne Kawski. Anne
will forward the immunization records for him as well as Remington,
Kristopher Crombie, Egan (I forget his name prior to Anne's adopting him)
and I will send photos of the rest of these guys. They are doing well!!
Linda
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Kristopher Crombie & Remington:
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Egan:
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Celeita,Please excuse the lateness of this report. Like
everyone with horses we are very busy during the summer months and several
weeks ago we had a new addition to our family...our 16 year old niece!
Doc and Sukhoi are both doing well. Sukhoi has started her basic
under saddle training and is being worked with approx 5 days a week.
She continues to be a very sweet, willing and intelligent horse, and is
starting to develop patience. Doc started the early part of summer
off with a strained hind leg...Sukhoi kicked a board out of the wall
between their stalls during the middle of the night and we are surmising
that Doc caught his leg in the resulting space. In the morning he
was up and about but would not place weight on this leg. We could
not find any appreciable swelling or heat so we put him on stall rest for
several days, and limited turn out when he started to place full weight on
it. Within two weeks, he was running around with the other horses
and is now back to being ridden 4-5 days a week. He has turned into a
versatile Anna has hopes of teaching him to jump in the near future and
enjoys cantering him in the backfield. He is an excellent trail
horse as he is curious and not at all spooky like many thoroughbreds, and
was very useful for ponying Sukhoi last year. This year our niece
Jennifer, who is a western pleasure rider is learning to ride english on
Doc. He really seems to like her and is a patient teacher. She
will be his main rider, but Anna will continue to ride him until
Jennifer's riding skills advance to posting trot and canter. Sukhoi and Doc are kept in stalls at night and usually
are turned out 4-8 hours a day, depending on Doc's preference (he does not
like rain or bugs)! They are turned out with my Paso Fino gelding
Boo Boo (Sukhoi's grooming buddy), and Doc is now the leader of his own
little herd. They have 10 acres to play on but we do not plant this area,
so grass here is strictly recreation. They both receive 6-7 flakes
of hay per day, and 4lb. sweet feed grain am and pm. They are both
up to date on vaccines (west nile, tetnus, rabies, eee-wee-vee).
They were not vaccinated for strangles or rhino/influeza as they do not
leave the farm and are not exposed to other horses at this time; potomac
is not prevalent in our area. They are wormed every other month with
a rotation of Quest and Ivamectrin. We had a farrier coming every 8
weeks, but this was too long for Doc to wait, and we did not like the way
Sukhoi was trimmed, so Mark has once again taken over farrier duties.
Doc usually needs a trim at least every 6 weeks. and Sukhoi can go up to
8. There has been no change in our financial status,we still have
five horses total on the farm (Caesar 17yr old thoroughbred gelding, Arte
16 yr old Paso Fino stallion, and the three already mentioned) the horses
are usually seen once a year (God willing) by the vet for coggins a a
quick once over. In general each horse has an hour of handling a day
+ riding time. In the very near future (October) we would like to
send Sukhoi and possibly Doc to a trainer in our area. We have two
trainers in mind and you can check out their websites
riverbendfarmsporthorses.com and dwdfarms.com . We have worked with
Tanya Evans before as she came out to our farm for training lessons and
were very pleased with her work, but she does not do a lot of hunter
jumper, so we may work with Danny. Either trainer would prefer that
Sukhoi spend a few months at their facility and would then work with Doc
and both girls at our farm after that. If Doc and Sukhoi do go for
training, we will notify you in advance, and provide info on the
chosen facility, and we will add to their current vaccinations. We
have pictures of both girls and the horses which I will send hopefully
tomorrow, as I am at work and I need my son's technical skills to make
that happen! Thank you again for the opportunity to work with both
of these horses!
Vicky Gordon
Hi Celeita,
I'm sorry it has taken me so long to get these pictures to you. I saw
on your website this morning that you have had to rescue some of your horses
from another adopter. That is such a shame. As you can see Goodie
is fat and happy! He is definitely a keeper! I forgot to tell you
in the update what he has been eating. I feed him twice a day with
3 - 4 flakes of orchard grass hay and about 4-5 quarts of 11 % horse feed that
I have mixed at the local feed milll. It's mostly oats and doesn't have
quite as much molasses as the prepared feeds. My spotted boy is very
sensitive to the sugars. He gets his supplements and 1/4 c. corn oil
added in. And in the summer when the flies are biting ( like now)
he gets his antihistamine added as well. I took several pictures today
these are just a few, some are not the best ( I tend to cut body parts off)
but I wanted you to see how he's filled out this year.
Take care!
Karen McClung
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Goodie at feed time.
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Standing in the sunshine with his favorite human.
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Getting a nice brushing from his littlest human.
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Taking a nice walk on the shady mountain path.
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hey Karen, Wow,
that's amazing, especially when he was starved when Janeen saved him and put him
into the program and I know you were struggling with his high metabolism. I see
its finally slowed down and he looks great. Almost too fat but I'd rather have
that than skinny any day. Well, your the second adopter who I've seen actually
walk beside their horse on the trail and really, I think the horses just love it
to be walking as friends instead of employer/employee. Bravo for doing such a
great job with him. He looks really happy. Celeita
The boys [Brego and Votre] are
doing GREAT! Yes, we got lots of pellets for them the very next morning.
I’m so glad we got both because they *really*
seem to love each other. We’ve got our vet and farrier coming out next week to
see if they need anything. We’ll probably shoe both of them. All is
well! They are fitting right in around here. Tomorrow is first
official ride around round pen with them.
Hope all is
well with all those gorgeous horses down there!
Jeanne Marie
I'm a friend of Shannon VanHorn who
recently adopted Jamie (Windjammer) and Belle (Friesian/TB Cross).
Jamie is a fantastic horse and fun to ride.
I work with Shannon and have a horse that
I trained at the stables where Shannon has both of her horses. Today we
went for a trail ride, Shannon on Jamie and myself on my own horse.
Jamie is confident and fantastic in the woods. Mine's a follower, so
Jamie lead the way.
After riding, Shannon let me ride Jamie in
the arena, boy is she great to ride! Responds to all leg cues, calm, and
willing to respond immediately to whatever you ask of her.
If you ever run into a horse like Jamie
that is that well trained, please notify me. I like the quarter horse
breed (which Jamie is), and I don't want to train another horse. I took
a wild horse and trained him for the past 2 years, now he's used as a little
kids lesson horse. I just don't want to go through the training again.
I want a horse that is fully tained and ready to use, but for a beginner.
My husband rides, and I don't need a horse that will bully the rider.
We are in our late 40's and don't want to get hurt with a horse that needs an
advanced rider. I want a horse that can adjust to all levels of riders.
Be calm with the beginner rider, and be responsive and fun to ride with the
advanced rider.
Thanks for your time,
Lori Venturini
Here are
pictures of the foals. The first is a yearling I have, not from any
of your mares. The bay is Curly's and the chestnut is Jillian's. I am SSOOO
pleased!
Maria Ludwig-Hayes
Frosty Oak Stables
As I type this, my fingernails are blackened and my hands brown from
massaging sweet Bru. I took her to the round pen for feeding away from the
boys this morning. I brushed her and picked her front feet. I was hesitant to
do her back feet since I'm not certain about her arthritis. Will let her get a
little more comfortable here first.
She let me practically bathe her in Skin-so-Soft to repel flies, but the
best thing was that I scratched her withers and hips with my fingertips. She
stretches out her neck with glee! She ended up getting a pretty good massage
and seemed to love it.
I was happy yesterday when I thought that she would boss the boys, but now
I'm not sure that she will. She seems to follow Quin around, and there were
some feeding altercations around the hay last night. I fed them, and she
didn't try to get to their bowls. I took her away from them and fed her but
stood guard over her with a crop so they couldn't get to her when they
finished their feed. It went better this morning when I fed her separately in
the round pen, and I hope that arrangement will be practical when I go back to
work (school starts in less than 2 weeks!). She seems more interested in the
grass than the hay right now.
Sorry to be so long-winded, but I wanted to let you know how she's doing.
Please feel free to pass along any info to Mary.
Thanks again. She's a lovely horse and is a sweet girl. Am
developing her pix today.
Cindy McPeters
Hey Celeita!
Just wanted to let you know that Magic is doing
well! He loves it here at the equestrian center, all
the students love him and he just soaks up all the
attention. For a three year old, he has come an awful
long way in a very short time. He trail rides, has
been shown, ridden bareback and used in various
clinics here at the college. With a few years to
mellow out, he will be the perfect horse for anyone to
ride! He seems to show a real interest in jumping as
it keeps his busy mind entertained, so we'll explore
that when he's old enough. Anyway just wanted to let
you know how he was doing. I love him to death and
he'll stay with me forever, so no worries!
Love,
Jenai and Magic
I have talked to a couple of people, but so
far....... But as I do more connecting with people I will keep passing
on info about SWAP. I wish I had the space and time, I watch
for Brego, Maiden, Tooter, and Indy to be adopted. The first 3
because they tugged at my heart strings when I was there and Indy who had been
one of my top favorites before I ever came down.
Did you know that Vortray is Farney's full brother...
Yes I did, I was surprised to see those horses
return after we had talked about them, but life dishes out some strange
circumstances. Again I wish we had space and time especially since we
can't ride Jake and it will be a couple of years before Boots is ready and
longer to be really mature enough for trail riding. Though she is the
boldest of all of the horses, she has the perfect temperament for
trails, she is fearless and she would rather walk through some obstacle
than around.
How is Jake,
Jake is the arrogant one. He hates it when I do
anything with another horse. The horses just got their feet trimmed last
week, we waited 8 weeks to get started with this new blacksmith who is
really good!!!!! and it was worth the wait, he is fantastic,
this blacksmith will be great for Jake, he will be looking at his x-rays
and trim Jake according to the angle of the bones in his feet, to
attempt to make him as comfortable as possible.
Otherwise he is doing well, he is on a low dose
of bute to hopefully prevent any gastric problems and we have him on an
oral joint support supplement to hopefully help his other 3 legs stay strong.
Jake is turned out for about 45 minutes a day right now, none of the
horses have been able to be out long because of the extreme HEAT this summer
and awful bugs at night!!!! Jake is out by himself because as the meds
have helped him feel better he is a snot to other horses and we hope to avoid
any avoidable injuries. He bucks and canters, the cantering seems
easier for him with his legs, when he does pace you can see alot more
lameness, you really can't see it at the canter. Bobbie sent
me a racing picture of Jake that I treasure.
Farney
Oh my beautiful bay wimp. He is turned out with
Boot Scoot, what a pair they are. We got Boots one of those big
balls for horses, Farney stood at the barn door and blew and snorted
until we took it away. Of course cats, small dogs are all out to
get him. I haven't ridden him yet because of his eye healing,
redoing most of the barn and fences, extreme heat, needed to get
his feet done, had to buy extra large equipment (bridle, support
boots, etc) and he needs major dental work, but weather has
cooled, and all else is basically handled (of course it is never done)
so I plan on starting ground work this week, YEA!
and my ornery black and white child?
Oh, Houdini, we have thought many times
about the story you told us about Willie on top of the hay stack. Most
of the rebuilding we have done is because of her. She finds more ways to
undo something, thankfully she is such a sane filly. Phil
wanted me to add that she eats like a full grown horse, not a baby,
but messes like a pig absolutely the messiest I have ever seen in a stall.
About every 21 days or so she is a b****, my guess is she will be a bit
of a crank at the beginning of her heat cycle. So far that is the only
explanation we have for the out of the blue crank she will be for apx. 24
hours. Of course nothing we can't deal with. The rest of the
time she is great. We have clipped a small bridle path, she was
great for the clippers. Gave her a bath, she was good for that.
And the blacksmith was wonderful with her, she just had a little struggle
standing when he did the back feet but they worked it out together.
We adore these 3 horses and we have spent most of the
summer bonding with them, slow and easy, lots of brushing,
handling, carrots, and hugs, finding out their likes and
dislikes, they are the perfect horses for us!!!!! We get lots of
whinnies, Boots is quite the talker, very low nicker.
One thing we were wondering about, do
Standardbreds sweat easily, what I mean several times we have had to
rinse the boys because they have come in from out side heated up, where
Boot Scoot might be warm but hasn't broke a sweat. We were
thinking the race horse lines might sweat faster and easier, figuring
this might be a plus for them??? Anyway just wondering?
Good luck, hopefully homes will come soon
and/or helpful sponsors. We have just put up more than double the hay
for winter and have arranged to get more in October as we have more room in
the loft. The bedding, grain, vet, farrier, and hay has
taken a big jump from 2 horses to 5 horses, as expected.
Can't imagine going from 14 horses in May to what you have now!!!!!!
Plus the exhaustion of taking care of them, My heart goes out to all of
you and the difference you make!!!!!!!
Chris and Phil
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Here's a few pics, I finally got the camera working right! We are just
having so much fun with Petey and Walter! They are both so great.
Walter has decided he is "my horse" and he gets very jealous if I ride
Petey! Walter has settled in very well and is such a pleasure to work
with, he is just so GOOD. Petey is doing well, still getting used to
everything. He loves for my daughter to ride him with his bare back
pad but isn't crazy about the saddle. I am looking for an extra wide
tree for him as I think the one I have may be a little narrow (it IS a
wide though). If you know somewhere to get one at a reasonable price,
that would be great. I have bought and returned 4 different ones for
Petey, currently I am using Walters when I ride Petey (the fit is close
but not perfect). I've had lots of fun shopping for them and think I
have most things I need now- from toys to tack! Outta room here- will
send more later. THANK YOu SO MUCH! Holly
Hi Celeita.
First an update. Kickboxer is doing great. He is a joy to own,
work with and ride. He is making a wonderful trail horse and has really
settled in. I've taught him to do some tricks and he seems to enjoy
doing them. We've been doing some ground work and are also working on
walk-trot transitions to try to smooth out his trot a little. He
certainly is a sweetheart and he has a wonderful temperament! I can see
why you love standardbreds.
We finished fencing 3 acres of our pasture into 2 separate paddocks with
5-strand electric fence. We are in the process of fencing 3 more acres
into 2 additional pastures. We are going to begin building a run-in shed
this weekend. I would like to have some feedback from you on the shed,
because as soon as it is done I want to bring Kos home and adopt another SWAP
horse (hopefully Vortray, if he's still available) to keep Kos company.
What size shed do you require to keep 2 horses? We were thinking
about a 12x16, but I want to make sure that will be large enough and meet with
SWAP approval. Please let me know ASAP, so we can go out and get the
materials and get it finished. I don't need a long message
from you, just give me a size. I know you're plenty busy with the
adoption auction going on and so many horses to care for.
I was sorry to see you had so many horses come back from the adopter in TN.
I'm sure that is making life difficult and that the feed bills are enormous!
As soon as our shed is done, I will help by adopting another horse. Do I
need to fill out the regular full application form or, as a previous adopter,
is there a shorter one I use?
Please know my thoughts are with you.
All the best.
Janet Herzberg
P.S. Attached is a picture of me and Kos. Although it isn't the
greatest picture, I thought you would enjoy it. Please forgive my
squinting, it was a very bright day!
Glad to know the adoptions are going through. I'd take another horse
if I only had money and time (that's all anyone needs, isn't it...money and
time). Those babies are so beautiful and are just clay waiting to be
molded!
Yeah...horses will do anything, won't they. B doesn't really "chew" wood,
but she'll put her teeth on it like she's checking it out and thinking about
eating it. Honestly...she doesn't need another bite of food! Even
on her "diet" she is still a big big girl (like her mom, I suppose).
Speaking of eating stuff...I tried giving her watermelon this week (I read
somewhere that horses liked it and would eat it and the seeds didn't hurt
them). Well, that piece of watermelon came flying back out at me like a
little soggy rocket! She was having none of that. I once had a
horse that ate peeled oranges. LOVED THEM! His eyes would get REAL
BIG and he was so happy. I haven't tried that with B yet ... but bananas
were a major bomb. Maybe she wanted ice cream, choc syrup and whipped
cream on them.
By the way, my needlepoint kits arrived and they are so NICE! Those
painted canvases go for BIG BUCKS!! I haven't done needlepoint in a long
time so I will have to go up to the local needlepoint store to get some help
getting started. My sweet and adorable husband is going to his mom's this
weekend so maybe I can get some work done!! HA!
Take care ... I'll send another check next week to help with the Kurageous
bills (did you ever get the owner to take some financial responsiblity on that
one? That whole thing is such a shame!) Pat
Thank you so much for THE PICTURES! I can't wait for Katie to wake up so I
can show them to her too. What great news about the ride too. She will do
wonderfully, won't she?My plan is that when Bru arrives, the boys
will be munching hay in the round pen. I'll put some out for her too, I think.
She'll have an opportunity to check out the pasture on her own and meet them
over the fence. We're putting all the dogs in the house, and my neighbor
(whose yard we're walking her through) said he'd tie his dogs too. We won't
consider any saddling or anything until she seems ready (and the temps are
cooler). I asked Levi to call me when they leave SWAP so we'll have a better
gauge of her arrival time.
I think that I found the right kind of waterproof turn-out blankets on
e-bay and will look at local resources too. I will probably buy three of them,
but Bean will get a lighter one, I think. Katie's gelding is half-Arab so he
might need more warmth too. We're going to get her a new halter (pink?) if we
can find one that fits at Tractor Supply; if not, we're going to Stateline
Tack Wednesday a.m. We're nearly ready for her arrival and are very excited.
Yes, I always talk too much and when I'm excited like this it's even
worse. I didn't realize how thrilled I was!
Thank you again for all your help.
Cindy
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Lady is doing well. She is such a sweetheart, sometimes a pain but mostly
just a great horse to have around. A friends' daughter came and rode her
the other day. She is a student of mine and she normally rides my
gelding but she wanted to ride Lady. They had a blast. I think
Lady enjoyed it more than Keli. She was so good for her. Keli
absolutely loves her. Some of the pics are of them together.
Lady's back end problem seems to have gotten better. She is tolerating
her hind feet picked up better. Also, she will get out and run and buck
like she was a 5yo again. When I got her back from Kathi, it took my
farrier 5 months to get her feet back to a size 1. Kathi's farrier had
trimmed her so short she was lame and it took a good 3 months before my
farrier could even trim anything off her feet. She is now back to normal
and has great feet. No problems there. Also, Kathi's goat ate her tail
to about 4-5 inches above her hocks in the 2 months she had her. Her
tail has grown out a bunch but it is slow going right now. It seems like
when you want it to grow, time stands still. She and my gelding get
along wonderfully, they are almost inseparable. He is so attached to her
and gets quite agitated when she taken from her stall and he is left in his
(they are side by side in the barn). It is still wonderful to go to the
barn and see her there. It has been a pleasure to have her with me.
I have enjoyed her tremendously.
Sincerely,
Erica
Quick update on Beau: He got his teeth floated yesterday (he was very good
- he's so easy to handle) and the farrier will be here this morning so if his
feet look okay to my farrier I may start him lunging or long lining next week
to start to build back some muscle. He's putting on weight really well (four
meals a day doesn't hurt) and has alot more energy in the pasture now. The
other night when I turned the horses out they were all alittle nutty because
it had rained and cooled down so they were galloping around and when I turned
Beau out in his pasture he did a huge leap and went galloping down to the
bottom then came galloping back up. It's good to see him move.
The info. that you sent me on CD mentioned a video of him. Is there a video
somewhere? I would love to see it and any other pictures you might have of
him.
Thanks,
Jen
Meg and Snickers at the Montgomerys' house
Well, you just made my day completely and totally, I
couldn't feel
better if I won the lottery. Bru is so so special, she's the kind of
Arab that lived in the tents and doted on the children. She has that
kind of mind. I hope they understand about her age. I think she'll live
a long time but not as long as a young horse.
Thank you again and again!
Mary
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Changes: Mo (Rochester) has grown stronger this year through
consistent dressage training. We’re also doing long
lining before riding which has helped a great deal in
suppling him to the right. I take a lesson a week
from FEI rider and bronze and silver USDF medallist
Rebecca Cushman. He was also in full training with
her in May. He is doing lateral work and
lengthenings and we’re working towards showing
training level this fall or next spring.
General Comments: Mo is a blast to ride and he
continues to be a joy. He will always need a
confident rider who doesn’t rattle easily, but as he
ages, he gains more self-confidence all the time. We
still do a lot of trail riding and I think this
balances the dressage work well. I still do tTouch
(Tellington-Jones massage) on him, which he loves. We
have a new, custom saddle by JRD that we’re enjoying.
Mo is a barn favorite and he always maintains his
sweet personality, playful character and joie de
vivre. Sadly, we lost our dear Aspen in March (age
22) and we all still miss the grand old man a great
deal. I’m sending on some pics from the spring, so
I’ll try to get some more recent ones as soon as I can
get a new battery for my camera. Sorry I’m late with
the update. I always put it off because it’s time
consuming, but when I sit down to do it, it is kind of
fun to review the year gone by. I'll be seeing the
vet Thurs for WNV booster and a check up so will get
her sig then and will mail a hard copy. I hope you
continue your important work for a long time to come!
Thanks Celeita!
Glad to know the adoptions are going through. I'd take another
horse if I only had money and time (that's all anyone needs, isn't it...money
and time). Those babies are so beautiful and are just clay waiting to be
molded!Yeah...horses will do anything, won't they. B doesn't really "chew" wood,
but she'll put her teeth on it like she's checking it out and thinking about
eating it. Honestly...she doesn't need another bite of food! Even
on her "diet" she is still a big big girl (like her mom, I suppose).
Speaking of eating stuff...I tried giving her watermelon this week (I read
somewhere that horses liked it and would eat it and the seeds didn't hurt
them). Well, that piece of watermelon came flying back out at me like a
little soggy rocket! She was having none of that. I once had a
horse that ate peeled oranges. LOVED THEM! His eyes would get REAL
BIG and he was so happy. I haven't tried that with B yet ... but bananas
were a major bomb. Maybe she wanted ice cream, choc syrup and whipped
cream on them.
By the way, my needlepoint kits arrived and they are so NICE! Those
painted canvases go for BIG BUCKS!! I haven't done needlepoint in a long
time so I will have to go up to the local needlepoint store to get some help
getting started. My sweet and adorable husband is going to his mom's this
weekend so maybe I can get some work done!! HA!
Take care ... I'll send another check next week to help with the Kurageous
bills (did you ever get the owner to take some financial responsibility on
that one? That whole thing is such a shame!) Pat
Hi All
Sage is doing awesome. Tori has been working with a trainer 4 to 5
times a week since December with him and he is one awesome horse. We
had our county fair the last week of July and they won the hunter under
saddle class. We kick some serious behind at all the local shows in the
2'6 and 2'0 divisions. We have also taken him to several OHJA rated A
shows and he has done quite well - 3rds and 4ths. His foot is greatly
improved - even looks better cosmetically. I keep front shoes on him at
all times. He has been slightly off, on and off, since the beginning of
July. We were a little scared he might have an abscess - but nothing has
shown up. The farrier placed a pad under his shoe the last time we
shoed him and that seemed to help - thinking its a stone bruise.
We were having a few problems with him and his ground manners. Our
trainer has a friend in Florida who is a "horse whisperer" type. He came
to visit here in Ohio for a long weekend back in March and spent 4 days
working with Tori and Sage. He was pretty amazing to watch - he is
blessed with a true gift. He explained to Tori a lot about Sage's
temperament - how he is a big horse and knows how to be mean. Her goal
is not to push him to aggravate him but to teach him to respect her and
that she is in charge. Amazing - we can do anything with him now.
The trainer isn't sure Sage has the athletic ability to safely take Tori
over jumps greater than 2'6 so Tori has been riding a European warmblood
that we will most likely purchase. But alas - I also have an 11 year
old who will soon out grow her large pony and I have no hesitation of
moving her up to Sage.
He is still a big goof and is nosy about everything. I used to let the
horses out in the yard around the barn and in the woods - the entire
property is fenced and I shut the gate on the driveway. Sage finds it
more interesting to stand on the front porch and investigate the cat
food. I go out on the porch with the broom and jump up and down and yell
and he just looks at me. They haven't been out lately.
We love him dearly and he has taught Tori alot this past year. We are
going to show next weekend and one the beginning of October - then he
will get a break for awhile.
Hope to sent some pictures soon.
Judy Bartlett
KD is doing very well, I switched his grain from triple
crown complete to equine SR because its easier for him to digest, I also have
been feeding him alfalfa hay as well as timothy, I still want him to gain some
more weight he's eating 12 lbs in three meals a day and about a half a bale of
hay a day. I put front shoes on him because we ride on roads he's very traffic
safe he goes under and over bridges by trains and through water. I rode him
in a western saddle a week or so ago just to try something new with him and he
was amazing, I also took him to a training level dressage show he was very
uptight and tense in the new surroundings but I was very proud of him he's a
very hard worker, my trainer loves him, she has ridden him on occasion to help
me see him in correct frame. He did have an injury to his stifle some time ago
I had him on stall rest for three weeks (he didn't need that long but it's
better to be safe then sorry) luckily he's back to normal. I hope everything
is well.
-Emily Johnson
Just Amazing Emily.... what time and patience will do for a
horse. There are many people who would have said this horse could never do the
things you are doing with him but we knew better. We just had to find the
right person to bring out the best in him and give him that understanding and
love that he needed to do his best. We are all beaming with pride. Just
another example that anything is possible if you don't give up. We
have to work on their time clock, they don't work on ours. Bravo!!
All the best, Celeita
Kristen---
Just wanted to let you know that Jay traveled like a pro all the way back
yesterday (took us just under 4 hours) and we didn't run into any of the
construction I had on the way over, so she had a decent breeze the entire
way so she should have been fairly comfortable despite the heat. It was
so neat to look out my back window and into the center window of the trailer
and see her long mane blowing in the wind...so feminine looking! Pretty...
She was all eyes, of course, at our barn but very calm when I took her
into her stall. I fed all of our horses and she got a drink and settled in.
Then I turned her out last night separate from our group, to rest a
bit, with Denny (aka Roady), our "low man," and they got along very
well...just meandering around grazing, following each other. I'm going to
put the other two girls (Rosie & Caddy) out with her tonight...and probably
my mare Abby...so will be separating the girls from the boys. We have never
had more than one mare before these three came so have never done separate
turnouts (and my mare holds her own VERY well...ha...) but it makes
sense now with four girls. The boys will just have to drool over the
fenceline at them! : )))
It sure was nice meeting you and your family yesterday and I will
certainly send you "baby pictures" of Jay and her foal next summer, if all
goes well!
Take care & happy riding,
Angie
Thought you'd like to see the first photos taken of
Jamie just after she took up pasture residency with Bella. As you can see,
Jamie was nonplussed by the whole experience. She has such confidence with
the other mares (and a fan club with the geldings!) Not aggressive but
assertive. She stood her ground and quickly established her position as
Alpha mare. It was pretty amazing, as she is the smallest of the four
mares in that pasture (but also the oldest).
The last two pics are of my three-year old filly
Bella, who was in a bit of a snit over the newcomer. There was a little
posturing but nothing landed and nobody got a scratch. This morning Jamie
and Bella were grazing peacefully side by side like old friends.
I'm waiting for the arrival of a smaller girth and
headstall as none of Bella's things will fit Jamie, but expect we'll have our
first ride later this week.
Shannon
Shannon, she is a beauty, isn't she? Love those dappled bays. Celeita
Hello!
I know it hasn’t been very long, but I wanted to let you know that Lincoln has
settled in to his new home VERY well. I’d like to emphasize how much I
love this horse! He has already become very attached to me and is a very
good boy. He is very attentive and tries very hard to do everything I ask
of him. Of course, he isn’t excited about working off his nice round
belly, but he is always willing. Lincoln is learning what ‘Sheep’ are
(there are sheep a couple of fields away from the riding arena) and is very good
around the working farm. The owner has several dogs she trains to do
sheepherding, and of course a few barn cats. Lincoln is a little wary
about the cats, but doesn’t blink an eye when the dogs bark or rough-house.
He stood very calmly in the cross ties when the tractor was being started up and
moved. He shares a large pasture with a little chestnut colt (who can be a
pain). He’s proven to be a very good babysitter.
J
Physically, Lincoln is also doing great. His feet are clearing up nicely,
and I will get him trimmed in a week or two (front toes are getting a little
long). His little nip-marks he had gotten at SWAP before he came down here
are healed as well. He hasn’t shown any tenderness in his feet, but I have
still been very conservative with how long I work him, at least until his feet
are tip-top. I go to see him at least every other day. He loves my 7
year old daughter, Kaitlyn, and even gave her a little pony ride.
I will be sending you a new boarding portion of the adoption form, as I would
like to move Lincoln to a barn that is closer to my home. The stables are
literally walking distance from my house. It is a beautiful facility with
sweeping pastures and a very well kept barn. I recently discovered that
the owner will be boarding horses, so I jumped at the chance. There is a
certified trainer who lives on the premises and takes immaculate care of the
horses there. He has beautiful Tennessee Walkers that he shows.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to adopt Lincoln! I wish I was
able to adopt one of the refugees you just brought back to SWAP.
Sincerely,
Katherine Vultaggio
Anyway I wanted to update you. I just got
the girls teeth done on Saturday. Curly was a champ. I didn't see that coming
thought she would have been worse. Jillian wasn't quiet as impressed. I felt
she would be better as she was a show mare. Guess not. Willow was done two
months ago before foaling by the vet. So I didn't have the dentist do her. I
need to download the pictures of the foals for you. I have 140 pictures on my
camera...I need more time! I PROMISE this weekend. Eloquence Curly's foal is
just the cutest ever. The vet is coming out to do a prepurchase on a three
year old we bred and will fill out Eloquence's registration. Elliotts is
already on route to the UK. Willow's baby will be registered half welsh also.
We picked a gray stallion 11.3 to breed Willow back to, thinking we are hoping
for a medium and will keep it for my daughter! I think that is it. Got the
blankets and LOVE them. Thank you!
Maria Ludwig-Hayes
Jamie arrived yesterday about noon quite calm and
relaxed. She spent a little time in the outdoor arena where she rolled
and rolled in the sand. She then spent the afternoon munching hay in
her stall. Early evening she had her grain and came out for. grooming
and a nice walk all around the facility for over the fence intros to some of
here pasture buddies. Took everything in with calm and cooperation.
She is going to be a pleasure. I want to fatten her up a bit and work
on getting her feet stronger but she is very cute. Dave likes her
already. I've got to get a smaller girth for our Aussie saddle as my
other horse is a wide body and Dave doesn't want to use my dressage
saddle. Anyway I wanted you to know that she is safe and settling
comfortably. Thanks for all your help and advice. I'll send pics
in a few weeks. Shannon
Great Shannon, we found her to be the same way. Funny, the girl that said
all the bad things about her was the one we just had to recover the 5 horses
from in NC..... the one who's husband said she needed to be institutionalized.
I guess she put him 65k in debt and then booked with 5 horses to feed and a
farm to care for... so I guess its no surprise that we got kooky opinions
about Jamie from her.
I'm sorry I made you worry, not having handled her myself, I had to lean on
what others told me. We found her to be very sweet and uncomplicated. A
pleasure to be around while she was here. I think she will do just fine in
your situation.
Yes, I agree. I think they southern sun is so hard on horses and they are
usually dehydrated and thin if they are out in it much. I like them rounder
too. She ate good here but I've seen horses lose as much as 100 lbs on a
transport so I'm sure she was even lighter when she got to you. She will come
up quickly as she is such an easy keeper. Well much luck and send pics when
you get the chance, a nice family shot for our adopters photo album. Thank you
again for hanging in there and not giving up. Celeita
I was just out with them and there was a guy with
a tractor mowing RIGHT BEHIND MY FENCE! How rude! I have gotten them used to
me on my little tractor but this one really scared Petey. Walter was fine- let
me give him a quick rinse off and fly stuff- barely noticed the tractor. But
Petey was really acting weird- wouldn't even let me catch him at first. I did
get a little fly stuff on him but he was too traumatized to let me rinse him. I
asked the tractor guy to go away. They are still building in my neighborhood
and the neighbors are moving in on Friday so I guess he thought he'd clean it up
for them. I set him straight! The neighbors will just have to wait until Petey
is calmer. He's usually so sweet and gentle but he does show how young he is
occassionally- Walter's completely steady already. As long as he's in his
pasture or stall- nobody around him matters until they come inside. I had
actually expected the opposite from them- I'm beginning to think that WALTER may
be easier for the kids ride as he's so steady. Of course I'd lunge and/or ride
myself first. He does really want me to be happy with him it seems.
Holly Beauclair
I am curious- why was Walter donated? I'd love a little more background
info on him- I've gotten tons of info on Petey keeping in touch with Laura
(she is great, by the way) but feel like I know much less about Walter!
He is very respectful of my space and listens to me very well- so maybe
he just needs to get used to the grooming area. I did notice that his
water was near there and he hesitated quite a bit before even going there.
At first he was testing me quite a bit and wouldn't even let me catch him
in the field and put his halter on. We worked on that a lot the first 2
days- halter on, halter off, etc. I had to bribe him with treats! But
now he let's me do whatever I want whenever I want- except cross tie. He
even comes when I call him from across the field to get his halter put on
with no treats. So we are making progress! Right now we are working on
baths- with this heat I've been hosing them off a few times a day. He's
great about it and even Petey has gotten used to it. But I have to be
careful w/ Petey because every time he gets wet he shakes like a dog then
drops to the ground and rolls in the dirt! The pasture is very lush grass
but he manages to find the one spot that's dirt and hits it every time!
Pretty funny really. I turn them out in the morning for awhile then put
them in their stalls til late afternoon so they have their fans at least.
Then they are out for awhile again before going in at night. We did have
a bit of a problem w/ the flies yesterday but I put repellant on both and
they were much better. Walter did not want to wear his fly mask at first-
but is ok with that now too. So, all in all, we're having lots of fun and
getting to know each other.
Holly
Beauclair
Hey Holly, did you not get the CD's we sent on both horses. That has
tons of information, pictures and video if the horse was located here. Walter
came from south florida and his owner was a competition in hunter/jumper and
he could no longer do that job. I would look in that CD, there are
tons of great pictures of Walter, some video taken here and both of their
donors information, including contact information. Walters owner, like Pete's
owner are very much quality horse owners and I'm sure would really like to
stay in touch with their adopter. Some of our donors and adopters become very
good friends, even visiting and traveling together... mostly because they have
something in common.... a love of this horse. I encourage you to stay in touch
with them, I'm sure they would love to hear from you about their babies.
Please let me know if you have trouble opening any document on the CD. The
donor form is several pages so you'll need to open it with a picture and fax
viewer or something that will allow you to see all pages.
Let us know if you didn't get the CD and I will send another. We are just
sending the CD's now over the paper because the cost of a CD vs. printer ink
is huge. Please let us know if you need any help or have questions ever. We
are here to make your horse experience and first ownership an enjoyable one.
Celeita
They are wonderful! I am so lucky to have them- both are so sweet and
eager to please! Petey is like a big teddy bear- he seemed right at home the
minute he stepped off the trailer. Walter was a little skittish the first day
but then settled right in. They are both extremely curious about everything
and seem to be best friends already. Both get jealous when I work with the
other, Walter especially. I had bought a saddle for Petey and was trying it
on when Walter was in the pasture and he just HAD to try it on also. He just
came over and was pushing on me until I put it on him- no ties, no lead,
nothing- he just stood there for me to put it on him. He gets a little antsy
when I let Pete out first- I guess just afraid to be left behind! I haven't
ridden either yet as I wanted them to have time to settle in- but we have done
a lot of grooming and just getting to know each other. Both have been lunged
and respond very well and I think they WANT to be ridden. I was going to ride
at least Petey today but it is so hot out I'm just trying to keep them cool,
today should be 100. They both got fans in their stalls and a quick bath this
morning (Petey doesn't like the hose very much when you get him wet- but will
drink from it if you hold it). The weather should be back to normal on
Thursday so I guess I'll just give them a couple more days.
I have a couple of questions on Walter- first I just want to verify the amount
of grain he eats as it seems like so much. Also, I wanted to ask what
supplements you were using- how much, when, etc. I saw some in his things but
wasn't sure. Also, when was he last wormed? He doesn't want to let me cross
tie him- did you have any problem with this? Honestly, I've been just leading
him into the grooming area, then we pause, I tell him he's good, and he jumps
just outside the reach of the ties. For grooming and everything I don't even
need to tie him as he likes the attention so much he just stands there. But
for the kids to work with him he really needs to let us cross tie him for
their safety! He sure does have alot of personality. Also, what should I put
on the scrapes on Walter's skin?
Petey is more like a dog than a horse- he's so friendly he scared my husband!
The poor guy just didn't expect Pete to stand so close and rub his head on
him. But he's getting used to it. Turns out my husband is really getting
attached to Walter and Walter seems to really like him too. Petey is a very
neat horse- his stall stays perfect except one small area, everything else is
barely disturbed in the morning! He's extremely easy to care for and seems
just as happy in the pasture as his stall. Walter would love to stay out all
day but I am trying to get him used to the grass slowly as you said he didn't
have much pasture there. Eventually I want to leave them out most of the day
and just in at night. Right now I'm letting them out a couple hours in the
morning and a couple in the evening- how much do you think Walter can handle?
Well, I should go but will send pics once get my camera working right- not
sure what the problem is but I cannot upload the pics as usual and not sure
how to do it- gotta get my husband to look at it! Thank you so much!
Holly Beauclair
After spending the last two
weeks working every available minute on getting set up- I can say we are
finally at least functional! The fence is done & electric wire hooked up
(at least for the first pasture). The barn looks a little less than
complete on the outside as it's still waiting for vinyl siding to match the
house and trim work, etc. But at least the interior is complete- got the
kick boards up, bedding put down, food & water containers, roof is leak
proof. Attached are a few pics of the progress & I'll send more as we move
along. We'll have the exterior of the existing structure in the next week
and will then add a second side making a hallway, grooming area and run in
area in a month or so. We want to go slow and easy on the exterior while
they get used to being here so we don't scare them! Luckily, siding is easy
and doesn't require a bunch of loud tools! Right now we have 2 12x12 stalls
and a 12x12 run in/grooming area that will eventually be a tack room. I've
got the food and hay in my garage for now! But that's ok- I can drive it
back on the tractor and do have the water running out to the barn.
They should be here any time and I am just so excited I can barely get any
work done at all! May just have to take the rest of the week off to get to
know the boys! Thank you so much- this is an awesome program you have! I
don't know that I could have pulled it off without something like this. You
have made everyone in this family extremely happy! Truly a lifelong dream
of mine- so thanks!
Thanks so much, Holly. We all miss Walter here and Peter Pan was so
much cuter than his pictures - we were very impressed! How are those
boys doing? Let us know :)
Teresa
Dear Celeita. Just a note to let you know that Mighty
Valdiar, Some Kind of Soul's (aka Scarlett) 3 year old colt (gelding) has
begun his racing career. As you remember, I bred Scarlett shortly after she
arrived here and picked up some weight and she conceived on one cover.
He debuted at Laurel, where he picked up a 6th place check in his first
running. Tried him on the turf here at Colonial but he didn't like the
surface and came up really sore after the race. He was nosed out of 6th
place in that race by a neck (field of 14). After a few weeks r & r, he
once again raced on the dirt and picked up a 3rd place check. He should
race one more time during the Colonial Downs meet before he heads back to
Maryland. Hopefully I'll be able to write soon and let you know when he
breaks his maiden. His 2 year old full sister is lounging in my backyard
and can hardly wait until I get the money together to get her broke and
running. She looks as though she will be even better on the track.
So much for the previous owner's opinion that they'd been so damaged they
couldn't succeed in a breeding program! The only damage she'd sustained
was neglect and starvation. LOL Hope all's well on your end.
Kristie
Hi Celeita,
Here is Pip's Annual Update. I apologize for being late. It has
been done
for a while but I kept forgetting to fax it to you. Unfortunately I
can't
seem to connect with your fax machine. I've attached both pictures and
the
update form. I don't have a scanner, so I wasn't able to get the vet's
signature in the document. I'll keep trying to fax that page to you.
Again, I apologize for the delay.
Pip has come such a long way. It is fairly amazing and everyone is very
impressed. He is a prime example of needing 6 or more months (actually 9
months) to bond with your animal. When he got here he was very nervous
and
tentative. After he was moved to the boarding facility he calmed a bit,
but
was still very untrusting. Though I did not have problems, the workers
had
a difficult time getting a halter on him (he would hide in the corner) and
his vet even made comments about how suspicious he was of everything. At
that time he was coming along fairly well under saddle. I was taking him
rather slowly considering he was out of shape and in a new place.
Over the next several months he improved and began to feel more comfortable
in his surroundings and with everyone at the barn. It was odd though.
I
still did not feel that he and I had "bonded." There just wasn't that
connection or feeling of trust between us. It has just been in the last
few
months that things have changed. Something just clicked. There is a
trust
there that just did not exist before. Granted, he is still a bit spooky,
but nothing abnormal. His dressage performance has improved so
dramatically
in just the last month that you almost wonder if this is the same horse.
The progress is absolutely amazing.
All in all, Pip is a wonderful horse. He has his issues (as all horses
do),
but he is a great little guy. Pip is living proof that you can't give up
on
a horse even if you aren't sure it will work out well. Time will often
change everything. Incidentally, he has proven wrong all the folks who
thought I was crazy for adopting a horse, who thought you could only get a
horse with serious problems. Everyone involved with him loves him.
Thanks
for this great opportunity.
Best Wishes,
Holly McChesney
Hi Holly,
I was checking through the emails and I wasn't sure
if I'd gotten back to you yet on Pip's update. He looks great! His
feet do look a bit upright, but it's hard to tell from the pictures.
Do you know what angle he's being kept at? We're so impressed with
your progress and how you and Pip have bonded. Poor boy, he was
shuffled around so much that he's probably wondering if he's really found a
permanent home. I think he is finally realizing that you're not going
to give up on him and that he can just relax. Thank you so much for
giving him that time and for all you've done for him. I hope everyone
reads your email on the Happy Endings page because you're right, he is a
good example of how horses can need 6 months or so to really settle in and
feel comfortable in a new home and if you just understand that, you will
have a really great, loving horse at the end of it. Well, sorry to go
on and on but adopters not giving a horse enough time is one of our pet
peeves and we're just so happy that you gave Pip that time. Thanks so
much and give him a kiss for us,
Teresa
Hi there,
Just letting you know all the horses came through the storm fine. I
went down to Pensacola and helped Elizabeth Benson evacuate Liam and her other
horse Gwen--they are still up here in B'ham, and also came through the storm
just fine. Liam looks great--Elizabeth loves that boy--great match there!
Katrin
Ramses is doing very, very good. and his personality is amazing, he is so
sweet and i even taught him how to bow down on one knee. we have been doing a
whole lot of trail riding through our county park and he loves it in the lake
too. my mom and dad are starting to ride him now and he is very mannered. but
here are some pictures that we took of him .. but you can only send 10
in one email so i will send another one right after this one with the rest
..
As I have told you before, sometimes my mind wanders and I just have no
choice but to follow. This is the path we traveled this evening.
For Celeita and Second Wind
Adoption Program
There was a time I stood on the edge of what was going on
I watched when others enjoyed companionship and acceptance
In my mind and heart I thought I was special
I needed someone to look into my eyes and realize it
I wasn't abused, I just wasn't appreciated as being me
I ate the right foods and exercised regularly
I tried to take care of the way I looked, as best I could
It just seemed there wasn't time in people's lives for me
I got more quiet and kept more and more to myself
Then someone finally did bother to look in my eyes
They saw the heart and potential behind them
And I was given a chance to SWAP this life for another
I was shown love, consideration and patience
I was given help in looking my very best
They loved me just because I was being me
I was taught what was expected, so I would know
It is good being appreciated, that I know
I love where my life has taken me finally
It is good being a horse and given a chance
Thanks for SWAPping my old life for this one
Hi Celeita,
I'm not sure where I left off in the Tucker saga, but on Tuesday, both my vet
and farrier came together to work on his lame foot.
They had a plan for shoeing angles and pads all set. My vet was going to leave,
but decided to stay so he could just see the hoof with the shoe off.
He and my farrier studied, examined, hoof tested, pondered, consulted and
suddenly, I...in the process of setting up a very tiny paddock for Tucker's
recover...heard a gasp from inside the barn. Then cries of excitement.
I came in to find a delighted pair of professionals holding up Tucker's hoof,
reveling in the discovery of an abscess track. Actually, they found two small
holes, indicative of an infection that had apparently been trying to brew for
some time...all connected to the original crack. Scott, my shoer, was relieved
to have discovered the cause of the unsoundness as was my vet who has been
trying to figure it out for weeks as well.
Apparently, all the treatments did manage to keep the darn infection from
becoming full blown, which was good since it was near the coffin bone, but it
also managed to mask it. However, Scott's determination that the crack not be
patched with acrylic proved to be a big plus, because if he had, the infection
would have been sealed in and most likely become a real crisis.
The good thing is that we think all will be well. The bad thing is that Tucker
has to spend 6 days stall bound while I soak and wrap his foot. Then, after he
is reshod, there will be another 2 weeks in the tiny pen...actually his 10 X 20
foot run in shed and stall closed in...until the inflammation is cleared. Then
we will see how he is.
Since the next show at the Horse Park is not until September, I figure we will
be ready by then. It's been a frustrating Spring/Summer, but Tucker is
worth it. Besides, it's a bonding experience. *G*
Jean D.
Hi Celeita,
Tucker is still having a bit of a soundness problem with the crack in his hoof.
Yesterday my vet came and took more x-rays. Apparently the kid's coffin bone is
inflamed, something remedial shoeing will fix. We need to lower his heel and
probably put him in pads. As well my vet wants to patch the crack with acrylic,
something my shoer is not too keen on. He worries that an infection might
develop under the fill.
However, both these guys respect each other tremendously, so I am sure once they
get together with Tucker, it will all work out. The hoof wall is very thin and
may be playing a part in all this. His limp is very slight and erratic. Most
people would not even notice something was amiss. But, my vet assures me all
will be well with some careful calculation of angles and such. He loves the
shoeing jobs my farrier does and in this case what appears to be the right angle
and what the x-rays show is a bit at odds. We should get it sorted out this
week.
Of course, none of this stops Tucker Trouble from mischief. My farrier suggested
keeping him in a smaller paddock, so using corral panels, I blocked off the nice
shady paddock opening off his stall. On day 3, I woke up to find Tuck out in the
pasture with his "brothers." Ok, so he had either untied or eaten the twine ties
I had fastening the panel to the barn and pushed the panel out of the way. I
fixed that by using chain instead. On day 4, he was out again. This time the
back gate had somehow been opened letting him out into the front paddock and
from there out with the other "Boys." Fine, fixed that. On day 4, he was out
again. This time all panels, gates, etc were just fine. One can only presume he
jumped out. Cute. No wonder his foot is sore. He had to have cleared at least 4
feet, the lowest of the panels. At that point, I surrendered. He is back on full
turnout. *G*
Maybe dressage is the wrong career path. Right now, I see two other choices.
Besides jumping, I could bill him as an Equine Escape Artist and make a mint on
Animal Planet. Each episode, people could challenge him to confinement and we
could post hidden cameras to watch the fun as he figured out how to circumvent
the barriers. Gotta love a horse with a brain.
I'll let you know how the shoeing goes. It should be interesting.
Jean
Here is a photo of me and beautiful Miss B. She is turning into such a
good, good girl. She behaves better and better every day. I am so lucky!
Would love to have Trevy or Tooter as her brother. She needs a brother,
don't you think? Pat
Saber is turning into a very well trained, very good
trail horse. Buddy's respiratory COPD is slowing him down, but he is in 4H
camp this week with my neighbor girl who has used him for 3 years now. He is a
different horse with her on his back. More careful. Anyway, He is doing
well.
Was just wondering where Ivory was and how he was doing?
Miss him and still think of him a lot.Have you been to Doug's web site?
http://www.lazyjsaddlery.com/
Junemarie
Hello Everyone,
We went and picked up Snickers Saturday....He looks fine only
thing remotely wrong is his feet are in need of a trim not to the point that
it looks negligent just to the point he's due. He seems to be fitting in great
already has made friends and such a sweet baby ...so so gentle when we arrived
to pick him up a boy went out to get him and rode him back bareback with
nothing more than a string attached to his halter. There is one thing that
concerns me...he has a small lump at the base of his throat...we are going to
get the vet out to look at it doesn't seem to bother him so it may just be
unfounded worries. Will get you some pictures out in the next few days when we
remember to take the camera to the barn with us. But tell Celeita (if not her
reading this) that he is in good health his coat was sleek and shiny eyes
bright just shows his age a little but only at certain times so far seems to
be an early morning thing ..seems to have no pains of any sort once he gets
loosened up. Thank you guys so much for helping us to expedite the adoption
process in such short time we already love both of em to pieces...Mega Moo
seems content on her diet as long as she gets plenty of attention while the
rest are still eating....was just a little stand offish the first couple of
days but now she is one of the first if not the first to get to you when you
go to the pasture or barn. But you guys take care and we'll keep in touch
..once again thanks to all.
Tom and Cheryl
Hi everyone,
Just wanted to let you know
that Debt is doing great. We love him sooooo much and Christina and Debt have
such a great bond together. Christina and Debt had two thirds and a second this
past weekend at the show. He got many compliments on what a beautiful jumper he
is and how his canter is so impressive. Debt and Christina are a beautiful team
and he responds to her so well. Dressage is coming along and he continues to
improve in all areas. He seems relaxed and happy and he loves his special
treats. I will send new pics as soon as I can.
Thanks,
Angela DeFuria
Ruiz
Hi, I just wanted to send another pic of Windsor. He is doing great. This
time he's with my sister Heather. All we do is take pictures of him! He has
been ridden everyday- mostly bareback but i do put the western saddle on every
once in a while.
Also, I need a change of location form. I was everywhere on the website and
could not find one. There were problems with the place in prospect and after
time with the attorney and what not we have been free of the problems. So,
Windsor and I have moved back home to my parents. I've attached a picture of
the fencing. The front is 2 rail wood fence and the sides and back is 3 strand
wire that's marked with pink tape. My mom and dad have 5 acres and so far we
have 1 acre fenced and we are fencing 2 more acres within the next 2 weeks. I
do not have a picture of the barn yet because its not finished yet, the
foundation is poured but its not complete yet. But, its going to be a 2 stall
barn with tackroom, nothing fancy. As soon as it's complete I'll send the
pictures over. (it should be done by July 25)
-Alaina
Hi Celeita,
Tucker is still having a bit of a soundness problem with the crack in his hoof.
Yesterday my vet came and took more x-rays. Apparently the kid's coffin bone is
inflamed, something remedial shoeing will fix. We need to lower his heel and
probably put him in pads. As well my vet wants to patch the crack with acrylic,
something my shoer is not too keen on. He worries that an infection might
develop under the fill.
However, both these guys respect each other tremendously, so I am sure once they
get together with Tucker, it will all work out. The hoof wall is very thin and
may be playing a part in all this. His limp is very slight and erratic. Most
people would not even notice something was amiss. But, my vet assures me all
will be well with some careful calculation of angles and such. He loves the
shoeing jobs my farrier does and in this case what appears to be the right angle
and what the x-rays show is a bit at odds. We should get it sorted out this
week.
Of course, none of this stops Tucker Trouble from mischief. My farrier suggested
keeping him in a smaller paddock, so using corral panels, I blocked off the nice
shady paddock opening off his stall. On day 3, I woke up to find Tuck out in the
pasture with his "brothers." Ok, so he had either untied or eaten the twine ties
I had fastening the panel to the barn and pushed the panel out of the way. I
fixed that by using chain instead. On day 4, he was out again. This time the
back gate had somehow been opened letting him out into the front paddock and
from there out with the other "Boys." Fine, fixed that. On day 4, he was out
again. This time all panels, gates, etc were just fine. One can only presume he
jumped out. Cute. No wonder his foot is sore. He had to have cleared at least 4
feet, the lowest of the panels. At that point, I surrendered. He is back on full
turnout. *G*
Maybe dressage is the wrong career path. Right now, I see two other choices.
Besides jumping, I could bill him as an Equine Escape Artist and make a mint on
Animal Planet. Each episode, people could challenge him to confinement and we
could post hidden cameras to watch the fun as he figured out how to circumvent
the barriers. Gotta love a horse with a brain.
I'll let you know how the shoeing goes. It should be interesting.
Jean
Hi Celeita!
Wow! From looking at the website it looks like you all have been busy!
Just wanted to give you an update on Goodie. He is doing great!
weighing in @ 1135lbs +/- a few. His coloring has brightened amazingly.
Such pretty red tones and the black points are so black. We have been
fortunate this summer in that he has not needed his antihistamine for his
flies allergies as of yet. Of course I believe it has helped knowing
what to expect and being proactive. We do have him shod all around the
rocks here seem to be tough on his feet. His farrier absolutely loves
him. He gets shod every 8-10 weeks. His farrier comments on what a
solid foundation he has under him! He is up to date on his
immunizations. His veterinarian is scheduled to come out in October for
teeth floating and Coggins. We had a "horse wash" day about 2 weeks ago
which he really seemed to enjoy. (with the exception of the sheath cleaning!)
He was tolerable of it but it was clear that he wasn't happy about it.
lol his facial expression was that of an embarrassed teen ager! So
funny! I have changed jobs to one where my schedule is flexible and
better pay which has worked out well with having more time to enjoy and spoil
Goodie. Goodie has gotten very vocal lately. His feeding time
purrs have turned into any time I see you neighs. I do believe he enjoys
being ridden again and this is showing in his ever blossoming personality.
One of my coworkers brought her 3 young daughters here to visit the horses and
he was the perfect gentleman from tolerating the 2 year old on his back to
being so gentle when cookies were offered. Goodie has been an excellent
mentor for my spotted walker who was gelded on the late side and still had a
lot of studdish behaviors going on. Goodie has taught him patience and
respect. We all are so fortunate to have Goodie with us. I will
send pictures as soon as we get some nice weather. He is really looking great!
God Bless, and Take Care,
Karen McClung
Dear Friends
who have indicated an interest in my Miss B adventures: Just for the
record, Miss B and I have finally had our FIRST TRAIL RIDE. It happened
yesterday evening (totally unplanned) and we spent about 20 minutes on some
curvey, narrow Lake Lewisville Equestrian trails. We were with two other
women (also on bay mares ... of course, B was the biggest...) and we put B in
the middle and she did GREAT! The whole time she was sort of like "Hey ...
are you really sure you want to do this?" but she was very responsive, didn't
spook at anything, didn't try to outrun anyone and kept up with the crowd.
We actually rode home in the dark (probably not the best idea for our first time
out) but she was wonderful and I felt like a combination of Annie Oakley and
Superwoman! I wonder when I'll get nominated to the Cowgirl Hall of
Fame....Pat
Hello,
I just wanted to let you know I finally achieved my goal with Shotzy.
She
gave me a beautiful filly on May 30. I bred her to a registered dressage
Andalusian. I will be keeping the filly for a future show horse.
Shotzy is doing great as a mother. although I feel her riding days
are
done since we have been having soundness issues with her for the past two
years, she will remain with us forever.
Thank you for a wonderful horse.
Debbie Worek
General:
This is my annual update on Seth's progress since his adoption last fall.
He is wonderful, and we all love him.
Medical:
Seth has received all shots needed for this area. Our veterinarian
continues to be Fernando Cardenas at 3-H Veterinary Services, New Hill, NC.
A new coggins test was done in April, with negative results.
Seth was castrated last fall and is doing great. He
trailers with other horses without problems. We still keep him in his
own paddock because we are not sure if he still could demonstrate stallion
behavior as he did when we got him.
In April, Seth tore loose a front shoe. Because the
shoe didn't come completely off, a nail stuck in his foot. The vet
checked it, and there was not injury to the bone. However, it did
abcess and required soaking for several days. The vet suggested pads
be put on the first time he was shoed after the incident. To date, we
have kept them on because he is competing. We will be removing them
after the summer. He is shoed all around now.
Caitlin gives him a glucosamine injection weekly, and it
helps with the minor stiffness he has due to slight arthritis. When
she rides him in lessons, he limbers up with no stiffness after walking and
trotting.
Training:
Caitlin is now training for jumpers at a 3-foot fence height. Seth is
a school master and is teaching her so much. She has competed in some
local jumper shows and has done well.
I will try to send another email with pictures of her and
him at a show.
Thanks for the opportunity to adopt Seth. He's been
a pleasure!
Hi
I almost forgot about the annual report so I am
e-mailing the most important information and will send the photos and signed
form after the 4th holiday.
Millennium Joy (Joy) formerly known as GG is
doing well. She is a flashy chestnut Arabian filly (now mare) we adopted
almost 4 years ago. She now has reached her adult height of 14.15 hands
and weighs 900 pounds. She is handled 1-3 hours every day depending on the
task. Recently we have had trouble with saddle fit (a growth in
withers). So in the interim of buying a new western pleasure saddle we
have been focusing on long lining, teaching to drive and facing trail
obstacles and building confidence. My daughter wants to try trail riding Joy.
She is a fun horse that loves attention.
We do not force or use artificial means on our
horses to achieve certain head or tail carriage. NOR WOULD WE EVER USE
CHEMICALS, SHOEING OR BRUTALIZATION TO MAKE OUR HORSE STEP A CERTAIN WAY.
Joy is kept according to good horsekeeping
practices. We reside at the same farm as when we adopted her with the same
barn and fence. We added 5 more acres to the pasture to accommodate
another horse, bringing our farm family total to 5.
She is on a 24/7 turnout with free choice hay,
water and barn access. Daily winter feeding she receives, 5 pounds of soaked
beet pulp + 1 pound 12 percent protein nutrena pellet horse feed + Source
supplement. Summer feeding she receives 1/2 cup Nutrena feed + Source
supplement.
Joy and the other horses are womed on a
rotational basis every 8 weeks, alternating ivermectrin with strongid and a
fall worming for tapeworms per my vet's recommendation. The farrier Dan
Buchleitner (724) 948-3819 has trimmed her hooves averaging every 8 weeks (per
his recommendation based on hoof growth). The dates are: July 7, August 16,
October 15, Nov. 16, 2004, Jan.10, 2005, March 10 and May 10.
On April 22, 2005 Joy was vaccinated by Dr.
Goldena Halstead, Stateline Veterinary Services (724)966-8103 for West
Nile, rabies, east west & Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis, tetanus, EHV-1,
EHV-and equine influenza A1 and A2 (Fluvac Innovator 6). She also was tested
for EIA and received a negative coggins report on April 27, 2005 from Antech
Diagnostics, 9066 Lacey Drive, Southhave, MS 38671
On May 26, 2005 her teeth were floated and her
jaw massaged by equine dentist Robert Jamison (724) 538-5136.
Please call or e-mail me if you have any
questions. Thanks for such a neat horse!
Antoinette Fitch
Andrew is very calm and relaxed -
"herd bound" behavior has consistently diminished since adoption, and seems to
be completely gone, though I am still careful. He goes out in a group and
has a buddy but his stall is not near the buddy, which seems to be a good thing.
Injured leg is a bit weak and stiff which I hope to improve through
strengthening and fitness. We've been schooling dressage - lots of stretching to
help him use his back more, push with his hindquarters, and put it all together.
Andrew is doing great!!
Sara Kovarovics
Forgot to tell you that Monica had a healthy bay filly in the wee hours
Monday morning... see attached photo. Mo Mo looks ticked off because one
of the other foals was trying to meet the new foal when I turned them out
together for the first time today.
LOL, Mo Mo as I call her is actually an exceptionally tolerant mommy. I
think she's a bit down on her weight, but she'll actually walk away from food
she's getting so much. I'm also adding corn oil to up the calories...I'm
sure we'll catch back up in time. This baby's father is Storm City, an
adopted horse from CANTER New England--hopefully, he'll sire a Petey foal as
well. I may breed her to my Arab this year, given how late it is getting,
then I can let her have a break into spring of '07 if she has a foal, that way
she can have an earlier TB foal...
Katrin Klemm
hi, i wanted to say hello and to let you know that windsor is doing
wonderfully! I ride him 3-4 times a week and i ride him bareback, english
saddle, and western saddle. He is wonderful, everyone just loves him. He is
just so great. He puts up with anything/everything- from me giving him a bath
to leading my mom around on his back.
Also, i wanted to let you know. there is a place up here in PA (3 hours
away from you) that has hay (its good hay, but its last years hay) for $1.00 a
bale. they may give it to you at a greater discount if you clean out the barn
for them. (they need to make room for the new cut hay).
Hopefully this can help you out.
Have a wonderful day.
**new pics of windsor to come soon.
Alaina Banyay
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Hi Celeita,
How are you? Our hearts are beginning to heal from the
loss of Belle. Val, Frosty, Indy and Navvy are all doing well.
Attached is a picture of Indy's filly from this year. This foal is 1/2
Trakehner, 1/8 Selle Francais, 1/8 Paint and 1/4 TB.
My two youngest daughters are having a blast with Frosty.
Im just curious about Analisa, would it be possible to get a video or for me to
get in touch with her owner?
Hope this note finds you well.
Renee
Hi Celeita-
I made the 5.5 hour trek up north to visit Maggie and Pam/Shelley who
adopted her this week. She looks great! She's really muscled up
nicely. They let me ride her, and snapped some photos of us in
action. She's still going strong, that's for sure! I don't think I've
ever seen that mare happier in all the time I've known her. Truly a
great home for her.
-Hannah
Hannah, What great news, always great to hear from our California donors
and adopters. Maggie does look wonderful. It looks like a super home for
sure. How are Pam and Shelley. I don't hear from them as much as we used to.
Was going to call soon. I know Pam was diagnosis with cancer a year or two
ago. I'm hoping she is doing fine. So happy to get the pictures and to see
you both. How are things with you? Enjoying life? Thank you so much, I'm
thrilled that Maggie has the home she always deserved. Celeita
Hi - Leona has started back to work since she was one of our camp
horses that ate all winter. She'll be in our Horse Camp starting Monday
until Saturday, then she'll be off for 48 hours and back to traditional
camp. Hannah still wants to get her to Saint Andrews come fall when Ocean
is shipped. Ocean/Hannah were asked and are planning on going to the
Capital Challenge in Oct. Ocean's off and is here w/us. will show again in
Sept. Will get a photo off the beginning of next week of Waldo -- thought
we took one to send you -- busy time a year, we have been in session since
Sunday.
Hope all is well?
Emily
I think one
thing that most people don't realize about SWAP is definitely the
QUALITY of the horses...I've NEVER seen any other
program get the super nice horses like you do and the fact that you REQUIRE
them to be healthy (except for rescues, of course) is heads and shoulders
above lots of programs probably. Maybe you need to use that more as a big
marketing tool? And, the fact that you KNOW the histories on this horses. I
don't know what the big deal about the other programs is...
The horses
are all good though. Tubby is the only one with any big issues...having a hair
more trouble with his hind suspensory (past injury) but I think we have some
very good corrective shoeing ideas now from working with our vet and farrier
that should help him again. Poor guy...just pitiful that they jumped him so hard
and did so much damage. He's such a love... Denny/Roady has been a bit heavey
when the pollen has been high but he's doing better with his supplements again
now. Siggy, Gatsby/Woody, Caddy, Prince, Socks are super...and Rosie is,
well Rosie (aloof one day & "talking" to you another...SUCH a mare). And my mare
Abby is super duper, as always. So our "herd" of 9 is good...they keep us busy
(cleaning, feeding, grooming, riding, lungeing, bathing, etc.) but I love it
all, as you well understand. They make it all worthwhile with just a nicker or
little "hug" with their neck around you...ahhhhhhhhh. : ))
Well I
better get back to work here a bit...a little to do before lunch.
Never-ending here too...summer registrations, grades, course scheduling,
etc. Job security, right??!
Take care
& I'll get back with you asap on Sting then.
Thanks,
Angie
Phenom is great! I think Frank is a H/J trainer, but Heidi
recommended him for any attitude problems and such. That is where a
few horses she has ridden have gone for extra help. I am assured by
her that he does not physically punish them in any way, so I have no
concerns there! Phenom can get, just as his papers said, a little
attitude when he does not want to be pushed passed his limits. I think
in time we can work through it, but I think it can only help
him to have a professional, such as Frank, show him he must work and do
what he is asked. It will help me as well as I want to know the best
way to work with him. He is fine when I ride him, listens ok, but I think
this will help bring his attention to where it needs to be. I am not
going to take him to Heidis for Dressage training until after Frank works
with him. He needs that first. I have just been 'having fun' with him,
riding him on my own at the farm I keep him at and spending time with him on
the ground. I explained Phenom's past history as explained to me in the
adoption paper work to Frank. I told him that I was concered about all
this bouncing around from home to home and was wondering if this would upset
Phenom in any way. He thinks with his past he will be fine there for a
little bit and I will be going there to ride him as well- I am not just
dropping him off and leaving him. =) I am willing to do whatever I can
for Phenom. If there is anything to make him happier when we are
working together I will do it. He is such a cutie! He has the
cutest personality! I think it really helped that I bonded with him on
the ground for awhile before riding him! He can bow now and I am
teaching him to give kisses! I was not aware that Phenom does not like
men, but I will be sure to tell Frank. He is use to dealing with all
kinds of horses and I know he will be in good hands- especially since Heidi
recommended him. Frank is in Ocala/Williston area- about an hour and a half
from my home. Let me know if you have any other questions and I am assuming
from your email that it is ok to send him? If not please let me know.
Thanks!
Amanda
Hi-Ocean showing recently - was wonderful in the Spring Fling last
month/2 seconds over fences and a 3rd in the hack out of 83.
Emily
Hi Celeita.
Afton is here - safe and sound. He was pretty tired from his
long trip, so we walked him around for a while and then turned him out
for the nite.
He has an automatic waterer and plenty of mixed grass hay for the
nite. I plan to start feeding him tomorrow morning with Nutrena Compete
10% and slowly increase over the next week or so until we reach a
suitable amount for him. I will also put him on a daily wormer and feed
thru fly control with the rest of the crew here, and he'll also get a
daily joint supplement we use called ReitSport that contains MSM,
Chondroitin, Glucosamine, and Hyaluronic Acid as well as Vitamin C and
Yucca. However, since he needs spring shots, he will need to be stalled
in the quarantine barn at least until that gets done. He gets turned out
daily in the quarantine paddock unless it's too hot ( in stall with fan
- out at nite ), or the weather is bad.
After about a week, I'll start introducing him to the students and
his "job" will begin - trying to undo the bad and frightening
stuff other horses have done to people.
I think he will be stellar !!
I will keep you posted as to his progress.
Again, thank you so much and God bless you all !
Our thanks and regards to Levi as well and may the Lord ride shotgun
on all his journeys !
Cherie
We are riding both of them everyday.
Scooter still hates the bit but I
think she is getting better. They will both have training - just at
different times this summer and fall. We are having to be worked
into
trainers schedules and do not have a definite yet.
We are working on the riding ring this weekend to finish it up. It
is
going to be 40x60 so I am really pleased.
You would be so proud of Scooter and Starry how they are doing and how
attached they are to each other.
We took Scooter out the other day to work with her separate and Starry got
so upset I had to get her out too. I think she thought we were
taking
Scooter away.
It was really funny.
Mark and I spend a lot of time sitting in the field watching the two of
them and playing with them. We have seen them groom each other and
that
was so special. We also laugh at them a lot because they play a lot
when
we are with them and compete over who gets the most attention from us.
Mark has really gotten attached to them - he is the one who feeds them
every morning before he goes to work and the other morning I looked down
and he was walking by them and he just rubbed each of their heads like you
would a childs and kissed them each and I knew then he was becoming one of
us. In love with horses. He has worked so hard on everything
for them
and that has been so nice because not many husbands would do what he has
done.
Take care and we will keep in touch.
I have included pictures of them in the field. I took them one
evening.
Karen
Oh, Karen, This makes me so happy that you all are enjoying them so much.
They are obviously very happy, healthy and love their new home. This really
makes my day as I tend to worry about the youngsters more, as this is the
time when they should be learning all the basics they will use the rest of
their life and the girls tend to be more sensitive and more difficult, much
like raising girls. :)
With Scooter, are you sure the bit fits? Not too big and not too small.
Usually if you have enough room to put a finger on the bit on each side of
the mouth it is big enough. If the full cheek extensions are laying right on
her mouth and tight, it may be too small. I'm sure she has a very small
mouth as her mom did. You might just have her sit in her stall with her head
stall of her bridle on and with the bit in her mouth, just take the reins
off and leave it on her while you are there, several hours if you can. She
can even eat and drink with the bit in her mouth, it won't bother her.
You'll just need to clean the bit afterwards but to me its sorta like us
wearing tennis shoes and jeans all the time and then having to put hoes,
heels and a suit on.... its uncomfortable at first and we have to get
accustomed to the new clothes. Sitting in the head stall of the bridle just
speeds that up some. I do it to many of my babies but I'm not sure if we
ever did it to Scooter. You may also put a little bit of honey or maple
syrup on the bit before putting in her mouth as well... that will make her
want to take it better. Do that a couple of days and she will be jumping to
take the bit. :)
I hope that helps and you don't mind my unrequested advice. I know you
will be fine without but just want to help if I can. Well, enjoy this summer
and don't work too hard. Celeita
soon to be a
happy ending.... hopefully!
Celeita,
I am so grateful that you wrote back to me.
No I had not thought of teaching Bella to drive. I don't have any
knowledge in this area. She probably would be quite good at it.
She is perfectly comfortable without a rider on her back. She
leaps, rolls, bucks and plays in the pasture. The Vet said he
could not be sure whether the kissing spine was genetic or not.
The issue in her withers is some injury that happened perhaps getting
cast.
Like I said before, sound wave therapy, injections
and acupuncture could make it so she could be a trail horse - but for
how long, we do not know.
Because she is so beautiful and such a lovely
mare, my Vet (who breeds Warmbloods) says that she would qualify to be
bred to a top stallion. I am in the process of reclaiming her
registration papers. She would make a lovely mom.
It is no problem for Bella to remain where she is
until could be found a very good home - actually I would prefer it.
She is very loved.
I'm on vacation right now and I will review the
papers and get them back to you after June 22nd.
Thank you so much for your time.
Super, I can even help you teach her to drive if you like, depending on
where you are. It's really much harder to teach a horse to ride than drive.
Any horse that can't carry a rider we consider driving for them for a job,
because any horse that can do a job is more likely to be cared for. We'd be
glad to help you get her ready for her new job and find her a home. Thank
you so much for considering Second Wind. Just let us know, we'll do our
best. Celeita
Celeita,
We have hit a wall with Brioso where he is having trouble again backing up
and is exhibiting some symptoms of narcolepsy in his stall and cross ties.
I can give him some selenium to see if this helps the backing up, but the
narcolepsy makes it difficult for the parents to think he is safe to ride.
I am consulting with my vet tomorrow, but wondering if anyone has ever
seen
this before with him. His weight is good, but none of this started
until
the heat wave. Any ideas?
Janet
Janet, how is this going? Has his work load increased? I know you know
this but just be careful with the selenium, being a mineral, its toxic in
higher levels and much of the selenium horses need should come from the
water/grass, hay and feed. Still on the high fat, high fiber, low sugar/low
protein diet?
hmmmmm, I know this seems simplistic but is he doing night turn out
because some horses cannot stand the nocturnal schedule of being awake when
he should be sleeping. I've recently read some articles about how damaging
it is to their immune system to have them awake at night when they should be
sleeping.... much like they are starting to believe how hard it is on people
to be up all night. I'm not sure... just thinking of things I've seen in the
past but Brioso has always seemed to be such a hard one to understand. I
would be curious about what anyone else knows about something like this.
Let me know what is going on... maybe he's just tired if hes out all night
and being worked during the day. Not sure. Let me know what the vet says.
Well kiss that boy for me. I'm sure there is an answer. Celeita*An
additional note, the original owner said he fell asleep in the cross ties
all the time in the summer and considered narcolepsy but the vet decided as
well that it was just sleep deprivation. Needed more sack time in the stall.
Hey Celeita,
Hope you're having a great summer and have a great
bunch of interns! I'm in DC (at work actually right now) doing an internship
for the office of the attorney general for the district of columbia. It's
keeping me busy and definitely giving an inside look at the legal field. The
boyfriend is in Lebanon right now visiting his family and will be back at
the end of next month- hopefully safely. I was thinking about you yesterday
and what a great summer I had when I was at SWAP- beats the hell out of this
office stuff. I miss the horses tremendously but everything will come
together in due time I suppose. Let me know how you're doing. Take care,
Lindsey
Hey girl, Wow, DC... what a FUN town. I loved it when I lived there and
worked in Penn Ave. NW. Are you getting chances to see the town? There are
several musts.... the 4th of July fireworks and concerts. All the free
patriotic stuff, even the embassy concerts are great. Are you staying
downtown some where? Did they put you up someplace nice? Gosh, I would love
to come over and see you and play tourist with you. Have you seen
everything? What do you do on weekends, anything good? Are you hoping to
work in DC once you graduate law school? Working for the government is not
great money but its honorable work that is badly needed. I really miss you
here. I'll never forget that first summer when you're mom came to get you
and you cried to stay and go to school here!!! That seems like a 100 years
ago, doesn't it? I hope your mom and dad are doing well. We've had a time
getting Galant squared away with Kim after Kelly's death. She wants to keep
her but doesn't do the contract, just ignores our requests. I have a feeling
I'm going to have to go get her soon. Very sad that she just ignores our
requests. Well, take care and have a big time and if you need someone to
show you the town.... I'm your girl. :) PS. Know a couple of lady
lawyers in DC that are also horse women, they are both donors of ours. They
would be great contacts for you, let me know if I can put you all together.
Celeita
Celeita - I
just wanted to let you know we got Starry and Scooter moved to
our farm and they are doing great. They are so happy. They are
really
funny with our animals too. They love our 16 year old dog. They
are both
riding very well and keeping all of us happy. We love to sit and watch
them play in the field.
We start building the riding ring and the permanent barn. The new bard
will be 36 x 24 with three stalls and a tack room. Starry's stall is
going to be 12x14 and Scooters is 12x12. I can not wait until they are
finished.
Starry is really listening to me when I am lounging her or riding her.
She is starting to be really focused. Starry and I took a class a week
ago from a dressage instructor from Northern Virginia (Angie Spielman I
think was her name) She was very good and really worked with me on
lounging Starry and getting her more focused and on task. Starry has
been
loading very easy in our new trailer too. That was a relief. You
know
Scooter if she thinks there is food she will go anywhere.
Something that was very sweet was when we put Starry in the field for the
first time she ran up and nudged Scooter who she had not see in a week and
then proceeded to lay on her back and wiggle around then get up and nicker
and then just shake her head like she was home and happy. It was so
neat.
I almost cried.
Hope all is well at Crossed Sabers. Keep in touch and again thank you
for
the opportunity to have these two beautiful horses.
Karen Akers
"Hi Celeita
and gang " How is the farm doing? Good I'm sure!
I just wanted to let you know how Bill is
doing. Well he is doing really great!!! We were in another show this week.
We placed thirteen times!!!
It was awesome!!! We got 2 2nd places,2
3rd,4 4ths, and 5 5ths. We did
really,really,really,REALLY good wouldn't you
say? Well, write ya later
GOODBYE
EVERYONE
YOUR WRITNG PAL
CHERICE PETERSBravo Cherice, Great news. I am so glad you
are enjoying him. I'm sure he really loves you and that is why he is working
so hard to do well for you. Don't wear him out too much, remember he's
getting older so he'll need lots of love, loads of carrots and some time
off to do all that work. :) Have fun and give him a kiss for us!!
Celeita
 Hi!
He is doing very well. His "shivers" syndrome from the EPSM
still gives us problems....but he's on the recommended 4 cups of
cocosoya oil a day and high protein/low carb. My
farrier is an angel with all the patience that it takes to get that bad
leg trimmed. As soon as the foot comes up more than 8" or so off
the ground, he goes into the full spasm. So a trim that normally
would have taken 15 minutes, now takes about 30-45. I
thank God for my farrier every day because I don't know what we would
have done without him.
I started him on bute also...which isnt supposed to help, but
DOES. So other than being bothered by heat/humidity
and bugs right now during mid afternoons ( we have fans up on his stall
so he's a happy camper when he comes in) I would say he's doing
WONDERFUL! :) I'm going broke on his oil and
supplements...but to see him happy makes it all worthwhile.
Thanks for asking!
(here's some recent shots of the three of them..he is of course,
the big one. lol )
Oh Jen, I'm so happy to hear he's doing so well. I'm surprised he's on a
high protein/low carb diet for epsm, I would have thought he would have
needed high fat/high fiber low protein/low sugar/low carb but hey, as long
as it all works. I'm guessing the cancer went away because he looks great,
not swollen in the sheath area. That's wonderful. We were going to the
database today and ran across you and him and was going to call but thought
I'd try to email address first. I'm thrilled, that is the best news I've
gotten today. Just super. Thank you for giving him such a wonderful
home. I see you really like those grays, huh? Well, thank you again for
loving him so much. He is a great horse and he certainly deserved someone
like you. Celeita
Had to share these pics too. People tease me about my
horse photos always showing white horses....so I had to prove to them
that that's not always the case!
We have a low spot in the pasture that turns into a little pond
with heavy rains. They LOVE it! (moon's on the left)
very funny, they are having a big time. If you filled that in it would
ruin all their fun... those grays know how to get dirty for sure!!
"Resolute"~ May 31, 2005``ready to load on the trailer for a fun show.
They dress me funny here.
Hey Celeita, Sorry for the delay again....Summer
is ride time at our barn. I haven't been home to check e-mail in forever.
Reba...We have put on 85 pounds (tape measured) or so. We have her on MSM,
Vitamin Supplements, oil, and mare/foal feed to increase her calorie
intake. She is starting to eat with gusto but still takes 45 min. She is
up to two scoops twice daily, with a mid meal of 3/4 scoop and hay 3-5x's
a day. She is pasturing well, we switch pastures each week, and she has
done well in each area. She has a tendency to not drink well, so we make
sure to fill buckets a lot to encourage her to watch the water go in, and
hopefully she will take more out. Her temperament is fabulous. She is a
bit shy and a bit hard to catch, but we are parelli (ng) her and things
are going well. She is starting a slow work out session 3x's a week. This
means self lunging at the walk for 5 min. Then aided lunging for 5 mins,
then a cool down for 5 min. That is our typical schedule. I want the
calories to turn into muscle so she can support her back end. Both Hips
are not solid and she tends to shift all day long to support herself. She
needs some building of muscles also in her front chest area. She at a walk
will stumble. But we do not push for anything above a walk now. Sonny, is
a dream. He is working out well, but I do have him on MSM 2x's daily. It
definitely helps with whatever the pain is stemming from. I put new shoes
on him. He just needed some support. The x-rays were inconclusive, but did
show some damage to the Frog area. So we use a soak 2x's a week and the
MSM and using him and he is getting more sound. Big is great, He is such a
tender hearted horse. He follows me around like a dog. He is just
fabulous. HE is doing well with the occasional rides and loves the
pastures. Orphy is doing very well. He is learning to bend with our rider
and all parts are going well. He is able to control his speed with just a
loose rein and leg aids. Too cool. He does not like the heat tho. He would
just assume stay in the stall 24/7. But our pasture is connected to a run
in and if not up top that is where he can be found. Jolly and Kaleigh are
doing great. He has mastered a bunch of dressage moves and is beautiful.
He did a small jump course 18" and looked like a million. I bet he would
have preferred hunter/jump to junior jumpers. He even does flying lead
changes after the jump that would knock your socks off. Kaleigh and he
ride about 3 x's a week. and it suits them both. Brendle and I are getting
ready for training. But I will tell you he has made so much progress, the
shying or spook factor is slowing going away. He is loving the heat,
because of all the baths and all the young girls that look after him. He
is probably the smartest animal in the block. He rode with me next to him
and paced with my horse. Too cute. So...there is the family. I will keep
you posted. kt
Thank you Katie, It sounds like things are going well. I knew it would
with time but poor Reba, I just can't understand anyone not feeding a horse,
especially an adopter and especially one that is a board member of another
adoption program (BITS). It just makes me furious. Did you ever get pictures
of her when she was really bad for the criminal complaints we need to file?
It usually takes a year to get them back up to 100% again so you are well on
your way. You've done a great job with everyone and you've had much more of
a task than we would want to put on anyone. We are all very grateful for
what you have done for these horses. I know you've made a huge difference in
their life. I would give my right arm to have more adopters like you. Thank
you. Celeita
Hi Celeita ~
I have
finally found a mini farm! Attached is a picture of the house and
barn. The barn is enormous, but needs some modifications before winter
to make it suitable for stalls. However, the barn behind the house
(Stable attachment) can function as a stable for the summer. The
property is fairly level with a lightly wooded area in the back. I
hope you approve of this change of residence. I expect to move the
horses early June.
I noticed
that it is now possible to purchase adopted horses. I would like to
purchase ZaaZaa and TaaTaa. Can you help me with that?
Regards,
Yea!! Bonne, good
for you. I know boarding 4 horses can get tough on the pocket book. Just
super and there is nothing like having your horses at home. Good for you.
I'll send you some information about purchase in a separate cover but its
also on the website under adopting. Take Care... anytime you're ready to
go back to Bristol, just let me know. Celeita
Hi Celeita, the girls are all great. Curly is HUGE! She is due July 29th
and
she could not be bigger. Only one baby though. :) She is fat and healthy.
I
am waiting for my boss to upload her picture to send you. I also took a
couple shots of Jillian and her baby Elliott. She is keeping weight
fantastically! Willow may have foaled this morning. I am at work and
my vet
has her for foaling...she was streaming milk when I saw her last night. :)
She is also fat and healthy. She is a riot though, she has this habit of
always turning left, so when she enters her stall on the right, she does a
270* turn to the left instead of a quick 90* right. Too funny! I
want to do
a quick video of them for you too, specially with the babies!
I have a suggestion, not sure if you are up for it. But what about
putting
foals by SWAP mares on your website and charging a percentage fee if they
sell through you? I know you are one of few adoptions that allow breeding
but all foals are registered and quality, so that may be an easy thing to
do
with not much more work involved? Just a thought! :) Take care. Maria
Maria, We have a brokering page where we do exactly that for a 10%
donation at the end of the sale if the buyer comes through us. All we need is
pictures, video (if you have it) and a description and email address and phone
number you want people to use. We do it for 5% for other non profits. Thank
you, I'll look for pictures. Did Willow foal? Hope all is well. Thank you for
thinking of us and kiss those girls for us. Celeita
Ok let me take a look at it. :) Willow
foaled on Wed afternoon!!! Bay filly! :) Yippeee she is healthy and
beautiful as she looks like Daisy so I am thinking of calling her Echo! :)
Here are some pictures of Daisy, Willow's first foal taken 2 weeks ago.
Picture of Jills and Elliott, picture of Elliott and picture of Curly! :)
Maria
Maria Ludwig-Hayes
 curly
 daisy (willows baby)
 elliot
 jillian & elliot
Very cute. How is Willow doing? All look wonderful. Thank you for taking
such good care of them. Bravo!! Celeita
Willow is doing REALLY well, foaled
easy, she foaled at 3:30 in the afternoon, she can't have her routine
changed and wanted to be out for the day, silly mare. I'm going to take some
pictures of her front and side and of baby, also of Jillian outside the barn
for you and Curly front too! So you can see them from all angles. I love
these girls to death! Curly is really mellowing out being a mom. We will
probably let her have the year off after this foal and perhaps start her
under saddle. I didn't want to rush into it as I felt she needed time to get
to know us. SHe is VERY opinionated! But she also comes around quickly and
is eager to please. Jillian is now officially head mare. She is loving that!
Maria Ludwig-Hayes
As soon as I move to camp and I get them really bathed and groomed --
still too cold to give baths at camp I'll have some e-mailed on to you -
Hannah has some of her showing -- she just purchased both her videos of
their second places for it is like winning in Palm Beach - so I'll see what
she shows up with -- haven't seen her since Christmas. Ocean is home -
really at Jeff's, Hannah is still in KY packing up - I am driving out to
hand graze him -
I'll keep you posted. Our open house at camp is next week. Did I ever
e-mail the photo's to you of Leona having her tumor removed? If not I would
be glad to -- if you want.
Emily
Hi Celeita,
Anyway, I felt the time was right to ride Pocket today. I had a really strong
urge and he is totally different than he was when he first arrived. He let me
saddle with no problem, stayed completely still this time and better yet, he
didn't try to kick either!! YEAH!! Getting on was a little difficult,
he'd pin his ears back and move so I wouldn't get on. Obviously he hates to be
ridden. But I took my time and finally got on. I need your advice
on something though. I ride all of my horses in a soft hackamore,
and also the parelli hackamore. I tried a sidepull on him today, and he didn't
turn well nor did he want to go. Can you suggest what I should use on him?
It was very hard to turn him and he didn't respond to my leg cues or kissing
to walk forward. He feels like he's never been ridden (although I know
he has). I don't know if going from a snaffle bit to a sidepull makes
that much of a difference. ?? I surely could use your advice here.
I have to tell you. He's got the greatest temperament. Everything about him,
(except the ear pinning) is great! I'll send pic's when I get my camera
fixed, it broke yesterday :( Thanks again!
Nancy
Nancy, How
are things going with Pocket? A hackamore is very different from wearing a bit
and will feel very different for them, certainly they can get used to the
change but it will take time and the horse will not move normal until he is
used to it. All standardbreds race in simple snaffles and we ride in snaffles.
What are you riding him in now and how is it going? They do not know to bend
because they can't in harness with the shafts on both sides of their body and
I don't know how much the previous adopter worked on those things with him,
probably not much. That two is easily developed. The change of bit may have
also caused him to not want to go forward as well. We didn't have any trouble
with him here so something has changed to cause him to do that. How is that
going now? They are usually a horse that has to be asked to go forward, they
just do not go by themselves... especially with a different bit. How is all
that going now? Just wondering. Any other concerns or problems we need to talk
about? I'm certain he's settling in and probably doing much better, since I
think he's only been there about a week or two. Just let me know how I can
help if you still have questions. Celeita
hi, here are a few pictures that
were taken yesterday of Windsor. He is filling out and looking lovely.
as you can see, i do ride him bareback, and he does so well! i love him
to death, thank you so much!
Alaina Banyay
thank you Alaina, he is looking much better. His chest, butt and neck
will take some time to really fill out but it will if you keep feeding him
good. Great job. That shipping fever was so hard on him. Thank goodness,
he won't have to do that again. Just be careful with him because some
horses can get fisty once they get up to their normal weight and start
getting to know you better and more confident about you two as a team, he
would start feeling better and want to take you down the road (on a really
good ride) so just be ready if that happens because we don't want you
getting hurt. All Smiles, everyone will be happy to see this update. We
all love Windsor. Celeita
Hi Celeita - thanks so much for forwarding the picture of Bubba - I've
been away for a week and am just now getting to my e-mail. I think you sent
me something about Farino as well - just haven't gotten down to that one
yet. Was there just the one picture of Bubba - I had a tough time opening
the Kodak photo gallery site. I saw just the one picture - he looks so happy
running in the field! Thanks again!
ps - Skyler and I have gone to two schooling shows so far this season and
have had a GREAT time. Training Level test3 and 4 which is a "no-brainer"
for him - respectable scores of 63% and 64% at the last show! He is a dream
to travel with! Nancy
Celeita - Farino looks fantastic!!!! The family picture got me a bit
choked up I have to admit. He looks so happy and at peace. I am hopeful
that he is a bit more tolerant about being ridden, but with the kids on
there bareback, I guess I shouldn't worry! You made my day! Thanks so
much. Nancy
Thank you Nancy, I may have a couple more pics of Bubba for you as I
kept them, let me check. The Happy Endings stuff always gets us too...
keeps everyone going when things are tough. they both look very happy
and in good condition, which I like too. Both adopters are thrilled with
them so that is important. I think the pictures below are of him, you
could probably tell me better. She has several bay mares from us too but
I was thinking she had him with Tio, the Swedish warmblood that came
from Los Alamos Dressage Center, also from Jersey... Just two yankees
hanging out in Alabama. :) In another picture you could see his
hindquarters and tell it was him, can't miss that flat saddlebred croup.
They both look very happy.
Hi Celeita,
hope things are looking up financially for
you guys.
I wanted to let you know I sent the June
update for Tessa in the mail today, - the photo is ok, but not great.
She is doing well, being worked WP - and hoping to have her shown this
summer and fall. We totally love her.
I wanted to mention an issue that has come up
with her, so that you know what the papers say when you get them.
Early on this spring when my trainer and I started working with Tessa, we
noticed that she was constantly kicking at her own tail, lounging and under
saddle, I mean double kicks and all. We could not figure it out at
all. I even emailed Kelly, former owner, and she had no clues either.
Under advice from an other trainer, we checked her tail out in detail, and
have come to the conclusion that her tail was "fixed" at an earlier stage.
Do not know if Kelly even knew this. Sad, but common practice in the
WP world. GRRRRR.
She can lift it for necessary elimination,
but has not much motion for protection against flies etc. I had not
noticed until this spring, as we received her in the winter. There are
two very light white tissue areas close to the root of her tail.
She will still be able to show, as she can
lift her tail etc. To bad people have to do this for such "perfection" in
showing. Anyway, wanted you to know so you know we did not do it
here!!
Take care,
Janne Myrdal
My photo? ahhhaahh. I
try to avoid that you know!! Vanity, vanity!!! haha
Wonder how old one has to get before one accepts that it is not
several really "bad" photos, but actually the truth that is staring
one in the face, so to speak. :>
Will try photo with me, equines and
family later this summer, whenever the rain will ever stop.
By "fixing" the tail, I guess they go
in and cut some of the nerves on each side, so it illuminates a lot of
swishing. It is technically illegal in WP circles, from what I
understand, but now they do it so it can hardly be detected.
Really stupid, as the tail is ever so needed to protect against
bugs. I had never heard of it either, until this. I will have a
fly sheet on Tessa later, when mosquitoes can get bad here. SO
far so good.
Have a great weekend.
Janne
That is so sad.... I can't imagine a blue ribbon ever being so
important to anyone as to make a horse miserable just to get a blue
ribbon. So so sad. Sounds like something else we need to address in the
contract to make sure it doesn't happen to our horses... geesal, something
else people do to horses to make them acceptable in the ring. When will it
stop.
I'm sure the family picture will be great. Everyone ages... even the
young pretty girls and the young studly men will age too... its just a
matter of time. At least at my age now and very close to 50, if someone
doesn't like my looks, I now have the gumption to tell them to go away.
I've earned every wrinkle and that right but I know what you mean its like
looking at someone else at times... how can this be me... I know I was
young and fit at one time, where did that person go??? I'm sure the family
picture will be wonderful and we want to see you and Tessa
together. Celeita
Celeita , hello this is Olivia I adopted Annie just wanted to let you all
know she is doing wonderful I didn't realize I have had her for so long it
seems like I just got her but I have had her about 4 years now its amazing
how time fly's I have some pictures that I have took of her form a few weeks
ago attached to this email I hope you like them. we have a new addition to
our barn a little baby colt which I got to name his barn name I chose
Sampson berceuse he looked like a baby horse I had seen in a TV show named
Sampson he's very cute his picture is in here to with his mother. I hope
everything is getting better for you guys.
Olivia Tarlow
and Annie Armor
 Just wanted you
to see Ernie a show look how he is sticking out his tongue at the camera.
Angie HayesHey, you two look great.... both really "clean up
nice", looks like your having a great beginning to the summer..... he is
such a clown... guess that showing stuff is old hat to a horse that
qualified twice for world competition. :) Kiss him and Pete for us!!
Have Fun!! Celeita
Hi Celeita, This is Cherice writing about
Bill. He is doing wonderful! We were in a show last week and did great on
the flat. I haven't jumped him yet, I'm still trying to get used to him. His
wounds are almost completely healed. { remember when tooter showed his
dominance over bill} ?
You can barely see them. We placed three
times 1st,5th,5th. The horse beside us tried to kick him, so he started
bucking!!! But we still love him anyway. How is the farm doing ? How is
Teresa,troy,Havana,mandy,walter,ducky,meledy,,ben, afton, analisa, bonnie,
brego, b.b., chantilly, harry, indy, jasfar, lucky, maiden, melenie, meg,
penny, jay, snickers, sting, tooter, toosie, trevy,and jammie? Good I hope
!!! How is the old mans paws doing? { sorry I forget your dalmations name }
My dog has started doing that too. Well it was a pleasure writing to you !!!
Write you later. P.S. I'm going to miss Boot
Scoot. She was and still is cute little filly. I'm glad she found a good
home.
!!! GOODBYE !!!
 Celeita - I notice
that you've adopted out several horses! Congratulations! I also
noticed that adopters are sending in lots of photos of their horses doing
things ... like running, riding, jumping, etc. I don't want Miss B to
be left out, so I'm sending you a photo of her doing her thing ... eating.
Her "annual report" is almost ready to be mailed out (it includes numerous
other photos of her adventures over the past 12 months ... I would say we've
had a pretty good year). When are you doing the jewelry auction on
your Web site? Pat
Hi Celeita- You have on the website we can send
info. for the June update by email. Do you mean we can type out the info
in an email or do we have to scan the forms? Also I can't remember the
last date I sent a picture of Country- do you need me to send another?
Country is doing beautifully! He is even more handsome than ever! I had
him walking around in the neighborhood a little yesterday. He came across
kids on bikes and an unleashed dog and did really well. I am thinking
about getting someone out to teach me a little dressage. I think he may do
very well at this too. I definitely agree with you about being patient
with these younger horses- I have seen tremendous improvements in Country
and my mare just in the past couple of months (after having them 8
months). I get many compliments because he is so handsome too! Thank You-
Beth Smak
Beth, We just got an update from you so we really don't need anything. I
have recent pics of him too. He's had his spring shots, kept up to date on deworming
and farrier work, right? Unless you've had any problems (training or health
issues or struggling to keep his health care up to date) that we need to
talk about I think we are fine. I don't want to make this difficult, just
want to make sure everyone is fine and if they need our help for anything.
Thank you!! Celeita
Hi Celeita,
Just writing to update you on the SWAP children at my place.
Gassenbube and Tio are still my favorite trail horses. Monica is
HUGE--she's due around the 24th of June with a full TB foal. Destiny
is still very grumpy... she never took when we bred her last year, but we
re-bred her this year and she has not yet come back into heat.
Venice... she is growing--she's almost 16hh now. Despite her
deformed leg, she is a beautiful mover. She didn't take when we
tried to breed her one time last year, and we are trying her again this
year.
I'll try to get some current pics when the weather clears up.
Katrin
Hello Celeita,
Here are the pictures required for the annual
review on Farino. I hope they are OK but please let me know if you
need any of them redone. I'm going to photocopy the paperwork and
it'll be in the post on Wednesday at the latest.
We are thrilled with him and he is so good
with all the family, even letting our youngest lead him around like a
puppy dog! (Under careful supervision of course.)
I know as of right now we are not qualified
to buy him as we have only technically had him 1.5 years. However I
would just like to know how much the percentage is of the appraisal
should we go down that route in December.
Thank you for the opportunity to share our
lives with this wonderful horse.
Best wishes as always,
Jane |
Wow, he looks great, very shiny... must come from lots of grooming with a
rubber curry. So glad to know its going well. I will look for the paperwork
in the mail, thank you. I need to talk to Nancy to see if she would be
willing to allow him to be sold to you all. I'm sure she knows its a good
home but some of the owners like the idea of us having ownership forever. We
have a link on the website about buying your adoption horse after two years.
I will send that to you. I can't remember his appraised value I think this
page describes it well. If Nancy is | |
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