tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8062966429777946912024-02-08T02:44:03.269-05:00Once Upon an EquineThere once was a girl who loved horses. She galloped fearlessly and jumped fences. Then she grew up, had to get a job and lived in a small apartment without horses. She was sad. More than 20 years passed and still there were no horses. Finally, the time came when the horses returned and the girl..er..woman, was very happy!<br> <br>Come with me as I renew my love of horses, dust off old skills, learn new ones, and gain confidence.<br> Finally living the dream of horses at home.Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.comBlogger240125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-60610914556427416422017-07-06T17:44:00.000-04:002017-07-06T18:02:34.725-04:00Summerwear for the Casual EquineMother and daughter modeling matching fly sheets. Big sister dresses a little more on the wild side.<br />
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Yay for summer. Hope y'all are having a good one.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNH7qR9L_eqVL2xynb-tTHwp-ee3ZC5XqjDPeUjLGTbLawpMbT8hRLud8d_MoXuP50Q9yhHl2icFjzBvNPOl9CQawhPCnSNiP86JXWqGFr_dF8OT_AMZRwG18zu3BfNLi0CUepR4aZmf0/s1600/20170706_131815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNH7qR9L_eqVL2xynb-tTHwp-ee3ZC5XqjDPeUjLGTbLawpMbT8hRLud8d_MoXuP50Q9yhHl2icFjzBvNPOl9CQawhPCnSNiP86JXWqGFr_dF8OT_AMZRwG18zu3BfNLi0CUepR4aZmf0/s400/20170706_131815.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother and Daughter (left) </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flies Not Welcome</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3gpYmcvePF8_AOs__niblbkmlMCddXdFpIgCVy9F3skAEClwzymTcWYqu8h2vWm2jsGGlEMzzd7zKggAMXWdLXUatgnAnLHVyc2qdSZ-66L2wisS0esZYnwxtv-hOX57ril7dt8wQVU/s1600/20170706_131934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3gpYmcvePF8_AOs__niblbkmlMCddXdFpIgCVy9F3skAEClwzymTcWYqu8h2vWm2jsGGlEMzzd7zKggAMXWdLXUatgnAnLHVyc2qdSZ-66L2wisS0esZYnwxtv-hOX57ril7dt8wQVU/s1600/20170706_131934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-16413586818279585432016-05-13T18:38:00.001-04:002016-05-13T18:41:30.131-04:00Back in the Saddle...AgainHello there! It's been a really long time and I'm sorry I've been away so long. Life got in the way. You know how that can happen.<br />
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I've been short on energy; enduring pain from several injuries (left elbow, left shoulder, right knee) incurred during my trail riding accident in July 2014, which kept be out of the saddle for nine months. Golly, it's been almost two years and I'm still not back to normal and don't think I ever will be. Had to have surgery on my left shoulder a few months ago; a debridement. The doc went in arthroscopically and shaved off bones spurs and removed damaged tissue...which ended up being all of my cartilage. That was another three months unable to ride or even halter my horse.<br />
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My knee is still swollen, still painful, and I get gel injections every 6 months. <br />
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Whhaaaaa! I don't mean to be a cry baby, but I am tired and in chronic pain, so I whine sometimes. But I love my horse and I love to ride, so I'm not going to let it keep me down for long.<br />
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I'm back in physical therapy and back in the saddle for a 2nd time following a medical layoff in two years. Let me tell you, these are tough come backs. It's hard to crawl back into the saddle after a bad injury or when you feel weakness and pain in your body. Confidence takes a hit each time. But I'm workin' on it.<br />
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Last summer, after my first comeback, I did have some good times with my sweet Misty mare and we accomplished some new things. We participated in a few western dressage schooling shows and we went horse camping at Elk Haven Horse Camp in South Dakota. My wonderful husband came with me and helped me set up camp and take care of Misty and he hiked with me while I rode. Good times! I couldn't have done it without him.<br />
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And much thanks to my trainer, Anna Blake, for helping me back in the saddle that first time. That first ride was on a lead line; I was terrified; it lasted only for a couple of minutes, and I was so sore I couldn't get out of bed the next day. It took baby steps. Anna is helping me again post-surgery, only this time we didn't need the lead line and I'm taking toddler steps.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer 2015 - first western dressage show.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer 2015 - trail riding in South Dakota</td></tr>
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Now, as I'm working my way back...again; I'm looking forward to summer 2016. We have plans! Dressage lessons (maybe some schooling shows), trail riding, and camping. Yay for summer. Yay for physical therapy (my therapist gives me exercises to simulate lifting my saddle onto Misty's back). Yay for Tylenol and Aleve, my constant companions. Good times ahead. Let's ride.<br />
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<br />Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-34016175818344844732015-07-03T13:27:00.000-04:002015-07-03T13:27:03.369-04:00Stable Relation<div dir="ltr">
A must-read book for any hard working, horse loving woman who has risen above family conflict & secrets, life's hard knocks - and built a future abundant in love and humor, aided by the healing bond of horses.<br />
<br />
Stable Relation by Anna Blake.<br />
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Reposted from:</div>
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http://annablakeblog.com/2015/07/03/the-thing-about-horses-and-healing-a-memoir/<br />
<header class="entry-header">
<h1 class="entry-title">
<a href="http://annablakeblog.com/2015/07/03/the-thing-about-horses-and-healing-a-memoir/" rel="bookmark">The Thing About Horses and Healing: a Memoir.</a></h1>
</header>
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<a href="https://annablakeblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/vinniepasture1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="VinniePasture1" class="alignleft wp-image-73905" height="521" src="https://annablakeblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/07/vinniepasture1.jpg?w=292&h=521" width="292" /></a> We
see them from the road and use phones to take photos. We keep a legal
distance but most of us have seen neglected horses and reported them to
authorities… or been haunted, wishing we had.</div>
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The photos are long distance and slightly
out of focus, just like this one. It’s easy to see ribs showing and
they might be visually lame to the eye. You know the horse is in
trouble.</div>
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</div>
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So what’s with the pudgy bay in a fly mask? Consider it his photo from the Witness Protection Program.</div>
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If you don’t recognize him, this is Vinnie, from <a href="http://www.rrhr.org/" target="_blank">Ruby Ranch Horse Rescue,</a>
here for evaluation. I like this photo of him, blurriness and all,
grazing with a fly mask with one ear torn off. It’s hard to see but
there’s a bird perched on those pointy withers of his. Oh, and it’s hard
to see his ribs now, too. This is his “after” picture; I first wrote
about Vinnie (<a href="http://annablakeblog.com/2015/05/22/the-long-goodbye-meet-vinnie/">story here</a>) and readers have asked for an update.</div>
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</div>
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Vinnie’s swell. He is more socially
interactive now. It took over a week, but he started lying down in the
sun eventually. We weren’t sure he could. He’s up to date with vaccines
and he’s received a series of Pentosan injections. He stands quietly
while I give them; they’ve been nothing short of a miracle for Vinnie.
Now he gallops for fun; he comes at a run when I call him in. His stride
is wildly long and joyous.</div>
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</div>
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When he arrived it was just the opposite.
And we still doubt he will be ride-able with an old injury that means
his hind end looks like an egg beater from time to time. But his heart
is big and full, he loves being scratched, and it looks like he is
headed to foster later this month and hopefully a forever home soon.
Yay, Vinnie.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It’s good news, isn’t it? We love these
stories and part of it is selfish. Vinnie heals us all a little bit when
we hear about him. It’s the crazy thing about horses…</div>
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</div>
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I’ve had a couple of occasions when it
was my job to ask people for money for horse advocacy and rescue. I
don’t play fair; I ask the tough question first:</div>
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</div>
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“How many of you have been rescued by a horse?”</div>
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</div>
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Then I watch. Invariably most hands
quickly go up, with easy smiles and some laughter. Some of us were
rescued from being cosmetic zombies, tech junkies, or victims of
fashion. We’re saved from boredom and complacency. We use horses as an
excuse to be outside in the sun instead of cleaning the house. Each of
us has a way of describing that irresistible smell that’s part sweat,
part fly spray, and part dream-come-true.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But as I look around the group, some jaws
are set and their eyes seem distant, hidden under furrowed brows. They
straighten their shoulders a bit but there is no smile. They raise their
hands resolutely and hold them high and still–as if testifying, as if
standing to be counted. For them, rescue is a life-and-death personal
issue. I recognize these committed hands because I raise mine the exact
same way. In that moment we lose our humor because the depth of
gratitude we feel toward horses is immense. We literally owe our
presence in the world to the memory of some old horse.</div>
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</div>
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About then my voice seizes up. I don’t
want this to be about me because there are so many others with the same
experience. I’m common in this group. So I continue to ask for money and
notice quite a few of us have something in our eye. We act like its
dust because we’ve developed some pride, but we’re fooling no one.</div>
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</div>
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And so, when we see a photo of Vinnie
like this, we see ourselves, even as we celebrate him. That’s how rescue
works–it’s contagious. It doesn’t matter who does it first, horse or
human, but it starts in a small, seemingly insignificant way and
eventually radiates out in all directions. In the beginning, it’s rough.
Horses reflect our fear and hurt, but if we ride it out, smelling mane
and trying to forge a language with a horse, until in the end, we
reflect their confidence. We become good lead mares in our own lives.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em>Riding is a school of humility and selflessness, its practice if it is done well, tends to make better Human Beings</em> –Nuno Oliveira</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We started young. Lots of us came to
positive horsemanship because of rough handling as children. We learned
firsthand that violent dominance would never build trust, and lots of us
escaped to the barn. Horses were the safe haven we found there. They
spoke the language we hoped to hear in our homes.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There’s a barn joke that horses are
cheaper than therapy. I have done the research and it isn’t actually
true. But the more time we spend with horses, the more we heal. As we
move forward with our horses, it gets easier to let go of fear in our
human lives and forgive ourselves of our pasts. For some of us, being
with a horse is our first taste of honesty. It works like church because
even the angriest atheist can see the divinity in a horse. They’re
undeniable miracles and some of it rubs off on us. Like salvation.</div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The thing about horses rescuing us is
that it works impersonally, just like gravity, healing each of us
whether we think we need it or not. We just say yes and whether we need a
healing from helmet hair or total abandonment in the world, horses will
carry us through it. When the day comes that we realize the debt we owe
to horses, we work to do better for them. We learn to ride more kindly
and communicate more clearly. We discover we have compassion to spare,
so we give back by helping horses.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For some of us, horses are just a
“hobby”, an overwhelming passion that drives our lifestyle, finances,
and everyday choices and activities. It’s like having a combination
gambling addiction and an obsessive-compulsive disorder, that we proudly
brag about, while spending every spare moment, year after year, in the
company of horses.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And then for a lot of us, it’s something bigger than that.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://annablakeblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/stable_relation_3d_cover1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Stable_Relation_3D_Cover[1]" class="alignleft wp-image-73839" height="204" src="https://annablakeblog.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/stable_relation_3d_cover1.jpg?w=184&h=204" width="184" /></a><em><strong>Stable Relation</strong></em>:
I’ve written a memoir about the farm I grew up on, the farm I have now,
and the horse that carried me in between. I didn’t write it because I
think I am so very unique or important; indeed my experience is more
common than it should be. I wrote it for all of us who share the
experience of being healed by the animals in our lives. <em>Stable Relation</em> is available now on Amazon (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Stable-Relation-memoir-healing-country/dp/0996491201/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1435924100&sr=8-1&keywords=anna+blake%2C+stable+relation" target="_blank">book link here</a>) and soon everywhere else, in paperback and eBook. With a big gratitude-scratch to my Grandfather Horse, who gave me my voice.</div>
<br />
Anna Blake, Infinity Farm.<br />
</div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-72989627439974639952015-05-18T12:54:00.000-04:002015-05-18T12:59:51.992-04:00Horse Advocacy: May 2015 Important NewsReposted from Horse Advocates of Colorado:<br />
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<a href="http://horse-advocates.com/2015/05/18/the-sherri-brunzelldual-peppy-trial-begins-may-26th/">http://horse-advocates.com/2015/05/18/the-sherri-brunzelldual-peppy-trial-begins-may-26th/</a><br />
<br />
<h1 class="entry-title">
The Sherri Brunzell/Dual Peppy Trial Begins May 26th.</h1>
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<a class="entry-date" href="http://horse-advocates.com/2015/05/18/the-sherri-brunzelldual-peppy-trial-begins-may-26th/" sl-processed="1" title="May 18 2015"><time datetime="2015-05-18T05:39:27+00:00">May<b>18</b></time></a><span class="entry-byline"> by <span class="author vcard"><a class="url fn n" href="http://horse-advocates.com/author/horseco/" sl-processed="1" title="View all posts by horseco">horseco</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://horseadvocatedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2015/05/dualpeppy.jpg" sl-processed="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DualPeppy" class=" wp-image-235 alignleft" height="408" originalh="408" originalw="408" scale="1.5" src-orig="https://horseadvocatedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2015/05/dualpeppy.jpg?w=408&h=408" src="https://horseadvocatedotcom.files.wordpress.com/2015/05/dualpeppy.jpg?w=612&h=612" width="408" /></a></div>
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As I write this, we’re just over a week away from the beginning of the Sherri Brunzell/Dual Peppy trial. Remember the first news report on that Friday afternoon, September 19, 2014? A neighbor had followed her dog into the barn to find ten acutely neglected horses and another fourteen dead on the ground, in various states of decomposition. Just to be clear: more than half the herd dead, sharing the same barn as the survivors.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then the best/worst thing happened: one of the horses was recognized from photos on the news. He was the famous stallion, Dual Peppy. The local community was outraged already, but this drew the attention of horse owners around the world. The Sheriff’s Office told the public that the situation was in hand, although no vet had been called in. The community outrage grew; untold numbers of calls and emails were sent to the Sheriff’s Office from all over the country and parts of Europe. Three days later, a vet was called in and the survivors were transported to a safe place.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think the second reason this case inspired so many emails and calls from the public was because the scene in the barn was easy to visualize. Reports said the manure was several feet deep, skeletons were left where they fell, some partially covered by tarps. The majority of the herd was dead–some reportedly as young as 3 years old. Photos were few, but the descriptions were so ugly that people outside the horse world were inflamed as well.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
These victims were well-bred Quarter Horses with an estimated worth of over 1.5 million dollars, which is not to say their lives were worth more than a backyard horse, but it was more shocking and drew extra press attention. It’s a case that could help swing public opinion on horse welfare and eventually have an impact on horses with names like Blackie and Molly; horses with no famous relatives.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the first explanations from the owner were made public, every horse owner in the county knew the excuses were as lame as these horses who needed emergency farrier care. Brunzell’s husband admitted “she doesn’t have a regular veterinarian due to expense and ‘unsatisfactory results.'” And “She felt it would be better to spend the money on feed for the horses than on veterinary bills.”<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I remind you of the details of this horrific case because eight months have passed, including one postponed trial date. Outrage dims as time passes–after all, there are new atrocities every day. But these horses still remain in Limbo–they are still waiting. <br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Until the case is decided, the horses (and four llamas) are under the control and care of the Colorado Humane Society. They have gained weight, had veterinary care, and overdue farrier work. They have been safe from their owner who denied them the bare essentials required and left them hidden in a barn.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our District Attorney feels the county has a good case, but if Ms. Brunzell wins, these horses will be returned to her.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Please stay tuned to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HorseAdvocates" sl-processed="1" target="_blank">Horse Advocates Facebook page</a> for locations, times, and updates. We will be in court from start to finish–please join us there if you can. A full courtroom sends an important message. Watch the news reports on television and post comments or call the station. Write a letter to the newspaper articulating your thoughts on this case. Talk about this story with your friends and share posts online.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Most of all, remember the 14 good horses who did not make it out of that dreadful barn. Remember those lost, as well as those who survived; remember this crime like it happened yesterday. Join Horse Advocates of Colorado in asking for a conviction with sentencing to the full extent of the law. <em>Speak out and be heard.</em></div>
</div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-77336889285273831962015-05-10T12:58:00.000-04:002015-05-10T12:58:01.966-04:00A May Flower?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">
Aww, my little flower. </div>
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A bright spot on this wintery Mother's Day.</div>
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Wishing all daughters, sisters, and mom's of human kids, and mom's of fur/feather/scaly kids a happy day. <br />
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I hope the sun is shining and flowers blooming in your neck of the woods. </div>
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We impatiently await our May flowers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsy-cFhBP7MKRIPq_kBmwwlE8Pae2XXLA2JQdqeEbBerVSf5lX3MDyJsFpuAwGqsHKMrTCnFAdbJZFEO25QdC_izBuXdAq0xmP4Lb_0VLFnDkZWx-8XJTmGu-My1j1mKz_asVlSEI6Q0/s1600/2015-05-10%25252009.43.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-57136507286177071352015-05-01T21:38:00.000-04:002015-05-01T23:40:53.610-04:00Awaiting May Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What do you see in this picture?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDWsNZQJhDQ1ieBk9AhLqQWj0fDWu_guqbuy0_qESELkYm1HATb1bZFCl7Sq_wpqTCHDNM5l3BKOaFNP44r4Eq4n0iswcnafi_SPGxmC4YS7Dvl6ReQUBTOZIf01S_EQ0q4wPof5WuNo/s1600/2015-05-01%25252017.12.13.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDWsNZQJhDQ1ieBk9AhLqQWj0fDWu_guqbuy0_qESELkYm1HATb1bZFCl7Sq_wpqTCHDNM5l3BKOaFNP44r4Eq4n0iswcnafi_SPGxmC4YS7Dvl6ReQUBTOZIf01S_EQ0q4wPof5WuNo/s640/2015-05-01%25252017.12.13.jpg"></a> </div>
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I see Winnie the Pooh</div>
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The clouds were building as I left my office at lunchtime today, to meet a mule farrier at my barn.</div>
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Before I exited the parking lot, Winnie's head had become detached from his body.</div>
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Rain showers in the forecast.</div>
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The grass is greening.</div>
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Birds are nesting.</div>
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May flowers will soon be in bloom.</div>
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Please, no more snow showers.</div>
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<br></div>
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Lola, the mini mule, has been lame for weeks.</div>
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The vet was out, but didn't find anything obvious.</div>
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We both agreed her toes looked long, even though she's been trimmed regularly. </div>
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A round of Bute was prescribed.</div>
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She didn't improve much.</div>
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My new farrier was out for a 2nd trim, but he didn't trim much off.</div>
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He said her sole looks like she wants to hold onto everything.</div>
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???</div>
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No improvement and those toes still look long and getting longer.</div>
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The chiropractor was out.</div>
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He adjusted her hip.</div>
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No improvement.</div>
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The poor little girl can't run and play.</div>
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It's not like her to walk so slowly to her feed trough. </div>
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So I asked some friends who own Long Ears for a farrier recommendation.</div>
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The mule farrier was out today.</div>
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Yes, her toes are too long.</div>
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Yes, she's walking too far back on her heels.</div>
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No, she hasn't been trimmed properly.</div>
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So he got to work and...</div>
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uncovered a black, oily abscess in her front left frog!</div>
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Hooves are trimmed, frogs cleaned and trimmed.</div>
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Lola is walking better already.</div>
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Yay for the mule farrier!</div>
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Yay for my <i>new</i> New Farrier!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDWsNZQJhDQ1ieBk9AhLqQWj0fDWu_guqbuy0_qESELkYm1HATb1bZFCl7Sq_wpqTCHDNM5l3BKOaFNP44r4Eq4n0iswcnafi_SPGxmC4YS7Dvl6ReQUBTOZIf01S_EQ0q4wPof5WuNo/s1600/2015-05-01%25252017.12.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8_mSO3IY18bkgJTm8_McBVthrshddOR5DLzv84AFMokOemLUdUWcCEGX4gxgKkQhcQrJ1p9Z72wRuKEcjGn7jMiflYdGTnn_147-_Nc11xCzwtzlvnqxPnWkKpxj8MOd7jmVbU-lduQ/s640/2015-05-01%25252017.16.45.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before and After</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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May goals:</div>
<ul>
<li>Lessons, lessons, and more dressage lessons. </li>
<li>Plotting, planning, and hoping to attend a dressage schooling show.</li>
<ul>
<li>I'll make my decision in a couple of weeks. It will be my first show in over 30 years; my first dressage show ever; and Team Misty's first show together.</li>
<li>We'll ride a western dressage Intro level test. </li>
</ul>
</ul>
April 2015 recap:<br>
<ul>
<li>April was very cold and snowy. I missed some goals.</li>
<ul>
<li>Didn't exercise as much as I intended (can't blame the weather for that).</li>
<li>Misty's tail didn't get washed and whitened (I CAN blame the weather for that) . </li>
</ul>
<li>Two dressage lessons a week and seeing progress. </li>
<li>I received my gel injection to my knee and it helped. I can walk up and down stairs a little better. </li>
<li>Almost didn't make our trail ride; had to cancel once due to weather. But on the last day of April Misty and I went on our first trail ride together
since our July 2014 accident. It was stressful for me, but Misty was
great. The weather was lovely. </li>
<li>Misty got a new headstall with a little western bling; some silver heart-shaped conchos to add a feminine touch to that big head of hers. It's for that schooling show we are most likely going to attend this month. (Headstall and reins made by Buckaroo Leather)</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7o7s-h3pb58UC4REJefEaK4YglbjV-W2notxVpRYmzmTvZTHLlHmvjuSfCfd9qWJ10SYHpQBPLZx5mCRNUDyLAtWUk9AGgP2DPcoeixF6N4Mjy0c8P-lGClMQQeb13guhG_khsVBMAQ/s1600/2015-05-01%25252017.21.02.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7o7s-h3pb58UC4REJefEaK4YglbjV-W2notxVpRYmzmTvZTHLlHmvjuSfCfd9qWJ10SYHpQBPLZx5mCRNUDyLAtWUk9AGgP2DPcoeixF6N4Mjy0c8P-lGClMQQeb13guhG_khsVBMAQ/s640/2015-05-01%25252017.21.02.jpg"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Heart Horse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Following our trail ride, I dropped her new headstall off at a local saddle shop, to have the poll strap shortened on both sides. I can't have that long strap covering her pretty hearts.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhji2xVuxZ7-GlnhBKT457GTPIABUbTqayB3NZlQCa4nGvMn2y8sw5H7AIwCg9rqeqyDW2b_AWzmsOr37okcfAZpWhc4N5dXSXNYqmbglPa8Uxc8sd6f8-ggcSeSFrSWWNTLgdrYziUmg0/s640/20150430_142727.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big head, big heart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7o7s-h3pb58UC4REJefEaK4YglbjV-W2notxVpRYmzmTvZTHLlHmvjuSfCfd9qWJ10SYHpQBPLZx5mCRNUDyLAtWUk9AGgP2DPcoeixF6N4Mjy0c8P-lGClMQQeb13guhG_khsVBMAQ/s1600/2015-05-01%25252017.21.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-82088532270635829492015-03-01T18:14:00.000-05:002015-03-01T20:22:50.725-05:00The Best of March<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">
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<img alt="four, four leaf clover," src="http://valentines2015images.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/free-shamrock-clipart-public-domain-holiday-stpatrick-clip-art-8.jpg" height="200" title="Free Shamrock Clipart - Public Domain Holiday/StPatrick clip art ..." width="183" /></div>
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</div>
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The best thing about March is?</div>
<ol>
<li>College Basketball</li>
<li>Lingering Snow and Cold</li>
<li>St. Patrick's Day</li>
<li>Spring Skiing</li>
<li>Daylight Savings Time </li>
</ol>
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If you picked #5, you are an equestrian! </div>
</div>
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFAV0HdreuulAuIiAWy0LEo7ZOW7DIVBKfBwOZIdybyLTqeCPI5afoW_EgyPJ6O-GHPBAOHPNpdH-OVnPDTjklRNpNBNhWNukpdPmvOV-Y8YdIrlQ4BzmKc90zDfA5WUddA2HustLidbQ/s640/MistyMudBath.jpg" height="255" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Of course I want a snack after my mud bath.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: small;"> March 8, 2015 is DST.</span><br />
<b>D</b>aylight <i><b>S</b>addle</i> <b>T</b>ime.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yippee!<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7BVvc1-dL3qoMeySPd_WYad5ggqzZmJFIF-ms78EK-B_B_t6_Dxn6irO0cXFRAr0Eg9QiwAEPmQ6IrsMILttw5Zwuns-NyVd_DpGgolrjX8mML1iStVUqBiLwPXeNn9iJB5Y3pxhJWY/s640/2015-03-01%25252014.21.12.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7BVvc1-dL3qoMeySPd_WYad5ggqzZmJFIF-ms78EK-B_B_t6_Dxn6irO0cXFRAr0Eg9QiwAEPmQ6IrsMILttw5Zwuns-NyVd_DpGgolrjX8mML1iStVUqBiLwPXeNn9iJB5Y3pxhJWY/s640/2015-03-01%25252014.21.12.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If we're not covered in mud, we're covered in hay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
February recap:<br />
<ul>
<li>I'm still in chronic pain, but perceive it lessening slightly. I saw my orthopedic doc and he said to expect a full 2 years for soft tissue damage to heal. </li>
<li>February teased us with a few days of unseasonably warm weather. Team Misty had some good riding lessons and I was very pleased to discover I can do a posting trot without pain in my knees. </li>
<li>On the cold days, I appreciated my new <a href="http://www.stickyseat.com/" target="_blank"><b>Stickyseat</b></a> polartec fleece riding pants<b>; </b>they are warm and comfortable. </li>
<li>Began doing Pilates and Yin Yoga to become a better equestrian. Hurts my knee to do postures like "Child's Pose" and "Cat-Cow", so I have to improvise. Still can't kneel on my knee or upper tibia/shin. </li>
<li>Gained more confidence in my riding.</li>
</ul>
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Hello February. </div>
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You're looking a little drab this morning, but welcome. </div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">
Your job is to get us one month closer to Spring. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXwXjj95ktD-RuMmKHBjms-G89ae6AsnisD8k2I6iylUNFj93hRGgs1JXGVXqseFHR5h4fAlrqysaVcajJXKE7AuesV_LYGbA-Uelh6QVD0IAqYVMCJmTRJnYCKcd03nKyhhx0WlK2ps/s1600/2015-02-01%25252009.53.17.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXwXjj95ktD-RuMmKHBjms-G89ae6AsnisD8k2I6iylUNFj93hRGgs1JXGVXqseFHR5h4fAlrqysaVcajJXKE7AuesV_LYGbA-Uelh6QVD0IAqYVMCJmTRJnYCKcd03nKyhhx0WlK2ps/s640/2015-02-01%25252009.53.17.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gray Mare on a Gray Morning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr">
January recap:</div>
<ul>
<li> I prefer to ring in the New Year in my sleep, waking early and refreshed on January 1st, relieved to have the stress of the holidays behind me, and hopeful for a better year ahead. That's just what I did.</li>
<li>My dressage instructor encourages us to have a positive mantra to say or think at the beginning of every ride. It can be as simple as "I love my horse." Any positive thought that connects us with our wonderful mount. Now, whenever I settle into the saddle, I take a deep breath, let it out slowly, give Misty a rub on her neck and say, "Go Team Misty."</li>
<li>January was pretty cold and snowy, but Team Misty squeezed in a few productive dressage lessons. We are still taking it slow, literally. We are in <u><i><b><span style="color: #cc0000;"> "...<a href="http://annablakeblog.com/2012/03/23/walk-detention/" target="_blank">walk detention</a>..."</span></b></i></u> while my injuries continue to heal and I get my balance, rhythm, and confidence back. I'm still in chronic pain, but I perceive my aches to be lessening ever so slightly. I haven't used my cane much in the last few weeks and last time I saddled Misty, I was actually able to lift my western saddle onto her back in one motion, instead of getting it 3/4 of the way up her side and having to push it onto her back.</li>
<li>It is difficult to ride in the winter. I have not been on the trail since my July 2014 fall (broken left elbow, frozen left shoulder, badly injured right knee), but I hope to enjoy some short trail rides in April or May. I have trail riding plans for the summer, but my priorities are western dressage first, trail riding second. Therefore, I've increased my dressage lessons to twice a week, which means, if I'm lucky, I get to ride once a week when the weather and my work schedule cooperate.</li>
<li>I attended a western dressage horseless clinic on the last day of January. A lot of good information was shared. I'm enthused. We pretended to ride our horses in a tiny dressage arena inside the lecture hall. We were instructed to use our corners, ride with correct posture, turn properly with our shoulders and waist while we rode a mini circle. Surprisingly, I could really feel it in my core. My <i>horse</i> was a little lame. I had to lie down and ice my knee when I got home. But I like my local western dressage group; they are good peeps. They are all about community, encouragement, and honoring the horse. I look forward to associating with this organization.</li>
</ul>
Good things are happening. The daylight is lengthening. I'm looking forward to more ride time. Oh, and the minis, Lyra and Lola, are still beloved members of our herd. They just didn't want to leave their breakfast in the barn for a photo op.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXwXjj95ktD-RuMmKHBjms-G89ae6AsnisD8k2I6iylUNFj93hRGgs1JXGVXqseFHR5h4fAlrqysaVcajJXKE7AuesV_LYGbA-Uelh6QVD0IAqYVMCJmTRJnYCKcd03nKyhhx0WlK2ps/s1600/2015-02-01%25252009.53.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-40128872314759175672014-12-20T18:55:00.001-05:002014-12-20T18:55:47.643-05:00Baby Steps - making my way back<div dir="ltr">
This is filthy fuzzy Misty, today at my trainer's farm, waiting to be tacked up, but
more interested in the horses being ridden across the street. They are usually napping.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjyVHlyX5ll1ZYMmG3IuP55-45kF3er0V4qgunYdyFZg26ujyNvBXGGO2w2CiY-ur_lPlzlDrO6dMRiYv6NFb5OXWglZB4i55EZ_I3gngSrPL00atZUcjSKdP-on0j3E7MDAskkD1v7k/s1600/2014-12-20%25252015.59.47.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjyVHlyX5ll1ZYMmG3IuP55-45kF3er0V4qgunYdyFZg26ujyNvBXGGO2w2CiY-ur_lPlzlDrO6dMRiYv6NFb5OXWglZB4i55EZ_I3gngSrPL00atZUcjSKdP-on0j3E7MDAskkD1v7k/s640/2014-12-20%25252015.59.47.jpg" height="640" width="433" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br />
I'm working my way back, slowly, from my July trail riding accident. <br />
<br />
My first, ride about four weeks ago, I simply sat in the saddle while my trainer gave me a
leadline ride.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">
(I wear an elbow pad on my left elbow and a brace on my right knee; they still hurt.)</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I felt awkward and had no balance. Once in the saddle, I wasn't sure how I was going to get out of the saddle with my bum right knee. I have to slide slowly down Misty's
side to ensure my left foot meets the ground first. It feels odd, but I'm getting better with practice.<br />
<br />
My second ride was great; just at the walk but I rode independently in
my weekly O.L.D.G. lesson. (Affectionately O.L.D.G. = Old Lady Dressage
Group, coined by the husband of one of the old ladies.)<br />
<br />
Then there was an attempted ride at the next group lesson, but my knee
hurt and my confidence waned. Silly stuff...like, the wind was picking up, there was an unfamiliar horse and rider in the arena, the lesson group was moving at a faster pace than I could handle. I got on, then got off and went home; mad
at myself for being such a wimp, and afraid I'd never be able to ride, let alone rejoin the group lesson.<br />
<br />
So today, I opted for a private lesson. My trainer worked Misty on the
ground and lunged her so she was supple and relaxed for me. I mounted
and we worked on half figure eights along the rail, 20 meter circles,
and serpentines at the walk. And breathing and engaging the "sit bones" and turning my shoulders (my left shoulder being one of my injured body parts). <br />
<br />
Baby steps. I'll probably take a few more private lessons before
rejoining the group. But it feels good to reconnect with my horse and I'm not giving up. We'll continue to take it slow. Fortunately for me, the walk is my favorite gait. There's so much to learn and improve on just at the walk. </div>
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Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-2900262591762054562014-12-09T11:41:00.000-05:002014-12-09T11:41:58.144-05:00Speak Up For The HorsesAre cases of horse abuse or neglect taken seriously where you live?<br />
<br />
Concerned citizens often complain their reports of horse abuse fall on deaf ears, particularly with local law enforcement. We appreciate our sheriff and police departments who are spread thin, often risking their lives, combating serious crime against people. At the same time, it is disturbing and frustrating to see crimes against animals treated as a low priority, if not an outright nuisance, by law enforcement. In Colorado, the community is trying to change how horse abuse is perceived and handled by those with the authority to stop it. The public wants to help.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://horse-advocates.com/" target="_blank">Horse Advocates of Colorado</a> brings up excellent points to share with law enforcement and government agencies. Ignoring horse abuse, or prolonging neglect before action is finally taken, is not just cruel and harmful to the animal, but financially costly to the community in the long run.<br />
<br />
Shared with the permission of Horse Advocates of Colorado:<br />
<h1 class="entry-title">
Abuse -The Story is the Same. It’s time to do better.<span class="entry-byline"> </span> </h1>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cRoOf4cstt2F39OcB64JgH0TPdyAsgr_0QIFkmO3o6VoEHrXtfsOBhL5JNKlUZ6r8OrAdJj2tVKOwexe6fnObywEH0_PwzSsuXarAxjyLQL0VEZrVR16djHL1igfQmqyh9DwHeBlflA/s1600/pippi-013-301x640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cRoOf4cstt2F39OcB64JgH0TPdyAsgr_0QIFkmO3o6VoEHrXtfsOBhL5JNKlUZ6r8OrAdJj2tVKOwexe6fnObywEH0_PwzSsuXarAxjyLQL0VEZrVR16djHL1igfQmqyh9DwHeBlflA/s1600/pippi-013-301x640.jpg" height="320" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pippi, Mini-mule Rescue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<!-- .entry-meta --><!-- .entry-header --> Roberta was the first to leave a comment on the Horse Advocates of Colorado blog. Here it is:<br />
<div class="entry-content">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<strong><em>“The laws need to be changed. I have reported my neighbors for neglect and abuse on their horses, more than I can count! They finally got a ticket for animal cruelty, but it stays the same and the sadness never ends! I’m done calling Jeffco, because its the same ol’ song and dance. I’m the bad person for harassing these people on welfare that have horses!!! REALLY!?!?!?!?”</em></strong></blockquote>
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
Back in October, some of us met at a town hall meeting to talk with officials about the Black Forest Abuse case. There had been a huge public outcry, partly due to a famous horse, Dual Peppy, being recognized in this herd of abused and neglected horses.<br />
<br />
At that meeting, people lined up at the microphone, one after another to ask questions. The first question asked was, “How can the public help?” The panel gave an enthusiastic response, affirming that they depend on–and are grateful for–the public coming forward with tips.<br />
<br />
Then for the next two hours people recounted stories like Roberta’s comment above. People had filed reports but the animals continued to suffer. Months passed with more calls to authorities about the same horses, who were still suffering. Frequently the person reporting was threatened.<br />
<br />
We are fast to say the laws must change, but knowledgeable people say we have a good animal cruelty law in Colorado.<br />
<br />
The challenge seems to come in enforcement. Story after story all had the same conclusion. Calls were made repeatedly and the horses were still suffering, but it wasn’t seen as life threatening. If the animal wasn’t on the brink of death, suggestions were given to the owner but frequently no charges are filed. In one current case in Calhan, there were over 20 welfare checks made by sheriff’s deputies in a 7 month period with no real improvement. Perpetrators have no fear the law will be enforced.<br />
<br />
Two things: First and foremost, these horses need care now. The longer they are left, the more damage is done, meaning the eventual rehab gets more costly and long-term. Chronic malnutrition can cause internal problems. If hooves get poor care, chronic lameness is a possibility. And no one even mentions the psychological problems that result from neglect and abuse–frequently the largest challenge of all. By being slow to help, we heap extra cruelty of our own on top of what the horses are enduring to begin with. Instead of coddling the perpetrator, our goal should be to hold focus on the <em>victim</em> and get help to horses sooner.<br />
<br />
The second line of damage is to people who care enough to report. It isn’t just that they are not taken seriously or that they are not thanked. Too many times the push back, like a whistle-blower in the government or industry, is hurtful and insulting. So the best of us, people who are willing to speak up, get worn down–even worn out.<br />
<br />
With a new story of abuse every week, it’s hard to not emotionally shut down. We are each haunted by brutal photos. Is the problem is just too huge to change? It would be easier to look away, just to have some peace. But there is no peace.<br />
<br />
Horse Advocates of Colorado is not a horse rescue. Our goal is to be an advocate in the legal system–a voice for the victims, the horses who can not speak. To have an impact on the neglect protocol used by the sheriff’s department in assessing each case and to encourage the legal system to prosecute and convict offenders to the full extent of the law.<br />
<br />
We are not trying to save one individual horse at a time. Our goal is to have an impact on the big legal picture, to influence the way these cases are approached as a whole. To work in unison with law enforcement and the court system to let this Animal Cruelty Law do its intended work.<br />
<br />
We have two cases we are following in El Paso County Court right now. Rachel Fleischaker, Case #14M 3024, Division B, trial set for 8:30 am on Dec. 15th. And the pre-trial conference for Sherri Brunzell and the Black Forest horses (Dual Peppy) is scheduled for December 17th at 8:30am. Join us to bear witness in the system for these horses who need us.<br />
<br />
If you agree with us, ‘like’ our Facebook page or follow our blog. Email us at horseadvocates@<span class="skimlinks-unlinked">gmail.com</span> to volunteer.<br />
<br />
Thank you for your support.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://horse-advocates.com/2014/12/09/abuse-the-story-is-the-same-its-time-to-do-better/">http://horse-advocates.com/2014/12/09/abuse-the-story-is-the-same-its-time-to-do-better/</a>Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-28756931466660393452014-10-04T16:54:00.002-04:002014-10-04T17:22:42.949-04:00Hit the Ground - Bounce Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83tUGP-7kJFAm60kBiUA618w2IEJXQJuzRsq1Fp22UaB2Mzc_b3Xig05O0X9ZYXbZk7S8d43nKamMtOt20lAfgpLiJRXFBW4nh2RVvoGu0IUN5PBkNZ8FSyoecBXEQfP9ZdpMMF6JBFc/s1600/2014-10-02%25252014.38.29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi83tUGP-7kJFAm60kBiUA618w2IEJXQJuzRsq1Fp22UaB2Mzc_b3Xig05O0X9ZYXbZk7S8d43nKamMtOt20lAfgpLiJRXFBW4nh2RVvoGu0IUN5PBkNZ8FSyoecBXEQfP9ZdpMMF6JBFc/s640/2014-10-02%25252014.38.29.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> Does this magpie make me look fat?</b></div>
<br />
Well, Misty, with or without the magpie, you look fat. It's because of your leisurely lifestyle.<br />
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
Misty and I have not ridden together since a July 11th trail riding mishap. She spooked big; did an abrupt 180 degree turn and bolted. My girth had become loose, my saddle rolled a little to the right, and I couldn't regain my balance to ride out the bolt.<br />
<br />
I hit the ground hard!<br />
<br />
I got back on after we found Misty, who galloped across a big meadow and disappeared into the forest. I rode the rest of the day, not realizing how injured I was. </div>
<ul>
<li> Broke my left arm at the elbow joint (radial head fracture). It has healed with a minor deformity. I'm doing physical therapy and I'm slowly regaining use. Today, I was able to release my own passenger side seatbelt, but still can't buckle it on my own. Baby steps.</li>
<li>Injured my left shoulder which was diagnosed yesterday as "frozen shoulder". Doc gave me a cortisone shot and prescribed physical therapy.</li>
<li>Destroyed nerves and tissue on my right leg; had a huge hematoma from above my knee down into my toes. Doc is ordering an MRI on my knee because it is still swollen and sore 12 weeks after the fall. Hoping to rule out a meniscus tear. </li>
<li>Smacked my head hard, but my brand new Tipperary Sportage helmet protected my noggin well. Wear a helmet, every ride, every time.</li>
</ul>
<div dir="ltr">
It has been frustrating to miss the best riding weather of the year, but I've learned from this experience.</div>
<ul>
<li>Misty and I need to strengthen our relationship so she looks to me for leadership more. I need to increase my confidence, to be that leader. Misty was a little agitated that morning. I was having a hard time getting her attention and helping her relax.</li>
<li>Check my girth more frequently. I had it as tight as I ever do, but surprisingly it loosened a lot, as Misty became sweaty and kind of sucked in during the the ride.</li>
<li>All the pain I've experienced these last 12 weeks has motivated me to take better care of my health through diet and exercise. I want to feel good and be fit to ride well into my senior years (crud, which aren't that far away).</li>
<li> I'm going to focus on dressage when I'm able to ride, to improve communication with Misty and work as a team. I'm interested in Western Dressage and hope to compete next year. Started fundamental dressage lessons last year and was surprised how much I like it. I like it because Misty loves it!</li>
</ul>
<div dir="ltr">
I'm slowly bouncing back and looking forward to riding again. By the time I can climb back in the saddle, the temperature will be lingering in the 30s and 40s F on sunny days. But, hey, I love shopping for winter riding wear!<br />
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
What have you learned from riding mishaps? How have you overcome them?</div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-26151023790293757332014-06-09T17:05:00.000-04:002014-06-09T17:05:00.237-04:00Riding the BurnWe're coming up on the one year anniversary of the fire. Riding in the burn area is interesting, but certainly not pretty. I sure wouldn't ride here on a windy day, although I hear they recently removed the dead trees along this particular trail. <br />
<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Be fire wise and safe this summer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We've received quite a bit of welcome rain this Spring. Hopefully that will bring the fire danger...and hay prices...down, down, down.</div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-78575613168535893602013-12-23T17:08:00.001-05:002013-12-23T17:14:20.512-05:00Merry Christmas <div dir="ltr">
I'm still working too much and blogging too little, but from my office cubical, I wish you all a Merry <western> Christmas!<br />
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhAdhHISX95uOku2VXA-dv97FozYHItMtD7kHYKD4hRM1d81-rBnKqNxce_dlVhyVax6uFw_48f-QHSLFcAlm3KT4QFqbF-c9FRWI9F8NDOKeShGq8KVlFTupJWAOVkF6I-5nzuRYvKA/s1600/20131223_143446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhAdhHISX95uOku2VXA-dv97FozYHItMtD7kHYKD4hRM1d81-rBnKqNxce_dlVhyVax6uFw_48f-QHSLFcAlm3KT4QFqbF-c9FRWI9F8NDOKeShGq8KVlFTupJWAOVkF6I-5nzuRYvKA/s400/20131223_143446.jpg" width="400" /> </a> </div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-747546729609990952013-11-30T12:37:00.001-05:002013-11-30T12:44:23.188-05:00U. S. Highway Trivia<p dir="ltr">We recently passed under this monument.<br>
<br>
Where were we? Name the town and state.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Bonus:<br>
This town is known as "the ___?___ __?__ Capitol of the World."<br>
<br>
No prizes; just your personal satisfaction of weird highway knowledge.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4SatLSJPLF-Prn7OXQUidQH30yL3yyo2kWAUO5zBh4wIePHT2BT0lL8tRoZyeenUmKKFdqyU3okbOwy4hPyWo3P-z1yZj1zunpFHbMuMahAitRWJXMwCTtByeBPjyetBIg8mAX879Kw/s1600/20131130_105857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4SatLSJPLF-Prn7OXQUidQH30yL3yyo2kWAUO5zBh4wIePHT2BT0lL8tRoZyeenUmKKFdqyU3okbOwy4hPyWo3P-z1yZj1zunpFHbMuMahAitRWJXMwCTtByeBPjyetBIg8mAX879Kw/s640/20131130_105857.jpg"> </a> </div>Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-35242674166827832202013-10-29T12:33:00.001-04:002013-10-29T12:33:32.180-04:00Ride Like a Witch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1Hh4tS8p0UVElagZGbGe_jw11bWyP52koEcaOSXJTmAwgisYw4ll-W6D_8vh3JpgmxrpdIQh2x6FMX2haj5V_QOpIaelScdYmfiNkT1RfX1XtwODFlZ4vgdjmrkdTkX3Fi-VM8A-YlM/s1600/DDHalloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1Hh4tS8p0UVElagZGbGe_jw11bWyP52koEcaOSXJTmAwgisYw4ll-W6D_8vh3JpgmxrpdIQh2x6FMX2haj5V_QOpIaelScdYmfiNkT1RfX1XtwODFlZ4vgdjmrkdTkX3Fi-VM8A-YlM/s400/DDHalloween.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With kind permission from <b><a href="http://www.danasdoodles.com/" target="_blank">Dana's Doodles</a></b></td></tr>
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Halloween is actually my favorite "holiday"...I just wish it came with a day off of work. I like the fun costumes and candy and spider webs and classic spooky movies. Have a fun Halloween week!Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-90965037285742642792013-09-02T21:17:00.000-04:002013-09-02T21:17:56.787-04:00Misty's Monday Muse - Postcard from Colorado<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Having a wonderful time.</span></i></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wish you were here!</span></i></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifPa2rkwu0uHUEHsvQtmjd4MtH2-YxDT5e8ydlnvuHb1r5LFQdAqq2LRidwMbh7S3PzjUmPMJPQ6QTZgmnqjPh5Uv9EWysvaKybaGdgsmN-vSSKenKFMv9jhexznheTieI1SH8st88X_w/s1600/MLazyCDay1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifPa2rkwu0uHUEHsvQtmjd4MtH2-YxDT5e8ydlnvuHb1r5LFQdAqq2LRidwMbh7S3PzjUmPMJPQ6QTZgmnqjPh5Uv9EWysvaKybaGdgsmN-vSSKenKFMv9jhexznheTieI1SH8st88X_w/s400/MLazyCDay1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo courtesy Mark and Debbie Bibb</span></td></tr>
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I've been taking MyLady on lots of trail rides this summer. We're
having so much fun, there hasn't been any time for blogging. We are spending all of our free time together and have become great trail partners. There are still
several months of lovely riding weather, so we'll be in touch when the
snow flies. <br />
<br />
Enjoying the great outdoors,<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p276/Bee_Sue/MistySig.png" style="border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: medium;" /></a>Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-78056635449323852232013-08-02T10:58:00.000-04:002013-08-02T11:08:34.448-04:00Post Fire FloodingEvery time it rains, news crews come out and film at this location, where it floods across the street and then leaves a bunch of black sludge behind. At times the flooding has been up to the top of the fence. This homeowner lost their house in the fire and now they have to deal with this mess too.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGlZ3QoI5lFjTyA6HuRxOHxdSxGvLLVPh5g5StubvEIZ37uXC1SdyqD8kdOgHZN8rLj7oxZWr96nBoxGMZMljAH25R7_tbLSbh9MaIbZHgkgMgK6Ku5YzMR-Z2JiWjPnWYpQbIdXWGUY/s1600/SDC12002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpGlZ3QoI5lFjTyA6HuRxOHxdSxGvLLVPh5g5StubvEIZ37uXC1SdyqD8kdOgHZN8rLj7oxZWr96nBoxGMZMljAH25R7_tbLSbh9MaIbZHgkgMgK6Ku5YzMR-Z2JiWjPnWYpQbIdXWGUY/s400/SDC12002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Where does all this goo come from? Here's the answer from last Monday's storm.<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.facebook.com/video/embed?video_id=10151777942251138" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
More storms are on the way.Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-76667677797386984272013-07-17T18:25:00.000-04:002013-07-17T19:02:21.067-04:00Meet Peg<div style="text-align: center;">
Peg is short for Peg Leg.</div>
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<br />
I found Peg Saturday evening, caught by one leg, in a large rodent snap trap in our pasture.<br />
<br />
I released her, scooped her up, and brought her into the house.<br />
<br />
Her leg was a mess; a bloody compound fracture with her foot dangling by a long, skinny piece of skin.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had to amputate her leg with toenail clippers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(I had big dreams of being a vet when I was a kid.)</div>
<br />
While I was bandaging her stub (with cotton and antibiotic gel wrapped with first aid tape - and duct tape for good measure), her eyes closed and I thought she was dying.<br />
<br />
I said, "Don't you die on me little birdy! I haven't lost a patient on the <strike>kitchen counter</strike> operating table yet!"<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
She rallied. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I think she was just in shock.</div>
<br />
I was surprised to find Peg still alive Sunday morning. I fed her a mix of wild finch seed and millet pieces. ???? Just guessing on what might be right. She hung on and was a feisty little dish, escaping once to fly madly around my laundry room.<br />
<br />
I dropped Peg off at an avian vet's office Tuesday. I knew she needed to be on antibiotics and might need her boney stub cauterized and I wasn't sure what to do next. <br />
<br />
I thought Peg might be some kind of finch. The vet said she's definitely not a finch but wasn't sure what kind of bird she is. (The vet deals mostly with parrots, but kindheartedly treats wild birds that find their way to her office.) I emailed Peg's picture to a friend who said she looks like an immature meadowlark, and said she really should have some bugs to eat.<br />
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Do you think Peg is a young meadowlark? </div>
<br />
The vet doesn't keep live food on hand, so I took some mealworms to the office today. Good timing too. They just got a flicker in that had been caught in a volleyball net and injured its wings.<br />
<br />
So Peg - the alleged meadowlark - and the flicker will be eating good tonight.<br />
<br />
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Yum! Yum! Deeeelicious! </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/4G-dz2CxI2w" width="560"></iframe><br />
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Gosh! I dropped 100 mealworms off at the vet's office. That might not feed two hungry birds for very long. <br />
<br />Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-48798941982709500142013-07-15T22:05:00.000-04:002013-07-15T22:11:04.652-04:00Misty's Monday Muse - High Line<div style="text-align: center;">
MyLady and I like to camp together.</div>
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We're not very experienced.</div>
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We're still learning.</div>
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Recently we learned how to high line. </div>
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<b><u>MyLady had the hard part.</u></b></div>
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She had to learn to tie knots.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The Clove Hitch</i></div>
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<i>The Bowline Knot</i></div>
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<i>The Taut Line Hitch</i> </div>
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Then she strung a high line between two trees.</div>
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She had trouble getting the line high enough for me,</div>
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cuz I'm kinda tall.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When we camp for real, it'll have to be much higher,</div>
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so I don't get my head caught on the line.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I'll need a different halter...not a rope halter.</div>
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But this was just our first attempt.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tying knots and hitches with the tree saver straps was awkward.</div>
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She needs more practice.<br />
<br />
Be kind to trees.<br />
(But I confess, I like to chew on them.) </div>
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<b><u>I had the easy part. </u></b></div>
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I just hung out on the high line.</div>
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I took to it right away.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I like it.</div>
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I can relax.</div>
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I can move around.</div>
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I can put my head down and eat.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Now, that's my idea of camping.</div>
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Have you ever gone camping with your peoples and spent the whole dark night on a high-line? Did you see any bears?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><a href="http://www.discovertheforest.org/" target="_blank">Discover the Forest,</a></b></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p276/Bee_Sue/MistySig.png" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a> </div>
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Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-41892698795599618042013-07-04T11:21:00.000-04:002013-07-04T11:36:38.976-04:00Happy 4th - Have Fun - Be Wise<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy 4th of July!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have Fun!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please Be Fire Wise!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFon876vEOJ9yzJuujqI6ttRsEF4D_CRkjuf-wqIsqQhKo5mEpsL396OyiZ-zd04u8l4GqiYgtIgncznLJt4_Tr0KyCITxszpEl8AbkxNrOeD9TTBMXaqNjJWbvCezrDo_u8-F_v0hYgQ/s1600/FireDangerVH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFon876vEOJ9yzJuujqI6ttRsEF4D_CRkjuf-wqIsqQhKo5mEpsL396OyiZ-zd04u8l4GqiYgtIgncznLJt4_Tr0KyCITxszpEl8AbkxNrOeD9TTBMXaqNjJWbvCezrDo_u8-F_v0hYgQ/s400/FireDangerVH.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Forest Fire Station*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">2012 Waldo Canyon Fire</span></i></div>
<ul>
<li>347 homes destroyed</li>
<li>2 people killed</li>
<li><u><i>Human caused</i></u> - no other details released to the public</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">2013 Black Forest Fire</span></i></div>
<ul>
<li>512 homes destroyed</li>
<li>2 people killed</li>
<li><i><u>Human caused</u></i> - likely accidental - no other details released to the public</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please be careful. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be wise; Be safe. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy this great holiday!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
* Somebody is missing next to the fire danger sign. There is usually a bear on the sign. But some dude from out of state, after viewing national news of the fire, called the firehouse and complained about the bear. He spewed a bunch of legalese claiming the bear looked too much like the licensed image of <b><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://"Smokey the Bear"" target="_blank">"Smokey the Bear"</a></span></b>. So the bear was taken down. Letters have been written to Washington, and the Black Forest bear is expected to return to his place on the sign. </div>
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-10351455505755942662013-07-01T18:10:00.001-04:002013-07-01T18:29:51.679-04:00Aftermath of the Fire<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
"We <i>Heart</i> Black Forest"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Enduring Spirit of Forest Dwellers</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Hundreds of Chimneys<br />
Stand Sentinel Over Charred Homesites<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Toasted and Totaled</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVu11h5mY71SSlr4ytJldMigtAbRXuGsD6-T25w7ZR6BcCOYSdRr67MQaL1KuTOZgmMTRCqjjwBR3TVXgxX0yqKL8iR45uIgfYCgUnd_UMixuUnJdty3lOwvMAmw4VbgaWmyr992TphU/s1600/PostFireTrail2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIVu11h5mY71SSlr4ytJldMigtAbRXuGsD6-T25w7ZR6BcCOYSdRr67MQaL1KuTOZgmMTRCqjjwBR3TVXgxX0yqKL8iR45uIgfYCgUnd_UMixuUnJdty3lOwvMAmw4VbgaWmyr992TphU/s400/PostFireTrail2.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of My Favorite Riding Trails</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Intact, But Not So Pretty<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Trail Closed </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hot Spots Still Burning</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fire Secretly Smolders in Roots and Tree Trunks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Until it is Blanketed in Snow</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEF_9SMr3p-f4_ZlTkNRmsZBMsGQYs1Qm1dkVFoIZzqpS8kG1zfZPmga5_0MfLIgbVDaevi0j8sCWyJd8D5rkFGbtpdu1eTfKbviJUrSh1uoT9ON809JlRiOeWICJ7NEoYjS81UnooNk/s1600/PostFireTrailSign.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEF_9SMr3p-f4_ZlTkNRmsZBMsGQYs1Qm1dkVFoIZzqpS8kG1zfZPmga5_0MfLIgbVDaevi0j8sCWyJd8D5rkFGbtpdu1eTfKbviJUrSh1uoT9ON809JlRiOeWICJ7NEoYjS81UnooNk/s400/PostFireTrailSign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ironic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fire Mitigation Completed in 2012 Too </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dLhNIEghpr6SEZGytJ_bDpBkyxzwaSsD19mnb3ksR1I7YGU7J4hhEKFiZRPS-BObnsuwabcvZqxcK-MpLtNnUzSk4jfaaDD9IsnagcgeMMvvR1B3XlROnymgu-wRa6jWymRF5S64aAI/s1600/PostFireChimney2.jpg"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dLhNIEghpr6SEZGytJ_bDpBkyxzwaSsD19mnb3ksR1I7YGU7J4hhEKFiZRPS-BObnsuwabcvZqxcK-MpLtNnUzSk4jfaaDD9IsnagcgeMMvvR1B3XlROnymgu-wRa6jWymRF5S64aAI/s400/PostFireChimney2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Recovery Has Started<br />
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Cleanup Has Begun<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNyL3EUfKFLAAtbereIe5SK53EeW2-T4wUSYy91VuppJ6P_Jj2jjfli1D0e93rFnlV5FK2H7DDlDOIXkNl6IDSFYdXz1UP3ZheZxRFzF5s-_3tQ-UD4-pRNuY29V4pfcah7mjRzZT7kD0/s1600/PostFireTrees2.jpg"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNyL3EUfKFLAAtbereIe5SK53EeW2-T4wUSYy91VuppJ6P_Jj2jjfli1D0e93rFnlV5FK2H7DDlDOIXkNl6IDSFYdXz1UP3ZheZxRFzF5s-_3tQ-UD4-pRNuY29V4pfcah7mjRzZT7kD0/s400/PostFireTrees2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Forest Forever Changed</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAHksdGoK1hTzz9Jc1ITWywE7yYlkhDv3k4NptUiTN9ZnJUYztSUMUdCqw3hymKZ-b2nHwYYRbbm86Fl1bpAIWLA0XUHmNq5pJoPm9ueRkOfzsQZnYTJqEFi39zApB2J3B3skhlxLfss/s1600/PostFireDeer.jpg"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAHksdGoK1hTzz9Jc1ITWywE7yYlkhDv3k4NptUiTN9ZnJUYztSUMUdCqw3hymKZ-b2nHwYYRbbm86Fl1bpAIWLA0XUHmNq5pJoPm9ueRkOfzsQZnYTJqEFi39zApB2J3B3skhlxLfss/s400/PostFireDeer.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Life Goes On </div>
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Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-91026847532506587042013-06-24T12:35:00.000-04:002013-06-24T12:35:37.997-04:00Misty's Monday Muse - What a Week!<div style="text-align: center;">
Thank-you Everyone for your good thoughts and wishes.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are home safe and sound and all is well.</div>
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It was a crazy, busy, exhausting week; mostly for Mr. and Mrs. OnceUpon. Lyra, Lola, and I just went with the flow. As long as we had hay under our noses, we were content. But you know what they say, "There's no place like home." We are glad to be back in our barn, but very appreciative of those who gave us shelter, particularly Elbert County and Moondance Ranch.<br />
<br />
Tuesday June 11, 2013 - Fire!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivL9p5IqHyUBvfEcPBRK99AmKWGuB2IUWvC7V9fgBFsnqWdjiUa6f5nzpZQxgaG-cHsWQkPxSzb2U8VySg2RWya8ikJ88Ij6-oTTxgFcYfy-0G5eFNAjYAXpqQQ8BDK9a6M5vMgOsxB2U/s1600/firecopter1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivL9p5IqHyUBvfEcPBRK99AmKWGuB2IUWvC7V9fgBFsnqWdjiUa6f5nzpZQxgaG-cHsWQkPxSzb2U8VySg2RWya8ikJ88Ij6-oTTxgFcYfy-0G5eFNAjYAXpqQQ8BDK9a6M5vMgOsxB2U/s400/firecopter1.jpg" height="185" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinook Carries Water Bucket</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7q2zdfNQBAZNfG7mv6cy_CkxiHhxPA4rt-kvfy1cZ89A9zYZn-DyFQBj1Jis0bbUF1jqJ-6cd_-oaVX8w-Aiu77qJR4IvPls_xkc_I7JUB7RSoakOQ29CGveXSvnFJA-A0XYy0GVewVs/s1600/firecopter2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7q2zdfNQBAZNfG7mv6cy_CkxiHhxPA4rt-kvfy1cZ89A9zYZn-DyFQBj1Jis0bbUF1jqJ-6cd_-oaVX8w-Aiu77qJR4IvPls_xkc_I7JUB7RSoakOQ29CGveXSvnFJA-A0XYy0GVewVs/s400/firecopter2.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinooks Refilling at Pond</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEGcw1DgpRhRNnC5yrJ6v2hcYd1lHJz8N7JPZyY8VV2iiCrNfbFnuHG0CKcn_NvCtAJ1TdFlcJ3TziGefXb0hJf7y6pUZ59cEE7jKeDy3ksqyAH1l6ogQetICoL7un6Ksg3Om-28KTLI/s1600/fireglow3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEGcw1DgpRhRNnC5yrJ6v2hcYd1lHJz8N7JPZyY8VV2iiCrNfbFnuHG0CKcn_NvCtAJ1TdFlcJ3TziGefXb0hJf7y6pUZ59cEE7jKeDy3ksqyAH1l6ogQetICoL7un6Ksg3Om-28KTLI/s400/fireglow3.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Tuesday Night Glow</td></tr>
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Amazingly, the gas station, convenience store and bbq restaurant, feed store, community center, auto shop, knitting store and churches in the heart of Black Forest were saved. But it was a very close call.</div>
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Wednesday June 12, 2013 - Winds shifted, fire on the move, and we received the reverse 911 call to evacuate.</div>
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Lyra, Lola, and I settle in at the evacuation center at the Elbert Country Fairgrounds. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGl2X4xha18mbUbb60A8pIbDu56HWbQoziPlkwj1fheXjqijhFD8OD3Ju18PV0qlBrtScjVnVYNMYtkKtMn1CIPu9O_zTVETk_AiaeT_6J3PMnXMpXsvpSX2NaTzDqbHtavRbj4VPSXZg/s1600/fireevac5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGl2X4xha18mbUbb60A8pIbDu56HWbQoziPlkwj1fheXjqijhFD8OD3Ju18PV0qlBrtScjVnVYNMYtkKtMn1CIPu9O_zTVETk_AiaeT_6J3PMnXMpXsvpSX2NaTzDqbHtavRbj4VPSXZg/s400/fireevac5.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rump Tag to Match Me with MyLady</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Fjj0pyhIjS1SbKkumoHAAcWz8KbH9OvkEle3GbBtu87ROPKn4Y53A7i5DZrYozzeu4kI1E7CrGwqTMGph55K2UK1twvugqnXUUD7DH32-bP_NlECaat8nZPDtJnj7rpn-mWutjVo0IA/s1600/fireevac6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Fjj0pyhIjS1SbKkumoHAAcWz8KbH9OvkEle3GbBtu87ROPKn4Y53A7i5DZrYozzeu4kI1E7CrGwqTMGph55K2UK1twvugqnXUUD7DH32-bP_NlECaat8nZPDtJnj7rpn-mWutjVo0IA/s400/fireevac6.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Meeting the Neighbors</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LW8nwu6EkzDQh8zz4qSUYzRrVH7fRXSIGeV_5E1ko4vqO9PI57jHObxZWS1NTw9t_88KwyilPB2Vu2hpYZgqWropozm31NawKa5O2lxZGBOloYfxv8EsmZ3VEy_ExJISlrPIMLZ1j2g/s1600/fireevac19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LW8nwu6EkzDQh8zz4qSUYzRrVH7fRXSIGeV_5E1ko4vqO9PI57jHObxZWS1NTw9t_88KwyilPB2Vu2hpYZgqWropozm31NawKa5O2lxZGBOloYfxv8EsmZ3VEy_ExJISlrPIMLZ1j2g/s400/fireevac19.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Lola & Lyra Passing Time</td></tr>
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Thursday June 13, 2013 - Elbert County reports "Noah's Ark at the Fairgrounds"<br />
"Elbert
County Fairgrounds remains open with space for evacuees and animals.
Total count of animals currently at the Fairgrounds is as follows: 28
chickens; 216 horses, 5 drafts/14 foals; 5 cows, 2 calves; 27 Alpacas;
14 dogs; 25 cats; 22 goats; 1 ducks; 4 burros; 2 guinea pigs; 3 sheep;
19 miniature horses; 19 mules; 8 lamas; 3 stallions; 1 yak."<br />
<br />
Then a 2nd yak showed up and MyLady added two parrots to the mix. Newport and Tessa were miserable standing flat footed in their pet carriers in the motel, so the nice volunteers cut up tree branches and put them in rabbit cages so the birds could perch in the small animal building.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2R3u4KaLBd3qiKn_tE6W8WcxRXvXzYQfXSqAV7Vv5YR6GkxAw1X3U0lUAQXvpmYSpeut7QCKrkK05jFfuXMYfPkoZ01hPPLZ_KDZ8VdiikSOR-MLaG3iZ5r-JsOkKG5HPVbpRAPbzxHA/s1600/fireevac7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2R3u4KaLBd3qiKn_tE6W8WcxRXvXzYQfXSqAV7Vv5YR6GkxAw1X3U0lUAQXvpmYSpeut7QCKrkK05jFfuXMYfPkoZ01hPPLZ_KDZ8VdiikSOR-MLaG3iZ5r-JsOkKG5HPVbpRAPbzxHA/s400/fireevac7.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herd O' Mules</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0I76JsnwYFHQNn4NS5dvUmkiKY0puLK8VcaQGVIp0JypRO8ppBFmzoqin8jnzIBQFR5KdonqgBaAMxrAPrQer01gKYw2vjQ3-gU9TbG2dSc9ZFNU1lIsUn6SHbcJqkkjFyNSDobQzkw/s1600/fireevac8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0I76JsnwYFHQNn4NS5dvUmkiKY0puLK8VcaQGVIp0JypRO8ppBFmzoqin8jnzIBQFR5KdonqgBaAMxrAPrQer01gKYw2vjQ3-gU9TbG2dSc9ZFNU1lIsUn6SHbcJqkkjFyNSDobQzkw/s400/fireevac8.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friendly Mules</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJVlWNJBw49smdtBy4x1AUHlQSMyTTnUyTTbK3sgkXllLbmvzS_aWTofvmjkMNJk6rulMTRIM9bb96la-z59JEEzNQhgoGGFl-Az9hx1e_1F4eoDMAlBVKjJYpxGwgq-eGf9Bll5zpMY/s1600/fireevac9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJVlWNJBw49smdtBy4x1AUHlQSMyTTnUyTTbK3sgkXllLbmvzS_aWTofvmjkMNJk6rulMTRIM9bb96la-z59JEEzNQhgoGGFl-Az9hx1e_1F4eoDMAlBVKjJYpxGwgq-eGf9Bll5zpMY/s400/fireevac9.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herd O' Horses from Scout Camp</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVf7oFVtMnXndRk6FEtBlBeNTTTALB3YzDdgig7d5_M57yfmGl8IHSJ9rqPtaYGndjvZJ1HXKdOj7aIfj26bc3vKGzUdHdBqakymyLkFFlsyfY4-YBytVNbwgLF4IVzNLqZ2RDN11RbEw/s1600/fireevac10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVf7oFVtMnXndRk6FEtBlBeNTTTALB3YzDdgig7d5_M57yfmGl8IHSJ9rqPtaYGndjvZJ1HXKdOj7aIfj26bc3vKGzUdHdBqakymyLkFFlsyfY4-YBytVNbwgLF4IVzNLqZ2RDN11RbEw/s400/fireevac10.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vonda & Bella<br />
The Happiest Evacuees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKem2cvCNO-ScTbYYOJbCa3T1GR3bbo3vWrPSjWjTDpeIUlcJZvqtSkNuMNhIsZyNfOC0TKeqnjnZ2oUmODLVNZicvOwtUQby-H4BILrQ8Fgh63LG9WsdKNpaHBAGHnmFqbMymzJXurKA/s1600/fireevac11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKem2cvCNO-ScTbYYOJbCa3T1GR3bbo3vWrPSjWjTDpeIUlcJZvqtSkNuMNhIsZyNfOC0TKeqnjnZ2oUmODLVNZicvOwtUQby-H4BILrQ8Fgh63LG9WsdKNpaHBAGHnmFqbMymzJXurKA/s400/fireevac11.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Case of Emergency</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyNbtotb3tcHldoua4APTTg5fvk0X0a8aMVVgROT0PA5eZD4XLNJ5qAobtQacEip_KNlfqljbtBuKlnWwG7kB2iC8pNiCwwzyhuyZHkJp4L5QW29BPNgEV02N620ruyApJ8PdB2ZiFJ0/s1600/fireevac14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyNbtotb3tcHldoua4APTTg5fvk0X0a8aMVVgROT0PA5eZD4XLNJ5qAobtQacEip_KNlfqljbtBuKlnWwG7kB2iC8pNiCwwzyhuyZHkJp4L5QW29BPNgEV02N620ruyApJ8PdB2ZiFJ0/s400/fireevac14.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phone Numbers Help Reunite Lost Horses with Owners</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAUshnZOZgpZgRw8Sadr7Mk3FPJHEOtT0jX8CynnfbGZwZ2tte4tZrh_qtzVjFtuL1hxPfndwQ6ylviwMsc4BKiC0n65ULNpD94DVfwXgkzjkJmKWlapgH427bOqI48GPj6_-fMFxSj9c/s1600/fireevac12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAUshnZOZgpZgRw8Sadr7Mk3FPJHEOtT0jX8CynnfbGZwZ2tte4tZrh_qtzVjFtuL1hxPfndwQ6ylviwMsc4BKiC0n65ULNpD94DVfwXgkzjkJmKWlapgH427bOqI48GPj6_-fMFxSj9c/s400/fireevac12.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Security</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya9HfkM1V8N8MH6mX0XiRoCruJnzOXEpfZhfnK7ZAa-aR5cIl-QzLafMQYDkWhTOygElUHez183GWfkdHMr5TVLZMAGrHNClP_G1hXDeZI6oR4Ro7fl3B1Qnez1UunBYQ4vA1dj0sKzs/s1600/fireevac13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya9HfkM1V8N8MH6mX0XiRoCruJnzOXEpfZhfnK7ZAa-aR5cIl-QzLafMQYDkWhTOygElUHez183GWfkdHMr5TVLZMAGrHNClP_G1hXDeZI6oR4Ro7fl3B1Qnez1UunBYQ4vA1dj0sKzs/s400/fireevac13.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of Security</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3PV62LwnwkvYJWWmWlUkazoeOHqEA_ZhKvoQL9pJft2C-UvM4ucZ-5kQFIQR-fgdiyhiSWJOsnN3cPCWFjoCDYZ-pEYO9t9m9IrMxmQy5glHqhxwITC42pvdfhg8xc9Qu-dnQ9BXdtQ/s1600/fireevac15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3PV62LwnwkvYJWWmWlUkazoeOHqEA_ZhKvoQL9pJft2C-UvM4ucZ-5kQFIQR-fgdiyhiSWJOsnN3cPCWFjoCDYZ-pEYO9t9m9IrMxmQy5glHqhxwITC42pvdfhg8xc9Qu-dnQ9BXdtQ/s400/fireevac15.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Home Away from Home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINrr0qiTiuZd1Tp3ugMZv2qmJPkvIrjZfdLLpyFggmRNevMidCOnhOR0Z2hwPABRFAJQqXHfLDcVMLnypExZVRdyXQm20jgZTRyI2Mzx8tmFHvKb7e11QBJ3lcaekwE_3P-dpKg_svMM/s1600/fireevac17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINrr0qiTiuZd1Tp3ugMZv2qmJPkvIrjZfdLLpyFggmRNevMidCOnhOR0Z2hwPABRFAJQqXHfLDcVMLnypExZVRdyXQm20jgZTRyI2Mzx8tmFHvKb7e11QBJ3lcaekwE_3P-dpKg_svMM/s400/fireevac17.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yak Evac</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkwzJWOaqFcdFpqJeBKCx_sjD1_Zs2d4nhkEFLCn_ud1bqRCxVV3aZBW5qby8JRLcwmWDeBIqSgFFqZisadou_nJL3GtLclUYwEjhAcD9-BPduAFrhAMTIupi36xi7BMYsCl45b0fu60/s1600/fireevac18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKkwzJWOaqFcdFpqJeBKCx_sjD1_Zs2d4nhkEFLCn_ud1bqRCxVV3aZBW5qby8JRLcwmWDeBIqSgFFqZisadou_nJL3GtLclUYwEjhAcD9-BPduAFrhAMTIupi36xi7BMYsCl45b0fu60/s400/fireevac18.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Evacuees Happily Munching on Hay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Saturday June 15, 2013 - Elbert County residents began returning home and Elbert County urged the rest of us to make other arrangements. Stressful! But thanks to <a href="http://moondanceranchco.blogspot.com/2013/06/fire-update.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: black;">Moondance Ranch</span></b></a>, we upgraded to more comfortable lodging until we returned home on Monday June 17th.<br />
<br />
What a week!<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/"><img src="http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p276/Bee_Sue/MistySig.png" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span id="goog_104975359"></span><span id="goog_104975360"></span><br />
<br />Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-52483588147820644152013-06-18T23:01:00.003-04:002013-06-18T23:33:40.303-04:00What Makes a Cowboy Cry?We are back home and all is well. I'm exhausted. I'm going to bed and may not get up until Thursday.<br />
<br />
Thank you, <b><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.moondanceranchco.blogspot.com/2013/06/fire-update.html" target="_blank">Moondance Ranch</a></span></b>, for finding shelter in a pinch for my girls.<br />
<br />
The loss in Black Forest is so sad. Not all horses made it back to their owners, but here is one very sweet reunion.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Tb4XhQ3Rxwo" width="560"></iframe><br />Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-55305897726064664652013-06-15T00:49:00.001-04:002013-06-15T00:49:39.139-04:00Black Forest Fire Strike Team in ActionThis is fascinating. I didn't know firefighters will wait for the fire to come to them; makes sense after watching the video. They are so calm and business like as they go about their job. Real Pros!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/68342641" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <a href="http://vimeo.com/68342641">Black Forest Structure Protection</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/coloradosprings">City of Colorado Springs</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-806296642977794691.post-7686988072217997352013-06-14T17:17:00.000-04:002013-06-14T17:17:23.349-04:00Safe and SoundThank-you, blogger friends, for your good wishes.<br />
<br />
We are safe and comfortable while we wait out this situation. So far, our house is untouched.<br />
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Good news: KRDO TV is reporting rain over the fire now. Hopefully it will pour and not just spit and blow wind.<br />
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Misty and the minis are getting a lot of attention at the fairgrounds. There are many beautiful horses there, including 14 mommas and their adorable foals. This was the count early Thursday:<br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0].[0:0]">"Elbert
County Fairgrounds remains open with space for evacuees and animals.
Total count of animals currently at the Fairgrounds is as follows: 28
chickens; 216 horses, 5 drafts/14 foals; 5 cows, 2 calves; 27 Alpacas;
14 dogs; 25 cats; 22 goats; 1 ducks; 4 burros; 2 guinea pigs; 3 sheep;
19 miniature horses; 19 mules; 8 lamas; 3 stallions; 1 yak."</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0].[0:0]">They have about 148 people there too, camping or staying in the Red Cross shelter.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0].[0:0]">I'll share some pictures when I get home (not sure when). In my haste to leave, I grabbed my iPod cord instead of my camera cord. :-) I forgot socks too, but remembered my toothbrush. Minor details, but this has certainly been a learning experience unlike anything else I've been through.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0].[0:0]">Thank-you firefighters! You're the best!</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0]"><span id=".reactRoot[3489619].[0][1][1]{comment170072749836508_307392}.[0].[0:1].[0].[0:1].[0].[0:0].[0][2].[0].[0:0]"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4T5wd42H2RU" width="560"></iframe><br /></span></span></span>Once Upon an Equinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08807098276875052982noreply@blogger.com14