Horse Bliss

Kentucky Derby Week!

With the Kentucky Derby week upon us I thought I would search online and see if I could find anything interesting about the races. I came across an interview with one of the more famous horse trainers today, Barclay Tagg. I wasn’t familiar with his name but after reading more about him I was pretty impressed with his training techniques. He uses compassion and understanding to get maximum performance out of his horses. It reminded me a lot of Tom Smith, Seabiscuit’s trainer.

In loving memory of Dandy

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author Unknown

I wanted to share an e-mail I received from Joanna, my eight year old student.

Dear Mary, I'm so sorry to hear that Dandy passed away last night. When Mom told me that he had passed away last night, I got so upset and ran to my room and got the horse out that I got from all of the horsemanship hands I earned, all pretty much because of Dandy because I rode him pretty all of the time I was there. I will always have happy memories of him. Best wishes, Joanna

Darren and I would like to thank everyone for their loving support and sincere thoughts. Dandy will always be the gentlest giant we ever knew.

Horse Obstacles for Sale

For Sale: Bridge and two Ramps

Brand new bridge with ramps for both ends. Designed after obstacle used in Parelli trailer loading video. Heavy duty. The company that fabricated these builds 4X4 trucks. They tested the ramps by driving their trucks on them. Very sturdy and reliable. Rubber mat on bridge and one ramp. Will cover other ramp if wanted. Removable handles on both sides for easy relocation.

Bridge Dimensions: 6' x 3' x 14"
Ramp Dimensions: 4' x 3' x 14"

Asking $500

Located in Longmont, Colorado

**Will deliver for an additional charge

The company who made this set will fabricate custom horse obstacles including bridges, ramps, pedestals, carwash etc. If you are interested please call 303.905.9723

In Loving Memory of Promise

My thoughts are wandering tonight in a desperate attempt to explain why you left so soon. The realization that you will not be with us in the morning has not settled in. I've tried to swallow my tears in hopes that I can move on without pain. May your future destination be blissful.

Promise - you are in our thoughts and may your spirit live on through your sister.

God Bless

Thoughts of an Icelandic

Bet you wished you were an Icelandic

I knew this heavy winter coat would come in handy. Eat your heart out Weatherbeeta

Horse Logging Gone Wild

Realizing future employers might find 'horse logging' a bit confusing on my resume, I figured posting a video clip would help clarify things.

Click here to download video clip

The Dreaded Fly Spray

A few days ago I was introduced to a new horse that would be moving to our barn. I was asked to trailer him over to our place and without hesitation I volunteered. When it was mentioned that this was my 'specialty' I then became skeptical and was wondering what I had gotten myself into. I have to admit when I hear 'trailer loading' a part of me gets excited thinking about the challenge that may lie ahead. Another part of me gets apprehensive that the day will come where I meet a horse that doesn't do anything I expect it to and I give up. Well, this day finally did come when I arrived to pick up the new horse. I ended up spending over an hour playing with this horse trying to find out where he was at mentally. He had a few good attempts to load but I finally gave up after realizing I was running late to my next appointment and someone else offered to pull him in their stock trailer. Leaving the barn I was trying to figure out where I had gone wrong and what I could have done to improve. Not much came to mind. I came home and reported how I had my first trailer loading failure.

The following day the new owner brought this horse into our arena to play. At that moment an amazing thing occurred, this horse joined up and followed me around the entire arena. I began to play with him and he yielded his entire body at liberty! I then realized that the previous day's event wasn't a failure but rather an undetected improvement. The time I spent with him at the trailer actually gained his respect and confidence and he was looking to me for leadership. It was a small but good accomplishment.

Today the horse was brought out to get fly sprayed. He seemed very leery and wasn't sure if the fly spray was going to kill him. I was very pleased when I was given the opportunity to help this horse overcome his fear of the spray. After playing with him for less than 5 minutes he accepted the spray on both sides. It might not appear to be a big accomplishment however it reassures me that given time and compassion, all horses can breakthrough.

If I had the opportunity to trailer load this horse again I probably would do the same thing just allow myself more time to do it.

Kids Camp Pics

Preparing at the horse show for parents....

Our rasta horse.....

and Pride pretty in pink!

Surry for Sale

Old Maggie May is up for sale!

Asking $2,000 OBO

Antique refurbished 2-seat surry. Excellent condition! Sits 4 people, storage under seats. Extra comfortable black button seats. Over 100 years old and is in great working condition.

Includes: -Shaves for single-horse
-Pull for 2-horse hitch.
-1 Double Tree
-1 Single Tree
-Original Oil Lamp (very valuable!)

Located in Boulder, Colorado. Buyer is responsible for pick-up or delivery. Will delivery within 100 miles.

Please feel free to e-mail or call 303.905.9723 with any questions!

**Horse & Harness not included :)

Future Trainers

How exciting to think about the future our children may bring us!