Mary and (the perfect) Beast
Friday, December 31, 2010
Good start to the New Year!
OMG!
What great lessons we had!
Our first group was me, Katie C. and Laney. We did a grid, jump, one stride, bounce, one stride oxer.
All the horses were fabulous! Callie was back to her angelic self!
Riley looked like a million dollars. Katie did a great job getting, and keeping his motor going. On top of that she had "perfect" position (as Stephen put it).
Laney of course did AWESOME with Patsy. She's the best. Stephen was able to give her some tips on the flat also in the beginning
I have made an amazing break through with my riding. The last few weeks I have been working on hip openers with my Yoga. So two days ago, I was flatting Beast and I thought "oh, I wonder if that's what Gretchen and Susan always meant?" So I opened my seat, and settled the ligaments around my hip sockets. Holy sh#*! I didn't know Beast could canter that way!
Anyway I did it on Callie today, good stuff. I learn so much every time I ride this amazing horse.
We finished the lesson with cantering a vertical a few times, it was great!
The second lesson was Skyler, Sharon Ossi, and the wonderful Alison. I didn't get to see much, I had to go get Beast. All the ladies seemed happy. I'm sure they did amazing, as they are all amazing riders.
The last group was me, Katherine Rizzo, and Hannah.
I was impressed with how both Hannah and Katherine looked. Stephen and I talked about how good Katherine looked. He was impressed with the work she has done with Beckett. Beckett although very talented, is a bit quirky.
I agree completely with Katherine in her description of Beckett...Scrappy. He sure can jump!
Beast, second time in the hackamore was incredible. Just incredible. I forgot how hard this horse tries. Stephen loves her in her new gear. I feel like I can actually ride her. I imagine we will have to re-learn each other to a degree, but its going to be amazing.
I was really happy. All though it is winter, I must say I feel good! My mares feel great!
It was good motivation to keep pushing through these months.
I am now in comfy clothes, on route to my sisters and I am ready to relax! I will try to make it til 12 tonight, but more likely I will be asleep by 10. Tomorrow will be spent doing nothing. I can't wait!
Hopefully this week will bless us with more warm days. We can keep up our lessons and riding.
What great lessons we had!
Our first group was me, Katie C. and Laney. We did a grid, jump, one stride, bounce, one stride oxer.
All the horses were fabulous! Callie was back to her angelic self!
Riley looked like a million dollars. Katie did a great job getting, and keeping his motor going. On top of that she had "perfect" position (as Stephen put it).
Laney of course did AWESOME with Patsy. She's the best. Stephen was able to give her some tips on the flat also in the beginning
I have made an amazing break through with my riding. The last few weeks I have been working on hip openers with my Yoga. So two days ago, I was flatting Beast and I thought "oh, I wonder if that's what Gretchen and Susan always meant?" So I opened my seat, and settled the ligaments around my hip sockets. Holy sh#*! I didn't know Beast could canter that way!
Anyway I did it on Callie today, good stuff. I learn so much every time I ride this amazing horse.
We finished the lesson with cantering a vertical a few times, it was great!
The second lesson was Skyler, Sharon Ossi, and the wonderful Alison. I didn't get to see much, I had to go get Beast. All the ladies seemed happy. I'm sure they did amazing, as they are all amazing riders.
The last group was me, Katherine Rizzo, and Hannah.
I was impressed with how both Hannah and Katherine looked. Stephen and I talked about how good Katherine looked. He was impressed with the work she has done with Beckett. Beckett although very talented, is a bit quirky.
I agree completely with Katherine in her description of Beckett...Scrappy. He sure can jump!
Beast, second time in the hackamore was incredible. Just incredible. I forgot how hard this horse tries. Stephen loves her in her new gear. I feel like I can actually ride her. I imagine we will have to re-learn each other to a degree, but its going to be amazing.
I was really happy. All though it is winter, I must say I feel good! My mares feel great!
It was good motivation to keep pushing through these months.
I am now in comfy clothes, on route to my sisters and I am ready to relax! I will try to make it til 12 tonight, but more likely I will be asleep by 10. Tomorrow will be spent doing nothing. I can't wait!
Hopefully this week will bless us with more warm days. We can keep up our lessons and riding.
My "ladies" all had a great lesson on Wed pm. Highlights...
Alison on Mikey, the whole time. This pair, especially Alison, continues to have breakthroughs.
Annie on Rae. Also her whole lesson!
Off for now!
Photos and video soon.
Happy New Years to all!
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Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Poor Bobby
Scruffy and Bob are kinda like me and Dave.
Ones low key, laid back, and low maintenance.
The other, ..... Not so much.
3 hours in, 5.5 to go.
We had a wonderful trip. Maggie Macklin must have been on Santa's "nice" list! She also apparently is a fan of real butter and Santa's left over cookies.
Gearing up for nice weather this week!
Lessons at Darenth, and lessons with Stephen on Friday "across the street"!
I missed my ponies and students. We are coming back with our batteries recharged, and our bellies and car a little fuller then when we left Md!
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Saturday, December 25, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Holidays
Off to Michigan today!!!
Hopefully my wonderful friend and rider Kari will be able to get on Callie and Beast a few times while I am gone. Summer has the winter off, then will start back up in the spring. She is a holsteiner, a BIG one, so we are giving her extra time to have her knees close a bit more, just for everything to grow a bit more! I cant wait until the spring. I am soooooooooo excited about this girl! Plus she runs up to me every time I go out to the field!
When I get back, I will be ready to pick up where we left off, traveling almost daily to Serra Valley.
My horses got ridden 5 times this week between Darenth and Serra Valley!
I am having a blast going over there. It can be a lot of work, but totally worth it!
I have new friends to ride with! Kristen Parris brings her horses, and I think the horses she has in for training. Her horses will be great company for my two. Her horse Ivan will be a great match for Callie. To bad hes gelded ;-)He can show Callsters the ropes. They both have the same air about them, and Briley and Beast will be good buddies also.
Did I mention how hard Beast has been trying lately?
Alison and Michael are fun to ride with OF COURSE! And the new boarders at Serra Valley, I know from a past life at another barn!
The young rider extraordinaire, Skyler Decker is there on her mare Nicky!
Skyler is always fun to ride with (in her t-shirt.....crazy) and her mom is always fun to chat with!
The Neese family is there also, and they are a wonderful family!!!!
These are all Hunter and Fancy's friends also, so that will be nice for them , when I drag Hunter along with me!
I can not wait for Maggie to have this Christmas, she is going to have matching PJ's with her cousins. As my sister in law said "so stinkin cute".
What a happy time!
Im so excited spring is around the corner, butterflies, eventing, flowers, gardening yeaaaaaaa!
I feel like Im standing at the light at the end of the tunnel! (In a good way ;-)
So anyways, I'm off to do the family thing in Michigan, but I would like to wish my family here a HAPPY HOLIDAY!!!!!!
I have the best husband and daughter in the world! I cant wait to see my in laws, and my sister, nephew and brother for New YEARS!!!! I am very thankful this holiday season. (I'm also thankful for the new yoga pants that will be waiting for me when I get home)
So anyways, I'm off to do the family thing in Michigan, but I would like to wish my family here a HAPPY HOLIDAY!!!!!!
I have the best husband and daughter in the world! I cant wait to see my in laws, and my sister, nephew and brother for New YEARS!!!! I am very thankful this holiday season. (I'm also thankful for the new yoga pants that will be waiting for me when I get home)
Life has taught us that love does not consist in gazing at each other but in looking outward together in the same direction - Antoine de Saint-Exupery
A daughter is the happy memories of the past, the joyful moments of the present, and the hope and promise of the future. ~Author Unknown
"Don't pity the girl with one true friend. Envy her. Pity the girl with just a thousand acquaintances."
---Katie Obenchain
---Katie Obenchain
"It doesn't matter what people say. To me, you're ALWAYS a somebody."
---Sam Baker
---Sam Baker
This ones my FAVORITE!!!!!
"The best part of life is when your family becomes your friends, and your friends become your family."
---Danica Whitfield
---Danica Whitfield
Sometimes I think my husband is so amazing that I don't know why he's with me. I don't know whether I'm good enough. But if I make him happy, then I'm everything I want to be.
Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie
Sweater, n.: garment worn by child when its mother is feeling chilly. ~Ambrose Bierce
"WHEN I MET MY MUSE"
William Stafford
I glanced at her and took my glasses off---they were
singing. They buzzed like a locust on the coffee table and then
ceased. Her voice belled forth, and the sunlight bent. I felt the
ceiling arch, and knew that nails up there took a new grip on
whatever they touched. "I am your own way of looking at things,"
she said "when you allow me to live with you, every glance at
the world around you will be a sort of salvation." And I took her hand.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Katie C, Alexis, Annie, Alison, and Laney had an awesome jump lesson!!!
Everyone just gets better and better!
Katie jumped a big beg novice oxer with a 3 ft spread!
Laney did the same with Patsy, they both also did grid work and skinnys.
Laney is getting tight in the tack on this grasshopper of a Mare!
Katie is getting Riley in gear!
Alexis was amazing as always! She has such a natural eye.
Annie looked incredible, I haven't seen her ride since she has been away at school. Her and her horse looked AWESOME!
My happy birthday bestie Alison, looked so good. She does such a good job with that Michael. Alison is becoming a very dynamic rider!
My sweet mares were wonderful. Callie was her amazing self.
Laney and I are like little kids when we ride together, opting to jump "fun" stuff. Callie was up to the challenge, jumping like a prelim champ, with a laze-fair attitude! (Loves the bit, NO grinding!!!!)
Beasty tried so hard for me on the flat! Real progress!!! Then the sweet girl loaded onto the four horse in the pitch black for me! I picked up her foot and put it on the step up and said up! She went right on and waited while I got Callie. I turned lights on for the Callsters! She is only 4!
Thank you to Sharon Dawson who helped me this evening, and through these busy two weeks!
Time for Christmas!!!
Mags can't wait!! (Either can Dave)
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The other Two
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Monday, December 20, 2010
Home
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My Pretty Girls!
Somehow our ring is still ride-able, at least at the walk and trot!
Callie loves her new bit, its like jewelry!
I saw it and just knew she would! Hopefully good riddance to excited grinding.
We have gotten rid of it for the most part on the flat and show jumping. Today, she played with all the rollers on it. It made her mouth very soft and pliable, talk about a lot of saliva! I felt her new "back on track" saddle pad when I was done riding her, it was almost hot. Very cool product, I am definitely a believer! Callie loves Christmas this year.
We had lessons at Serra Valley tonight, everyone did so well!
The light bulbs burned out in the four horse trailer, all our ponies marched right on to go home, no problem! It just warms my heart how good they are.
Tomorrow is another busy day!
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WARM(er)
It was like the dry snow insulated the heat in our rings footing. The horses were wonderful.
Saturday morning, Alexis, Katie, Kari, Alison and Laney did a lesson at Serra Valley. Breanna and Annie came with us to ride in the indoor.
It was a blast. I made everyone do REALLY tough exercises and everyone did perfect!
I tried Beast out in a Hackamore. It was like the clouds parted and the sun shone down. Beast loved it! I didn't do much since she is very unfit and still recovering from that sole bruise!
She was so adjustable, but without being overly dramatic. Like I said a dream come true, time will tell if it sticks!
Callie got out of the Stephen clinic yesterday. My number one girl Mags had an upset tummy (probably from the cake her and daddy had with every meal on sat :)
I must say I enjoyed the family time. We watched movies and stayed in our jammies all day!
Today I will ride at Darenth and plan an indoor trip before the pre holiday week gets too CRAZY!!!
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Friday, December 17, 2010
Yea indoor!
The girls did an amazing job with the horses. The horses did an amazing job also!
They were all so sweet about loading in the freezing cold, and pitch black! We love our horses.
Yesterday was a bust. I had planned on taking Packer and one of my mares to ride in the indoor. The snow had other plans.
Callie got her Christmas gifts instead. She is a little princess, and DESPISES the cold. I have never ridden a horse that gets so cold backed. Her sister used to be a bit tense in the winter.
Anyway, I'm excited to try the "Back On Track" products. I hear rave reviews of them, but they are something you definitely have to save for!
Beast is doing well, and this questionable footing is great for our partnership. It forces us to work on the basics, walk, half halting, transitions, coming together etc. The red head likes to go fast and jump big solid things. This "coming together" is a work in progress.
So today, I will ride from 3 to 5. That is the window of opportunity at our farm. I suppose the ring will be ready before then, but me and Mags won't!
Stay warm!
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Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Maggie laughs at Alison
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Brrrrrrr.
So I rode yesterday. Our ring still holds up until about 5pm.
Callie HATES the cold. HATES. The wind bothers her and I think she wonders what is wrong with me. She try's her hardest but I can feel the objection in the hump that's always present in her back.
Beast was a good girl...sort of. She is sound and feeling good. The wind REALLY picked up when I rode her and I think Beast thrives in chaos. Like her little head is so busy, that when everything else gets crazy, her mind slows.
So I thought it would be good to do "jumping flatwork". Callie jumped last Friday at Serra Valley, which started well while her back was warm. Then she was over it. Still jumping well, but bronking in between the fences. I worried because she has been SO good for months! Was there something wrong? Did her back hurt? Did she pull something? .....Not so much.
I lunged her, she looked good. Got back on her and when she went to catapult her slinky rear end in the air, I got after her. She was good then but grinded her new big girl teeth that are growing in. We had her baby tooth pulled because the one was loose and would bleed when she shoved it to the right. Always to the right.
Of COURSE this new tooth is not stable so it bled a bit. Arghhhh. Now I'm waiting to see if I am going to need to pull this tooth!
After all that drama, I got stuck in the snow storm on the way home. After I dropped my girls off thank god. That was scary driving in that friday! All the roads were closed!
ANYWAY ....Beast did dressage on Fri at the indoor,(she was amazing FYI) so yesterday was her turn to do something jump related. Beast seems to have forgotten what a half halt is. She's a drama mama sometimes. Her stifles and hocks feel a bit weak after her 6 week hiatus. She won't be ready for the Stephen clinic on Sunday. :-(
Callie will. She just might be a bit more naughty then usual. I better go dig out my quarter sheet and some super glue!
I'm teaching my ladies and Hunter tonight at the indoor at Serra Valley. It will be warm in there but cold in the transport!
Getting ready for the jumper show on Sat, starts at 9!
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Callie HATES the cold. HATES. The wind bothers her and I think she wonders what is wrong with me. She try's her hardest but I can feel the objection in the hump that's always present in her back.
Beast was a good girl...sort of. She is sound and feeling good. The wind REALLY picked up when I rode her and I think Beast thrives in chaos. Like her little head is so busy, that when everything else gets crazy, her mind slows.
So I thought it would be good to do "jumping flatwork". Callie jumped last Friday at Serra Valley, which started well while her back was warm. Then she was over it. Still jumping well, but bronking in between the fences. I worried because she has been SO good for months! Was there something wrong? Did her back hurt? Did she pull something? .....Not so much.
I lunged her, she looked good. Got back on her and when she went to catapult her slinky rear end in the air, I got after her. She was good then but grinded her new big girl teeth that are growing in. We had her baby tooth pulled because the one was loose and would bleed when she shoved it to the right. Always to the right.
Of COURSE this new tooth is not stable so it bled a bit. Arghhhh. Now I'm waiting to see if I am going to need to pull this tooth!
After all that drama, I got stuck in the snow storm on the way home. After I dropped my girls off thank god. That was scary driving in that friday! All the roads were closed!
ANYWAY ....Beast did dressage on Fri at the indoor,(she was amazing FYI) so yesterday was her turn to do something jump related. Beast seems to have forgotten what a half halt is. She's a drama mama sometimes. Her stifles and hocks feel a bit weak after her 6 week hiatus. She won't be ready for the Stephen clinic on Sunday. :-(
Callie will. She just might be a bit more naughty then usual. I better go dig out my quarter sheet and some super glue!
I'm teaching my ladies and Hunter tonight at the indoor at Serra Valley. It will be warm in there but cold in the transport!
Getting ready for the jumper show on Sat, starts at 9!
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Thursday, December 9, 2010
Yeaaaa Indoor
Well, we had a great night on Wed at Serra Valleys Indoor!
My ladies, Alexis,Alison,Katie,Julia, and Lanie had a jumping lesson and everyone looked fabulous!
Alexis was in top form. Literally. Packer looked amazing in his form, especially when we closed our leg to hand!
Alison and Serra Valleys Michael really looked incredible. Its amazing how the dressage really affects the jumping. The practice and hard work was evident in this pair.
Katie rode Riley perfectly through a 3 element grid and two tough angled lines. Just think, she just started jumping at the end of summer! Now she's doing 2'3 - 2'6" easily!!!
Julia brought her mare "Princess" and boy is she cute. They looked great! This team will be getting ribbons in no time!
Lanie rode her paint mare Patsy. Patsy and Lanie have quite a relationship going, and god can this mare jump! With that said, boy can Lanie stick to her!!!! Lanie is doing such a good job giving Patsy confidence.
Can't wait to do it again next week!
My mares are going to school in the indoor tomorrow, although our ring at home is still holding up every day till about 6 or so!
Then next weekend (the 18th and 19th), we have the jumper show at Serra Valley, in the indoor, and the Stephen Bradley clinic!
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My ladies, Alexis,Alison,Katie,Julia, and Lanie had a jumping lesson and everyone looked fabulous!
Alexis was in top form. Literally. Packer looked amazing in his form, especially when we closed our leg to hand!
Alison and Serra Valleys Michael really looked incredible. Its amazing how the dressage really affects the jumping. The practice and hard work was evident in this pair.
Katie rode Riley perfectly through a 3 element grid and two tough angled lines. Just think, she just started jumping at the end of summer! Now she's doing 2'3 - 2'6" easily!!!
Julia brought her mare "Princess" and boy is she cute. They looked great! This team will be getting ribbons in no time!
Lanie rode her paint mare Patsy. Patsy and Lanie have quite a relationship going, and god can this mare jump! With that said, boy can Lanie stick to her!!!! Lanie is doing such a good job giving Patsy confidence.
Can't wait to do it again next week!
My mares are going to school in the indoor tomorrow, although our ring at home is still holding up every day till about 6 or so!
Then next weekend (the 18th and 19th), we have the jumper show at Serra Valley, in the indoor, and the Stephen Bradley clinic!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Winter in full force!
Winter is here!
I already long for the spring warmth, flowers and event season. I suppose I am getting a bit ahead of myself......
I was dreading riding yesterday, and also wondering how numb I would be once I was done teaching.
I walked out to get Beasty from the field and checked out her legs as I got closer. Her latest act of masochism resulted in about 10 lacerations to three of her legs. Its always a little surprise with Beasty. Other then a teeny eeney bit of swelling, she looked good to go!
Beast recently had a mani-pedi, and this time, she received pour in pads. This darn bruise she had went on FOREVER!
Kevin can see a bit of bruising starting to grow out on the sole of her foot by her right heel.
Anyways, team Oyarzo did the pour in pads, Beast didn't run away ( sometimes she likes to take an unprompted break-sie from farrier services) , everything was a success!
I rode Beast for the last four days and yesterday I was wondering if she would still feel fabulous. She did! Yeaaaaaa!
I think this break Beast and I have had will work in our favor.
First off, I really missed my quirky little mare! I have a fresh perspective, and I can't wait to tackle our flat work. The dressage is hard for Beast, but with time and patience, the little red head can compete with the best of them.
Secondly, riding my old soul of a four year old has helped ME with MY dressage. I'm feeling great about all of it!
So I rode both the girls and I was toasty warm! We have trees surrounding 3 sides of our ring, and a hill above us, so I was blocked from the wind (for the most part).
Our footing was great, partially due to a recent delivery of new footing. Next year, we will be getting even more RUBBER footing. Yea!
I already long for the spring warmth, flowers and event season. I suppose I am getting a bit ahead of myself......
I was dreading riding yesterday, and also wondering how numb I would be once I was done teaching.
I walked out to get Beasty from the field and checked out her legs as I got closer. Her latest act of masochism resulted in about 10 lacerations to three of her legs. Its always a little surprise with Beasty. Other then a teeny eeney bit of swelling, she looked good to go!
Beast recently had a mani-pedi, and this time, she received pour in pads. This darn bruise she had went on FOREVER!
Kevin can see a bit of bruising starting to grow out on the sole of her foot by her right heel.
Anyways, team Oyarzo did the pour in pads, Beast didn't run away ( sometimes she likes to take an unprompted break-sie from farrier services) , everything was a success!
I rode Beast for the last four days and yesterday I was wondering if she would still feel fabulous. She did! Yeaaaaaa!
I think this break Beast and I have had will work in our favor.
First off, I really missed my quirky little mare! I have a fresh perspective, and I can't wait to tackle our flat work. The dressage is hard for Beast, but with time and patience, the little red head can compete with the best of them.
Secondly, riding my old soul of a four year old has helped ME with MY dressage. I'm feeling great about all of it!
So I rode both the girls and I was toasty warm! We have trees surrounding 3 sides of our ring, and a hill above us, so I was blocked from the wind (for the most part).
Our footing was great, partially due to a recent delivery of new footing. Next year, we will be getting even more RUBBER footing. Yea!
I taught my lesson and stayed comfy in my car harts and down jacket. It was a great day. I think the thought of going outside when its cold like this is worse then actually doing it.
We will be making use of Serra Valleys indoor a few times a week, good to have them 2 minutes away!
Knick and Summer are doing fabulously, and so are all my wonderful students and their ponies!
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Monday, December 6, 2010
It is with a heavy heart and a sick stomach that I have learned of Colin Davidsons passing.
This is yet another reminder of how precious life is. I will hold my friends and family close, and cherish my time with them.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Colins family.
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Friday, December 3, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
photos from the Jumper show
Go Hannah!!!
Go Brianna!!!
Goooo Ameriah!!!
Go Ali!
Go Julia!!!
Go Pipes (in the background)
Go Hunter, Ali B, Katie C,not pictured!!!!
Monday, November 29, 2010
When it comes to beauty, get your perspective right: 'Don't be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes... clothe yourselves... with the beauty that comes from within... ' (1 Peter 3:3-4 NLT).
The public relations department of a beauty products company asked its customers to send pictures along with brief letters, describing the most beautiful women they knew. Thousands of letters came in. One caught the attention of the employees and was passed on to the president. It was written by a boy from a broken home who lived in a run-down neighbourhood. With lots of spelling errors, an excerpt from his letter read: 'A beautiful woman lives down the street from me. I visit her every day. She makes me feel like the most important kid in the world. We play checkers and she listens to my problems. She understands me. When I leave she always yells out the door that she's proud of me.' The boy ended his letter saying, 'This picture shows you that she is the most beautiful woman in the world, and one day I hope to have a wife as pretty as her.' Intrigued, the president asked to see the woman's picture. His secretary handed him a photograph of a smiling, toothless woman, well advanced in years, sitting in a wheelchair. Sparse grey hair was pulled back in a bun. The wrinkles that formed deep furrows on her face were somehow diminished by the twinkle in her eyes. 'We can't use this woman,' said the president, smiling. 'She would show the world that our products aren't necessary to be beautiful.'
The public relations department of a beauty products company asked its customers to send pictures along with brief letters, describing the most beautiful women they knew. Thousands of letters came in. One caught the attention of the employees and was passed on to the president. It was written by a boy from a broken home who lived in a run-down neighbourhood. With lots of spelling errors, an excerpt from his letter read: 'A beautiful woman lives down the street from me. I visit her every day. She makes me feel like the most important kid in the world. We play checkers and she listens to my problems. She understands me. When I leave she always yells out the door that she's proud of me.' The boy ended his letter saying, 'This picture shows you that she is the most beautiful woman in the world, and one day I hope to have a wife as pretty as her.' Intrigued, the president asked to see the woman's picture. His secretary handed him a photograph of a smiling, toothless woman, well advanced in years, sitting in a wheelchair. Sparse grey hair was pulled back in a bun. The wrinkles that formed deep furrows on her face were somehow diminished by the twinkle in her eyes. 'We can't use this woman,' said the president, smiling. 'She would show the world that our products aren't necessary to be beautiful.'
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Serra Valley Jumper Show!!!
What a fabulous day!!!! Thank you to all that came!! Thank you to all my wonderful volunteers who made this day run smoothly (Kari, Alexis, Katie C, Hunter, pork chop, Doozers), and successfully! We had a great turnout. Darenth Farm made sure to represent!!!
Congrats to Katie C, Alison C, Ameriah, Brianna C, Hunter F, Sam, Hannah, Julia, and last but CERTAINLY not least, Piper! You guys cleaned up!
Katherine Rizzo (who is working on getting her course designing license) designed the courses, and they were AWESOME!
She and her students all had a successful day as well!
Alison B did awesome with Mikey!
All of Red Hawkes other friends rocked it out as well!
We love all the feed back we got, and can't wait to make these shows just the way that the competitors want them!
Feel free to email me ... Mary.Macklin1@gmail.com with any suggestions or questions that you may have. We are planning the next show date and are thinking of either Dec 18 or a "Holiday show" on a weekday before New Years but after Christmas. What do you guys think?
I was so proud to see all my students out there today. As usual, I got a bit teary eyed as I was so happy!
Good old Dave did the scoring, and kept me company all day. I chugged coffee and talked a million miles a minute much to his ever increasing delight. Dave is my Bestie and I sure do love him! Go Dave!
My sis and brother in law watched the Magsters so she could have a break from the weekend ritual of horse shows. She clucks now whenever she sees a picture of anything that even remotely resembles a horse. This was very entertaining at Thanksgiving. Eeyore, giraffes, elephants, all in books and hung on the walls would prompt a clucking noise from wherever Maggie was, followed by "howrse?"
Back to the subject of this post....
The food was great at the Serra Valley show, thanks to Dawn and her crew.
All in all a real success!
The leg work was done by Alison aka pork chop, Laney (who is incredible, and wait til she makes her showing debut on Patsy her paint mare!!!) me and Dave. Of course, like I said, the Fab courses were designed by the ever amazing Katherine! If I am forgetting anyone I will be sure to add them in.
Thanks all, can't wait to do it again! :-* (That's a smooch if you don't know texting faces)
Congrats to Katie C, Alison C, Ameriah, Brianna C, Hunter F, Sam, Hannah, Julia, and last but CERTAINLY not least, Piper! You guys cleaned up!
Katherine Rizzo (who is working on getting her course designing license) designed the courses, and they were AWESOME!
She and her students all had a successful day as well!
Alison B did awesome with Mikey!
All of Red Hawkes other friends rocked it out as well!
We love all the feed back we got, and can't wait to make these shows just the way that the competitors want them!
Feel free to email me ... Mary.Macklin1@gmail.com with any suggestions or questions that you may have. We are planning the next show date and are thinking of either Dec 18 or a "Holiday show" on a weekday before New Years but after Christmas. What do you guys think?
I was so proud to see all my students out there today. As usual, I got a bit teary eyed as I was so happy!
Good old Dave did the scoring, and kept me company all day. I chugged coffee and talked a million miles a minute much to his ever increasing delight. Dave is my Bestie and I sure do love him! Go Dave!
My sis and brother in law watched the Magsters so she could have a break from the weekend ritual of horse shows. She clucks now whenever she sees a picture of anything that even remotely resembles a horse. This was very entertaining at Thanksgiving. Eeyore, giraffes, elephants, all in books and hung on the walls would prompt a clucking noise from wherever Maggie was, followed by "howrse?"
Back to the subject of this post....
The food was great at the Serra Valley show, thanks to Dawn and her crew.
All in all a real success!
The leg work was done by Alison aka pork chop, Laney (who is incredible, and wait til she makes her showing debut on Patsy her paint mare!!!) me and Dave. Of course, like I said, the Fab courses were designed by the ever amazing Katherine! If I am forgetting anyone I will be sure to add them in.
Thanks all, can't wait to do it again! :-* (That's a smooch if you don't know texting faces)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Thanksgiving
OK this is going to be a long one...here we go.
I am beyond thankful for my Family and home, but this is going to focus at all my friends at the farm.
I am so thankful for all my students, past and present that have taught me so much.
I am thankful for all the moms at the barn that help me with Maggie, and give me wonderful advice (whether I want it or not =o). Thank you, also for the funny stories of your kids.
Especially thank you to Nicky S. who seems to spend a lot of time with the Mags.
Thank you to all my ladies that I also teach. You continue to teach me to be a better instructor with all the wonderful feed back!!
My Monday girls, Hayley and Annie, you two are the best and have come such a long ways. Hayley and her new pony Lila (congrats!) are always in style and in a good mood!
My Wed group....
Hannah is a constant source of entertainment, and always amazes me with her riding ability.
Sam rises to the occasion, and rises more if the occasion increases in pressure.
I think both Sam and Hannah have their own drummer that they march to the beat to.
Hunter, always does a good job with the Magsters, and for that matter all the kids and horses at the farm. Hunter is having a lot of success with his mare Fance and his games pony.
The last 2 years of my life would have been impossible without Hunter and his Mom, one of my closest friends, Kim. This family is special indeed.
Shout out to the Pipester and Cooper!
Megan one of my long time students, Riley her sister and Mom Lauren, thank you! Thank you Megs for putting up with me when I was grumpy the last couple years, and always trying harder. You are riding like a million bucks. Riley, I don't think you care much if anyone is grumpy, or notice, and that confidence shows in your wonderful riding. Lauren, thanks for everything over the years.
Morgan B, you are doing so well. You are doing so well at everything. Thank you for being so helpful and sweet, and always pushing thru to be the best you can. I do notice, and I should say it more often!
Maddy, you will always be a shinning star. I also notice you, and how hard you try, Thank you. You have done such a good job with Mikey, you have shown that pony who is boss!
Alison C. Words can't say how proud of you I am. Thank you for reminding me about whats really important. Whether its the chickens in your backyard or going to a dressage show. Its important because its yours. Everything you do is wonderful, because you have a kind heart, and that's something that everyone sees. You shine.
Katie Cindric, Thank you for being the person that you are. You also shine, in a quiet way, in a supportive way. You have a good heart. You are doing a great job with all the horses, even the vets notice the difference in them! Thank you for all your help, words can't express.
Julia, Thank you! You and Millie are two peas in a pod. I can't wait to get to know you more, and see what I can learn from you, as I help you bring Millie thru the ranks!
Alexis, another one of my long time students, Thank you. You are a dream client and a dream friend. Take a moment and reflect on all the progress you have made in the last 5 years. It will make your head spin! (it makes my head spin) Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do. Thank you for being understanding of my Roller coaster life the last few years, I know you understand all to well.
Thank you Elizabeth, you are a pleasure to teach and do a great job with the horses. Thank you for taking such good care of them! I can't wait to teach you on Buckshot again!
Brandi, thank you also for all the amazing horse care!!!!
Sharon D, Thank you. I think I could type about 50 pages listing all the wonderful things about you and all that you have done, and it would only be the beginning. What it all boils down to is you are just good, to the core. I am lucky to know you, and am lucky that my horses are in your care. Maggie thanks you also, I am sure she will show you soon, when she screams about me holding her and reaches for you! I really mean it from the bottom of my heart, Thank you for being you.
Thank you Mr. Nick Dawson for showing us all what hard work really is! Thank you for being good at business and keeping everything in line. Thank you for keeping an amazing farm amazing, with great pastures, great fencing, lights, fly spray system, automatic waterers, new jumps, my goodness, when do you find time to do it all!
Gena and Lexi (and Tommy), Thank you for everything. Thank you for all the help with Mags, all the help with my horses, all the help with me! I will miss my right hand (Lexi) and I know Maggie will also. I wish you the best of luck, and am very sad to see you go. There will never be a replacement for any one of you. I mean it when I say that all 4 of you have a very special place in my heart, Thank you!
Patrick, Thank you for dancing in the fields, taking amazing care of the horses, and taking amazing care of the farm. You are good, like your mother, you remind us of whats important and whats not important. I notice you, and all your antics (driving a million miles an hour when you think no one is looking =o) and you make me smile. Thank you for being Patrick. Thank you for helping me 500,000,000,000,000 times with putting up the show jumps. Oh and thank you for taking them all down when your dad drags the ring when I'm not around.
Oh there is another thing to be thankful to Nick about, our AWESOME ring and new footing!
Thank you to all my amazing horse friends. Thank you Sharon O, for putting up with my neurosis and being neurotic also, it makes me feel better about myself ;-). Thanks for coming to the shows, clinics, it means a lot to me!
Thank you Katherine, for it all, you know what "it all" is!
Thank you Alexa Henry. You do awesome highlights, and you do an awesome job riding. You have to come to all Callie's shows, you are are her security blanket!
Alison B. , you are an incredible friend. You are kind, and thoughtful and caring. THANK YOU! You have helped me so much, always answering your phone and listening. I could not have made it thru my moms passing with out you. Your hard work is paying off with Michael (and his feathers, and his poop stains). Try to be kind to yourself, you deserve it, you are one of a kind.
Kari, thank you. I don't know if you know your email still says it but YOU ARE "one bad ass chick!" Thank you for being an amazing rider and helping me soooooooooooooooooo much. You do a great job with all the horses. You do a great job at being a hard worker, an amazing mom, and keeping it all together. I notice how hard you try at everything, and you always succeed. You are special, thank you Kari!
Thank you to the Youngblood family. Hannah, your videos rock, and Emily you are amazing the way you juggle a thousand things, and perfect a thousand things. You are doing such a good job.
Thank you for being so determined, you inspire me.
Thank you Ameriah, for being so cheerful, and energetic. You make teaching fun!
Thank you to Val and Jo, I miss you guys!
Thank you Dr. Scullin and Carter.
Thank you to all my amazing instructors.
My AWESOME farrier Kevin Oyarzo.
My good friend Julie
Thank you to all my other students and friends at the barn.
Sam, Grace, Mary, Brianna, Janet, Jane, Rebecca, Payton, Sharon, Sara, Kayla, Kristy.....I'm sure there will be more names to add!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Alexis had a great day! She represented Red Hawke and Darenth well!!!
We went to Full Moon Farm today. The warm up area was a bit muddy. It was on the side of the hill, and there was quite a bit of commotion going on. Despite all the distractions, Alexis put in a very nice test! The pair earned a 39, which I thought was a bit harsh! The show jumping course was pretty nice, and the warm up was much better then the dressage warm up! Alexis show jumped clean, which was especially good because many in her division were dropping rails and having stops.
Show jumping was running about 20 to 30 minutes late, so when Alexis got to cross country, the start box told her she had to go. I was a bit miffed, as was her sister, because we had to run out to see her. She also was not allowed any time for warm up!
Despite having no warm up (packer didn't REALLY mind, straight from SJ) the team went out and rocked it!! They jumped every fence great, right over the ditch and through the water with no hesitation!
Alexis would have been 3rd or 4th, but she skipped the mandatory flags after fence 13! Oh well, we know Packer can pass through flags, still a great way to end the fall season!
I am proud of both of them for staying so focused despite a very "busy" environment!
Summer had some lovely canter work today, and the Beast continues to seem as though the bruise/abscess may have passed. Fingers crossed!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Busy Week!!!
This has been a busy week for us!!! Its been wonderful that the weather has been so nice, and cooperated with all the plans that we had!!!
Beast finally popped some stuff out of her heel bulbs, a bruise and an abscess poor thing. I spoke too soon when I posted before that she was back in action! I suppose that's the way of the world, never count your chickens before they hatch.
Its lonely not riding my little spicy mare, good thing Callie is eager to step up to the plate, and that Darenth has a group of talented young horses!!!
Darenth's lesson students all rode like a million dollars this week! I think it may have been one of the best weeks I have ever had teaching. Every one was focused, and riding well.
Darenths new student Brianna has a lot of promising talent, and is sure to be a feather in our caps!
Megan Mcclain has been making great strides, and both her and Bandits "momma" Ameriah have done fabulous with him!!!
Alison C. has come so far in the last couple months, it makes my head spin just thinking about it!!!!
My good friend Alison B. has had a series of break throughs with both her dressage and her show jumping in the last three weeks, and I can't wait to see how far her and Mikey will come this winter.
Lets not forget about Hunter on the "Fance". This team is kinda incredible to watch jump.
In other news, on Wednesday I had an insanely amazing lesson with Susan G White! I can't believe how much I have learned from this woman this year. I feel like a different rider on the flat. I can not wait till the Beastling is ready to go into full work so we can do dressage boot camp with both Susan G. White and Fred Weber ( who is also incredible with her I might add).
On Thursday Callie went to the Stephen Bradley clinic at A Bit Better farm. It was wonderful.
Callie just continues to amaze me more and more. I feel blessed to have such a promising young horse, and am just thankful every day for having had the opportunity to ride her.
On Friday Sharon and I had a farm field trip. We tried out a horse at Stephens, a REALLY talented horse, a really really talented horse!!!! It was great because I got a lesson on him, flat and then jump!!! Yea!!!!
Three days worth of lessons, what a treat!
My friday night group had a lot of success with their lesson, a good day all around.
Today, I had a relaxing ride at Piney Run, and I rode Knick. Now those of you that know Knick may assume I am being sarcastic, BUT I'M NOT!!! Perhaps next I will see little piggies flying about singing show tunes.
Summer is her usual amazing self. We may do a trail ride in the next week or two. I am already planning some field trips for her next fall. =o)
This is the week for being thankful coming up, and so far I have a lot to be thankful for!
Thank you everyone that has made this all possible. Next week, I think Red Hawke Eventing will do an official Thanks to all of you.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Team Red Hawke at the Stephen Bradley Clinic!!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Fw: Darenth Dressage show!
-----Original Message-----
From: mary.macklin1@gmail.com
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:54:44
To: <go@blogger.com>
Reply-To: mary.macklin1@gmail.com
Subject: Darenth Dressage show!
What a blast!!! The Fabrys cleaned up with both Hunter and Piper getting blue ribbons!
Pipes got a 27 on her intro a test, and Hunter got a 30 on his Beg. Novice test!!!
Everyone rode so well, and for lots, this was there first show!
Jane rode Buckshot to a red ribbon victory, and little Brianna won her first dressage show on Hayleys little mare, Lila!
Of course, Maggie won her class of 1. She did a walk down center line and had amazing form!
Everyone did great!
Good job Mary,Grace,Allison,Annie,Piper,Hunter,Megan,Jane,Brianna!!!!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Fw: Loch moy short course!!!
-----Original Message-----
From: mary.macklin1@gmail.com
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 2010 01:11:12
To: <go@blogger.com>
Reply-To: mary.macklin1@gmail.com
Subject: Loch moy short course!!!
What a GREAT day!
Alexis won ending on her awesome dressage score! Julia got a white ribbon at her first show with Darenth Farms Millie!!!
We had such a great day with beautiful weather.
Millie was a little worried when we first arrived, but settled in beautifully as the day progressed. Millie jumped with confidence and clean and careful, to finish on her dressage score of 37!
Alexis and Packer were in it to win it from the get go. After a perfect jumping/XC, she won, ending on her dressage score of 33!
Go team Red Hawke! The program and all the hard work has paid off.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
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