We spent a fairly quiet, unassuming weekend mostly at home. We accomplished very little by our usual standards, but somedays are just meant for downtime, I guess. The weather was mostly overcast with a little rain Sunday afternoon. The days were not cold, but pleasant sweatshirt weather. Perfect for horseback riding or hiking.
Saturday morning we went to church and stayed for potluck lunch afterwards. I took the dogs for a little walk and spent some time in the barn watching the horses graze lazily in the pasture. For some reason, I had very little energy or ambition, so the dogs and I enjoyed a little nap. What a treat that was!!
Saturday evening, we ate a light supper and then I went to my sister's for a visit. We decided on an evening walk and of course, the dogs came along. It was nice to have some time to catch up with my sister. Even though she lives within 15 miles, we don't see each other very often. Very different lifestyles and a different set of values seems to keep some distance between us. I wish things were different between me and my family, but that's just the way it is. I did enjoy the time spent with her though, and stayed until 2:00 in the morning before I took my leave. I took my time coming home and enjoyed the lazy drive with no other traffic on the country roads between our homes. It was a beautiful night and it was so very peaceful and quiet.
Sunday morning I woke up to find my hubby in the bottom pasture mowing some blackberries that were trying to take over a portion of our grazing land. That's quite a chore to try and accomplish with our riding lawnmower/wannabe tractor, but he was making some headway. The dogs and I walked down the driveway to wave a morning hello. The sun was out, so I enjoyed my morning coffee in the sunshine of the barn and watched the horses eat their breakfast. Later, we went to the annual Derby Days Pancake breakfast at the local fire hall in town and spent some time visiting with some of our neighbors. It was a pretty good breakfast for $5 and the company was great, plus it's for a good cause. When we got home, my boss was there and had already got Shad out of the pasture, had him sedated and had diagnosed the problem with his knee. Pretty quick work! Shad has tendonitis with fluid and inflammation around the knee, more than likely a result of a strike from one of the neighbor's mares across the fence. With ultrasound-guided injection, he put some HA (hyaluronic acid) and steroid into the tendon sheath. He says that within a few days or so, the swelling should resolve and he should be fine. What a relief! That's much better than a torn tendon or a bone chip, and a fairly inexpensive fix. We just need to keep him quiet for a while and let the meds do their work.
Afterwards, I spent some time grooming and working Ladde again. He was such a good boy...gosh I love that horse! We're making progress, and with each session I feel a little more confident. Soon, I hope to take him on a few trail rides and see how we do in the woods. If I can remember to relax, I'll be fine. When we were finishing up in the barn, a decent little rain shower moved in and for the remainder of the evening, we had on-again, off-again showers. It sure feels more like April than mid-June, but compared to most of the country, we have nothing to complain about! We brought the horses into the barn for the night, not so much because of the rain, but it was a great excuse for Shad to be stalled and kept quiet overnight. They seemed to enjoy the warmth and the peacefulness of the barn too, and we left them contentedly munching their hay. I almost built a fire, but decided against it. I'd cooked a beef roast in the oven and we had that and some vegetable soup that my sis had sent home with me the night before. Hmm hmm, it sure tasted good! A perfect meal for a cool evening.
I was in bed by 10 pm and slept like a rock. What a wild woman I've become!! But, I feel rested and ready for my work week. Thursday is Ruby's day to be spayed. I need to have her in Salem by 7:30 am and can pick her up at 4:30 that afternoon. Rather than waste time and gas coming home or going to work, I've taken the day off and plan to spend the day in Salem. I'd hoped that my friend could spend the day with me, but she had already made plans. Oh well, Annie and I will amuse ourselves somehow. I'm looking forward to the free day, I just pray that all goes well with little Ruby's surgery. She's such a sweet little dog...we couldn't bear living our lives without her.
Blessings to all for a good week...
Monday, June 13, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Rockstars!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've chilled out a bit since last night and earlier today because my lack of sleep is finally catching up to me.
You see...I had one of the most fantastic rides on my Ladde boy last night EVER!!!!!!!!!!!! He seriously is a total rockstar and I cannot tell you how proud of him that I am!! In fact, I'm so excited that I might surely pop a vein or something!!! :) I was totally amped up and could hardly sleep a wink all last night, and when I woke up, the feelings were still there in force. Yes. It was that good. That horse-o-mine is mighty, mighty fine!!!! God Bless him...all the way down to his precious little hooves. Okay, now that I've got you all dangerously close to puking, I'll pipe down...kay? Sorry, but I'm just a wee bit proud of the big brute tis all. He really was a gem. No, he wasn't a perfect angel. But, he was 100% there. With me, attentive and in tuned to my every little touch and request. He performed as well as any out of shape horse with hardly any riding (let alone work) in the last couple of years could be expected to do.
We worked on so many different things that my head is swimming. For pete's sake, I'm just a trailrider...I've never had any formal training to speak of. I just ride. I've been to quite a few natural horsemanship clinics, was blessed to have ridden with Ray Hunt 3 times, Tom Dorrance once, Brad Cameron twice...but nothing that even closely resembled dressage. I'm certainly not accustomed to thinking that much while I'm riding. The greatest blessing in thinking a lot while riding Ladde, for me, is that I'm way too busy to start fretting, or worrying about what he might or might not do. I was too busy to be scared. What a huge relief for me that was!!! I've turned into a "nervous nellie" in recent years, and I'm just uncertain as to why, or where this nervousness or fear is coming from. When I try to figure it out, I know now that it comes from a variety of places or reasons.
* Ladde is huge. Everything the horse does is big. And, it's intimidating to be riding an animal that is so incredibly powerful. I'm not accustomed to big, very forward moving horses. You Warmblood riders will understand this.
* I'm the only person who's done any training on this horse. Apparently, I am less than 100% confident in my abilities as a "horse trainer/teacher". Giving the horse his due here, this is certainly lower on my list of worries, though. This horse has a good, sensible mind.
* When Ladde was a 2-year old, he was neurologic for unknown reasons for about 7 months. We did a spinal tap for EPM and treated him with meds for that amount of time, but what my vet didn't bother ever telling me was that the spinal tap was negative. Assuming it wasn't EPM, we never did any other diagnostics to determine the cause of the neurologic symptoms. If you've ever witnessed a horse who is neurologic, you'll understand just how scary and serious this situation can be.
* I'm getting older, and I certainly have to admit to being a lot less physically fit or agile than I once was. I've gained a lot of weight over the years...this one reason plays a big role in my confidence as a rider. Physically, I'm rather top-heavy and have shorter legs than I would like...I question my abilities in sticking to the saddle in the event of a rather large "spook" event.
* I have hurt my back. It hurt a lot and it hurt for a rather long time. I hope to NEVER experience pain like that again. No, this was not the outcome of a riding accident, but I remember how much it hurt and I really don't want to get hurt again. (this is a big one)
* Riding Harley the last several years and having him become increasingly more spooky and unsure of himself and becoming increasingly less sure-footed did a number on my confidence as well. Now, I know the reason behind his actions...he was losing his eyesight. I, however, was completely clueless. Not for a single minute did that possibility ever cross my mind.
* Re-reading this list has confirmed that I'm a mental case. I have no concrete reason for my lack of confidence, except that I'm an old, fat, scardy cat. *sigh*
* But...I'm just stupid enough not to care enough to EVER give up riding or trying to improve!!!
Amen??
I gotta brag a little bit more about my other amazing "STAR" of a horse. Harley. He's going to be the official "spokeshorse" Appaloosa for a soon-to-be-published book by Linda Kuhlman. Yep, yep, yep. She and her husband came out to our house a couple of nights ago and shot a bunch of pictures for her upcoming video trailer for her next book. How cool is that!!?? My sweet, little ole Harley's going to be all over the internet...he's gonna be a star!!!! Of course, he's ALWAYS been a star in my eyes. It's about time the rest of the world came around. :)
Have a wonderful weekend...
Lorie at C-ing Spots Appaloosas
You see...I had one of the most fantastic rides on my Ladde boy last night EVER!!!!!!!!!!!! He seriously is a total rockstar and I cannot tell you how proud of him that I am!! In fact, I'm so excited that I might surely pop a vein or something!!! :) I was totally amped up and could hardly sleep a wink all last night, and when I woke up, the feelings were still there in force. Yes. It was that good. That horse-o-mine is mighty, mighty fine!!!! God Bless him...all the way down to his precious little hooves. Okay, now that I've got you all dangerously close to puking, I'll pipe down...kay? Sorry, but I'm just a wee bit proud of the big brute tis all. He really was a gem. No, he wasn't a perfect angel. But, he was 100% there. With me, attentive and in tuned to my every little touch and request. He performed as well as any out of shape horse with hardly any riding (let alone work) in the last couple of years could be expected to do.
We worked on so many different things that my head is swimming. For pete's sake, I'm just a trailrider...I've never had any formal training to speak of. I just ride. I've been to quite a few natural horsemanship clinics, was blessed to have ridden with Ray Hunt 3 times, Tom Dorrance once, Brad Cameron twice...but nothing that even closely resembled dressage. I'm certainly not accustomed to thinking that much while I'm riding. The greatest blessing in thinking a lot while riding Ladde, for me, is that I'm way too busy to start fretting, or worrying about what he might or might not do. I was too busy to be scared. What a huge relief for me that was!!! I've turned into a "nervous nellie" in recent years, and I'm just uncertain as to why, or where this nervousness or fear is coming from. When I try to figure it out, I know now that it comes from a variety of places or reasons.
* Ladde is huge. Everything the horse does is big. And, it's intimidating to be riding an animal that is so incredibly powerful. I'm not accustomed to big, very forward moving horses. You Warmblood riders will understand this.
* I'm the only person who's done any training on this horse. Apparently, I am less than 100% confident in my abilities as a "horse trainer/teacher". Giving the horse his due here, this is certainly lower on my list of worries, though. This horse has a good, sensible mind.
* When Ladde was a 2-year old, he was neurologic for unknown reasons for about 7 months. We did a spinal tap for EPM and treated him with meds for that amount of time, but what my vet didn't bother ever telling me was that the spinal tap was negative. Assuming it wasn't EPM, we never did any other diagnostics to determine the cause of the neurologic symptoms. If you've ever witnessed a horse who is neurologic, you'll understand just how scary and serious this situation can be.
* I'm getting older, and I certainly have to admit to being a lot less physically fit or agile than I once was. I've gained a lot of weight over the years...this one reason plays a big role in my confidence as a rider. Physically, I'm rather top-heavy and have shorter legs than I would like...I question my abilities in sticking to the saddle in the event of a rather large "spook" event.
* I have hurt my back. It hurt a lot and it hurt for a rather long time. I hope to NEVER experience pain like that again. No, this was not the outcome of a riding accident, but I remember how much it hurt and I really don't want to get hurt again. (this is a big one)
* Riding Harley the last several years and having him become increasingly more spooky and unsure of himself and becoming increasingly less sure-footed did a number on my confidence as well. Now, I know the reason behind his actions...he was losing his eyesight. I, however, was completely clueless. Not for a single minute did that possibility ever cross my mind.
* Re-reading this list has confirmed that I'm a mental case. I have no concrete reason for my lack of confidence, except that I'm an old, fat, scardy cat. *sigh*
* But...I'm just stupid enough not to care enough to EVER give up riding or trying to improve!!!
Amen??
I gotta brag a little bit more about my other amazing "STAR" of a horse. Harley. He's going to be the official "spokeshorse" Appaloosa for a soon-to-be-published book by Linda Kuhlman. Yep, yep, yep. She and her husband came out to our house a couple of nights ago and shot a bunch of pictures for her upcoming video trailer for her next book. How cool is that!!?? My sweet, little ole Harley's going to be all over the internet...he's gonna be a star!!!! Of course, he's ALWAYS been a star in my eyes. It's about time the rest of the world came around. :)
Have a wonderful weekend...
Lorie at C-ing Spots Appaloosas
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Lesson tonight - me and my studmuffin
Ooh, I'm sooo excited!!! Bill's coming over tonight and me and the Laddmonster are having our first real lesson with the new trainer.....can't wait!! How I love having orders barked at me whilst I'm riding horseback. Any other time, I'm quite likely to tell you to "bite me" and just mind your own beeswax!! But, when I have respect and/or admiration at someone's abilities and am in the learning frame of mind...by all means - bark away!!
Lad's got his shoes on now, and I'm looking forward to riding some trails again. Haven't been trailriding since last fall, and that's just too long. My hubby had shoes put on his horse, Shad. First time in several years that he's planning on using Shad as his main rider...and guess what? Wouldn't you know that the big, red goosebury has a swollen knee? Dang nabbit all! It figures!! Good thing is, he's not lame on it. He's still thundering around the pasture, bucking and bossing everybody in his path. That's good. Then again, maybe he just doesn't have enough sense to realize he's got a bum leg. Who knows? I palpated his leg the other night, and he's got a little sensitivity to the pressure, there's a little heat and we've definitely got firm inflammation all around, but especially in the front. A few weeks back, I'd picked off a little (maybe an inch long) scrab from the front of his knee and there was a little pus. We cleaned it up, put some antibiotic ointment on it and it seemed fine. Maybe somebody got a well-placed hoof and that's the cause of the little cut and now this swelling? It's my best possible guess - either that, or he strained the ligaments during one of his dramatic acrobatic bucking/playing sessions he's so famous for! That's more like it!! Anyway, long story-short...the swelling's not going away. My boss is going to come out and put the U/S on it, and see what we can see. If nothing shows up, we'll have to shoot a couple of rads and see what that turns up. I'm pretty sure it's nothing serious, because the fact remains that the horse is not lame. If I watch him really, really closely; I can pick up on a slight favoring of the leg, and that's it. It's probably just going to need a little more time, but keeping him quiet is a real challange.
It's a gorgeous spring day here and I'm loving it!! Mid 70's and a nice, cool breeze. Supposed to be like this for the upcoming 5-7 more days. I like it. The dogs and I have been walking the 1-3/4 mile trail around the park at lunch time for a few weeks now. It feels so good to be outside in the fresh air again, and not get rained on. The mud's drying up nicely, and that's always a good thing. Will keep all of you in the eastern half of the country in our prayers. I can't even imagine extreme heat and humidity like what you're experiencing.
Blessings to all,
Cingspots
Lad's got his shoes on now, and I'm looking forward to riding some trails again. Haven't been trailriding since last fall, and that's just too long. My hubby had shoes put on his horse, Shad. First time in several years that he's planning on using Shad as his main rider...and guess what? Wouldn't you know that the big, red goosebury has a swollen knee? Dang nabbit all! It figures!! Good thing is, he's not lame on it. He's still thundering around the pasture, bucking and bossing everybody in his path. That's good. Then again, maybe he just doesn't have enough sense to realize he's got a bum leg. Who knows? I palpated his leg the other night, and he's got a little sensitivity to the pressure, there's a little heat and we've definitely got firm inflammation all around, but especially in the front. A few weeks back, I'd picked off a little (maybe an inch long) scrab from the front of his knee and there was a little pus. We cleaned it up, put some antibiotic ointment on it and it seemed fine. Maybe somebody got a well-placed hoof and that's the cause of the little cut and now this swelling? It's my best possible guess - either that, or he strained the ligaments during one of his dramatic acrobatic bucking/playing sessions he's so famous for! That's more like it!! Anyway, long story-short...the swelling's not going away. My boss is going to come out and put the U/S on it, and see what we can see. If nothing shows up, we'll have to shoot a couple of rads and see what that turns up. I'm pretty sure it's nothing serious, because the fact remains that the horse is not lame. If I watch him really, really closely; I can pick up on a slight favoring of the leg, and that's it. It's probably just going to need a little more time, but keeping him quiet is a real challange.
It's a gorgeous spring day here and I'm loving it!! Mid 70's and a nice, cool breeze. Supposed to be like this for the upcoming 5-7 more days. I like it. The dogs and I have been walking the 1-3/4 mile trail around the park at lunch time for a few weeks now. It feels so good to be outside in the fresh air again, and not get rained on. The mud's drying up nicely, and that's always a good thing. Will keep all of you in the eastern half of the country in our prayers. I can't even imagine extreme heat and humidity like what you're experiencing.
Blessings to all,
Cingspots
Monday, June 6, 2011
A Sampling of Summer
Seriously, I do believe that this May has been the shortest ever! And, without a doubt, I know that it's been the coldest and the wettest on record...May is usually one of my most favorite months, and this one was no exception, but...I'm so pale! And my skin's gonna start wrinkling up like a prune unless I get some sunshine on this face (and legs) and soon!! You see, here in Orygone, we crinkle from all the excessive moisture in our atmosphere, not from overexposure to the sun's damaging rays... :~) Don't ya know?
But, guess what? This past weekend---we had summer!!! Hot dog!! Hot me!! Hot, hot, hot!! Oooh baby...I was sweatin' and a fannin' and a complainin' bout it bein' so dadburned hot...so soon!! I even filled up the kiddy pool for the pooches...and me!! Ah huh!! And it felt good!! Friday after work, we got the shoes on the horses. This year it's all about me and Ladde. And all about my hubby and his Shadman. Yep, we've had Shad since he was a 3-year old and he's now 19 years young...about time he got some use, wouldn't ya say?? I would be remiss right about now, if I didn't add a small request for prayers for the safety of my dear husband. You see - Shad's quite impressive in the art of "bucking". Ah huh...impressively so. But, he's a good boy. And, we have faith in him. We're gonna have fun, fun, fun riding those two this summer!! Yessiree!! I've been riding Ladde for close to 3 weeks now, and he's doing fabulously well!! I love that horse so much!! Me and Ladde are pards for sure!! We're going to be just fine. Once I find a way to climb aboard, that is. :) Ladde is perfect!!! And, I'm so very, very proud of that horse. I just can't tell you!! Anyway, bragging aside. So far, so good. I've been calm. I've been in control of my emotions. And, I've been in charge. And Ladde knows it...that's the key. When I'm not in charge...he immediately takes control, and that's not good. So, I just need to remember to breathe deeply, relax, sit deep...and ride. Piece a cake!
On Sabbath morning, the sunshine was out in full force. Since so far this spring, sunshine has been very short in supply...we opted to stay home from church and enjoy a leisurely morning at home on the deck. It was beautiful!! For a while. And then it got hot, and hotter and hotter. It was around 85 or so, and since we've been having temps in the 50's and 60's are a heat rush...we were sweatin' bullets. I'm not complaining though...even got a bit of color in my cheeks! :)
Saturday evening we loaded ourselves and our dogs in the truck and headed for the drive-in. Double feature and pizza. What could say summer more than that?? It was great!! Families and people were out in full force!! The smell of popcorn on the evening breeze and a sky full of stars...just beautiful! We got home about 2:30 in the morning!! A bit late for this early to bed kinda gal! Aah, it was fun though, sure felt like a summer's eve for a welcome change!!
Sunday morning dawned a bit overcast and rather balmy by comparison to Saturday, but it was warm and not raining so we weren't complaining a bit. We got our garden plants planted (finally!), the lawn mowed again, housework caught up (sort of) and even had time for an afternoon nap before heading out to do the grocery shopping. We barbecued hot dogs and had raw broccoli salad for dinner...oh, it's good to be looking forward to a few months of long, sunny days and warm nights! I'm soooo looking forward to this summer! There's so much that I want to do, and enjoy...I want to savor each and every possible moment!
Shortly after dinner we heard the rumbling sounds of thunder, and lightening strikes soon followed. The rain started in as well, so we headed out to bring the horses inside from the pasture. Harley practically ran to us when we called them, so apparently he thought coming into the barn was a pretty good idea too. A tiny bit of grain and a flake of hay was all it took to soothe and calm the mighty beasts...aaahh peace. I always sleep better on a stormy night when the horses are safely tucked inside their stalls too. So much for our summer weather. Spring sure seems more volatile in recent years than I remember...the times they are a changin'.
And here we are back to Monday. Back to work, or back to the grindstone as my dad used to say...rest in peace my sweet daddy and Happy Birthday too! June 3rd was my dad's birthday. He's been gone for almost 17 years now, but if he were still living, he would have turned 89 - wow! I can hardly believe it's been that long...and I still miss him every single day. Life's never the same when your mom and dad aren't around anymore. So, in closing...cherish your parents. You will miss them one day. I'm going home and I'm going to ride my horse. Best therapy in the whole, wide world. For me it is, anyway...
Blessings everyone,
Lorie
Oh, and in case you're wondering...today was back to normal. Well, a wee bit warmer than what our normal has been of late. Right around 70, warm and not raining. It's been a good day.
Oh, and...I can't believe I almost forgot!!! 33 years ago today, I graduated from high school!! Oh man, I cannot believe how old I'm getting to be!! Oh well, the alternative's much worse my friends!!! Rock on Class of '78!!! Rock on!!!
But, guess what? This past weekend---we had summer!!! Hot dog!! Hot me!! Hot, hot, hot!! Oooh baby...I was sweatin' and a fannin' and a complainin' bout it bein' so dadburned hot...so soon!! I even filled up the kiddy pool for the pooches...and me!! Ah huh!! And it felt good!! Friday after work, we got the shoes on the horses. This year it's all about me and Ladde. And all about my hubby and his Shadman. Yep, we've had Shad since he was a 3-year old and he's now 19 years young...about time he got some use, wouldn't ya say?? I would be remiss right about now, if I didn't add a small request for prayers for the safety of my dear husband. You see - Shad's quite impressive in the art of "bucking". Ah huh...impressively so. But, he's a good boy. And, we have faith in him. We're gonna have fun, fun, fun riding those two this summer!! Yessiree!! I've been riding Ladde for close to 3 weeks now, and he's doing fabulously well!! I love that horse so much!! Me and Ladde are pards for sure!! We're going to be just fine. Once I find a way to climb aboard, that is. :) Ladde is perfect!!! And, I'm so very, very proud of that horse. I just can't tell you!! Anyway, bragging aside. So far, so good. I've been calm. I've been in control of my emotions. And, I've been in charge. And Ladde knows it...that's the key. When I'm not in charge...he immediately takes control, and that's not good. So, I just need to remember to breathe deeply, relax, sit deep...and ride. Piece a cake!
On Sabbath morning, the sunshine was out in full force. Since so far this spring, sunshine has been very short in supply...we opted to stay home from church and enjoy a leisurely morning at home on the deck. It was beautiful!! For a while. And then it got hot, and hotter and hotter. It was around 85 or so, and since we've been having temps in the 50's and 60's are a heat rush...we were sweatin' bullets. I'm not complaining though...even got a bit of color in my cheeks! :)
Saturday evening we loaded ourselves and our dogs in the truck and headed for the drive-in. Double feature and pizza. What could say summer more than that?? It was great!! Families and people were out in full force!! The smell of popcorn on the evening breeze and a sky full of stars...just beautiful! We got home about 2:30 in the morning!! A bit late for this early to bed kinda gal! Aah, it was fun though, sure felt like a summer's eve for a welcome change!!
Sunday morning dawned a bit overcast and rather balmy by comparison to Saturday, but it was warm and not raining so we weren't complaining a bit. We got our garden plants planted (finally!), the lawn mowed again, housework caught up (sort of) and even had time for an afternoon nap before heading out to do the grocery shopping. We barbecued hot dogs and had raw broccoli salad for dinner...oh, it's good to be looking forward to a few months of long, sunny days and warm nights! I'm soooo looking forward to this summer! There's so much that I want to do, and enjoy...I want to savor each and every possible moment!
Shortly after dinner we heard the rumbling sounds of thunder, and lightening strikes soon followed. The rain started in as well, so we headed out to bring the horses inside from the pasture. Harley practically ran to us when we called them, so apparently he thought coming into the barn was a pretty good idea too. A tiny bit of grain and a flake of hay was all it took to soothe and calm the mighty beasts...aaahh peace. I always sleep better on a stormy night when the horses are safely tucked inside their stalls too. So much for our summer weather. Spring sure seems more volatile in recent years than I remember...the times they are a changin'.
And here we are back to Monday. Back to work, or back to the grindstone as my dad used to say...rest in peace my sweet daddy and Happy Birthday too! June 3rd was my dad's birthday. He's been gone for almost 17 years now, but if he were still living, he would have turned 89 - wow! I can hardly believe it's been that long...and I still miss him every single day. Life's never the same when your mom and dad aren't around anymore. So, in closing...cherish your parents. You will miss them one day. I'm going home and I'm going to ride my horse. Best therapy in the whole, wide world. For me it is, anyway...
Blessings everyone,
Lorie
Oh, and in case you're wondering...today was back to normal. Well, a wee bit warmer than what our normal has been of late. Right around 70, warm and not raining. It's been a good day.
Oh, and...I can't believe I almost forgot!!! 33 years ago today, I graduated from high school!! Oh man, I cannot believe how old I'm getting to be!! Oh well, the alternative's much worse my friends!!! Rock on Class of '78!!! Rock on!!!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Always be thankful...
Sometimes I complain too much. Sometimes I forget to always give thanks to my Lord for my many, many blessings. Sometimes I take blessings and people in my life for granted. Sometimes I need to have a good, swift kick in my behind.
Well, not today. Today, I am thankful for so many things. So many wonderful blessings. And, I'm going to profess quite loudly and quite publically right here, and right now how very beautifully blessed that I am and how much I appreciate the life that my Father in heaven has bestowed upon me. Life is good!
I was just thinking last night when I came from the barn, looking around at our yard, at our home, at our beautiful horses and the cozy little barn that protects them from the damp, cool spring evening that we were experiencing. I was suddenly struck with the overwhelming gratitude that I have a husband who loves me and works so very hard to keep our little piece of the world looking nice. He works so hard. He does so much. Whatever, however would I even attempt to keep up with everything that needs to be done? I sometimes feel overwhelmed with what I have to do, a full-time job, house cleaning, meal preparation, grocery shopping, bill paying, appointment making, organizing, feeding, stall cleaning, yard work, house maintenance, vehicle upkeep and on, and on, and on, and on...but that's just life, right? We wake up each morning and face each day with stuff that needs to be accomplished. And if it doesn't all get done?? Big deal - there's another day tomorrow. Like the Bible reminds us, don't worry about tomorrow because today's worries are enough for today. Sage advice. Just look upward and give thanks. Do what we can, and leave the rest for another day. The grass is always going to need mowing, there's always going to be housework to be done, laundry...well, that's never ending right? Just remember to be happy. Give thanks to God in heaven who provides us with our needs. No matter how bad of a day you may think you might have had...there is always a reason to be thankful and thoughtful of our blessings. Always.
Every morning before I rush off to work, I always take the time to drive down the driveway, do a final headcount of the horses and the llama. I then ask Jesus to watch over our little herd and to please protect them from all harm. Please, just keep them safe...it's always answered. When I get home each evening and their bright little faces are there nickering for their next meal...I try to remember to give thanks. I don't always remember. But, I am always thankful. Same goes for my husband. I pray for his safety and good health. I'm thankful each evening when he comes home...safe and sound. I'm blessed to have a good, steady job in these uncertain economic times. I'm thankful that my boss is a good man. He's kind-hearted and patient. I don't think he's ever raised his voice to me. I'm positive there've been many times he's wanted to. :) I'm thankful that in a small way, I get to work with horses and get paid for it. I get opportunities every single day to help people. It may only be a kind word, an encouraging bit of advice, or a reassuring, "I know how you feel", but I love how good it feels to be useful and be of some good to someone else. I'm thankful for that. I'm thankful that we have enough money to support ourselves and do something occasionally that's purely for fun. I have more clothes and shoes than I need. I certainly have more food to eat than I need. All our animals are plump and well-fed as well. I'm blessed with amazing people in my life, beautiful friends and a loving family. I don't get to see my family as often as I'd like, but if I really want to talk to someone...there's always someone to reach out to. I may not ever have the body I've always dreamed of having, I probably won't ever look good in a swimming suit *sigh*...but oh well...my body has always accomodated me quite well. I'm healthy, I'm strong, and I can do most anything that I set my mind to doing...well, within reason anyway. For all these things, I am thankful.
I was so distressed while watching a little of the news last night. There is so much heartache in our world. So much strife and hardship for so many people. My prayers go out to so very many. That's about all I can do - offer up prayers and let God handle the details. I must always remember that He is in charge. Again, I am thankful for that. We all suffer hardship in our lives. But, no matter how difficult times may be or become...God leads His people through them. We probably don't get out of them because we learn and become stronger because of difficulties, tragedy, loss, pain, disappointment...whatever; but we're never alone. Nope, not ever. Look up and take comfort. He is always there.
So, in closing friends, readers, fellow human beings...don't wallow in your petty little problems of this life. Stop whining, stop complaining about every little thing in your life that you see as less than perfect. Shut up and give thanks for your many, many blessings.
May God forgive us our many shortcomings and grant us patience with one another.
If I've stepped on anybody's toes and you're taking this little reminder personally. Get over it. You probably needed to hear this today. :)
Have a good one...it is your choice you know.
Lorie aka cingspots
Well, not today. Today, I am thankful for so many things. So many wonderful blessings. And, I'm going to profess quite loudly and quite publically right here, and right now how very beautifully blessed that I am and how much I appreciate the life that my Father in heaven has bestowed upon me. Life is good!
I was just thinking last night when I came from the barn, looking around at our yard, at our home, at our beautiful horses and the cozy little barn that protects them from the damp, cool spring evening that we were experiencing. I was suddenly struck with the overwhelming gratitude that I have a husband who loves me and works so very hard to keep our little piece of the world looking nice. He works so hard. He does so much. Whatever, however would I even attempt to keep up with everything that needs to be done? I sometimes feel overwhelmed with what I have to do, a full-time job, house cleaning, meal preparation, grocery shopping, bill paying, appointment making, organizing, feeding, stall cleaning, yard work, house maintenance, vehicle upkeep and on, and on, and on, and on...but that's just life, right? We wake up each morning and face each day with stuff that needs to be accomplished. And if it doesn't all get done?? Big deal - there's another day tomorrow. Like the Bible reminds us, don't worry about tomorrow because today's worries are enough for today. Sage advice. Just look upward and give thanks. Do what we can, and leave the rest for another day. The grass is always going to need mowing, there's always going to be housework to be done, laundry...well, that's never ending right? Just remember to be happy. Give thanks to God in heaven who provides us with our needs. No matter how bad of a day you may think you might have had...there is always a reason to be thankful and thoughtful of our blessings. Always.
Every morning before I rush off to work, I always take the time to drive down the driveway, do a final headcount of the horses and the llama. I then ask Jesus to watch over our little herd and to please protect them from all harm. Please, just keep them safe...it's always answered. When I get home each evening and their bright little faces are there nickering for their next meal...I try to remember to give thanks. I don't always remember. But, I am always thankful. Same goes for my husband. I pray for his safety and good health. I'm thankful each evening when he comes home...safe and sound. I'm blessed to have a good, steady job in these uncertain economic times. I'm thankful that my boss is a good man. He's kind-hearted and patient. I don't think he's ever raised his voice to me. I'm positive there've been many times he's wanted to. :) I'm thankful that in a small way, I get to work with horses and get paid for it. I get opportunities every single day to help people. It may only be a kind word, an encouraging bit of advice, or a reassuring, "I know how you feel", but I love how good it feels to be useful and be of some good to someone else. I'm thankful for that. I'm thankful that we have enough money to support ourselves and do something occasionally that's purely for fun. I have more clothes and shoes than I need. I certainly have more food to eat than I need. All our animals are plump and well-fed as well. I'm blessed with amazing people in my life, beautiful friends and a loving family. I don't get to see my family as often as I'd like, but if I really want to talk to someone...there's always someone to reach out to. I may not ever have the body I've always dreamed of having, I probably won't ever look good in a swimming suit *sigh*...but oh well...my body has always accomodated me quite well. I'm healthy, I'm strong, and I can do most anything that I set my mind to doing...well, within reason anyway. For all these things, I am thankful.
I was so distressed while watching a little of the news last night. There is so much heartache in our world. So much strife and hardship for so many people. My prayers go out to so very many. That's about all I can do - offer up prayers and let God handle the details. I must always remember that He is in charge. Again, I am thankful for that. We all suffer hardship in our lives. But, no matter how difficult times may be or become...God leads His people through them. We probably don't get out of them because we learn and become stronger because of difficulties, tragedy, loss, pain, disappointment...whatever; but we're never alone. Nope, not ever. Look up and take comfort. He is always there.
So, in closing friends, readers, fellow human beings...don't wallow in your petty little problems of this life. Stop whining, stop complaining about every little thing in your life that you see as less than perfect. Shut up and give thanks for your many, many blessings.
May God forgive us our many shortcomings and grant us patience with one another.
If I've stepped on anybody's toes and you're taking this little reminder personally. Get over it. You probably needed to hear this today. :)
Have a good one...it is your choice you know.
![]() |
| We could all take a lesson in life from Annie... |
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Good day sunshine!!!!!!!
Wow, I can't believe that it's been like, 7 weeks or so since I've done a blog posting!!! How time flies!!! Everything's been good...just quite busy, busy busy! And today, I am so very thankful for this most glorious spring day we're experiencing. The sun is shining, there's a gentle breeze blowing and just a few wispy, white clouds in an otherwise brilliantly blue sky...who could ask for anything more? Well...I could be on vacation somewhere soaking up the sun, reading a deliciously erotic novel and sipping a cool and frosty exotic drink but...let's stick to reality shall we? :)
Okay, I'll try to catch things up, even if only partially since my last post. No, I haven't been riding my horse yet. Only within the past week have I been doing regular grooming sessions and exercising Ladde in the round-pen and some on the lunge line; but he's such a good boy, he's doing splendidly. We've been working on engaging the hindquarters and lifting and building his back muscles whilst really reaching under himself with his hind legs. Maybe tonight, I'll saddle him up and do a little work under saddle. I'm having such fun. Last night was our first session working with a new trainer/horseman. He's an english rider himself; specializes in dressage and some jumping. Not exactly what I'm into, but good horsemanship is good horsemanship. I believe that a good classical dressage instructor might just be able to teach us some of the finer techniques of suppleness, collection and fine-tuning our gaits. And...he's an outdoor rider mostly, he likes to get out in the woods and enjoy nature while teaching. Now, that is right up my alley! He lives close by and I'm excited to be working with someone who has such an obvious love for his work.
Harley is doing very well too. He seems to be adjusting to his blindness issues more and more each day. I don't plan on riding him as my regular mount this summer, but I will probably ride him occasionally on flat land only. It seems a shame to leave such an able-bodied horse at home all the time, but I'm not quite ready to rely on him as my main trail mount until we're both more confident. He doesn't seem to mind staying home with the girls most of the time.
We've been doing a lot of yard work lately, trying to play catch up on all the mowing and trimming and weeding that has accumulated since last fall. And, with all the rain we've had this year...we're talking jungle control!! But, with persistence and a lot of aching muscles, we've gotten everything mostly under control again and the yard's looking much nicer. Next will be the raised garden beds and my flower beds by the deck. I've decided to go simple with the garden plans this year. I have 3 tomato plants, will plant 1 zuchini and a few other veggies, but I want to keep it very low maintenance this time. I want to enjoy the nice weather and don't want to be weeding when I could be riding or socializing instead. I'm planning on buying my usual 15 lb. bucket of washed, sliced strawberries to make about 3 batches of strawberry jam and put the rest in the freezer. I always can peaches...can't seem to live without those, and maybe some applesauce, but that's about it, other than frozen blackberries, raspberries and marionberries. Those are simple though, rinse and put in freezer containers for using later.
We discovered that our big horsetrailer suffered some water damage from a leaking roof over the winter. The insulation, ceiling panels and trim all have to be replaced, and the carpeting on the walls and floor are going to require a thorough steam cleaning and deodorizing to kill the mildew. And, obviously the roof leaks need to be repaired. *sigh* All-in-all, about $2800 in total damage. Thank God, we had it insured! We hope to take it to the repair shop very soon, so we'll have it back for summer camping season. We emptied out all our belongings, bedding, etc the other night and I have a mountain load of laundry to be done...fun. But, nothing was seriously damaged, just a little smelly from the accumulation of mildew. Nothing a little bleach and washing can't handle.
We re-painted our kitchen. Everything. Ceiling, walls, trim and cabinets. I even painted one of my hutches to match the cabinets. Also changed out all the hardware and hinges for new. I ordered new curtains for the kitchen, mudroom and the laundry room. Buttery yellow walls, creamy off-white trim and darkish tan on the cabinetry with black hardware. My curtains are plaid material in shades of cornflower blue, sage green and yellow on a creamy background with ticking stripes on the scalloped bottoms. So pretty and clean looking! A much needed cosmetic redo. My hubby got me a new kitchen sink too. It's white porcelin and has one side much larger than the other, and both sides are deeper than my old sink. I'm going to get a long goose-necked faucet and we're all set. One of these days, but down the road for sure...new laminate-wide plank flooring and stone countertops. We did the cheap stuff, but the expensive stuff's gonna have to wait! Oh well, I'm just happy with what we've got so far - it looks nice. Next on my list is re-painting the nook off the kitchen (woodstove room) and our bedroom. It's just amazing how a fresh coat of paint in a pretty color will spruce up a room. If we manage to get those two rooms done...who knows, maybe we'll tackle the living room. If I'm honest, these things will probably wait until summer's over, at least the living room for sure. Don't want to overwork the hubby. :)
Business at the vet clinic has finally gotten busier after a longgggggg winter of very little work. We're very thankful for this, sure hope the economy continues to improve. I'm sure there's a lot of folks out there who can commiserate with that sentiment! Hubby's still working reduced hours, but we're managing. With gas and food prices, and really everything being more expensive it seems...we'll probably be sticking closer to home this season, but no worries about that, because we live within range of a lot of wonderful outdoor recreational areas. And, I HATE to travel far with the horses and the big trailer, so...great excuse to stay closer to home.
I hope that all of you are enjoying spring, your horses, friends and families!!
Blessings and peace...
Cingspots aka Lorie
Okay, I'll try to catch things up, even if only partially since my last post. No, I haven't been riding my horse yet. Only within the past week have I been doing regular grooming sessions and exercising Ladde in the round-pen and some on the lunge line; but he's such a good boy, he's doing splendidly. We've been working on engaging the hindquarters and lifting and building his back muscles whilst really reaching under himself with his hind legs. Maybe tonight, I'll saddle him up and do a little work under saddle. I'm having such fun. Last night was our first session working with a new trainer/horseman. He's an english rider himself; specializes in dressage and some jumping. Not exactly what I'm into, but good horsemanship is good horsemanship. I believe that a good classical dressage instructor might just be able to teach us some of the finer techniques of suppleness, collection and fine-tuning our gaits. And...he's an outdoor rider mostly, he likes to get out in the woods and enjoy nature while teaching. Now, that is right up my alley! He lives close by and I'm excited to be working with someone who has such an obvious love for his work.
Harley is doing very well too. He seems to be adjusting to his blindness issues more and more each day. I don't plan on riding him as my regular mount this summer, but I will probably ride him occasionally on flat land only. It seems a shame to leave such an able-bodied horse at home all the time, but I'm not quite ready to rely on him as my main trail mount until we're both more confident. He doesn't seem to mind staying home with the girls most of the time.
We've been doing a lot of yard work lately, trying to play catch up on all the mowing and trimming and weeding that has accumulated since last fall. And, with all the rain we've had this year...we're talking jungle control!! But, with persistence and a lot of aching muscles, we've gotten everything mostly under control again and the yard's looking much nicer. Next will be the raised garden beds and my flower beds by the deck. I've decided to go simple with the garden plans this year. I have 3 tomato plants, will plant 1 zuchini and a few other veggies, but I want to keep it very low maintenance this time. I want to enjoy the nice weather and don't want to be weeding when I could be riding or socializing instead. I'm planning on buying my usual 15 lb. bucket of washed, sliced strawberries to make about 3 batches of strawberry jam and put the rest in the freezer. I always can peaches...can't seem to live without those, and maybe some applesauce, but that's about it, other than frozen blackberries, raspberries and marionberries. Those are simple though, rinse and put in freezer containers for using later.
We discovered that our big horsetrailer suffered some water damage from a leaking roof over the winter. The insulation, ceiling panels and trim all have to be replaced, and the carpeting on the walls and floor are going to require a thorough steam cleaning and deodorizing to kill the mildew. And, obviously the roof leaks need to be repaired. *sigh* All-in-all, about $2800 in total damage. Thank God, we had it insured! We hope to take it to the repair shop very soon, so we'll have it back for summer camping season. We emptied out all our belongings, bedding, etc the other night and I have a mountain load of laundry to be done...fun. But, nothing was seriously damaged, just a little smelly from the accumulation of mildew. Nothing a little bleach and washing can't handle.
We re-painted our kitchen. Everything. Ceiling, walls, trim and cabinets. I even painted one of my hutches to match the cabinets. Also changed out all the hardware and hinges for new. I ordered new curtains for the kitchen, mudroom and the laundry room. Buttery yellow walls, creamy off-white trim and darkish tan on the cabinetry with black hardware. My curtains are plaid material in shades of cornflower blue, sage green and yellow on a creamy background with ticking stripes on the scalloped bottoms. So pretty and clean looking! A much needed cosmetic redo. My hubby got me a new kitchen sink too. It's white porcelin and has one side much larger than the other, and both sides are deeper than my old sink. I'm going to get a long goose-necked faucet and we're all set. One of these days, but down the road for sure...new laminate-wide plank flooring and stone countertops. We did the cheap stuff, but the expensive stuff's gonna have to wait! Oh well, I'm just happy with what we've got so far - it looks nice. Next on my list is re-painting the nook off the kitchen (woodstove room) and our bedroom. It's just amazing how a fresh coat of paint in a pretty color will spruce up a room. If we manage to get those two rooms done...who knows, maybe we'll tackle the living room. If I'm honest, these things will probably wait until summer's over, at least the living room for sure. Don't want to overwork the hubby. :)
Business at the vet clinic has finally gotten busier after a longgggggg winter of very little work. We're very thankful for this, sure hope the economy continues to improve. I'm sure there's a lot of folks out there who can commiserate with that sentiment! Hubby's still working reduced hours, but we're managing. With gas and food prices, and really everything being more expensive it seems...we'll probably be sticking closer to home this season, but no worries about that, because we live within range of a lot of wonderful outdoor recreational areas. And, I HATE to travel far with the horses and the big trailer, so...great excuse to stay closer to home.
I hope that all of you are enjoying spring, your horses, friends and families!!
Blessings and peace...
Cingspots aka Lorie
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Too much juice!!!
I saw the funniest thing on a local company's sign the other day! And believe me, it is undeniably true in these parts. It read - "Dust" is simply mud with all the juice squeezed out. Well, we have too much juice!! It has been raining every single day of March, and in torrents! Plus, it's been the coldest March on record according to the local weather guy. They're getting all worked up about us possibly breaking the 60 degree mark later this week. Good grief. I'm dying to try out my new walking tennies, but who knows when that'll be!! The dogs and I are going positively bonkers!! Stir crazy I tell ya!! Don't even get me started on what the horses think about this drippy, not even fit for duck weather!!
Rain sucks.
And dust with too much juice sucks even more.
We're going back into hibernation now...see you all when the sun comes out.
"sigh"
Little Frosted Siri L turned 29 years old recently...she don't look bad for an old gal, does she? Don't look at the shaggy hair coat, and don't look at the mud. Oh, and don't look at the sour expression. And for goodness sakes - do not look at the round belly! Just look at the "big picture" and nod in agreement...that's what we do.
We tell her she's beautiful. Every. Single. Day.
That's the way we flow around here.
Have a nice day. :)
Rain sucks.
And dust with too much juice sucks even more.
We're going back into hibernation now...see you all when the sun comes out.
"sigh"
Little Frosted Siri L turned 29 years old recently...she don't look bad for an old gal, does she? Don't look at the shaggy hair coat, and don't look at the mud. Oh, and don't look at the sour expression. And for goodness sakes - do not look at the round belly! Just look at the "big picture" and nod in agreement...that's what we do.
We tell her she's beautiful. Every. Single. Day.
That's the way we flow around here.
Have a nice day. :)
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