It wasn't that bad out this morning, almost 50 degrees and not raining. As Raven was being fed, the sound of kicking came from the first paddock, there was Calypso cast inside the shelter up against the gate with both hind feet sticking out. She must have been down a while, she wasn't struggling as much as she should have been in that position. After trying to pull her away and not able to accomplish much at all, Mike was called to come quick. Wouldn't you know, just as he drives up, she gives one more huge panicked try and was able to free herself. She seemed ok but that was frightening. When her owner was asked if she was for sale, the owner replied, "yes but only for a million dollars!" In other words, this mare is LOVED! She will be teased today along with the Saddlebred mare in for breeding. The Saddlebred mare should be ready to cover today according to her owner. Raven sure hopes so, he has been upset each time one of the younger boys get HIS business.
The first round of the walk wasn't too bad but by the time we reached Joan's house a spitting rain had started, the wind picked up and temperature dropped. By the time we were crossing the dam to Rachel's house it was down right awful. We quit and headed in to mom's where we finished the morning with a great breakfast. Mom still has vine ripened tomatoes she served with farm fresh eggs, savory sausage, whole wheat toast, fresh squeezed orange juice and hot coffee. So today instead of walking for exercise we sat around visiting and eating probably defeating the purpose of the morning.
The wood burner is keeping the apartment nice and cozy. There was still hot coals left from last night making it very easy to just add a few logs this morning. This morning the house was still warm. We burned a total of 4 pieces of wood yesterday and the wood burner kept the house a very comfortable 77-78 degrees. Hope it works as well when the weather outside is REALLY cold.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Ahhh Heat
Right after work it was time to fire up the new wood burner. Now I don't want to brag or anything but it was soon 70 degrees in here and rising. All was just wonderful until the smoke detectors started screaming. Pride truly goes before the fall, just when I'm feeling nice warm and dare I say proud, the doors had to be thrown open letting all of this delicious heat out, the fans were put on full blast to clear out the little bit of smoke that made it all the way up to the 12 foot ceilings and a sweater put back on.
Mark must have those smoke detectors set to go off if the thermometer hits 70, it couldn't be there way the fire was started, could it?
During work today a man called asking for the farm address and wondering if Super was still available. He was given the address but made no mention of coming. About 15 minutes after arriving home a truck drives up with 2 men. They take pictures of Super and drive away. They drove all the way down from Chicago to take pictures of him back to a friend.
New Baby Dill
Born today at 12:52pm. Weight 6 lbs and 12 oz and 16.5 inches long. Name to be announced (when we decide). The above email came in late last night. What a beautiful little pickle! Congratulations Jamie and John DILL, they now have 3 boys and 2 girls. More congratulations go to AMY!!! She gets to play with them, spoil them, then send them home.
We are in the middle of a storm, lots of rain, wind and wind driven rain pounding on all 3 of the windows in this little haven. There will be no walk this morning and not even breakfast, work awaits. We have the main chaplain for the state of IL coming in on Wednesday and he wants 2000 sets of lessons and the letter explaining the study.
Mark just could not wait the recommended 24 hours before building a fire, but it was just a paper fire. He just wanted to see if we have enough draft and all looks great. We are going to WANT to light it tonight, a cold front is coming.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Internet
Mark somehow magically got the internet to work, finally the pictures from this morning can be uploaded. My hip has been giving problems on the walk, just to keep up with the fast walkers, today on the second round I cheated and rode the golf cart. When my foot was too tired to push the gas pedal, mom offered to pull the cart on the second round.
She has a true servant heart and was real willing until when we started back across the dam. Ruth & Rachel got tired and jumped on also, by the time we were half way across mom was just plain MAD!
THIS DID NOT REALLY HAPPEN, please don't turn us in for elder abuse, it was all a set-up!
Steven showed up today early, he moved Killian and Indy to the cabin field to make room for the outside mare. He teased her today before working horses but no go.
Tyler Joos our farrier came in the afternoon. We had quite a line up for him today. The first one done was Jakob, his very first trim job. OK, he wasn't perfect, he tried a few times to get away but Tyler got the job done without too much fuss. As soon as he was done with DaMita and Izadora, Steven loaded them up and took them to Middle Grove.
Rhoda came over after work to do more training on Ella the pony. Check out the pictures below. Steven taught Rhoda how to do this on Sunday and by Monday that pony almost has the bow and lay down down pat.
Rhoda finished her up by some pedestal training.
What a GREAT pony! THANKS AGAIN AMY!! Steven had already worked, Super, Jewel, Calyopso, Eliza and Jenis leaving Rhoda Ella and Zalena.
Zalena is such a nice mare, she tries so hard to please Rhoda. Notice anything familiar about the pictures below?
Rhoda followed the same program with Zalena as she did with Ella. First the bow, then the lie down and she finishes with the pedestal training.
She has a true servant heart and was real willing until when we started back across the dam. Ruth & Rachel got tired and jumped on also, by the time we were half way across mom was just plain MAD!
THIS DID NOT REALLY HAPPEN, please don't turn us in for elder abuse, it was all a set-up!
Steven showed up today early, he moved Killian and Indy to the cabin field to make room for the outside mare. He teased her today before working horses but no go.
Tyler Joos our farrier came in the afternoon. We had quite a line up for him today. The first one done was Jakob, his very first trim job. OK, he wasn't perfect, he tried a few times to get away but Tyler got the job done without too much fuss. As soon as he was done with DaMita and Izadora, Steven loaded them up and took them to Middle Grove.
Rhoda came over after work to do more training on Ella the pony. Check out the pictures below. Steven taught Rhoda how to do this on Sunday and by Monday that pony almost has the bow and lay down down pat.
Rhoda finished her up by some pedestal training.
What a GREAT pony! THANKS AGAIN AMY!! Steven had already worked, Super, Jewel, Calyopso, Eliza and Jenis leaving Rhoda Ella and Zalena.
Zalena is such a nice mare, she tries so hard to please Rhoda. Notice anything familiar about the pictures below?
Rhoda followed the same program with Zalena as she did with Ella. First the bow, then the lie down and she finishes with the pedestal training.
Jenis' Colt
The video above was made for his owner. Jakob will be picked up in December but we wanted his owner to see how wonderful this boy moves.
There is no Internet at the farm, the video was just thrown together then loaded on an external hard drive and downloaded at the shop.
Our BIG news is Braelyn now crawls. She had to show off for grandma.
Amy's daughter Jamie delivered a little girl this afternoon. Amy reports SHE is PERFECT! Unfortunately Amy's mom is in the hospital in Florida with a mass in her stomach. Please pray for Clarkey, Amy's mom.
Steven worked a few horses, helped with the video brought 5 horses in for our farrier, then drove Izadora and DaMita out to Middle Grove.
A mare came in today for Raven, she is not yet in but according to her vet will be in by Wednesday.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
The Gingerbread House
The house below is the Gingerbread House Mike and Spark moved to Middle Grove.
It is down by the creek well hidden from thieves and bad guys. Really they hauled it down into that valley because the horses don't hang out down there. At the regular camping spot the horses won't leave our guests alone. The house now has a bathroom with running water from the creek and heat. Coming soon will be bunks, a fire place and kitchenette.
If anyone has twin size mattresses in good condition they want to get rid of, this would be the 'perfect' place to donate them.
We think they need to add big candy canes on either side and fake frosting around the eves and windows, perhaps a fake thatched roof and just maybe a large oven. Skip the oven there are no witches that eat little kids in that area, just wild animals that howl, screech and scream all night long. This will be the stay there if you dare place.
Steven had a very productive day today, He worked 8 of our horses and Calypso the outside mare in for breeding. That mare he has walking quietly in and out of a trailer and she has now learned to lunge. Rhoda came out after church and was riding Ella the pony. She has Ella now bowing when she is ON her. Today Steven started Ella on the lie down. He put her down twice and both times she is good. That is one smart pony!
It is down by the creek well hidden from thieves and bad guys. Really they hauled it down into that valley because the horses don't hang out down there. At the regular camping spot the horses won't leave our guests alone. The house now has a bathroom with running water from the creek and heat. Coming soon will be bunks, a fire place and kitchenette.
If anyone has twin size mattresses in good condition they want to get rid of, this would be the 'perfect' place to donate them.
We think they need to add big candy canes on either side and fake frosting around the eves and windows, perhaps a fake thatched roof and just maybe a large oven. Skip the oven there are no witches that eat little kids in that area, just wild animals that howl, screech and scream all night long. This will be the stay there if you dare place.
Steven had a very productive day today, He worked 8 of our horses and Calypso the outside mare in for breeding. That mare he has walking quietly in and out of a trailer and she has now learned to lunge. Rhoda came out after church and was riding Ella the pony. She has Ella now bowing when she is ON her. Today Steven started Ella on the lie down. He put her down twice and both times she is good. That is one smart pony!
Time Change
Don't forget to set your clocks back today. Last night around 7:00pm all was done and we were finally able to eat dinner so drove to Gills supper club in Hanna City, IL with Karin and Rhoda. As we were rehashing the day Mark mentioned about the time change. Karin said more than likely she would have forgotten and would have shown up at church an hour early.
A lady is coming to see Super today after church. She is welcome to stay as long as she likes but we have to be pulling out at 5:30pm, Mark is in charge of hymn sing tonight. We need to get there around 6:00pm and set up the chairs.
A lady is coming to see Super today after church. She is welcome to stay as long as she likes but we have to be pulling out at 5:30pm, Mark is in charge of hymn sing tonight. We need to get there around 6:00pm and set up the chairs.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
The SHOW
Karin was asked to put on a small vaulting clinic for the show and below is her effort. We think she and her new vaulting team did GREAT.
DISCLAIMER!I DID NOT TAKE THIS VIDEO. One of the mothers of a little vaulter did and the movement is the poor mom shaking in fear. Please don't watch if you get car sick. The kids did great. They nailed all of their dismounts and smiled for the audience.
This was actually a teaching vaulting clinic so those wanting to learn vaulting or those wanting to teach vaulting could learn all about vaulting!
Below is Steven Marchal with Evan. Steven started trick training Evan after the 2009 IL Horse fair down in Springfield, IL. Just LOOK how far they have come together!
He did very well for his first time in an arena by himself. Rhoda went to the show after we had left. Some people, and these were actually knowledgeable horse people, told Rhoda, Evan did very well, except at the end he fell over. We started laughing and couldn't stop. They really didn't think he just fell did they? Steven was actually behind Evan driving him when he asked for the bow, as there is pressure on the reins, Evan was sure Steven wanted him to lay down.
We had to rush back to the farm, the Springfield PonyClub was coming for a vaulting clinic. Well they came early before we were able to finish everything but all went well with that.
By the time they were leaving Kay Johnson showed up, she is bringing in a mare for Raven on Monday and wanted to make sure we would have room. Nope we will have to move some of ours out to make room, hate to turn down paying customers.
Steven brought out Ciera and worked on her bow and lay down. Ciera LOVES the laying down part. Steven is explaining to her he is getting on and she is to LIE still! AND SHE MINDS!!
Well like I said Ciera really likes that laying down part, she loved the attention and the kids could do about anything to her without a reaction. The pulling below was only for the picture, what was amazing is she didn't move until told she could, what a great 2 year old filly.
Karin pulled Eliza out and was working her while Steven was playing with Ciera. When Eliza finished, she gives Karin a big hug. She really likes Karin.
Super was the next horse worked. He is doing so well Rhoda actually trotted him a bit.
Today he was just pulled from the paddock and Rhoda climbed on. We had 7 horses worked today by all THREE of the Horsemeister TRAINERS! How blessed we are to have THREE talented trainers all working together!
What a great day, long but great, good weather, good friends and great horses.
DISCLAIMER!I DID NOT TAKE THIS VIDEO. One of the mothers of a little vaulter did and the movement is the poor mom shaking in fear. Please don't watch if you get car sick. The kids did great. They nailed all of their dismounts and smiled for the audience.
This was actually a teaching vaulting clinic so those wanting to learn vaulting or those wanting to teach vaulting could learn all about vaulting!
Below is Steven Marchal with Evan. Steven started trick training Evan after the 2009 IL Horse fair down in Springfield, IL. Just LOOK how far they have come together!
He did very well for his first time in an arena by himself. Rhoda went to the show after we had left. Some people, and these were actually knowledgeable horse people, told Rhoda, Evan did very well, except at the end he fell over. We started laughing and couldn't stop. They really didn't think he just fell did they? Steven was actually behind Evan driving him when he asked for the bow, as there is pressure on the reins, Evan was sure Steven wanted him to lay down.
We had to rush back to the farm, the Springfield PonyClub was coming for a vaulting clinic. Well they came early before we were able to finish everything but all went well with that.
By the time they were leaving Kay Johnson showed up, she is bringing in a mare for Raven on Monday and wanted to make sure we would have room. Nope we will have to move some of ours out to make room, hate to turn down paying customers.
Steven brought out Ciera and worked on her bow and lay down. Ciera LOVES the laying down part. Steven is explaining to her he is getting on and she is to LIE still! AND SHE MINDS!!
Well like I said Ciera really likes that laying down part, she loved the attention and the kids could do about anything to her without a reaction. The pulling below was only for the picture, what was amazing is she didn't move until told she could, what a great 2 year old filly.
Karin pulled Eliza out and was working her while Steven was playing with Ciera. When Eliza finished, she gives Karin a big hug. She really likes Karin.
Super was the next horse worked. He is doing so well Rhoda actually trotted him a bit.
Today he was just pulled from the paddock and Rhoda climbed on. We had 7 horses worked today by all THREE of the Horsemeister TRAINERS! How blessed we are to have THREE talented trainers all working together!
What a great day, long but great, good weather, good friends and great horses.
Anticipation!
Today is the DAY!!! The BIG CANCER CARE FUND Raiser at Gray Horse farm 14323 N. Savage Rd Brimfield, IL 61517. EVERYONE is welcome, come out and enjoy the day with horses, lots of horses. There is an entrance fee, after all it IS a fund raiser but don't let that stop you, it is ONLY $10.00! Isn't that a small price to pay for an entire day of entertainment? The vaulters and their parents will start arriving in just over an hour. Ribbon and Bow need to be all slicked up, braided, and cleaned. Evan needs a good grooming, he and Valiant were playing in the mud yesterday. Karin wants to pull out of here at 9:00am. We cannot be late, the vaulters perform at 10:15am and it will take 30-40 minutes to get there.
Gitza Peterson the owner of Gray Horse farm has a very nice line up of horses and riders. She has English (jumping, dressage, vaulting, and trick training) scheduled for the morning with Western, including cowboy mounted shooting, for the afternoon. COME ONE, COME ALL!
Gitza Peterson the owner of Gray Horse farm has a very nice line up of horses and riders. She has English (jumping, dressage, vaulting, and trick training) scheduled for the morning with Western, including cowboy mounted shooting, for the afternoon. COME ONE, COME ALL!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Friesian Heritage Paper Work
Finally, finally, there were enough copies made of each of the 50 studies that other work could be done. The paper work for Zalena, Killian, and Super was filled out, hair pulled from each of them and mailed in with a check for $160.00 to register all 3 and DNA 2. The Friesian Heritage Horse has a rule that EVERY purebred Friesian horse must be DNAd. Probably a good idea. Steven and Rhoda were working horses when I arrived to pull hair. Sure is nice to have help. Something was done with each one of the horses in training right now and all were great. They had Evan and Valiant in the indoor and of course the pictures taken inside are terrible but so funny.
Below is Rhoda and Evan taking a rest from trick training.
Rhoda climbed on Valiant, Steven led him over the tarp and asked him to get on the bridge. Evan came running up behind the bridge, he wanted to be in the picture also.
Valiant is learning how to do the Spanish walk with a rider.
While Valiant was busy working Evan was sticking his foot in a bucket, dragging things around the arena and sticking his nose where it didn't belong right in front of the camera.
Evan always wants to be the center of attention and when the camera is focused on Valiant, he has to get up close and personal. These young Friesian boys are such clowns!
Below is Rhoda and Evan taking a rest from trick training.
Rhoda climbed on Valiant, Steven led him over the tarp and asked him to get on the bridge. Evan came running up behind the bridge, he wanted to be in the picture also.
Valiant is learning how to do the Spanish walk with a rider.
While Valiant was busy working Evan was sticking his foot in a bucket, dragging things around the arena and sticking his nose where it didn't belong right in front of the camera.
Evan always wants to be the center of attention and when the camera is focused on Valiant, he has to get up close and personal. These young Friesian boys are such clowns!
Evan's Turn to SHINE
We just heard that Evan and Steven will be performing at Gray Horse Farm tomorrow morning for the cancer fund raiser. The vaulters are on at 10:15am and Steven will bring Evan in right after they exit the arena. Hope someone will video tape that.
More information on this fun fundraiser is below:
This is a fund raiser for the Illinois Cancer Care Foundation. It is going to be held at Gray Horse Farm 14323 N. Savage Rd Brimfield, IL 61517 starting at 9:00am and finishing up around 4:00pm. The cost is $10.00 for anyone over 8 years old.
Holly has hired Steven to start Calypso's training while she is at the Horsemeister farm and today that mare learned to lunge. She is not in season and we are getting conflicting signals from Fire. We think she is out, she kind of acts like she is out but no kicking or squealing, and all the boys think she is still in.
We have sunshine today, what a nice break after our very cold rainy day yesterday. With all the rain pond is filling up fast.
Today is catch up day, everything that didn't get finished yesterday is in the process of getting done today.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Productive Day
What a GREAT day, thousands of copies were made and hundreds of Bibles processed. Confession time, I had help today. It was such a cold rainy day, that when Amy Koch finished the feeding at Bridlewood, she did not want to stay out in the barn and called to see if she could volunteer somewhere WARM for the rest of the day. Poor Amy didn't know what she was getting into. When someone offers THAT we NEVER turn them down. She arrived and we worked until 1:00pm then took an hour for lunch. Of course we went to Denny's then the farm to let Darcy out for a bit. We were both wondering where Emma was until our brains remembered she was at the Dunlap Vet clinic being a hero. Unfortunately the dog that desperately needed help died before receiving the 400 CCs of blood Emma donated.
Back at the shop we got all the Bibles addressed and mostly stamped until we ran out of 20 cent stamps. Tomorrow the post office will be visited before heading in to the shop so the 6 more boxes missing stamps can be finished.
Amy and I got back to the farm just in time to help Karin with the dress rehearsal of the vaulting team. All of her work adjusting the program added just 2 minutes. She is suppose to fill a half hour at the show on Saturday and is right at 16 minutes.
Karin sent a text to Gitza, the owner of Gray Horse Farm to see if she would like Steven to bring Evan as a filler for the last 14 minutes.
Once the vaulters left we ended up in the office drinking hot tea just trying to warm up. Because of the cold the flies were all wanting inside and Amy was determined to kill any that dared enter.
Either that or she was getting back at poor Karin. She would say, "hold still Karin" whack her a good one, then say, "whoops you moved."
The email below came in this morning: I just watched Steven and the boys!! Wow is all I can say on those boys!! Gorgeous absolutely.gorgeous. Steven has done a fabulous job.
Wish you were closer. I would be begging Steven to make regular stops at my place.
Vicki
That email was sent to us because of the video below. Steven is just training the boys, this is not a finished video but it shows how great the boys are for him.
Back at the shop we got all the Bibles addressed and mostly stamped until we ran out of 20 cent stamps. Tomorrow the post office will be visited before heading in to the shop so the 6 more boxes missing stamps can be finished.
Amy and I got back to the farm just in time to help Karin with the dress rehearsal of the vaulting team. All of her work adjusting the program added just 2 minutes. She is suppose to fill a half hour at the show on Saturday and is right at 16 minutes.
Karin sent a text to Gitza, the owner of Gray Horse Farm to see if she would like Steven to bring Evan as a filler for the last 14 minutes.
Once the vaulters left we ended up in the office drinking hot tea just trying to warm up. Because of the cold the flies were all wanting inside and Amy was determined to kill any that dared enter.
Either that or she was getting back at poor Karin. She would say, "hold still Karin" whack her a good one, then say, "whoops you moved."
The email below came in this morning: I just watched Steven and the boys!! Wow is all I can say on those boys!! Gorgeous absolutely.gorgeous. Steven has done a fabulous job.
Wish you were closer. I would be begging Steven to make regular stops at my place.
Vicki
That email was sent to us because of the video below. Steven is just training the boys, this is not a finished video but it shows how great the boys are for him.
Equestrian Lifestyle Expo
Check out the flyer below by clicking on it. This sounds like a lot of fun to horse lovers all over the midwest.
November 19-20, 2011
Expo Center, Lake County Fairgrounds
Grayslake, IL 60630
Halfway between Chicago & Milwaukee
Sat. 10am–7pm, Sun. 10am–5pm
Tickets: 1-day $8, 2-day $14
click on the link below for more information
www.horsemenscouncil.org/expo
Now that both Valiant and Evan have paying customers Steven has been after me to change the website. Well that job was accomplished as there will be no walk this morning, it is raining and windy we instead met over here for breakfast, afterall there is always much to catch up on from the last 24 hours.
Diane brought the eggs, Rachel brought the just baked dutch babies, mom brought a peach cobbler with blackberry sauce and I furnished the sausage and bacon.
I wasn't happy with the pictures used for the website as the boys look so young in them. We will hire Rachel of momentscapturedbyrachel for better pictures in the spring, they will almost be 3 years old then. Holly made the comment yesterday after Valiant cover her mare Fire, "WOW he is TALL!" These boys have really filled out and are looking mature at 28 months old. She was impressed with how well behaved Valiant was with her mare.
Today is copy day, I'm heading in to Meisters to make THOUSANDS of copies of each of the Bible studies. As far as sending out Bibles, the individual request can be filled today but there will be no chaplain requests filled. We can't UPS those out when it is raining, the boxes must stay on the loading dock. Rhoda called during breakfast that Emma might be needed today for a blood transfusion. This use to be Darcy's job but we think it is a good idea for Emma to start giving HER blood.
Karin's vaulters have a dress rehearsal that I must be back for but I think that is probably around 4:30pm.
November 19-20, 2011
Expo Center, Lake County Fairgrounds
Grayslake, IL 60630
Halfway between Chicago & Milwaukee
Sat. 10am–7pm, Sun. 10am–5pm
Tickets: 1-day $8, 2-day $14
click on the link below for more information
www.horsemenscouncil.org/expo
Now that both Valiant and Evan have paying customers Steven has been after me to change the website. Well that job was accomplished as there will be no walk this morning, it is raining and windy we instead met over here for breakfast, afterall there is always much to catch up on from the last 24 hours.
Diane brought the eggs, Rachel brought the just baked dutch babies, mom brought a peach cobbler with blackberry sauce and I furnished the sausage and bacon.
I wasn't happy with the pictures used for the website as the boys look so young in them. We will hire Rachel of momentscapturedbyrachel for better pictures in the spring, they will almost be 3 years old then. Holly made the comment yesterday after Valiant cover her mare Fire, "WOW he is TALL!" These boys have really filled out and are looking mature at 28 months old. She was impressed with how well behaved Valiant was with her mare.
Today is copy day, I'm heading in to Meisters to make THOUSANDS of copies of each of the Bible studies. As far as sending out Bibles, the individual request can be filled today but there will be no chaplain requests filled. We can't UPS those out when it is raining, the boxes must stay on the loading dock. Rhoda called during breakfast that Emma might be needed today for a blood transfusion. This use to be Darcy's job but we think it is a good idea for Emma to start giving HER blood.
Karin's vaulters have a dress rehearsal that I must be back for but I think that is probably around 4:30pm.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Steven's Boys
This morning Calypso arrived. Steven actually had to go get her but her owner lives only about 8 or so miles away. Calypso is a Raven daughter that is coming in to breed to Evan. Below she is meeting her daddy for the first time.
Calypso is a tall mare, her owner believes she is around 16.2 hands tall and by looking at the picture below one can tell she takes after her sire.
Her dam is here to be bred to Valiant and once Calypso was put away Fire was brought out and covered. Today Valiant was excellent, he listened to Steven, mounted when told he could, and once he finished the job he walked away quietly. He sure does take after his sire, RAVEN.
A trip to Sam's was next in my schedule as 13 pizza's needed to be ordered and paid for. Mark was given the receipt as he was going to pick them up at 5:15pm and take them straight to church. Spark was at the shop and mentioned he had an extra plastic barrel so that was loaded up into the back seat of the car and taken out to the farm. This will make things much easier for Rhoda to teach the horses to barrel race, she has 3 barrels again. By this time it was getting close to 3:00pm, the outdoor arena was picked up and raked and the video camera brought out to video Steven training the boys. He starts by line driving the both of them out to the field and into the arena. Unhooks them, just leaves Evan free while he asks Valiant for the Spanish Walk. When it is Evan's turn, Valiant is just turned loose in the arena. Both boys are very respectful of Steven and do not bother the one that is working. They were both let loose for some fun time to run. Karin showed up just as Steven was bringing in the boys and he showed her what he's been teaching. Watch the video below, I know I'm impressed I think you will be also. These boys are ONLY 2 YEARS OLD.
Karin asked me to do the speaking at the show on Saturday and had the vaulters run through the program. The vaulters are suppose to fill a half hour and after the first run only 15 minutes had gone by. Karin is going to put more into the program.
Ruth and Anni Davidovics actually beat me to church and found out it was all locked up. Jozef Davidovics has a key and was gracious enough to drive over and open it up for us. By the time I arrived Ruth and Anni had all the tables set. David & Stephanie also came early to help. By the time Mark arrived with the pizza, Stephanie had the salad made and we each had a slice of hot pizza before the crowd started to arrive. Diane & Mike showed up to help before the prayer and we were so glad she did. She took one look at the table and asked, "how are they going to get their food to their plates?" We quickly took all the plates off the tables and put them on the serving line. By this time even some of the guests started helping with that. We had 156 big slices of pizza when the meal was started and by the time it ended there were 8 left. Out of 170 cookies there were about 20 left and the salad was all gone.
Calypso is a tall mare, her owner believes she is around 16.2 hands tall and by looking at the picture below one can tell she takes after her sire.
Her dam is here to be bred to Valiant and once Calypso was put away Fire was brought out and covered. Today Valiant was excellent, he listened to Steven, mounted when told he could, and once he finished the job he walked away quietly. He sure does take after his sire, RAVEN.
A trip to Sam's was next in my schedule as 13 pizza's needed to be ordered and paid for. Mark was given the receipt as he was going to pick them up at 5:15pm and take them straight to church. Spark was at the shop and mentioned he had an extra plastic barrel so that was loaded up into the back seat of the car and taken out to the farm. This will make things much easier for Rhoda to teach the horses to barrel race, she has 3 barrels again. By this time it was getting close to 3:00pm, the outdoor arena was picked up and raked and the video camera brought out to video Steven training the boys. He starts by line driving the both of them out to the field and into the arena. Unhooks them, just leaves Evan free while he asks Valiant for the Spanish Walk. When it is Evan's turn, Valiant is just turned loose in the arena. Both boys are very respectful of Steven and do not bother the one that is working. They were both let loose for some fun time to run. Karin showed up just as Steven was bringing in the boys and he showed her what he's been teaching. Watch the video below, I know I'm impressed I think you will be also. These boys are ONLY 2 YEARS OLD.
Karin asked me to do the speaking at the show on Saturday and had the vaulters run through the program. The vaulters are suppose to fill a half hour and after the first run only 15 minutes had gone by. Karin is going to put more into the program.
Ruth and Anni Davidovics actually beat me to church and found out it was all locked up. Jozef Davidovics has a key and was gracious enough to drive over and open it up for us. By the time I arrived Ruth and Anni had all the tables set. David & Stephanie also came early to help. By the time Mark arrived with the pizza, Stephanie had the salad made and we each had a slice of hot pizza before the crowd started to arrive. Diane & Mike showed up to help before the prayer and we were so glad she did. She took one look at the table and asked, "how are they going to get their food to their plates?" We quickly took all the plates off the tables and put them on the serving line. By this time even some of the guests started helping with that. We had 156 big slices of pizza when the meal was started and by the time it ended there were 8 left. Out of 170 cookies there were about 20 left and the salad was all gone.
Update from Dawn
Hi Judy ,
Just wanted to let you know that JoHanna is doing great ! We call her "Shimmer" as a barn name and the whole family adores her. I must admit that when she first arrived I thought she might be getting sick (shipping fever or something) because she was just so calm and easy going. It turns out that is just her nature. As long as you present it to her in a calm manner she takes everything in stride and is very easy to work with. She really does try to please.
I really could not be happier and I'm looking forward to watching how she develops (I'm sure she gets taller every day.)
Thanks again,
Dawn
p.s. It's really hard to get pictures of her without help because she is so curious about everything she will not stay far enough away!!
HOW WE LOVE to hear updates! What is really funny is one lady that bought a filly from us were sure we must have drugged her because: she was just so calm and easy going.
Below are a few pictures Dawn sent along with the email. Now I would not suggest letting your young child bathe a 7 month old filly UNLESS it is a RAVEN filly!
Just wanted to let you know that JoHanna is doing great ! We call her "Shimmer" as a barn name and the whole family adores her. I must admit that when she first arrived I thought she might be getting sick (shipping fever or something) because she was just so calm and easy going. It turns out that is just her nature. As long as you present it to her in a calm manner she takes everything in stride and is very easy to work with. She really does try to please.
I really could not be happier and I'm looking forward to watching how she develops (I'm sure she gets taller every day.)
Thanks again,
Dawn
p.s. It's really hard to get pictures of her without help because she is so curious about everything she will not stay far enough away!!
HOW WE LOVE to hear updates! What is really funny is one lady that bought a filly from us were sure we must have drugged her because: she was just so calm and easy going.
Below are a few pictures Dawn sent along with the email. Now I would not suggest letting your young child bathe a 7 month old filly UNLESS it is a RAVEN filly!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Darkness Falls
Mark brought home the brand new wood burner for the office in the back of his truck. The easiest way to get it off the back of the truck is to use the skid steer but before putting the bucket on that we needed to use the bale spear to move a round bale in for Fire the outside mare. While we were working on that Diane called to see if we would like to go to Middle Grove to see the new building Mike and Spark moved from War Memorial Drive out to Middle Grove. Spark & Rhonda drove out with Mike and Diane, Rhoda met us at Mike's law office to drive out with us. Unfortunately the sun was sinking fast and before we arrived at the Middle Grove farm darkness had fallen. We were driving our little Toyota Matrix on those rough farm lanes and actually made it all the way to the creek without losing any car body parts.
The building is charming. It is a small 2 story that reminds one of the gingerbread house in the story of Hansel and Gretal. No pictures of that tonight, it was just too dark. We headed back to Hanna City to eat dinner at Gils Supper Club and saw Amy Beth, her husband Jarad, her 3 daughters and her father-in-law there. During dinner Mike and Diane told us about what happened last night when trick or treaters showed up at their door. With no candy in the house, Mike pulls a frozen pizza out of the freezer and hands it to them. He just didn't want to face any tricks in the morning.
After dinner it was off to the farm house for more ideas on how to make this 150 year old house into a home. It was after 9:00pm before Mark finally was able to open the box containing the wood burner.
The building is charming. It is a small 2 story that reminds one of the gingerbread house in the story of Hansel and Gretal. No pictures of that tonight, it was just too dark. We headed back to Hanna City to eat dinner at Gils Supper Club and saw Amy Beth, her husband Jarad, her 3 daughters and her father-in-law there. During dinner Mike and Diane told us about what happened last night when trick or treaters showed up at their door. With no candy in the house, Mike pulls a frozen pizza out of the freezer and hands it to them. He just didn't want to face any tricks in the morning.
After dinner it was off to the farm house for more ideas on how to make this 150 year old house into a home. It was after 9:00pm before Mark finally was able to open the box containing the wood burner.
FREE CONCERT!
HEY EVERYBODY I just heard Psalm 100 is coming to the Old School Center on Saturday November 12th, at 7:00pm. This is one function you WONT WANT TO MISS! COME and enjoy their wonderful 4 part A Cappella harmony. There will also be plenty of time to sing along or just listen to the music.
Psalm 100 is a group from Bluffton Indiana. They are coming to sing at the Peoria county jail on Sunday November 13th, when Spark found out they were coming they were asked if they would also sing at the Old School Center in Farmington, IL. The address for this FREE concert is 568 Vernon St Farmington, IL.
If you would like to hear them and are from out of town and need over night accommodations contact Dan Meister at 309-208-4957. The Old School Center has plenty of rooms and suites available for reasonable prices. Why one could make a weekend away with wonderful entertainment. All you men out there, is this something your wives would like? Absolutely!
Good Day
The sun was shining for our walk but it was COLD! Diane came over with her grand daughter, put her in Braelyn's stroller but wanted to keep her bundled up so tied her in with a set of reins, yes from a bridle, those kind of reins.
As we started across the dam the windmill gleaming in the early morning sun with the beautiful fall colors made a nice picture.
Notice how still the air was, no wind at all, it doesn't matter right now but once the windmill is hooked up and ready we will PRAY for wind. On the way back from Spark & Rhonda's Ebby comes running up dragging this snake
mom actually got it for free at a garage sale, gave it to Heidi and when Heidi put a hole in it she gave it to the other dogs to play with. Once Ebby has a toy, no other dog will try to claim that toy.
At Meister's Eva Jean was keeping the copier going while the Bible studies were entered and after making 2000 copies of just number 1 we needed to quit to meet the guys for lunch.
After lunch at our usual place with our usual waitress, Tammy, it was time to head back to the farm where Steven was working Eliza and Zalena.
Once he put those girls away, Valiant was brought out for Fire. He remembered from yesterday and got a little too excited. Steven had to walk him away for a bit but he got the job accomplished without too much drama. The second time tells the story, then they know what is coming and if they will still listen to their handler all goes well.
Steven took Ciera for a small trail ride before working both boys.
All together Steven worked Jenis, Zalena, Eliza, Ciera, Jewel, Super, Valiant and Evan.
We got an email from the manager of Diane Cullinan's farm that she would like to breed Jazz to Raven again. So all three boys have business even this late in the year!
Stuck in the door of the Horsemeister office was the flyer below.
This is a fund raiser for the Illinois Cancer Care Foundation. Karin's vaulters will be performing. It is going to be held at Gray Horse Farm 14323 N. Savage Rd Brimfield, IL 61517 starting at 9:00am and finishing up around 4:00pm. The cost is $10.00 for anyone over 8 years old.
As we started across the dam the windmill gleaming in the early morning sun with the beautiful fall colors made a nice picture.
Notice how still the air was, no wind at all, it doesn't matter right now but once the windmill is hooked up and ready we will PRAY for wind. On the way back from Spark & Rhonda's Ebby comes running up dragging this snake
mom actually got it for free at a garage sale, gave it to Heidi and when Heidi put a hole in it she gave it to the other dogs to play with. Once Ebby has a toy, no other dog will try to claim that toy.At Meister's Eva Jean was keeping the copier going while the Bible studies were entered and after making 2000 copies of just number 1 we needed to quit to meet the guys for lunch.
After lunch at our usual place with our usual waitress, Tammy, it was time to head back to the farm where Steven was working Eliza and Zalena.
Once he put those girls away, Valiant was brought out for Fire. He remembered from yesterday and got a little too excited. Steven had to walk him away for a bit but he got the job accomplished without too much drama. The second time tells the story, then they know what is coming and if they will still listen to their handler all goes well.
Steven took Ciera for a small trail ride before working both boys.
All together Steven worked Jenis, Zalena, Eliza, Ciera, Jewel, Super, Valiant and Evan.
We got an email from the manager of Diane Cullinan's farm that she would like to breed Jazz to Raven again. So all three boys have business even this late in the year!
Stuck in the door of the Horsemeister office was the flyer below.
This is a fund raiser for the Illinois Cancer Care Foundation. Karin's vaulters will be performing. It is going to be held at Gray Horse Farm 14323 N. Savage Rd Brimfield, IL 61517 starting at 9:00am and finishing up around 4:00pm. The cost is $10.00 for anyone over 8 years old.
Knight
Knight is coming back. We are hoping to free lease him out. Knight belongs to the Reinhards. They are in Haiti for at least another year and by the time they arrive home their children will be too big for him. He is probably around 12.3 hands, is now 6 years old and has just been a pasture ornament for a couple of years. Before that he was trained by Emily Ricketts, video below is right after she brought him back. We thought at the time Joan was going to sell him but she decided after the video was made not to.
Now if you take him on and LIKE him, we will try to get permission from the Reinhards to let him go permanently. He will need a refresher course but but is not a mean pony. Knight was born on their property out of Beauty a registered POA and by the very famous DUKE obviously before Duke was gelded. He was handled extensively until the Reinhards felt called to go to Haiti.
Now if you take him on and LIKE him, we will try to get permission from the Reinhards to let him go permanently. He will need a refresher course but but is not a mean pony. Knight was born on their property out of Beauty a registered POA and by the very famous DUKE obviously before Duke was gelded. He was handled extensively until the Reinhards felt called to go to Haiti.
Asked For
They have heard of it but haven't seen it, well here it is again. We had more than a few people ask to see a video of a birth. This is Ylse giving birth to her first Raven daughter. The filly has been exported to Canada. Her full sister (Indy)is still available.
We were pretty sure Ylse was going to deliver during the night and the kids all had a birthing party here. They were so excited about this they just couldn't sleep. Finally around 1:00am they were told, "she is not going to have this baby unless you stop checking on her and be quiet." At 3:00am when I heard the water break, all of them were so sound asleep it was not easy to wake them. Ylse was so good about letting all of them watch and handle the filly.
Today I will need to go in early to Meister's and pay the first of the month bills before Eva Jean shows up for the Berean work. Copies will need to be made while we are working as they weren't done last week. The letters are stacking up and need to be processed. The Bibles will need to be processed and sent out. Ellen got the $1.00 stamps for us and for Gail Hodel, those need to be picked up from TEMCO. Gail's will be picked up also and given to Spark to give to Rhonda and she can give them to Gail as Rhonda and Gail work together at the jail on Tuesdays.
Now I'm not usually a whiner but today I need prayers. The hip pain has gotten pretty bad, I need to find a doctor in our plan. Preferably a doctor that not only knows what he is doing but is reasonable and NICE! The last time I went to a doctor (other than the Gulf Shores medicare) was 21 years ago, they told me I was fine then charged $90.00. That cost was considered outrageous back then and at that point decided forget it, I would only go back if there was a reason to go back.
so enough complaining!
Rhoda came over last night and helped set up the voice mail on the new phone. What would we ever do without our precious kids! Probably be stuck in the dark ages.
We had some very scary visitors last night, our dogs were horrified at what was knocking on the door and then we LET THEM IN!
We were pretty sure Ylse was going to deliver during the night and the kids all had a birthing party here. They were so excited about this they just couldn't sleep. Finally around 1:00am they were told, "she is not going to have this baby unless you stop checking on her and be quiet." At 3:00am when I heard the water break, all of them were so sound asleep it was not easy to wake them. Ylse was so good about letting all of them watch and handle the filly.
Today I will need to go in early to Meister's and pay the first of the month bills before Eva Jean shows up for the Berean work. Copies will need to be made while we are working as they weren't done last week. The letters are stacking up and need to be processed. The Bibles will need to be processed and sent out. Ellen got the $1.00 stamps for us and for Gail Hodel, those need to be picked up from TEMCO. Gail's will be picked up also and given to Spark to give to Rhonda and she can give them to Gail as Rhonda and Gail work together at the jail on Tuesdays.
Now I'm not usually a whiner but today I need prayers. The hip pain has gotten pretty bad, I need to find a doctor in our plan. Preferably a doctor that not only knows what he is doing but is reasonable and NICE! The last time I went to a doctor (other than the Gulf Shores medicare) was 21 years ago, they told me I was fine then charged $90.00. That cost was considered outrageous back then and at that point decided forget it, I would only go back if there was a reason to go back.
so enough complaining!
Rhoda came over last night and helped set up the voice mail on the new phone. What would we ever do without our precious kids! Probably be stuck in the dark ages.
We had some very scary visitors last night, our dogs were horrified at what was knocking on the door and then we LET THEM IN!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)