Friday, September 17, 2010

Thankful for a good barn...

I am so thankful that I have a barn that I trust implicitly with Grace. My life has been beyond hectic the past month or so...I have not been able to get out to the barn to spend time with Grace let alone ride. I think I've seen her maybe 3 times, but I know she's in good hands. Thank you "R"!!

I miss her terribly. I'm going to try my best to make some time hopefully this weekend.

One of the big reasons I haven't had time to make it out to the barn is that I've decided to make some changes in my life. In my old age I have become extremely sedentary. I have taken up running, using the Couch to 5K program, and Zumba a combo of dance styles that I have just fallen in love with it is so much fun! I need to gain strength, endurance and reap some of the other benefits that will make me a better rider.

So really this riding hiatus is for both of us. (of course it's going to cost me some training time with our barn owner but it will be worth it!)


Saturday, July 31, 2010

WANTED: New BBFF




New BEST BARN FRIEND FOREVER needed. Forever is optional...

I met this girl when I responded to a Dreamhorse add. She had a Black and White pinto that had a trot as smooth as butter.

I remember the first time I went out to meet her at her barn I was so nervous she wanted whoever was going to buy her pony to take a lesson or two with the Barn owner to make sure it was a good fit. She was pretty attached to this pony.

I remember when I left that barn that night I cried because I thought I had found "THE ONE" but buyers remorse had set in a bit even before I decided to buy..then I received an E-mail the next day. I can't remember the wording but I think it was something like....'So Do you want her or not.'

I remember thinking....dang this girl is pushy. But what I didn't know at the time was she was selling "THE ONE" it was her one..and from that day on we have been friends. I have followed her from barn to barn because her research was impeccable and I always knew I could trust my pony anywhere she could trust hers.

But also because I liked her...But now she's leaving not only the barn but going to the Great White North. Alaska.


So I need someone to fill her shoes so if you think you're up for it then these are the requirements

1. Takes no Crap
2. Know's stuff about horses
3. Is always there no matter what with sugar cookies from McDonalds.
4. Answers dumb horse questions without making me feel like a dumb ass. (well at least most of the time)
5. Can gossip without judgement
6. Gets me
7. Plans silly girls night out and is the Designated Driver
8. Can pick up right where we left off after not having time to speak for days/weeks...
9. Will go to a horse shows and cheer me on from the stands or in the ring
10. Will pick me up and take me to the Canby Tack sale for the price of a Mocha
11. Can make unicorn cupcakes with glitter sprinkles...
12. MUST BE FABULOUS!

So if you Think you can fill those shoes then step on up...



Jocelyn, you have been the best mentor a Green horse girl could have. You were there the first time I saw Grace, the first time I sat on Grace, our first show...

I guess this means it's time to put on my big girl panties and head out on my own...begrudgingly.

I hope Alaska brings you all the adventure you can can hadle. Know that you will forever have a spot in my heart...

So here's to you...Ride on Sister, and look out for moose and Grizzly bears.


Sunday, July 25, 2010

We are TRAIL BLAZERS...

Good news my hubby ordered a new point and shoot camera for me today. I've been without one for a while and I really could have used one this weekend.

This is the one we bought the Samsung TL220.

I am really looking forward to taking lots of pictures while we are out on the trail.

So on Sat. we trailered out to McGiver State park and met with my friend Julie and her Dressage horse. It was my favorite kind of ride...uneventful with the exception of the momma Deer that was blocking the trail. We stared at her for a bit moved the horses forward and her two little baby twin fawns popped out of the woods onto the trail. The horses did great. Momma Deer moved on and we passed by the twins I'd say within 20 feet or so. It was relaxing and sooo good to get out and ride. Gracie had quite the workout. Being a pasture princess hasn't been very good for her fitness level. We are going to change that if I have anything to say about it.

Oh and I hooked up the trailer by myself and parked it back where it belonged at the ranch in between two other trailers. GOOO me. I can do this.

So today I had heard a rumor that there was a trail ride posse heading out from the ranch today so I called to see if it was still on. It was if I was willing so I threw on my jeans and boots and hit the ranch. It ended up just being another boarder and I but that was fine it was a good ride. About a mile of gravel road and then miles and miles of BLM trails.

The PNW is one of the most beautiful places on earth and my ride today proved that. It was HOT here today but in the forest it was probably a good 10 to 15 degrees cooler. Grace was alert but spooked a couple of times but it was pretty much again my favorite kind of ride uneventful.

I can't wait to share pictures of our rides in the future. It was an amazing weekend of breathtaking scenery and even better company!!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

The boxes in the corner and a beaded dress

There are these boxes, two or three of them that have been sitting in the corner of the kitchen. I pass by them day after day.

Looking at them, dreading them, knowing that if I opened them I would be making a commitment. A commitment to myself.

They are boxes of Medifast that I ordered a few months ago. I've been telling myself that I'll go back on..that I need to do it for my 20 year reunion, but now that's only two weeks away so that goal flew out the window.

But then, I found the formal dress for the cruise Hubby and I are going on in Nov. Let me tell you it was a GREAT DEAL we are talking SMOKIN' deal...but alas a size too small...so what does a smart girl like me do.

I buy the dress of course a beautiful beaded number that will look amazing with a sun kissed tan and some gorgeous golden high heel shoes.

Then I come home walk over to the boxes, stare at them and make a commitment, once again, to myself. 4 mths. I ask myself how much can I loose in 4 mths?

That was last Thurs. So as of today I am down 9 lbs. First week is water wgt mostly but I don't care. 9lbs is 9lbs

so from the famous 80's band Whitesnake....




Monday, July 19, 2010

The Goddess...




The Goddess is loved by most of the other horses and most people.

(True) - Gracie get's along great with the other horses...and people too, she is a very social animal

They are expressive and sensitive and emotional.

(True) - Gracie is so expressive I can tell instantly if something is not right. She let's me know immediately if she is not happy or something is physically not right. The last show we were at I was in the warm up ring and she was telling me something was wrong..low and behold her cinch had been folded wrong on the off side.

You will know how they feel.

(True) - Every day

They try very hard to please and will worry and be anxious if you are not happy with them.

(True) - She is very eager to please and tries so hard to learn new things. When she knows she's in trouble she wants to make up immediately.

In the negative they can have scattered energy that is hard to get focused.

(OMG Sooo TRUE) Getting her to focus is like trying to ride a greased pig some days. She's just so interested in everything around her.

This personality can be loved on as much as you want.

Thank god cuz she get's LOT's and LOT's of lovin'

Take the Horse personality Quiz and see how your pony does.

http://www.horsepersonality.com/



Monday, June 14, 2010

Days with no horses...

Do Octopus get cranky this one looks kinda cranky. Wouldn't want to run into him on a dark beach.

Good words of advice on the t-shirt above, I am deathly afraid of Tsunami's...it could happen.
We went to Newport Bay for lunch and a trip to the Aquarium...and we picked the only restaurant on the Oregon coast that does NOT serve fish and chips. I loves me some fish and chips.
My youngest offspring...the beach brings out the best in my babies. I want to burn these faces into my brain, for when I want to run screaming from my own home, remember, remember...
My two youngest angels...I hope they always know joy like this.
I live a good life.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

We went it alone...almost.

Today was a big test for Gracie and I. A friend invited us to go on a trail ride with her and who was I to say no..so being still a little nervous about trailering Grace single, I asked a barn friend if she wanted to bring her gelding along for a ride.

I hooked up the trailer, loaded the ponies and off we went. I wish I had pictures but I forgot the camera when I was rushing out the door.

I was concerned because I hadn't ridden Grace since our trip to the Sandy Delta a couple of weeks ago, but again she washed all of those concerns out the window she did awesome!!

Bridge crossing, check, muddy inclines, check, deer, check...No problem for Gracie the wonder horse.

I'll be watching her feet because the weather has been WET to say the least and I'm a little worried that her feet were too soft to be out on some of the rocky footing they have out there.

I could not have asked for better company and a better older, seasoned horse. Who needs a been there done that when I have my Gracie...

What a way to round out this weekend.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Stuff from Around the barn...

My husband let me take the good Camera to the barn the other day and I was just taking random pics..these are a few of my favorites.
Here is Grace in the background wondering if I have any treats...nope never mind then.
This is Chip she's a training horse at the barn. She's very photogenic..
I think this is Nova...but I could be wrong (BO has a few sorrel pony's), she's one of the BO's cutting QH's. She loved having her picture taken.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

A Day of Firsts...


Here we are. My horse and My trailer. Big Girl Dreams do come true!

(Caveat yes I know her pad is cadiwompus it was fixed before we headed out. She would not stand still to be saddled. It was like saddling a greased pig)
Hi blogger peeps...I hope you haven't forgotten about us. Sorry I've been MIA but to be honest Grace has been nothing but a pasture princess for the past month or so...but today we changed that.

Well first number one - I hauled my horse somewhere. I'm not going to say I wasn't a bit nervous. I had someone else's horse with us too so there was lots of precious cargo back there. Grace had that trailer rocking for the ride to the Delta but she was tired and good on the ride home. We made it there and home all in one piece.

Second number one - Our fist off sight trail ride. We went out to the Sandy Delta with our barn owner and a couple of other barn friends. Can you see a familiar blogger pony in the next pic. Does the Black and white give her away? It's JP1 from For the love of a horse She's in the lead practicing for that next endurance ride.
There were lots of flat trails with puddles to play in. I found out how smooth Gracie's lope is (not on purpose) and did lots of trotting. Grace wanted to GOOOOOO. Mom wanted to not Gooooo. So we compromised a couple of times. There were tons of people/hikers with loose dogs, mountain bikes, and other riders. Grace was amazing! Again she shocks me with no real meltdowns while riding, okay there was one but I think it was me having a melt down when she wanted to lope and I really wasn't expecting it. But we worked through it and I stayed on so no complaints really from me.


The above pic of Gracie and I watching our buddy's go into the Sandy river...I'm going to be honest and say that I really wasn't interested in a fight so we kind of hung back.
But Gracie wanted in the water...it took just a little coaxing and she was up to her knees in the water. I had to pull her back before my feet got wet. She can be so fearless.

When we got home she got a bath because she worked today!! It was an amazing day. Thanks Jenne for trusting me with Tonka and not showing if you were nervous (cuz I know you were)

Till next time! Heather and Gracie


Sunday, May 2, 2010

Poked a hole in my sock trail riding...

(Stole this pic from BBFF T'anks lady)

So I'm getting some courage from the group at my barn. I have only ridden Grace once in the last two weeks because of my life not being my own right now...so getting on today took some courage. That courage came in the form of my girls at the barn. There were quite a few of us that took off to the Christmas Tree Farm. I wish I had pictures..but I was so busy trying to be calm I don't think I could have taken any that weren't blurry anyway.

We were out about an hour and a half and Gracie exceeded all of my expectations. She decided she wanted to eat an alder branch and proceeded to give herself a bloody mouth but nothing serious, just some head shaking towards the end of the ride.

She only spooked once and that was at her own reflection in some Green house windows...but other than that she gave a look to a barking dog and then just went on our marry way.

I saw the stick "LOVE" I think I saw a picture of it on one of the blogs I follow but anyway it was great!

I hope to get a lot more of these rides in with Pictures of course...I need a new point and shoot camera. My phone is all I have right now with no zoom and getting it to ready for pics takes forever.

So good news I lived to blaze more trails..I loves my pony...

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Has anyone seen my Treat Lady?

Are you there Treat Lady? It's me Grace,

I was just wonderin' if any people have seen my treat lady? She's been a missin' for a awhiles. I miss my ear scratches and treats, although my days chasing my mare frens outside has been fun and laxing I'm missing my treat lady talks and treats.

So if'n you seen her please tell her I needs brushed and treats..did I mention I miss my apple treats.

My mare fren, Star, says that my treat lady's not everen comin' back...I think she's fibbin' because she's mad that her treat lady made her do a Long, Long ride far away and sleep outside for some nights.

Thanks you for helping a lonely pony...

Friday, April 9, 2010

Meet Mabel, my first equine love.

I loved her, and she loved me...I think.
This is Mabel, I bought her for $800 dollars about 7 years ago probably about $500 too much but back then I had no idea about things like training, papers, confirmation. Zilch, nada.

I have no idea how old she was I was told she might be around 8 or so back then. She was a tiny little thing maybe 14.1 or so. She had been spoiled by her first owner. May had her so buffalo'd when she tried to put a bit in her mouth May just put her head in the air and her owner would just give up and put her away.

She was my first project. I used powdered sugar to get her to take the bit and had no problem and after.
She was a sweet sweet girl and to be honest she would probably be perfect for my oldest Daughter right now and I do feel bad for selling her....just not knowing what ever happened to her in this economy.

She taught me patience.
Reminded me of my obsession with horses
And also taught me that I will never again own a horse with more white than color.

I hope that she is alive and healthy with a little 4-H'er loving on her every day.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

The culprit is..

A nasty impacted baby tooth...who knew horses had issues loosing their teeth. Gracie has had to have 4 of her baby teeth pulled. I had the Ranch Vet check her out today and he floated her teeth (she just had her teeth floated in Nov) because she had sharp points that were causing ulcers in her mouth.

I'm not really sure why she needed a full float again but I'm glad it was taken care of. The Vet paid Gracie some fantastic complements that meant a lot to me coming from him.

I just hope she starts feeling better quickly.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Gracie is under the weather...


She has had a fever this week..at it's highest it was 103.4, but don't worry it was back down tonight to normal. She hasn't been eating all of her hay and even turned her nose up to some of her grain earlier this week. I knew Monday night that she wasn't herself she was lethargic and really just not herself.

I think it's a couple of things. I think she caught a bug at the show and she has just had a hard time getting over it. I also think she is trying to shed some caps and it is effecting her eating.
So the Dr. will give her a good once over tomorrow.

I went out tonight and fed her a couple of treats and loved on her for a bit. Just hoping she starts feeling better quickly.

Monday, April 5, 2010

You just know...

Have you ever had a moment when you were with your horse and you just know...You know that you connect and that they have bonded with you. You just know that this is the "ONE". Gracie is my one...once in a lifetime horse.

I know that horses are animals and some say they don't have emotions like we do, but I know that Gracie knows that I take care of her, that I would do just about anything to make sure she is healthy and fed, and has all that a spoiled equine could possibly ask for. She repays me by giving me wings, priceless.

When I hop down after a ride and loosen the cinch she looks at me with her great big brown doe eyes and I know that she is mine, not because she has to be but because she chooses to be. What an amazing thing, the connection between horses and the people who love and care for them.

I am so blessed to have her in my life, she gives me a space to be just me, not mom, or wife, or employee, just me.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Hold on I need to adjust because...

I grew a pair! We cantered and it was amazing...well at least it was for me. It wasn't very far, it wasn't crazy fast, and it most certainly wasn't pretty but she stopped when I asked, so it was a great confidence booster for me.

More cantering for us tomorrow. We have to get this down for the NAET.

I hope everyone is enjoying Easter weekend...I've spent most of mine alone with the munchkins because my hubby went to Spokane for his Grandmothers funeral. My heart goes out to him and his family.

He'll be home this evening and tomorrow we will celebrate Easter with my parents. Looking forward to my mom's cooking it's always soooo good.

Happy Easter From my family and Grace to you and yours...now go find some eggs!

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Rode a wild pony...

Yesterday Grace was super HOT...she was so excited to go out and ride with the cows. I swear she's a QH in a NSH body. She had one eye on the longhorns the whole time we were in the pasture.

It was an interesting ride. Good for me and for her, I am super excited about getting her out and about this summer.

We rode out to the back pasture and were going to go to the pond but there was a huge flock of geese so we decided to not temp fate and have something crazy happen if they decided to take off.

I think she could easily be an endurance horse she definitely has the speed for it, if you could keep her focused and not too worried about what was happening in the peripheral and if I could grow a pair.

Anyway we had a girls ride today and it was a lot of fun. We talked about the NAET and who was interested. I hope they all decide to do it, I think it would be a blast.

So Grace and I are going to start working on the canter this week. I have yet to ride it. Again I need to just grow a pair and go with it. My how courage falters the older you get.

But we will do it!!!!

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Since we now have wheels...

I'm thinking of trying to get a team together for the National Adult Equestrian team. It sounds like a lot of fun!!

Here is the Facebook link to the info


It's like OHSET for the 21 and over set. It sounds like a great excuse to get together with other horse people and Ride, Camp and just have a great time.

We are making plans and rolling with it!!! Literally.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Directions, Girls, and Trailers...




Earlier this week I asked JP1 to come with me to look at a trailer (my sweet husband has told me to pick one out for my birthday!)


We get lost trying to find it but when we got there I was glad JP was with me. She was a trailer inspector extrodiare. She was in it, over it, under it....She was great. We chatted with the seller for a while..okay for quite a bit found she showed us her horse she had sold and her barn and...well anyway she was quite friendly.

But she did not want to negotiate on the price as she was asking a good price for the trailer. It's in great shape just detailed and no leaks and hardly any rust. It does need new tires but I have a budget and well it was just out of it.


But after a few e-mails back and forth, we came to an agreed price and this trailer will be coming home this week. Pretty SWEET huh?

I am so excited to not have to depend on other people to go to shows and trail riding this summer!

Pretty proud of myself for holding out for the price I was willing to pay.

Who has the best hubby ever...yep that would be me! He says He'll be repaid in Heaven...and I agree!

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

The Show..

Here is JP1 and Star...They did so great! Just had to throw in this pic!
Okay I have to say that I have been putting off posting for a couple of reasons. Number one was I didn't really know how to put into words how to express how I was feeling. Grace and I had the best time ever. Grace won a ribbon in both English classes she was entered in. The best being the 5th place ribbon in the open W/T class. My friend Kim rode her and she beat out quite a few seasoned horses to win that ribbon. It was only Gracie's 3rd time with an English saddle on her back. Rumor has it she could be quite the Circuit horse if I wanted to pursue it. (did I say I teared up/bawled like a baby when I heard her registered name announced with owner Heather Haney following after she placed?)
This was us just warming up in the ring. She was such a good girl. Not one spook during our classes. There were 28 horses in the ring it was insane!
I had friends from work, blog friends (Hi JP2 and Char), and even old Barn owners from where Gracie has lived (they even helped me groom and tack her up because I was shaking so bad). It meant the world to me to have a cheering section, even if it was my mom asking why I didn't wear the right bra (sports bra next time). I wish Gracie's trainer could have been there...she would have been so proud. We missed you Rebekah!!!

I had such a great time. I didn't care that we didn't place in our classes, it didn't even matter. In my mind I won! We have two ribbons to put on the wall and I could not be happier.

My mom had a big bouquet of flowers waiting for us by Gracie's stall when we were done with our classes and I took a deep breathe and cried (thank you mom!!! you most of all know what this meant to me) ....What I learned was you can do anything you dream of doing, it may take years but it is so, so sweet when it happens.

Oh and I can't forget my horse widowed husband...without you this dream never would have happened, and I can't thank you enough, ever.

Till next time, Show Pony Grace and the 12 year old girl who came out to play on Sat. (me)

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Getting ready to live the dream....

So here we go, our show is in two days. We are not ready, or should I say I'm not ready, but Gracie is more than ready. I hear rumors that this is going to be a pretty big show and I could not be more excited.

I've been sent "The List" from JP1. Seem doable, bought new jeans, hat (on fence about wearing it) and have put my fear on the back burner. This is going to be FUN.

Just ask my mom, I've been waiting to do this for YEARS longer than I am willing to admit. I don't care if we win a ribbon. These Girls just wanna have fun!

My poor husband thinks I've left him I'm sure because I've been gone every night and when I come home I stink of horse and leather. (smells like heaven to me but I'm sure not everyone can relate)

Grace is going to be riding in 5 classes if all goes well, 2 english (ridden by my friend Kim) and 3 western with yours truly at the wheel. I should go back to my first posts about Grace and see what my hopes and dreams were 2 years ago.

We are living the dream baby...every day.

Wish us luck and if you can make it out to Mt. Hood Equestrian Center Gracie would love to meet you!

Sunday, February 28, 2010

When you can't figure it out yourself ask for help...I did.

So my last few rides have not gone as well as I like. Grace is in love with the exit gate. She makes googly eyes and always wants to be as close as possible. I am trying to break off this love affair as it is seriously interfering with our training sessions...The gate seems indifferent but Gracie doesn't seem to mind being ignored by it. I think she looks at it as a challenge. Always want what you can't have.

Anyway I've been having some issues with sitting her trot and her weaving towards the middle of the arena or just being a wiggly worm when we are trying to go straight. I could not figure out what the hell I was doing that was confusing her.

Well THANK YOU! to the BBFF. We went to lunch and talked about our issues so she kindly agreed to watch me ride and to see if she could help. She gave me some great advise about Centered Riding (I must get this book) and watched us ride and low and behold I am leaning, and that lean is pushing Grace to the center of the arena. Here I thought I was putting more pressure on my inside leg when in reality I was leaning to the right and pushing her over.

So after we figured out that issue she did great!! We went on a nice stroll outside and really enjoyed out time today!!

BBFF you are a rock star! I owe you a drink or two.

Monday, February 22, 2010

What Gracie does while I'm working for her rent.

Note...JP1 took these pics today while she was out toodling around while I was slaving at work, you can see more of there adventures at For the love of a horse

So today was another beautiful spring day in the PNW...and while I was stuck in an office going over spreadsheets earning Grace her rent and grub, Grace was out with JP1 and the BO getting some trail miles on her. Would you believe that the horse in the pic is the same Crazy skeerdy horse from 6 mths ago. Training with R has been the best thing that could ever happen to her.
She is turning into a steady Eddie! WHO KNEW...I can't wait to get some of my own miles on her. Summer cannot get here fast enough. This is going to be the year for Grace and I.
Look at Gracie while R is being silly pretending to fall off. R if you are reading this...THANK YOU for the time and effort you have put into my horse!

P.S. I am not Jealous at ALL..............................................;-P


Sunday, February 14, 2010

Posting Trot = My legs HURT!!

So yesterday I went out to ride Grace..it was quite the event. Let me preface this by saying I am NOT a trained rider. Never have been. I've ridden a bit and can follow instruction when I have a trainer but otherwise I have always ridden and stayed on by the Grace of God or whatever luck I seem to have surrounding me on that particular day.

I have never been taught how to do a posting trot until recently and to be honest it was hard to get. Now Grace was bred to be a English Pleasure/Saddleseat horse. The pony pic below's sire is Gracie's Grandsire.


She didn't cut the breeders mustard so she came to live with me. She really should be a Hunter because her trot is insane she can MOVE, and to be honest I have been a little chicken to ride it out.


Until yesterday. She is getting fit since she has been in training with R and she was feeling GREAT. So I decided to find some courage and let it ride. It was awesome. She moved out and my posting felt natural and it was a fantastic ride. She was collected and giving to the bit (most of the time).

I can sure feel the workout in my legs, I worked way harder than Gracie did yesterday.

I hope I can get her pace down for the western jog...she does it but you can tell she really loves to move out into the extended trot!


Exilerating is all I can say. Now if I can just find my cantering cahonas we'll be doing great!!


Saturday, February 13, 2010

Confessions of a chronic Dieter..Friday wgt in

Well I have good news and I have bad news. I have lots of excuses for not being on plan this week. That's the bad news. Dieters who slip always have excuses so here are mine...

1. My husband has been gone, so I don't want to make a mess in the kitchen that I have to clean up.
2. Taking care of a two year old alone makes me hungry
3. I have been pretty sick with a cold so if you can't taste the food it doesn't have as many calories.
4. Superbowl...need I say more
5. There is always tomorrow

As you can see all of the excuses are BS but Chronic dieters need to blame something.

Part of the confession is that I have to be accountable for what I ate. I ate A LOT. Period.

So I got on the dreaded scale which I had been avoiding all week....ready to take the blow. I closed my eyes and stepped up....Peeked and saw NO wgt gain. WHAT? But no wgt loss either.

Now I have to say that next week we have a co-workers Sugar Crack cookies coming in on Monday to work.

And a pot luck for FAT Tuesday. It seems the universe is against me. I know it's all mental, don't forget I'm a chronic dieter I know this stuff.

Anyway Stats for the week

2nd week -0 total -20 lbs

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Feeling Sappy...so bear with me

I am missing something right now...my better half, my best friend and my partner. The person that makes me laugh when I really just don't want too. The person that makes me feel beautiful when the mirror is trying to convince me that I am not.
I know I'm sounding kinda co-dependent but you know I guess I am. I depend on him to keep me warm on chilly nights (tangling my feet up in his) and to keep me sane when insanity creeps in.
He has made me believe that there really are good men out there...when I had pretty much decided that there was no such thing.
He makes me better, He makes me believe, and He makes my heart beat....

This is my Valentines present to you babe...I love you.

Friday, February 5, 2010

Friday weigh in....not so great

So this week has been a tough one on plan about 90% of the time, but that 10% I was sure threw my body chemistry into chaos.

I have been trying to figure out what threw me of coarse this week but I think I figured it out. Nature is a cruel beast.

Oh and to top it off my sweet brother in-law sent us these ubber fantastic brownies from a bakery in Brooklyn. Now I know that I should have said no but I really wanted one of those sweet and salty goodies that had been flown across the US just for us. I would love to say it wasn't worth it but I can't, it was fabulous. If you are ever looking for the best brownies ever I recommend BakedNYC !

Anyway I'm back on track and hope to have better luck next week...

So here we go...don't judge.

-0 lbs total -20 lbs

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Shocking...but true

Have you ever seen a NSH wrangle cows? Don't let anyone tell you they can't! Well let me tell you I have a cow horse. I went to the barn the other night and by the time I had Grace tacked up the BO and her husband had 4 cows in the arena.

Now if you have been following my blog you know that Grace is afraid of her own shadow..well at least she used to be. At first she was just very interested in what the BO was doing...she was working one of her cutting horses, Gracie's ears had a bead on the cow.

Well the cow started to come towards us and BO said "Hey can you turn him around" I looked around to see who she was talking too..."Who me?" "Yeah, she'll be fine" "Okay" I said with little conviction. So with some direction from BO Gracie did great! So then we chased one cow around the area for a bit and let me tell you Gracie got worked up SHE LOVED it. She wanted to chase those cows right back out in the pasture when they were getting put away and wanted those moo cows to come on back in to play.

I didn't know that her breed could be cow'y. It was a lot of fun and I definitely will do it again!

Amazing Grace, what can't she do? We will just have to wait and see!

Friday, January 29, 2010

Had a goal, need new one!

I'm the queen of dieting, I know all the tricks and use them all to my advantage. I've been dieting half of my life it feels like. So when I start a diet I don't dwell on the big number, you know the final goal wgt I dream of, I set little goals for myself.

Well I am so happy to report that Goal number 1 was reached this morning. I have lost my first 20 lbs. YEAH ME! So since I can't do my normal and reward myself with food..what do you think a good reward would be? Manicure? Pedicure? A new pair of shoes? Hmmm, maybe all of the above!

It's been really rough this week. I started a new job and there are lots of treats in the break room, pretzels, choco covered raisins, animal cookies, the best Thai place right out the front door, oh and lets not forget the donuts. Good god it's like goodie heaven. A obstacle course of useless calories (my favorite kind). But I overcame the temptation this week and it paid off!

I can do this...it's hard and damn I want a DQ bacon burger and onion rings...but not enough to through me off of this track I'm on right now.

-4 lbs total -20 lbs (whoop whoop)

Monday, January 25, 2010

Girls love pink and ponies too...

It has to begin somewhere...the passion for ponies. I think mine started when I was about this age. She has a good seat don't you think.
Gotta learn to brush the ponies. Mila was very good at this job. Even a two year old can appreciate a shiny pony.
Bring her over here momma! I can get on by myself. I love this face.


Friday, January 22, 2010

Weigh In Day...


So let's talk about food. I love food. Good food, and unfortunately I'm not as young as I used to be and the Good food loves me too, well it loves my thighs and my ass.

But I started this diet 3 weeks ago, and as of today I am down 16lbs. I lost 4 lbs this week. I can't say that I don't miss eating out. It really is something that I love to do with my husband. A drink and a good steak or even a REALLY good Cheeseburger and fries. Alas I was not dealt the metabolism to deal with high fat foods.

I see visions of skinny jeans and tall boots (which I already bought).

So here's to everyone with a New Years Resolution you are working so hard to keep!

Keep Moving,
Keep Motivated
and you will Keep Losing!

Wgt Loss this week -4 lbs total 16 lbs

Thursday, January 21, 2010

I found IT!!

TA DA...what do ya'll think? I think it's going to look fabu on Gracie. So now I totally have to get on this WL thing. It's going well. Tomorrow will be official weigh in so I'll hold off on the total.

I have to say it hasn't been easy but the Wii is a great motivator and using the FIT has been a blast.

Grace and I had a crazy ride last night with the wind howling and Gracie pulling out the Llama impersonation it wasn't overly fun. She was a ball of dynamite so I didn't push it too far.

But today was a different story the weather was beautiful and she was working the wall very well. I was relaxing in the hiney and had a good relaxed seat. Her trot is getting better and it's not as hard to keep her moving forward. We are working on her getting collected and staying collected at the trot. It's coming along.

We went out and rode in the front pasture and it was so nice! Just wandered around and saw the sites.

Looking forward to a long grooming session and ride tomorrow.






Sunday, January 17, 2010

Green Horses prove you're not the rider you think you are...

I have just recently REALLY started riding Gracie, and I HURT. You would think that riding a horse is simple.

Get on
Give Kick
and
your off

Oh no. It's quite an art. I am learning that first hand. My biggest issue is relaxing into the saddle, I find myself (excuse the description) puckering up and being tight through the hips, which cause me to grip with my thighs which sends mixed signals to Grace. A green horse doesn't know what your asking for, or in Gracie's case she's used to having an experienced rider guide her (our trainer) but when I get on I am not strong enough or coordinated enough to have it look effortless. We are going to be working on this A LOT.

So I will be working on riding like jello. Relaxing and disengaging my hips to rock with Gracie's rhythm instead of forcing mine. Her collection is coming along for a 3 year old I'm not expecting a lot, just a little :-)

She is learning the Western Jog NSH style. Higher head and faster than the QH peanut roll.

I found the shirt for our show and am stuck on what color, solid or pattern saddle pad/blanket to get.

Here's the shirt.

What do you think, solid Lavender or a Lavender pattered blanket? I think a Field trip the the girls is in order to find the perfect one.

I think I'm obsessing a bit but I have been waiting to do this for YEARS!

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Lot's of things going on....

Well I resigned from UPS after working for them for 9 years. I'll be starting a new job on the 25th. It's a weird feeling starting over but I am very excited about it. Okay more than a little excited.

I have sent off our entry for our first show. An All Breed Open Horse show to benefit The Arabian and Half Arabian Club of Oregon. Grace is entered in 5 classes. I'm a bit nervous but I've been going an watching my friends show there ponies for years now and now it's my time. If you want to come out and support us it will be at the Mt Hood Equestrian Center on March 13th.

29450 SE Lariat Ln
OR 97009

Off of 26 towards Mt. Hood.

Gracie and I will be riding in the afternoon. JP1 has been kind enough to let my oldest daughter show Star in Showmanship! I can't wait to watch her it will be quite an experience for us.

So I'm on the lookout for a show shirt and a new pad. It's actually a little overwhelming. So we have a lot of work to do in 7 weeks. And not to make it any more nerve wracking is that Gracie's breeder will be the judge.

So on to this weeks wgt loss...okay I have to admit I cheated once. And it shows in my loss for this week.

-2 lbs total -12 lbs in two weeks.

I promised myself I am not falling off the wagon again, no matter how much the Cheeseburgers call to me! I must get in show shape!
.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Gracies Head + My Head = Black eye




So today was play day at the barn! It was awesome. The barn has an amazing group of girls to ride with.

No we didn't win anything, but that's not the point. We did the Trot Race, Egg and Spoon Race, TP race, Simon Says, Pole bending it was a Blast. Gracie enjoyed it so much!


Grace was calm as a cucumber and she did everything asked of her...now on to the black eye.

Gracie and I were pole bending...Trotting the pattern and I don't know what came over me but I being super smart decided this was the time to get this girl up into the canter. (We have never cantered, EVER) and well the stop came quicker than I expected so her head went up my ass came up and my head went down and we had a meeting of the minds. Not the good kind either.

But we survived and we didn't have an ass meet dirt moment so it's all good.

We also have a goal. We have an ALL BREED OPEN Show that we have committed to in March. We have a lot going on this year and it's looking good so far!

So as promised total wgt lost this week -10 lbs. I know good right but I have to admit I haven't been super good this weekend. It's been a bit difficult! But back on the bandwagon tomorrow. No excuses!


Wednesday, January 6, 2010

LOL Catz...

Okay I have this cat. When I found him he was this sweet tiny, tiny, tiny kitten. He was so tiny I just couldn't leave him at the shelter knowing what his fate would be. So I took him and another little female calico home with me that day, not knowing the hell that owning a cat brings.

Sorry enough of my pity party over nasty kitty litter, putting on claw covers so that my furniture doesn't get more destroyed and the circling at dinner time...
My chicken little kitten turned into this - I sh!t you not a 31.5 lbs poop machine that doesn't really fit in the cat box anymore. He has his own Mii on the Wii Fit so we did the body test and I about died when his weight popped up, I almost died because I had to hold him for 30 seconds. Let's put this weight into perspective...our 2 year old only weighs 32 lbs.

He's so big we've had to remove the lid to the litter box because he didn't fit in the door, he actually got stuck in it and I had to pull it off of him. (Note the shoes next to him are size 12 men's burki's)

When he lays on his side kinda Jabba-ish, like a distant cousin.

His name is Porter....and he is HUGE....

P.S. I will never own another cat for the rest of my life. DOGS Rule.



Monday, January 4, 2010

Look out Longhorns here we come

God I wish I took my camera with me every time I went to the barn. This past Sunday we did 2 things we have never done.

1. We ran (okay trotted) the barrel pattern in preparation for the game day coming up at the barn. It was so much fun. She did great. I don't think she has professional barrel racing in her future but she did learn the pattern pretty quickly. I learned that I need to seriously work on my balance but dang it was FUN!

And here is the biggie:

2. We rode in the big pasture OUTSIDE! Yes I finally rode Gracie outside. She was amazing nothing fazed her. We rode out with a group of gals from the barn and she was far from being herd bound or barn bound. She loved it walked out like she has been doing it for years. IT WAS what I have been waiting for for 1 1/2 years with this pony. She loved being outside and wanted to explore as much as I did.

I think we rode for like a total of 2 hours and I could barely walk when we were done but when I hopped off I swear I was walking on cloud nine.

She will be a trail horse and you know what she may even be great at it!

Don't ever let anyone tell you that a certain breed is only good for this or that..I truly believe that a horse is what you make it, and she is going to be a very well rounded horse. Our trainer has done an amazing job. I couldn't be happier!

GO US!

Friday, January 1, 2010

What will 2010 bring?

Grace Wishes all of our horse com padres a very Happy New Year. May it bring many great rides and butt loads of nickers and nuzzles.

We plan on blazing many trails, getting in riding shape and the big one..wearing a pair of breaches without scaring the livestock!

This is the year that I start on my road to being a real rider. What are your goals?

Every Friday from this week on will have the weight lost for the week at the bottom of the post. I'm going to have you guys keep me honest and on track.

May your rides be long,
your poop piles small
and our horse partners Healthy

Love to you all. H. + Gracie.