Horses, Friends and FUN!

6 weeks and hospital discharge!

2012-01-27T10:44:00.000+13:00

So I had to rethink the 6 week goal, which was to get back on a horse, after some freinds and my husband thought this not such a great move.
But I did go for a drive to Raglan so that will have to do instead. The seatbelt was a bit irritating so I won't be going far just yet but another thing ticked off the list.

Had my 6 week follow up and x ray appointment at hospital during the week also. Everything healing as well as can be expected so am now officially discharged from the hospital.
Doctors comments "you've copped a decent sort of a bash and will be fragile for a while yet"

Lucky and her foal are now down in Taumaranui with Chanelle. We will go back and get her foal probably about the end of March.
He did amazingly well and handled the trip without a moments fuss. Helped no end I am sure by Lucky being so easy and well travelled herself.

Tomorrow marks 7 weeks. We are going riding with friends as a test to see how strong I am and just how much riding I can cope with.

Had a bit of a sit and a small wander on Trix yesterday and have to admit to feeling a bit vulnerable.
In saying that though, I felt vulnerable walking down a corridor in the hospital 2 days ago with people coming towards me on my sore side. Concrete pills required ;-)

a busy weekend for some

2012-01-15T19:46:00.001+13:00

Week five's goal was to see if I could go without pain relief. For 2 days now I have coped pretty well and not taken any drugs during the day. Just Ibuprofen at night to ensure I get to sleep.
Yay for small achievements. Actually I have been feeling heaps better this week and managing to do quite a bit more each day.

A friend came and stayed for the weekend to help catch up on the horsey jobs. Things were starting to pile up and really needed to be done.
The frustrating weather hasn't really helped. So much rain this summer.

Lucky and foal are off to Taumaranui next weekend so Lucky can get in foal to our friend Chanelle's, lovely sporthorse stallion, Oakley.
Chanelle is keeping Lucky and once he reaches weaning age, we will go back and pick up her foal.
So today he had 3 big sessions of being caught, learning to lead, and spending time on the float. He really handled it all very well. So far his temperament appears to be sound so that is a big plus.

They also scouted another fundraiser trek for the dog trial club. This one sounds awesome and they both said it was a bit more challenging than the last one.

Next weeks goal for me was to get back on a horse. 3 people have now said they don't think that is such a good idea so I might have to rethink that one. maybe it will be to drive the car again.......................

Welcome 2012

2012-01-06T15:46:00.000+13:00

Not much to say but a few people are asking about my progress and it seemed a fairly positive post to start the new year off with.

I didn't quite make the first goal of being home from hospital by week but the next goal was to be able to shower standing up by week 2.
Sad aye that I couldn't even stand long enough to wash myself. Actually I couldn't even wash myself properly. Week 2 coincided with Christmas and I didn't want anyone seeing the plastic chair in the shower.
That goal was achieved a day early.

Week 3 goal was to sleep in a bed again. Lying down was very difficult and painful so I spent most of my time in a lazy boy chair.
The drugs were affecting me badly at this point too and I made to decision that pain was preferable to throwing up 3 times a day (inflicting more pain) so paracetamol and ibuprofen became my friends.
Sleeping lying down is still not great, but I am sleeping bed every night.

Week 4's goal was achieved 2 days early. It was too walk around the horse paddock. It's about 20 something acres in size and normally takes around 20 minutes to walk round. Yesterday I did it in 30 minutes. Had to come straight in and sit down for a while but I did do it.

Not my best year.............

2011-12-21T10:50:00.000+13:00

2011 has thrown up more challenges than I really wanted and it hasn't finished yet.

Last Saturday, 3 of us headed off for a normal farm ride. Without going into too many details, I got into trouble very quickly on the unpredictable Chief and this time it ended badly.

My memory is sketchy at best of events but it involved an ambulance ride to hospital.

I have multiple rib fractures, a collarbone broken in 2 places, bruised lung and bruises that are amazing, especially as I don't normally bruise very much.
There was some concern over my left hand but it is just heavily bruised.

So after 8 days in hospital, taking in some heavy duty drugs, I have been home for a few days now and am starting to feel a wee bit more comfortable.

Chief was gone by the time I got home, to the one person I would trust with him. I truly believe he is grass effected but know that he will not trust me again and I will never be sure of him either.

So stay safe everyone, enjoy the holiday break and roll on 2012 aye

Juno goes to the big kids school

2011-12-08T21:36:00.001+13:00

After removing Miss Juno from the paddock full of lush green grass, yesterday the sweet, submissive pony returned.

We only did a short ride as things were going so well that I didn't want to push it.

So this afternoon, I pulled on my new 'brave boots', loaded her in the float and headed to Waikato Equestrian Centre for an afternoon lesson with the adult riding club.

There are a few members on youngsters so it seemed as good a time as any but I guess, 2 weeks under saddle is a bit more challenging.

There was quite a bit of activity with horses going around all over the place. A western show is being held over the weekend and people have turned up early and were working in their horses. I was a wee bit concerned but in all honesty, Juno behaved like a star.

She was sensible and tried hard. We didn't get much of a canter out of her but she was getting pretty tired at that point.

Some times, it really is the small things

2011-12-06T18:39:00.001+13:00

Today, while attempting to do a bit of tidying up in the garden, I found an old birds nest again with some white mane hair. It made me smile for a moment and then sad to think that the reminders become fewer as time passes.

Day 2 today of riding Juno at home. Lets just say, lesson learnt and she has been removed from the 20 + acres paddock of grass and is now confined to a much smaller area with minimal feed.

It's quite different bringing them home to where they have never had to really work, compared to when you do all the work at home.

She is really trying it on a bit, or as Charlie says, she is BEING trying! But it's not too bad and we are working through it.

So Juno had to work a bit harder today till she decided to be the nice submissive pony I know she can be.

There is a good chance I won't be able to lift my arms high enough to feed myself tomorrow, but at least the pony behaved ;-)

Foal time

2011-12-05T15:32:00.001+13:00

9 week old Paul showing signs of his Peruvian Paso breeding below?

Foals are so appealing!

There's that Starfish pose again

Off on a mission.

Solo day today :)

2011-12-03T21:35:00.001+13:00

Today was the last day with Bryan. I had to do a solo with him observing and correcting me along the way.

I've been catching her and saddling her up during the week but then he takes over and does the work.

Bridling is a bit of an issue with me not being able to reach very high and Juno with a habit of a very high head carriage.

I don't do bribes with the horses unless I am really stuck but Bryan made me think of it more as a reward, so that when Juno is asked to lower her head, which she does well, then to reward her for the behaviour with a piece of carrot can speed the process up.

It's a reward to release the pressure of course but carrot can be an added incentive.

I will change the way I think about food around the horses :-)

Juno was a good pony and cooperated well for me. We were allowed to go down to the paddock after a few minutes in the round pen.

We did a bit of trot and even managed to raise enough speed for canter. I noticed today that I am actually smiling in this photo below. That's a whole new feeling.

But wow am I unfit. I know we have managed a few rides of late but those 8 months of not riding much at all have had an effect.

Seeing these pictures make me realise just how far I have come in recent times. Me, on a newly broken in horse, cantering out in a paddock. Hopefully all those nerves and fears have gone for good.

Today was my turn day

2011-12-02T21:24:00.001+13:00

Some days you just know from the beginning are going to be days where changes are made.

This morning, I put my big girl boots on, and did something I should have done quite a while ago. If friends really are friends, they will accept what you say, even though they may not like it, because it comes from the heart and is not said to hurt. Although an ego may have been somewhat....dented.

If the outcome is not what I intended, then I have to live with it. It was the right thing to do, of that I am sure.

Today was also significant, today I was riding Juno for the first time. Bryan rode her out first (photo above) and then it was back to the round pen for my turn.

I was a bit nervous to be honest! So very different mucking around at home to having someone watch your every move!!

And I have developed some horrible habits while wandering around the country. Time for some lessons I think!

But it was all good. I survived the spook when we first entered the arena. The sleeping cattle beast just needed a watchful eye apparently. After that it was all good.

One more ride tomorrow under the watchful eye of Bryan and then Juno comes home with us.

Thank you to Michele for the photos.

It's been all go lately!

2011-11-30T21:23:00.001+13:00

There's been a fair bit going on lately. Juno has been spending time at Cambridge learning to be a riding horse.

I've been travelling to Cambridge each day to watch the proceedings and so that I can learn about Juno.

She is in the capable hands of Bryan Mc Vicar and today she had her first ride out in the paddock.

It took a bit too wind her up into a canter but she really enjoyed being out of the hot and dusty arena I think.

Over the weekend, we did a small trek locally. I rode Trix and lead Chief. He was all saddled up and looking pleased to be out and about again. He was super to lead and never caused any trouble. It was REALLY windy at times and I am sure I am missing about 5 layers of skin! Talk about wind burn!! I don't remember the last time I was that red.

Anyway, once we got home again, a few friends had also come to stay after the trek, we re saddled Chief and I had a short ride around in the yards at home.

The next day, Chief got himself a new set of front shoes and I dug out my brave pants and went riding with a group of friends.

It was like looking down on a bulls neck from up on Chief! He was super pumped and tight and his neck was short and thick. After 3 hours though it had stretched to a normal size again and was a lot less tense!

I am super proud of him. It's been 9 long months since he was ridden and he handled himself like the serious wee horse he is.

Equidays

2011-11-18T23:34:00.001+13:00

I spent most of today at Equidays talking with people. Some time was spent looking at exhibits and watching the training sessions, but a lot of time was spent talking!
I do hope this event is a huge success as from I saw, it's pretty awesome. Tonight we went back for the evening show and it too was well worth the effort and travel time.

Tomorrow (about 20 minutes away) is another phase in the work from home project. A good industrial sewing machine has been on my hit list, but it had to be the right one. I am hoping this one is as good as it seems. It should sew leather up to 8 mm in thickness, not that I will need to be doing that often but it's good to know what it's capable of.

We also have to pick up Busy who is no longer talking nicely to Drum Roll. Now we just have to wait and see.

Tomorrow is kind of a significant day in an odd kind of way. It marks a whole year since I came off Summer while shutting a gate, in a rather undignified fashion. It was the beginning of a year that has not been one of my best but it has bought about a lot of changes in my life. Please let there be more that changes in the best possible ways before the year ends.

On 4 legs and 2

2011-11-13T20:58:00.001+13:00

Yesterday we re visited an old haunt of my teenage years. It was the place I learnt about big spaces, hills and spending time alone with a horse.
When I heard this particular trek was on, of course I wanted to go but there is always that niggle that it might not be as remembered.
It certainly wasn't trekking as 'we' know it but it was a nice ride and it was great to be able to spend time talking with people I haven't seen in a while.
We did kind of stick out like sore thumbs amongst the hunting brigade with out western gear, no helmets, and unclipped horses!

And today, Susan and I did a trek of another kind. We walked (yes, without horses) 12 km's, taking part in the annual round the bridges fun run and walk.
2 hours, 14 minutes and 30 seconds. Having never done anything like that before, I was pretty pleased with the time.
I remember only too well what an effort it was to walk 4 km's a few months back.

Trix and Busy

2011-11-10T21:02:00.002+13:00

Trix was an angel for the vet who did her teeth.

Can't say I am too impressed by the small amount of work that went on, and no doubt the account will be substantial but al least I know she can get the value from the feed she is being given.

He commented about the big cataract in her eye (truck accident about 10 yrs ago) and said she would be pretty much totally blind in that eye. Amazing how well they compensate as you really don't know most of the time.

Busy looked to be coming in season as expected so today I took her to meet with TnT Drum Roll. Tonight I received an email, complete with photos!! showing a well behaved wee mare and a very happy stallion. Never had the news announced with pictures before.

Guess what we did in the weekend?

2011-11-07T19:39:00.004+13:00

Trix and I went trekking at Omahu Valley for the weekend. It was awesome to be planning a weekend away with friends again.

It's a quirky kind of place with the owners personal touch setting the scene.

So neat to meet up with old friends and meet some new ones. Jan took her big camper/truck so we had extra comfortable accommodation which is something you could get a bit used to!

The shed where the meals are served is a place you could spend hours looking round. So many layers of collected items. A unique kind of a place.

Saturday started with a bush ride up the old mail trail. The bush is beautiful but I didn't get too much time to look around.
Trix was pulling like a train and super keen but it was nose to tail kind of stuff for the first while and it took some concentrating.
I have only ever ridden her in a halter or super soft bosal and she is usually super easy but it seems she can get very strong in a group. Of course I have very little strength right now which didn't help.

The group split just before lunch and we went down another bush track to the river. It was quite technical in places. Zig zagging round trees, ploughing through some very deep and thick mud, up and down some steep pieces.
One horse went down and took some time to be recovered. Susan and Millie had a real close call when Millie lost confidence at a tricky spot and I bashed my knee on a tree when Trix zagged instead of zigging.

It might have been a better option for me to have gone with the other group but hey, we made it through.
I thought it was quite a big deal as I don't know Trix that well yet. I haven't ridden her that many times and certainly not in places like that. I wished for a bridle and some better control but she was very safe and confident.
After a lunch break we went up to a look out spot. It was so windy that we barely stopped at all and headed for some shelter.
I snapped a few quick pics before we motored off.

Trix still pulling like the proverbial train, me getting really tired and achey, I opted to go down the road instead of the bush track.

She jigged and paced (horrible rough gait) and I got kind of determined that I had to get some control or our next ride might not be much better.

It was a real battle of wills with me stopping her every time she broke out of a walk and that was after about 5 strides. We were going no where very fast.

But eventually she got the message and got into her walk which really covers the ground and finally the jarring stopped.

After dinner that night a couple of country music singer's provided the entertainment for the evening.
I was shattered and didn't stay up too long. Most unusual for me!
Sunday morning I borrowed a bridle for madam. Never having ridden her in one and knowing that her previous owner didn't either, I was not sure what to expect but thankfully it was fine.
And we had a really pleasant ride over some interesting farmland and then some more bush. A few technical bits and what a difference it was to not be swinging on her for control.
And we finished with the bush that I missed on the day before so got home very happy and super tired.

Tomorrow Trix has a date to get her teeth seen too. She needs to put on some more weight and is now eating a good amount of hard feed.

I was told she had an attitude and I think I might have experienced it on the weekend. But it's well and truly balanced with some real good sense and that saved the day.

The passing of time

2011-10-28T22:09:00.002+13:00

6 months has gone by already since the golden light in my life went out, and I still miss her every single day.
It seems a good time to share this -

Just a Horse

From time to time, people tell me,
“lighten up, it’s just a horse,”or,”that’s a lot of money for just a horse”.
They don’t understand the distance travelled,
the time spent, or the costs involved for “just a horse.”
Some of my proudest moments have come about with “just a horse.”
Many hours have passed and my only company was “just a horse,”
but I did not once feel slighted.
Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by “just a horse,” and in those days of darkness,
the gentle touch of “just a horse” gave me comfort
and reason to overcome the day.
If you, too, think it’s “just a horse,”
then you will probably understand phrases like “just a friend,”
“just a sunrise,” or “just a promise.”

“Just a horse” brings into my life the very essence of friendship,
trust, and pure unbridled joy.
“Just a horse” brings out the compassion and patience
that make me a better person.
Because of “just a horse” I will rise early,
take long walks and look longingly to the future.
So for me and folks like me, it’s not “just a horse”
but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future,
the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.
“Just a horse” brings out what’s good in me
and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.
I hope that someday they can understand that it’s not “just a horse”
but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being
“just a woman.” So the next time you hear the phrase
“just a horse” just smile, because they “just” don’t understand.

Riding.........the roller coaster of life

2011-10-26T19:42:00.002+13:00

Still plenty of ups and downs for me. This year officially is going down in history as being fairly unpleasant (to be polite).

Tomorrow I am to have a cortisone injection into what was my good shoulder. Yep, I now have 2 munted shoulders :(
On the plus side, the cortisone is supposedly going to take the pain away and allow me some decent sleep. I am a total needle phobic but have to say, I am so not bothered by this. I just want it over.

Thanks to my fabulous friends, I have managed a few nice rides on the star that is Trix. What a find she has been. She suits me perfectly right now.
Super safe and easy, but not boring to ride either. And she goes anywhere I point her. Being me of course, I don't settle for wandering around the neighbourhood. We are going through swamps, crossing water, up and down hills. There is the odd moment when things jar me and I hold my breath for a few minutes till the pain subsides.
A lot has to be said for good mental health though and riding is one of the few times I feel really happy.

A break through occurred tonight with Trix. She has been not too sure about eating hard feed. And not putting her head in a feed bowl.
It's taken a while but tonight she put her head straight in and ate everything. Sad that a horse her age doesn't really know much about treats of any kind.
If I hold something to her mouth, she acts like I am trying to worm her.

Chief is loving having some regular human contact. I was really worried about starting him again but after a couple of sessions of ground work, my fears have been calmed. Now just to get better so I can ride him.

Paul (foal) is growing like foals do. Lucky is still being a protective mum and keeps him away from us so we have to catch her and tie her in the yard so we can handle him occasionally.

Simon the standy appears to have been ridden before. Charlie put a saddle on him over the weekend, climbed on the drenching race at the cattle yards to get on Simon who proceeded to plod off around the paddock.
He is still a bit light in condition and is taking some time to strengthen up but seems to be worth the wait.

Busy finally showed signs of being in season so is off to the stallion next cycle.

And Juno has tonight been booked in to be started by Bryan Mc Vicar at the end of November. She has really filled out lately and is becoming a very big strong girl.

Just pic's

2011-10-16T16:14:00.002+13:00

Simon & Juno

The very cheeky Juno

And today's photo showing yet more improvement in Trix.
We had the adult riding club here today. Was touch and go considering all the rain we had overnight.
I was somewhat anxious about today. I haven't ridden for 4 weeks and have probably only ridden Trix 5 or 6 times.
She was brilliant though and showed just why she suits me for now.

If the cantering sideways up hills on the way home was any thing to go by, I'd say she is feeling pretty good right now.
Funny though, she had her ears flattened and turned out sideways at the same time! For a second I thought there was something wrong but no, as soon as we got to the top, the ears returned to their normal forward position.

And some other news

2011-10-02T20:05:00.003+13:00

Lucky had her foal. Right smack in the middle of the day and without any intervention. Lucky is one very independent type of horse, which is actually why I chose her to breed from.
I didn't want anything that needed special diets, pampering, rugging etc. This has to be a healthy, strong foal. Well that was the theory anyway.

So far, it's all gone well. Lucky is a bit excited, not helped I suspect by how windy it's become since he arrived.
I am hoping to get some more photos but will wait for the right moment.

Farm photos

2011-10-02T20:00:00.003+13:00

Karioi - The Sleeping Lady

I took the camera out on the last few days of docking and took a few photos of the turbines.

Broken?

The view from 'out the back'

Aotea Harbour and Kawhia to the left

Docking in the shadow of a giant.

Trix update

2011-10-02T19:54:00.004+13:00

Trix went to visit the fabulous Chiropractor we have been taking our horses to a while now.
We were very sure that she was sore and he confirmed that, despite her not really showing too much.
Seems I have another stoic mare.
But now she is obviously feeling so much happier already in herself. She is taking part in paddock life instead of standing around looking miserable. she lets us catch her out in the paddock even, and she just looks better.

I am really looking forward to riding her again to see if it improves how she goes. Not that that matters much, it's just nice to have a happy and comfortable horse.

Directions

2011-09-14T18:59:00.004+12:00

And it seems that I might just have reached a turning point. I have a focus and things are quietly falling into place.
How nice it is to have direction in life instead of floundering around in limbo land like I have been for a while now.

My big news is the launch of www.treknz.co.nz Something that's been in the back of my mind for a while, I just didn't know how to make it happen.

A comment from a friend "why don't you just make your own he said" *Thank's Red!* so I did. What do you all think?

And I also have a project in mind for a home business. Some great advice from a successful business man and the support of my friends and wonderful husband, a small but useful sum of money, thanks to Inland Revenue and everything is slotting in to place.

On the horsey front, I have enjoyed some fabulous rides on Trix. She is getting better every time I ride and I think she is enjoying the 'no pressure' atmosphere. Her walk is so much nicer and her amble which tended to be a bit rough (broken gaited) is smoothing out on every ride.
She parks up for me to get on and more importantly get off (which is still not easy for me to do) and is a nice easy horse to have around.

I can't wait to get back on Chief though. He has really matured over the winter and looks amazing!

Trix

2011-09-06T17:48:00.002+12:00

Introducing Trix. A shepherds hack/pig hunting horse off a near by property.

Trix was for sale and some friends trialled her her at our place last weekend. We had a great time and a group of us went up the back of the farm.

I rode Cheyenne who had been loaned to me. She's been awesome and I am so lucky to have had the use of such a safe horse to test myself out on after not riding for so long.

Anyway, the friends decided not to buy Trix, but they did buy the other horse they tried out here.
4 hrs on Cheyenne and I watched Trix a fair chunk of the time. I thought she might be great for me as I was already moving on from Cheyenne.
So when they said no, Charlie & I said yes. She will be great for me till I am happy enough to get back on Chief.

Trix has done some hard tough years of work, and her body shows the evidence of this. There is some signs of old saddle sores etc and she was rather dirty. But a couple of hose downs after some rides, a good does of wormer, some good grass and she is already looking heaps better.

She's quite sensitive around her face, mouth area and has been used to getting ridden in a home made bosal arrangement.
I think she needs to see a dentist and probably a chiropractor judging by the crouched stance she tends to have at times. This will all get done asap. In the mean time, I am working on a plan to catch her as like a lot of horses that haven't had the easiest life, she isn't too keen on being caught!

She doesn't know what an apple or carrot is. Sniffs hard feed suspiciously but is eating it now. She won't put her head in a feed bucket though and I am hand feeding her presently. This might be because she is blind (or possibly seeing a tiny amount) in her right eye after being transported in a cattle track as a youngster.

So I am riding!! Cool huh! Not good at getting on really, and getting off is bad as if I catch my arm wrong, it really hurts bad. But once on the horse, I couldn't get much happier.

photo time

2011-08-02T17:44:00.003+12:00

Chief, Gambler & Cheyenne

Cheyenne appears to have quite a sense of humour.

The mini tanker that is my nice steady ride.

The delightful Juno who has done some growing since being here.

And Lucky who is due to foal in October.

And I am still smiling

2011-07-31T18:57:00.002+12:00

Quite a few hours on and I am still smiling!

I went for a ride. Not the longest ride ever but I went for a proper ride. And the world feels good again.
Today the sun shone brightly, the sky was a stunning cloudless blue, there was hardly a breath of wind and Cheyenne arrived.

She is as wide as she is long almost, not very fit and would best be described as a bit of a plodder but she is absolutely perfect for me right now!

I finally got to ride in the saddle I had bought to fit Summer today. That took a bit of thinking about for me but it's ok, summer hated saddles anyway. I can say that it is very comfortable though :-)

Looking forward

2011-07-30T21:08:00.003+12:00

New season treks are starting to be advertised. Of course this sets off that sense of excitement that exploring new places does for me.

So I am super anxious to get going. Now just to find a quiet plod to get some confidence in my capabilities and to actually test myself out and see just what I can and can't do.

So with all this in mind, I took myself off to the marvellous Osteopath that we have in Raglan. She swung on my leg, pounded some ribs, bent me in half and generally had a real good go at straightening me back out. You just don't realise how much you are compensating with different parts of your body when something isn't working too well.
And of course I have a book of injuries like a lot of horse people do.

I surprised myself by actually feeling quite good as I left the building but an hour later I was vague, head achy, and getting quite sore. Later in the night, a lot of that passed to and I was beginning to feel ok again.
Since then, my bad shoulder has improved heaps movement wise. Still pretty sore and I have to be careful just how I move it but I am using it so much more which is a great thing!

It's all been made just that bit more difficult by the bug I have been fighting with for the past 2 weeks. Most of my voice has returned but now I have one of those annoying coughs that combined with my aches and pains means I am not getting much sleep again.

And tomorrow, a friend is bringing me a pony that I am supposedly going to be able to ride safely. I hate being treated like a Nana but will suck it up because it means riding, something I haven't done since the 26 February. For now, I am keeping the excitement tightly contained........

Thinking......thinking...........thinking...........

2011-07-17T20:07:00.003+12:00

What to say!

Another wet, miserable winter's week. Another funeral featured in my life. The death of my Dad's aunty helped me discover a friend is actually Dad's cousin. Confused???

My uncle Terry lives in Raglan township. Occasionally we talk about stuff. Sometimes trivial stuff but then other times it's really interesting things about the family of which I realise I know so very little.

He knows it interests me so when Ivy ----- died, he let me know that this was an uncle to him, Dad and their siblings of course.

He mentioned that Ivy had a sister still alive called Daphne -----, and that she lived around Pukekohe area he thought.

Too much of a coincidence I thought that Mark who I met horse trekking quite a few years ago shares the same surname?
Absolutely not. Turns out the Mark is a cousin to Dad, not that any of them knew each other.

And on the subject of funerals. There is another tomorrow of a lovely local woman who has passed way too early. Thoughts are with her family.

Too wet to do much horsey stuff. Lucky is home now so she can get some good feed into her in the important last 3 months before foaling.
Juno is keeping her company and they are getting along just fine. Lucky can be a cantankerous old bag but I do love her.

Simon is still being an absolute Treasure. I have not been around such a sweet natured horse in a very long time.

The old pack saddle is in town at the saddlers being fitted for it's new packs. This is exciting! I have wanted to do a ride and take a Pack Horse for ages now. Not that I am going to be able to lead it. That is going to have to be someone else's responsibility thanks to my 2 bung arms :(

Took myself back to the Doctor during the week. On anti inflamatories again and booked for physio tomorrow. Trying to sort out whats wrong with my left arm BEFORE it turns into something major.

I have been spending lots of time walking at the beach with my young dog Panda. It is wonderful watching her grow in confidence.
A month ago she never left my side but now she is happy to bounce off around the sand dunes, run around in the long grass and have some fun. It's kind of like watching a young horse gain life experience I guess. I have never been a 'dog person' as such. Always spent more time with the horses but I am enjoying watching her develop and grow in character.

Have a good week everyone.

Sorry, it's been a while

2011-07-11T18:55:00.004+12:00

Winter, rain, rain and more rain. Followed by spectacular lightning displays, some thunder and a whole lot of wind.

I am getting cabin fever. It happens every year. Too wet to go out walking around home so I have been taking my dog and heading to the beach for some long and contemplative walks.

Something about water stirs my brain. The shower is my regular 'thinking place' and it seems the beach is also and yet I don't consider myself a beach/water person as such.

The DVD of the last Great NZ Trek has arrived and I have watched it twice now at home with friends.
It is awesome and it's cool to see how she is capturing the characters of people more as time goes by.
Great looking back again on a ride that I did in a drug induced haze, thanks to all the pain killers I was taking to get by.

And today we watched last years as well (very wet rainy day) it has a cool segment of Summer walking quietly through the bush that I love seeing. Breaks my heart too every time I see it now.

Recently I went to see Summer's baby sister who used to be mine also. Dream came to live here when she was just 5 months old. She grazed with Summer and it now so much like her big sister that it is rather strange to watch.
She too is palomino, similar height and build and has so many of Summer's mannerism's???Is that what you would call them??
Nice to see her though and all part of some healing process I seem to be needing.

Chief has turned into a total blimp. Talk about a chunky monkey. He is uncovered, looks like a brumby with a tangled mane and mud everywhere but he is well and looks great.

New pony Juno is filling out. She has lots of that to do still and might end up being a decent size. She is testing me though.
When we viewed her she was standing happily tied up to string and I totally believe Anna who told me she ties up well because I saw it.
But we tied her up here last weekend and she had several goes at pulling back. So she spent quite a bit of time that weekend (the one fine one in a few weeks) tied up.
Strange person that I am. I am quite liking it that she is testing me. She is smart and I like that.

On a good note I suppose, I actually tied the rope halter on her and Chief all by myself. I can actually reach that high albeit for a very short time. This is progress.
Not progress is the soreness in my good arm still.......

Simon (the standy gelding we acquired a few weeks back) blew a massive abscess last week. And it really was massive! Poor horse, no wonder he wasn't keen to move on the track. That has to have been brewing for some time.
It blew out the top of his hind heel. Pus running down his foot while he rested it.
He is a sweet, lovely boy who we are keeping for a while. I suspect he is going to be a real treasure.

And the wee filly who I love for her braveness, spunk, cheek and fast walk, we are putting in foal to TNT DrumRoll. She is just turning 3 yrs old so after foaling we can back her and find her a home. I haven't named her yet as I can't find quite the right name for her. Any suggestions?

Today we went to yet another funeral. There seems to have been a lot in the past year. We are getting to an age when people around us are getting old and some are just sick.
54 yrs is way to young for a man who lived life and worked hard.

RIP Graham, we will miss your sarcastic sense of humour and your kindness. You were an inspiration for many and your determination to live every day to the fullest is something I will not forget.

And a foot note to that.
Not taking anything away from religious people, I am making it clear to one and all. If you make it to my funeral, which I hope is NOT for a VERY long time, please, no prayers, no hymns, and no catholic priest who never really knew me.

Life

2011-05-27T20:10:00.002+12:00

This year has bought about so many changes. Not just for me with all that has happened but for many of my friends also. Times have been tougher than tough for some. I can tell by the number of posts ;-) but I thank them for sharing their world with me.

I know for sure, that I am not the same person I was last year. It's not a case of being a better or worse person, but life's twists and turns have a way of shaping us.

Learning to cope with this injury that plagues me still, has reminded me about patience, acceptance and resourcefulness as well as appreciation of how good my life truly is.

And the loss of Summer, well I haven't worked out yet what the lesson is in that, or have I and the lesson is to appreciate what you have, while you have it because it can be snapped away from you faster than you ever know.

Still it doesn't stop me from wanting more. There is so much more out there still, to do, to see, places to go and of course more friends to make. So maybe I didn't learn my lessons well enough yet as I am still trying to be a "human doing" instead of a "human being".

But today I am reminded of just how fragile life is, with the news of the death of a person in our community. And that just makes me want to get out now and do something.

And a person who is close to us and has a huge influence over our lives here, is sick in hospital presently with the attitude that his life is nearly over. He seems to have just given up on living and has lost his will to fight for life.

And then there is the brave young woman about to have a life changing operation that really will alter her life for ever.
And it all makes me want to grab life with both hands and hang on tight because we are only hee for a short time, so I for one, am going to make it a good time.

Here are some photos of the new all rounder pony in my life. Viking Thundercat, aka Juno is a rising 3 yr old 1/2 Welsh cob by the delightful Welsh cob stallion, Arawa Romeo from Viking Koru. Ru as she is known, is part Gisborne Bred and I think some Percheron.

Juno learning to live with her new mates

My very feral looking Chief who is getting smarter by the day.

And Juno again. So nice having a well socialised horse that fits right into a herd situation. There are 4 of them in the paddock and it's great to watch the interaction.

Juno arrives tomorrow

2011-05-23T19:39:00.003+12:00

I have a new pony to play with. A chain of events that were not planned. Isn't that often how things happen?

There is a Welsh Cob stallion called Arawa Romeo that I have known of since he was a newly weaned foal basically.
In an ideal world, Summer would have had a foal to him but that was never meant to happen obviously. But it didn't stop me watching his progress to an adult ridden stallion and thinking just how gorgeous he was.

A person I have known slightly for a few years now, was in the enviable position of breeding her really good mare to "Henry" as he is known. So I have beem able to watch the progress of baby Juno, otherwise known as Viking Thundercat, for the past 2 1/2 years.

Anna who owned Juno, has put her up for sale a few times since she was weaned, but never did actually let anyone come to view her, and I often did wonder what might become of her. Anna does TV work (horses in Shortland St) as well as ad's and other promotional type work with all her horses, and I thought that Juno looked a bit out of place amongst her team of Grey's.

So, 2 weeks ago, on a Friday, I received an Email asking if I might be considering buying another horse after the loss of Summer.
Anna said she had watched what I did with our horse's and would love to ride around the country the way we did.
She also said that every time she thought of who might be the best person for Juno, my name came into her head and would I be interested in meeting Juno and seeing if we got along.

We headed to Auckland the very next day and spent time with Juno and Anna's delightful foals. The rest they say is history.

So tomorrow morning, Juno will arrive in Raglan. while I am wanting to look forward to it, (and I am looking forward to having her), there is still a great sadness, (and now I am crying) that I have replaced Summer. So very worried that I won't give myself to Juno 100% because of how raw the loss of Summer still is

Just Pics

2011-05-14T08:28:00.004+12:00

We have a couple of horses grazing here that belong to a friend. They are in with Chief and are happily getting along together.

Cute Chiefy.

My new best friend who follows me around looking for carrots.

Pretty girl

3 happy horses

Wild child

And just 'cos I think it's a cool photo.

This wasn't in the plan for the future

2011-04-28T13:31:00.004+12:00

For a couple of weeks I have been slightly concerned that Summer wasn't getting over the cold she had properly. Everyone else did within a couple of weeks.

Over the long weekend her noisy breathing became more obvious than it had been so first thin Tuesday morning we headed to town to the posh vets as they have access to better gear than our rural practice.

Vet said after listening to her, that she was a bit noisy sounding, possibly a bit of fluid that needed to clear but lets have a look with the scope just to check.

Summer has been scoped before, and it showed her allergy. I suspected this was what was going to show up as the cause of the noise but she also had a throat swelling this time.

What showed up on the images knocked us all sideways. What a horrible mess. They estimated she had about 5 % of a normal airway and started telling me all sorts of things about Tracheostomy's, anti bugs, not being a trekking pony ever again, permanent Trach operation and some other stuff as well as big $$ amounts that just weren't registering.

Wow, back up the truck, I'm thinking. She had a cold, snotty nose, probably an allergy...........didn't she?
And she needs help fast as she could become stressed at any point and would be in an awful situation.

But I am looking at my pony who while is not looking happy, was out eating and drinking not long ago. The vets reaction was to say that Summer was incredibly tough and stoic to be coping as well as what she has and if she had been a thoroughbred, she would have been legs up in the paddock long ago.

But decisions had to be made, and reasonably quickly. We discussed life as a broodmare for her but even as a paddock ornament she was going to need a permanent Traceostomy as her throat was so bad. She may even have needed more surgery to remove the lump.

We opted to treat her with anti inflamatories, and anti bugs, as well as cortizone, leave her at the hospital so that if she went down fast, she would have access to help fast, and take time to think.

After ringing and speaking to the vet again, asking many more questions about having a horse with this procedure done, what was the care involved, how about life as a broodmare with the allergy and needing steroids to control it (you can't have them on steroids to breed from) and generally just thinking properly about things, we came to a decision.

Summer is 7 years old, life as a permanent paddock ornament with a permanent hole in her throat was not an option Charlie or I wanted for her. Even the past few months we notice how she would watch the float (always known as Summer's taxi) disappear without her, and imagined her life as it would be for her and not for my selfish reasons.

Yesterday I spoke again to the vet and she said it was a good decision. She also said that I hadn't missed anything, I hadn't been slack and even she didn't suspect what she saw.

This morning Summer was buried beside Cliffie, under the Oak tree below the house. I have cried more tears than I can remember crying in a long, long time. It wasn't always perfect, but we had plans, places to go, things to do. and now she is gone.

Here is a link to a few of the many images of Summer who was so influencial in my life. She taught me so very much but

A link to a tribute to summer It wasn't meant to end this way.

Another new saddle...

2011-04-08T10:54:00.004+12:00

Boredom can be a good thing?

Chief has a saddle being made for him after a lengthy conversation with the saddler yesterday. He sent me some photos, of saddles he had in stock that would be good fits for Chiefy but I just wasn't all that happy with them. One particularly beautiful looking saddle really caught my eye.
But the practicalities of having a saddle with lovely carving that is going to get clogged with mud and dust, well I don't mind cleaning gear but hey I don't want to be a slave to it!

So we chatted and a compromise was found. Plain western saddle, short skirt for my short backed pony, short fenders for my short legs (sensing a theme here), suede seat for more security and a breastplate to match.
No just to wait for him to make it. Not that there is a hurry, I can't ride still and have Summer's new saddle sitting in our lounge thats never been ridden in properly yet. One day...............

A friend asked me recently if I had been on the Waikato River walk? Well yes but on a horse!!!!
So on Monday we headed in to town and walked for 2 hours around a loop that covers both sides of the Waikato river. A whole new way of seeing the world.

I walk quite regularly at home with my dogs but never along the nice smooth footpaths these walking tracks have. It is so much easier than traipsing around the hills on cattle tracks.

While reading the newspaper I spotted an ad for a Fun Run & Walk around the Hamilton 400 race track. So guess what we are doing on Sunday. A couple of friends have even opted to join me when I mentioned what I was going to do. The more the merrier aye!

The bit of colour in my life

2011-04-06T09:32:00.002+12:00

It's about the most colourful thing happening around here presently. This is the bruise on my arm, 9 days after being bitten by unhappy horse.

I have never been bitten very often. The occasional nip, from someone being cheeky but rare to get a full, mouth open bite.

Not much else going on. Next years trek date has been set already. Something to dream about over the dreary months of winter. It's quite cool here this morning. We pulled our curtains last night for the first time since last winter. A sign of things to come.

Chief's back profile is being done so should have some saddle tree's to try on him soon. Nice to have a project like that to work on while I can't ride.
He is getting over a snotty nose bug, and Summer who always takes ages to get well, is not quite right herself yet.
Seems alright but has a but of odd breathing going on if you listen hard. Also notice she doesn't whinny out properly still. Sounds husky like a smokers voice almost.

Mokau again

2011-03-29T21:33:00.006+13:00

Another view of the Mokau Bridge

The weekend away at Mokau was a great success. Apart from me not riding of course. Susan decided that it was worth not having me on a horse as I could then take photos of everyone. She seemed pleased with the results.
I managed to fill my time on Saturday by wandering the streets and ratting around in the museum. Pretty neat place as far as museum's go. All totally local items. Then I got in the ute and made my way up to the lunch break area.
Took a few photos but got quite a few awesome ones like the one above as they all came up the road.

Harry did well. He was totally unflustered about being in the camping ground as you can tell! Mokau is so laid back and relaxed. Not many places would have 5 horses in their camping ground.

Such a good natured horse. Hardly ever saw him with his ears in any other position than forwards.

Sunday morning at the camp ground

Sunday I was invited out on the river cruise. The sun had come out and I have to say it was a really enjoyable experience!! I totally recommend it to anyone. Mokau river was once a thriving highway and the history of what happened on the river is amazing.

Here is a link to the Whittakers website. www.mokauriver.co.nz
Go and have a look and think seriously about taking the tour some time. You won't be disappointed.
They have a link on that site to a Facebook page also. There are more photos on the Facebook page.

Other news, well Harry is now named Luke and is owned by Nicqui from Auckland. We hope to keep in touch with them and to have them here to ride sometime.

And as for me, well I am trying to keep busy and focused on what I can do and not what I can't.
Had a crash and burn after Mokau. Ran out of Anti Inflamatories and didn't think I needed them anymore. After all I had been taking the for close to 8 weeks.
Seems I did need them still and I am still trying to catch up on the lost sleep.

On Sunday, while I was innocently sitting on the tail gate of our ute, watching a horse being shod, I got bitten by said horse.
Totally out of the blue, she had stood there like a lamb the entire time and he was onto the last leg. As it was lifted and pulled out behind the horse, she reacted and grabbed my right (sore) arm.
So now I have a decent bruise and small haemotoma adding to the discomfort of that arm. And I have to say, it's damned sore.

Great explaining that to the physio next day. She already thinks I am completely mad. Her first response was "what was I doing anywhere near a horse" which is kind of sad.

Handsome Harry

2011-03-14T22:27:00.002+13:00

I forgot to mention that Harry is a standardbred. Although most of you would have realised that.
Registered name of "Atta Boy Josh" but his record as a race horse is dismal.

Cool horse though. Taking his new life as a hack all in his stride.
Second ride yesterday and he was happily wandering around the 8 acre house paddock like a seasoned riding horse.
Had his front shoes changed and was an absolute gentleman. Holding up his own feet whenever approached. Cute!

Harry is going trekking this weekend over the hills at Mokau. I am going but won't be riding. Thats a first for me. Will take the camera and be camp mother. Lots of alcohol is likely to be needed to keep me is some sense of a good mood. Can see me not liking being left behind to keep the camp tidy.

The mares are getting over their colds. Summer has hardly any voice and makes a pitiful whinnying sound when she see's me. But she seems well enough so not worrying about her.

I've been in a bad mood most of the day. Started with a stupid internet game about fruit. Can't believe my over reaction to it. Oh well could be the day for it.

Really wanting to go and ride but know that it is not an option right now. Didn't help being reminded that I am looking at 18 mths to be right.
Trying very hard to be my normal optimistic self but someone seems to have put a sneeky hole in my glass and it's not half full anymore.

Going to Dean's tomorrow to take photos of more lovely horses. Hoping I can hold the camera up to make a decent job of it. Will be a nice distraction anyway.

What do ya think of Harry?

2011-03-12T19:48:00.003+13:00

Not bad for a first ever ride. A testament to his good nature I think.

A trip to Hamilton from Coromandal, off that float and onto another one for the leg to Raglan. 2 hrs later he gets his first ever ride after spending a small amount of time making sure he was OK about the whole deal.

Not sure about standing still while getting on and off but not bad really!

Random stuff

2011-03-09T21:23:00.006+13:00

Some photos that I like and thought worth sharing as I don't have much else to report on lately.
The ones below are from the official Wind Farm opening. Well from the dawn service anyway which was far more enjoyable than the later one which involved our Prime Minister later in the day.
Bus loads of people coming along the roads. The dawn service was more culturally focused, so lots of representatives from local Marae attended and spoke. The Kuia calling in the early morning light was magical as it echoed around the Plateau.

The camera didn't like the light and I have no idea how to work the manual settings on it so the photos are all a bit odd but I kind of like them that way :-)

And Mr Bumble Bee bust at work. Spent a bit of time watching him hop around.

I seem to have acquired myself another small part time job today. It may lead to something more but for now, I will take it and see what the universe offers up for later on.

We have 2 ponies with a virus presently.

The dogs and cats seem to have missed us terribly. The 3 cats are inside all the time it seems and even Dozer who mainly lives in the barn spends all day asleep inside if he can.
Tonight he even bought home a dead rat and announced it to me in vocal cat language. To say I was not impressed is a bit of an understatement!! The can keep their vermin to themselves thank you very muchly!!

One week on

2011-03-04T13:48:00.002+13:00

My first physio visit after the trek was wonderfully positive. I felt an improvement and it showed.
Taking pain meds regularly as well as the proper doses of anti inflamatories so that I was capable of riding my horse even just a little bit, had a good flow on effect. That and the sling wearing to rest the damaged shoulder.

5 days later, haven't been so good with the drug taking, had a couple of bad nights sleep, pottering around doing a few things and physio today was not so flash. Am taped up again for the weekend.
There is a lesson in that somewhere....................

Although she did laugh a lot at my description of how the heck was I going to cut up a pumpkin yesterday. I remember taking big ones out to the chopping block as kids and making the first big cut with an axe but thought better of doing that with the tiny green thing that was sitting on the bench.
In the end I gave up all together and we had carrots instead.

So that kind of sums up my week really. In town a few times with cars needing repairs etc and generally busy catching up with stuff. None of it horsey.

Not that any one will employ me right now (she says using the computer mouse in her left hand to correct spelling errors) with a medical certificate that says it will be 6 mths before I am fit to work 15 hrs per week, but work is on my mind a fair bit.
Time for a change ?
I still have my part time work at home but I am thinking about study again. What for though? What will it achieve and what would I be aiming at?
More thinking needed.

Still have our Mokau weekend to do. I probably won't ride a horse though and will be camp mother and part time photographer instead. Assuming I can hold the camera up long enough by then.

Taumaranui to Mangaweka

2011-02-28T09:02:00.004+13:00

Riding into the Ruatiti camp after a very long, hot day.

Where to start? As always this week brings about so many challenges, for me this year they were challenges of a different kind.

First day nerves took over and I asked Charlie to hop on Chief and just make sure he was going to be OK ish amongst the crowd of horses. He was pretty good so I climbed on and rode off. All with the help of good friend Jan who watched over me the whole week.
Riding with only one arm is not easy let alone on a horse like Chief, but it felt good to be out there and continuing the journey.

It's so good to catch up will this extended family, some we get to see during the year and others that we meet only on this trek. Nice to have some new people too.

Tired looking Chief

I managed to not hurt myself too badly which the physio's will be pleased about. Riding with the sling prevented anything major and I hurt myself more getting undressed in the shower than I did out riding.

Cowboy Town

One potential catastrophe though is very clear in my mind. I didn't see an old fence line that was laying on the ground and buried in long grass. I heard the wire clink and tried to steer Chief out of it but he got caught up and was dragging the fence with him. He panicked and inside so was I but I hauled him to a halt and told him to stop, I was concentrating on him but the group of others I was with heard the noise, realized what had happened and before I knew it there was 3 people hanging onto him, keeping him still. I asked them if I needed to get off as I didn't want to move in case he started to move also so I couldn't look down. Getting off with one good arm of course is a major issue but I just had to do it and luckily it wasn't too bad. Chief was untangled, no major wounds and I again was grateful to have such amazing friends and helpers with me.

Horses tied to the hitching rails outside the saloon

I haven't got many photos. Camera's are not easy to use with one arm and Chief is still not settled enough that I could do much of anything other than sit up there and keep still. He had to get used to the bikers passing him as well as passing the walkers with the poles. He has done amazingly well!

Chief at Cowboy town

Another funny moment was the day I discovered he will kneel down to drink. Water had been a bit scarce and there was a trickle running down the side of a track that had formed a damp area. I held him to the edge while he drank but then I felt his front end doing down. I thought he had sunk into the mud and was thinking that I could be in trouble here but then he just popped up and jumped across. The people that saw him say he was down on both knee's, something they had never seen ever.

The Colonel (Mule) who is in his thirties now and still going strong

But all in all the trip went well. Some very long and hot days. Water in shortage which is never great but they haven't had much rain in that area. A few horses were tying up and a couple had colic symptoms one lunchtime. I don't think I have ever seen so many horses that couldn't be ridden on this trek. After a couple of days, they were carting heaps of them along in the trucks which makes it super that Chief made it through as he wasn't as fit as he could have been.

The bridge at Mangaweka

Of course I have come home with a whole new view on life again. My expectations have changed on some levels and as always there will be things to change. I find I learn so much about myself during this week that always amazes me.
Seeing my friends going through some tough times is not easy but life's journey is not easy. Together though, we help each other along the way but if I have learnt nothing else from this week, it's that asking for help is actually OK.

Chief and his new mate Ollie

And finally I have achieved my goal. I completed the trek and my horse is still ride able at the end!
Chief is going to be awesome. He may not ever be safe enough to be a childs pony but he doesn't need to be. He is surefooted, smart and can keep out of trouble in the communal paddocks which is a bonus.

Jed, who owns The Colonel

Now it's rest time for us both. I need to heal my shoulder and Chief needs to process all that he's done in the past week. He was looking pretty shattered at the end. He has seen and done so much in that one week.

We rode along a disused railway on the last day and had the option of riding through 2 tunnels. The first one was 150 metres in length and had a slight curve to it.
Once you had gone 20 - 30 metres in, it was darker than dark. Shadow had lead us into it and then stopped, wanting to turn and go back out. Chief just toodled around him and I encouraged him to take the lead and walk into the darkness. It felt like the ground was moving under us as you had no focus point.
Once we had gone about 50 metres, the light from the other end started to show and it was easy after that.
A very cool challenge and a lesson in trust.

Alan, one of the Northland characters

Frank & Pixe's mobile tent

I have done some dumb shit in my lifetime

2011-02-16T14:42:00.003+13:00

and I am beginning to think I fell on my head once too often.

Against everything I am being advised, I am going on the Great NZ Trek next week. Not only am I going, but I am riding a horse which is not what is recommended. Let alone a horse thats only had a couple of months riding and 9 months ago was virtually unhandled and pretty damn feral. Actually he is still a bit feral.......

No surgery for me. I have a Frozen shoulder that will take 12 mths to 2 yrs to be anything like normal again.

What I understand is the the joint capsule is so inflamed from the trauma of injury, that the lining thickens which is what stops the movement. Once the pain settles (expected time is 3 - 6 months) the process of regaining movement begins and that can take some time.

Any more injury will delay the process of healing and make the whole thing worse. I have very limited movement at all in that arm.

Had a ride at the beach the other day on Chief. He was a prat and I was a nervous nellie. Hate having to have a minder go with me everywhere but then I can't go on my own so having to suck it up. Lucky I have good friends. I hope I don't wear out my favours too quickly.

Charlie is still riding him for me occasionally to keep him fit and his mind on the job. He is enjoying him a bit too much for my liking. Lucky Chief is too small for him to ride too much aye.

Summer is looking very uncared for but is enjoying this bit of rain we are getting. Rolling uncovered and smirking at me from her side of the fence. But she has a real sulk when Chief gets to go places, especially on the float.

What a difference a day makes

2011-02-08T21:10:00.002+13:00

I had my specialists appointment yesterday afternoon. Fairly inconclusive.
He was not wanting to commit to anything until an MRI was completed.

I was really sore after physio. She worked hard on some of the more effected muscles and last night I was convinced I had bruises it was so sore!
But this morning I woke up feeling better than I have in ages!!!!

THE MRI this morning was far from pleasant. I have had one before, on an ankle so didn't get to go so far into the 'thing'.
Today they had me strapped down and head first into the machine. It really is unpleasant and claustrophobic.
Now just to wait till the results are read and to go from there. Today I feel so good, it's like, whats all the fuss about!

And this afternoon a friend and I went out to Brooklands park and wandered around on the horses for 3 hours in the forestry. What a treat. The horses were relaxed and happy and so was I. We even got to see a Fallow Deer. We stood and watched her head off up the hill and away. Beautiful.
And I managed some sort of a dismount that didn't leave me in agony.

Today has been a good one.

Now I just want to ride.

2011-02-07T11:01:00.004+13:00

It's been a dismal week. I am struggling with my situation.

The physio has painted a picture of my future for the next few months and it isn't good. My shoulder is messy, treatment likely to be an operation and looking at 6 months recovery after that.

I have been 'advised' that going on the trek will not be good for me and will undo all the treatment I have been receiving.
The level of swelling still in my arm is bad and I am now in a sling and am not to use my arm at all.

I have lived amongst people who have been known to cut casts of arms and legs to go rodeoing before today and injuries are part and parcel of what we choose to do. Horses are big animals and at some stage you are going to get an injury of some kind.

So, over a chat with a friend and husband, it was decided that I am obviously broken, can't really make things much worse (can I?) so go on the trek, do what you can, as it could be a long time till I am right again.
But I can't even put a bridle on let alone a saddle.......

This is when I begin to realise how lucky I am to have a supportive husband who helps me so very much, as well as my good friends.

Chief is still having "parking" lessons and is trying his heart out to get it right. Charlie rode him for me Saturday and then I had a wee turn. Shocked at how nervous I was. Not about riding him but how to get off again.
I can manage it ok if there is something high enough so that I can step off without stepping or sliding down. It is easier still if there is something to grab with my left hand and someone holds the pony. RDA ramps spring to mind here.

An impromptu club ride was arranged yesterday and I was desperate to go. Insanely excited when Jan offered to help me out.
She saddled Chief for me, helped me get on and stuck with me to the end. I loved being able to ride!!

But then I completely stuffed up the dismount. Panicking of course and rushed it. Lots of pain again.
Jan and Susan unsaddled Chief, washed him down and sorted my gear for me. I am apparently stubborn and very determined as of course I was trying to do this myself.

Physio this morning after a bad nights sleep. Arm is uncomfortable and it is starting to hit me that I really have made a mess of my shoulder. But I still want to do this trek. It is what keeps my going and contemplating not being out there, well I don't want to think to hard about that.

A well meaning friend said to me that in the scheme of things, this is just a tiny blip on the radar of life, to which I totally agree.
But then she said that maybe this was a time to consider doing something new with my time, try other things even.
I did that for many years when our children were young. I did lots of other things.

Now I just want to ride my horse!

**EDIT***

1/2 hour after writing this, I had a call from the specialist to say they had a cancellation and there is an appointment this afternoon if I wanted it.
Some things are mean to be so I said yes. I am now really nervous about what he is going to say...

Positives

2011-02-01T08:05:00.002+13:00

We have a kitchen bench and the dishwasher is plumbed in again but we don't have running water in the kitchen yet.
The bench looks fab, actually the whole thing does, but of course will be even better once we get some taps!!

I was able to go for a ride on Sunday thanks to my good friend Jan. She borrowed back Nugget and let me ride Shadow which was great. He parks up beside anything so I could easily get off without moving my shoulder at all. It was great to get out for a couple of hours. Another friend came out with us too on his young mare.

So it got me thinking, if I can get Chief to park beside things already so I can climb on, how quickly can he learn to park up so I can get off.........

You guessed it, Sunday I put my plan into action and after much pleading, my wonderful husband spent some time getting on and off Chief, just cementing the whole stand still thing and then started getting him to park up and use things to get off on.
He started with the mounting block as Chief is familiar with this. The first time he did it, Chief's wee goggle eyes were most confused looking but then he caught onto what was being asked and even walked up beside the bike trailer and let him get off onto the tyre.
It's so nice to see his brain engaged again. I was beaming from ear to ear.

And then I had to do something with Summer as the very patient saddler was wondering if we were going to be purchasing the saddle we have had here for 3 weeks!

I put Summer on the lunge as she is light and good to lunge. Interesting exercise. She started off with horrid mincing strides and then after about 8 steps, started to lengthen out. In the trot she was the same but after the first 6 strides, she was back to doing her extravagant, toe flicking trot, something that hasn't been seen for some time.
Summer has amazing paces and has won best movement in her breed class at the North Island Allbreeds when she was younger. It was a class of 17 horses, so something to be proud of.

So I guess that means she is comfortable with the saddle. She didn't trot like that with the Treeless saddle.
Then I had a wee ride on her. She too parks up beside everything, so much easier on these more experienced horses, but was a nightmare to ride in the howling wind. Spooking and leaping sideways so I wasn't up there long. Feeling quite vulnerable with only being one armed.......

ho hum

2011-01-29T20:55:00.002+13:00

I am booked to see a specialist. Apparently tendons don't reattach themselves very well if at all without surgery and I have a reasonable sized tendon tear :(
Along with something called a Bursa which is very painful I am told.......ya reckon!

First appointment available is while the trek is on so I won't be getting fixed for some time obviously as I am going trekking of course.

While I am still wanting to ride my own horse, of course, there is still the option to borrow Shadow if I don't think I can cope with Chief. But I am so determined to be on that trek, with Chief that I am even taking the anti inflammatory tablets that make me feel so awful. That and the twice daily icing routine. Not normally known for following doctors orders that well.........

Meanwhile I am trying to keep busy doing other stuff. Frustrating though. Even the computer is difficult and I only manage short bursts.
Still have managed 8 pages for the HORSE club newsletter though and some other stuff.

Friends

2011-01-27T08:31:00.002+13:00

Haven't felt like doing much blogging this week. No positive news to report on really apart from the fact that I have some of the bestest friends anyone could ever have.

I went for the scan on my shoulder 2 days ago. When the person doing the scanning asked if I had been x-rayed yet, I knew things were not looking great at that point.

This afternoon I have to go back to the physio and I guess will hear the outcome of the scans and x -rays. I was shown the tendon tear that showed clearly on the scan and the mass that is either a lot of scar tissue or a bone chip, hence the x-ray. I have really made a mess of things this time. A nice clean break would have been so much better if it had to happen.

My dear friend Jan has offered me the wonderful Shadow for the Great NZ Trek if needed. Isn't that the nicest thing!
She has organised to borrow back Nugget who she had for a while for herself so that I could still do the trek and be on a horse who will allow me to get on and off wherever I need to as well as take care of me.

Chief went back to Pop yesterday just for an hour. I wanted him to get Chief's confidence back with the getting off business as he was so spooked after last weeks incident.
I have to say that it was reassuring to see the normal Chief again. It took all of about 30 seconds for Chief to work out that he was supposed to be standing still again. Nice to see earlier lessons with me doing the same thing had been cemented into his memory after all.

Makes me more sure now that he was just high on crazy grass last week. He has been locked up with Summer on the rough hillside eating long rank grass mixed with all sorts of wonderful weeds and other goodies.

OK so it's not that horsey

2011-01-21T14:23:00.004+13:00

Old kitchen removed showing water damage behind the old bench

But while I am supposedly having a quiet day. Here's the photos of the kitchen make over. For the past 10 years we have had a fridge in our dining room.

It was a bit annoying but I am not in the house more than I have to be so it was put up with.
The discussion with our farm owner one day, re the next 10 yrs, had me stamp my feet and ask if we could do some work on the 32 yr old kitchen.

Old units outside

New units being put in place

Hole cut in wall for the fridge, YAY! For those that haven't been in this house, it is the weirdest design. I mean who builds a kitchen and doesn't leave room for a fridge!

New pantry

The all important fridge space all lined and ready to go

Units almost complete

Space for the dishwasher

Fridge installed in it's new space. Not the ancient wallpaper that was uncovered. It matched beautifully with the orange flowery formica bench top.

Still waiting for the bench top so we have no sink. Washing dishes in the laundry as the dishwasher isn't back in yet either. Lucky it's summertime!

What happens next

2011-01-21T12:42:00.003+13:00

Doctors visit this morning and a referral for an immediate Physio appointment.

Need to go for an ultrasound scan next week to check damage. Physio thinks Rotator cuff injury and tendon tear along with some muscle damage.

More physio appointments next week as she is sure it will help healing. Only a month out from the trek, bad timing.

The definition of brave?

2011-01-20T21:09:00.003+13:00

I am now convinced there is a fine line between braveness and foolishness. It's all very well, getting on and doing it and thinking your being brave, but some times that could be seen as just plain foolishness.

I remember the little inner voice telling me one day as I put my foot in the stirrup to get on (this story is from many years ago) that this was not a good thing. I ignored that inner voice and climbed onto the mare I was to ride and as soon as I touched the saddle, she reared over backwards on me.
Did I cross the line into foolishness that day because I didn't listen?

Today I saddled Chief and as I was attaching the girth to his saddle, he swung his head at me, not once but twice. I let the first one go as I assumed a fly but the second time was meant for me. Not a great way to start.
He was flinching and twitching madly at the flies. Thinking about it now it was somewhat manic.
I lead him off down the paddock, through the gate and went to get on. He moved and that inner voice said this is not a good thing. But I got on anyway and off we went.
He was a lot more spooky than he has been but we were in a paddock he has never been in before. Toughen up I tell myself.

He spooked madly over by the woolshed so I got off and lead him past all the vehicles and scary stuff. Got on up the hill and away we went up the track.
One of the gates we got to was an easy opener, so I flicked the latch and attempted to line him up to open the gate. He was getting a bit worked up so I asked him to halt and went to get off. he took fright while I was half off and I couldn't get my other foot out of the stirrup quick enough. Stupid western saddles.
The tearing pain in my arm was bad, really bad. I cried as I watched Chief galloping off back down the track to the last gate.
I sat for quite some time and wondered WTF was I doing. And why is there never anyone there when you need them. Story of my life.

So eventually I caught the feral beast and guess what, I got back on, very badly I might add and tried not to wince at every stride.

Of course I carried on my ride even though I wanted to go home. Got to the enxt gate and guess what happens then............I can't get the beast to stand so I can get off. He was that spooked, it was getting out of hand. He did stop eventually and I did a very bad dismount. Sure he will be better by the time we get to the top of the hill I tell myself. Toughen up woman and get on. It's a very long walk home.

Well he was no better at the top of the hill. Sweating like he had sprung a leak he was getting worse so once I managed to get off, I stayed off and walked down the hill to home. It is a long walk and he seemed settled so 2 paddocks from home, I got back on. heading to the last gate and I am then fighting to pull him up as he bounds and tries to bolt off. Trying to get him to stand at the gate was becoming dangerous and I am starting to get real scared at this point. I hurt like hell as it is and I want to get off.
Somehow I managed it and walked the last bit home.

So now what to do? I believe I have a horse affected by grass but am I making an excuse? Doing some reading, this warm humid weather is bad for toxins and other nasties. The grass is springing out of the ground here, fresh shoots everywhere.

He has had a dose of Hira Labs Anti Al which has Magnesium in it also. He has been getting Mag though. And he is off the grass to see it it is the problem. And it was too late tonight to go to a doctor and it's not worth the 40 minute drive to the accident and emergency clinic so I will tough it out and got tomorrow. Frozen peas are good but I am not happy.......

Hay Making

2011-01-17T21:48:00.003+13:00

All the Fergy's lined up this morning, ready for work

Hay in rows, waiting the baler

Charlie on Betsy with the sweep

And the baler working flat out to beat the rain.

So all the hay is safely in the barn. Very light crop due to the lack of rain in recent months. Ironically, about half an hour after they finished, the rain started and didn't let up for several hours. At least the paddock will freshen up quickly.

And below is the rather, err 'round' Summer. 6 weeks of no work is taking an affect despite her being behind the tape and getting break fed.
We still need to get on and have a proper ride in the saddle but it's looking an OK fit so far. Still might have to do some shimming to counter her being so downhill and I am amazed at how wide it is and that it does actually fit her.

Ice Cream

2011-01-16T18:45:00.003+13:00

Today's HORSE (stands for Hamilton Older Riders Social Equitation) club ride was a Jan special.
Jan is the woman that got me into Daffodil day.

We departed from the Waikato equestrian centre, went along the road and down onto the walkway that runs along the Waikato river.
You have to negotiate some things (technical term) that stop motor bikes using the paths and also slow down bikes. Tight turn for a big horse or a slightly feral one like mine who thought they were going to eat him.

The rest of the ride continues along the river and then you go up onto a special bridge and cross the river.
Once on the other side, you go under the main road via 2 tunnels that have monsters living at each end of them according to Chief.

We eventually ended up at Chartwell which is a big suburb of Hamilton city and the location of a huge shopping mall. Complete with movie theatre and numerous other shops.
Our party of 5 ended up outside Burger King eating ice creams.
Chief got to try his first one and wiped most of it on my shirt.

Then it was the ride in reverse back to WEC. Just over 2 hrs it took. Chief did so well. I was so nervous before leaving that I was close to being sick. Funny though as once I got on him, I felt so much happier. It helped that he was pretty settled too.

So thats another wee adventure for him to tell his mates about tonight in the paddock. I am very lucky to have great friends who encourage me to do this stuff.
My overwelming fear of road riding after the incident with Summer all those years ago now, is becoming more manageable every time.

Tomorrow, we are going to Raglan beach. Could be interesting, especially if the Kite surfers are out. Not that many horses worry about them but Chief is still so new to many things.

Hay time

2011-01-15T17:58:00.002+13:00

The hay got cut this morning. This afternoon the baler and tedder turned up and I realised we had 4 Massey Fergusson tractors parked in the front paddock.

Affectionately known as Betsy, the farms little Fergie is parked in the shed with sweep attached ready for the big day.

And the contractor has his 3 parked over by the other shed.

Panda checking out the cut grass

Hay drying nicely in the afternoon sun.

And so it goes

2011-01-15T16:34:00.004+13:00

Life really is one big revolving door I have decided.

All the old insecurities are creeping back in. The last 3 rides on Chief, have gone from bad to worse. Today was just plain horrible.
Charlie came along on Trapper, it was his first ride in some time and in hindsight, probably not the best to take out with Chief.
Trapper was pretty good really but spooked at the sheep a couple of times. Charlie shouted at him and Chief went WTF!!!!!!!
And as he has now been around the farm a few times, he know's now when we turn for home. Then the head flicking and jig jogging starts. He looses focus very quickly and all my old insecurities flood back in. I sit there like a numpty and do nothing, although even in hindsight, I am not sure what to do......
Once we got back home today, I put a noseband on Chief's bridle. He protested in a very chief like fashion but after half an hour settled down nicely and we even got a long rein walk and some nice standing still. Something that could not have been considered earlier in the day.

Summer's saddle has arrived. Well it will be Summer's saddle as long as it fits. It came yesterday and is still sitting in the lounge. Might not even get to try it till Monday as we are having a family dinner to celebrate Ryan moving out and to his new job tomorrow afternoon.

Tomorrow morning, I have been talked into joining the HORSE Club ride on Chief. Thanks Jan, I think. Had originally said I wouldn't go as it involves some road riding and being in town. I am easily lead obviously. Still, I can get off and lead him if things get uncomfortable.

Talking of uncomfortable, I was supposed to have nerve conduction tests on Wednesday as they believe I have a trapped nerve in my left elbow.
Maybe it's just that I hurt a lot right now, strained ligament in right arm and shoulder as well as the tendinitis which is causing me grief in my hands, but I just couldn't do the tests.

They give your nerves an electrical stimulation (read shock) and a machine records the findings. Apparently I am not the first person who left with it uncompleted. I did give it a good go I thought but wow it wasn't good.

So proof that I am a wimp is recorded forever.

Just pics

2011-01-09T10:34:00.003+13:00

Dozer & Friday playing chase

Dozer has never been much of a climber. He is a very large cat.

So he just sits and waits

Fences are easier

Resting now

A pile of old hay that moved, was uncovered and there was mum hedgehog and 5 babies

I hope that Rocky doesn't find them.

The Ginga Ninja (Trapper) having a snooze. Actually most of the horses were sleeping this morning. Was a pretty wild and windy night.

Photos

2011-01-08T09:30:00.007+13:00

A few of the photos taken over the first 2 days riding we did over the New year period.

This is us trying to get organised for a group photo. Took some effort I can tell you!

But finally we made it!

Chief wondering whats going on and Pip handing round the lolly bag

Brian on Georgie who I think is one very cool horse and chief & I admiring the view off the Pa site.

The view out to sea

And riding home on the second day

And below are are couple from day 3

Chief looking around the corner

And heading home again. I am on Pania in this one (chestnut clydie X) and Paul is riding Chief.

Aaahhh, the fun of it all..........

2011-01-06T18:13:00.003+13:00

I wanted to go ride Chief this afternoon. He however had other idea's. Funny how they pick up the bad stuff so much quicker than the good stuff!!

Lined him up at the mounting block, stood on it and waited briefly because standing still is such an important thing to do and then he repeated his antics of Christmas day and the other day when Paul went to hop on. The rear back and gone move.
I caught him again, was smart enough to be doing this in the yard, and then we had an all time tantrum over it. Chief repeatedly rearing up and me just hanging on. I knew I couldn't let go again as this was becoming a habit I wanted to stop....NOW!
He tipped himself over in the dirt and I got quite mad about that. I had just spent the morning cleaning the saddle, LOL
Eventually he decided he did know better and we repeated the initial exercise, and then went for our first solo farm ride.
Got off and on at a few gates as thats easier right now, especially with my bung arm. All went fine. He is so much easier than Summer. No shying at rocks, birds and nothings.
I could get to like it.

Just for fun

2011-01-06T09:18:00.000+13:00

ZEN TEACHINGS

1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me for the path is narrow.. In fact, just piss off and leave me alone.

2. Sex is like air. It's not that important unless you aren't getting any.

3. No one is listening until you fart.

4. Always remember you're unique. Just like everyone else.

5. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

6. If you think nobody cares whether you're alive or dead, try missing a couple of mortgage payments.

7. Before you criticise someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticise them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.

8.. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.

9. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day.. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.

10. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably well worth it.

11. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.

12.. Some days you are the dog, some days you are the tree.

13. Don't worry; it only seems kinky the first time.

14. Good judgment comes from bad experience ... and most of that comes from bad judgment.

15. A closed mouth gathers no foot.

16. There are two excellent theories for arguing with women. Neither one works.

17. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.

18. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.

19. We are born naked, wet and hungry, and get slapped on our arse - then things just keep getting worse.

20. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.

And then -

2011-01-04T19:38:00.008+13:00

So after spending a day at home, I made contact with a trekking friend who lives at Ohope in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Thinking I might go over and spend some time with him, and get Chief going some more.

Brian of course said come tomorrow, (New Years Eve) and I thought about it for 5 minutes and after trying to persuade my beloved to go (he declined) I rang my good friend Jan and she needed some time to think about it.

She rang me back at 10 pm that night and said yes, lets go. So I spent the night rushing to pack up all my gear, which I had just unpacked and cleaned, so it was everywhere!
I had to ring Brian early in the morning to let him know our decision and hardly slept all night in case I missed him.

So Friday morning we headed for a new adventure not being too sure what to expect.

We spent New Years Eve enjoying the company of new friends and old ones and celebrating the new facilities that had just been finished (well almost finished) which Brian had built specially for his trekking friends.

The next day, the 7 of us headed out for a ride with packed lunch and a day full of promise.
Of course the beach was totally packed with people, tents, umbrella's, small children with dogs and surf board in tow.
Poor little Chiefy had his eyes on stalks and was beside himself at times. But the others were all good settled horses so he pretty much followed what they did and grew in confidence as the day progressed.
Lunch under some Pohutukawa's was welcomed and then 2 of our party headed home while the rest of us opted to continue on.
It was a VERY long ride and 8 hrs after we left home, we made it back again having experienced many new things along the way including riding along state highway 2!!

The next day we did some more beach, a bit of hill riding and then back down the beach to home. At one point I headed out on Chief on my home and he started to settle into his obviously natural ambling gait. I hardly stopped grinning. Talk about fun!!!!! Even the few massive shies (thanks Summer for teaching me stickability!) that occurred when something scary jumped out from a tent (think small child towing a surfboard) didn't put him off stride.
He just kept rocking and they were all starting to take notice of my wee hippy boy from the back of no where.

Last day we did a farm ride and I let Paul who had been admiring him have a ride. Chief however had other idea's and a repeat of Christmas day occurred and chief brok the bridle and took off down the road. Luckily a few of the others were ahead and could stop him so I ran down and caught him.
Paul did well getting on as Chief was not happy at all and I rode Brian's Pania who Paul had been riding.
We made it home finally and packed up ready to head for home this morning.

So thats been the most amazing week I can ever remember. Amazing friends, super horses, and just everything in between that was just...........brilliant.
I am still buzzing and to be honest, I could have just stayed on. However I am looking forward to having a HOT shower. The gas califont wasn't being installed till today so it was cold showers all round. And when the water comes from a bore 64 metres undeground......the water is bloody cold!

I will get some photos from Jan to post sometime.

The only downer I can think of (apart from having to come home) was talking to charlie one night on the phone and getting the news that he thought it would be at least another month before I could even consider putting a girth back on Summer.
So thats sealed it really. Me and Chief are going to stage 6 of The Great NZ Trek.

It's almost like this blog has come full circle. My first posting on this Blog

The other news is that while I was away, a woman came to see Frank and has left a sizeable deposit here for him. She is apparently returning in a week or so to pick him up.
The whole family fell for his charm including the husband who said he hated horse's.
She sounds nice and is obviously experienced.
Frank will be her own horse and eventually will be broken to harness as well as riding.

Mokau

2010-12-30T11:09:00.004+13:00

Monday morning, Jan and I headed for Mokau to stay with a friend, at her parents place. Susan grew up at Mokau and has been riding around the farms in the area for some time.

With a churning stomach, we headed off that afternoon on my first proper ride out on Chief. We had to go along the highway and over a bridge to get onto the track so I of course opted to lead him. Susan and Jan did also as there was a heap of traffic around.
There was a Jet ski hooning around in the river as we crossed the bridge. Chief broke out in a sweat at this point and was becoming highly stressed.
Once off the road though he settled slightly and I got on and we headed off on our ride. He was keen, and still sweating like a freak due to being stressed and the 28 degree heat!

After about 2 hrs though he settled right down and I started to enjoy myself. He is smart, nimble, good on his feet, can read the country in front of him well and while he can be inclined to try to take control, he is honest, and thats something I am fast becoming to appreciate.

At one quite steep Papa face, Susan's big mare was stopping and skidding a bit, I just let Chief have his head and was amazed at the path he chose for himself. It was perfect and he even followed the natural ridge line about 3/4's of the way up. At that point, I was deciding he was going to be one good little horse.

5 1/2 hrs later, we were back, sunburnt, tired and me feeling pretty damn good about my wee Chiefy pony.

Crawled happily into my tent that night but was woken in the small hrs by wind which was starting to kick up. Then I woke again to what I thought was a drip of water. Hmm, the tent was leaking! The wind was fair getting going and so was the rain. About 4.45 am I abandoned the tent, took my duvet and pillow and crawled into the back of the ute to sleep out the morning. The tent was secure and while it was dripping inside slightly, the mattress had its canvas cover over it and the suitcase of clothes was dry in the corner.

Sometime during the morning, the rain did ease and I thought I should check on the tent. Oh dear........................................... the fly sheet was gone and the rain was pouring in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Everything was soaking.

The boat Susan's parents use for river tours

Thank goodness for kind hosts with a clothes dryer but I wasn't looking forward to drying out the rest of my stuff!
No riding that day. The weather started to ease later in the afternoon and I managed to sort some of my gear out. We went for a drive around the sites of Mokau, had dinner and then went for a beach walk.

Stormy beach

Looking across Mokau to where we had been riding the previous day.

After spending the night on the nice dry couch, we headed off quite early for a good long ride again.
Chief settled much quicker and riding wise, was gaining in confidence quickly. Some issue over standing still to mount and I had to have 5 minutes at one time, to give him a lesson but thats the good thing about having good riding friends. They understand and were happy to wait till we got that sorted.

We saw some fantastic sites and crossed some big country. Didn't get many photos as Chief not good at standing still for long. Still wary about what my hands are doing etc.
Leading him down one VERY steep and long hill, he actually bit me on the arm. It is something he has done before but I was quite shocked. Not too sure what that's about. I 'think' it's a bit of a stress thing but not too sure. Something to watch for anyway!

So after a good 8 hrs out and about, it was back to pack up and head for home. A quick stop at the Awakino Hotel was in order we thought, so spent 1/2 hr there chatting to a couple of people. One of them it turned out, was the person who owned the empty section we had set ourselves up on.

Home late last night. Very tired but happy. Chief so tired he couldn't care much about anything at that point.

So pleased with him though. While tired, I think some of the is mentally tired as well as physically. He coped fantastically with everything asked of him. He quite often took the lead and marched along. I allowed him to amble a bit but really wanted to focus on just getting a nice steady walk established before we got into zooming along while out on a ride.

Thinking now I might take him to another friends place for a few days, just to get him established a bit more.

Saddle fitting

2010-12-25T22:36:00.003+13:00

Summer with wires bent to the shape of her back.

Then the the shapes get traced onto paper and sent off. We had to do this twice as didn't have the wires in exactly the right place the first time. Lucky I took the photo and sent it too!

Then we had 3 saddle trees sent up to try. This one above and below was the best fit.

This one was not good on her at all.

And this one was not too bad but the first one was better.

And this is the saddle I mentioned in my earlier post. It is exactly what I was hoping to have made but maybe not the colour. still it's just a colour and it might not fit perfectly yet. Just have to wait till work returns to normal and couriers start working again so we can try it.

So it's Christmas

2010-12-25T22:17:00.004+13:00

Well Christmas night now. How was everyone's day?

Ours was quiet which is just what we wanted. This afternoon Chief got a new set of shoes. Love my husband and his farrier skills!!
Have been trying to get him to re shoe Chief for about 10 days now though. His idea to do it today. when I said "but it's Christmas day" he just replied that he didn't care. He's never been one for making a fuss over Christmas, or birthdays for that matter.
Chief even split one front shoe as he had worn it so thin.
Any hoooo, this was Chief second time he had been trimmed and second time being shod. The first was not so flash but he did well all considering. We did have to use a twitch to do the hind shoes though.
So today we dosed him with Valerian first. It did make a difference. Not a spectacular one but it was better. The twitch was still employed but he did then just stand nicely instead of fighting it all.

Seeing as he was standing so well, I decided it was also a good time to go for a ride on him. Chief had other idea's however. He spent last night out in the long grass with the Missy (pinto mare) and is sticking to her like glue.

So when I lead him up to where we climb on, he reared back and took off. My arm is still bad and I couldn't hold him. Actually I did try to hold him but the pain made me let go and I ended up sitting on the ground having a wee rock till the pain subsided.

Then of course we had to deal with that issue that just developed as you do. One broken bridle, broken reins, broken tie down and Chief with a bit more skin missing after he then decided it was a good option to give jumping the fence another go.

So some alterations were made to the gear and we did go riding. Just for a short time but ride we did.

So that was Christmas day. I ended the afternoon with a cocktail of pain killers and alcohol, and I am feeling better but tomorrow of course will be another day. The arm is really very bad and not healing. Probably not helped by me hurting it most days, at least 2 or 3 times. today's was the worst though. That flippin hurt.

The saddler who is working hard to help out with Summer, might just have a saddle already made up that could fit.
It matches the tree that fitted her best and the profiles are matching her. Could I be that lucky?
I was expecting this process to take a couple of months so this comes as a surprise. Still it hasn't happened just yet but my finger's are tightly X'd.

Just because

2010-12-22T21:58:00.002+13:00

I am so very tired, I am wishing everyone a Happy Christmas a few days early. My energy levels have hit rock bottom today and I can't think of anything worth writing about.

So here it is, an oldie but still the best one I know :-)

My Wish for You

May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts.May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet to $100 bills.

May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips!

May your clothes smell of success like smoking tyres and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy.

May the problems you had forget your home address! In simple words ............

May 2011 be the best year of your life!!!

Busy days

2010-12-21T21:29:00.002+13:00

Busy, busy, busy around here right now.

Have had grandparents staying, and a family dinner for Ryan's 18th birthday to organise. All the food made here and then transported along with 4 adults to Hamilton. And it all made it safely!

Consequently there hasn't been a lot of riding happening. Summer of course, you can't put a saddle on right now (even if we did have one that fitted) so I have been concentrating what little spare time on Chief.
Today we did some ground work with the scary tarpaulin before some riding. It was time to deal with an issue that's been developing.

Because it's so important to me, I spend lots of time ensuring that horses who get started here, are good at standing still.
When Chief was started, he was reasonably good, but after being away for those few day, he came back with a go forward attitude that did not involve standing still.
Of course I have memories, of standing still arguments we had when long reining. These did in a couple of occasions, result in Chief rearing as he tried to take charge. Hence my reluctance of late to deal with this issue.

But today, feeling super tired and like I just didn't care what happened, we dealt with the standing issue. It had even got to the point where he was rushing off as soon as you were sitting and as soon as you picked up a contact, he would fight it to go on.
Patience and persistence won out in the end. We didn't get out of the small yard at all but it had to happen. Tomorrow we will start there again and try out our newly remembered stand in a larger area.

What a difference a Day can make

2010-12-18T17:37:00.002+13:00

Funny how quickly things can change.

The saddle has been paid for. Now I can focus on the new one but of course that leaves me saddle less. And with 2 horses that are not easy to ride with a saddle, I won't be going far bareback. Not that it wouldn't do me any harm.

Talking about harm, my right arm has been keeping me awake at nights. Makes a difference as it's usually the left one!
Anyway, when I last fell off Summer, I obviously hurt it more than I realised at the time. I mentioned it to the doctor when I was there about all my recent lots of x rays and she looked sympathetic and said that it was going to take quite some time to heal......

So, after a day of panic, and plenty of gloomy feelings, I came to the realization that Summer will not be going to the Great NZ Trek this time round. Unless some minor miracle occurs in the next few weeks.
She will be the back up horse to Chief but without a saddle...................

We are waiting for some saddle trees to arrive via the courier to try on her. I will take some photos when we do that.

So yesterday I did a trip to Cambridge to check out some saddles to use in the mean time. I need something to ride Chief in.
Came home with one from the second hand shop to trial and it fits Chief reasonable well. Doesn't go any where near fitting Summer but we are used to that.
It will fit Trapper when he goes back to his more normal shape but it's just a fill in till the other one is completed.

Chief has had 2 days off so it was a slightly nervous me, trying a new saddle out on him. Oh and the Valerian arrived so I gave him a smaller dose than suggested on the advice of someone who uses it.
I don't know if it was the Valerian or just him adjusting more each time to being ridden but he was really good.
Neck much lower than normal, no chomping his teeth together, and just steady most of the time.
All good there.

Wallowing in self pity

2010-12-16T13:14:00.003+13:00

Some days it really can be difficult to stay positive. The past year has been one of the hardest I can remember in a while.

I always try to be a "glass 1/2 full" person but today I am struggling to find too many positives. Sure it could all be worse, yada, yada,yada, I know that but just not today...........

The person buying my saddle seems to be dragging the process out to ridiculously painful extremes. I just need/want it sorted as that is what I am like.

And the process of getting this new saddle, (and while I am on the subject, what a stupid time of the year for me to decide to have it done) is not going to be a fast one.
There is a saddle in stock that will be a good fit he tells me, but of course it's too big in the seat for me and just not what I want.
I really want to get this right, it's costing a lot of money and Summer's future as a riding horse is at stake more importantly.
But it ain't going to happen overnight!
And the Trek date is looming closer. I should be focusing on fitness work now and she is still unrideable. And by the time I do get a saddle, it's going to be too late.
So a back up to the back up plan is needed. But I am floundering....................

Of course, when this person does pay for the saddle, that leaves me nothing to ride Chief in either. Having sold my other 2 saddles in recent weeks to pay some of the bills we are drowning in presently, leaves me with not much to choose from. I have become used to the security of my saddles and am convinced. that the only reason I don't fall off EVERY day is because of them.

2 friends and I had plans to go away with the horses for a few days after Christmas. It is starting to look as though they will be going without me. Summer is broken, Chief is .........well................and Trapper looks very "American" according to our vet. Even if I did decide to ride him, I don't have a saddle that fits him well enough to do 3 days of hard riding.

Off to drown my sorrow's and make Summer a feed with her new herbal treatments for her coughing allergy. Fingers X'd it works. I need something to.............

Amazing how quickly things change

2010-12-14T21:55:00.003+13:00

After 3 very less than average rides on Chief, today came as a bit of a surprise!

He has started the moving sideways as you go to get on thing, that all newly broken in's seem to do at some stage. At one point there, I thought that was todays lesson as he was fairly persistent. But stand still he did eventually, so we rode off at a lovely calm and steady walk.
He was so settled that I took him almost straight out into the big paddock again.

We had one small discussion over who does decide which way we are going, and then we continued in our calm and steady walk. I was soooo tempted to push him into his amble at that point but know it would have ruined everything we've been working on so kept myself under control. And then got off. Finish on a good point before anything goes wrong.

What a difference!!!! Long may it last!

Is it the time of the year?

2010-12-14T09:12:00.003+13:00

So it's nearly Christmas apparently. Not something I have much enthusiasm for as most people who know me are aware of.

We had a Christmas Dinner/night out for our adult riding club last night, which provided an insight into what some of these people we spend time with are really like when you get them away from a horse.
Would we choose to spend time with them if they didn't ride? For most of them I doubt it but then you have to have a common interest that brings you together, don't you?

Lots of people seem to be evaluating their lives right now and saying things like, next year I will change this or I can't wait till next year, surely things will get better then.
Why is it we have to wait till next year? Or even next week before we start changing our attitudes to whatever it is we feel wrong with our lives. Why not just start now. If you can't change a situation your not happy with, then change your attitude towards it.

On the horse front, I have been riding Chief every day. I can't say I feel like things are improving though. After the first good ride at home, the next one was awful. It was windy here and he had been stressed all day. Pacing around the place. He is normally up tight anyway but just really over the top this day.
I rode him till I got him to settle, then got off before he could wind himself up again.

Yesterday he was better and then he begins to get bored, tired, I don't know but he starts taking control and gets a wee bit cranky when made to go where I want him too. He even has a bit of a squeal which is bizarre. So again as soon as things start to go right after a bad patch, I get off.
He might only be a little dude but when your on him he feels like he is huge. Such a power pack of a horse.
I am going to try giving him some Valerian to take the edge off him. He has so much nervous energy all the time, it must be exhausting to be him.
I keep telling myself that for the last 6 1/2 years he has done just what he wanted to all day, every day and he will take some adjusting to his new life.

Why can't I be happy with some normal quiet horse? Why do a need to keep challenging myself? And for that matter, why can't I be happy with my life in general?
Maybe it will all change in the New Year.............................................

He's home again

2010-12-10T21:47:00.002+13:00

Chief that is. I picked him up this afternoon after watching him and his new partner in crime belting around the paddock playing hard to get.

I did lots of positive visualizations while driving home, imagining myself and Chief riding around the farm and beach together.
And then I got here and it the wind was blowing, Chief was excited to be home and I nearly chickened out.

But I didn't, I saddled him up and went to take him to the yard and decided that we could handle the hay paddock. It's only about 8 acres of open space and to be honest, if anything is ever going to go wrong, it's in that paddock!

Chief obviously didn't do the same visualizations as me because he made a beeline for the gate to his usual paddock where his other partner in crime (Sooty) was calling him from.
A wee disagreement occurred and Chief was winning so I dismounted and just for a fleeting moment allowed myself to give in to him.
But then I got myself together, made him take notice of me and we headed to the yard. He had several more attempts at the same thing and I quietly just dealt with it.
Then we moved out to the paddock again, repeated our first exercise and things started to look up from then.
We had a lovely time, just walking around in the hay paddock. It felt great and even when he went rigid and shot forward, I kept myself together (Summer has taught me well) and carried on.
I am stoked!!!!!!!!!!!!!! With Chief and myself. Anyone who has known me from way back when, knows what a big deal that was for me. Me and my fear of being on a horse in a big open space is becoming a distant memory.

Just keep challenging yourself and try to scare yourself at least once a day has been my motto for a few years now. And it might actually be working.........

Chief at the river

2010-12-08T21:53:00.002+13:00

I am waiting at the place next to the Waikato river, where T goes to ride his horses this afternoon when I spot my Chief heading towards me along the road with 2 kids on biks not far behind.

Chief looks to be moving along quite quickly, and I'm thinking how awesome he looks.

T stops to ask me if I want to ride which of course I decline even though I was just riding him back at the paddock earlier in the afternoon.

"You go do your thing for a bit and then I will ride him" I say.

Mean while the 2 kids with bikes catch up. "Is that your horse?" one of them asks. Well of course I tell them that he is and then I get this in response "he's going alright aye, better than yesterday. He even had an amble going on all the way down the road"

We continued a brief conversation and then they took their bikes and headed off for a swim and I just had to stand and smile. You gotta love kids some days!

So I did get back on Chief. Crossed the small section of river on him and headed onto the large sand bank that is way bigger than it looks.
I spent some time working him around just at a walk but gee he is quick. A real quick stepping little fella but he does feel like a much bigger horse when you ride him.

So progress is all good I guess. He is not fighting the bit as much and has been back through town again.
Tomorrow he will only get a short ride and then I pick him up on Friday.

The personalitiy that is Chief

2010-12-08T09:03:00.002+13:00

Yesterday afternoon, I took Chief up to Huntly. He was going to get some more riding out time by a person who is super confident and know's there stuff. Certainly not someone like me who gets put off a bit too easily.

He saddled chief up while I was there, and quietly spent some time in the paddock with him. Chief looked like an explosion waiting to happen.

So I said "Gotta go, have fun and I will be in touch" and headed off.

He followed me out the gate and as I left, he was heading off down the road past the Huntly Power Station and going towards town! This is my feral bush horse who has never been anywhere much.

I headed off to pick up our mare (who is not in foal) and when I came back past 2 hrs later, Chief was not in the paddock still. Must still be out riding I am thinking. That is either a good sign or maybe a bad one.
So I quietly headed towards home wondering if I might see him.

Getting to the Ngaruawahia side of Huntly, along by the river is a big sand area.
There is my feral horse being ridden around in the river by a few teenage boys who were out having a swim!
I had a chat with T, he said he was pretty spooked going through town (I wonder why, LOL) and had a few difficult moments but was starting to settle. I headed for home and Chief and him headed back down to the river for some more work.

Later this afternoon, I'm heading back there to watch him and will maybe even have a ride myself.

Miss Misty

2010-12-07T08:29:00.003+13:00

Remember the small white and noisey one? Announcing to the world that she was still around.

This is what she looked like when I found her a few months ago

And this is her on the weekend. Isn't she a doll!!!!!!! And she is completely sound again.

2010 Kaimanawa trek at Waiouru

2010-12-07T07:36:00.008+13:00

It's been a tough few weeks around here. I almost didn't go on this trek. Demons from the disaster that was last year haunting me but I am most definitely glad we did.

Friday evening was great fun, catching up with people from past treks and meeting new ones. Despite the bar closing at 9 pm, somehow we managed to keep going for quite some time afterwards and consequently I was feeling most unwell the next morning.

Once out in the fresh air though I picked up again. It was such a stunning day, how could anyone not enjoy it.

This year, we camped at the Sports grounds, Hot showers and flushing toilets!! I was a bit miffed to not be camping, what a fool I am. The shower was hugely appreciated at the end of a long and VERY dusty day
The trek was to be about 50 km's on Saturday. After lunch a large group headed back to the camp which was to take about 3 hrs ride and the rest of us headed further out and did an extra 2 hr loop. Getting back to camp about 5 pm ish.

It was a long day but nothing too difficult at all for the horses.
Looking down into Argo Valley is always a highlight. It is a beautiful place.

The wild horses are looking great. The smaller herd size of only 300 now means they have less competition obviously but they are now restricted to a much smaller area than they have been before.
Lots of white markings and quite a few grey horses were seen.

Our 2 horses were brilliant. Summer attracting many comments as she often does. Not just because she is a pretty horse but the ones I really appreciate are the people who comment on her nice manners and way of going. If only they knew!
Sooty went like a seasoned trekker. Marched along with all the others but can be a bit mareish and inclined to squeal at others sometimes. She also kicked out but was firmly reprimanded for it and never did it again.

Summer coughed a couple of times which I wasn't happy about. Nothing serious and she seemed to be happy enough in herself. She was marching along up towards the front and keeping up. I discovered later that day just how tough my pony really must be though.

Back at camp and unsaddling you can only imagine how I felt when I discovered the pressure bumps under Summer's saddle. :-(
And later on that night she developed a large soft swelling in her girth area covering the pectoral muscles.
No riding for her the next day :-(((

It was a quiet night and early to bed. Summer refusing to eat her feed that I had put anti inflammatory medication into.

I was offered the ride on a friends horse the next day as he was too sore so the next morning I went off to catch Major. However then Stan who comes out here to ride often said I could ride his mare.
She hadn't been ridden for more than 1/2 hr the previous day as he had turned back. She was apparently playing up and he got scared and got off.
None of us believed him of course as he is well known for that kind of thing. and having seen the mare being ridden many times I was confident that she was fine.

My saddle didn't fit so I opted to use his hybrid western saddle. I couldn't reach the stirrups properly and they wouldn't go any shorter but hey it was only going to be a 4 hr ride and this mare was quiet aye.
Gawd I am a glutton for punishment.

So when she put in the first couple of small bucks at the bottom of a hill, I was somewhat surprised. And not being able to reach the stirrups properly had me feeling a bit insecure at that point!
But we survived it. She put in quite a few more bucks in different places and a few other naughty moments but nothing that couldn't be easily ridden. She could have sent me flying any time she really wanted as I was just sitting perched on top of this bloody saddle.

By the time the ride was over, I was over the ride. Sore butt and aching muscles. I was happy to hand that horse back but grateful of course for being able to go out on the ride.

While packing up, Sooty kicked Summer a beauty in the front of the shoulder and now she has that swelling and nasty wound to add to the list of things wrong with her.
I could cry if it wasn't for knowing that my good friend is going through worse right now.

So yesterday I began the process of getting a saddle made to fit Summer. I am sick of saddles and everyone told me to wait till she was 7 yrs old. Now she is so it is time.
Treeless saddles are fine obviously for a few hours but not 8 in one day.

I have a friend

2010-12-06T08:35:00.003+13:00

I have a friend who 's life has never appeared easy in the time we have known each other. She takes on the tough challenges in life that most people would avoid and see's them through to the very end.

In recent times, I haven't had huge amounts of contact with her, but always know that she is there if I need her, ( and I believe she knows I am there for her) but I have left her alone as she needed the time that was left, to spend with someone who was very close and special to her..........and now he is gone................. and she is still being the strong one.

To say I admire how she handles herself, in an understatement but I can't think of other words right now. Kia Kaha Steph.

Rest in Peace Duncan but keep watch over her for us all. S.

sometimes I think I get it right

2010-12-02T22:25:00.002+13:00

I can't believe I actually considered taking Chief to Waiouru earlier this week. Just because Summer had coughed twice one morning.

Tonight he exhibited exactly why that decision to NOT take him was the right one.

Charlie heads off on 4X4 bike to find Chief and Sooty who graze together in a fairly large paddock.
Chief is well used to this routine and now (usually) heads straight for home and into the yard. No chasing is required as he has learnt from the others that this is what you do.

However, Miss Sooty had other idea's and is apparently right up there in the cunning section along with Chiefy boy who was described as a Feral F**ker.
They went round and up and down having a blast out smarting the bike and the increasingly angry Charlie.
And then for some bizarre reason (no one was anywhere near him) Chief tried to jump the fence into our house section.
Now Chief has tried jumping the yard fences a few times when feeling like he was under pressure but he has zero talent when it comes to jumping and tonight was no different.
He even managed to fall back into the 1/2 drum (Blue 200 L drum cut in half) we fill for water for them.

Can you imagine him at Waiouru when the wild colts came to hang around like they often do. Zip zip zoom and bye bye Chief. Assuming of course there wasn't much of a fence in his way, and there usually is nothing more than an electric wire. But seeing Chief's lack of talent, he would probably take the whole fence down and let all the horses out.
Best he not got to Waiouru yet.

catching up

2010-12-01T21:58:00.003+13:00

Today was Ian's funeral. As far as funeral's go, it was one of the better one's I've been too. No minister trying to fill in the gaps of a life he knows nothing about. A celebration of his life and he had made the most of it.
He will be missed by many.

On the home front, we have 3 working turbines on the hill above. They are creating enough power for 1200 homes we are told. By the end of March there are supposed to be 28 of them.
It has become seriously dry. After such a wet winter, it just stopped raining altogether it seems and the situation is not a good one.

We are preparing for our annual trip to Waiouru. Normally I would be super excited about this but memories of what happened while we were away last year haunt me. I try to not live in the past but it's a hard one to escape right now. Lots of advice from people and I am listening. Can't help the odd meltdown though.

Summer appears to be OK. Was worrying I would have to drag Trapper out of the paddock to go to Waiouru. He is not fit and it would not be an easy weekend for him so Summer better stay healthy!!!!

And of course all this has me thinking about Chief again. Why is it that such a funny wee horse has captured my heart like he has.
Many people have suggested I give up on him, too old, too set in his ways but that has made me more determined to get there with him.
Today he was heaps better again. I have booked him into Bush school version 2 next week. This one is just up at Huntly so not so far from home. I can make the effort to go and watch progress with him and be part of it which I will enjoy more.
He is so trusting of me now. It makes me smile. He will follow me anywhere I take him, and allow me to attach some very strange objects to him. All in the name of desensitizing. I strongly suspect he could easily become a one person horse. And I adore him for it.

Always up for a challenge, thats me! And the challenge this weekend is to have a great time and not worry about what might be happening at home. After all, once trust has gone, is there anything left?

Enough already.

2010-11-29T22:08:00.003+13:00

I am canceling November and December from now on. Every year is the same and I am sick of it.
Is it meant to be some kind of life challenge?

Because I needed to have a feel good moment *hollow laughter* I started on Plan B for Chief a week earlier than expected this afternoon.
He knows the game so well now though and it doesn't seem to matter what I tie on him, he accepts it all. Buckets with stones in, feed bins, dragging sacks, 4 plastic shopping bags flapping in the wind. Cracking stock whip, swinging it round in the air over his head. All accepted better than some older horses would.
Something to feel good about finally today.
And because I am a glutton for punishment, I then decided it was time to ride him again. It's been a couple of weeks at least now.
He was very good for a while. and then he started to take charge again. And I lost confidence in him at that point. Took him back to the small yard, did enough to finish on a good note and got off.
Not happy with myself again now.

Summer is still coughing. I heard her from the house this morning and rang the vet. He was surprised as he thought this injection would have cleared her up almost immediately. Now he wants her on AB's and the hideously expensive Ventipulman.

I wonder what tomorrow will bring......

Saturday at Pirongia

2010-11-29T08:05:00.005+13:00

Some photos from a day trek at Pirongia. Lovely views on an awesome clear day.
You can just make out Ruapehu in the middle of this one above.

The lovely Sooty

Summer & Millie

Sooty & Charlie

There were about 37 riders so not a big crowd. Was a really pleasant ride though.

Summer put her marching show on in the afternoon and stayed up the front. She has developed a fantastic walk finally but struggles to maintain it for too long. With fitness though that should happen. I am very happy with her. She settled quickly on this ride after charging out of the base like some frantically mad thing. Much better than Kaitieke. Always takes a couple of rides early in the season to get her to settle. Should be all go from now on!

R.I.P..

2010-11-27T16:34:00.001+13:00

R.I.P. Ian. You will be missed by many.

And then..........

2010-11-25T14:26:00.002+13:00

Summer is coughing again.
Last year she started coughing very early in October.
I have been optimistically thinking/hoping that it hadn't been an allergy at all last year but no such luck.

The past few days I have been aware of her gulping, which is an odd thing she does at times. Vets tell me it's related to all the extra fluid produced by her body trying to ease the discomfort in her throat. Of course being the eternal optimist, I have tried to ignore it but today we have had to resort to putting her on steroids again. Trying the injection this time so we can monitor just how long this allergy does actually last for.
Last year we treated her right through summertime but if we don't have to continue the treatment for that long, it would be better for her.

Life

2010-11-24T20:24:00.004+13:00

A tragedy has occurred in our tiny country with the Pike River Mine Disaster.
It ranks as the worst national mining disaster in 96 years since 43 coal miners lost their lives at Ralph's Mine, in the Waikato.
29 men have lost their lives at Pike River.

Coal Mining is such a dangerous industry and yet our need (or desire) for more power is increasing. A comment from a friend regarding the windmills and local resistance to them startled me somewhat this evening. Maybe they aren't as bad, as some people think

Our lovely daughter announced her engagement on Saturday. And while we were there celebrating with her and her partners parents, our son was doing another disappearing act.
He even rang me to say he was going out. One heck of a going out when you take nearly every piece of clothing you own.
Parental rights in this country suck.

On the horse front. Summer has been a star mostly. a few awesome farm rides with friends in the past few days have been great despite the constant wind which is very tiring.

I took Chief today to have some blood taken to check his Selenium levels. Not being able to supplement him in any way means he has missed out on the Vit/mineral supplements the others get.
It will be good to know what his is at.
I haven't ridden him since the wind got up again. He is just so spooky and reactive. Not sure where to go next with him. Lots more desensitising games maybe??

Combined with stuffing up a report in the newsletter regarding a shield challenge that has caused nothing but grief since the day our club started working on it, the news of a family member with terminal cancer as well as some other normal household issues, this has been a pretty sucky time of the year............

The week that was

2010-11-19T22:00:00.003+13:00

It's been a memorable week, mostly for all the wrong reasons!!

Not being able to get out of the hospital carpark (had been for more x-rays) was not my ideal start to the day, let alone the week.
I had always wondered, what does happen when those barrier arms fail to open and the machine has swallowed your ticket. Now I know...................absolutely nothing!
You just sit there thinking to yourself until your brain engages (it was still before 9 am on a Monday) and you find the number to ring so that someone can come and let you out.

HORSE meeting later that night meant a second trip back over the hill. I don't get how an event that is supposed to have an emphasis on "FUN" can turn into such a debacle when the organising committee (us) pulls the pin due to lack of support.
And today the fallout is still happening..................

Today was fairly average. Falling off Summer in a most unfashionable way just added to the general feeling.
Being the opinionated madam that she is, she was in a hurry to get home from our ride and did NOT want to take ANY time to shut the gates.

Another smack in the head for me, not too bad this time lead to madam having a firm telling off. However at the next gate she did not want to back up while I pulled the gate and reared sideways which left me to fall off backwards while still hanging onto the gate.
It would have looked very funny. However I was not impressed and madam had a ground work session on backing and moving sideways on command.

The next gate was done with much skill and lots of care. The 20 minutes of trotting prior to it might have helped.

Chief had to have a day off yesterday. He was quite tense when I got on tonight so I had Charlie close the gate into the small paddock. Instant transformation once the escape route had been removed. He did want to kill the cat though and kept trying to make a beeline for Dozer who was enjoying the late afternoon sun while rolling in the dust.
He really is a very intense little horse. I hope he settles but need to remember just how far he's come in the past 6 mths.

More Chief

2010-11-17T19:20:00.005+13:00

Because I'm such a scardy cat, I make Charlie come out and watch while I ride Chief. He is getting better with the camera every time!

Shut your mouth Frank!

Chiefy, Chiefy, Chiefy..................

2010-11-14T17:38:00.006+13:00

You can only imagine how much my heart sank when I got the call from Johnny to say, he & Jakob were off to Wellington to work on "The Hobbit".
I knew it was happening but the date hadn't been set so I was hoping for a few more weeks.

Also came the news that Chief has been getting plenty of riding out (Yay) but is constantly fighting the bit (Not yay).
This has always been an issue with him from the beginning. Some of it we put down to him being nappy and trying to get back to the other horses. and some of it was to do with him putting his tongue over the bit.
We worked through all that (so I thought) but it appears not.

We picked Chief up today. Got home mid afternoon, had a cup of tea (and a cup of braveness!), wished it wasn't so windy, and went out and saddled him up.

His mouth is sore and raw looking but I tried him with a bridle on. He instantly started biting down hard on the bit. Not just chomping at it, aggressively biting it. So I cranked his mouth shut with a noseband and he seemed to settle once he worked out he couldn't get such a bite.

Climbed aboard, no problem and set him off around our small yard. How unpleasant that was. He was again biting down on the bit, taking precious little notice of me and really tense. Neck short and when asked to turn, very reactive as the bit would have rubbed on his sore mouth.

So at that point I bailed. I am not brave at all and that was not nice. But I decided to loose the bridle and put him in a rope halter.
Did a bit on the ground to make sure he remembered basic responses and had another go.

You can see how tense he was. But it was still 100 times better than with the bridle. And then, after a couple of attempts at being resistant, he started to relax.

And then he put his neck out and his head down. And things started to feel OK'ish.

And then he stretched his neck out, put his head down and even relaxed a bit. I felt his hind leg come underneath him and the stride lengthen. It felt GREAT!!!!!!!!

So while it was all going nicely, I got off. Chief actually looked kind of pleased with himself. I think the plan is to leave off the bridle at least until his mouth heals up and just keep taking baby steps till I get brave enough to take on the big wide world with him.

And then we can work out what the issue is with wearing a bit........

Just pic's

2010-11-13T16:52:00.004+13:00

A few photos I took while riding around this afternoon.

Cows

Charlie & Grace

One of the bulls

Lovely Grace again

Cows & calves

The silvery looking buildings just off centre are the sheds by our house

Turbine 2 & 3 with the Telecom tower to the far left

Turbine 1

And now I can tell

2010-11-11T16:33:00.005+13:00

A while back I wrote a bit about a wee project we had started.

Back in the winter, after some research, we went and visited a Peruvian Paso stallion to view his offspring.

I rode the stallion who really does have the most, amazing smooth and fast movement. It's like nothing I have ever ridden before.
His temperament won us over and we decided that we might like to breed a mare to him.

Tesaro Halado (Peruvian Paso Stallion)

Enter Lucky (Luck Dragon) who was on offer.

Lucky is a good Kiwi X bred being a mix of Connemara, Appaloosa and of course Thoroughbred.
She was show jumped but has a niggly shoulder injury that restricts her to light work.

She has had one foal already, to the stunning "Coalman's Touch" who just happens to be owned by the father of the person who owns Lucky.

Lucky was scanned in foal earlier this week, and is home now to cook her foal.

We also had the opportunity to use another very nice mare who is a very experienced trekking and endurance horse. She suffered a nasty stifle kick and is not coming sound. Hopefully with the time off she will recover fully for her owner.
I will get some nice photos of her when she comes home. Missy is a lovely grey & white pinto mare, by a son of Zabalu (Aberlou), called Sunshine Zibado.

She is taking a bit longer to conceive but good things take time.

Does pride still come before a fall?

2010-11-10T14:45:00.004+13:00

After all my blog posts about the drama's Summer and I have had learning to become a team, this one comes as a bit of a surprise.

I am so totally thrilled with her at the moment. Pride making me smile so wide my face hurts, LOL

Yeah sure, there are some "moments", (pigrooting down the beach being one of the more recent ones) but lately, the good far out weighs the bad.

An older Maori chap I know slightly, rang me over the weekend. I had said hello to him on the trek at Kaitieke and made polite conversation a couple of times, but as you do on these rides, you don't always spend much time together.
Anyway, he doesn't ring here all that often, actually I can't remember when but it's a very casual acquaintance.

"Gosh that horse of yours is nice" he tells me. "Me and my mates were watching her all weekend and really admired how nicely she was going". "And you just ride her in a halter too".

This is what I consider REALLY high praise from people who may be known to be a bit rough around the edges, but are considered to be real horse people.

Lots of people admire Summer and comment about how she is a lovely looking horse, but lately, the comments are also about her manners, how well she gets around, her wonderful skills opening and shutting gates, and how nicely she just.............gets along.

Today when out with friends, again there was good positive comments from them. So just at the moment I am filled with pride for my lovely pony.

And next week when I fall off, you will all know why.

The after photos

2010-11-09T19:06:00.002+13:00

Should have taken some before ones so you could see how much better she looks in a week.

Here is Grace aka Sooty.

Enjoying dinner

pretty girl

The weekend that was

2010-11-07T21:37:00.003+13:00

No photos still but I have located the camera again so will be able to get some soon.

Saturday morning I caught the new mare who looked awful with her REALLY long mane and straggly tail. Amazing what a good trim and a mane tidy will do for the overall appearance of a horse. She's a bit light in condition, and all that mane made her neck look very poor.
She looks much better already.

We saddled her up and attempted a bit of lungeing as we have no real idea of what she can and can't do. Also not been ridden for 11 mths and only 5 yrs old, = almost anything could happen in our book!

She was super though. No problem at all so Summer got caught and we took them both off for a ride around the farm.
It's been a very long time since the 2 of us went out for a horse ride and I have to say it was really pleasant.

Grace (new mare) didn't want to cross the muddy creek however so Charlie got off and handed her nice long reins to me and Summer and I waited in the middle of the creek, allowing her all the time she wanted to work it out. She never went backwards but dithered for a while and then launched herself at us!!!
Summer stood her ground (she can be fantastic like that) but my right arm took a decent whack. A few more bruises to add to the collection.
After that though the mare was great and crossed the water a few times before we continued on the ride.
She tired quickly so we didn't do too much but she was so very well behaved and we were really impressed!

This morning Stan came out so Summer and I went for a quiet farm ride with him and this afternoon Charlie and I took the 2 mares down to the beach.
Again we had no idea of what the mares reactions would be and as its been a nice weekend, there was quite a large crowd of people around.
Summer walked across the carpark, out through the cutting and went "ooh look at all the people" and proceed to pig root along the beach. What a lovely horse I heard someone say *snort*!

Meanwhile the new horse was walking off like she goes to the beach with crowds of people every day.
Summer proceeded to do her absolute best to wind up the other horse who took no notice of her at all.
Even when Summer backed into her to avoid getting attacked by the bit of white froth on the water, the mare just ignored her.
She walked straight into the water as well. Tripped over a rock in a deep pool but she really is a treasure.
A real credit to whoever started her under saddle, whoever that is.

So it looks like we fluked a really nice horse. Now just to get some weight on her.

First reports about Chief are promising. He was ridden about an hour after I left him and did everything as he should. Although he did pigroot a couple of times when asked to canter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is the horse who's only been ridden around a small yard by a nervous woman and the kid already has him cantering on his first ride. Oh to have that kind of confidence.

Today he was going to be lead from Owhango to Kakahi as he was delivering a horse back to it's owners. Then the gear was going on Chief and he was riding him home. This is perfect and I couldn't ask for better.

Now the waiting

2010-11-04T08:25:00.002+13:00

He's there! It was a bit touch and go there for a while though!

My loving husband who tries so hard to help out at times, took our ute off to the service station early yesterday morning to fill with Diesel.
Only he then stopped beside a petrol pump and had put about 5 litres of petrol in the thing before he realized what he was doing!!

And then he discovered that the garage had no diesel and was waiting for the delivery truck!! So he drove carefully home and drained the fuel tank of the diesel/petrol mix. It takes a really long time for it to drain out.
Then we had to borrow some diesel from the farm tank so we could go back to Raglan and fill up, with Diesel this time.

Some reluctance from Chief to load, he certainly knew it was no practice run but he travelled really well. First time he's been floated on his own. As a 7 yr old he really is still such a baby about so many things like this.

But he's there and as I was leaving, Jacob was getting ready to go out and ride him. Plans to take him into the bush today were being talked about as well. Perfect!

Off to school.......

2010-11-02T20:20:00.002+13:00

The Coromandal Hippy is a barefoot child no more. He is now sporting a full set of shoes and had his first ever foot trim to go with the shoes.

The farrier has reported that he has bl**dy hard feet and is also an annoying trying little sh*t!

But the shoes are on without too much drama. And we had a couple of float loading practices as it's been a while since he's been on.

So tomorrow we head off to Johnnies bush school where Chief will become a contributing member of society. No more free ride for that boy.

I am somewhat excited by all this, which is rather unusual for me. First time in my life that I've ever sent any horse away to be worked. I have had other's ride them if needed but have always been there and they always came home with me afterwards.

High's and Low's

2010-11-01T13:01:00.003+13:00

Story of life really isn't it? Up one minute and down the next.
Today has been a ride and and a half and it's only half over!

The good news for the day is that Chief is going to Kaitieke to be ridden out. It will either make him or break him I guess, and I sincerely believe the former or I wouldn't be going ahead with it.
Just got to get some shoes on him and he will be in the float and gone.

We have acquired a new hack for Charlie as Trapper doesn't look like being ready to go to Waiouru.
Grace is a tall standardbred mare who has been out of work but did do some trekking and even jumping apparently.
We pick her up tonight.

The teenager still causes concerns. Focusing on the positives and keeping lines of communication open seem to be all we can do just now. It can't go on forever.

Excited for Chief. I can't wait to see him being ridden out.

Now..............where did I leave the farrier?

Theodore Roosevelt

2010-10-30T14:12:00.002+13:00

I spotted this quote on a message board. Loved it so did some googling (as you do) and found the speech it was part of April 23, 1910.
The whole speech can be read here if your interested.

The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood;

who strives valiantly;

who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming;

but who does actually strive to do the deeds;

who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions;

who spends himself in a worthy cause;

who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

Motivation

2010-10-30T09:44:00.002+13:00

It's gone again. What the heck happened to it this time?
There is so much going on in my life and inside my head right now that I just seem to be all over the place.

Teenager troubles again. Actually did they ever end? Or do they ever end? "Of course" I hear people say.
Focus on the good things, good advice but hard to follow some days

Trapper had his bandage changed again yesterday. Wounds look good. A small amount of proud flesh had to be cut off (wow that stuff bleeds!) but healing nicely.
Just a month really now till Waiouru though. Will he be going?

I heard yesterday of a standardbred mare thats going free. She's is saddle broken and apparently been on a trek or 2 so we will go and see her today. Just in case the Ginga Ninja is not ready.
Surely we will find her a home again if he comes right.

Chief is much more settled. I started to get excited about the fact that he almost ate a complete feed 2 days ago. Then last night, he hasn't touched it at all. I could leave him locked up with it but having done that already, it makes no difference. He is just a bit odd.

Summer is showing signs of being good to go again. Windy here this morning and she is having a play, pretending to be spooked. She too has been a bit quiet all week.

There are some friends from town heading to the beach this morning. I should be joining them but can't get myself motivated to attach float to car, load gear and go.

Not liking myself much right now.

That Restless feeling

2010-10-28T20:04:00.003+13:00

I have spent (read wasted) most of the day on the internet, researching saddles and saddle pads.

I am just not happy about whats still going on with Summer and her saddles. Being 1 inch higher at the croup than the wither makes for awkward fitting of anything it seems.
It shouldn't be that hard tough.................should it?

If it was an english saddle, you'd just put a good front raiser pad under it and go. I asked about saddle pads or custom fitted saddles on a horse forum today. They really just don't get the way we ride I think.
Great suggestions but hardly practical most of them for my situation.

Its this frustration that was one of the reasons I put her up for sale earlier in the year. Just so very sick of it.

Not keen to go down the road of a custom built saddle. Just seems impractical. Surely a decent saddle pad can be found? The skito pad she has under her treeless is good but not built up in front. I have sent many photos off to the makers (actually twice now) and while the pads come back and the bills get paid, the built downhill thing doesn't seem to be getting addressed.

Tomorrow I will go and ride with my ancient Pearce East, a basic blanket and a front raiser pad. I will hate it but she should be more comfortable at least.

I have been on Chief twice. Charlie leading me still. I just can't get myself brave enough to have a go on my own. Stupid me. In my defense though, he was really glassy eyed tonight and crapping like a cow. Too much spring grass?Chief in Summer's Treeless saddle

Chief is so good with me on the ground and to do most anything with. Even Charlie commented tonight how much he trusts me and how good I have him in all his work now. High praise from the man who never usually says anything!

Now where did I hide those brave pills.

Labour Weekend at Kaitieke

2010-10-27T09:32:00.004+13:00

Friday lunchtime, we were all packed and ready to go. Looking forward to a fantastic weekend of sunshine, horses, trekking and friends.

It's been a while since I have gone off anywhere on my own and I was really looking forward to it.

The trip down there was good, Summer traveled well as always and it didn't take as long as I had though. Even better.

Friday evening was spent catching up with old trekking buddies and making new ones. I love how friendly everyone is at these things. Non competitive and all looking forward to having a great time.

Saturday's ride was a good one. Nice frost overnight and the promise of a stunning day. The ride was not too strenuous. Just a nice long ride really.
Summer pulled like a train for the first hour. She was really hyped and keen to get going. Rifle snorts and sideways jigging. Once she settled into her walk it was much more pleasant. I decided then she was going in a bridle the next day. No more rope halter until some manners are reestablished.

The word was the Sunday's ride was going to be a bit steeper though.

Sunday was another beautiful day. The mountains again looked amazing. And it was another great ride. Quite a bit steeper and a lot more hill climbing than the previous day. Plenty of sweaty horses.
Summer was much better in her bridle. Still a bit jiggy in places so I put her in behind some others and made her walk out properly.
This is one of the better rides I think I have had anywhere. Totally loved it! I can imagine it might have been a bit challenging if there had been some rain. Thank goodness for less than typical Labour weekend weather!

Back into camp and ashed summer down and let her into a taped off area for some grass. Gina and I watched her do something a bit odd in that she looked about to lay down but had both her front legs in an odd position. Then she got up and continued grazing normally.
About 40 minutes later though, I watched her stop eating, stagger a bit and then start pacing around the pen. She would curl, shudder, ears were back and not looking happy at all.
Colic?
I went out and grabbed her before she could lay down, a woman washing her horse in the corner had seen me watching summer and had obviously realised what was going on too. She started shouting at me "she's going down, she' going to go down" Not helpful and I was already onto it, but she was panicking I think.

So I got Summer on a lead and took her out and walked her round. Then just as quick as it started, it appeared to stop. What a worry!
The lady from the next truck gave her a Bowen treatment which she seemed to enjoy.
I kept a close eye on her and while she seemed OK, she was not quite herself. So I decided not to do the small last day ride and to take her home. Didn't want to risk her going down in the float or anything.
Once she was home, she was horribly restless for most of the day. She does however appear to be in season now so that have something to do with it.
I have pulled out of the next ride I was booked to go on though. While most of the weekend was fantastic, I am annoyed about the movement that is happening with her saddle. The rough hair patches are all telling. Having to tighten the girth to try to keep the thing still has contributed to a couple of minor girth rubs too. No broken skin, just pink skin and rubbed hair.
Am so totally over this. It's been an ongoing issue for the past few years. Not helped by her being 1 inch higher at the croup than she is at the wither.

So I have come back knowing that I must get Chief out and about. A plan is in place for that. Please let it be the right thing.

Family frustrations still grating, no wonder I was so happy to be off on my own. Please let it be over soon.

Chief

2010-10-27T07:46:00.004+13:00

I have come home from the weekend's trek, full of resolve to get on with finishing Chief.
First thing is of course to catch him!

The plan was that we teach him to tether. Not my favourite way of keeping a horse but lots of grass in odd area's, big paddocks etc so it seemed a good option for the feral beast.

So after Frank knocks me down nearly to get in the yard, I walked out into the paddock to encourage Chief to follow him. So what does Chief do? He walks straight up to me and stands there letting me pat him all over.
I have never made a habit of going into the paddock to touch him as he would always bolt off so I didn't want that to become a habit. Of course that meant no halter or rope in hand and Chief still standing there. In the end I took of my sweatshirt and put it round his neck and lead him in. Funny wee horse.

But he still was getting tethered!

I tied him up normally for a while, just to make sure he knew what was about and while my back was turned he untied himself. He is a lot smarter than he makes out sometimes.

So we tethered him in a safe area for a while and of course he was perfect. So he went out in the paddock. At one point I saw him get the rope right around a front leg, do I go near him? No, I turned around and walked away, knowing it was a slight risk but something has to happen.
By the time I turned around again (only a few seconds later as I heard a stomping sound) he was walking off quite happily, foot untangled.

He has developed into a muscley little dude lately. We now believe he is likely to be a quarterhorse X with standardbred. Ideal trekking horse? He sure can motor along at a walk.

H.O.R.S.E. Club

2010-10-17T21:55:00.003+13:00

Great ride today with our older riders club.

Some of hadn't had enough after the first forestry loop so we headed back again. We were out there for 3 1/2 hrs in the end.
It drizzled rain the entire time but it was great to be out riding with friends.

Summer REALLY excited to be out with group again. So excited that she couldn't contain herself and put in a lovely buck right at the beginning. But she settled after a short time and we had a nice ride.

We were doing a bit of hooning towards the end and we had one moment of absolutely no brakes. Not pleasant at all. Flat out down hill, crashing past Jan & Shadow I called out to Susan in front to hold up please and we crashed past her coming to a very untidy stop.
We might have to work on that!

Beach tomorrow with Steph. A quiet splash around could be good after today. I know I'm feeling the effects tonight.

Default mode

2010-10-16T21:13:00.002+13:00

I'd be interested in others opinions on this.

I believe we all have a default mode, and I include horses in this. When stressed,tired or confused, some switch flicks and we go into a default setting.

For me, it's wandering off. Too much alcohol produces the same effect strangely ;-)
Just right now, (pretty stressful times at home) I have this huge desire to go wandering.
So it's just as well it's only a week till Labour weekend and the first big trek for the season, for me.
3 days away, and dare I say, I am looking forward to it!
Hopefully that will take care of my desire to go wandering off.

Chief slips into his Feral state (default setting) at regular intervals. Like a real wild animal, he accepts what his life is but there is always that moment where some real basic instincts override.
He happily accepts all my dogs around him when he is with me or working in the yards, but when loose in his paddock and Charlie brings his home from work, he is like some savage beast from hell, fending off a killer animal. Fronts legs flying, teeth barred, he does his best to keep them off his territory.
He occasionally gets defensive still when confused or just fed up with what I am trying to do with him.
This afternoon I had a lightbulb moment. They happen every now and then. We have struggled on with long reining him and none of it's pleasant. He just isn't settling to it, no matter how much we keep at it.
What's the point in long reining? For me it's to make sure the brakes work and we have left and right turns established in a safe fashion, before riding takes place.
But at what point do you say enough? If it just isn't working, you've had help, asked others for advice (one person told me to give up on him as he's too old) and it still isn't happening.

So part way through a long reining session, I stopped, attached a pair of normal reins to the bridle and worked him more in hand.
He likes to be close so it was worth trying. Well hello!! what a difference. And while it's different to what we know to do, I can't see that it will make too many problems.

And thinking back to my own default setting, I am now wondering if that's anything to do with the sleepwalking I did as a young child.

I love how horse's make me think.
and

Random moments in life

2010-10-15T20:53:00.006+13:00

I've done some fairly random things in my lifetime, but today must really 'take the biscuit'.
Old memories were dragged back to the surface and a conversation that I have wanted to have for many years happened.
Such a strange thing to do on my part as I initiated it. Not known for my bravery, I am wondering what the heck happened and what can of worms did I just open.
Am I lacking excitement in my life, or do I need another challenge?

Because I haven't been going out to work as much as usual lately, it's meant I have been able to go out Docking in the morning, home for a late lunch and then off out to ride Summer.
It is great to be getting out so much. I took the camera yesterday for a change. Not very inspiring photos though.
It was a stunning clear day and Mount Taranaki was in clear view and sparking in the sunshine. Somehow though, I didn't get a photo of that. Cold tends to freeze your brain somewhat.

Ewes & lambs waiting. William, Murray and Ryan at the end of the pen

Ryan pushing them into the drafting race. The top of Karioi in the background.

Lambs with tails still

It was a windy day as you can tell by all the clothes we were wearing

Back in the paddock and mothering up again

There haven't been many Chief updates, I'm told. No docking today so I was able to go for a wander around the farm with a friend this morning. That meant I had time to work on Chief this afternoon. It's been a while so we started right back at the beginning again. He was fine so tomorrow we will try the driving reins and then just to get back on him. He is such a character and I am really fond of him but he's still Feral!
He certainly makes me think and that can only be a good thing this week.

And below is my lovely and not so tiny pup, Panda. She has wormed her way into our lives and taken over the furniture as you can see.

Trapper and his sore leg

2010-10-11T11:56:00.002+13:00

Some horses are just right royal goobers.

Trapper's leg appeared to be healing OK and then on Saturday evening we spotted him rarking up the stud bulls in his paddock. Obviously there was more going on in the wound than we realised as the next morning it had burst open and looked a bit yuck.

We poulticed it but of course the bandage only stayed up for 2 hrs. Went out and realigned it all to try to keep it covered up.
This morning of course it was down around his fetlock and he was ripping round the yard he was in. Fool!
Charlie let him out in the paddock and he went full gallop to the top of the hill bucking and twisting like Trapp does. Big fool!!

Vet has been and cleaned it up again, and now its got good sticky elastoplast on it. He is on restricted movement for a couple of days still, more just so that the bandage stays in place than anything.

Think Pink

2010-10-09T10:35:00.003+13:00

Pink Ribbon day yesterday. The horses are becoming a familiar sight around town now.

Back in the winter, I bought an oldish set of sleigh bells in an auction. They were very rusty and the leather strap was completely had it, but I took the time to clean them up.
So without thinking too much about it, yesterday I attached them to Summer's breastplate. I did give them a bit of a shake and though it was a bit quiet and no one was going to hear them.
Was I wrong!!
Here's a very short clip of what they sound like Summer and her noisy Sleigh Bells

Summer listening to the beeping on the pedestrian crossing

What a good pony. I do ask a lot of her some days. The bells were a success but after 6 hrs of them, we were well and truly over them, LOL

At one point, Jan suggested a bit of a hoon down a grassy area. Hooning with saddle bags bouncing and bells ringing was all just too much for Summer. I managed to get her under control reasonably quickly but won't be trying that again!

Little girl offered her 1 blade of grass which she tried her best to eat politely

Loving my pony lots and lots right now. Sure she ain't perfect but mostly she does try very hard. and the rest..............well we will just keep working on that ;-)

One of the many photos that people take

We spotted a man with a large camera taking photos later in the day. A Waikato Times reporter who had seen us on the road. He said the photos would go in the pool but like always, it depends on what other news happened around the region as to whether they get published.