Marriage Compromises- Trading Jewels for Horses

[ProzacPuppy]

Just wondering how many other folks on the board have come to a point in their married life when they can look back and realize that they never got the jewels or nice cars or ritzy home remodels. They did the trade off - often unspoken - They got horses.

This is for those folks who are not poor but also not rich. The folks who can look back from middle age and count their "nice jewelry" pieces on one hand probably. Who have a vehicle that is probably 4 or 5 years old and has dirt or shavings on the floorboards and the occasional stray fly still buzzing around and the general smell is a mix of fly spray and Show Sheen.

The folks who look at their friends or sister-in-law with the huge diamond tennis bracelets, diamond earrings, diamond rings, granite counters and SubZero fridges, Mercedes or Lexis and wonder what it would be like to live like that (while trying to scrub the Coppertox stains off their fingers or get the alfalfa stain off their shirt).

I took a look at my life and my marriage and realized that usually my anniversary gifts or birthday presents ended up being things like 2 Ultrasounds and Shockwave Therapy or Complete Bloodwork and a Cushings workup.

And I've got a fly in my car that has been there for at least 3 weeks.

I wouldn't trade my horses for any of those other things but I got to wondering how many other folks had to make the compromises and have hit middle age with a house that a burgler would be hard pressed to find something to steal from.

[Janet]

Never seemed like a "compromise" to me- I never wanted expensive jewelery.
edited to add that I an not sure what this has to do with marriage.

[CC]

Yep, that would be me and I wouldn't want it any other way!!

[flshgordon]

Not married, but I do seem to OFTEN have those stray flies buzzing around my vehicle :winkgrin:

[katarine]

never was a compromise, though I understand what you are saying, I think I do.

The question is the same: what do people DO that don't have horses?!

Me, I don't ever plan to find out :)

[REINRIDER]

Not married but....yep that's me. I got about 5 pieces of "real" jewelry that actually cost a decent amount. My truck is 5 yrs old, my car, 14. I have to say my horses didn't come from my spouse or ex, nor was there support from either. But you know, I'm happy, overall. My horses are worth more to me because they give me the joy and fulfillment that jewelry and material things could never provide.

[Ridinwyoming]

I agree too. When I visit my sister and she has really nice furniture and new cars. I come home to my pickup truck that is 10 years old and my furniture is 10+ years old. My therapy for life comes in the form of spending time with a wonderful horse, hers comes in the form of a doctor and a pill. Wouldn't trade in a million years.:)

[Calvincrowe]

ProzacPuppy, you're writing my story! I got stall components instead of an engagement ring, a farm that needs tons of work, including the '73 Ranch that still has the original shag carpeting 5 years later, and probably will for 5 more. I don't get horses, in fact Mr.CC doesn't support my horse thing, but he understands that home improvement and high-end anything is not in our future, due to the horse thing. I love him, because he doesn't bitch when money gets tight, or the vet bills come first. We just traded in my 16 year old Subaru for a new one. He drives a 13 year old Escort--of course, we have an F350, too.

I don't envy my "rich" friends--I would love to have more disposable income, so that our house/farm could be updated, but no worries, I'm happy, we are healthy and life is good. I got rid of the fly in the car, but the spider who lives in the truck's side mirror and I are on a first name basis.

[Wild Oaks Farm]

I have one nice piece of nice jewelry (my wedding ring, which I usually replace with a $40 band from Wal-Mart that we bought so I wouldn't lose a diamond in a pile of horse manure!).

My 5th anniversary present? See below:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v692/wildoaksfarm/mo029Medium.jpg


:D:D:D:D

[Chief2]

After I spent a long time wondering what it would be to live a statistically normal, upper middle class life, I got past it. Then, one day, my sister-in-law stopped by to visit, and I found out that inspite of all the money and jewels she had garnered throughout her marriage, the life she wanted was mine. Go figure.

[arena run]

I was watching that commercial where the hubby suprises the wife w/the diamond necklace thingy while still in bed.

Yeah... if Carl were to surprise me w/a diamond necklace thingy I would probably go, fast as I could, back to the jeweler's and return it... then head, fast as I could, over to the tack store and purchase a brand new barrel saddle for Penny, bridle, reins, boots, etc... :D

But he knows better than to get me the diamond necklace thingy. Instead... my last two presents have been arena chairs. :D

My man, he does love me!!!!! sylvia

PS... and he never said a word when I traded for the yearling molly, or the snotty, little pony, or took in the 'freebie' 3yo gelding... not a word. :D My man, I do love him!

[jengersnap]

My 6th anniversary present was screenings for my aisle and to build up the stalls. I asked hubby to make jump standards for my birthday (still waiting, a month later, but that's okay). I've gotten myself various horse tack over the years as "gifts" from him; I just let him know what he got me. However, being we're both horse people in different ways, he has his own horse vanities with all his matching blue and white tack and stuff. I can proudly say though he has several more flies and stray pieces of hay in his vehicle then I do (he transports hay in there sometimes). And he's welcome to keep it that way.

[jacksmom]

jack sparkles more than any diamond i've ever seen.

it's a choice, not a compromise.

[pony grandma]

it's a choice, not a compromise.

Amen and hallelujah!

A rich life is not always about money. I would never trade the 6 hour trail ride in the October woods for a day of shopping! I cannot relate to that other side - sterile, anal, stiff, boring personality types!

Live life, feel life, smell it!

[trubandloki]

I have one of those darn flies in my 1999 truck with lots of rust spots. If having a fancy new vehicle and fun vacations means I have to give up my horses and my dogs then I do not want fun vacations and fancy cars.

And heck, who needs jewelry in the barn?

[iownapaint]

I think at this point I have traded horses for a wedding. I pay board every month not a day late ever, always have the money for vets and farriers, have nice tack and go to a fair number of large expensive horse shows. I have a truck and trailer (and a 9 year old car to drive daily). I have a nice horse on whom I take lessons with high level professionals.

I have a significant other (more than a boyfriend but yet not married) and we have a house and a family with each other. He knows that I'll never miss a beat when the vet tells me the total but yet I'll only buy whats on sale at the groccery store. Sometimes I think about what I could have bankrolled by now if I didn't pay board and farriers and vets and I think about the wedding party that would buy.

And then at the end of the day I go to the barn and I wouldn't trade what I have for anything. Anyone who laughs at me or thinks less of my life for what I have or don't have doesn't matter. I would rather ride everyday and be happy than have pictures from one expensive party.

I guess it is a choice. I could have the glitz and glam, but I don't...because I don't want it. Comprimise means not always getting what you want...I have what I want, so I haven't comprimised one bit.

[LongLeaf]

I could live the Lexus and tennis bracelet life, but I wouldn't be happy. And life is WAY too short and WAY too precious not to be happy. Mr. Longleaf wasn't "horsey" when I met him, but now - he couldn't imagine not living on a farm. He probably gets tired of my "honey do" lists, but neither of us would have it any other way. We're together, we're healthy, we've got a roof over our heads, food in our bellies, our critters are well cared for and adored, we've got love in our hearts and we're happy. Who could ask for anything more?

[Candle]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D

[CBudFrggy]

It wasn't a compromise--I bought my horse and pay his bills w/my own money. My kitchen is vintage 1977--the year my house was built--and though I dream of a huge remodel, 1 kitchen, 3 bathrooms, wallpaper stripped from the rest of the house, windows and landscaping, I know it's more likely we'll never finish the house and just buy the next one when it's time to downsize.

BTW--I only wear a watch for jewelry. It has diamonds around the face, a gift from DH for my 44th birthday/24th anniversary. It's very EZ to coordinate my jewelry with my outfit when I only have one piece to wear! :D

Edited to add: And my MIL still doesn't "get" me.

[LDavis104]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D

One day I REALLY want to name a horse "Tax Return" :D

I wonder if someone's already done that....

[xQHDQ]

Definitely not what I consider a compromise because I'm getting what I want - horse stuff/lessons/etc.

I have one nice necklace that I wear to everything fancy - why does anyone need more than one - you don't wear two dresses at a time? I have small diamond stud earings that I wear ALL of the time - what's better than diamonds, so why change into something else when I go out? (Although I was upset when I lost one taking off my helmet one day - great husband bought me a new pair for my birthday.)

I consider myself VERY VERY fortunate that I can afford to have a horse, which is the only thing I've ever wanted. Everything else is a bonus.

[Frank B]

What was that quote about jewels that "gleam in the sun and neigh in the moonlight"?

[arabhorse2]

My treasures do not chink or glitter; they gleam in the sunlight and neigh in the night. Hallelujah, and amen! :yes:

My favorite piece of "fine" jewelry is the bracelet I had made from Conny's tail hair. It wasn't as costly as the stuff you find in jewelry stores, but to me it's priceless. :sadsmile:

[NMK]

Good one Frank. I have lots of furs- they all neigh, meow or bark. I prefer it that way. I am also at the age where I don't WANT new things. My 13 year old car is the most trustworthy vehicle on the road. And I've fixed everything in the truck at least once so it seems new to me.

And jewelry? Just more things to lose or break. My wonderful husband knows to call the tack shop before I send him there on "his way home" for things he's never heard of, such as a new cribbing strap. If I sent him to a jewelry store he'd be lost.

We're never boring, lacking in "things to do" or "things to have" and our farm is Grand Central Station for neighbors, rescues of all sorts, family and visitors, four legged and two.

There's never enough in the bank and the checkbook is always open. Are we happy? You bet! I count my blessings and paws/hoofs daily.

Nancy

[rockyroad]

Prozac Puppy.. you are singing my song!
Married/ with children.old truck; older horse trailer.. one ring!
Big anniversary coming up.. I keep threatening I want the "big" rock! Too be honest.. I'm not into jewelery.. it would be nice, but there is SO much more horse stuff I could get instead of that ring:cool:

[FlashGordon]

I have one nice piece of nice jewelry (my wedding ring, which I usually replace with a $40 band from Wal-Mart that we bought so I wouldn't lose a diamond in a pile of horse manure!).

My 5th anniversary present? See below:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v692/wildoaksfarm/mo029Medium.jpg


:D:D:D:D

Oh man WOF... can I have your hubby?? What an awesome gift!!!

I've been married for four years and my rings spend more time in their box than on my hand-- just don't see the use for diamonds around horses, dogs, and a toddler.

Can't say hubby's ever picked a horse related present for me. And in some ways I think he's lucky, I'm willing to "swap out" presents for whatever horse bill might be on the horizon! (probably a good thing-- he's not so hot with presents... for our anniversary last week I got THE most random present on the planet... and no, you can't even say there was THOUGHT put into it...) My Christmas gift last year was my horse's appointment with the equine dentist. Birthday this year was corrective shoeing for same horse.

Pony left last weekend... sadly.... I keep hoping I'll find him back home, wrapped up in a big red bow on xmas?? (perhaps I should show hubby this thread...)

[MistyBlue]

Ahhh...who doesn't think of this subject once in a while?
I *used* to be a jewelry fanatic...like a 3 year old, if it was sparkly it got my attention, LOL!
However...after getting back into horses...my small jewelry collection is in a drawer. I don;t even wear my engagement ring anymore. Looks hideous on me since I've got those Man-Hands from doing farm work again back. Now if I wear anything other than my plain wedding band and steel watch...if I wear anything pretty and sparkly...it makes my hands look like I'm a really mediocre transvestite. :winkgrin:Diamonds and craggy calloused scarred hands don't go together.
B-u-t...I don't miss it. Instead of sparklies I get *much* better shiny stuff for presents!
Anniversary present:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/MistyBlue5105/May6th2005003Small.jpg
Birthday present:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/MistyBlue5105/May6th2005Small.jpg
Another anniversary present:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/MistyBlue5105/000_0088-1.jpg

However...getting the inside of my house painted in colors I actually like would be nice. Maybe I can get around to that this winter...but then I really need a hay storage building....and a new tractor implement....and...well, all sorts of stuff.

[pony grandma]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D

My husband got me a long yearling seal brown Appendix Quarter horse (my for-me horse)
when my children were young. He came with a name but our joke was that his name should have been 'Mom's Sofa.' I did without the new living room furniture that we sorely needed that year.

Ohhh... the memories we have.

[caffeinated]

One day I REALLY want to name a horse "Tax Return" :D

I wonder if someone's already done that....

ooh, I probably could, since that's how I bought mine, LOL

[dab]

The past few weeks I've been delighted by the shine on my mare's coat -- She's 18, has Cushings, and is gleaming more than most of the horses at any AA show -- No sparkling diamond compares with that --

[ef80]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D

I remember a few horses from years ago on the west coast - College Fund, Don't Tell Daddy and Dad's Corvette. I think there's a 2Carrots/2Karats still showing too.

At a schooling show I saw a very novice adult rider on a horse that had been owned/shown by her husband the year prior. He'd been renamed "My Gift To You".

[JumperFun]

My hubby and I often say "Nothing says 'I Love You' like a tractor!" :D

[luvmytbs]

ooh, I probably could, since that's how I bought mine, LOL

LMAO......I had to think about that one, and guess what: I have three of those.

[railijumper28]

Here's something: What about a teenager's social life? I havn't been to a party in 3 years.

Here's a story: I'm going to a friends house who I havn't seen in a really long time for her birthday and then spending the night. I'm getting picked up early to then go to field hockey. Then, two of my friends are *potentially* coming to get ready for homecoming. And I can't spend the night at one of their houses because my parents don't feel like coming to get me. I might sound selfish, but that about covers my social life for the year.

I wouldn't trade my riding for the world, but it would be nice to have a weekend to myself once in a while.

[pintopiaffe]

I'm single, but can completely relate... I have the most amazing farm. And horses. And dogs.

I have a claddagh ring that my Grandfather brought over from Ireland in 1903. Sterling Silver. ;) I have a gold Claddagh that my dad bought for me when I went to Ireland in '95. A gold st. Michael medal. And a connemara marble cloak pin that was a family heirloom that I wear for a stock pin. I live in a (custom, and beautiful) mobile home. A 1996 F150 that's currently in the shop in sore need of much work. :cry:

But I have an AMAZING life. My jobs are incredibly fulfilling, but the pay is criminally low. (Public Safety. :no: ) So I have three of them. And I teach. And I farm. And I smell the fall leaves and the first hint of woodsmoke in the air when I get home to feed at 02:30. I bask in the golden autumn sun when the trees wear their impossible colours and the light is rareified and like something out of a great classic film. I smell sun on horse, and fresh hay, and the leather, sweet, mediciney grain room...

By the standards of most on this board I have no right to even have horses because my income is so obscenely low in comparison to the average demographic.

But I am happy. And I hope, when I die, I have left a legacy with the lives I've touched. THAT I can take with me, not one bit of the rest of it...

[pintopiaffe]

oh, and just a thought...

A sparkly BROWBAND is far, far better than sparkly earrings or rings... :lol:

[MistyBlue]

But I have an AMAZING life. My jobs are incredibly fulfilling, but the pay is criminally low. (Public Safety. :no: ) So I have three of them. And I teach. And I farm. And I smell the fall leaves and the first hint of woodsmoke in the air when I get home to feed at 02:30. I bask in the golden autumn sun when the trees wear their impossible colours and the light is rareified and like something out of a great classic film. I smell sun on horse, and fresh hay, and the leather, sweet, mediciney grain room...

By the standards of most on this board I have no right to even have horses because my income is so obscenely low in comparison to the average demographic.

That's not a low income...that's a rich life. :D :yes: :D

[Huntertwo]

Well lets see, some of the things you mentioned could be obtained through careful planning and still have a horse.

I'm not a envious person, so I don't envy someone else diamonds. But do have some nice jewelry, especially my wedding and engagement rings, but then again Mr.H2 bought those.

Honestly, I love my 1999 GMC pickup, much more than I would want a Lexus.

Yes, I just went out and bought a new wardrobe - BUT this is something I do maybe once every other year. And never shop in between. As where my sister is a mall Zombie, like 4 nights a week and is broke.

My mom always taught me to buy the best and you'll only need it once, instead of buying cheap stuff and have to replace it every few months.

Our house is fairly new and we do have stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, cherry floors....AGAIN Mr. H2 is in the building business so he was able to "cut deals" with other contractors. The house took a while to build, but he saved us a lot of $$$$ by being patient.

Even when I was single, I was able to have a horse, truck, trailer through careful financial planning.

Heck, I just threw out a pair of paddock boots I had for approx. 8 years?

[Morgen]

I just gotta tell yall this story..

I was at the Equine Affaire in MA 8 years or so ago and was lurking around a lot in the breed section of the back barns (it might have been the Fantasia, whatever, can't remember) for the Lusitanos. I'd been looking at stallions and stumbled across this woman working with this gorgeous 2 or 3 yo filly. I was admiring the horse and asking her about it.

She told me the SADDEST story then: she'd worked at this farm and had been working with this particular filly for ages in teaching it ground work. That night she said was her last night with it though because then it was going to it's new home. We talked quite a while and it was so obvious how much she loved this filly. I hung around talking to her until she went in to the main arena because she seemed rather choked up.

Then in the arena the announcer is describing the horse and yadda yadda. Then he says that this woman is the proud new owner of this horse bought for her by her SO (think it was hubby but can't be sure).

She was so stunned she dropped the lunge line. It really was a tear jerker moment. Only horse people can appreciate that kinda gesture.

I sure hope they got married if they weren't already! :D

[yellow-horse]

i had a reasonably middle class suburban life, not wealthy but could afford vacations and furniture, i never liked jewelry
anyway, i moved to an abandoned singlewide trailer on 25 acres and left my husband in the burbs, he eventually figured i wasn't coming home so moved in with me
we bought a little farm, we're happier than we've ever been, i don't miss the burbs

[MistyBlue]

Now that story gave me a huge grin Morgen! What a happy story...and how fun was it to be able to see her surprise?
Wow...a Lusitano surprise...that's one of my "drool" breeds, gorgeous animals! My SO would be thrilled with one too.

[tx3dayeventer]

There used to be an event horse in Area V back in the early/mid 90's named "My Daddy's New Porsche" :) They had imported it and I bet it had cost as much as a Porsche.

[kellyb]

Edited to add: And my MIL still doesn't "get" me.

Someday you'll grow out of horses... ;)

I wouldn't say I compromise, like others in this thread I've never been in to jewelry, by any means. So afraid it's going to fall off/break off at the barn and I'll never see it again...and I am too impatient to be putting on & taking off jewelry every time I hit the barn :lol:

My s/o is non horsey, he does not support my hobby, nor buy me horsey gifts, or ever ask me anything about my horse, how she is, how we did at the show...but that's ok. As long as he doesn't leave me over it we're good :D

[carolprudm]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D
LOL, I think my mare should be called Miss Stock Options (yes, mine)

My mon loved "things". I inherited quite a lot of antiques and jewelry. Mr P thinks we should hang onto it to give to our chilf=dren, I would happily sell some.

[everyequine]

we just celebrated 17 years married.... guess what our anniversary "present" was?

Hay.

I filled the barn with Hay.
Would I like a new kitchen? sure, some day. BUT for now, I get much more joy from the horses, and the hay was like gold! It cost about as much as a decent tennis bracelet, and we both benefit from the happy horses.

[piccolittle]

I'm not married, but...

I just spent my entire post-college savings fund on a horse. You know, the stuff you're supposed to save for a down-payment on something (*ehem* a house)? I must be stupid.

Or it must be love. I guess I'll just live with my parents. *Sigh*

[JanWeber]

We bought our farm just shy of our 20th anniversary - when our friends go on cruises to celebrate, I go home and stroke warm noses and silky manes... I got a wash stall for Christmas one year.

[Catersun]

Ahhh...who doesn't think of this subject once in a while?
I *used* to be a jewelry fanatic...like a 3 year old, if it was sparkly it got my attention, LOL!
However...after getting back into horses...my small jewelry collection is in a drawer. I don;t even wear my engagement ring anymore. Looks hideous on me since I've got those Man-Hands from doing farm work again back. Now if I wear anything other than my plain wedding band and steel watch...if I wear anything pretty and sparkly...it makes my hands look like I'm a really mediocre transvestite. :winkgrin:Diamonds and craggy calloused scarred hands don't go together.
B-u-t...I don't miss it. Instead of sparklies I get *much* better shiny stuff for presents!
Anniversary present:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/MistyBlue5105/May6th2005003Small.jpg
Birthday present:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/MistyBlue5105/May6th2005Small.jpg
Another anniversary present:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y172/MistyBlue5105/000_0088-1.jpg

However...getting the inside of my house painted in colors I actually like would be nice. Maybe I can get around to that this winter...but then I really need a hay storage building....and a new tractor implement....and...well, all sorts of stuff.


MB- would that be the tractor that DH has been seen around the farm demolishing things unintentionally?

;-)

[LarkspurCO]

My car is nineteen years old. I could sell it and the four horses and afford to buy an ugly diamond ring, but then I'd have to shoot myself.

[Bluey]

One day I REALLY want to name a horse "Tax Return" :D

I wonder if someone's already done that....

Yep, they have, but you still can anyway:

http://www.allbreedpedigree.com/tax+return

[EqTrainer]

never was a compromise, though I understand what you are saying, I think I do.

The question is the same: what do people DO that don't have horses?!

Me, I don't ever plan to find out :)

I always wonder that, too. What DO they DO?

Well today I had to go to the mall. Usually I get my sunscreen shipped to me but today I was out and no time to order.

All the people who DO NOT have horses, were there. Shopping. Shopping like it was the most important thing they could possibly be doing. I was astonished. It took me 5 minutes to buy my sunscreen and I stopped to buy LMEqT some pants as they looked tall and skinny enough for her. Total shopping time: 26 minutes.

[Grannie's Grey]

When the guys where my husband works complain about buying the "appropriate" gift for their wives; my husband proudly says, "You need a wife like mine. I go to the farm or hardware store and and she loves every gift I buy."

[jump4it]

A lady who I groomed for named her horse Diamonds and Maids because that it what she gave up for her horse :)

[LSM1212]

I have some nice jewelry that I got from my hubby before we were married as birthday and christmas presents. And he bought me a nice wedding band and engagement ring.

But now that we are married... I don't ask or want jewelry.

My anny was just a few weeks ago. I got a new schooling bridle. :) I got a horse watch for the barn and a new girth for my birthday this summer. Stitch was a X-Mas present, too (at least 1/2 of him was). :lol:

Tack, show pads, wood tack trunk, show coats for me, and any other thing horsie that I need.... those are my presents now. I pick out a few things when a holiday is coming up... I send the links to him... and he picks out what he wants to get me. This way, I get something I like and he doesn't have to guess... but yet he gets to choose.

We have a nice house, decent cars, 3 dogs that we love and adore, take a vacation on occasion, and just love each others company. :D

So we aren't poor but we aren't rich either. At least where money is concerned. I feel very rich in life. I am very fortunate that I am able to have a horse. And I count my blessings everyday.

Who could ask for more? :winkgrin:

[RheinlandPfalzSaar]

What can I do but laugh at this thread? Even though though I've only been married a little more than 2 years I know that this thread is for me! I will probabaly never have the huge rock b/c my horse will need (pick your pleasure) she is just a baby now but oh we do have a lifetime of shows and other such things ahead of us and every year of 'other such things' is a year without my 2 carat emerald cut solitare!

[Rt66Kix]

Oh, I don't have to compromise! I have more jeweled rings that fingers to wear them upon. I finally had to move into sapphires since I was overwhelmed with rubies and diamonds. My one trust fund check pays for all of the horses' care, plus their vet bills and lessons.

The other trust fund check goes for my shopping sprees at Hermes, Longchamps, Tiffany's and Ralph Lauren (when I feel like slumming).

My husband's one trust fund check goes for our elaborate vacations to Paris, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Italy, and Vienna (Las Vegas when we feel like slumming).

His other trust fund check goes to our extensive remodeling of our 7,000 square foot home, on 250 acres of prime land. The house and acreage were an inheritance from his great-grandparents.

Of course our normal income isn't required for any of the above; it's nice to have 4 trust funds that send monthly checks.

Uh-huh. And then I wake up!

I tell my husband every year, "don't buy me roses for Valentine's Day. If you want to get me something that has an odor, give me a full tank of diesel fuel so I can go to a clinic somewhere."

I wonder if anyone DOES have it all?!?!?!?!

[minnie]

My husband would be THRILLED if I were into jewels and designer clothes. He'd save SO much money and probably be able to retire! One of the horses at the boarding farm I worked at eons ago had a very expensive dinner. I lost my diamond out of the setting while I was feeding. Cried buckets and buckets and he had a new and bigger diamond put into the original setting. It sits on the shelf in the bathroom. Haven't worn it in years, first because I was afraid to lose it and now because the arthritis has made my fingers so big I can't get it on. I've got some jewelry, but most of it has disappeared into my children's houses. Stilll have a couple nice pieces that I wear maybe once a year. My major presents over the past several years have been a johndeer tractor and a bushhog, 2 run-in sheds and he paid out the nose to get my horses to the track. Had a great time, got a few win pictures on the walls and still have 6 of the buggers at home and 2 farmed out. Since I'm getting a little long in the tooth and the body doesn't appreciate some of the hard labor any more, we're winding down a little. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to have a "normal" life and live in a nice house with new furniture and modern conveniences and be able to go somewhere without worrying about the horses, but after a couple weeks I'd be absolutely bored to tears. Bless his heart, we've been married for 35 years and although he's not "horsy" he pays for it all, builds what I need and will actually take care of them for me so I can get away for a bit or have a day off.

[Tiempo]

The first gift my darling, non-horsy (well, not at the time, I'm converting him :)) SO bought me was a shiny new pair of GE nippers.

Then I KNEW I was in love :D

My ex used to buy me Brazillian bikinis 3 sizes too small :no:

[username]

decades ago we came to an understanding...perhaps your mother felt the world would end if she didn't have a box from Tiffany or a fancy furrier to celebrate her various occasions, but I AM NOT YOUR MOTHER !!!

and I really DO want a tire for my wheelbarrow, rather than a diamond thing-a-ma-jiggy for which I have no use since I wouldn't wear it to the barn on a bet!


I have not fallen victim to the summer-home-in-the-Hamptons disease.

but, man, I'd kill for a summer barn with all the whistles and bells!

[Reynard Ridge]

My husband built me a spectacular dressage court as my belated "engagement ring." :winkgrin: Then we sold the farm. :cry::cry::cry::cry: < -- I wish there were a kicking and screaming emoticon for this one

Jewelery?? So, so not me. I got a Bates CC for Valentine's Day on year. Very nice. :yes: However, I will be heading to Shanghai in a few weeks to do a wee bit of pearl bargaining at the pearl markets ... getting myself a little early Christmas present. So, maybe I am a little more of a girl than I thought?? :winkgrin:

[glitterless]

Some days I'd like diamonds, but I find myself telling my boyfriend that I want a new set of clippers or some other horse-related item for my birthday or Christmas. Not that he'd know to buy me a diamond otherwise -- the first and only gift that he thought out on his own was a pair of binoculars. No idea what he was thinking there...

[J Swan]

We chose the road less traveled, that's for sure. The only jewelery my husband ever bought me was my engagement ring.

Our home could be referred to generously as a 50's era ranch style house fit only as a teardown. I prefer to call it a creative interpretation of Usonian architecture. ;)

We've always preferred a very modest lifestyle. Not to say I don't appreciate fine things, I do. It's that I don't feel the need to be surrounded by them in order to appear successful or wealthy to other people.

No keeping up with the Joneses, in other words.

I'm actually an embarrassment to my mother, whose friends all have adult children who are living much more opulent lifestyles. In comparison, my lifestyle appears rather shabby so she tells her friends that our farm is "an investment property", or that we plan to tear the house down and build something larger.

Whatever. We did build a nice barn with a woodshop on the 2nd floor - does that count?

Even if I "had it all", I'd still have a modest lifestyle. That's just the way I am. Same with Mr JSwan.

Speaking of him - his co-workers were horrified when they found out what he got me for our anniversary. Wire cutters and case for my saddle! Whoo Hoo!



Just wondering how many other folks on the board have come to a point in their married life when they can look back and realize that they never got the jewels or nice cars or ritzy home remodels. They did the trade off - often unspoken - They got horses.

[ProzacPuppy]

Okay, maybe I didn't word it right.

I got to thinking about it because of 1) that commercial where the guy wakes his wife with the diamond necklace, 2) my in-laws just finished building their 3 million dollar beach house that took a year due to sis-in-law's very demanding specs 3) news story about burglers in the area breaking into homes and stealing $$$$ in jewelery and realizing that in my house they'd get nothing but a couple mediocre computers and 4 dogs and a parrot. Most of our "disposable" income goes to horses, shows, training, VETS. We purchase vehicles based upon how well they can tow horses not luxury amenities. We consider home relo based upon boarding availability.

Wild Oaks - So it appears that 5th Anniversary - Something Grey?

[mbamissaz]

The question is the same: what do people DO that don't have horses?!

Me, I don't ever plan to find out :)

I thought I was the only one who wondered that!!

[J Swan]

Years ago I was sitting in the "gazebo" (covered area with chairs overlooked the pasture, along with several other boarders.

It was freezing cold out and we were all bundled up trying to sew up a whole bunch of ripped blankets.

So we're sitting there, freezing, fingers numb, trying to get needles through mud encrusted smelly blankets, sniffling constantly because our noses were running.

We were pretty quiet; just focused on our pathetic attempts to fix the blankets before the next snowstorm.

I looked up at my fellow boarders and asked, "I wonder what normal people are doing?"

No one had an answer....

[J Swan]

However...after getting back into horses...my small jewelry collection is in a drawer. I don;t even wear my engagement ring anymore. Looks hideous on me since I've got those Man-Hands from doing farm work again back. Now if I wear anything other than my plain wedding band and steel watch...if I wear anything pretty and sparkly...it makes my hands look like I'm a really mediocre transvestite.


Mistyblue - every time I look at my hands I'm reminded of the Seinfeld episode of the lady with Man-Hands.

I really try to take care of my hands, use gloves, buy Mary Kay (my aunt is a Mary Kay lady therefore I am a Mary Kay customer whether I like it or not), I even do manicures.

There's just no hiding the fact that I like to play in the dirt and climb trees.

[tidy rabbit]

I wouldn't trade my horses for any of those other things but I got to wondering how many other folks had to make the compromises and have hit middle age with a house that a burgler would be hard pressed to find something to steal from.

HAHA! That's me! Unless they want the horses, or my new tack trunks, or my tack, they aren't going to find much of anything in the house!

My anniversary present this year was a 4 wheeler. Oh boy. Just what I'd always dreamed of. Not. But it makes my husband happy and if he's happy he'll help with the horses and not complain about them. So, in a way, the 4 wheeler was what I'd always dreamed of for a second anniversary gift.

[TwoArabs]

Normal people don't have;

hay in the vehicles; sneakers that they swore they would not wear to the barn that are sparkling white; finger nails that are not torn off below the white, toe nails that are not black from being stepped on from a 1,000 lb animal with steel shoes; jackets without green slobber marks; deadlines that makes them get home in time to feed or go home early from a night out, because they must get up at dawn to feed, etc. They also don't have the pleasure of listening to horses munching hay after their fed, or listening to galloping hoofs in the middle of the night, or smell wonderful horse breath when you get a horsey snuggle or the thrill of an exuberant ride.

I'll take me un normal lifestyle any day.

[gieriscm]

My newest vehicle is eight years old. The pickup is 24 years old, and as a diesel will probably outlast me!

The only piece of jewelry my husband ever bought me is my engagement ring - which I wear maybe once or twice a year if we visit the family for holidays. Otherwise it lives in the safe. All of my other good jewelry was inherited from Mom and Nana.

The house is 25 years old with the original kitchen and bathroom fixtures. The appliances have been replaced because the old ones broke. When the washing machine finally dies I am going to splurge on an oversize front loader with the "king comforter" capacity so I can wash horse blankets!

At least my husband is understanding about it all, and he's just as crazy about his hobbies (old Corvettes and guns), which makes him easy to shop for.

[ProzacPuppy]

So my question has been answered at least - I'm not the only one with a house that burglers would shun, a car that valets would shun, and a significant other that gives "distinctly different" gifts to mark milestone life events (I got a root canal and gold crown one year for my birthday-not horse related but distinctly in the non-romantic vein we've fallen into with the horse related gifts).

[WaldenPark]

Carrots over Karats!

(still hoping to find the man that understands this :) )

[Ja Da Dee]

Not so much me giving up things, because every day I have a horse is a gift. But, sometimes I feel a little sorry for hubby. He DOES get his toys, but absolutely not on par with my toy. Last spring he opened Quicken, ran a few reports, and said to me "Do you know how much we would have in savings if we didn't have a horse?". I answered him that it wouldn't be as much as he thought because we would have new tv's in every room, new computers, a new car for him (has a Mustang, wants a newer Mustang). He thought about it and agreed. Hubby does support my horsehabit, although I understand when he becomes frustrated sometimes.

Today is my birthday, last week Hubby asked me what I wanted, and I gave my usual (truthfull) answer. I don't need a gift for my birthday, I get a gift every day. A card and dinner with friends is all I want or need to celebrate.

What do people do when they don't have horses? They shop, do crafts, and clean their houses. That's the only thing I wish I could afford along with my horse ... a regular cleaning service.

[Come Shine]

Reading this thread just made my day. How totally true that horses put a whole new spin on disposable income.

Bought another horse yesterday and have been having pangs of "Oh, we really should have used the money to: put the patio doors and deck on/finish the basement/re-side the house/go to Cuba for a holiday". Thank goodness I have a gem of a husband. :)

[BigMick]

When my BF and I first started dating, I made it clear that nothing says "I love you" like an F-250 diesel. ;)

Being married once before, I had a nice rock and all that but I never wore it. Frankly, it was just too uncomfortable under my riding gloves.

Whenever my BF and I get hitched, I'll be happy with a plain band. He (and the horses) are my jewels!

[EqTrainer]

My husband built me a spectacular dressage court as my belated "engagement ring." :winkgrin: Then we sold the farm. :cry::cry::cry::cry: < -- I wish there were a kicking and screaming emoticon for this one

Jewelery?? So, so not me. I got a Bates CC for Valentine's Day on year. Very nice. :yes: However, I will be heading to Shanghai in a few weeks to do a wee bit of pearl bargaining at the pearl markets ... getting myself a little early Christmas present. So, maybe I am a little more of a girl than I thought?? :winkgrin:

OMG, about the dressage court. That must have hurt :( I cannot imagine waving goodbye to a perfect arena. Talk about pain...

I do understand about the pearls, tho. Every once in a while I get a yen for something *pretty*.

Three years ago Mr. EqT bought me a Tag Heuer watch for Xmas. When I opened it, I was stunned. I had asked for a Swiss Army. When I asked him why the expensive one over the much cheaper one, he told me it was a matter of doing the math - if he bought me the cheap one, he would have to replace it every year. If he bought me the Tag, he would only have to replace the battery every year but never the watch. I just had to laugh.

[ProzacPuppy]

I think "horsie people" can sort of grasp my idea of a living room renovation idea I had but "regular people" think I am insane.

We have 4 fairly big dogs ( a Std Poo, a pit bull, a lab and a great dane). We also have a swimming pool about 6 feet from the back door, a great dane that can open the patio doors to let the dogs in and out at will and a small yard that has become a canine speedway so the dogs have destroyed all hope of grass on turn 3. Which leads to muddy paw prints and dirty grit on the floor and couches.

So I had this great idea to redo the living room floor with Mexican tile, slightly grade it all toward the center and put in a center drain. All we have to do is rinse everything toward the drain and viola- clean floors. Could even hose off the dogs in the house if necessary.

Not to mention getting rid of tracked in barn dirt.

Needless to say- neighbors and that sister in law with the 3 mil beach house didn't get it.

I think maybe some horse mag should do home and barn layouts like Arch Digest does- show us how the horsie set live (and by that I mean regular horse folk such as those on the board answering this thread, not a layout on Salamander Farm thank you very much. Their barn is nicer than my house).

[katarine]

Diesel over diamonds, baby!

[cbv]

that live the life you are decribing? I don't. Non-horsey or not.

I work with quite a few people that teach and do research and do non-profit work, salaries and education from one end of the spectrum to another, and my husband works at a large manufacturing plant with tradespeople and engineers with a similar range of income.

I could come up with a handful of folks that I often 'imagine' live the life of diamonds and gold (and I am guilty of enjoying the occasional gossip and digs at them), but very few I actually know that don't make tradeoffs everyday to accomplish their dreams and goals in work and outside of work. For some their kids or homes or gardens or boats or hiking equipment or vacations or mountain bikes or windsurfers or cars or art or taking classes or charity work or any number of activities are a priority and something they spend more money on than I imagine I ever would, but all sacrifice somewhere else in order to do so.

[Keep1Belle]

My therapy for life comes in the form of spending time with a wonderful horse, hers comes in the form of a doctor and a pill. Wouldn't trade in a million years.:)


Not married but this is sooo true.

[MistyBlue]

Mistyblue - every time I look at my hands I'm reminded of the Seinfeld episode of the lady with Man-Hands.

I really try to take care of my hands, use gloves, buy Mary Kay (my aunt is a Mary Kay lady therefore I am a Mary Kay customer whether I like it or not), I even do manicures.

There's just no hiding the fact that I like to play in the dirt and climb trees.

I never really watched that show...but have seen that one where the woman had man-hands, LOL! That's *exactly* what I feel like if I put nice jewelry on my hands.
One of my past part time jobs eons ago was as a manicurist...and I can't help these mitts of mine. At least they're still small feminine sized...but they look like hell.
My fave is when I meet or greet people who work with my husband...and shake hands. I get that look when they feel all the callouses....:lol:

[Rt66Kix]

So I had this great idea to redo the living room floor with Mexican tile, slightly grade it all toward the center and put in a center drain. All we have to do is rinse everything toward the drain and viola- clean floors. Could even hose off the dogs in the house if necessary.

I've thought about that for years! And with all the nice new concrete stains and finishes, it certainly could be attractive.

[Trot Left]

Ahh this hits home to me. I have had a fly in my car for 4 days now, at first he was annoying but the other day when he was 'threatening' to fly out I said where are you going and he flew back in :)

My sister just bought a million dollar house, has the clothes, the cars/truck, the jewels, the weekly mani-peddi... and she is always board!! Nothing to do but shop!

I have a good job a new truck and a 20 year old one, I have more barn clothes then I do work clothes, I shop for clothes only at Christmas time when I am in the stores anyway, I have never had a mani or peddi, but I am HAPPY as I have a couple nice, healthy, happy horses.

My sister always says why do you spend so much of horse stuff. The only way I could explain it to her where she could relate is You like Coach, you buy Coach - My horse wears Coach, he likes Coach LOL, only then did she understand.

My s/o would never want me in my sis' shoes. That's not real to him.

[JohnDeere]

This is usch a great thread! Timely too.

I sat down and figured up how many $$$ we spend on board, shoes, and shows. AFter the paramedics left :lol:, I realzied that I would like to do more shows. So Ive either got to convince the family that they dont need to eat or wear clothes, work more, or drop another hobby of the kids. Nope, 2 out of 3 are not going to happen.

Heigh-ho, heigh-ho, its off to work I go...:yes:

Who cares that I could go on soccer trips w/kids, drive a nice car, and eat out more often? But Im not going to get rid of the horses. I have a great DH that doesnt say too much to me so I guess its on me.

Anybody need bookkeeping done? :D

[cbiscuit]

Public Service Announcement:

I would like to officially sign up for BOTH jewelry/cars AND horses. Just show me where to sign or who to sleep with.

Thank you,
Cbiscuit

[lcw579]

I think "horsie people" can sort of grasp my idea of a living room renovation idea I had but "regular people" think I am insane.

We have 4 fairly big dogs ( a Std Poo, a pit bull, a lab and a great dane). We also have a swimming pool about 6 feet from the back door, a great dane that can open the patio doors to let the dogs in and out at will and a small yard that has become a canine speedway so the dogs have destroyed all hope of grass on turn 3. Which leads to muddy paw prints and dirty grit on the floor and couches.

So I had this great idea to redo the living room floor with Mexican tile, slightly grade it all toward the center and put in a center drain. All we have to do is rinse everything toward the drain and viola- clean floors. Could even hose off the dogs in the house if necessary.

Not to mention getting rid of tracked in barn dirt.

Needless to say- neighbors and that sister in law with the 3 mil beach house didn't get it.

I think maybe some horse mag should do home and barn layouts like Arch Digest does- show us how the horsie set live (and by that I mean regular horse folk such as those on the board answering this thread, not a layout on Salamander Farm thank you very much. Their barn is nicer than my house).

So how has it worked out for you? Please tell us! I have wanted to do the same thing in my kitchen ever since I read 1000 Acres and the father in the book did something similar! People just shake their heads whenever I mention my fantasy flooring option but I think it sounds great so please let me know how it worked out so I can convince my architect husband to include it in the plans when we finally get around to updating the kitchen (although if daughter gets that pony looks like it will be another 10 years ;)).

[Trot Left]

Normal people don't have;

hay in the vehicles; sneakers that they swore they would not wear to the barn that are sparkling white; finger nails that are not torn off below the white, toe nails that are not black from being stepped on from a 1,000 lb animal with steel shoes; jackets without green slobber marks; deadlines that makes them get home in time to feed or go home early from a night out, because they must get up at dawn to feed, etc. They also don't have the pleasure of listening to horses munching hay after their fed, or listening to galloping hoofs in the middle of the night, or smell wonderful horse breath when you get a horsey snuggle or the thrill of an exuberant ride.

I'll take me un normal lifestyle any day.

The munching of the hay - hearing a pin drop otherwise is the absolute best noise/feeling ever.

[ProzacPuppy]

I'm an accountant and one of my clients regularly spends $25,000-30,000 a month on her Amex card. Last month she hit $48,700 (which she pays in full every month of course). I cannot imagine spending that much every month but I could sure try - first thing NEW SADDLES for both horses !! Same client also gave her daughter a $12,000 charm bracelet for her 6th birthday (all my jewelry together doesn't add up to that much - though tack probably does).

In my family we're the "horse poor" folk even though we make decent income. But my brother, brothers and sis-in laws all have the multi million dollar homes, the ocean front vac homes, the ski homes in Vail or Aspen, and are always trying to get us to go on "family vacations" to exotic locations. We always have to beg poverty which sets hubby ranting that "If we didn't have THOSE horses...." to which I silently add "I would have killed you in your sleep years ago" but fail to verbalize.

It just seems as if it is constantly being brought to our attention that our horses have chosen a particular lifestyle for us.

I am awaiting the burglers who have been plundering our town (actually stabbed someones Cocker Spaniel repeatedly). They won't find anything worth taking if they get in and my quartet will definitely make it a challenge just to get to the back door.

I wouldn't give up my 450 lbs of territorial canines to have my brother's Architectural Digest perfect home either. I just decorate in things that match dog hair and drool marks.

[ybiaw]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D


I told my boyfriend that I don't want a ring, I want a horse, and that I'll name it either "engagment ring" or "I do"

[LostFarmer]

Public Service Announcement:

I would like to officially sign up for BOTH jewelry/cars AND horses. Just show me where to sign or who to sleep with.

Thank you,
Cbiscuit

:lol::lol: I laughed at this then I see that you show Washington DC and your location and I laughed even harder. :D

LF

[Candle]

I just decorate in things that match dog hair and drool marks.

This made me laugh because I have always had bay or dark chestnut horses, and suddenly I realized that almost all of my clothes are in colors that don't show bay, dark bay, or chestnut colored hair. How did I notice this? My filly is GRAY and you can see ALL the hair on everything I wear :lol::lol::lol: That's how I color coordinate my clothes :D

[Neighland]

jack sparkles more than any diamond i've ever seen.

Jacksmom summed it up!! :yes::yes::yes::yes::yes::yes::yes:

[atr]

that commercial where the guy wakes his wife with the diamond necklace,


This ad always makes me hoot. If something cold and vaguely worm shaped dropped on my naked bosom during the night, I'd probably grab it without opening my eyes and hurl it across the room, whilst cursing, assuming it was an offering from one of the cats...

[Huntertwo]

Okay, maybe I didn't word it right.

I got to thinking about it because of 1) that commercial where the guy wakes his wife with the diamond necklace

Love that commercial! Everytime it comes on I do a "Ahemmm" to Mr. H2.

Only thing I find on my chest when I wake up is a CAT....;)

[MistyBlue]

LOL...I like to bust Mr Blue's hump with diamond commercials too. The "make 3 months salary last a lifetime" one. Everytime that one comes on I always nudge him and say, "Huh, guess you didn't get paid two of the three months when you went ring shopping." :lol: Only joking though since I have a nice ring...but at one company function he somehow noticed and actually pointed out to me, "Wow honey...you have by far the smallest ring here." Uh oh...not a smart observation Cowboy! :winkgrin:
But I'd rather have things done on the farm anyday rather than upgrading rings. The ring I want is REALLY big...a 100x200 oval cut. :cool:

Hey H2...tomorrow at Top Cat Farm in Killingworth they're having an open barn, free equine yoga clinic and used tack sale from 9-3. I'm going for the day...I think Another Round and I are going to share a tack table and get rid of the scads of extra crap we have. Why don;t you come by and say hello?

[Huntertwo]

LOL...I like to bust Mr Blue's hump with diamond commercials too. The "make 3 months salary last a lifetime" one. Everytime that one comes on I always nudge him and say, "Huh, guess you didn't get paid two of the three months when you went ring shopping." :lol: Only joking though since I have a nice ring...but at one company function he somehow noticed and actually pointed out to me, "Wow honey...you have by far the smallest ring here." Uh oh...not a smart observation Cowboy! :winkgrin:
But I'd rather have things done on the farm anyday rather than upgrading rings. The ring I want is REALLY big...a 100x200 oval cut. :cool:

Hey H2...tomorrow at Top Cat Farm in Killingworth they're having an open barn, free equine yoga clinic and used tack sale from 9-3. I'm going for the day...I think Another Round and I are going to share a tack table and get rid of the scads of extra crap we have. Why don;t you come by and say hello?

Ahhh darn, I wish I read your post this morning or last night. When I was driving home from the barn tonight, I went the *scenic* route on Parker Hill and saw the sign on a telephone pole. Unfortunately, it was almost 5:00PM... :( I would have loved to have stopped by and hung out for awhile.

[MistyBlue]

Darn...it was a fun time. Quite a few people from Equi-Chat were there as well as AnotherRound from here. I had to leave mid-day for 2 hours to go pick up hay and bedding...and then stop home and calm Mr Blue down since the one time I've left him alone on the property in over 2 years and of course some dimwit slid off the road on the wet leaves, took out a pole and stopped power at our house. Mr Blue does not deal well with any changes to normalcy. :winkgrin:

[dogchushu]

I got to wondering how many other folks had to make the compromises and have hit middle age with a house that a burgler would be hard pressed to find something to steal from.

Any burglar who hits my place had better stay away from 1) my animals and 2) my tack! Anything else? Meh. That's what insurance is for. But don't mess with my animals or my tack!

[Jaegermonster]

The first time I saw that commercial where the husband puts the necklace on his sleeping wife and it's all romantic I laughed out loud and fell out of my chair.

My husband had been very clandestine and sneaky that morning about going off on an "errand" (and this was just a short time before christmas). Upon his return he blindfolded me and took me outside to the section of the yard where we keep the tractor implements and removed the blindfold. It was all very dramatic.

There before me was my christmas surprise! Just what I wanted (and it really was!)
A BRAND NEW REAL MANURE DRAG FROM TRACTOR SUPPLY (no more fence post with chain link and a cinder block!!)

I was thrilled!

So now every time that commercial comes on and they say "How do I say I love you" or whatever is in the ad, I smile and say "And I got a poop drag" and we crack up laughing.

[Reynard Ridge]

calm Mr Blue down since the one time I've left him alone on the property in over 2 years and of course some dimwit slid off the road on the wet leaves, took out a pole and stopped power at our house. Mr Blue does not deal well with any changes to normalcy. :winkgrin:
:lol: I think dog puke on the carpet qualifies as a "change to normalcy." Someone taking out the pole that sends electricity to your home is more like a "dramatic shift in the equilibrium of the universe." Hope he's settled now. :yes:

[King's Ransom]

i just got back from a business trip out to San Diego. We had an exhibit booth at a trade show. The booth next to ours was displaying antique estate jewelry -- jewelry they buy out of estates and sell to get cash into the hands of the heirs. Some very pretty stuff. One necklace -- $46,000! One $65,000! A pair of earrings I really did love for ONLY $6,500!

While admiring the jewelry, I said something that was actually rude, and I wish I had just thought it instead of saying it, because the lady with the booth was very nice. But, I put my foot in my mouth and actually said (outloud) "Wow, that's a gorgeous necklace, but it's almost enough to buy a made Warmblood ..."

The whole trip, we spent our time in downtown San Diego, dined at horribly expensive restaurants, and saw tons of glam and glitz. I was never ever ever so happy to get home! Hit the ground at KCI and thought, "Yay! We own THIS sunshine!" Pulled off the freeway and thought, "Take me home, country road!"

But when I stepped out into the late-afternoon field, it was like a scene from a movie. I couldn't see the boys, so I hollered "Elijah! Elijah!" From the farthest fenceline, Elijah's head popped up. He saw me and came thundering -- all 1,350 lbs of him -- toward me. The closer he got, the bigger I smiled until I thought my face would break. He came in, and I threw my arms around him and he made that wonderful snuffley sound he makes when he is SOOO happy. So, we stood there, just a girl and her horse -- in the middle of the Kansas prairie -- hugging and laughing.

And I would not trade that MOMENT for $46,000 worth of necklace. Not that one moment. I wouldn't trade it for any amount of money.

By the way, when I met up with my industry friends -- the ones I only see once or twice a year, but have known for nearly two decades -- the most common comment I heard was, "What are you doing? You have a light about you that was never there before." What am I doing? I am living!

On a farm, on the prairie, with one old, ornery QH and a magnificent WB with one game leg. Aka, The Island of Misfit Toys. Having the time of my life!

[SLW]

Just wondering how many other folks on the board have come to a point in their married life when they can look back and realize that they never got the jewels or nice cars or ritzy home remodels. They did the trade off - often unspoken - They got horses.

It's all about the horses and things that go great with them- good coffee makers brewing Starbucks in the morning, Blackberry Brandy in the Hunting Flask, a perfectly fitted turnout blanket, the smell of June hay being fed on an October evening, a trip to the feed store to get the exact grain the horses need, the folks you meet at all the horse activities and the whinny's from the crew when you walk out the back door at 7:00 a.m.

I'm pained to primp and priss for the odd non-horse related "Paved Road Activity" that I have to attend.

Autos, a tool to get you from Point A to Point B dry and comfortable unless it's the 3/4 ton truck to pull the horse trailer. Jewelery, shouldn't wear it when your riding. A house remodel, well heck I've give about anything for an awesome mud room!!! :) Mercifully Mr. SLW is 100% supportive, if not indeed an enabler. ;)

[Carrera]

Well me and the SO have been reading this and laughing. This is me to a tee! Well except I would like an engagement ring. But on the other hand I am looking at getting a new broodmare on lease and we just might need to spend the ring money on stud fees... So I guess I could call the foal Engagement, or something along that line! To me the horses are all that really matters, I don't own any jewlery and I like it that way. I have no use for it. I would never consider it a compromise to trade jewels for horses. Its a bonus! I'm so happy that I have an SO that understands that.

Oh and to those who have gotten trucks and tractors for b-day gifts and anniversaries, lucky you!!!

[KBG Eventer]

There used to be an event horse in Area V back in the early/mid 90's named "My Daddy's New Porsche" :) They had imported it and I bet it had cost as much as a Porsche.

There is an event pony around here named Daddy's Empty Pockets. :lol:

[ESG]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D

There was a junior hunter in this area a while back, named "Dad's Mercedes". :D

And I agree with Janet - it's a choice, not a compromise. And one I've never regretted. :cool:

[CelticReinRescue]

My husband was in Iraq for our first wedding anniversary, my gift from him was my QH gelding, Ciagan, the horsey love of my life. Ciagan ended up having to have bi-lateral stifle surgery. I missed many calls from him in Iraq because I wouldn't leave my horse's side. When he came home for leave, I picked him up at the airport and drove straight to the barn so that he could meet his new 'child' even though the poor man was exhausted and just wanted to go home and sleep. He went to visit his family in MA for 2 days on leave and I refused to go because Ciagan was still on stall rest from surgery and I didn't trust anyone to take care of him.

Before Ciagan came along, I had a new car, which was traded in for an Xterra so that I could get to the barn and back every day in the snow. My husband's smaller truck (which was great on gas!) was traded in for his big truck. Our anniversary gift from my dad was a horse trailer. Instead of home improvements, we make barn improvements. Instead of getting my nails done & tanning salon appointments weekly like I did when I was younger, I now pay vet, farrier, feed and hay bills. My truck always has at least 3 flies living in it and if I don't roll up my windows, there is usually a barn cat sleeping on a horse blanket in the back.

My cousin (who is like my sister) bought a gorgeous town house in Virginia with her new husband, we bought a tiny little house in Maryland because the horses would be happy and safe. :)

Our yearly vacations will never happen again because I'm too afraid to leave the horses in anyone else's care.

A few months ago, my husband sat bleeding in the ER with a head injury from a fall off a ladder at work while I refused to leave a rescue horse that had a 105 fever from vaccine reactions. He took a cab home and my mother in law has basically disowned me, lol. :no:

I would rather make a nice warm bran mash for the horses than a nice warm meal in my home. I'd rather clean a stall and the entire barn than put my laundry away. I constantly get hammered about not visiting my family in NY or his family in MA often enough, but one of us must stay while one of us goes and it's just no fun that way - I hate long drives anyway, unless the trailer is hooked up and we're going to rescue a horse, then I'll drive to Ohio and back in a day and not bat an eye about it.

Yup, things have certainly changed in my life, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. I'm just grateful that I have an understanding husband that hasn't divorced me yet. ;)

Oh......jewelry.....I don't even wear any anymore except my wedding ring.

[TheCoppertop]

This is me too.. I am a re-rider and during the horseless time I managed to get some diamond earrings, a pendant, and a decent engagement ring. BUT since I got horses.. my Jeep is 7 years old, I got a horse and a barn last year for my birthday, and I've considered hocking the earrings & necklace a few times for nicer tack :)

Sometimes when its 5am and cold and I'm lugging buckets out to the barn I think I'd like a house in the suburbs and a boarding bill but then 2 more horses "found" me.. one surprise stowaway in my mares womb, and a rescue given to me by a friend, and that board bill would be ridiculous. I'll never part with any of my ponies. Besides, I'd rather look out the window over 3 horses asses in my pasture than a golf course any day.

I just feel bad for my husband sometimes, he gets nothing out of the horses but he cleans the barn, puts up the hay.. I guess a happy wife is a good payoff though.

I too wonder what the glittery soccer moms DO with their time.. I pay a farrier every 8 weeks but to me a manicure is doing an extra good job scraping horse-related grime out from under my fingernails.

[pony grandma]

The ring I want is REALLY big...a 100x200 oval cut. :cool:



You guys are cracking me up!

And hey, I always told people that I don't get the 'walk across white yuppie carpet to get to the powder room' thing. I've wanted a huge mud room with a scored concrete floor, a drain in the middle and a hose on the wall. And a good deep laundry sink, a toilet and a shower. And a big boy washer mounted in the wall! Now we're talking living life.

When my children were young and in elementary school and I went to go pick them up the 'other' kids at the school would be hanging at the end of their mother's arms yelling 'but I want to go to their house!'

I actually had one lady pull into my driveway one afternoon and state that she had some free time to kill and she asked if she could let her kids out, of the car, to play here. A back handed compliment? I suppose.

My son would have the entire school football team here for camp-outs and the boys were hysterical riding a couple of the horses bareback in the outside arena. They fished and made a raft and swam in the pond, and rode four wheelers and cooked out and made bonfires. They all called me Mom and said that they wished that they could live here.

We ALWAYS had pony/horse birthday parties here for my two daughters.

We would dress up on Halloween night and do the Headless Horseman ride in the field up by the road. The traffic would pull up to watch.

The harvest moon nights I organize a midnight ride through the fields (We used to ride all night and end up at the House of Pancakes at 5 a.m.)

I wouldn't trade any of this for the showroom furniture house, designer label clothes, fancy cars - whatever.

--The PROUD owner of a truck whose front personal plate reads 'HER F350'

[PaddyUK]

There is an event pony around here named Daddy's Empty Pockets. :lol:

There was an UK event horse called "My Overdaft"!

I'd rather have my life than anyone elses, even if it means shavings and hay on everything, a Land Rover that smells like a wet dog and an elderly lorry.

As long as I have my lovely hubby of 20 years nothing else really matters.

Thankfully he loves my horses (Jack was my 20th wedding anniversary prezzie) and helps around the yard as well.

He did say everytime he looks at the rubber floor mats in the 2 new stables he breaks out in a sweat just thinking how long it took him to lay them.:lol:

Paddy

[jvanrens]

I would LOVE to go to a show and see a rider who has a string of horses named Home Improvement, New Wardrobe, Fancy Car, Engagement Ring, and Caribbean Vacation :D

Going back a "few" years, but I remember a rider showing at Spruce Meadows (saw it on TV) with a horse named My Diamonds. The commentator said that the horse was her choice instead of a fancy engagement ring. :D That made me smile, a woman after my own heart. :yes:

[pearl's mom]

Our wealthier friends (actually they are all wealthier) always tell us how lucky we are to have "our life". When house shopping for our current house, I saw the inside for 5 minutes, thought it adequate, then went out back and saw an icky barn with the prettiest couple of acres I'd seen in S. Fl. and decided this was the one. We could have gotten a pretty fancy house with less land for same price.
My horse squished my diamond ring when she paniced in a trailer. Don't wear it or any jewelry except on very spec. occasions.
My best present ever was my swinging chair that overlooks the pasture.
My city born hubby thanks me all the time for steering our life in this direction.:)
Personally, I think it's sooo wierd how many people long for fancy houses, cars, jewelry...

[ProzacPuppy]

I suppose in my case it is more a compromise for my husband who has only sat upon a horse twice in his life ( we don't let him on the show horses - he's very big and they are very emotionally sensitive and he's fine with just videoing them in the arena or hot walking them).

I honestly don't care about jewelry - what little I have I don't wear. It 'bothers' me. I would like a really nice tow vehicle. One with all the amenities. My biggest 'want' is a house that is animal friendly but also has decent amenities for humans (doors that the dogs can't open, tile floors not carpets for obvious reasons, big industrial size laundry rooms for big industrial size machines). And a little spare money to be able to pay for the vet bills, the shows AND food, gas, medical bills etc.

Somehow in the world of compromises the animals always seem to come first and we end up with no groceries in the house until the next paycheck if one of the horses needs a major medical procedure one month.

Glad to know that I'm not alone in my "Animal Friendly" lifestyle that is not quite understood by some of my friends and relatives.

[AppendixQHLover]

If my hubby was home he would be busting a gut reading this.

Since I have gotten into horses again as a re-rider he has for birthdays, and Christmas's bought me the following: 2 pairs of tall boots, 1 garment bag, Ariat grooming tote, 2 show jackets, and so on.

I have ONE diamond which is my wedding band. I only wear it when I need to. I know that I am married, and it a platinum. Platinum doesn't do well with horse drool.

There is a horse that goes to MSA and SMHA that is called "HR Daddy's Broke", and than "Daddy's Last Dollar".