Sometimes I love this board...

[pintopiaffe]

I love that I can hobnob with some of the most amazing, top notch breeders in the industry, even though I'm a humble 'backyard' breeder.

I love that I learn something new almost every single day.

I love the heated discussions as much as the 'newbie hold-my-hand' threads.

I am ETERNALLY grateful for the time and advice given by some folks who really, REALLY know their stuff. (Kathy for one, but MANY others!)

I love that some arguments break out because people are so PASSIONATE about what they are doing--their breed, their registry, their association--I think it's GOOD to be PASSIONATE about it. I don't mind the disagreements when PASSION is at the heart of them, which it usually is.

I'm not expecting any foals this year, for the first time in 20+ years... not midwifing any for anyone else either... I'm a little at a loss... and yet, I'm living vicariously.

A huge thanks to the posters, the moderators for putting up with us, and CotH for hosting.

[Signature]

I like this board also - it has been extremely helpful this year in particular. The climate is comfortable and there are a lot of knowledgable people willing to share ideas and give help! :)

[seramisu]

What a fabulous post, PintoPiaffe. This board really is such a great resource, thank you for reminding us not to take it for granted. There are so many knowledgeable and supportive people here, almost every thread makes me either a) smarter or b) smile!

I feel very lucky to "know" people like you, the regular posters, question-answerers and hand-holders - I want you all to know how much I, and probably many other very infrequent posters like me, appreciate having you here!

[nsm]

Very good post PintoPiaffe, and a good reminder for all of us. You can never know enough and I continually learn on this board and am very grateful to everyone for sharing their knowledge...

Nancy

[Equilibrium]

PP,
Really great thread. I too come here to learn. I also know the value of this board when times are very tough. While some discussions may be heated and passionate, the one thing you can count on is support during stressful times.
Kathy and FHC have helped me see different ways of doing some things with regards to foal care and vet advice. Every year I'm a bit more knowledgeable and able to ask better questions to my vet in regards to the matter at hand. I'm sure my vet wouldn't see it that way!
So yes, I find this board a great help and I am also happy to be a part of such a wealth of knowledge.

Terri

[Sassenach]

:) Great post PintoPiaffe.

I LOVE this board. The quality of it is top notch :yes: There is SO MUCH information and things to be learned on the board. There is a real sense of community here from the warm fuzzies to the heartbreak. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else :D

[DownYonder]

Wonderful post, PP. This forum is a great educational tool, and since I don't breed any more, it is super to come here and hear about everyone's foals. I am blown away by the quality being produced in the U.S. and Canada these days.

[Blue Yonder]

I have used the "Search" function on this forum as a resource more times than I can count as an educational tool. Sometimes my vet thinks I'm really just naturally smart! ;-)

Thanks to those one step (or many!) ahead of me for sharing your knowledge so willingly. Fingers crossed that I have something useful, correct, and helpful to share with those a step behind me!

[Daydream Believer]

Amen...PP! I can't imagine not having this forum to come to for help and support and knowledge. I personally owe a debt to all the folks who helped me through my tragedy a month ago...I'm not sure I'd still be doing this if not for the support of folks here.

[BBowen]

PP:

Thank you for putting into words what I feel about this Board as well. I started frequenting the Board four years ago when I bred my mare. I was a newbie, but tried to educate myself by reading and talking with experienced breeders. This Board was a wonderful resource and source of support. It still is.

Breeding my one filly has been a tremendous journey and I bow down to all of you who do this each year. Breeding can give you the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, but to see a beautiful, healthy foal on the ground and watch it grow doesn't get any better.

[Sakura]

Loved your post pintopiaffe. I have been needing a good Kum-by-yah moment :)

[Nootka]

yea great post.

I love it also.. I have learned sooooo much.

[hrfponies]

I am amazed at the generosity of the people on this board. I have had some really nice people help me and I begin my quest into breeding horses. Thank you to everyone who has answered my posts!!

[okggo]

I could not agree more!!! I hold quite a few folks on here with very high regard in what they do and produce, and while I'll never have the money to venture out of the "backyard" status, I have never felt like I've been treated poorly or like my question was any less important because of it.

I think quite a few mares have benefited from the advice of the long time breeders on here, mine sure have!

PP - incidentally, you may call yourself byb but you have some of the most insightful posts I've seen on here. How many folks saved or printed the information from the pH thread?? I know of quite a few that did :)