COTH Get Together - EA - Check out the Great GM Pics pg 4!

[Fessy's Mom]

Well, it's about a week away now and I wanted to try and get as many people as possible to meet at the Equine Affaire next Saturday. We did it last year and I'd love to do it again. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

Let's pick a place and time to meet. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

Well, it's about a week away now and I wanted to try and get as many people as possible to meet at the Equine Affaire next Saturday. We did it last year and I'd love to do it again. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

Let's pick a place and time to meet. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

Okay you guys! You're hurting my feelings! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Bump! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Kim]

I will be there! My presentation is at 5 PM, and I have book signings before and after...but I'd love to meet! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[GoneAwayFarmCT]

Aw, crumb-

I'd love to see you, Kim, (I owe you big time for tactfully pointing out many years ago that my first manuscript had like four different endings <G&gthttp://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif, and I'd love to meet FM 'for real,' but we'll be at EA on Thursday because we're planning to foxhunt the young'uns both weekend days.

Lift a hoofpick for me, will ya?

[llt]

I will be there pretty much the whole weekend. Racetb will be there (even though she vehemently denies it). And I will have cocktails in the motor home.

[Fessy's Mom]

Ooooo, cocktails, huh? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

I will DEFINITELY make a point to see Kim. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

I know there are others out there who said they were going on Saturday.

Anyone else? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[classicsporthorses]

I will be there with my daughter but we are leaving by 2 Pm-we are going up Friday as well.

We are meeting the people who lease my big gelding but we would LOVE To meet anyone else.

[stegall]

I invite everyone to stop by the CT Horse Council booth. I will be there all four days (of course barring the shopping excursions http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif )

And no, I don't have any idea what building we are in, as I don't have the agenda. (I didn't order the booth this year).

As soon as I find out, I'll let you know http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Flipper K.]

I wish I could -- but family commitments have won out (for some reason they wouldn't take "The Equine Affaire is that weekend!" as an excuse!).

Say hi to GM for me ...

Fessy's Mom, have fun!

[GoneAwayFarmCT]

I'll see you at the booth, Stegall. I need to sign us up for the CT Horse Council <G>.

Jessica

[MistyBlue]

Oo, do sign up Goneaway!
I'll stop by the booth and say hello when I find it Stegall. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
Fessy's mom...I'll be there Saturday. I'm also meeting a bunch of folks from E-Chat. We have a member coming over from England to the EA and one coming down from Canada too. So it'll be a fun one this year. I'd love to meet some fellow COThers.
Is there a time and place to meet? Do we have a secret handshake or will we all wear something sublte like a blinged out hat saying our screen names?

[stegall]

Gone away--glad to have you! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

If anyone cares to stop (you don't have to be a member to say hello, honest http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif ) I can give you an update on the SART, and many other things that we are looking at for 2006.

And........

We have the newest and latest horse statistics for the state of CT. We are looking at a way to mount the rolled up posters we have with the stats for everyone to see, as the printed versions are not ready yet. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

We are also finalizing our memberhsip application online, so that in the very near future you can sign up via the internet using paypal......

so, anyone who wants to drop by and say hello, I'll be there. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[harryjohnson Aefvue Senior Gardens]

The wife and I will be there, with me trying to keep a tight rein on her impulse buying. Where are the cocktails, and when?

[GottaRide]

I will be there part of the day on Friday, overnight at the Comfort Inn in West Springfield, then all day Saturday.

Would love to meet some fellow COTHers. Please post a time/place to meet.

I'll be wearing a bright reddish-orange GAP quilted vest and a yellow Life is Good ball cap with a horse on it. I figure in that outfit, no one will miss me http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

Oh Yay! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif That's already a bunch of you who would like to meet. I'll keep this thread bumped up so more people can see it as the week goes along.

Last year when we scheduled a meeting place, we made it right outside the Better Living Center near the food booths at noon.

Sound okay? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[GottaRide]

Not sure. The EquiChat meeting times are at noon and three, so maybe staggering it a bit might make sense...

[wilkins2]

I'm getting there Thurs and plan to leave sometime Sat after the first George Morris clinic. I doubt I will stay for the second since it starts to late and we have a 3-4 hour ride home. I will be checking here to see what the meeting time will be.

Sheryl

[stegall]

ah, I was SO spoiled by yesterday's weather, that I am now laboring under the illusion that winter will never come. Last year it sleeted on us at that time.
But, if the weather continues to hold, perhaps we could get some of those tables outside between buildings-the picnic area?
Lets put global warming to good use http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I'm sure by that time people will want to have a place to put down their packages anyway .... http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

Hey mistyblue, should we sneak out a couple of table signs "Reserved for COTH" ??
ha ha ha

[MistyBlue]

LOL...I could print some signs up and stick them on the tables when I get there in the morning.
However...a better idea to make sure nobody parks their butts at them might be "Reserved for GM!" and we'll add a http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif to them? http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

Gottaride and I are also on E-Chat...and the E-Chat group is meeting at noon in a different location. Maybe we can switch the noon COTH meeting to either 11 am or 1 pm? I don't want to mis anybody. BTW, I'm planning on making myself a baseball cap that says Misty Blue on it so I don't accidentally miss meeting anyone. If anyone sees a blinged out Misty Blue cap, throw something at me to get my attention.

Last year...yeah...it did snow and sleet at the EA! I remember because I went Saturday morning and the highways and the EA were empty until late morning due to the snow.

Stegall...is Chip going to the EA?

[daysgonebyfarm]

I'll be there on Thurs and Sat. My mare is being used in the Scot HAnsen clinincs those days. I'll be up to meeting everyone.

I'll be sure to stop by the CT horse council booth.

[CB/TB]

My group will be there Fri-Sun. We'll stop and see you too, at the CT booth. My cousin has The Curlies and we always catch up and spend quality time once a a year! I've started my list, check ed out catalog prices and check the web site for the agenda . We MIGHT have 2 speare tickets for Fantasia on Fri Night. Not sure yet. Looking foreward to it and hope the weather is better this year. Newspaper shows rain Weds, Thurs,Fri, but better than the snow we had last year!

[Susan P]

Last year was brutally cold, slippery footing inbetween building, the horses had to be so careful and the ring outside was frozen.

I'm sure since I'm not going this year it will be perfect. Sadly we won't have any Nokotas there this year. Last year we had 2 and this year we will have none. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/no.gif

The booth will still be there though so please visit them in the Stroh building. Sara Gruen is signing books at our booth too. Her new book Flying Changes is based on the Nokota she met there last year.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by CB/TB:
My group will be there Fri-Sun. We'll stop and see you too, at the CT booth. My cousin has The Curlies and we always catch up and spend quality time once a a year! I've started my list, check ed out catalog prices and check the web site for the agenda . We MIGHT have 2 speare tickets for Fantasia on Fri Night. Not sure yet. Looking foreward to it and hope the weather is better this year. Newspaper shows rain Weds, Thurs,Fri, but better than the snow we had last year! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

[Fessy's Mom]

Hey guys. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif Sorry I didn't respond sooner, but the Board hasn't been very cooperative with me lately. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Anyway, yeah, we should definitely pick another time, I'm just not sure when because I'm coming on Saturday to see GM's clinics at 9:30 to 11:00 and 1:30 to 3:00.

How about we meet right outside the Coliseum at the door near Farmerama (don't know what they're calling it for EA - Breed Pavilion maybe?) at 11:00 or 11:15?

Let me know. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[harryjohnson Aefvue Senior Gardens]

Just when is the meeting, and once again, llt, where and when are the cocktails?

[linquest]

Is anyone from Boston going up just for Saturday? Would love to share a ride--my car or yours.

[llt]

Anyone having an extra ticket for Fantasia, I would love to purchase it! Count me on on the "reunion" and Harry, cocktails can be most any time, I am staying up there in our motor home, and love to have company at happy hour. And don't forget, Racetb will be there with her Middleburg stories.

[Kim]

I will be arriving around 1 PM on Saturday - my presentation is at 5 PM, and I think I have a couple of book signings in between! I'm also staying for Fantasia (I've never been to E.A.!) http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif When are you folks planning to meet?

[eventamy]

I wish I could meet you guys! I'm going on Thursday, I can't miss Mr. Hottie Darren Chiachia! I have a workshop on Friday that I can't blow off, bummer, and I'm rearranging the shed for hay storage over the weekend. Oh well! I just hope I don't have to stand in line for an hour again this year to get in! I'll have a 2 year old with me, that would suck!

[Fessy's Mom]

I changed the thread title with the time and place. Will this work for everyone? I'm thinking the door on the left side of the Coliseum toward Farmerama. Let me know. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Edited to say they're calling it the Stroh Building for the EA. So 11:15 between the Coliseum and Stroh Building after the GM clinic. Sound good? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Kim]

I won't be there at that time - I'll be on the road. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Oh well, have fun anyway!!

[Fessy's Mom]

Oh Kim, I just saw your post about being there later. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif I'm sorry, it's just that I really want to see both GM clinics so unless people want to wait until after 3:00, maybe we could do it then?

But I definitely plan on coming over to meet you that day! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Kim]

No problem! I would not feel right about making you folks reschedule, because who knows what my schedule may end up being like for that afternoon! (One thing I know - I have to make myself stay away from all of the vendor booths!!) http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

I am excited to meet you! I will bring your signed book! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Irish Ei's]

I am so stinking jealous.....I will be here in body but with all of you in Spirit...I think I may have pushed one too many "you're not gonna be home again...Oh, wait..horses again, right???" Buttons with He Who Writes The Checks.....

[Fessy's Mom]

Oh, I can't wait to get it! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

And as far as the vendor booths go, I've finally decided that I need to go two days this year. One day to shop and one day for clinics. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

The last couple of years I haven't left myself enough time to see any clinics - I spent too much time shopping!

[Fessy's Mom]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Irish Ei's:
I am so stinking jealous.....I will be here in body but with all of you in Spirit...I think I may have pushed one too many "you're not gonna be home again...Oh, wait..horses again, right???" Buttons with He Who Writes The Checks..... </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Oh c'mon Irish! Just tell him it's only once a year and you'll never have the opportunity to see so many wonderful clinicians at one time for so little cost! (Can you tell I've practiced this one alot. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif) Just don't mention anything about the wonderful shopping!

[boosma47]

11:15 Saturday, between the Coliseum and Stroh!

Will have a Boosma tag on BB cap.

Can't wait to see you guys!

[Irish Ei's]

Clinics...Bah...It IS about the shopping.....
Best done AFTER I hit him up for a years worth of Bob's Bills...
Gonna cost me MORE than money to keep this horse.... http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Racetb*Aefvue Farm*Biziz Ltd.]

Harry,
I know llt will have a lovely set up with cocktails at her motorcoach throughout the EA. If it's anything like her horse show hospitality, you and Mrs. Johnson will want to pop in! I may not make it there due to a family illness, but I'll give it the old college try! llt will fill us in as to where she'll be situated, I'm certain.

[Madeline]

11:15 Saturday. Sounds like a plan. See youse guys there.

[MistyBlue]

Great! How about making double meeting times in the same spot? That way if folks miss the 11:15 time they can make the later one?
I'll be there between the two buildings at 11:15! There's a bunch of you I wanna meet!
Now is there a secret password or handshake we'll be using so we can recognize each other? Or will be just be a bunch of separate shady looking people lurking between two buildings eyeing everyone and wondering who the heck they are? http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif
I'm kinda on the shy side... http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif...so I'll be wearing a baseball cap with my screen name Misty Blue emblazoned on it in sparklies. I'm making it this week. And thank goodness we're not meeting inside a building...otherwise I'd have to wear one of those orange bicycle flags so people could find me. I'm kinda short-ish. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

Well, seeing as how I started this, I'll volunteer for what was LoriO's job last year - to stand outside the building with a little piece of cardboard with "COTH" scribbled on it. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

As far as another time, how about 3:15, after the second GM clinic? Or even 4:30, right before we all stand in line to buy our signed copy of Kim's new book! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[MistyBlue]

LMAO! I can *so* picture LoriO doing that! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif
Well, if I see Lori I'll stand by her...we've met!
Lori...you *are* going Saturday, aren't you? Haven't seen you in AGES!

[Kim]

I hope I will get to meet some of you folks!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

By the way, does anyone know how long the Fantasia show typically lasts? Thanks!

[llt]

I will be the person with lots of shopping bags and sore feet! Oh, after cocktails with Racetb and Harry, maybe my feet won't be sore!

[Racetb*Aefvue Farm*Biziz Ltd.]

I'm not standin' around with a freakin' COTH sign. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif I'll be the the one getting booked for public intoxication when leaving llt's motorcoach with the Johnsons.

[Sagey]

Yes, let's have a later get together time too for those who can't get there in the morning.
3:30 pm is fine.

[Fessy's Mom]

Just bumping this up so more people will see this and come! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[llt]

Not the first time you met Officer Friendly in Springfield Mass

[Racetb*Aefvue Farm*Biziz Ltd.]

Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. I was a child, and unjustly incarcerated at that!
Come to think of it, possibly every questionable act I performed throughout my teenage years was masterminded, with impunity, by llt http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[stegall]

It opens today... it opens today!!!!

YAY!

See you all at EA. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

Hee Hee! Stegall rhymed! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I'll be there Friday (shopping!) and Saturday (GM!). http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

So anyone who went today, please let us know how it was, i.e. - which booths to run to first thing tomorrow morning! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[llt]

I plead innocent, or at least slightly so, I was not there for the Officer Friendly incident.

[llt]

Is anyone up there partying? Should I try to arrive tomorrow night?

[Racetb*Aefvue Farm*Biziz Ltd.]

God yes, llt!! Get your t*ts up there!!...and you were front and center for every other run in with the law our merry little band of equestrians ever had!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[llt]

As if, I was merely the defense attorney. As things go, I have to bring the grey horse to let someone look at him Saturday Morning, then I am solidly stocked and on my way to Springfield.

[Whiskey Lullaby]

So did anyone see GM ride in rust this am? Whoaa, that was an, um, interesting clinic!

[boosma47]

Loved seeing everyone Sat AM, and sorry I missed the PM get together. Did Misty Blue show up??

As for GM's rust breeches, bet they were the only pair in the whole place http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif.

He sure was able to get through to the grey mare - OMG, the man's almost 70 years old.

So much enjoyed basking in his wisdom and humor. Can't wait til tomorrow's sessions.

Hope you all bought to your hearts'delight in this annual splurge!!!

[Whiskey Lullaby]

"Jump a fence...... - ANY fence!"

http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

I love how he was hitting on the GP rider on the chestnut at the end, HAHA!

[LoriO]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by MistyBlue:
LMAO! I can *so* picture LoriO doing that! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif
Well, if I see Lori I'll stand by her...we've met!
Lori...you *are* going Saturday, aren't you? Haven't seen you in AGES! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I just opened this thread to see if anyone reported back on how things were today. I was lucky enough to get the day off on Thursday and went then knowing that I wouldn't have the crowds to contend with like on the weekends.

Fessy's Mom, thank you for graciously stepping in and taking my spot as sign holder!

Misty Blue...dang it, I know we need to get together sometime, it's just findig the time to do it. I do want to try and attempt another CT/New England get together this year.

[MistyBlue]

Hey! I showed up...where the hell was everyone? (I was there for the later time) Come on, admit it guys, did everyone see my baseball with Misty Blue written on it in sparklies and run away? http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif
The morning GM clinic was hysterical! "Hop something!" Or everytime that cheesed off mare ran sideways into the other horses "Huh. Herd Bound!" I give the mare's original rider credit...that mare was throwing every rotten trick in the world at that rider, she stuck pretty good for quite some time. I figured after DJ couldn't get her even remotely straight that GM would give her a try...the crowd went nuts when he took his jacket off. He did say not to get too excited yet as he hadn't done anything yet. He's mellowed a whole lot over the years. He got her moving and minding her manners somewhat after a while, but she came him a lot of crap too. I was worried though...GM's not young anymore and I didn't want to witness him getting tossed. Thankfully he didn't, that man still rides fabulously. His voice is sounding thin these days though, it's kinda sad seeing him age.
And he ws on good behavior...I was waiting for someone to take issue with his "Mares are like women, they can get bad habits easy that are hard to break" comment. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif
I had to laugh at the poor jump crew...when the male was taking so long to decide if he shoud reset a fallen bar until half the audience yelled, "Put it back up!" before George got back there on the witchy mare.

[Fessy's Mom]

Oh Misty! I'm so sorry we missed you! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif We had a great time at 11:15. Let's see, there was Madeline, CB/TB, Gottaride (and Mr. Gottaride!), Sagey, boosma and wilkins2. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Wilkins and Gottaride took pictures, so hopefully they'll post them. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Whiskey Lullaby, why didn't you come to the gathering? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif I would have loved to meet you! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

Sagey - did you buy a donk? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

I was completely enthralled throughout the whole GM clinic (both of them!) I don't jump anymore so I was thrilled to see him spend so much time on warmup. He was definitely much kinder the second clinic. Probably because the riders were a bit younger and the horses greener. And I definitely noticed the rust! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Once again I spent way too much money. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/no.gif Bought a bunch of necessities at Stagecoach West (wormers, grooming stuff, liniment, etc.) Bought Abe some cool magnetic wraps for his knee at Bit of Britain and a gorgeous Fleeceworks shaped wool pad. Got the pups some cute blankies. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Can't wait til next year! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[barbarachloejosie]

I was there on Friday and saw this clinic:
Darren Chiacchia
Cross Country Techniques for the Intermediate or Advanced Eventer
He was fabulous. Three riders at very different levels. I dont event but I loved it nonetheless. I spent much more frugally this year, some reins at Running Bear, riding attire but had a great conversation with the exhibitor of a gorgeous Fell Pony from the Cape.

Sorry I missed seeing you all in person on Saturday, I wanted to get back in time to help with stalls and bringing the horses in.

Barbara

[MistyBlue]

I heard from a bunch of folks that the Chiachia clinic was fabulous, wish I had seen that. Not to mention the guy's adorable. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
I met Mr and Mrs Gottaride too...they're also on E-Chat and they found me at the gate in the morning waiting for the place to open. Due to having my screen name on my head...I did meet quite a few people since it was obvious who I was, LOL! People kept walking up to me to stand and grin...I'd have to ask who I was hugging hello, hee hee.
I didn't do very much shopping at all...probably because I had a fresh new CC with me without a balance on it and a crap load of cash. We all know if you have the extra funds saved for a shopping spree you ain't going to find anything to buy. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Well, I can't say I didn't find anything. I did find a a small Fjord foal that tugged at my heart strings and a German riding pony I wanted in the worst way. The pony was for sale but was more than I brought with me...and the foal they wouldn't part with. Meanies. How cruel is it to display a living breathing stuffed animal and say, "NO! You can't have it!" Rotten pikers. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif
I watched half of the second GM clinic...which was fun. He was really good with the kids...had them comfy and smiling. The schooling warm ups were so refreshing to see and hear explained how these warm ups work to get the horse soft and moving and accepting...too many school fences with ridiculously short/ineffective warm ups. But I did leave halfway through the second GM clinic...mainly because someone sat next to me with a stuffed baked potato which reminded me I hadn't eaten yet yesterday and I was starving, LOL! (they wouldn't share the potato)
Did anyone else get a giggle out of the cute chubby bay WB in the first clinic? His rider was so obviously in love with her horse (and who wouldn't be, he was sweet and adorable) who was a bit of a pokey guy. GM asked her to stop him before doing an exercise and give him a wake up tap with the crop...and the rider reached slowly back and did a light touch with her bat that wouldn't have displaced a fly...GM asked her to tap him a tad harder, she did reluctantly and her gelding's eyes flew open and he suddenly had some pep in his step...and GM says, "There! Now he's awake!" It was cute...I think I saw her sneak in a quick pat on the withers in apology for the wake up call. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[wilkins2]

Here is the group pic from the 11:15 meeting. I spent way too much money but it was lots of fun! Catching up on tivo from the last few days so I will probably post again later!

Sheryl

[MistyBlue]

Okay....now I know why I missed everyone. Where was that? I don't remember being anywhere with those racks or the golf carts.
I see Gottaride and looks like LoriO on one end. Who's who with the rest?

[wilkins2]

Hopefully this picture will turn out better http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[wilkins2]

I'm wearing the red jacket in the middle. We were standing between the coliseum and the breed building, whatever that was called.

Sheryl

[LoriO]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by MistyBlue:
Okay....now I know why I missed everyone. Where was that? I don't remember being anywhere with those racks or the golf carts.
I see Gottaride and looks like LoriO on one end. Who's who with the rest? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Nope, not me. I didn't make it on Saturday.

[Fessy's Mom]

Okay, from left to right, that's boosma's student, Madeline, CB/TB, me (Fessy's Mom), wilkins, Gottaride, Sagey and Boosma! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Thanks wilkins! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[linquest]

I was at the Coliseum at 3:40 http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Soooo disappointed not to meet you guys.

[GottaRide]

It was soooo great meeting everyone at the 11:15 meeting! When Sagey walked up, I thought to myself, "Looks familiar, looks familiar, looks familiar..." At my age, I can only get that far http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif. Then Mr. GottaRide (who is 5 years younger than me and hence not quite so advanced in years/memory loss) looks at Sagey and says, "Did you used to work at Kaiser?" Then it clicked for all of us. We used to work together! Sagey actually repaired a stirrup keeper on one of my Stubbens. Further proving (sing along now) "It's a Small World, After All"...

The meeting with MistyBlue in the ticket line was classic. Ya know how some people look totally different than what you thought? MistyBlue fit the profile in my head perfectly. She was as funny in real life as she is on the boards. We were crowding through the gates to get in, and I said, "I feel like a cow". MistyBlue says, "If I come out the other side with a tag in my ear, I'm gonna be pissed." http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

In the breed barn, I fell in love with...ready? The Dales Pony. Picked up all kinds of literature and I've now realized: The older I get, the closer to the ground I want to be. My fear of heights doesn't help, either. I also love the Halflingers, although I'd need to ride both to decide if they'd really work for me. I love the big bones and joints.

Edited to add: my photo looks pretty much like Wilkins2's so I'm skipping posting it.

[Whiskey Lullaby]

http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif Misty, I saw you with your hat! I didn't connect it at the time. I took tons of pics, including some great ones of GM on the grey. I cannot wait until the time when my PC stops acting up so I can upload them!

Fessy - I didn't come because I never saw this, plus the fact that I was drowned by the time I got there from the ride.

[MistyBlue]

Ah, I see it better now. No Lori, that ain't you. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
I did meet Gottaride first! I've been wanting to meet her for ages, so that was cool. The funny part was right before I met Gottaride I was chatting with two other woman while waiting. Because one read my hat and smiled and said, "I know you! From COTH!" I asked who she was...but they're lurkers and not posters. Ya know, we do have a rep as being scary on here. I encouraged them to post, but just keep clear of the dressage forum, LOL! The hysterical part was, one of the women mentioned that I should've put Lismore Pride on my hat instead of Misty Blue! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif I almost bust a gut on that one, LOL! They got a kick out of reading the Lismore Pride debacle...I could kick myself now for not making multiple hats saying "Dancing Lite" or "Cello's Pride." http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif It would've been worth it to see the facial expressions, LMAO!
Whiskey...you shoulda said hello! Or at least thrown something at me! TELL me you got some photos of George on the grey when the grey was doing those airs above the ground at about 50 mph! She was one creative kicker! It's rare you see a horse coming in to a jump sideways and then leave the ground to only go straight up and lash out with one hind leg! I kept thinking, "Wow, if only she'd use her talent for good instead of evil!" http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

[Whiskey Lullaby]

Heck yes! Got one mid-air, mid buck...... priceless pics.

[Whiskey Lullaby]

Forgot to add I did get a nice clump of dirt in my mouth while taking those pics courtesy of the nice little grey while she was aiming her hindquarters at GM (I swear - she was aiming).

[Lisa Cook]

Sorry I missed the get-together. I went all day on Thursday and did my share of shopping on that day. On Saturday, I got up early and drove all the way there just to watch the 9:30 am GM clinic, and then I had to leave immediately afterwards.

Did anyone else notice that when the grey mare's owner put a cooler on it, she had the cooler inside-out, so you couldn't read the farm name? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Can't say I blame her. That horse might just be in a dealer's lot right now. Why would they apply to have such a horse in such a high-profile GM clinic, anyway? It seems clear that the grey had a pretty established repertoire of quite naughty behavior, as if it had been through this routine before.

[CMBEQ]

Just thought I'd say that I'm boosma's student. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif It was pretty neat to see you guys, I didn't really expect it. George Morris was a blast to watch, along with everyone else. Glad everybody had a good time.

[MistyBlue]

Hee hee Lisa...I wasn't sure if anyone else noticed that cooler going on inside out. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif I saw it start going on right side out but sideways...then saw them flip the cooler.
My guess would be that mare was a hot cookie to begin with...but probably not *that* hot. She seemed just uber-pissed off. Her rider did a pretty decent job, even with the unplanned dismount.
Whiskey...I can't wait to see those photos!

[wilkins2]

I will post some of the pics I have of George.
I still have trouble with the new camera getting things clear indoors with action, so forgive the blur, I have a ton, I will post a few and you guys can ask for more, OK?

[wilkins2]

Here is another one.

[MistyBlue]

Love it! Worst witch-mare attack I've seen in ages...on par with professional rodeo horse...and STILL GM can execute an auto release and only use a braced leg as his defense mechanism for that dirty stopping, spinning, bucking, running sideways into everything horse.
Great photos! You wouldn't happen to have one of the flying without the jump ones, would you?

[wilkins2]

No, just jump ones mostly. I do have some other great ones and he almost always does an auto release until later when she starts jumping with out all the hub-bub.

[wilkins2]

another early shot

[wilkins2]

Forgot to add the pic, oops! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_redface.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

Thanks so much for the pics wilkins! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

We definitely want more! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[wilkins2]

Here is the next...

[wilkins2]

And one last one for tonight. I will try for more tomorrow.
I did get good ones of the other riders over the bigger fences. I didn't resize them though.

[CB/TB]

It was great to put the faces to the names, finally. Could we do it again at the Northeast Trade Show in Sturbridge in Feb?????

[Gunnar]

Thanks for the GM pictures. He is riding great as usual I can see. The mare seems to challenge him and I am glad he worked it out. I love GM and would loved to have been there!

Glad you all had fun! Guess us West Coasters will have to go to EA when it comes!

Hi FM and Boosma! (boosma we met in Las Vegas!)

Did you guys meet Kim?

[Lisa Cook]

What is particularly amazing about the GM pictures is that the mare was doing everything but spinning her head around 360 degrees going down to the jumps. And for him to look in those pictures, so calm, cool,collected and composed, is just an incredible testament to the man's riding skills. You just had to see how really awfully behaving this horse was, right up to the moment she left the ground to jump, to truly appreciate those pictures.

[MistyBlue]

I so wish I had a video camera for that mare/ride. And Lisa...I think I *did* see her spit as little pea soup a la Linda Blair. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif
I thought it was nice of him to comment a couple times on how the mare had a good jump in her.

[linquest]

I didn't get much out of Equine Affaire (except more credit card debt http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif ), but the 3.5 hours of driving and the price of admission was all worth it for the GM clinic!

Who else thought his comment at the 2nd clinic ("You're 13 years old? That's ancient in the horse show world.") was hilarious? At the same time, I wonder what kind of standards he would hold for people who start riding as adults. Would he expect a lot merely because of their age?

[GottaRide]

I watched the first few minutes of the afternoon session but hubby wanted to leave and get home. Gosh, I wish I'd seen that witchy mare deal. I looked at the first few photos (thanks wilkins2) and thought, "Wonder what George Morris would say about the position of the rider?" http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif in the first few. Now that I know the mare was acting possessed and spewing green vomit, it's amazing that he was able to get her progressively better and better over those fences.

And I LOVE the fact that he was wearing rust colored breeches!

My trainer came over for a lesson last night and he says, "Look what I got". He takes a card out of his wallet; it's George's business card with his Ocala, Florida address and telephone # handwritten on the back http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif. I was like, "Um, you didn't tell me you were close personal friends with the master."

[Fessy's Mom]

Very cool GottaRide! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif It was great meeting you and the Mr. Saturday. And how cool was that that you knew Sagey? Small world indeed.

Gunnar - sadly, I developed a horrible migraine while walking around Saturday and just couldn't stand it any longer by 4:00 and had to head home so I missed meeting Kim. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif I felt horrible because I was really looking forward to meeting her and listening to her talk on losing a horse. I have my retiree Ted who'll be 27 next year to worry about over the next few years and it would have been great to learn how best to deal with it.

I'll just have to get a copy of her book I guess! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Kim]

Hi everyone,

I didn't get to meet anyone after all because I had to meet with the EA folks to get the room set up for our presentation, and did 2 book signings. It was great - at first, a few people walked by and looked at the book and said, "Oh, that is too sad," or "I am not ready for that." Yet I counted 68 people at our presentation, many stayed to ask questions, and several came to the book signing later in the afternoon. It was so nice to hear several people say, "Thank you for writing this book. It has helped me so much." http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sadsmile.gif

Steph (Gunnar) - please PT me! I lost your address!!!!

Fessy's Mom, I look forward to meeting you another time! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[GottaRide]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">sadly, I developed a horrible migraine while walking around Saturday </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Ditto, Fessy's Mom. It was nice meeting you too!

http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gifOMG. I developed a killer headache on Friday and another one on Saturday. The Friday one went away once I got to my hotel. This is the 3rd year in a row that I've gotten a splitting headache while at EA. What's up with that?

[harryjohnson Aefvue Senior Gardens]

Everyone should tell the stories of their "good deals". I purchased the Back on Track Fly Sheet and got the free wraps. The wife got a pair of Ariat Field boots with zips for $100.

[Fessy's Mom]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by GottaRide:

Ditto, Fessy's Mom. It was nice meeting you too!

http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gifOMG. I developed a killer headache on Friday and another one on Saturday. The Friday one went away once I got to my hotel. This is the 3rd year in a row that I've gotten a splitting headache while at EA. What's up with that? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I'm not sure, but I always seem to come out of the Better Living Center feeling kind of crappy. I try not to stay in there too long, especially when it's really crowded. I did okay Friday though, so who knows? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[boosma47]

Hi Steph! We had fun this weekend, only wish everyone could have been there. Maybe we should have a convention for COTH BBers from all over, where we would be in person. Can you imagine the buzz, conversation and sparks that would promote!!
Anyhow, sorry to have missed you, MistyBlue.
Madeline, did you return for Sun afternoon with George?

A friend got a shadbelly and a RJ hunt coat for $50 each. And did anyone else find the Ariat breeches, 3/$100? Limited colors, but a deal.

Got 4 pr soxtrot socks, etched spurs, a bridle for Dime ( we celebrated our 19th anniversary last week, and he's had the same bridle the whole time), a TO sheet for Boodles, breeches, and various other items. Oh, to gorge on horsey items..... http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

Thanks so much for the pictures, Wilkins!!

[Lisa Cook]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by harryjohnson:
Everyone should tell the stories of their "good deals". I purchased the Back on Track Fly Sheet and got the free wraps. The wife got a pair of Ariat Field boots with zips for $100. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

$20 Woof boots at the Tack-of-the-Day area. I don't want to say booth, because they were more like shoved in a corner by the exit and not in a proper booth. They also had Roper boots that were originally $129 for $35, and I almost bought them, but decided to save my money for the next item:

Free Ariat fleece with purchase of Ariat Fat Baby Boots, indulging my inner-cowgirl.

[GottaRide]

This was the first year I only bought the stuff I had on my list. Maybe because of the headache http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/dead.gif mentioned in my earlier post. I'm starting to think that my hubby has a GottaRide voodoo doll he uses only when he knows I'm at Equine Affair. Sticks the pin right in the head so I don't spend money. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/lol.gif

I got two containers of GLC5500 for $100 each with free shipping (over the net it's around $125 each) and two tubes of EquiMax paste. Two boxes of Rounders horse treats ($3.25 each with coupon...the local place charges $6.99 or $7.99 a box).

I was tempted by a $4,000 Hermes saddle at the Dover Saddlery booth, but that would not have qualified as a "good deal" by any stretch of the imagination. Hubby thought it should have been bigger. I asked "Why? Did the saddle look too small for me?". He said, "For Four Freakin' Thousand dollars, I'd want a lot more leather!". http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[harryjohnson Aefvue Senior Gardens]

On another note, I wondered what child would deserve the little 15" Hermes at the Dover booth. An exquisite piece of workmanship, and I am sure just what every short stirrup urchin would love!

[backinthesaddle]

wilkins2- Did you take any photos in the 2nd Saturday session of the GM clinic by any chance? In particular, any of him riding the gray GELDING in the second session. He's my boy and I'd love to have a photo of GM on him http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Kim]

Fortunately I did not have even 5 minutes to shop! That was a GOOD thing! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

How well attended is the Sturbridge event?

[Sagey]

I really enjoyed meeting everyone at EA. I was amazed to learn that I already knew GottaRide and Mr. GottaRide, and it was fun to see them again.

Fessy's Mom, no I didn't buy the mini donk. Lucky for me it was gone from the stall when I went back to look on Sunday because I already have enough critters to take care of.

Backinthesaddle, I know you from showing in Adult Hunters. I'm Phoenix's owner. You looked like you really enjoyed the GM clinic.

My "bargain" purchase was one of the demo Brenderup Trailers in Mallary. It came with neat extras like alloy wheels and pinstriping.

I would definitely attend a COTH get together again. What a fun group of people!

[wilkins2]

Sorry backinthesaddle, I was leaving when he got on him and was talking to a friend who was to ride on Sunday with him. I do have some pics of that horse earlier though I think. No promises, I will take a look through my pics. I haven't downloaded the rest from my camera yet. I will look tonight.

Sheryl

[llt]

Sagey, the bay gelding called Phoenix is yours? If it is the horse I am thinking of, he is lovely!

[MHM]

Loved the GM pics! I think that's the first time I've seen him wear a hat with a chinstrap. It's amazing to see him in action on a horse, plus he's fit enough to talk the whole time! That's no mean feat at any age, never mind upper 60's!

Did he happen to make any comments about judging the Maclay finals the previous week?

I'm hoping to swing by the GM clinic at Hunterdon to audit at some point this week. Is anyone else from the BB going to be there?

[Whiskey Lullaby]

MHM, that was not a chinstrap: that was the microphone.

[Sagey]

llt, thank you, yes Phoenix the big bay with 4 white sox and white stripe is mine.

[MagicRoseFarm]

Darn it!! i missed meeting everyone!!!

[backinthesaddle]

Of course I know you Sagey http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif. I often wonder who I know on this BB! I had a GREAT time at the GM clinic.

[Fessy's Mom]

Gorgeous horse Bits! Definitely drool-worthy. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

Jack and I enjoyed our "GM" warmup yesterday. The half turns and circles kept us both interested. And the half seat was great for my leg. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif Funny how much you forget to do when you spend so much time on your own. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[SBT]

Bump http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

WhiskeyLullaby and wilkins2, where are the rest of the pics? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[FTM]

Back in The Saddle, I saw your clinic and I have pics of GM on your gorgeous horse. They're not by any means good, but I could put them up is you want.

[wilkins2]

OK SBT, here you go...

[wilkins2]

and another...

[wilkins2]

and another again...

[wilkins2]

Don't know how this will turnout but I thought a good shot.

[wilkins2]

This is enough of the grey, anyone want to see some of the good ones of the others in the clinic?

Sheryl

[SBT]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by wilkins2:
This is enough of the grey, anyone want to see some of the good ones of the others in the clinic?

Sheryl </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I do I do I do! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
((((((Sheryl))))) Great shots! I especially love the GM close-up. He's so funny the way he talks with his hands. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Fessy's Mom]

Really awesome pics wilkins! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Thanks so much for sharing them, and of course we'd love to see more! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

[wilkins2]

OK, here goes!

[wilkins2]

I wonder when I will get cut off for pics!

[wilkins2]

more, as requested...

[wilkins2]

I really should get some sleep, I am headed to Hidden River in the morning!!! One more before I head to bed.

[MistyBlue]

Awww, that last one is the cute chubby bay that his rider didn't want to use her bat on. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif He was a cutie!
Great photos! Now get some sleep!

[Fessy's Mom]

Bumping this up so everyone can see wilkins' great pics! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[wilkins2]

Thanks Fessy's Mom! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_cool.gif
I will put a few more up tonight. I sure do love my camera!

Sheryl

[SBT]

Bump http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif
Can't wait to see the rest! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif
Methinks wilkins2 should moonlight as a photographer! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/winkgrin.gif

[wilkins2]

Thanks SBT http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif I have lots to learn yet, no professional training here and this camera still has me a little confused. I got too tired and just went to sleep last night but here is one more before I head out to teach.

[SBT]

Awesome! Thanks http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/yes.gif

Whiskey Lullaby, where are yours? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[SBT]

Hellooooooooo out there! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif