CA Clique Redux

[MHM]

Have you tried Tim Dutta? His number is in the Chronicle classifieds.

[SuaveReno]

A very belated congratulations to Rusty /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif WTG

OHHHhhhhh Merry! The heck with Brandon Frazier. The Arab is da bomb /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Mix a little Crouching Tiger stuff (desert chase scene) and By Jove. I think we've got something...

The Ex T now referred to as the Golf Cart Queen was not the reason for my psych test. It was merely a formality of a particular company who wants ensure that we're all ideally suited for the job. I tubed on the math but what was interesting is if I had done well on the math...I'd wouldn't be ideally suited for the position.

/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[This message was edited by SuaveReno on May. 09, 2001 at 12:40 AM.]

[AAJumper]

Wow Dublin....we must have been in the same place at the same time, because we had dinner in Fort Bragg! We ate at a place called the North Coast Brewery or something like that. We could have passed each other and never knew it!!!

Well, I'm back after a very relaxing and very long weekend! Now the challenge will be getting up for work tomorrow! /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif We had a very long drive today...9.5 hours from Weed to home. But at least I get to ride tomorrow!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Congratulations on a good hearing Rusty!!!

[This message was edited by AAJumper on May. 09, 2001 at 12:29 AM.]

[dublin]

We had dinner at the North Coast Brewery both Friday and Saturday night!! Wouldn't that have been weird if we were actually eating there at the same time??? I KNEW I should have brought a curb chain.... /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Glad you had a nice weekend, we did too. Lots of driving (not as much as you, of course), and we passed through Westport (I think that is where you were staying?) on our way from Garberville to Ft. Bragg. The coastline up there is absolutely spectacular, isn't it?? /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

"Of course, that's only my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[SuaveReno]

Welcome back! Did you get into Mendocino at all? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Merry]

Now just think, if dublin and AAJumper would've been wearing their ahem, missing in action COTH caps, they would've given each other a "Halloo!"

"What? You mean you wouldn't wear your COTH cap on a romantic weekend with hubby?"

Suave, I agree about poor Brendan. Alas, the boy toy aura has worn off. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif *sigh* What about that scene where the Mujabib (or whatever the swarthy army called themselves) were prepared to sacrifice themselves, to die with honor on horseback, as the evil forces descended upon them? I was just about to stand up in the theatre and yell, "No way!" /infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

You know, first they have Mr. Spock die in Star Trek II. To have Swarthy Arab Man die in The Mummy was just going to be too much. Fortunately, he made it to the end. And Merry went home from the cinema a happy woman. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[rusty]

Hi every one since I am on a ten day vacation from spazzing about the planning commission, I have to wait to see if the neighbors appeal. I am now stressing about the horse show that I am putting on Sat.

I do know the judge is not flaking on me like some of the rest of the people that have volunteered to help. But then I am paying him. I am in the middle of making the second half of my trophies and have to go pick up the ribbons today. SInce the ribbon company is close and I didn't want to pay there high shipping charges I said I would pick them up. They were suppose to be ready last week. /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif
Oh well it wouldn't be a horse show with out these glitches.

Jingle those curb chains ladies we would appreciate a nice big fog bank off of the coast on Fri. I think every one would like that. These 100+ temperatures have been around to long for this early in the year.
/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Bumpkin]

We just had our like 20th Annual JRT show last weekend.
I know exactly what you are going through.
I was nervous our judge flying in from England was going to be hounded about FM, but they didn't even ask him if he had been on any farms.
The judges are always the easiest part of the whole show, aren't they?
I love that duty more than any others.
Of course our raffle chair never showed up for two days, but the raffle went off ok.
Just take deep breaths, keep a perpetual smile on, and say this is not life or death!!!!
If you have any Prozac take two!!! hahaha
Just kidding.... /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[rusty]

Bumpkin, Thanks for the words of encouragement.

[Merry]

What's a show without the snafu's? We used to put on county-rated hunter shows at the local equestrian park. There weren't any pre-entries, so we never knew how many people would show up. Sometimes we'd have 20 horses. Then the next time, there would be an endless caravan of trailers snaking up the hill and we'd be in the show office hiding, saying, "Okay, they can stop coming now!" We knew we'd be snowed under. /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

So, good luck, rusty! It is indeed the volunteers who are usually the flake-outs about mid-afternoon. I'll jangle my curb chain for you! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Now, since the rolling blackouts have yet to hit my area, I figure I'm due today. So I must sign off and go muck and ride.

[AAJumper]

Dublin, that is so freaky that we were at the same restaurant, probably at the same time!!! We got there sometime between 7:30 and 8:00, and were probably there until 9:00. We sat in the back corner...if you walked straight into the dining area, we were to the left against the window, almost all the way back. How bizarre that we were at the same place!!! The coast was very nice, and yes, we stayed in Westport at a somewhat odd but interesting B&B called the Howard Creek Ranch Inn. It was a little run down, but it sort of grew on you. And the breakfast was awesome!!! Suave, we did get to check out Mendecino...it was very nice!

So now I'm back, but I won't be able to check the boards during the day after this week. The owner's son, Mr.Spy, is coming back permanently, which is a really good thing (he used to be my boss. Things will once again become tolerable around here when he returns. But no more sneaking peeks at the board during the day, but that's okay...I'll just go back to only checking at night when I get home. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[dublin]

I just saw a headline on Towerheads saying that Ronnie Freeman's wife was killed in an auto accident yesterday. Apparently Ronnie was in another car, and was first on the scene of the accident.

[dublin]

We were at North Coast Brewery about 6 pm, and were there until 7:30 - too bad we couldn't have gotten together!! That place is our favorite hangout whenever we go up to Ft. Bragg; cute historic building (former mortuary, then school house), great, award-winning beer (especially the Red Seal Amber) and good food as well. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

"Of course, that's only my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[Coreene]

Oh Dublin, how sad.

[MO]

That is very, sad. And awful for Ronnie to be there when the accident occured. I shall jingle my curb chain in her memory.


On a much lighter subject.... What do you get when you cross a EWE with a JRT?

A wolf in sheeps clothing!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[MO]

/infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[This message was edited by MO on May. 09, 2001 at 05:39 PM.]

[Coreene]

We really should all jingle our chains for both of them. Poor Ronnie. Dublin, could you copy and paste the story in this thread?

[dublin]

Sad news to report.

Once again, tragedy strikes the horse world. Jennifer Freeman, the wife of professional horseman Ronnie Freeman was killed on impact, when she lost control of her car and went off the road on what has been described as a dangerous, twisting canyon road. The accident occured within a mile or so from their home in Silverado. This story takes even a more tragic twist. Ronnie and Jennifer were returning from dinner, in separate cars, and Ronnie following moments behind was the first on the scene, almost as the accident happened. It's a scenario that makes this one of the saddest and most tragic stories I've heard. I wish I could tell you more, but I didn't know Ronnie that well, and had never met Jennifer. Michelle Parker, who was clean Saturday night in the Grand Prix of Del Mar rides for the Ronnie Freeman Stables. My prayers, and I know the prayers of the equestrian community, go out to Ronnie and all of Jennifer's family.

[Coreene]

Thank you for posting that, Dublin. How very sad.

[Beezer]

Here's the news brief the Times ran; unfortunately, I didn't see it beforehand so didn't make the connection:

The driver fatally injured on a crash Monday on Santiago Canyon Road has been identified as Jennifer Marlborough, 32, of Silverado
Canyon, Orange County coroner's officials said.

Marlborough was alone in her 2001 Jaguar about 7:30 p.m. Monday when it struck a guard rail near Modjeska Canyon Road and plunged over an
embankment, police said.

She was taken to Mission Hospital Regional Medical Center in Mission
Viejo, where she died two hours later, said Officer Mark Reeves,
spokesman for the California Highway Patrol.

The accident is still under investigation, Reeves said Tuesday.

[wtywmn4]

This is so incredibly sad. The northern people know her mom as well as her. She was a beautiful girl. They haven't been married very long. It's so hard to believe she's gone... Our prayers and thoughts go out to her family.. This is a tragedy.

Thank you dublin and Beezer for posting the information.

[Merry]

You know what was so bizarre? I was at Leather 'N Spice, ordering a new pair of chaps (shut up, Beezer!)and Karen's phone rings while she's measuring me and it's her husband telling her about the accident. It happened right by Cook's Corner, so those of us familiar with the area can understand how it might have occurred: very twisty, winding road.

On a different note... looks like I'm writing a little humorous tidbit on The Mummy Returns, focusing on Swarthy Egyptian Man and all the horses! Thanks, Bumpkin, for the idea! If we all ever get together, I'm going to owe half of this clique a real margarita! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[MHM]

Get OUT! Does this mean you will have actual *gasp* contact with SAM?! Bring the smelling salts! The big bottle!

[Merry]

I'm working on it. However, I gots myself a tight deadline so it'll be uptotheminute. So if I have to write off the top of me head... maybe I'll get my own fan mail??? A little "thank you" card? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[MHM]

See if you can get a lock of his hair to divvy up among the BBers! (Maybe that should be the last question just in case he runs away screaming.)

[Merry]

Well, upon some minor investigation, apparently he's also in Texas Rangers, a movie set to come out soon. But alas, he plays a bad guy. But he will be on horseback once again! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[AAJumper]

Merry, a new pair of chaps from Leather 'N Spice??? I am so jealous!!! I got my first pair of custom chaps from them 6 years ago, and I want a new pair!!! Karen is so nice...we always go over and chat with her when we see her at shows. I love her collection of Brighton belts for sale, and my trainer likes to buy the Ariat shoes from her. I got a nice Van Teal coat from her for half price last year! And I absolutely love going with people to pick out custom chaps...in fact, a girl at my barn is going to order some over Memorial Day weekend!!! I love to shop vicariously! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[SuaveReno]

How very sad for Ronnie and family. Our prayers are with them at this difficult time. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[Bumpkin]

Actually I was thinking of some more, "Middle Eastern" articles at work yesterday....maybe on some themes of "How To------- During A Sandstorm"

So sorry to hear about Ronnie Freeman's wife. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[TuxWink]

Hello everyone...thanks for all the advice and tips for horse hunting. I actually think that tomorrow I will be bringing home a horse! It's the same one I thought I had before, the owners decided not to sell, then they changed their mind again...anyway, it's a LONG /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif story, but tomorrow we are drawing up a bill of sale and the horse is coming back to my barn. Although I am 99% sure that it is a done deal, there's always the chance that it isn't, so I'll need some support. I'll keep you updated! (even with pics as my husband just ordered his "super computer" with scanner from Dell the other night)

[Beezer]

Merry said:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>I was at Leather 'N Spice, ordering a new pair of chaps (shut up, Beezer!)....<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Moi? Would Moi saying ANYTHING about that? Why, Merry ... I am wounded that you would THINK such a thing ... I mean, JUST BECAUSE you already have three (or is it four??) pairs of custom chaps hanging in the tackroom gathering cobwebs ("This pair is too tight in the knees ... and I don't really like the stitching on these, I thought it would be another shade...." /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif ), why would you think I would comment on your buying ANOTHER pair?? /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

Oh ... and don't think I didn't notice that the horse cookies you bought came from Horse Mart. We weren't out BIT SHOPPING, were we?? /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[Coreene]

Let's all cross our fingers and jangle our chains. Hope it's a total success!!

[Merry]

Ahem, now onto another matter...

Yes, Beezer, your watchful eyes did indeed spy a bag of horse cookies from Horsemart. I suppose the fact that the Labradors keep confiscating and eating the bags of horse cookies doesn't negate the fact that I'm still compelled to buy them. And I went by Horsemart because... well, it's down the street from Leather 'N Spice... and *gulp*... "I did indeed buy another bit," Merry said sheepishly. "A slow twist eggbutt. So there! And it's not gold!"

And about the chaps: Look, one pair is my old split leather cowhide ones from Stateline. They've served a purpose for 6 years, but the knees are ripped out. Then there's the old Leather 'N Spice ones. I still wear them, but when I ordered them I was wearing breeches under my chaps, and now I'm into jeans, and they're a tidge tight... and the knees are about to split. Then, pair #3 are the custom ones I got from Dover last year. They've never fit me correctly. So, you see, I only have THREE other pair, and none are perfect. And I'm 46 and at this stage of the game I'll probably never need another pair of custom chaps again /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif , and I deserve them. So back off, baby sister! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Oh, and by the way, they're a medium chocolate brown with a tooled leather yoke with a deep purple piping and buckstitching. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[rusty]

Those chaps sound great. I have been wanting to get a pair of customs for a couple of years now. Maybe for my birthday, then again maybe not. Since it is today.

[Beezer]

Hey! Happy birthday, Rusty!!!!

[Coreene]

Happy birthday, Rusty!

GREAT SUGGESTION: buy them for youself for your birthday!!!

[rusty]

A friend of mine that makes thenm is going to teach me how to make them. I already have the leather. I think I will call her and bug her about it.

[AAJumper]

Happy Birthday Rusty!!!

[MO]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Golly, there are soooo many Birthday's in May!! I just got back from my daughter's best friend's B. day party ( she's 2). And my mother's , my brother's, 4 of my dear friends and (one of) my horse's birthday are all this month!! Yikeees!!I still need to purchace those gifts.

And Rusty, I'm so sorry I never sent you a video. I ran into problems with the video people, then I just let things slip....sorry /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif . Are you still interested? I've been on her a few times, but to be honest, she's getting quite fat!! Other than that, she's a doll. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[SuaveReno]

Happy Birthday Rusty /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Hope you have a great one /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Has anyone ever done Pilates (no, that's not the name of the actor in the Mummy Returns /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif )

When I was in Germany last year, I rode this mare over a fence and got severe whiplash and my back hasn't been quite right since. I've tried all sorts of things for it too. But today I took a Pilates mat class at the gym and the stretching was wonderful and seemed to do the trick. A few hours later I rode and felt very relaxed and no pain! If any of you have any muscle injuries you might give it a go /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[dublin]

Jingling for good luck for Tux, and birthday wishes for rusty!!!

[MO]

I actually never attempted it, but do know a few gals who ride and take pilates's classes. They swear by it! I can only fit so much into a day!

[Bumpkin]

I just got back from a wonderful lesson on my awesome Elliot!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif
On a bad note though, poor Mallory is crying because our Poncho is lame again in the same hoof that had the abcess a few weeks ago /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif
I am waiting for the farrier to phone me, then see if he wants to check it out before the Vet.
I feel so bad, as my horse is doing so wonderful and my daughter's horse has been unrideable now since December 29th!!!

[wtywmn4]

Happy, happy Birthday Rusty!! Hope you had a wonderful day...

[MO]

Bumpkin, I just checked out your "Elliot" topic on the H/J Forum. Isn't it great to find Elliot's sibling's doing so well!! If only he knew! He sounds like a gem! Especially since you are having so much fun with him! That's great!

I will jingle my curb chain for Poncho to heal up soon. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[rusty]

Mo my circumstances have changed since we last talked about that horse. I don't have anyone for her right now, but I will keep her in mind when and if things change.

Bumpkin I am sorry to hear that Poncho is still a little lame, I am jingling my curb chain for him and Mallory.

Suave could you please explain Pilates to those of us that are clueless.

Every on e thank you for the birthday wishes. /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[MO]

It is a form of dance (I believe) with lot's of stretching, focusing on the abdominals as the center of gravity. Am I right Suave?

[Merry]

I'm sure you'll be having a birthday margarita, eh?

Pilates... isn't that a disease you get from ingrown hairs? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

All the stretching sounded good until the word "dancing" became connected with it. Merry does not dance. Merry has been banned from dancing since, oh, about 7th grade. It's just not a pretty sight. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

Today I cleaned out our tackroom. It had become an abomination. It took me 2 1/2 hours! If I don't come down with Bubonic Plague or the Hanta Virus from all the rat and mouse poop, it'll be a freakin' miracle! /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif But you know what I found? We actually own a really nice, stained wooden Warner's trunk! With a brass nameplate and everything! I had forgotten all about it, because, ahem, Beezer, it was shoved under the saddle racks and buried under umpteen saddle pads! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif Don't EVER give me any grief about collecting bits!YOU have a saddle pad fetish! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

However, I must admit that I labeled all the containers and drawers, and I thought of the Cal Clique as I wrote the label for the drawer that reads appropriately: "Bit Museum" /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Bumpkin]

ummmmm
I need a stained wood Warner's with the brass.
I just called the Gift Horse today and asked them to write it up and I would place my order next week.....if you decide you want to part with it... /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif ....let me know!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[wtywmn4]

Cleaning your tack room? Yikes!! That sounds like the nesting instinct to me. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif There has to be a drawer for said pads, right?? Or is a box needed? Seriously tho, hope you wore gloves. Remember those mousie do doos that carried some rather interesting viruses?? We don't need anything to happen to our queen!!

Okay, once again, elizabeth is missed. Wty drumming her fingers...Ah well, maybe she has been able to find a flight for Buster?

Curbs are jingling for Poncho..

Have to agree, gas is out the door. We need to hitch our critters..Wty sees Wilem with plumes taking his mistress to work. Hambola, happily trotting off to Nordstroms's, tiieng up next to a lovely mare. Oh he does so love when the clique decides to get together. Hmmm maybe his will be a long shopping tour.

[This message was edited by wtywmn4 on May. 11, 2001 at 07:32 AM.]

[elizabeth]

"I'm here, I'm here," elizabeth sings glibly. "Packing for my trip this weekend to the Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel has been taking up all my time."

Wty sighs, frustrated with elizabeth's shameless bragging about how well her new potential boyfriend (not yet boyfriend, mind you) has been treating her. Merry, upon hearing of the trip, jumps up and down, waving her hand, saying "I wanna go, I wanna go. They have tack shops down near Laguna."

Ladies, the one question I have, however, is how does one pronounce Niguel? Is it pronounced Nie-gel or Nie-gwel? I think it is the former, right?

Now, important stuff -
rusty, congrats, both on the planning commission meeting and on the birthday. ( elizabeth hums a few quick bars of "Happy Birthday" and tries to make up some words, to the tune of Happy Birthday, about successful planning commission meetings. )
suave, how did your testing go? did i miss the posting on that or has it not occurred yet?
beezer, do you only own white saddle pads or do you have a fetish that includes purchasing fancy colored or patterned ones??
/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[SuaveReno]

Rusty: In a nut shell Pilates was the last name of a man who developed a rehabilitation program that involved isolation and stretching/strengthing of different muscle groups for WWI Vetrans if I am not mistaken. The class I took was a mat class, so all the exercises were done on the floor with large rubber bans and a thing that looked Suzanne Sommer's Thigh Master as interpreted by Quzimoto.
I have been doing this along with Yoga about 3 times a week. The rest of the time I'm in traction
/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
Elizabeth: You are going to one of my favorite places. Hopefully you can go to their spa! I pronounce Niguel like Na Guell which is probably not right but I have done it for years. I didn't know you were planning to go. Maybe the OC group could surprise you there /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Opps! Maybe I have gone too far /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif I think my testing went well except for the math /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Have a great time /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Coreene]

Suave, where are you going for Pilates? I can't find anyone near my house.

[dmj]

Yesterday was my birthday too! Hope you had a good one!!

[MO]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you too /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Merry]

I hope the poor guy heals up quickly! /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Sorry Bumpkin, but we're keeping the trunk. Like a once favored sweater you re-discover in the floor of your closet, it's just like it's brand new all over again.

Yes, Beezer's passion for saddle pads runs the gamut from stately navy to classic white to gauche animal prints. They're those square, quilted jumper pads. Like, enough already, okay???

Regarding the gas crunch, Beezer's old, retired show jumper did indeedy used to be quite a successful combined driving horse. She's a very old-style Trakehner and could perhaps come in handy is the gas crisis continues!She would need a hot pink/fuschia plume, as that is her color.

elizabeth, to sound like a true native, it's pronounced lazily, as in "Lagooona Na-gel" (hard "g", accent on the gel).Now, tell us, are you going alone, on business, or are you and David "co-habitating" for a weekend getaway??? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Coreene]

"Cohabitating?" Merry - PLEASE - too much information!!! Some of us don't want to know!!!

But a question re Casa de Beezer-Merry ... how many horses y'all have there in total?

[Beezer]

OK. There's a REASON Beezer has collected all these pads. It's a good one. HONEST.

Beezer wildly jangles her curb chain, trying to come up with a really good, really plausible reason really, really fast.

Ah. OK, how's this: My horses have all had their colors. I mean, how could I "dress" the geldings in the pink/maroon/fuchsia that the truck-like mare wears? (You see, I dressed her in girly-girl colors because everyone always said, "Oh, HE is so cute!" "It's a MARE, dammit." So I thought the girl colors would be a tipoff. But it never worked. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif ) So the boys had to have boy colors. And some of those I just can't throw out because A) they are still good and despite what Merry says, she uses them too and B) some belong to departed friends, so they get kept for sentimental value.

But then there's the Lady Spot ... she has to have, ahem, sedate colors to show in (and she needs a couple for those multi-day shows because, you know, pads get dirty and she just can't be seen in a *dirty* pad -- besides, I like to wear different-colored polo shirts and her pad and polos have to match my shirt....) but for home, well ... there is nothing cooler than that pinto mare in her Serengeti zebra polos and pad! /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

And then, of course, Tigger was jealous that Spot had cool schooling pads and polos, so he got Serengetis in the tiger stripe.... Plus, since I ride in a Stubben that's hard to find a square pad to fit under correctly, there are some that were bought and used once, then discarded on top of that tackbox because, well, they didn't fit.

I don't have a problem. I don't, I don't, I don't!!

[Coreene]

Beezer, I think it sounds perfectly logical. After all, the poor darlings can't be in a sitch where they would feel like they were clashing with their exquisite coat color, could they? NO. And they like new fashion toys as much as anyone.

[vineyridge]

I'm in the market for another saddle as I have outgrown my Stubben CS. I'm considering the Stubben II line, and was wondering how much different it was from the CS.

[MHM]

MHM is thanking her lucky stars that: A.)Her sister is no longer involved in horses, and B.)Noone is posting the contents of her tackroom, thus exposing her assorted collections of foibles!

[Coreene]

MHM, you must have a wonderful collection of something that you're not telling us about. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Taryn]

Having recently switched disciplines (ahem), I am now the proud owner of 10 completely unsuitable western saddle pads. My lack of knowledge on the proper reining saddle fit has induced a wild spree of mindless internet shopping and 5 trips to Broken Horn in one week.

e-bay anyone?

[Bumpkin]

How is 8 xrays and nothing? (olde Vet)
Then the new Vet, (the very same Vet who brought Elliot into the world and delivered the Starman seman), found the huge abcess pronto three weeks ago, carved a V into his hoof that makes Poncho now look like a cow.
Put a pad and bar shoe on and Poncho was fine for two weeks, now he is lame again!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[rusty]

dmj Happy belated birthday. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

I have just finished making the last award for my horse show tomorrow. Yeah
Now off to set the course !!!!! ANd jingleing my curb chain that the weather stays in the 80's and the is a nice turn out.

[Coreene]

Poor, poor Poncho! We are sending him kisses, Bumpkin. Does this mean your daughter can sneak a ride on Elliot?

TARYN - what the hell do you mean about changing discipines??? Does this mean Dave is going to become a Male Dressage Queen???????

[Bumpkin]

Vet just phoned, found more abcess!!!
Cleaned, dremeled, it out more.
Coming to check again next Friday.
I am praying for Mallory and Poncho to have some quality time this summer, instead of the daily soakings, wrappings and wound care they have endured since December.
That is a lot to ask a 12 year old to do, on a daily basis, even a Horse Crazy one /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[This message was edited by Bumpkin on May. 11, 2001 at 05:07 PM.]

[rusty]

Wishing Poncho a speedy recovery and hoping that this is the last abcess. Jingle Jingle Jingle.

[JustaLurker]

Gosh, I'm a couple of days behind here, but here goes.

rusty Good luck on your show tomorrow. It looks as if your wish for a cooler day just may come true. And, a hearty Happy Birthday to you. Have a margarita on me! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

What a tragedy it is to hear about Jennifer Marlborough Freeman's terrible accident and subsequent death! Didn't she ride at one time with and/or for Butch and Lu Thomas at the old Willow Tree site in Woodside?

TuxWink: I'm rattling a curb chain to bring you good luck with the horse hunt, and for the one you originally wanted -- how wonderful. Could this be a case of good things coming to those who patiently wait?

Re Pilates: As a QVC devotee, I've seen several programs devoted entirely to Pilates equipment and exercises. For anyone interested in perusing their web site (a very nicely done set of pages), you can go to http://www.qvc.com and do a search on "Pilates" where, I'm sure, you'll find all sorts of their stuff, and at reasonable prices. Now, don't strike me about the head and shoulders over QVC. Remember that I'm an old lady who watches a lot of TV. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

elizabeth: Here's another vote for " lah - goo' - nah " " nih - gell' " (with the already mentioned hard gee in "gell").

And, finally

Bumpkin: I hope Poncho's lameness problem is diagnosed very soon and that it's minor and easily fixed. Be sure to keep us posted on that one!

[SuaveReno]

Hey Coreene. The place for Pilates is called Shape Up in Cornoa del Mar where the old Bank of Newport Building used to be. It's really aelped my back a lot and the place is really reasonable. It's not the gym of the young and svelte which i really appreciate. Iused to goto the Sports Club in Irvine but all the silicone bounced me right otta there /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Beezer: Do you have the matching wraps too? Cosmo the horse fairy has (poor guy) yellow and pink and cow print and Reno has Leopard print. I like you idea of boy colors and girl colors. Fortunately poor Cosmo isn't having any gender confusion /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Coreene]

I've never tried posting a photo before - let's hope I can - if so here's Willem.

PS: okay, is a photo showing? My computer said it is, and it is not showing up...

[This message was edited by coreene on May. 11, 2001 at 05:37 PM.]

[SuaveReno]

Your picture showed up great Coreene! What a beautiful shot /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Coreene]

Thanks, it's one of my favorite photos of him. The mane now lays on the "wrong" side (result of a mane pulling job that went horribly wrong and resulted in me getting PO'ed and roaching it, and then spending a few months with a big Trojan horse).

[dublin]

What a great picture of him. If you don't mind, can I put his picture on my webshots page??? Pretty pretty please?? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

bumpkin, so sorry to hear of Poncho's further problems - poor guy. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif At least the vet found something he could treat! I sincerely hope for Mal's sake that this will be the end of the abscesses and that she and Poncho can have a fun summer together. Crossing my fingers, and jingling a curb chain on his behalf....

[Taryn]

Corinne that picture is adorable!!! You two are perfect for each other, and that picture says it all.

[Beezer]

Vineyridge: This is soooo embarrassing, but I can never remember what model my Stubben is. Maybe a VSG? Something like that with initials. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif I *know* it has the forward flaps, which I desperately needed because every inch of my height is in my legs; I also know that I love it. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif Merry, however, will probably be able to tell you EXACTLY what model it is, because she found it for me when she, QHSM and I went to Upperville ... it was kinda like, sit your butt in this saddle. Fits? Knees don't hang over the front? Good. Then get out that credit card and pay the man! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Coreene: What a lovely gentleman you have! Might I point out that with a little Sun-In hair color in that mane, he could go blonde too??

Bumpkin: Sorry about the abscess. Icky-yicky things, those. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

OK. Have any among us who ordered a COTH cap actually RECEIVED it?? I'm thinking we need to organize a march on Virginia....

[JustaLurker]

I firmly believe they have crammed them into cotton bales and are floating them across the Mississippi. Or, perhaps the light hasn't changed from red to green at the California border and the shipper (USPS, UPS, whoever) is sitting there waiting for the change.

[dublin]

mine hasn't shown up yet!! (it's actually about on a par with how long it takes to get my magazines) grrrrr

"Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[SuaveReno]

How do you order them them? Are they putting the screen names on the back /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

[Chef Jade]

Sounds like EVERYONE need lots of curb chain jinggling as well as the "horse stomped on my foot" dance! I will be doing both for everyone! And happy B-day to the May B-day...we have so many in my family and barn we just do a mass party in May.

Merry: Are you going to the Coto de Caza show next weekend by any chance? I think I am going to be taking Grace and would love to meet! That goes for anyone that may happen to be going. I have not been to Coto since I was 12 years old! and somehow, 14 years later, I will be jumping smaller jumps...go figure!

[Merry]

Chef: Oh, sorry, but Beezer and I are passing on Coto this weekend for Ride America. You see, we're just dying to tempt Fate once more, since the last time we showed down there we were both taken away, on subsequent days, by the same paramedic team!The 3 days down there, schooling each other and staying together in a motel room, is just ripe with possibilities for amusement. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Taryn: You win the "Make Merry laugh after she just got off the phone with the IRS after she discovered she's supposed to be paying self-employment tax." /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif Your story about the multiple trips in search of appropriate saddle pads just struck a nerve. I do the same thing with bits. Or did you already know that? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Coreene: Your photo is gorgeous. *sigh* I can already tell that SAM (Swarthy Arabian Man) would go for you quicker than a thirsty beduoin diving into an oasis. Alas, the voluptuous blond trumps a skinny, short-haired tomboy anyday. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif But can I still have Mr. Spock? /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Bumpkin: Aha, I figured the ol' drimmel and drilling would find more pus. Poncho should feel better soon.

Suave: But the question is, do your horses match your trainer's golf cart? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Oh, and how many horses do we have at El Ranchito? If I said, "Too many" would that be sarcastic? Okay, we have 8, ranging from the orphan yearling to the lawn ornament mare.

[MO]

Wow, so much is happening here!!

Let first say that I, lil'ole' Mo, from Mo., has recieved the Cap. YES!! They're heading your way so don't dispare!

Bumpkin, I do hope for Mallory's sake and Poncho's that this is his last ailment so they may enjoy each other the rest of the summer. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Coreene, you have yourself a cutie pahtutie there. How old is he?

And Merry, If you have 8 and one is a lawn ornament, one an orphan, one is Hammy, one is Spotted, and one Bounces (tigger), who are the other 3? Babies, brood mares? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[wtywmn4]

I did, I did!!! Wty bounces all around waving her COTH cap in beige..It's really nice, but no, screen names aren't on the back. Across the back is the web site for COTH.

Oh bumpkin, hope Poncho gets better soon. But those do take some time, so be prepared.

elizabeth, ohhhhh have a wonderful weekend. That is such a beautiful place, and well, sooooo romantic.

coreene, that is a GREAT picture. It says it all... /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif What a perfect match!!

[SuaveReno]

EXEXEXEXEXEXEXEXEXEXEXEXEXEXEX Trainer /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Hey how did you all get your Coth Caps. I can't seem to locate the right page to order?

My new trainer will be at ShowPark. She will be passing up the Golf Cart Division to ride in Hunters and Jumpers.

Have you seen the new Divisions in addition to the Golf Cart Division?

The No Futures Class for jumpers that have absolutely no future; Trot Pole Division for hunters who can't make the height and distances in the Pre-Green division, as well as an Don't Fall Off EQ Division for the less able riders; /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

It's obvious that I have too much time on my hands /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Bumpkin: A belated Get Well wishes to Poncho. Hope he's feeling better soon!
[This message was edited by SuaveReno on May. 12, 2001 at 12:20 AM.] /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[This message was edited by SuaveReno on May. 12, 2001 at 12:23 AM.]

[AAJumper]

Love the pic of Willem, Coreene! And that browband is great! Very fancy! Miss Cypress might like to have one of those.....or maybe one w/jewels, so it can be like a horsey tiara!

Bumpkin, I hope Poncho feels better soon. We have a horse at our barn right now who was having some weird lameness. He was dead lame all of a sudden, but now he's almost okay....the vet couldn't find. The farrier predicts we'll know in 2 shoeings what happened in the foot because whatever happened will grow out.

So is everyone going to have their SN embroidered on their COTH hats? I was thinking about doing mine, but it would look sort of dorky to someone who was not up on the whole COTH BB...they wouldn't get that AAJumper is just my screen name. People would think "geez....she can't even remember what classes she is supposed to enter, so her trainer had to embroider it on her hat." And half of the time I am not even doing the AA's because I am busy trying to recover from screwing up at the last show!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif But hey...we jumped the REALLY scary triple bar (HUGE spread, which I fear...once I fell off into a triple bar and it really hurt my butt) with the liverpool underneath!!! Yay! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[dmj]

SIGH....Willem is fabulous!! I don't know why I had pictured him as a dark bay? No matter - I love chestnuts, and his flaxen-ish mane is just to die for! So cute!

[Merry]

MO: the other horses are Arthur (aka "Bubba") who's the full brother to Spot but he's a very warmbloody-looking dark bay and 16.3. He's just a pooh-bear mentality but a tad snorty/suspicious of everything. We all love him, but he's a total dressage mover. Whenever I showed him, my friends would just laugh at me, "What are you doing on that dressage horse?" Unfortunately, he bowed, so he's coming back from lay-up now and I've got to sell him to a dressage home. Then there's our cousin's horse, and the illustrious Hanoverian cow-beast, "Barbie". Barbie is only 3. She's out being broke at Sandi Nisson's. I hear A)she's the cutest thing since puppies; B)she's the best mover we ever bred; and C)she's dumber than a brick. So, that about sums her up. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

I'm not sure about my screen name going on my cap, either. Why? Because everyone who knows me at shows will come up to me and say, "Cindy, why do you have 'Merry' written on your cap?" I suppose I could have another one that says, "Pissy". /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Of course, this is all presuming I will actually receive a cap... /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[Merry]

Chef: There's a thread question for you at the Hunter/Jumper Forum. Someone wants to know more about Jade. Your horse has a fan club, apparently!

[wtywmn4]

Dumber than a brick? Merry, how you dooooo go on! Nice description, another cow beast, poor cousin. Wty can just see how she describes her clique to others. Oh well, they're good people, well maybe, but..... /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Suave you could put our SN's on the side of the hat. People would just keep walking around us to read all the things on it. Good luck if you're showing, that should be great fun, especially since the new T knows how to ride and is doing it.
/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

elizabeth, if you are still trying to get Buster west, Will Calder is taking a load back to Devon. He will be coming back after he drops them off. A friend is having her 3yr old come back with him. And he does have room. E-mail me if you want his number etc...

[This message was edited by wtywmn4 on May. 12, 2001 at 08:02 AM.]

[Bumpkin]

When we went out to the stable last night, Poncho was walking around unlame and with his foot once again all wrapped up.
I admit we are happy that everything that has caused any lameness problems with the most wonderful Poncho has been fixable as opposed to some awful leg problem or mystery lameness.
I know the saddness is in he is not young, and I hate wasting this wonderful time he has with us being cooped up in a stall.
Atleast his legs don't swell up from stall rest and as long as you don't get between his itchy big bum and the wall you are safe in his stall.
You do not want to scratch any of his itches in his stall as he does literally fling his bulky body against yours like a big dog and could hurt you /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

Merry, which issue of HI has the article showing the transformation of Beezer's boy? /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

[Merry]

That issue would be June. There's a cute bay hunter on the cover with a white snip on its nose. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Regarding Barbie, Hammie's half-sister (same Trakehner dam, different sire)aka "the cow beast": She's very cute, but the exact opposite in body type as Hammie. Hammie is elegant and TB-looking but the Barbster is, well, a tank! She's just kind of dull, until you want her to do something she's not of a mind to do, and then she becomes quite the brat!Last I heard, she'd been ridden twice in the round pen and twice in the arena and she was really good until something spooked her, at which point she froze and was unable to move whilst staring and snorting. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif Hence, she is remaining in the environs of Hemet for another couple of weeks. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Off now to go meet Beezer to take a lesson at our trainer's. The Saturday group lesson is always so "entertaining". /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Coreene]

Willem says thanks for the compliments, and to tell you that he loves to pose for photos.

BTW he is 18, will be 19 this summer. After the article in Equus about rabies shots, and the thread I posted here the other week, and a chat with my vet, he had a rabies shot on Wednesday. And then thought "Duh, why didn't you do this before?"

And then, hello Orange County, is it just my house or is it raining everywhere else, too?

We have a 2 day Robin Serfas show at our barn, which I shall go and watch as soon as I can shed the bathrobe etc.

Merry, let me know more about Arthur when you put him up for sale.

PONCHO - YOU'LL BE DANCING SOON!!!

[JustaLurker]

SuaveReno:
Since no one has yet answered the question about how to order a cap, I went searching and find that a second cap ordering topic has dropped to page 2! I guess everyone wanting one ordered immediately. But, here's the URL for the order form:

COTH Cap Order Form (https://www.securehosting.com/SecureForms/sh101005/ushatform.html)

Erin says to ignore the part about just ordering one cap. They have plenty to go around and, if they run out, they'll just order more!

Although it seems to take forever and a day for the packages to reach California, I do expect to see mine some time in the next week.

Cheers, Maggi

Fixed the URL to be linkable -- sorry about the omission. /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[This message was edited by JustaLurker on May. 12, 2001 at 07:46 PM.]

[MO]

You always come thru!!

Wtywmn4...Is Will Calder going back to pick up the horses from Devon once they're done?

[wtywmn4]

I don't know for sure Mo, as to when they will pick up the horses at Devon. If you are interested will give you their number and you can talk to them.

Ahhhh Merry, we love those group lessons. They are incredibly entertaining. Especially when one's horse just disrupts till all the greenies are beside themselves. Then promptly acts as if nothing could disturb her. But since everyone understands and laughs, it is a fun time.

Happy Mother's Day to All!! We're mothers to our beloved critters, large & small /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[SuaveReno]

Thanks Maggie /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif I will wear it proudly /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

AAJumper: Your name is fine on the cap just put your classes on the little circular tag pinned to your Hunt Coat. That works for me /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Happy Mother's Day all /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[AAJumper]

LOL Suave....but a huntcoat? What's that? /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif Ohhhhhh...yeah, those awful hot things that restrict your arms!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif Can I pin the tag on my polo shirt instead? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[TuxWink]

Hi there...well, it sounds like everyone is having a great weekend thus far. The weather is kind of icky, but at least it's not 110 degrees! But what is up with this drizzle? Weird, huh?

Well, I GOT MY HORSE! MY FIRST HORSE...THAT I HAVE BEEN DREAMING ABOUT FOR DECADES!

I am just so excited. I don't have pictures yet, but she is wonderful. Her name is Africa and she is a TB/Hanoverian cross. She just turned 7 and is settling into her new home nicely. I don't have pictures yet, but I will post them as soon as I do. I'm planning on having a photo session with her tomorrow since my husband will be coming to the barn with me. Thanks for all of your support...I'm sure the jingling helped. You may see me careening around a hunter/jumper schooling show in the next few months in preparation for our eventing debut!

[SuaveReno]

What a nice mother's day gift /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif I hope to see your pictures when you have them. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

AAJumper: How silly of me, "Hunt Coats, Hunt Coats, we don't wear no stinkin' Hunt Coats" you must of said. To be honest, I wish we could show in chaps and golf shirts. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Merry: Do you remember when everyone who schooling in hiking boots or clunky tire tread shoes instead of paddocks?

[wtywmn4]

Congratulations Tux, thats wonderful! Now the real fun starts.. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

A/A just attach it to your helmet. I can see it now, big ole pin with your SN on it. Could this be the start of something new in equine fashion? /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Bumpkin]

I think I found the first reference to the elusive Melissa Cardenas last night in an olde issue of HORSES!!!!

March 1968 Issue, Indio National Horse Show, February 16 - 25

...The biggest surprise of the show came in the Puissance class in the person of a fourteen year old miss who came all the way from Las Vegas, Nevada, with her horse, High Barbaree, to appear in this one event.
A less likely looking candidate has seldom appeared on the scene, nor done better after arriving. Miss Melissa Cardenas has great thick braids hanging down her back and the overall appearance of horse and rider does not suggest that they could negotiate any 4' walls, much less 7'. The horse is a Standardbred, Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse cross and it moves in a sideways, lunging, sometimes trotting style, sometimes standing off from the jump and sometimes getting in very close, but ALWAYS getting over. His young rider's style is interesting too, in that over the jumps she pushes her hands as far forward up on the neck as she can get them, which is clear up to the ears. Undoubtedly the show's most popular and spectacular entrant, she made only the one appearance, which was a pity, as everyone wanted to see more of her......
Placings were:
Munnings - Jim Kohn
Almost Persuaded - Gene Lewis
Son of Oregon - Marilyn Hoover
High Barbaree - Melissa Cardenas
Book Learnin' - Gene Lewis

Marilyn Hoover use to ride with Gene Lewis, so I wonder if Melissa did then also?
He came from BC to Nevada about that time as a friend of a friend went down and worked for him for awhile.

Sorry I found no photos!
/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Bumpkin]

You should track down Judith Spreckles and do an interview. Ala Vanity Fair!!!!
I mean she had such an interesting life, and was married to a Spreckles and a horse trainer and then took back the Spreckles name.
Where did she come from, what made her quit doing HORSES?
Why is going to high profile LA trials such an obsession?
Domminick Dunne has written a small bit about her in his articles in Vanity Fair, so it would be a good lead in and you are a California Horsewoman who happens to write!
Honest this may be a big piece for you!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Merry]

Hmmmm... Bumpkin.... At the very least a good "retrospective" article with Madame Spreckles on what the H/J scene was back then vs. now.

The Melissa Cardenas description was priceless! Yeah, that's how I'd want to be described: "a less likely looking candidate has seldom appeared on the scene..." /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif But hey, she did well, so I guess that's what counts.

Suave, so you have to write your classes on a doily and pin them to your huntcoat, eh? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif What I don't understand is why the show secretary persists in writing your classes on the back of your number? I mean, by the time I finally get the dang string situated and tied under my nearly imperceivable boobs, the last thing I'm going to do is undo the bow, flip my number over and wriggle around in my saddle to read the back of my number! /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Now, about that Saturday group lesson Beezer and I had. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Hammie was good; he's just a little wiggly in his lines, but that seems to be okay at shows, because the jumps are new so he zeroes in on them better. But alas, the Spotted Wonder Mare was such a wig-out in the corner (the folks on the adjoining property to our trainer had turned out their entire HERD of horses) that Beezer could never conquer the flat portion of the lesson. At one end of the arena, Spot looked like a winning under saddle horse. At the far end, she just elevated, spooked, swung her haunches in, etc. So Beezer "excused" herself and didn't jump. Which was frustrating, but believe me, perhaps a wise decision. When Spot's brain is in the "off" position, it's best to hang it up and ride again another day. Hence, this is why I gave up trying to do hunters & medals with her. Some shows I'd win. Some shows the mare would humiliate me. For 3 years I put up with that inconsistency, then I walked away. Poor Beezer. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

So guess what? Right now I have to leave to take Beezer and Spot to a small county show to do some jumper classes. This shall be interesting. Needless to say, Spot shall be lunged a tidge before the competition begins. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

So please jangle those curb chains in between your Mother's Day celebrations!

[dmj]

YAY Tux!! Congratulations! That is so great. Can't wait to see pictures!

Good luck to Beezer and Merry! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[AAJumper]

That is great news Tux!!! Suave, I always wear my polo shirts, but the one time I met Chef, I was actually wearing a huntcoat! I was supposed to ride in a classic later in the day, but as usual, I scratched. One of these days I may finally do a classic. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Good luck at the show Beezer...let us know how it goes! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[JustaLurker]

Wonderful news, Tux! Good luck with the news horse, the one you really wanted.

Good luck also to Beezer and Spot today. We'll want a report on how things went.

No COTH hat arrived in Northern California yet. But, I expect mine to take a day longer than the rest of the Bay and San Jose areas. The pony express trek over the hill from San Jose usually adds another day.

[MO]

Bumpkin /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Amazing, you found something! Great!! She actually showed me that video when we first met her 2 years ago. However, the video (being so old) was in really, really bad condition, so I had my doubt's. How many 14 year old's do you know who ride in puissance classes? She is a very good rider, but still isn't doing much out here, so noone know's about her.
She did ride with Gene Lewis (I touched on that back on Merry's thread) He was to come out here to give a clinic, but (as usual) nothing has come of that. She rode Jim Kohn also. Ooop's I mean rode with him.
(ooooh-ooooh naughty, naught Courtney) /infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif Sorry, my finger's slipped /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Happy Mother's Day too all!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[MO]

Merry /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
I'm jingeling girl, I'm jingeling /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Bumpkin]

I recall you saying that Gene Lewis was one of her mentors.
I wonder if he brought her to Indio, or if they met there.
I always thought his farm/training center in NV was up towards Reno, not LV. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
Will let you know if I happen across anything else /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[vineyridge]

Did you both arrive home alive? With no visits to the emergency room?

I've been jingling.

[Merry]

We had a really good day, actually. It was a small county show at a private riding school, so it's the perfect place for a baby. Hence, I brought Tigger along, since he has only "seen" a show once before. I was able to lunge him and ride him in the warm-up arena (they have a separate one just for hacking, and it's quiet) in a big circle. He was really good! Unfortunately, the power steering went out when we tracked to the right, so I must work on that at home. I was glad Beezer saw what a good mind her young boy has. Especially since I figured he's only been ridden maybe 20 times.

Beezer rode really well and was able to school a lot in both rings and then went in and won both her rounds. The amateur adult round didn't fill, naturally, /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif so we scratched and came home. Of course, that was after a kid was hauled off by the paramedics with a possible pelvic fracture after doing a cartwheel and lawn dart manuever when her horse sat down in front of the liverpool. /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

So now, thankfully, it looks like Beezer and the lovely Spotted Mare from Hell will have a decent time at Ride America next weekend. Now, if only I can trust the Hambola Virus to behave. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[rusty]

I am not able to turn my computer on for a day and the thread grows three more pages.

coreene WIllem is adorable.

I broke even at my show. We all had fun and I accomplished my goal of gettin gthe arena used more, so the city doesn't turn it into Tennis courts or put a road through it. /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif Wanting to keep the arena in the park is the main reason that I started putting on horse shows there last year.

[Bumpkin]

Where is this arena?

Oh Merry and Beezer good to hear that you did so well this weekend.
What a "NICE" sister you are to help Beezer out with both horses /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I don't know why I write hear instead of read /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif hahaha

[MO]

I'm not sure who took her to Indio in the early day's. I know she rode with Jimmy Williams but that was much later I'm sure. (Well, she said she did. That whole Flintridge thing????) Who knows? /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Bumpkin]

Perhaps that means she showed at Flintridge? /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif
/infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[rusty]

Bumpkin the arena is in Walnut Creek. it has been there for about 30 years. The main problem is the man that is now in charge of the Parks and Rec for the city dosen't like horses. He says if it was used for some thing different more people could use it. Another idea was to turn it into a skate board park!!

[Bumpkin]

Oh I hate that!!!
We have had some problems with various parks up here.
Everything is becoming a soccer field!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif
If it wasn't for the Lake Washington Saddle Club, I swear, Bridle Trails State Park, a real JEWEL to the horseman of the area would be gone.
Keep up the good work!!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[dublin]

Don't you just LOVE bureaucrats like that Parks and Recs guy??? They always act like they know better than anyone else on any issue... /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

On another subject, I think bumpkin's suggestion of an article on/with Judith Spreckles is a great idea! She'd probably be surprised at the HORSES magazine fan club we have going on here (and what old issues sell for on e-bay....!!!) /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

"Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[MO]

She say's this, she say's that....

But her name doesn't ring a bell with the "biggy's". /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif "JustALurker" has been my only source /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif Thanks Maggi! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Coreene]

We had a little 2 day Robin Serfas show at our barn. Poor kid on Saturday fell off in Walk Trot (and in her first show, no less) and broke her wrist! We felt terrible. Then two different little gals explained how they were champion in Walk Trot (hmmmm ... still haven't figured out this one yet).

But the scary part was how they were pinning lame horses. It's so sad, you see these poor Eq horses who should have been retired ages ago, doing their best and so lame. And they get pinned. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[Beezer]

Congrats to TuxWink! Congrats to Rusty on a good show! And double congrats to those who have actually gotten their COTH caps! Sigh.

Thank you all for the curb-chain jingling! Yes, after Saturday's disaster of a lesson, I was about to congratulate the Spotted Wonder on finally defeating me. That, or pour myself a few dozen of Rusty's margaritas. Then Merry helped buck me up and I gave myself a severe talking to ... and off to the show we went.

The beast mare was not on best behavior (i.e. TWO hard lungeing sessions /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif ) but we managed. Both rounds were good; but there's nothing like going downhill to a one-stride in-and-out heading toward the out gate and thinking, half-halt, let go -- harder! -- one more stride ... hm, I THOUGHT we were taking one more stride! That mare can and does just leave the ground sometimes when you'd SWEAR there was another stride left. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif But as Merry says, Spot's so clever, she figures out how to get out of the messes of her own creation. But it's like she keeps a running score ... Score one for Spot (when she evades my aids), Beezer none; Beezer one, Spot one; Spot two, Beezer one. I figure if I get to a draw with her, my goals have been achieved. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Oh ... and that was a mighty well-behaved chestnut gelding Merry was riding. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif He didn't even bat an eye when the fire truck and ambulance arrived for the aforementioned misfortunate rider! The cutest thing: When Merry was done, she hops off and Tiggs turns his head, looks at me and gives this pathetic little "heeeeeeelp me" nicker. So I did. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Oh, and Coreene, isn't that so true re the old school masters who ought to be long retired? At "our" show Sunday, there was this nice old gray horse, but DFL. The guy could hardly hang on, but there he is, out trying to get over the jumper fences, catching the horse in the mouth and slip-sliding all over the place. The horse is stopping, trying to save them both, and he starts beating on it ... no trainer in sight. He about runs over me a coupla times. Finally, he just gives up and leaves. Which was a good thing, but Merry and I were thisclose to saying something, so we were kinda disappointed that he packed up and left.

[Merry]

Oh coreene, I so agree with you! Do you think that part of the problem is some of these DFL (dead freakin' lame) horses are school mounts, and the trainers just don't care, as long as they hobble around safely with the kids (who are used to riding them?). Or is it that we've just lowered our standards so much that now we've become blase about letting obviously lame horses compete in public? Two years ago, in an area medal final, a MAJOR A circuit trainer showed up with a kid riding what obviously had been a fancy medal horse. So it could do its job. But the thing was hideously lame behind. We were aghast on the rail, but no one seemed much to care. "After all, it's eq, not hunters," was the comment. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif Okay, next time they're in pain with a sprained ankle or a sore knee, let's make them run around an arena. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

rusty: I know what you're going through with Parks and Rec. There's a really lovely arena and dressage court at the base of the foothills, and since not a lot of shows are held there, there's a clamor to yes, turn it into a soccer field! So I've gotten phone calls asking me to haul up there and ride during the week so city people can see that the arena is being used. Very sad.

[Coreene]

Merry, I know what you mean. Our barn has 12 years left on the lease, but we're already starting a big happy information campaign. Our problem is that, since we're on city land, there's always a few whiners who will go to the city (or call) and complain if they think their stall wasn't cleaned well enough that day. And no matter how many times you 'splain to them that this is NOT the way to go, they do it anyhow.

[JustaLurker]

My cap arrived in today's USPS mail! So, if a package hit here in the boonies, the rest have to be close behind. Keep your eyes open. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Cheers, Maggi

[JustaLurker]

Wow! What a lot of horse show successes this past weekend. Let's see, where do I start.

rusty: Congratulations on the success of the show you put on. Breaking even isn't to be sneered at. It's pretty early in the show season for local shows and it will only get better as the summer wears on.

merry and beezer: How wonderful that you both had a wonderful show with the horses - Spot and Tigger. Tigger certainly seems to be a laid back sweetheart. I haven't figured out from the reports whether the Virus went too, or whether he's being saved for Ride America. And, boy, your injured rider was lucky to have "only" broken a pelvis after doing the cartwheel and lawn dart manuever! It certainly could have been worse - though I suffered through a horse related broken pelvis and it isn't a bed of roses, believe me! A pelvis seems to take a long time to heal.

corrine: I'm sure it was fun to watch the show at your facility, but how sad that a little girl had to have her first show spoiled by falling off and breaking a wrist. It certainly will put a crimp in her riding for a while. I'm quite upset at the fact that obviously lame horses are being shown, let alone being given ribbons /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif Perhaps the local level trainers justify this by thinking they need to use the old, retired, well-trained horses for their beginners - and they are being rewarded by the local level judges.

Everyone, keep fighting the soccer fields and skateboard parks. We're in a losing battle here with the perceived eliteness of horse activities. I guess it's hard to disagree with Parks & Rec for wanting to make a facility available to more of a cross section of the public, but fight we must.
I'm in the midst of a fight to prevent a skateboard park from being built in a small, quiet, village park where families now picnic and weddings are held "on the green" almost every weekend during all but the winter months. Can you imagine a skateboard park in that atmosphere? It will certainly kill all the current activities.

Cheers, Maggi

[Coreene]

Maggie, it just flames me when they keep doing that. Showing lame horses, that is. But - and maybe this is another good question for Merry - what were the judges thinking? And, too, what is the horrid alternative? If you pull them to one side and say "scratch this horse because he's lame," and it happens a few times, what becomes of the horse?

[Bumpkin]

Can't a judge DQ a horse?
Or give the whole class a lower placing?
/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[MO]

Gosh, you know it reminds me of when I used to work for this pro rider, you all know her, (I'm not sure if I can name any names) but you know her horse too. Anyway, this pair went onto many wins including the $100,000.00 grand Prix of Tampa, about 10 or 11 years ago(?) I worked for her for 2 weeks (we didn't clique), and I remember this poor, sweet horse having to take a whirlpool soak, both fronts, in ice cold water immediately following a Grand Prix. Even after she wasn't sure if he was going to compete because he was so lame! It was awful. He just tried his heart out. After that, I decided she wasn't for me and I went to work for Mark Leone. He treat's his horses like you or I do. Very, very well to say the least. He has never abused his animals or his staff for that matter /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[MO]

I just showed Bumpkin's post on Melissa and the 1968 Indio Puissance to Mr. Mo. He refreshed my memory that she had told us that she won that class!! I remember that now. After she showed us the grainy, choppy video of that class, she told us she won! It's not like her house has a trophy room or anything. If I did what she say's she did I'd have a trophy room! Or at least pictures scattered about. Oooh la la!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Bumpkin]

I just realized!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif
You had Robin Serfass as your judge, and she was a protege of Judith Spreckles!!! Editor and owner of HORSES, the bible of the CA Clique.
Merry there is another angle.
You can get to Judith through Robin!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Merry]

Gee, Bumpkin, you should be my agent! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Yet, since I'm sitting here at 3 am, allegedly working on an article assigned to me right before a deadline /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif I think I'm "up to here" with work at the moment. Although, that could change next week...

About the lame horses in shows: Yes, when I've judged at these smaller shows I have definitely mentioned to the exhibitor that her horse is off, especially if it's someone from a smaller barn or a kid that may not even realize it. I think in lower level eq. classes, especially walk/trot, judges look the other way because they feel that a safe mount is important at that level, and yes, at least the old horse has a job and isn't in a can. I do know there are a couple of big hunters on the A circuit that are a tidge "funky" behind, yet they still place under saddle because it takes a discerning eye to notice. Plus, a lot of judges are wowed by the extravagant movement in the front end.

The COTH caps are arriving? Hmmm.... all I got in the mail today was a couple of credit card applications and my phone bill. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[MO]

Merry, are you still awake? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[wtywmn4]

rusty, just love that old arena at Heather Farms. Glad you are using it. Everything is moving in!! Can't believe they are even thinking of a park. Like we don't have enough already? /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

Ahhhh, Beezer & Merry having a good show. No arguments, no horses being patoots, this was a very goodshow!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

So Suave how did you do this weekend??? Trying to catch up on the thread is doing this all in break neck speed!! Brain is in dire need of help!

coreene, no judge should use a lame horse. Period. I consider that abuse. These poor school horses don't deserve this either. They work hard and should not suffer. /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif Did anyone compain about this?

[Bumpkin]

I can just pass ideas on to you, haha, I have no idea how to get them into the magazine, hmmmm, perhaps I should look into being mailgirl for an agent??
hahaha /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Suave!!! You haven't contributed to the thread "The Top Ten Reasons To Leave Your Trainer" /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[This message was edited by Bumpkin on May. 15, 2001 at 12:05 PM.]

[Coreene]

Mo, Taryn will see the part re you working for Mark Leone and think "Oh, Coreene's off." I had always thought he would be the perfect husband. A) taller than me, B) cutie and C) gone a lot. Oh YEAH, and the horse thing!

[MO]

Coreene, I worked for Mark for a year, maybe year and a half, (believe me that's long for me). It was fantastic!! He's really, really nice!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif
And bald.. do you like bald men? You wouldn't know, he always wear's a ball cap. I hated to leave, but had too. I got to ride Legato, (Peter's mount for this past olympics!), I also got to ride his stallion Artos!! Ohh, that horse was so well schooled he's like butter in your hands. Also many other really nice horses that were coming up thru the ranks. It was a fantastic experiance, and he's a wonderful employer!! Nothing bad about Mark (no dirty gossip) like there is with so many top trainers. So keep on dreaming girl!! He's a good dream!! He is however married to my friend (back then) Jane. I have'nt talked to her since I moved out here, but you'd like her too. She's really sweet. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Coreene]

He's BALD? Well, not that's there's anything wrong with that and such, but ... BALD? Well, guess that's why those hats are so popular.

But how fab to have ridden all those lovely horses! I'm so jealous. That's too cool. I'll have to email you in a bit with endless questions.

[MO]

Coreene....e-mail away girlfriend!!

It seems as though, "little bo peep has lost her sheep?" /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Beezer]

Hm. Anyone else notice how conspiciously absent Elizabeth has been from the proceedings? Hm. That must've been SOME weekend! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Coreene]

Beezer, just so we don't hear the gory details! Oy vey, too much info is scary.

HEY so when is your next show? RideAmerica this weekend???

[Beezer]

Ah yes ... the devil is always in the details, isn't it, Coreene? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

And, yes, Merry and Hammie and Beezer and Spot shall be venturing to points south this weekend. We're leaving "by midmorning at the LATEST!" Merry says. Which, Beezer figures, having seen THIS movie too many times, will actually be sometime after noon.... /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

We would have liked to wear our COTH caps on our grand adventure. We really would have. But alas ... WE DON'T HAVE THEM YET!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

[Coreene]

Well have a blast! It's such a nice place to show.

I hear that these caps were sent via "media mail" (bad COTH, very against the Post Office Rules), which would explain why we're still without.

You know, these caps - when we DO get them - can cause all sorts of new meet & greets at shows. Like, "Oh, I see your COTH cap ... hmmm ... and do you perhaps ever visit their web site?" This would be accompanied by much shuffling and such, because it would be too forward to run up and scream "HEY, LOOK AT THE HAT, WHAT'S YOUR BB NAME?!?!?!?!?!!?"

[dublin]

And I owe it all to bumpkin, who encouraged me to come out of lurkerdom about a year ago! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

I still remember how nervous I was making my first post - not that that's a problem for me now.... /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Merry and Beezer - best of luck at the show. Collective CA Clique curb chains will be jingling
for Hammie and Spot to be on their very best behavior!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Bumpkin]

That is very kind of you.
Wish us luck this eve as we are bracing ourselves for some big wind storm.
With all the huge Fir trees on our property something always happens /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[elizabeth]

Beezer, between you and Merry, I can rest assured that I will never die unnoticed. You two will notice!! xoxox Thanks. That makes me feel all warm and fuzzy /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif (I was actually away on business Monday and today, in San Jose. Now I know where Sunnyvale is - doesn't one of us live there?)

And, coreene, for Pete's sake - I'm Catholic. The details don't get very gory. So don't rain on the parade! How 'bout when you get to a post from me, close your eyes and scroll down? Then the ladies who have been happily married for years who are now living (in the words of Merry) vicariously through my new romance can read on! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

The weekend was FABULOUS. I am being "romanced" out of my little mind. He got us a room overlooking the ocean - the FREAKIN' ocean. It was beautiful beyond words. I fell asleep hearing the waves, and I woke up hearing the waves. And I saw DOLPHINS frolicking among the surfers. Woo hoo!!

I suggest you all go out and purchase dresses to wear to the wedding now. Or, in the case of Beezer, to keep it fun for you, go purchase a saddle pad in a fabric or pattern that resembles the fabric or pattern of a dress you might wear to my wedding. . . .

Glad to hear everyone is doing well - I'm glad the shows went well with the El Ranchito crowd. I am very glad, rusty, that your approval process is moving along. Perhaps, to really grease the skids, you could agree to do a skate board park/riding arena combination. As long as we all pass right hand to right hand, it should work out nicely.

Wty, thanks for the shipping tip - I will look into it.

Was there an update I missed on whether Poncho was sound yet? Oh, and - hello - Tux - PICTURES! (Congrats to you!!)

[AAJumper]

Yep...checked the mail when I got home, and there was a nice big envelope inside. The hat looks great...I can't wait to wear it! I will for sure wear it to my next show at LAEC!

AAJumper abruptly turns and runs for cover, as the CA Clique, armed with rotten oranges, begins frothing at the mouth. Fearing they will steal the precious hat, AAJumper grabs a knife to hold off the mob, only to have the crazed labrador snag it out of her hands.....

[wtywmn4]

They come by camel I think.. It does take time, but see one more cliquer has it!!The hats are coming!

Oh elizabeth, that sounds too fabulous!! What a lovely weekend. Okay, so you now have him, somewhat locked up? Do we hear bells in our cliques future? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

Crubs are jingling for Beezer and Merry to have a perfect show. No runaways, Hammie doing all his changes, and beastie being her best self. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[JustaLurker]

elizabeth!:

Okay, slow down, slow down! I would have done this via e-mail, but you have no e-mail address shown.

Yes, I'm old and gray (well, actually red but only my hairdresser knows for sure), but let me tell you that, from experience, you had better heed the "if something seems too good to be true, it is" adage. It's marvelous and exciting that you're being romanced beyond your dreams, but just be sure to get to know him well enough to determine whether this is just an act or whether this is what he's really like - and a couple of months isn't long enough!

If you'd like to carry this on offline, send me an e-mail. But, if you want to remain starry eyed, that's okay, too, and I'll shut up. /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

Cheers, Maggi

[elizabeth]

Maggi, thanks for caring! I e-mailed you. . . .
/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[MO]

Bumpkin, you brought me here too. I was a "Towerhead" getting nowhere. Bumpkin found me, dusted off my knees and guided me here to you Merry!! Thank you Bumpkin, I'm having a BLAST! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

And to you Coreene, you just read what ever the H*## you want!! You have the right! You are an AMERICAN!! Free speech! LOL /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[TuxWink]

Thank you everyone for all of their warm wishes. Africa is settling in nicely. I have pictures and no scanner, otherwise I would post them. Alas, the super-computer arrived from Dell today (with scanner/color printer) but my husband left for a business trip until next thursday and I am too: a. unqualified, b. lazy or c. petite (take your pick) to hoist everything out of its box. I have my first lesson tommorrow since her arrival(Africa conquers jumping!) so do a little jingling for me.

Elizabeth- Congratulations! May your amore continue his romancing for a LONG time.

Merry & Beezer- Good luck at the show!

SCHOOLING SHOWS- Also, if any of you know of any little CHEAP Hunter/Jumper schooling shows within a 50 mile radius of LA, please let me know here or via e-mail. I'm talking like ETI shows, or the stuff they have at Galway Downs (too far for a schooling show for me)...shows where you don't have to pay hefty non-member fees, haul-in fees, etc.

[Merry]

I shall wear it this weekend. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Tuxwink: So, I guess the upcoming Paddock show would be out, since it's $25. a class and yes, there are fees up the wazoo. You know, the ETI shows in Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills are very nice. They should be on their monthly schedule. Look in the back of the Horsetrader for those and other possible shows.

Now elizabeth, just to confuse matters more, I dated my husband for a total of 5 weeks and we've been happily married for 18 years. I couldn't imagine life without him. Oh wait, yes I can.
/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif It involves my settling the paperwork, cashing in his investments and buying a little, secluded ranchette in Temecula, complete with the Nordic stable boy. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

And by the way, Beezer, I take offense at your suggestion that I won't be ready to leave for Ride America Friday by 10:30! I have had everything packed for a week, you know! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

[TuxWink]

I forgot I had some pictures that were sent to me via e-mail before I bought Africa. Here's a little headshot, just so you can have a face with a name. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[AAJumper]

TuxWink, Camelot Riding Club has a lot of Tri-Valley shows. In fact, I just got a prize list for one today. The show is June 10th, and the classes are $18. There are no haul-in fees, no member fees, and no penalty for post entry! You can get show information at www.camelotevents.com (http://www.camelotevents.com)
The phone # for the Tri-Valley HSA is (818)896-4753, if you want more info about other Tri-Valley shows. Also, Middle Ranch used to have a lot of schooling shows, including jumpers on the grass.

Merry, I too noticed the extended bill on the COTH cap...I thought maybe it was just my imagination. /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[TuxWink]

Thanks for the info. Camelot is a good idea for my new girl's first little show. There is supposed to be a little combined test derby at Flintridge that weekend but I haven't been able to get any info on it.

Funny story about Camelot...my trainer and I showed up there one early morning back in March, when it was still raining off and on, and the show had been cancelled! We had called on Thursday and it was on, but they decided on Friday that the show was cancelled. Boy did we feel like big dorks pulling up with the trailer and asking someone, "so...uh...the show's been cancelled, right?" /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[Merry]

Oh wow, I had actually written in my post about suggesting Camelot, but deleted it because I figured it'd be too far for you! I do love their baby ring. Many, many a time Beezer and I have shown way up there, demonstrating once again that we'll haul anywhere if the show looks fun & potentially amusing. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Yes, AAJumper, the brim/bill of hat (I got the green and tan one with suede) will certainly shade us from the sun! I told Beezer that if the Santa Ana winds come up I may find myself doing an impression of the Flying Nun. Wow, there's enough wingspan on that brim for me to take flight! But I'm not complaining... at least I HAVE a cap! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[NancyL]

Elizabeth --

Take your time with your David.

To counter Merry, I met my husband on the day of the Loma Prieta quake (October 1989) and we got married in ....October 2000!

Our "first dance" song was "At Last" by Etta James -- lots of laughs from the crowd.

[Coreene]

Tux, Africa is a cutie! Good for you. And especially that it all worked out. And the Camelot shows are lots of fun!

Elizabeth, I wouldn't call it raining on your parade, I would just suggest that a lot of it is more appropriate in emails to your friends. Not everyone, married or unmarried, lives vicariously through other people, and most of us come on this board to discuss horses.

It doesn't mean, of course, that we're not delighted for you.

[This message was edited by coreene on May. 16, 2001 at 12:30 PM.]

[dmj]

So purdy Tux!! Have a great first lesson w/ her!

coreene - didn't you mention earlier that you were reading Laura Hillenbrand's "Seabiscuit"? Just finished it last night - you know, what with all this extra time on my hands and all /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif - it was the greatest! SO good. Can't wait for the movie!!

[Bumpkin]

Catholic or not, I really want to avoid ever reading anything like those threads about past boyfriend.
/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif
Call me a prude at almost 50, but that is way more than I ever want to know even about close friends lives. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif
No FLAMES please JMHO!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[dublin]

I couldn't have said it better myself, Coreene....

"Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[MO]

Well said Coreene!! E-mails are very appropriate for that sort of thing! Or one could even start thier own thread. Like, "You know what they say about Men and Sheep"!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Coreene]

DMJ, it's just a DIVINE book, isn't it?! Wonder how many horses they'll have to play just the one horse in the movie.

So how is your search going??? Let me know what else we can do to amp it up.

BUMPKIN - how is Poncho's owie???

[elizabeth]

/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif I appreciate you - dublin, coreene, bumpkin, and Mo - sharing your views in an open-minded way.

Of course, I am not about to stop posting because you four do not approve!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Thank you again for your views! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif And keep up the great posting.

P.S. A reminder: you really don't have to read anything I post!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Coreene]

DMJ, I loved that book more than any I've read in ages. Wonder how many horses they'll have to play just the one in the film (always a fun part of a horse movie - counting the extras).

Bumpkin and Dublin, I still have the Jilly Coopers I need to pass on to both of you (sitting under my desk for ages ... nothing like getting with it).

[Coreene]

I don't recall not asking you to post, I recall suggesting that it might be more appropriate if you kept the personal details just that.

[dublin]

My copy just arrived from Amazon, and I am really looking forward to reading it while we are on our vacation in Oregon and Washington.

We will be getting together with bumpkin one day, and I am really looking forward to meeting Mallory, Poncho and of course the wonder horse, Eliot!! Poor Mr. Dublin is also going to get dragged to several nice tack shops, where I can ooh and ahh at all the lovely horsey stuff....
Merry, can I pick you up another gold-toned bit? LOL And possibly I will find a gorgeous plume for the handsome Willem.... /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[wtywmn4]

Ladies, ladies, ladies...Let's not be tooooooo squeaky about elizabeth's amore. I am over the hill, and when you all hit that mid to late 50's mark, call me /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif I don't live vicariously thru elizabeth's posts. I do love when people are happy tho!! Something we don't seem to have enough of these days. Anyway, just had to get that off my chest. Am not trying to flame anyone, just saying lighten up, please?? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Tux your new mare is very nice. A wish come true. So is it Camelot this weekend? You should have a wonderful time there. They try very hard to have good footing and courses...Curbs will be jingling...

And why not race up to someone with the COTH BB hat on their head? If it were me, I would be rolling and tell you exactly who I was! It's the perfect way to meet everyone... /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Merry]

It has already gotten really tarnished! I mean, like a yucky brass faucet! Then I read the blurb in the catalog and it says that the bit "oxidizes", so I assume that means that it becomes grayish/blackish/gross with time. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Do you guys think they'll make "Seabiscuit" into a movie? Horse films are notoriously bad box office earners, but perhaps with big stars this could be a winner. Who should have the starring roles? Is there a place for a swarthy Eqyptian fellow? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Beezer]

Beezer still has no hat. This does not please or amuse her. It has just made her very, very bitter.

Beezer, knowing that Rocky the crazed Labrador would NEVER dare steal Merry's COTH cap, instead sics him on AAJumper. "Nothing personal, you understand," Beezer says as she gives the Lab the command --- "Rocky! Go hunt cap!" --- "but if I don't get one of those dang hats it just ain't gonna be pretty!"

[Coreene]

My hats arrived last night! I bought one of each, because I'm passing one on to a friend. Couldn't decide from the photos which to keep, but I think it will be the suede billed one. The other will be in Scotland at the Burgie 3DE (fortunately NOT canceled) atop my friend Ed, who does not have a BB "handle" but I am sure will be happy to chat to all.

So if you happen to be wandering through the British Isles at a horsey event (when the others start back up) and you see a sweet Scotsman with a COTH hat, he's Ed.

[TuxWink]

1. A COTH hat so I can be identified at shows. I am extremely shy, so this may be a bit much. However, you now know my horsies name (not sure what show name will be yet) and face, so I can't really hide, I suppose. At least I'll have a few months of anonymity since that's how long it will probably take me to get the cap!

2. That Seabiscuit book! I need to see if they have it at the library yet. (They rent out the bestsellers) I have vowed not to buy any more books unless I am traveling because they are so darn expensive!

Well, I don't think I will be venturing to Camelot this weekend. It looks like my first show will be at Flintridge on June 10th - a little combined test derby. (Dressage + combined stadium/x-country jumping round)

[wtywmn4]

So coreene, when poor old Ed is attacked by some crazed person saying they are from the Ca. Clique he'll understand? /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Ah Merry, brass usually get a lovely green patina to it. Should look stunning! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Coreene]

Not only will he know it's one of us, he'll be mad for the idea! He seems to know 99% of the US eventing community already, so I'm sure that wild California women riding him off at the pass would be a welcome! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

What man wouldn't agree??

[Merry]

So, you mean I'll now have the "Bit of Brass"? /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif
But my bay prince doesn't look good in brass, patina or not! /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

You'll have to excuse me, I seem to be getting lambasted on the Minority Riders Thread because I somehow posted something that's being perceived as being racist because I referred to all the WASP, yuppie women at the backgate. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif Which is hysterical, since I'm about as WASPish as you can get! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Coreene]

Well I don't know what else you could have called it besides Wonder Bread, Merry. Sorry you're getting flamed.

[elizabeth]

"Thanks, wty," elizabeth whispers with a shy smile, very pleased that Wty is giving elizabeth a little room to share her giddy new-romance-finally-feeling-at-home-in-California glee with her BB friends. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Now, the mighty important stuff: Merry, fear not - all is right with the bit. As I recall (I own a three-link "gold" bit for Bustifer), the "gold" bit is supposed to be very special b/c the bit reacts with the world, with saliva, with whatever. It seems that the reaction causes the bit to be more pleasing (in taste?) to the horse, causing him to more readily accept the bit. So, rejoice in the patina of the bit! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

elizabeth screeches up to AAJumper in her car, yells "get in" as she grabs AAJumper's arm and pulls her into the car, and peels away, just as Rocky, the crazed Lab, launches smack into the car window.

Watching the trail of dog saliva slither down the car window as they speed away, AAJumper mutters "get your own darn cap, Beezer." /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[dublin]

I read that it is in development at Universal Studies; also, that there was a bidding war between various studios for the movie rights. It is to be directed by Gary Ross, Oscar nominated writer of the movies Big and Dave
and producer/writer/director of Pleasantville. All good movies, IMHO!!

In a chat transcript with author Laura Hillenbrand on ESPN, she said that a screenplay is currently being written, and that the movie itself is about 1 1/2 years away from being on screen. Considering the book is has been #1 on the New York Times bestseller list for several weeks, and currently the #9 bestseller on Amazon, I would be surprised if it doesn't get made.....

BTW, tux, you can buy it for $14.97 on Amazon, and they will have it to you in 2-3 days!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Merry]

Oh, that's great about the movie! With all the human drama that I hear the book includes (no, haven't read it yet) it should make a great film.

Thanks, coreene, for coming to my rescue on that thread! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif I'm so thin-skinned. It makes me not want to wear my COTH cap. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

[dmj]

Ah, Dublin - ya beat me to the movie specs. But isn't that great? Although 1.5 years is so far away!

Coreene I so agree. It was a great read, one of the best in ages -- and I read EVERYTHING so that is saying alot! I am sure you have read Horse Heaven - another recent good one! Oh side note - I will email you re: the search.

Merry! I will check out the thread. Don't tell me I am gonna have to go over there with my a** kicking boots on! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif hehe

[Triple Crown]

Well, I'm butting into your thread to tell Merry that I'm about as WASPy as they come, too, and it didn't even cross my mind to be the slightest bit offended. I thought it was funny! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

P.S. Can I become a card-holding (curb chain jinging?) member of the CA Clique if I do indeed move to Santa Barbara or San Francisco? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif You all are so funny...

[Taryn]

Okay, things are getting scary around here. I dislike confrontation in my real life, and am pacing and sweating bullets as we speak (even though I love your self deprecating humor, Merry; you have cracked my ass up on several occasions).

Therefore, I'm going to lighten things up by forcing you all to look at a picture coreene took of my horse being an uber-model...

[Jumphigh83]

Hey! No fair dumping on Eliz for posting about her newest! How am I supposed to keep up with what is going on 3500 miles away if not for the COTH BB?? This IS called "off course" so if you don't want to indulge...DON'T! Sometimes sharing with friends (even cyber ones) is better than being or feeling all alone....Cut her a break, she just moved there, knows relatively few people whom she can really call friends, AND to make matters worse, her best friend (the horse) is HERE! Keep up the good work Eliz and I will close my erstwhile Catholic eyes if I fear I may take offense...knowing you however, I am certain that there won't be anything to salty to digest! I am happy for you and your excitement is kinda contagious...what's that about smile and the world smiles with you...frown and you frown alone???? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Betsy

[Beezer]

Oh, Taryn, he is too cute! Doesn't he want to come be a hunter at the ranchito??

And Triple Crown, of course you can be a California Cliquester! Why, residency isn't even required. It just takes a certain "state of mind" to qualify. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Coreene]

Taryn, that photo of Dave is so gorgeous that I could just eat him up like a big cookie. I saw Karen riding off on Saturday in your western saddle and her tall boots - how did it go? Then I could never find you at the barn.

Beezer, Dave moves like a little ballerina and I think he really should be a Very Small Hunter. He is darling. He could be a Reining Dressage Trail Very Small Hunter.

[dublin]

and I'm sure make quite the pair!! The question is, would Willem deign to go trail riding with his very small hunter pal?????? (Somehow I don't see western saddles and plumes going together, and how do his bunnies cope when he's away from his stall?) /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Taryn]

We call Dave Willem's long yearling buddy. The two of them standing next to each other is a sight to behold-a full 2 1/2 hands separates them.

I told Karen to teach him how to jump, he certainly has the shoulder and uh, ample rump to do so. If they had a very small ammy division I'd be all over that. Oh yea, and if I suddenly got over my fear of jumping!!

[Taryn]

I will definitely get pictures next week of the 6 foot tall dressage trainer riding my 15 hand reining horse in a western saddle, whilst wearing her tall boots. I must say he is progressing nicely, has a high retention level, and I've ridden him twice this week! And I didn't cry!!!

Corinne, you would not believe what I saw Mr. Hot Pants Western Trainer doing to one of his horses, althought I'm sure it won't surprize you.

[JustaLurker]

merry: Though the bill may be a little outsized, think of it as prevention from melanoma - and that's a biggie, believe me! You must wear it at the Ride America show to show how privileged you are to have received one of the first caps to reach the West Coast!

NancyL: Boy, thank heaven someone else thinks as I do and are into cautioning elizabeth to go at this marvelous courtship slowly. We all are aware that 20/20 hindsight isn't what you want in a romance.

TuxWink: Africa's head shot is beautiful! I can't wait to see the rest of her. You absolutely, positively must wear your COTH hat so the rest of the boarders can come up to you and personally congratulate you on finally getting Africa. Although I won't be there, the rest of us will be so pleased for you and will know you're a happy new owner. How else can we root for you if we don't know who you are? And, it will be a great way to make new friends.

beezer: I hope and pray your COTH hat gets here before the weekend, else merry will show you up. But, I'm betting you'll get it before you two leave for Ride America. It certainly would be embarrassing to have merry wearing one and you without.

[Coreene]

Oh Dublin, the bunnies have moved out. Or should I say "moved on?" They (the first batch of bunnies) come back to sleep in the shavings, but the next batch has vanished, or are under my tackbox. I need to get a photo of him with his crocheted Big Time Showjumper ear cover. Red ears and rastafarian stripes, and little colored pom-poms.

Dave and Willem together is a bit like Willem and Mini Me. He is madly in love with Dave and would mount him if he could, and Dave thinks he's a big fat weirdo.

[MO]

Regarding this whole Elizabeth thing, you know we're not trashing her by any means. There are just some issues that some of you may not be aware of that still stab a little at our backs. She leaves some of us really NASTY e-mails that are totally uncalled for and totally inappropriate.

On a lighter, more appealing subject, Coreene, I wish you could have gotten a picture of Willem and his bunnies. What a hoot!! Make sure you gals get a pic of Dave and Willem together!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Coreene]

Well, I said to Taryn we'd have to get Willem to pose the same as Dave, so if she'd be so gracious as to stand with him, I can get some poses there. And then we can somehow get some Mini-Me photos of them together. And then really we should get some with their great friend Peanut in the middle (he's a Shetland). The best turnouts in the a.m. is Peanut in the lunging ring in the middle and Dave and Willem in the turnouts on either side, both tearing around and trying to get Peanut's attention away from the other.

[Bumpkin]

I want to see the bunnies too!!!
MO you rock!!!
/infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[This message was edited by Bumpkin on May. 16, 2001 at 07:16 PM.]

[MO]

I'm a WASP too, so swat me if I sting! A blonde, blue eyed girl born and raised in Philly area (near to Devon) who now resides in RED NECK country. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

I'm glad MOESHA did say he was sorry /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Now does that make me racist? I think not!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[dublin]

snide posts directed to some of us by name, as well as things being posted and then deleted before moderators could see them are also facets of the other side of the story as well...

On a much cheerier note, thanks Coreene for my laugh of the day at your description of what Willem and Dave really think of each other!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
You have just got to get a picture of Willem, mini Me and really really mini me (the shetland) - what a threesome that would be....

"Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[Beezer]

Just a Lurker: Thanks re the COTH cap. I'm thinking that if mine DOESN'T arrive before we leave for the show, I need to demand that Merry leave hers at home.

Because, honestly ... do I REALLY need something else for her to lord over me about?!?!? /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[Coreene]

Everyone except Beezer, go look at Jair's hat thread. It's a scream. Beezer, I'm SURE yours will arrive today, since mine came yesterday and we're - in the great USA scheme of things - practically neighbors.

But what will set the Californian-owned caps apart from the others??? Aside, of course, from putting spinners on top of them.

[B.G.M. heidi]

Willem and Dave should be hosting their own late night 'neigh' show - not only are they wonderfully handsome, they're such adorable goofs. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[wtywmn4]

Taryn, Dave is way cute. And very handsome too, I might add. Triple Crown, welcome....we enjoy everyone!!

Enough of the snidlies!! We do not do this!! We love our fluff....That from another wasp/catholic. One of each, thank you very much.

The lovely patina of brass... /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Well, if Hammie likes it, does his changes, floats around the course, who cares??? /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif Curbs will be jingling...

[Portia]

Can't we all just get along?

OK kids. Let's try to be nice to one another and not say what may seem like mean things about other posters. You wouldn't want people saying similar things about you, and none of us want a flame war to start. This is a fun, lightweight, friendly thread. Let's keep it that way, OK? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[wtywmn4]

We can get along, thanks Mom..... /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[TuxWink]

Looks like my first show with Africa WILL be Camelot, June 10th. My trainer and I agreed that tackling dressage, stadium and X-country on her first outing would be WAY too much. So, we are instead going to conquer the cross-rail hunters. Whoo-Hoo! However, I have a couple questions since most of you guys are hunter-jumper people and I am an eventer venturing out onto foreign soil: (These could also be considered my "identifying factors" /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif since I won't be wearing a COTH cap)

1. Should I braid? (this is for those that know the Camelot schooling shows - I have no idea if people braid or not) If I do braid, will button braids be okay or should I go for a gazillion hunter-style braids?

2. I have long hair and usually contain it in a bun with a hairnet and a /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif show bow with net /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif . Is there a more suitable alternative?

3. I also only own one /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif black /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif hunt coat that I wear with my grey britches and the same white shirt for dressage and stadium, (hey, us eventers wear the same shirt for dressage and stadium, we just swap collars) I was thinking of maybe buying a very light grey shirt to start wearing during the stadium phase w/dark grey britches and black coat. Would this be a more appropriate look?

Now, until I started reading these boards I would have confidently ventured out to this show with no idea that I was committing about a dozen different "hunter no-no's". So, give me any advice you can. I'm not there to get a blue ribbon, just to gain experience, but I don't want to look like a total freak /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[Beezer]

First and foremost, TuxWink: Good luck and have fun!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Second, you don't have to braid if it's truly only a schooling or Tri-Valley/San Fernando Valley/LA County B show. If it's an LA County A show, however, you'll probably want to braid. And since hunter folks are of the "more the merrier" variety when it comes to braids, you'll need to get at least 20 in that mane.

The black coat is fine. The gray breeches are not "in style" but there is nothing "wrong" with them. Personally, I'd stick to the white shirt but others may disagree. You'll see a sea of navy, green, plaid and other colors of coats with the TS pea-green breeches, but for the classes you're doing, you'll be fine. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Now about that show bow ... Merry will no doubt weigh in on this. So let me save her the trouble: You don't want to wear it to a hunter show. Really. Honest. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Merry]

Talk about a rotten day! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

I was here until noon putting together this article on the "history" of one of the magazines I write for. That meant I had to track down and interview the illusive past editors (not my sister... she was easy to snag!). Then I amble over to ride the Hambola virus and Tigger. My sister's kid decides that perhaps turning to the right is NOT something he'd care to do, thank-you very much, so I got to re-educate him about that. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

Then, in my final school on Hambone before the show, I decide not to lunge first because I jumped him yesterday and he was perfect, so I figured, eh, a light hack.Wrong!He just would not stay long and low, in a nice hunter frame as I went past the scary section of our arena (think trees, manure bin, etc.).

Do you ever have those days where you realize that you rank, oh, about 14th on your horse's list of priorities? /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif And I was even using the tarnished Bit of Gold! /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif I finally got off and lunged him, bitted up to the right. Then I got on, cantered ONCE around nicely and climbed off. I think it was then that I began to cry.

I just want perfection in my four-year-old, is that too much to ask? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Bumpkin]

I picked up the new June copy of Horse Illustrated today at Gift Horse!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif
Tigger is such a cutie pie, he looks so hoohum I will do this for the magazine article, and the change is dramatic.
Big issue this month, kudos to Merry. /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[Merry]

Thanks, Bumpkin! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

By the way, you guys should go over to the H/J forum and respond to the thread on the Oaks. Someone wants to know who trains there, etc. and I'm rather out of the loop as far as Joan is concerned. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[SuaveReno]

HI BB'ers /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif First of all I looove the pics of Dave and Africa and will look forward to pics of Willum and Dave, a dynamic duo! With plumes????

Coreene: How did my friend do at your show this past weekend /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif I hope she did well, she is a very nice lady and i think she might be looking for a new place to hang her tack /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Bumpkin: Thanks for the heads up on the 10 ways to leave your trainer thread. I will definitely go check it out /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif believe me I have more than a few ways /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

I would definitely love to do a few little shows along the way to practice my new seat and so forth. At times like this I wish I had a truck and trailer /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Hey Merry: if there's ever any room in your trailer...let me know..I'll pay /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif I would like to get in a few smaller shows before the Oaks in July, at which I will proudly wear my Coth Cap or you could recognize me by the classes I have pinned on my huntcoat (along with my name)

I was in Ojai the first part of this week and it was absolutely lovely. It kinda reminded me of what Laguna Beach used to be like umteen years ago. I was existing on a 1000 calorie a day diet until I crept across the street for a sorbet in a waffle cone and a "salted" bag of popcorn

/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

I kept muttering as I detoxed from the junk food I love to consume, "I'm doing this for my riding". Needless to say, when I got home, I promptly consumed a bag of chips /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif No willpower /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[SuaveReno]

She Flies Without Wings - how horses Touch a Woman's Soul by Mary D. Midkiff

I haven't read it yet but it came highly recommended

[Mad Mission]

OK, I haven't taken the time to read any of this thread- becuase it overwhelms me. But I feel that I should at least post once on a topic about the CAL clique which I should be part of geographically speaking.
Hey, Anyone know of any cheap green tb's for sale? /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif And I do mean cheap. /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[AAJumper]

Suave, I am now planning on going to the Oaks for both weeks in July! Woo hoo...I'm excited...already put in my time off request at work. So we'll definitely have to meet there...I've got my COTH hat, and I'm pretty easy to spot. Just look for the jumper rider who is perpetually softening her body too much in front of the fence, dropping her eye, and committing other sorts of minor erros which make her horse stop. I think I better change my name to Schooling Jumper rather than AAJumper!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

So I'm scheduled for a lesson with the trainer's ex on Saturday because my trainer is going to be at LAEC. She told me he asked if my hands have gotten too low again, and she said "no...she has not moved from the position you put her in several weeks ago!!!" (when I got the picky picky picky lesson about my position - it was necessary). /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Yeah...except for that damned right hand that softens too early one stride before the fence, causing Cypress to get off balance and perform a contortionist act to get over the jump. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

[rusty]

Mad Mission how green and how cheap? email me with the details.

[wtywmn4]

Ahhhh junk food, it's everyone's downfall. But hey 1000 calories a day is very low. Popcorn, isn't that a diet somewhere? /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

A/A you do make me laugh.

[Coreene]

NO show bow, please. Otherwise I'm sure you'll look just gorgeous - make sure to get plenty of photos!

[wtywmn4]

Can we get "She flys without wings" on line Suave?
Am currently headed for the Amazon thingie.... /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[wtywmn4]

Having just gotten this email, figured everyone would appreciate it!!!

One day in heaven, Saint Peter, Saint Paul and Saint John were standing around near the horse paddocks watching the horses frolic. "I am certainly: bored," stated John.
"Me too," Paul chimed in. Peter stood and watched the horses.
"I know!" Peter began. "Why don't we have a horse
show?"
Paul and John thought that the idea was great except for one small detail that Paul pointed out. "Who are we to compete against, Peter?" Paul asked.
The trio pondered a moment when Peter realized the answer. "We will call up Satan and invite him to the horse show. I mean, we have all of the finest horses here in heaven, all of the World and National Champions are here. His stable is ridden with the spoiled, difficult and mean horses. We are certain to win at the show!"
And so the trio calls up Satan on the other realm
communication lines and invited him to their horse show. Satan laughed and asked why they would want to be humiliated like that, because he would certainly beat them.
Peter, Paul and John did not understand. "What do you mean Satan?" Peter asked. "We have all of the National and World Champion horses in our stable in heaven. How could you possibly beat us?"
Satan paused a moment and then laughed. "Have you
forgotten so soon gentlemen? I have all the judges!"

Since we have been waaaaaay too solemn, this is tongue and cheek. Sent by a judge!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

[SuaveReno]

Keep em coming.
/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

In regards to the book, I got mine at Amazon.com. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[SuaveReno]

Need your input here. Should I kill the thread and we start a new one???? /infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

[JustaLurker]

Not fair that we should have to kill the thread. The Canadian epic was allowed to go on for many more pages than this one - and many of the posts were about nothing, but were just to build up the number of posts and pages. But, I can understand the feeling that the ONE topic for CA people may have gone a bit far afield and become too huge, perhaps the largest knock. I don't really agree, but will bow to the request to cool it.

Okay, how about setting up several topics that at least give us a hint that they pertain to the California horse scene - or perhaps the AHSA Zone 10 horse scene to as to make it a bit more inclusive. Each could begin with "CA:" or "Z10:" so we'd know that it was of more interest to those of us on the left coast. Examples: Z10: Pebble Beach Classic Shows; Z10: Schooling Shows in SoCal; Z10: A-Circuit Trainers near Stanford?; Z10: Successes of merry's Hammy and beezer's Spot; Z10: Progress on rusty's new facility; etc.

There are so many in topics for the East coasters who all seem to know one another. I've felt pretty left out when the Virginia crew continually talks about places and people I've never heard of. They seem to think everyone should know who or what it is they're talking about. Not true, IMHO.

So, whadya think?

Cheers, Maggi

[Coreene]

I vote we keep gassing away until the plug is pulled, and then begin gassing again.

[dublin]

Sounds good to me! ROTFL

"Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller

[Jair]

PHEW! Wow this is a long thread! I went back a few pages and started reading - rather fascinating! Remind me to start reading from the beginning next time! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Did you get your hat Beezer? I'm pulling for you you know! /infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

~Prince Jair, owned by Lovely Alice /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Coreene]

Yes, Beezer, this is the Question Of The Day. Has it arrived yet???

[Merry]

Since Beezer has escaped the confines of the editor's desk at the LA Times, I can report (pun is intended!) that yes, today her cap arrived!!!She appeared at El Ranchito today waving it proudly. I then promptly made her help me pack for the show.

It shall be an adventure. /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif After yesterday's horrendous schooling session on Hammie, and Queen of Horse Show Moms attempting to quash my tears by saying, "He's only 4," /infopop/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif I decided to just turn him out today so he could run. And boy, did he! But naturally, FATE being totally against me, he pulled off one of his brand new aluminum shoes! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif But aha! The farrier was already coming for his standing appointment, so I got it tacked back on.

Then, remember I re-discovered a Warner's trunk in our tackroom whilst I was, ahem, "cleaning and sweeping"? Well, it was missing the hasp. So my dad put on a new one. So I went to buy a lock. Oh, the thoughts and visions that went through my head while I stood at Target staring at padlocks with keys. The whole scenario was fraught with danger. Nothing like rushing to the tack trunk to grab your number or a pair of spurs and /infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif you don't have the key! So I bought a combination lock that allows me to set my own combination. I was going to use 666, but I figured that was tempting FATE once again. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Anywho, on whatever thread we meet on again, I'll report back on our adventure. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Merry]

Oh, and by the way, before I sign off for the "road trip to horse show hell", I'd like to add that Taryn, your horse is very fancy and cute. If and when I ever do indeed part with the Spotted WB Beast, I'm planning on buying myself some sort of big, rangy appaloosa or palomino or buckskin that Beezer can romp around in on low jumpers. For myself on said horse, I shall purchase a silver-encrusted western saddle and bridle and cruise up and down the trails in town, becoming the gossip krone of my neighborhood. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Tuxwink: I'm so happy for you! But please, just say "NO" to show bows! /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif As for your outfit, how about spiffing it up with a pastel pink shirt? Or something bold like one of the burgundy shirts? They'd look nice with a black coat.

Sorry, must go watch an old episode of Star Trek and then load up my truck. /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Coreene]

I've always liked black coats the best. Must be a dressage thing, but even in my Olden Days Of Showing In HJ, I always preferred black. And, like Chef, I have a very soft spot for canary breeches.

Remember a few years ago when "they" tried to introduce pale canary in the dressage world? Anyone? Anyone? Loved that because it was a little less HARSH than white, which makes my zaftig thighs even more pronounced.

[dublin]

I also saw in Sports Illustrated today that Julie Krone is getting married to your husband's buddy Jay Hovdey at a seaside ceremony in Del Mar on May 27th.

[AAJumper]

OMG Coreene, you can say that again about the white dressage breeches!!! I showed dressage about 3 times (all schooling stuff) and I remember watching myself on video, lunging my horse. I was horrified at the way they made my thighs look!!! /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

Oh, and by the way, welcome to the thread Jair! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[rusty]

Merry , Beezer and anyone else tha is showing good luck this weekend!!

I will probably be out of touch this week end so I hope to be able to find every body on Mon. Which is when I also find out if the neighbors appealed the planning commission ruling. Jingle those curb chains. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Erin]

Okay, wrap it up, folks! Venture out in the world... start some new threads. There's lots of nice people out there, y'know! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

BTW, the Canadian Clique's "Question for Canter" thread topped out at around 50 pages. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[SuaveReno]

I'm sure it will be a questions that we all can get behind /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[elizabeth]

Suave, thanks for the Thread. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif It was a hoot. You should be proud, as the originator.

It has been kinda tough for me, being 3000 miles from home, but this thread has made me feel all comfy among my new CA friends. Yay for new friends and funny-funny memories of the CA Redux thread. I'll see you on the next one. . . . /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Bumpkin]

I am glad that all our deep thoughts got that hat to Beezer in time!!
Having a very bad day before the show is a good omen Merry!! Now, haha, you should know that by now.
I have those locks you set the numbers to, I love them, they even make a brass one. I am going to have to pick one up at Target for my new Warners Celebrity Edition trunk I ordered when you refused, haha, to send me your newly discovered trunk. /infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[SuaveReno]

Sheeze! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif Let's keep this one going if we are shut down than we can move to a new thread.

Erin keep it open please /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[rusty]

I tried to start a new topic last night, but it isn't here this morning. I guess infopop didn't want to post it /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Oh well, The neighbors decided to appeal the planning commission ruling. Now I have to go through another hearing. More delays. /infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

[Erin]

You guys aren't very good at taking hints.