Lea and Her Mustangs

Some things coming up

2012-01-27T18:21:00.000-08:00

My two girls resting in the sun. This was my only venture outside today. Still have a sore throat and stayed in trying to get rid of it. It is much better this evening but not gone. It better get out of here. I am tired of it.

Last night our Mustang Club met. We planned a ride and camp out on April 14/15. We talked about planning a trip to the ocean beach somewhere to ride. I think Mary is going to research places to go camp and ride on the beaches. We also talked about instead of having a Mustang Days on our own, having a booth and maybe could have some of our horses there for people to see at Ride the West. We won't make money but might serve the same purposes. It will cost about $150.00 to do that. We have the money to do that. I also mentioned remembering to pay our $10.00 to keep track of hours rode. The more that do it, the better chance we have of winning a really nice gift this weekend. So far, only Bob and I have done it and we have rode 0 miles so........................

We had a fun telephone call this morning inviting us to ride into the Bob Marshall on June 24 for a week. We said a big yes. We will ride to Pretty Prairie. I want Sage to be ready to ride. I am going to push her to do that.

I am still working on old pictures. I got over 100 uploaded today. I better get them onto my external modem though. On the computer is not good enough.

Tomorrow we are celebrating Chrissy's 40th. birthday. I had a turkey in the freezer and that is what we are having. Ought to have something special for turning 40.

Blessings

Looking Back

2012-01-25T18:46:00.000-08:00

This picture of my mother was taken in Moniter (near Wenatchee) in l929. I don't remember seeing it before but found it in some pictures I was going through.
My mother and step dad taken in l963 in their front yard in Phoenix, AZ. They had such a lovely place.

Taken in Key West when my sister and I went there on the very best vacation I have ever ever had.

Not any horse activity today except laughing at my mares out the window. I have been putting them in about noon every day and right on time they were standing at the gate waiting for me. We had to go to the doctors office and get our medical records because she is leaving. I think we may have found a doctor but am a little leery after thinking we had found who we wanted and to have her leave after six months and we have to do it all over again. Such is life anyway.

Blessings

Slush

2012-01-24T21:45:00.001-08:00

Sweet Raven, my trusty ride until Sage is ready. She is a great horse.

And Pepper, what else could I say about him that I have not said before.

Then Yuma wanting a treat.

My girls standing out of the wind. I went through the gate with a halter in hand and Sage came to me and Ditto followed her and followed us into the barn. What a good girl she is. Well what a good girl they both are.

My computer had a belch this evening and Cameron had to come. I communicate with my sister and oldest daughter on ICQ and it will not connect. It did and then dumped me off and will not reload it. Darn. And me trying to fix it messed things up good. (sad face).

So that is how my evening went.

Blessings

A beautiful Day in Our Neighborhood

2012-01-23T18:50:00.001-08:00

Our two little dogs on the run. They are BFF.

My rail fence (LOL)

The snow was sliding off of the garage roof. Tried to get a drip in mid air but missed.

The nose I love to smooch on and she loves me to do it.

The big girls came in for lunch and did great. Ditto of course just gets to eat but Sage has a despooking lesson when she is done eating. I had a cardboard box that was going to eat her. Yesterday I put her treat in the box and she wouldn't come near so today I put her grain in it and now its OK. I had a big red hunk of something and I was waving it around and she looked at me like is that a saddle pad because they don't scare me. Bob parks the tractor at the end of the aisle way in the barn (not my choosing but his) and there is a quite narrow space to walk by it. We practiced that yesterday and she didn't think much of it but today she just walked through like oh heck. We are working on her head down and she does wonderful and flexing and she does that great too. Just something every day.

Blessings

Just What We Need - More Snow

2012-01-22T17:39:00.000-08:00

Chemmy, Yuma and Rosie do not think we need any more snow and they were not happy that I did not bring them treats. Besides it wasn't supper time and they wanted to eat then. Oh well, I guess. I laughed at them.
Think we have a few barn kitties? They are all chubby. They get cat food and a pan of goat milk every day.

Bob drove the tractor into the other end of the barn and Sage was not so happy about it. I banged on things in the barn and waved things around working on despooking. She thought I was tormenting her and I guess I was.

One of the more demanding kitties.

And my old buddy, Ditto. She wanted a treat every time I walked by. She did not like all the stuff I was doing earlier. She doesn't need despooked. She hates stalls and couldn't wait to get out.

Last night at the Back Country Horse meeting that we were at, we found out our old mare May died last week. We gave her to a guy down by Worley, ID for a pasture buddy a few years ago. She was a good old horse. She ate her breakfast and when he went out to open the stall she was gone. And then her pasture mate died a few days later. Sad huh? They were both old and had great lives there. Pampered and loved. I feel bad but not sad for her.

Tom and Christy are both OK. Just sore from the wreck. Tomorrow they should get a rental car and start the process of getting what they have coming. Darn drunk drivers.

Thank you all for your comments. I was so down when I wrote the last time. Life is tough sometimes and this period of time is one of them. I will make it though. Thanks so much for your comments.

We are getting more snow this evening. Not what we needed but it is winter in eastern Washington and not unexpected.

Blessings

Lord, if this is a test, I flunked

2012-01-20T19:24:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of snow pictures. About l5" of snow and at the moment it is freezing rain and the wind is starting to blow. Just what we needed. I am SO glad they cancelled our Washington State Horsemen Board meeting scheduled tomorrow in Ellensburg. I would not try to drive in that skating rink.

Boy, oh, boy, when it comes, it comes in bunches. Not only does my brother in law have cancer. He is holding his own at this moment, our niece has cancer in her hip bone. She just started chemo, our daughter in law was diagnosed with ovarian and uterine cancer. She has surgery on February l. Today our oldest granddaughter who lives in Maryland called and she has ovarian cancer. She has her first oncologist appointment on Monday. Then Bob had just a check up with our doctor who has only been our doctor since last May when our doctor of 30 years retired. Now she is leaving the area so we have to find another doctor again. Its not easy when you are both past 70. That about wigged me out and then the phone rang this evening and a drunk hit our son Tom's pickup. He and his wife were not hurt but pretty shaken up. They were driving down the road and a drunk driver came across 2 lanes of traffic and hit them in the drivers door. Then he tried to leave but Tom got to him and took his keys away from him. I feel like I have been caught in a whirlwind.

The horses are doing well. I was going to take some pictures of them today but Bob called me to do something and then I forgot. They all look like furry bears. They are all fat.

So, I am done whining. Sorry.

Blessings

Snow? Where?

2012-01-17T19:35:00.000-08:00

We were supposed to get a big dump of snow today. Well we got NONE until about 3 and we got a skiff. The wind did blow like a hurricane and it was cold but no snow. I really don't mind, they have predicted snow all weekend and what we got was cold and sunshine. Love it.

We got groceries today and were really lazy the rest of the time. The wind was awful. Was good for both of us to have a lazy day together. We had more conversation than in ages.

The horses didn't seem to mind at all. They were just happy out in their respective pastures.

Take care,

Blessings

Fun With the Girls

2012-01-15T19:03:00.000-08:00

I had fun today playing round with my spotted girls. They both tried to get into my jacket pockets because they knew what was there. I don't usually carry treats but thought today was a good day to give them some. They came around to the front most of the day and that was a good sign for me. I loved their hugs and nuzzled me.

My sweet Ditto. She is old and loves me. She is not as affectionate as Sage but I know she loves me. Ditto is the smoothest horse I have ever ridden. Her lope is so fun to ride. I had a hard time getting used to riding any other horse.

Sage seemed glad to have me out there. It was a sunny cold day. They say snow is coming but not a flake so far. We will see.

My favorite picture of my girls.

We had a sunny but cold day today. We got a little cleaning up in the yard and Bob got the tractor chains ready to put on if the snow really comes. Got my boots out of the closet. Now if it does not come, they can go back.

It was a good day. My girls seemed as glad to see my come spend time and I was to do it.

Blessings

Mourning

2012-01-13T18:53:00.000-08:00

I wonder how long they are going to stand in that place where their friend died. Yesterday and today other than when they ate. Makes me sad.
Sage just looking at me. I was chasing a cow.

I really loved the shadow. I wish I had my other lens on but its still good. She stands there when the sun shines.

Something scared our cows last night and they went through fences. They are not hard on fences so don't know what went on. I hope its not a pack of dogs. If it happens again, we will put Steve's night vision camera out there. I don't want the cows hurt either. None have calves but they will have in another month or so.

Blessings

Moving On

2012-01-12T18:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday before I found Amelia, I had my camera and was talking to the donks. This is Yuma. He wanted to know what I had brought with me.

And Chemmy said, got something for me.

And my blessed old Ditto. I thought she was 30 but today I went and looked on her papers and she is only and I say only lightly, 28. She is healthy and happy too. I did take treats for her. Sage had walked away from me when I went out so I decided to just ignore her. When Ditto got treats she came nudging my back and asking for one too. I think she was trying to take me to Amelia when she walked that way. I wasn't bright enough or thinking to follow her. I just thought she was avoiding me and she has never done that. Usually she trots right up to me.

Just one of our steers that will be around until October. This is Milo. He wanted a scratch behind the ears.

I have been working on pictures again. I wonder if anyone has as many loose photos around as I do. I have made a big dent in it over this past year putting them on my external hard drive for safe keeping. I found a group of them that I have not the foggiest idea of where they are. I am so irritated with myself. With digital I just put them right straight to the appropriate folder. But before that they just piled up. Darn. I am finding some interesting pictures, some hilarious ones and sad ones too.

Bob is so tired after digging to bury Amelia. The ground is frozen about a foot. Its done though. Thank you for all your thoughts. I appreciate it a lot.

Blessings,

Goodbye Amelia

2012-01-11T17:51:00.001-08:00

Sometime during the night or early this morning our sweet old Amelia apparently had a heart attack and died. It was very sad to find her this morning with Sage and Ditto standing over her protecting her. She was about 32. We and our brother in law rescued her a few years ago, very decimated and sad looking. She had been found abandoned by the side of the road up north a way. So tonight I say rest in peace darling horse. We will miss you a lot.

A OK (I think)

2012-01-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

Had the laser procedure done on my eye this morning. The worst part was all the stuff they put in my eye before hand. It has taken most all the day but I think its seeing what its supposed to. I can close my right eye and see. Wahoo. Now the 26th. Dr. Smit will do an exam and she said I would probably have to wear glasses again but I don't care. I can see with both eyes. That is a cause for rejoicing.

I did not do much today, came home and took a nap and just pediddled around the house. If its not raining tomorrow Sage will get another workout.

On a sad note, a young woman who used to be in our church and was truly a worshiper died this morning of breast cancer. She was in her late 20's or early 30's I imagine. She was married and had moved away from here. Rest in peace Maggie, this world will miss you but Heaven is welcoming you.

Blessings,

Snow then Sun

2012-01-08T19:09:00.001-08:00

I have to laugh every time I see this picture. They do like bread.

Today started out with our first real snow then the sun came out, it warmed up and the snow went away. I worked with Sage for a while in the round pen. She did well for me. Then I took her into the barn and put her in the stall Bob just finished redoing and gave her a treat. BUT before she went into the stall I knocked the shovel over that was leaning there and she did a wonderful pirouette then stopped and snorted at me. When I put her in she was a little snarly with me but I told her tough, then left her there for a while. She was nicer when I put her back out. She really did better in the middle of the night last week. Guess she didn't know why I was there then. She is a love.

Tomorrow morning early I have laser surgery on my left eye. I am a little nervous about it but I am sure it will be OK.

Blessings,

Looking Back

2012-01-07T20:03:00.000-08:00

Isaac at 4 riding Pepper with Grandpa at the lead line. He was having a good time - Isaac.

For those who read my last post. I have cleaned house, did dishes, done laundry, read entire books when I could not sleep but I had never gone out to work my horse in the middle of the night before. I slept good last night. I imagine Sage was glad of that because the moon was very bright again. Not tonight though, it is snowing a little. That is a surprise.

Not long ago Bob bought me a new blood pressure thingy. I try to remember to check it once a week. This morning it registered very high, higher than ever in my life. It startled me but I felt no different so waited a while and checked it again. Still the same. Bob was at a friends helping him out so I called Katie and asked her to come check it. She is an EMT. It was up a little, probably my worrying about it, but no where even close, not even close to where my thing said. So, we checked it with that again and it said that high ridiculous amount again. I am going to have Bob take it back. It could scare me into something. So never fear, its OK.

I hear Bob out on the four wheeler doing something in the dark. I think I will go check it out. I can not imagine what.

Blessings

What you do when you can't sleep.

2012-01-06T19:34:00.000-08:00

Last night was another of those nights. I read, I fidgeted and got up before I woke Bob up who was happily snoring away. I looked outside and the moon was bright almost like daylight. So I put on my clothes quietly and went out at 1:00 AM and went and caught Sage. As per usual recently she trotted up to me like what are you doing out here this time of night. Put her halter on and we went out and over to the back yard. Could not believe how light it was. We practiced some things, started teaching her to bow, groomed her, loved on her, fed her treats and turned her back out. She would have stayed with me. She stood and looked over the gate at me. I imagine she was a little confused. I came in at 2:30 and went back to bed. Bob felt my cold body and said "where have you been" and I just casually mentioned being outside working with my horse. He sat bolt upright and said "WHAT?" and I repeated. He thought I was nuts and maybe I was but I went right to sleep then.

Anyone else done anything so crazy. I didn't think it was crazy. We enjoyed each others company. She wasn't sleeping and neither was I so we spent it together.

Nothing else exceptional going on. Anyone want a hand crocheted rag rug for $50.00. I have several done after Christmas gifts.

What a weird winter. It was in the 50's earlier this week. It was frosty when I was outside last night but was in the low 40's today. Officially we have had 2" of snow, none really at our house. I hope it doesn't wait until February or March to snow.

Blessings

It Came

2012-01-03T17:43:00.000-08:00

My hand. It does not show up too much - the scarring. Its still a little swollen but Dr. Horn gave me free reign today. He said I am exercising it just right. I said, I can go back to my horses and he said yes but to wear gloves and to understand that the hand will be more sensitive to cold. Bob got me a good pair of gloves for Christmas in anticipation of that.

The cute little bag that my new ring came in.

The ring Bob ordered for me. Actually I had to do it when he finally got around to telling me to. He know I really wanted it. It has Sage's name on the inside and the outside is her freeze brand. I love it and have wanted one since Andrea got one and then Mary got one and NOW I have one.

We went to town today and did some errands after my doctor's appointment so did not get to Sage today. I didn't get to walk either but tomorrow is another day. It is supposed to be nice again so hopefully it will work out. This is certainly unusual January weather.

Blessings,

Sage, Sage and Sage

2012-01-02T18:44:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite pictures of Sage. Love her nose. None of these pictures were taken today but I did work with her. I am anxious to ride again. Maybe tomorrow if the weather stays like this.

She made me almost cry today. I went to get her and she trotted a long ways right up to me. She is so sweet and I know she loves me.

I have tons of pictures of her. Ditto is getting a little jealous of the attention Sage gets. She came up to me too. I had to go get treats to give to her. She is 31 this year, getting a little low in the back but is still bright eyed and not arthritic at all.

Thank you for letting me gush on and on about my Sage. She is a gift to me.

Blessings on and all,

Starting 2012

2012-01-01T18:38:00.000-08:00

Bob and his Christmas shirt from my sister. He grew up in Puyallup and graduated from Puyallup High School. He loves the shirt.

This big appy mare is broke to ride and is a rescue near our place. She is for sale for $200.00. Bob says she is about 15 hands and is 10 years old. Don't know how broke or trained but she is a pretty thing.

She wondered what Bob was doing.

I read 115 books last year. That is quite a pile. Some were already started as is the one I already entered for this year. I finished it today. I keep a book in the car, one in the bathroom and one beside my bed. Some were thick, some were thin and very easy reads. Some I used for my devotional time and some Bob read and then handed them off to me. A friend gave me 3 paper grocery bags full of books so have not bought them all. I keep a list of authors and what I have read so I don't grab a book and think that sounds great and then discover I have already read it a year or so ago.

I woke up last night at 5 to midnight and woke Bob up so we could watch the ball drop. Bob went right back to sleep but I didn't. I finally went to sleep about 4:30. Disgusting. I ended up sleeping until about 10. It was noon before I got sort of dressed. Tomorrow I am going to get up and get going. I promised myself that I would work with Sage, rain snow or whatever. Then Tuesday I see Dr. Horn and imaging he will turn me loose with my hand. I pretty much have done that but that will be official.

So, that was our first day of 2012. 2011 was kind of a blah year. I think the two high point of the year was the trip Nikki and I took to Oregon to the Kiger Adoption. We had so much fun. And the other was my first ride on Sage. Then other successful rides on her. Now I will finish up so I can ride her anywhere. The 2 low points of course was my dear brother in law being diagnosed with lung and liver cancer and our daughter in law being diagnosed with ovarian and uterine cancer. Now we just have to keep praying them on.

Love,

Blessings for the entire year.

Happy New Year - Pictures Thhrough the Year

2011-12-31T18:43:00.000-08:00

These are all things that were a part of this year. This boy was so pretty, we loved his hair. It was a part of Nikki and my trip to Burns in October. We had such fun.

Nikki by the hand of the Troll under the Fremont Bridge in Seattle.

In August Katie and Cameron had their dream wedding. She was a beautiful bride.

Thanksgiving at Nikki's.

The first part of November Bob went to Burns to pick up Mary's baby. She named her Sally.

Bob on a ride with Nikki and I just south of town at a little park.

At the Fat and Fuzzy Horse Show in April.

Making biscuits one day this fall.

Christmas

Uncle Lyle. We went to see him twice this year. He was 95 in July.

Bob taking a nap. I cracked me up.

My highlight was riding Sage.

Memorial Day

Easter

I hope you all have a very happy New Year and may it be blessed beyond measure.

Happy Birthday Nikki

2011-12-30T18:36:00.000-08:00

Wasn't she cute. Today she is celebrating turning 18. Her Grandpa and I called her a little while ago and sang to her. She is still darling but I have always loved this picture.

She has had a lot of struggles health wise. She has had diabetes since she was 5 and has been giving herself her shots since she was 7 or 8. She did not want any one else doing it. Its been tough being different but she is doing well. She is a senior at Rogers High School in Spokane and will graduate in June.

Happy Birthday to my sweet granddaughter.

Blessings to her and to you all,

Through the years December 28

2011-12-28T19:26:00.000-08:00

All of these pictures were taken on December 28th of various years. None this year but we have no snow either. Just rain and wind.

I went and got my hair trimmed today. The person I like did it. I was so glad. It lasts a good 2 weeks longer when she trims it. Got a few groceries and a calendar for my purse. Maybe I will get some work this year. I hope so.

Not a very eventful day. That's OK. Uneventful is good most of the time.

Blessings,

Happy Birthday Sharon

2011-12-27T19:54:00.000-08:00

Today is my sister Sharon's birthday. Love her so much. She and I are only siblings. Here she and her husband in New York last year. He had surgery today, something to do with the cancer he has. According to texts from her and their daughter Suzy he came through it fine.
Sharon at the cemetery in Myers, Kentucky. It was settled and named for our relatives. Our maiden name was Myers. I wanted one of the headstones (not that big one) but we could not even lift a small one. It is not maintained or taken care of at all. Myers is in the heart of back woods Kentucky.

Sharon and I one winter when they visited for a day or so on their way home from Portland.

Sharon and her grandchildren. Caroline in the back - Jimmy, Liam and Riley.

Happy birthday

Blessings

Hahahaha - A Funny Picture

2011-12-26T19:44:00.000-08:00

My sister sent me A WSU "Cougar" hat for Christmas. It is really funny and I love it. I went to WSU when it was WSC ions ago and am still a Cougar fan. She knows it. Love my hat. Wore it to Steve and Debbie's yesterday.

We had a wonderful dinner at Steve and Debbie's last evening. It was nice to not have to cook any of it. They got me a yummy cuddly white fleece robe. It will be wonderful to cuddle in.

Katie and her new puppy came over this evening. She got a little spooky after dark their first night in their house and Cameron was working. Her puppy is a Golden Retriever named Callie. She is sweet. Maggie was insulted and Pistol was jealous. Its funny. Callie played with one of Pistol's toys and then Pistol wouldn't have anything to do with her toy. Made us laugh.

Fought a headache and half all day. They make me so mad. Oh well, if its not gone tomorrow I will fill up on Excedrin and do what I want.

Blessings

Silent Night Holy Night, All Is Calm All Is Bright

2011-12-24T18:52:00.000-08:00

I put these on here wrong and seem to be befuddled when it comes to moving them around so this is what they are.

We have our family Christmas on Christmas Eve so the kids can be with their other families or just stay home or what they want to do. So we had a house full of people - adults and kids of all ages. Loved it.

This is Steve and Debbie. Debbie is the one I asked you and continue to ask for prayer for. She has a tough road ahead for her. She is in real denial though. If you don't talk about it, it isn't going to happen.

This is Christyn and her family. She is in the recliner because she broke her foot a couple of days ago. She was walking the dog and River tripped her and she fell over the dog and broke her foot. We tried to keep her down with it elevated. On the left in the baseball cap is Nikki, she will be l8 in 6 days. Beside her is Jadeyn. She has no idea of how beautiful she is.Then is Wendy, Chrissy's partner, and beside Wendy is Melissa who is their foster daughter and then is Skylor. He is a really big boy at 15.

This is my baby boy Tom and his family, Christy is in front with Sheya. Seth is in the red shirt and Ryan in black.

Bob and I with the three kids. I wish Nikki could have been here too but had a picture with her family at Thanksgiving.

Us and the whole family.

So this evening we are just sitting around and listening to Christmas music. Everyone seemed to enjoy their gifts.

Wishing you all a Joyous and Blessed Christmas

And my most precious gift of all finally hung on our bedroom wall. My family quilt. The boys helped Bob.

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T18:24:00.000-08:00

We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

I finally said to myself - Self you have waited long enough. Go see your horse. So I did.

She has not been letting Bob catch her but I walked out to where she was and said Hi Sage, I have missed you and she walked straight to me and started nuzzling me. She had missed me as much as I had missed her. We walked over to the round pen and we did a little. The ground is so hard I didn't want to do too much. Mostly I stood around with her hugging her and feeding her treats. What a good, good day.

Blessings, love and more blessings

Joy To The World

2011-12-21T20:44:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful surprise this evening when Scott's ex wife and her husband brought our beautiful great granddaughters to visit us all evening. This is Kiyanna. She will be 3 in February. Looking at the precious little face is like looking into the face of out grandson Robby who is our grandson. She is the image of her daddy.
And, this is Piper. She is 18 months and a little pistol. Darling little girl and is the image of her mother Tabby. She ran right straight to Bob and wanted him to pick her up. Of course he did.
We had not seen these cherubs since Piper was one month old so it was exciting to see them.

Pop Pop with Piper. She is never still.

And sweet Kiyanna. She patted my face and my hair and kept kissing me. What a dolly.

Earlier today we went over to Lake Couer D'Alene to see the eagles. They come there every winter about this time when the Kokanee spawn in that part of the lake. There are three sitting in that tree. I wish I had a larger lens but Bob got that picture. I could not get my eyes on them. These pictures were taken at Beauty Bay.

Going fishing

A different one. There were about 10 flying around at different times

He got a fish but I missed him getting it out of the water.

Sitting along the shore. At one time there were 9 sitting there. Just amazing. To think a few years ago they were nearly extinct. They are such awesome birds. And also to thing Benjamin Franklin wanted the national bird to be the turkey. A turkey, can you imagine that and he was over ruled and this magnificent bird, the Bald Eagle was named instead.

So it was a wonderful day and to start, I had to have a blood draw first thing this morning and then Bob took me to breakfast. Tasted good since fasting since 4:30 yesterday, then to Couer d'Alene and then grocery shopping and then the baby girls visit. Makes me a happy camper this evening. The only thing that would make me happier would have been some time on my horse.

Blessings, blessings blessings

Mary, Did You Know

2011-12-20T19:57:00.001-08:00

Mary, did you know that your baby boy would someday walk on water?

Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters

Did you know that your baby boy Has come to make you new?

This child you've delivered will soon deliver you?

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?

Mary did you know that your baby boy will call the storm with his hand?

Did you know that your baby boy has waled where angels trod

When you kiss your little baby you've kissed the face of God.

The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the dead will live again

The lame will leap, the dump will speak the praises of the Lamb.

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?

Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?

Did you know that your baby boy is heavens perfect Lamb?

This sleeping child you're holding

Is the GREAT I AM.

This is my favorite newer Christmas song. It was written by Mark Lowry who has a wonderful singing voice and is really funny.

I went and got Bob's gift today. And went to Walgreen's and got some things they had coupons for. Came home and puttered around here. I need to do a few more things around the house and get the kitchen cleaned before the weekend.

Got some bad bad news this evening. Daughter in law Debbie got a nearly positive diagnosis of uterine and ovarian cancer. It knocked me like a kick in the gut. Please keep her in your prayers and thoughts or whatever you believe to do. We pray.

Blessings

Away In A Manger

2011-12-19T18:43:00.001-08:00

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, the little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head

The stars in the sky looked down where he lay, the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes but little Lord Jesus no crying He makes;

I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky and stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.

Be hear me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay close by me forever, and love me, I pray;

Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, and fit us for Heaven to live with Thee there.

I have quite a few nativity sets but this is one of my favorites. A friend that I used to work with gave it to me one Christmas.

Finally slept good last night. That was a relief. Don't know whats been going wrong with nights lately. I cleaned the back hall closet today and have an overflowing garbage bag of things to send to Teen Challenge. Some just went to the garbage. That has been on my list of "need to do" stuff for a while. The coat closet inside the front door needs it too. That is another day though. It has a laundry basket of toys that most have outgrown. The great grand kids are rarely here so I think they will go into a bag also. Maybe keep a couple of things. There are some old Tinker Toys (really old) and some other things like maybe parts of a Lego set someone left here but the rest is going.

We finally got Amelia moved out from the cows in with Sage and Ditto. She was chasing off the cows from the hay feeder. I hope she isn't mean to the other two mares.

My hand seemed better all day but think I over did a little with it. Its pretty sore this evening again. Every day its a little better most days though so I am hopeful.

Blessings

Angels We Have Heard On High

2011-12-18T17:44:00.000-08:00

Angels we have heard on high sweetly singing o'er the plains

And the mountains if reply echoing their joyous strains

Shepherds why this Jubilee Why your joyeous strains prolong?

What the gladsome tidings be which inspire your heavenly song?

Come to Bethlehem and see Him whose birth the angels sing;

Come adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

See Him in a manger laid whom the choirs of angels praise;

Mary, Joseph lend your aid while our hearts in love we raise.

Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria in excelsis Deo.

Another foggy day around here. It did hit 32 today. That's the warmest in several days. I went to church this morning and about fell on my rear when I went to get out of the car. I caught myself and walked carefully. I had very high heels on my feet and it makes it tough walking on slick surfaces. When I came out it had melted off.

Today was the children's program. They are so funny and cute. The preschoolers sang Happy Birthday to Jesus. They did good once they got them all corralled in one place. The other kids did a little play - Meet Me At the Manger. Very Cute. There are always one or two that crack you up and today was no different.

The angel in the picture is an angel we got in l970 the Christmas after out little girl died. It has always been Coreen's angel and has been on our tree ever since. A reminder of our precious angel that lived five days and five hours.

Blessings

Oh Come All Ye Faithful

2011-12-18T01:09:00.000-08:00

O come all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant

O come ye, oh, come ye to Bethlehem

Come and be hold Him born the King of angels

Oh come let us adore Him, oh, come let us adore Him

O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord

Sing choirs of angels, sin in exhultation

O sing all ye citizens of heav'n above.

Glory to God, all glory In the highest

Yes Lord, we greet Thee born this happy morning

Jesus to Thee be all glory giv'n;

Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing

Oh come let us adore Him Oh come let us adore Him O come let us adore Him

Christ the Lord

Its after midnight and the sleep fairy has not come and I can't seem to be able to stay laying down. We had a nice dinner tonight and the auction was nice but they needed a good auctioneer. The one guy had a squeaky voice and I could hardly hear him. I bought a red jean jacket in the silent auction for 2 bucks.

I wanted to go see the eagles tomorrow but Bob has other things so guess we won't. Maybe later in the week.There are about 300 the paper says.

Had a meeting at Karen's early this morning and it was awful driving over there in pea soup or worse fog but I managed. It was better coming home.

So I guess I am just jabbering along, you are keeping me company on the sleepy less night.

Blessings

Bells,

2011-12-16T19:08:00.001-08:00

Hark how the bells, sweet silver bell, all seem to say throw cares away

Christmas is here bringing good cheer to young and old meek and the bold,

Ding dong ding dong that is their song with joyful ring all caroling.

One seems to hear words of good cheer filling the air

Oh how they pound raising the sound Oer hill and dale telling their tale

Gaily they sing while people sing songs of good cheer Christmas is here

Merry merry merry merry Christmas

Marry merry merry merry Christmas

On on they send on without end their joyful tune to every home

Hark how the bells sweet silver bells all seem to say throw cares away.

Christmas is here bringing good cheer to young and old meek and the bold

Ding dong ding dong that is their song

with joyful ring all caroling

One words of good cheer from everywhere filling the air

Oh how they pound raising the sound Oer hill and dale telling their tale

Gaily they ring while people sing songs of good cheer Christmas is here.

Merry merry merry merry Christmas

On on they send on without end their joyful tone to every home.

On on they send their joyful tone to every home.s

My bell is gold but it means the same.

Hurrah, I finished my shopping today I think. I had a headache by the time I was done. I went to Subway, had a sandwich and a coke and just stared into space for a while before I came home.

I have to be in Couer D'Alene by 10 in the morning. Hope the fog has lifted some.

If you are in the area, come to Airway Heights to get gas. They are having a gas war out here. The Indian station drops and all the other stations do too, they drop some more and the circle is on. It should be close to 3.10 by tomorrow I would imagine.

Blessings

Bells

2011-12-16T19:07:00.001-08:00

Here Comes Santa Claus

2011-12-15T18:37:00.000-08:00

Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus, Right down Santa Claus Lane

Vixen and Blitzen and all his reindeer pullin' on the reins

Bells are ringing', children singin' all is merry and bright

Hang your stockings and say your prayers "cause Santa Claus comes tonight!

Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus right down Santa Claus lane

He's got a bag that's filled with toys for boys and girls again

Hear those sleigh bells jingle jangle, oh what a beautiful sight

So jump in bed and cover your head 'cause Santa Claus comes tonight!

Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus, right down Santa Claus Lane

he doesn't care if you're rich or poor he loves you just the same

Santa Clause knows we're all God's children that makes everything right

So fill your hearts with Christmas cheer 'cause Santa Claus comes tonight!

Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus, right down Santa Claus Lane

He'll come around when the chimes ring out that its Christmas morn again

Peace on earth will come to all if we just follow the light

So lets give thanks to the Lord above that Santa Claus comes tonight.

Nothing too exciting here today. Just normal stuff. I need to go do the last of my shopping. Its getting closer and closer. Next year I am shopping on the Internet. I don't mind the crowds but this year for some reason I can't get into it so much.

Does anyone know of a well broke horse, mare preferably, not over 15 hands, must load well and not herd bound, for sale. Its for a child that has outgrown her pony. Let me know please. It should be somewhere around the Spokane area.

Blessings to you all,

Deck the Halls

2011-12-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

Deck the halls with boughs of holly, Fa la la la, la la la la

Tis the season to be jolly, Fa la la la, la la la la la

Don we now our gay apparel, fa la la la la, la la la

Troll the ancient Yuletide carol, fa la la la la, la la la la

See the blazing Yule before us, fa la la la la, la la la la

Strike the harp and join the chorus, fa la la la la, la la la la

Follow me in merry measure, fa la la la la, la la la la

While I tell of Yuletide treasure, Fa la la la la, la la la la

Fast away the old year passes, Fa la la la la, la la la la

Hail the new ye lads and lasses, Fa la la la la, la la la la

Sing we joyous, all together Fa la la la la, la la la la

Heedless of the wind and weather, Fa la la la la, la la la la

So the tree is finished and everything that will be decorated is. Bob is not a "hang the outside lights" kind of guy. Oh well, Maybe next year I will be able to do it again.

I have a chicken in the oven and potatoes ready to turn on, on the stove so when Bob finishes the chores, dinner will be ready. A little later than I wish but that is how it happens somehow.

Steve started on the house next door that we bought. Several places need new floors. He worked on the master bathroom today. Teen Challenge is coming with their truck on Saturday morning to pick up the furniture that no one seems to want.Then we can get the carpet cleaned. THEN the kids can move in. They will have to let Steve work on the kitchen and dining room floor around them. They have to be out of their apartment by the first.

Nothing very exciting around here today. Just ordinary stuff.

Blessings,

Jingle Bells

2011-12-13T18:10:00.000-08:00

Dashing through the snow in a one horse open sleigh

Oer the fields we go laughing all the way

Bells on Bob tails ring Making spirits bright

What fun it is to laugh and sing a sleighing song tonight

A day or two ago I thought I'd take a ride

And soon Miss Fanny Bright was seated by my side

The horse was lean and lank Misfortune seemed his lot

We got into a drifted bank and then we got upsot.

OHHHHH jingle bells jingle bells jingle all the way

Oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh

Jingle bells jungle bells jingle all the way

Oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh.

Of course that picture is not this winter, we have not had snow yet. I am not complaining mind you, I am not but I sure did have fun the winter that was taken. More fog and cold today.

I did not sleep much last night so took a couple of little naps today. Mailed the package to Tennessee and will have my cards finished before I went to bed. I bought the stamps so they will be ready to go in the morning.

Putting vitamin E oil on my hand has been working miracles. It is softer and healing over. I hope Dr. Horn does not object.

I know for some the holidays are not the most joyful of the year and I understand that, specifically my sister and her family that are facing cancer in my brother in law. That hangs over all of us but I still love Christmas.

Blessings

12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-12T21:10:00.001-08:00

So on the 12th. day of Christmas I have Twelve (and I counted again) chocolate bells. And yes I will probably eat them all.
This evening Bob and went in to Sheya's Winter Concert. It is so hard not to laugh at the first year band and orchestra. The choir sounded wonderful though. Sheya loves to sing.

Our little Sheya Bug singing away. She was so glad we came. Her theory is, her brothers both being musicians are going to play and she will sing and they will be the Williams Trio. So keep your ears tuned for this up and coming group. I don't know what the boys think of her brain storm though.

I got quite a bit accomplished today, all in the house. The scabbing on my hand is about gone and when it is I can go pet my horse. No taking a hold of a rope or anything but it will be good to get my hands on her and give her a big hug. My hand is still sore but he said 6 weeks and I guess he knew what he was talking about. (Chuckle)

Life keeps rolling on towards Christmas. I must get my sisters package in the mail and my cards too. This is the slowest I have every been.

Peace on earth,

Blessings

Yesterday

2011-12-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

Be back later, just wanted to tell you I could too count. That is 10 ice cubes. Obviously I could not count last night. Sigh.

Day 11

2011-12-11T19:32:00.001-08:00

On the 11th. day of Christmas I bring you ELEVEN ice cubes ready to go into my glass of lemonade.

I am glad I posted early yesterday or it would not have gotten done. We had a wonderful time at our Christmas party at Marilyn and Dave's beautiful home. There were 13 of us. A new face and Angela and her dad Wayne and Pat came with Mary. It was fun. We had a wonderful dinner of tacos and all the stuff that went with them that folks brought for potluck. I think every one ate their capacity. The gift exchange was wonderful and everyone took home a nice gift. I think the most glad was Alexa. She got something she had been wanting for a long time. I got homemade jam and pumpkin bread and a candle. There were a couple of kinds of jam besides the raspberry that I won't want to share. We laughed and talked and shared stories. Mary made me a pillow of leather on one side and fabric on the other that says Mustang Dreams on it. I love it. I will post a picture one of these days. Thank you all so much for loving your mustangs and coming together and sharing with each other once a month. I promise more rides this year. Keep me to it.

Today we went to church and when we got home Bob went down to Shannons to help them for a while. They had hired our grandson Ryan and his friend Eric for the day and when they were completed we took the boys home and went in long enough to get hugs from the rest of the family and then home to have some dinner. There were a couple of dogs hanging around today and I could not get them to leave. Bob found a deer head down by the barn. I am sure they brought it. ICK. They did leave before Bob got home though. They had collars on but were very large German Shepherds. I did not go out, just yelled at them from the porch. I am glad the chickens were penned up. I don't know that they would have gotten them but I did not want to know.

It was really cold again today and a little fog but not snow. They keep saying we will get some but so far, zilch. I am NOT complaining, be sure.

I hope your Sunday was blessed,

Day 10

2011-12-10T11:01:00.001-08:00

Day 10 of Christmas and I have TEN books off my bookshelf.

I was afraid I would not get to this this evening so did it now. We have a Mustang Horse and Burro Club potluck and party this evening. I am looking foreword to it. I am making an Apple Crisp to take. It is made with our homegrown apples and the apple pie filling I made with them. It smells heavenly cooking.

The sun is shining this morning but it is cold.. Don't know the temperature but it is not melting the frozen fog off of the trees.

Hope your Saturday is awesome.

Blessings

Still lots of fog

2011-12-09T19:11:00.001-08:00

On the 9th day of Christmas I have NINE mismatched forks.

Today I drove for the first time since Dr. Horn carved on my hand. I could take a hold of the steering wheel. I saw no need of waiting another almost 3 weeks and I had things to do.

I have sure been enjoying the NFR. I would love to be there but I imagine all 10 days would cost a fortune. That is what I would want to do. There are 2 competitors from Spokane, or close by. From Colbert and Cheney.

I wonder when the fog is going to let up. I need to get some pictures of the frozen fog on the trees. It is beautiful. I was out in the valley today and the sun was shining but not here. The fog has not lifted for ever it seems.

Our granddaughter Coreen came by today on her way back to Pullman. She will be home for Christmas, at least to her mother and step dad's. It was good to see her.

Blessings

Not my fault this time

2011-12-08T21:04:00.000-08:00

And on the seventh day I have 7 burning candles
And on the 8th day of Christmas I have 8 Santas

I was not here yesterday BECAUSE I got a new computer desk. I cleared the old one off and that was a challenge because it was a mess. And then Bob took all the computer things off and everything was unplugged. It got late and he was tired so it stayed that way.About the time I went to bed, I thought dang, I have a lap top. All I had to do was plug in the computer and the router and I would have access but I was too tired to get up and do it.

I really like my new desk but I don't think it has as many places to store things. Will see. I know I have getting rid of some stuff as I put it back. Does any one have any ideas how to get stuff off of floppy's onto CD's. I have tons of pictures on them and now they are useless. I don't know if I kept the original pictures or not.

I had my eye appointment and it was good news and bad news but not too bad. The implant in my eye is intact where it needs to be. However, it has a film on it for some reason. She said once in a great while it happens. So that is why I don't see so well out of my left eye. On January 16th. she will clean it off with laser surgery. That makes me a little nervous but she assured me it takes about 2 minutes and I will be able to go home in an hour. So more messing around with my parts.

My hand is coming along fine. Am struggling with getting it straight, just have to continue to work on it.I think it is really ugly, scarred and scabby but it does not feel as awful as it even did yesterday.

Blessings

I am sorry

2011-12-06T18:34:00.000-08:00

I can't seem to keep up with anything recently. My hand is recovering but I still can't do too much with it. Can type here though. I am going to try to do better. I promise.

On the third day of Christmas I have 3 prancing reindeer.
On the 4th. day of Christmas is four snow people on my Christmas quilt.

On the fifth day of Christmas I have five small cowboy boots.

AND, today on the 6th day of Christmas there are 6 bottles of my beverage of choice - Diet Coke.

We have had evenings busy with stuff and company. That really is a reason, not an excuse. Now I think all things should be back to normal. We are having the last of the garage sales from the house next door. Whatever is left, Teen Challenge will come and get for their Thrift store or what ever they want to do with it. We will sign the final papers on the property on Friday and then it will totally be ours. Its taken longer than I thought it was going to.

All else is just fine here. My hand is doing better. It looks nasty still but it is healing.

Blessings

Days of Christmas 1 and 2

2011-12-02T20:02:00.001-08:00

On the first day of Christmas (yesterday) I have ONE red barn.

On second day of Christmas I have TWO donkey's eating.

I will try to keep up.

All is well here. This evening with Bob's help I have baked 2 loaves of apple cinnamon bread and 2 loaves of zucchini bread. Our Back Country Horsemen Christmas party is tomorrow evening and we are having an auction. Those loaves of bread, rather one of each is going to be my contribution.

At noon is our Northeast Zone Awards luncheon and presentation of award.s Talk about a busy busy day. That's OK.

Today we went up to Elk and read a brand on a mustang for some people. We happened to know them when we got there. This horse just wandered in a while back. He won't stay in anything but the round pen. We will need to find out where he belongs or if he is titled at all. We had to cut his fuzzy coat down with scissors. I think we have it and I will call Angela on Monday and give her what we see as a brand.

My hand is coming along. I hit it on the corner of a little wooden box earlier and that hurt awful. Its better now but I wanted to just sit down and bawl. The back of my hand is still black and blue. Wish that would go away.

Blessings

The Quilt

2011-11-29T18:29:00.000-08:00

If you read my daughters blog, Life with Boys, you know what she did. If you don't, I will tell you......We were sitting at the table and Nikki brought a gift out and said they all wanted to watch me open it even if was a month early. I was puzzled but opened it and it was a quilt she has been working on for 8 years (I am not the only slow one in the family). But I understand. There are 45 squares with names and dates on them. Beginning with this one and ending with the "To mom" square. I did not take pictures of all the squares and Bob was holding it up for the picture at the end. I will take a picture when it gets hung. I love it so so much and am still overwhelmed by the work she did. She is not a "quilter" but a friend helped her. I can't even say how much I love it and how much I love her for doing it for me.
This is my dad's square. He died in 1955 of lung cancer.

My sisters square. She is such a special sister and going through such a tough time now.

The "To Mom " square.

This is the back of the quilt.

And this is the back. It will be better when I get it hung. I think we will hang it at the head of our bed.

My hand is pretty much unwrapped now. The stitches are dissolving. That was a load off my mind. When I go places he wants it wrapped a little. I can't do much with it until January 3rd. Darn it any way. I can take a shower and get it wet but NO doing dishes or putting my hand in water like that until January. It feels pretty good but still hurts in the palm of my hand.

Blessings

2011-11-28T18:28:00.000-08:00

Finally made it to 1000. It has been wonderful. I hope not many are duplicates. I tried really hard.

987. A good lunch with the seniors from church.

988. Surgery over

989. Remote controls

990. Mirrors

991. Flashlights

992. My Christmas quilt from Nikki

993. Costco

994. Nikki's pies

995. Squirrels on the deck

996. My hand healing

997. Sunrises and Sunsets

998. Hope, cancer can not take it away

999. Joy, cancer can't take it either

1000. Eternal life

Thank you Lord for each one and that many more I could not think of.

1000 blessing finally

2011-11-28T18:26:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving

2011-11-26T20:42:00.000-08:00

This is why I have pretty much been AWOL. It is healing and I get the stitches out on Tuesday.

Then we will see how it goes.

Sparkling cranberry juice. I thought it was so pretty,

Nikki, armen and the boys, Back row from the left is Dustin, Carmen, Nikki and Joel. Front row is Bryant, Lane, Isaac and Tyler. Dustin is the oldest.

Add in the back row Nathaniel and Heather and in the front row, Me, Bob and Lilianna

Heather Joel and kiddos, Nathaniel was not to happy

The old folks

All our little dogs, Scout is leaning down, she belongs to Nikki, Bolt is the black one in back and belongs to Tyler, Skeeter and Pistol are ours and Bella is Liliannas.

Rocky came to visit this morning.

We had a really enjoyable time. We drove home today. I slept most of the way for some reason. I don't usually do that.

My brother in law responded well to his first round of chemo. And a niece was just diagnosed with cancer in her hip. I am so angry with cancer. Our friend Shirley died last Wednesday and our neighbor a month ago. Hate it.

I will be so glad to get back out and mess with my horse. The doctor did warn me it would take 6 weeks so I should not be surprised. I am not but I miss the time with my horse.

Have missed you, Blessings

A Quickie Note

2011-11-21T18:41:00.000-08:00

I am typing with hunt and peck method. Dr. Horn changed the dressing on my hand this morning so I don't have quite as huge dressing on it. It is still painful but it will be worth it. It was not as painful as I thought. I a, supposed to keep it elevated and that does help.
so that is all for tonight. Can't type even with one hand when one is supposed to be above my shoulder.

Blessings

Brrrr

2011-11-16T19:02:00.001-08:00

Last night I had just gone to bed and Bob came and told me to get up and look at the moon. So I did and took this about 9:30 last night.
This is happening out our front door about 10 Minutes ago.

I went down and loved on Sage a bit and Ditto too. My girls have a little field all to themselves. I was loving on one and the other came and nuzzled my back and then vice a versa. I did not take my camera.

Today I tried to catch stuff up that I won't be able to do like wrap the Christmas gifts that we are taking to Nikki's when we go at Thanksgiving. All but one and Nikki will wrap it. It would not survive being wrapped up in the dark for a month.

We got some pretty good news today. We are for almost positive going to get the house next door. We haven't signed the papers but probably tomorrow and then the problem of getting the executor or the estate back here to get the place signed over. I thought the bank could do it but not so. Now the process of getting it cleaned out. They took nearly nothing - they meaning his family - and I think his clothes are still in the closet. It will be a job but we would rather do it than wait for the brothers to do it. That might take 5 years.

Blessings.

Getting closer to 1000 Blessings

956. A fun ride in the rain.

957. My sister sharing her heart with me.

958. Reading a happy book when I really don't feel so happy.

959. My new Demand The Brand Tee shirt

960. My first riding lesson in 20 years.

961. Cute little dressed up kids on Halloween.

962. Praying with Young people.

963. Meeting up with an old friend.

964. Hot water

965. Our little ceramic heater

966. Rebock walking shoes

967. Even though its expensive any more, gas for our car.

968. Ribbons for little girls hair

969. A friend to drive to Yakima with

970. Naps on a grey day

971. Penuche frosting

972. Hot spiced cider

973. School pictures

974. Chemo when its a life extender

975. Bob home from Oregon safely

976. Mary's face when her baby horse arrived.

977. Windex

978. Technology so keeping in touch with over sea friends possible

979. Born in the USA

980. A small town bank that knows you by first names.

981. A full moon

982. Reading glasses

983. Being married to a veteran.

984. WSH convention was awesome

985. Knowing that our family is being prayed for.

986. Antebellum homes in the south.

Got A Date

2011-11-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

Finally got in to see the hand surgeon today and my date for surgery is Friday the 18th. in the afternoon. I am anxious to get it done. It has hurt and caused me to drop things like glasses of of water. In a restaurant once. Embarrassing. It will probably keep me off here for a while. But I will be here until Friday anyway.

We are going to Nikki's for Thanksgiving. I won't be able to help but hopefully I will be able to eat left handed. I could not be a more right handed person. I am looking forward to seeing grand kids and greats too. We have not done that in a while.

I am worrying about Sage and what will happen with her. I won't be able to work with her for 6 weeks. That makes me sad.

Please pray for our extended family. Our family has been touched by cancer and it does not look too promising. We are shaken and scared but standing together in comfort and prayer. Thank you Nikki for putting it into words for me. I have been wondering what to say. I won't talk about it much but do please pray for us all as we deal with this.

Blessings

Home Home

2011-11-14T17:43:00.000-08:00

These were along side of the road. Behind the three does, look at that buck. I did not have my long lens on darn it. And my camera bag was in the trunk. He was immense.

This was in our back yard last week. The full moon was so beautiful.

The convention was good. At least I thought so. Good dialogue on some controversial items. I was really tired by the time I got home yesterday. I was really glad Michelle was with me to talk to. I always enjoy the conventions. I thought the banquet was a little spendy but it was good. I was the photographer for the evening. I loved doing it.

Today I just vegged around. Did not even go out and say hello to the horses. Slept off and on.
We are supposed to get a couple of inches of snow tonight. I hope to be able to work with Sage tomorrow, snow or not, but I have a Hand Surgeon appointment tomorrow at 11. I hope they do the surgery soon.

Blessings to you all

In Yakima

2011-11-10T20:00:00.000-08:00

Michelle and I made good time on our way to Yakima on a lovely day to be driving. Had one close call when a big military truck in front of us dropped its drive line and the thingy went spinning down the road. The more I think about the scarier it gets

We went to the 2nd. Street Grill for dinner. They have the best blackened chicken/mango salad. I had it last summer when I was working down here. It was just as good.,

Meetings start in the morning. Lots of interesting horse related stuff.

Blessings

Finally

2011-11-09T17:11:00.001-08:00

Today I worked with Sage a while in the round pen and then in and out of the trailer She does it quite well. I want to take her for a little ride one of these days soon.
In

Out

Carefully stepping down.

There are five of these hens left. I call them the Gingersnap sisters.

Bob getting more frustrated by the moment working on the tractor. A neighbor came and helped him. He is not a mechanic. Does not like mechanical work.

It was a pretty day, not as cool and it might be but not really warm. It was nice to be able to be out and doing things. This morning I went with Bob to the bank, the propane store and the meat shop where our beef is hanging. He had to pay all the processing. Then, the people who have purchased it can go pick it up. We do pretty good every fall with our meat.

Tomorrow I leave for Yakima to the Washington State Horsemen convention. I will be back on Sunday which is Bob's birthday. My friend Michelle is going with me. I may have a little time down there to keep up here but no promises.

Blessings

Cows All Moved

2011-11-08T19:13:00.000-08:00

No pictures today, sorry. Today we weaned all but one of the calves and moved the cows to a pasture away from their young uns. I hope the neighbors don't mind the noise. The babies on one side and the moms on the other. It took us a while to do it. Mama cows don't like to go and leave their babies behind.

We also moved Ditto and Sage to a smaller field. Amelia was supposed to go too but she was not going to be caught and she was not going where I wanted her to go. Bob and I both worked with her for a long time and finally decided she could stay with the cows. That is where she is and seems content. Sage likes being closer to the house. Ditto too. Ditto is about ready for her blanket and winter in her stall at night. She always tells me when she is ready. Bless her old heart.

Skeeter went and got his hair cut today. He really likes getting groomed and is always glad to see Ginny. He is so cute all gussied up. I need to get his sweater out. He has a warm coat but he would rather just wear a sweater.

Mary called me this afternoon and is having fun with her baby. She is eating out of her hand. Babies are so fun to work with. They get things pretty fast. I forgot to ask what she named her. I will talk to her tomorrow.

Blessings

Mary's Baby

2011-11-07T19:51:00.001-08:00

Bob got home this early evening from a quick trip to Burns to pick up our friend Mary's recently adopted filly. Isn't she cute. She is yet unnamed by Mary but the corrals called her Baily's Irish Cream but I think Mary will come up with something else.

Bob had a good trip. He got to visit with Andi and her friend Jill from North Carolina. She is a Face book friend of mine too. He and the girls went to dinner last night then he got the baby from the corrals, visited with them a while and he scooted on home. Snow most of the way he said.

Here on the home front the appraiser came today so they will approve our payoff of the place next door. I am not sure I understand it all but just want it over so we can get started on that house so the kids can get moved in. I didn't do much else. It was cold and I did not sleep well last night. So another rather lazy day. No one was around so I did not ride like I had vowed to do. Maybe tomorrow.

Blessings.

Lazy Me

2011-11-05T19:09:00.000-07:00

I think this is Abby.
Violet the baby mule.

Shannon's mule Molly Bea

Bob and Cody

Violet again

I was just plain lazy today. Worked my tail off all week and today I just layed around. I did go out and work Sage for a bit but forgot to take the camera down with me. She did everything I asked except back over the pole. Finally she did but it took me a long time. I found myself getting frustrated and that does not work either. I didn't ride. Guess I should have but had no one to help me get the saddle on her and its really tough for me to get it up on her back decent. She is very patient with me flipped and moving and bouncing it around but I just didn't feel like it today. I think the stress of the last couple of weeks with our neighbor and things related to him dying caught up with me today. Tomorrow will be better and I can get my feet back under me.

So rather than whine about stuff I will just wish you all good night and say Blessings.

Friday Over !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-11-04T19:27:00.001-07:00

On a foggy morning
Katie and Sheya on Sequoia

A couple of old ladies

Green grass, happy horses

Rusty

Katie on Abby

Love those ears.

And the soft noses.

Memorial service over. Bob spoke, it would have been nice to have known ahead of time. He did it OK. He did his mothers graveside service to I knew he could do it. He was prepared that time however. The lunch went well. Most of the people at the service stopped by. I was glad. We do have left over food though. I know what we will be eating.

Poor Sage has been neglected for two days now. Tomorrow I am going to get back to her and maybe ride her. I left her in the arena tonight and fed her a good chunk of hay. She misses her pasture friends though. Maybe tomorrow I will get more pictures of her or up to date things. This was a day I have wanted over for a couple of weeks.

Blessings

Busy

2011-11-03T20:33:00.001-07:00

Tyler working with Liberty. Liberty now belongs to Cameron.
Dixie

A mustang filly that we fostered and gentled. We named her Nellie.

A man in winter.

Amelia

Mustang coming home for the last time. We sold him 3x and bought him back each time. He isn't going anywhere again.

No horse time time today. This evening we had a Northeast Zone Horse Club meeting. Not long and a lot of noise from the next room. Am ready for tomorrow. I will be glad when it is over.

Blessings.

A horse eating tarp

2011-11-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

Sheya's first horse ride. She has never looked back.

Sheya on Pepper riding by herself at 3. Pepper baby sat her.

Star.

My student and friend, Marissa sound asleep on Sequoia at a break at the horse show.

Think this got posted before. Glory

I don't know why this picture is small. Could not get it larger. One of my students, Jamie, kept telling me Ditto would do nothing. She was mad at her so I took her into the warm up class at noon. You don't have to have show clothes on, so I paid my 2 bucks at the gate and took Ditto in the class. Well I won. Told Jamie to listen to me and she would do OK.

Caroline on Cricket.

I did work Sage today. It was cold and windy. She was full of energy. The tarp hanging on the fence was moving in the wind and she was certain it was going to eat her. I had put a white plastic pole for her to step over in too. So between a tarp going to eat her and a white pole going to attack her. It was an hour of stress for both of us. She finally got over the pole without much more goofiness but the tarp was always still going to eat her. She had trouble backing and doing all the other things she has been doing smoothly. She had her eye on the horse eating tarp. She will get the next 2 days off and then I am going to get back. Maybe the wind won't be blowing. We have snow on the ground but we are going to keep at it.

I have things pretty well organized for Friday. Tomorrow I will make the potato salad and some other things with the food, mop the kitchen floor etc. In the early evening I have a NE Zone meeting. It will be good to get out of the house and have someone to talk to but the dogs. Bob has been hauling cows and calves home and falls asleep as soon as he eats. One good thing, all our cows were preg checked before we brought them and all are going to calve from February to May. Hate to have early calves but what is what is.

Blessings

November

2011-11-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

Wrangler as a new born. His mama was Sandy.

Bob and I and a friend on a trail ride probably 20 years ago.

Lane on Pepper, Lane is now 13.

Wrangler and Bob in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana

Amelia

Wrangler last summer.

I did work with Sage today and she did mostly well. She is learning the things I have been trying to get her to do. Can't wait for Marilyn to come again. I didn't ride her, maybe I will be able to tomorrow.

Today I baked zucchini bread and brought groceries for this next Friday. So that was my day. Chrissy and Wendy came out this evening to visit and have Bob look at a ring they found in the dirt at a part. I think It is real but told them to take it to Zales and they will tell her. If it is, its about 2 carats with little diamonds on the side. It is beautiful, real or not.

Tomorrow I will make an applesauce cake and then clean the kitchen. At least that is my plan at this point.

Keep praying - blessings

Mistake

2011-10-31T20:31:00.000-07:00

I think the bottom picture is Joel not Dustin. He is 25 I think.

Busy

2011-10-31T19:07:00.000-07:00

Ditto on the far right and her three sons.
Me winning

Tyler on Rosie. He must have been about 12. I think he is 23 now. And very tall.

Mellow Gold aka Mel

Dustin on Sunny, me leading. I think he was 3 - he is now 28.

Nothing with horses today. Trying to clean house and bake pumpkin bread for Friday. Tomorrow I will make Zucchini bread and maybe get an applesauce cake baked. I need to get the eggs boiled for potato salad too. Also before I can do any of the baking I have to go to the grocery store. Am about out of sugar and am out of flour and a couple of spices. I doubled the pumpkin bread recipe and we have plenty to eat ourselves and plenty for Friday.

Friday is Wayman (our neighbor) memorial service and lunch after here. I have no idea how many to plan on. I will make it though.

We went to friend Mary's place this afternoon to get her smaller lighter horse trailer than ours is. Bob is leaving on Sunday to go to Burns to pick up the 6 month old filly she adopted. He will have a chance to visit with our friend Andi in Burns too. He will probably take her to breakfast on Monday. She lost her husband a little over a year ago. We went, not for the funeral but the next week or so to help her get organized to do things alone. We miss her and we miss her husband.

Tomorrow another photo challenge starts. I love them. They get me out to take pictures of things and think.

Blessings

Still old pictures but a good day

2011-10-30T18:56:00.001-07:00

Didn't he have a cute face.
A few winters ago.

Tango

Yuma the day we brought him home from the adoption. He was so cute.

Glory

Winning

I will need someone to take pictures working Sage again. Today I did not ride but worked her into a sweat. She got things pretty good. Yesterday was not the best day but today she did excellent. The things we have been working on down pretty good. She is so smart.

Church was so good this morning. Pastor spoke about preparing ourselves and our world for the next generation. We are blessed with a very much multi generational church. Lots of young people and lots of older people and tons of kids. Enjoyed it and the fellowship we enjoy so much.

I took Sheya her gift and got my purse. Sheya loved her gift and had a nice chat with dil Christy. I still felt so silly.

Blessings this beautiful Sunday evening.

A good ride

2011-10-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

I can't seem to get pictures to load this evening and they were not of today anyway. Does that make sense? Probably not.

Sometimes life comes up and kicks you in the teeth and takes away your mind. That has been me all week. I can't talk about it now but please pray for out family. So with my mind in that state we got ready to go to our granddaughter Sheya's birthday party. She will be 10 on Halloween. Also this week, we have one other granddaughter and 2 daughters in law birthdays. I got the gifts wrapped and put things in a couple of shopping bags and off we went. WELL, I forgot my camera AND Sheya's gift. Got every one elses. Then, I forgot my purse when we came home. Some kind of a ditz huh? So I will drive to church tomorrow with Bob's keys and no purse. Then after church I will take the Bug her gift and get my purse. All in one day. Mercy me.

I did work Sage and ride her for a while today after we got home. She was a bit of a brat when I went to catch her. No problem catching her but she would not lead out of the pasture. I stopped and worked her some but that just made her mad. She was quite good in the round pen when I worked her. I saddled her up and rode her for about half an hour. Not her best but at least we did some things. I must do it again tomorrow. She has been off three days and she did not want to come in.

So that is my saga for today. Am wondering why I have had no comments for quite a while. Is there a problem with my blog. I know my sister and daughter can not for some reason it won't let them comment. Is that the problem with everyone? Or am I boring (I am LOL) or is everyone busy like me.

Blessings.

Not a day with Sage - darn

2011-10-28T20:10:00.000-07:00

Past pictures.

Ditto and her last baby, Tango.
Story - Rosie's only baby. He now lives with a little girl over on the west side of the state and she is doing jumping etc.

Old Ditto.

Rosie getting a back scratch after riding all over with Isaac.

Rocky

Pepper

I have not had a time with Sage for 3 days now. I must work her at least tomorrow. I don't know if I will have time to ride or not.

Last evening was our Mustang Club Meeting. We had such a good time. It was good. It was out last meeting until January. Now we are planning a Christmas party at Marilyn and Dave's on the 10Th. of December. It is going to be a potluck. They have a lovely home and it will be fun.

Today I spent all afternoon in Couer d'Alene at a meeting. When I got home I started the apples and the pie filling that Nikki makes and it is soooo good. I will have to finish tomorrow though. It smells wonderful.

I finally have an appointment with a hand surgeon for November 15Th. so I can get my hand fixed. Hate it when I can barely hold a glass of water with that hand. Oh well, life goes on.

Blessings

More old pictures

2011-10-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

No new pictures today. Sage got the day off from work. I just caught her and brought her in for her grain. She really does not need the grain but I want her to know that every time I catch her doesn't mean she is going to get a workout.

It was a beautiful day again today. Not warm but pretty. Like this time of the year when the sun shines. I was going to take a picture of the maple tree because it was so beautiful. I just put it off yesterday thinking I had today, well, the leaves are most all on the ground this morning. That will teach me to procrastinate. That is something I am really good at.

Blessings

Old pictures but a good day

2011-10-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

Sage, Ditto and Amelia
Bob and the boys getting hugs.

Rusty

Stella and Rocky.

No pictures of Sage and I working today. We worked about an hour on the ground and I rode about an hour. It was good and she did what I asked. I had to pop her on the neck a couple of times to keep her moving at a decent pace. She would like to just amble. I know she is plumb tired or going around and around.I want to at least get out to the arena. I think it will be better but want to get the okay from Marilyn. I have entrusted her to help me finish her so I will do as she says.

Went to the doctor for a blood draw to check my potassium levels again. I have been taking a supplement trying. Don't know why it was low. I feel great though.

Blessings

Three Hours.........Whew

2011-10-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

From the part of the South Steens where the horses reside to the higher Steens Mountains. It was cold up there but we did have a fun day.

Today Sage and I both got a real workout.

I rode her about an hour and a half, part of the time on the lunge line and it scared me a little because I did not feel in control. By the time we were done she was turning nicely on her rear end and walking right out. I was exhausted when she let me out.

Marilyn working on the ground with her. She worked her and I worked her. Sage and I were both sweating on a chilly day. Man oh man is she making progress. Sage that is. I don't know about me.It was three hours and she worked my legs off. I think I am 3 inches shorter. That has always been a trial for me to use my legs a lot riding. I know what I am supposed to do but I do not have much strength there. I am going to try my bumper spurs tomorrow. That will give me a little more leg to put on her. I will have to learn to use my seat more. I preach using your legs but mine wear out too soon. You will notice how short my legs are on her. Oh well, I am more in love with my horse every day.

Blessings

Riding In the Rain

2011-10-22T17:51:00.001-07:00

These are Nikki's pictures. She has such a better eye than I do.
Love those little ears.

Two old cowboys from New Mexico.

Isn't she pretty?

In the wild.

Domino

They must stand under that tree often.

Our Mustang Club had a ride today. It really rained all morning. It was wet but not cold and we were all dressed appropriately. We had fun and rode over two hours. We decided to head back rather than to eat lunch out in the rain. Marilyn knew the trails and we had a grand time. Three from the Mustang Club and 3 who joined us from the Back Country Horse group that I had invited. It will probably be our last ride until Spring.

Blessings,

1000 Blessings - Getting Closer

2011-10-21T16:49:00.000-07:00

926. Sunflowers
927. Fresh Green beans
928. A freezer full of home grown stuff
929 Fresh Broccoli
930. My sewing machine repaired
931. A son's birthday
932. Tom's medical procedure was negative
933. Indian Summer
934. An assurance of Heaven when friends pass away
935. Snugly sweaters for cool evenings
936. Grandchildren's birthday parties
937. Another trip with Nikki
938. Seeing the beautiful mustangs in the wild
939. 54 years with my best friend
940. Falling leaves to walk through
941. Listening to the coyotes sing
942. Watching the big flocks of geese fly over
943. A friend passing books along
944, A successful mustang adoption in Burns, Oregon
945. Finding just the right van that Bob's brother needed
946. Maple bars after church
947. A great yard sale
948. 911 responders who are quick to respond to an emergency
949. Meeting new neighbors
950. Friends getting us an anniversary cake.
951. A granddaughter turning 14
952. A granddaughter-in-law who celebrated her birthday
953. Mail in ballots
954. Hershey Hugs
955. Young people using their talents for the Lord

A Long Day

2011-10-20T19:24:00.001-07:00

Stopped to shed my coat and put it in the back seat on my way home from Marysville. I thought it was such a serene setting.
Back to Burns, OR. I love the markings on her face. I would have called her Camelot because I think that looks like a sword. It doesn't exactly make sense but that is what I would have named her.

Just a group of pretty mares.

Nikki wanted this horse really bad. She should have called her dad, he would have said yes. He rarely has told her no.

Tomorrow I will show you some of Nikki's pictures. She is a much better photographer than I.

I rarely even dozed last night. Very unpleasant. Could not get my thoughts to rest for the night. Not a good night. I took a good nap and I am sure I will sleep tonight.

It was a beautiful day today. I did not work with Sage today. Just was not up to it. My body would not. Oh well, tomorrow is another day. I worked the last three so one day off will be OK.

Blessings

A Pretty Fall Day

2011-10-19T17:16:00.001-07:00

Finally got the pictures loaded. I had so much fun riding her. I worked her today but did not ride her. Have a head bomber head ache and my hand hurts. Yes, I am whining. Sorry. I need my eyes examined really bad but could not get in until December 8Th. Oh well, the way time is flying by, it will be here before I know it. Tuesday next I have to go in to the doctor to have some blood drawn and I am going to stand there until I know about the hand surgeon. I am getting fed up.

The day was so pretty. I love this time of the year.

Blessings

A Better Day

2011-10-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

A mare and her baby girl being loaded. Baby has been named Thunder.
Sahil (pronounced saw-hill and as he said no w and one l). He is from Bulgaria and has a wonderful to listen to accent. He was a very nice man. We had breakfast with him a couple of days in the motel breakfast room. Found out he is an actor and in real estate in southern CA.

The auctioneer,.

This young lady won a gentled mustang in a drawing. I did not buy a ticket because I was afraid I might win. Her name is Kim.

A plaque they dedicated to Ron Harding who past away last year. He was really "Mr. Kiger". Bob got acquainted with him a few years ago when Bob was selected to sit on a panel in Burns about the mustangs.

Again, our favorite.

The three wild ones we saw up in the South Steens. They were so pretty and looking at something else that was spooking them.

From further away. The other one was trailing as they left "dodge" pretty quickly. It was not us. They had seen us but were not watching us when they spun around and left.

The rode out to the South Steens.

In the corrals, this little girl was resting in the sunshine oblivious that the auction was about to start.

Hope you are not getting tired of my photos. I think I have one more day worth.

I rode Sage again today and we had a good day. I worked her for almost an hour. I put my old saddle on her and thank goodness, it is wide enough for her. Yeay. It is not quite as comfortable as my newer one for me but it is most important that it is comfortable on her. She backed with out raising her head. I wanted to shout. I worked the plastic bag on her without her attached to the rope. I was so proud of her.

Blessings

A great ride

2011-10-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

These are all pictures of the corrals in Burns. Loved the horses. Walked around and drove around the pens probably a dozen times.

I can not get the pictures of today to load to my computer. Hate this printer. It has been nothing but trouble. Anyway I worked Sage for about 45 minutes or an hour in the round pen. Then I rode her for about the same amount of time. She was really good and kept moving really good. Marilyn is coming next Sunday to work with her again and see where we are. It felt so good to be on her. I just had to do it today, had to, had to.

Blessings.

A LONG WEEKEND FINALLY OVER

2011-10-16T19:54:00.001-07:00

These are all pictures I took last weekend. Not any Kigers, just the other horses at the corrals that are adoptable. Doesn't the black and white mare look like Sage. Most of them are from Barren Valley but some from other places.

The yard sale was quite a success. However, our neighbor passed away Friday morning. That did not make the sale any easier. And his drunken, drug sniffing brother is executor so we have family involved all around. That part was not fun. Well none was fun but that made it worse. We took the money over and turned it over to him and had him sign a receipt for it. I was not comfortable turning better than four thousand dollars over to him in cash but he signed two places..

I slept off and on all day today. All I managed to do was run to the store and come home. I had planned on going to church but slept until it was way past time to get there. Felt bad but I was exhausted.

Tomorrow hook or crook I am going to get back to Sage.

Blessings

My Brain Is On Leave of Absencde

2011-10-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

Either that or my computer is having fits. I can not get a picture to load on to my blog tonight and I am too tired to try any more. I wonder if I could really drop kick it out the window. Tomorrow I will try my laptop.

Now its later and not only are we in the midst of an estate sale for the man next door but he is failing and his brother could not deal with it and overdosed with something and they both were transported to a hospital. I guess we will go on with the sale and who knows??? Your prayers are appreciated.

Blessings

54 Years - Remember When

2011-10-12T20:00:00.000-07:00

Did we not look like children playing dress up. Wow, I guess we were young. That was 54 years ago today. This evening we went to the Olive Garden and had a yummy dinner. I had Apricot Chicken and it had broccoli and asparagus and grilled tomatoes with I. I ate it all too. I will be stuffed until tomorrow sometime.
Bob was in the Navy and left six weeks later for the Antarctic. He got home in May.

I had a terrible time getting my pictures to load to Blogger. I don't know what was wrong. My computer or Blogger? I don't know. It took me 2 days of messing to get Nikki's picture to load off her thumb drive on to my computer. I get so tired of it not working right.

This little guy was 3 weeks old and a real pistol.

Kitty Lauman,s dog Daisy May

One of the orphans that Andi fostered. Isn't that a sweet face.

Loved her look.

A very Kigerish mare.

Tomorrow through Saturday we are having a Living Estate Sale for our next door neighbor. It has taken Bob a month to get all the stuff organized. We will have the gate locked and will not open it until 8. Our neighbor is failing quickly.

Blessings

54 years -

2011-10-12T19:52:00.000-07:00

Kiger Mustangs

2011-10-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

These are all Kiger Mustangs. I love the silver grullas.
Young boys tired of being nice to each other.

She was my first choice. More than likely 2 for 1 price but aside from than other than being thin I thought she was exquisite. Very regal. She was adopted for $700.00. She was 7 but she would have done fine.

I loved that face.

A weanling boy

They feed them well and have hay in front of them all the time.

A group of two year old boys looking at us looking at them.

My favorite again

Nikki's favorite.

She wondered what we were doing.

It was the best looking group of horses up for adoption that I have ever seen all in one place for one adoption. Am so glad to be a volunteer for the BLM.

Blessings

Home

2011-10-10T21:04:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am home and had a wonderful, fun weekend. The WiFi in the motel was not really good with my laptop so just gave up. I have tons of horse pictures to sort through. I am going to divide up the pictures though. I have so many to share, sharing them all at once would be difficult besides being boring after a while.

So, tonight is just on our trip down to Burns and the first picture of horses.

Let me tell you it was a successful adoption. The high selling horse went for $8,750.00. A 2 year old dark dun stud colt. Many sold for 2,3,4000. I about swallowed my teeth. I will go into that another day but 89 horses sold and about 20 did not all but 3 I believe were stallions at varying ages, mostly older.

The pictures below are on our way down.

This was taken in the rain on a potty stop at Government Camp up on Mt. Hood. We did not see the mountain though. Clouds clouds and more clouds. You would never have known it.

The colors are so vivid this time of the year.

We had lunch at the Black Bear Diner in Madras. Good food.

Could someone tell me what this weird plant is.

Oregon

The first picture of a horse at the corrals in Burns. This old guy was not adopted, I believe he was 12. He will be on the internet later. I thought he was beautiful. Not what people think a Kiger should look like but he is.

Have stories to tell and pictures to share. Tonight though I am off to bed in my own bed. On top of traveling, I have been fighting a sinus infection. Much better today but it helps zap my energy.

Blessings

Whew

2011-10-04T20:39:00.000-07:00

Three days of working Sage hard for at least an hour. She backs at the wagging of my finger, lowers her head on command, I can get two crossover steps on her hind quarters and the plastic bag while not yet her friend, at least is some what tolerated. I could run it down her legs today with out a freaking out incident. Now she gets the next five days off. I don't like that But.......

That is how long I will be gone to Burns, Oregon to the big horse event they have every year at the wild horse corrals. Poor Bob gets to stay home. Well, he could have gone but he had a commitment on Saturday and so home he will stay. Nikki and I will have fun.

We have been working hard on the estate sale for next door. I will be surprised if he is still here. He is failing very fast. I am surprised Hospice is not there 24/7. He is that close. His brother found him on the floor during the night, he tried to get up and could not support himself. It is so sad. We are trying to purchase the place. I wish the bank would get back to us. It would be easier if it were completed while he was living. I so wish he would have come home and recovered, even slowly.

I will keep up with blogging with my laptop. I don't know how to add pictures on it, maybe Nikki can help me.

Blessings

Yesterday

2011-10-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

These are all pictures of Marilyn working with Sage. I tried today to reinforce the things she did today. I felt so crummy with these dang allergies I only could work about an hour. She will lower her head for me and back with me wagging my finger at her. I got the plastic bag all over her back but don't touch my head is what she told me. We will work on that again tomorrow. I am having a time getting her to move her haunches and step over. We mostly just got one step both her haunches and front end. We did each thing over and over. I tried getting her to change directions on the lounge line with her rear end. I was not successful with that move. Maybe tomorrow.

I have felt icky all day. My head is so stopped up. Just my yearly struggle this time of the year. I am about packed to leave Wednesday. One thing today the water pump was about to go out on my car. Bob and Tom replaced it today. I am so glad it did it at home rather than out in the middle of the desert in Oregon.

Some good news for our church family. At least for us because we love them so much. Our worship pastor Jason is leaving to get his masters degree in theology. That is not the good news, we love Jason but not like we love Greg and Lisa. Greg will be added to the staff. I am excited about that. I love how they lead worship besides how we love them as people. We just had a connection the first time we met them.

Blessings

A Big Help

2011-10-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

I sure found out the holes quickly in Sages training.

#1 I have been to soft with her. I need to get on her more when she is disrespectful. I love her and she loves me but she can't do some of the things I have been letting her do, like working in the round pen and refusing to leave a walk. Tough Lea, get tough.

#2 I did not teach her to lower her head. Instead of lowering her head I stood on my step stool to bridle her. No Lea, get her to lower her head.

3# Moving her rear end and her front end separately. Be more aggressive Lea.

#4 Don't be so anxious to ride her before we get the ground work caught up.

#5 Work her longer each time and days in a row. Even if Bob is not here I can do ground work.

I am not as agile as Marilyn but there are those things I can do. She had her lowering her head clear to the ground and leaving it there in about 10 minutes. When she was all done, she got on her bareback and got her moving. The things she told me are all things I know and some of them I did and she was doing them but then I let them be, like the plastic bag. She was very relaxed when it was over and I was happy. I took some pictures and will post them tomorrow.

Then we took them out to dinner and we had a good conversation.

Blessings

Ride 13

2011-09-29T20:45:00.001-07:00

Sage warming up. I keep thinking maybe she will do something bad but so far the worst is not wanting to move out and walk.

We had the best ride yet. She walked on better and didn't think she wanted to turn left but we finally got it. We got a good half an hour of her moving without being led or pushed by Bob to move. Her head was a little high but I had just gotten on and it took a little to encourage her to move.

There we got it. I am encouraging her with my heels, I don't ride normally with them up like that. I should have had Bob pull my pant leg down though.

This evening Marilyn told me she would help me with a couple of things with her that I might have left out of her ground work. I want to do it but want some advice on a couple of areas. I want good control of her whole body #1 because I need to be and #2 she is so big I need to. Time - time - time and I am so anxious to get her on to the next step.

These next two things I stole from Facebook. I really liked them.

Blessings

A Sunset Picture

2011-09-28T18:21:00.000-07:00

Last night.

Our sunsets are so beautiful.

The time of year I have allergy things going on. The first leaves that start to change and I choke up. Oh joy. GRRRRRRRRRRR

Bob was gone all day so I didn't get to ride. GRRRRRRRRRRRR to that too. He would have a hissy if I rode and he wasn't here. Tomorrow I will ride. And tomorrow is our Mustang Club Meeting. I am anxious to see my musanger friends.

Blessings

Stella Talks To Me

2011-09-27T19:04:00.001-07:00

Stella and I having a friendly conversation. She was asking me where the heck is my dinner. I told her Bob was coming.

Too nasty to ride today so tried to get some order in the office. I hate to file and I worked on the pile waiting for me. Hate when I procrastinate and it gets ahead of me.

Our Katie had an emergency appendectomy last night. She went to her parents house this afternoon because Cam had to work this afternoon. He will go get her in the morning. They sure don't keep them long anymore. We will go see her when she gets home.

So that was my day. Tomorrow should be better and I will get to ride. Miss it when it is like today.

Blessings

A Giant

2011-09-26T19:37:00.001-07:00

This big boy surprised us this morning. We check the garden often and some how we have missed it. I don't think I have seen one any larger.

I made a Mexican Lasagna for supper. I found the recipe in a Western Horsemen magazine. It was sure good. I hope its as good warmed up because we just made a dent in it. It says to put sour cream and salsa on it and I like sour cream and salsa but it was so good without anything on it that I did not try it with any.

This is house day. Just put Sage in and out. She was not so good about coming in. If we miss a day bringing her in to her pen during the day she is ornery the next day. I want her brought in every day, not just when I am working her. I hope I can ride tomorrow.

Blessings

Happy Birthday Tom

2011-09-25T19:07:00.000-07:00

Sunrise

I remembered the saying Red Sky in the morning, sailors take warning.
Sunset - both today.

The in between was not so nice though. Lots of wind, a dust storm and a signifigant drop in the temperature.

Today we celebrated out baby boy's birthday.

I carried this picture in my wallet, that is why its so icky looking but it is him.

Thomas Robert, my baby.

Today we finally made it back to church. I hate missing like that. Our dearest friends Greg and Lisa led worship and loved it. Pastor Monte is doing a series on the life of David. I am sorry we missed the first one but today was great.

Blessings

Today's Horse Show

2011-09-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

Today I worked all day at a horse show. It was 90 degrees and there was not much shade. I appreciated an opportunity to make a little money. I am plum tuckered out and have a very red face but it was a fun day.

This is a paint horse named Cody. He was taking a nap.

G G from the rear. She does pretty well as a Western Pleasure Horse but really prefers gaming.

G G and her owner Mary. Loved this picture.

A couple of girls showing their Mini Horses

The 3 Lead Liners. They are so cute.

My friend Sherrie and another friends daughter after Sherri and her horse had just won her class from both judges.

So obviously I did not get to ride today. Maybe tomorrow.

Blessings

Memories

2011-09-23T18:55:00.001-07:00

My Daddy in his younger years. Even though he has been gone since I was 17 I still miss him.

My sister Sharon, My Aunt Eleanor and me a few years ago. She has been gone a while. She was my fathers youngest sister and only 12 years older than me.

Lime Kiln lighthouse in the San Juan Islands. We saw lots of Orcas that day.

Tracey's daughter Katie riding Yuma

Another of Seattle's offspring. Isn't he pretty.

On the roof of our barn.

A day on Sage. Didn't get to ride today but loved on her.

An old school house west of Wilbur on Highway 2.

Teaching Pistol to sit. She is not that size any more.

Target, a mustang mare we started a few years ago.

My hand is not going to get better until a hand surgeon fixes it. Its so hard to get in to see anyone like that.

Get to work tomorrow at a horse show but its just about 5 miles from home and its just one day. It is supposed to be over 90 though.

Blessings

Mostly more oldies

2011-09-22T20:23:00.001-07:00

I do so hope you are tiring of past pictures. This is our son Tom while we were building our barn. Heights don't both him, scared me.

My beautiful Mt. Rainer.

Horses coming out of the trailer at the Odessa adoption.

Tracey's horse Sandy that she did a Mustang Makeover on.

Yes, that is a bobcat. He was very sweet and purred loud. Her loved to be love on. This was in Lewiston at a Back Country Horsemen thingy.

We were the first to get off the Keystone ferry.

1957 Our engagement

One of Bob's trips in to the Bob Marshall.

My beloved Ditto

On our living room wall

Two weeks after I had my stroke.

Rose on another of Bobs trips

From the top of Mt. Spokane

The Sandpoint Draft Horse Show. Its this weekend and won't get to go.

Had a good ride on Sage today. Worked her a long time on a lounge line doing different things. Mostly in the arena. Then took her into the round pen and rode her. Used some of Andrea's suggestions and had my first real free walk ride. Next week it will be to the arena. She is flexing nicely. Katie's saddle pad is working wonderful. Will go to Will Rogers tomorrow and see what he has.

Blessings

Hope you don't mind.

2011-09-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

Back to meandering through past pictures. It just hurts too bad and my hand does not work well.We were camping at Larabee Corrals and Bob is bringing the horses in.
One of Andi's orphans but I don't remember which one or when

We started out at Larabee and rode 12 miles down the hill toward the Snake River. That is where we camped.

In the Burns Wild horse Corrals.

Cowboy - a young POA that we started for some people. He went well.

Someplace at Clearwater Crossing

At a horse show last April. The footing is plain old squishy wet mud.

Another picture of Star. Sage is build much like her.

Colville adoption.

I have a question. I am having a little trouble with Sage not moving. Bob always starts me out on the lead rope and the last couple of times when he unhooks the rope she won't go forward. I wiggle and kiss and cluck and bump but she just stands there. She doesn't act like she is going to bolt, she just does not move. I don't want to take her out of the round pen until she will move forward. She goes on a lunge line but without a handle on her she has decided not to move. I am puzzled.

Blessings

More Meandering

2011-09-20T20:37:00.001-07:00

Our sunset this evening. We have such beautiful sunsets here on the West Plains.

I was riding Rosie and needed a break. She, Pepper and Bob were walking ahead of me.

My young friend Marissa with her pony Sequoia. Marissa now is 18 and lives over on the west side of the mountains. Sequoia lives up near Sandpoint and is loved by two little girls.

My Dixie Chick. I fostered her for a year and rode her and then she went back to her owner who was so glad to have her back.

One of Seattle's offspring in the Pryor Mountains in southern Montana just across the border from Wyoming. Seattle is my favorite stallion in the Pryor's. He is so beautiful. And he throws lovely babies.

Up on Hoodoo pass.

Down out from Larabee Corrals one of our trips down there. Love riding out of there.

Down at Red Ives between Peppers ears.

Carrie's mini stallion Elvis.

Riding up Marie Creek just east of Cour d'Alene.

Katie on Pepper

I think this adoption was in Longview. Love that nose marking.

Rusty

Have lots of pictures to meander through. I am enjoying going through them all.

Blessings

Monday Meandering

2011-09-19T19:45:00.001-07:00

Tonight I am just meandering back through time with our horses.

I don't remember the year of this picture but it was Memorial weekend down at Madden Corrals south of Lewiston. I took Rosie and the cart. Most people had not ridden in a cart like that and lots of people got a chance. I do remember waking up one morning to 3" of wet slushy snow. It all melted away though.

When I used to show nearly every weekend, and I was more overweight than I am now. This is Dun In Glory. We did well but I sold her. Our personalities were at odds most of the time.

Caroline riding Ditto when she was about 12. She is now a freshman in college at Mississippi State University. She was riding bareback the first time.

Bob taking the horses to water at Larabee Corrals. The year????

The last ride on Star. Had to put her down the next week. Wasn't she beautiful?

On a Mustang Club ride at Riverside State Park.

A bachelor stallion in the Steens Mts of Oregon herd. I know he has a name but I can't remember what it is. Tracey if you read this tell me please. You were there with Nikki and I and Deb

Our friend April standing by her horse on a ride on a Labor Day weekend on HooDoo Pass between Idaho and Montana.

The trail ride that Pepper laid down in the pond with me on him. Probably one of the most embarrassing days of my life.

Isaac was four I think there, maybe 3. He rides all over by himself now. He is 7

And no collection would be complete without Sage when she first got here.

Hope you enjoyed it all. Its hard to type with my hand and every day it gets worse. I am waiting for a call from the hand surgeon.

Blessings.

Cody Leaves

2011-09-18T21:17:00.001-07:00

Don't you just love this photo. I entered the photo challenge I am doing under the word of yesterday - humor. I just think its sweet. They were hugging on him. Both of them got out today and when I caught them I said and just where do you belong? And they trotted over and went into their pen and we got the gate fixed. Yuma on the left and Chemmy on the the right. We were asked today what are they good for besides feeding. They make our hearts happy.

Cody left today for his new home in Harrison, ID. I sure hope he works out for them. He pawed all the way I guess but it was only the second time he had been in a trailer. So, one down and at least one more to go.

Hope your Sunday was good. Blessings

Still looking

2011-09-16T21:03:00.001-07:00

The apples are turning. A sure sign that fall is upon us.

I rode Sage today and some things were good but some were not. I am going to try Katie's built up pad. Mine, the built of part is pretty much squished down. We tried moving the saddle back a little way, that helped some but it inched forward as I rode and she got yantsy with her right shoulder. It seems to move farther back or something is not right on that side. I really can not get any good long rides on her until we get that fixed. She flexed really good today. I was happy about that. I rode without Bob on the end of the lounge line. She walked out a little better then. I think when we get this saddle issue worked out she will be ready to take to the arena and ride. Not until though.

Have about 10 pounds of tomatoes to get into the freezer tomorrow. Its wonderful. I don't know what happened to the pumpkins, they look like yellow squash. I know I planted jack o lantern pumpkins. Cucumbers were a bust, the squash (winter) are not too good either. Lots of vines, not many squash and they are small. The zucchini did well, beans did well and the broccoli did well and of course the tomatoes. I planted half as many this year and still got loads. Have tons still green.

That was my day I guess. My arm feels much better. I knew it would. I am all flu shot done.

Blessings

75 to a Thousand

2011-09-15T19:20:00.000-07:00

Only 75 to go to reach the goal of listing 1000 blessings.

905. Our hay is in
906. Standing up for what I believe
907. A lovely bride- Kayleigh
908. A beautiful bride - Katy
909. Handsome grooms - Justin and Cameron
910. A profitable weekend
911. Having fun with extended family at picnic
912. A wonderful Labor Day weekend
913. The bee stings did not make me sick
914. meeting new horsey friends
915. Chrissy's surgery was successful
916. The big cedar tree as large as some of the redwoods.
917. New recipes that are a hit
918. Thank you notes that you did not expect
919. The photo challenge
920. home made raspberry jam
921. old photos that bring back wonderful memories
922. Neighbors that share
923. Grandson turning 13
924. Fresh corn on the cob
925. A new home for Cody

A Sunflower Day

2011-09-14T18:20:00.001-07:00

On Photo Challenger's Unite on Face book, this is my photo of the day. The word(s) today was UP HIGH.

The saddle on the built up pad worked better but not exactly what I had hoped. I need a tree with full quarter horse bars in it. A neighbor loaned me a saddle but its narrower than mine is.
She was not so nice today. When I caught her she had a snarky look in her eye and it did not get better. I rode her about 15 minutes. She fought the bit, would not flex and was not happy. I decided we needed to go back to some basics so I tied her head around to the right. She flexed to the left fine. After about 20 minutes she was standing calm and I took the saddle off and reins off the bridle and left her in the round pen with the bit on for about an hour. I will try again tomorrow.

Tomorrow I see the doctor about my hand. Its really miserable. I have put it off because I wanted to get Sage started. Don't know exactly what is the problem.

Hope your day was wonderful, Blessings.

Trying Again

2011-09-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

Tried my saddle on her and a heavier pad. Still too tight. Have a built up pad I am going to try tomorrow. I did not get on her today. She was acting weird and I found a big bite that may have been a bee sting on her shoulder. When I touched it she jumped. I wiped her down with fly spray and took her up and loaded her in the trailer for practice and put her in her pen up here. I think I will keep her in for a few days. She ran away from me this morning and we are not going to start that game. So its back to her pen.

I hope the saddle pad works. I can't afford a new saddle and that one fits me so well. She is so big. She has nice withers but is wide in her shoulders.

Had another vegetarian dinner tonight. We ate the last of the green beans, the last of the broccoli, fried zucchini and fresh sliced tomatoes. It was good, really good. I am going to process tomatoes tomorrow. They are sooooooo good.

Take care and blessings.

Cody Has A New Home

2011-09-12T19:42:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I finally got my computer working again. It was so simple I was really mad at myself. All I had to do was unplug the router and plug it back in. Oh well, got it with a little help from someone from India or somewhere. He was quite patient with me.

Saturday we spent the day at Farragut State Park (Idaho) and had our Back Country Horsemen annual fundraiser. It was not as good as we had hoped but did OK. It was very hot and we competed with several things. I forgot my camera but that is OK, I was busy with the silent auction. People, businesses and shoppers were all very generous.

Sunday, some friends we met camping up at Clearwater Crossing a couple of weeks ago came to look at Cody. I had been bragging about mustangs (unusual? no) and then told them about Cody. They called, came and looked at him and fell in love. They will come and get him on Sunday afternoon. I am so glad. I know he will be in a wonderful home. They are so nice people. We liked them a lot right away when we met them.

I am in a quandary. Andrea and I have problems with saddles. I have been using Bob's lightweight saddle. It is very very comfortable for me. Today when I rode Sage she acted worse than she did the last time I rode her. She kept swinging her head around and acted like she was going to bite my foot and was yancy and tense. I thought maybe the cinch was pinching. But it is too narrow in the front and with my weight that was what was pinching. I got off and we took the saddle off. Tomorrow I will try my saddle on her and we will pad it up some more. I hate that. She has such a large shoulder, and big stride, the saddle will have to have a larger tree. It is supposed to be cooler tomorrow so I will feel more like working a little longer. I think Andrea has worked her problems out, hope I don't want to have to buy a new saddle.

Sorry I had a hiatus from here but didn't mean to. I tried unplugging things but not the router. Oh well, such is life with electronics when your brain isn't as young as it used to be.

Blessings.