Gotcha

Just when I am letting my guard down....

I lunged Bec this evening. She has got a stop on her. Wow. What a sweet girl. She tries her hardest to make you happy. Such heart.

Then, I brought Diesel over. The cat was in the round pen. This is not unusual. But not running out when I fuss at her is very unusual. And Diesel was frozen in place where I left him at the gate. Red flags all over the place. Kitty was staring at the grass. Uh oh.

Sure enough, laying in the tall grass is a 4 ft. speckled king snake. What to do? I try to shoo it off with the lunge whip. No go. Do I kill it? They are not only harmless but will kill other snakes in their territory. And this is rattlesnake alley. So I left him alone. Diesel did not get lunged. I did not ride Bec. And it was cool this evening. Only 85 degrees. What a waste.

I sometimes wonder why I accept responsibility for so many animals. I am a dog person. Hands down. I still love the kitties. I spend a not-so-small fortune on Blue kitty for his allergies. But, do I really need this much to care for? Yep. Cats rock. Punk herded that snake all the way off the property. And she wandered into the sorghum field to make sure it stayed away. This is the second time this year a cat has warned me of a nearby snake. Repeat, cats rock!

The Life

Bird nests with big, blue eggs, alligator gar, fiddler crabs, spoonbills, pelicans...This is the life. I enjoyed a peaceful, fun kayak trip this morning. I followed this with an afternoon nap that got out of hand. The five of us snuggled up under the fan. What a puppy/kitty pile! Pumkin took her nap in the living room.

I may take the day off from riding. I got my exercise already. I'm feeling a little sluggish. And my blister is still tender. It is hot. Tomorrow will be hotter. If this keeps up I will mildew before long. On the upside, hot ponies are lazy. The evenings are really not bad. My next ride will be Diesel. Need those boots comfortable. Or I could ride Bec bareback. Eek. Oh, the possibilities. Again, What a life!

Two-fers

I rode two days in a row! And I rode two horses today! Not so perfect rides.

I rode Diesel for less than 10 minutes at a walk. He is sound on the lunge. I felt him a tiny bit "off" at a trot under saddle. So we quit. He was very lazy and did not accept the bit at all. Too much time off. We start over. He was not bad. Just not responsive. But, like always, the boy has got a great "Ho".

I then rode Bec, again. Girth fit better today. Got it buckled on the first try. Ugh. It fit two holes higher than yesterday. Gas, be gone! She was not so perfect today. The others wandered away. She was nervous but not out of control. She didn't respond to leg near as well as yesterday. They can't all be perfect rides! It got dark on us before I was ready.

I managed to rub a blister on my heel after the first ride in the new boots. It was very sore today. I need to lay off the new boots for a few days. Maybe I'll ride Prissy bareback in sandals. Shhh. Don't tell. I promise to wear my helmet.

Today was horse day. The Boy hung out with me alot. Plenty of love. I pulled manes. Hosed twice. It was hot. Thank goodness we have a breeze. Of course, it blows in the skeeters. I use alot of fly spray. I've started mixing coat conditioner in with it. You should see the shine. They look great.

I'm loving the long days. It means I come in well after 9pm, soaking wet. By the time I get cleaned up and my hair dries it is very late. No worries, though. Summer = afternoon naps. Too hot to do anything that time of day, anyway. My life is blessed.

Aloof, Be Gone!

Becca has been reserved since we moved in February. She rarely seeks me out. After our ride yesterday I was afraid she'd avoid me even more. She let me halter her without a move in the other direction. She even sought me out after breakfast. Has she been holding a grudge? I remember why I love her. Wonderful, sweet mare. This evening she is going to get a haircut. Her mane has grown below her neck but is brittle with split ends. And it is thick and hot. We expect to reach 98 degrees this afternoon. Bless my wonderful A/C. First hose-down complete before lunch. Two half dirty horses. Why do they always roll? Priss has spots on her right side. Diesel has spots on his left side. They both rolled on only the left side. Get it?

Timing

It has been some time since I checked in. This month has been packed full of activities. My neighbors threw me a "Welcome to Green Lake" bash and invited all of the neighbors. It was a stunning success. Crawfish are my new favorite food. *Gotta love living next to a crawfish farm.* Summer began 2 weeks ago. I've done work around the house that kept getting put off. I've done work out in the pasture. I've done fun stuff like paint the planter my mother restored as a house warming gift (Go Mom!). Scruff got heartworm treatment. Poor guy. He's handling it quite well. Very busy for not having to work.

Something I hadn't done was ride Bec. New place, old fears. Last week, I went to Houston for the dentist and stopped by the saddle shop. It was across town ;). I now have new Ariat field boots and breeches. I highly recommend the Kerrits Breathe Tights. Worth every penny and you are glued to the saddle without the restrictions of traditional full seats.

I have an excuse to ride. I'm pumped. Last night I lunged Diesel to feel him out before I ride. No go. Mildly lame. No swelling but definitely off. Priss deserves a break. Maybe next time. This morning I woke long before the alarm. I have a couple of hours to kill before heading to see dad and grandpa for Father's Day. I go out to feed. The need to ride is burning in me. So, I catch Bec while she is still engrossed in feed. She has learned that 25 acres is alot of room to evade me. She always gives up but it may take up to 10 minutes of calm persistence. I take her to the round pen and attempt to tack up. I am in my new get-up. Girth is too short. There is no way the saddle will work. I am not ready to give up. I head inside for the old, too small for my lard butt Blue Ribbon.

After alot of sweat and swearing I manage to squeeze her into it. Minus the riser pad that she needs. We gotta work on this. Regardless, we had a fabulous 15 minute walk-trot ride. I remember why I keep this tempermental, disordered mare. She has the greatest ride. Supple, responsive. She did great. We never left the round pen. Baby steps. The crazy thing is I had no nerves at all. It has been a year since I've ridden her. She is amazing. So it begins. Baby steps until I can ride her out on the property. We've done it before.

Diesel stood at the gate the entire ride and threw a fit. Pawing at the door, chewing on the panels. He's jealous that I wasn't riding him. It is clear on his face. His time is coming. Just as soon as he is sound we'll start with the same treatment Bec is getting. We are all going to get in a shape other than round. My life is blessed.

Choices

Choices can change your life forever. The older I get, the more aware I am of the risks associated with my actions. I have built a very comfortable life for myself. I cannot afford an accident.

Regardless, I got on Prissy last night- bareback, in a halter, helmetless. I rode her with the lead rope as a single rein- not looped. How exhilarating! She maneuvers solely off of seat and leg pressure. Aren't I proud. This is not the first ride like this. Back when boarded I regularly jumped on and rode her this way w-t-c with no problems.

This mare is special. Not spectacular but definitely a once-in-a-lifetime horse. I have 2 others to give her a break from riding. I never ask her to open up anymore. I never allow her to even if she wants to! Her will is stronger than her aging body. I still find myself riding her ALOT more than the others. At her worst misbehavior I am not nervous. Her worst misbehavior stems from wanting to go-go. At 23, she is still in pretty darn good shape. I want her to stay that way. Gotta love her grunting, growling, cranky, aloof, wonderful, willing self. She may not follow me around looking for love but she has a huge chunk of it. Hard not to play favorites. My life is blessed.

Bliss

I spent the evening snuggling with Diesel. He hung around cuz he was hungry. I admit...I tricked him into hugs. He was just waiting for dinner. Nevertheless, we bonded. He is a character. It is more than a fluke, though. He loves his people. He hung around while I cleaned the water trough. Sniffed my butt while I scrubbed. Stood still for me to wash the mud out of his hair. So vain.





I spent the last few hours sitting in the shade soaking in the evening. I really have a nice place here. Yep, bragging just a little bit.

Missed a Spot

I am horrible at applying sunscreen. A few small, uneven spots on my legs are causing a great deal of pain. Cry like a baby. Can't wait to see how bad the tan lines are later. But, the kayak trip was fabulous.

How does this relate to 3ChunkyMonkies? I feel a need to ride despite no one being around. However, there is NO WAY I am putting on pants. Ain't happening.

I am ecstatic about boot shopping in a couple of weeks. I'm making a run to Houston and am gonna try on some field boots. So much fun. I have had them on the wish list for over 2 years. Zip back boots, of course. I have no one to pull dress boots off :)

I've decided to use my back yard as an arena. Not quite big enough but just as big as the old trainers covered arena. I rode my short-strided mare back then, though...not a behemoth. Should help with balance.

Becca has had another diet change. The grazing muzzle is not working well. She has worn a large hole in the mouthpiece and it is rubbing her face as well as causing a bump on her nose. She is now eating a bran mash with a few oats and a bit of oil. Hoping this will help improve her hoof growth. We'll see. So far, a week in, she still has excess gas. I miss riding my Bec.

Ride 'Em Cowgirl

Hard to believe the last two rides have been western. I rode the fenceline this evening in search of the elusive ground. I have gone over that stupid electric fence 3 times now. Can't find the problem. I thought I had it tonight. Found it twisted around the permanent fence in one spot. That wasn't it. It's not the charger, not the ground ( I watered it), not the corner that busted. Tomorrow I'll get another look at it. The point is....I rode the fenceline on my trusty steed.

Priss is a saint. I love her. She is solid, confident, calm. I had a good ride. My butt hurts in weird places. Doesn't do that English. We only had one problem with our ride. Diesel. He was pushy and feeling good. He did not respect my space at all. I wanted to beat him. He crowds me when I ride someone else. At one point I was in position to whack him for getting too close...I held nothing back. Can't have a behemoth charging and kicking when I ride. Dangerous. And scary when the ground begins to shake before the freight train (Diesel, get it?) comes blasting past. The ground shakes...then the pooters begin. He stepped on ALOT of frogs :) I would be more mad if he wasn't having so much fun. I love for the horses to jump and stretch and frolic. Just not near me, thanks. After the ride, I lunged Diesel pretty hard. I asked nicely and if he kicked those legs out at me, I growled and pushed him forward until his attitude changed. Had to push twice. After cool off, he gave me his attention and respect. Little gals must behave, big boy will behave or I go squish. Not cool. He has his days. Saturday I was in love with him. He stood still for an hour waiting on the farrier. No hissy fits. Much respect. Saturday was good, today bad.

But Priss....Saturday good, Monday great. I love her. Worth a billion bucks. No lie. My life is blessed.

Heartbreak

I love my house. It is a great neighborhood with kind people. But not everyone. Tonight my neighbors dog ran off. They went in search of him but could not find him. As the sun went down, we worried in the yard, thinking he must be having a grand ole time. He hobbled up in great pain. Someone shot him. Who shoots little Chihuahuas? He's obviously cared for, wears a collar. One of my neighbors shot him. He was rushed to the vet. I'm waiting to hear. It could have easily been my Scruff. Say a prayer for Julian. He's in bad shape.

And while I am emotional, might as well share this: My grandmother read this poem last year and sent it to me. We buried her last week.

Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle Autumn’s rain.
When you waken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled light.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
So do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there. I did not die.

UPDATE: Julian did not make it. He survived surgery but the damage was too great. He had been shot twice. He had been kicked so hard his jaw was broken. What is wrong with people?

Chicken

I scream like a sissy. I have snakes. Coral snakes. Red on yellow....

Becca has retreated to the back of the pasture. She does not come to the front during daylight hours. Dodo. Friday, I began my walk to the back to check on my poor, muzzled mare. Not 20 steps in the pasture I came across a decent sized coral snake and retreated. I am afraid to go out there. I suspect I just haven't caught her drinking during the day. I did catch her making a beeline for the back yesterday. She must be drinking. She is not dehydrated. I caught her on the road late yesterday. Luckily, she does not flee when I head her way. I hate not getting my hands on her every day.

I had plenty of snuggle time this weekend with the other two. I will ride Priss out to check on Bec tomorrow, bareback- ugly bite on her back (Thanks, Diesel). She comes when called. Lovely beast. I had bonding time with Diesel, too. He's easy to love. Such a man, though. He likes to think he is master of the others. Bullies, a bit. Acts like a rambunctious gelding. Bundle of love.

Wouldn't it be nice to have a 4-wheeler to ride out back...or a riding lawnmower. Dream on, Devra. Regardless, my life is blessed.

Short Relief

I am a bit of a high strung person. I look ahead and weigh situations. I rarely sleep fitfully. Is this relevant? Of course. I like Becca. I understand her. For all her silly fits and worries I do not think she is dangerous. She is horribly herd bound. But as she paces and hollers she pays attention. She thinks about where her feet are going. She never loses control enough to hurt herself. She respects space. Even in her most worried state she respects her handlers space. I love that about her. She knows where you are and she knows where she is. She may lean toward you for confidence. But, she never touches. She never pushes. And she gives to pressure immediately. She's sensitive- no matter if on the ground or under saddle.

Becca is low man on the totem pole. She needs others to tell her how to act. She has no confidence left to her own devices. Priss, on the other hand, is solid as a rock. She is tough and she knows it. Not so sensitive- on the ground or under saddle :) I'm not saying she doesn't know her manners. She is just different.

Becca poses a challenge. She has health issues- metabolic and accidental injury related. Pasture situations have caused recent concerns. Ideally she should have a pasture buddy like herself that requires minimal grazing to give her confidence and peace of mind. Realistically, I do NOT need another mouth to feed. And, my fences are not nearly complete enough. Patience. The horses are safe inside an electric fence with less than ideal perimeter fence (which they have no access to). That is my peace of mind.

Becca survived turnout for the last day in a grazing muzzle. I let her out of the round pen last night and left her muzzled until I got home today just as soon as I could. Good news. I feel short term relief. The odd looking torture device left no rub spots or blisters. Thank goodness. She does not fight it or try to remove it- even stands patiently with her head down in acceptance while putting it on. I brought her in to the round pen this evening for 4 hours. She paced and hollered. I call it her evening exercise. Get that metabolism going. And then I let her out again. She calmly led back to the pasture and rejoined her buds. I hope this works out. I can't wait for the day I come home and she's not wearing it. Twenty acres makes for a tough hide-and-go-seek. I have several back-up safety snaps just in case.

Before bringing her in this evening I led her over to Priss for a quick "checkover". They immediately began grooming each other. What a sight! Becca couldn't figure out how to massage through the muzzle. She gave up and let me do her job for her. Both were reluctant to part. For all her crabiness, Priss really does love Bec. I just really wish Bec was in better health. She's a beautiful beast. One of these days I'm going to jump on bareback for a bit. Or so I say. My life is blessed.

Mad Neighbors

I've already done it. Made 'em mad. Wouldn't even wave to me. I opened up 20 acres for the horses. They'd eaten the 5 they were in down to nothing. Becca cannot have that much grass. I tried the muzzle the first day. It rubbed her sweet little nose raw. So I locked her in the round pen last night. She hollered all night long. That won't work. We all need sleep.

She's back in the muzzle tonight. I'll check her in the morning. What am I going to do with her? I don't want her to founder or get laminitis. I don't want her pancreas to completely shut down. I can't keep her locked up alone. The others can't be locked up with her. I really hope I can make the muzzle work. At least she doesn't fight it. Time will tell. Back to the 30 minute workouts. Joy. Can't wait to try to catch her every day in 20 acres. I suspect she will figure this out. Tomorrow we'll begin with a 10 minute exercise. Who knows? Maybe I'll ride her.

Fear and Friends

I heard the awful screaming again. Both cats were at the door. Both spent the night in the house. This never happens. They are afraid, also.

I have left a trail of horsey friends all across Texas. It always hurts most to say goodbye to the people who share the love of horses. Now it is my turn. My horsie friend is moving away. I will miss the companionship. I will miss her talent. I don't put just anyone on my horses. It is a safety issue as well as a training issue. Diesel and Becca can both be alot of horse.

I moved to Port Lavaca for the fishing and the beach. I stayed for the people I met here. This is a wonderful town. I've made it my home. Forever. I madly miss horse people, though. I have met no one that rides English. I have not heard of a single trainer (as in train me, trainer), let alone a good one. I miss having an arena. Even more, I miss having an arena with other riders. Camaraderie. I miss it terribly. I've said this before. I still feel it. And now, my riding buddy is moving. My only riding buddy. Damn. Double damn.

On the upside, I had another good ride today. Riding Buddy rode Diesel and had a great ride. It was a good day. I like those. It makes me want to ride more. Once a week is not enough. My ride on Prissy was comfortable. She's worth a million bucks. No lie. Nothing but years can create a bond so strong. There will never be another like her. There will be others that are great. But, Miss Priss is the love of my life. That sounds weird. I feel it deep down. This is it. Savor every moment. My life is blessed.

Mourning

I have 3 horses, 2 dogs, 2 turtles, and 2 cats. I think. Emmie has been AWOL since last weekend. I heard cats screaming last week. Now she is gone. I fear she has been run off by the bigger, meaner kitties. I fear I have a bobcat. I fear she has met an early end. She had not left the vicinity since moving here.

Last night, I heard screaming and went out to scream at Pumpkin. I found Blue at the door wanting in really bad and Punk in the back yard sitting peacefully. No mad cats. No strange cats. No Emmie. My thought then was bobcat. Who knows?

Emmie is a plain, black cat. She is aloof, shy. She does not seek out human attention. I am the only person that can touch her. This is a nice way of saying wild. Crazy wild. Out of 10 pets, she is the least committed. I wish I knew what happened. I have this feeling that she is gone. I hope she felt unwanted by the other cats and went next door. I hope she comes home. She left for days at the old house. She just never left here. I still have hope. I go outside a dozen times a day hoping to see her. And every time I come back with renewed sadness. She's just a wild cat. I miss her terribly. How do we get so attached? I have 10...or 9 pets. How does it hurt so bad for every one? If she is gone I would like to bury her and plant something. Just to know what happened...

Second First

I survived my second first ride in a new place. Diesel was L- A- Z- Y. I actually had to dig in to keep him in a trot. However, I asked for a canter on his weak lead and he picked it up immediately and stayed steady. Nice, but I don't like that I had to fight for a straight line. Also, he evaded the bit the entire ride. Dodo. Overall, a good first ride in a new home and first ride in almost a year. Who'd have thought 25 minutes would leave me so sore. Must ride more. I wish the wind would cooperate. It is howling. So bad I gave up on watering my new grass. It never hit the ground. Crazy.

I rigged a new set of reins for him. He is so big my standard reins are not quite long enough. So I laced together an old set of split reins and I'm gonna rough it. Functional if not pretty. I can't wait to try them out. We'll see. I hate riding in the wind. And tonight I wouldn't dare to ride. Talk about fruit loops. They spun out of the barn half a dozen times just cuz. Running, bucking, silly. It's a sign even I can't ignore!

Birthday Season

Diesel turned 8 last week. How come he doesn't act 8? He is a goofball. You should have seen him earlier. It is cold and rainy and he was not happy about being wet. He was pawing and shaking his head. Most of all, he didn't want to be alone. Hollering like a fool. His ladies were out grazing and were completely ignoring him. The more they ignored, the more he bounced around. Eventually, the rain picked up and they returned to the barn. He was happy as a lark. As if they came back for him. What a fool that boy is. Gotta love him.

Becca turns 16 next month. Priss will be 23 in May. And my 8 year old thinks they are his own personal harem. Ha! They've been around the block too many times for that. I love my crew.

Chunky Monkey!

Chunky Monkey! Chunky Monkey! Monkey! Monkey! Monkey! Chunky Monkey!

Can't you just hear my excitement? Becca is a cow. An itchy, furry, fatty patty cow.

She has really not been herself since the move. She's been aloof. Flighty. She really doesn't handle change well. Tonight I got some Becca love. This comes in the form of a hug and wet kisses. For the first time since we moved here she snuggled. I am so glad to have my girl back.

Soon we will have green grass. This is bad for the Bec. This means restricted turnout and a grazing muzzle. She is not going to be a happy camper. In the meantime she munches on old, dry grass just outside my window. How lucky am I? My life is blessed.

I'm in LOVE

Diesel is such a gorgeous creature. He knows it. He demands attention when he moves. I can't wait to work with him some more. He is just plain fun. I hope to ride Sunday. Who knows what the wind will be like? I'm ready for a nice, calm day. One can only dream.

Scruffy is breaking records every day. I am so proud. Of course, he destroyed a roll of paper towels today. But no spots on the floor. Go Scruffy!

I wonder what my horsie friends are up to. Ana, Haley, Margaret. I hope your life is full of fantastic equines. My life is blessed.

Secret Weapon

Scruffy has been 3 days without an accident. He is about to explode when I come home. He goes and goes and goes when I let him out. He has NOT gone in the house. I am such a proud parent. He really is a good boy. Nevermind the 2 pillows he destroyed last week. My secret weapon is limiting water. That sounds horrible. I take the water up when I am at work. No water, no yellow explosions. Plenty of water the rest of the day. Come home ASAP. Can you see my smile? Good dog. My life is blessed.

I have been lunging the ponies. Diesel is such a gentleman. This weekend I will ride. Bec is a fruit loop. Lunge, lunge, lunge. Diesel is my man. He is so handsome. And obedient. He lives to please. Great quality in any kind of man...especially the 1200 lb kind. My life is blessed.

24 Hour Chip

I should start a 12 step program for the little pisser. He got his 24 hour chip today. And I was late getting home! No tinkle spots. I knew he had it in him. What was different? I took the water up during the day. I hate to do that for so long. But, it worked. I really think he tries to hold it but cannot. When he has "accidents" it is like he unloads a flood. He's a little dog and it is alot of pee. Maybe I can train him after all. Stay tuned for more exciting potty talk.

Chunky Monkies and Mo-rons

I should change this name to 2chunkymonkies. Prissy is no longer chunky. It is winter. She's old. It is down to me and Bec. Bec holds her weight well (code for she's a fatty patty). Priss will chunk up in a month or two. She is by no means skinny. Just thinner than normal. She actually looks pretty darn good. The grass here is native and will not green up until April. Then, Becca gets to wear a muzzle. I've been grooming them a couple of times a week. I love the pony time. Everyone is starting to shed out and is itchy. I'm happy because I have no choice but to spend time with them.

Now for the mo-ron part. I've always been a little foolish when it comes to the ponies. My arm is doing quite well. The shoulder is aching less and less. It was only 3 years ago that I ate it on Becca- bareback, windy, halter only, first time in a new place. Tonight I rode Prissy. First time riding here. Bareback in a bridle. The thing is...I feel safe on her. She is predictable and conscientious of her rider. She tripped a few times. I barely felt it. She compensates for you. She is truly worth a million dollars. Miss Priss is the horse of a lifetime. The others have great qualities. She is just the one. Every day with her is special. She has her quirks. She grunts, she's head shy. She was not always so good. I have to keep that in mind. She was a fruit loop in the early days but she always took care of me. Miles and miles of riding. The others will get there.

Tonight I had a great ride. She was perky but not spooky. I took her out of the round pen and she did fine. Next time I will put a saddle on and really RIDE. After my ride, I groomed everyone. I'm afraid they will get thorns in their feet so I have been picking out hooves almost every day to check them. Talk about concrete. We need rain so bad. I flood near the trough but it just hardens and gets stuck while sucking the moisture out. It is too cool to hose them down.

Diesel set back while grooming tonight. It is sooo my fault. Scruff was hanging out too close and I lunged and fussed at him. All I managed to do is scare the big boy. Neither went anywhere. Diesel just broke the twine I had him safety tied to... and stood there. Scruffy is driving me nuts. He needs to get out and run. Which he did- right over to the neighbors. He came back eventually and followed me and Prissy. Way too close. Priss is a saint. I hope Scruff got some energy out. He is just about out of toys and pillows to destroy. I don't mind when he eats toys, the pillows are another story. He confuses them. Both are filled with stuffing to pull out. I am his last chance. If I give up he has nowhere to go. I do have thoughts of letting him go. Gretch would be alone. She doesn't handle that well. I went from 4 dogs to 2 in no time. It is definitely a better number. It breaks my heart that Spooky loves living with my parents so much. I'm glad but heartbroken. She hasn't visited in two weeks. And she won't for two more, at least. I miss her.

This is about the most random post ever. Welcome to my life. It is what it is. And it is blessed.

Short Friends

Today's thoughts are about our short friends. How could I live without them? Every day I admire my behemoth horse, Diesel. When I tilt my head and rest on his shoulder, he is taller than me. He's got the look. You know the one. I admire him every single day. He's special.

But what about the fluffy mutts that live with me? They are not spectacular. They make people stare out of the rediculousness of matching their parents together (especially Gretch). She has a bad hair day every day. Her ears are enormous. She wiggles with her whole body when she greets you and whines like a baby. Yet, I could not imagine life without her. She snuggles every night. Gretchen is the best kind of companion. She lives to please her people. Doesn't matter who is around, Gretch will make you happy. I can't imagine life without any of my pets, though I know the day will come. This one has created an amazing bond. She's dedicated and willing and smart and obedient. Who'd have thought? She was a handful as a youngster.

This brings me to Scruffy. He's bad. I say this alot. He runs off and pees in the house. He bounces off the wall and destroys toys within seconds. Seriously....seconds, as in, less than 1 minute. He, too, sits in my lap. Snuggles at night. Not so willing, not so obedient. Someday....I keep saying that. Someday he will be a good dog. The bond with him is growing. I could possibly live without the other animals. Maybe. But, never will I live without a dog. Even when I am old and feeble.

Here's to man's best friend. They are truly special. I love mine dearly. My life is blessed.

Gretch just farted. Run for the hills.

The Crew

It seems like everyone has settled in nicely. My fluffy pups sit on the couch with the Blue kitty next to me. The other cats are nearby. I was most worried about the cats. I've never moved an outside cat before. I worried for weeks about how they would handle it. We are not far from the old house and I was afraid they would go to the wrong home. They took it all in stride. I kept them in the barn for 3 days before releasing them. Tonight is their first night out. Blue came in. Blue does what Blue wants.

Scruffy has now run off twice. He comes home. Just like before. It still gives me a heart attack. I love that bad little dog. Gretch used to sit on the back of the couch and look out the window. There is no window behind it here. She's sitting up there anyway. Her tail is wagging me.

The horses enjoy their new freedom...and grass. We fenced in a portion of the pasture for them. If I had to guess, I'd say it is 7 or 8 acres. They will be up to their bellies in grass in another month or so...if we get rain, of course. Last night must have worn them out. They all took several naps today. Getting to know a new place is stressful. And they all got extra exercise checking the fenceline.

The turtles don't seem to have any troubles, either. Squirt is still in the aquarium in the house. His shell is still healing. He'll get moved outside as soon as it warms up. Seymour is acting a bit shy. He misses the hibiscus flowers.

I moved my grandmother's rain lilies today. They will be in pots for awhile. I can't imagine getting any beds made anytime soon. I have the time to nurture Bitsy's lemon and that is about it. My to do list is rather large. I crossed out a few things today and managed to get my first nap in eons.

It is time to get cleaned up. I'll try not to disturb the sleeping beauties on the couch.

The End of an Era

Bye Bye Boogies.






Eighteen years and it was not enough. But, time was up. She went quickly and quietly with no resisitance. Three days into life in my forever home and I have already buried one of my own. I hated to have to make that decision. The reality is it was the right one. She did not suffer. She was not yet in pain. Life made her weary and the tumors were undoubtedly growing. Bitsy rests next to a newly planted lemon tree.





Last week, before the move, Buddy came home with obviously serious wounds. I believe the coyotes I heard so close the night before attacked him. The infection took hold. When I came home I knew I had to end his pain immediately. I did what I have never done before...pull the trigger. There was no time to call for the vet. His lady friend, Pumpkin, lay next to his grave for a week, mourning.





The creatures that we share our lives with touch us so deeply. Savor every moment. Rescue new ones but never forget the lost ones. My life is blessed.

Good Grief...Bad Grief

Good news is the house keeps on plugging. No close date, yet, but it is coming soon...few weeks at most. Just some last minute things to install. It looks like a house. It seems like it has taken so long that it feels like home already. However, it really hasn't been long at all. Just last February I was searching for land. Biggest project left is the fencing. Anyone interested in helping. Ha Ha.

Bad Grief. Bitsy will not make the move to the new house. She is nearing the time to end it. She will be 18 on Saturday. Lots of great years. She cannot hold it well anymore and is very feeble. She will tell me what day is right. I am prepared.

I already have her "replacement". Funny how there are always too many that need a home. How is that possible? I take so many! And Scruffy....what was I thinking? Yesterday, he shredded all of the trash and moved it around the house. He chased that with an entire jar of Vaseline. Who does that? It sprays out as a clear, high pressure liquid. I hope he was clear before I left for work this morning. What a mess. My life is insane. With all his trouble making yesterday, Bitsy didn't have even one accident. What a relief.

The stories I will be able to tell. This dog is a handful. He's bad. But I love him very much. He's cute and he snuggles ALOT. Someday he will be well-manered. Working on it one day at a time.

Hello 30

Good grief. I'm 30. Same as yesterday but feeling the pains of responsibility. Insurance and mortgage and 12 hungry mouths to feed.

The house is coming along. I have cabinets. Closing at the end of the month. Fencework is stressing me out. We can't start until the house is done. Dirt work and leveling must come first.

Internet comes when I move in. Can't wait. I visit the neighbors for their WiFi. And it is rude. Must go.

Most Exciting House Work

Getting bricks! You didn't really think I meant house cleaning, did you?

New Houses are EXCITING!!!!!

Here are a few recent pics of my new house. Too cool.

Disaster Strikes

WARNING: Graphic pictures at end.

The first disaster was my neighbors moving out and taking their wireless internet. Now I am without- torturous. I will be up and running again when I move into my new house...probably the end of January. Patience.

Then, there was the electricity miscommunication. I have electricity but the new landlords are jumping through hoops to get it sorted out on paper. Then, the dog ate my Ariat mule. My favorite pair of working-outside- shoes.

Last Sunday, I lunged all 3 ponies. Priss is old and stiff but not lame. Becca is fit but fat. Diesel is no longer lame on his sliced heel. Only took six months. As soon as I find the time, I'll begin conditioning him to ride again. Don't hold your breath. This is my shining good news.

The horror was what I found last Sunday after my pony time. Spooky almost killed Gretchen. I have no idea was spurred the attack. They have been fine together for many years. Gretchen has over 60 punctures in her hind legs. Her neck sustained deep punctures. I found the house covered in blood. Furniture was moved. Gretchen was hiding in the corner. Spooky was hiding, stunned in the corner. It was a massacre. I have no idea how Gretchen survived. Tuesday, she had to have surgery to removed dead tissue and insert drain tubes in her neck. She didn't eat all week. She is finally showing improvement. This makes me so happy. But, my heart is broken over Spooky. She is living with my parents as an only pet. This arrangement may not be long term. I cannot allow this to happen again. Spooky was, up until this week, known as my all time best dog. Heartbroken doesn't even begin to describe what I am feeling.

What's Happening?

Lots. I check on the horses every evening with a flashlight. My neighbors must think I'm a crazy person...out in the dark pointing the flashlight at legs and bellies. No new boo boos. Lots of cranky looks. Too cold, not enough hay. So they think. I feed 3/4 of a bale a day. Pigs.

The dogs are keeping me busy. Scruffy is always up to shenanigans. Bitsy is going downhill. It would be so much easier if she was not bouncing around with a smile on her face. She's old. She's stiff. She has trouble getting in her recliner. She gets the runs easily. But, she's happy and not in any clear pain. I wonder if she will see Christmas. Every morning I get up and expect to see her in a forever sleep. But no, she pops up and bounces around the house.

Speaking of house....I have walls and roof and windows and an a/c unit. No brick, yet. Lots happening. Paint today, electrical tomorrow. Will I have everything ready for move-in in January? Probably not. Working hard. Until next time. My life is blessed.

Dingleberry

I love him. He's gorgeous. He's comical. He's well mannered. He's lame. I really miss riding Diesel, aka Dingleberry. He likes me. He misses being exercised. His topline is awful. Problem- I can't exercise him...his foot hurts. He's wearing the hoof flat in front. I hope this isn't career ending. Trail pony career, that is. I'll get the farrier's opinion again next week. He was positive after the last trim. I have awful luck with pets. Accidents, metabolic disorders, arthritis, skin conditions, chronic ear mites, separation anxiety with the pisser. Scruffy is a challenge. That's putting it nicely. Until I get him better trained, I am missing out on quality time with everyone else. I make a concerted effort to give everyone attention. I'm neglecting Pumpkin, though. She's mad at me for keeping Blue and Scruff. I did get a few hugs today from her. She's not totally angry. I am totally tired. Maybe the house will really get framed this week. That's what they say. That'll energize me. For now, gotta get back to my mountain of papers to grade.

The Boys

I have several boys in my life. Let me tell you about them.

Squirt is a little red eared slider. He has issues...not sure if Seymour tried to eat him or if it is bacterial. He has extremely damaged peripheral scutes. Mild bleeding. He has been moved into the house where it is temperature and moisture regulated. Damage has not worsened. I hope he pulls out of this. He is active and eating well.

Diesel is my big boy. Very big boy. He likes to hang out with me. Today, he followed me around the round pen while I poop scooped. When I was done, I lunged him very lightly. He trotted around the 60' pen 3 times each direction. Just enough to know that he is still a bit lame on his foot and that his four foot tenderness is still there. He's always been a tenderfoot. Big baby. He loved the attention, though. Cued perfectly, even with cooler temps. Love that boy.

Blue is my kitty man. He always liked coming in the house. Since it has gotten cool he is almost always inside. He should've been born a dog. He follows me everywhere. He even goes out and follows me when I walk the dogs. Comes back in when I go in. Feeds the horses with me. Watches just outside the round pen as I lunge Bec. Crazy cat. And he has stolen Bitsy's spot on the recliner. Just as well...she hasn't been able to get up there for a few days. I will have to make a decision soon. I've been saying that for over a year. All I know for sure is that it isn't quite time, yet. She has a wonderfully plush blankie to sleep on right now.

Scruffy is my challenge. He hugs. He sits in my lap every time I sit down- including now. He is the sweetest little thing. Around here, 20 pounds is little. Here's the thing. He's a pisser. He doesn't mark the house. He unloads his full bladder on the wall. Once while I'm at school. Quite often, once again when I leave him to take care of the horses. Why not take him with me when I go out? He runs off. He doesn't respond to his name. He chases cats. He loves to get under the house...comes out brown instead of white. He gets out of his harness when chained up. Why don't I crate him? He pisses on the crate and gets the wall AND himself wet. He's bad. Bad to the bone. We are making progress. He hasn't pooped on the floor lately. Any given day you can find me outside walking Scruffy ten times telling him what a good dog he is...potty goes outside. Soon, I will have to let him go loose and trust that he comes back without getting run over. Scary.

Man, I wish I had a fenced yard. I have lots to look forward to. I should have that wish by Spring Break. And a house...if they ever get started. All of the supplies are there, everything except the workers. Framers will start soon. Last Monday was the day...still waiting not so patiently.

I am blessed to have the boys and girls in my life. All 13 of them. I am insane. I admit it.

What next?

The concrete work on the house got postponed until next week. Rain in the forecast for the first time in months. All it takes is a bundle of moolah and time put into a project for the rain to come and scare us away. Who knows? Maybe it will miss us and the pastures with crumble into dust while my house goes up in record time. Maybe we will get it and rejuvenate the grass while making a mess of my house. Win-win.

I came home today ready for my holiday tomorrow. Scruffy made it through his neuter just fine and came home sore but a better man. And Dad was on the phone...my Grandmother is in acute renal failure. I have a bad feeling about this. My life is blessed and faith will get me through this one- either way it goes.

The Latest

Scruffy ran after a lady last Saturday night. Just ran off. I found him Sunday unable to walk with puncture wounds all over his front legs. He is healing nicely. Most were just direct punctures. One spot has an ugly rip but is healing without infection. He let me clean the wound sites without a complaint.

Scruffy has had his first vet appointment. He is strongly heartworm positive. The vet recommends giving him some time to settle and learn the routine before we treat. He's a very active dog and must stay confined after treatment. We'll schedule something after the first of the year. His snip, snip is scheduled for this Tuesday. Don't tell. It's a secret. He's really beginning to like it here and I wouldn't want him to change his mind :)

And now for the biggest news. Becca, the Queen of All Chunky Monkies, has all of the symptoms of Equine Metabolic Syndrome. The diet and exercise has not been successful. She has lost gas but not real weight. She is limited most of the day to the round pen. Grass is in short supply due to drought. She is on Low-Carb feed. We exercise 4-5 times a week.

Now we exercise 30 minutes a day. Last night, I tried lunging in the dark. It was a good night to start- nearly full moon. She was disturbed a bit at first but settled down and cued well after a few minutes. It is very important that I can lunge at night since I don't get home until near dark most days. I really needed one more thing to do every day.

The house has forms with plumbing and rebar ready to pour concrete. The house is going to progress very fast, now. It is a good thing. I check on the place after work every day. Then, I come home and walk Scruffy on a leash. Lunge and feed or feed and lunge- depending on how late it is. After dark, I come in and finish work for the paying job. And after that, I work on the online course I am taking for GT certification. Usually, I get up with animals twice a night. It is no wonder that I slept most of today instead of working on the class. I hope things settle down soon. I'm too tired to ride. I'm too tired to socialize. But, I do have a wonderfully blessed life. I try to post regularly but it has been difficult. Until next time....

Where's Devra?

She's staying busy. The house construction started this week. In the meantime, grass needed to be mowed. Curtains needed to be hung...strangers on the property. Brush piles needed burning, weeds needed spraying, concrete chunks moved. My parents have been here for over a week. They have been working like dogs every day while I go to work.

Speaking of work....I've been doing alot of that, too. Things just haven't been normal since Ike. And I'm taking an online course. I did manage to squeeze in a fishing trip. Had a blast.

Becca is still on grass restrictions. She is much happier, though. She spends nights in the round pen but does get out during the day. I have jumped on her bareback a few times to exercise her. She is doing quite well. Still hurts to extend her front legs out much. No canter. Priss is cranky- from the mosquitoes or the arthritis, I don't know. Could be either. Diesel scraped his leg. Minor scrape all the way down one leg. On what, I have no idea. He can hurt himself on nothing. He's still lame on that hoof that he sliced way back when. Some improvement, though. It's not like I have time to ride. Just groom and spray them down with the skeeter repellent. I get plenty of hugs. That will never be scarce.

Now for the big news. Two months ago someone dumped a dog nearby. He has been running with the other dumpees that live two doors down. My neighbor has been feeding them leftovers. Last week, she broke down and bought flea meds and real dogfood. I cannot get involved without getting myself in trouble....

Mom caved. She no longer threatened my life if I took in Scruffy. She went so far as to tell me that I could consider keeping him if Bitsy were to pass away. A friend and I bathed him on Thursday. We had to do it in the bathtub so he wouldn't get chills. And then we had to wait for him to dry. And then, he liked the house so well he spent the night. He's housebroken. Someone loved him, just not enough to keep him.

Friday, he was nowhere to be found. He was all Dad talked about. Where's that Scruffy dog? He's such a good dog. I was very concerned. After I went to bed Spooky started barking. Scruffy was outside. He spent the night again. Today, Mom told her sister that I got a new dog. The neighbors are paying for all of his start-up costs. All I have to do is agree. He's going in next week for his preliminary work. Snip, snip to come. The other dogs like him. They all share the bed. They play around in the house. I can't pass this one up. Bitsy is doing fine. I can't believe that I have 4 dogs. In the house. The inn is full. Four dogs, four cats, three horses, and two turtles. I have surpassed the crazy animal lady designation. I'm nuts. He's a neat dog. The name stuck. Gretchen is no longer the scruffy dog. He's got her beat.

Meet Scruffy.

Baby Steps

The first cool cold front of the year has been here for a few days. EVERYONE feels great. I've had the windows open since Monday. The result is frisky horses. Not stupid frisky, just feeling good- move a little faster-frisky. Priss took out of the front pens like a mad woman today for no reason. No one started it. No one followed. Just feeling good. Diesel trotted out to Bec when I released her for the evening. It really is a big deal for the lazy boy to trot out unless someone else does first. The big news....not quite as lame. Still a bit lame. Baby steps towards soundness. I'll take it.

Another baby step happened today. I went out to the new place to take the boards off of the barn windows. A miracle happened. I have electric poles. I applied the first week of June. Now, we just need to get them out again to wire the temporary pole. You know...the pole that Tilson hasn't put up, yet. I did get to the title company today to see about fixing the mess-up on the title policy. There is no pipeline on my property, thus, no reference to it on the survey. They are going to revise the policy. I'll be moving into my not-yet-started home soon. Just you wait.

Relief

Tonight, Emmie came to visit. I hadn't seen her for over a week. She was very distracted by Pumkin. Pumpkin proceeded to attack. They rolled around a bit until my yelling interrupted them. Pumpkin got a spanking. Emmie got some soft words. Everything settled down and I gave everyone hugs. I'm just glad that Emmie is doing fine. She is actually gaining weight since her spay. She needed it.

All is well here. My crew of 12 is doing fine. I did pull 6 ticks off of Diesel. We'll see what he looks like tomorrow. One spot is already starting to swell. So, when I say the crew is all well...I mean all is normal. Always something. Regardless, my life is blessed.

Imagination? Not so chunky?

What do you think? I swear that she is losing weight. Not enough, yet. Making progress. Restricted pasture, diet food, and exercise. Much harder to get weight off than on. Funny how that works.

Before

Now

There is still a rather thick layer of fat. She has mostly lost gas. She farts nonstop. We're getting there, though. She is ready to get back on the grass. She gets 2-3 hours a day right now. Not nearly enough for sanity but she is holding up well. Plus, she is getting better with the herd-bound issues. Win-win.

Scared the Poop out of Everybody

Ike was headed straight for us. We evacuated. On the way, the horses pooped and pooped. Mountains of it. But, everyone behaved. They knew. Travel, both trips, was uneventful. I have discovered that 3 horses and a 2 horse trailer are not a good thing. Had to leave too early so I could make 2 trips. Next time we wait an extra day. We went toward where the storm ended up landing. It turned.

70 mile/hr winds and rain. No one hurt, no structural damage, not even a tree limb down. Amazing. We only lost power for 2 hours. Wharton County Electric Coop is amazing. They went out in the worst of the storm to restore our power...used spotlights to find the problem.

It was still safer to be at my parent's house than at my rental...landlords have junk piles of tin and lumber dangerously close to the pasture. This stuff is left over from Hurricane Claudette in 2003. I live in a land of exquisite beauty and occasional devastation. I do not hesitate to leave.

All 3 cats peed themselves. Blue is a house kitty. He had to have a bath. We did the pillowcase method under the tub faucet. Baby shampoo and quick rinse. He took it like a champ. I dried him off and gave him extra hugs. Mom found a pile of poop in the corner of the pillowcase when all was done. None on him, thank goodness. Two baths would have done him in! Scared the poop out of him. I was unable to find Emmie to take her along. I still have not found her. The neighbors have seen her and have been feeding her. I'm still worried about her.

I took both turtles. They pooped due to stress during the ride.

I didn't sleep at all during the storm. I didn't sleep well when all was over. I kept thinking of all the people of Galveston and Bolivar Penninsula who didn't leave. I kept thinking of the people who had no home to go home to. When you live on the coast you know it will happen. Just not when.

I am building a home in a coastal county. I bought land in one of the highest places here. It has never flooded. Ever. I am 4 miles from the nearest bay...and it is an inland bay. My house will be built on a 3 foot concrete slab. Extra hurricane straps. I will still leave for the big one. No question.

Despite having a long, stressful evacuation, I still enjoyed spending time with my family. Below are pictures of the horses in the backyard, there. Not too stressed. Lots of fun things to watch. More grass than they needed. Bec was very limited in grazing time.

Still a Lady

Becca is confined to the round pen. I expect this to be a relatively long-term arrangement. She has lost a few inches of gas belly. It is the blubber layer that is of concern. She has eaten every blade of grass within reach. And now she is resigned to eating that nasty hay I left for her. Much of today she pouted and refused to eat.

Of course, she was undoubtedly tired from last night. The farmers burned the corn field behind the house and next to the pasture. I got home yesterday evening to find it burning with no one watching it. I kept an eye on it all night. It still smolders this evening. Thanks. Thanks alot. Who cares if we burn down the neighbor's house and horses? The fire is safely in the middle of the field, now, with no fuel to spread. Last night, it inched it's way toward my house...disturbingly close. I am all for controlled burns...just disc around the field, please. The horses were all on edge today. Rightfully so.

Bec is getting exercise every day. Lunging or light riding...bareback, of course. Fatty patty. She is acting like a lady despite her imprisonment. Gotta love that gal. She is too sweet to describe. And never pushy. She walks toward the gate when I enter or exit but never tries to get out. I love her responsiveness. Touch her and she gives. When riding, a little leg has her sidepassing nicely- bareback in a halter.

I know. I can't afford to get crunched. She is solid. She is responsive. She is not crabby or jumpy. Even when the tractors and combines go by and the other horses are running around. She doesn't miss a step or change her pace. She's a great horse. Except for the constant weight issues and the sore back. She is fine walk, trot. Even with the weight of a rider. I never work her hard when I ride. She is not ready for that. Mostly walk. Lunging is different.

How could such a fit horse be so fat? Lunging, she hardly breaks a sweat. It is 80- 85 degrees in the evening. She doesn't even breathe hard. 5 minutes walk, 20 minutes trot, 5 minutes canter, 10 minutes trot, 5-10 minutes walk- changing direction to work each direction evenly. That's quite a workout. And yet, no weight loss. Just lots of farting :)

Gotta stick with it. Poor gal is lonely. I may have to let her out to graze with her buds a bit in the evenings. She has never been a problem to catch, even after confinement. We'll see. Still too much grass in the pasture to let her out for long. Diesel is hanging out near her and grooming over the top of the round pen. She's not completely alone. Not bad for two horses that used to hate each other. She rarely pins her ears at him and shows her teeth. Not true love, but friends, maybe.

Nothing Like It

Nothing in the world compares to watching the sun go down from the comfort of a horse. Today I cooled off Bec after a good workout in the round pen. She's completely sound walk/trot but is sore at a canter. She's back to living in the round pen. Chunky elephant. Chunky hippo. Chunky whale. Chunky monkey just doesn't cut it.

Diesel is still lame. But doesn't hurt so bad that he can't buck and run in the pasture. Figures.

Blue is spending more and more nights inside. No problems except the dogs are mad at me for letting him in bed.

And as for me...I am struggling to keep myself in good spirits. Work is so frustrating. The kids will do anything that allows them to sit and be entertained but ask them to prove their understanding and it is another story. Some will not even attempt a simple assignment. And then they get offended that I call them on it. They are embarrassed. Just try already. Jeez. Why can't we kick some butt? Why won't their parents kick their butts?

Time

Where does it go? I understand that managing a rented property/pasture and preparing my own property is a big job. Why can't I find daylight hours to work with the horses? I found a half hour today.

Diesel is lame on his good front leg. What #%&? I am concerned that he'll need shoes once his hoof grows out. That's the non-lame leg. He lunged wonderfully around once each direction. One lap. No buck while reversing. Good boy.

Bec is a fatty patty. The recent rains have made extra grass. No good. Tonight the horses eat down the round pen. Tomorrow, Bec gets locked up. Again. Fatty.

Blue is sleeping on the blanket next to me. He's a house cat. No denying it. His girlfriend, Emmie, is getting her stitches out tomorrow. Maybe I'll get home in time to lunge Bec. And grade 150 tests. Yeah....right. Regardless, my life is blessed.

Shake, Rattle, and RUN!!!!!!!

Progress is being made at our future home. We have been burning brush. 4 piles down, about 15 to go. No exaggeration. The house construction has still not begun. No electricity. And, I need documentation that the pipeline on the title policy is not actually on my property. You'd think the title company would get that straight. Or that the builder could clearly see that it is outside of my property line.

Now for the fun part. What lives in brush piles and rattles? We killed a 3-footer today. 9 segments on its rattle. Big lump in its belly. I will volunteer to drive the tractor in the future...sit up high. My new favorite job. We keep the tractor and sprayer close by to stop any runaway flames.

Gustav is heading east of us. There is no chance of rain in the forecast. I pray for the creatures in its path. And, I sincerely hope it sticks to the path they predict. I have a brand new uninsured barn. No one wants to insure it right now...can't even get a quote in between storms. Go figure.

I currently have 3 very cranky horses. They haven't gotten a good night's sleep in weeks. Mosquitoes are horrible. I spray them down with fly spray twice a day. Still, I hear them kicking the barn walls at night to knock off the bugs and voice their discomfort. No one wants hugs. They are in dire need of restful sleep. But good news, I think Diesel is ready to ride. Just a small scab left on his foot. If only I could find the energy. Not today. Regardless, my life is blessed.

Zzzzzz

I was so tired today that I was asleep by 5:30. Up at 7, finished with tomorrow's lesson by 10:00. It has been really hard for me to adjust to going back to work. I'm ready to go back to bed.

Adjusting is not so hard for Blue. He runs in every time I open the door. He even knows which door I am about to open. I think he is waiting under the house. As you can see, he is settling in well to the House Kitty life.

Can we ride already?

No.

But, we're getting there. Did I mention it rained ALOT again? I'll ride in my dreams for awhile.

Start the Day Right

How do you start the day? The right way is to begin with a relaxed and prolonged horsie snuggle. It is amazing. If I am rushed to get my hugs and kisses, the day is hectic all day. If I take my time and savor the moment, the day goes great. Funny, huh?

How do you end the day? You can see this coming. Relaxed, extended horsie snuggle time. Recharges the soul. Corny, but true.


Moments with our creatures is vital for our health. Today, I had the opportunity to nap with Spooky in a tight hug. Just a few minutes, but it energized me. Too bad I have to work all weekend to get ready for school on Monday. Doesn't matter. All I need is hugs. My life is blessed.

Where's D?

D is back to work. It is really fun these first few weeks. Demanding. Gotta learn everyone's names. Not my forte. I do recognize a few names. Great kids. It's gonna be a great year.

We got rain. Lots. The drought is over. Diesel's perverse swollen area is almost back to normal. Almost. And his cut heel is almost healed. Maybe a week or so more. The horses are all on the mend. Priss is sound. Bec is enjoying regular exercise.

The cats are all "fixed". Emmie was preggers. Blue is swollen and may not be aware yet that he is less his jewels. They both behaved like angels. And the best news- they still like me. Good thing.

Another good thing...starting back to work with a low-key week before kids. This work stuff is hard to get used to. I had an entire week of rest and relaxation. Six thirty AM comes way too quick.

Hope all is well with you. My life is blessed.

On a Positive Note

Diesel is coping. The swelling is the same. Still no pain. I think he'll be ready for a ride in 2 weeks. His foot is continuing to heal slow and steady.





Becca lunged today for 45 minutes with a great attitude the entire time. She looked great and even cantered a few times around. She looked sound. First time sound at a canter. I sat on her at a walk for 5 minutes of her cool down. Nothing better than sitting on a good horse. She is one wide horse. Completely sound bareback at a walk. I didn't push it. Felt good. What really felt good is getting on that gal bareback in a halter for the first time since the fall. She was not near as responsive as I expect her to be. Next time I will definitely ride with a bridle. Saddles are all too narrow. Love that gal.

Good Grief

Now what? Well, I told you that Diesel is allergic to tick bites. Guess where he got one today? I found the bite mark but no tick. That can't be comfortable. I hope he can urinate. He didn't look like he was in pain and didn't kick when I examined him. Just fluid. Poor guy.





I swear I cannot go anywhere. I visited my cousin this afternoon. I was gone 7 hours. I returned home to find diarrhea on my floor and a big pee spot on the couch. That's the second time this week. I think the couch is trash. Then I found Diesel's problem. It's late. I'm tired. My scrubbed floor still stinks. What else?

Moment of Truth

Just how obese is Bec? Very.

Almost no feed and the pasture is mostly weeds- very little grass. Hour and a half of exercise a week...and working up to more. This obviously did not happen overnight. It began after my broken arm. Then, her fall in March. She was not this fat when I bought her. Back then she got no exercise. Insulin resistant? Thyroid issues? Dunno. Vet wants me to work on the exercise before more action is taken. She is NOT pregnant.

And for reference...

Diesel has such a little butt for such a big QH.

And since we are having a picture show. Here is Priss. She always has this cranky look on her face. She doesn't really mean it. But, look at that bootie. So beautiful.

Diesel's Lazy Boy Excuse

Diesel continues to have issues. He likes it. It means no work. No work to a lazy horse = holiday.

So, our biggest issue is the foot. The big, orange dork learned to stand on the fence to pull it down so he could eat on the other side. Itty bitty slip up means slice through the coronary band and we have major issues. We now have an electrified fence inside the fence. Problem solved. Foot healing slowly.

Next issue is the ticks. I use several products to prevent tick infestation. This is what happens when the Big Boy gets a tick bite.

He's allergic. Note the swelling in the vein radiating out from the palm sized swollen area. First time this happened I was very distraught. The swelling goes down in a few days. Still scary.

Today there was no horse work. I spent the entire day shopping for back to school clothes. Great sales. Supercool new stuff.

Meet the Meow

The 2 new cats have an appointment next week for the chop, chop. That makes them officially mine. And, I borrowed a camera and have new pics to share. So, meet the crew.

Pumpkin- who comes in the house for a few minutes a day but would rather not. Not a mean bone in her body. Unless you are a little furry creature that is good to eat.

Buddy- used to be untrusing and mean but has settled down and now sits in your lap. Tough cat who has broken a leg and had his ear almost torn off several times. Sticks close to home these days.

Blue- the loudmouth who is definitely a people cat. He hollers when he wants something. Which is alot. Blue snuggles daily but did not like his one inside experience. We're gonna work on that. Blue has blue eyes (that are cross-eyed!). And his tongue is too long for his mouth. Can you say inbred?

?????- She is shy and tough and secretly likes attention. Great mouser. Every evening I convince her I am her friend and she trips me to keep me from going in. The next time I have to convince her again that I am friend. Very petite little thing.

WHAT SHOULD I NAME HER?

Catch of the Day

I am up to lunging Bec for 20 minutes every other day. She does not break a sweat but does warm up pretty good. Why only every other day, then? Well, maybe the following will answer that.



The fishing is good. This is what we caught this morning. We have a cooler full tonight, too. Yesterday was just as successful. I've been busy getting my fishin' in. Just one more week before school starts. Where did the summer go?

One thing is for sure. I had way too many days with multiple lame horses. Diesel's foot is healing slowly. Otherwise, he is good to go. Maybe next month I will be able to ride. So depressing.

Motor Running

Get your motor running.....

I got everyone's motor running today. Everyone meaning all four cats. Man....four. Pumpkin always loves attention. Nothing new there. But, Buddy- that is what is amazing. Bud sat in my lap until I could sit no more. He purred and hugged and incredibly....relaxed. Buddy may sound like the name of a pretty cool cat. He got it from me saying, "Look here, Buddy! You better be nice or I'll kick your bootie.". Or something like that. He has a reputation for turning on you and biting and scratching leaving ample blood trails. He has been a very good boy lately. Only took 2.5 years. Pumpkin and Buddy are best friends (old lovers before the chop chop). They live on my front porch.

Blue and his unnamed lady friend live near the horse barn. These are my newbies. I call them mine but they chose me so I guess I am theirs :) Blue is a talker who loves his attention. His lady friend is shy. And that is an understatement. Today she tried to trip me while I was heading back to the house. Wanted more of the luvin'. Course, 10 minutes later she acted like I was a stranger and made me sweet talk her again into being my friend. Then, how dare I leave? I like her. I am trying to decide if I can afford them or if I need to take them to the shelter. Since Lady Friend is warming up I need to make the decision soon. That was the goal. Make her nice enough to be adoptable. It will be hard. Note how she went from lady friend to Lady Friend. I just can't guarantee a good home unless they stay with me. Why don't people fix their animals?

Another motor got running today, too. Becca. She came running up for dinner with a few bucks thrown in. If she can do that, she can walk-trot in the round pen. She looked good. I lightly cantered her in both directions. She was not lame, just a bit stiff to the right. Normal. I don't dare call her healed as she still shows swelling just behind her withers. However, she will not be sound until I get the weight off. Gotta start somewhere. I would love to ride her bareback in the round pen but it is still too soon to add weight. The good new is that we are working on her chunky monkeyness. I am such a bad mom to let her get so fat. She still is only fed her handful of grain a day plus what she picks up from the dribble of the others (more than her portion!). Stays fat on air. I'd feed her no grain except I need her to come up at night to check her for boo boos. The pasture only has nub ums of grass. All 3 goofballs prefer to go out to eat than eat nice hay in the barn. It takes 3 days to finish 1 flake. Crazy.

Prissy also ran up bucking and kicking. She was not lame on that front, right leg. I'll give her a few more days to be sure but am glad to have a sound horse to ride. 'Bout time.

Nothing much else exciting going on. Stinky dog has been at it again. Her butt is on double time with the funk. I expressed her yesterday after she expressed twice. And today, she left a big, stinky butt goo stain on the couch. How gross? Dad tried to put her out with the trash. No one needs a dog that stinky. But, I love her. She stays. My life is blessed.

Good end.

Bad end.

Update

Long day...went to Angleton to choose every color in and out of my house. I went with all neutrals since I will never be able to change it. Very happy with my choices. Six months from now I will invite everyone to see it all.

Just got in. Diesel's swelling has changed but not gotten worse. It has spread out and is not as "tight". I will keep a close eye on it. He continues to get hydro-ed and mineral iced. I expect it to slowly return to normal.

A big thank you to my dad for traipsing out into the pasture at lunch to check on the boy. Proof that he really does like the big boy. Busted.

Geez...Gimme a break

Now what? My horses....Diesel...cough, cough.... officially have an electric fence inside of their fence to keep them from getting tangled in it. Hope to solve injury problems. So what else could go wrong?

First off, the mosquitos are insanely bad. The horses are covered in them. I have sprayed and rubbed them down with the best I have and have sprayed the barn. Needless to say, they are all lumpy from the bites.

Secondly, I went out this evening to find Diesel with a palm sized lump on his neck that was not only swollen but extended into a small vein running down his neck. It was raised almost 1/2 inch. Coincidentally, I removed a tick from this area yesterday. Not good.

I gave him 2 gm bute and hydro-ed the area for 15 minutes. I also put mineral ice on it to help reduce swelling. I will get up extra early tomorrow to check on him. If it is worse I will call the vet. Stay tuned. Drama galore.