The Saddlery

Climbing out of a Cold

2011-11-29T19:44:00.002-05:00

I have been deluged with fluid for days now. My eyes, mouth and nose are all running, coughing and leaking. The fever is gone, but my perky self hasn't come back yet.

I am embarrassed by this - it really is just a head cold. I am clearly not a good candidate for chronic illness. When I think of long suffering friends, like Blanche, my grandmother (heart issues for 20+ years), and anyone who has a real medical problem, I can only pray that if that happens to me, I will pluck it up and not whine.

Thanks to all of my family, shop friends/customers and anyone who has had to listen to me in the past few days. This is good practice for me, and all of you in the event, or for the inevitable future event that I really need your sympathy.

Furry faces

2011-11-27T09:31:00.004-05:00

Looks like winter will be vigorous this year. The ponies have such coats already.

The 60º weather in late November makes it hard to believe, but the coats don't get fooled.

Wow, new format got me stumped. Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-26T20:37:00.002-05:00

Go figure, I wanted to add another blurb, and the site had me flummoxed for 2 days.

So, I am a fan of Dusty. It has taken me a while to warm up to him. He tossed me but good very early in his training, and I have a long memory. After riding him a few weeks ago, I ignored him for quite a while again.

I love to ride on holidays - it makes me feel like all of the chores are worth it, and life is good. I had the feeling that a cold was coming (it did), and the time was short - the potatoes were simmering during my allotted riding time. Just as I rode out, the animal control fellow fussed about the neighbor's horses who had escaped once more time. I confess I pushed him off on my very responsible other neighbor, as I was already on board, and the potatoes wouldn't be okay for both the rescue and a ride out.

So Dusty and I went on our way, with lazy trotting and cantering up the road, round the cul de sac, and back home. No more than 30 minutes, I had enough of a hack to satisfy my holiday fix, and to grow in my appreciation of the big guy.

Just about now is when a great customer comes along to buy one of the ponies - I don't know how I really do this, actually, breeding and selling the darling ponies. It is so hard to say goodbye.

Breyer Fun Day and Santa's Workshop

2011-11-19T21:20:00.004-05:00

Great Day for kids at the shop. We have batches of kids all day, painting Breyer model horses and the new Model Horse Jumps. Blue was big in the theme today - had an amazing blue and green horse, and some beautiful blue standards.

Big thanks for Sue, Claire and Emma for playing with the kids, and helping the parents get shopping done.

Back again

2011-11-12T22:16:00.002-05:00

Hard to keep up with this - nice to be back. Dusty has been a good boy, ambling down the neighborhood. He rides like a warmblood - lift to the trot and nice long canter.

He was such a good boy at WIHS, warming up in the show ring. I really wasn't eager to take him around. He was very poky, needing lots of leg. He was willing to go over all of the jumps, but never so eager that I had to hold him. He felt safe.

Safe is a good attribute for a pony, especially a top line large.

Shadbelly, Flip flops, Ariat WEG, Dansko sandals.

2011-09-23T22:04:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow's Turner Show Canceled

2011-09-23T22:01:00.002-04:00

Bummer! I spent hours in the drizzle this morning working on the course, and setting jumps. We got all of the angles down and the strides perfect. Quick trip home to peel the drenched clothes off before heading to the shop for afternoon sales duty.

By 3 pm, it was really raining, and I started getting the calls. The food vendor was reluctant, not wanting to come in from Warrenton for a low turn out rainy show. The judge wondered, the show manager wondered, all with gloomy thoughts about the rain.

I called a trainer, and she said she wasn't coming - rather show inside on the wet days. Who can blame anyone for that? So we punted. No real way to reschedule, next show coming up in 3 Saturdays.

Grumpy times, my back stiffened up from lugging jumps around. The ring does look awesome. I'm trying not to think about having to haul the show stuff out of there tomorrow.

After that, I hope it does rain tomorrow. No rain would be worse.

Nice ride on Dusty

2011-09-04T18:06:00.002-04:00

Early Sunday morning, I decided this would be the day. I have trouble selling ponies, and sold two last month in Lexington. I did ride Pixie a few weeks ago, pulling her out of the pasture at the last second, and competing in the Handy Hunter Show at Turner Farm, sponsored by the Fairfax Hunt.

That didn't really count in my crazy way of mourning sold ponies. Last time I sold Rosy, I didn't ride for about 6 months. I have a hard time riding a bunch at once, and bond with the one I am training, almost like being monogamous.

Despite all that, I tacked Dusty up before breakfast, and we walked down the road. We trotted up the grassy places beside the road, and walked around mailboxes. Dusty did his nervous pooping - any transition or change and he's pooping. I may add that he has had at least a month off. We got into a good rhythm, and his trot is really nice.

I have more ideas now, on tweaking his training. He's got pretty cold sides, so I am thinking of using 2 dressage whips so a leg first, and then tickle him so he gets more responsive. We'll have to see if he can figure that out. Don't want him psycho. He also needs better brakes, more of an education than stronger bit.

Bottom line, I think I am over the mourning process, and can start having fun training again.

July 4th preparations

2011-07-01T16:41:00.008-04:00

Taking a sweaty break from weeding, since we have a big party of family and friends on Monday. The weeds look like I have had 4 ponies showing this spring, and no time for plants of any kind.

This is what I have done today, so far.

This is what lies ahead, and were the other side came from.

I am not particularly a plant person, although I do try to populate the home with colorful bushes and flowers. I have a feeling that this azelea grouping is not going to make it, being July 1, when they are usually green bushy things.

Rosy in the evening

2011-05-17T22:09:00.003-04:00

So Rosy was a bit forward with Liv at Frying Pan the other day. I am doing a holistic approach. She has been on a diet (no grass) and not many trail rides.

The Sarah cure is lots of grass with brother Dusty, who actually needs to gain a bit, and praying for no founder. The second phase is roads and tracks in the neighborhood. It has the dual benefit of endearing us riders to the community, and of shaking out the cobwebs of the wired show pony.

The long canters in front of the pond were nice - a bit fast, but easy to come back to a lazy walk. We'll see how the cure works for the lessons tomorrow, hoping for a relaxed quiet, tolerant ride for the young ladies.

Nikki and Turner Farm

2011-04-15T08:33:00.007-04:00

Nikki Turner was born in 1993, and grew up on her family farm, in Great Falls, Virginia. As other children in the small town, she went to Forestville Elementary, Cooper Middle School, and on to Langley High School. But Nikki was special - she was the 6^th generation of Turners to live at the intersection of Springvale and Georgetown Pike.

Back in 1869, John Turner bought the farm, and the current farmhouse was built in 1892. His grandson, Mark Turner, bought 163 acres from him in 1920,

selling 11 acres to the US Government for the Nike Control Site in 1955. Established during the Cold War to defend Washington from Soviet air attack, this Control Site helped form a ring of Nike missile complexes to protect Washington, D. C. Upon his death in 1959, Mark’s son, Mark Turner, Jr. continued to operate the farm.

The next big change came in 1973, when he sold 100 acres, forming the Falls Manor Subdivision. Following in the family tradition, his son, Mark III, raised his fam

ily at the farm, along with his wife, Jo, daughter, Nikki, and son, Mark IV.

Nikki and Mark loved growing up on the farm. The farm was wooded, including the area that was later cleared for the ring and parking lot. Mark rode dirt bikes through the property, and Nikki, a horse enthusiast, enjoyed riding through the property. The extended family gathered at the farm for holidays, Nikki especially remembers July 4^th celebrations, where the family had lots of private land for exciting firework displays. Nikki pursued her passion for riding, competing in the hunter circuit, travelling to local shows at Morven and Frying Pan Parks, and beyond.

Reluctant to watch the encroaching development of Great Falls, Mark and his family decided in 1997 to sell all but 3 acres of their land to the Fairfax County Park Authority for a local equestrian park. The family continued to live on the farm, and Nikki and Mark grew up watching Turner Farm Park develop before their eyes. Big changes happened, with trees cleared for the riding ring and parking lot, trails established and the cross country course taking shape. Continuing to love horseback riding, Nikki brought her chestnut mare, Carolina, a 15.2h show hunter, home to live on the farm.

Just last August, Nikki and her family sold the last 3 acres to Fairfax County Park Authority, and moved farther west to Lovettesville, Virginia. Nikki continues to show her new mare, Nellie, a 16.2h dark bay show hunter in the Schooling Hunter Division.

Rosy and Doser at PG Show

2011-04-09T21:26:00.007-04:00

We took off this morning early for the Maryland National Show at PG Equestrian Center. Doser came along, he's Ashley's jumper pony.

The pony jumpers went first, in a smaller ring next to the old track. There were 3 jumper ponies, a paint, an app, and Doser, a chestnut. Doser is a 17 yr old gelding, who spends most his time as a lesson pony. They don't warm him up much, just a walk around and a couple of jumps. Once he gets in the ring, he is totally on. He's hopping, bouncing and eager to run. He pulled a few rails at 3' and 3'3", but at 3'6", he was king. He tore around the course in great time, everything still up. They took the reserve ribbon, well deserved.

A long wait for Rosy's Large Green division, but she warmed up quietly, and was a great girl all day long. Once she was braided and fairly white, we spent the rest of the day trying to keep her that way. She is really good at winning the warm up, which she did today. That was her best ribbon. Two 2nds, a 3rd and a 4th, just out of reserve.

No serious crimes, just a couple of rubs and a chip on the last fence in the 3rd jumping class - it had been an awesome round, probably a blue ribbon round. What can you say? It is such a milli second sport - one moment of inattention, or minor mistake, and the rest of your perfect performance is toast.

We are preoccupied with reserve or champion, as that is a free pass to Pony Finals, our goal for Ashley this show year. It is hard to have such a goal, as the improvements and good things that are happening are always measured against the elusive goal. And that goal is a bit luck, or chance, as each show depends on how many folks appear, and how good they all are. Like today was a good shot, as the distances seemed shorter - a lot of pon

ies were having trouble keeping the strides short enough for the fences, not the usual problem in greens.

I was decked out in the latest from Goode Rider, and turned quite a few heads with the tangerine jacket and boots. Some girls asked where I got the cool boots - I announced that I owned The Saddlery, and that they were the latest in from Goode Rider - it went over well.

Pixie's babies came home!

2011-03-23T23:12:00.002-04:00

We have a barn full of Pixie and her babies. I picked up Dusty, 7 yr old g , from Mychelle's, so now we have 11 yr old Rosy, 4 yr old Socks and 7 month old Cinco all here. Nice to see them all together.

I am not sure Pixie loves it - since Cinco was just weaned, she's stuck in the paddock by the barn, not turned out with the rest.

We had a good time down at the ring this afternoon, with Rosy liking her filed down teeth, and going peacefully around. Dusty was a good boy, not spooky, and jumping around like a pro. Socks was racing around on the lunge, we're still trying to get him in a good quiet frame. I am feeding them all like crazy, so it's hard to behave.

I waited until the storm passed and then put the kids out. Actually, I waited until my boy was done with viola practice, reading and prayers, then went down to the barn. By then, the storm had passed.

Cinco is really busy doing that jaw wiggling thing that tells the grown ups he's just a kid. So far so good. He's cleaning up the grain and beet pulp like the rest, plumping up nicely.

Got the Brown's for Upperville!

2011-03-20T20:30:00.002-04:00

Great day! I sat on Socks for the first time - he was great - no problem. I didn't stay on long, but he felt fine. He's a bit of a bully, so I have to work on his manners, and personal space.

I also called Oliver Brown, and they are going to handle Cinco at the futurity! He is such a cute boy, and I am so glad that he will get a real good look from the judges. I've got to work hard at getting him fat and shiny by early June.

Great day. I did take Socks down to the ring and lunge him while Rosy was a really quiet good girl. He was well behaved and went both ways, with only a few looks into the middle. He was pretty tired - a really good way to back him. Big thanks to Ashley and Mychelle for support!

Wait, it's 30º again?

2011-03-20T08:43:00.002-04:00

The past few days have been delightful - 60's and 70's. I put a sheet on Rosy for the night, thinking that would be fine.

Came in this am, to find the sheet around her neck, and 30º. SHe wasn't shivering, but she gave me the look. I snuggled her into the medium to warm her up. She was fine after a belly full of breakfast.

Poor Rosy - who knew?

Tribute to Sydney Brigham, St. Tims, 1974

2011-02-25T20:58:00.005-05:00

I was sixteen and had ridden tons of other people’s naughty ponies in hunter shows. I felt sure that I could ride any horse. I decided it was time to dive into riding, big time. When it came time to find a school, I fell in love with St. Timothy’s School (St. Tim’s) in Stevenson, Maryland. The rolling hills, cross country course, huge ring and pleasant stables were perfect. I would live there, and ride every day – as close to heaven as you could get, or so I imagined. I talked my folks into the plan, packed up my life and arrived, itching to jump into riding.

Miss Sydney Brigham was the mistress of the riding program. She was a short, gruff perfectionist, with a fine assortment of school horses. Full of confidence, I burst into her world, completely unprepared for the education I would get.

I rode Mickey first. A nice looking chestnut with chrome, he did come with a martingale – not so common in that time. I mounted and we walked up the hill to the ring, with the other young ladies. Miss Brigham (as she was always referred to) instructed me to drop my stirrups and take the rail to the left. Mickey wouldn’t. He just didn’t move. Miss Brigham didn’t say much, just recommended leg. I was banging him with my legs, sweating and feeling so foolish. Finally, I got him to walk. I pulled on the right rein, and his neck bent around to the right, while he continued walking left. I looked down at him, astonished. Then he stopped. I went through the legs banging on his sides, and eventually produced another walk. Again, the reins didn’t work. His neck was rubber, I decided. I refused to give up, and spent the first day trying to track left at the walk. Mickey won all day.

So for 2 weeks Mickey and I dueled at the walk. The martingale helped keep me sane. I eventually figured out that if I planted my hands on the martingale and used my legs with vigor, I could get him to go where I asked. Any big movement of my hands, and the rubber neck came back. Once we were successfully walking where I wanted, Miss Brigham started working on my posture (I rounded my shoulders). It took a full month of 5 days a week to master the walk with Mickey. It was hard to report back to the family, it was hard to believe – I spent a whole month walking – who does that?

We progressed quickly from there to the sitting trot, and my midsection learned how to absorb the trot, while maintaining my posture. For the first week or so, we ran into the canter, due, I am sure, to my less than precise aids, but by Thanksgiving, we were a team. I no longer needed the martingale to steady my hands, and could sweet talk Mickey into all of the gaits, circles, serpentines and whatever else I asked. I had arrived, and asked if I could move on to another mount. Miss Brigham agreed to let me ride Shannon.

Shannon was a drafty appaloosa looking horse, high strung and fiery where Mickey was placid. I mounted up with excitement at the new challenge. Shannon jigged. Nonstop. He managed to jig at an incredibly slow pace – he would not walk. We entered the ring, and, when asked, he started trotting. What suspension – he bounced me way up with each stride. He was a coiled spring, behind the bit, and my pulling on the reins wouldn’t stop him. As the lesson progressed, I really thought he might bounce me off his back. A wake up call – clearly I was not ready for Shannon.

During the course of that first year, I can’t remember all of the wonderful gentlemen (Miss Brigham liked geldings) that I rode. They taught me humility and sensitivity to their unique personalities. I learned to listen, and feel, and appreciate the nuances of each horse. Eventually, I rode Shannon again, and learned to relax and soothe him with my legs and seat. We went on a trail ride, and he walked. I was so proud. Funny how the first month of torture walking with Mickey, became a victory with Shannon. Miss Brigham and her horses were the same – I had changed. I still felt like I could ride any horse, but realized that it took time - I had to listen, feel, and be part of them, not impose my way on them. Nice life lesson, thanks to Miss Brigham, Mickey, Shannon and the rest.

Swan Lake Show

2011-02-20T21:15:00.003-05:00

Rosy and Ashley did well today. Rosy stood quietly for braiding this morning, and looked pretty spif. The shaved patches on her neck (from iv's in December) are still there, but not too bad.

Once we arrived at Swan Lake, I rode Rosy around the farm, and found the outdoor ring. She circled around the ring, with all of it's many distractions, and behaved well. She did a triple take on a cute white pony up on the hill. She looks hard at small white ponies - I wonder if she thinks she will find her sister, Sprinkles, somewhere.

The rounds were good, and she got all her changes and strides. Yeah!! She pulled a rail in the first round, but picked her feet up nicely after that. The hack was tough - she was good, but it wasn't easy to beat the long-legged awesome movers in her division.

She was thirsty, and drank a bucket of water before the hack. She drank another 1/2 bucket at home, so hopefully she has taken care of any muscle issues. She's out tonight, with a low of 40º, much better than the last show, with a 19º low after a vigorous ride. All in all a good day.

Blustery Day

2011-02-19T07:52:00.002-05:00

Winds are howling and we lost power briefly last night. I thought we were showing today, turns out it was a typo - the show is tomorrow, on Sunday. I am getting used to the idea, especially since the trees are whistling and roaring all around.

This is the season of crazy - weather, hormones, shaking out the winter, shedding out, and little buds popping out on the trees. Crazy and busy - we're starting a weight gain program for Pixie especially, and I need to get Fernando, the dentist, out here for everyone. Spring shots Coggins are coming soon, getting ready for the new year.

Grass will be poking up, pastures greening up and buds on the trees. It looks good out, even just hoping for the warm weather.

Rosy and Socks, nice ride

2011-02-16T18:47:00.002-05:00

Pleasant day, in the 40's, but still nice. We had a brisk walk down to the ring, and Socks was a good boy. Mychelle spun him around, and we were again impressed by his athleticism, getting changes with fluid motion. He settled in and has nice gaits - fun to see him growing up.

Rosy and Ashley did well, riding the rest of the ring and doing some small courses. Rosy was distracted by a boogey man somewhere up the hill, but Ashley brought her back to jumping and swapping leads. Spring is in the air!

So we have the farrier on Friday, and hopefully the dentist soon - it's been longer than it should have been. We're thinking of having 3 to show at different levels this spring. Hope the market improves - they will all be ready to go this year!

Lovely Ride in the 60º weather

2011-02-14T22:59:00.002-05:00

Love this weather - a bit windy, but who can complain about 60º? Rosy and I had a pleasant ride, slowly getting in shape for the Swan Lake show on Saturday.

We are riding every day - just a bit, and lots of hills to stretch her out and get the big muscles moving. She is a touch flighty, but the wind is blowing, and spring is in the air.

I trimmed her growing coat, and even got the tuft on her ear the other day. Her tail has grown beautifully with the winter blanket on - no way to rub it on the fence. I have to figure out a good way to keep her off it.

Hope all goes well - it has been terrific to ride. Even 30 minutes in the saddle makes me so much nicer.

Spring Joules in today

2011-02-02T22:33:00.003-05:00

Great hopes for spring - we received the shipment 2 months early, with snow on the ground and 25º at night. But - nice bright colors and snappy styles are a real pick me up at the shop.

We are juggling to present the new clothes nicely. We still have some winter things, and plan to discount them at the sale, coming up Feb. 26 to Mar. 6. In the meantime, the spring clothes deserve the place of honor at the front of the shop - the colors really pop.

Joules is a nice line, but they have very confusing names and product codes - Megan perservered and I finished up, so everything has a label. We're getting better - used to take days. Got to get some photos in here!

Socks, Rosy's little brother

2011-01-21T08:04:00.004-05:00

We took Socks on a little trip to the ring the other day. He was headstrong with Mychelle - not sure why. He's usually sweet.

We walked by the dogs (5 with some yapping), thru the field, around the pond with geese, and finally to the ring. He figured out lunging, kind of. As he went, the trot lengthened and after the bucks were out, the canter covered ground nicely. He's very athletic - bucks were high and twisty.

Practically speaking, a good first trip out, in the warm but still 40º weather. He looks better than his shaggy appearance, and shows promise at 14.1h and a bit. Maybe we'll show him in the VPBA young division - hacking and conformation, all 4 and under. Still hoping for spring, and calmer weather!

Winter tights in, again

2011-01-17T10:46:00.002-05:00

We digging for warm things at this time of year. The suppliers hope that they have sold all their wares by now - no one wants to be stuck with winter tights when the weather turns.

Glad to say that Kerrits had some to send us, so we have all sizes of ladies and kids filled up again. Some folks are starting the winter with new riding lessons, or realized that the fleecy tights they bought in September for their kids just don't reach down to the ankles any more.

Spectacular Roekel polar-tek gloves came in last week, and are almost gone - they are amazingly warm, yet still give a good feel of the reins. Got to get more of those, too, whatever they have left.

Zooming thru January, hoping for March, still got February to go. Ugh - trying to appreciate and enjoy each day - hard to do with chilly farm work and bleak skies.

Rosy in the barn

2011-01-13T20:40:00.002-05:00

Rosy's looking cosy in the barn. I gathered my freezing self and ran down to the barn with the dogs. I tossed a couple of bales to the wooly beasts, and brought poor clipped Rosy in the barn.

17º is too cold to be out with a silly blanket between you and the windy night. I really don't like to be cold, so this voyage was a true gift to the ponies. They do nicker and nuzzle, so I feel appreciated. I feel like a wimp, what can I say?

Bone chilling experience - come on spring!

Cold day for a Ride

2010-12-08T22:30:00.004-05:00

Rosy was shivering this morning - she had 2 layers and a neck covering, but was still cold. I loaded her up with more, and put her out in the sunshine.

By mid afternoon she was happy - plenty of sun and hay, and ready to be ridden. We stripped off the layers, and tacked her up. First time in work in a month. Ash rode her thru the freezing ground, past the pond, and the 100 Canadian geese that showed up today.

Frisky, but no serious trouble, they trotted endless circles til Rosy was mildly listening. They started popping over small jumps, then lines and finally courses. Changes were there, and Rosy was jumping big. We ended with Rosy a bit tired, and going on a loose rein.

Great way to make the transition from wild woman in the pasture to show pony. Just in time for the December Classic in 2 days...

Clipping Saga

2010-11-29T22:38:00.003-05:00

Clipping Rosy has been everlasting. I got her 1/2 way done, starting, as usual, after the babies were down for the night. The clippers got hot, and she got antsi, so I stopped for the night.

Next day, or so, I forgot to tighten everything, and the blades fell off, and the little nut looking part got lost in the sawdust. My fit-it-all hubby pondered for about a week, while I made plans to get a nut thing from somewhere, and forgot them during normal times of the day.

Amazing hubby finally cut one in the workshop and put the clippers back together. I resumed clipping, and did all I could with the big clippers. The small ones had bum blades. A few more days, and I finally got most of her done, just one little ear left.

I am really right handed, so the near ear is really hard. Holding her, buzzing that close to her ear, using the left hand - it hasn't come together. Rosy is due to be Mary's mount in the Christmas pageant in 4 days. Deadlines are good - all sorts of creative solutions arise when the pressure is on.

I think the plan will involve a morning workout, food and quick hands. Daylight is great for seeing what needs to be done, food soothes her soul, and she's not the fastest around. So I'll ride early, cool her down, ply her with grain, and sneak in while she is distracted. Just one little ear left!

Blue Dust (Cinco)

2010-11-21T22:01:00.007-05:00

So our baby colt, born Cinco de Mayo, 2010, is officially Blue Dust. His dad is Blue Rain, and mom is Pixie Dust, so the name was our first choice. Now 6 months old, he is growing like a weed.

He definitely likes being out better than in, and has grown quite a shaggy coat for the winter.

He's qualified for the 2011 VPBA Futurity in June at the Loudoun Benefit Show, so we'll get him fat and sleek by then.

Meanwhile, he's hanging out with mom, and enjoying life.

Puppies Doubled in Weight!

2010-11-21T21:52:00.003-05:00

Both pups are growing nicely, the boy still bigger than the girl. We take them out to cuddle and they go around in circles with each other - so cute!

Their eyes are still closed, so they swim around, pushing with their legs, but not really knowing where they are going. In a few days, we should see their eyes peering out. I love watching them grow.

Mom leaves for brief times to play with the pack, but rushes back quickly to hang with the babies.

Puppies

2010-11-10T07:35:00.003-05:00

It was almost time for Coco to have her pups, so I put together the swimming pool, the 2' dog fence, water and food in the kitchen. Not a big kitchen, so the breakfast table shrank, and we all squeezed in.

Coco is so energetic, and bouncy, I thought we had a few days left. I was inside, getting ready to bring Rosy in for the night, when I heard the growling and high squeaks in the garage. Panicked, I got lights going - bulbs were out, so there was crashing about and cursing as I moved bikes and tried to find the mom and baby. One little brown pup was squeaking and cold as all get out. We rushed mom and baby inside, rubbing, and toweling off the baby.

Heater plugged in, rubbing, licking (by mom) and the little girl warmed up and squeaked less. Coco pushed out another pup, that brown boy didn't respond, no wiggling, no breaths. A second boy came, a black one, no life. Really tough - tried to expel the mucus, hoping, but nothing there.

One more pup, a black boy came, wiggling and squeaking right away. 8 hours later both pups are fine, warm and snuggling with mom. She went reluctantly out to pee, then rushed back in. Her first time losing any - not easy for anybody. But the two are doing great, and mom has lots of milk.

Chamilia is here!!

2010-11-03T23:15:00.003-04:00

Overwhelmed with marketing stuff, instructions that are almost right, and tons and tons of charms, bracelets, earrings and necklaces.

Life goes on at the shop, despite big deliveries, so we had a great day selling stuff - with many thing working out just perfectly. One young lady came in for tall boots, and ended up with a very custom fit with some Ariat Crowne Pro boots that had been in the shop for years, just waiting for her. Who knew that the size 7 1/2, full calf, extra tall boots would fit a lithe young lady with a 26" Pikeur waist? Maybe you have to be in the business of equestrian retail to get that one...

But the little charms are making their way into our newly redone jewelry cases, sku by sku. I called Fiona, the awesome lady who sat with me for 3 hours to get the opening order just right. She's getting a aubergine bracelet for that amazing consultation! We have big plans for this new sparkly line of personal jewelry - each bead carries special meaning, and the combinations are a tribute to the loves and accomplishments of the wearer. Can't wait to share this!

Rosy at Full Circle Farm show

2010-11-03T23:10:00.002-04:00

Rosy took off at 6:30 am for the trip out to Bluemont on Saturday, Oct. 30, loaded up in the dark by Liz. Once at the show, Liz rode her til she was walk trot ready, and saying she had a good time riding our lady.

Kiddo (I wasn't there and have forgotten the little girl's name) rode her well, with only one hands in the belly harsh stop. They won a lot, and ended up Grand Champion!

Go Rosy and good little kid rider!

Chamilia coming soon!

2010-10-28T22:23:00.009-04:00

At the Bradley Caldwell trade show in August, they gave me a couple of Chamilia bracelets and 6 beads. I have 3 cute ponies, a puppy and 2 cats in the bunch.

I love these beads! I started looking into carrying them in the shop.

After getting input from our lovely ladies in the shop, and from customers, I decided to make the plunge, and add Chamilia charms, bracelets and all.

Big thanks to Fiona, who sat with me for 3 hours to customize our opening order.

The first shipment is on it's way, and I can't wait. We are going thru training next week, and will be able to help design amazing personal charm bracelets, earrings and necklaces.

Southdown Show

2010-10-15T22:38:00.002-04:00

Rosy and Liv are partnering up again for another Short Stirrup event at Southdown Farm. It will be an interesting juggle to get it all together.

Rosy has had a break since the Ride for the Cure, so a week off. I'd love to ride tomorrow, just to warm her up to the riding thing. It would be great if I bathed her so she was partly white, at least, before show day. Need to stick church in at 5:30, although I am on at the shop from 2 to 6. Thanks, Sue, once again... Not sure how all this plays out.

Sunday at 7:15 am, I am loading Rosy up and heading off to Southdown, less than 5 miles from home. I will ride the pretty lady and warm her up for Liv. Meanwhile, a friend, Kim, will take the trailer to pick up 2 of hers. Then I need a ride home to pick up my car and the little football player. He's got to be at Marshall HS by 10 am.

After the 10:30 am anklebiter game, back home and hitch another ride to Southdown. Rosy back on board, and back to the farm. Hopefully Kim will have hers back home by then.

Ash may come over to ride Rosy - another show next weekend - Regional qualifyer. Sounds crazy!

2010-10-13T14:27:00.004-04:00

Megan grew up in Ashton, Maryland, near Sandy Springs, where New Hampshire Avenue meets Rt. 108, at the Montgomery County and Howard County line. It was a lovely, semi-rural adventure land, with rolling hills, big wooded lots, streams and plenty of horse trails.

By the time she reached Sherwood High School, Megan had a sweet grey mare, named Grey Mare (she came with the name), and Casey, a 14.3h almost black gelding, and a pesky little sister. Grey Mare and Casey were both Heinz 57, or mutts.

During the school year, Megan came home from school and sports, and hopped on Casey bareback. She took to the trails for an hour or more, up and down hills, through creeks and open meadows. A great blast was chasing deer – they would run for a while, then freeze, thinking you couldn’t see them. A bit of a holler, or clapping, and the chase would continue. Endless hours passed in those woods, forgetting all troubles.

One trouble was little sister. She was always looking for ways to get under her older sister’s skin. Megan joined Redland Hunt Pony Club and made her way through D to almost C level. Little sister wasn’t as serious a rider but she would hang out with a friend named Kristin. Kristin was big into horses and riding. That brought Steve, Kristin’s brother, into the picture.

Steve was Megan’s most critical admirer. She didn’t get it at the time, but his incessant sarcasm, his mean spirited jibes and relentless hen picking drove her to distraction. Not one to let a comment lie, she defended herself vigorously. Little sister got along great with Steve – they were on the same side! Megan disliked that boy!

Megan took off for Rollins College, in Winter Park, Florida. With lots of warnings, she left the strictest instructions that little sister was not to ride her Casey. Getting used to dorm life a month into the semester, she received a sheepish call on the dorm hall phone from little sister. Little sister had invited the arch enemy, Steve, for a ride through the woods. She put him up on Casey, and rode out astride Grey Mare. Casey, knowing full well that Megan was not there to do the deed herself, scraped Steve into a tree and moseyed on home. Little sis was stuck trying to get Steve out of the tree and back home. Ever grateful to Casey, Megan bust out laughing at his on target treatment of Steve – leaving him high and dry in a tree.

Ride for the Cure - great time

2010-10-11T20:45:00.013-04:00

So I talked to some folks, and they said that Snickersville hunt was awesomely crazy and went for huge jumps. I did get the look and talk about what would be so wise. On Saturday, the first flight only had 7 adventurous folk.

The WTC had more than 30, as explained by a courageous woman, leading the WTC group. The day was spectacular, the country gorgeous and the company wonderful.

They had cheerful greeters, who gave us a backpack full of treats, coupons and t shirts.

In the face of all that, I caved. WTC for Rosy and me - challenge enough with a herd of 30+. They staged us at the Don's John - the one place everybody could find.

Off we went for 2 hours of walking, trotting, cantering, and yes, there were gallops. All went spectacularly, nobody hurt, all home dog tired, pleased to have had so much fun for such a good cause.

Ride for the Cure - First Flight??

2010-10-02T09:31:00.002-04:00

Rosy and I are eager to go on the ride next Saturday. Actually she has no clue.

I am wondering if we can do the first flight - cantering up and down hills, with walls and coops, probably 3'3". I would love to, and Rosy is a bold and competent jumper. The safer way is to do the walk trot canter with optional log jumps.

Last time I hunted was at age 16, going with a friend's father in Middleburg. It was a blast, riding a big 16+ h horse with a huge bit. He was a perfect gentleman, and floated over everything.

That was my one and only time, so a good but very distant memory. I don't think I will come off, or Rosy will not be able to carry me - just need to figure out what is smart and fun at the same time... not easy.

Middleburg Classic

2010-09-26T18:40:00.006-04:00

Up early to grab Rosy out of the field for her morning bath. She looked fine on one side, but was muddy on the other. Quic Silver worked wonders with some warm water.

Ran over to take 9 year old to Sunday School in Vienna, skipping out on the Sunday Adult class - one can only do so much.

Back to the farm, and off to Morven Park for the Middleburg Classic. Morven is close, but it seemed more important when we went down to Great Meadows for the show. Sprinkling for the car ride, the sky cleared by the time we were ready to ride.

Rosy fell in love with a pony we brought along, so had separation anxiety, hollered and kept looking up the hill for that palomino. 30 minutes of dedicated pattern riding (don't think you can say dressage at a hunter show) at the trot and canter settled her nicely.

Up to the pony ring, where she hung out til Children's Large and Local Pony happened. Great ponies and kids showed up, with most of the trainers I know bringing kids - Kim, Anika, Mike, Robin, Tom.

Despite the company, Rosy did well - she didn't like the banners at the end of the ring, but by the 2nd trip, they weren't so scary. 2 pinks over fences in Children's OF, a 3rd and 4th in Locals, 8th US.

Big thanks to Ashley for riding, and Mychelle for braiding. Back home by 5, great to be showing close by.

Great turn out for the Anniversary Sale!

2010-09-12T22:29:00.003-04:00

What a great turn out for the sale. We had a good line before opening at 10, and the folks just kept coming. Bless Meghan for bringing Callie for the first hour, and for staying 2 hours later. Another blessing for Rebecca and Bob for coming early, and then coming back for the last couple of hours. Big thanks to our gimpy Sue, there all day Saturday, and back again for Sunday.

Boots, helmets, show jackets, show shirts, summer tops, all flying out of the shop. Best sale weekend in a while - I am so pleased that we had good stuff, and folks came out for the sale, ready to get great new things.

The sale goes on for the week, thru next weekend, and I sure hope the stuff we ordered last week and the week before comes in soon. I'd love to have more on hand for the crowds! Thanks, again, to great staff, and customers - good combo!

Rosy is a dream

2010-09-08T19:29:00.002-04:00

Wow, even though the weather was breezy and she felt like spooking, Rosy was terrific. She got into a good frame, and jumped around the 2.6' course with no trouble.

We put poles down, just to give her the hint for doing changes, and she didn't even need them. Pretty good for a month off with no serious riding! Actually maybe that's why it was easy - no pressure.

So I am not looking forward to the clipping and blanketing for the winter. I may try to clip around the ears and fetlocks, and blanket so her coat doesn't get too crazy. I am guessing that by October 22 for Local Day she will need a clip.

Worth a try - then I can ooze her out of the blanket and let her be wild till spring. Dream on, I know.

Babies and Ponies

2010-09-05T20:42:00.002-04:00

We took a short - 24 hour - trip to visit our engineer in training going to ODU in Norfolk. Great time visiting Walmart and catching up with our student. No hurricane, despite the big press.

So the daughter took care of the dogs, cats and ponies with her 3 year old boy. We have a sweet apple tree that has nice hard red apples just a perfect size for feeding ponies. They are a bit misshapen, due to our organic farming, with some little spots where the worms have come and hopefully gone. So the little darling boy picks apples with mom to give to the ponies. So cute.

The ponies look pretty big to the 3 year old, so some get tossed or dropped at the last moment. Actually, if you get down to the 28" height and look up at a large pony, their nostrils, lips and teeth look pretty big. Anyway, the ponies got lots of tasty apples and enough grain and grass to keep them chubby.

So great to have help for a short trip, with the 5 ponies, 2 cats, 5 dogs - not everyone can deal with it all. Thanks!

Saddlery in The Connection Newspaper!

2010-09-05T20:39:00.002-04:00

Fly Predators

2010-08-27T22:20:00.004-04:00

Last batch of fly predators came and I spread them around the farm. It was a nice morning walk around the pastures and barn. The ponies were munching on their morning grain, so Coco Puff and I sailed around by ourselves, looking for piles, and letting the little bugs go.

We really don't have flies - I guess it's hard to believe, but the little predators really keep the flies at bay. We've been releasing them for over 5 years, and don't see many flies, ever.

The evening and morning air is colder now, and Rosy is growing more of a coat. I have to really think about showing her at Zone finals - weekend of Oct. 22-24. By then I will have to clip and blanket to keep her presentable. She is quite a hairy beast, with all that Welsh blood.

The shop's advertising - providing water bottles and apples at the in gate for the weekend, so it would be cool to show there, too.

For now, I just have to slug out to the barn for evening duties in the cool, almost autumn air. Fall is great - cooling temperatures but grass still green.

Hunt Stuff

2010-08-20T21:32:00.003-04:00

We're advertising in the Hunt directory this year, and Jane from England, - who talked me into this - is really pepped up about The Saddlery carrying hunt stuff.

I'm getting sandwich boxes from Tory Leather - a nice US company with awesome leather goods made here in the USA. Hunt whip is coming from another US company, Northrun Saddlery, in Ashland, Va.

I tried to get some cubbing and regular hunt coats, as well as some white hunt shirts, but ran out of time at the trade show. Actually, I went to the supplier they recommended, but encountered a young, pretty ditz who didn't know the good stuff. I didn't make it back to get the scoop on the good stuff. No point in getting almost the right stuff - folks have a right to the real right stuff.

The quest for the real right stuff is on. A few key phone calls Monday should get me straight.

Trade Show in Pa.

2010-08-17T22:21:00.003-04:00

3 whirlwind days at the convention hall. More of a converted airplane hangar, but tons of equestrian vendors, all wanting me to shop with them. Rebecca couldn't make it - pinkeye - so I went solo once more.

Many familiar faces and booths, as I strode here and there watching fashion shows and hearing pitches. I stopped in at some favorite booths - Frederique had her always surprising combination of old and new. This time I picked up a pyramid shaped teapot, and a coffee table with a lovely riding scene painted on the table top. She is so creative, I am floored.

After the response at Ladies Nite, I upped my Goode Rider order for fall, including some gorgeous cashmere sweaters that are soft and yummy. Can't wait - I've been looking for nice sweaters, so these are a welcome addition to our fall clothing.

All in all good, Joules for spring will be fun, more kids stuff this year, making up for the underbuying this spring. So tough for me to figure out in August what folks will want next spring and summer. With production schedules and the vagaries of cross continental manufacturing, booking clothes seasons ahead is a reality - just hard to have the vision.

Beach!

2010-08-03T14:54:00.002-04:00

After 10 days at the beach, I am relaxed, tanner, and starting to wonder how all the ponies and puppies are doing. Sometimes taking care of everybody takes up so much time, I lose track of appreciating them. Vacation is so good.

My first few days were spent sleeping and pretending not to sleep while reading. We gather with lots of family, half a block from the boardwalk, so beach, meal planning, preparation and eating takes most of the time. As we recover our sleep, the days move to bike riding, tennis, and Funland.

The second week, grandchildren descended, so we have 5 under the age of 6, with heavy weighting 3 and under. So far the balance has worked out perfectly - the 7 month old isn't crawling, the almost two year is afraid enough of the water, the 2 3 year olds are old enough to usually listen, and the 5 year old has respect for the ocean. We are reveling in the dynamics - so much nicer at the ocean when the children are not suicidal.

I am getting itchy for the ponies and puppies, so it will be a good trip home, with plans for the fall, and renewed vigor for riding Rosy til she moves to a new home. Vacation is truly worth gold.

Frying Pan - Mark Wonderly Show

2010-07-21T21:26:00.007-04:00

Great Day at Frying Pan Park - thanks to Mark for a pleasant day showing local hunters. It was hot, so jackets were excused for the day.

Rosy and Liv had a nice, quiet time in Short Stirrup, with some ribbons to help them feel good about each other.

Liv spent at least an hour on Rosy's back - her only complaint was that Rosy was lopsided - never moved, but resting one leg.

Lann and Rosy entered the Pleasure Division, Pony Eq and Pony Hunter. They got along well, and had a relaxed and productive day, taking home 3 ribbons, as well.

After the show, Rosy went to camp with Carol, and the girls. They had a great time, riding every day. Turnout was limited, so Rosy hung out in the stall at camp. She remained cheerful, just like at a big show, where turnout doesn't happen.

Rosy came back tonight, happy and tired. She was glad to roll in the grass, and canter about the fields with the family. She goes out with her mom, her 3 year old brother, Socks, and 2 month old brother, Cinco.

Day before Frying Pan

2010-07-17T22:42:00.002-04:00

Exhausting day.

Up early to snag Rosy and give her a quick bath. Ponies fed and watered, dewormed, picked out the stall (Rosy only one in). Gathered trash, loaded up the pick up truck for the weekly dump run to the elementary school - fine town tradition to have the Park Out (big trucks come to the school and all of the trash and recycling is taken care of, like magic.)

Off to have coffee at Katie's in town. Loads of antique cars were parked outside for the weekly car show. Proud owners clean them up nice and spiffy, open the hoods, and display the amazing shiny cars. Little and big boys love the cars - Hubby, 9 year old son and 3 year old grandson loved the walk about.

Back home to unload the recycling bins and trash cans, hook the trailer up for the ride later. Stoked the trailer with all the tack and stuff for a trip to Southdown - trial ride at 6:30 pm.

Off to open the shop at 10 - few minutes late, but 2 lovely young ladies were primed and ready to help customers. They spiffed up the shop displays, and I left them to it.

Back home to get 9 year old a Game Stop fix - an amazing DS2 game he has been begging for, and could not live another minute without. Then onto the tractor to bush hog 2 pastures that really have crazy latrines going. Shower and back to the shop by 2, dropping son at the pool for some outside air.

Shop was busy, lots of folks getting riding gear for summer fun, camps, and special trips. Closed up at 6, having rescued son from pool (too long an afternoon for him). Quick stop at Subway.

Back home, and 8 minutes later back on the road with Rosy loaded up, riding gear on, and everything for the trip. Made it to Southdown, hopped on Rosy. She was looking, definitely looking at all of the activity. A spunky white gelding, Apollo, was calling and running the fence on 2 sides of the ring, the other horses were just grazing and looking up occasionally.

Rosy settled in, got a bit tired, and went around pleasantly. Little Short Stirrup rider, Olivia, hopped on Rosy, and got along very well. They WTC, and went over small jumps. At first, Rosy cantered off, thinking she needed to go. After a few times around, she figured out it was a trot situation, and trotted around very nicely.

So rinsed Rosy off, gave Carol the stuff for the show, and brought Rosy back for a last night at home. Turned Rosy out for the night with her buddies.

Birthday cake and ice cream for the 20 year old, then stories with the 9 year old, catch up on email, load the car for the morning show, design 2 ads for the Elmington Times (deadline today). Then facebook, and blog.

Good day. Time for prayers and bed.

Round bale in the pasture.

2010-07-11T19:47:00.003-04:00

Hard to give in, but sometimes it has to happen. Our fields are really eaten down already, and our sacrifice area is a mess. After some unsuccessful attempts to fix the sacrifice area, I gave in.

Yes, we moved the round bale feeder to the pasture near the barn, and plopped a round bale in there. All sorts of reasons - dry year, even with a great rain yesterday, really needing time to do the sacrifice area right, a shame to let the ponies on what's left of the whole farm, etc., but none really very satisfying.

The problem is that this is only July, and we are kind of stuck trashing the pasture until we really fix things. That could be a year. We're talking about 3 good sized truck loads of gravel, manure, hay muck to take out of the sacrifice area, then fabric, stone and dust back in. Next a french drain along the road down to the barn to catch run off for some water management. We're talking seeding the fields and letting the grass grow in the fields, probably til spring.

Meanwhile, round bales are messy - the hay gets dragged around, pooped on, mushed into the ground. The ground under the bale gets wiped, and pesky weed seeds take hold. So the pasture goes ugly.

Just a messy business. Hubby says we just need to muck as we go. He's right but the we is really me, and I can't bring myself to add that in to the mix. Ah well, life's not perfect. The ponies have hay, water, running room and each other, so all is good.

Strap One On

2010-07-10T15:00:00.003-04:00

Helmet day - big campaign across the country to get everyone who rides to wear a helmet. We are fortunate that most everyone does wear a helmet in our area.

I fell off a year ago, and am here due to the great Ayr8 Helmet from Charles Owen. I lost about 45 minutes of time, but nothing else haunts me, thank God.

So I hope some will buy a helmet today because of the 15% off, but mostly I hope that everyone rides in one - you never really know when the big fall will happen.

Quick Ride

2010-07-08T21:31:00.002-04:00

I made it into the saddle this am. Not the best of conditions, with the humidity up and heat rolling in, even at 7.

Rosy and I trekked over to the ring for some quiet time, met a bicycle and black lab, no worries. She was pleasant, and we did a hack class uneventfully, with a few circles thrown in to keep her soft. New shoes very nice - steadier than the clinking we've been dealing with.

Back to the barn to settle in for the day, fed and watered all the ponies. Headed back to get Nicky breakfast, lunch packed and to Rec Pac by 8:30.

Squished in, but kept me sane for the day. Great to have Rosy at home!

Exhaustingly Hot!

2010-07-07T20:18:00.002-04:00

So even at 7 am the heat was crazy. I guess the rain is supposed to come tomorrow, so we will see if it really makes it all the way to the ground. I planned to ride early, but didn't make it up soon enough to beat the suffocating air. Rosy was happy to come in the barn, with a mild breeze and less flies.

Ramon came yesterday and fixed up Rosy's shoes. The clinching with Byron held thru Warrenton Pony Show and the parade, but her feet are all trimmed up and fancy after Ramon's handiwork. That was very hot work - I think it was 98, even at 3:30 pm. Hard job in the summer.

I was in the shop most of the day today, but every journey outside zapped energy. I am hoping for an early night and 6 am start tomorrow am. It would be nice to try out Rosy's new shoes. I keep telling myself that this is better than the snow drifts last winter, hoping it will help me tack up and ride, even if the thermometer says 90.

Another long day at the shop tomorrow - I miss Sarah, my summer time worker who's on vacation this week!

July 4th Parade - 2010

2010-07-05T23:17:00.013-04:00

Cinco and Pixie were the stars for me. Mom and baby weathered the trailer trip, the vet wrapped legs and incoming candy. Cinco got some nursing time while we were waiting.

Kinder May rode Pixie beautifully.

Sue lived up to her reputation with darling young ones by leading Cinco thru town.

The day was warm, but still fine at 10 am. Great turnout by our horse community!

Warrenton Pony Show

2010-07-01T21:34:00.002-04:00

What a brilliant day! It was cool this am, and Rosy didn't get dirty overnight! She was happy to see me at 6, having cleaned up her hay, and made polite piles in her stall at Dogpatch Farm. I was delighted to skip the usual show morning bath. She loaded up easily and ate on the trailer as I cleaned up the barn, trying to be a good guest and leave no footprint. Actually, I need to figure out a good gift to leave - they are family, but still it's nice to say thanks with something, maybe chocolate.

So, on the the show by 6:30, tacked up and aboard in no time. Rosy was relaxed and happy to warm up in the crazy ring - nothing bothered her today. Ashley got in just before schooling was over, cantered the jumps and was done warming up.

Rosy got braided and Ashey suited up, just in time for 1st O/F - 2'6" schooling pony. Nice round, good changes, 5th place. Bit of a wait while the tail was braided - another great job by Mychelle - and Sm Children's division ran. Next was Children's Large, 2 nice O/F, 7th in each, and a call back in the hack - 9th. Good competition, so glad to place.

A quick lunch, and back for VPBA. 2nd and 4th O/F, then 8th in the hack - she was very quiet by the end, but still enough juice to do the hack nicely. Great company all day, so each ribbon well earned. Great job by Rosy and Ashley!

Midday Ride with Deer.

2010-06-27T21:20:00.003-04:00

Rosy was puzzled that I wanted to tack up at midday - 100 degrees is pretty hot. I had about 45 minutes, so wanted to take a peaceful trip around the pond.

We went the back way, and came upon a doe sprinting from the recently thinned trees lining the stream. After a mild look see, we kept going, did some serpentines up and down the hills and back toward home. The doe came back thru with a second doe and 3 spotted babies, walking toward the high grass. Another look see, but we kept on going.

After a few trips up and back in the front, we walked around the back of the pond and turned away from home. I do that a lot, because the steps away from the barn can be reluctant, and I want to make sure that ponies respect their riders. Rosy was a bit stickier than usual, so I closed my leg. I looked to the right, and there, in the tall grass were all 5 deer poised and ready to bolt, not 15 feet away. I told Rosy that they were friends, and that we would walk nicely past so they didn't have to bolt. We did, and they remained put.

After that quiet and nice reaction, Rosy and I ambled home. Very hot day!

Camp time, summer rushes

2010-06-21T22:34:00.004-04:00

Great to have tons of new faces in the shop, finding us on the net, and looking for camp style riding gear. We stocked up, and are ordering like crazy to keep up with all the people starting riding, and going off to camp.

One family brought their cousin in from Dallas to help get their kids started in a good program. Their first stop was in the shop. They scouted around, went thru our list of lesson barns and looked at the local places giving lessons. After stable tours and watching a few lessons, they settled at Stoneridge Farm. The location was fantastic (right in town), the setting was lovely, and the instructors were supportive, friendly and pretty (very important). So the cousin went back to Dallas (although we're trying to get her to move back here), and the kids are starting lessons. They love our town, and we're thrilled to have them come.

Another family came late on Sunday, just before closing, and we were able to get both of theirs kids outfittted and on their way in record time -good thing, camp started Monday am.

Busy weekend!

Upperville Local Pony Day 2010

2010-06-13T22:16:00.005-04:00

Hard to beat the day. Trailered Rosy and Dusty to Upperville at midday, for Local Pony Day, sponsored by The Saddlery.

Dusty needed to be measured - he came out at 14.2h exactly - awesome measure!

Ashley and Becca came, and after a very long, all day wait, they got 5 pink ribbons - Rosy for both OF classes, Dusty for the hack, and both for the Local Pony Pairs.

Ok, there were only 5 pairs in the class - but they were awesome in navy coats, white shirts, white rose boutineers, sparkling white ponies. Maybe next time they will practice before the class...

Miss Mildred Gaines

2010-06-08T20:32:00.002-04:00

Miss Mildred Gaines was the Madeira School riding instructor for 39 years, from 1940 to 1979. In 1971, when I was 15 and my older sister, Marian, could drive, mom arranged for both of us to be junior counselors at the Madeira summer riding camp. Miss Gaines fiercely upheld the highest standards for all her riders and staff, so we worked hard and came home tired each day.

I was assigned 3 horses to take care of. My stalls were on the right side of the barnyard, and were bedded in straw. The lucky girls on the left side had sawdust – I never figured out why they were split up that way. Straw was new to me, having come from a sawdust barn. Straw is great bedding – just very hard to find all of the wet spots and piles. I had many moments when I declared my stalls ready for inspection, only to have yet another pile uncovered by Miss Gaines. I learned to be really ready for her inspection.

The tack was taken apart, stripped and cleaned every day with glycerin saddle soap – no foam or bubbles allowed. The horses were curried, hooves picked and coats shined up to a gleam, with a lively competition amongst the counselors for the best turnout. We tacked up our horses, and helped the campers aboard for their morning session. During the camp, we dumped the water buckets, swept the aisleways clean, tidied the yard, and raked the bluestone. If the campers went on a trail ride, we hopped on horses, and ponied the campers, clipping a lead rope to their mounts to make sure they behaved. Once the riding camp was over for the day, we cleaned the horses again, and got ready for our time in the saddle.

The best came last! We tacked up, and got to ride in a lesson with Miss Gaines. What a treat. She opened my heart to the art of riding. She put me aboard well-trained jumpers and stripped away all the extras – stirrups, reins - we even closed our eyes! She exhorted us to throw our hearts over the jumps, and the horse would surely follow. For the first time, I really felt the jumps. Together, the horse and I flowed over one obstacle after another. Taking up the reins, she focused on delicate, small movements to inspire a shorter stride, or a turn, so the horse knew what you wanted almost as soon as you asked. Feeling the connection with my mount was eye opening, and exhilarating.

After some weeks in the ring, we took to the fields and jumped through the rolling hills of Madeira School. Better than any roller coaster, we flew up and down to the music of thundering hooves. Exhausted at the end of the day, I dreamed of flying over jumps as high as the moon. It was a summer to celebrate and remember. Thanks to Miss Mildred Gaines – for the high standards, proud work ethic, and the gift of riding with my heart.

Vogel Boots

2010-06-01T22:31:00.004-04:00

I have a pair of custom Vogel boots. They are soft - almost like half chaps. They were easy from the first zip up the back, and I am a total convert. I have ridden in a pair of Chuck Pinnell's custom full chaps for about 6 years, also amazing.

It's just so nice to have comfortable tall boots. It's great to be able ride every day, wipe them off, and be entirely presentable, in any venue. I guess that speaks to the quality of my previous pair of tall boots - leather like wood, and toe-pinching fit in the foot. It feels good to have nice stuff.

We haven't sold a lot of custom boots in the past year - they're hard to justify when times are tough. We've got 2 pairs happening this week, so folks must feel better.

I hope so, because the rewards of having a boot that was made for your foot and leg are many. I do look at mine and wonder why they don't look more elegant - tall and slim. A check in the mirror at my calves helps me thru those moments - that shape wouldn't really fit these pony rider's legs!

So here's to Vogel, their comfortable boots, their summer vacation in July, and to the amazing quality of their custom boots.

Sale Rack - day by day!

2010-05-29T08:21:00.002-04:00

So the bonus for the Memorial Day Weekend is a math test, and very confusing. Cool idea from Penny - Charles Owen Penny.

Penny came thru last week, and helped us rip the shop apart, looking for things we need to sell. She also sold us their great safety vests - ASTM and SEI approved, priced well, flexible and small profile - very good addition to the shop. They arrived a few days ago, and we are trained and ready to fit folks.

So back to the deal, you purchase a show coat or $200 of merchandise at regular price, then you choose an item from the sale rack, including show coats, show shirts, riding tights, purses, and more. Here comes the math part - for that amazing item, you pay based on the date - you paid $28 on May 28 (yesterday), will pay $29 on Sat, May 29, $30 on Sun, and $31 on Mon. We're pretty proud of that idea - again Charles Owen Penny.

So far people have hopped in the deal - we sold our pretty blue purse (one of my favorites), originally $165, some breeches, originally $210, and tights, originally $99, all for just $28 each. For those who don't want to go to $200, all of the items on the sale rack are 50% off, so the savings are big for everyone.

Thanks to Charles Owen Penny, and to all of you, for making this fun!

Rosy in the Rain @ Summerplace Farm

2010-05-23T20:02:00.003-04:00

Overcast to sprinkles, moved to drizzle and on to downpour. Despite that, Saturday was a packed day. Up early to bring the ponies in, wash Rosy for the first pass, and clean my boots, just in case.

Left at 7:45 for baseball photos, then game. Baseball was super exciting, ending with us down by 4 runs, bottom of 6th. Pitcher couldn't find the plate, and we hit some, scored 3 runs. Next batter struck out. So now 1 out, runners on 1st and second. Runners stole, so 2nd and 3rd. They brought in a new pitcher. Struck one out. Now 2 outs, the pitcher walks one. Bases loaded. Nicky gets up, fouls one back over the backstop. A called strike, then 3 balls. So bases loaded, down by 1, two outs, last pitch is low and outside - called strike 3!!! Man that was tough, big hug for Nicky. 11:30, so on to the next event.

Back home, to wash Rosy again - got to have those white ponies white. Washed the tail, couldn't put the fake tail in without braiding, so fluffed the lower half as best as possible. Wrapped the tail up, loaded the stuff, and changed out of barn clothes. Back on the road by 12:35. Pleasant drive to The Plains, no traffic.

Cloudy, but no moisture at 1:30. Still trying to find a junior rider. Talked to Tom, tried to find Kristin to get a rider. No luck finding her, but Annika had 2 Laurens - the first one was up for it, so we tacked up Rosy, and let her tool around. Rosy was good, then started getting a bit tense. Weather started spitting, then a mild sprinkle while they dragged the ring - a good 20 minutes, now up to a drizzle.

So the 28 ponies and horses amble in for the Pleasure Division in the big beautiful ring, so not too crowded. Rosy was checking everything out, still looking a bit tense. Tough to put a teenager on a mare just back into showing after 2 years, and not have some anxiety. They did fine, picking up the leads, and staying with the crowd. Gorgeous, tiny ponies won and placed, with a huge terrific mover coming in 3rd - great to see the successes, as I've seen most of the riders in the shop.

Worried about Rosy not really being herself, I got suited up, put my saddle on, now with some steady rain. We trotted and cantered around the outside course, with Rosy settling in and listening.

Walked back over as the Beginner Division wrapped up, then went in the Unrestricted US. Rosy was nice - soft head carriage and relaxed reins. She felt easy, and I was pleased, especially because there were lots of ponies and horses, and the rain was really coming down. Lots of good competition, no ribbons, but I was happy with her good attitude.

So I put her back up in the trailer, out of the downpour, and watched some rounds in the OF. Nice to see familiar faces and put names with the ponies I had only heard about. We left around 5, still very early in the many jumping rounds - glad I punted on the jumping. The courses were pretty simple - diagonal outside, diagonal outside, one direction then the other. I probably could have handled it. Next time...

Pulled in just about 6, solving a computer issue @ the shop while driving thru the rain. So hard to walk thru a screen by screen explanation with out the screen in front of you. They got it figured out, so all was fine in the end. Rosy and Dusty stayed in for the wet night. Slept well - big day for all.

Rosy to Stoneridge

2010-05-20T22:20:00.004-04:00

Rosy did well over at Stoneridge today. We trailered over and tacked up at the trailer. She was a good girl, looking around quite a bit, especially at someone mowing just over the next hill. She also oggled a little paint pony, Squirt, I believe, that walked around the ring for a while - could not take her eyes off that cutie.

I rode her around and took all of the jumps - she was nice and quiet. I am still trying to find a rider for the Summerplace Show on Saturday. I really do not want to show her myself. I feel dumb riding a pony in a show, even if it is "unrestricted" - just feels silly. I have a hard time remembering courses, so that is another obstacle. Mostly they do outside, diagonal, outside, diagonal. I should be able to handle that. Rosy is so honest to the jump, I think she would go over anything I put her to.

So far on Saturday we have Little League photos at 8:15 am, coaching game at 9, with a 2 1/2 hour limit. Back to the farm, wash off the newly soiled grey pony (always getting soiled), trailer 45 minutes to The Plains in time for the afternoon classes. History shows those going at 3:30 pm, so should be time...

Does the busiest one get the prize at the end of the day?

Breyer, DVDs and Tailored Sportsman today

2010-05-14T21:52:00.004-04:00

Amazing how much more stuff came to the shop today - we have gobs of model horses, mini kits, riders, even some new ponies that come with kids' purses. There is a new Secretariat model, and Black Beauty with the DVD is back in stock.

Brings to mind DVDs - got another big delivery of those today, including one called Rider's Eye - camera mounted on an eventer who is negotiating a cross country course. At least that is as much as we saw before closing the shop tonight. More Express Eventing, Olympics and Badminton - all great movies that are a bit crazy - jump high and over scary things (trucks, drops and into serious water.)

New white, collar-attached shirts from Tailored Sportsman - coolmax - soft with a pretty contrasting trim. Also from TS - some elegant pewter breeches and slim tan breeches - slender fit with same traditional look.

New sale section - 50% off show coats, $25 show shirts, and riding tights at good discounts. Figured we could move some older stock, and you could get good deals - win win!!

Riding Rosy.

2010-05-14T21:35:00.002-04:00

Another great ride, thinking about going to Fox Chase for their local show tomorrow. Hopped on after closing the shop, probably 7:20 pm. The weather was threatening, so I didn't expect much time.

We made our way over to the ring, and spent some canter time. Our deer herd was in the brush next to the ring - this time they straggled out, bolting every few minutes. That was harder to ignore, but Rosy kept pretty focused. We worked on nice gentle hops over tiny jumps and easy canters. It was pretty heavy and sweaty - felt like rain any minute.

After a bit, we headed out around the community trail, past the Johnsons', and by the old DePaul property. A few new trees down, but the trail was clear enough. Rosy was really good with the down trees - she walked over many, and quietly jumped a few big ones. The boggy spot behind the McKays' has cleared up so we walked thru without trouble. She walked over another big tree and down over Jefferson Run.

We took the half loop trail, even though it's a mildly overgrown, and picked our way thru some more trees. Crossing Corobon Lane, we headed back into the woods, and ended up between Tally Ho and the next community. Carlin cleared a bunch of low trees, and they are propped up against the fence - look kind of weird, but safe enough. Down the hill, past the chestnut Standardbred, and back home again.

Another very pleasant ride - ended up not raining, so we had a good hour. Thanks Rosy, and I'm not too eager to sell her, really!

Baby's first day out

2010-05-13T08:21:00.004-04:00

Got to get a name for him! Baby was reluctant to come out of the stall - his only home so far. Mom and I waited in the aisleway until he was brave enough to take the first step out.

He was worried about the new halter and lead attached to him, but we gently directed him, mostly using mom to walk a few steps, wait for him, and walk again. Our cockapoo, Coco Puff, and mini poodle, Max, helped quite a bit, thankfully not barking. They formed the escort up the hill, past the neighbor's ponies, and baby's 3 year old brother, Socks.

Next, he scooted by the scary air conditioner, 3 more dogs, and a pen with 3 puppies. By now he was trotting next to mom, no worries.

Brakes came on again, so we waited, and made it to the gate at the top of the hill. He scrurried in to the field, but stopped long enough for me to take off the lead rope.

Mom was happy to put her head down and enjoy the grass.

Thoughts upon driving

2010-05-12T22:16:00.002-04:00

Down to Norfolk to help Colin get a car and back in 24 hours - quite a bit of driving for a reluctant driver, like me. Loved the Garmin GPS touchscreen that the kids pitched in on for Mother's Day. It wasn't quite as scolding when it had to recalculate the route as the Verizon lady. We got where we had to go, and I made it home, so all is good.

So, when is a young boy/man ready to stop cracking cars up and get a good one? We went with the grades went up, he's moving in with some older guys, and has a job this summer as good indicators. We are going forward in faith with the theory that he's ready to get a loan and have a car that he can have for a while. He's proud of the black pearl Scion tc, so we will see.

Pixie and little colt (still working on the name) were in a small paddock attached to the stall during my trip. I think we will make the journey to a field tomorrow morning, always a challenge to go on the first voyage outside the safe birthing stall. The foals usually figure out that the world is much nicer beside mommy, and don't stray. I started out having 2 handlers, and working with the foal while I got help leading mom. All of my efforts seemed excessive, and mildly counter-productive. I have reduced to a gentle long line on the foal, and patience with mom. This colt seems like a mommy's boy, so I think he'll come along fine.

Names for the little guy - Cinco de Mayo, Dusty Blue, Blue Dust, Dusty's Blue Rain. I may try some out on the VPBA - have to have a unique name. Cinco de Mayo sounds kind of like a racehorse, not a kids pony. I'm taking thoughts!!

Rosy Dust

2010-05-09T21:31:00.003-04:00

Rosy is in great form. I rode her on the trail this morning for Mother's Day.

I like to ride every special day, just to keep the balance. We took off down the driveway and veered off to the cross country course. Being a bit naughty we trotted over the black piping, then over the logs without really warming up. Then we went over the rest of the tiny jumps, and trotted back up the road to the back of Tally Ho.

Into the woods, we took a breather, then cantered along the back with a few deer, and squirrel to keep us on our toes. Over Jefferson Run, and back up the hill to the barn. A great beginning to my Mother's Day, and the reason why having your ponies at home is fantastic.

Then I fed and mucked stalls, watered, and turned out, still good to have them all here!

Get Ready @ The Saddlery

2010-05-01T21:53:00.003-04:00

So glad the shipments came in from Edgewood, Ariat and ERS before the big event. We sold a ton of boots, helmets, and cool riding gear today. Someone bought the Joules brown polka dot chair. She did get it for soccer mom duty, but still. She loved how light and compact it was, as well as the styling design.

Big thanks to Sue and Wally, who slobbered on every single customer he was allowed to greet. Sue and I held down the fort - who knew it would be crashingly busy on a 90º day in May! Lann came in after her SAT II, and did her usual awesome job.

We had new people, old friends, and occasional visitors all today. One poor girl had just come off a silly, naughty pony into a jump. She walked pretty gimpy, so we all told her how great ibuprophen was, and that a hot bath or ice would do the trick. Poor dad had lots of suggestions on how to help her out.

Thanks, again, to all who came.

More Joules in today!

2010-04-28T19:00:00.003-04:00

We got a few more wellies, and colorful shirts from Joules - they do such a great job! There's a shopping basket with bright, flowery fabric lining - just the thing for a quick trip to the store.

Kids shirt arriving from ERS, pinks and purples, as well as Irideon spring tops and tights. The new helmets form ERS are also back in stock - great schooling helmet, with nice padding and low profiles.

VPBA Show in Warrenton

2010-04-24T22:37:00.003-04:00

Being a pony breeder in Virginia, I love to support the VPBA (Virginia Pony Breeder's Association). I took Rosy and Dusty to the annual benefit show after a 2 year hiatus. It was soggy, but we had a great day.

I drove down last night to stay @ Dogpatch Farm, my cousin's place. I got there late, after working all day, bathing 2 white ponies and driving. The stalls were clean, with hay and water - thanks Sharon!!

Up early to wash them again - white ponies!! We got over to the show around 7 and I rode Rosy around the ring. Dusty was calling a lot, making one end of the ring a crazy place. She was good, and settled into a nice canter around. Ashley rode her over the jumps, and she was all set. I lounged Dusty and he seemed good - but was pretty high when Ashley got on. She rode him around at the end of the schooling session, showing him all of the funny things - lots of scary things to a green pony!

Crazy bit of hurry up - had to get him registered for the class and her into show clothes with no time to spare. She made the first WT class - thanks to Jim for holding the class. He went around very well - just a bit bothered by faster ponies running up his butt. The Go-As-You-Please was also thankfully not eventful. He trotted around while others went past him at the canter - just ears flickering at the ponies racing by. He had a bit of trouble getting the left lead in the WTC, but got it and stayed cantering as long as he had to - quiet and well behaved, a great first trip to a show.

Rosy did well in the Model, taking reserve out of 17 ponies - would have done better, but as Dale (judge) told her - her pony had dirty legs! Very embarassing, but true - hard to keep the legs white on a rainy day with all the orange Virginia clay around. So we cleaned her up more, she got a call back in the second OF, and 4th in the hack - great for her first time back in years!

Long day, and we are pleased - thanks to VPBA, Mychelle and Ashley, and of course Rosy and Dusty.

New!

2010-04-18T21:38:00.005-04:00

New things -Shadbelly and jumper/dressage coats from RJ Classics, Dansko sandals, Flip Flops, Ariat WEG (World Equestrian Games) clothing.

EcoGold saddle pads - now available in our shop - not just at shows!

Rosy - closing the loop.

2010-04-16T22:38:00.003-04:00

Met a family that came into town last summer, boarding up the road. Mom wanted fly spray, having trouble with Virginia flies after some years in Minnesota. So I say, wow, I sold a pony to a family in Minnesota. Can't remember the name, but it was a boy. So the little one says, Rosy? Not really getting it, I say, well, yeah, Rose to the Occasion (her new USEF name).

So we talk more, and Rosy was sold into the very same barn in Minneapolis. They loved Rosy, and spoke about how she was a great mover, and had some lameness issues they couldn't get past, and how she rested forever.

I brought them up to speed, that Rosy was back home where she was born, after some unsuccessful breeding in Colorado and another year's rest. They were pleased that Rosy was sound again, and starting back to showing. Amazing how life comes around.

Lemonade

2010-04-14T21:42:00.002-04:00

I hustled home form work to get the 2 ponies down to the ring so Ashley could ride them between 4:30 and 5:30. I patted NIcky on the head, promised to be back, and made the ponies jog walk from the front field to the barn. I tacked them both up, while texting to find out the timing of the ride.

After some hang ups for Ashley, I decided to get suited up, and take the plunge - down to the ring with 2 ponies to meet them. Ponies were great, and we got down to the newly dragged ring about 4:30. I set up some jumps, juggling the jump standards, poles and 2 ponies. I lunged Dusty while Rosy pirouetted in the middle. No, we did not get tangled by some miracle. Well, things bogged down for Ashley, and the delay turned into a no show.

Here's the lemonade part - we walked over all of the jumps, with Rosy showing her brother how to step over, not thru. We walked back to the barn, and I hopped on Rosy for a quick canter up the long field and back down, kept going up the road, into the woods, and trotted back home. We saw our herd of 30 deer, and crossed a couple streams. I came back by 5:45, in time for homework and dinner for Nicky before choir practice. Thanks God for longer days!

Manure to Emmitsburg

2010-04-13T19:33:00.002-04:00

So I loaded the truck bed with freshly composted manure, buckled the 2 year old grandson in the truck cab and cruised up to Emmitsburg to supply the country folks with plant food. The gentle rain was nice, kept the dust down and we could use some about now.

I played with the grandkids while the big kids had a date driving around town with a wheelbarrow and pitchfork, delivering compost to friends with emerging gardens. Apparently the town dwellers don't have farm connections, except me.

Something crazy about going from a DC suburb to rural Maryland with a truckload of manure.

Counting again...

2010-04-11T19:36:00.003-04:00

So I am notoriously bad at figuring out when someone's in heat, and when they will have babies. (Yes, I do have 7 children). I really thought Pixie was due April 1 - she usually goes a week before the time the experts think she should. Well, I think I added 2 weeks early to that date this time. She has not foaled, and is walking around fine, even though I have been thinking any day for 2 weeks!

Looking back. She was bred last year, May 9 and 11, out by May 13. So normally we go back 11 months, then add a week. That should be back to April 9, plus a week to April 16. Now for Pixie, it has been 11 months straight up, so now I'm thinking April 9 - 11 which is right now.

She's in the fluffy stall with straw every night, and in a nice grassy pasture during the day. Guess we wait, hope the math doesn't matter, and that all is well. Few more days and I'll probably call the vet. Such a time waiting!

Still waiting on Pixie, puppies growing, rain tonight

2010-04-08T21:57:00.003-04:00

I brought Pixie and Rosy in tonight in the middle of a downpour. Usually galloping up when I call, they were in the second pasture down, beautiful eyes looking at me trudging thru the rain. Why don't they come when I sing to them in the rain? Pixie's tail is still strong, so I don't know, doesn't look like tonight.

Rosy's body clip the other night was exhausting. Long welsh hair coupled with muddy spots made the Clipmaster's work really hard. Made it thru most of her, but left the legs and head for a second attempt. I managed to trim Rosy's belly and left legs this am. So her head and right side are still long. Maybe tomorrow with the rain, I'll get a chance to finish the whole thing. I am not a gifted clipper, so need to clip about 2 weeks before she goes in a model class. Enough time to grow out the lines, but not look straggly. Heading for the show on April 24, so almost 2 weeks left. She does have a very pretty shape, so proud of her new doo.

So Coco's puppies are getting such personalities, and into such mischief. They are pouncing and growling in play - very tiny growling sounds that are so cute.

Bijou's boy didn't make it.

2010-04-05T22:20:00.002-04:00

Bummer! Bijou's little boy got some formula down his windpipe and couldn't clear it. Beck rushed him to the vet, but they couldn't help. He had just started to pick up weight, and even grew eyelashes. Hard to have him gone after round the clock feedings, and lots of fighting thru.

Missing Bijou and the little one.

Joules Happy Easter

2010-04-04T09:59:00.001-04:00

Pixie's enjoying the grass, waiting

2010-04-04T09:58:00.001-04:00

Happy Easter - flowers!!

2010-04-04T09:57:00.002-04:00

Bijou's boy fighting hard

2010-04-03T18:52:00.003-04:00

The little puppy is doing great letting us know he's alive. He yells when he's hungry, and if one of the bigger pups bothers him. He is feisty, and sallies up to Coco for his nursing time. Coco is not sure of all of this, and will let him nurse if we put her in our lap, and talk nice to her. She definitely protects him from any perceived danger - barking and standing over him when strangers come. We haven't caught her nursing him on her own, but hope that will happen when he gets more mobil.

The bigger pups are mostly leaving him alone - we've got our baby pool (blue plastic pool with no water) in the puppy area. The bigger pups can struggle in over the top, but don't usually do that unless mom is in there with the little one. When they go in with him, they roughhouse with each other and him - he just can't keep up. So far pretty good - he does have a small wound, we think from the bigger puppies. It gets crusty, so have started treating it with triple antibiotic cream. Sometimes a wounded one will get tortured even more. Such a lot to make this whole thing work.

Becky is doing a great job making sure he gets lots of formula, along with his nursing time. He's up about half an ounce since he was born - not much, but certainly better than losing weight. We're bumping up the formula, hoping to get him growing big and strong. He's really doing his part - a spunky little guy.

Bijou and baby

2010-03-31T22:13:00.002-04:00

Bijou, Becky's little maltese, was large with babies, and in labor all thru the night. We took her to the vet in the am, and they did a C-section at noon. She seemed fine, but never came out of the anesthesia. One pup was huge, and dead. Septic stuff set in and she couldn't overcome it. Very perky great little dog, so sad to see her fade away. She had one pup that lived, a squeaky boy with lots of gusto.

We tube fed him, and maintained his weight for day. Now he's started nursing off our cocker mom, who has a 4 week old litter. We've been hoping they would get together, and it looks good. He's a trooper, squeaking to get her to listen, and rooting like anything. We'll keep feeding him formula to make sure he gets enough, but great that he's actually getting real milk.

Sad to think about Bijou really being gone - only 4 years old, and sorely missed.

Arg!

2010-03-30T15:13:00.003-04:00

Waiting on the blacksmith - so many things and so little time. He's now 40 min late... Got 4 in the barn for trims, and Nicky to pick up at 4 pm. Cam asleep for nap waiting on mom to get back, so I need to wake him up and take him with unless she gets back. I am totally not confident that this will work out. If you see a blue mini speeding through Great Falls toward Spring Hill Rec Center, good bet it's me.

Wow, Becky just came thru. She's getting Nicky, so all is easy. I need more sleep.

Flowers thru the snow

2010-03-27T07:55:00.004-04:00

So I have a pretty black thumb, but have 2 ladies who are definitely green thumbed, and have helped my garden do really well without me, mother in law Sophie, and friend, Blanche. Both are 85+ and still hopeful that I will figure it out and keep the flowers growing. The barn flowers are poking their blades up. Some violas made it thru the winter, under probably 6 feet of piled up snow, and some other cute blue flowers are poking up in the garden.

So amazing to see what the earth does.

Pixie - baby should come within a week!

2010-03-27T07:52:00.003-04:00

Pixie's starting to drag a bit. She's coming to the end,and the foal is wiggling and poking out quite a bit. She's eating well, and moving slowly. Her tail gets really floppy right before she foals, so I'm doing tail checks and teat checks. Exciting time.

Puppies - getting bigger, 3 1/2 weeks old

2010-03-27T07:50:00.001-04:00

Pixie's Turn - due April 1

2010-03-23T22:18:00.005-04:00

Pixie is my sweet brood mare, she's 15 and pregnant one more time.

I just went up to Sabillasville, Md, and picked up 5 bales of straw for her birthing stall. I swept all the sawdust out and fluffed out the straw. Something about a stall bedded in fresh straw. I wonder if it is just superstition, the idea that the umbilical cord may get infected if the newborn foals lie down in sawdust. I sure coat the umbilical cord in iodine a million times, so I'm not sure what would grow. Anyway, the straw is down, so we are all ready. She has always had the babies in the dark of night, surprising us with her timing, and taking care of it all by herself. Her poor belly is pretty stretched out, getting close - I can see the little one poking legs out and squirming around inside mama, especially when she's eating.

This is Pixie with Dusty some years ago - I'll get more of her now, and the baby, when it comes.

Great weekend shopping!

2010-03-21T21:25:00.004-04:00

What great weather, what great customers came to play and buy over the weekend. Juice drinks, banana bread and cookies all gone. Many folks got the show shirts and jackets on sale. The special baskets of show gloves went well, too. The buy one, get one free on earrings and pins cleared most of our stock - amazing deal at $5.

There are 7 of the 10 special deals still at the shop - the Aramas pony bridle, Beval leather girth, Courbette horse bridle were discovered and all sold. The new Collegiate saddle went out and came back - so hard to fit a saddle, rider and horse, even if the price is super! 7 more are hidden, some in plain sight, waiting for the right pair of eyes. Best of luck to you all!

The native plants are poking thru the dirt in the big planter out front - I think the blue bells are toward the left back, not sure what's coming up in the right - maybe ferns. Nice to see they made it thru the snow.

One rack down!

2010-03-19T22:50:00.003-04:00

We had a crazy folding rack holding probably 50 show shirts on sale. A nice and very gentle shopper touched some shirts, and the rack dumped all of the shirts on the ground. The rack busted at the joint. Thanks God that happened before we had 15 people trying to look at show shirts! We punted and put the sale show shirts on the solid wooden rack just inside the door. Crazy day.

Got to the place to pick up the signs, and he wasn't done yet. Actually a good thing, because we had some issues with front and back, left and right. Some things are really hard to do by email. Anyway, Josh came thru with awesome signs, and they fit just fine in the mini convertible. I really didn't have any rear vision for the ride back to the shop, but the wind felt great. One sign is up, the second will go up in the morning - Special Event Today.

Getting ready

2010-03-18T21:27:00.002-04:00

Big day on Saturday. We pulled out show coats and show shirts - filled up two racks in the foyer. Another long day tomorrow getting prices on all the things going on sale. We are hiding 10 things at amazing prices so folks need to be on the hunt. Last year we had a really nice leather halter at $5, and a $500 show jacket at $50 - just have to be there early, and have sharp eyes.

I'm thinking some brownies, banana cranberry orange bread, cookies, grapes, juice. Maybe donuts and scones for the early crowd. Not sure about strawberries - they looked kind of pale, and can get squishy. Food is good, especially since I've been on a diet. Hard to stop and eat a real meal.

I am hoping to get the new signs tomorrow - Josh said they would be ready. It will be good to drive out to Sterling with the top down - haven't been out much, despite the amazing weather. They are 4' x 2' and will let folks know where we are, and that something cool is happening. I can't wait to see if they're what I imagined.

Puppies!

2010-03-16T21:38:00.004-04:00

Max and Coco, our mini poodle, white and creme, and chocolate cocker spaniel, had a litter of 3 pups almost 2 weeks ago. She had a black girl, a brown boy, and a brown girl. The black girl is growing fastest, the male next, then the brown girl. This is a small litter, so there is plenty of good milk, and they are all growing quickly. They started opening their eyes a few days ago - cool to see them startled at the big world. Mom is relaxing her early frenzied protection of them, and goes out to frolic with the other dogs during the day for brief moments. Their legs aren't strong enough to stand on yet, so they wiggle around the baby pool (our whelping crate), trying to find mom's milk. In another few weeks, they'll be tottering around, before we know it, they will be pouncing. I love to see them grow up!

Bijou, our maltese, is also expecting, and may have maltipoo pups next week. She has smaller litters, just 2 last time, so they should have plenty of milk, as well.

That will be a lot of pups around! Pixie is next, with her foal due in the beginning of April. She's still perky, so I don't think that one will come early.

Stuck Truck

2010-03-13T09:24:00.002-05:00

So I went to get a round bale after closing the shop the other day. I got back with the bale after dark, and decided to wait til morning so I didn't crash the fence. So the rain started, and the mud got deep and squishy. I got the truck in, off loaded the bale nice an pretty. Well, on the way out, the tires started spinning. I thought I put it in 4 wheel drive, low, but actually went into 2 wheel drive. No luck getting out. So I had to get the hubby, who set up a winch and tractor combo, with some cursing, still no luck. Called the neighbor, Mel, but by the time he got here with his truck, hubby figured out the 2 wheel drive, the truck went roaring out, no problem. Boy was that a blonde moment!

Filling up again

2010-03-11T20:28:00.002-05:00

We're starting to fill up again - there's a drive to clear out everything at the end of the year, so we get low. Low on stuff, and low on the feeling that we will ever enjoy nice, warm riding weather. Folks came in for vetrap, poultice pads and injury stuff. We did a lot of remodeling, adjusting, planning, and freezing for January and February.

Now, slowly, we're moving toward 60 degree weather, not so much cold, and feeling like riding is good. I have 2 ponies I need to get up and going, and I'm starting to think it will happen. Folks are starting to come in for lunge lines, and bits, and new saddle pads. New saddle pads are especially good - who likes to be up about spring and slap the grungy old saddle pad up on the pony's back? I like lunge lines - better to get the bucks out on the lunge line than with a kiddo or old lady (like me) on the back.

So the flood warning be damned! Up and forward to good riding, filling up the shop, spring break and Easter.

Enjoying the warm day

2010-03-08T21:22:00.002-05:00

The sun woke me up, and it was great - only 6:30 am! I am beginning to feel like doing awesome things with my ponies before making breakfast and getting Nicky on the bus. That doesn't happen often in the winter - too dark and cold for me.

So spring is great - minor setback on Sunday when all of a sudden it will be 7:30 instead of 6:30. Anyway, it is also a hard time to be in the shop all day. I checked out the flower tub in front of the shop, and some of the native plants I put in last year are trying to poke up. There are a bunch in there, all coming up at different times, so it will be fun to watch them figure out spring.

People are starting to venture out, and we're getting mud in the shop - really ok, because the snow has been endless. It's great to see friends and hear the stories that have accumulated over the past few months. We've given out some info sheets on riding lessons in our area - always nice to have eager new riders.

Couple more weeks and we'll have the cash and carry sale - crazy crowd and big clearing out of all the winter stuff. Spring break seems just around the corner, and the snow birds will be coming back from Florida. I saw daffodils poking out down in Warrenton this weekend - soon and very soon, we are going to see them here.

More signs...what do you like?

2010-03-04T20:01:00.003-05:00

Help us Design our new Road signs!

2010-03-03T18:40:00.005-05:00

We're going to put the signs out on Georgetown Pike - which do you like, and why?

Interesting computer happening on Saturday.

2010-02-28T21:56:00.003-05:00

So whenever we go out of town, the computer crashes at The Saddlery. What's up with that? This time we took Nicky down to the wrestling State tournament in Richmond to compete in the 3rd and 4th grade championship. So all the coaches are yelling, whistles blowing and cell phones barely audible. First call from the security office - unauthorized entry into the shop. Only the faithful shop girl had dropped her keys, and gotten to the control panel too late to disarm the alarm. No, we didn't need the police to check it out. Second call was from the shop saying that the register couldn't find the server, in fact the server couldn't find itself.

Well, we tried mightily to fix it from the screaming gym, got Joey over to try his luck, all to no avail. Many thanks to the long suffering shop girls and customers, who were back in the scribe zone, and using a dial up credit card swiper. By the time Nicky took 5th - in the whole STATE! and we headed back, the business day was over.

We dropped hubby at the shop, and went to Arby's - really a reward for the beaming Nicky. By the time we got back, the computer had found itself, and all was well. Another magic fix with seemingly ridiculous mechanics - turn the computers all off, then turn the server back on. Magic. At least he really doesn't seem to know why it worked that time (it had been tried before, many times). So next time we go away, we'll leave the computers on!

Irises!!

2010-02-25T08:04:00.003-05:00

Doing the morning chores this am, I am hopeful. The snow had another layer of crusty stuff last night, but it really didn't stick many places. I was finally able to push some slushy snow out of the way with the tractor to dump a wheelbarrow of manure.

I should take a step back - OMG - went to clear a path to the manure pile a week ago, after everything I had was full of manure, and did not notice that the front tire on the tractor was low. The tractor was driving really bumpy and when I decided to look, the tire was off the rim. I do not expect motorized vehicles to misbehave, and NEVER check anything. I did bring the bales of hay to the ponies before I brought the crippled tractor to a stop in front of the barn. Ranting, raving, the whole 9 yards, from my long suffering hubby. He hemmed and hawed, and the tractor just came back into my world yesterday. I really do like the tractor - much better than lugging the bales of hay up the hill to the ponies.

Back to spring - my friend, Blanche DePaul, gave me some beautiful yellow irises when she moved out of her farm down the road 5 years ago. I do have a black thumb, but managed to plant them in front of the barn, with many instructions and admonitions from Blanche. They have come up every year since them, to my great delight. Well, they are poking their shoots up, at least on the sunny side of the barn. It is a welcome sight next to the tire ruts and lingering snow.

So have hope, and look for the flowers...

Saddlery Tales - 1

2010-02-21T19:19:00.003-05:00

Delhi Pony Club, in front of Humayun’s Tomb. Stephanie, Buttercup, Mouse and Firefly, with Alan, Marian, Sarah (me) and Juli aboard, and mom, Betty holding (1965).

My first memory of horseback riding was terrifying. My dad was in the diplomatic service, and my mom, a lifelong horse lover, wanted to make sure that all of us grew up riding horses, even if we lived in cities all over the world. When I was 8, and living in Moscow, mom took me to the Hippodrome (indoor ring) to have a small sit on one of the most quiet, reliable horses in the stables. She was talking, and adjusting, and not really paying attention to the reins, which she was supposed to hold onto, just in case. I kept trying to get her attention, but she was very busy. Suddenly the very enormous horse jumped forward and I screamed. He probably only moved a foot, but I was distraught, and refused to get on another horse for a couple of years.

We moved on to New Delhi, India, and my mom and sisters started riding at the Delhi Pony Club. I watched for a while, and finally got the courage to ride a small pony, Stephanie. She is the one on the far left in the photo, with my brother aboard. We rode in a dirt ring a short walk through a grove of trees and bushes from the Pony Club stables, a shed row of about 15 stalls. In that time, each pony had a sayees, a young Indian man who took total care of the pony, from feeding, brushing, and tacking up, to running along side the pony when we were learning to ride. I felt safe with Stephanie, and her sayees, but soon got bored with behaving all of the time. I kept thinking of Firefly, the pony on the far right. Take a look and see the mischief in his eye. I finally decided it was time to try Firefly. I climbed on, and Firefly took off bucking down toward the trees. The sayees was left far behind. I landed with a thump, and jumped up, hopping mad. That tiny pony was not going to get me. The sayees ran after Firefly and brought him back. Up again, and once more on my bum. Next I got a crop, and tried again. For a good week I climbed up on that pony countless times. Each and every time that Firefly bucked me off. After much experimenting, and advice, I figured out how to dig my heels down, and pull hard on one side to get his head up. I was so proud of that first time and Firefly actually smiled at me. That lesson has stayed with me all my life. The fear I had was totally washed away by the fight to see who was more stubborn Firefly or me. I am still more stubborn!

Spring Clothes Here!!

2010-02-17T15:31:00.002-05:00

Our new Joules spring clothes have started to arrive! They are such jaunty colors and styles, I am putting them out - even though the snow is still here. We are reorganizing and shifting things around to make way for the hoodies, shirts and polos just in.

I love their clothes - kind of crazy how much I wear them, but they are whimsical, peppy and cool. What more can I say.

Soap and Valentines

2010-02-13T21:24:00.002-05:00

The soap worked out pretty well - a bit gummy, but cool colors and pretty scents. Valentines had pipe cleaners, fuzzy fluff balls and glue holding it all together. Another exciting day at the shop. I'm working on the front wall - it is dark green with some nasty white dents. We're patching and trying to go lighter - I really like the light, bright look.

The Saddlery cookies are in - they have an oreo type chocolate cookie with white icing on top, and our logo printed on the icing. They come individually wrapped - big hit so far. New Sox Trot socks came yesterday with awesome spring colors - really brightens up the shop. New saddle pads - happy colors, and Lettia socks - peace, happy face, skulls . . .

So love your family and friends and stay happy tomorrow - best part of Valentine's Day.