Clean Color~

After her bath!

Today, was one of those changeable days that usually belong to spring.  Instead - again, I look at the calendar & it says February.  I went out & raked leaves, cut back tree branches & enjoyed just being outside.  Then I decided to give Farah a bath - with winter coats shedding, warm baths seem to hasten the process & at the same time, give that new coat growing in a clean start.  We give her Flax year around, for the omega's & the shiny coat.

The color of the oak leaves I've yet to pick up~

Since she's our one & only - she gets pampered & she knows it :-)  She does love her baths, kicking back & relaxing while & scrub away.  I've kept a light weight rain sheet on her most of the winter & she's done fine with it.  Mostly just to keep her clean enough to reduce grooming time when I saddle up.

Enjoying the front lawn~

Soon, we'll be starting our fifth season together - how those years have flown by!  Every time I ride this mare, I think about how lucky I was to find her.  I'm thankful that I have the years behind me of horse ownership, learning what it takes to keep a healthy, happy horse & putting that knowledge to work.  The hope is to keep her going down the trail for as long as I want to go down a trail.  As the decades pass, I find my self a bit more reflective as I grow older.  Pat & I were talking about the great horses that we've both known & having one now - at this time in my life is a great gift.

Riding today? NOT!

The culprit~

I was so excited to see the weather report for days & days of sunshine!  Linda & I had planned to ride today...  But - when I went up to saddle Farah - the hind shoe that was loose yesterday - was off to the side today.  I'd tried to tighten the clinches when I noticed it, Farah was very patient with my pounding - but I wasn't getting much done.  The nail heads are completely Gone...  This in only three weeks!  The telling number though, is the one Justin asked me about when I called him...  How many miles?  Well...  with the endurance ride & our somewhat normal trail riding - over 140!

Mesh material used to hold the packing

For the first time, I wanted to try Vettec Equi-Pack - a product designed to act as a replacement for traditional pads, along with other therapeutic uses.  My thought - was that after the ride, I would be able to remove or cut out the sole packing, allowing the bottom of the foot to stay dry & hard as they have been, without having to wait a full shoeing cycle to remove pads.  (I'm no fan of pads, but since the horses on this side of the state live in such typically wet conditions - hoof capsules stay soft longer into the year.  (This was something that Jim Bryant, DVM brought to my attention when he hoof tested Khari during her pre-purchase exam.)  For a ride - I like having that extra layer of protection - lameness pulls are no fun.)

We learned several things - first - the double tube of the product was not enough to fill all four of Farah's feet.  We could have used part of another tube.  Since Justin didn't have another of that product, he used a little of the traditional Equi-Pack to fill in some gaps around the edges, thinking that if anything - it would help the packing to stay in.   As with trying anything new before a ride - I was worried about how well it would stay in - but it did.  It wasn't until this last week that they started coming loose.  I cut off what I could & picked out her feet - noticing that the mesh product being under the shoe - seemed to have loosened the shoes a little.

Of course with the nail heads now gone - there just isn't enough to keep the shoes on her feet - especially since she works so well off her hind-end.  So - today - instead of the fine ride we'd planned, guess those weeds are calling my name!

Ode to Fall~

The view out my dining room window~

The rains have arrived, the temperature has turned brisk...  The leaves are just thinking about turning.  It's that time of year, changing light bulbs, cleaning out closets, putting out heavier throws, candles & I love amber seasonal lights on the patios!

The Chickadee's were tweeting at me this morning!  They were busy playing in the Elderberry bush by the back patio, as I was busy loading old clothes in the Bronco - results of my closet cleaning, one of the tasks that I save for rainy fall days!  I had some really nice stuff, mostly Nordstrom bought - that I'd worn when I worked in Bellevue in the early 90's.  Out of style now, but still perfectly good.

My buddies greeted me this morning!

I'd called two consignment shops in Snohomish.  At the first shop, the problem was a lack of space.  This cute little place was literally bursting at the seams with dresses, prom gowns, etc.   This owner said that she'd had no less than seven women come in with clothes in the last week!  Guess I wasn't the only one bitten by the fall cleaning bug!

The next shop was really cool, had lots of vintage stuff, 30's, 40's, 50's,  mine was too "new".  Impressed with the labels & quality of my items - she suggested that I go to the Snohomish Senior Center Thrift Store.  At least the clothes would stay in the area & go to local residents.   There, they were happy to accept the donation & I finally emptied the Bronco!   Done!

The beginning of the Color season!

Tomorrow, a visit to see our two youngest granddaughters - then hopefully squeeze in my first ride of Fall!

The Smell of Fall~

Our trail through the tall trees~

After two-days of canning in the kitchen - it was time to Ride!  Butch has taken some vacation days, originally we thought we'd have to make a trip to CO.  Thankfully - that didn't happen - so instead, we're both working on projects here at home, before the rains return.

Our trail west - brush cut~

 That said...  I was itching for some saddle time.  It was so late in the day by the time I'd finished the second batch of zucchini relish - it was easier to head out from here.  It had been awhile since we'd been out on "our" trails.  I was surprised that the air in the woods had the smell of Fall!  Just enough leaves on the ground to rustle as we passed through.  We haven't had enough brisk nights to start them turning yet, let alone falling.  What color we do have is from our dry summer.

At the north end

 It was obvious that the utility company had come through & done a lot of brush cutting under their lines.  Everything looked "wide-open" in comparison to a couple months ago.  Rounding the corner to head north at the upper end of our "loop" I found where they were putting all the debris.

Brush piles

We rode around, back toward the gas lines & turned back.  Still too early for sunset, but that's going to be changing fast!

Reed Canary Grass

Farah was determined to stop at her favorite grazing spot - where the Reed Canary Grass grows lush & thick in a low wet spot. 

Our Trail back~

The last section of trail that we take to get home, the same that we worked hours to clear a few weeks ago, has held up pretty well - even after the rains.  Next time through I'll have to be clipping blackberry though!

Mt. Philchuck

It was going on 7 p.m. when we crested the hill, a beautiful end to the day~

Thanks to George!

Farah enjoying the bounty of the season~

Yesterday Linda & I again rode at Victoria.  A slightly different approach today & always fun & beautiful.  The Very Best Part though - was that Linda's husband George had taken the tractor up & into some rugged areas - to mow down the rider high thistles, nettles & everything else that was growing along two different sections of trail!  These Trails - are enjoyed by many riders, even more people with bikes & occasional hikers, some with incredibly noisy kids!  Many thanks to George for putting in a lot of work so that others can enjoy the trails!

Numerous cars in the Trailer Parking!

As we were coming up through the woods & could just see the road - we started hearing this loud, obnoxious Sound!  Like a Grizzly Bear in a Lot of Pain - I guess would describe it!  The horses froze in place - Farah in the lead - she went into her "Giraffe" pose :-)   We could just see up through the trees, to where a family was walking back to the parking.  A boy with them was making the screaming noises.  When he stopped for a minute - I yelled through the trees - asking if they were the one's who's cars were parking in the trailer parking?  At my second yell they finally heard me, stopped to see where I was & replied;  "Yes."  At least they were honest.  I told them that the signs were plain & that the gravel area was reserved for horse trailers- whether any were there at the time or Not!  With emphasis on the "Not"!  :-)  Then told them to have a good day & they replied same...

The new clear-cut

It's got to be one of three things - they can't read, or they don't think the rules apply to them, or they choose to ignore them.  Whichever it may be - it's Rude with a Capitol "R"!  Of course what kind of appreciation of nature can you have when you're making more noise than the wildlife?  :-)

Linda on Count

As you can tell from the photo above - there's still more than Plenty of trail work to be Done!   We really had a grand ride, covered a lot of ground & did some blackberry vine clipping - next time it's the saw!

Sports Addictions~

Just part of the trail we cleared on the 4th~

Some people are addicted to the gym - working out every day.  Others to a sport - basketball, running, cycling etc.  For years - when asked,  I'd tell people I was working to support my addiction & it began with "H".  The looks I received were priceless :-)  Ten to twelve-hour days were the norm for many years.  The commutes I did then - probably couldn't even be done now...  

Even with a teenage daughter still at home, we found the time to work on our place, take some camping trips & within a couple years - pursue our newest addiction - horse riding!  Maybe it's age creeping up - but looking back, I don't know how we did it.

Fireweed in full bloom!

Now - riding is the addiction that draws me often.  Since I seldom write about private life - it probably seems to anyone who reads this blog - that it's all I do!  Farah & I go out about three times a week & are averaging about 100-miles a month +/-.   Our schedule seems to work for us both - our off time we enjoy & our ride time we enjoy.  Balance?  Isn't that what we're told is something to strive for in our daily life?  :-)

Yellow Yarrow

I left home late in the afternoon, had too much to get done & didn't want to be caught out in a thunderstorm.  It was worth the wait - cool & perfect.

Fireweed & Elderberry~

It seemed everywhere I looked was Color!  Against the gray skies - it popped!

Trail back toward home~

Even after the light rain we received overnight - everything was still very dry.  Footing rock hard & nice to have those pads on.

Reed Canary Grass

I had to admire the sea of green...  even though I know it as a hated evasive...  Of course Farah finds it exactly as wonderful as the reason it was imported here...

Farah's late afternoon snack~

No gym for me, no knees for running anymore - but saddle time gives me that wonderful boost that nothing like a good physical workout in the great outdoors, riding a good horse can provide!

Riding & Shoeing!

View to the West

Finally, I plan a ride today with Linda!  Life has gotten in the way of all the usual riding she does - so I was determined to get her back in the saddle!  It was a cool, cloudy morning - perfect riding weather.  I was anxious too, to see how Farah's new shoes would work for her...

The shoer that I'd used for the last two shoeings, did not have time in his schedule to come out two weeks early to replace the shoes that we'd worn to absolutely nothing in the last four weeks.  He'd agreed to take me on as a client - which I appreciated, but didn't have the time to keep us on the trail.

No shoe left here...

He suggested that I call Justin - the same Farrier who'd replaced the shoe Farah had pulled off just as we were leaving for the beach in June.  Thankfully - Justin was headed our way this week & could come out.  Otherwise I would have been unable to ride, as you can see from the photo above.  It seemed that this shoeing just fell apart.  Yes, we did 25 at Renegade & yes we'd done another 25 on the SVT, but I expected a shoeing to last five or six weeks, which is our usual summer schedule.

Justin told me that the shoes that had been used were "EZ Keg" shoes, not known for durability...  Angles had dropped & there were several issues that I'd never had before.   Luckily there was enough hoof growth that Justin had something to work with & we needed those angles back up where they belong.  The rear toes were squared off the way Art had always done them.  New shoes are the Eventers that have worked so well for me, more wear-ability too.  Justin suggested pads, there was some very slight bruising from the worn down shoes.  I would have padded for Renegade - but actually didn't think of it - since Farah has tough feet & we were only doing 25.  Since these new shoes will hopefully take us into Bare Bones - I'm sure we'll get the use out of the pads.  He also used barium nails at the heels, with the idea of decreasing the wear on the hind shoes, at least for a while. 

Freshly trimmed w/squared off toes

I failed to take photos after the shoes were set, but they look SO nice!  Will try for photos over the weekend.  Anyway - today was the test & boy did they pass with flying colors!  Farah was moving better than she has since Art's passing...  Great break-over, no forging & moving like a bat out of you know where!  :-)  I could actually tell that she was happy & moving so effortlessly!  Big heartfelt Thank You to Justin for taking us on as clients!  I think he'll be stuck with us for a very long time!  :-)

Linda & Count

By mid-day the sun popped out, but the peaks of the mountains were still shrouded with clouds & it actually looked like rain!  At least in that direction!  Linda took us on an unusual loop - that hadn't been used in a long time, Farah had difficulty finding the trail, so Count took the lead & even then we got off trail once.

Today's route

We covered just under ten-miles, in under four hours, taking a break at the monument.  Only saw one other group of riders coming in as we were heading out.  Linda mentioned that two of her kids had called & she was hoping the others would.  When I asked why - she said today was her Birthday!  That's what I get for not checking facebook this morning!  :-)  I had a Great ride, think Linda had a Great ride & I can't think of a better way to spend my good friends birthday than riding with her!  :-)

Gorgous in July~

Dappled Shade in the trees~

I was happy to hear that Joyce had time for a ride today.  It was another beautiful morning, cooler than yesterday.  Sunshine, a light breeze & clouds floating by overhead.   No traffic, no school buses - summertime!  Still not used to the ugliness at the Bracken Rd. parking area of the tree farm - it's hard to pull in & remember it as it was...  I'm sure it will take years before any of us who knew it before - reconcile to the new look.  We headed over to a trail through one of the few remaining stands of nice trees - then wrapped around to the creek crossing where the Beaver Pond used to be.  I think the Beavers were trapped, hopefully relocated & the dam removed.  This all makes for a beautiful crossing for the horses, without what had become a swim across in early spring.

Creek Crossing~

Joyce was riding Target, who hadn't been out much this season - so we took it easy.  Farah had checked him out - almost falling on her face as she exited the trailer :-)  She's always interested in who we ride with & she'd only met Target once that I can think of. 

Joyce & Target

She allowed me to rate her without too much head-tossing or threat of a buck :-)  It's not that I don't see the head drop, neck curl, back come up & feel the power coiled there!  :-)  Thankfully - she's a good girl!  One of her very few bad habits - I say few because it's only happened twice now - is running off when I've been mounting up.  I get a foot in the stirrup & start the swing & she takes off.  Both times, the second just this past weekend - I stay in the stirrup, pull her up & smack her hard with my stick!  Today - when I was ready to re-mount after a short break - I said;  "You'd better Stand - or No Cookie!"  When I say that she "stood like a statue" - it wouldn't be an understatement!  I reached into my pack for a cookie, but hadn't put them back in!  I borrowed one from Joyce - since she's used the cookie as reward for no movement during mounting, for years - very successfully :-)

Starting to flower~

We really had a fun ride, some good trots, did the sand loop a couple times & since Joyce had to work - we quit at just over ten-miles.  Once home,  I untacked Farah up at the barn, our usual routine.  Then - as usual, she walks two steps into the tack room to remind me that she needs one of either the mint or carrot cookies that are stored in the can!

This is the cookie can!

This mare would come in the house if there was something to eat inside!  She loves standing there - looking around, then resting while I put things away.  Next - down to the house for a shower to wash the sweat off - feels good to us both.  Finally, fly spray/mask - & her pasture time.  Spoiled?  No way :-)

Distance Derby Update:  Holding onto seventh by a wing & a prayer - over 650 YTD!  Shoes rattling & ready to fall off after under four weeks!

You Know The Feeling!

Ominous clouds~

Last week, when we loaded Farah into the trailer, Butch said;  "She's missing a shoe."  Those words a rider Never wants to hear - especially when you're loading up for several days of camping & riding with friends!  I ran back up to the barn, pulled two Renegades out of my bag & tossed them in. 

Farah was still on the first shoeing by our new Farrier.  She'd pulled her RF just the week before inspection, now - the RF was gone again.  As we were cruising down the highway for OR, I messaged our leader & found out that she had invited a Farrier!  Once at camp, I was introduced to Justin & he was kind enough to take the time to put on a shoe.  It was different from the ones she had on - with a little break-over built in. 

I took it easy all during our trip, hoping that the slight difference wouldn't cause a problem.  It didn't.  I was relieved to see Keith's truck pull up at our gate on Tue.!  He left that RF on, put on a LF that matched & put new steel on the rear.  There was plenty of growth & her feet looked great!

Today was our first test - these shoes passed with flying colors!  No forging, no clicking - Farah was as smooth going into her transitions as I could have wanted.  All Good!

Thimbleberry blooming!

It was Great to get out on such a cool, nice day!  We took our time, both of us happy to be out & about!  The Salmonberry are ripe!  I ate quite a few & gave some to Farah.  After spitting one out, she ate the others & wanted more!

Foxglove

We found Foxglove blooming too!  These trails used to be thick in foxglove, but no longer, too much grading, logging etc.  The other thing that hit us in the face - was...

Our trail home~

greenery!  Lots & lots of green & growing stuff!  Of course blackberry vines tangled in & catching us more than once!  I think I'll be doing some trail clearing of my own here in the next week or so!

Happy Dance!

If you look~

OK, the sun came out!  It was warm!  I could not do anything but saddle up & ride!  Since the trailer wasn't hitched, decided to ride from home & make another attempt to find the old trails that used to get us over to Paramount Stables on 99th. 

I saw tracks from ATV's & tried to follow them.  I knew they had to be coming onto "my" east side, from somewhere to the west of the power lines.  I checked every opening into the trees that looked like it might possibly become a trail & finally...  Success!

Green, Very Green!

It was absolutely beautiful with the trees covered with hanging moss.  The trail was rough, but nothing a good horse couldn't get through :-)

More hanging moss~

Once we came out of this trail, I finally reconized what we called the "big downhill" which it was then & still is.  Down, down to the creek & old rotted bridge - that had been rotted then.

Old Bridge

 Once across the creek, I was in for a surprise!  Someone had been working on the trails, opening them up & doing some grading.  Trails & more trails - some I'd never seen!  We just kept going & going.  Finally at 8-miles - we came to a gate.

Ben's House

Dogs started barking & a man came out.  Ben introduced himself & professed his surprise in seeing a horse & rider!  He filled me in on what had been happening with the 600 acres that are still - amazingly enough - undeveloped.  It was supposed to all go to houses, but with the economy - just has not materialized - yet.  Ben was the one working with his tractor to open some of the trails & do some repair at the crossing by a large pond.

There were plenty of other paths that we could have taken, but it was getting late & time to start for home.  It was dark when we got to our gate & found Butch home!  Farah was Very happy to have arrived back in time for her dinner!  I was thrilled to find more miles - several more than I'd hoped & more to explore!

Riding out 2012~

Farah admires our view~

How did I spend part of it?  Riding of course!  First we had sunshine, then the clouds moved in, but it was still a beautiful day in Western, WA for the very end of December!

Drainage Basin

 If I'd pulled out my camera a minute sooner - I would have had a beautiful photo of a Blue Heron taking flight off this pond!  I enjoyed seeing him, but would have enjoyed showing you a photo too!  

Home Loop

 It was incredibly quiet up in the woods, no other wildlife to report.  Farah was on her "A" game!  We trotted we galloped & we went up to 22.7 mph before the sliding stop at the edge of the large water puddle that pulled off a front shoe!  :-)  

Looking up at the Homestead~

 Art is coming over tomorrow morning to replace the shoe, best farrier in the world & he will be paid with some of my homemade ham salad, made with the huge ham that Butch smoked for our Christmas dinner!  

Butch at our Gates?

 No, you're not seeing double!  Butch is installing a new gate complete with automatic gate opener!  I wonder how many times we'll get out of the truck to open the gate before we remember to push the little button on the remote?  :-)

Farah waits for Butch to open both!

 The gold girl was a bit worried that we would get in?  After all, a warm stall, good hay & home is on the other side!  We're happy to have this year come to a close.  There were some good times, some bad times & too many sad times it seems for us ~  Time to move on into 2013 in the hope that it brings all of us good fortune, more good times & good memories!