Enjoy your Horse

2009-08-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

Is this why Women and Horses get along so Well?
They understand Better?

Women of Rodeo in the 1800's
By Jason John Brand

Most women of the 1800's learned to ride out of necessity from helping on the ranch and practicing the skills of the range. From an early age, women could stay in the saddle, break a bronc and rope a steer.

In the late 1800's, the younger horsewomen began competing against males in a yearly gathering of herds -which progressed into participating in rodeos. The first rodeos began in the mid-1800 when thousands of cattle and horses were driven to town for the yearly round-up. The cowboys were eager for relaxation and would compete in tests of skills like roping, breaking horses, branding cattle and racing.

Women of the 1800s, however, were not recognized in the arena until 1885. The most famous cowgirl was Phoebe Ann Moses or Annie Oakley. Here are two stories of women who also helped start the movement of women in Rodeo's (Stories are from the book "Daughters of the West" by Anne Seagraves.)

In 1897, Bertha Kaelpernick Blancett rode over 100 miles to enter a horse race in Cheyenne's Frontier Days and she was allowed to enter only because the arena was so muddy the cowboys refused to participate. Bertha was coerced into riding a bucking horse to keep the crowd from leaving. Once upon the animal, the petite girl had the ride of her life. Part of the time the horse was up in the air on his hind feet and once he fell backwards, but gutsy Bertha skillfully slid to his side and hung on. Although it was said at that time, that Bertha was a terrible bucker, she had managed to remain in the saddle, putting the cowboys to shame.

Later in 1904 Bertha became a star performer in Claude William's show and was a four time winner in Roman Racing at Pendleton. Bertha rode under men's rules, was seldom defeated and often beat such cowboys as Ben Corbett and Hoot Gibson.

Four years later Prairie Rose Henderson, an exuberant and talented daughter of a Wyoming rancher, rode to Cheyenne to enter a bronc busting contest. When the lady arrived, she was told, much to her chagrin that women were not permitted to ride. When Rose demanded to see the rules, she found there was no clause forbidding women to compete, and the officials were forced to let her participate. Her entrance into the arena created a sensation. Women had always been spectators, not competitors, and Miss Henderson was a colorful person. She came dashing out of the chute hanging on with all her strength and promptly lost the race. Prairie Rose, however, was really a winner, for she had opened the door to rodeo for other women to follow.

Later, Rose went on to victory in other rodeos and became one of the most flamboyant cowgirls of her era. In 1918, she entered the Gordon Nebraska rodeo wearing ostrich plumes over her bloomers and a blouse covered with bright sequins she had carefully sewn herself.

Rose eventually married a rancher and one cloudy day in 1932, Rose rode off to her last competition. This time, she faced her greatest fear, a storm, and lost her life during a blizzard. Prairie Rose's body was discovered nine years later and identified only by her champion belt buckle.

My name is Jason Brand, the son of John Brand and owner of Buckaroo Leather Products. Our family owned business has been producing high quality leather made tack for over 30 years. This article is one of many that we will continue to post on the horse tack, how to care for your products, the history, their uses, and much more.

We are proud to share our knowledge of leather and horse tack with all who are interested. We appreciate you taking the time to read the article and hope you will continue to watch for further postings. This article mostly came from our blog http://www.buckarooleather.info where you can find much more about leather horse tack and everything western. Please visit our website http://www.buckarooleather.com to view products, testimonials, and much more! Thank you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_John_Brand
http://EzineArticles.com/?Women-of-Rodeo-in-the-1800s&id=2732839

2009-07-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

It's Not too Late to Plan a Wonderful Horseback Vacation for 2009.

Middle of July..
Is hot where you are?
Don't have ambition to get out on the Trail Ride?

Plan a get-away now and into the Fall at these Great USA Locations from Hidden Trails, a premier Horse Back Vacation Provider.

Our Equestrian tours in USA

North America, with its wide open spaces and tradition of exploring the undiscovered on horseback, is still the ultimate destination for horse lovers.

With hundreds of horse riding holiday destinations and equestrian tour opportunities, the United States of America and Canada offer cowboy traditions, vast wilderness areas and the genuine hospitality of the Guest and Working Ranches of the West.

In North America you will find a horseback riding vacation that will fulfill your lifelong dreams. Explore the Rocky Mountains on a Wilderness pack trip, canter across open beaches in California, Drive a herd of horses in Idaho, muster cattle on a working ranch in Montana, join a Cowgirl Camp in New Mexico, ride from Inn to Inn in Utah - the list goes on, with far too many horse riding options to mention here.

Regardless of whether you join Hidden Trails on a horse riding pack trip to faraway regions, ride from inn to inn, stay at a cattle or Guest Ranch, or opt to combine your horse riding with fishing, the USA and Canada are the right places to fulfill even the most discriminating horse riding dreams.
Contact

Hidden Trail Horse Vacations

2009-06-29T12:44:00.001-07:00

Our Miniature Horses are For Sale.

Elvis AMHA and AMHR registered
Smokin Hot AMHA registered

It is a sad time at the Won Mini Ranch that we must sell our two Miniature Elvis and Smokin Hot. Shirley's bone condition is such we can't take any risks. These two horse have been her pride and source of much joy for the past 5 years, ever since we downsized form the Quarter Horse World.

Elvis has been professionally trained in all disciplines and LOVES to Perform.
Harnessed in Cart, doing Driving Obstacle, Liberty Classes, Halter and Obstacle-in-hand are his favorites.

He qualified for national Championship Show two years and won Gelding Incentive in California.

He is available as a package with Custom Leather Harness, and almost NEW Jerald Show cart, plus Blankets, sleeezies, halters etc.

Half Measures Heart Of Elvis

SSH Visions Smokin' Hot is a Refined energetic young gelding. He has been thoroughly de-spooked, currently being long-lined for Driving Training, Loves Halter, In-hand-Obstacle , Liberty and Jumping. He was shown as a yerling and plalced very well at AMHA sanction shows.

SSH Visions Smokin' Hot
as a weanling

More Pictures Soon

http://chuckbartok.com

2009-06-16T18:49:00.001-07:00

Elk Creek Buckarettes found at Western States Horse Expo

Back again to reintroduce the Now World famous Elk creek Buckarette Ride held every spring in the beautiful Foothill Ranch Country surrounding Elk Creek, California in Glenn County.
5 days of great trail riding with spectaculars scenery through the flower festooned foothills on working Cattle ranches.
Ladies Only! Be treated like a Cowgirl Queen.
Always sold out in advance, but cancellations occur.
Call in your reservation Today.

http://elkcreekbuckarettes.com

2009-02-09T04:28:00.000-08:00

Ways to better communicate
with your horse
by World Champion trainer Sara Shalda

Proper petting.
Pet you horse the way a mother mare licks her foal.
Try to make your hand feel like her tongue.

Laughter.
The sound of a soft chuckle we humans make closely imitates that of a horses
nicker they may to each other,
especially that of a mare to her foal.
This is a primal and primary way to instantly convey your love, respect,
and bond with your horse.

Standing quietly,
Just standing quietly beside or near your horse is enough to feel their energy and
let your spirit interact with theirs.
It is important you do this every day ...
the more you do this, it the stronger your bond will be.

Endorphins.

Horses bite each other’s withers.
There are powerful endorphins released when you scratch your horse’s withers, neck, and back area the same way another horse does.
You want your scratching to feel identical to horse’s teeth. .. just like another horse. ... This is a drug and a powerful one. ...
Endorphins are just as strong as any narcotic known to man today. ... Every time you release endorphins in your horse, you make them more and more addicted to you. ..

Its true and its powerful.
...your horse will not be able to live without you.

He will be a drug addict and you will be his drug.

www.sarashaldaperformancehorses.com

The following Video has some Example of the quiet Communication
with your Horse

2007-03-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

More Great Opportunities for Family Horse

Adventure

Mother-Daughter Riding and Spa Vacations

Cross Country International invites you and your family to experience one of many exciting riding vacations.

Mother and Daughter Spa Equestrian Vacations are wonderful for the whole family! Have fun riding every day on great horses, relax with massage or spa treatments, and indulge in wonderful food and accommodations.

• Ireland's Mount Juliet Estate Ride and Spa Trip: You will enjoy four days of riding with opportunities to train under British Horse Society certified instructors in your choice of cross country jumping, hunt seat equitation, show jumping or dressage.

• Ireland's Kinnitty Castle Ride and Spa Trip: Spend a week at the 11th century Kinnitty Castle, known for its medieval decor, four-poster bedrooms and roaring fireplaces, all with the luxuries of modern life. You will treasure five wonderful days of riding on spectacular Irish-bred horses through scenic forests and the picturesque foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains.

• France's Provence Ride and Spa Trip: This ride offers an introduction to trail riding, perfect for mothers or daughters with limited experience as you ride gentle French horses, well-trained to help novice equestrians ride confidently.

• Italy's Tuscany Ride and Spa Trip: Spend time riding from a family-owned Italian villa through idyllic landscapes and picturesque villages of Tuscany. Opportunities for hiking, swimming, shopping, and sightseeing abound.

• California's Northern Coast Trail and Spa Trip: Explore the undisturbed California Coast and discover the pace of nature on this horseback riding vacation while overlooking a spectacular stretch of rugged bluffs surrounded by endless acres of wilderness, rolling coastal hills and secluded beaches.

To learn more information, call toll-free (800) 828 8768, or click here.

Have a Great Trip! Cross Country International

Maybe they will put together Father & Son trips????

2007-02-12T14:52:00.000-08:00

Here is an excellent Article from Horse & Rider, Equus Magazine.
A perfect reason to spend more time Horseback and Enjoy
Your Best friend, the Horse.
Chuck & Shirley Bartok
www.chuckbartok.com

Horses Help Reader Lose Weight

A passion to ride helped an overweight Horse & Rider reader get fit and transform her life. Learn how you can do it, too.
By Sandy Denarski with Jennifer Forsberg Meyer

My riding career almost ended before it began. There I was, 50 years old and close to 100 pounds overweight, trying to mount a horse for the first time. I couldn't do it! I had a threestep mounting block, and it still took me about 10 minutes to haul myself on. Talk about embarrassing.

Today, at 55 and a trim 145 pounds on my 5-foot, 7-inch frame, I find mounting a breeze. My joint problems are gone, my blood pressure is down, my congestion has cleared, and my skin looks better. Best of all, I have more energy than many women half my age. My secret? Not a miracle diet, or surgery, or a draconian exercise program,although I did learn to eat properly and work out. No, the key to my success has been motivation: a burning desire to change my life and make my dream--riding and showing--a reality.

Sharing my story isn't easy (just look at that "before" picture below). But if I can help even one reader to do what I've done, it'll have been worth it. I was an overstressed, out-of-shape size 24. I became a fit, athletic size 6/8, who rides and shows horses. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it.

If you're overweight, take a page from my notebook. I've kept the pounds off for five years and am happier than I've ever been. If I did it, you can, too. Read on.

Overweight & Overwhelmed
I'd always wanted to ride, but my mother thought it was too dangerous, too expensive and "not appropriate for a young lady." Although I did well in school and participated in things like Girl Scouts and church activities, I wasn't physically active. I was a "chubbette."

Before: More than 80 pounds overweight for much of her life, Sandy says sharing her tale is a little embarrassing. "But if I can help even one reader to do what I've done, it'll have been worth it."

After college, I landed a job with Johnson & Johnson, the health care company, becoming a senior finance professional. By then I was yo-yo dieting, with my weight gradually creeping up. I married and had a daughter, then never lost all the pregnancy weight.

When my systems-engineer husband and I were living in central New Jersey in the early 1990s, our daughter Alison began taking riding lessons. That would've been the logical time for me to get started, too, but I was just too heavy. My job was high-pressure, requiring frequent travel to Asia Pacific. I was trying to be both a super mom and super employee, and neglecting my own needs. Eating was how I soothed myself.

How bad did it get? I weighed from 230 to 240 pounds for much of my adult life. It's not as if I didn't attempt to slim down, either. Over the years, I tried everything--group programs, diet drinks, pure protein plans a la Atkins, low fat/high carb regimens, even fads like the vinegar-and-seaweed diet. I also often skipped breakfast and/or lunch. All of these enabled me to lose at least some weight, sometimes. But over the long term, none of them kept the weight off.

After an early menopause that began in my early 40s, I began gaining weight at the rate of 10 to 15 pounds per year. By the time I turned 50 in 2000, I was pushing 300 pounds. Health problems loomed--high blood pressure, aching joints, constant colds and the flu. A surgeon told me I'd need knee replacement surgery if I didn't lose weight.

I also read a quote at the time that frightened me: "Don't dig your grave with your own knife and fork." That's exactly what I was doing. I thought about two 50-something people I know who work hard to stay fit." Why do I think I don't have to do that, too?," I asked myself.

As a finance person, I knew there was no such thing as a get-rich-quick scheme. (You get rich by working hard and building assets over time.) I also realized--as most people do deep inside--that losing weight was going to require the same long-term commitment and steady work.

And now I was ready to do it. My motivation was bigger than a class reunion or a friend's wedding or a certain size dress I longed to wear. I wanted to build a better life, a more balanced life. One that would finally include horses...for me.

Just Do It!
I began simply by switching to healthy foods and watching my portions. I focused on fruits and vegetables; good, lean protein; and low- or nonfat dairy. I ate some potato, but no processed starches and very little bread.

I quit eating junk food altogether. To this day, if it comes in cellophane, I don't eat it. Desserts have become a special occasion treat.

I discovered a few "tricks" along the way that really helped me. I don't keep desserts or other sugary, high-fat treats in the house. In restaurants I "re-portion" my meal before eating it, and always take about half of it home. (For more tricks and an example of what I now eat to maintain my weight, see "How I Eat" in the January 2006 Horse & Rider). I began to lose weight...slowly.

Two months into my diet, I was feeling so good I began to exercise. I used an old-fashioned Nordictrack machine I had in the house collecting dust, plus walking. At first, 10 minutes of either was the most I could do. But I improved over time, and a few months into my new exercise program I splurged on an elliptical machine. (I knew I'd never want to use a gym--not my style--so the home equipment was a good investment for me.) I aimed at getting aerobic exercise six or seven days a week.

I also saw a physical therapist, who added to my regimen basic weight-training moves for all major muscle groups. Using inexpensive free weights at home, I "pumped iron" for about 10 minutes on most days of the week. (For my maintenance workout program, see "How I Exercise," also in the January 2006 Horse & Rider).

Today, a trim 145 pounds, Sandy shows in multiple Western events with her trainer's gelding BJ.

Now, Add Horses
The weight kept coming off. After I'd shed 60 pounds, I mustered the courage to call my daughter's trainer, Karen Lesko Molnar of Allentown, N.J., and told her I wanted to learn to ride. She was flabbergasted. She knew me only as an obese, super-busy career mom. I told her I'd already lost a chunk of weight, was going to lose more, and that riding was my motivation, with showing to be my reward.

I began on the Appaloosa gelding Ha Bar Bandito, or "QT." He's an experienced teenager who'd been shown in Appaloosa youth competition by a previous owner. He's a sturdy mount, and I knew he was the lesson horse Karen uses with her heavier students. QT taught me the basics.

About a year later, after I'd gotten down to around 170 pounds, Karen put me up on Bo Skip Jo, her 25-year-old palomino Quarter Horse. "BJ," as we call him, has been a cherished part of Karen's family since he was six. When I was finally allowed to ride him, I knew for sure I was getting thin!

On QT and then BJ, I began showing in open compettion in the Central Jersey Horseman's Association (CJHA). My events are showmanship, Western equitation and pleasure, pattern classes and trail. I wasn't and still am not a world-beater, but I have great fun and enjoy the learning process. Plus, I do have big goals (more on that in a moment).

Once I was riding, I knew I would someday reach and maintain my ideal weight, even though the long-term failure rate of most weight-loss programs is about 95 percent. Horses have given me the sustainability needed to keep going. In order to ride at all, I had to lose a certain amount of weight. Then in order to be the type of rider I longed to be in the show ring, I had to continue losing and keep it off, which I did and am.

Another terrific thing about horses as a weight-loss aid is the way they reinforce the positive mental attitude you need to be successful. So much of riding and training horses is mind over matter and staying positive, and the same is true of dieting. As I learned to be a more effective rider, I was also learning to be a more effective dieter. Ultimately, I realized my earlier approaches to dieting were far too food-focused. I needed to balance my life and use other thing, including horses, to calm me down and give me a sense of fulfillment.

Putting an overweight person on a diet emphasizing food is like giving a suicidal person a shotgun--eventually there's going to be a disaster. You need a much more global approach.

Keeping it Going
Today, I can still hardly believe I'm using the 16-inch-seat show saddle I bought for my daughter at the 1998 All American Quarter Horse Congress. Someday I plan to show in breed competition and beyond that, who knows? Something like the Select Quarter Horse World Show for over-50 riders might even be in my future.

Right now I'm still riding Karen's horses, and I don't know if or when I'll actually have a horse of my own. For the moment, instead of buying a horse, I've celebrated my return to health by making a sizable donation to the Rutgers Equine Science Center. It's my way of saying thank you to the fabulous four-legged creatures that have helped make my new life possible.

My husband and I recently moved to a community in Crosswicks, N.J., where many residents have horses on small acreage. I may catch-ride some of my neighbor's horses. I also handle the point system for the CJHA, and the community of horse people I know through CJHA and Rutgers Equine Science Center makes for a wonderful supportive network.

2007-01-18T11:15:00.000-08:00

RIDE AUSTRALIA THIS YEAR

Click Here for More Photos

Australia's Beach and Bush Inn-to-Inn Trail
Noosa is the jewel in the crown of Australia's Sunshine Coast, located in sub-tropical south east Queensland. Noosa is an aboriginal word, meaning 'shady place' and many of the local towns and countryside reflect aboriginal names and pioneering origins of gold rush days, cattle and timber industry.

Today, Noosa is regarded as Australia's leading regional tourism destination, combining relaxed coastal living, pristine surfing beaches, and a marvelous bio-diversity of hinterland experiences from open grazing country to lush rainforest. Noosa and the Sunshine Coast have a dynamic energy, which has made it the enclave of artists, celebrities, leading restauranteurs and people seeking serenity of life outside major cities.

Horses and trail riding are popular activities with local residents and visitors to the region.The Noosa Council have created a special hinterland trail network which covers a range of mountain trails and rainforest tracks with spectacular coastal views and the opportunity to ride along a beautiful Australian surfing beach close to the world's largest sand island - Fraser Island.

We have put together the Australian Bush & Beach Experience for you to enjoy the range of sites and sensations this unique Australian region has to offer. Australian flora and fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, colorful parrots, eucalypts and heritage rainforest are just some of the Australian icons you will see regularly on your rides.

Your guide for the week is triple Olympian, Alex Watson, who lives in the Noosa area.

Click Here To Request A Reservation!
Send This Horseback Riding Vacation Info To A Friend!
phone: (800) 828-8768
email: info@xcintl.com
Reserve a Vacation
Request a Catalogue

2006-11-06T19:20:00.000-08:00

Highly Recommended Vaccinations

This at-a-glance vaccination chart shows you the vaccinations recommended for your horse, based on his lifestyle.
By the Editors of Practical Horseman magazine

For your purpose of choosing the best vaccination and deworming strategy for your horse, these are the three basic equine lifestyles:

Open herd: This is your horse's situation if he travels frequently to shows or other events where he comes in contact with unfamiliar horses whose worming and vaccination schedules you don't know. Even if he's stay-at-home, he's in an open herd if he boards in a large facility with a high turnover and even more so if manure is not removed regularly from the turnout areas.

Semi-open herd: If your horse and those around him are on regular vaccination and deworming schedules and their fecal egg counts are monitored and all newcomers to the barn are immediately vaccinated and dewormed, your horse fits here.

Closed herd: This lifestyle gives you horse the least exposure to worms and germs. He qualifies if he's in an extremely controlled environment with rare exposure to unfamiliar horses, is turned out in regularly cleaned paddocks and benefits from regular vaccination and deworming program that includes fecal egg counts.

Now that you know your horse's herd type, use the chart below to develop a custom plan that optimally immunizes your horse against disease and controls his exposure to parasites.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED VACCINATIONS
(Don't Leave Home Without Them)
Disease Description Protocol/Comments
TETANUS TOXOID When a wound such as a deep puncture is contaminated, toxins from the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium tetani, which thrives in the equine environment, cause lockjaw and general muscle spasms, usually resulting in death. For all herd types: Vaccinate yearly.
Give a booster vaccination at the time of penetrating injury or surgery if most recent dose was more than six months earlier. Broodmares should receive a vaccination four to six weeks before foaling.

EE/WEE Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis, aka Sleeping Sickness, is a vector-borne viral disease causing inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. For all herd types: Vaccinate yearly, in spring (before insect season).
Where Encephalomyelitis is common and/or where there are two annual mosquito "blooms," give a booster EEE/WEE vaccination every six months about a month before the onset of the mosquito season. A vaccination for Venezuelan Equine Encephalomyelitis is also recommended for horses in U.S border areas of Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas.

RABIES Invasion of the central nervous system by a virus that is fatal if untreated; it also transmits to other animals--including humans. For all herd types: Recommended yearly, especially in areas where rabid wildlife is reported or areas considered to be endemic.
WEST NILE VIRAL ENCEPHALMYELITIS A mosquito-born encephalitis that can be deadly to horses and has been reported in all but a few states. For all herd types: Vaccination recommended very six months.
Two West Nile Virus vaccines are now available; consult your veterinarian about the best choice for your horse. If you're vaccinating your horse against WNV for the first time, he'll require a booster after the initial injection.

INFLUENZA Acute, contagious, viral respiratory-tract inflammation; occurs in isolated cases or in epidemics. Your veterinarian can recommend which form of the vaccine is suitable for your horse. Intranasal Vaccine
Open herd: Every four months.
Semi-open herd: Every six months.
Closed herd: Every six months; add booster two to four weeks before anticipated exposure, such as a show or a long haul.
Intranasal vaccine gives a good immune response when properly applied but can be tricky to administer. If your horse is fussy about substances sprayed up his nostrils, consider using the injectable form.
Injectable Vaccine
Open herd: Every four months.
Semi-open herd: Every four months.
Closed herd: Every six months; add a booster two to four weeks before anticipated exposure.

RHINOPNEUMONITIS Caused by a herpes virus, a contagious infection of the respiratory tract; often induces abortion in pregnant mares. Open herd: Every other month.
Semi-open herd: Every four months.
Closed herd: (Optional) Every six months.
Rhinopneumonitis and Influenza vaccines are sometimes administered in a single combined dose. If your mare is bred, consult your veterinarian about a Rhino vaccination schedule to safeguard her pregnancy.

This chart originally appeared in the article "Protect Your Horse from Worms and Germs" in the April 2005 issue of Practical Horseman magazine.

2006-07-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

Married with Horses: Hay is for Horses

What do our significant others think when they're first thrust into the horse world? Find out how one horse husband felt when he discovered the intricacies of hay.
By Jeremy Law

My wife, Kimberly, and I recently bought another horse. We are now the proud parents of two geldings, but it wasn't so long ago my wife's fifth horse became my first.

Kimberly and I met while she was visiting Denver on business and spent three months doing the "long-distance thing." We got engaged, and I moved from Colorado to North Carolina to be with her. I was a city boy living in the country with a fiancé and a horse. I barely knew what to do with a fiancé. I didn't have the slightest clue what to do with a horse.

There is nothing like owning a horse. They are such unique animals and such unique responsibilities are required of those who care for them. We cannot throw just any food their way as some may do with cats or dogs. (Just try feeding a horse your table scraps.) The equine digestive system is as delicate as its host is majestic. Yes, we've all heard that hay is for horses, but not just any hay. If there's sand in it, or if there is too much or too little protein it can create total chaos. What is one, completely new to horse ownership, to do?

When I first moved to North Carolina to be with my fiancé and her horse, I was, needless to say, a bit overcautious about caring for him. Feeding time would arrive, and I would break out in a cold sweat just thinking about the scoops of moistened beet pulp, grain and various supplements. Good grief! If I did actually succeed in mixing everything correctly and with the proper amount of water, what if some contaminant went undetected and the horse developed a stomach ache or something worse, like EPM? Additionally, I had the erroneous impression that the slightest problem, such as a simple equine head cold, warranted "putting the horse down." I was completely depressed, and I hadn't even done anything yet.

Kimberly informed me that I was worrying myself unnecessarily. She was right, but with all the concerns of a new, life-changing romantic relationship I was further concerned with the possibility of injuring an animal that was worth more than my car. Admittedly, care needs to be taken, but I realized that there is a fine line between "caring" and "worrying." Fortunately, I soon learned to relax and actually enjoy feeding time. In fact, I so looked forward to feeding the horse that, on occasion, Kimberly and I argued about who would get to do it. Go figure.

Even though I had settled into the feeding and basic care routine with our horse, I was still overwhelmed by all that one could know about equines. I felt an immense responsibility to my fiancé and our horse to learn as much as I could about horses in general. My parents' response was to send me an entire equine reference library. My parents pride themselves on having a sense of humor. Among the numerous, informative volumes they sent was the ever-flattering title, Horses for Dummies. Thank you, Mom and Dad.

So I read and read. I poured over descriptions of horses throughout history. There were descriptions of tiny, four-toed Eohippus, which seemed too much a modest beginning for these amazing creatures. After thousands of years they lost some toes and got bigger, so, we hunted them for food while painting images of them on our cave walls. Later, they pulled our chariots and plows. No wonder some horses don't care much for people.

I also tried to memorize the equine skeletal structure. Wow! There is actually a knee and an elbow on the same limb. Coffin bone, point of hock, withers? Who comes up with these names? Chapter after fascinating chapter I became less certain that my brain wouldn't pop with everything I was trying to stuff into it.

My head was a jumble of trivia, and I didn't feel any closer to understanding equines. I was, however forming a fairly solid impression of horses based on my experience with our horse. This was not because of my readings, but simply by virtue of my spending time with him. Strangely, few aspects of my impression appeared anywhere in my books. Nowhere did it state how brilliantly intuitive horses are. They are acutely aware of their surroundings. They clearly react to, and in some cases they assume the mood or energy of the people or other animals around them.

But horses also embody a clear duality. I was unable to articulate this particular perception until just a few weeks ago. Our brilliant horse, who can probably do complex calculus problems and possibly even speak English, ran about eight miles into the woods to escape from a plastic bag being blown by a gentle spring breeze. I was dragged along at my end of the lead line for approximately seven of those miles.

The duality of the horse is one of seemingly polar opposites. They are delicate giants. They are primitive and sophisticated, physical and metaphysical. On occasion they are brilliant goofballs. How do horses do it, and how are we to figure them out? From all the reading, I realized that books are great for reading about equine history, for learning the multitude of breeds or for studying charts of their complex anatomy. I also realized that the only way to truly understand horses is by being with them.

During those first months as a fiancé and new horse owner, I arrested many sleepless nights with a 2 a.m. walk to the stable with a little snack for him and me. We spoke silently. I told him about my restlessness. He told me everything would be fine and sent me back to bed. I snuggled up next to Kimberly, and fell comfortably to sleep with the faint fragrance of carrots on my hands and an intense curiosity about what our horse would teach me next.

Jeremy Law and his wife, Kimberly, live on a small farm in Grifton, N.C., with their two cats, two dogs and two horses.

Thanks to Jeremy's candid humor about the wonderful world of Horse Husbandry.
Chuck & Shirley

2006-07-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

Ride in New York's Historic Hudson River Valley

This summer come to Millbrook, one of New York's oldest and most cherished villages in the Hudson River Valley, and ride wonderful horses. Ride from one of the area's finest riding establishments that offers training and guided trail riding in a gorgeous setting with experienced instructors and guides. The horses are mostly Irish hunters and the instructors are BHS certified. Riders can train at their current level both on the flat and over fences and enjoy nearly 400 acres of trail riding on land protected by the Hudson River Valley's Dutchess Land Conservancy. Stay in one of Millbrook's charming B&Bs and ride through the picturesque wine and hunt country.

New York Training & Trail Ride

Dates: Open every week July through October - must book in advance for availability. Fall Foliage rides also available.

Price: $790, double occupancy.

This trip includes 3 nights' B&B accommodation, breakfast each day, and 3 days of training (includes 5 lessons or trail rides).

For more information, please call Cross Country International at (800) 828-8768 or email us at info@xcintl.com

This offer may not be combined with any other offer. Not valid on previously booked trips.

2006-06-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

GROWING UP WITH HORSES 2006

Parents, Friends, and Youth Leaders!
Please take advantage of this great offer Now

Learn more about this publication:
From the Editor
Table of Contents
Order Bulk Copies
Order a Single Copy
Call 301-977-3900

Parents, Friends, and Youth Leaders!
Please take advantage of this great offer Now

The 2006 edition is now available!
Explore the contents at left and order your own copy today.
Growing Up With Horses
Primedia Equine Network's Growing Up With Horses is the only publication targeted to parents of the nation's 7 million horse-involved youngsters. As the ultimate source, this award-winning annual provides basic information on everything a parent needs to know, from selecting a riding instructor, lesson barn and mount, to understanding the different types of riding and competitive opportunities.

Growing Up With Horses 2005 Essay Contest
Congratulations to the winners and top finishers! Visit the Giveaway Winners page to find out who won, then read the winning essays in the 2006 Growing Up With Horses

2006-05-22T14:35:00.000-07:00

This just in from Our Friends at Equisearch

You Could Win a Spanish Trail Riding Vacation
Enter now for your chance to win a Spanish trail riding vacation or a shopping spree.
By the EquiSearch Staff

Check out the special Spain travel sections in the June issues of EQUUS, Practical Horseman and Dressage Today magazines.
Photos courtesy of CCI
Enter the Spanish Trail Riding Vacation Sweepstakes below before October 31 for your chance to win a trip for two on Cross Country International's Andalusian Sierra Nevada Trail Ride.

The winner and a guest will explore southern Spain from the backs of Purebred Spanish Horses. The grand prize includes accommodations, meals, guided trail rides, transfers, a $250 travel voucher and tax. Winner and guest must be able to walk, trot and canter outside of an arena.

You'll also be entered for a chance to win a shopping spree from Dover Saddlery.

Grand Prize: Trip for two on Cross Country International's Andalusian Sierra Nevada Trail Ride.

First Prize: $1,000 shopping spree from Dover Saddlery.

Click on this link to Subscribe to the Weekly
Newsletter and be eligible for the Drawing
EQUISEARCH NEWSLETTER
Chuck & Shirley Bartok
EQUINE-BARNYARD

2006-05-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

See Provence, France, from Horseback

Provence, France--a part of the world that you owe it to yourself to experience. And what better way to really see and feel Provence than from the back of a horse? Cross Country International is proud to offer you these fabulous offers for some of our most captivating trail rides.

Provence Perched Villages
Come and discover the mysterious "Colorado Provencal," fill your senses with the fragrance of lavender and unique "Provencal herbs," and be enchanted by the savor of Provencal cuisine! A colorful trip, filled with the legends and poignant history of this unique and preserved territory.
Special offer June 5–10 only: Bring a friend for 50% off

Provence Inn to Inn
Begin your ride at the base of the Luberon Mountain Range and travel higher each day. See the Mediterranean Sea on one side, the snow-capped Alps on the other and Provence below you. Along the way, you will travel through ancient villages and along fields of lavender and sunflowers. You will ride through the lower part of the French Alps and along part of the ancient pilgrimage road to Lourdes in one of the most special and unspoiled areas of France.
Special offer June 11-17: Single supplement waived. Enjoy your own room at no extra expense.

Ride & Learn French
A trail ride in the heart of the county of Provence, country of sunlight and fragrances. Come discover landscapes painted by Cezanne. A week dedicated to trail riding in Provence landscapes and villages, to taste the Mediterranean food. You will receive two hours of formal French lessons each day, and every effort will be made to speak French with you throughout each day and evening. Total immersion in riding, language and culture!
Special offer: Bring a friend for 50% off July 10-15, July 16-22, July 23-29, July 30-Aug 5, Aug 6-12, Aug 13-19, Aug 20-26.

For more information, please call Cross Country International at (800) 828-8768 or email info@xcintl.com.

Thanks for the Visit
Chuck & Shirley Bartok
CLICK FOR OUR NEWSLETTER

2006-04-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

DONT MISS OUT on this spectacular Opportunity to enjoy the "Old West" and be pampered at the same time.

Visit the Website TODAY!

Elk Creek Buckarettes

Limited spaces available for April 2006.
Call for reservations today
530-968-5340
Tell them Shirley Bartok sent you

While here, you will find yourself surrounded by spectacular scenery and remarkable women representing professional backgrounds, ranching histories, family ties and every discipline of riding.
The level of horsemanship varies from rider to rider, and we have designed our daily rides to allow for such differences, but one thing is certain...this is no "dude-ette" vacation. We have tailored your time here with us so that your needs are completely taken card of, but ranch women know that they are always responsible for the care of their valued horses.

So, come here ready to ride. Regardless of the weather Mother Nature hands us, each day we will lead you on a new and inspiring ride through the ranch. Miles of private trails will lay before you as we wind through oak woodlands, wildflower laden valleys, cross creeks lined with cottonwoods and willows, and pass by old homestead sites and Indian camps abandoned years ago. Cows will call to their calves, horses will nicker to one another, the grasses will part at our passing, and the melody of conversations between new and old friends will fill the Spring air.

YOUR COMMENTS ARE VERY APPRECIATED

2006-04-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

Women's Adventures Rides with Cross Country International
Nothing compares to the camaraderie of exploring new places and cultures with like-minded travelers. Our new Women's Adventures Rides offer women of all ages the opportunity to experience the world on rides designed exclusively for women.
Solo women travelers. Sisters. Mothers and daughters. Friends. Whether traveling solo or with a group, Women's Adventure Rides invite women to travel in a fun, supportive atmosphere. Each departure includes all the features of our regularly-scheduled departures PLUS activities chosen specifically with women in mind.
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Italy: Tuscany & Umbria – September 3-9, 2006. Women's Adventure Ride is $2,150 per person (shared accommodation) and includes 6 nights' hotel accommodation, all meals (made with fresh homemade pasta, pasta sauce, olive oil, meats and cheeses, homemade pastries and wine), 4 days of guided riding in the hills and villages of Tuscany, a wine tasting, an Italian cooking class complete with a visit to a local market and a spa visit to one of Europe's most highly acclaimed spas. Includes tack, guide and tax.

Morocco: Fès to Marrakesh – May 19-25, 2006. Women's Adventure Ride is $2,335 per person (shared accommodation) and includes 6 nights' accommodation in five star hotels, 4 days of guided trail riding on native Arabian horses, all meals prepared with flavorful fresh ingredients, the opportunity to treat yourself to a natural henna tattoo (don't worry--it washes off), a class on decreasing stress through meditation, a cooking lesson on traditional Moroccan cuisine, visits to the local markets with colorful handmade pottery and linens and optional hamman (spa) treatments.

Queensland, Australia – May 14-20, 2006. Women's Adventure Ride is $1,895 per person (shared accommodation) and includes: 6 nights' guesthouse/hotel accommodation, 5 days of guided trail riding on Australian Stock horses, all meals, visits to a traditional euromundi market, the chance to learn cattle mustering with fun-loving and attractive Aussie cowboys and campfires with melodic Aboriginal music.

Vienna & Budapest – June 25-July 1, 2006. Women's Adventure Ride is $2,135 per person (shared accommodation) and includes 7 nights' hotel accommodation including a 5-star hotel in Budapest, a visit to the famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna with tickets to a performance, 4 days of guided trail riding on native Kisbar and Lipizzaner horses, most meals which will feature mouth-watering Hungarian cuisine, the opportunity to enjoy Hungarian Baths and optional massage treatments and fabulous chances to shop for Hungarian Pottery and Crystal.
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Solo women travelers will be matched with a roommate. If no roommate is available, there is no additional charge as long as the tour is reserved 60 days in advance. There are a limited number of private rooms available for women who prefer to pay a single supplement fee.
For more details or to make a reservation, contact Cross Country International at www.equestrianvacations.com or call 1-800-828-8768 or email info@xcintl.com.

YOUR COMMENTS ARE VERY APPRECIATED