Fun Over Fifty

Chatfield State Park

2012-01-29T15:52:00.000-08:00

Six miles covered with varied trail conditions; mud, ice, slush, and dry. The return road back to the trailer was, for the most part dry, so we got in about two miles of jogging/loping. Nice to get out.

This is Jazz

2012-01-22T14:37:00.000-08:00

We started using Clinton Anderson's method on Jazz a week ago. She is catching on quite nicely. She is lighter and more sensitive than the boys. We're gonna have fun teaching her the Fundamentals.

South Valley Park

2012-01-21T17:24:00.000-08:00

Finally had enough of a break in the weather to head out from the stable and arena work. It turned out to be a warm, sunny day though the winds began to pick up about 1 p.m. Alot of the trails here were not navigatable for the boys, so our distance was limited. It was, however, very nice to get out on the trail, even if it was for just a short bit.

Dowdy Draw Trail - - Boulder County

2012-01-05T16:43:00.000-08:00

Nothing but love for an early January day with sunshine and temps in the upper 60's. Great day to finally get the boys out for a trail ride. We only had to navigate around snow/ice a few times on the 6.25 mile loop that we did. It was so peaceful. Saw many deer. It was a shirtsleeves kind of day. Very nice indeed. We so needed a day on the trail as snow has been on the ground since November 30th and we've been riding so much indoors. Time to get out.

Snow Sucks

2011-12-26T17:04:00.001-08:00

Having had snow on the ground continuously since November 30th, Jen and I headed again to the indoor arena for some groundwork and riding. We didn't get too much accomplished, like we did yesterday, as more riders kept coming in. When it got to be too much traffic we headed back outdoors for what little grazing there is available around the evergreen tree bases. Jen found a way to keep her backside warm and her feet dry.

One, Two, Three Punch

2011-12-06T20:33:00.000-08:00

We had snow Wednesday, 11/30, into Thursday. Then Friday 12/2 into Saturday and yes, again, Sunday 12/3 into Monday. In addition to that, we've had artic fronts that significantly dropped the temperatures. Today was the first time in days that I was able to turn out the horses. They were very glad to get out. Thanks to Joni for the pictures.

One For the Calendar

2011-11-28T20:44:00.000-08:00

Between the 24/7 pain I was experiencing prior to surgery for so long and now the recovery from surgery, I can't remember when I was able to walk the dogs for 3 miles. Well, I accomplished that today. I'm so excited.

Thanksgiving Blessings

2011-11-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

While I have been known to be in the saddle for 6+ hours or more at a time, I am now just grateful for being able to spend 30 - 45 minutes at a time now and only as fast as a walk. It is humbling to me that 45 minutes in the saddle now officially kicks my butt. I am, however, riding without the previous debilatating pain that I suffered 24/7 prior to my spine surgery in late October. Butch and I will work through this together and by spring we'll be riding long, fast, and hard once again.

Moe and Buddy, no doubt, have been enjoying having me as a house mom. After nearly four weeks of obseving what they do with the day -- this is it -- with frequent changes of position. They are so cute.

Much Time on My Hands

2011-11-13T19:45:00.000-08:00

It's been sixteen days since my spinal surgery and I'm starting to go a bit bonkers. I feel pretty good, but, at this point, am not allowed to do much of anything. Let's see . . . I can look at the horses. I can hold the lead line while they graze. I can groom, but can only get down to their knees. An absolute NO on picking out their hooves. I can't put down shavings or even clean my tack, which is in dire need. At home, my day is spent mostly watching tv, movies, and trying to stay out of the fridge and cupboards. Supposed to walk 30 minutes a day, but can't take the dogs because Moe pulls too much, so the only walking I get in is at the stable. I can drive now, but what to do when I get to who knows where. Could spend money, but really shouldn't since I'm not making money. Ugh! I hate this. I long to ride my horse, and yes, I even long to go to work though I'm not physically ready for either. Trying to enjoy this extended time off, but am finding it, clearly, very difficult.

North Table Mountain Park

2011-10-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

We haven't ridden here for quite some time. There are two new bridges and many other improvements with more coming in the future. We walked a six mile loop. Nothing technical. 500' of elevation gain/loss. A beautiful fall day with the sky always changing as clouds were moving in.

I think this was my last ride as it proved too painful for me. Surgery can't happen soon enough. I want my life back.

South Mesa Trail - Boulder County

2011-10-11T17:32:00.000-07:00

Teri, Jess, and I rode here this past Sunday, the 9th. Overcast and cool. Only went 9 miles, all for the most part, at the walk. We were supposed to have gone up to Miller Gulch outside of Bailey, but it was only 19 degrees, so we opted for a later start and a closer trailhead.

Kenosha Pass - Colorado Trail

2011-10-01T16:19:00.000-07:00

Kenosha Pass -- the be all, end all place to be today; and we were there. Just a bit nuts I'd say.

Abyss Lake

2011-09-25T07:25:00.000-07:00

Teri and I did this 17.6 mile ride to Abyss Lake yesterday. The trail begins at 9,600' feet and ends at 12,600'. The Abyss Lake is shadowed by Mt. Bierstadt, Mt. Evans, and The Sawtooth.

The fall folliage was beautiful. The ride was a bit technical and should we do it again, we will call it good at the first smaller lake, which is unnamed.

White Ranch - East Trailhead

2011-09-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

The fall brings about a change in the plants that can be very beautiful. Even the poison ivy was a really pretty shade of ruby red. On the last day of summer, is was around 80 degrees. A beautiful, warm day for this close-by ride of eleven miles and 1000' elevation gain/loss.

Miller Gulch Trailhead

2011-09-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

This trail, just a bit outside of Bailey, is rapidly becoming my favorite place to ride. The parking is easy and the trails are all nearly rock free, providing miles and miles of opportunities to canter. The single track trails with their switchbacks and ups and downs, provide an amusement park-like ride. Lots of fun. The scenery is also very nice, if one goes slow enough to see it! Teri, Jess and I did this ride Saturday, September 17. Some aspen leaves were just beginning to change.

Pine Valley Ranch

2011-09-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite rides with good footing and great scenery.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

2011-09-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

Wow, on the suck meter, this one's a 10! It's a good thing I left room from our ride on Saturday. Teri and I went here on Monday, Labor Day. We started from the Nott Creek TH and rode the most difficult trails with our destination being the view of the Continental Divide from the top. Every trail was rocky, steep, and very difficult for the horses to navigate. At .8 of a mile from the top, we looked up at the rocky climb and simply called it a day. I've seen the view. It's beautiful, but Teri and I both know when to say when. We rode a very painful 13 miles. With so many beautiful rides in Colorado, I can't imagine how we found two awful ones inside of three days. We are truly blessed.

Payne Creek Trail

2011-09-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

Teri, Jess and I rode here on Saturday, September 2nd. We have been going to places we've never been, so you never know what type of trail, scenery, trail access, or trailer parking you are going to have. This trail is located just a bit over 2 miles outside of Bailey (very easy access). The first picture just about says it all about how the trail was. Rocks, rocks, and more rocks. We also, for the most part, were always in the forest. We rode a total of 11 miles and were unimpressed. On my suck meter of 1 - 10, with 10 being the suckiest, I gave this one a 7. Gotta leave room for anything that may suck more. This trail doesn't deserve a second ride.

Gashouse Gulch Trail - Lost Creek

2011-08-28T06:48:00.000-07:00

In spite of having the trailbook with us for our re-visit to this same trailhead, we still managed to miss the loop we wanted to do. We did, however, manage another loop that was 10 miles with still alot of ground to canter.

Lost Creek Wilderness

2011-08-24T19:00:00.000-07:00

Even though it's nearly September, you wouldn't know it by the weather. Upper 90's and low 100's are still the norm in metro Denver. Jess and I did this ride this past Monday, August 21. It is just a part of the Lost Creek Wilderness area that we accessed 7 miles SE of Bailey. We met to do a loop, but I left the trail book at the stable, so we ended up just doing a 10 mile out-and-back. Going back Saturday, my birthday, with the trail book so we can do a proper loop. The trails were rock free and we probably cantered half of that 10 miles. It was great fun.

Abyss Lake

2011-08-21T05:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Teri and I went to this trail head just a bit outside of Grant. In the trailbook, it's rated very difficult, is 8.8 miles each way, and begins at 9600' and ends at 12,600'. It did prove challenging, at least the section we completed, as at a little over four miles in, gathering storm clouds forced us to turn around. We'll go back in a few weeks to hopefully complete the entire trail and perhaps as an added bonus, the aspen may be changing.

Herman Gulch Trail -- Clear Creek County

2011-08-12T17:43:00.001-07:00

I have hiked this trail several times in the past and always wanted to complete it on horseback. Jess and I did that today. It is a very beautiful ride, but is quite technical on horseback.

Jones Pass -- Berthound Falls, CO

2011-08-07T17:06:00.000-07:00

This trail/road begins at 10,500 feet and ends at 12,500 feet. We couldn't quite reach the top because of a snow cornice blocking our way. It was a short ride, 3.63 miles each way, but the 2,000 feet of elevation gain certainly gave the horses a great workout.

Meyer Ranch - Conifer

2011-08-05T13:42:00.001-07:00

Shaded heavily by aspens and evergreens, we rode an easy 5 miles this morning . . . all at a walk. Just enough to stretch those legs and work those muscles.

Colorado Trail - Kenosha Pass

2011-07-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

This time we rode on the East side of Hwy 285. We rode from the Kenosha Pass Campground until the Colorado Trail intersected with the Ben Tyler trail. About 15 miles ridden at 10,500 feet. Denver was cooking again today. 17th consecutive day of above 90's.

Reynolds Park - Conifer, CO

2011-07-30T19:20:00.001-07:00

98 degres in Denver today. Went up to Conifer and rode with Teri and her horse, Tater. We rode 5.63 miles in a tidge over two hours and had an elevation gain/loss of 1400 feet.

Colorado Trail - Kenosha Pass

2011-07-22T16:25:00.000-07:00

Jess and I went back to Kenosha Pass today to complete the ride we set out to do two weeks ago. This time, we reached our destination as there were no threatening storms. Clear skies today. I believe this may be Jefferson Creek.

Reynolds Park - Conifer, CO

2011-07-11T17:01:00.000-07:00

Got in and got out by noon before the afternoon storms rolled in.

Pretty flora.

2011-07-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

Kenosha Pass - Colorado Trail

2011-07-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

All three of us have been dying to ride at altitude for quite some time. Our first choice was Herman Gulch, but it is still under snow for the last mile according to a Clear Creek County ranger. So, that led us to ride up at Kenosha Pass. It has very easy access and has immediately moved to the top of our list for favorite rides. We were only able to ride out about 4 miles before angry looking clouds found us debating on whether to go on or turn around. We decided, for our safety, to turn around. We plan on coming back to this one once the July monsoons are over and again for the fall foliage.

I included the last photo of the three horses tied to the trailer as I found it comical. Look at the left hind legs of all three. Go figure!

Alderfer/Three Sisters - Evergreen, CO

2011-07-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

Pretty hot today, even up in Evergreen. Teri and I rode Tater and Butch for about 10 miles on the trails at this park. I've been there many times, but it was Teri's first time there. We had a nice ride.

On the way home down I 70, just east of Genessee (where the buffalo roam), traffic came to a screeching halt. After 1 1/2 miles and 3 hours and 45 minutes later, we were on our way. Poor horses in the hot trailer in standing traffic for that long. We didn't have a/c in Teri's truck either.

While "camped" out on I 70, I did snap this photo of Woody Allen's "Sleeper" house.

Pine Valley Ranch - Pine, Colorado

2011-07-02T14:12:00.000-07:00

Covered nearly 8 miles in less than one and a half hours. We totally missed the water trough that is just off the trail at about five to six miles in as we loped right by the turn. Oops! Next time there, we'd like to see if we can cover the same distance in 60 minutes.

My best friend . . .

2011-07-02T05:57:00.000-07:00

. . . is this guy. Butch is looking exceptionally beautiful and fit this summer, don't 'cha think?

Meyer's Ranch - Conifer

2011-06-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

Joni and I rode at Meyer's Ranch today. It's a short, but rather nice 5 mile ride w/o anything technical or any dropoffs. Good for Joni's first trail ride out. Jessica went along also, but was hiking the trail.

Downunder Horsemanship Play Day - Indiana Equestrian Center

2011-06-27T14:58:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, the 26th, we met with a group of people who also work their horses using the Downunder Horsemanship Method. It was sunny and it was hot, afterall, it is almost July. We had a great time. Badger enjoyed pushing this very large "soccer" ball along. I will have more pictures to post as they come in. Can't wait for the next "playday" that'll be sometime in July.

Elk Meadow, Conifer, CO

2011-06-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

It has probably been about one year since we have ridden here. Parking is impossible. Saturday, the 25th, on our way to Alderfer/Three Sisters, we figured we'd swing in to the Elk Meadow parking lot and see if any space was available. We lucked out and got the very last spot. We rode 10 miles. It was a very nice day, so the park was very busy with hikers and bikers.

Bear Creek Lake Park

2011-06-18T14:05:00.000-07:00

Enjoyed a short walk, on horseback, through mostly forested trail at Bear Creek. The mosquitos, however, were relentless in spite of having sprayed the horses down really well.

Today may have been the last trip here until the Fall because of the heat. Most of the park is without shade.

Pine Valley Ranch

2011-06-12T17:35:00.001-07:00

Took a friend and met some friends and rode here today. Another gorgeous day.

Mount Falcon Open Space, Morrison, CO

2011-06-10T18:45:00.000-07:00

We finally got taken off lockdown at the stable where we board in Golden. We took off to trail ride at Mount Falcon in Morrison. We rode for nearly four hours and went 11 miles. Many of the trails did not allow a faster speed than a walk. There was about 2100' of elevation gain and loss.

May Go Postal Today

2011-06-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are STILL on lockdown while others have opened. Yes, this is yet another picture from our Texas clinic that we went to in April. Clinton is explaining to Jessica what she needed to do for our team competitions on the last day. She had the best time in her event and won the team, a $50 gift card for each person (10 per team).

Another Clinic Obstacle

2011-05-29T20:23:00.000-07:00

I noticed that it has been three weeks today since our last trail ride. Gosh, I sure miss it and I think Butch and Badger do too. While we have been riding and working, we just need a break from the arena.

You know me -- gotta post a picture. This is a three tiered obstacle jump/stairs at Clinton's. Jess was working Butch through this one. Not quite sure why she was and not me. Maybe she was in less pain at the time than I was. Wish we had access to obstacles that are local like Clinton has on his place.

Moe's Birthday

2011-05-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

Moe turned two years old yesterday. I bought him a long legged, green spotted frog that was complete with squeakers in each foot and a "rivett" noise in his belly. He was topped off with a spiffy tophat. Now, about 15 hours later, the poor frog is missing three appendages, his tophat, and a little stuffing. That didn't take long. Moe needs a job for his toy destruction habit.

Morning Dog Walk

2011-05-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

Walking the dogs this morning, I caught some photos of the Iris that are blooming now. This is but the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the colors they can be. They are my fave.

Still Going No Where

2011-05-27T05:49:00.000-07:00

While the rain has, for the most part stopped, except for isolated showers every day, we are still stuck. The stuck, however, has nothing to do with my truck, trailer, and the mud. The stable where we board has been on lockdown for nearly two weeks because of a potentially deadly equine virus. The virus originated at a reining/cutting clinic in Odgen, Utah that was held the first week of May. So far, it seems limited to only those horses that were at the event or had contact with horses that were at the event. In the last week, the statistics on the virus for Colorado have shown no new cases. If you want to learn more (doubtful) Google: Equine Herpes Virus1 or EHV-1. I have a four day weekend, the sun is out, and I'm ready to go somewhere. I understand due vigilence in being safe, but enough already. Release us!

I couldn't do a post w/o a picture. This is Butch on the teeter-totter obstacle at our April clinic in Texas. He thought it was kinda funky. Maybe I'll experiment with VIDEO. That'll be a hoot.

Dry No More

2011-05-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

It started raining last Wednesday. Then it also rained Thursday. Friday had a little sun, but it did rain. Saturday, more grey skies and what do ya know. . . more rain. Sunday very grey, not above 40 degrees, mud up to your armpits, and yup, you guessed it, more rain around 6 p.m. I took these pictures Friday when I had Butch and Badger out to graze. One thing all that rain is good for; the grass. They are diggin' on it! You can see, Badger seems to enjoy the mud. His flip side was worse. The forecast for the rest of this week? Guess? Rain. My truck and trailer aren't getting out of the mud anytime soon, which turns out to be ok because it's raining anyway! Is that kinda like the chicken and the egg riddle?

White Ranch

2011-05-08T19:52:00.000-07:00

Rode both days this weekend at White Ranch. Yesterday, with Teri and Jessica from the upper lot and today, it was just Teri and I from the east bottom lot. The temperature both days was in the upper 80's. Lots of fuel up there for fire. Kinda scary.

April Ten Day Clinic 2011 - Slideshow

2011-05-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANkPa...eature=feedlik

DUH Clinic April 19-29, 2011/Fundamental Level

2011-05-03T15:56:00.000-07:00

Day #1. Jessica and Badger waiting for their turn in the roundpen.

Executing a change of direction with hustle. Looks great.

Now, it's my turn.

The man who created the Downunder Horsemanship Method, Clinton Anderson. Yes, he's an Aussie and has a wonderful accent.

Clinton's facility has a most wonderful obstacle course. This is, without doubt, where we had the most fun. It was great to see what effort and a willing attitude our horses had, if we only just asked. This box jump was about 3.5 feet high, and as with all the obstacles, very solid. Clinton helped Jessica get Badger over it the first time.

There were two concrete filled tires to experiment with. This was the smaller of the two.

On the last day, we took this group photo. I'm on the right end and Jessica is about four horses to my left (the only grey horse in the group). We had all stenciled Clinton's Signature Horse brand on our horses. He got a kick out of that. Said we all owed him another $23K as he sells his Signature Horses for $25K and we had each paid $2K for the clinic.

Jessica's Rocky Mountain trail pony turned circus pony.

Clinton and a very well-fed Diez.

Another circus pony trick from Badger and Jessica.

Butch navigating a jump with a few strides before having to jump up on the other side. This obstacle actually had four jumps that we did, all while lunging in a circle.

There are four backing up methods on the ground. This is method #2: Wiggle, Wave, Walk and Whack if necessary. Isn't Butch looking exceptionally handsome? Notice that my hair matches my horse. Now that's accessorizing! We returned home safely on May 1 after a two day drive with an overnight in Amarillo. Boy, was it a long trip to Stephenville, Texas. The pictures above are a few of my favorites taken by my helper with my camera. As more pictures, that were taken by others come in, there may be some of interest to post. We had a great time, learned lots, and all four of us came home exhausted but looking forward to the next level of training in Clinton's series -- Intermediate.

I don't even like kids, but this one . . . .

2011-04-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's because she's with a horse, the pink halter and boots, or the usual pink flowers, ribbons, and braids she has in Leo's mane, or her lime green helmet, BUT, Kalynn is just about the cutest thing I've ever seen. It doesn't hurt either that Leo looks quite a bit like Butch.

Away We Go!

2011-04-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Jessica, Badger, Butch, and I are heading to Stephenville, TX. It is a bit southwest of the Dallas/Fort Worth area. We will overnight at a horse motel in Amarillo on Sunday and hit Clinton Anderson's ranch in Stephenville hopefully between 2-3 p.m. on Monday. We'll spend 10 days learning, training, doing groundwork, and riding the boys. We have a helper who is coming from Tennessee. Teresa will prove to be an invaluable asset as she will take care of the needs of the horses i.e. feeding, grooming, bathing, mucking, and also our needs i.e. fetching water, holding horse for bathroom breaks, giving us Advil/Naproxen/Tylenol, backrubs (probably not on the backrubs) etc. She will also be behind my camera clicking away.

We've been waiting for this opportunity for a long time. If you remember, we were supposed to go last May, but construction delays at the ranch forced Clinton to cancel our clinic.

So, away we go . . . woo hoo!!!

Joni's Fave

2011-04-10T14:57:00.000-07:00

Here's what the boys and I found this morning on our neighborhood walk.

Sure feels like summer, but the calendar says April.

2011-04-02T16:38:00.000-07:00

We met Teri and Tater at Chatfield State Park today. The wind was brutal, but the temperature was in the mid 80's. Nice. Could've done with less wind, but we enjoyed our ride. Several wide water crossings and lots of up, down, and squiggley trots through the woods. Can't beat that!

You Know It's Spring When . . . . .

2011-03-20T16:50:00.000-07:00

Visiting the Grandkids

2011-03-14T20:16:00.000-07:00

What is it about throwing rocks into the water that holds an intense facination for kids?

Fallen trees make a great bouncy ride.

Yet more rocks thrown into the Poudre.

Great Horned Owl

Red Tailed Hawk

Bald Eagle

Golden Eagle

We went to Fort Collins yesterday, Sunday, March 13th. After lunching at Beau Jo's, we went for a short "hike" and also visited the raptor preservation center. These birds are apparently just a sampling of what the preservation center cares for. The goal, of course, is to be able to help injured or sick raptors, then releasing them back into the wild. These particular specimens, whatever their individual stories, were not returnable to the wild. The Golden Eagle was found in 1988, perhaps having fallen out of the nest, with scoliosis and arthritis. The Bald Eagle suffered a broken humerus and then in 2008 suffered from West Nile Virus, getting an eye infection that led to the loss of his right eye. The Red Tailed Hawk suffered injuries that could've been caused by being struck by a vehicle. The owl, well...I can't remember his story. Bottom line though, is that each of these birds no longer have the ability to have a life outside capitivity without their own death coming at the price of that freedom. Beautiful raptors, but so sad to live caged.

South Valley Park - Ken Caryl Ranch

2011-03-12T19:46:00.000-08:00

The skies were dreary and the wind a bit crisp today. Not at all what I thought the day was going to be like. However, many new trails were found for future exploration at the south end of the Hogback just northeast of Ken Caryl Ranch. I'm so excited. Another long dirt road that afforded us the opportunity of a nice long lope. Press those cruise control buttons!

Chatfield State Park

2011-03-06T17:48:00.000-08:00

It was a varied shades of gray day. Ventured south to Chatfield State Park and was very disappointed, that after paying an $8 park entry fee, I wasn't even provided with a trail map. There also was not a single trail with any type of marking or info. A big fat zero. Jessica and I, being very navigationally challenged, stuck to this dirt road that was probably about two miles long. Lots of loping, and YES our horses have cruise control. It's great!

North Table Mountain

2011-03-03T13:45:00.000-08:00

We, and the horses, needed a day off from our usual grind of groundwork and under saddle training that we are doing in preparation for our trip next month to Clinton Anderson's clinic in Texas.

Finding places to trail ride this time of year where there won't be snow and ice to deal with is not easy. I can count on one hand, ok...maybe two, the number of places within a reasonable driving distance that qualify. North Table Mountain in Golden is one of those places, though we did have to avoid the northeast trail down. Much of it is off limits and/or stay on trail only because of revegetation efforts. Views to the west are usually wonderful, though today it was too clouded over. I believe it is currently snowing in the mountains.

As you can see from the picture of Badger's mane and Butch's tail, we were being hit by what started as a warm wind from the southwest, but before our ride was ended, the wind became brutally chilly, coming out of the north. Glad we were nearly done by that point.

Ah, yes Denver, another weather change is a comin!

Nothin' Like a Good Roll

2011-02-19T16:28:00.000-08:00

Van Bibber Park

2011-02-13T15:23:00.001-08:00

We got a short ride in today at the park across the street from where we board -- Van Bibber Open Space. We did some circling and serpentines around the trees and some other exercises under saddle on the return back to the stable as the silly horses wanted to do anything but walk back. Walking is the only safe gait with these trail conditions. Silly horses...what are they thinking?

Oh, and did I mention it was in the 60's?

Must We?

2011-02-06T15:31:00.000-08:00

This stuff is getting to be pretty annoying. I have plans! I have much to do!!1 I need solid, dry ground!!!

Still Pretty Darn Cute.

2011-02-06T15:24:00.001-08:00

Okay, so I didn't have a baby picture of Maggie, but she is still tiny for a fourteen year old domestic shorthair. She doesn't even weigh five pounds.

I love snow. I love snow. I love snow. I love snow. I love snow..........

2011-02-05T14:40:00.000-08:00

Weather forecast for today: Flurries developing around noon. Does THIS look like flurries to you?!

South Valley Park - Ken Caryl Ranch

2011-01-29T17:13:00.000-08:00

Sunny and in the 50's, but quite breezy at times. We rode North along the base of the Hogback in Ken Caryl Valley. We tried to go a different route back; one which took us on a trail with many switchbacks going through scrub oak. Unfortunately, we ran into mud, slush, and ice in spots and had to abort our path after Jessica and then Badger fell on the ice. Jess and Badger are fine, just a little battered and bruised. A bit more of an adventure than we had planned.

Tomorrow, maybe some arena work for Butch and I if we can get the indoor or outdoor to ourselves for a bit. Snow and artic temperatures are returning on Monday. Tuesday's high, a balmy three degrees with -10 Tuesday night. Yesterday was nearly 70. Each day, a different weather story. Good thing we moved our monthly Dale lesson, but only because we just saw him last weekend, to the 8th. Maybe it'll be a bit warmer than 3 degrees that day!

The Man and his Method

2011-01-24T09:46:00.000-08:00

I noticed that it's been two weeks since my last post. Thought that I should post something so that some of you, who aren't in regular contact, would know that I am indeed alive and well, but atlas VERY tired this Monday morning. My last post found us riding on a warm January Saturday in shirt sleeves and the next day snow. Go figure. After that weekend of snow, we were blessed with an Artic front that lasted three or four days. We then had a gradual warm up and on Sunday the 16th, thought we'd get out for a trail ride. Not so fast there with the thought of a ride . . . . . . Badger was losing a shoe . . . . . . so, no ride. I then worked three ten-hour shifts in a row so that I could have a five day weekend to enable Jessica and I to go to a Downunder Horsemanship Clinic near Colorado Springs. Left Thursday afternoon and returned last night at about 8 p.m. Today, is a catch up and a rest day for all. My trailer is a mess. Don't expect I'll let that stand long. SO, that's where I've been and what we've been doing. Who's the man in the picture you ask? That's Clinton Anderson riding Jillaroo at the Denver tour this past October. He is the Austrialian horse/people trainer whose methods we are so striving to master with the boys. He and his methods are truly THE BOMB!

Snow Day. What a Difference a Day Makes!

2011-01-09T14:31:00.000-08:00

Peaceful evergreens.

Mike, a.k.a. Favorite Barn Owner, faithful pup Gizzy, and Louie.

Heard of Pretty in Pink? Well, this is Beauty in Pink.

Don't know this fella or girly, but they were clothed in a skyblue/navy combo.

A frosty, and rather comical, Zeke.

Tucker in fashionable red/black.

A deserted clubhouse and fire ring.

Flaming red is Bear's choice in blanket wear. Is this Bear? I'm not sure.

Neatly parked trailers.

Rowdy sports lilac.

Butch wears, the always fasionable, basic black.

Jay in the earthy hunter green.

Jazz is in the color of royalty, a regal purple.

Julie's pick, like Jay, is hunter green also. They'd make a cute couple I think.

Bear Creek Lake Park

2011-01-08T16:09:00.000-08:00

Winter picture are so blah in the foothills. Now, if we could get up into the mountains, then we'd have some scenery like nothing else! The sun was out and the temperature was pleasant for our short two hours of riding. In our long sleeved shirts only. Today was the calm before the storm, yet again. Snow tomorrow and Monday with a high on Tuesday of 12 and a low of -10. Yuk!!!

On a side note. Moe continues to defy what the bulldog breed can do. He hiked 10 miles today with Bob and Buddy at Mount Falcon in Morrison.

Apex Park Revisited

2010-12-26T17:11:00.000-08:00

What we thought would be a warm, sunny ride was anything but. Frozen toes and thighs (no long johns) along with slick icy spots to navigate at times on the trail. Still cannot complain as we have avoided the snowfalls that are so common for the month of December.

My pictures are not very exciting, but at least some turned out.

Tis' the Season.

2010-12-18T15:55:00.001-08:00

Nothin' but cold! Brrrrrrrrrr!

Apex Park Today

2010-12-12T17:25:00.000-08:00

I found Nancy wandering about the stable today when I arrived, so she with Zip and I with Butch, went over to Apex Park. It's on the backside of Green Mountain and the backroad to Morrison from 6th Avenue and C470. It was a very nice 7 or 8 mile ride, has a large parking area, has many more trails then what we were on to explore, and is maybe a 15 minute drive from the stable. Apex could become, in the winter, one of my favorite close-in parks to frequent. I did take pictures, but not even one was worth saving.

Shared Space

2010-12-05T15:37:00.001-08:00

Today, at the stable, Butch, Badger and I shared our grazing space with this fellow, another buck, and about five does. One day, I'm gonna catch sight of and get a picture of the owl I keep hearing.

A Blessed Event - - No Wind

2010-11-27T18:20:00.000-08:00

We made it to Bear Creek State Park today. We had postponed this ride from last Sunday when a brutal front rolled through. It was warm and sunny today with hardly a breeze. The only time I was a little chilly, was when we were along the south side of the lake. It just felt cooler there. The burned area you see in one photo was prescribed, and yes, there's that darn brown cloud over Denver. The horses loaded easily to leave the stable, making us think they, as much as we, were looking forward to a ride also. Our last trailer trip out, was South Valley Park over a week ago. We did ride at Van Bibber yesterday. It's a small park across the street from where we board, but it grew so windy and chilly, it wasn't even slightly pleasant. No brrrrrrrrr in the forecast today!

Thanksgiving blessings.

2010-11-25T19:44:00.001-08:00

Other than human and canine family, I'm kinda thankful to have this guy in my life.

Strange Weather Fronts

2010-11-21T18:57:00.000-08:00

We were supposed to go here, Bear Creek Lake Park today and meet some friends at 11 a.m. to ride. We left Denver at 0930 to go to the stable, but while on the way, a front came barreling in from the West dropping the temperature quickly from 54 to 34 degrees in just a matter of five or ten minutes. The wind was howling and anything that wasn't tied down was blowing through the air. Ride cancelled. Good thing my car and the horses are heavy. Oops, I haven't seen Maggie since, however! (not really)

South Valley Park

2010-11-18T15:07:00.000-08:00

Today was better in the temperature department when compared to this past Sunday. Yes, there was a cloud blanket when there should've been absolute sun; and yes, there were quite the qusty and sometimes sustained winds, but they were warm. So, other than wishing for the sun to show itself in earnest and for the winds to be completely calm, it was a good day, with great conditions, for a trail ride considering it is only one week until Thanksgiving.

South Valley Park is one of those rare places where, if relatively empty, you have many opportunities to really let your hair down and your horse fly!!! I'd recommend this park many times over.

White Ranch - East Trailhead

2010-11-14T15:14:00.000-08:00

The first two pictures say it all. We were frickin cold. Don't know what the temperature was, much less what it felt like with the windchill, but we should've put the ponies back on the trailer as soon as we felt that cold wind. Started with a little sunshine, but it continued to elude us for the next two and a half hours. Later, with frozen fingers and toes, we more than happily ended our ride. Thank goodness. Time to go shopping for winter worthy riding gear I think.

Centennial Cone Open Space

2010-11-07T17:25:00.000-08:00

Teri and I took off today for this twelve mile loop ride. Jessica was hiking it with the CMC, so I was on Badger and Teri rode Butch (she loved my new CA saddle BTW). We started with sun and warm temperatures, but the sky quickly turned ominous and after getting rained and snowed on with a brisk cold wind blowing up our "skirts", we ended our ride with the sun we started with, but with markedly cooler temperatures and a brisk cool wind out of the northwest. Just never know what you're gonna get. It was a good ride. Getting back to MST, however, not so good. Our endless summer may be about to end afterall.......

South Mesa Trail - Boulder County

2010-11-06T17:58:00.000-07:00

It continues to be very dry and well above the seasonal norm temperatures. Last year it started snowing the last Sunday in October and never stopped until Spring. So we are taking advantage of this continuation of the warm, dry weather though a little rain here and there would be welcomed. Badger continues to prove himself a hearty and willing guy. I feel fortunate to have such dependable and steady mounts. Tomorrow, Centennial Cone for that 12 miles loop. More sun and warm weather in the forecast.

Wash Park Today

2010-11-01T16:06:00.001-07:00

I just wanted everyone to see how unbelievably green we still are in Denver on this first day in November.

Pine Valley Ranch

2010-10-31T19:09:00.001-07:00

Met Teri and Lisa at Pine Valley Ranch this morning. We rode 8.75 miles with an average speed of 2.7 mph (slow) and a top speed of 14.9 mph (fearing for my life!). It was unseasonably warm, again, but no complaints here. I don't want winter to come. We lunched on a big rock face with a great view.

White Ranch

2010-10-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

Cool, breezy, no sun, and an always changing cloud cover. It was a three layer and glove kind of day.

A Walk in the Neighborhood

2010-10-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

Thursday, on our three mile loop, I shot these photos with my Blackberry. Fall is always so pretty and when you add the Halloween decorations, it's even more fun. As you can see from the photo of Moe, the grass is still rather green. We have had a warm Fall season the the leaves have been slower to change and have even lingered longer on the trees in the high country.

Alderfer/Three Sisters

2010-10-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

Got a late start today. It was 11:30 before we mounted up. Rode for 3.5 hours.

Clinton Anderson's Walkabout Tour - Denver

2010-10-08T15:44:00.000-07:00

Volunteer Day #1. Worked from 10:30 to 4 p.m. setting up merchandise, hanging sponsor banners around the arena, and other odd jobs. Tomorrow the tour gets underway. We arrive at 7:15 and the show starts at 9 a.m.

Still Summertime

2010-10-03T17:42:00.000-07:00

We went to Reynolds Park today up in Conifer. 5.8 miles of steep and rocky trails. Butch was not appreciative. He's a tenderfoot. Badger did great. Always out in front and not bothered by the rocks like Butch. It was pretty at times, but summertime still continues here and it's been forever since we've had any rainfall. Other weather option: snow, ice and mud; no thanks, I'll take the heat.

The first picture is a bit dark. The interesting thing is that of the three peaks in the center, the first two seem to be nearly mirror images of each other. Pike's Peak is the third and very hard to make out. It was very hazy today. The same high pressure that's keeping us hot must also be keeping the air stagnant.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday coming up, Jessica and I are working for our favorite horse trainer, Clinton Anderson, for his Denver tour. So I won't have trail pictures, but I will have clinic pictures, and lots of them!!!

Should've Gone For Higher Ground

2010-09-26T15:18:00.000-07:00

Hot day. No humidity. Dry conditions. White Ranch. Cut our ride short.

Arthur's Rock/Lory State Park

2010-09-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

Road trip to Fort Collins today. We took Moe, Buddy, Jessica, Jason, Cale, and Ruby. We then went to Lory State Park and hiked up to Arthur's Rock. 1.7 miles short each way. Moe struggled at times with the high steps and the rock trail section at the top, but enjoyed the hike and did well otherwise. The sky was blue, the sun and the wind warm.

Badger's Big Day Out

2010-09-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

Finally was able to get shoes on this boy and take him out for the first time. We chose Meyers Ranch because there is minimal elevation gain, the short trail is 5 miles in length, and it's not very rocky (by my standards). Badger did great. It was a cool, overcast day and he did break a pretty good sweat. Butch was solid, as usual, and in great shape and did not even work up any kind of sweat (gotta work that boy harder). We returned to the trailer just as the rain started to fall. The front chased our tail all the way back to Golden. Our second, outing is planed for Sunday. Looking for a little more up and about 1 - 2 miles longer. White Ranch, from the top maybe? We just love this horse. He is the horse we were looking for last fall when we found Jake.

Remembered the camera, but couldn't get it to work. Will try to figure out that problem tonight. These pictures were taken with my Blackberry.

Kind Eyes = Kind Horse

2010-09-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

The kind eye on Badger cannot begin to tell us of his gentle soul and past experiences. All we know of him is the past two weeks since we brought him "home". I always thought Jake didn't have a mean bone in his body, but you can say that about this guy ten times over. He's gentle, willing, compliant, patient, whimsical, amusing, and kind. He's been started on Clinton Anderson's groundwork fundamentals. We are STILL waiting on hoof growth so we can shoe him. The past two weeks have seemed alot longer. Normal hoof growth cycle for trimming a horse is every six weeks. We may still have a while. However, unlike Badger, being patient is not one of my virtues. Love this horse!

Alderfer/Three Sisters

2010-09-18T16:51:00.001-07:00

Today was one of those weird weather days where it was cooler here in Denver than it was in the foothills. It was really quite warm in Evergreen. So, sticking with the weird theme here, I forgot my camera, my boots, and most importantly, to put sunscreen on poor Butch's nose. Many bikers (all courteous), few hikers, and many circling cars in the parking lot upon my return. Cars were parking in the horse trailer spots, which they can do after 12 noon, HOWEVER, they kept trying to park directly behind my trailer. Now how does anyone think I can open my trailer door to get my horse in! Also, I ran into other weirdos at the gas station. I had to really manuver truck and trailer to get to the diesel pump. Then some bozo pulled in to pump gas with their Subaru nose to nose with my truck. They were the slowest and dumbest people ever. After pumping gas, they were walking away from their car to go into the store. I had to point out to them, politely of course, that I was totally boxed in. Couldn't go forward, couldn't go backwards. Can you please move your car? Out of there finally and back to the stable with an impatient Butch in tow. When at the stable, while grazing Butch and Badger, I swear I saw a fellow boarder help herself to my fly spray! Are we all on this planet together or not? So, getting back to the weird theme again...........maybe everyone else had a weird day too, perhaps compliments of the strange weather inversion. So, how was your day?

Fall Colors

2010-09-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

I had to drive up to Conifer today to return a borrowed saddle. I snapped a few photos of the aspen that were just starting to come into color. Tomorrow, Butch and I are going up to Evergreen to Alderfer/Three Sisters. Be seeing you later for that post.......................................

Butch a.k.a. Superstar

2010-09-11T16:45:00.000-07:00

I went to Elk Meadow today with Butch. Yup, just the two of us. I went hoping to get some good hillwork in at the trot and canter on the lower trails before they became rocky. The parking lot was full, and cars were parked in all the horse trailer spots. I did manage to find a hole to pull in to. That should've been my first clue to move on, however, I knew Alderfer/Three Sisters was having a Poker Run, so couldn't go there. The cars were there because the Evergreen High School track kids were up there running cross country. The park was crawling with teenagers, most of whom were polite, some groups of girls that were excessively giggly, and some kids wishing they had a horse to carry them along the trails. The hillwork we got in, was going up the Bergen Peak trail, which I found to just be too rocky on poor Butch's sensitive soles. It wasn't until we got back to the flat area in the meadow that we did most of our troting and cantering. We traveled 8.5 miles and gained, and lost, about 1000' of elevation.

What amazed me the most though, was that Butch was interested, perky, ears pointed forward, and very sensitive to whatever I asked. I think you find out what kind of horse you really have when you ride alone. I had forgotten what an amazing guy Butch can be. When riding with others he gets so grumpy and pissy.

I think Elk Meadow really isn't worth riding because it's so incredibly rocky; discovery one. Discovery two: I'm gonna ride alone much more often. I'm so glad to have my horse back.

Badger update: continuing to try to get moisture into his feet to encourage hoof growth. Still no riding or groundwork. Beau (farrier) will recheck him Tuesday. Hooves are like fingernails; just gotta wait, be patient, and they'll grow.

Twins................well, sort of.

2010-09-08T12:39:00.001-07:00

Well, Butch and Badger couldn't be anymore the same unless they were twins. These two guys are amazingly alike in every way, shape, and form, but obviously not color. I am estatic to no end that I found another one like Butch, only less than half his age. Badger is seven and Butch is fifteen.

On a rather disappointing note: we can't ride or even do groundwork with Badger yet. It seems the previous owners were doing their own trimming, shoeing, and his feet are in not such great shape. Totally trimmed/rasped away his hoof wall (poor guy). So two to three weeks of mud/water soaks, being barefoot, encouraging circulation, and applying moisture to the outside of the hoof as well...............then we might have a hoof we can nail a shoe to. Meanwhile, he could use a few groceries (weight) on board, so doing nothing will help in that department.

We absolutely love where we are boarding at, Silver Quarter Acres, in Golden.

Today, it was Badger. He's a keeper!

2010-08-30T20:38:00.001-07:00

Well, Jessica looks like hell, but Badger sure is cute. This is the one. He's Jake's replacement. Will Butch think that Jake just shrunk a little?

Today, we had Sparkle.

2010-08-29T17:09:00.001-07:00

This mare could've been the near twin of Reba. Conformation and personality were great. Just a bit too goofy. Bounced on all fours when asked to lope. I guess another one bites the dust. I'm moving on to looking at geldings. Enough of these girls!

Reba..........not McIntyre!

2010-08-28T17:22:00.000-07:00

Jess and I drove a total of 10 hours today to go to Loma in order to check out this mare. Don't you think Jess looks good on her? Reba is just the first horse of about five we want to try out. We may have to take Butch out there to Loma, pick up Reba and try a long trail ride. Couldn't tell enough from riding around on the property.

Time to move on.

2010-08-26T20:29:00.001-07:00

While Jake has accomplished so much in the time that I have owned him, and I have come to love him dearly, I have sold him and will be parting his company in less than a week. He still needs alot of work, which I have the knowledge to do, but just not the comfort to do given my age and his size and strength. He's going to a nice family who lives up in Conifer where he will be used for trail riding and will have acres to roam on. His trail riding will not be as physically taxing and as long as we do. If I had acreage myself, I would keep the guy. Good bye, Jake. I wish you a well, long, and happy life.

White Ranch - East Trailhead

2010-08-25T16:55:00.000-07:00

Nancy and I had a very nice ride at White Ranch today, but little did I know it would be Jake's last ride out with us. With both horses having really ready to fall off loose shoes on both rears, Butch lost one on his left hind, so we won't be going out again as was the plan for the weekend. The farrier comes on Monday. Jake is leaving on Monday or Wednesday.

We discovered that White Ranch has added some really nice interactive signs along the trails at the top of the park. They have alot of old farm equipment and other kiosks about the wildlife. We were very impressed. There wasn't a single car parked up at the top lot.

We started from the east trailhead and ascended about 1200 feet or so to the top of the park, returning down the Belcher Hill trail back to the trailer. It was a very pleasurable ride. The boys were, of course, superstars!

Change of destination plans, forced by circumstances beyond our control.

2010-08-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

I'm not even going to tell you where we went today. You've seen pictures from this park many times over on my blog. We were going to go to Meyers Ranch, but something was going on at the Meyers Homestead at 9 a.m. and there was absolutely NO parking anywhere. So, we were grudgingly forced to travel a bit further to another trailhead. HOWEVER, due to the new place where we are now boarding, which we love I might add, we were up, rode 6 miles and were back to the stable by 1 p.m., especially since it's record breaking hot today. It was great. Butch and Jake were superstars. Couldn't have asked for a better ride. Applause to the first person who correctly guesses where we went. Guess you gotta go back and look at past blog posts.

"Missouriville" in Fremont County, Colorado

2010-08-17T07:46:00.001-07:00

Jessica, Nancy, and I spent last week visiting my friends from Missouri. I can't begin to place all the pictures here on this blog, but plan on getting them on photobucket for viewing soon. We had a relaxing week, good weather, and many miles of riding. The horses enjoyed the 30 acres of turnout, before coming home to their new boarding facility in Golden. Already looking forward to next year's annual visit.

Again.......Reynolds Park

2010-07-31T15:51:00.001-07:00

Jessica picked Reynolds Park today as our trail ride destination. Since I have numerous blog entries with photos from there, I tried to make today about the flowers. However, as you can see from my not too numerous flower pictures, that plan didn't play out. Nancy was along with Zip today, though she was on foot more than she was on his back. We did all come to the general conclusion that the wildflowers were much more abundant last year. Why that is, we don't know. Anyone? Four miles later, we returned to the parking lot with another successful trail ride under our feet/hooves. What's successful you ask? Well, it's the fact that we all returned with bodies, brains, and equines in the same condition that we started out with!