tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6898727776392202382012-02-18T04:20:49.051-06:00aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.comBlogger2801100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-24852920568707150562012-02-18T02:40:00.005-06:002012-02-18T03:17:37.505-06:00

Crank up your sound and enjoy this video. Watch 'til the end, you will be amazed. I was.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-63776743213187883092012-02-16T05:21:00.002-06:002012-02-16T05:28:56.497-06:00

I need it. Without consistency, self doubt rears it's ugly head. Doesn't matter if it's on the ground, or in the saddle, "it" creeps up at the silliest of times. It's amazing to me how consistency affects my confidence. The World English Dictionary defines consistency as: the state or quality of holding or sticking together and retaining shape conformity with previous attitudes, behaviour,

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-50909679837499041262012-02-12T16:26:00.000-06:002012-02-12T16:26:42.275-06:00

For this week's From the Heart challenge, I shot photos of my brother-in-law's 10 week old puppy Norman. He came from a Saint Bernard rescue.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-33223723871717572152012-02-05T09:32:00.000-06:002012-02-05T09:32:15.904-06:00

We usually don't get to enjoy our waterfall during the winter, but this year it's been mild. Here are some liquid shots taken in my yard this morning, including an altered one. Not a big fan of "overdone" shots, but I couldn't resist the artistic hot liquid. Top of the Falls Lava Looking Down Closer view, looking down Enjoy other Sunday Stills ~ Liquids

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-47834253993616805952012-02-04T15:25:00.000-06:002012-02-04T15:25:59.897-06:00

Harmony, having a blast Cierra, on the run Cierra breakin' out the moves(L-R Nemo, Cierra and Harmony) C'mon, let's play!(L-R, Resident Pony, Koda and Cierra) Uh oh - where did he come from!(L-R Nemo, Cierra and Koda) Snow was flying everywhere They were rolling, jumping, kicking, spinning - and plain ol' having fun!(L-R Nemo, Harmony and Koda) Harmony taking a break(Nemo

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-57673561568128588672012-01-29T14:57:00.001-06:002012-01-29T15:01:22.275-06:00

I stuck close to home for this challenge, and had a hard time finding frames in nature...the first two are from my backyard, and the last shot was taken down at the farm. Looking forward to seeing other Sunday Stills Nature Frames! Tree Framed Sunset Nested Ice(bird nest frame, early sunset) Hide-n-go click(Nemo, tree framed and sporting a snow mustache)

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-21460972740084669422012-01-22T09:55:00.000-06:002012-01-22T09:55:32.612-06:00

I knew shooting birds was going to be a true challenge for me. I do not own a long lens, and can never get close enough. I love birds, and have numerous feeders at home. I've tried for years to get decent shots of my feathered friends. I didn't even attempt it this time. Instead, I drove into the city to the only place I could think of that would have open water during below freezing temps - the

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-65533139334446497492012-01-20T09:44:00.000-06:002012-01-20T09:44:11.742-06:00

Four horses, finds us needing three pans and one pan-in-tire.  This past week we've had to go pan hunting, and improvise. The pan-in-tire is easy to find. One or two of the pans are never far, but one pan in particular goes MIA on a daily basis. We've lost it for days at a time. Nemo, our neatest eater, has graciously agreed to eat out of a bucket - perhaps out of guilt? Our daughter claims he

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-58367484460512993852012-01-15T16:54:00.000-06:002012-01-15T16:54:48.858-06:00

Unless round, most things have a corner. I looked & thought about all the corners around me. They weren't very interesting. I thought about driving downtown to the Capitol, large majestic buildings with windows make for a grrreat photograph.  But who wants to deal with traffic, not me. Sometimes the easiest subjects, can be the most challenging. I found an interesting light pattern, on the corner

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-54985400900130641132012-01-10T20:09:00.001-06:002012-01-10T20:13:08.114-06:00

I received the email below from a co-worker. Thought I would do my part to pass this info along, incase anyone in the WI area can help or knows someone who can...it's so sad. They are being offered free. I have contact info for anyone who is interested. They sound like nice horses, that find themselves in a bad situation... "Hello, I apologize for such a large mass mailing but I am reaching

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-11881241988844756002012-01-08T19:08:00.001-06:002012-01-08T19:09:35.738-06:00

Interesting challenge, Light Painting. I have had happy Light Painting surprises upon occasion, but I've never done this on purpose. I shot some new, and included a couple of my favorite from archives. My favorite Christmas decoration, a Star.It hangs on the outside of our house. My hubby made it for me, years ago when we couldn't afford an overpriced decoration. He surprised me with

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-82676684632496325552012-01-08T10:47:00.000-06:002012-01-08T10:47:46.496-06:00

Heading for the good stuff(Koda) Morning Steam(Harmony on left, Cierra on right) Muddy Faced Clean up Crew(Koda) Good Mornin' Big Guy(Nemo)

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-19028412504712857032012-01-06T05:28:00.004-06:002012-01-06T08:25:27.063-06:00

My new years goal is the same as last years, ride my horse. That's it. Might sound too simple for some of you. For me it's a challenge. Time, location, weather conditions and dependency constantly get in the way. It's a goal that while achieving, makes me feel fulfilled in sooo many ways. Come to think of it, I've had the same goal for several years now. I'll never forget the look on our friends

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-78691371924145275302012-01-01T21:13:00.001-06:002012-01-01T21:16:29.708-06:00

I truly enjoyed reading all the year in reviews, and would have liked to have done one myself. However,  my thoughtful hubby had plans for us to take a New Years trip north to rejuvenate, and so we did - ending the year and beginning the next in tranquility. My year in review will remain throughout my blog. Before we headed out, I took some year end photo's - and they are all about Nemo. Over the

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-20682835985067206752011-12-29T11:27:00.002-06:002011-12-29T11:30:40.457-06:00

I am on staycation this week. Instead of sleeping longer, I've kept my alarm set for work hours. I've swapped getting ready for work, with getting ready to do horse chores. It's much faster, easier and far more enjoyable. There is no dress code, the horses could care less what I wear. All four of them have been so good, and sweet. It's too dark for pictures during chores, but I'll try to capture

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-66099532506148882532011-12-25T19:17:00.007-06:002011-12-27T08:39:08.851-06:00

For many years I handmade a good half of my Christmas cards. It had become a family tradition, that included bribing asking my family to take professional photos. I liked the tradition and "documentation" of how our family evolved over the years. I also enjoy the creative hand work of making cards/scrapbooking, altho I can't seem to pull those types of projects together - but once a year I do. 

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-91918208363090252102011-12-18T05:55:00.003-06:002011-12-18T07:14:57.549-06:00

I've been somewhat absent from blogging, for no particular reason. Busy? Yes. Still transitioning additional work responsibilities, which included travel to the "windy city" for a couple days. Nothing horse to share? Yes. My horse time is limited at best, chore related and savored on the weekends. WI is less then pretty with it's early darkness, gray days, mud and bare trees? Yes. Doesn't inspire

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-13822801949801667322011-12-03T05:09:00.003-06:002011-12-03T05:17:12.355-06:00

I'm pretty excited about the upcoming Midwest Horse Fair for several reasons. They are bringing the Extreme Mustang Challenge back. I'm hopeful enough trainers applied? The past two challenges, I followed training blogs & learned from them. It was heartwarming to see them come full circle as a team, many unable to part with their beloved Mustangs. Amazing things were accomplished in a short

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-34326051646889378862011-12-01T07:07:00.001-06:002011-12-01T07:15:17.469-06:00

Everyday I don't get to see her, I ask. Usually I get "she's ok". Last night when I asked how Harmony was the answer I got was different, "sore on another leg". What! another leg? She's only got one left that isn't giving her grief. She seems to be caught in a vicious cycle of hurt, getting better, and more hurt. Harmony is under vet guidance, and has responded to the various treatments. Her girl

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-22400748178278567872011-11-26T14:12:00.002-06:002011-11-26T14:30:52.759-06:00

I took an unintentional break from blogging, and the whole month of November almost slipped by. No particular reason, I just didn't feel inspired to write about horse chores and wishing things were different. It felt mundane. Everything doesn't have to be sunshine and roses, but I try not to say anything when I don't have anything good to say. Key word is try. The moment my hubby reads this he'll

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-51368769559088224232011-11-25T19:08:00.002-06:002011-11-26T09:11:05.091-06:00

Had a great day, we trailered up to Iron Horse (for any new readers, it's our trainers place) and rode for the first time in three weeks. Yes, I am counting. The only thing I spent today was quality time riding my horse, with good company - my kinda Black Friday! When we arrived Shauna called Koda's name, instantly he perked his ears up ~ awe. He really misses being there, more then likely the

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-84156771483424730452011-10-30T13:27:00.002-05:002011-10-30T13:32:05.821-05:00

We had so much fun at Spur of the Moment Ranch in June, we wanted to try a Fall trip. We booked shortly after, but already there were no cabin openings until the end of October. Our weather is frequently nasty by then, we decided to take a chance regardless. It's been a slow Fall this year. We lucked out, and got gorgeous weather!! It was dusk when we arrived. Both the boys unloaded, and were

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-80227088508130727672011-10-30T09:42:00.001-05:002011-10-30T17:05:55.516-05:00

The challenge this week was to choose a starting spot, walk 25 steps in any direction and take 3 photos. Once steps had been counted out, we were asked to anchor one foot to shoot 3 photos. Harder then it sounds. Pivoting on that foot was allowed, but the anchor foot may not move. I thought we then had to continue on from the ending 25 step spot, and walk 50 more steps. After re-reading the

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-14058413551186536442011-10-26T05:15:00.001-05:002011-10-26T05:18:49.966-05:00

We had a beautiful sunny Fall day for a weekend trip up to Iron Horse. Our boys seemed happy to be back at their home away from home. Trainer Patty noticed Koda's round tummy right away. He hasn't done much of anything but be a horse for several weeks, amazing how quickly horses can change.  We started with a short warm-up lunge, that would have been shorter if someone would have payed

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-10095194645702090152011-10-26T04:25:00.000-05:002011-10-26T04:25:54.970-05:00

Harmony's leg is once again improving. She is putting some weight on it with a "flat" foot, but still limping and sporting a wrap. Justifiably annoyed, while waiting I didn't get to see her yesterday. Tonight I got the "it's swollen again" news. Sigh. Two steps forward, one step back... Wrap, rinse and repeat Her girl is taking good care of her, doing what she can to help her heal. She

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-85229000439267162642011-10-23T16:57:00.000-05:002011-10-23T16:57:21.393-05:00

We've had an ever changing routine since Koda & Nemo came home a few weeks ago. One that is not conducive to riding. Weather is changing, we are rapidly loosing daylight. Work is busier then ever, with both of ours experiencing change of it's own. Harmony's injury care changes things up, and even the resident equine turn-out situation has changed again. It's all part of life. Fall just seems to

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-66152457494531508252011-10-23T12:46:00.001-05:002011-10-23T15:31:07.127-05:00

I was going to opt out of this weeks Sunday Stills, because I couldn't fit a road trip in to shoot some of the beautiful rock formations in our area. I love rocks, always have. They can have such unique textures, colors, shapes, and embedded (or lived) stories. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to shoot a sample of some of the many rocks in our gardens, and remember the beauty in the little

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-8739461541547960532011-10-19T21:10:00.000-05:002011-10-19T21:10:31.182-05:00

After a week of Harmony's girl wrapping, hosing, giving bute and caring for an injured pastern - it was time to call the vet. We thought Harmony was good to go, the swelling was gone. By mid-week she had stopped favoring her left rear leg and was moving fine. The wrap came off, she ran faster then anyone. That didn't last long. Harmony is now on strict stall rest. She has been pastured all her

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-74565131790619006832011-10-16T22:24:00.001-05:002011-10-16T22:28:14.400-05:00

Yep, you read the title right. Today was our first ride of the year at home. We had a very windy, but good sunny Sunday ride. We haven't ridden for almost two weeks. I was SO happy to be back in the saddle! One never knows how horses will behave when they return home from an extended stay at the trainers, and are asked to go to work in a completely different (relaxed) setting. Koda's ground

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-25414484135612899622011-10-16T07:53:00.000-05:002011-10-16T07:53:24.525-05:00

I often find myself focusing on the foreground while on the road shooting landscape, however looking specifically for this type of shot was challenging. I tried several views, and learned you really need to be out in an expansive natural setting for this type of shot to work well. With this in mind, I did manage to get one new shot that fit's the challenge: Below is a foreground archive photo,

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-87357581368769501972011-10-15T09:51:00.001-05:002011-10-15T10:01:40.056-05:00

It's been one week since we brought Koda & Nemo home. We continue putting them in the arena, separate from the resident equine. Since our boys were gone we never worked it up this year, turns out to be a good thing. Sometimes our horses are in there for the afternoon, sometimes the working day, or not at all - just depends. Being on someone else's random schedule makes me very uneasy. No one is

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-22630690775201126272011-10-13T05:36:00.000-05:002011-10-13T05:36:38.195-05:00

A sincere thank you to Wolfie, from What was I Thinking, and Megan, from Operation Horse Rescue for this award. It was lovely to receive, and even more lovely to get to know both of you better!! Seven things about me: 1) I'm an unperfect perfectionist. I used to be super organized, what happened?? 2) I love olives, Kalamata are my favorite. 3) I'm a Lifetime Member of the National Home Gardening

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-73149442316815394272011-10-12T21:59:00.003-05:002011-10-15T10:01:07.778-05:00

The rest of the reunion story is an eye opener. Altho Koda & Nemo had never met Old Man, we assumed an old horse that was at the bottom of the pecking order would stay there. The Resident Pony even bosses him around. I drove my hubby nuts the two weeks prior to bringing Koda & Nemo home, speculating how we were going to merge the herd so that Old Man wouldn't get hurt. Nemo really listens to Brad

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-68262349047538931322011-10-11T20:14:00.003-05:002011-10-15T10:00:21.218-05:00

(L-R) Cierra & Harmony Who is THAT...can it be true? Yes Harmony, you can be with them soon. (background butt's are resident horses) Harmony's boys are home, she was sooo excited to see them!  It's been just over 9 months since our little herd has been together. I can't figure out who's happier to see who. We separated the horses at first, and saw things like this... (L-R) Koda & Harmony

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-48315152001560496082011-10-09T00:17:00.000-05:002011-10-09T00:17:00.468-05:00

On the way home from our horse trainers ranch today (with Koda & Nemo in tow) we stopped before crossing the bridge that we've driven over many many times ~ so that I could capture the view: See other vanishing points from Sunday Stills.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-36632035265660390802011-10-08T17:09:00.003-05:002011-10-15T09:59:30.431-05:00

We had beautiful Fall weather for the Ride for the Cure. 75 trailers were expected. Not sure what the final count was, but the fundraiser was well attended. It was a good experience for all. Everyone was considerate, and came together for a good cause. I was really proud of Koda & Nemo, we experienced a lot of new firsts. In our riding group we had Brad & Nemo, Trainer Patty rode Walter (a show

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-90219214079562392992011-10-01T22:16:00.000-05:002011-10-01T22:16:39.875-05:00

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-56361685811609711532011-09-28T07:01:00.000-05:002011-09-28T07:01:51.677-05:00

Last night during our lesson at Iron Horse, I was merrily loping along - when something felt odd. I glanced over my right (inside) shoulder and saw my horses hip sticking out more then the usual. I looked forward, my horses head was straight - we were going straight, huh? I stopped.  Trainer Patty asked "What's wrong?". " Um, that was weird, what the heck was Koda doing? His hip was sticking out"

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-12963394616680640842011-09-25T14:11:00.004-05:002011-09-25T15:02:59.507-05:00

First, a short follow-up on a previous post. Koda had no additional white spots and no changes this week. You can see the existing spots in proportion in the photo below, the larger one near his withers and the smaller one in the girth area.  Onto the saddle saga, which continues. The latest revelation came about when we took the bell stirrup's off my old Circle Y, and swapped them out on the

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-40205920421659526492011-09-25T12:23:00.003-05:002011-09-25T15:20:11.853-05:00

One of my favorite signs of early Fall are Sedums. I ran out between rain showers this morning to capture a few raindrop shots of them... ...yesterday was a beeeautiful sunny early Fall morning. By afternoon the weather was changing, as it often does. I was glad I got outside before the rain started, to take a few shots of the fields surrounding our property... View more Sunday Stills

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-71282828996617454072011-09-21T05:07:00.000-05:002011-09-21T05:07:57.694-05:00

No, not mine. The white hair's showing up this season are Koda's, in patches, and in area's I've never seen before. It's a bit concerning, but I was reassured they were old hair follicles growing out while a new winter coat grows in. I too can see the two-toned hair, darker closer to the body and white closer to the tip. What is odd is there are new patches of white hair that I've never seen

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-52709007290417052742011-09-20T05:56:00.001-05:002011-09-20T06:00:28.179-05:00

I just received the October issue of Horse & Rider, and read "Self Help for your Fears" written by Melinda Folse. It had some really good points, and suggestions, for what seems to be a very common struggle. Early in the article it gives a stat from The American Horse Council, that out of 9.2 million horses in the US, 75% are owned by women over the age of 40. Wow! That got my attention. Most

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-63561559896985501852011-09-18T04:34:00.000-05:002011-09-18T04:34:08.710-05:00

Altho we had spent the first part of the weekend traveling over an hour to sporting events both Friday evening and Saturday morning, we decided we need to ride while we can. The boys will be coming home soon. We headed back on the road Saturday afternoon, to enjoy a quiet early Fall ride at Iron Horse. Our humans are here I was curious to ride in the new saddle again. It got oiled, billet's

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-53149642004360199072011-09-18T03:05:00.001-05:002011-09-18T03:23:46.225-05:00

I was surprised to find this weeks challenge, challenging. One would think with so many country roads to choose from, how could it possibly be hard? This is how; with the main challenge being traffic, lines and road are easily cockeyed, it takes a long time to drive and find interesting locations, signs and telephone poles were my nemesis. My nice husband drove around enjoying the sites with me,

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-1255046005509893142011-09-11T23:47:00.004-05:002011-09-12T10:55:00.717-05:00

We went on our first ACTHA Ride for the Mustangs at Ukarydee yesterday. We rode as buddies of our trainers client/friend, and loved it!! Our trainer Patty was suppose to come with us. She so wanted to do the ride herself, just as much as she wanted us to do the ride. However, unexpected serious family matters came up. Just as we were pulling off the interstate headed to her place in the wee hours

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-49730417073987858962011-09-11T15:42:00.004-05:002011-09-11T15:57:13.448-05:00

From my garden: A couple metal (obvious) shiny things... ..and something less obvious (everything shines when wet) ~ isn't he a cute lil' guy?!! See other shiny things at Sunday Stills

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-82057561641465701932011-09-08T06:42:00.001-05:002011-09-08T12:53:54.656-05:00

I'm pretty jazzed up with all the new things to try this week! It started with the arrival of another long awaited saddle to try, a reiner that has been customized. I like 90% of this saddle, fit's Koda well and is comfortable to ride in. I just need to decide if I can get used to a different cantle that is lower then I prefer/am used to. There is some other stuff I would change, but all minor.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-71007822954159688422011-09-05T09:01:00.003-05:002011-09-05T15:23:04.361-05:00

This is the season we ideally would be heading out on the trail, but it's best we stay out of the woods for a couple weeks to let Nemo's allergy situation simmer. Instead, we enjoyed a second arena weekend ride. We were flying solo (or duo in our case) at Iron Horse, it was a good day to bring our equine ball to fun it up. Our boys haven't seen it since they were introduced to it as two year olds

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-11870933788550301962011-09-04T08:02:00.000-05:002011-09-04T08:02:59.245-05:00

It's potluck time, a photographers choice. Enjoy a sample of what I captured when my local photography group took a trip to Capitol Sand & Gravel last weekend. Beautiful sites were photographed, and good times shared. The owner took a couple of us lucky photographers out on the peaceful water. Dredge reflections Pier reflections Overlooking Capitol Sand & Gravel, the water

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-76296197207851143932011-09-03T19:19:00.000-05:002011-09-03T19:19:34.704-05:00

Watching the Ultimate Horse Challenge at Horse Days sparked a conversation with Trainer Patty that had more or less been "put to bed". She knows us pretty well and thinks we would really enjoy Competitive Trail Riding, and so would our horses. A very different level then the Ultimate Horse Challenge, altho both include trail-type obstacles. We've been entertaining the idea of Competitive Trail

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-5965200116712441082011-08-28T08:49:00.000-05:002011-08-28T08:49:08.055-05:00

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-47721116470798418842011-08-22T23:14:00.008-05:002011-09-05T08:11:44.382-05:00

Yesterday was a beautiful summer day, and much of it was spent with Cierra and Harmony. We did some work on the pasture, mowed weeds, and restocked the hay. Brad has been working with Cierra on trailer loading for a while. She was doing awesome, loading great, staying alone, windows & doors closed etc. No issues. It was time for a mini-trip up to our house.  It would be Cierra's first trailer

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-72353053063116231282011-08-21T23:38:00.004-05:002011-09-21T03:21:49.452-05:00

Last week while adventure riding at White Mound, Nemo began to do something very uncharacteristic - toss his head. Not just a few times, but consistently. We thought maybe he got stung by a bee, or something flew up his nose. Brad checked him several times, but didn't see anything. Nemo stopped tossing his head while we took our rain break, but started up again as soon as we were back on the

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-53804507237098950762011-08-21T19:36:00.000-05:002011-08-21T19:36:59.858-05:00

Focused on bits:

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-32291200155783501502011-08-16T20:50:00.000-05:002011-08-16T20:50:29.920-05:00

Technically Horse Days is in a different town & state - but close enough. It's the first annual and there is a lot of fun stuff scheduled! Among the many are Five Grandstand Events including: Two PRCA Rodeo Performances. These contestants are competing to qualify for the NFR in Las Vegas this December. Come see why the PRCA is the best Rodeo circuit in the Country. Two Days of

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-32073943820578813112011-08-15T21:57:00.001-05:002011-08-15T22:19:15.951-05:00

One vacation day, four young horses and a mixed bag of weather turned a Friday afternoon trail ride into an adventure! On the ride was Koda & Nemo, the most "experienced" trail horses of the group (at the ripe old age of four), Trooper, a five year old Haflinger-Paint mix, who had little to no trail experience (nor did his new owner), and the baby of the bunch was Rasta, a 3 year old

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-39372645756689127952011-08-14T14:58:00.000-05:002011-08-14T14:58:25.539-05:00

Beads of water on my Elephant Ear leaf Colorful Contrast Nature Center in Vail, CO

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-49693420716139997002011-08-14T14:41:00.003-05:002011-08-14T19:28:27.921-05:00

We had an emotional start to summer, a simple "are we going to see you guys?" text from our friends was the catalyst to our annual summer trip to Colorado. We started traveling there many years ago for kids hockey, which evolved to traveling there for friendship - and the much needed respite back to paradise. To quote a friend "If you don't believe in god, you haven't seen Colorado in the

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-37171121803681167042011-08-09T23:00:00.001-05:002011-08-09T23:05:46.678-05:00

When we met Cierra as a baby, she looked like this... ...after a few visits, and clipping, we were surprised to find a much darker girl... ...Cierra came home with us. Over the winter she grew a warm coat... ...we weren't sure what color she would be in the spring. Cierra turned a pretty dark smokey black color... ...but that didn't last long. Cierra started getting lighter from

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-7187015651735549762011-08-07T23:46:00.001-05:002011-08-07T23:50:32.298-05:00

I was planning a sunrise trip this morning over to the other side of the farm where we horseback ride, but it was raining. It did clear up later in the day, below are the view's I enjoyed from home with our teenage son. The colors intensified, and so did the "really mom, put the camera down and get in the pool before it's too late - I thought we were swimming" something I've cherished for years,

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-57257478643129494232011-08-07T12:39:00.000-05:002011-08-07T12:39:34.918-05:00

It was late morning when we arrived to ride Koda & Nemo for a second time this week. They are still at the trainers, which limits our rides for various reasons. The reality is summer is almost over, therefore we are being pro-active in getting in a second weekly ride. I am happy to say we accomplished that yesterday. Koda slinking over to me, yep it's time to go to work. I was happy Koda came

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-21658297219798357092011-07-29T20:59:00.000-05:002011-07-29T20:59:25.887-05:00

While on vacation I had the pleasure of reading Chosen by a Horse by Susan Richards. It was a good summer read, that kept my interest and made me reflect not only on my own horse relationships, but on my life in general. Altho the main character Susan had a less then ideal childhood, her adult life journey was full of healing through admirable equine and human friendships - reaffirming that it is

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-41998557513576742832011-07-25T00:35:00.001-05:002011-09-21T03:19:10.105-05:00

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-12274155274247444982011-07-13T23:38:00.003-05:002011-07-14T07:39:36.450-05:00

Tuesday's have become our riding day. We scramble home early from work and head north to see our boys. When the rides are good, they are really good. It helps being in the outdoor arena, weather permitting. Both hubby and I continue working on loping, side-passing, turns, ground poles, along with some work on open/closing gates etc. I am slowly getting back to where I was, working well with Koda.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-28658273708723045932011-07-10T23:35:00.000-05:002011-07-10T23:35:45.494-05:00

This weeks challenge is anything that begins with the letter F, things or places. I took some shots late this afternoon of some of my favorite things, at some of my favorite place's at home. Fuchsia (Gartenmeister) Fern (Japanese Painted) Frog (gifted from my mother) Frog (watches over our pond) Fish (her name is Diamond)

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-13997917225661101972011-06-26T11:42:00.000-05:002011-06-26T11:42:37.163-05:00

When I saw my daughters wedding wish board included a photo of a couple riding on a carriage, I knew exactly who to call - Wes Licht from Rockin L Acres. I have such fond memories of my driving lesson years ago, he was a great teacher. Altho Wes had an annual horse show that same day, he still managed to get his horses, carriage and all that tack ready and to the church. Horses have been in my

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-88631410642872496032011-06-26T11:04:00.000-05:002011-06-26T11:04:27.085-05:00

View other Sunday Stills photos

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-34196242754572947162011-06-12T07:56:00.000-05:002011-06-12T07:56:38.498-05:00

Various shades of yellow, and feel, taken while we were on vacation at a ranch this week. See other shades of yellow captured for Sunday Stills.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-14694964228231024482011-06-11T01:04:00.006-05:002011-06-11T08:52:13.713-05:00

We just came back today from our first overnight trip with Koda & Nemo, at Spur of the Moment Ranch!  Altho I wasn't really ready for the challenge, I had the trip booked & planned long before I had hit the sand, and was determined to make it a memorable trip. After all, it was my birthday gift to my hubby.  It turns out we had a good trip, loved the ranch and area in general! Arrival day was

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-49597816519716198612011-06-08T00:40:00.001-05:002011-06-08T00:45:37.384-05:00

It's been a process trying to get back to where I was before Koda dumped me. Nothing is the same. The first ride after that day, I saw Koda and unexpectedly found myself full of feelings I didn't know I had. I was disappointed with everyone concerned, especially me. I tried a second new saddle, and didn't like it much. We got through the lesson, and I spent the next week sorting out my feelings.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-85339595732840085892011-06-05T15:38:00.000-05:002011-06-05T15:38:46.616-05:00

Ali & Cierra Cierra gets a hug from Ali I'm a yearling now! Cierra always makes us smile Brad loves his girl Cierra a couple weeks ago, was still working on loosing that winter baby fuzz What a difference a couple weeks make, Cierra's summer coat (taken yesterday).

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-83069931401429277622011-06-05T15:37:00.001-05:002011-06-05T15:38:30.892-05:00

This weeks challenge was free choice, no archives. I've submitted some shots taken in my yard. It was super bright, sunny and hot. I didn't make it out early in the morning to shoot, and had to pay close attention to where the sun was. It was blasting the color right out of everything, making this more challenging then I thought. Poppy Purple Iris Maverick's HeartMaverick was our German

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-10302051556962184612011-05-23T00:24:00.000-05:002011-05-23T00:24:56.012-05:00

Yesterday while waiting for the farrier, I watched in awe as Harmony and our daughter Ali interacted. It's been forever since I've seen the two of them together, and I had all but forgotten the bond they have. Not sure who I was more amazed with, the daughter or Harmony. After clipping bridle paths, and grooming, she hopped right on Harmony bareback and halter rode her around in the pasture - in

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-80668693176665648682011-05-22T23:56:00.000-05:002011-05-22T23:56:06.669-05:00

I almost came up empty handed! This weeks challenge, can be anything in the sky, planes, clouds, birds or just about anything. We had overcast blahhh weather all week, and then tonight...just in the nick of time! Sunset, Water Tower Sunset, Bird on Post West Clouds, from my Yard South Clouds, from my Yard Double Rainbow (left side) taken with my old Fugi, from my yard last summer

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-8637205040603785352011-05-20T07:24:00.001-05:002011-05-20T07:32:48.561-05:00

The day after my mishap on Koda, it was all hands on deck - or in this case, horse. Each time my phone rang, more was revealed on what caused the unplanned incident, and a recovery plan of action.  My first call was from Kathye, our saddle fitter. Of course she felt absolutely terrible, I knew she would. She has a huge heart, works super hard to help both equine and human and is extremely

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-19466833355167366372011-05-18T22:10:00.004-05:002011-06-07T23:25:34.231-05:00

We had two rides planned this week, the first included trying a new trail saddle during our lesson at Iron Horse. I was happy with what I saw, and more importantly felt. I currently ride in a suede seat, but found the glove leather to be equally as comfy and not remotely slippery. The skirt and tree were shorter, and saddle overall lighter. Both our trainer and saddle fitter were pleased with how

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-22075741690726535652011-05-15T15:46:00.003-05:002011-05-15T15:59:01.000-05:00

At the newly turned age of four, Koda has grown into a muscled wide guy. Our saddle fitter Kathye has been checking him periodically since we've been riding, and helped both Trainer Patty & I make pad accommodations to fit his ever changing body. It helps that Kathye knows my older semi quarter bar saddle well, and has taken it completely apart on more then one occasion to resolve past issues. I

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-47527756047520713372011-05-15T11:20:00.001-05:002011-05-15T11:21:20.004-05:00

The object of this challenge is to either get low and shoot up at an object, or get directly over an object and shoot down. I find myself doing this a lot, and submitted high/low shots from recent excursions - some more directly angled then others. Devils Lake Mossy Flowers (Devils Lake) Valley View (Devils Lake) Skylight Window Bear Thoughts Lantern Top Light Pole (

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-91922520211665389172011-05-08T22:43:00.002-05:002011-05-08T22:50:22.151-05:00

This challenge can include all sorts of doors and knobs, handles etc…I started at the farm, and then shot my 3 beloved lantern doors, and ended with a door from our Mother's Day hike. When I asked my brother-in-law if he knew of any doors/doorknobs on the farm, he suggested I go down to the local bar - there are several doorknobs that hang out there! We had a good chuckle, but I opted not to go

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-42489903220887917892011-05-07T14:18:00.001-05:002011-05-07T18:15:58.921-05:00

While Brad does his magic rope tricks... ...Harmony keeps her eye on me...   ...after chasing asking Resident Pony to get out of the forbidden storage area, she decides it's a better idea to wait by the gate for her dad to put her away... ...Harmony comes over to see, what is taking so long... ...Cierra is wondering the same thing... ...nothing magic about patience, it's a virtue.  

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-79861853063712064222011-05-06T05:00:00.000-05:002011-05-06T05:00:49.701-05:00

We've been riding Koda & Nemo 1X a week, more often then not on Wednesdays. Things are going well, and I think I am over the funk I found myself in the past weeks. Nothing was wrong, but nothing was particularly right either. I questioned what I was doing with Koda, and why. I was barely looking forward to my rides. He didn't do anything wrong, the rides were fine. We had set goals back in

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-35577402847395403152011-05-01T02:02:00.003-05:002011-05-01T02:13:30.624-05:00

The challenge was rust; pay close attention to the lighting, since the angle of light in the sun can have some pretty cool effects on rust. All I can say is I had sooo much fun!! Waiting for Titus Starfish Face Pothead - the other side New way to fasten your pants Sculpture closeup WW Missile head Hand View more of my rusty photos, and other Sunday Stills.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-74908461861802381162011-04-26T23:52:00.001-05:002011-04-27T00:01:15.814-05:00

We took advantage of a break in the wet spring weather, and restocked some hay. We are back to using small bales. It was pretty comical loading them onto the big forks, but it worked. My brother-in-law came over just in time to see us "adjust" the load to the right size, by 'er dropping a few in the beginning. I was waiting for the bale on the right to land in the sh** pit, but thankfully it

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-51285676889791678312011-04-25T00:24:00.006-05:002011-04-25T09:53:52.762-05:00

We spent all day Friday and Saturday at the horse fair last weekend. It was a mixed bag of not so good weather, in part likely the cause for what seemed like lower attendance compared to recent years, altho it was plenty busy. My husband and I both agreed, the best part of fair this year was Richard Winters clinics. We soaked up "Fundamentals of Reining" and "Ride like a Horseman; Skills to

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-70154564588608079912011-04-24T09:08:00.001-05:002011-04-24T09:12:39.148-05:00

I was a little worried about this challenge when we got blasted with an icy cold front, but these tough flowers survived. Here is a sample of what's blooming in my WI yard this week: View Wildflowers and Flowers blooming in other areas.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-26805244342611257662011-04-16T09:16:00.001-05:002011-04-17T02:57:22.802-05:00

This week is a food challenge, where we pick a favorite recipe or restaurant. Altho I enjoy meals out, home is my favorite place to eat. My husband grills, smokes, and now also does what I call "Cowboy Cooking" with cast iron pots heated over coals/fire. Cooking stand, with tools Lid stand (displayed on the coals, not used for cooking) Dutch Oven Lid on stand Dutch Oven Potatoes

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-39706420616516430282011-04-15T18:15:00.001-05:002011-04-17T02:49:33.660-05:00

Last weekend we had a glimpse of summer, it was beautiful and in the 80's. Midwest Horse Fair is this weekend, it's raining and cold, very windy and we have a chance of snow tomorrow. Not good weather for a Fair, but at a least most things are inside. It's always a guessing game in the spring. I took these pictures last weekend, it's a good thing... ...Cierra is still fuzzy!

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-59058640066758570432011-04-12T07:42:00.000-05:002011-04-12T07:42:45.346-05:00

Lean on me, when you're not strong... ...and I'll be your friend, I'll help you carry on... ...for it won't be long, till I'm gonna need, somebody to lean on...    ...we all need somebody to lean on.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-54067823807768088742011-04-10T17:34:00.000-05:002011-04-10T17:34:24.290-05:00

Sunday Stills ~ 4 points is a pretty cool challenge. Find an interesting, or not so interesting, place and stand and take pics of the 4 points of the compass. North, South, East and West. The point of this challenge is that we have a tendency to only look in one direction when taking pics. for instance photographing a sunset you rarely look behind you to see the setting sun light up a barn

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-21581984792721872432011-04-10T07:03:00.000-05:002011-04-10T07:03:31.369-05:00

A while back I received this stylish award from Juliette at honeysuckle faire , figure it's better posted late then never. If you haven't read Juliette's blog, check it out. She has three beautiful horses, that she artistically shares with us via her well written posts, photos and posters - it's one of my fav blogs. Thank you Juliette, for being so kind! There are 4 duties to perform to

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-33288637926407777842011-04-03T12:27:00.006-05:002011-09-21T03:38:21.247-05:00

I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this weeks challenge "So we have seen the pics, now lets see the camera and gear that gets all those great pics. Bonus points if you have any classic old cameras, add those in for a bit of fun too." I don't own any cool classic cameras, or have much gear, how much fun can it be? I thought about driving into town to take pics of my dear Uncle's cameras. My

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-26839790238979732022011-03-29T20:59:00.000-05:002011-03-29T20:59:50.667-05:00

Some horses just reeeally want to be with you.... ....they are in your pocket.... literally....and love to play.... ....in the air!!

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-8197812154641838002011-03-27T12:37:00.002-05:002011-03-27T12:43:09.079-05:00

The color blue, an easy challenge until you realize no SKY pics and no archives, various shades of blue were o.k. My favorite wine, Relax, comes in a blue bottle. Relax, chill & unwind. Blue Glass pendant Blue glass pendant, hanging outside I had fun with this challenge, absolutely love shooting glass and light!! The pendant was a gift from a coworker, it's hand blown. It changed

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-65637087398430681932011-03-26T16:04:00.000-05:002011-03-26T16:04:54.014-05:00

We picked up some nice hay from a new supplier today, and met a great horse owner who raises/races endurance horses. It is so interesting to hear how others enjoy similar passions. It was windy & cold, so we didn't stay too long after getting the hay loaded. We made the long trip back home, pulled into the farm and got the "is that for us" look... Harmony yes it is, and here's a mid-day loose

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-11207922649583658672011-03-24T22:30:00.007-05:002011-03-24T23:05:04.287-05:00

Last time we rode Koda & Nemo we could see, or in Brad's case feel, a significant change in Nemo. He was clearly using more of his rear muscles, and looked great. Brad had the smoothest ride he's ever had on Nemo. Koda was already there the previous ride , and rode about the same. We had a bit more success on our spin work. I am still learning (and will be for a while) to feel it and put it

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-71094972595245071882011-03-22T21:12:00.000-05:002011-03-22T21:12:19.862-05:00

Brad 2 yrs old on Queenie My husband isn't going to be very happy that I shared this, but it's too cute not to, and explains a lot. The photo came from a tiny album his dear "Farm Grandma", as she was lovingly referred to, kept of him. Doesn't surprise me, they were very close. Later on as a young adult, he kept his horses at her farm. Guess he was a natural, even at a young age.

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-20558376307168682902011-03-21T00:00:00.002-05:002011-03-21T00:11:09.541-05:00

Challenge this week is for all those lovable pooches we have. They can be new (preferably) or archive pics of pooches past, or in some cases doggies met on merry travels. I thought long and hard, about posting all the canine's that hold a special place in my heart. I decided one picture of Tania and Timber, or Maverick and Cheyenne, just wouldn't do them justice. This post would be forever long,

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-25659206755586416932011-03-20T23:34:00.000-05:002011-03-20T23:34:26.916-05:00

With all the rain we've had there is no shortage of one of nature's facial ingredients, mud. Cierra had it all over her face, even eyelashes! Muddy Cierra Both girls got a brushing, and wanted more... Brush me

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-72648676360212406612011-03-13T22:40:00.003-05:002011-03-13T22:57:39.144-05:00

This weeks challenge is anything that starts with the letter “P”, including people, places and things. Pin My sister gave me this horse pin. She got it while traveling down south. It came with an insert of Ancient Symbols, and the cross-cultural meanings. My pin symbolizes Horses: power, freedom, traveler, spiritualistic, healing powers, and prosperity. Pony Barbie, the resident pony that

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-689872777639220238.post-22507291621938271062011-03-06T00:31:00.001-06:002011-03-06T08:37:23.311-06:00

The challenge this week is "your favorite place".  Anyplace you have been or in your local area, wherever you feel at peace or just like to relax. My favorite place, is on my horse's back. Riding Koda @ Governor Dodge State Park Visit other favorite places on Sunday Stills 

aurorahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731529798233954353noreply@blogger.com14