##Wow, new page and the first to post. A wild windy night has given way to a sunny morning but storm clouds are building in the west hearalding some rain for later.
##Alex, 50 5 starts, now I think that’s quite an accomplishment. I suspect you will continue to garner more.
##LouAnn, I loved your description of the smiling horse. We have had a few nights of hard frost too.
##Robyn, I believe more gusty winds are headed your way.
##BobbieB., it was so nice to see your post and learn that you are feeling a bit better. Hang in there girl, you’re going to get past this soon.
##Debbie LA, I hope all is well in your corner of the world.
##Miss Dee, sweet rainbows to you.
##Lynne, I do hope you get some positive answers for your neighbor to ease her burden.

All, I read “War Horse” over the weekend. I highly recommend that if you come across this book you take the opportunity to read it. It’s not very long but it is such a poignant account of the travesty’s of war from a horse’s view. I shed a few tears along the journey too.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

##Alex, that should read 50 5 STARS, sorry for the misprint. Congrats again anyway.

Judy

Yay for the new page!!! Judy, I loved reading “War Horse”, too. It’s really a book for older children, but what a great story and VERY touching. I second Judy’s recommendation.
It’ll be good to hear about all of your “goings on” without scrolling for 5 minutes.
Thank you Alex and congrats on your latest ratings.

###Evy, so very nice to hear from you. I realized the book was aimed at a younger audience; I enjoyed it’s simplicity and the book I borrowed from the library was wonderfully illustrated as well. A wonderful read for horse lovers. I understand it was received well on Broadway as a play as well. I hope all is well in your world.

Judy

Morning, Everyone:)

ALEX!! THANK YOU! Dial-Up and over 1K posts make a person like myself, who is STILL trying for that virtue of patience go a bit NUTS-O! Nine minutes for me, Evy…This is so GREAT/GRAND/WONDERFUL to already be writing! Wheeeee:) And Alex….*50* Five Star Reviews, too! That is wonderful and your book deserves each/every one of them, too!

Judy, War Horse…I’ll have to see about getting a copy:) Thanks for the review!

Well..I’m PROUD as PUNCH to report here this a.m., those *NINERS* beat the Jets yesterday and we are now 8/1 for the season thus far:) Boring game the first half and then, in the 3rd quarter it began being NOT boring, anymore:) Good Job, Boyz! Good Job Done!

Here’s our Joe for Monday….get tissues it is a SRSLY good one…a veritable grouping of ‘Kodak Moments’ and most especially with Katie and *KID*:)

Monday, November 14th… Just a little guy, 15.1 hands. Dark bay, white front legs, and we named him Kid. In the video the jockey whips Kid 17 times, and he still finishes last. In each of his races, Kid never got closer than a 6th place finish.

His owner had enough of losing, so he gave Kid to a groom at the race track. The groom sold Kid for $75.00 to horse killer Wade Giles. The morning after getting whipped 17 times, Kid was on his way to a feed lot in Turlock. On the trailer were several other race horses, including a tall gray filly and a flashy chestnut gelding.

Horse killer Wade Giles had phoned to say you might want to rescue this little guy with two white front socks. He has loads of personality, and is gentle. Also the gray filly and flashy chestnut should be easy to rehome too. Horse killer Wade Giles said I could have all three for $600.00, plus shipping.

This took place in July. The night before their arrival, Cathy and I had gone to a Kid Rock concert. Which is how the little gelding became known as Kid. The tall gray filly we called Rock Hard Nine. The flashy chestnut gelding we named Freedom, which is what Kid Rock called his tour.

Katie is 17, and it was the middle of August when Katie came to us, looking for her first horse. Katie spotted Kid, and said he is the one. It happened that fast. I asked don’t you want to look at other horses?

Nope. Katie says since the age of 12 she has imagined her very first horse, and there he is.

It has been 3 months since Katie adopted Kid. She didn’t change his name, which is rare. Yesterday afternoon Katie came to see us. On her phone she showed me the video of Kid’s last race.

Katie gave me a letter, and here is the hearty part:

I know this is sappy and you have heard it a million times, but Kid is my dream come true. I cannot thank you enough for saving him. I seldom watch his last race because it makes me cry. He was so miserable and the jockey kept hitting him. I tell Kid those days are over. Instead of 17 whips you get 17 kisses. My mom is afraid of horses. Last week my mom sat on Kid for the first time and he was so nice with her. Kid knew how to make my mom feel safe. Like my mom says, Kid is part of our family now.

The tall gray filly Rock Hard Nine currently enjoys life at a fancy barn. Her new name is Queen.

The flashy chestnut gelding Freedom lives in Morgan Hill. His new name is Dodge.

Enjoy your 41 shopping days left until Christmas Monday, and be sure to hug your horses. Alabama on the oldies station…

Joe
##

Makes your hearts sing, doesn’t it?!

Got lots doing here today, I need to kick into gear…I hope everyone has a wonderful Monday!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Oh Alex!!!!THANK YOU – THANK YOU -THANK YOU…YOU TO LYNNE!!!!!

I hope everyone is doing OK Fine today….
please take care…will be back to fill in and catch up soon.

(((HUGS TO ALL BARABRO’S GRAND AND WONDERFUL FAMILY!!!!))))

oxoox
carleen in ca

Dont forget Ace, a tragedy that sahould have never happened.

##Stu, no we won’t forget ACE. The fight continues

Judy

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
Your Glowing Wings Of Love……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Carleen And Her Angel Daughter Erin And Angel Michael And Angel Lynne And Angel Murphy And Angel Daughter Michelle And Seymore And Lucy And Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe And Angel Debbie LA And Angel Kathy SC And Angel Stu And Angel Famblee And Angel Joan Roya And Angel Curtis And Peaches And Pierre And Angel Sandra And
Chief And Rainbows And Prayers To Angel Bobbie And Angel Gene………………………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

New page, all is fine in my world, thank you!
5mo’s ten days and 4 hours, of not smoking. still would love one! but not today!
Alex your birthday and Rhonda are them day the 17th. Whishing you both the best!

Hiya, FsOB! Gosh, Alex, the page has been turned. That will make navigation a lot simpler for many folks. Thank you for all that you do to maintain this site, despite all of your other responsibilities, Alex. And well deserved kudos to you for your 50th 5-Star review!

Today the latest copy of Bellweather arrived in the mail from UPENN Veterinary Medicine. What a great magazine this is. It is so inspiring to see the names of Mrs. Penny Chenery and Mr. & Mrs. Jackson listed as donors. There is a featured article which focuses on monitoring the health of 09/11 search & rescue dogs. I may need to defer reading that until next weekend, to postpone what might be a kleenex alert.

Wishing all here “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Judy: “War Horse” must be an incredibly moving book. Yes, we’ve been blustery and rains are moving in as well. Argh!
To Lynne: Didn’t you love Joe Shelton’s blog today?
To Debbie LA: Kudos to you, I was thinking just yesterday that you had to be well-past the 100-day mark. Kudos to you!
To Dee: Rainbows in return, Dee.
To Evy: Great seeing you here.
To Stu: Ace will not be forgotten.
To Joan: Hoping that all goes well down in Texas.
To Bobbie B: May you enjoy “ACN” with renewed comfort. ####

Hiya, FsOB! A new Tuesday has dawned here on the banks of the Thames. The sky and the river have lightened from the stunning sapphire colour of just 20 minutes ago. Pinkish clouds are on the western horizon, signalling approaching rain.

Alex, thanks once more for all that you do to maintain this Website! Wishing everyone “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

##Good morning all. The clouds are moving out to make way for a sunny day. The temperatures are slowly falling to more seasonal temps.
##Lynne, loved Joe’s posting yesterday. It does warm your cockles doesn’t it.
##BobbieB. I hope today brings more relief.
##Debbie LA., kudos to you girl.
##Carleen, good to see you here.
##Joan, I hope everything is well. You haven’t been here much lately.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

###
Judy and famblee…I have been off on vacation at the house for a few days…and Pierre is one sick puppy…have finally got Peaches under control for Cushing Disease…and she had her bloodwork yesterday…praying still good…Pierre…I do not know…pray all goes well for him.

and remember Ace…please…like our Stu said..this should of NEVER happened.

but horse slaughter should never happen either…please call, fax, email…please.

please read the db and help in any way possible.

we have threads under cats and dogs and horse rescue..rescues with their addresses hoping for Christmas cards with maybe a dollar or two…please.

have a nice day…and pray for each other and our country.

###
way to go Alex!

Morning, Everyone:)

Happy Toosdae Morning!

Joan: I’m so sorry about Mr. Pierre! I hope ALL will be alright with your baby boy, Joan! Glad for you to have a bit of time off but not a nice way to spend a ‘vacation’, with a sick googie:(

Dee:) Thanks for your lovings and rainbows…right back ‘attcha’, Dee!

Here is our Joe for today:

Tuesday, November 15th… 71 years old, and she has always been crazy for horses. Her name is Carol, and she lives on 5 acres near Clear Lake. Carol does all the chores. She mends fences. Replaces chewed away posts. Her summer project was a new water line to a paddock, and she did this herself. No more filling up buckets with a garden hose.

Carol’s husband died in 2007. She thought maybe it was time to quit this horse thing. Go on a cruise. Play bingo. Collect grocery coupons.

But Carol could not imagine her life without horses, and so she plugs (ha ha) along. Lifting bales of alfalfa from her truck to the barn. Hauling sacks of grain in her little cart. Replacing heavy rubber stall mats. A strong football player would have a hard time moving those mats. Carol did it in one day.

The following is a recent phone conversation I had with Carol:

Carol: I never had a thoroughbred on my farm before. But I always wanted one.

Okay.

Carol: I was told to contact you. Now listen, make sure it’s a gelding, and make sure he is sane.

Okay.

Yesterday afternoon Carol greeted the first ever thoroughbred on her 5 acres. A friendly and hungry bay gelding who came from a private owner. The gelding has a racing tattoo which says he is 8. Carol has 3 other horses on her ranch. The following is our phone conversation from last night:

Carol: I like him. He is sweet. He needs to gain about 200 pounds.

Okay.

Carol: My other 3 horses chase him away. He wants to make friends, but my other horses are territorial. I gotta hang up. The Sing Off is on TV.

If you have room for another horse, please give me a call at 530-383-2120. The horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.

It is Tuesday, and chores are forever. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Scrambled eggs courtesy of our hens. Toast with grape jelly. Enjoy your hard to believe November is half over Tuesday, and be sure to hug your horses. 95.3 FM, songs of today and yesterday, on the yard radio…

Joe
##

Geeze:( I hope her other horses will somehow decide to be NICE to the newbie gelding who wants to be FRIENDS!! Hopefully, other conversations between Joe and Carol will happen and hopefully they won’t leave us ‘hanging’ because of TV programs, either 🙂

The ‘Villager’ who helped me and Katie get back up/running is coming for his ‘thank you’ dinner tonight…pot roast/potatoes/gravy with apple pie and vanilla ice cream for dessert…seemed to me to be a srsly good choice for someone such as himself who said, ‘meat & potatoes’ when asked what he likes best….LOL:) The pot roast is delicious…tender and makes the best-ever gravy! A long time ago, a knock on my front door just as serving dinner and Fr. Mike said, “Oh, something smells WONDERFUL!” as entering the house….I served him up a plate and then a second, as he practically licked his plate clean, LOL..It is a sure-fire-man-pleaser, this old recipe of mine! And Katie starts up now, each/every time that key turns..she sounds just like her ‘ready to roll’ self again thanks to the new battery and our friend, Marty, who did the deed:)

Weather here today is forecast to be mild..upper 60’s even but the nights are cold and apparently the coming weekend is to be SRSLY cold with snow predicted to below 3K’ !!

Everyone have a good Toosdae:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

I just found this one in my inbox, Family:(

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Handful of Legislators Condemn Horses to USDA Approved Abuse

Washington, D.C. (November 15, 2011) � It would appear that some in Congress are all talk when it comes to seriously reducing federal spending and decreasing the size of government. Despite overwhelming objections from the American public and the horse community, and despite Congress� own supposed belief in fiscal restraint, the fate of America�s horses was undermined by three Members of Congress and their staffs behind closed doors this week. For years, an amendment to the annual Agriculture Appropriations bill has prevented tax dollars from being used to �inspect� horse slaughter facilities in the U.S. The House of Representatives voted this year to again include it in the Fiscal Year 2012 Agriculture Appropriations bill, but three members of the Conference Committee, Representative Jack Kingston (R-GA), Senator Herb Kohl (D-WI), and Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), removed it from the final bill. A fourth member of the Conference Committee, Representative Sam Farr (D-CA), was the lone objector.

�I have been in Washington for a long time and this move baffles me. Both parties talked about making the hard cuts in federal spending and yet behind closed doors, three of the four men thought it was a good use of taxpayer dollars to ignore their colleagues and restore a federal program that will cost Americans at least $5 million a year and pull limited USDA inspectors from ensuring the humane treatment and safety of our nation�s food supply. To make matters worse, this was all done to appease a few foreign companies and Big Ag,� said Chris Heyde, deputy director of AWI�s government and legal affairs department. �This action shows the true nature of some elected officials�that they are more concerned about helping special interests than doing what they were elected to do.�

Some legislators are trying to disguise what they did as helping the horses, but there is substantial evidence of horses suffering at taxpayers� expense when slaughter was permitted in the U.S. While a recent GAO report attempted to connect an increase in abuse to a cessation of horse slaughter in the U.S., the authors noted that there was no actual proof other than claims put forward by pro-horse slaughter proponents.

With this cynical move, there is now only one avenue left for ending the tragedy of the slaughter of horses for human consumption: Swift action on the GAO�s other recommendation�passage of the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act.

�AWI commends Representative Farr (D-CA), ranking member of the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, for being the sole member of the Conference Committee to stand up for America�s horses and fiscal responsibility,� noted Heyde. �We look forward to working with Representative Farr and other Members of Congress on passage of the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act.�

The Animal Welfare Institute is calling on everyone who has horses and cares about the welfare of America�s horses to demand that Congress pass the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act immediately.

##30##

For More Information:
Chris Heyde, chris@awionline.org , (202) 446-2142

To take action on the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act and see how your legislator stands on animal protection issues, please visit www.compassionindex.org.
####

Money..it’s ALL about money…just like everything else which is wrong with DC these days….I’m beyond disappointed, I’m disgusted and the likes of ‘Slaughter Sue’ will be kicking up their heels in ecstacy now..knowing those slaughter plants will begin springing up on American soil once again….

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Alex’s is going to say something?

OMG Lynne, YES dusgusted!!!!

I should have written ‘Slaughterhouse Sue’ I was in a hurry…driven by frustration! I think she’s got plenty of investors lined up and ready to roll…she’s been trying to get the de-funding language omitted for a few years now and lest I forget about her horsemeat recipes, too:/ And it’s not just Sue Wallis…there are obviously many, many others or the wording wouldn’t have been omitted, imho! I hope the pockets which were so well-lined all rot from their pants…I hope bad investments are made and they lose it all…oh, wait..it’s Congress…they don’t lose they have inside information:/

I’m so disappointed and so VERY SORRY for our American horses!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

🙂 I think the ‘best-ever’ BC was 2009 in which *ZENYATTA* came on to win…almost from the last race, she was so far behind! Practically makes me gasp today, still..just remembering it:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lynne And Angel Murphy And Angel Daughter Michelle And Seymore And Lucy…………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
Your Glowing Wings Of Love……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! I am knackered and having some shoulder pain from bad “body English” whilst using the computer. So I’ll wish everyone “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Joan: I hope that Pierre feels much better soon.
To Lynne: That dinner sounds divine!
To Dee: Rainbows to you in return.
To Stu: Any plans yet for your return to New London? ####

Hiya, FsOB! A new days has dawned on the banks of the Thames. Our neighbour’s pretty weeping cherry tree has lost all of its upper leaves in less than a week. It had been so colourful over the past several weeks.

Wishing all here “ACD”! Gotta dash now. Peace, Robyn

##Good morning all. A cloudy morning here but the sun has cast a window of magenta on the horizon as it rises.
##Lynne, I am stunned to read your post regarding the behind closed doors shenanigans that have gone. It is beyond belief. The AG community will be rubbing their hands in glee (that should be greed) at the expense of our beautiful horses. This is beyond disgusting.
##Joan, I’m sorry to hear that Pierre is not well and I certainly hope he gets well soon. And, good for you for taking some well deserved vacation time.
##Rainbows to you this happy hump day.
##BobbieB., I hope another day brings less pain.
##Carleen, you are MIA here. I hope all is ok.

All, I read over on the board that “War Horse” has been made into a movie produced by Steven Spielberg to come out at Christmas. There is a link to the trailers as well. Advice is to bring a box of kleenex.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

###
I am currently reading the Horse That God Built…about Secretariat…and is not this sad…

when horses are runnning…or they are still owned by owners, trainers…and hurt….they are tended to…giving medication, looked after…but when they are through with them…??

they are loaded on slaughter trucks without any meds for their aches and pains…anything just to get rid of them…because they are no longer of good used…otherwords no money coming in…

SAD and now…what Lynne posted????????

####
please call, fax, email…
please read the db and help…holidays are fast approaching and so is winter…there is so much needed.

we have threads under dogs and cats and horse rescue…Christmas cards to rescues…please…please remember them…

####
Judy…thanks…I took off to take the rugrats to the vet…and the vet called me about Peaches…her Cushing Disease is still under control…still waiting on Pierre.

he has had loose bowels for awhile…but now they have found white balls in his bowels??? so worried..praying it is something that meds can do…he is on antibiotics..but this must not be bacteria…has not improved…

###
have a nice day….

####
Good morning Alex.

##Dee, the rainbows were for you, I forgot to put your name. Sorry.
##Joan, I found “The Horse That God Built” a moving account of his life and the people involved. It brought tears too. Yes, it is too too sad how man discards what is not profitable or useful at the expense of beautiful animals. I hope your Pierre’s ailment is not serious and you get news soon. Waiting is so hard.

Judy

##Debbie, could you blue link the War Horse trailer scene that’s posted over on the board for everyone here. Must see!!!

Thanks, you’re the best.

Judy

Morning, Everyone….

Stunned…angry, disillusioned but not ‘really’ disillusioned…not much about DC suprises me these days…this country is being run by special interests and huge corporations…and honestly, Family, I see no way to change it. Without literally MILLIONS in campaign money, no one can campaign properly enough to get their messages out there…and because they’ve all got enough money to campaign properly, they…most anyway, are corrupt..that is my own opinion.

So…I will find solace in helping rescues, I’ll continue trying to get the Senate to pass S 1176 but I’ve been down that road before, too. It’s such a shame, imho, that Senator Landrieu pretty much sold our horses down the river a few years ago, in exchange for something she apparently wanted more:/

Meanwhile, here’s Joe for Wednesday:)

Wednesday, November 16th… Kristin lives in Napa, and she had a birthday last week. Kristin and her husband dropped their two kids off at a relative’s house, and drove to San Francisco for dinner. Kristin ate two plates of pot stickers. Spicy noodles with stir fry vegetables. At Fisherman’s Wharf she shared an entire crab with her husband. A big tub of clam chowder soup. A loaf of sourdough bread. They finished the night with a hot fudge sundae.

Her husband tells me: A night of amazing food in the big city. Yet all Kristin could talk about is getting a new mare.

Kristin and her husband have two older quarter horse mares. One with a sore back. One with arthritis. Both mares have been retired from trail rides. The mares spend their days munching on carrots and listening to country music. Kristin didn’t know about Tb Friends. She told someone at the feed store it was time for a new horse. A horse with spark. Maybe a thoroughbred. The man at the feed store said you should call Tb Friends.

On Monday Kristin and her husband said hello to their new thoroughbred mare. No longer gray, the mare has become white. 16.2 hands, 12 years old, and she came from a private barn.

Kristin and her husband have a large round pen for riding. They also have access to miles of trails. Yesterday Kristin saddled her new mare, and the round pen soon became boring. Out on a trail they went. The mare likes to look around. Beautiful Napa Valley. Her first trail ride in a new place, and the mare did great.

One minor problem with white horses. You can see the dirt. After a bath the mare rolled and rolled. She was filthy. Kristin said a bath wasn’t such a good idea.

If you have room for another horse, please give me a call at 530-383-2120. The horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.

For Thanksgiving Kristin said she is bringing us two pies. Pecan, and chocolate pumpkin. Now that is a good idea.

Enjoy your Modern Family Wednesday, and be sure to hug your horses. I have not had time for an exact count, but there is over 1,000 owners of Magic, our Christmas community rescue horse.

Joe
##

He’s gotten around $1K for this year’s Christmas Horse! Have I yet remembered to send my own dollar bill his way….NO! I am promising myself right now, as soon as I hit ‘post’ here, to get a little note card and put that dollar into the outgoing mail TODAY:)

I also need to send what little I can to Safe Haven too, and I will do that next month:) I wish I could send LOTS of dollars to LOTS of rescues because at least the rescues actually do something to HELP our American horses!

Dinner last night was a real ‘hit’ with our Villager. Warms my heart to see someone truly enjoy a homecooked meal:) The apple pie was beautiful to look at but I learned to NEVER AGAIN bake one with Fuji apples:/ Too juicy, though quite tasty…but I’m sticking to my Golden Delicious from now on! The supermarket had not ONE Golden Delicious?? I don’t care for Granny Smith pies..to me, they just don’t taste as good as with the goldens. However, the rest of dinner was great and the conversation/laughter flowed freely at our table last night, it was a good time for all and we’ll do it again next month, too! Our Villager is a single dad who has his kids on weekends and during the week, I know he’d be a srsly happy camper to share another homecooked meal with us:)

I hope everyone has a good day, today…contact your Senators and ask that they PLEASE see to it that S 1176 The American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act gets to the Floor for a *VOTE* and the SOONER, THE BETTER, Family!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Morning all…

Good grief..so much going on…Lynne I wrote to Sentor Feinstien, Sentor Boxer and our rep here in our district…they all replied and said they would support the end of horse slaughter…We can only hope that they follow through.

Joan, prayers and healing wishes to both your furbabies…

Judy, I just saw the preview of the movie “War Horse” it brought tears….I don’t know if I could watch the whole movie…maybe I will buy the book….

Bobbie, I hope your feeling less pain and more strength as these fall days pass by…

Robyn…we had some very windy rain last week-end and the homes around us, the trees at least decided to share their leaves with everyone on the street, front and back yards…yes it was colorful, but oh what a mess!

I need a bumper sticker that says ” I STOP FOR SQUIRRELS” people get down right nasty when I stop for the little guys…but they live in our neighborhood too!!!

Miss Dee…thank you for being here and sharing your magical rainbows of hope with all of us…

Stu, Ace will not be forgotten by anyone here…
If you watch the Detroit ASPCA show.. they will take a beautiful, sweet dog..that is food agressive and put it down…I’ve only owned one dog in my life..but I’ve been around a few…never did sound like a good idea to mess with a dog or any animal and it’s food while they are eating….It just breaks me up….

Lou Ann, Otherlyn, Sandra, Debbie…hope you all are ok fine!!!!

Please take care all and have a good day…

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY))))
oxoxoo
carleen in ca

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Carleen And Her Angel Daughter Erin And Angel Michael……………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
Your Glowing Wings Of Love……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Hello FOB’s, BobbieB asked me to drop by and say hello to all of you and thank you for your good wishes. She is continuing to struggle with pain but we are hoping we can see some improvement, but it is VERY SLOW. Thanks again for good thoughts. Gene

Hiya, FsOB. I read that Joan and Judy commented on “The Horse that God Built, which is about Secretariat. Did something bad happen to him after he ended his racing career? Can you please let me know?

Wishing all here “ACN” and may we all rise to seize the new day. Peace, Robyn

To Bobbie B. & Gene: Please know that I send healing thoughts to you, Bobbie, each day. We miss you!
To Debbie LA: How are things in Lower Alabama?
To Dee: Thank you for your gift of rainbows.
To Joan: Poor Pierre, I hope that his condition is diagnosed quickly and that the diarrhea resolves quickly, too.
To Carleen: I love it – “I Brake for Squirrels”!
To Lynne: Who wouldn’t want to share your company at such a divine dinner party? You really rolled out the red carpet for your guest. Thank you for reminding us about Joe Shelton’s “Christmas Horse”. ####

Hiya, FsOB! A rather grey “Friday Eve” has dawned here on the banks of the pewter-coloured Thames. There are numerous little eddies on the river’s surface and the leaves that remain on the trees are moving continuously.

Alex, I just sent a bookplate inscription note to our local library and hope to see your book on the display shelf there this Saturday. I’d love to hear how many towns and cities have one of your books in their collections.

Wishing all here “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Rainbows to you on this Thursday.
To Bobbie B: May this day be “ACD” for you, you certainly deserve to be pain-free.
To Joan: How is Pierre doing today? Better, I hope.
To Debbie LA & Kathy in SC: I hope that your communities are safe following a big series of storms yesterday. ####

The War Horse

Hope this link works!

Lower Alabama is fine, most of the bad weather went north of us. Prayer for the ones in need!

Happy Birthday Alex!

##Good morning all. A pastel sky of pinks, blues and grays this morning as the sun struggles to make its’ appearance.
##BobbieB. good wishes for continuing improvement and hopefully less pain each day.
##Debbie, yep that works, doesn’t it look like a great movie, albeit a three kleenex box one.
##Robyn, the book “The Horse That God Built” Secretariat is fine. As I recall it is mentioned what goes on at tracks and after which we have become more aware of. Perhaps Joan can clarify for you as it’s been sometime since I read the book, another highly recommended one I might add.
##Lynne, so nice to hear about how your neighbor so enjoyed his “thank you dinner” with promises of more to come. I’m sure he welcomes a respite from cooking especially from such a fine one as yourself.
##Joan, I hope you have some news regarding Pierre and that it is all good.
##Carleen, so good to see you here. I too brake for the squirrels and shake my head when they decide to change course and run back, silly things.
##Jane, thinking of you and hope you are ok.
##Liz, I hope all is well in your little corner of the world. I always love your descriptions of your home.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEX!!!

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

###
Peaches bloodwork came out good…she is taking one pill a day for cushing disease and monitored…and bring back in three months no chance…all of your prayers worked for her.

Pierre??? still waiting…and very worried family…these doxies are the only family I have here in Texas….

thank each of you…for being here for me as always…love each of you so much.

###
I know I am about nuts…but could someone bump under Horse Rescue Christmas cards for rescues…so I can find it…please…been writing out Christmas cards and cannot find the thread…help

Joan, I just bumped the Christmas cards for rescues but the only one I could find was in the Dogs/Cats folder.

Morning, Everyone:)

Happy *FRIDAY EVE*!!

I missed learning of bad weather in south? I’ll have to give Kathy, SC a call in a few minutes to be sure all is well there….and I hope for others, too!

I woke at 4:30a this morning:/ been up a lonnnng time already and it’s just 6:30 now! A nap is in my afternoon list of ‘to-do’s I betcha!

Not sure if Joe is actually posting today, here’s what I’ve found thus far, will check again later, though:

Thursday, November 17th…

If you have room for another horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. The horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.
###

He is either in the process of writing for today or SRSLY more busy than usual!

I DID REMEMBER to send off my dollar y’day in the mail! Now when I read his ‘tally’ for *MAGIC* I can know I’m included and not feel like such a dope anymore:)

Yole are too kind re: menu and the dinner for our friend…it was no biggee…but it was lots of fun and yole know I’m old so it does warm my heart to see someone so enjoy something as simple as pot roast:)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, *ALEX BROWN*!!! Happy, happy day to you! I hope it’s a GREAT/GRAND/WONDERFUL day filled with far more than you’re hoping and wishing for and the coming year brings only those *SUNNY MOMENTS* for recording…and BIG BOOK SALES, TOO:)

They are still forecasting our weather to turn SRSLY COLD by tomorrow and through the coming weekend…*SNOW* to fall below 2K’ but still not this low, I HOPE!! The trees still have most of their leaves on them…which makes me think of Twain Harte…up the hill from Sonora…lots and lots of Black Oaks up there…beautiful golden leaves and heavyish wet snow do NOT mix well! I sure hope the folks up there will faire well and not end up losing power for days to come! Personally, I’m coming up with an idea or twelve of something to simmer on my stove all day Saturday:) Hot soup or some sort of beans always smell and taste so good when/if it’s srsly CHILLSEY outdoors:)

Have a great day, Family:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Morning all…

Happy Birthday Alex!!! May you have a wonderful day and sell lots of your WONDERFUL BOOK ABOUT OUR BARBARO!

Does anyone out there remember Anna Marie Bryant?
She is a very talented artist in Portland, Texas who did several card of Barbaro and Rags to Riches…some very sweet Christmas cards too…I still have some of those cards…plan to use them very soon…I hope she is doing OK Fine!!

Joan, prayers and well wishes to your sweet furbabies…Hope you have good news soon.

Ya know, I can’t believe that in one week it will be Thanksgiving…where has this year gone?
Mark and I will spend the day with dear friends, Nick has to work his 4:00pm to midnight shift and then on Friday…Mark and I are going to Isla Vista to see our Erin!!!!Yippeeeeeeee!!!!

It’s so strange around the holiday season to not have all the kids home or working strange hours…
Nick will get his favorite breakfast on Thanksgiving morning though and then there always
lunch/snacks and football that morning.

I’m rambleing again…sorry folks…take care all.

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Here is our JOE for Thursday:

Thursday, November 17th… Elisha lives only a few minutes from the ocean, and she earns extra cash cleaning stalls. Elisha works 4 mornings a week for a fancy barn. She then goes to school. On weekends you can find Elisha working the front desk at a small animal clinic.

At a race track in Los Angeles, the tall dark bay filly fought for her life. Out for an early morning jog, the filly broke down and had to be taken away in an ambulance. On the phone the track vet called it a nasty pastern fracture. He recommended euthanasia. But the filly’s trainer said lets call Tb Friends. Two years ago we healed another broken pastern from this same trainer.

The filly is gorgeous. An amazing pedigree. The trainer tells me the filly is sensible, which helps with the healing process.

Elisha was standing next to me as I was talking with the trainer. She could easily hear our conversation. Maxi and I were on a road trip, visiting families who want a thoroughbred.

Elisha says: I’ll take her.

Are you sure?

Elisha: I can do rehab. And my boss at the animal clinic will help.

That night the owner of the fancy barn, where Elisha cleans stalls, phoned to say they have a stall ready. Other clients at the barn are excited. They want to help with the filly too.

It took a week to stabilize the filly, and get her ready for transport. A 7 hour trip. On Tuesday Elisha phoned to say the filly is indeed gorgeous. And a pro. She came off the trailer without making a sound. The filly is friendly. Visitors have been coming up to her all afternoon.

If you have room for another horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. The horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.

Enjoy your cold and foggy Thursday, and be sure to hug your horses. Foster the People (who?) on the yard radio…

Joe
##

No such thing as coincidence!! 🙂 Elisha was right there, hearing Joe’s half of the conversation and now that beautiful Filly is safe and on her way to wellness/soundness again with so many good folks to help her along the way!!

Congressmen/Senators can sure take the wind outta my sails with their ‘special interests’ and getting those pockets of theirs lined…but then:) along comes Joe and someone such as Elisha to take that terrible sting away or at least lessen it alot:)

OK…gotta get this day moving!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
Linda…thanks…I know…cannot find it either..

###
Happy Birthday Alex.

#####
your prayers are working…all the tests have came back thus far…on Pierre but one…it maybe be here tomorrow…so far so good…

Dr. Ashner said he might have to do a biopsy on Pierre’s intestines…and if so…he is 8…may go ahead and neuter him…because his protein is high….

so…still waiting…please keep us in your prayers and hearts…you know I will all of you for sure.

Happy Birthday Alex! Hope it is extra special. Luv to everyone. I have been so busy with the dogs and Fall cleanup. Tomorrow I go to see the Corneal Specialist to see when surgery for the cataracts will be.

Thining of everyone, Love to our Dee……

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALEX, AND MANY MANY MORE!!
Hope you are maybe enjoying fine food and friends at The Whip tonight!!!
Hugs and Love, L 🙂

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding paws, hooves, and hands with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

LINDA – “Tank’s Mom” 🙂 and JOAN – I was looking for the Christmas rescues thread, too, and could not locate 🙁 . . . . ???

JOAN – I have Pierre and Peaches both remembered at the Prayers For Our Pets website, too, plus always in mine!! Hugs and kisses to your precious ones from this auntie.

LINDA – Hugs to you, too. I know last week was a very difficult one, thinking of you.

Please hug ALL your furkids for me, tell them XXXX from this Auntie!

JANE – Will be with you in spirit tomorrow!!

CARLEEN – Oh yes, I remember ANNA MARIE BRYANT who did the beautiful artwork of “the Sublime One”!! (Texas, right?)
Maybe a Google search would turn up a contact for her :).

ALL – Count me in the bumper-sticker brigade, too!!! I BRAKE FOR SQUIRRELS & ALL FOUR-LEGGEDS & FEATHERED, TOO . . . TURTLES . . . .!! First rule my Daddy taught me!! 🙂

BOBBIE B. – Prayers, hugs and love, positive healing thoughts . . .

Have to scamper! My little rosebud paisana mama is a real Texas wildcat today – smile!! “Sophia” from The Golden Girls is back in town!!!

Hugs, Love, and always Prayers for those walking the rugged path just now.

P.S. I love these November days and there is still one rose bush blooming away – a faded pink against the autumn leaves, lovely.

Hugs, Lou Ann

Happy Birthday, Alex.

### Judy, all is well in this little corner of the world, though I hear the wild and windy weather outside tonight and always think of Wuthering Heights. We have tawny owls in the trees and they call through the night to each other, though I think they will need extra loud toowhit toowooing today. I loved the book War Horse and much of the filming for the movie was done in the West Country so that will make it a bit more special when I eventually get to see it.

Best wishes to Bobbie and Jane and anyone else who I should mention and will feel bad about forgetting.

Lynne and others – you can thank that disgusting scum Sue Wallis for the ” good” news on ending the fed funding. That witch needs to go – trust me I’M JUST STARTING. Can’t wait to confront that POS!I’ll be in Wyoming if necessary. Not talk, a PROMISE! While I’m on a roll. What happened to Mr Vick? Hurting too much? Gee, too bad, SO DID THEY!

We are going on a cruise, the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas out of New Orleans. A birthday gift from my husband 🙂 the week of Thanksgiving, Saturday to Saturday.
Your all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Good nights FOB,s.
Alex I hope you had a great day!

Hiya, FsOB! Liz’s corner of Devonshire is windy tonight and so are things on the banks of the Thames. At work this afternoon, sleet was actually hitting the windows and making a pinging sound. Yikes! In fact, we lost power there and after 30 minutes I headed home, because it was becoming too dark to read, even whilst standing next to a window that faces west.

Alex, how remiss of me to miss your birthday! A huge mea culpa. I hope that your day has been a wonderful one. Thanks for posting the pic of the beautiful child. Not to pry, but are you a Dad? I seem to recall you mentioning your nephew in England.

Wishing all here “ACN”. It was wonderful seeing so many folks visiting here today. Here’s to the mighty Barbaro Nation – we span the globe! Peace, Robyn

#### To Jane: Thank you for dropping in today, I’ve been concerned. May your eye exam bring you some answers tomorrow.
To Judy: Thanks for the reassurance about the book about Secretariat. I’ll see if our library has a copy on file. I love Big Red and was at the KY Derby in 1973, albeit as a high school senior in the infield.
To Joan: Here’s hoping that the final test results are reassuring. My late Husky Illya had to be neutered because one of his testicles was undescended. That surgery did stop him from “marking” the drapes, thankfully!
To Carleen: I believe that I had purchased some of Anna Marie Bryant’s notecards back in 2006, they were lovely sketches of horses. If Anna is still a reader here, I wish that she would post a bluelink if she has a Website. Those were great notecards and I’d love to get more.
To Lou Ann: My pink rosa rugosa are still going storm, the white one less so. The latter rosa rugosa took some damage in Tropical Storm Irene, but it has bloomed since then, so I am hopeful.
To Liz: I loved your description of the tawny owls!
To Debbie LA: I need to open your War Horse blue link. Please enjoy your cruise, you deserve a lovely holiday.
To Bobbie B: As ever, missing you here. ####

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Bobbie B. And Angel Gene…………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
Your Glowing Wings Of Love……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB, and TGIF! Alex, I hope that you didn’t enjoy one too many Tetleys with your birthday festivities.

Here on the banks of the Thames the sky is brightening and it is still beezy but much cooler than yesterday morning. I fear that our Indian Summer has fully passed. A huge commercial freighter is berthed across the river. It is either a new ship or else has been painted recently, with a rather garish day-glo orange on its topmost sections. That colour will certainly wake one up!

Wishing all here a safe & enjoyable weekend. I apologize because I can’t recall which FOB shares a birthday with Alex. I do hope that it was a great one! Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie B: “ACD” for you!
To Joan: May the test results for Pierre be good ones.
To Jane: Best wishes as you visit the ophthalmologist today.
To Dee: Eight rainbows to our Resident Angel.
To Judy: It must be getting cold in your province by now. ####

##Good morning all. A gorgeous sunrise greeted me this crisp morning. We had snowflurries yesterday and last night leaving a dusting of snow.
##Liz, how cool is that about War Horse being filmed close by. Yes that will make it even more enjoyable. I loved your description of the tawny owls.
##Jane, I was glad to see you here this morning. I hope your surgery appointment will not be too far away. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
##Joan, that was good news about Pierre and hopefully the final test outcome will be good as well. Hugs to all.
##LouAnn, I hope your rosebud didn’t get into too much mischief.
##Robyn, yes, it is getting colder now. We have been promised another weekend of some milder temps but to drop off again next week. Soon, I’m sure that winter will settle in without all the drama of the changing season.
##Debbie LA, what a wonderful trip you must surely have by a very very nice husband. Enjoy!!!
##BobbieB., my thoughts with you for continuing progress toward being pain free.

Have a safe TGIF day and a wonderful weekend everyone.

Judy

##Rainbows to our resident Angel.

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
Your Glowing Wings Of Love……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Happy Birthday, Alex. So sorry to have missed your special day. Hope it was wonderful. Thank you again for this site, your book about Barbaro, and all the things you do for and about horses.

Morning, Everyone:)

Happy *FRIDAY*!!

Liz: I also enjoyed learning about Tawny Owls and their ‘voices’ too:) We have Owls here, not sure what kind..but they also call to one another on summer nights:)

Cloudy here this morning..SRS clouds, too, though no rain is falling yet…and no wind, so it’s just a cloudy day so far.

I roasted my ‘first-ever’ pork butt roast for supper last night, Family and it was SO yummy, it certainly won’t be my last! 🙂 Took ‘forever’ to cook but well worth the wait!

Not much going on here today or over the weekend…forecast to be cold so I’m cooking warm things which require little effort but make the house smell good…love this time of year!

Joan: I’m holding good thoughts for you and Pierre…don’t so much like the fact that his protein levels are elevated though and hopefully, today, your doctor can figure out why and get Pierre on the road to wellness again…love you, Hunny!

Here is our Joe for Friday:)

Friday, November 18th… 1,068 owners of Magic, our Christmas community rescue horse. Including Kerri, age 11, Concord, California. Kerri writes: I had a dream Magic was chestnut with a long curly mane. I rode him to Burger King and he ate french fries. What a weird dream.

I will visit horse killer Wade Giles on December 20th or so. After purchasing Magic, he or she will arrive on our ranch a few days before Christmas.

At random, I am showing a few names of Magic’s owners. No particular order. I am picking names out of the folder. Each morning, as often as possible, I will continue to do this.

Diego Sanchez, Vacaville, Ca.
Molly Sanchez, Vacaville, Ca.
Lee Watson, Tempe, Arizona
Bryce Johnson, Alhambra, Ca.
Ami Kellog, Tokyo, Japan
Krystal Gibbons, Seattle
Lucas Gibbons, Seattle
Amy Jean Holt, Montreal
Rebecca Simmons, Arlington, Texas
Spence Milshap, Salt Lake City
Kylie Anderson, San Jose
Mark Grayson, Colorado Springs, Co.
Dawn Hawes, Louisville, Kentucky
Taylor Hawes, Louisville, Kentucky
Ariel Cox, Woodland, Ca.

I am sharing with you two recent e-mails. Both endearing. Both making my day.

The following is from Megan:

Goodmorning, my name is Megan S and I am a FFA student in Merced, California. I read Tb Friends right before school. Literally. Right before school. Today I only have a couple minutes until the bell rings for class. For me, that’s a lot of time. The librarian doesn’t think so. She looks at me funny when I come in to check out the computer. I think she wonders what school project I’m working on…………

I am looking forward to adopting a horse from you. First I need to find a place to board. Somewhere where I can work for my stay there because right now I can’t afford to pay full board fees along with everything else. I’m excited though. I think about my future horse all the time. Daydream in 1st period, daydream in 3rd,4th and 5th. Sometimes even 6th. I can’t daydream in 2nd period though. That’s vet science class. I need to pay attention in there.

I ride western too. Do you get any people adopting thoroughbreds for western riding? In the pictures you show they are mostly ridden english. All the pretty hunters. With blazes. Cute white blazes. I think my western thoroughbred would be pretty dazzling in a blaze. Do you have any horses that would love to be a western horse out on the trails?

Well, the bell rung and the librarians are yelling at us to log off the computers. I hope you enjoy your day and have a wonderful thanksgiving week. 🙂
Megan

And this from Caitlynn, age 14, Sacramento. We met Caitlynn earlier this year on a Tb Kids day.

Dear Joe… I remember a Thanksgiving where you asked everyone to send in what they are thankful for. I was hoping you would do it again this year. You didn’t, but I would like to tell you anyway.

It has been tough for my mom. My dad left us when I was 5 and we haven’t seen him since. My mom got a job but the money wasn’t great. I remember many nights we had to eat canned soup and crackers with peanut butter. My mom taught me to always be positive because there are people in a lot worse shape than we were.

I got my mare when I was 11, and I still don’t know how my mom could afford it. She wanted me to be happy. I am a horse crazy girl who drives everybody insane because horses is all I talk about.

Things have been really bad this year, so my mom got a second job. Her second job is 12 hours a week. $9.50 an hour. I saw her paycheck, it was $90.00. Which comes to $360.00 a month. Board for my mare is $350.00 a month. Her whole check goes for my horse

Some nights my mom is so tired and I know she doesn’t want to go to her other job. I feel guilty for having a horse. My mom says don’t feel guilty. My mare makes me happy, and when I am happy my mom is happy.

So I just want to tell you I am so thankful for my mom. I am such a lucky girl. Happy Thanksgiving Joe and Cathy. From my heart I send you many blessings. Caitlynn

Have a happy weekend.

Joe
###

Awfully nice, huh? 🙂 Go see the photos when you can…there is a pic of a greeting card…’what ponies ask Santa for’ a sketch of a horse, seated at a desk with a partially eaten apple next to him…writing: “Dear Santa, I would like a child for Christmas.” OMG…makes me want to go throw my arms around a horse’s neck and kiss it to PIECES:)

Everyone, have a good day today and a great/grand/wonderful weekend, too:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Geeze…I FORGOT to say…..

Debbie: I’m SO TICKLED for you to be able to CRUISE all next week!!! What FUN you’ll have, and you DESERVE some good FUN, too:) Can’t wait to hear all about it, Debbie!!

Also…I DID manage to tuck my dollar into a card and a few extras with a note requesting some carrots be purchased for *PONY BOY*, please:) got it sent off to Woodland on Wednesday! I FINALLY can read Joe now, and not feel ‘stoopid’ for forgetting:)

Also, last night on PBS Huell Howser’s ‘California Gold’ was all about horses! Two hours of all things horse here in CA:) and he even made a stop up in WILLITS and visited *RIDGEWOOD RANCH* where Seabiscuit lived and where our own *ALEX* recently visited…very interesting stuff last night….

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
please continue praying…meeting vet this afternoon…we might have to have a biopsy on Pierre Monday….

##Joan, for sure prayers and good thoughts over the weekend. Take care and give those two a big squeeze from the northern auntie.

Judy

Prayers for Pierre, and for his mom!

####

Went to the corneal specialist and he wants to do my bad eye first????? corneal transplant and cataract removal……..one hour with his assistant, only seeing him for 5 minutes….don’t now what to think……….my bad eye has been bad for 35 years!!Trying to drive home with two dilated eyes in bright sunlight was a nightmare….I prayed just to make it. I never thought I would, 3 hours on the road…….exhausted tonight….coule be worse…Luv to everyone, Hugs and Rainbows to Dee……

Yippppeeeeee-Skipppppyyyyy!!! The *FRONT PORCH* is OPEN:) Thank You, Alex!!

Good Sunday Morning, Everyone:)

Gosh! It’s so GOOD to be home again…I hope yole come by to sit awhile and catch up!

Bobbie B. I hope you’re feeling better and better and I hope your own Thanksgiving was a good one, too.

Dee: Rainbows…we needz dem!

Been busy here, Family…our weather has been SO NICE, too nice really…I had to water the Lavender plants yesterday and will put the soaker hose on the front hillside later today when the sun has risen. We do need some rain in these foothills!

My Niners won last Sunday but they lost:( to those Ravens on Thursday night in Baltimore…Poor Alex Smith (QB) got sacked so many times I lost count:/ I dunno where his protection was!

Daughter, Seymoure, Lucy and I spent a lovely Thanksgiving day together…laid back day:) got to watch nearly ALL of the Macy*s parade, the weather was beautiful, I think it got to be around 70 degrees outside by afternoon:) No WONDER my plants all need a good drink, huh?!

Friday and Saturday were spent ‘recodating’ indoors/outdoors and if I do say so myself, everything looks good:) Daughter and her young/healthy knees did most of it, I got to be a ‘supervisor’:)

Watched all those shoppers via TV News…heading into stores at midnight and beyond and can’t remember when I’ve been more grateful to be sitting on my sofa just watching! Herds of them…someone in a W/Mart somewhere used pepper spray to thwart off fellow shoppers from getting the last of an item?! I just don’t think that is what this season is all about.

Alex: Great/Grand/Wonderful, your *FIFTY-THIRD* Five Star Review:)

So sorry to read of Irrefutable…how awful for his people!

Here’s our Joe for Friday:)

Friday, November 25th… 1,112 owners of Magic, our Christmas community rescue horse. Including:

Emily Demmert, San Martin, Ca.
George & Jessie Juhlin, North Pole, Alaska
Sue Knerl, Casper, Wyoming
Kenzie Garcia, Sacramento, Ca.
Margaret Mathias, Pleasanton, Ca.
Sarah Geter, Tacoma, Washington
Rose Hall, Denver, Co.
April James, San Jose, Ca.
Summer James, San Jose, Ca.
Kristin Mack, Arcata, Ca.
Christine Kennicott, Berryville, Virginia
Jordan Miller, Roseville, Ca.
Morgan Breinholt, Salt Lake City
Jolie Hansen, Woodland, Ca.
Paula Chandler, Austin, Texas

She came up to me and asked can you find my mare a new home? At the ranch where I have employment, the young lady can no longer afford her horse. This is not your average mare. She was born in Germany, and comes with a popular warmblood pedigree. Just a few years ago the mare sold for 15 grand. After several failed attempts at internet advertising, the mare was free to a good home. The mare is 11, and I am told she can jump over the moon.

I knew the right good home. A senior at UC Davis, and talk about a Happy Thanksgiving. Yesterday the student met the mare. Boarding has been set, and the mare travels to her new barn on Saturday.

Towards the end of each month I receive calls from fancy barns, asking if Tb Friends can accept no longer affordable horses. I said yes to a quarter horse gelding currently at a barn only a few miles from us. The barn is so close they can walk the gelding to our ranch. I also agreed to take a 19 year old former race horse, who for the last 13 years has been teaching youngsters how to ride. The gelding now has arthritis, and in the next few months I’m pretty sure I can find him a companion home.

The times we live in. Once expensive horses, well trained horses, backyard neglected horses, injured race hores, sound race horses… thoroughbreds who need new homes.

If you have room for another horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. All horses are free, and we can help with transportation. Our screening process is simple. Myself, or a Tb Friends helper will come meet you, and take a look at where your new horse is going to live.

We are wet, cold, and foggy. Have a happy holiday weekend. Two flies still alive, and both are crawling up and down my computer screen…

Joe
##

Everyone have a fabulous *SUNDAY* 🙂

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

We back, had a great time! But happy to be home,and here!

Dear Ones: was told comments were open…hoping everybody had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I’ve had four days of much-needed down time. Am exhausted…and am being tested for Lyme Disease tomorrow (now that I have insurance). If it is confirmed, will go on antibiotics….then I do it my way.

have read with absolute dismay about the betrayal in Congress with the slaughter issue. It may be time to Occupy…

#Jane – were you the one who contacted me???? Let me know if I can help in any way.

Angel Dee, I all-ways love reading your rainbows.

Robyn…love to you.

Did a distance-healing session with a therapy horse in CA last Sunday. It was awesome…am putting together a coherent way to do this publicly. The horse is incredible to work with and is so responsive…reinforces what all the horses have taught us.

All Love,
Padme A’Tea

Make that We are Back

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOAN ROYA!!!

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe And Angel Padme A’Tea And Angel Tara And Angel Nomi And Angel Lynne And Angel Murphy And Her Angel Daughter Michelle And Seymore And Lucy And Angel Carleen And Her Angel Daughter Erin And Angel Michael And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Stu And Angel Famblee And Angel Joan Roya And Angel Curtis And Peaches And Pierre And Angel Debbie LA And The Angels……………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Sending rainbows and love to our sweet Dee!

Alex enought is enought we FoB’s understand!

OKAY let me try this again, Alex enough is enough we Fob’s understand!

OKAY let me try this again, Alex enough is enough we Fob’s understand!

@@@@

Happy Birthday Joan……..

@@@@

Happy Birthday Joan……..

Happy Birthday Joan…I hope your day was GRAND!

Before Alex closes the “porch” once again…

Thank you Dee for the beautiful rainbows and wonderful thoughts for all of us….

Thanksgiving was nice…(I baked my 1st peacan pie from scratch – not bad either.) I also made the mashed potatoes, Laura (our hostess) did the turkey, dressing and gravey, her mom Bernie, did the green bean dish and sweet potatoes…that way we all share in the cooking.

Friday, Mark and I went to see Erin and Michael.
We left at 5:00 pm and got there around 9:45 pm
(Erin had to work black Friday -1:00 pm til 9:30 pm). Erin drove to Los Angeles to spend Thanksgiving with her aunt and grandmother. Michael spent Thanksgiving with his family up in Yosimite and then drove back to Santa Barbara…he was there to greet us all…Erin, Mark and I. We had such a nice visit and the weather was so warm during the day.

We went to a beach where the dogs can go run out in the water and run up and down the beach…it was so much fun to watch dogs just being dogs….we ate to much and slept to little..I’m sure you have all done the same…as much as I hated to say chow for now …it will be so good to sleep in my own bed….

Mike plays street hockey next to the Horse Area in Santa Barbara…lord what beautiful horses live in Santa Barbara….between my daughter, Micheal, Tibby, the dogs and horses…my week-end was perfect!

I wish you all a perfect week!

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARA’S GRAND AND WONDERFUL FAMILY))))

ooxoxoxo
carleen in ca

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . as each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!
Hearts, hands, hooves and paws together!

Wanted to say how sorry I was to have to be MIA through the Thanksgiving Holiday (keeping in touch with our alternative method) 🙂 . . . . but Mom got sick the week prior to Thanksgiving on top of which she also was up to some “monkey business” in the kitchen and strained some abdominal wall muscles which combined with whatever she had picked up otherwise just really did her in.
I was so thinking of you all but was sleeping in 2 hour shifts and my regular “36 hour days” turned into “48 hour days”, and I wasn’t able to get here to the computer at all, but you all were so in my heart!!

Fortunately Mom is feeling much better, not yet 100%, but much better, and we had a lovely quiet holiday, and thank you all for the lovely Thanksgiving wishes and sorry I could not respond in time.

ALEX – You are a very wonderful and busy guy, and I hope you got to have some well-deserved rest over the long weekend!!
And THANK YOU for everything!!

Hugs, love, and always prayers for those walking the especially rugged path just now!

And always IN LOVING MEMORY of FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MURPH, FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, BELOVED ACE, and SO MANY MANY MORE . . . . May you know every joy of Heaven!!

Hugs, Lou Ann

CARLEEN – Your holiday time sounds absolutely lovely!! So happy for you, you deserve it!!!

LYNNE B. – Your beloved MURPHY must have slipped in here again when I wasn’t looking 🙂 as I had a whole pile of white confetti the other evening!!
(Another oops with a Kleenex in someone’s pocket got into the dryer; but I still always have to smile and give Murphy a big wink up there in Heaven!)

JOAN – So anxious to hear how beloved PIERRE is doing, and PEACHES, too. The prayers continue for Pierre’s test results!

Love to all! L

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY TO OUR JOAN!!!!!!!!!
I even made a note to myself and it somehow got buried 🙁 . . . . .

ANY MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND EVERY BLESSING TO YOU!!!

Love ya lots!!

Hugs and Kisses to Pierre and Peaches, too!!
All the prayers continue!!

Hugs, Lou Ann

Glad this is open…but who knows for how long!! Thank you, Alex. I have enjoyed all the e-mails sent by FOB’s via Robyn’s list. The horse slaughter issue continues to vex me. Can’t believe the government can be so heartless. Kudos to Stu and others who fight the good fight. Onward!!!!

###
here we are…the proud,loving FOBS!

Morning all…

Thank you Alex!!!

My Christmas wish…if all the folks who visit this site for other reasons than horses welfare and friendship would take their energy and turn it towards our government..to help us end horse slaughter.
Would that not be a great thing!!!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND AND WONDERFUL FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Morning all…

Thank you Alex!!!

My Christmas wish…if all the folks who visit this site for other reasons than horses welfare and friendship would take their energy and turn it towards our government..to help us end horse slaughter.
Would that not be a great thing!!!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND AND WONDERFUL FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

##Hello, everyone, I think we are back up for awhile.
Thanks Alex,

Judy

Hello Everyone!!!!

Thanks for opening the comments up again. Hope this holds out. I really don’t feel comfortable on the discussion boards.

Godd day all

HOLY *CROMOLY*, Family!!! 🙂

It seems we’re baaaaccckkk if even for a little while…HOW EXCITING IS THIS??!!

Judy: Pls check your home email inbox…

So GOOD being here again!!

I hope everyone has a great day today….it’s just about 1p in the westwing:) got a ways to go here, still.

Alex: I saw you’ve gone to view *WAR HORSE* a second time to celebrate it’s Oscar Nomination:) I am waiting …. toe-tapping, really, for it to be on Video On Demand or Pay Per View….I can’t wait to see it…even if I might shed a tear or twelve..it’s trailers are just gorgeous!

Hopefully, I’ll see yole right here on this *FRONT PORCH* again later on today, Family!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Afternoon all!!!!

Thank you Alex!!!!!

This is so neat to be here again…after our rainy week-end, the sun is out and the days are getting longer…Yahoo!

War Horse is such a special movie about a VERY SPECIAL HORSE…LIKE ONE WE ALL LOVE AND CHERISH EVERYDAY….Joey, like Barbaro touched so many lives and made people better for knowing him, even if just for a short time.

I hope the powers that be in Hollywood favor this grand movie with an award this time around.

Anyway,,,it’s grand to be here …take care all
and have a wonderful rest of the week!!!!

(((((HUGS TO ALL BARARO’S FABULOUS AND WONDERFUL FAMILY!!!!)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Greetings Frens. Good to be back. Thank you.

Sorry,

I meant “good” day all.

Should proof read.

Sending All, All All My Love And Rainbows To The Angels Here…………………………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And
Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And
Angel Padme A’Tea And Angel Nomi And Angel Tara And Bodhi And Angel Carleen And Her Angel Daughter
Erin And Angel Michael And Angel Lynne And Angel
Murphy And Angel Daughter Michelle And Seymore And
Lucy And Seymore And Angel Debbie LA And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Bobbie B. And Angel
Gene And Angel Stu And Angel Famblee And Angel
Alex……………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel William K.
………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Margie MN..
And Angel Linda And Angel Harriette……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos…………………………………..

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Barbaro…..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………
In Rainbows…………………………………

Affirmed

##Yippee skipeee, all is right in the world now.

##Dee, rainbows back atcha
##Lynne, check your mail, all is ok.
##William k. so wonderful to see you here

In fact it’s so darn good to see you all here.

Thanks again Alex.

All, have a good evening.

Judy

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Joan Roya And Angel Curtis And Angel Pierre And Angel Peaches…………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

####
thank you so so much Alex.

Praise the Lord…we are all back on this wonderful site…

Please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

please…read the db…we need you all…each of you..

and pray for our country..

Hiya, FsOB! Oh, happy day, to quote the beautiful spiritual hymm that was played in the film “Secretariat”. I am absolutely thrilled beyond belief to see that the Comments Board has been re-opened. Alex, thank you so very much.

Wishing all of you “ACN” on this Weds. It is hard to fathom that the 29th will mark five (5) years since Barbaro’s passing. Peace, Robyn

#### To William: Please feel free to send me an e-mail, in case Alex has to shut the board down again. I would be happy to add you to our e-mail list.
To Dee: Rainbows to you!
to Bobbie: I hope that that you’ve experienced renewed strength as this week has unfolded. ####

So glad to be back, feels like “normal” doesn’t it? Thank you Alex………..Hugs to our Dear Dee and hoping our Bobbie B is on the mend…thinking of, and missing, EVERYONE!!

So glad to be back, feels like “normal” doesn’t it? Thank you Alex………..Hugs to our Dear Dee and hoping our Bobbie B is on the mend…thinking of, and missing, EVERYONE!!

Great to be able to meet up with family again.
klb

Even though I rarely posted here, I’ve always read the comments, and I have missed every single one of you so much.
Thank you Alex!
Thank you all for being such dedicated souls.

I stopped in to peek and see if all is still ‘well on this Front Porch’ and it ISSSSS:)

I hope everyone slept warm and had sweet dreams…I’ll see yole in the morning:)

ALEX: This is SO GREAT/GRAND/WONDERFUL, being ‘home’ again:) Thanks so much!!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd — for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, paws, and hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation!!!

Thank you SO MUCH, Alex!!!

Hugs and Blessings to all, and prayers especially for those walking the particularly rugged path just now.

And always IN LOVING MEMORY of FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MURPHY, dearest ACE, and FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, and so many many many more, may they know every joy of Heaven!

Love you all!
Hugs, Lou Ann

PLEASE NOTE THIS COMING SUNDAY’S
VIGIL FOR BARBARO!!

VIGIL FOR BARBARO
04/29/2003 – 01/29/2007

At any time throughout
the day, evening, or night,
SUNDAY
29 January, 2012

PLEASE JOIN IN REMEMBERING BARBARO . . . .

Offer your favorite verse,
a prayer,
your own special words to him,
light a candle,
raise a toast,
just a quiet moment,
however you like to honor
our beloved champion . . .

We love you for eternity,
BARBARO!!

Run with the angels, honey!!!!

“Always”

“I am in the wind across the grasses
My spirit rises with the sun in the East
I am as vast as the stars. . .
as free as the heavens. . .
My joy knows no boundaries.

Listen for my voice in the falling rain.
I am eternity, wisdom, and choice.
The cares of the past
have been lifted from my body.

All is healed. I am whole.

I am again all I was meant to be.”

— Kim McElroy

Hiya, FsOB! Although the western skyline is turning a paler shade of blue, the street and harbour lamps are still casting diamond-like reflections on the Thames’ dappled surface. A train is approaching New London station, as the whistle sounds.

Alex, thanks for the link to the Paulick Report. I enjoyed the article and got a kick out of the readers’ poll that was printed on the right side of the page. (I voted for Dinny Phipps, but almost voted for Bo Derek or “the crazy guy sitting alone in the grandstand” – I’ve known my share of the latter!)

Barbaro’s memory is vivid as this week unfolds. Likewise, I am reflecting on our FsOB who also have passed: Caroline (CJ)Jaffe, Sherry von Wageren, and Cheryl Jones. I encourage all of you to read the lovely poem that Lou Ann posted for us: “Always”.

Wishing all here ACD and thank you, Alex, for re-opening this Board. Peace, Robyn

#### To Sanantha and William K: If you feel comfortable doing so, please send me your e-mail address. I can be reached by combining my uncapitalized first and last names, without any punctuation, followed by @ymail.com
To Bobbie B: Wishing you a day without pain.
To Dee: Rainbows to our Resident Angel! ####

Good morning to all:
Wonderful to “see” you here. This weekend we will honor the one who’s light started this journey. There is so much to be grateful for.
Thank you, dear Barbaro….and to all of you who have kept the thread of friendship going throughout these years.

Good morning all. A gray morning once again with a light blanket of snow.
##Boy oh bo this feels good to be here doesn’t it.
##Dee, thank you for the rainbows. You have a wonderful day.
##BobbieB., ACD to you.

It’s so good to see all here, have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Good *FRIDAY EVE* Morning, EVERYONE:)

Yes, Judy!!! It IS SO GOOD TO BE HOME again:)

SRSLY FOGGY here this morning! Not even a ‘hint’ of mountains out front over the Lake or out back, either…it’s just drizzly and gray and extremely quiet this morning…Not even a birdie at the feeders…mayhaps they’ve gotten LOST?! 🙂 Not!

Here is Joe for Thursday…Get tissues, it’s a good one…I’d even go so far as to say, it’s better than a ‘Kodak Moment’:)

Thursday, January 26th… Kristin is a third year student at UC Davis. Nights are spent working at a burger joint. During the summer Kristin works with her dad in the family landscaping business. Also in the summer, Kristin helps with our Tb Kids program.

It was two years ago when Kristin adopted Bling, a chestnut gelding with lots of white. I had found Bling at the feed lot in Wilton. Still with his racing shoes on, Bling was lame with a bowed tendon. The next day it was discovered Bling also had a fractured right ankle. At a boarding stable in Davis, Kristin did all the rehab. And now Bling moves like J.R. on that dancing show.

When we have a Tb Kids day there are 6 kids, with their parents. And 6 instructors. We keep it small and informal. Each kid spends time with each instructor. On a Saturday last July, 13 year old Anna and her mom came to visit. Anna�s mom asked if it was possible for Anna to spend time with a horse. We were right in the middle of a Tb Kids session. Anna and her mom could tell we were busy. They said sorry to bother you, we will try again on another day.

I said no big deal, come and join us. Right off it was easy to see Anna had no horse experience. She stood on the wrong side of a horse when trying to halter him. I clearly remember what Anna said as she was next to the horse. Anna said: This is like standing next to a movie star.

We found out later Anna has loved horses since she was 3. Her bedroom walls are covered with horse pictures. She once found an old horse shoe in a field, and that shoe is on the table next to her bed. We also found out Anna and her mom are poor. They have very little. Anna has never had an opportunity to be with horses.

Anna had her picture taken with several different horses. Anna and her mom didn�t have a computer, so my wife Cathy printed out those pictures and mailed them to Anna. We received a thank you card.

Last week, on a visit to Davis, I saw Kristen at a boarding ranch. We were in the parking area, next to her truck. Kristen says wait here with me, you can see Bling. Okay. From the barn came a young rider on top of Bling. I couldn�t see her face, helmet and all. I asked Kristin, who is riding your horse?

And then the rider and Bling were right next to us, and the rider said hi Joe. It was Anna. Twice a week Kristin picks Anna up after school and brings her to the barn. The two have been friends since that Saturday last July.

Kristin saved up money from the burger joint and bought Anna and her mom a computer. Kids at school were making fun of Anna because of the way she dresses. Anna had to wear old clothes from second hand stores. Kristen�s dad took Anna shopping and bought her new clothes, shoes, and school supplies. Kristen and her dad have been bringing groceries to Anna and her mom since last summer.

But most of all, you should see Anna handle a horse. Kristen says Anna has horse passion like no one she has ever met. Anna is 14 now, and she wants to earn money for her very own horse. In that parking lot Anna tells me, someday I�m getting a thoroughbred from you.

As busy as Kristen is, with college and work, to take the time to change a young girl�s life. That day in Davis last week, seeing Bling, Kristen, and Anna. That was one of the best days I�ve ever had.

Kristen tells me the old horse shoe found in a field years ago, still sits on the table next to Anna�s bed. There is a picture frame, with a photo of Anna and our gelding Starspell. From a Saturday last July. A spur of the moment visit during a Tb Kids day. Pretty cool the way life turns out�

Joe

Top Left: Our former gelding Viva, now owned by Becky.

He’s posting pics Top L these days of horses and new owners…adopted from TB Friends…today’s photo is wonderful, so go see it if you can! 🙂

Horses….whoddathunk they could bring so much joy and knowledge and fun times….not me, not until I ‘met’ *BARBARO* and thankfully, *ALEX BROWN* has given us all a ‘class room’ to meet in with veritable encyclopedias full of all things horse to go read/see via his blue-ink-links and those of this family’s as well…Debbie LA and so many others who take time to link articles of interest here so we can all learn and continue learning:) We’re a lucky bunch of people, Family, we are *FOBs*….Now, Always and Forever:)

Everyone have a great day today!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Lynne, Amen!!!!

Judy

Well hello there , and thank you ALEX ! !

It’s good to be home , isn’t it ? ? I love the Joe story today , it gives us hope for humankind itself if nothing else does …… thank you all for remembering me and wishing me ACD and healing … I am still unable to walk but I am growing stronger physically …

this disease , shingles , has really impacted me like no other ever has … I have every reason to hope that my foot WILL heal in time , the doc says so , so I will walk again …

I know one thing — I have developed a new compassion for all those — hooman and animal — that are lame and can’t walk well or at all— remembering what Barbaro suffered in his last hours almost five years ago — he still shines like the brightest star — I am still bedridden , but I will be at his vigil —
Love and best wishes to you all , bye now ,
BobbieB

Morning all…

It’s so good to see Miss Dee and her rainbows …

Lou Ann, always remembers Murphy, Chief and Bud..
(I hope you did something special on your Dad’s Birthday…) I sure the pups had fun with your dad and mine…fishing and running along the creek.

Bobbie, I hope you are feeling better each day.

Lynne, I just love to read about Joe’s kids and grand folks who help him. Kristen and Anna…
HORSES…WHAT GRAND LIVES THEY ARE.

I have to run…but I’m so glad we can be here!!!

Thanks again Alex!

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S WONDERFUL FAMILY))))

xoxo
carleen in ca

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Carleen…..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
You And Your Angel Daughter Erin And Angel Michael
Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Hi Famblee. Reading “Always” from Lou Ann has me in tears. We were united here because of Barbaro and Alex. And we still ‘have’ each other. I am eternally grateful for all I have learned, and for all of my Frens here.

God Bless Us, Everyone.

Hiya, FsOB! It’s a rainy “Friday Eve” evening here on the banks of the Thames. The rain is tapping a steady beat on the top of the floor-to-ceiling bay windows here in the home office. To use Alex’s term, I am knackered. I need to head upstairs to see if perhaps I can afford to send a tiny check to UPENN for the Laminitis research Fund.

Alex, many thanks again! Wishing all here “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Judy, Margie, & Evy: I agree wholeheartedly.
To Lynne: What a lovely story that Joe Shelton shared. Young Anna is very fortunate to have made such a devoted and generous friend. This type of story gives one hope for the future.
To Bobbie: Please know that I continue to send healing thoughts your way.
To Dee: Thank you for the gift of rainbows. To Debbie LA: I hope that you are safe. I read about the dreadful tornado that hit Alabama. ####

#### Alex, I read the story from the NYT which you bluelinked at the top of the page. What a fascinating story about Finder’s Key. ####

Hiya, FsOB, and a hearty TGIF to all citizens of the Barbaro Nation! A very foggy morning is dawning here on the banks of the Thames. The Amtrak train is sounding its whistle on approach to New London’s station. Fog is enveloping the river, so much so that the few street and harbour lamps that were visible from the other side of the river have now been obscured.

I took a peek at the results of the readers’ poll on the Paulick Report. It appears that “the crazy guy sitting alone in the grandstand” is currently favoured to give the mythical equine State of the Union address. Too funny!

Wishing all of you “ACD”. Please know that I’ll be observing the vigil on the 29th. Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie: Hoping in particular that you have a comfortable day (ACD).
To Dee: Rainbows to you.
To Debbie LA: Please let us know that you are OK after the treacherous weather that occurred in Alabama earlier this week. ####

sorry have not been here lately so so busy here at work…
prayers to all whom needs it..human, furbaby or horse or wildlife.

please do whatever you can…call, fax, email..report abuse, neglect…read the db…lots are needed there too..

alex..thank you always.

love, hugs to all…

sorry have not been here lately so so busy here at work…
prayers to all whom needs it..human, furbaby or horse or wildlife.

please do whatever you can…call, fax, email..report abuse, neglect…read the db…lots are needed there too..

alex..thank you always.

love, hugs to all…

All is good in Lower Alabama.
Did not know Alex had reopened the site.
Really missed being here, and happy to see everyone!

##Good morning all. A mixed bag of weather this morning, rain, freezing rain and now snow. Our day of winter has arrived.
##Debbie LA, glad to know that you are ok after the tornadoes. Did your e-mail change as I had sent one out regarding the board and a personal one too. In any case good to hear from you.
##Dee, thank you for the rainbows, they were sorely missed.
##Bobbie B. ACD and a good weekend too.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

We’re still here , Yay … hope we can stay …

Robyn, your posts sometimes remind me of Jack Higgins , the Irish thriller writer . He begins so many of his books with a moody – misty or foggy night, usually in a city or near a river … quite atmospheric …

Judy , in your Canadian winter , brrr ..please stay warm , and careful on the roads ….and thanks for your good wishes—-

Did I think to tell yall that Kathyb sent me the first report of Rachel’s foaling ? I was glad to hear from her — she said I’m now an Auntie and I just loved that — as far as I know now , Rachel the great and the ‘ little great ‘ are doing well. Can’t wait to hear what he is named !

And Havre de Grace won horse of the year ! I missed that totally — so much is happening
while I lie on my sofa ! Another filly horse of the year – you go girls … I think it must be unprecedented , so many girls in a row …
RA , Zee, and now HDG —

I’m glad to see our blue – linker extraordinaire , DebbieLA , back and unharmed by the fearful weather…

I so much appreciate your good wishes and prayers , thank you all very much – this Barbaro famblee is great …
and our angel Dee is back , sending rainbows , so as somebody said – Byron ? – all’s right with the world . Or Dr. Pangloss …
Except horse slaughter and we gotta fix that this year … bye now , BobbieB

Good *FRIDAY* Morning, Everyone….

Debbie LA: I’m SO sorry! I thought you’d been notified…I should have sent an email:( So GLAD to see you, Debbie:)

We’ve got clouds here this a.m., or perhaps they are remnants of fog from very early…I found myself still awake at 12:30a so, I’ve slept in LOTS this morning :-O I feel like I’m so far behind, I’ll not get caught up!

Here’s Joe for Friday:

Friday, January 27th… Truly shocking news. All letters have been answered. If you have recently written us and not received a reply, please resend. Your letter might have gone to spam. Or a good chance I deleted you by accident.

The following came from Addie in Sacramento: My mom and I drove by your ranch. You only have 5 horses. Are you the bald guy talking to himself and smoking a cigarette?

I�m not bald, but I do often talk to myself. Addie you and your mom went to the wrong ranch. I haven�t been down to 5 horses since Nixon left office. I don�t smoke, but all the time I�m putting things in my mouth. Skittles. Mike and Ikes. Roasted chicken tamales in a zesty green sauce.

From Rikki, Carson City, Nevada: I like when you show adoption pictures. How come you�ve never shown a picture of me and Jules?

Rikki send me a picture and I�ll show it.

From Elliot, Hayward, Ca: Do boys come for Tb Kids day, or is it just girls?

We�ve had lots of boys Elliot. Including 14 year old twin brothers who both now have their own thoroughbred.

From Megan who lives in Davis: Do you recommend riding instructors?

I sure do. There are wonderful trainers in Davis, Dixon, Sacramento, and Woodland. These trainers are patient with both kids and horses.

From Alex: I love reading your website. How come you don�t write on weekends?

On weekends I feed an early breakfast at another ranch. A major perk is I get to come home and complain about how hard I work. No one really listens though.

From Jory: Arabians are the best. I wish you would write about Arabs sometimes.

See below Jory.

And this from my wife Cathy, who writes from her day job: Did you eat all the tamales?

In early 2008 we rescued a mare from the feed lot in Fallon, Nevada. We were told she was a Morgan. Her name became Wasabi, and we had no idea she was pregnant. Early one morning I found a foal on the ground. Wasabi had rejected her colt, and she kept trying to savage him. We had to hold Wasabi so her foal could nurse. Wasabi wanted no part of motherhood, so suddenly we had an orphan baby. For two days the colt was bottle fed.

Our friend Jodi had an Arabian mare that had just given birth. Jodi said her mare would gladly take on another kid. Jodi named our foal Chips, and it’s hard to believe this was almost 4 years ago. We cannot thank Jodi enough.

Top Left: Chips the day after he was born.

Top Right: When Jodi arrived back home and opened her trailer door, Chips was sound asleep. He is a quiet traveler.

Bottom Left: Chips with his new family.

Bottom Right: This is Chips today.

We are cold and windy. Have a happy weekend. 95.3 FM, songs of today and yesterday, on the yard radio…

Joe
## Do go see the photos…such a *BABE* was Chips…and he’s grown so ‘hansum’

Everyone have a good day…I know some are dealing with snow/icy rain…bad rain…Robyn in da fog….don’t get ‘lost’ ….I made a kinda ‘pun’ there…and the ONLY way I’d EVER know about a beautiful horse named *LOST IN THE FOG* is because of *BARBARO*!!!! 🙂

I hope to see lots and lots of you and many of the others from days gone by on Sunday the 29th…right here at *HOME*:) We’re having a *FAMILY REUNION* on Sunday…Honoring our *BOY*!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Bobbie B………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

##Have a safe weekend everyone. I will be with you all on the 29th to remember our boy Barbaro.

Judy

Afternoon all…

Gee, I was just looking at the time that has past.. Tim and Alex started this front porch around (correct me if i’m wrong please) goes back to June of 2005…there is some HISTORY HERE!!!

I even went to January 29, 2007…what a day that was. Numb, stunned and boxes of tissues. I think about Lorraine, Mary S. Sandra, Equine Heaven and the great memories from there…so many have come and gone…..

Many of us will be here on Sunday for sure. Though many who won’t be here will still have Barbaro in there hearts…

Bless Barbaro and all his grand connections for all they shared with us…how rich we have become.

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND AND WONDERFUL FAMILY…WHERE EVER YOU MAY BE))))

take care dear family…he is with us where ever we go….

ooxo
carleen in ca

Hello, all –

It’s been a hell of a year for me personally, as some of you know, and I have barely kept up with the basics, let alone general communication.

Still, it is glorious to see familiar names here, and to know that “this front porch” – (what a great phrase!) – is still here. I’m not a chatroom or discussion board gal, so this is where it happens, for me, and has ever since the big bay colt brought us all together.

So good to know many of you are still daily visitors. I did check one day, and find it closed, but just knew it would be open for this sweetly painful anniversary coming up on Sunday.

In our temporary rental, (one more month before we’re back in our home, after it was destroyed by fire in May of 2011), we have no computer, and the wi-fi is hazardous, at best. So, I will be with y’all in spirit, thinking on Barbaro on Sunday, even if I can’t post or light a candle.

For all that each of you has done, and continues to do, in the cause of ending horse slaughter, I salute you. I think it’s amazing how many of us are still plugging away. All because of a horse – but what a horse!

All the best to all. Love and comfort to all in need, two-legged and four-legged, and have a Barbaro day, courage and kindness.

Jean in Seaside

(((Jean))).

Thoughts are with Rachel and her foal at Rood and Riddle. Prayers that Rachel is fine and it’s just precautionary pain management. According to the reports, they are both doing very well.

Oh Lord…
prayers and well wishes to Rachele Alexander and her beautiful colt….

oxoxo
carleen

Prayers and Blessings on the way for Rachel Alexander and her sweet colt!!
Blessed Francis Seelos, St. Anthony the Abbot, St. Jude, Our Lady, and St. Martin, St. Gerard, please keep Rachel Alexander and her most special colt in your loving healing embrace, for this we pray.

Blessings,
Lou Ann

PLEASE JOIN IN . . . .

VIGIL FOR BARBARO
04/29/2003 – 01/29/2007

At any time throughout the day, evening, or night, SUNDAY, 29 JANUARY, 2012 (this weekend),
please join in remembering Barbaro . . . .

Offer your favorite verse,
a prayer,
your own special words to him,
light a candle,
raise a toast,
just a quiet moment wherever you are,
however you like to honor
our beloved champion . . .

We love you for eternity, Barbaro!!

Run with the angels honey!

Lovingly posted,
Lou Ann

“It is the horse’s gift to connect us with Heaven and our own footsteps.”

— Ronni Sweet

Hugs to you, JEAN in SEASIDE!!! Prayers and positive thoughts on the way for things to turn around for you very soon!!

And hugs, love, and continued prayers, also, for our BOBBIE B.!!!

always, Lou Ann

I’m so upset and frightened for Rachel and the foal … so much can happen wrong after a birth … I had told a friend that I want Rachel to get by 2 weeks without anything occurring and she didn’t make it …
infections are so terrible too after giving birth but all they have told us is after birth pain — that could be anything … I am so
heartened to see the prayers and wishes on here cause I know FOB prayers work ! God bless them both … please be with them today and let Rachel be well , now and always …

Afternoon all…

Alex, I just read your article about Barbaro and how the life of one horse has effected the lives of so many people and changed for the better (we all hope) how horses are treated. It was wonderful. Thank you.

Where is everyone? I hope you all are “dine and fandy” as Miss Lynne would say.

Have a fine evening all and we will be here tomorrow for sure…

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY)))

ooxxoxo
carleen in ca

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

Love you forever, Barbaro!!

You all know where my thoughts are today – with each of you, gathered together as we hung on every word especially that last week in January ’07, and then the mourning that took us to the very depths.
God Bless all Barbaro’s special people all over again and forever.

ALEX – Great piece today, and oh that photo with you and Barbaro . . . . always takes my heart, THANKS SO MUCH, ALEX, ALWAYS!!

BOBBIE B. – You can be sure of many prayers being offered for RACHEL ALEXANDRA & HER COLT, and always for YOU, and everyone walking the rugged path here just now. Hugs!

For all – our SANDRA in TEXAS (Chief’s Mom) IS very much with us all; however, she is adjusting to a new computer (compliments of her nephew via Santa Claus)and this one is MUCH different than the one she used for years.
Does anyone possibly know where there might be some very user-friendly instructions on how to change font size especially like for her e-mail. I believe she uses MSN. THANKS SO MUCH!!! /L

And always in loving memory of FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, beloved ACE, FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, and so MANY MANY more . . .

Hugs, love, and prayers,
always, Lou Ann

I HAVE to post the candles. Please keep them lit. Thanks.

Candles for Barbaro

Hi Handsome Sweetheart:)

Gosh, it�s been a very long time since I�ve written those words and it really feels awfully good, Barbaro, it�s making me smile!

I�ve thought for the past two or three days of writing here on this most special �Front Porch� to you today. I kept wanting to come up with equally �special� words…but you know, Barbaro, what kept coming to my mind was a simple �thank you’.

Thank you for counting me among those you �hoof chose� to follow your journey here and even after you left this Earth for the pastures of Heaven, I thank you for the knowledge I�ve gained about �all things horse�

Thank you for helping me have courage to approach perfect strangers asking if I might visit their two horses sometimes and give them treats at the fence. Then, being invited inside that fence and all the wonderful hours I spent with Mister and his sister, Rosie, most especially, Mister:) Those were such good times, Barbaro and I�d never have given thought to being up close/personal with horses, if not for you! They don�t live nearby now…they moved away but those hours I spent with them will be with me for the rest of my life and I�m so very grateful!

Thank you for teaching me so much, not just about horses but about having bad days from time to time and keeping my head high and one foot in front of the other, getting through those bad days as gracefully as possible, with as much a sense of humor as possible and then, waking to a new and better day.

Thank you too, for my family here, there and so many �everywheres’! Thanks to you, I�ve got sisters and brothers in Barbaro from this westwing all the way to the eastwing and even in Canada, too, all because of you…wonderful you:)

We continue on, fighting for your brothers and sisters, Barbaro….we�re not finished yet but we won�t give up! So many have been saved because of you and there will continue to be more.

Not a day goes by that I don�t think of you. I�m still so sorry you had to leave us but I know you are a happy horse in Heaven. I know you are whole and free to run those vast green pastures for all eternity and I know someday, I will see you, too.

I love you Bobby…Now, Always and Forever:)

Your Forever Friend in CA

A heartfelt thanks on this day, for getting to know EVERYONE here, and for all I have learned in the time I have been here. Like all of you, this experience has changed my life.

Barbaro, you will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace sweet boy. You are precious in our souls. You are part of our eternity.

God Bless Us, Everyone.

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
My love, admiration, and forever thanks to you knows no boundaries.

Hearts, hands, hooves, and paws together!

always with love,
Lou Ann

Dear Ones: just posted this on Facebook – sorry its so long:

Dear Ones:

Today is the 5-year anniversary of Barbaro’s euthanization. For the FOB’s, today is a day to remember such a valiant heart, a Champion Heart (and yes, the book is still a strong probability of being published) and a Teacher who graced our lives and continues to guide us today.

Many of you know that there are times when I (and many other wonderful souls) can hear our Animal Kindred. Sometimes it is the faintest of whispers, sometimes the voices roar in our hearts to be heard.

Since November, I have been hearing the Animals stronger than ever – not just one….many of them. Barbaro’s voice has been particularly strong and I wanted to write what I have been hearing. It is my fervent prayer that this brings comfort to the FOB’s and anybody whose heart may be carrying sorrow that can seem unbearable at times.

So here goes…

We are coming to many of you to tell you – so much. So much. First, we want you to know that we all-ways love you. Even when we no longer inhabit the earthly bodies, the Love is a part of us and a part of you. That connection never is severed. Love is Eternal, Love is All-Ways. It is indestructible. It is the strongest Energy in the Universe. There are those who are so afraid of Love that they will do anything to run away from it. These souls are to be helped with all the Compassion you can muster.

All Life is in a process of Awakening and during this time, it seems as though the cruelty to the Animals, to Nature, to Mother Earth seems to be increasing. We want you to know that this is a time for accelerated healing and that the incidents of cruelty will one day cease. Stay strong, stay faith-full…and believe that you can not only work miracles here on this Earth, (this beautiful Gaia), but that we can help you.

Be angry…but don’t become overwhelmed by the anger. Don’t let the anger paralyze you – let it be the catalyst of loving, compassionate action but not the focus of that action.

Many of you carry sorrow when the Animals shed their bodies. It seems as if there is a barrier between our souls and yours. Know that this barrier is dissolving – we are working hard on our side to help with transforming this barrier into a means to strengthen the loving connection between our souls with yours. We want this with all the Love that we have and it is our wish that you desire it as well. We are all-ways – ALL-WAYS – with you and we want to help you be the loving, strong, compassionate beings we know you are.

What is called ‘death” is the soul taking on a new form. We are so strong here where we are and we want you to remember us with love. That helps our connection with you strengthen – that helps us send insight to you and that helps us to stay with you.

For those who remember the one named Barbaro – he continues to be a major force in working to help the earthly Animal Kindred. He is with so many of you – all who read this message will feel him. His work continues through all of you – his gratitude to you is boundless, his love for all of you is truly eternal.
__________________________________________________

I hope this helps.
All Love,
Padme A’Tea (Tashi Drolma)

Barbaro, I echo the thanks being sent to you. I am so proud to have “heard” your call and found this place – to be part of this famblee who honors you and fights for your brothers and sisters. (Thank you, Alex). Because of you, Barbaro, so many animals have been saved, so many of their lives – as well as ours – have been enriched. Always and forever, I will hold you in my heart.

The Light of God surrounds him
The Love of God enfolds him
The Power of God protects him
The Presence of god watches over him
WHEREVER BARBARO IS, GOD IS

I WILL ALWAYS BELIEVE

Linda

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Barbaro…..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie……..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Beautiful Barbaro: Forever in my Heart.

It is difficult to believe that it has been 5 years since Barbaro died. His short life and long legacy has touched me in ways that I never would have believed possible. Thank you, dear boy, for all that you have given to me and others. I will never forget you.

Barbaro is a phenomenon that I can’t explain … I just know he changed my life and the lives of many others here and elsewhere … he is a force that lives on in our hearts as we strive to save his sisters and brothers …
He did pick us everyone , even if I thought I picked him , lol , he was the one doing the choosing … choosing us to be in his horse force.
I will forever work to save his kind from death and suffering …
Barbaro the beautiful , my heart horse forever.
BobbieB

5 years ago the world lost a hero… how could it be so long ago and feel like yesterday at the same time? Sweet colt, you were my life-changer and all for the better. Thank you, dear Barbaro, for bringing me into this famblee and leading me down the road to adopting my own colt. I will love you forever.

Morning all…

Five years ago…it was on a Monday morning, bright and sunny here in San Jose. At 10:05 am I was at my desk working away when the news came across the air waves that our dear Barbaro had crossed over the rainbow bridge…it was instant tears and loss of breath…I couldn’t breath…

In the days, weeks and years since then I know that Barbaro has taught me to be stronger in my beliefs towards helping all animals and richer in life for meeting some of the most wonderful people on this good earth…so Thank You Dearest Barbaro…Thank you from the bottom to the top of my heart.

Bless all of you here today…

(((((HUGS AND HEALING WISHES TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND AND WONDERFUL FAMILY))))

xoxoox
carleen in ca

I remember like it was yesterday. Sitting in my office with word of a press conferance, knowing Barbaro’s weekend had not been a good one. When the news hit, tears flowed, FOBs huddling together in grief. He is our Hero. He brought together a community of individuals whose lives changed on so many levels.

Were it not for Barbaro, I would not know of horse slaughter. Or know of the devastation of Laminitis. I would not have adopted Cloud, the very 1st FOB save. I would not have known of Miracle Horse Rescue & the wonderful work they do. I would not have met so many FOBs not only online but in person. I would not have ICE, a dog we saved from being gassed in one of those horrible GA shelters. My life changed for the better because of Barabaro.

ACN to us all, always.

God Bless You Barbaro, we will never forget you….May God keep you in His care until we meet again, big guy…

Sue W.

Hello all,

Lynne, Lou Ann, Margie, Padme, Linda, DEE, Debbie, Bobbie, Cathy, Judy, Evy, Carleen, Joan, Robyn, did I miss anybody? My apology if I missed you. Post and let me know if I screwed up! Not as many of us here anymore.

I really just stopped in to say hello. It really is still painful to remember that day in January 2007.

There are now three events in my life that I can recall EXACTLY where I was at the time.

– The Day President Kennedy was shot
– 9-11
– The Day We Lost Barbaro

I don’t want to re-visit January 29, 2007. We all know how bad it was. I’d rather celebrate all the friends I have made and remark on how Barbaro changed the direction of my life.

I have been with Americans Against Horse Slaughter since we began our efforts here, and I still remain the state leader of Arizona. I have thought MANY times that I don’t want to do it anymore, but I then remember Barbaro and why I do it, how he inspired me to do it, and I keep plugging along.

I do get the emails from Robyn, and I DO appreciate keeping up, even if I can’t always answer!

So, to you, all my friends here, this is a remembrance, but not a sad one. I still cry on days like this, but we must remember all the positive and joyous things that have come from knowing Barbaro.

So, “Hi!” to all of you, I’m glad to see you here, and please yell at me if I forgot to mention you!

Barbaro, always in our hearts.

####
Sue, I missed you because you posted while I was writing my rather long post. Sorry, and HI!

Hay, Barb-AZ:)

O.M.GOSH, It’s good to see you here!! And Sue W., too! Remember all those good times we had, Sue..at EH!! 🙂

Yes, Barb…I’ve by now lost count of the times I just wanted to give up on ever hoping anyone in DC would hear us…but you’re right, we ‘keep on keepin’ on’ ’cause that is how Barbaro taught us by his own example!

And Cathy Potter:) *ICE* and *CLOUD*!! and Bobbie B…who has a sore foot ‘prollem’ today, too! And all of us…we’re all right here today, as it should be! Dee is spreading rainbows and more of the family will stop in and visit a minute.

*BARBARO* surely must be smiling down on this Front Porch today, seeing so many of his Warriors..it’s sure fun for me, seeing yole!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Thinking of our Beloved Barbaro on the 5th anniversary of his passing……seems like yesterday. So painful to remember, but when I think of how he has changed my life and the world, it gives me comfort. Let all FOB’s huddle together today in Love and Hope as we did then.

Hello famblee. Wow, 5 years. Doesn’t seem possible. So much has happened to/for us all. Enjoy the day…smile at a good Barbaro memory, there are so many.

Hello to my bestest fren (thanks Barbaro) Lynne on the left coast. Going out to clean stalls and feed the noontime hay….I am a lucky girl indeed.

####
Hi, Jane, Hi Kathy!

I’m off to take one of the cats to the vet. Nothing serious. Ear problems. My daughter works there now, so life is good! LOL

Good day, all,

Since I’m truly terrible at typing on the iPhone, this will be short.

So good to see everyone. Margie MN, thanks for the hugs, and also carleen, my “neighbor” to the slightly north. Miss everyone, so much.

Thanks to Mr. Brown for keeping the porch open, and for endless patience, dedication and kindness.

Most of all, what I feel today is gratitude, for each of you, and for those who visit without words, and for the team that allowed us to be part of the journey, and for that lovely, humorous, valiant entity named Barbaro. What a gift in our lives!

Now, off to try and negotiate the candles…

Love and comfort to all in need, two-legged and four-legged, and have a Barbaro day, courage and kindness.

Joing the FOB family in remembering the one who brought us together to build a legacy in his honor, the incomparable, Barbaro
klb

Sorry for leaving out LouAnn, and for inadvertently moving Margie from NM to MN. Duh factor…

Hello, old friends. So glad to see Comments open.
Have already cried today, and will cry more, remembering how much Barbaro just wanted to live and how hard he fought. Like all of you, I’ll never forget the moment I found out Barbaro lost his fight. I heard it right here, and frantically started surfing the internet, desperate to find out that the information was wrong; cried so hard I couldn’t breathe.

Thank you, Barbaro, for bringing out the best in so many people; for bringing to light so many injustices and for continuing to inspire us to work; for helping me to find the courage, finally, to stop closing my eyes and to do something; for bringing together some of the finest people I have ever met and yes, restoring my faith that most people are good!; for showing us that miracles can and do happen.

I am a better person today because of a horse I never met.

Forever ACN, sweet velvet nose.

Love you always,
Susan, Lizzie, Bagheera, Katie, and of course, Angel Felix

I don’t come here much anymore as I usually go to the delphi forum message board. It is so good to see so many of the “originals” here where it all began.
Barbaro has left hoof prints on all of our hearts. He was a great racehorse but an even greater inspiration to us all in his struggle to survive. I thank him every day for being the catalyst he became for change for our horses.
Hugs to all of you.

TerriC

5 years ago we lost our beloved Barbaro, but so much good has come from our connection and love. Thinking of all my famblee today.

Dear Ones: there is one more person I am sending love and prayers to on this day…

Auntie Cheryl Jones.

hay its me im in hevvin now its beyoooooooooootiful i can seee yuo lissen for me ill see yuo agin love eech uthur be nise to eech uthur save horsssesss say prayers thankyew for lovin me so much
love bArbaro
Posted by: Cheryl Jones at January 29, 2007 10:02 PM

She captured so beautifully the heart of Barbaro – at least in my mind…and she truly is one soul who left us all too soon.

All Love,
Padme A’Tea

Thank you Barbaro. Warrior horse, champion horse, unforgettable fire. Never to be forgotten and always in my heart.

Re-post, reminder.

Barbaro’s candles are falling. He should be at the top today. Please stop in if you get a chance. Thanks.

Please check out Theresa of Beauty’s Haven’sposts under Horse Rescue re 30 plus horses she is working to help. Owner was murdered a while back and horses are in bad shape. Like many other FOB, she is the human personification of Barbaro’s fighting spirit.One miracle at a time.
klb

http://www.paulickreport.com/news/the-biz/five-years-later-barbaro-s-lasting-impact-on-horse-racing/

You believe it, I forgot how to blue link! Don’t use it you loose it

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Barb AZ, Chunky And Punky And Petunia………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! Each of you and the Sublime One himself have been in my thoughts today. I am not sure why it would be so, but when Barbaro was hospitalized I always thought of him as “Bobbey”. But after 01/29/2007 he has been “Barbaro”, truly a memorable and dignified name. I’ve lit a candle in his memory on Gratefulness.

I must admit that I have my doubts about the existence of Paradise (which is the Greek Orthodox term for heaven), but if there is such a place, then I believe that animals’ spirits go there, too. (I think that reincarnation may be the more likely pathway and if that is so, then it brings me joy to think that Barbaro’s spirit and greatness may visit us once again.)

CJ, Sherry, and Cheryl Jones have been in my thoughts throughout this weekend as well. Alex, thanks for blue-linking the Paulick Report. The article about Barbaro’s impact was very nicely done. It makes me happy to think that Michael Matz has a few of Barbaro’s shoes.

May Rachel Alexandra and her foal have an uneventful stay at Rood & Riddle. Reaching out across the miles in friendship to each of you. Peace, Robyn

#### To Jean N.: May the remainder of this year be restorative for you. It was very nice to see you here today!
To Barb in AZ: Yes, I remember where I was when I heard that JFK, MLK, RFK, and John Lennon died. And I’ll never forget January 29th, 2007….
To Padme: Your message was very comforting. Thank you!
To Lynne: Yes, if not for Barbaro, I’d have never heard of Lost in the Fog, either. He was also a magical and beloved horse.
To Bobbie B: Please have a good new week. The fogs here on the banks of the Thames are really interesting to experience.
To Cathy P: Your words were very touching and demonstrated how Barbaro touched so many lives. ####

Debbie….I’ll give it a shot, then:)

>a href=”http://www.paulickreport.com/news/the-biz/five-years-later-barbaro-s-lasting-impact-on-horse-racing/”>Paulick Report-Barbaro Five Years Later

Holding fingers X’d!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

LOL…OK…one more time…..

PAULICK REPORT-BARBARO FIVE YEARS LATER

taaaaa-daaaaaaaa:) “If at first you don’t succeed”…keep trying and hope NOT to embarrass yourself ‘too much’!! 🙂

So lovely seeing all the old familiar ‘faces’ here today…Everyone have sweet dreams this night…see yole in the morning….

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

####
Hi, Dee. I have missed your posts, your halos and rainbows, angels. Good to see you. Hope you are well.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Oh Alex, thank you for opening up the comment page on this memorable day.

We all love and honor Barbaro so much. I just wanted to thank everyone of you for everthing you have and will do to help horses.

Thank you Barbaro for leading me to some totally amazing people. I will love you forever.

Run with the wind Barbaro. And take our hearts with you.

Thinking of Barbaro with Love today and every day.

I can’t put it into words as well as most of you have; but reading the comments today makes it so clear that Because of Barbaro lives were changed–for many–both two-legged and four-legged. For that we are grateful.

Forever in our hearts.

Just had to share this tidbit with you all . . . . today was very sunny, in the 40’s . . actually too warm for Pennsylvania in January . . . but anyway not a cloud in the sky even at sunset earlier this evening. No precipitation in the forecast.

It is just past 11 p.m. now EST . . . all of a sudden I hear fierce winds howling – ??? I peeked out the front window to see that a lovely white fine blanket of snow has fallen dusting the trees, gardens, lawn . . . . magical.
(Yes, I know it’s still January in Pennsylvania, but you have to ‘see’ this.)

For those who share in ‘signs’ and ‘messages’, I believe, and am taking this as a ‘message from above’ tonight and would only be right to share with each of you . . . . I believe our beloved big bay colt wanted us to know he saw, heard, felt the presence and power of our vigil today . . . Barbaro is with us each and every day, but today, of course, being what it is. . . . .

Peace to all this night…..

And again, THANK YOU, ALEX!

always,
Lou Ann

Remembering Barbaro and our Cheryl Jones today…and thank you again Alex for everything!

Lou Ann,

Magical indeed….I do believe Barbaro was with each and every one of today…what beauty in the evening after such a glorious day.
To our grand bay colt…love always.

oxoxo
carleen

Hiya, FsOB! The western skyline has now turned a lovely shade of cerulean blue. The light from the dawning sun is casting fiery orange reflections off of the eastward windows of one New London’s taller (~ 12 floors?) buildings. The river itself is choppy and flowing rapidly.

So it’s a new week dawning here on the banks of the Thames. Wishing everyone “ACD”. If anyone has an update about Rachel Alexandra, might you please post it here? Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne: Thanks for the blue-link to the article about Barbaro, which was copied for the Paulick Report.
To Dee: May your day be filled with rainbows!
To Bobbie B: Wishing you renewed strength.
To Lou Ann: I sensed snow in the blustery winds on Sunday, but none arrived here. ####

Good morning all. A cloudy cold morning here in the North. Snow squalls came through on Saturday making for some wil weather but all was calm for Sunday.
I have read the posts to our Barbaro and so many memories came rushing in. Really, time has flown but it seemed just like that day when I was reading your rememberances. What a legacy he has left us. God Bless you all.
##My prayers for RA and her new colt. I do hope all will turn out ok.
##Bobbie B, ACD to you
##Debbie LA, It’s always good to see you here.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Industry commitment on thoroughbred aftercae cannot wait

Let see if this works!

Good Monday Morning, Everyone:)

Debbie: It’s BLUE and You’ve not forgotten…you just needed another ‘minnit’ is all:)

We’ve got cloud cover here…but it’s just that…cloudy..no precip is expected to fall from those clouds:( The high pressure area over us has re-established itself and I saw in our local paper Friday evening…last year this time, we had just under 24″ of rainfall tallied…this year, we’re just under 8″ …. not good, Family:(

Here’s Joe for today:

Monday, January 30th… It was early 2010 when Katie adopted Chloe. Katie writes to say:

I researched Chloe and discovered her birthday is February 29th. We can only have a party every 4 years. I hope you and Cathy can come this year. Chloe is getting a new blanket, new halter, and a saddle pad with her name in big blue letters. Mark at the produce market is bringing apples, bananas, and carrots. Lee is baking her famous carrot cake. For humans there will be a big barbecue. Jennifer is bringing her guitar and we can all sing to Chloe. There should be over 100 people at the barn for Chloe�s birthday party.

Wow. For my birthday I received a chapstick.

We too have a horse born February 29th. Jupiter will be 20 this year. I know this because her breeder phoned years ago to say thank you for rescuing Jupiter. In her only race Jupiter broke down. She is low maintenance. A piece of cake to deal with. And since this is a year with February 29th, we need to buy Jupiter a cake.

If you take Highway 49 exit in Auburn and drive about 30 miles, past Mel�s Diner (boy do I love Mel�s Diner) you come upon beautiful Grass Valley. In the hills, with billions of trees, you will find dozens of homes with horses. I met Colby and her parents. Colby is 17, and in 2007 she and her mom went to an auction in Roseville. For $60.00 they bought Bella, a thoroughbred mare with a racing tattoo. Colby and I walked out to the pasture to say hi to Bella. A bay mare with a big white face, Bella is 22 but looks 10. The bond between Colby and Bella is obvious. Colby wants a horse to event with, and so later this week she greets a fresh from the race track gelding. Bella can lean over a fence and touch noses with the neighbor�s gelding. But now Bella will have a boyfriend all to her own.

Less than 5 miles from Colby and Bella, I met Rachel and her family. A flat screen TV in their barn. Rachel�s daughter was cleaning a stall while watching college basketball. A bigger flat screen in their living room. Rachel�s husband was doing paper work while watching Food Network. My kind of family. Three horses on their small ranch, including Jeff, a quarter horse who also came from Roseville auction. Rachel�s daughter hops on Jeff to get the mail. Their mailbox is half a mile away. This week Rachel and her family become new owners of a thoroughbred gelding from a ranch out of business. The gelding is said to be well trained. He has been to several shows at the fancy barn not far from us.

If you have room for one more horse, give me a call at 530-383-2120. These horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.

It is Monday, and chores are forever. Delicious hot coffee from Starbucks. Yummy shortbread cookies made by Keebler. Later we could be 65 degrees. Enjoy your January sure went by fast Monday, and be sure to hug your horses. Credence Clearwater on the oldies station…

Joe
##

My son was born on Leap Year Day…he’s going to be *TWELVE* next month! LOL..

Everyone have a ‘dine&fandy;’ day today!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Waitaminnit! My son will be *ELEVEN* next month! No point in making either of us OLDER than we really are!! Whew! 🙂

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Good morning to you and I hope your day is going swimmingly ……
I have no news on Rachel and the colt , I wish I did ! But I’m hoping for the best …
125lbs is an awfully big colt — with Rachel being a maiden mare — so I’m guessing , guessing only mind , that she has / had some internal injury like a hematoma (sp) or severe bruising …
I just pray she will recover quickly and have fun with her new baby —
Barbara Banke says she is a good mother and took to the foal immediately — I’m so glad ’cause sometimes that’s not the case — with Rachel herself , her dam , Lotta Kim , rejected Rachel and she had to be fed and raised by a nurse mare.
Yet she took right to her foal , she’s the sweetest , smartest thing – wish I could give her a big brown neck hug right now ,
I am mentally at least and maybe she’ll get the good vibes through the airways, lol ,

Hope all of you are muddling through this Monday . Yesterday and Barbaro was so bittersweet —

so many are holding him in their hearts , so many lives he changed – Paulick’s story is good , with quoting Alex and all … read it if you haven’t .
See ya soon , I’m still the same if you’re wondering — getting stronger but still ‘lame’ , bye now , BobbieB

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita……
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

###
prayers to all whom need them…human, animal, horse…

please call, fax, email…please…Let us do for the horses…please…they face barbaric death…Horse slaughter.

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens

and read the db….YOU are needed…

Morning all…

I hope everyone is ok fine…

It’s time to do another rain dance here in CA….dry again!

Just reaching out to say “HI” to all and please take care.

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxox
carleen in ca

Hi, Barb in AZ and Lynne and Angel Dee, too! EH WAS so much fun!! Lynne, I still have Murphy’s picture by my desk..:)) He makes me smile every day! It’s so good to see all the familiar names again!

I didn’t know Cheryl Jones was with Barbaro now….they were both such blessings to us, God bless them both.

Sue W.

Thinking of you Barbaro and Inspired by you still…

Hiya, FsOB! Not that I made it outside of the office today, but the sunshine was bright. Tonight, however, the cold air has returned with a vengeance. Wishing everyone a warm and comfortable night. It was wonderful to see how many folks visited here over the weekend. Thank you all and thanks to Alex in particular! Hoping that Rachel Alexandra and her foal enjoy ACN, too. Peace, Robyn

To Debbie LA: Thanks for the blue link!
To Lynne B: May your son have a great birthday this year. ####

Sue W: Awwwww:) How too sweet, you’ve got the Murph on your desk, still…:) That makes ME smile!

Hope everyone has/had ACN …..

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! A still sapphire-coloured western skyline set with diamond-like street lamp reflections greets my eyes on this Tuesday morning. Yes, a new day is dawning here on the banks of the Thames.

I encourage everyone to read Alex’s update which is posted as Update 6255. Beautifully said, Alex! I alo enjoyed your mention of Union Rags, whom I voted for in the readers’ poll that is posted on the Paulick Report. Yes, indeed, it would be fabulous for Fair Hill Farm and Michael Matz to have another winner of the Kentucky Derby!

Nancy, our leader of the Naughty Nutmeggers, sent me a link stating that Rachel Alexandra and her foal were discharged from Rood & Riddle and have returned to Stonestreet Farm. That is great news to start the new day! May they and each of you enjoy “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie B: May the new day bring you enhanced strength in your legs.
To Dee: Rainbows to you! ####

Good morning all. A snowy morning here in the North. We received about 5cm (couple of inches) of snow last night; however it is to melt away today as the temps are to rise to the mid 40’s.
###Robyn, that is great news about RA and her colt. Thanks for letting us know.
###obbieB. ACD to you fren.
##Alex, I forgot to mention that Chantal Sutherland had a nice write-up in Sunday’s Toronto Star regarding her role in the upcoming HBO production of Luck, also starring Dustin Hoffman. I thought you might enjoy reading of her second career.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Rachel returns to Stonestreet farm

Debbie L.A.
Thanks for your blue ink. I was concerned and it’s good to hear that mother and son are doing well.

Good Tuesday Morning, Everyone….

Great relief to see Rachel and her Babe are back home now, so glad all is appearing well on their home front!

We’ve got clear, blue, sunny skies this a.m. in the foothills…No ‘other’ weather is in our forecast any time soon, I’m sorry to say.

Here’s Joe for Tuesday:

Tuesday, January 31st… In the new Sacramento Magazine there is an article about the best Mexican food around. A taco truck in Woodland made the list. I�ve never been to this particular truck. Last week on Main Street I saw the truck, and decided to give it a try. Tacos are a dollar each. I said to the man inside the truck, I�ll have 3 tacos please. The man said caballo. Which is Spanish for horse. I said no, I�ll have chicken. The man kept saying caballo. I kept saying chicken. Why does he want to sell me a horse taco? But then another guy in the parking lot, who speaks Spanish, tells me the man is saying I have horses. He and his daughter have been to our ranch. Whew. Well okay then. I thought for sure he was trying to sell me a horse taco. We all had a good laugh, and the man inside the truck gave me a radish the size of a soccer ball. Great tacos by the way. Not too spicy, and the sauce is delicious.

Maxi and I love French fries from Burger King. The girl behind the counter is Nicole, a high school student who last summer adopted Ranger, a former race horse who earned over 200 grand. Ranger lives at a boarding stable in Woodland, and Christmas weekend he had his first official trail ride. Nicole tells me the only time Ranger spooked was when a feral cat jumped over an irrigation canal. Nicole said she can only hope Ranger learns to jump as good as that cat. I order fries and a large strawberry shake. Nicole asks is Maxi in the truck? Yes. She gave us fries right from the fryer, instead of the old stuff.

At Papa Murphys you can order extra cheese, artichokes, mushrooms, tomatoes, and black olives. Of course most of the extra toppings fall off at some point. Walking from my truck to my house I leave a trail of toppings. Our chickens love Papa Murphys. The girl behind the counter is Jessica, who recently became the new owner of Porter, a thoroughbred gelding adopted from our ranch in 2008. The original owner of Porter came upon hard times, and so Jessica took over. Porter lives at a ranch in Winters. The original owner trained him well. Porter is a 3 day eventer. Jessica tells me Porter has grown like crazy. He is now 16.2 hands. Porter loves pizza crust from Papa Murphys. I know exactly how he feels.

A sushi joint in Natomas, and I often dream about their fried shrimp tempura. What a treat. The girl who takes our order is Jordyn, a student at UC Davis. Last September Jordyn adopted Elvis, a gelding from the race track with a hind bowed tendon. Hind bows are rare. Jordyn wanted a horse to rehab and grow old with. She named him Elvis because her dad is a huge Elvis Presley fan. Elvis lives at a ranch near her college. Jordyn gets to see him mornings and nights. She hopes to begin riding Elvis this spring. Jordyn asks, is Maxi in your truck? Yes. Jordyn goes out to the parking lot and gives Maxi a piece of teriyaki chicken.

It is Tuesday, and suddenly I�m really hungry. Delicious hot coffee from Starbucks. Toast with grape jelly. Later we could 62 degrees. Enjoy your Quiznos coupons expire today Tuesday, and be sure to hug your horses. Fifth Dimension on the oldies station…

Joe
##

🙂 Kinda like walking through a Food Court, reading him today, isn’t it?! International Cuisine:)

Got lots on my ‘to-do’ list for today, so am getting off this puder to see how much I can actually accomplish! LOL! Everyone have a good day today!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Sue W……
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

###
want to say hi…and please call, fax, email..please…

and read the db…You are needed.

please pray for one another, our country, our animals, wildlife, and animals.

(boss has been with me last few days..lol)…will to get back as soon as he leaves Thursday.

Please light candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

a new legacy for Barbaro

I like Ray Paulick.

Hiya, FsOB! My thanks to Debbie LA for the blue-links today. It is fabulous that Rachel Alexandra and her foal have returned to Stonestreet Farm. Honestly, that got my morning off to a great start and I thank Nancy once again for e-mailing the news to me.

I concur with Debbie LA, I enjoy Ray Paulick’s blog immensely. It was great seeing that the readers have Union Rags at the top of the KY Derby 2012 potentials! And Alex did, too.

I haven’t seen the first episode of “Luck” on HBO because we don’t subscribe to that network. I would enjoy seeing Chantal Sutherland’s performance. She is such a great jockey and a lovely, poised young woman. Thanks to our Judy for letting us know that Chantal will be seen on the show.

Wishing everyone “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

Hiya, FsOB! I am running late on an incredibly (for the banks of the Thames, anyway) balmy February 1st. I sense the approach of rain due to the humidity in the air. One might think that one was in New Orleans rather than New England!

Wishing all here “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie B: A very special “ACD” to you!
To Sandra: I hope that you are adjusting to your new computer.
To Dee: Rainbows to you!
To Lynne, Carleen, Joan, Barb, & Margie: I wish that I could perform a virtual rain dance for your communities. May rain come to the rain-deprived areas of Texas, AZ, NM, & CA. ####

Good morning all. Like Robyn’s balmy weather we are experiencing the same. A light wind and warm temperatures, ahh Spring????
##Debbie LA., thank you for blue-linking Ray’s report. A thoughtful piece and the comments as well were on the mark.
##BobbieB., ACD to you.

Have a safe day everyone….

Judy

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Morning, Everyone…and Happy “Hump Day” 🙂

Stayed up past my bedtime last night…so, am up late this morning!

We’ve got hazy blue skies and it’s SRSLY mild outdoors…50 degrees at just before 8a! A front moved through or maybe it is still to move through…and they say we ‘might’ get a sprinkle from it..but I’m not holding my breath!

Here’s Joe for today:

Wednesday, February 1st… It�s hardly difficult to imagine how a horse must feel when he or she is abandoned. We get calls all the time about horses found in orchards. Fields. The parking lot of a casino. Often it takes several humans to catch the horse. The horse no longer trusts people, and his behavior is certainly understandable. But once the horse is caught, and he realizes no harm is coming, the horse literally melts into your arms. There is no other animal on earth that shows gratitude the way a horse shows gratitude.

And when a horse is abandoned at a race track, and other workers toss her a flake of hay, and her trainer goes on his merry way because, as an authority figure said to me, this is the kind of world we�ve become. The mare is 7, and she is not sleek and shiny like most race horses. The mare is dull and underfed. We should be horrified. Angry. Complaining to any authority figure willing to listen. Good luck with that. Over the phone you can actually hear authority figures roll their eyes. I�ve had better success with the guy in India about my Dish TV service.

A couple of phone calls is all it takes. Yesterday a call from a lady who likes to help race horses. Transportation costs have been taken care of, and a big thank you to the hauler for doing this cheap. Our friend Jodi said okay, she�ll take the mare. Jodi is always there for us. The mare travels to Jodi�s ranch today. A filly from Hollywood Park travels to Tb Friends today. A gelding from Santa Anita travels to Colby in Grass Valley today. Your basic normal workday. At the ranch where I have employment, I get to move a large pile of horse poop with the tractor. Passing motorists usually wave.

But it�s the conversation with the race track authority figure that boggles my brain. He says they�re doing the best they can, but there are horses who fall through the cracks.

Fall through the cracks? We�re not talking about a lost potato chip in the front seat of your car. Horses are big strong animals. They know exactly what is happening to them. Every single horse at every single race track can be helped. No horse should ever fall through the cracks. Like I said, a couple of phone calls is all it takes.

Enjoy your first day of a new month Wednesday, and be sure to hug your horses. Billy Joel on the oldies station�

Joe
##

How…HOW does a horse become ABANDONED at a race track:( Hollywood Park, Santa Anita….home base to *ZENYATTA* and horses are abandoned there, too? But I remember *EXCESSORIZED*, Gr/Gr Granddaughter to *SECRETARIAT*…she was picked up in bad shape, needed a couple hundred pounds…maybe more…full of worms…Animal Control seized her from her owner at Gold Gate Fields…she stayed with them awhile and then landed at Safe Haven Horse Rescue up in Cottonwood…home to *CHARLEY* and so many other lucky horses:)

No wonder Joe is scratching his head this morning, I am too:(

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

thanks for the ACD wishes , I’m hoping I’ll have one too ! ! Not too much pain so far …

We have a warm cloudy morning in my area of NC , and no deficit of rain … actually wish I could send some of our rain to your dry parts … ah the weather — seems it’s always feast or famine somewhere …
Alex’s story of Barbaro is so good , and true … so many things in horsedom are better because of him and his life — beautiful Barbaro ——

Joan , your boss ! I thought you were being so ‘quiet’ – unlike your usual posts — well it’s Wed. so one more day — then we get our regular Joan back , lol ,

No news of Rachel and the babe , except the old but good news that they are back home … I so hope they stay ok — anything could be picked up by the foal in a hospital situation — that whopping big 125lbs foal ! !

Way too big for a maiden mare , IMHO , — I’m wondering if perhaps big ole Curlin was not a good choice for her first breeding — but then again , I don’t get to vote , lol , since I don’t
own her — I just love her like I own her ! !

Your ‘well wishes ‘ help me get through the day , and I do thank you all so much , xxxooo, bye now,

Hiya, FsOB! It was so warm when I was walking out to my car from the office tonight, that the young consultant who walked with me quipped that it felt like a night in May rather than February.

Reading Joe Shelton’s blog today brought to mind the recent Paulick Report re. TB racing needing to do more to ensure that horses aren’t abandoned or slaughtered. Amen to that!

Wishing you all “ACN”. I am knackered and now I need to get some zzzzzs! Peace, Robyn

#### To Judy: Glad to see that your community enjoyed a balmy day today, too.
To Lynne B: Thanks for copying Joe Shelton’s blog and sharing it with us. How’s Ms. Lucy doing?
To Bobbie: I am thrilled that your day wasn’t too uncomfortable.
To Dee: Many thanks for your rainbows! ####

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Just checking in on this Front Porch tonight, before shutting down the puder….

Robyn: Miss Lucy is just ‘dine&fandy;’:) thanks for asking!! She is so funny!! Still routinely waking her kitteh bruther from a sound sleep..signaling to him by a certain ‘stance’ she takes that it’s time for a grooming, please! He is so accomodating…each/every time, he does such a good job! Seymoure is a good ‘mommy’!! 🙂

I hope everyone slept well..and had nice dreams, too!

Alex: I LOVE your #66 5-Star Review…*CLASSIC*…yep…I’d agree with that:)

See yole in the morning….

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! A new “Friday Eve” (AKA Thursday) is dawning here on the banks of the Thames. The river’s surface is unusually placid. Right now, the colour of the sky and the river are identical. Quite a serene view!

May each of you have ‘ACD’. Alex, if you have any observations of Union Rags’ development at Fair Hill Farm, I’d love to read about UR. Do you think that his development is similar to Barbaro’s at this stage of his life as a three year old? Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Eight rainbows back to you, our Resident Angel!
To Bobbie: May you have a good day as you continue your recuperation. ####

Good morning all and happy Groundhog day. A calm and decidely colder morning here. Yesterday was so mild today the temps are sitting at freezing mark.
##BobbieB. good to hear that your days are becoming more comfortable.
##Robyn, wouldn’t it be something if Union Rags becomes the Kentucky Derby winner. I love hearing about his progress and am thrilled for MM.
##Dee, wishing you a day filled with rainbows
##Jane, thinking of you and wondering if you had your eye surgery and if so I hope all went well.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Judy

Good Morning Barbaro and the Barbaro Nation.

hope all is well with this Groundhog Dog…and I guess you all know…Phil saw his shadow…so we stay bundle up and endure 6 more weeks of winter.

prayers to each of you, and our animals, horses, and wildlife…and our country.

when you are considering voting for someone…let us make sure that person is we the people, for the people, and by the people…and I wish the debates would ask how the candidates stand on horse protection, slaughter…no more, etc.

please read the db…YOU are needed.

and light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

thank you Alex…

Morning all…

6 more weeks of what winter? Here in CA winter has been two or three days of chilly weather and little rain. I remember the years the my kids were born March 1990 and March 1992..we did have lots of rain during those months..(our wedding anniversary is in June) Ha!

Time to get those Valentine’s Day cards out to our friends in need.

Horses falling through the cracks? Some people in Washington DC should fall through some of those cracks…maybe that would wake them up.

Well family take care, have a good day and smile at the world..we can make it a better place!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY!!!)))

oxox
carleen in ca

Good….GOOD *FRIDAY EVE*/*GROUNDHOG DAY* Morning, Everyone!!! 🙂

Carleen: Me too…’what winter?’ :/ We’ve pretty much flunked winter thus far here in these foothills…Second snow survey y’day by DWR…at least this time, the guy trekked through a couple feet of snow..and it’s water content is good…but there’s so LITTLE of it!!!

I diddled around here last night like I had good sense and before I knew it, it was almost 11p and the garbage can was still sitting in it’s normal place and not out to the street as it should have been! Actually, the truck doesn’t come so early in the morning, I said to maiself..no biggeeee! Well thennnn….I managed to sleep until around 7:30 and yole know I can’t ‘move’ without my cup of coffee…so I’ll post Joe now…throw on some clothing and get my can out to the street so I’m not sitting here, still, when I hear that BIG TRUCK coming up my hill!

Thursday, February 2nd… Lee gets to practice with the college football team, though he is not on the roster. He swims 45 minutes a day. Lee and his friends meet twice a month for karaoke night. Lee likes to work on cars. He fixes engine problems for his friends and family. Lee makes a barbecue sauce that he says will ring your bell. He plays chess. He plays drums. For extra cash Lee works two nights a week at a downtown Sacramento restaurant. Lee is majoring in business, and he hopes to one day own an auto shop. His specialty is transmissions.

Lee has surfed the waves in Hawaii. Rafted the Snake River in Idaho. Lee once jumped out of an airplane because he lost a bet. But Lee says there is no bigger adventure in life than owning a thoroughbred.

In 2010 Lee adopted a tall gray gelding from Tb Friends, and named him Ford. Lee had just graduated high school. For two years Lee had taken riding lessons. Lee thought he knew everything about horses. Which is how he lives his life. Lee is probably the most confident young man I have ever met.

And it only took Ford less than a day to destroy that confidence.

Lee was thrown several times, and there was the morning he broke his thumb. Ford tossed Lee on a trail ride, and Lee put out his hand to land, and suddenly his thumb was pointed north. Lee never knows which horse he is getting in the morning. The friendly Ford who yells with excitement when Lee shows up. The playful Ford who likes to remove Lee�s baseball cap and run away with it. The grouchy Ford who pins his ears and makes ugly faces at Lee.

I remember when Lee phoned about three months after adoption, and said Ford needs to be on medication, because of his many multiple personalities.

Ford and Lee went to a little schooling show in Davis, and Ford was on his best behavior. At that show a girl said to Lee, Ford is such a beautiful horse. Where did you get him from? Lee answered Tb Friends, and two weeks later the girl came to our ranch and she too adopted a horse. But after the show in Davis, Ford threw a fit. He ran off and terrorized a little pony mare minding her own business. It took an entire barn of people to catch him. Lee asked Ford, why did you terrorize the little pony for? Ford responded by making an ugly face at Lee.

No bigger adventure than owning a thoroughbred.

Now, almost two years later, Ford still has his moments. The other day he picked up the poop rake and flung it out of his stall. The little plastic tooth parts broke. But Ford and Lee ride the trails, and there hasn�t been an incident in over a year. Lee says Ford loves to be on trails. And the two are trying another show in Davis this spring.

In our yard Lee tells me, with all that is going on in his life, it is Ford who keeps him grounded. Ford is his best buddy. Lee says he wishes he could come up with an idea to help all unwanted thoroughbreds. He thinks about this everyday.

As confident as Lee is, I’m sure he will come up with something…

Joe
##

ROFLOL!!! Kinda makes me wonder if *FORD* might be somehow a relative of *JOHN HENRY*!!!! 🙂 And once again…if not for *BARBARO* I’d have not a CLUE who JH was!! Another horse I never met but fell into SRS LOVE with:)

Alright My Dears…I MUST scoot now! Hope your day is every bit *ACD* and MOAR:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hello Barbaro and Famblee,

As everyone else, I have been busy. But, I AM comforted by knowing that I now have all but 3 of my Christmas cards sent! (Progress is Slow but soon Complete…)

Life can sure throw in some twists and turns to a day but as long as we bob-and-weave, things will work themselves out!

I wish all of our Famblee and furbabies well and may warm wishes (and blankets of love) comfort us all in our times of need.
——————–

Hello Barbaro,

Each day I have a reason to think of you and the influence that your life has had on mine. I thank you Honey. Pure and simple…

I love you Barbaro. Please rest easy tonight as you settle in with Rio while he heals from his surgery. He’s quite a Tigger of a dog, always hopping, jumping, running and being silly!

Barbaro, your healing is complete and strength will forever carry you through your days. Goodnight Barbaro. Goodnight Rio. You boys be good and the nickering will need to stop for the time being please…Shhhhh…Barbaro, close your eyes….

Hiya, FsOB! Yes, I was remiss this morning in forgetting to note that today was Groundhog’s Day/Imbolc. The latter name was the one bestowed by the Ancient Ones. I hope that Otherlyn’s friend “Chuck” is doing well. I haven’t seen our “Gophie” yet, but some sort(s) of creatures have been digging at the entrance to his subterranean burrow. His underground home is probably lined with the RI clamshells that of friend of mine gives me. Throughout the Summer months, the clamshells that we’ve put as a border liner in the Japanese Garden disappear. And some of these are found at the approach to the groundhog’s burrow!

Wishing all of you “ACN” on this Friday Eve evening. Peace, Robyn

#### To Laurie H: How fabulous to see you here, Laurie! I was sorry to see that Rio needed surgery. Here’s to Rio’s complete recovery.
To Carleen: Very funny, your quip about the timing of the birth of your children.
To Lynne B: You’re welcome. I am glad that Ms. Lucy knows how fortunate she is, with a loving human Mum and an attentive brother. I loved John Henry, too! I agree that the horse named Ford appears to have a lot of John Henry’s sass.
To Judy: Wouldn’t it be great if Union Rags brought Michael Matz and Peter Brette back to the winner’s circle on the first Saturday in May? ####

OMGosh! Laurie H.!! 🙂 Wow…I’m so glad to see you here, Laurie…I looked for you on Sunday and wondered if all was well in your world…So many lovely Tuck-Ins from you all those months and beyond, too:) Lovely and heart-felt…and so soothing to all of us, too, Laurie:)xxxooo!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB, I am running late on this TGIF Friday. (The older I get and the longer I work, the more I feel the “beat” of TGIF. I can hear Fred Flintstone’s workplace sounding its end of the day whistle right now!)

I wish that you all could have seen the tugboat heading slowly down the Thames in the darkness earlier this morning. It resembled some spectral ghost ship, with its side lights all aglow, leading a huge boat down toward the mouth of the Race/Long Island Sound.

Wishing all here ACD and a great weekend. Peace, Robyn

##Good morning all. A calm morning here in the North. If another 6 weeks of this kind of winter happens, well then that’s not so bad.
##Laurie H. How wonderful it was to open up and see your post. Your tuck-ins were always so welcome at the end of the day.
##BobbieB. ACD of healing.
##Robyn, your Gophie sounds like a character. Yes, it will be wonderful to see MM in the winner circle again (thinking positive here).
##Lynne, loved Joe’s blog and Ford. What a charmer, LOL, he is.

Have a wonderful day, safe weekend and for all football fans, enjoy the Super Bowl.

Judy

Good Friday Morning Before *SUPER BOWL* Sunday, Everyone!!!

Heading to town today to the market for ingredients to make all sorts of tasty-treats for Sunday’s Big Game!! Like either of us need those goodies…LOL, but it’s *SUPER BOWL* and tradition has it…Goodies are a big part of the day:)

Most anxious to see this year’s Commercials! Gotta LOVE ’em! I hope Traveler’s Insurance is among the faire, I so enjoy theirs! Dogs and other animals, too and of course the *BUDWEISER HORSES* O.M.Gosh, I’m so excited, I can hardly ‘standz it’! Wheeeeee:)

I’m not rooting for either team…tho it’ll be hard for me to not cheer Eli and those Giants on…but ya know…they beat my Niners:/ even if it did apparently all begin with what some are calling a ‘bad call’ by the refs…a good call when it was actually a fumble..well, that’s football:)

Alex: I absolutely LOVE the photo of WW1 Soldiers standing in formation to create a horse’s head! I saw it on Facebook y’day aftn and almost copied to you but thought surely you’d seen it, glad you did! Still waiting for War Horse to show up on my TV Guide screen here…I will, for sure, watch that movie!

Here’s our Joe for Friday:

Friday, February 3rd… At least once a week I get a letter asking how do I decide what to write about? It�s not easy. There were over 400 adoptions in 2010, which is over 400 stories. From our ranch in 2011, we had 132 adoptions. But the big story from 2011 is the 206 horses from other places we found new homes for. Horses right off the race track, from private owners, or farms out of business. Each horse with a new home is a new story. I often remind myself to write about a particular horse or person. Sometimes I do, sometimes not.

Like yesterday for example. I wrote about Lee and his gelding Ford because Wednesday afternoon Lee stopped to say hi. Lee is incredibly funny, and our conversation was still in my head when I began writing Thursday morning.

Since Christmas holidays I have been wanting to write about 15 year old Aubrey, and all she does for other horse loving kids who come from poor families. These kids have little chance of owning a horse. The next best thing is horsey stuff. Aubrey made sure each kid received horsey stuff for Christmas. Aubrey asked if she could use our small storage shed for a couple of weeks. There were over 60 still in the box Breyer horses. Halters, shoes worn by famous race horses, and 21 boxes of horse books. When you�re a kid, and you love horses, all of these things are important. Aubrey is making a huge difference in the lives of others.

But Aubrey doesn�t want me writing about her, because she says I�ll make it sound sappy. I probably would.

Inspiration for this website comes from horses, and the people who love horses. Daily there are a whole bunch of new stories to share.

Like the family in Vacaville who took their adopted thoroughbred mare Christmas caroling with them. Or the student at University of Pacific who charged colic surgery on her credit card, and her adopted gelding was saved. The family in Grass Valley who brings hay and grain to an unemployed horse owner. The high school student in Loomis currently working two part time jobs to pay board on her horse. The Auburn ranch owner who buys a one day insurance policy so kids can come ride. An exercise rider at the race track who spent over two thousand dollars rehabbing a severely injured filly. A lady not far from our ranch who allows teens convicted of crimes to spend time with her horses. The lady has sent dozens of teens in a new direction.

Not a bad gig really. Writing about horses and the people who love horses. Have a happy weekend. Nights are cold but days are perfect…

Joe
##

Well, he’s got that right…”not a bad gig writing about horses and the people who love horses.” 🙂 Makes for srsly good reading, too, Joe!

I hope yole have a GOOD weekend…See ya on Monday if not before:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Well…I DID say, “if not before” LOL….Wanted to share this, I found it in my morning email and I think it’s pretty cute:)

Noah’s Ark : Everything I need to know, I learned from Noah’s Ark .

ONE: Don’t miss the boat.

TWO: Remember that we are all in the same boat!

THREE: Plan ahead. It wasn’t raining when Noah built the Ark.

FOUR: Stay fit. When you’re 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.

FIVE: Don’t listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.

SIX: Build your future on high ground.

SEVEN: For safety’s sake, travel in pairs.

EIGHT: Speed isn’t always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.

NINE: When you’re stressed, float awhile.

TEN: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.

ELEVEN: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there’s always a rainbow waiting.
##

Kinda good, huh?! 🙂

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
i love it Lynne…I need a copy of that to post to read everyday…I feel like I have been riding Noah’s ark lately…lol

please famblee…call, fax, email…please
we have horses of all kinds to save…from a brutal slaughter..those on the track, the feed lots…the open range, and even in backyards…please

and read the db…and help please..

pray for Barbaro’s famblee..a family of love, care, and compassion…for our country…and for all of our horses and animals..wildlife..

have a nice weekend..

###
and always…thank you Alex.

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey! And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

Me, too, rolling on the floor . . . about the horse named “Ford”!!
I was just thinking of JOHN HENRY the other day! Was it chocolate doughnuts that he had a fancy for?

LYNNE – I LOVED that Noah’s Ark piece, too!! Thanks for sharing!!!

LAURIE H. – Wonderful to see you here!!! Positive healing thoughts and prayers to Rio!!

ROBYN – Thanks so much for the mention of “Imbolc” – I must remember to look that up as you know how all the ancient traditions fascinate me!!
I also got a good chuckle remembering Fred Flintstone’s workplace whistle!

Hugs and love to ALL!!

Thank you, again, ALEX!!

And always IN LOVING MEMORY OF FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MURPHY, precious ACE, and FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, and SO MANY MANY MORE . . . . .

It seems the Pennsylvania groundhogs could not agree so well on yesterday’s predictions 🙂 . . .

Hugs and Love to all, and Prayers especially for those walking the particularly rugged path just now.

always, Lou Ann

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

morning all…

hope your week-end is wonderful….
Erin and Michael just adopted an 8 week old boxer puppy and her name is clowie. (not Chole) I really hope Tibby (their cat) loves this little girl. I know she loved Bud, but he was big and Clowie is so little…now…but Clowie is what Erin and Michael wanted and in 4 1/2 months, when they move back home for a few months, she will be the apple of my eye…this I’m sure of.

Congratulations to Michael, Erin, Tibby and WELCOME TO CLOWIE!!!!

Good SATURDAY:) Morning, Everyone….

Carleen: *CLOWIE* OMGOSH…Boxers just ‘rock’! I had friends who had one…she was a WONDERFUL dog! So full of ALL THINGS HAPPY a person just could NOT frown when around her!! 🙂

Well…I got things done here y’day and headed to town for epicurian (sp?) delights…ingredients for Super Bowl nibbling…you’d think 50 people were coming…LOL..but it’s ‘tradition’ and from year to year…more ‘tradition’ adds itself to the list of delights! I have just one more recipe to put together sometime today and we’ll be ready for the BIG GAME tomorrow…armed with savory and sweet and something to wash it all down with, too:)

Alex: So EXCITING, thinking of you teaching next week! You’ll do fine, Alex!! 🙂

I hope everyone has a good day today….so glad yole enjoyed the Noah’s Ark thingy…it’s awfully true, really:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hi Laurie in MN. Thank you for one more “blanket of love”. It seems like old times.

Good *SUPER BOWL SUNDAY* Morning, Everyone!!!

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL??? GOT SNACKS??? GOT BEVERAGES???? CHOSEN YOUR FAVE TEAM YET??? WHEEEE!!! This is it….the ‘last of the pigskin’ until mid-August, when it all begins again….I go through such ‘football withdrawls’ now:( Golf is on in my house from now on until it’s ‘done too’….and in mid-April….Discovery will begin airing this season’s *DEADLIEST CATCH*…Jonna and I can HARDLY WAIT….and Jack, too…Jonna’s 96y/old dad…I got Jonna hooked and she got Jack hooked….so, there is more ‘good TV’ heading my way…even without football games.

My *NINERS* flag will be hanging proudly and prominently out front today….and I can hardly WAIT for the COMMERCIALS, too!!! 🙂

Everyone have a good day today!!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Morning all!

Yes siree catdog!!!Football today!!!I really don’t care who wins…please, nobody get hurt to bad though…I agree with Lynne..the commercials are sometimes better than the game itself…oh well…
I’m off the the store to pick up fixings for the game later today.

To all Barbaro’s grand and wonderful family ((hugs))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

What a game, good night FOB’s sweet dreams!

Debbie LA….Yes! What a game, indeed!! :-O I nearly lost my mind at the end….Mr. Brady threw an absolutely beautiful ‘Hail Mary’ didn’t he?? One of the best I’ve ever seen, I think….but too many were in that end zone waiting for it…and in all honesty, Family…I couldn’t help smile for Eli and those Boyz from New Jersey…and I couldn’t help feel badly for the ones from Foxborough, too…and the commercials were pretty good, too:) I loved the one with dog and the ‘missing cat’ and those ‘bribery bags’ of Doritos!! ROFLOL! Our Budweiser Clydesdales…did I spell that ‘rite’? I hope so! Well…too bad they didn’t devote a bit more film footage to the horses in that one…I wished I could have seen more of those beautiful horses than all the hoomans:(

I thought Madonna did an awesome job with the Halftime performance, too!

We ate…we drank…we ate more…our friend came to see the second half with us…all in all, it was a very good day today:)

I second Debbie’s wish for sweet dreams, FOBs!! See yole in the a.m.:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!!!

Hope everybody enjoyed the big game!! Our neighbor had friends in and I’m sure the doxies got extra treats tonight!!

Not a sports fan myself, but I did enjoy watching the movie, “Dirty Dancing” all over again! Haven’t seen that in what seems like an eternity. Wonderful all over again, probably my 10th time!
And Rest in Peace Patrick Swayze, so young, too soon.
I have a feeling he’d have been a good one on our side for the horses.

CARLEEN – Sweet puppy kisses to CLOWIE!!! She sure will be your ‘darlin, I just know it!!

And tomorrow all will be five years that our FOB SUSAN E.’s ANGEL BOY, tux kitty, FELIX, was carried home to Heaven. He went straight to Barbaro and curled up with that beautiful big bay colt. May perpetual light shine upon both of them!

And always IN LOVING MEMORY OF FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MURPH, BELOVED ACE, FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, and SO MANY MANY MORE . . . .

ALEX – Love that the COURIER-JOURNAL picked up your piece, and oh that photo – Edgar aboard and all four hooves off the ground – does it every time.
Thank you, Alex!!

And always many prayers for all walking the rugged path just now, hugs, too.

always, Lou Ann

Hiya, FsOB! I am running a tad late on this Monday morning. There is a pinkish shimmer to the western skyline. Hmm, is that a harbinger of rain?

Alex, that was such a superb article in The Courier Journal. I concur with Lou Ann. Whenever I see that long lens photo of Barbaro with four legs aflight and the twin spires in the background, it makes my heart sing.

Wishing all here ACD. Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne: Please give Jonna my fond regards. Thank you for the “Noah’s Ark” piece. I really enjoyed the comparison between the Ark and the Titanic.
To Carleen: May young pup Clowie thrive.
To Dee: Eight rainbows to you!
To Judy: Yes, seeing Michael Matz in the winner’s circle on the first Saturday in May, that would be awesome. ####

Good morning all. “Here Comes The Sun”” as the late George Harrison’s song, we have sun that has been missing from the last few weeks.
##It sounds like everyone had a grand time watching and eating their way through the Super Bowl. Congratulations to the Giants and to the Patriot’s who played a good close game.
##Carleen, I’m shure Clowie will be one spoiled little pooch. I’m happy for you to have something to look forward to.
##Lynne, loved the Noah’s Ark, thank you for sharing.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

###
would love to see postings on their favorite super bowl ads….

I loved the one with the doggie needing to lose weight to chase car, and of course always our clydesdale horses…and should been more footage..I agree Lynne.

and…the doggie burying the cat..doritos ad..and one that was serious was the Detroit car ad…

and you know folks…halftime is not over yet…we are still here..Barbaro’s family…doing what tasks he left behind…trying to get Congress to pass the Barbaro bill..to stop horse slaughter and transportation across the borders.

and we keep trying to help our rescues..because they need us badly…and praying that One Hail Mary…will stop this nightmare of abuse, neglect…and all will be at peace…human, animal, and all.

God Bless.

Joe at TB Friends

Good Monday Morning, Everyone….

I hope yole had sweet dreams, woke refreshed and ready to take on this new day/week:)

Joan: I liked that one, too…and it seems LOTS of folks did…it won ‘top honors’ on a poll from KCRA-TV, Sacramento last night…I loved the little rescue googie one, too….”HERE WEEEGO” 🙂 If you use facebook…put his name in the search area..you can ‘like’ his page and monies will be donated to the rescue he came from…God knows…all the rescues need money these days so it’s nice we can help by just ‘clicking like’:)

Here’s Joe for Monday..for those unable to access with Debbie’s blue-ink-link:

Monday, February 6th… In 2008 we rescued a gelding from a race track with the name Copper Star. We called him Cop. He was sound, he was kind, and he looked like a for sure event horse. Which is exactly what a jumping trainer thought when she adopted him. But looks can be deceiving. The trainer kept Cop for a year. He refused to jump. At schooling events Cop was miserable. Cop did enjoy trail rides though. And he loves kids. The trainer began using Cop as a lesson horse. I am showing a photo of Cop below, bottom left. Having fun in our big round pen.

One year after adoption the trainer gave Cop to a riding school for troubled kids. All kinds of kids at this school. Some have been arrested. Some with major social problems. There are animals to take care of, and horses to ride. Cop soon became a favorite of many.

Including Sophie, who is now 16. I have permission from Sophie to share her letter. Here we go:

I was depressed and I was angry. All my life my mom kept telling me I was a mistake. She said I should never have been born. I was homeless at 13. I was arrested at 14. I�m telling you this because it�s not a person or group therapy or a room full of shrinks that changed my attitude. It was a horse named Cop. Joe Shelton they told me you saved Cop�s life. I want you to know that Cop saved my life.

When Cop came to our school they told me a big thoroughbred was in the barn and that very first day we connected. I took care of Cop and in return he took care of me. There was two times I almost got kicked out of school because I kept having attitude issues. Cop taught me to keep control and to focus on getting better. I learned to ride on a little gelding named Rookie and I still love Rookie. But when I rode Cop it was different than riding Rookie. How do I say this without sounding insane? We were one. Cop gave me happy thoughts and I learned to respect the world and to focus on my recovery process. One day my counselor told me I was becoming more likeable. For most kids that wouldn�t be much of a compliment but for me it was rainbows and glitter. We had bed check every night at 8:00. At 7:55 I was still with Cop. At 6:30 every morning I was with Cop. He gave me something to look forward to and Joe Shelton that was the first time in my whole life I had something to look forward to. I had to share Cop with other kids and sharing was part of my recovery process.

I live in a foster home now and I get good grades in school. Once a week my foster mom drives me to see Cop and Rookie. Cop loves me so much. Cop always puts his head on my shoulder and sighs. I know he is saying we made it.

Yours truly, Sophie

Enjoy your 64 degree Monday, and be sure to hug your horses. 95.3 FM, songs of today and yesterday, on the yard radio…

Joe
##

Powerful stuff…kids and horses!!

Everybody have a good day today:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
definitely Lynne…How could I forget HEREWEGO! pray they get lots of help…and yes rescues certaily deserve help

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita……
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Afternoon all…

Hope the week-end was good to all of you good folks!

Thank you all for your kind wishes and good thoughts for Miss Clowie…what a cutie she is!

The Super Bowl was ok, but the commercials still won the day for me…Yes we ate and drank to celebrate the winners and those who will have to fight harder next year to make it back the the Super Bowl. It is neat to think of a father and two sons each having their own SB ring. Some tradition!

Lynne, here in SJ they are saying some rain may fall tomorrow. How about your neck of the woods?
It would sure be nice to clear the air and look for some of Miss Dee’s Fine Rainbows….

Don’t forget Valentine’ Day cards to those in need.

Take care dear family!

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY)))
oxoxo
carleen in ca

Hiya, FsOB! I am running late on this Tuesday. Looking out on the Thames, there is a gentle upriver flow. That must mean that the tide is coming in, as our river is actually an estuary.

Those are very lucky students, to be enrolled in Alex’s marketing class! Kudos to you, Alex.

I thought of our FOB Otherlyn kast PM, as I watched the moon rise in the east, above our home’s stone-walled and terraced backyard. Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne: I loved Sophie & Cop’s story. Animals can truly transform humans’ lives in a positive manner.
To Judy: I danced to “Here Comes the Sun” in my final for my undergraduate modern dance class. George was my fave Beatle!
To Dee: Rainbows to you today.
To Bobbie: Please have an extra special “CD” (comfortable day), OK? ####

##Good morning all. A cloudy cool morning here with a dusting of snow. Geese flying in small formations over the fields this morning.
##Robyn, Paul was my favourite but I always enjoyed George’s writings and songs. A very talented man.
##Carleen, I know you and Clowie will be the bestest frens.
##Otherlyn, thought of you last night as this big moon filled my hallway window with beautiful light. I hope all is well with you.
##BobbieB. wishing you ACD and healing.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Group launches petition to have Star plus retired

he is 9 years old

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

###
thanks Carleen….yes we have rescues on threads under dogs and cats…and horse rescues…that are looking for Valentine cards and maybe a donation…please.

call, fax, email…please…horse slaughter, barbaric…horse slaughter still is happening…and we are the folks who are going to stop it…

please read the db and help…please.

and light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

pray for each other and our country.

Good Toosdae Morning, Everyone….

Yes..it’s already noon in the eastwing…but I went back to bed this earlier morning and didn’t wake again until nearly 8:30!!

We’ve got clouds and some ‘noise making’ wind outside today…rain is coming, sooner than later I hope! Rain has been PROMISED anyway..and I wanna see/hear and feel it, too!

Nothing so noteworthy to report…things are good here..though I will say, late rising and an EMPTY feeder on the porch don’t mix very well for the birds/squirrels!! Forget ‘crumbs’ they were down to DUST by the time I got outside to refresh everything..even the HUMMERS needed nectar this morning! Another trip to Wally World is on my agenda for today…as I poured the last of the seeds to the feeders today…I SRSLY need to buy stock in Pennington’s!!

Here’s our Joe for today:

Tuesday, February 7th… Been a rough couple of days for our friends. The Kresha family said goodbye to Dude, a 28 year old former race horse. John Kresha rescued Dude 5 years ago, loved him like crazy, and Dude was for sure the family star.

The Wyatt family said goodbye to Brady, an 11 year old gelding adopted from Tb Friends. As a race horse Brady earned a ton of money. But his biggest battle became laminitis, and Brady is gone far too young.

Our best thoughts go the families of Dude and Brady.

My cell phone fell apart yesterday. While I was talking. I get a new cell phone every 18 months or so. Life on a ranch is messy, and my phones keep breaking. I wrote Cathy at her day job, and asked can you pick me up a new phone on your way home for work?

Cathy brought me a phone that requires skinny fingers. Touch the screen and Tb Friends appears. Touch the screen again and Miley Cyrus starts singing. This new phone is complicated, and I should probably take a night class to learn how to use it. I am mostly blind, my fingers are fat, and I want the comfort of my old phone back. Today I go to the phone store and have my contact numbers transferred. Didn�t know I knew that term, did you? Contact numbers. Already I�m talking techie.

Oh, and there are e-mails saying new pictures don�t appear on my website. You must hit F5, which is your refresh key, and the new pictures will show up. Hard to believe I�m giving computer advice. What has the world come to?

We need to recognize Eve, 68 years young, and a lover of thoroughbreds her entire life. In 2011 Eve saved the lives of 4 horses. She works from home on her computer. Eve has become a networking genius, and 4 thoroughbreds are very grateful.

And I must tell you about Lexi, 13 years young. On January 21st Lexi rescued her first horse, a thoroughbred gelding she saw on craigslist. The gelding was starved. Lexi has money saved from working at her dad�s office. The gelding moved to a friend�s ranch, and in two weeks he has gained 40 pounds. The gelding received vaccinations, and he can now dance hip hop on his once badly neglected feet. Lexi says this is the best feeling in the world. Lexi told her dad she needs more hours at the office. And a raise.

It is Tuesday and raining. I know it�s raining because I have already grained the mare motel. I also know it�s raining because my fancy phone told me so. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Toast with strawberry jelly. The fancy phone says later we could be 63 degrees. Enjoy your mud boots out of the closet Tuesday, and be sure to hug your horses. Dave Clark Five on the oldies station�

Joe

There is just no time for new pictures, so this week I am showing a few of our favorites from kids who love horses.
##

🙂 Gotta love him! At least most days, his writings get me smiling or my heart feeling full…and lots of times, my stomach feels hungry, too! 🙂

Everyone have a good day today!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Afternoon all…

Just love to read about Joe and his love for all the horses and people who love horses…

Our rain has come and gone for now…no more rain the news says for quite a while…yesterday I went for a ride up in the Santa Cruz mountains. Mark had to take special pictures for these folks to get their loan. Anyway the drive up Highway 17 take you past Lexington Lake….Oh how low the water is…and the rain that started late last night is like a couple of drops in a huge bucket..

For you folks have to much rain and snow I hope the animals have a chance to stay dry somehow and find some food somewhere…

Good Grief…must run and finish a report or two..
Take all . . . .

((((HUGS TO ALL BARABRO’S GRAND FAMILY))))
x0x0x0
carleen in ca

“THEY’RE BACK”….

carleen in ca

Hiya, FsOB! I join Alex in the “feeling knackered” sentiments. The moon has been so stunning tonight. Pale, wispy clouds have danced across its surface, rather reminiscent of Halloween.

Joe Shelton’s blog was sad, with laminitis taking the life of 11 year old Brady. One hopes that UPENN’s Laminitis Research Fund will help to develop more effective treatments for laminitis, if not actual preventive therapies.

Wishing all fellow sleepy heads “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Sandra: If you are out there, please drop in to let us know how your new computer is working. You are missed here!
To Jane: Ditto, I hope that you are enjoying our dearth of snow as much as Brent and I are doing.
To Dee: Thanks for your gift of rainbows.
To Carleen & Lynne: May the dry communities in Cali get some rainfall to improve the water table.
To Judy: George was my # 1, followed by John as a close # 2. Bakc in 1980, I was really distraught by John Lennon’s passing. Quite untimely and so unnecessary, it still seems such a tragedy. ####

Yes Carleen I see, I just hate it!

Barbaro youtube

It’s all good, you don’t see the break down. Just all his great wins. He was a looker!

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! As the moon moved westward early this morning, it was surrounded by a filmy nimbus. Now the dawn’s light is glinting off of the high windows and church steeples of New London. Yes, a new days is dawning on the banks of the Thames! Wishing all of you “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Debbie LA: I look forward to opening your blue-link of Barbaro later this week. I am grateful that you confirmed that his break-down in the Preakness isn’t shown. I can’t bear to watch that.
To Joan: Thanks for reminding those of us on very tight budgets that even a little something means a lot to an equine rescue operation.
To Dee: Rainbows to you!
To Bobbie B: May this be a good day for you. ####

Good morning all. A sharply colder morning here in the North. The sun winked a golden eye this morning between the clouds. Almost looked like a sleepy cat’s face.
##Robyn, I echo your sentiments regarding the dreadful disease Laminitis.
##Wishing rainbows for our Miss Dee.
##BobbieB, ACD to you fren.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Are starter fees a source of trouble in horse racing

I did not know about starter fee?

Two horses euthanized during filming of HBO Luck

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Judy And Angel Taffy…………………………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………..You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Trolls: Your Grade Is F

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Morning, Everyone and “Happy Hump Day”….

I read a snippit of the horses dying during filming of HBO’s new show, Luck…:( There’s a petition or something circulating out there regarding that issue…I don’t get HBO, so wouldn’t watch it, anyway…but seems to me they are doing something very wrong there:/

Well…the ‘big steady, soaking rain’ which had been forecast for us and we looked so forward to turned out a ‘fizzle’! ‘Trace’ that’s all we got in these foothills all day long y’day:( A FIZZLE!! and no rain in the long-term radar, either….it’s really pretty bad here..Yes..resivoirs are at good levels still, from last year’s precip but nonetheless, it’s bad! I wrote a little rhyme this morning while out back w/my coffee:

Rain, rain DO come play…and please don’t wait, not one more day! Our ground is dry, few grasses grow and up the hill there’s little snow!

I watched two Does and their four babes make their way up the canyon below my back yard this morning…there is ‘some green’ down there but the deer don’t like all the varieties, just ‘some.’ I’ve taken care to plant only things I know they SRSLY do NOT like out front in my pots..but I’ve been noticing some ‘taste-testing’ of the French Lavender recently!! Oh, Nooooooo:( Hay is $18.00 a bale here now…I’m not sure if that is grass hay or alfalfa…but still, that is high priced, necessary stuff!

I saw a photo of Union Rags the other day…can’t remember if it was from here or on f/b but what a looker he is…oh, it was on facebook….and Peter Brette was galloping him:) brought back memories of another horse from Fair Hill Mr. Brette rode, too:)

Here’s Joe for Wednesday:

Wednesday, February 8th… We are getting dozens of e-mails a week with pictures of horses at race tracks. Trainers and owners needing homes for their horses. Over the weekend I found a nice home for a gelding at Hollywood Park. I phoned the trainer and said we can have the gelding transported. The trainer said sorry, the gelding has already been disposed of.

Other trainers, such as Tim Bellasis who works out of Pleasanton, gives us time to find homes. Tim is a good guy, and you can hear in his voice how much he cares what happens to his horses.

There are many trainers and owners who try hard to find their retired race horses good homes. In 2011 we helped trainers and owners rehome 145 horses. We don’t charge a fee. All we ask is for trainers and owners to pay the shipping.

If you have room for one more horse, please call me at 530-383-212. These horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to set up transportation.

The times they are a changing. In 2011 we noticed a trend. New owners were requesting injured race horses. I’m not sure, but I think this started with Sarah, a UC Davis student who in 2010 told me she wanted an injured horse to rehab and grow old with. Other Davis students soon asked for injured horses. In 2011 the new trend grew stronger. Families, event trainers, lesson barns, and 4-H clubs, all wanting horses to rehab. Race tracks have a never ending supply of injured horses. We love the new trend.

Of course there are new owners who request tall, sound, gray, and handsome. We often have those too.

So phone me and tell me your dream horse. Who knows, maybe I have a fresh photo of him or her in my e-mail box.

Have a happy day. The rain quit and it will be light soon. Hungry horses wondering where is that old man with food?

Joe
##

Everyone have a good day today…I must remember to add ‘water outdoors’ to my list of to-dos today…

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Good morning ,
I’m just letting you know I’m here and reading — with not much to say really —
I’ve been in some pain lately and not feeling like posting , but the hunk sometimes reads me your posts and good wishes , and I thank you so much —

Sending good wishes right backatcha and may your Wed. be a good day —— bye now , BB

###
thanks Debbie in LA for your postings.

###
Famblee…have you call, fax, email today…have you read the db…so much is needed there..

please.

today is hump day…I pray it is a fine day for each of you and our horses…and our furbabies and wildlife….we need to do whatever and however we can…to help…report abuse and neglect..network…anything…please.

also..please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

and always..thank you Alex.

Famblee,

I haven’t been able to say much here lately and for that I’m sorry. I’ve missed this famblee. Please forgive me if I seem like I’m just coming here because I need something, I’m not. But I do need something. I need your comfort and prayers.

Some of you may remember me mentioning Princess, my dog. Tonight she crossed the bridge. My sweet baby girl was 13. She was the sweetest dog, nothing but love, not a mean bone in her. Sadly, her hips gave out on her. I could see in her eyes the last few days she wasn’t happy. She’d been struggling some for about a year but was happy. Today, she couldn’t stand up; her back legs couldn’t support her.

Joann and I were with her when she crossed. I held her beautiful face in my hands the whole time looking into her eyes, telling her how much I loved her.

She is whole now. Her hips are healed and she is running in the fields with Barbaro and Ruffian. But my heart is not whole.

I know you understand Famblee. Thank you for being here.

My love and my heart will always belong to you Princess.

NO Horse left behind or EVER Forgotten!
Lee

Prayer for sweet Princess, and also for Joann and Lee. It the hardest thing to do, but you did the right thing for Princess!

Hiya, FsOB! I am feeling knackered again tonight, unfortunately, and I should try to call it a night earlier than usual.

That was very disturbing to read that two horses had to be euthanized during the filming of “Luck”. I don’t have HBO, so I haven’t seen it. I had read, however, that the first episode focused on two horses breaking down. I am assuming that the actual deaths of the two TBs were accidental. But the deaths are very sad, no matter what the cause.

Just an FYI that I’ll be off-line from Saturday through probably next Thursday evening. Brent will be here on the banks of the Thames with Ms. Nikita, whilst I attend a conference out of state. It is very likely that I won’t be able to check in but I’ll be thinking of all of you.

Please have “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Sophie’s Lee: My sympathies to you & Joann. The passing of a beloved dog is so very sad. May Princess rest in peace & may perpetual light shine upon her. Love is eternal.
To Bobbie: Gosh, how I wish that I could wave a magic wand and take that pain away, permanently, for you. Bobbie, please thank your Gene for helping you to stay connected with us all. He sounds like a “keeper”, just like I consider my Brent to be.
To Lynne: I’d join you in a rain dance if it would help!
to Judy: I loved reading about the sun, linking its golden cat’s eye! ####

#### To Dee: Many thanks for your gift of rainbows! ####

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Just stopping in tonight before shutting this puder down ’til the morning….

Lee/Joann: I am so sorry! Like so many here, I’ve been right where you are tonight:( You were so kind to me, Lee, when Murphy crossed the Bridge…I’ve never forgotten that…and am extending to you now, the same compassion and giving you lots & lots of cyber hugs…it takes time..and we all do this in our own time…but I promise you both….one day you’ll find yourselves thinking of *PRINCESS* and smiling…((((lee/joann)))) Maybe Murphy can help your Princess learn to shred colorful tissue paper into CONFETTI…maybe she’d like that? 🙂 xoxo

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! I wish that you all could join me in looking westward out of our bay windows in the home office. Your eyes would feast upon the almost full moon shining down on New London. Last night Ms. Nikita became very excited and wanted to go outside, just as I was preparing to go to sleep. Her cause for Husky excitement: lightly falling snow! Today a dusting coats the banks of the Thames.

Just an FYI that I’ll be off-line from Saturday through probably next Thursday evening. Brent will be here on the banks of the Thames with Ms. Nikita, whilst I attend a conference out of state. It is very likely that I won’t be able to check in but I’ll be thinking of all of you.

Wishing you a great “Friday Eve” on this Thursday. Peace, Robyn

#### To Sophie’s Lee & Joann: May your memories of Princess and her love bring you comfort.
To Dee: Eight rainbows to you!
To Bobbie: I hope that you have a pain-free day. Please thank Gene for all of us for his assistance in posting for you. ####

Good morning all. A crisp cloudless sky this morning here in the north.
##Lee/Joann, my deepest condolences for the loss of your precious Princess. She will forever be free of pain but will always know your love and compassion as you let her go. God Bless you both.
##Robyn, will miss your shout-outs but wishing you a safe trip and will look forward to your return.
##BobbieB, wishing you ACD. I’m sorry there is still so much pain though.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Morning Everyone…and Happy “Friday Eve”!!

Bobbie: Me too! I’m sorry about that dang pain which seems to have found somewhere to be and not wanting to leave:( Hang in there, girl…it just MUST abate soon!

Clear outdoors this morning…a bit ‘chillsey’ but not so bad and by day’s end we are forecast to have seen a high of somewhere around 70!

Joe isn’t up yet..he’s working on it, so I’ll be back later on to post for yew:)

Everyone have a good day!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

and…here’s Joe for Thursday:

Thursday, February 9th… I went to see my friend Bill, his family, and of course their thoroughbred gelding Bert. At the end of this month Bert will be moved to a new ranch. Also at the end of this month, Bill and his family must move into an apartment. They are in foreclosure.

Bert wasn�t much of a race horse. He won a race and finished third a couple of times. On a sloppy rainy morning in 2009, I saw Bert at the feed lot in Wilton. He was a day away from shipment to slaughter in Mexico. Bert had an injured leg, and he was down in the mud. Horses normally don�t lie down when it�s raining. I checked Bert�s mouth, saw the racing tattoo, and made him stand. Later in the day Bert was in our yard. He suffered from a broken sesamoid on his left front leg. Bert was depressed, no appetite, and in severe pain. It was my intention to have Bert euthanized the next morning. I gave Bert drugs to make him comfortable.

The rain quit, and Bert gave out a giant yell when he saw me. A beautiful sunny morning. Bert dove into a tub of grain the way I dive into strawberry cheesecake. Bert�s eyes were clear, he touched noses with other horses, and he seemed to be managing his pain. Over the years we have mended dozens of broken sesamoids. Bert was only 4 years old. Youth is a huge help with rehab.

About a month later Bill and his daughter came to look at horses. They wanted gentle, nothing fancy, just a quiet horse to ride on their small farm. Bill�s daughter saw Bert and that was it. Bert had a new home.

Bill�s daughter researched the racing tattoo, and found out her new gelding is a son of Bertrando. Which is how his name became Bert.

We kept in touch, became friends, and there were several nights Bill invited us for dinner. His daughter had done a wonderful job with Bert�s rehab. His leg healed nicely, and now Bert moves like Donny Osmond on that dancing show. Last summer Bert and the daughter went for a long trail ride at Folsom Lake. They met Allison and her gelding Blue Slew. Blue Slew also came from our ranch, but that is a whole other story.

This is not a commentary on the economic woes of our country. Two years ago, in our area anyway, home foreclosures were as common as Starbucks. There was one on every corner. I wrote about this often. Trying to find new homes for horses who were victims of foreclosure. You never forget a horse taken away as the children watch.

Instead this is a commentary on Bill. A man who would do anything to make sure his family keeps their horse. Bill doesn�t want me writing about his night job. His day job. Selling the family piano. Selling the horse trailer. Doing what needs to be done, so his daughter and Bert can stay together. Bill says any dad would do the same.

I visited Bill and his family and Bert because their new apartment is in another town. I’m not going to see them as much. I hope we don’t fade away, like happens often, when towns or circumstances change. I hope we stay the same. Bill is a positive influence on me. A reminder of all that is good in an upside down world…

Joe
##

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Morning all…

This good family is a reminder of all that is good in an upside down world…

I sent off my valentine’s day cards today…I hope they will help the few I was able to do..
Hope to do more cards for St. Patrick’s Day or Easter…

Take care good family…

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Lee , I am so sorry — I am well acquainted with that empty aching hole in the chest — I send love and hugs and empathy , and a wish for you and Joann to help each other through this……

Robyn , I will miss reading your cheerful posts … and thanks for the good wishes . Have a productive trip and return safely to Brent , Nikita , and us —

I thank all of you for the get well wishes … if only I could ! , it’s so slow …
but your wishes really do help – psychologically I guess , lol , but still —
Now I’m going to wrap myself in a Carleen hug and lie down again for another rest/ nap …
bye now , BB

Lee and Joan…

I just read about your precious Princess…
May she rest in peace…13 years of love and loyalty..how lucky you all were…remember her running and playing….
Take one day at a time and remember, she loved you and always will.

Healing prayers to you both.

oxox
carleen in ca

(((((Princess)))) and loving family

please call,fax, email…please…and help…

read the db…you are needed so so much…we have under dogs and cats and horse rescues…valentine cards sent with maybe a donation..if you can

pray for one another, Barbaro’s family…and our nation…which needs earnest prayer..and our rescues…ALL of them.

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens..

have a beautiful day….

and thank you Alex…

Dear Famblee,
From the very bottom of my heart I thank you. Thank you for your love and prayers and kindness. We’ve come to depend on each other in these times, knowing that we are here for each other. Princess gave me so many wonderful years and memories and so, so much love.

Thank you Debbie L.A., Robyn Hoffman, Lynne Brown, Judy, Bobbie Bowen, Carleen Sova, Joan Roya. You have helped so much.

Lynne, I just KNOW Murphy is showing Princess how to make pretty confetti!
Bobbie, Joann and I have the wettest shoulders in town right now, we are crying and laughing and loving Princess together.
Carleen, Yes, the best 13 years of my life. She was so full of love, I call her my purebred love dog.

Thank you to every member of this Famblee. Together we have loved and grieved. We will continue to love, grieve and fight together. We will beat laminitis, cruelty and slaughter of our beloved horses.

Barbaro created an army, an army of love. We are strong because we are together, forever.

In loving memory of Princess, Barbaro, Ruffian, Murphy, Bud and all the others who are waiting for us.

NO Horse left behind or EVER Forgotten!
Lee

Lee & Joann,

I’m so sorry to hear about your sweet dog, Princess. What a great life you must have had together. Since I’ve been through what you have just experienced, there is not much I can say to help you feel better. I just hope that the day you can think of her and smile and laugh at the memories instead of cry and be sad will come quickly to give you peace and comfort.

RIP dear sweet Princess. You were so very loved.

Hiya, FsOB! In case I haven’t said so over the past two weeks, my thanks to Alex for reopening the Comments Board prior to January 29th. This is such a special place! I hope that we can all log in on April 29th as well as on Derby Day. Wouldn’t it be great to write on that day about Michael Matz being back in the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs? Peace, Robyn

#### To Sophie’s Lee & Joann: You are very welcome. May your love for Princess bring comfort to you. I remember each of Nikita’s predecessors and how much I loved them. Each one holds a unique place in my heart.
To Bobbie: Please hang in there and know that the FsOB are in your corner! I hope when I get back that you’ll be feeling 100% better.
To Lynne: Didn’t Joe’s story about Bill, his family, & Bert just break your heart? I heard something today about the big banks having to work with folks who had been foreclosed upon. I sure hope that Bill’s family receive some good news and that their foreclosure is cancelled.
To Jane: I miss seeing you here and hope that your home didn’t get a lot of snow last night. ####

Hiya, FsOB! The moon hasn’t yet set in the west, but the train whistle is signalling the approach of 7:00 AM ET. Yes, morning has arrived on the banks of the Thames. Swirly poufs of turquoise clouds abound. And may I now say TGIF?

If I am unable to drop by tomorrow, then please know that I’ll look forward to returning here next Thursday evening. Brent and Nikita shall stand guard here whilst I head to AZ for a conference. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Please keep the rainbows coming!
To Bobbie: May the new week be a better one for you.
To Judy & Lynne: Please give the morning “shout outs” for me, OK? ####

###
help needed:

Help Needed in Idaho:


Terreton IDAHO Senator’s Bill OKs Ultralights, Live Bait For Wolf Control
By Associated Press

POSTED: 11:43 am MST February 9, 2012

AAAText Size

PrintEmail

BOISE, Idaho — A Senate bill would give ranchers more freedom to kill wolves that attack their sheep and cows, including letting them use ultralight aircraft and live bait such as dogs to help lure the predators.

Currently, Idaho ranchers who see wolves attacking their livestock can shoot the predators without a permit.

Under Sen. Jeff Siddoway’s plan introduced Thursday, ranchers whose livestock are molested or killed by wolves could employ powered parachutes, as well as traps baited with live animals, to target the predators within 36 hours without a permit.

After that, they could get permits giving them up to 60 days to pursue offending wolf packs.

Idaho now allows gunners aboard powered parachutes to shoot foxes and coyotes.

But shooting wolves from ultralights is forbidden, with wolves classified as big game.

Jeff C. Siddoway of Jefferson County, IDAHO

EMAIL page…. http://legislature.idaho.gov/about/contactmembersform.cfm?ID=102

District 35
1764 E. 1200 N., Terreton, 83450
Home (208) 663-4585
FAX (208) 663-4428
Rancher
Committees:
Agricultural Affairs – Chair
Local Government & Taxation

Senator Siddoway lives in the same small town as Barbie, the Mother Dog with Broken Legs in 2010 and provided no help for her situation.

###
help needed:

Help Needed in Idaho:


Terreton IDAHO Senator’s Bill OKs Ultralights, Live Bait For Wolf Control
By Associated Press

POSTED: 11:43 am MST February 9, 2012

AAAText Size

PrintEmail

BOISE, Idaho — A Senate bill would give ranchers more freedom to kill wolves that attack their sheep and cows, including letting them use ultralight aircraft and live bait such as dogs to help lure the predators.

Currently, Idaho ranchers who see wolves attacking their livestock can shoot the predators without a permit.

Under Sen. Jeff Siddoway’s plan introduced Thursday, ranchers whose livestock are molested or killed by wolves could employ powered parachutes, as well as traps baited with live animals, to target the predators within 36 hours without a permit.

After that, they could get permits giving them up to 60 days to pursue offending wolf packs.

Idaho now allows gunners aboard powered parachutes to shoot foxes and coyotes.

But shooting wolves from ultralights is forbidden, with wolves classified as big game.

Jeff C. Siddoway of Jefferson County, IDAHO

EMAIL page…. http://legislature.idaho.gov/about/contactmembersform.cfm?ID=102

District 35
1764 E. 1200 N., Terreton, 83450
Home (208) 663-4585
FAX (208) 663-4428
Rancher
Committees:
Agricultural Affairs – Chair
Local Government & Taxation

Senator Siddoway lives in the same small town as Barbie, the Mother Dog with Broken Legs in 2010 and provided no help for her situation.

####
Terreton IDAHO Senator’s Bill OKs Ultralights, Live Bait For Wolf Control
By Associated Press
POSTED: 11:43 am MST February 9, 2012
AAAText Size
PrintEmail
BOISE, Idaho — A Senate bill would give ranchers more freedom to kill wolves that attack their sheep and cows, including letting them use ultralight aircraft and live bait such as dogs to help lure the predators.
Currently, Idaho ranchers who see wolves attacking their livestock can shoot the predators without a permit.
Under Sen. Jeff Siddoway’s plan introduced Thursday, ranchers whose livestock are molested or killed by wolves could employ powered parachutes, as well as traps baited with live animals, to target the predators within 36 hours without a permit.
After that, they could get permits giving them up to 60 days to pursue offending wolf packs.
Idaho now allows gunners aboard powered parachutes to shoot foxes and coyotes.
But shooting wolves from ultralights is forbidden, with wolves classified as big game.
Jeff C. Siddoway of Jefferson County, IDAHO
EMAIL page…. http://legislature.idaho.gov/about/contactmembersform.cfm?ID=102
District 35
1764 E. 1200 N., Terreton, 83450
Home (208) 663-4585
FAX (208) 663-4428
Rancher
Committees:
Agricultural Affairs – Chair
Local Government & Taxation
Senator Siddoway lives in the same small town as Barbie, the Mother Dog with Broken Legs in 2010 and provided no help for her situation.

##Good morning all. A cold morning with the wind kicking up as a cold front moves in bringing some snow tonight.
##Joan, thank you for posting the article from Idaho regarding the wolves. They are in peril from all sides as the government wants to start aerial killing after a snowstorm that will cause the wolves to be more visable and move slower and will be able to use their radio collars. Please everyone, help in any way you can to try and stop this horrific attack against our country’s dwindling wolf population.
##Robyn, have a safe trip to sunny AZ. We will man the fort.
##Sophie’s Lee/Joann, I hope today and the tomorrows will bring comfort with loving memories of Princess.
BobbieB. wishing you ACD.

Have a safe day and weekend everyone.

Judy

Thoroughbred affercare alliance formed

It about time! There talking the talk, lets see if there walk the walk.

Morning all…

Joan I went to the site for Protection of Wolves and signed a petition…I know they need donations also, but I send cash only…checks show up on our bank statement, which drives my husband nuts. He does not share my need to protect and help animals…I send cash to those that I can like horse rescues and other rescues like for pups and kittens.

Lee and Joann, I wish I could wave a wand or twitch my nose and make your pain go away…I still have emotional times when I think about Bud,
I’m sure Lynne and Sandra have their moments about Murphy and Cheif…Bless you both for sharing a great life with Princess and knowing when to let her go…

Miss Dee, please send out your wonderful rainbows to all in need….

Take care wonderful family…

((((HUGS TO ALL BARARO’S GRAND FAMILY))))

oxox
carleen in ca

Good Friday Morning, Everyone….

Happy Friday to Yole:)

Joan: Live bait??? Dogs, Live dogs??? O.M.G.!! I understand, fully, the ranchers shooting wolves or coyotes if their cattle are being attacked..we deal with Mountain Lions here in my area…they’ve been protected so long by now, their numbers have grown by leaps/bounds and though I think they’re beautiful…I also think there should be a hunting season put on the calendar for them by now, too, to keep their numbers more in keeping with food supply. Our lions are at the top of the food chain here in CA…there isn’t another animal who could help control their numbers…just man with a rifle. If I had goats or sheep and a lion came for dinner, I honestly would have no problem removing it! Not far from where I live, a woman had mini-donkeys….one, a mom, lost her babe to a lion’s attack one night a few summers ago. Using live bait, however, I am not even remotely a fan of that practice!

Well….that certainly is a ‘run-on’ sentence/paragraph, huh?! Sorry! off the soap box now and onto other things:)

Robyn: Arizona…I remember when you were there last year…and wasn’t it also close to the time Gabby Giffords was shot, along with the others there at a Safeway store? 🙁 I remember you didn’t want to come home, ’cause the sun was warm and CT was experiencing lots of snow and cold weather! Travel safe there and safe home again, Robyn:)

Carleen & Lee/Joann: Yes..in fact, y’day morning on our way into town, my daughter and I had a conversaton about Murphy:) I’d told her of Princess’ passing…and also, my daughter’s father just lost his labradoris who must have been 14 or 15 yrs old..srsly long life for a Lab, I think…at any rate…we discussed how hard it is to lose them…and how in some cases..like mine for instance… 🙂 we sometimes are fortunate enough in life to have that ‘one dog’ the one which sets apart from the others…that bond you feel with them…the way they can read you and vise-versa with no words…Murphy was that dog in my life. Murph and I shared times that can’t compare to the one or two before him…and not to Lucy now, either…there’s just that ‘something’ which sets them apart…Our Sandra taught me that ‘maybe’ once in a lifetime, you have a dog like that…so, I feel seriously ‘shined upon’ by having the Murph-Man for those almost 12 years…and last night, I stopped in here to read…and saw Lee’s post…and cried…and then:) I went to light Murphy’s candle!

Here’s our Joe for Friday:

UPDATE, Thursday Afternoon… I was just told the two geldings in the story below, Bert and Blue Slew, twice raced against each other. In both races Blue Slew finished far ahead of Bert. Three years later they came together again for a trail ride at Folsom Lake. I wonder if Blue Slew gave Bert a hard time about being faster in the old days?

I am on the road early tomorrow morning, meeting families who want a thoroughbred. On Wednesday I wrote about having dozens of pictures of race horses in my e-mail box. The response has been great, and I get to meet a few of you tomorrow.

I will return to this website Monday morning, to share with you life from a horse rescue ranch in Woodland. Home of a new Popeye’s. Home of a new Jimboy’s Tacos. And now there are rumors Olive Garden might come. I sure wish BJ’s would give Woodland a try. Yummy…
###

Off now, to get some ‘to-do’s’ done…I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey! And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

Terribly tragic sad news out of Ocala, FL today at an equine center – an apparent explosion leaving one horse and one person killed and one person badly injured. My heart goes out to all involved.

And my heart always goes out to all the four-legged frens who have no one to love them and care for them . . . .

LEE & JO ANN – my deepest sympathies and hugs to both of you. I was so very sorry to see about your beloved PRINCESS, God Bless her and may she know every joy of Heaven. But still her earthly presence is deeply felt I know.
I believe very firmly, however, that when one of our precious ones has been loved so deeply by their very special person or family here on earth, they never let go, and I believe they will find a most special way to let you know they are still very much with you – in a way only you and they could know.
Still my hugs to you both at this most difficult time.

ANGEL DEE – And we shall be celebrating Affirmed’s birthday in Heaven coming up soon, too!!

Safe travels to our ROBYN and any other FOBs who may be traveling this weekend; and always prayers for those walking the especially rugged path just now. Let’s join hands and walk the path together.

Charlie Brown Christmas snow on and off all week here and more for the weekend, and much colder, too, which we especially need. The spring flowers will be so confused this year.
The ground has not froze and our back lawn is almost swampy when I make my way to refresh and replenish the squirrel (and kitties, too) water.

LYNNE B. – And guess who left me a little surprise again today . . . . yes, MURPHY!! 🙂
There it was that fluffy white confetti!!
Lynne, this has never happened so much in my life so it truly has to be your MURPHY!! 🙂

And always IN LOVING MEMORY OF FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, FOB PRINCESS, VERY SPECIAL ACE, and SO MANY MANY MORE . . . .

Hugs and love to all!
always, Lou Ann

And FOB MURPHY, too!!

always, Lou Ann

Good Saturday Morning, Everyone…..

Lou Ann: ROFLOL! Yep…no doubt…he’s visiting PA more and more….you must have left some of Miss Annie’s famous biscotti out or better yet..he’s somehow managed to taste-test her meat balls and gravy!! 🙂 You got a FAN, you two!! 🙂

Cloudy here this morning…mild…not too cold yet…but Mr. Finan is predicting by tomorrow and o’night….it’s going to be *COLD*!! Low snow is forecast and RAIN!!! Yipppeeee-Skippppyyyy!!! We’re in for some RAIN and it doesn’t look like it’s going to ‘fall apart’ like most of the storms finding us have, either:) On the flip-side of my glee for bad weather, however, that means at Pebble Beach they’ll be enduring it too…and the Pro-Am is on this weekend! I remember other years..the weather was clear/sunny and so beautiful..and then of course, the years where play got suspended ’cause the tee-flags/poles were bent over so far from winds they nearly touched the ground!! LOL! Mom Nature…she’s just full of tricks!

Alex: I am sorry re: Mr. Richards’ racial abuse remarks at his Twitter site…sadly, racism is alive and well, still in our world…it seriously chaps mai hide:/

Sat outside w/my coffee this morning, so many birds at the feeders…reminded me of Alfred Hitchcock’s old movie…except my birdies just want Sunflower seeds:) Many, many deer miandering here/there in/out of the canyon out back…and squirrels making their way to the feeders, too…All is well in the ‘critter department’ in my foothills today…I hope everyone has a good Saturday!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Good afternoon all. A snowy and windy day here in the North. The predicted snow and cold blew in overnight but it is to move out slowly over the next few days. Once again the topsy turvey nature of this winter.
##LouAnn, I had a chuckle reading about the confetti Lynn’s Murph left for you.
##Lynne, so glad to hear that you may receive the much needed rain/snow.

Everyone have a safe day.

Judy

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So…………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Morning all…

So good to see Miss Dee and her shining rainbows.
Thank you so much…

Lynne, have you been watching the Pro Am at Pebble Beach? I will catch the last exciting hour or two today. I hope they have good weather to finish up with…sun one day and drizzle the next.

Lee and Joann…heart felt wishes to you both.

Joan, I did send out Valentine’s Day cards, but only 3…I’m working on the next holiday…St. Patrick’s Day.

Judy, Otherlyn, Lou Ann, Debbie, Robyn, Bobbie, Sandra, Alex and all other memebers…please have a grand day…

(((((HUG TO ALL BARBARO’S WONDERFUL FAMILY)))

oxoox
carleen in ca

Kentucky horse park running in the red

##
Carleen you have a great day too!

Good Sunday Morning, Everyone:)

Carleen: Yep! I watched bits/pieces of Pebble Beach coverage y’day throughout the afternoon:) Got to see Jim Harbaugh, ‘our’ Niners Coach, even! I heard a commentator say, “Touchdown Niners” and boy did that ever get my attention:) Such beautiful scenery there…I could never tire of watching the surf from those vantage points:)

Clear and sunny here this a.m., but I know change is on the horizon:) Rain/Snow in our forecast for tonight/tomorrow….heading to town in awhile for provisions and going to put a big pot of homemade chili on in the morning:) Sounds so good for a gray/cold day and easy on the food budget, too:)

I saw on Facebook this morning that the Westminster Kennel Club is severing ties with Pedigree, their long-time sponsor, partly because of the ‘sorrowful adoption ads’ they run?! WTF? Sorry but that seriously chaps mai hide, Westminster peeps:/ Shame on them! Makes me think the club wants more purebreds given homes and not such fans of x-breeds…or anyway, that’s how it struck me:/

Also, Alex posted a cool article found at Paulick Report all about a nine y/old little boy who plans to address those in DC re: anti-slaughter….his blogspot is called Children 4 Horses….I tried to copy and blue-ink here, but was unsuccessful…Alex, maybe you can blue-ink it for us?

Lee/Joann: Thinking of you both each day and holding you close in mind/heart…

Bobbie B: Hope you are feeling a bit better, too:)

Everyone have a ‘dine&fandy;’ Sunday!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Dear Frens and Famblee,

Joann and I thank you so very much from the depths of hearts. The love and prayers from you all have been felt and they have helped ease our pain.

Lou Ann R.,
Nothing truer has ever been said. Princess is so very much missed in our house. She filled the place with her presence, her love radiating everywhere. And yet, like you said, she is letting us know she is still with us. Through the pain and tears, I can feel her love. And, when the time is right, a soft caress of wind, a certain smell, a bit of fur will be her with us. She will know and we will know she is here and all is right in heaven. Thank you for remembering my Princess in your closing too.

The love a friend never dies.

NO Horse left behind or EVER Forgotten!
Lee

##Good morning all. A cool bright morning here. It’s warmed up to the freezing mark again after bone chilling cold on Saturday.
##Robyn, I hope your trip to AZ was uneventful and you will be able to enjoy the warm sun during your breaks. Hopefully it’s not all work and no play.
##Carleen, wishing you a great week.
##BobbieB. ACD for you.
##Dee, please send out your rainbows for Lee and Joann as they cope with the loss of their precious Princess.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Morning, Everyone…

From a ‘it’s wet in these foothills’ landscape:) Finally!!

Rain began falling last night, around 8p and got ‘heavy’ for awhile later, too:) More coming, which is good, we’ll take it, Mom Nature!

Another Monday morning! Hope yole had a good weekend.

Grammys were good, huh? Lovely tributes to Whitney Houston….so sad that she’s gone from here..too soon, for sure!

*BEACH BOYS*!! O.M.GOSH…Now, there are some fun times memories brought to surface of mai “Yikes I am old” brain!! Wheeeee:) Joe Walsh playing guitar for Sir Paul…I hope maybe sooner than later, those *EAGLES* might give us all a thrill and be guests on the Grammys, too! And Glen Campbell…God Bless him, he’s got a long road to hoe ahead..glad he can do one last concert tour for not just his fans but himself, too.

Here’s Joe for Monday:

Wi-Fi currently being installed. My computer should be faster than Pony Boy when grain is served…
##
Lucky Joe!! WiFi! So..I’ll be back in awhile, after the installation is complete and he’s posted ‘really’ for today…

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Lee and Joann , many good thoughts coming your way…
Lynne — raindrops keep falling on mai head … I’m so glad you’re finally getting precip there…
Robyn , hope your trip is/was good …
Judy , ACD right backatcha fren …
Make it a good day frens , bye now , BB

Hi Again…. 🙂

Well, I think Joe had to leave for work this morning….he is still not posted for today. Maybe not until tomorrow…we’ll be patient, Joe:)

Rain is still falling here, Family:) I am SO LOVING IT!! Have a big pot of chili simmering on the stove and just took a chocolate cake out of the oven…’cause ya know…sometimes a person just MUST HAVE CHOCOLATE CAKE!! 🙂 Going to frost it with Cream Cheese frosting….compliments of Duncan Hines:)

Bobbie: Glad to see you here today…and yes, even if the drops fell on mai head…I wouldn’t complain:) but I’m indoors where it’s warm/dry.

Hope yole are having a good Monday thus far~!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

wanted to say hello to a wonderful family…Barbaro’s family.

hope all of you have had a chance to call, fax, email…please.

and read the db…we have under threads dogs and cats and horse rescues…valentine cards with a small donation…please.

and light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

pray for one another and our country please…

Afternoon to Barbaro’s Wonderful family!

It did rain in CA at last!!! The air smells so fresh. Makes me think of spring and pretty little flowers growing…

Take care family…Hope you all have a fun Valentine’s Day!

(((HUGS))))
ooxoxo
carleen in ca

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BARB AZ !!!!!

Good morning all. A calm morning here, a bit cold and overcast.
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY everyone. May you all enjoy a day of love.
##Robyn, thinking of you in warm AZ.
##Barb AZ, Happy Birthday, I hope you have a fantastic day.
##Carleen, wishing you a day of day of love.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY TO EACH AND ALL OF YOU…HORSES, FURBABIES AND WILDLIFE…

with love, prayers, and respect…

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you.
Much love to all.

Morning, Everyone…

*HAPPY HEARTS DAY* !!! 🙂

On the fly here this a.m., our water will be turned off in about an hour…for maybe as many as three…and I’ve thought of all sorts of things to do, which require running water!!

Here’s Joe for today:

Happy Valentine’s Day… Easy to love these longer days. Supper feeding can now begin at 4:00 instead of 3:00. The rain wasn�t much, blankets came off, and every horse on our ranch needs a bath. We have mosquitoes the size of a Hungry Man Dinner. Biggest mosquitoes I�ve ever seen. If you want to know if spring is coming early, just watch our mares. When our older gals begin cycling, spring will be here soon. Instead of Groundhog Day there should be Thoroughbred Mare day. We currently have squealing and stampedes. Neighbors quickly put out their For Sale signs.

So while my new fancy phone does everything but laundry, and while a new starving gelding puts his face in a bucket of grains, and while mares flirt with could care less geldings, I was on the road meeting a family wanting a fresh from the track horse. The daughter is 17, and she tells me wait here. Okay. I�m standing next to their vegetable garden, and there are old zucchini from last year. I can hear The Today Show coming from their house. There is a cute brown barn surrounded by pine trees. Steam from a hot tub next to an empty swimming pool. An older golden retriever decides to have a nap at my feet.

Each new home I visit, I always wonder could I live here? With this place there is no doubt. Not only could I live here, I would never leave. Does Papa Murphy�s deliver? And lets get some water in that pool.

The daughter comes out of the barn leading a beautiful black thoroughbred mare. She is a giant. The mare is 17.2 hands, with no markings. The daughter asks: Do you remember her?

Oh man. That�s Music, who we rescued from a feed lot in early 2009. A few months later Music was adopted. I asked the daughter: How did you get her?

Since leaving our ranch in 2009, it seems Music has had three different homes. Last summer the daughter bought Music from a dressage trainer in Grass Valley. And by the way, her name is no longer Music. She now goes by Hannah.

The daughter let Hannah loose in a big round pen to play. The daughter tells me: We went to a dressage show in October and Hannah was awesome. We do trail rides with my best friend and her gelding. Hannah loves that gelding. My mom said I can get a track horse to rehab. Hannah would have a friend, and I can continue to learn.

On Sunday the daughter and Hannah said hello to an injured gelding from a race track. He is 17 hands. The daughter phones to say she has two giants in her barn. Yesterday the family vet came over, and the new gelding is now on a rehab schedule. The daughter has yet to decide on a name for her gelding, but it will have something to do with Valentine. Maybe Heart. Maybe Valentino, or Val for short.

Lots of folks have discovered the rewards of rehab. If you have room for one more horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. These horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.

It is Tuesday, and my computer has turned into a jet plane. Set the new fancy phone next to the computer, and Wi-Fi takes over. Who knew this kind of stuff was going on? Apparently everyone in the world but me.

Enjoy your chocolate goes on sale tomorrow Tuesday, and be sure to hug your horses. Cher on the oldies station…

Joe
##

Joe’s rain was ‘not much’ ours was GOOD:) Clouds tend to ‘stack up’ against the Sierras up the hill and stay awhile longer, drop more precip, too:) So….I’m happy to report, we got good rain from this last storm:)

Joe’s computer has turned into a jet plane with his newbie satellite service…mine, however, is still stuck in the ‘experimental stages’ of aviation:( Thank you AT&T…NOT;:/

Everyone have a SWEET day today:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

A most special Happy St. Valentine’s Day to all!
Lots of hugs and kisses to all my four-legged pals out there, too!

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, paws, and hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

And always IN LOVING MEMORY of FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, FOB MURPHY, BELOVED ACE, FOB PRINCESS, and SO MANY MANY MORE – their very special hearts shall never be separated from yours – the bond is there forever….

And prayers always especially for those walking the particularly rugged path just now.

ROBYN – Keep an eye on those lizards out there!!! 🙂

Hugs and Love to all!
always, Lou Ann

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY too my FOB’s family. ACD and ACN to all!

two giants in her barn! Just love Joe.

##Good morning all. A cloudy damp morning here in the North. Some rain on the way so they say.
##Debbie LA, I concur, Joe is something else again.
##LouAnn, your rememberances of our precious four legged ones is always touching.
##BobbieB. ACD to you. I sure hope you’re feeling better and stronger.

##Today’s news out of the middle east is pretty scarey. As our Joan always posts, “pray for our country” and I add pray for our world.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

OTTB great story

You will love this, our Wendy took pictures. and Ollie and toby or OTTB.

Good Wednesday Morning, Everyone….

I’m so excited…I am having a difficult time figuring out how to write this…how to begin, I mean:)

Today…This day, thirty-eight years ago….a little colt was born in KY…some called him an ‘ugly duckling’….but he grew up to be ‘hansum’ and more than that, he grew up to become one of America’s FINEST ATHLETES..heck, he was one of this WORLD’S FINEST ATHLETES….

HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN HEAVEN, *SEATTLE SLEW*!! 🙂 I hope your day is all and more in the ‘fun department’ and ‘food department’ you are hoping and wishing for there at Heaven’s Gate Farm today!! 🙂 I love you, *MR. C. ATTLE SLEW*!!!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

and againnn, Good Wednesday Morning, Everyone:)

We had clouds here this a.m., it was gray outdoors and a bit ‘chillsey’ but not too bad…that was about an hour ago…and now:) it’s clearing up…sun is shining…and we also got another little bit of rain, too:) Snow was falling ‘up-country’ last night, too!! Wheeeee!!

Stuff doing here today, so I’ll get right to Joe:

Wednesday, February 15th… So much going on, and someday soon I want to write about a young lady in Vacaville who saves quarter horses and paints from slaughter in Mexico. I could go on and on about Tim and Lindsey, and how they have opened their ranch to disabled kids. Our friend Aubrey has started a new program, helping horse loving kids from poor families with food and clothes. Sheldon gives free transport to any horse from a bad situation to a good situation. Nikki works in a busy restaurant, and many nights she makes over a hundred dollars in tips. Nikki is donating an entire month of earnings to help a starving thoroughbred gelding.

I could tell you about a loose horse, and how he threw an all night party and trashed our barn. Or how another horse kicked a water pipe, and then asked himself why is my paddock flooding? In the near future I want to write about a gelding in terribly neglected condition, and we discovered he was a major star at the race track. I could write about a thoroughbred ranch near Los Angeles that is adopting our Tb Kids program. And I want to share with you a letter from a high school student, and the love she has for her once broken down mare. But now the mare moves like Hope Solo on that dancing show.

I have little notes next to my computer. For several months I have been staring at the note which says �Tough�

He is a little chestnut gelding brought to us last year by Animal Control. The lady said his name is Tough. He is part quarter horse, part your guess is as good as mine. Tough is close to 30 years old. He is swayback. Hardly any teeth. Daily I mix Tough a large bucket of soft grains. Tough has gained 50 or 60 pounds. I am addicted to him. First thing each morning I go see how Tough is doing. He waits for my visit. From far off I can see Tough watching for me. Fresh from the track horses could care less if I�m around. Many prefer I not be around. But Tough depends on me. He likes his chest rubbed. His eyes rubbed. Tough often goes to sleep when I massage his neck.

I wrote Tough on a little note next to my computer for inspiration. I can stress over photos not loading, dog poop in our hallway, or hustling with chores because I have someplace to be. None of those things have earth shattering importance. I often put chores and making sure I catch the latest episode of Modern Family way above things which matter most. Such as an elderly swayback gelding waiting in the dark for my arrival. Tough is my reminder to get things done. Embrace a new day. Look at the note which says �Tough� and I can�t wait to go outside.

And so yeah, all of those subjects like Tim and Lindsey, Aubrey, Sheldon, and a flooded paddock. They can wait for other mornings. Today I wanted to share with you my old friend Tough. He always gives me that good to be alive feeling. No better gift in the world…

Joe
##

🙂 Warms your heart, yes??? Yes!!! Good for *TOUGH* and good for *JOE* too:)

Everyone have a ‘dine&fandy;’ Wednesday!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

##Debbie LA, what a great story and so inspirational for OTTB’s everywhere. Thank you for posting it and the picture by Wendy was poignant. She captured the essence of the bond between these two.

Judy

###
Happy, Happy Birthday Seattle Slew…and hope you are celebrating with all of your heavenly frens.

hope all is well with the Barbaro family…pray for our nation, each other and especially ALL of our rescues.

please..do not forget them..and report any and all neglect and abuse.

alot going on with horse rescues and dogs and cats threads..

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens…and a couple more for our dear fren….Seattle Slew.

###
Happy, Happy Birthday Seattle Slew…and hope you are celebrating with all of your heavenly frens.

hope all is well with the Barbaro family…pray for our nation, each other and especially ALL of our rescues.

please..do not forget them..and report any and all neglect and abuse.

alot going on with horse rescues and dogs and cats threads..

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens…and a couple more for our dear fren….Seattle Slew.

###
Happy, Happy Birthday Seattle Slew…and hope you are celebrating with all of your heavenly frens.

hope all is well with the Barbaro family…pray for our nation, each other and especially ALL of our rescues.

please..do not forget them..and report any and all neglect and abuse.

alot going on with horse rescues and dogs and cats threads..

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens…and a couple more for our dear fren….Seattle Slew.

Debbie,
I just read the story about Alex and her gentle horse that jumps!!! There is always something more any horse can do to help us…Thanks for sharing.

oxxo
carleen in ca

Good morning all. A snowy wet morning here in the North. Rain to replace the snow later today.
##Seattle Slew, I forgot to wish you happy birthday, so Happy Birthday.
##Robyn, safe travels home today, hope your stay was informative as well as relaxing.
##BobbieB. ACD to you fren
##Dee, please cast your lovely rainbows to all those walking the rugged path.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Morning, Everyone….and Happy *FRIDAY EVE* ….

Some of you may have tomorrow off, too? and others will for certain enjoy Monday off…celebrating “Presidents Day” here in the USA!

Clear/cold here this a.m., but nothing so bad the mint green blob and a pr of good slippers can’t handle:) Birdies are busy at the feeders and I assume the squirrels, too..though I didn’t see on of them while outdoors with my first sips of coffee.

Slept late this morning! Late nights equal later starts in the mornings for me and Little Lucy, too:)

Here’s Joe for today:

UPDATE, Wednesday Afternoon… I asked for help with unwanted race horses, and your response has been incredible. I wrote about the rewards of rehabbing an injured race horse, and several barns are excited to get started.

I am on the road early tomorrow morning. If you have room for one more horse, give me a call at 530-383-2120. The horse world is a small world. We don’t visit every possible new home. Often there are references to rely on.

I will return to this website Friday morning, to share with you life from a cold and windy horse ranch in Woodland. Finding homes for horses our top priority. Thank you for making this possible.
##

So good to read that so many have stepped-up to help horses in need! Good, all the way around…horses get needed help and hoomans end up with happiness they weren’t expecting….bonds forming, bones/muscles healing…such a good thing:)

Debbie: I did get to read the article you posted here, too…and I loved it! Thanks for linking for us:)

Bobbie: I hope you’re getting better and better, I miss you when you don’t check in…and imagine all this Family does, too.

Everyone have a good day today….

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

A happy good day to you all ,

I have been absent a couple days , not feeling so go hot ,so to speak , under the weather …

I had a birthday on the 12th , a couple days ago , and not to say it was bad — but I can’t remember a worse one , lying immobile and unable to go out and feast on a great dinner !

But there is good news too , for yesterday I got up , on my own with no walker assistance , and crept around the kitchen — hunk said I looked like a morph of Walter Brennen and a crab …lol ,
It might not even be what you recognize as walking , holding onto counters , etc., but baby , after 5 months of immobility , I felt like I was running the marathon — it was great ! !
so I’m really , really on the mend now , and I must email my doctor and tell him — his nurse called here yesterday ( before I walked ) and said I hadn’t been in touch enough ! It’s irritating but I suppose at least he is thinking of me ?

So that’s my good news , and I hope you have something good happen to you today too …

All your good wishes have meant so much to me throughout this ordeal and I hold you all so dear … so bye now and make it a good day . BB

##BobbieB., Happy belated birthday wishes to you. So happy to hear that you’re feeling a bit better. Just don’t over do it, ok?

Judy

###
please do not forget to call, fax, email…and read the db and help in any way possible…and report neglect, and abuse..please

and light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

and always thank you Alex.

Bobbie…A very Happy and belated Birthday to you!
It’s good to hear you are improving, be it ever so slow…improvement is a Great thing!!!

Next year you will have that special dinner at a nice resturant and you can look back to say “Boy I’m glad I took baby steps to get me here!”

Joan, I’m right there with you in prayers for our precious equine and other four legged family members.

Take care dear family members…

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY)))
oxoox
carleen in ca

Hiya, FsOB! It is lovely to be back on the banks of the Thames once more. There is a rat-tat-tatting of raindrops on the tops of the bay windows that front our home office.

While I was in Arizona, I enjoyed watching the Westminster Dog Show on TV. The State of Arizona celebrated its 100th birthday during my visit, but I was too busy at the conference that I was attending. It would’ve been cool to attend the ceremony at the State Capitol.

Has everyone see that Stonestreet Farms is having a contest, to solicit names for Rachel Alexandra’s foal? I’ve sent a suggestion in and shall keep my fingers crossed.

Brent & I just saw the last 20 minutes of “The Black Stallion”. That was a very heart-warming film. And now I’ll bid everyone “ACN” on this Friday Eve evening. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: I thought of you when I saw the beautiful rainbow at the end of “The Black Stallion”.
To Bobbie B: So you share a birthday with Honest Abe Lincoln? What an honour! I was thrilled to read that you were able to get up and have some locomotion around your kitchen. This is truly wonderful news, Bobbie! ####

ACN boy, I miss the day.

Sweet dreams my friend, gone to bed!

Hiya, FsOB! A hearty TGIF on this misty, “Lost in the Fog” Friday morning. The Thames has a fog rising from its surface. It’s enough to make me want to head upstairs for a cup of Twining’s English Breakfast tea!

Wishing all of you “ACD”. Please be sure to check out the Twitpic that Alex has posted above, showing Union Rags. And don’t forget to send in your suggestion for the name of Rachel Alexandra’s foal. I believe that all suggestions are due by e-mail to Stonestreet Farm before the 19th. Peace, Robyn

#### To Debbie LA: I miss those hopeful days of “ACN”, too!
To Bobbie B: Wishing you renewed strength. Perhaps you are ready for some physical therapy to help with your ambulation? ####

##Good morning all. A partial cloudy this morning with the sun tipping the clouds with white silver.
##Robyn, TGIF to you and welcome home. I loved reading the Black Stallion novels in my youth. Anything related to horses was always checked out first thing on trips to the library but those were my favourites.
##BobbieB. ACD to you fren and perhaps a few more steps.
##Debbie LA, I too miss those words every day.
##Alex, loved the poster of War Horse, will have to see if I can locate one here.

Have a safe day and weekend, yippeeee a long one at that.

Judy

##Lynne, you are MIA with Joe….hope all is ok..

Judy

Good ‘Morning’ (I know..it’s noon in the eastwing!)

I just ‘tellya’, I have gotten into a habit of being up late…and then:/ I sleep late! Which is fine, really, I mean I have no one ‘grading me’ on my sleep habits here…it’s just out of my ‘norm’ is all:)

Happy *FRIDAY* Everyone!!

And to those of you who get Monday off..then Happy *THREE-DAY-WEEKEND* too:)

Alex: I also loved the War Horse poster and wondered if I might approach our local theater to see about how to get one, too….but then…I wondered WHERE COULD I HANG IT?? It is kinda large…I wonder if maybe at Amazon.com, they might offer a smaller version..I’ll see about that!

Nothing much to report this morning from our Foothills…and a quiet weekend ahead for us, which is always a good thing:)

You all saw my post re: Slew’s Birthday here on Wednesday….and on Facebook, I posted too..and there, I posted a photo I found on-line of him racing ‘somewhere’ in full stride:) and noticed right away, his #8 saddle blanket was black and not pink???? It got me wondering when the blanket colors were changed and why….so, I did some ‘esplorin’ y’day afternoon….I couldn’t find much, though…so I ended up on the Jockey Club’s website and sent an email to them asking…turns out the Jockey Club has nothing whatosever to do with colors of racing blankets..was I embarrassed? YES! But the lady who responded was awfully nice and suggested a couple websites for me to check out…Well, I came up with nada there, too….So, I remembered Mike Cozzi…do yole remember Mike posting here somtimes? Mike does a radio program at Robinhood Radio in CT called the ‘Furlong & Short of It.’

You might remember, he wrote here about a horse named *BRASS HAT* a number of years ago…? I had his email address, so sent him a query and by golly-Molly…he had the answer for me! Turns out the blanket colors were set/changed in late 80’s or early 90’s to “make it easier for fans to follow horses, the old school way was to know your horses’ silk colors and follow it that way”…Taaaa-Daaaaa!! I got my answer thanks to someone I’d NEVER have known of if not for *BARBARO*!! 🙂

Alright then…and here’s Joe (someone ELSE I’d never known of if not for our BBH) for Friday:

Friday, February 17th… A big special Thank You to Cherrie Bryant. Nikki Hodge. Kara Shields. Judy Smith. Patti Lu. Aubrey Taylor. Jennifer Wright. Sarah McDowell. Several others who don�t want their names shown. The many ways you help both horses and humans. You are rock stars.

To the families. Trainers at lesson barns. Two owners of fancy barns. A 4-H Club. Members of a Scout Troop. A riding club in Sacramento. Two volleyball players and their coach. All saying sure, send us an injured race horse to rehab, or a starving horse to feed.

I know there are dozens of places with available horses that need help. Or you can just look on the internet, any hour of the day, and see free horses in bad shape. Your choices are never ending. I am very grateful for your help with unwanted and injured thoroughbreds. A major life changing commitment. And with that commitment comes a feeling like no other.

I am off to meet two of you this morning, and to set up transportation on your new horse. Remember, we don�t visit every single possible new home. References are fine and dandy.

Still dark, with delicious hot coffee from Peets. Stale shortbread cookies made by Keebler. Later we could be 65 degrees. Have a happy weekend. We are on a roll. A momentum. Thank you for making this possible.

Joe
##

Soooo, My Family….I hope everyone has a good ‘rest of Friday’ and a great weekend, too!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

One more thing, Family….

If yole might wish to listen, Mike’s program can be heard over a live podcast at:

www.robinhoodradio.com ….just copy/paste that into your browser…not sure what time he’s on each day but info will be there at the website:)

OK…now…I MUST go refresh the kiddds seed dishes or soon, they’ll be ripping the siding off my house!!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Robyn , thanks for your good wishes and the doctor has ordered a course of physical therapy for me , I have just been putting it off until I become a little more active on my feet so I can get in and out of my house easier … it’s mainly just for convenience , but I think I’ll start fairly soon now.

Judy , thank you also , and take care up there in the cold , brrrr … it’s so warm here that I’m sitting here in a tank top … but I do like a little winter and cold sometimes so I’m jealous of ya jistalittle.
bye now , everyone have a good evening / night .

Hiya, FsOB! It’s a bright new Monday dawning here on the banks of the Thames. Actually, it is very bright by 7 AM these days. The daylight is lengthening on both ends by this part of February. Looking out, I realize why I awoke before 5:30 – there is now a tanker docked just across the river!

Please take a look at this month’s issue of “Town & Country” (Olivia Wilde is pictured on the cover). There is a nice story about a Hunt Club and Lucy Matz, Michael’s Matz’s 13-year old daughter, is mentioned. Her horse’s name is Finesse. Isn’t that a great name? Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Rainbows to you!
To Bobbie: Best wishes as you continue your road to full ambulation.
To Judy: Did you like the Flambards series of novels by K.M. Peyton? ####

Joe at TB Friends

Joe at TB Friends

Good Morning, Everyone;)

Yes..I know…it’s a bit past noon in the eastwing but I had ‘things doing’ here earlier and just now fired up the puder! Being a ‘secretary lady’ for my sweet neighbor whose wife passed away in December…he gets a little bit ‘flustered’ with ‘secretary’ chores, so I help him out whenever he asks:)

I see Joe is working today…’cause Debbie has blue-linked it and I’ll copy/paste for those who can’t access the website in a little bit:)

Happy Holiday Monday for anyone not at work today! I hope your day is lovely in all ways possible:)

We’ve got ‘teaser clouds’ here this a.m., no rain will fall from them…just not bright/sunny is all:(

Not much on the agenda for today which is fine by me:)

Bobbie: I do hope you’ll be able to begin the PT sessions soon, I think they’ll help you get moving better…I’m always so glad to see you here, so pls don’t be a stranger…and I hope you’ll be fit as a fiddle very soon, Bobbie!

OK..here’s Joe:

Monday, February 20th… These are difficult times for horses, and it is important to recognize those doing their best to help. I am continually amazed (and impressed) with their determination. Inspiring for sure:

Jodi Tuft, Dixon, Ca.
Jennifer Branch, Vacaville, Ca.
Nikki Hodge, Vacaville, Ca.
Lynn Albright, Sacramento
Holly Meeks, Sacramento
Jennifer Wright, Elk Grove, Ca.
Maddie Johnson, Loomis, Ca.
Patti Lu, Benicia, Ca.
Hope, Davis, Ca.
Sheldon, Sacramento
Ingrid, El Cajon, Ca.
Mallory, Roseville, Ca.
Amy, Redding, Ca.

Maybe it�s because we�ve had a winter with little rain, and there are no mud issues. Prospective new homes are keeping us busy. Owners and trainers from California race tracks discovering Tb Friends is having moderate success finding homes for unwanted thoroughbreds. I have to recharge my new fancy phone at least twice a day. E-mails with pictures of race horses, and with most there is a deadline. No pun intended.

If you have room for one more horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. Tell me what you are looking for and who knows, he or she might be in my phone. The majority of these horses come from race tracks, but there are also several from private owners. All horses are free, and we can set up transportation.

I am continually asked, why do we play the numbers game? Why not concentrate on strong and healthy, and forget about the weak and injured? I literally have thousands of tales about horses given up for dead, only to come back and be useful. Many have gone on to be stars in the event world. For more than a month on this website, I have been showing photos of horses adopted from our ranch. In the beginning most had problems. But now they are cherished by their owners, and it can�t get any better than that.

I turned 60 last August, but no worries, I look 75. When you hit 60 things are different. I have to start planning for the day I can no longer operate our ranch. I am slowed by physical problems. Gasoline prices are on their way up, which is going to raise hay prices, grain prices, and just getting by is just getting old. I wish I was 30 again. I also wish Costco would bring back those yummy chicken pot stickers.

So it would be beyond amazing if we could make 2012 a record year for adoptions. A final hee haw. We are starting off decent. But I want better than decent. I want fireworks and pizza. A huge party on the streets of Woodland. We should probably begin raising bail money.

Have a happy Monday. They say maybe a little rain�

Joe
##

“Final Hee-Haw”??? Final?! I hope NOT…i.e., 2012 being TB Friend’s last year, I mean.. 🙁 Hay is already $20.00 a bale here in my area…I shudder to think of how much higher it might go…and when I got gas last Friday for Katie…I paid $3.99.9 a gallon:/ chaps mai hide to say the least, these gas prices up here in ‘God’s Country’! I bet by today, it’s over $4.00 a gallon, already:/

Alright…off I get now…see yole later here or in the morning…

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Good afternoon all. A bright sky filled with sunshine but cold
##Lynne, I too hope 2012 is not the end of TB. That’s downright too hard to grasp.
#Robyn, I missed that series but just googled it and would have loved them I’m sure.
##BobbieB, ACD and I too hope you’ll be able to start the physio soon.

Have a wonderful day everyone.

Judy

Well hey everybody !
I’m so glad to feel well enough to be here … but pls excuse typos ,etc , this time — cause I don’tknow how long I have this puter …

My mood has been elevated today by the 60* sunny weather — very springlike and cheerful … my daffys are growing – the green is up and I can see a bulge at top which I suspect is yellow , lol, but I’m looking out window and can’t go out closer …

Walking is about the same – still dot and go one , but I am getting stronger – love you for your boosting me along through this bleak time –
see ya soon again I hope , bye now , BB

A daffodil update … ?

hunk has just informed me that we indeed have daffys in full bloom – on the other side of the house where I cannot see during my ‘unfortunate
incarceration ‘ of houseboundedness — are any of the preceding real words ? ? bye now again , BB

LOL…

Bobbie: ‘houseboundedness’ I vote for it to be a ‘reelwerd’!! 🙂 Dang…wouldn’t you know…they bloom on the opposite side of your houseboundedness:/ Well…maybe you can make it there to see them through a window? is that a possibility? If not..then ask that hunk of yours to take a photo and bring it to you:)

Clouds have given way to hazy skies now…more sun but the ‘hazy-kind’ which isn’t that crystal clear blue sky/yellow ball kind:( it’s the ‘duddy’ kind. Well…since I’ve no control of what sort of sunshine we get…I’ll just take it and shut-up! 🙂

Hope yole are having a good day….

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

####
today is President’s Day…hope all of you have enjoyed some of your day or if a holiday all day.

please remember our rescues…our country…and call, fax, email..please.

please always…read the db…and help in anyway possible..please…so much is needed.

please report any abuse,neglect…and do report it.

light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

and always thank you Alex.

Gosh, Lynne, I wondered the same thing when I read Joe today. I can totally relate to what he is saying and but when I read last hee haw my heart sank.

Gosh, Lynne, I wondered the same thing when I read Joe today. I can totally relate to what he is saying and but when I read last hee haw my heart sank.

Hiya, FsOB! To borrow Alex’s term, I am totally knackered and that is not a good thing on a Monday night…. It looked like such a wonderfully sunny day whenever I would turn to look out the window at work. And the daylight is definitely lingering more with each passing day, so I am truly grateful for that!

I’ll be on pins & needles until Stonestreet Farms releases the name for Rachel Alexandra’s foal. What a frisky foal, from the video link shown on the stable’s Web site.

Wishing all here “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Judy: I should see if Netflix carries the Flambards series, which I saw on PBS years ago.
To Lynne: Let’s hope that Joe Shelton can keep on keeping on for many more years!
To Bobbie: I hope that Gene can take a picture of your daffodils, or perhaps cut a few and bring them indoors to brighten your Tuesday. I keep you in my thoughts, Bobbie.
To Liz and Lou Ann: I was absolutely enchanted by the final episode of Season Two of “Downton Abbey”. Beautifully done! Most feature films lack the attention to detail and the superb acting that is demonstrated in this series. It made my Sunday evening! ####

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, paws, and hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

Oh my goodness, I think I missed last week completely, yikes!!!

And just dashing in now for a moment but oh it always does my heart good to be here.

BOBBIE B. – So sorry I missed your birthday; and oh but such wonderful news about you venturing around your kitchen!! Go Bobbie!!!!

Happy Belated Birthday also to our BARB in AZ!!

JOAN R. – The doxies send you many woofs and snuggles!! 🙂

Prayers always for those walking the especially rugged path just now, and always hugs, too.

And always IN LOVING MEMORY of FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MURPH, FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, DEAR ACE, FOB PRINCESS, FOB FELIX, and so many many more . . . .

Snowdrops continue here; first clump of daffodils have appeared in a sunny spot – buds still very tight, and the pussy willow tree is very full with catkins high at the top – of course, where I can’t reach, aargh!!!
I’ve already started a “to do” list with a few things to do out there already.

Behind with e-mails but don’t give up on me!

Hugs and Love, always,
Lou Ann

Hiya, FsOB! A sunny new day has dawned here on the banks of the Thames. The rising sun is glinting off the cross atop one of the church steeples across the river, in New London. And the 7:00 AM train whistle sounds its greeting. May each of you have “ACD”. Alex, thank you for all that you do to maintain this site! Peace, Robyn

#### To Lou Ann: This unusually mild Winter is causing many of the Springtime perennials to think that we are closer to Spring than the calendar says. I hope that the plants are correct!
To Bobbie: May some of those NC daffodils greet your eyes for a feast today. ####

##Good morning all. A frosty morning but the sun is shining brightly through wispy clouds.
##BobbieB, wow daffy’s already, how lucky you are. I do hope you get to see them to brighten your day. Sending you ACD wishes too.
##LouAnn, you too daffy’s, not here yet. I do hope like Robyn says I hope the flowers are right.
##Robyn, I caught a snippit or so of Downtown Abbey and it reminded me of a series many years ago called Upstairs Downstairs. That was a wonderful series.

Have a safe everyone.

Happy Mardi Gras! Fat Tuesday! the sun is out for the first time in days.
Let the good times roll!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Good ‘Toosdae’ Morning, Everyone:)

Debbie: Fat Tuesday! Gosh, time is flying…ENJOY!! 🙂

This morning, it’s a bit warmer outdoors..clouds crept in o’night..no precip in them againnnn:/ and for the most part they seem to be breaking up…might be another ‘hazy/sunshine’ day today here in our foothills.

Daffodils…Yole might remember me writing here of the forty my daughter planted last October out front of my big side yard…no rain to speak of all winter long, we both wondered if they’d actually show up…Well:) we’ve counted 21 peeking through and y’day, the FIRST bloom opened! Wheeeee:) Not at all unusual for daffodils to be blooming here in February..it’s actually the month they do bloom, here:)

Mr. Clay got busy with another project y’day, so I’ll be looking for the ‘whites of his eyes’ again later on this morning for that ‘Secretary Lady’ job he wants done. Tomorrow, he must be away from home all day long and we’re going to try, again, introducing Sammi to Lucy, in hopes Sammi might open her ‘googie heart’ to some fun times across the street at Aunty Lynne’s house!

Clay brought Sammi over for the second half of the Niners/Giants playoff game….Lucy, at first was like…WTH??!!! But in no time at all, she was ready to play…Sammi, not sew much, thank yew anyway:( Seymoure came running from wherever he’d been when he realized his old pal was in da house…Seymoure did everything he could think of to entice Sammi from the safety of her father’s lap, all to no avail…for the first fifteen minutes…then, he came zooming/tumbling across the living room floor and Sammi could stand it no longer…down she jumped and just as the ‘fun times would roll’ so did Lucy…that squelched it and I wish I had a pic of Seymoure’s face, too! He was looking at her like…’Geeze my sister…go away and let me play!’ LOL! Maybe tomorrow the three of them can ‘rumble together’ and then, Miss Sammi won’t have to be home alone anymore if/when her daddy must be away!

Here’s Joe for today:

Tuesday, February 21st… He wasn�t much of a race horse. A tall chestunt gelding with lots of white, he won a race in 2009. Later he hurt a tendon and that was it. His trainer made plans for the gelding to be sold at a livestock auction in Turlock. You can easily imagine his fate. An exercise rider at the track convinced the trainer to send him to us. We had to pay $200.00 plus shipping. Such a deal. The gelding�s sire is City Zip, so on our ranch we began calling him Zipper.

It didn�t take long for the tendon to heal. There was the day our little friend Allison climbed aboard Zipper, rode him around our yard, down our driveway, down the street and out of sight. Allison phoned and said don�t worry, they would be home later. Zipper was having a ball.

Five months after coming to us, Zipper found a new home with an event barn near San Francisco. And shockingly enough, his name stayed the same. The majority of horses adopted immediately have their names changed. Which makes it difficult to remember the horse. Phone calls saying Hank is doing great. That�s wonderful. But who is Hank?

Zipper remained Zipper, and as a jumper he blossomed. The trainer wrote to say Zipper had become the barn favorite.

In early January the trainer phoned to say her barn was closing down. 2012 insurance costs were going to double. Hay and grain prices through the roof. The trainer tells me 7 horses need new homes, including Zipper. The trainer didn�t want to advertise on the internet. Can Tb Friends do the screening?

On February 4th Zipper returned to our ranch. My crazy work days, and I wasn�t able to spend much time with him. But I could tell, he is still the same Zipper. Happy, smart, and playful with other horses.

Debbie and her daughter Claire had come to see us about a week before Christmas. Claire is 14, and she has been going to once a week riding lessons. Claire tells me she is ready for her first horse. She wants a gelding, she wants tall, and she wants to jump. Claire especially wants sane. I said okay, and put Claire�s information on a piece of paper next to my computer.

February 6th I was at my day job, earning the big bucks, saving up for a gallon of gas. And it hit me. Zipper is perfect for that kid Claire who came to see us in December.

I came home and phoned Claire and her mom Debbie. Claire said sorry, but since she didn�t hear back from me right away, she found another horse on the internet. Claire rode the horse and really likes him. Debbie and Claire made an offer, and they are waiting to hear back from the owners.

February 8th I was at my day job, earning the big bucks, saving up for bingo night at the community center. Clair phones from school and says her offer on the other horse has been declined. Can she come see Zipper?

February 11th Claire and Zipper meet for the first time. Claire rides Zipper around our yard and doesn�t say much. I later hear Claire tell Debbie, he is such a nice horse mom. Of all the horses we�ve looked at, I like him the best. But I�m afraid to ask what the price is.

Of course this is my cue. I ask Claire and Debbie, how many horses have you looked at?

8 or 10. Lots of horses on the internet aren�t what they are advertised as.

You got a dollar on you?

Claire says yes.

Zipper is one dollar. If later down the road he is not working out for you, please bring him back.

February 19th on my fancy new phone. An e-mail from Claire who writes: My mom and I are mailing you a donation for Tb Friends. Thank you Joe for my dream horse. He settled in great and my trainer loves him. I will you send you pictures. I changed his name to Blue.

Blue? Really? Oh man�

Joe
##

🙂 Zipper has become Blue now…well, that made me think of all the rescues…equine, feline and canine, too…I have wondered from time to time what Lucy’s name was before I met her…seems like all the animals are open to new names…and learn pretty quickly to respond to them:) I guess they don’t mind as long as we don’t call them ‘late for dinner’ 🙂 I made a pun…I know…not the best pun ever, but I’ve not finished my coffee yet, either! 🙂

Everyone have a good day today….

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Do you eventually get somewhere if you keep taking two steps forward and one step back ? ?
That’s what I’m doing in my so – called recovery , lol ,

after a mostly ‘ bare’ looking winter in my house , I am now comforted by three lovely flower arrangements !!
I had a birthday , and valentine’s , and friends visiting , etc . , so

I will have the hunk bring in daffodils probably the end of this week , when my embarassment (sp) of riches in flowers has faded away …. the b’day ones are dropping petals now – but how lovely they were !

Lynne , I can visualize Lucy , Seymoure , and Sammi in your living room ! Playing can be such fun , and havoc too ! , especially when Sammi gets more comfortable …

a happy day wish to Judy , Robyn , Louann , and all others who send me get well toughts — I send my best wishes right backatcha – and I appreciate you much — very muchly ! ! bye now , BB

###
please call, fax, email…read the db and help in any way..possible.

pray for one another and our country…

and light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

thank you Alex..

Hello Frens, there is an update on the Pennsylvania fraudulent horse rescue case. If anyone can blue link this, it would be appreciated.

www.paulickreport.com/index.php/news/ray-s-paddock/kelsey-lefever-arraignment-scheduled-april-19/

Margieeeeee….

W/try here for yew:)

FRAUDULENT PA HORSE RESCUE CASE UPDATE

Barbaro’s Forever Friend

Margieeeeeeeee!!!

Itwerked!itwerked:)

Lynneeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Hiya, FsOB! The tapping of rain is hitting against the tops of the bay windows that face the Thames. I just finished starting a pot of minestra for the next few nights’ supper. That’ll be nice to have, because the rains may stick with us for the next day or so.

My thanks to Lynne for blue-linking the excerpt from the Paulick Report on behalf of Margie. This story outlines re. the case involving Kelsey Lefever in PA. Whenever I read about someone young, especially a woman, committing such a soul-less act, I am chilled to the bone. I have to remind myself of the Cherokee adage about grandfather (or elder) telling the story about the two wolves. Our FOB Hariette shared it here on at least several occasions.

May we all rise to seize the new day and remember to “feed the good wolf”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie: May Weds. be a “two steps forward” sort of day for you, one filled with daffodils!
To Debbie LA: Great seeing you here today, Debbie. “Laissez le bon temps roulez!”
To Lynne: Clay is so fortunate that you are his neighbour. I hope that Sammi can enjoy more play-dates at your home.
To Judy: Yes, I see many similarities between “Downton Abbey” & “Upstairs, Downstairs”. Did you see the film “Gosford Park”? Julian Fellowes directed it; he currently directs “DA”.
To Jane: I miss seeing you here and hope that all is well. ####

Hiya, FsOB! The Thames has a languidly serene upward flow on this Weds. morning. The 7 AM train is sounding its whistle now as it approaches New London, heading north to Boston.

I can’t wait to learn what name has been selected for Rachel Alexandra’s foal, can you? Alex, thanks again for all you do to maintain this site and the Comments Board.

May each of you have “ACD”, especially our FOB Bobbie in NC. Peace, Robyn

##Good morning all. The sun is tipping the clouds varying shades of pink and gold making for a fantastic skyline this morning. Icy driving but mild temps on the way.
##Robyn, I don’t recall Gosford Park will have to look it up.
##BobbieB. ACD to you fren with another few steps forward.
##Margie NM, so nice to see you here. Hope all is well in your world.
##Jane, I too miss seeing you here and hope all is well.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Morning all..

Just checking in to say “HI”…Hope everyone is
doing great!

Take care!!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S WONDERFUL FAMILY”

carleen in ca

In light of the punishment for the perp in the above mentioned blue link, her sentence has infuriated people. It does seem like she only got a slap on the wrist, but we need to look further.

First, she has MANY animals on her property. If she received a jail sentence, what would happen to all of these animals? Draft horses, pigs, etc.

Second, her name is dirt in the horse community throughout the area. That won’t change anytime soon.

Third, she cannot acquire anymore horses throughout her 2 year probationary period.

Fourth, she is banned for life from ANY employment at a racetrack.

So let’s all pray and hope that this woman will retrain herself, instead of “retraining” horses over the next 2 years, that she learns to make a living somewhere outside of any meat business. It is unfortunate though, that she can still acquire other animals that eventually end up at New Holland.

And also, may people never forget this woman’s name, and if they do come in contact with her, may they, and their 4 leggeds, run as fast as they can.

Morning, Everyone….

Happy Wednesday!

I had really no idea of the story behind my ‘blue-ink-linking’ when I linked it…I was ‘excited’ that I’d somehow retained the process in my feeble brain as I’ve misplaced my ‘cheat-sheet’…after I saw it posted here in blue, I went back to the website and read the story..O.M.G.! I cannot wrap my mind around such a person’s behavior and to borrow a phrase from a photo of billboard outside a Veterinary office after the Michael Vick story broke…

May the fleas of 1,000 dogs invade your crotch Ms. Lefever! (I don’t know if horses get fleas!)

Hopefully, someday, people who betray animals will suffer far greater consequences than they seem to these days!!!

Woke to ‘nearly blue skies’ this earlier morning but now, it seems there are cloud remnants floating over us. We’re told, though, that as this day unwinds warm temps will present…forecast is for low 70’s here today! I MUST water the Lavender pots today! Oh, and btw:) the count for the 40 daffodils planted is up to 28 as of y’day afternoon:)

Clay stopped by earlier on his way out of town…Sammi will be fetched in another couple of hours and don’t we ALL hope it turns out to be a *FUN DAY* for Sammi, here at Aunty Lynne’s house!!

Here’s Joe for this morning:

Wednesday, February 22nd… I keep a daily log. A ranch journal of sorts. I learned a long time ago to write everything down.

Since last September Tb Friends has found new homes for more than 70 thoroughbreds who were owned by others. Horses from race tracks, and horses from private owners. The following is some of the reasons private owners had to give up their horse:

My dad won�t let me drive unless I pay for my own insurance, and I can�t pay for insurance because my horse is too expensive.

My mom was fired for not showing up at work.

I feel no connection to my mare.

I thought I would like being a horse owner. But I hate it.

I have allergies.

My mare is a demon.

My mom said get rid of the horse and I can have a Samsung 4G.

My hay costs just went up again.

He ate my barn.

I am moving away to college in January.

My saddle doesn�t fit her.

I�d rather have a mule.

Our ranch is closing down.

My husband has been jealous of my gelding since day one.

I can�t keep her healthy.

Race track owners and trainers usually get right to the point. The following are reasons race horses needed a new place to live:

He blew out a knee

She has a bad shoulder.

He was bred to be fast, but is slower than my grandma.

His left ankle is busted.

She was abandoned at the race track.

He has a growth in his belly.

You�ll like him Joe. He thinks he�s human.

He bleeds in every race.

Doesn�t want to be a race horse.

She broke down in a race today.

She�s lazy.

It looks like a broken sesamoid but we�re not going to do x-rays.

Her momma couldn�t run either.

He flipped over and needed 8 stitches in his head.

His back is really sore.

And 5 horses with bowed tendons.

All of the above horses have new homes. Some amazing horses in this group. Well trained, well behaved, and stunning to look at.

If you have room for one more horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. These horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we can help with transportation.

Have a happy Wednesday. It feels like spring�

Joe
##

Seriously good thing I’m not residing at a race track…’she’s personable enough, but her kneezzz are terrible!’ LOL…though, honestly, it’s not funny and thank God some at tracks call Joe and don’t just turn away from those horses! As for the private owners….it’s just like dogs and kittehs, too, I guess…people come on hard times or change their focus on important things in their lives…not realizing the truly important things stand before them on four legs!

I hope everyone has a good Wednesday! I’ll write here later on or in the morning, all about ‘Sammi’s Great Adventure’

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
sounds like we are ALL trying to make the most of hump day…

please before the day ends..make those calls, fax and emails…and check out the db…please

and light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

pray for all our family…the family that dwells in the house that Barbaro built…

and our country.

and thank you Alex.

Good Evening, Family….

Well…an update of sorts on the Play Day at Aunty Lynne’s House….

Sammi arrived via Lucy’s ‘big sisster’ around 11a and was all happy/excited about coming up the steps in the front door…I was holding Miss Lucy on my lap on the sofa….Sammi bounded in, took one look at me holding Lucy and dove for cover, under the Queen Anne chair near the entryway, which became her ‘fort’ for most of the rest of today:(

Seymoure came running out to greet her…tried all ways you can imagine and some you can’t, to interest her in a ‘rumble’….nada:(

Lucy allowed ‘bottom-sniffing’ in fact, she almost stood on her head to allow that behavior..”surely she’ll figure out I’m a good kid and wanna play!” but nope:/

A few times, Sammi crept from beneath that chair though….and I suspect if she’d had to stay longer than the five hours she was here, perhaps a playful moment or twelve may have happened….Lucy and Seymoure both tried everyway possible to make her feel welcome so maybe next time, Sammi might be more inclined to give the ‘play time’ a go:)

She was coaxed from beneath the chair for a ‘walka-walka’ outdoors with my daughter….she was coaxed from beneath the chair for some quality time with her Aunty Lynne…all the while Miss Lucy sat in her ‘big sisster’s’ lap…quivering with extreme excitement:( Sammi had a rough go of life the first three years on this Earth…she came from a home with lots of little chilluns who played too rough with her and big doggys who also roughed her up too much…so, she has reason for being so shy and timid…in time…another example of ‘we must exercise patience!’

Lucy is absolutely EXHAUSTED this early evening from her big day of ‘almost a play day’ …LOL! She’s been napping since Sammi left da building!

I hope everyone had a good Wednesday…and I hope your dreams tonight are sweet, too…tomorrow is *FRIDAY EVE*, Family:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! I am knackered once more, or still, and need to call it a night soon. But what an unbelievably balmy night that it is here on the banks of the Thames. Incredibly unseasonable (and I am not complaining)! Wishing all here “ACN” and may we all rise to seize the new day! Peace, Robyn

#### To Carleen: Welcome back, it is great seeing you here!
To Judy: Gosford Park was a great film, one which was nominated for at least a couple of Oscars. I recommend it most highly.
To Margie: Greed is a ghastly thing, is it not? I can only hope that Ms Lefever is shunned by all who are associated with horses in any manner, including the TB racing community.
To Lynne: Too funny, Lucy is so tired after Sammi didn’t play today! Bless Joe Shelton and bless you for linking us to Joe’s daily words of wisdom.
To Dee: I missed seeing you here today, hoping all is well. ####

Just checking with my FOB Family to say I miss you and think of all of you…….hoping all is well with everyone and for those walking the rough road (as our LouAnn often says) Love and Best Wishes…….mile weather here in Connecticut is such a blessing this year………thinking of our Dear Dee and missing her Rainbows!! ACN to everyone and Thank You Alex!!!

Hiya, FsOB! I am running late on this “Friday Eve”, so I must dash. The 7:00 AM train has already sounded its whistle on the other side of the banks of Thames. The river itself is flowing smoothly upriver. Wishing all here “ACD”, especially our dear Bobbie in NC. Peace, Robyn

#### To Jane: Great seeing you here, you’ve been missed by all!
To Dee: May your day be filled with rainbows! ####

##Good morning all. A cloudy misty morning here. Promis of a signifcant snowfall tomorrow, yuck.
##Robyn, I hope your balmy days last. I’ll keep in my to look for Gosford Park.
##Jane, so very good to see you here.
##Lynne, that’s too bad Sammi didn’t want to play but like you said perhaps a few more visits will encourage her to braver.
##Sandra, thinking of you, hope all is well.
##BobbieB., ACD to you fren, a couple of more steps.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Stu And Angel Famblee And Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe……………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Morning, Everyone….

Oh, Mannnnnnn!!! Joe is SO GOOD today, I’m posting him first and talking later!!

Thursday, February 23rd… At the track her name was Elusive Catch, but we called her Buttons. She came to us towards the end of 2008, and was soon adopted. Buttons came back to us a couple of months later, and was adopted again. She returned to us once more, and then found a new home with an event trainer in Davis.

Buttons took to jumping the way I took to cream pies. The event trainer soon had offers of big time money for Buttons. The trainer accepted 15 thousand dollars from a fancy barn in San Diego. Buttons still lives in San Diego, but they have changed her name to Baby Doll.

The event trainer in Davis is a friend, and she felt bad because I gave her a horse and she turned the horse into 15 grand. I told her no big deal, lots of our former horses have been resold for a nice profit. In the good old days anyway. A crappy horse market has kind of put the brakes on all of that.

Still the trainer felt bad and so she made a thousand dollar donation to Tb Friends. I went shopping. At the feed lot in Wilton I gave horse killer Manny Phelps one thousand dollars for 9 starved thoroughbreds. Most were geldings, and they had come from the same ranch. I posted a few photos on this website. Terribly sad for sure.

We had to euthanize one. The other 8 rebounded well, and in the next few months 5 of those 8 were adopted. The remaining 3 still live with us, and they are fine and dandy.

Of those 5 who were later adopted, Kodak was in the most trouble. Almost 17 hands with a racing tattoo, not only was Kodak skin and bones, he was also suffering from bad feet. But each day Kodak showed improvement, and today he is healthy as a horse. We credit our farrier for saving Kodak�s life.

Kodak went to live with a nice family near the ocean, and this past Christmas the family mailed a thousand dollar donation to Tb Friends. I went shopping.

I gave horse killer Wade Giles $850.00 for 6 very neglected thoroughbreds. All 6 are former race horses. Of those 6, one died. Two have been adopted. The remaining 3 still live with us, and they are fine and dandy.

It all began with Buttons. A filly from a race track in the last part of 2008. Buttons is responsible for rescuing 15 horses.

I wrote a letter to the fancy barn in San Diego. I told the owner of Buttons (Baby Doll) the whole story. How the sale of Buttons has helped other horses. The next day I received this reply:

Dear Joe� I showed your letter around our barn. Baby Doll has been receiving extra carrots all day. The girl�s at our barn are taking up a collection. When we reach a thousand dollars we are sending it to you. Have fun on your next shopping trip.

Oh wow. The Button�s legacy goes on and on. What a gal…

Joe
##

Wow! Is that not one of the best-ever??? 🙂 I just LOVE how people respond and horses are saved and go on to new careers and happy times!!

Robyn/Judy: Yes…so disappointing, but in time…I do think Sammi will begin enjoying herself with Lucy…it took four or five visits here before she finally decided Seymoure Kitteh was a buddy…honestly, I think if any two fur-kids can convince Sam it’s o.k., it will be Lucy and her Kitteh-Bruther:) Clay agrees, too.

Clear skies here this morning, the plants all got a hand watering/soaking y’day…winds are supposed to blow like crazy in San Joaquin/Sacramento Valley today….not so much up here, though…that’s good!

Nothing so much noteworthy from my desk this morning but I do hope everyone has a ‘dine&fandy;’ *FRIDAY EVE*…

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
our hearts beat for you Barbaro…and all of your brothers and sisters…and we pray we can stop the barbaric horse slaughter.

please pray for those whom are forced into the tunnel of brutal death.

please call, fax, email…please

and read the db and help.

with escalating gas prices you know our pockets are being crushed…but think about the rescues..can you spare a little for them..please.

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

and thank you Alex

Hiya, FsOB! It is “Friday Eve” evening (also known as Thursday night) here on the banks of the Thames. Lynne was spot on the mark, Joe Shelton’s blog was very heartwarming today.

Alex, I loved the Twitpic which you posted of the TB at Fair Hill. That horse has a very serene gaze. May all of you enjoy “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Thank you for your gift of rainbows!
To Lynne: I agree with Judy, Sammi just needs time. It must have been hard for Sammi to experience Gloria’s passing. ####

Hiya, FsOB! It is “Friday Eve” evening (also known as Thursday night) here on the banks of the Thames. Lynne was spot on the mark, Joe Shelton’s blog was very heartwarming today.

Alex, I loved the Twitpic which you posted of the TB at Fair Hill. That horse has a very serene gaze. May all of you enjoy “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Thank you for your gift of rainbows!
To Lynne: I agree with Judy, Sammi just needs time. It must have been hard for Sammi to experience Gloria’s passing. ####

Hiya, FsOB! It is the antithesis of TGIF here on the banks of the Thames. Why? Because it is SNOWING here! The ground is covered and it is still coming straight down in tiny flakes. I suspect that Jane and Elisabeth will see much more than we shall.

May each of you have “ACD” and a great weekend! Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie: May you feel much stronger today! I hope that Gene has cut some daffodils for you to enjoy in the house.
To Stu: I hope that Steven Spielberg is a winner in the Oscars on Sunday and sends out an acceptance speech that educates the public about horse slaughter. ####

##Good morning from the snowy north. Like Robyn, snow is falling and to continue through the day. Winter is still here.
##Stu, will keep positive thoughts that Mr. Spielberg will speak on our horses behalf.
##Miss Dee, I thank you for the rainbows.
##BobbieB. ACD to you and hope you have some sunny daffodils gracing your space.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Good *FRIDAY MORNING* Everyone…. 🙂

Happy Day! Oh, Happy Day!!

Clear skies here this a.m., temp is ‘chillsey’ but not frigid…and forecast is for upper 60’s to perhaps even low 70’s later on this afternoon! If this weather continues much longer, the Oak trees will begin sprouting new leaves…and it feels like I JUST got the last of them picked up!

Here’s Joe for Friday:

Friday, February 24th… At the ranch where I have employment, earning the big bucks, my boss tells me to move the fresh pile of horse poop. No big deal, I do this once or twice a week. I scoop poop with the bucket of a tractor, drive about 400 feet, and dump it on the old pile of poop. I have friends in management positions with famous companies. Making important decisions which ultimately affect the lives of thousands. Me, I sit on a tractor in the wind, with my giant eye goggles, and wonder where does the poop go when it blows away?

A mushroom company, and other produce farms, come once a month and take away the big pile of old horse poop. The end of each month, that pile is huge. You could build a fort inside that pile. The mushroom company loves horse poop. A worker once told me they grow giant size mushrooms that taste incredible. So now, every time I go for pizza with my management friends, I tell them I might have helped grow these mushrooms. From a horse poop pile I build each month. Usually the subject quickly changes to seen any good movies lately?

The winds have quit, and there is damage to our ranch. Horses don�t have the luxury of eye goggles, though that�s not a bad idea. Eyes need to be wiped, damage needs to be repaired, and there is more work to do at my lovely place of employment. In the town of Winters I’m meeting with a family wanting a fresh from the track horse. Time to get a new day started.

They say a cold weekend on the way. Delicious hot coffee from Starbucks. Microwave waffles made by Eggo. Hard to believe, but Kelly Clarkston is now on the oldies station. Have a happy weekend. Thank you for taking the time to read my website.

Joe
##

🙂 I may never look at mushrooms the same way, ever again!!

I did see news footage last evening from Sacramento and the wind was WILD there…here, soft breezes, only…but the Valley really did get hit HARD with winds!

A wild fire broke out near Napa y’day…winds ripping so hard, made ‘spot-fires’ here/there…not so far from Silverado Golf Course…big and srsly expensive homes at risk there! Someone thought it was a ‘good day’ for burning brush…WTF was he THINKING with those RIPPING winds howling:(
Last night at 10p it was partially contained, hopefully by this morning it’s fully contained as the winds were to subside greatly o’night.
Hate to think of those beautiful rolling hills, dotted with Oaks burnt:(

Alright…off I get now…I hope yole have a good day, I hope it speeds by like *BARBARO* running KD 132:) and before you know it, you’re ‘celebrating Friday NIGHT’!!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

####
temperatures here in Texas dropping…wind is gusty…but it still does not stop taking horses…beautiful horses across the borders..to a brutal death.

please call, fax, email.

please read the db and help…please

light candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly family.

and thank you Alex

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy…………………………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Well there you are — hello again , and happy
best day of the week to every working bloke here !

I’m sitting at my dining room table and I can see a flower bed on the side of the driveway and the garage ….. and it’s full of dwarf daffodils —– each little yellow daffy is dancing in the wind we have blowing today …
It looks like hundreds of them …. and I need to stop talking about them before I break into Wordsworth , lol ,

Judy and Robyn , be careful driving in that snow — it’s 74* here now — just near noon — the weather seems to be all snow , wind , clouds and rain everywhere today — I guess the weather is always with us —

My thought today is – don’t you think Rene Decarte was not as smart as he thought he was ?
Silly philosophy 101 stuff , but heck , it is
Friday — and make it a GREAT Friday frens —
bye now , BB

Afternoon all..

It’s a warm 77 degrees here in San Jose…so I went out to “warm” up my weed wacker…I decided that is a job to do a little bit at a time!

It seems that this week-end the weather is suppose to cool down some…I hope so.

I hope you all are doing ok fine and wish you all a grand week-end.

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S GRAND FAMILY)))

xoxo
carleen in ca

Good Saturday Morning Everyone:)

Clear/sunny fairly ‘mild’ here this a.m.! Upper 40’s for now and by later today, I think upper 50’s low 60’s!

The Birdies are SRSLY BIZZY at the feeders this morning and one of my ‘be sure and be thankful for’ things is that they’ve got SEEDS:)

I hope everyone has a great day today! Be safe out there into the world wherever the day takes you:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Good Saturday afternoon to you
Lynne , and to everyone else too …
Have a sunny , happy day , Barbaro famblee …
bye now , BB

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

Saturday night and I hope everyone (two- and four-legged) has a cozy spot this late February night . . . . the winds have been brutal all last night and throughout today.
Thinking of each and every one of you and sending all big hugs and much love, and always prayers especially for those walking the rugged path just now.
It’s too early for me to be dozing just yet so I need to go get some hazelnut coffee (instant).

Just always love reading JOE S. (thanks, LYNNE, for posting here), and seeing what you all are up to, in to . . . . :).
Sorry I’ve been not as up-to-date as I like to be but it’s been some real ‘bizzy’ times here.

Love you all, and hugs!
And thank you, Alex!!

always, Lou Ann

Helloooooooo ABR Family:)

Happy Sunday Afternoon! Oscars are on tonight…glimpses into the fashion world await on the Red Carpet and I am hoping perhaps War Horse might garner a few mentions tonight, as well…and wouldn’t it be wonderful if ‘best picture’ might be one of the ‘garners’? 🙂 Score one for America’s Horses if so!

Not much happening in these foothills today…a bit on the cloudy side and considerably colder than it has been, though!

I hope everyone is enjoying their Sunday and if you’re so inclined, the Oscars tonight, too:) See yole in da morning…

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! It’s Sunday evening here on the banks of the Thames. What a blustery weekend it has been, with the winds howling. Nikita loves the wind, so she was in her element when I took her for a walk today and yesterday.

Despite the snow on Friday, crocuses are blooming in our yard. I’ve never seen anything like this Winter, at least not since I moved to Connecticut in 1985.

Woo-hoo, Union Rags won today’s Fountain of Youth Stakes! I am thrilled for Michael Matz and Julien Leparoux. Wishing all here ACN. Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie: I loved your allusion to Wordsworth when you mentioned your daffodils!
To Dee: Rainbows to you. ####

Hi Everyone:)

Well…imho, Billy Crystal was the best of all of them, tonight at the Oscars:) Gotta love Billy! And Meryl..I always enjoy Meryl:) And James Earl Jones, who was not present but in England on stage saying he’d learned a new word there for ‘surprise’…*GOBSMACKED*!! We FOBs have known that one awhile, huh, Family! LOL:)

So sorry that War Horse didn’t take home an Oscar..not for music or scenery or anything else, including ‘best picture’ but I’m still very much looking forward to it being on the PPV channels so I can watch and pause, get up move around a little bit and come back to it:)

So pleased for *UNION RAGS* and all at Fair Hill! Such a beautiful….BEAUTIFUL horse, he is!

I hope your dreams were sweet and you’ve wakened ready for the new week…see yole in the morning:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! A bright new Monday has dawned here on the banks of the Thames. The river is gleaming, the sunshine is glinting off of the cross on one of the church steeples in New London, and the 7 AM train has just sounded its greeting. May all of you have “ACD”. Go Union Rags! Peace, Robyn

### To Lynne: Yes, we know the meaning of “gobsmacked” and “knackered”, do we not? May your day on the Left Coast be a great one.
To Dee: Rainbows to you!
To Bobbie B: May your day be Wordsworth-like, filled with daffodils. ####

Monday morning …again…

Union Rags won his race this week-end!!Yeah!!
Congratulations to Mr. Matz, Peter and all this grand horses connections!

I do wish WAR HORSE had won an award, but “Joey” will always be a winner in our hearts.

Cold here this morning….

Have a grand week family…
((((HUGS TO BARBARO’S WONDERFUL FAMILY))))

oxox
carleen in ca

Good morning all. A cloudy morning here in the North. Like Robyn it was blustry here to over the weekend but all is calm now.
##Congratulations to Union Rags for his win and to all his connections.
##Sorry that War Horse didn’t get an Oscar but at least it was recognized by nomination.
##BobbieB., happy to see you here. ACD to you.
##Robyn, a big hug to Miss Nikita from her northern fren.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Good Morning, Everybody!!!

Actually..the words in my mind as I wrote that salutation were “Good Morning, Vietnam!” Why?? Maybe Oscars lingering??? Did yole see that movie with Robin Williams? It was good!!

OK..well, back to this morning!

Cold here…in fact, ‘low-snow might fall’ to 1K’ so…I’m not starting Katie up today for any reason…she has no chains….I have NO desire whatsoever to take a (literal) ‘crash course’ in driving in snow! Just 38 on my porch this earlier a.m. and my elevation here is roughly 1200′..home I am staying!

Tomorrow brings a more ‘serious’ storm for us and up-country, too:) Much needed snowfall up the hill…above 5K they say could be 20″ or more and around 3K as much as 6″ we need that white stuff so badly…so, bring it on, Mom Nature:)

Here’s Joe for Monday:

Monday, February 27th… Magic, our Christmas community rescue horse, is doing great. There was a sole abscess to deal with, and his teeth were in horrible condition. All has been fixed, and Magic is gaining weight. With little rain comes little grass. I put Magic in our far north field, and I am showing you a picture below, bottom right. Magic soon had a stalker. Barbie Doll follows Magic from field to field. Magic mostly ignores her, but Barbie Doll refuses to give up. Over the years Barbie Doll has had dozens of boyfriends. Including Del Mar Cool, Smoking Gears, and Earnest Storm. She now has her heart set on Magic.

Kalli is 11, and she lives in San Francisco. Kalli is part owner of Magic, and she was here for our first Tb Kids day of 2012. Kalli says to me: You look just like my Uncle Jeff. Only he dresses better.

We said goodbye to Ruler, a tall dark gelding who came to us last summer from the race track. Ruler now lives on a cute little ranch in Vacaville, and he is best friends with a paint gelding who recently lost his long time companion. There is a small pond, lots of trees, and usually country music on the barn radio.

Annette is 15, and she lives in Benicia. In our yard Annette had this to say: My best friend owns a thoroughbred. She got him from craigslist. She named him Craig.

We said hello to a dark handsome gelding from a race track in Los Angeles. Later today he travels to his new home in the town of Winters. A beautiful barn with paddocks, chickens, cats, lots of trees, and usually Lady Antebellum on the barn cd player. Already the gelding has been named Jules.

Hope is 12, and she lives in Orangevale. In our yard Hope tells me: I read your website first thing every morning. My dad listens to the oldies station too. You both need to get current.

Last week I wrote about damages to our ranch from crazy winds. A corner section of our barn roof disappeared, and I found the pieces half a mile away in newly planted olive trees. I also found a ten dollar bill clinging to a tree. Doesn�t quite pay for the roof, but it did cover my lunch at Popeye�s.

Alexandra is 12, and she lives in Capay. Alexandra had this to say: Horses make me tingle.

I thought she said tinkle, and showed her where the bathroom is. But nope, she said tingle. I know the feeling well. 60 years old, and I still tingle when I see a horse.

Have a happy Monday. Winter might finally be here�

Joe
##

Horses make me tingle, too:) I guess it must be a universal symptom…being up/close and personal with horses…we hoomans get all ‘tingly’ 🙂

I hope everyone has a good day today!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

To Robyn :
I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o’er vale and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd ,
a host of golden daffodils .
Beside the lake , beneath the trees ,
fluttering and dancing in the breeze …

I had to look it up to remember the first verse , oh senior brain that I now have !

I so wish , that some how out of time and space ,
Wordsworth could have seen Barbaro —
try to imagine the words he would have written ,
it probably would be his most wonderful and lasting poem ……. if only …
————————————————-

Hello guys , I’m wishing a great and grand day
for you all , even on Monday ! It’s misty and grey here in my state of grace that we call N.C.

Lynne , I just love reading Joe and thank you for posting his site daily … the man can write and his love for horses shines through —

did I ever tell yall about my Arabian mare , which I’ll call Tesha – her shortened barn name ?
Someday , when we all have 4 or 5 hours , I’ll tell you about the grandest Arab of them all , my heart horse …
till then bye for now , and hugs to help you make it through blue Monday 😉

Bobbie:)

I remember once, you wrote here of how you’d spend time gathering up acorns for your Arab Girl..make a nice pile of them for her, ’cause she loved them so much and ’cause you loved HER so much, too:)

Loved the poem you posted…and loved the idea that Wordsworth could most certainly have written the most ‘beautious’ of prose regarding *BARBARO*, too….

Well, the skies here are beginning to ‘break’ now..though that’s not altogether a sign of we’re completely out of the ‘snowing possible forecast’…glad I’m home today, nonetheless:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
good late afternoon famblee…hope each of you are doing okay…and that your furbabies and horses too.

can we help make other horses and furbabies okay also..please call, fax, email.

please read the db and help…please…gas prices are getting higher…and higher…it is affecting our pockets as well as our rescues…

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

and thank you Alex

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie……..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! Yes, I am knackered tonight and need to call it a day/night. I loved the vision of Wordsworth, creating a poem in honour of Barbaro, that our FOB Bobbie offered us today. Thanks, Bobbie, your words and this paisana’s “soul food” dinner of gluten free pasta with marinara, shared with Brent & Nikita, made my evening!

Alex, thank you for all that you do to keep us informed and maintain this site! Wishing all here “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Joan: Right you are about increasing gas prices. This does not bode well for horses.
To Bobbie: Please share a story with us about your Tesha.
To Lynne: My Del Sol does great in snow, as long as the precip isn’t too deep. The car is boxy in shape and had a great centre of gravity. Please stay safe, though, if you are unfamiliar with driving on snow.
To Dee: Rainbows to you, our Resident Angel of the Barbaro Nation!
To Judy: I am getting the suspicion that the snow that we haven’t seen in the first two months of Winter might actually manifest itself throughout March. Yikes! Please be safe.
To Stu & Carleen: I share your disappointment that War Horse was shut out in terms of Oscar awards ####

Hiya, FsOB! A blustery, cloudy Tuesday has dawned here on the banks of the Thames. The river itself is a dark pewter and the surface is choppy with small wavelets.

Wishing all here “ACD”. Alex, thank you for all that you do to maintain this site. Is Fair Hill Farm humming with excitement due to Union Rags’ win last Saturday? Peace, Robyn

Good morning all. Another windy night but it has calmed down now with a cloudy sky.
##Robyn, I too have been wondering about how the snow is starting to manifest itself as we go into March. Tomorrow’s forecast again starting with snow and morphing into rain. It could be March will be coming in like a lion.
##BobbieB., I loved the poem and can only imagine what words would have been written by Mr. Wordsworth for Barbaro. ACD to you fren. Hope those baby steps are getting longer.
Joan, yes rising gas prices do not bode well for our horses and the rescues. We have to do what we can to help, even if it’s just pennies.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Morning, Everyone…

A ‘Big’ storm is in our forecast for late tonight, through late tomorrow night….about time! So…off I’ll head into town today and be home again, home again, clippity-clop before it hits here…provisions are needed..the seed can is nearly EMPTY:-O and so is the frige! 🙂

Robyn: As I understand ‘snow eastwing/westwing’..ours here is often referred to as ‘Sierra Cement’ it’s srsly wet stuff compared to the dryer variety you all in the eastwing have…we are required by state law to ‘chain up’ here so our vehicles have enough traction to maneuver in it all…I do know, though, Hondas are notorious for ability to get ’round in snowy conditions because of their front-wheel drive and as you said, the fact our del Sols are low and square….but Katie doesn’t sport mud/snow tires…another requirement out here even with 4×4 vehicles…I’ll just stay at home if/when that white stuff flys:) A friend of mine traveled to NH a number of years ago and was GOBSMACKED at the difference in consistency of the snow back east…people were driving on freeways..no chains…good traction, too…unbelieveable for a westwinger to observe:)

Here’s Joe for Tuesday….

Tuesday, February 28th… Knowing how bad things really are. Not a good idea to catch your breath, as reflections can be depressing. Since Saturday, 64 phone calls and letters begging us to accept horses. From race tracks and private owners. One lady wrote to say she won�t be there. Here are the directions, and you better bring someone to help, as my two geldings aren�t easy to load.

I�ve done this for a long time. Never seen it so desperate. Each phone call and letter is a horse. Unlucky to be stuck in the numbers crunch. Yet there are those who continue to breed.

A lady called to say she hasn�t touched her mare in two years. The mare refuses to be caught. And her feet look like crap.

A race horse trainer called to say his old gelding just finished 3rd. And broke his knee when he came back to be unsaddled.

A farm owner called to say he is going to shoot his two thoroughbred geldings because there is no grass this year.

A young horse owner called to say her dad lost his job, the family is broke, and she must get rid of her mare.

And a lady wrote to say she was stuck in an elevator for one hour. God came to her and said get rid of your gelding.

This is not about the horrors of horse racing, or no grass, or getting stuck in an elevator. This is not about how easy it is to discard those who were counting on you. We actively pursue new homes, yet the market is weak. This is about an economy that has knocked all of us for a loop. In an instant life can change direction. And when life changes direction, it is animals who usually suffer.

If you have room for one more horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. These horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.

They say a big storm coming. Which is a good thing. We sure need grass to grow…

Joe
##

Pretty sad:( Makes me wish I could hit the Super Lotto here and hand him a cool million…and Safe Haven, too…and another rescue locally, too…it’s bad out there for two-leggeds and four and I’ve no idea what the answer/s might be…well, I’ve got some ideas but won’t write them here.

I hope everyone has a good day today…

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

I just read Joe and sit here loathing those people…
but then I think , at least they called Joe … their animal has a chance to live —

what about those who don’t bother to call — they just sell to the slaughter man and make a buck or two off their horses —

In our culture , horses are as disposable as Kleenex —
this must have happened after the industrial revolution when horses were no longer needed —
and how on God’s green earth
can it be reversed ? ?

we might think of tobacco , and smoking , and how that was turned upside down and backward in about 40 years ….. first I remember was in the sixties when smoking was cool ,,, then the campaign started … slow at first but inexorable , and voila … now it is socially unacceptable to smoke … how did they do it ? ?

they used science , etc., which we don’t have really that I can see , with horses I mean , but if we could harness , excuse the pun , the same means to shame people who mistreat horses , it would be culture changing —
I know it’s not possible , ( is it ?)
but I’m just saying …

Anyway , make it a nice day , it’s sunny and warm here in my state of grace , NC . bye now , BB

###
Bobbie…I wish those years and days would hurry where folks would realize horses and not a throw away…and yes thankful for Joe

and Lynne…please be careful..

###
Famblee..we have been through alot…and like Joe’s blog said…it is worse and worse…and we know with escalating gas prices our rescues will suffer even more…horses and dogs and cats…and little ones will suffer even more.

we have a thread..horse rescue…a $5 club…we need members.

we are trying to get someone to start a $5 club for the dogs and cats…and we need folks to help and please join …we have asked many many times for rescues to help us…and they did and they do…can we help them..

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens..

and thank you Alex.

Hiya, FsOB! What a treat it would be, to have heard Alex’s presentation today. Alex, I hope that the turn-out was impressive and that many books were sold.

Joe Shelton’s blog today was very disturbing, capturing the double impact of an economy in a spiral, compounded by those who are thoughtless in addition to those who are desperate and without resources…. What more can one say? I agree with our FOB Bobbie, that public education is needed to help turn the apparent tide of a society in which many treat horses and other pets as though they are disposable and soulless.

Wishing all of you “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Joan: Please keep fighting the good fight. I hope that Peaches and Pierre are doing well as this Winter unfolds.
To Lynne: That term “Sierra Cement” is certainly descriptive! Our snows aren’t of that quality very often, here on the Right Coast. Please don’t drive Katie if the Sierra Cement is approaching, OK? Has Sammi been over for a visit this week?
To Judy: Let’s hope that March truly won’t be a lion for us all! ####

Hiya, FsOB! Weds. has dawned on the banks of the Thames, bright and clear, although snow is expected later this afternoon. For now, though, the river’s surface is flat and gleaming.

There is a great story about Union Rags on the Pawlick Report, which I hope that everyone will get a chance to read. It is definitely a “feel good” story and in this world we can all use some of those, now can’t we? Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie: Hoping that the snow doesn’t dip down into NC. I want your daffodils to be unharmed.
To Dee: Rainbows to you!
To Lynne: Please stay safe if snow greets your portion of Cali. ####

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Good morning FOB’s

Good morning all. A storm is approching with warnings of snow, freezing rain and then rain. Hopefully this will turn out like last weeks predicted storm, a flop!
##Robyn, I read Paulick’s report and it sure does warm the “cockells of your heart”. I hope your storm peters out.
##Joan, sending hugs to Pierre and Peaches and hope that you and hubby are ok.
##BobbieB., I share your sentiments, ACD to you.
##Miss Dee, rainbows to you.
##Carleen, hope all is well in your corner of the world.
##I hope that everyone is safe from tornados that have been happening.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

GOOD MORNING TO ALL, & HUGS, TOO!!
Had a little break in the action (!!) and am making sure to stop in here FIRST!!

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, “It is Affirmed!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

ALEX – this is awesome!!! Just noted your post about an equine dinner . . . at The Mill!! I am wondering if this is the same “The Mill” that has shoppes with equine supplies, lawn and garden supplies, etc., I think their origin is near the Bel Air, Maryland, area???
If so, our local previous “feed mill” where grains and feeds were blended and sold for literally decades here is under new management/owner by a small chain of similar feed/tack/garden supply stores called “The Mill”!!
I just stopped in the other day for grass seed and was very impressed with the new makeover.
I asked the gent at the counter for a business card and was planning to take a copy of your book flyer in next time I was passing through and let them know about your book!!!
Perhaps they already do (!!!), but just in case I’ll be dropping that off soon!!

I was SO thinking of my FOB famblee and all our equine pals as I was waiting for the grass seed to be measured out — I was surrounded by huge sacks and bags of equine feeds (I recognized EQUINE SENIOR!!), and all I could think was I wished I had the means and a really big truck to load up and drive around to the horse shelters and drop off bags like Santa Claus!! Cat and doggie feeds, too!!
(Of course, would need some extra muscles, too!!)
And oh my goodness, there were so many other kinds of feeds and supplements, salt licks, too!!
Everything from ‘chick scratch’ for peeps, feeds for calves, cows, goats, deer, pigeons, bunnies, kitties and puppies, and oh my it was like a warehouse for Noah’s Ark!!
Years ago (many years ago!) my late Dad would take me here to get rabbit food for my bunnies :).

Well the temperature has dipped significantly since last night, and this is good because the 60 degrees while good for the fuel bills is really threatening the orchards :(.
The snowdrops are starting to wane, but yesterday the crocus were beginning their parade; the daffodils still tight.
I’ve not seen the weather maps of late but hopefully you all with daffodils already open will not be harmed.

Must scamper for now but holding you all in my heart; and, of course, prayers always for those walking the especially rugged path just now.

Please hug and give kisses to all your furkids for me!!

And always IN LOVING MEMORY OF FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, FOB MURPHY, FOB MIDNIGHT SHADOW, FOB PRINCESS, DEAR ACE, and SO MANY MANY MORE . . . .

Love you all!
Hugs,
Lou Ann

Good Wednesday It’s RAINING:) Morning, Everyone…

We gotz RAIN in these foothills!!! Lots of rain:) some wind, too…nothing so ‘really bad’ with the winds for now…but the RAINNNNNN, Family!!! It’s a good, serious, soaking rain! So glad to have it here…it’s supposed to stick around through 10p tonight and even off/on through tomorrow, too:)

Last night’s 11p news had footage of I-80 up near Soada Springs with *WHITE OUT* conditions…so many big-rigs and tour busses parked along the freeway it was a veritable parking lot! CHP wouldn’t let them go up/over the pass…Donner Pass on that highway…50, 88 and 70 also all required chains..and the snow will add up to ‘lots’ up there, too, by the time this series of storms is finished:) Thank you, Mother Nature!

I read the Paulick article all about *UNION RAGS* last night, thanks to our Robyn who sent me the link…What a lovely story and what a truly ‘jaw-droppingly gorgeous’ horse he is! God’s White Light All Around This Boy…*ALWAYS*:) Please! I’m actually excited for this year’s KD…I’m even planning to watch and for me, that’s a day-em big deal! 🙂 Goooo Union Rags, Michael Matz, Peter Brette, Fair Hill and everyone connected to this Guy:) Wheeeee!!

Blustery/rainy weather outdoors…and I’m putting on a pot of split-pea soup later today for supper tonight and some hot/crusty bread to go along with it, too:) LOVING this weather..and my Daffys are out there blowin’ in the wind and being pelted by some serious rain..but they’re still standing tall…I brought the Aspargus Fern in under the awning on my back porch late last night, though…could see no reason to leave it hanging from the hook on deck rail. I think it’ll be much happier not experiencing a ‘thrill-ride’ in this weather:)

Here’s Joe for Wednesday:

Leap Day… not a bad idea.

We are in the midst of a big storm, and horses in our south field managed to open a gate which leads to our yard. Still dark, cold winds, sideways rain, and there were about 15 horses watching us through our bedroom window. Pretty sure I heard laughter.

Horses have been returned to the field, their gate fixed, I’m soaked, and delicious hot coffee is from Peets. A long day ahead. The forecast says more rain and winds.

I will return to this website tomorrow morning, to share with you life from a never are we boring ranch in Woodland. Thank you for yesterday. There are several new homes. Including a boarding stable where clients are chipping in each month to help an injured race horse. On the phone a client says to me: Cool dude.

There you go. Cool dude. Have a happy Wednesday.

Joe
##

Well…there! *COOL DUDE* and so many calls y’day helping horses..good for Joe…’gooder’ for the horses helped y’day:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

…Lou Ann: I so enjoyed your post of earlier today…all about *THE MILL* and it’s offerings! I LOVE feed stores, too:) The smells are so WONDERFUL and there are SO MANY items for sale to explore, too! Years ago, when I fed the deer here, once a week I went to a local feed store to buy a 50# sack of Sweet Cobb…oh..the aroma from just that one product sent me over the moon…and the deer just LOVED IT, Nom! Nom! 🙂 I used to buy salt licks, too…never got the big ones, couldn’t have ‘hefted’ those out back to put down..but they sold smaller versions which reminded me of a srsly large bar of Fels Naptha (sp?) soap..’cause it was reddish…and I learned that color meant there were vitamins/minerals inside..so, of course, I got the reddish ones for my ‘deersies’ 🙂 Your writing this morning, took me back to those days when I frequented the local feed store…thanks for the memories!

Out back a few minutes ago, I watched a familiar little squirrel partaking of the sunflower seeds…I call him ‘my little Arabian boy’ because he has a distinguishable ‘dip’ in the bridge of his nose…like an Arabian horse…do you all think I ever knew that about Arabians before Barbaro…LOL…NO! but now, I do:)

Also…I viewed a Hummer…perched in the dip of the large ‘S’ hook which holds the Hummingbird feeder…he was safe from pelting rain, there under the awning…and could quite easily discourage any other of his/her species from drinking ‘HIS/HER’ nectar, too!! They are so ‘territorial’ about the feeders they put their name/s on!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

…can y’all tell I’m not as busy with chores as I should be, this morning? 🙂

Just saw a Great Blue Heron gliding across the lake out my office window here at home:) Such graceful birds!

Also…

Happy #11 ‘real’ Birthday to my son…all those 900+miles away….Forty-four years ago this morning…on Leap Year Day, my first was born:) Happy Day, Jimmy….love, mom

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
almost leap day over…please I hope each of you have enjoyed the extra day in February…and please take a moment to call, fax, email..

read the db…and help..

and please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

good afternoon…Alex

Hiya, FsOB! It’s a rainy, grey “Friday Eve” dawning here on the banks of the Thames. I am grateful to Lou Ann for her research re. Paula Wyeth, who is Union Rags “Human Mum”. I hadn’t realized that she is the wife of Jamie Wyeth, the painter. That is a cool factoid!

Alex, kudos that your book is now available on Amazon in the UK! Wishing all of you “ACD”. May Davy Jones, the former Monkee and a horse-owner, rest in peace. I read last night that his daughter Jessica takes peace in knowing that Davy had been with his horses shortly before he died yesterday. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Rainbows to you!
To Lynne: I hope that your son had a birthday party on Leap Day. I’m glad that your community got some rain.
To Judy: Rhode Island may get more snow this afternoon, it appears. all we had here was rain. ####

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Good morning. A winter morning here with snow and/or freezing rain. Roads further north closed last night due to icy conditions and slippery driving here this am. It’s now clearing off so the worst is over.
Robyn, strange weather patterns everywhere. You would think that you would have snow at home and RI would have the rain.
##My thoughts and prayers to those in the path of the tornadoes that swept through. I guess it’s beginning again, this change of seasons.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Well hey ! It seems an age since I’ve been here ,
but I know it’s only been a couple days …

Lynne , happy birthday to Jimmy , even if a day late.

This is a quick hello to you all , and I wish you the best for today — I have to run now ( not literally of course – how I wish I could ) but hope to see you later … bye now , BB

Good *FRIDAY EVE* Moring, Family:)

Robyn: Thanks for thinking of my son:) I had no idea Davy Jones owned horses…and until quite late last night, my time, I hadn’t heard of his passing, either:( My kids used to watch the old TV show…and of course, I remember the music they/he made, too.

Our skies this morning are seeming to ‘clear’ but I’m still getting ‘weather advisories’ from KCRA so honestly, I’m unsure of what the rest of today might bring….if I heard correctly, last night, there is another ’round’ of weather heading my way today…It’s fine by me:) bring it on!

I saw the devastaion brought by tornadoes on Nightly News last night…I’ve never lived where tornadoes form/happen…I’ll be quite content to stay right here in no/cal where from time to time, our ground shakes a little bit and sometimes ‘more’ than just a little bit from earthquakes!

Here’s Joe for Thursday:)

Thursday, March 1st… The young lady said sure, she can take another horse. It was 2008 when the young lady adopted our gelding Nikon. The young lady has since been married, bought a home with 7 acres, and started a photography business. Her pictures have been shown in catalogues and newspaper ads. Last year she and her husband rescued a quarter horse mare in awful condition. On Tuesday they greeted their new thoroughbred gelding. He comes from a private home. As a race horse in 2003, the gelding won 4 races in a row.

The barn owner talked it over with her boarders, and they decided to help a fresh from the track horse. Each boarder contributes $40.00 a month, which more than covers expenses. The gelding arrived yesterday, and his left front knee is broken. The barn vet is helping with rehab at no cost.

A family in the hills above Oakland, and yesterday they said hello to their new thoroughbred mare. She comes from a private home, and is 200 pounds underweight. The mare has a racing tattoo, and an old bowed tendon. It is easy to see how beautiful she once was. The mom in the family says the mare will be beautiful again soon.

During the day she is a student at Sacramento State. At night she does clerical work for a law firm. Later today she says hello to her new thoroughbred gelding. He comes to her in neglected condition. The gelding was living just 3 miles from his new boarding stable. His name is now Mr. Boggs. Usually 101.1 FM on his new barn radio.

If you have room for one more horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. Remember to leave a phone number if you show up private on my phone. These horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we are happy to help with transportation.

Crazy, the way life is right now. Tb Friends has access to more than 100 thoroughbreds who need new homes. Your support and interest in the last few days is like a battery charger. Renewed energy, new friends, hope on the horizon�

It is Thursday, a brand new month, and later we could be 58 degrees. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Scrambled eggs courtesy of our hens. Enjoy your cold and wet Thursday, and be sure to hug your horses. The Beach Boys on the oldies station�

Joe
##

Nice to read of so many stepping up on behalf of the horses who would otherwise end up on dinner plates abroad! And as for those *BEACH BOYS*…. fond memories of a very lonnnnnnng time ago for this old ‘California Girl’ 🙂 I haz made another pun, Family!! LOL…

I hope everyone has a ‘dine&fandy;’ day today!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Good afternoon……

This may be a dumb comment, but isn’t there some sort of filter that can be applied to this site to eliminate all these “non desirable’ posts? I’m not that computer savy to know the answer.

Hiya, FsOB! There was a delightful blue-link to a story about Davy Jones that Ray Paulick reported on today’s issue of The Paulick Report. Likewise, the CourierJournal.com posted a reprint today of an article from 20 or 30 years ago, when Davy Jones visited Churchill Downs. Very sweet stories about someone who was a genuine horse lover!

Wishing all of you “ACN” and may we all rise to seize the new “TGIF” day. Alex, thank you for all that you do to keep the Comments Board open. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Thanks for your gift of rainbows.
To All FsOB in the Midwestern portion of the United States: I hope that you, your loved ones, and communities are safe following this spate of early tornadoes.
To Lynne: Glad that you were able to share Joe Shelton’s blog with us today. Don’t you love his usual closing remark: “Don’t forget to hug your horses!”?
To Bobbie: Steady as she goes. May you be putting on running shoes again soon, Bobbie. ####

Evening all….

I have been away for a very good reason…My daughter Erin turned 22 today….I left on Tuesday to drive south to Isla Vista..(Santa Barbara) to visit and be with her, Michael, Miss Tibby and the ever so sweet Miss Clowie.(Their new Boxer puppy) What a doll!!! I had to buy Miss Clowie her 1st sweater…it was chilly in the south part of California! We had a grand time celebrating Erin’s Birthday! It’s all she said she wanted …for me to be there on her birthday..she did wish her dad was there, but he held down the “fort” at the home office while I was gone. My son Nick’s b’day is Saturday and he is driving south to visit his sister Erin for the week-end….Michael’s brother Joe also has birthday on March 6th (Tuesday) so the “kids” will celebrate together!!!

Lynne, Happy birthday to you son too!!!! Just think, he gets to celebrate on the 28th of February and March 1st for 6 years…!

On the way to Santa Barbara though, I saw some of the most beautiful horses and the grand way they were taken care of…green grass, water troughs all through their areas to graze…lots of hay out in large steel baskets to keep the hay dry and off the ground…How I wish all horses had such treatment…At the Warren Harden stables in Santa Barbara their are at least 100 stalls that are empty…how I wish they could be full of needy horses who need warmth and food.

Sorry dear family…need to get back to work after being away for several days….

Please pray for all animals in need…

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S WONDERFUL AND GRAND FAMILY))))

oxoo
carleen in ca

Stopping in for a minute tonight to see ‘happs’ and gosh…GOT QUOTES??? ROFLOL!!!

Carleen: How lovely your trip sounded! Glad you could be with Erin to help her celebrate and O.M.GOSH…the horse facility sounds gorgeous! I, too, wish needy horses could call that their home for awhile until a ‘forever’ one might come their way! Sounds like a Horsey Ritz Carlton:)

Robyn: I read the article about Davy Jones from the Paulick Report..I had no idea he was such a horseman! Thanks for sharing! I’m glad you enjoy Joe, too:) and YES! I love his ‘sign off’ reminding us all to hug our horses! If only I had a horse out back to HUG!! 🙂

See y’all in the a.m.! Sweet dreams!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! The 7 AM train whistle is sounding in New London. Yes, it’s time for the weekly “TGIF!” here on the banks of the Thames. A giant commercial freighter is berthed across the river on this cloudy morning. Wishing all of you “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Carleen: Great to see you back here. It sounds like you had a blast with Erin, Tibby, the beau, and Ms. Clowie. If only we had a world where all horses were as well-tended as those whom you saw outside of Isla Vista. What a lot of birthdays you have in your family during March.
To Lynne: Yes, wasn’t it nice to read how much Davy Jones loved horses?
To Dee: May your weekend be rainbow-filled!
To Bobbie: Wishing you a daffodil-filled weekend, one that brings you renewed strength. ####

Good morning all and happy TGIF. A cloudy morning here but mild. Supposed to be a roller coaster temp wise this weekend.
##RIP Davy Jones, a wonderful horseman and talented muscian.
##Carleen, so happy for you to have had such a lovely holiday. I concur with Lynn about the Hotel Ritz for the horses. If only….
##Dee, fine rainbows to you.
##BobbieB., no running yet, girl, in time you’ll be skipping the light fantastic.
##Debbie LA, I hope all is well, missing your linking here.

Have a safe weekend and day everyone.

Judy

Good *FRIDAY* Morning, Everyone:)

Our skies are clear and blue and the sun is shining here, today:) Good to see the sun again! We got measureable rain in our foothills and lots of snow ‘up-country’, too:) Hopefully, Mom Nature will send more our way this month and next…:) We still need an awful lot of both!

Here is Joe for Friday:

Friday, March 2nd… You have to love a horse with the name Scat Daddy. Names are not usually a consideration when deciding to rescue a horse or not. But when horse killer Wade Giles tells me on the phone that he has a son of Scat Daddy at his feed lot near Livermore, and they are shipping to slaughter in Mexico early Thursday morning, I had to go on line and check my checking account. I�m always checking my checking account. Weird the way my checking account goes up and down, like our puppy Duncan when he hears the dog food bag.

What was I talking about? Oh yeah, so I figure there�s enough money to buy the Scat Daddy son, along with a 3 piece meal from Popeye�s. I also go on line to look up Scat Daddy. Scat Daddy stands at stud in Kentucky, and as a race horse he made over a million dollars. With that kind of money, you never have to check your checking account.

The Scat Daddy son was given a chance to be a race horse, but I�m told he was slower than a big tractor with a flat tire. The exercise rider would yell scat scat, come on daddy scat, but he would only plod along, like it was Sunday and he was out for a stroll with the family.

The next thing you know the Scat Daddy son is at a feed lot. Crammed into a pen, waiting for the double decker and a ride to Mexico.

In wind and rain the son of Scat Daddy made the long walk up our driveway. We have decided to name him Scat Daddy. We are clever that way.

In took only a few hours for Scat Daddy to become best friends with Seeking Answers. I brought Scat Daddy to our yard so the farrier could remove his shoes. Seeking Answers threw a fit. A tantrum. One horse throws a fit, it�s a good enough reason for other horses to throw a fit. About 70 tantrums. Screams and stampedes. Neighbors quickly put out their For Sale signs.

And now it is Friday, life is once again calm, and chores are forever. They say a sunny weekend on the way. In a week we change the clocks again. Supper feeding won�t have to begin until 5:00. I love spring. Anxiously awaiting the first fly of 2012…

Joe
##

I’ll go research *SCAT DADDY* ’cause I love pedigreequery.com so much! I find it fascinating for the most part…researching these horses and their lineage!

Since we’ve got ‘quotes’ here today:) I’m going to use one, myself…

“I Have a Dream” that someday every single TB Foal born on American soil will have a ‘life-long care plan’ in place before he/she ever hits the ground so that if they don’t become *stars* on tracks they are all given chances at different careers.

I had occassion to research a horse named *SWEEPS* y’day and learned that he broodmare sired a couple of horses who became ‘moms’ to *WAR ADMIRAL* (*BRUSHUP*) and another one, *WHIRLAWAY* (*DUSTWHIRL*) I got really tickled at my findings ’cause I know War Admiral was beaten by *SEABISCUIT* and if I remember correctly, *WHIRLAWAY* is the horse who helped get Mrs. Jackson ‘hooked on horses’ when she was a little girl…I think I read that in the Vanity Fair magazine in which there was an article all about Mrs. Jackson and Barbaro…:) and once again..the ONLY reason I might know of any of this…is because of *BARBARO*!! 🙂

There is still so much about the racing industry I really know ‘jack’ about…but I am learning and for the most part, loving what I’m learning, too:)

I hope everyone has a wonderful Friday and an equally wonderful weekend, too…and Bobbie B: I agree with our Robyn…I hope yours is FILLED WITH DAFFODILS:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

###
today is Friday…March is already here…please call, fax, email…they are trying so so hard to get horse slaughter back in the USA…

beautiful horses are being sent to barbaric slaughter…beautiful horses…

please read the db and help…please.

thank you Alex

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy…………………………………
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Good Friday Morning Everyone!! Thank You Alex for opening this up. I’d like to start off by saying that my pick is I’ll Have Another for the Belmont & the Triplle Crown. Lets hope this draught is over. Please let all the horses and Jockeys come home safe.

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!!

May peace, safety, positive energies, and the Protection from Above, reign supreme over all racing in the Belmont tomorrow . . . . please bring all the horses and jockeys home safely.

Thank you, ALEX; and also special thanks to our very own WILLIAM K. and NANCY/CT!!

Hearts, hands, hooves and paws together!

always, Lou Ann

My hopes for the Belmont will be that all come back home safe and sound. My heart is with Union Rags but my hopes are pinned on IHA for a triple crown win.

Thanks Alex for opening the board and to William K. It’s nice to be here once again.

Judy

Hello everyone ,
Glad to see you here !
I’m pulling for IHA , due to his pugnaciousness , and heart …. the way he was determined to pass Bode on the Preak. stretch –he’s all heart and talent … I don’t know if he has the fortitude to make that long sandy stretch though … new , rested horses will be brought in so his chances are slim I guess …

I respect and admire M. Matz but I’ve got to support the try for the Triple Crown …

best of luck and safety to all horses and riders…
the sun is shining at Myrtle Beach this morning …
bye now , BobbieB

Thank you Alex for opening up the Home Porch once more. You too William K.

No matter what the out come of the Belmont Stakes, it has been an excitiing ride..I mostly hope all riding in the Belmont Stakes and racing everywhere come home safe!!!!

I will have on my Secretariat tee shirt glued to the TV….

Take care all and have a grand week-end!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S WONDERFUL AND GRAND FAMILY!!!!)))

oxox
carleen in ca

Belmont Post

Thanks Alex! Hope we get a triple crow winner. 34 years is just too long. Safe trip for all!

Holy Cromoly, Family!!! We’re baaacccckkkkk!!:)

Happy *FRIDAY MORNING* All….

Clear/sunny this a.m., mild outdoors and not supposed to be ‘too’ hot later on today, either…going to be a nice day!

Stu: I can’t respond ‘all’ when so many addys are included..but I’ll be at Frankie’s Vigil too and thanks, Lou Ann for organizing it. I’m so sorry for the outcome, Stu but you did everything you could and should not feel as though you let Frankie down, he knows better!

Robyn: (((((robyn/brent)))))

Here is Joe for Friday:

Friday, June 8th… The last 7 or 8 weeks have been a bit wild. If my numbers are correct, and they�re probably not, since April 20th Tb Friends has found new homes for 51 horses. 12 horses from our ranch, and 39 horses from race tracks, private owners, and two thoroughbred farms closing down.

We have met the most incredible families. Been reintroduced (is reintroduced a word?) to people who have adopted from us in the past, and they return for one more. Veterinarians offering free care. Farriers donating their time and money. There is no way we could do this alone.

I would like to thank Sheldon. Jennifer. Jodi. Georgia. Patti. Kara. Kristin. Ryan. Julia. Aubrey. Nikki.

Daily there are phone calls and letters asking if Tb Friends can help with unwanted thoroughbreds. Sometimes we can, but mostly the answer is no. The numbers are overwhelming. I wish we had 500 new homes a week.

Here we go. I can now close my eyes and type the following in 8 seconds. If you have room for one more horse, please call me at 530-383-2120. These horses are thoroughbreds, and they come from race tracks and private owners. All horses are free, and we can help with transportation, within common sense distance.

Have a happy weekend. It is suppose to be beautiful.

Joe
##

I am also counted among those rooting for IHA tomorrow….can’t help but hope perhaps that coveted and EVER elusive trophy might find a home by day’s end tomorrow! Of course, the most important issue to me, like all of you, is that they all come home safe/sound!

Alex: This is just beyond COOL, to be here again, thanks so much for re-opening the *FRONT PORCH* for us…:)

Geeze, I nearly FORGOT!! Y’day mid-morning, out on my porch…from the corner of my eye..a deer walking down the street and then…a little dog??? NOPE:) A *FAWN*…my first of the season! So dang CUTE, you just can’t stand how cute they are:) Healthy little thing…bouncing right along behind Mama…down into the canyon and back up again…standing and looking down a long time…maybe Mama told the twin to ‘stay put’ and that little twin got bored and though they don’t normally wander very far from where they were ‘planted’ this one may have given Mama a fit or two! LOL! Anyway…I’ll try to capture a photo and send it out before it grows up too much! First of the season here in these foothills…we gotz a newbie little deer:)

Everyone have a good day today and an even better weekend…Hopefully, we can meet here again after the race tomorrow and from then on for however long 🙂 Wheeeee!!!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Alex post on tweeter

I’ll Have Another out of Belmont. Possible tendon injury. 1pm presser to follow

Alex post on tweeter

I’ll Have Another out of Belmont. Possible tendon injury. 1pm presser to follow

One of my friends here at work just called to tell me the news about IHA. Could not find anything on news sites – came here. Holy moley.

Oh no, what a sad turn of events, but I do hope the injury is not serious.

OH GEEEEEEZZZZZZZZZEEE.

What a shame. I was really looking forward to a triple crown thiller. Maybe next year.

My heart is broken for the little horse from CA with the huge heart ~ I was so hoping there’d be a TRIPLE CROWN in his near future! Now we just pray that his injury is not career-ending…and my regrets, too, that his wonderful jockey Mario won’t get another chance to shine!

So very sad…

So sorry about I’ll Have Another. Selfish, I know, but I did want him to win the Triple Crown. Just heard on the hourly news that he may even be retired. You just NEVER know!!!! I’ll be pulling for Union Rags now.
Thank you, Alex, for opening up the Comments.

Just read it on Bloodhorse !

A tendon injury that might end his career … how could this happen in galloping ? ? ????????

I’m sorrier than I can say … so disappointed … for all fans who wanted a triple crown … and for me …. mostly for the horse himself who could have owned this title and made history …
and for his connections who tried so hard too …

I guess it’ll be Paynter and Dullahan coming down the stretch …
bye now,

Oh…I just got email alerting of IHA being scratched tomorrow…am so glad his people are keeping his health in mind..putting the horse first!

I’m with you, Evy:) I’ll also now be rooting for *UNION RAGS* ….this TC trophy is absolutely the MOST elusive thing, is it not?!

Holding good thoughts for *I’LL HAVE ANOTHER* to heal completely and live a good life as an OTTB now, if retirement is, in fact, in his future!

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

If all the facts are as we have read , ( sometimes they are not in horse racing ) …….
I want to commend and give the highest praise to the trainer and owner for making this decision .

It can’t have been easy for anyone , with so many hopes and dreams and wishes and money riding on
IHA’s back … and they did what was right … it’s wonderful to hear of the horse being considered first …and I send them all kudos and best wishes for IHA’s healing and more winners for the connections …

I echo bobbie bowens comments! Bravo for the trainer and owners of the wonderfu horse! They get my vote!

I’ll have Another

Report is out on MSN that I’ll Have Another has been retired. Props to the owners and the connections.

I’ll be rooting my second choice Union Rags on to victory. Sad there will be no TC again. Oh well………..

So Sad….but if IHA is going to be OK, then that is a good thing…Heck, the Kentucky Derby, The Preakness…not a bad way to go out..and who knows about his future foals…

We all remember to well about sadness…but there is a GRAND field of horses to watch and enjoy.

I’m still going to wear my Secretariat tee shirt…

and God Bless IHA and ALL the horses running tomorrow.

(((HUGS TO YOU ALL…MOST OF ALL BARBARO)))

Thanks again Alex…

oxox
carleen in ca

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Brenner And Angel Kellie And Angel Carleen And Angel Daughter Erin And Angel Michael And Angel Bobbie
B. And Angel Judy and Angel Taffy And Angel Lynne
And Her Angel Murphy And Angel Daughter Michelle
And Seymore And Lucy And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel
Bobbie B. And The Angels. You Are In My Heart So
(8) A Lot So……………………………….
………………………………………….
………………………………………….
………………………………………….
………………………………………….

Sending All, All All My Love To I’ll Have Another.
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Alex……..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our ANGEL DEE says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!

IHA’s people are very much the champions for putting his best interests and health first and foremost … and may others follow their fine example.
God Bless you, I’ll Have Another, and may all your days be bright, healthy, and wonderful!
Kudos to your people!!
Lillian’s “Praise the Lord and Pass the Carrots!” keeps coming to mind!

And now for all running in the Belmont today, Godspeed and my only wish is that you all come home safely!!

Especially IN LOVING MEMORY today . . . . Barbaro, Dynaformer, Ruffian, the very special Mr. Brenner Eugenides, Lost In The Fog, Eight Belles, little Windchill, Chief Price, Bud Sova, Murphy, Midnight Shadow, Frankie, Ace, and so many many more . . . . may each of you know every joy of Heaven, we love you and miss you . . . forever in our hearts.

Thank you, ALEX!

always, Lou Ann

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………….
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

A happy sunny morning from lovely Myrtle Beach, SC,
and HAPPY BELMONT DAY .

I wish safety and Godspeed to all horses and riders.

I suppose it shows the difference in an amateur and a pro – but IHA’s misfortune has hit me harder than I expected …. the tendon injury seems even more cruel today …

I didn’t know I wanted a tc so badly until this happened …
and now ,
it has somehow taken the heart out of it for me ,
and I’m not excited anymore … but I do wish that Union Rags would win and MM would have a winner again …

But who knows who will have the stamina to come down that long stretch first to the finish line ?

I hope UR wins — but I expect Paynter
or Dullahan to take it —
Or perhaps some 50-1 shot we never heard of ! !
And that uncertainty is part of racing’s fun and charm …
I hope you’re going to have a fun old day
and I must tell you that I saw a big ole plump
raccoon in the FRONT yard , brave little guy ,or stupid really ! This is the second one I’ve seen here — smaller and thinner than the first . It’s a raccoon invasion !
See you later , bye now , BobbieB

Safe Trip to all horses and riders today.

THEY ALL ARE “WINNERS” WHEN THEY COME HOME SAFELY.

Morning all!

Oh Lou Ann, your post brought me to tears. As I sit hear looking at Bud’s picture and thinking of all those wonderful beings you mentioned…how lucky we have been to have them touch our lives and make us better in some way….

Bobbie…please stayed excited about today…look at the fun of getting to this day.. IHA won the KD, the Preakness and the promise of a TC winner was just so grand. Talk about excitment, you how far you have come…each day a little better!!!!

Miss Dee, Joan, Robyn, Judy, Stu, Miss Lynne and of course Alex…thank you all for being here.

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBAR’S GRAND FAMILY ON THIS WONDERFUL BELMONT DAY!!!)))

Time for my walk!
oxoxo
carleen in ca

frens , I forgot to tell you in my previous post , it’s my wedding anniversary with the hunk … we’ve been married about 127 years today …

we’ve had 10 good years — and that’s not bad when we’ve been married for 45 yrs 🙂 bye now,

Bobbie…
Congratulations on 127 years of marriage!!!
(I know somedays it seems like 140, but others are ok fine!)

Take care and enjoy the day!

carleen

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Carleen And Her Angel Daughter Erin And Angel Michael And Angel Kerry. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So.
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . as you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our ANGEL DEE says, “It is AFFIRMED!”
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

It’s 6:25 p.m. EST here and I know it’s soon time, but am not sure I can watch – “butterflies”, and like you, Bobbie, my spirit got snuffed a bit when the news broke of I’ll Have Another, although I’m just so grateful to his people and can’t say enough good things about them – they thought of IHA and that’s all that matters to me.
Now I soooo hope that UNION RAGS can take the Belmont, but bottom line as long as they all come home safe.
Usually I can’t watch the Preakness, after Barbaro, but “butterflies” today for some reason.

Ooohh, they are just starting Sinatra’s “New York, New York”, and because I just love that especially, I’m getting all emotional here . . . whew . . . . .

Also, I am especially thinking of our ROBYN & BRENT today so very much . . . because this past Christmas they and their precious BRENNER had made plans to be there at the Belmont today . . . . and so I know this is a very difficult day for ROBYN and BRENT, and MS. NIKITA, the horse-loving Husky.
I am sensing though that BRENNER is right there at the Heavenly Gates at this very moment, standing side by side next to BARBARO, RUFFIAN, LOST IN THE FOG, DYNAFORMER, SECRETARIAT, EIGHT BELLES, BOBBIE B.’s grand ARABIAN LADIES, ‘lotsa’ precious well known and not so well known equine friends, neck to neck right there with BRENNER peering down to earth to watch today’s big event . . . . and yes, BRENNER, because you, too, loved your New York sooooooo very much, I wish I could have had the Belmont team dedicate Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” to you this year.

And, of course, right there with them all are SUSAN E.’s, “ANGEL BOY”, FELIX; CHIEF, BUD SOVA, MURPHY, MIDNIGHT SHADOW, ACE, and FRANKIE (our hearts are with you, too, STU), and so many more. (Easy there, MURPHY, hold that confetti until they finish the race! But oh MURPHY is soooo excited, the confetti is starting to fly already . . . .!!)

And, BOBBIE B. & GENE, HAPPIEST OF ANNIVERSARIES TO YOU!!!!! AND MANY MORE TO COME!!!!!!!!!!!
“127 years”, Bobbie, with “the hunk” . . . oh my goodness, that sounds truly divine to me!!!!!!!!!
God Bless you both! Hugs!!

And, oh my, I think I hear the race starting . . . and I’m hearing UNION RAGS, UNION RAGS, can it be???!!!! I must close here and go check!! Please tell me it’s UNION RAGS!!! For Michael Matz and for Mrs. Wyeth, please tell me it’s UNION RAGS . . . . . .!!

I have to go step out to the gardens . . . . so much emotion . . .

Love you all,
Hugs, Lou Ann

P.S. Thank you, ALEX!!

UNION RAGS Way to go!

Love poems and quotes

Lil wayne quotes

Cute love quotes

Friendship quotes

Jokes and quotes

Jokes and quotes

Quotes about life lessons

Love quotes

Best valentines quotes

Insurance quotes

Auto insurance quotes online

Famous quotes

Funny quotes or sayings

Hi there, what’s up you guys???

Best life quotes

Quotes

Leslie nielsen quotes

Fathers day quotes

Jokes and quotes

Quotes

Leslie nielsen quotes

Compare car insurance quotes

Best valentines quotes

Hilarious quotes

Online insurance quotes

Missing you quotes

Inspirational quotes

Short funny quotes

Memorial day quotes

Sarcastic quotes

Jokes and quotes

Quotes about friendship

Car insurance quotes comparison

Car insurance quotes

Cute love quotes

Book quotes

Short funny quotes

Love quotes

Health insurance quotes

Thank you quotes

Missing you quotes

Insurance quotes online

Lil wayne quotes

Cute friendship quotes

Quotes from famous people

Whole life insurance quotes

Inspirational quotes

Sad love quotes

Philosophical quotes

Friendship quotes

Family quotes

Funny quotes about turning 21

Best movie quotes

Philosophical quotes

Cheap auto insurance quotes

Cute friendship quotes

Best valentines quotes

Auto insurance quotes

Best movie quotes

Auto insurance quotes

Little rascal quotes

Christmas quotes

Compare car insurance quotes

Birthday wishes quotes

Quotes and sayings

Funny quotes or sayings

Family quotes

Mark twain quotes

Compare free insurance quotes online

Compare free insurance quotes online

Funny quotes about life

Famous quotes

Famous movie quotes

Inspirational quotes

Happy fathers day quotes

Sarcastic quotes

Sad quotes

Compare car insurance quotes

Philosophical quotes

Great quotes

Little rascal quotes

Sad love quotes

Instant auto insurance quotes

Famous quotes

Birthday quotes

G k chesterton quotes

Car insurance quotes comparison

Happy fathers day quotes

Best life quotes

Christmas quotes

Love quotes valentines day

Inspiring quotes

Cheap auto insurance quotes

Philosophical quotes

Love quotes

Nyse quotes

Humorous quotes

Love quotes valentines day

Quotes about love

Bitchy quotes

Funny life quotes

Life insurance quotes

Compare car insurance quotes

Famous movie quotes

Gandhi quotes

Leslie nielsen quotes

Happy quotes

Valentine funny quotes

Compare car insurance quotes

Missing you quotes

Funny movie quotes

Online car insurance quotes

Online car insurance quotes

Funny movie quotes

Famous quotes

Inspiring quotes

Famous quotes

I love you quotes

Real time quotes

Book quotes

Auto insurance quotes online

Love quotes valentines day

Christmas quotes

Dr seuss quotes

Quotes and sayings

Lil wayne quotes

Valentines day quotes

Cute friendship quotes

Love quotes

Valentine funny quotes

Auto insurance quotes

Quotes about love

Valentines day quotes

Family quotes

Cute quotes

Sarcastic quotes

Happy fathers day quotes

Sad quotes

There are some interesting points in time in this article but I don’t know if I see all of them center to heart. There is some validity but I will take hold opinion until I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we want more! Added www.alexbrownracing.com to FeedBurner as well

the post rocks!!!

xzhh http://www.pandoraoutletstore.co.uk pvgeyo
[url=pandoraoutletstore.co.uk]pandoraoutletstore[/url] zxkqgv

bzPzNm Great article.Much thanks again. Cool.

rBj2bB Thanks for the blog.Really looking forward to read more. Great.

GPebkl I value the blog article.Much thanks again. Much obliged.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Knowing Alex will close the site, and I don’t blame him. This make me so mad.
Love you FOB’s.

Did Alex stop this?

Hiya, FsOB! I sent a note out to some folks a few minutes ago, regarding John Velasquez’ injury at Churchill Downs. He will need surgery and plans to return to NY for that procudure. May Mr. Producer rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon him.

Wishing each of you “ACN”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Thank you for your gift of rainbows! We had a nice Father’s Day here on the banks of the Thames today. ####

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Brenner And Angel Kellie. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

1nv2GX Thanks so much for the article post. Keep writing.

Enjoy the item good towards adequate facts. Evidently nondiscriminatory wen upwards! Document routinely complete definitely definitely not icreasing with those however think about you will had some almost animatedly buddy-buddy despoile in addition to I’m indisputable a amount of people suavity all the fewer regardless.

Cheers favorable on the proficient information. Evidently nondiscriminatory wen upwards! My spouse and i repeatedly accomplish certainly not expanding in those however stew over anyone does a new animatedly buddy-buddy despoile along with I’m indisputable a lot of people suavity your a lesser amount of at just about any rate.

www.alexbrownracing.com is worth visiting every day
[url=http://24bronchitistreatment.blogspot.com]bronchitis in children
[/url]

Hiya, FsOB! A bright and beautiful new Monday has dawned here on the banks of the Thames. The sunshine is glinting off of one of the ferries across the river. I can hear the ferry’s engines from here, preparing for a 7 AM departure.

Our Japanese garden is a jumble of catmint, lavender, and dusty miller, with sweet peas tumbling down one of the stone walls on the terrace just below the garden. The birds are chirping their morning greeting and Ms. Nikita has just come downstairs to get in “post position” on her blue rug.

May John Velasquez have a full and speedy recovery. And may Mr. Producer rest in peace and have perpetual light shining upon him. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Eight rainbows in return to you!
To Lynne: How is Wee Willie doing?
To Carleen: Hoping that Michael’s commencement was wonderfully memorable. ####

Good morning all. A very muggy morning here in the North. We are to expect this weather for the next few days, Ugh.
And Ugh to the bots that are back here. I agree, Debbie, it makes me mad too, we will probably see the demise of this site.

My prayers to Mr. Velasquez for a speedy recover. RIP Mr. Producer.

I guess I better close here, my screen keeps freezing up. Have a safe day and be sure to hug your loved ones.

Judy

TyZJ5m Very informative blog article.Much thanks again. Really Cool.

Morning, Everyone…. 🙂

“Happy” Monday….??? I hope it will be a good day for y’all!

HOT..HOT…and MORE HOT:/ 104 here on Saturday and 102 y’day afternoon…HOT! No humidity, for that I am extremely grateful..but dang…the heat!!

Robyn et al: Wee Willy has been MIA since last week…I think he has flown from here and is now enjoying the feeders in Heaven. I hope however he met his end, it was swift and painless…bless his heart.

Yesterday late afternoon as stepping onto the backporch I saw some movement off my side yard down in the canyon….FIVE WILD TURKEYS, Family!!! 🙂 I zoomed for my camera and got it zoomed in so I could share photos with everyone…as just readying to take the first photo…all of a SUDDEN!! A Doe popped up and I just tellya, Family…those turkeys are probably STILL RUNNING!! She pitched a HUGE FATT FITT with them:( At first, I thought she might have a Fawn or two w/her but didn’t notice any other movement…until about a half-hour later, that is:) Yep! A little baby Fawn….as Mom got up to chase those dratted (to her) turkeys off, she began browsing her way up the canyon and as she did that, I got a photo of her..I made ‘kissy-sounds’ and she looked right up at me:) I’ll share later on…anyway, about a half hour or so later I did see two big little ears twitching in the tall grasses..which are dry and brown now:( So…I only saw one, which for our Does here is unusual..normally, they have two babies each year…last year, one had TRIPLETS, even:) Could be she’s got two…they ‘park’ them not together most of the time.

I’m really sorry though, she scared the turkeys off..we do have them present but it’s unusual for them to be down here by my house! Years ago, there was a female I named *Edna* she had FIVE babies…and they got up each morning from an old Bull Pine down my street…they’d all walk up the street and go over my fence…peruse the backyard for bugs and I even have a photo of *EDNA* having a nice nap on my back gate:) She had a female friend who had just one leg…so my friend here, named that one *PEGGY* ….

OK…here’s Joe for Monday:

Monday, June 18th… It was so hot Saturday, the voice on my GPS asked for water.

But then last night came a nice cool ocean breeze. It�s like having a giant air conditioner in the sky. I would hate to see that electric bill.

Angela is 12, and she lives in Vacaville. In our yard Angela says: I love summer. Me and my friends swim until dark, and my dad makes us chicken tacos on the barbecue.

Lacey is 14, also from Vacaville. Lacey says: The hotter the better. My dad makes organic raspberry milkshakes straight from our cow.

Ryan is 14, and she lives in Sacramento. Ryan tells me: You should have seen my dad try to put a halter on my horse. It was so funny. My dad said oh whatever. He dropped the halter and walked away. My dad has always supported my love for horses. He takes a million pictures and puts them on his Facebook page.

Jordyn is 14, and she too lives in Vacaville. In our yard Jordyn says: I like to sit in the shade, write poetry, and watch my horse graze. My dad says these are the best years of my life. He keeps telling me to enjoy every moment.

Happy (one day late) Father�s Day to all the amazing Dads out there.

We found a new home for a mare currently at a California race track. She is said to be bay, 16 hands, 5 years old and sound. Early today the mare travels to her new barn in Wilton.

Tb Friends is trying to help more than 70 thoroughbreds owned by others. They come from race tracks and private owners. If you have room, please phone me at 530-383-2120. All horses are free, and we can help with transportation, within common sense distance.

It is Monday, and chores are forever. Delicious hot coffee from Starbucks. Scrambled eggs courtesy of our hens. Later we could be 87 degrees. Enjoy your summer is here Monday, and be sure to hug your horses. Flies starting their engines�

Joe
##

Eighty-Seven, huh??? Joe is LOTS closer to SF Bay and Suisun Bay than me:( Last night in Sacramento around 10p, it was 70…here, 88 still:/ This morning, it’s already nearly 80 out back…we don’t get the full effect of that Delta Breeze as soon as the Valley does!

I hope everyone has a good Monday:)

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Joe at TB Friends

Morning all…

What a week-end…Mark and I had a pleasant trip south to Santa Barbara on Friday. Saturday, with all Michael’s family and Mark and I, we packed up a 400 Sq ft studio aparment from the third floor!
It was a mas exit of ALL students from the complex. Students, parents, friends, people everywhere going up and down the stairs! It took about 3 to 4 hours to load all the kids boxs and then Mark and I took the “kids” Michael, Erin, Joe and Shelly (Michael’s brother and sister) to pizza, salad and all the ice tea we could drink!!!
We all took a short rest, changed into our finery and walked to the UCSB campus (six blocks) to graduation. WooooH! 2,500 students (this was the second graduation of the day!!!) They started departments graduating on Monday…two a day until Sunday….What a GRAND DAY TO SEE MICHAEL WALK THE STAGE!!!! Then we all walked back six blocks to our cars, rested a few minutes and went out for a nice meal…It was truly Michael’s night to shine and he did!!!
On Sunday…Father’s Day…we all drove back to
San Jose, and at 6:30 pm we went to BJ’s Pizza(they serve all kinds of goodies though) At the end of dinner, with family, friends, grandparents and most of the resturant…Michael proposed marriage to Erin….Yes!!! next we will have a wedding.
When I don’t know but six months to a year would be ok with me! Such excitment!!!

Lynne, I’m ready for much cooler weather!!!
I will say prayers for Wee Willie too that if in deed his is with Saint Francis..that it was quick.

That’s the news here for now…
Take care all and please have a grand week!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO’S WONDERFUL FAMILY)))

oxox
carleen in ca

Good afternoon everyone ,
hope your Monday is not toooo blue — at least you have the morning made and only the afternoon to go, lol ,

No news here today — just dropping in to say hello to you good folks —
Carleen , I hope the commencement and your family’s celebration was all you hoped for …

Lynne , if Wee Willy is gone , I’m sorry , but as you say , he’ll be in heaven —

Sorry about the injuries and spills this weekend – racing can be dangerous , just like other sports we watch – sports are inherently prone to physical efforts and mishaps ,
that’s why it’s different than games I guess … not too many injuries in chess matches — except those who die of boredom , lol ,

oh well , enough … make it a good day , bye now , BB

Carleen!!! CONGRATS to You…Mother of the Bride and to Mark, too!! Such fun stuff coming your way, Carleen!! Wedding planning is FUN…stresful too, from time to time but in the end….Wheeeee:) so happy for Erin and y’all!! 🙂

Your weekend would have put me to bed! up/down three flights of stairs…walking six blocks to/from the graduation ceremonies…oh mai kneez would not have handled all of that1 Good On Ya!! 🙂

I didn’t mean to ignore Mr. Velazquez (sp?) or Mr. Producer this earlier morning…I also hope Mr. Velasquez heals quickly….and y’all know how sad I am that the horses injure themselves to the point of euthanization, doing what is asked of them, doing what the love to do….running. In a ‘perfect world’…but our world is not perfect:(

Taking a little break here from chores…catching up on happs at ABR:) HOT again this a.m.! WHAT DELTA BREEZE, I ASK!! Not here, it’s NOT:(

Bobbie, how’s the nerve block injection working for you? I hope some relief is being felt…or maybe a better all around way to say this, is not being felt..as in numb!?

I need to get up and head outdoors before it’s so hotter I won’t want to at all..as it is, I ‘barely’ want to go….the kidds need fresh water and the plants to to, though, so off I get from here…

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Lynne , going in the morning to get the first nerve block injection , hope it numbs this foot and leg !
Send good wishes please !

Bobbie,

Sending good wishes and hope for numbing in the foot and leg!!!!

You go girl!

oxo
carleen

This article on www.alexbrownracing.com is bookmark worthy in my opinion. It’s worth saving for future reference. It’s fascinating reading with many valid points for contemplation. I have to concur on almost every point made within this article.

Sorry about Wee Willy.
Bobbie sending paryers and good thoughts your way.
Carleen wedding are fun and $$$$$ cost . good lucky!
Prayers for John, RIP Mr. Producer. Very upsetting!

Congrats to you and your extended family, Carleen.
Bobbie, I hope the nerve block works for you.
ec

Hiya, I’m really glad I’ve found this info. Nowadays bloggers publish only about gossips and net and this is actually annoying. A good web site with interesting content, this is what I need. Thanks for keeping this website, I’ll be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Can’t find it

Hiya, FsOB! I encourage anyone in need of a smile to open the Twipic that Alex posted in the upper right hand side of this site, showing Better Talk Now and another TB at Fair Hill Farm scratching each other’s back. What a riot! I had no idea that horses do this. One learns something on ABR all the time!

Alex, thank you for all you do to ward off the cyber-space evil spirits. It is greatly appreciated! Peace, Robyn

#### To Carleen: What stellar news! A wedding is on the horizon.
To Bobbie: Hoping that the LESI theray helps you in your recovery to full ambulation.
To Juddy: It is supposed to hit 98 degrees Fahrenheit by mid-week in the inland portions of Connecticut. Egads! I loathe humidity.
To Lynne: May Wee Willy rest in peace if he is, in fact, gone. The wild turkey population continued to grow during the 19+ years that I lived in my former community. They do move at their own slow pace, don’t they? Do you have to worry about Lyme Disease being carried by deer in your part of the country? ####

Hi Everyone…

Checking in this early evening in the westwing…just about 7:45p here and it’s 86 on my porch….sun is ‘amost’ down but not quite! I hope it cools off tonight!

Bobbie: Well then..I’m sending lots and lots of good vibes your way for tomorrow’s injection and SRSLY good results! Please let us know how it goes.

Robyn: Yes…ticks here do carry Lyme Disease…I only ever saw one on Murphy in the twelve years I had him….Lucy doesn’t get off the porch much, only when she’s out walking with my daughter and she is kept well away from brush and tall grasses. The deer here, I’m sure, have ticks on them:(

I hope y’all have a good night tonight and pleasant dreams…see y’all in the a.m.

Barbaro’s Forever Friend in CA

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Brenner And Angel Kellie. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So……………………………………..
…………………………………………..
…………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………………….

In Halos……………………………………

Affirmed

I’ve been visiting your blog for a while now and I always find a gem in your new posts. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more information? It is extremely helpful for me.

Pay For Mulberry Hand Bags With Final Sale Levels

[url=http://www.mulberrybagsonsale.co.uk/]Mulberry bag sale[/url]

There are some interesting points in time in this article but I don’t know if I see all of them center to heart. There is some validity but I will take hold opinion until I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we want more! Added www.alexbrownracing.com to FeedBurner as well

Tzxi8K Im thankful for the article post.Thanks Again. Great.

hBUWZ8 I appreciate you sharing this blog article.Really thank you! Fantastic.

PItnSV I cannot thank you enough for the article.Really thank you! Cool.

NiasbJ Great, thanks for sharing this blog.Thanks Again. Fantastic.

EO87Bz Im obliged for the article.Really looking forward to read more. Fantastic.

mSdsEg Appreciate you sharing, great post.

Hiya, FsOB! It’s an increasingly cloudy Tuesday morning that has dawned on the banks of the Thames. The birds have been fed, Nikita has had her coat and teeth brushed followed by treats, and now she has gone back to sleep! And that is just what I did for 20 minutes this morning….

Alex, thank you for alerting us to the opening of Royal Ascot today. I can’t wait to look on-line for pictures of amazing hats and fascinators. Only the English can outdo KY Derby millinery!

Wishing all of you “ACD”. Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie: May your procedure be a successful one today. I am with you in spirit.
To Dee: Rainbows in return to you, our Resident Angel.
To Lynne: Unfortunately, the deer ticks that spread Lyme Disease are almost microscopic in size, unlike the ticks that like to attach themselves to dogs. That is what makes the disease so scary as it can be on a tick the size of a grain of sand. Please do take care, Lyme is an awful disease. We live in the epicentre of Lyme Disease, in New London County. ####

Hey great blog! I’ll be back, but how often do you update this blog?

zVtxbn Really enjoyed this post. Fantastic.

Y5kJSX Wow, great article post.Thanks Again. Really Cool.

otgmWv Very informative blog article.Much thanks again. Want more.

Good morning all. A sunny but very warm and humid as predicted.
Robyn, 98 for your neck of the woods sounds pretty hot. We are to reach over 100 F by mid week once the humidity is factored in. Forunately only a couple of days.
Carleen, what news you have. Your weekend was surely one to remember and the ending, a proposal! Wow, what fun you and Mark will have. You must be grinning from ear to ear.
BobbieB, sending good thoughts your way that your treatment will bring the much needed relief.
Evy, it’s always so nice to see you pop in.

Alex, just loved the pics from Fair Hill, What an idyllic place it is. Union Rags looks great after his stunning performance at the Belmont.

Have a safe day everyone, keep cool and be sure to hug your loved ones.

Judy

3NGd8K Very informative blog article.Really thank you! Will read on…

x2mAZG Thanks a lot for the post. Really Cool.

Hey, i have a few very rare Michael Jackson Movie Clips, Videos, Interviews and Songs to my personal Youtube Channel added. Please take time to have a view on it if you like Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson Video

5S5AaZ wow, awesome blog article.Thanks Again. Great.

OIKB8m Enjoyed every bit of your post.Thanks Again. Will read on…

QnVT72 Really appreciate you sharing this blog post.Really thank you! Fantastic.

VyqOx5 Really informative article. Cool.