Happy Thanksgiving!
Nov 25 2010
Heading off to the barn, back to clean up and then off to celebrate like most of you, so I won’t be online as much today but I wanted to write something quickly…a friend and I were just discussing this the other day.
It is always so easy to go through life not being thankful and it’s all about looking up. We wish we had a lot of things we don’t have that someone else does. We imagine other peoples’ lives and families and relationships are better than ours (of course, we don’t really know and our perception of who has a perfect life may be wildly skewed from the reality). Ultimately, if you want to be thankful today, spend a little time while you’re doing your barn work or the stuff in the kitchen that you don’t have to think about to do focusing on all of the people who have it worse than you. (I don’t mean the people who have it worse because they’d rather do drugs than work, or they’re flat out lazy — you know what I think of THAT — I mean people who have it worse because fate simply has been unkind to them). Think about the people who are not alive at your age, because an illness or an accident or a crazy person stole that from them. (Think about the dumb, risky situations you’ve put yourself into in your life that YOU got out of safely! I know I have some of those, for sure.) Think about the people who can’t enjoy this holiday because they are miserably sick. Think about those who are in the military and can’t be home with their loved ones and who live daily with the fear that they may never see those people again — they’re doing it so that you can relax and feel safe at home today. (Would you do that for people you don’t even know? I never would have, I totally admit that. I feel very thankful that people exist who are unselfish enough to serve, people who even at a very young age thought about the big picture and wanted to do the right thing.) Think about the people who don’t have the things you have today…that’s what creates real gratitude.
So today I am thankful for: Still being alive at 43, and not having anything more than normal age-related aches and pains wrong with me, having six healthy horses, having three snuggly cats, having the world’s cutest dog (I may be biased), having a good job, having great friends, having amazing, totally trustworthy people to board horses with, having this blog and people who like to read it, having a ton of other opportunities that I’m so grateful for, having had just a great year full of wonderful surprises in many areas 
and I am always thankful that my 30 year old mare, Harmony, is still going strong! (Thank you to Paradigm Farm – you ARE the best!)
What about you guys? Was 2010 better for you? (It seemed like 2009 was just crap for everybody, didn’t it?)
And of course…go out and hug those ponies! I am heading out to do just that. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
81 comments to “Happy Thanksgiving!”
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment. Not a member? Registering is free, and you do it here!
2010 has been a good year for me. It started with the unexpected addition of Yankee (current nickname Fuzzbutt) to my life, a wonderful Rocky Mountain colt (gelding now). After decades of working “every one else’s” horses, winning Yankee has been one of the best things to happen to me, ever.
I am also thankful that Meep the Travelcat is still with us. She is 15 and has some issues, and we had a scare earlier this year when I thought I might lose her. She has recovered though, and now is healthier than ever.
I am thankful for a wonderful, supportive husband. We have been married for 22 years now. He’s not a horseman, but supports my obsession and has fallen in love with Yankee, so I’m slowly turning him into one
I am thankful that I have a wonderful new job in my company. Soooo much better than the old one, I’m having a lot of fun. As a corollary, I am thankful I can do my second favorite thing – play with computers – and get paid for it so I can enjoy my first favorite thing – playing with horses.
Happy Thanksgiving to all those who celebrate it. I hope y’all had an awesome 2010, and if you didn’t, here’s hoping 2011 will be better!
I guess I am one of the few who has time to check the blog. Hahah. As we take our hour drive to the family gathering, I realize how much I have to be thankful for. Very rarely do I have time to slow down and look at my life and see how fortunate I am. I have nine healthy happy horses, barrel horses, trail horses, yearlings who are enjoying being horses and awaiting their third year to start joining the big horses for riding, and my awesome thoroughbred who is my clown and mediator in the herd. He is unridiable due to back neck and hip issues, the abuse he was put through before coming to me. He’s a nutcase, but I am thankful that I am able to provide him a safe lifetime home where he gets to be the mascot and prettiest horse in the pasture. Haha. My crazy dogs and birds, the new adopted kitten that my cockatiel tries to eat (I thought it was the other way around?) and my blind bull from the auction who just needed a quiet place to live. He’s a sweet boy.
I’m thankful for my crazy family, who classify me as the black sheep. They are all normal-job folks, while I work with horses and am a professional farrier. Speaking of, I’m extremely thankful for all of my clients who seem more like friends. I am blessed to work with some amazing people and their awesome horses in the Florida and georgia area. Thanks y’all!
And thank you Fugly, for the blog and keeping me sane! Knowing that I’m not alone in the thoughts I have about the horse world and some people in it is a godsend. You’re awesome!!
I am totally thankful that I found a job so I can support my addiction. For my husband: who has a good job to carry the herd when I lost my job, helps in the barn and with chores, supports me in my additction, and loves me regardless of my cranking selfish need to buy ANOTHER bag of feed for the already too fat horses!
I am thankful that both feet hit the floor, I have good kids, good friends, and a warm home.
Mostly I’m thankful for my life…the whole big disfunctional, happy, cranky, loving, selfish, giving, ugly, beautiful mess that is unique to me alone. I wouldn’t EVER change a thing!
Blessings to all!
If it shows up:
If not: First world problems vs. real problems
Don’t get me wrong, there are real problems that happen in the first world too. But today I’m thankful for clean water, sanitation, and electricity!
Thank you! I remember looking at the TV and going “….WTF” when all those people were whining about the “prison ship” and the “bad smells” they had to endure. I mean, yeah, it sucks that your vacation was ruined, but seriously?
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
2010 was a good year for me, some of my worst nightmares happened this year but they turned out to not be as bad as I pictured them. And I’ve learned from every experience I’ve been through this year, and that’s all I can really ask for!
I am thankful for having a roof over my head, food in the fridge, doggies on the bed, ponies outside my back door, a car that runs, a job that pays more than minimum, and a friend that lets me live here on her farm.
I’m grateful for having horses that are competitive in my sport, not always easy. And for having all the equipment they need.
I’m grateful to Dennis and Joyce, who traded me a sweet adorable filly for the crazy-ass Shetland mare I had. And they LIKE her!
I’m grateful to my mentor Mags, for teaching us the ropes on showing Minis, all these years.
I’m grateful for a Mom that is the absolute greatest (she just sent me a “care package” of homemade Christmas cookies and breads, plus six bags of Snyders Potato Chips-which you can’t buy in TX- a total of 35 POUNDS of cookies and chips!) for just being MY Mom.
And mostly, I’m grateful to God for giving me all these riches.
2010 has actually been quite possibly the second worst year of my life. (We won’t go into the worst).
I’m casting around for things to be thankful for other than the basic ‘Yeah, I’m still here’.
And the only thing I can think of is real depressing.
I’m thankful for the life of Ray, who was as a brother to my father and an uncle to me. Who was the best gentleman ever and a strong influence on my childhood. On my life.
He was a man of intelligence, wisdom, gentleness and courage…and he taught me the vital lesson that all of those things can come wrapped in a black skin.
And hit send too soon. Dammit, Ray. I miss you.
(big hugs) So sorry to hear of your loss. Sounds like he left a great legacy – kids need men like that in their lives so much, I wish there were more of them.
Seriously. He was a walking, talking racism cure.
My lovely neighbors are going through my worst nightmare right now. The husband is dying from cancer and doesn’t have much longer. They have no children, but they started a wonderful program 10 years ago to help homeless people with children. It has grown to almost 20 appartments, with housing and a two year program with services and support and training to help people get back on their feet, get a job and have the skills to rebuild their lives. It is not a handout but a complete program including several for the children. It is amazing. He will leave behind a legacy that will continue to help people and change their lives and their children’s lives for the better. Every time I drive by the little cluster of homes, with the lights on and the toys sitting outside, I know those people could be on the street, but instead they are safe and warm.
I am thankful for people like my neighbor, who, while she struggles every day with an uncertain future, a life without her partner in charity and in life, a large house with a few acres to care for and who knows what else, she continues to focus on helping others. We are just beginning to volunteer with her organization and what we have seen so far makes me belive in the goodness in others, even at my lowest moment. I am thankful that people like her have been brought into my life.
That’s amazing. It’s people like that who humble me, because I am not nearly so selfless and good. Tell her that people on the internet admire her.
I’m thankful for having a wonderful family, a husband who not only supports my dreams but wants similar dreams, my son who is everything I could ever want in a child (my best accident ever!!!), for living on a farm that we will hopefully be in the process of owning by July 2011, having a job I enjoy, my 2 beautiful sweet and fantastic horses, 2 hilarious and adorable goats, plus every other creature finned, feathered, furred and scaled in my life, some amazing friends, my health, for answers to prayers that have happened over the past year and the answers of prayers to come, and many many other things, even though my life is far from perfect, I feel I am truly blessed!
I am thankful for my dogs, cats and horses (although we’re missing a cat right now and suspect he got caught by a fisher – poor baby was half house cat so we are terribly upset right now), and for my generally good health (minus a bad back but I’m working on that).
I’m thankful there is a cord of wood in the garage as it’s getting cold and the fire is nice.
And I’m thankful for all the people who work hard at rescuing forgotten, neglected and abused animals.
I am not an American, but it doesn’t mean I can’t be thankful!
I must say, 2009 was better for me than 2010. This year, I’ve had to live without the best mare ever (in my completely biased opinion). No, she didn’t die, she’s still alive, healthy, and crazy as ever. I think that’s almost worse…Loving a horse that you can’t ride/take care of/love daily just because someone with more power than you says you can’t because you’re too old.
However, I AM thankful that she was in my life in the first place. She taught me so much. I’m also thankful that I met a fabulous lady who lets me ride her horses whenever I want absolutely free of charge (though I do try to help out with barn chores whenever I can. That’s me giving back, she doesn’t ask me to do anything usually. And when she does I always do it.). I am thankful her horses are so smart and tolerant…I’m learning to ride English on one of them, and of course I mess up A LOT (I started riding Western. In my next life, I’m most definitely starting English.), and the horse that is teaching me literally just rolls her eyes and waits for me to figure it out. Both of her horses I ride have gotten out of some rather sticky situations by being smarter than me, so I’m very glad they can keep their brain even if I don’t always do so.
I am also VERY thankful that my parents both went to college for a long time (my mother was in college for 10 years). That means they have good, secure jobs now, and can afford to send me to college even though I don’t qualify for any sort of federal financial aid/scholarships. I’m thankful I have a job, even though I hate it, because it means I can afford to buy gas to get to and from school (a 50 mile round trip). I’m glad I always know where my next meal will be, that I will spend every day of this winter warm and toasty and dry, and that I have options for my future (so I won’t have to spend the rest of my life as a cashier at office depot!)
And of course, I’m glad I have wonderful animals in my life to keep me sane…well, sort of sane.
My son is in the military and can’t be home with us today (I bought him a plane ticket home months ago, gambling that he might be able to make it). Even though I miss him a ton, he and I both have a ton to be thankful for. Fortunately, he is stateside, in Utah, only miles from a childhood friend of mine. He will be able to spend the day with her and her family, and for that I am very thankful. I have my health, a good paying job, and my horses (all 6) are happy, healthy and have full bellies. I just can’t complain – in the grand scheme of things, I am a very lucky person
Incredibly good year for me. Sold our specialty business in a for crap market and made decent money on it. Bought a better house and more land here in Kentucky. It’s a gorgeous place! Found a job in about 60 days, with medical and dental (pay is crap but everyone’s pay is crap down here). We had enough extra to put on a new roof and get new floors, and hubby is putting in a run in shed for the 3 horses AND with money that I’d been saving for a while, a new Andalusian baby filly is coming in a week or two! I am incredibly blessed.
Previous to this I was burned out, tired, went thru 2 programs in college for which I still owe a great deal of money, neither program worked out with a job at the end of it and I’m totally soured on what “college degree” can do for you. I lived in an area where I had few friends and even fewer that I could depend on.
So it gets better. I’m not trying to brag, just showing how things can totally turn around in your life in just a few months. This time last year I was working in a hospital as unpaid slave labor, supposed to be doing my job but instead being used by the staff for filing things. The instructor said “do what you have to do, be pleasant and it will work out”. Uh….no….it didn’t. I came out of the externship feeling very unsure of my skills and my speed was not good. I could do the job, it just took me time and in the interests of keeping costs down, hospitals want you to do things fast.
Things started to move along in March and by July 1st, I was here and the animals and husband trickled down over the next couple of months.
I am so very, very, very thankful.
I had the exact same, spectacular turn-around in my life that you did…so now I’m the best cheerleader ever for my friends who haven’t gotten there yet about how things can just do a 180 and be fabulous so DO NOT GIVE UP!
I’m thankful for faith, family and friends and of course all my horse I have had the joy of knowing!! We have 4 cber horses. Today is Royal Reign’s 25th and our 4th yr as buddys. He is an ottb and the definition of a hard hard hard keeper, been there done that ,I can say. Now he has alf, soy oil, sup. and some senior feed 2 times a day. Blanket even if it’s going to rain lol. He is worth it all and then some. I only ride a few times a month maybe. His pasture love is an ottb , Lady Reina @ 20 yr and we had our 1st ride last weekend, she is a angel. Tiffany was 1 1/2 yr old and at that time 15hh, now over 17 hh and as sweet as pie. This summer I have been ground work and ready to saddle her for our 1st ride this spring. General is the best lawn mower big, black percheron and scared of his own shadow. I love my horse and would have them here if I could never ride any of them, it’s just a plus that I get to!! Thank you Cathy for all the help and info you give ,you are a blessing!!! I have learned a lot from you, so a Big THANK YOU!! Have the best Thinksgiving !!
Joan
Thank you for the reminder. I volunteer at our food bank. Yesterday a call came in from a woman holed up in a dumpy motel,no money, no car, no food. We put together a few bags of microwavable stuff, juice boxes, peanut butter and crackers, stuff that didn’t need a kitchen to cook. I don’t know what put her in this situation, probably a bunch of dumb choices on her part. But I sure felt bad for someone sitting all alone on Thanksgiving eating microwavable food trying to figure their next move.
I do find myself wishing for this or that (ok I REALLY want to rip up the bathroom floor and put in in-floor heat, justified because I’m in MN, but not going to happen). You remind me for all that I do have after 51 years: 3 great horses, 2 at home and one at a really good boarding barn, a great trainer to work with, 2 cats, 2 stupid dogs (can’t really brag about them) one great boyfriend who did chores today so I could do turkey, one great 88 yro Dad here with me and 3 kids doing well (some better than others but all moving forward). Happy Thanksgiving FUGS!
2010 has been a reasonably good year for me, it terms of horses it’s been fantastic. My riding and my understanding of horses has developed a LOT.
I’m thankful I moved and get to live the life where my horses are here with me, it’s a lot of work but it’s worth it.
I’m thankful my 28 year old toothless git is happy and shiny and fat and still ridden and loving his life.
I’m thankful for my pony who is my rock, always and no matter what, ever since I was ten years old.
I’m thankful for and proud of my problem child mare who had a competitive season culminating in a huge honour where she was ridden in front of hundreds of people- just last week. I’m thankful our relationship has developed and we trust one another, the mare and I, more than ever.
I’m thankful for my silly big red filly, she is the dream, my first warmblood and a horse who adores me as much as I adore her. She makes me smile every day as she lumbers up for a cuddle.
I’m thankfyul for the latest pony child who arrived just this week, an amazing warmblood mare who oozes class, not least because of her outstanding temperament, I’m thankful that even though she is currently hurt (long story) she has the grace and the loveliness to just accept everything, including her antis!
Then the furchildren. Ever thankful for the canine love of my life, and the other canine who I adore, my two fuzzybut cats who are the princesses around here and totally fail at mousing. And for my friends and my family who put up with me and hold my hand when I give anti injections.
I’m thankful. I get all of this. It’s amazing.
Thankful for every single thing i have. I am blessed and grateful for it. Did I work hard for it? You bet. Where does that fit in the scheme of things? Clueless-plenty of peole work hard and do not make it. That IMO is why you give back.
Mostly this year I am thankful that my Dad (major cancer/surgery/complications,…..) is doing well and enjoying the holiday. I’m thankful my brothers are doing ok, and thankful for friends that care.
Speaking of the troops, my sister was sharing with me a story about one of her room mates at college. My sister was telling the girl about the thanksgiving dinners served to the soldiers on tour and describing how on the bases over seas serve dishes such as lobster and filet mignon to the soldiers (because after all, they really do deserve it!). The girl promptly replies to my sister “Well, I’m glad to know my tax dollars are being put to *good use*” in an especially sarcastic tone. My sister was especially disturbed by this because a) we have immediate family in the military and b) this just goes to show how unthankful people are for their protection, the sacrifices of others, etc.
*sigh*
Some people.
Yep… some people. She might be interested to know that American soldiers on tour will trade just about anything they have for French army rations. My husband is in the French army and has brought home tons of French rations. To put it clearly, my dogs don’t even like to eat some of those. Tells you something about how bad American soldiers are eating when they’re out there putting their lives on the line for the rest of us.
First off that Filet Mignon or Lobster meal? That was served (that one day) at the mess hall, for those lucky enough to be there for it. The ones out on patrol, or stationed in outposts got MRE’s, as usual.
Second, the meals were probably donated. There are a lot of companies and people who DO appreciate our military, and do what they can to make things a bit nicer.
I don’t own any horses (I’m just a senior in high school) but I have so many horse things to be thankful for…
First, for my trainer, who took me from a first ride where I was bawling in fear to now barrel racing. I had had a bad fall a few years before and swore I’d never ride again. I decided on a whim to try it again one day, and he took that swept little freshman girl to the “horsewoman” I am now. Thank you so much, Danny (and old rickety Grace,) for giving me back a love of riding.
Second, for the horses I’ve ridden over the years. Grace and Shorty, who taught me the foundations, and my current love, Thunder, a big goofy Appy gelding.
Third, for my job at the local university’s horse farm. I get to take care of 24 equine athletes, and I love every minute of it. They’ve taught me so many things about horsekeeping and care in general. And my boss, who is possibly the most amazing (and forgiving!) boss ever. I still can’t believe I get paid to work around horses- it’s an incredible blessing.
All in all, for the horses and experiences in my life. I am ever grateful for the opportunities and blessings over the past years. Happy Thanksgiving!
There is a special place in Heaven for trainers who can be patient with scared riders. I guarantee that EVERYONE who has fear CAN get over the most of it with the right trainer and the right horse. It’s just challenging to find those people who are both talented trainers and have the patience to understand that there is nothing wrong with letting someone only walk for a month or whatever it takes, without trying to push them into more and scare them back off of riding completely.
And a special place in heaven for the “rickety Graces” and others that do their best to take scared riders from place to place and get them home safely.
This is a reminder that I need to be even more grateful for my Teke boy, Pan, who – green as he is – is turning into the Lord Byron of horses, perfect for this sissy overaged re-rider. After a rocky start, he is doing his best to be patient, kind, and not put a foot wrong if he can help it and as long as understands what I’m asking him to do. We even (finally!) cantered last week and I didn’t die: he spent that whole endless 15-20 seconds asking, “Mom, are you sure you’re okay? Are you sure I’m doing this right?” And three days ago when i dismounted carelessly and ended up under his feet, he did not give me the contemptuous sneer that Lexie the Arabian favors. He just checked to make sure I was all right.
And he was a totally unbroken, unhandled herd stallion two years ago.
Yes, I have a person leasing an equine saint of mine who went from confident re-rider to fearful white knuckle rider thanks to a lesson program using green auction finds as their lesson horses. She now takes confidence building lessons at an excellent barn (they pay good money for well trained and safe mounts) and comes out 4-5 days a week just to walk around the pasture on my boy. I’ve told her when she is ready we will try a short trail ride, but for now, she is just doing what she feels comfortable.
How about a post about this Cathy? What makes a good lesson horse? So many barns around here (MD) think you pick them up at the auction, and throw the student up there. Or they pick up OTTB and use their students to work them until they can sell them. The worst are those that use lame and half-starved horses, because they can’t muster up the energy to buck anyone off.
2010 has been a bad year for accidents for me. In April I got rolled on, kicked in the head that required 8 stitches, and a grotesquely swollen calf in one wreck. Then on Labor Day I was clothes lined by a fence at the state horse show that required a steel plate and 10 screws to repair and two head wounds that needed 200 stitches and 7 staples. So needless to say I’m grateful for my health and the face I’m still here to annoy you today.
I’m also grateful for my wonderful and supportive non-horsey boyfriend that took care of me afterwards and never told me I couldn’t continue with my horses and has never gotten in the way of my dreams of a DVM.
I did begin at Astate this year and I’m a Pre-Vet student and I’m so grateful that I’m going to have a shot at a great education that most people don’t have.
I’m also grateful for wonderful and supportive family that is behind me no matter what.
Whoa! Let’s hope the are no more accidents in your future, sounds like a very painful year!
It has been a very painful year. Got my first stitches, first tetanus shot, and first surgery. But I wasn’t down for long and I won’t ever be. I was back on the horses a week after both accidents, no fear. I can’t decide if I heal real quick or I’m just that tough.
You’re probably that tough! Typical horsewoman.
Reminds me of a T-shirt I saw once:
“Are you going to cowboy up, or just lay there and bleed?”
I too have titanium in my head from some good wrecks with baby horses. =] Welcome to the club, we’re “life-ers” in this horse business.
I am truely happy for 5 healthy kids, a husband who 100% supports all my decisions, I am still sad for the loss of my stud PQH Pretty Boy but truely thankful I had him in my life for 3 1/2 short years.
I am thankful for the 2 years, 4 months, 2 weeks, and 6 days that I have had Denali in my life. Tomorrow I am losing her, and can hardly breath now, and I am still able to put my arms around her. I am thankful for her vets who fought so hard for her. I am thankful for my husband who reminds me to shower, eat and breath. I am thankful for everything my mare taught me. I don’t know about 2010, but November has been horrible to me and my mare.
I am so sorry.
I know how much you put into trying to fix her.
Thank you, I felt like I needed to come back and post this.
Last night the truck called at 9:45 to cancel because they got snow. That meant we have to put it off, again. The vet called this morning and asked if she could turn her out in the arena to let her stretch her legs, even if it did mean that she might fall. No falling, not yet, she was running around doing flying lead changes (a week ago she was stumbling at that walk). Truck on hold for the time being, and so I am thankful for snow, and cancelled trucks.
God, all I can say is that I DO NOT ENVY YOU.
It’s so hard when they are roller-coastering like that…
I’m just going to sit here and hope really hard that she continues to improve.
Fucking EPM, I HATE THAT SHIT.
I am so sorry about your impending loss. And so happy you have so many caring people in your lives.
I am so very sorry.
Run free, Denali, until your most special person can join you.
Hugs……
had a funny day today, my husband has a security business and a CO detector went off in a barn near us so he said he would check it out and a house I caretake for had a low temp sensor go off so we took off together (a little bummed to work on our day off, and trying to cook dinner!) so we went to the barn first, the most amazing barn I’ve ever been in. And as we were finishing the ‘head horse wrangler’ came to the barn and we were all introduced and I said nice to meet you, I’m very jealous of your position here! He said “we are looking for someone part time” So I start next week, I’ve been trying to get my foot in this barn for two years, it’s the only english barn out here! One of their mares had a retirement ceremony at Devon! GG Valentine is the mare.
So I am VERY thankfull to get a job with horses again!!
That is AWESOME! Congratulations!
Super awesome! And a real tribute to the ‘new’ idea that that one face-to-face is worth a hundred resumes. Congratulations!
I am thankful that I’m back home in Tennessee, and getting my life back on track after 4 years of homesickness so bad I couldn’t work. I am thankful for my fiance who, after realizing I was serious and would not be coming back or unpacking my stuff this time, decided to work something out, so he can eventually move here with me, and has been as helpful and supportive as he can be, even though we’re several states apart.
I’m forever thankful for my mom and step-dad who have not only been caring for my grandmother, her mom, for the past 5 years, but have welcomed me back into their home until I can get my own place. I’m thankful that I’m going to be able to rent my grandmother’s house once it’s put back in order, and that I have an incredibly giving uncle that is doing as much work on it as he can to get it ready for me.
I’m thankful for my animals (1 dog, 2 cats, 1 dwarf hamster, 1 turtle, and three fish), and thankful for the time I had with the three hamsters I’ve lost this week. Also incredibly thankful for the fact that I have basically three jobs (sole groomer for one customer who has a large kennel, freelance grooming for various other customers, and retail pet care) in what is, honestly, a shit economy. I got back home and the next day, started job hunting, and found my first one, and I’ve grown from there. These jobs have allowed me to knock off another $1,000 on my car loan, and allowed me to put money in my “Truck Fund” so I can eventually buy a used truck. (Plus I get to play with dogs all day, so I can’t complain.) And eventually, I will have a mobile grooming salon, and I’m thankful that one of the amazing women I work for may have a Class B or C motor home that I can buy cheap from her.
I’m thankful that I have -hope- again. Yes, I am exhausted at the end of most days, but I wouldn’t go back to sitting on my ass day in and day out for all the money in the world.
I’m also thankful to my mother who, about 6 and a half years ago, pulled out $8,500 from her -retirement- to send me to grooming school and take care of my car payment and insurance for the three months of school, which allowed me to get a skill that I can carry with me anywhere. I never was of the right mind for college, but grooming came incredibly easy to me. I will pay her back for that, one day, when I can get out of this hole the past 4 years have put me into, but I can never fully repay everything she and my grandmother have given me.
I’m thankful for lots of things this year, although there have been some rough moments this year.
I could probably write a book just describing all the things that are so beautiful in my life, but to summarize, I’m thankful for my family and friends, thankful to be in good health, thankful especially to my husband, who through it all, thick and thin, accepts me for who I am and is unconditionally supportive (and he totally gets the horse thing, even if he’s not a horse person himself.) I’m thankful that, although we lost the baby we were so thrilled to be waiting for, we can keep trying and someday know the joy (and fatigue!) of being parents. I’m thankful that I live in a country where I have electricity and internet to be able to communicate with others like I’m doing now, and thankful that I always have clean water and food to eat. I’m thankful that I have the priviledge of having two amazing dogs, and two fabulous horses, and that all four of them are happy and healthy. I’m thankful to have work that I enjoy, and feel that I have purpose in life. I’m thankful that I have opportunities to help others (four and two legged) who are less fortunate than I am/my animals are.
Gosh, I could go on and on. There are so many things to be thankful for!
2010 has been the most stressful year of my life and I am thankful to have a friend of 40 years still in my life. I had just returned to the barn after a trail ride with a third friend whose horse I’d had for a month teaching him to lope. We had a great ride and she was thrilled with his behavior on the road, trail. As we rode back in, my friend of 40 years came to ride her horse. When we got to the barnyard, the trainee became acutely lame on his right hind. Assuming he picked up a small stone from the driveway, my friend picked up his hoof to examine it. That’s when he kicked out. He sent her sailing through the air and she landed 6’ away, completely unconscious on her side with blood running from her head. I called 911, friend 3 gave me some towels to place under her head, and I waited listening to her labored breathing for 10 minutes that felt like an hour. The ambulance came, assessed her, then called in Lifestar to pick her up down the road at a large parking lot. I couldn’t get her husband so I took off to their house then headed to the hospital. Her husband was already there but she wasn’t. Lifestar broke down after she was loaded on the helicopter so she had to be unloaded and driven in. By this time she was on a ventilator. An hour later, we went in to see her (hubby lied and said I was her sister) in the trauma center and were told of her condition. The kick had connected at her jaw and it was shattered, she had broken both bones in her ankle somehow but worst yet, she’d suffered a stroke and was still bleeding on the brain. They kept her sedated for a week until they were sure the bleeding had stopped before they performed surgeries to repair her jaw and ankle. Over 7 hours to put her back together. They started lightening the sedation but she was terribly confused and we felt like we lost her. She didn’t recognize her mom but started to recognize her husband, then me. She had double vision and her jaw was wired closed. She stayed on the ventilator via trachea another 2 weeks and was tube fed for 6 weeks. She was moved to a rehab facility after 3 weeks where therapy slowly began. I visited as often as I could and brought things I thought would stimulate her. When I handed her mare’s bridle to her, the first thing she did was smell it and smiled.
Long story short, she got out of rehab 3 weeks earlier than expected in late August, the accident happened June 2nd. She did suffer damage to the language center of the brain and continues with private therapy in hopes of going back to work soon. Her ankle is pinned and plated but no longer painful and she was back at the barn to visit her mare less than a week after being home! She’s riding again and smiling and her speech and word recognition are getting better every week. I want to give thanks for her recovering from this awful injury and to remind all horse owners that even the most docile animals can be aggressive when in pain. Never take anything for granted! The horse has also fully recovered from a deep abscess and surgery and is 100% sound again.
I’m thankful that in 2010 I was able to retire. I’m also thankful that I found a wonderful young rider who can help me train my colt. I’m looking forward to 2011.
This might sound odd, but I’m thankful that this has been a year of tough choices and rough times, because it was through those difficult experiences that I was reminded of the incredible family (including the cat that decided to adopt me and move in to my sunroom and demand the finer things in life) and friends I have. Probably the hardest thing I did this year was kick out a freeloading boyfriend after living together for eight months (I’d never lived with a sig. other before, so I didn’t know what to expect in the breakup and was constantly on edge). Then a month later I got into a wreck that totaled my car; I walked away with only bruises and a sprained knee, but I am incredibly thankful that not only am I still here, but several friends came to my aid even though I wasn’t seriously hurt. I can’t invite them over for dinner often enough to say thank you.
I am always thankful for the furry critters in my life, even though only my cat Cujo claims ownership of me. He made me realize that I can’t live normally without a cuddly fuzzball for stress relief.
I am so “warm and fuzzy” reading all the “I’m thankful” messages. My heart goes out to those of you who are in pain or are losing wonderful equine companions. I have been there (we ALL have been there) and it is not a happy time. Just rest assured that you are doing the compassionate thing that, while very painful for you, is the best thing for your four-legged. Quality of life is paramount here, and you will hurt for awhile, cry many tears, but eventually fill the hole in your heart with memories of better times. I lost my first horse in 1994, and I still shed tears when I remember those dark days. {{{ }}} to all.
My own thankful list includes having my health, (what’s left of) my mind, a wonderful part-time job, good friends near and far, three four-leggeds that love me and think I’m wonderful (animals are so insightful ;o) I am thankful for my sense of humor, something we all could use in times like these — laughter at any time is good. I am thankful that as difficult as times are, I can still find time and treasure to share with or give to others in need.
It’s bleak out there for a lot of folks, but these times won’t last forever. Always darkest before the dawn and all that.
I am thankful for my wonderful instructor. We lost contact for two years, but after a few emails and a visit to the barn, she says I can (essentially) ride the horse she’s working with for free, even though she could use the lesson money.
I am thankful for my instructor’s horse (who is currently being leased at a different mob). She taught me to not put up with crap, whether it be a horse deciding not to trot or taking control of a group of my peers.
I am thankful for the dominant personality of the mare my instructor is working with. Getting her to bend when she turns, maintain a consistant trot, and listen to the rider gives me a confindence boost.
I am thankful to the Fugly Blog, for inspiring me to write about irresponsabile breeding and its consequences, even though my teacher was pressuring me to do another topic. I’m also thankful for the Fugly Blog for teaching me conformation and inspiring a new game, “What makes you sire material?”
I am thankful doing well first quarter in school, I need the good grades.
I’m thankful for my family. We’re crazy but we all get along.
Im thankful that I have such a wonderful family and husband. The past couple of years have been tough and filled with uncertainty with job status, etc. We made the toughest, most agonizing decision this past summer to downsize and sell our horses. For me horses have been a part of my life for 30+ years and I really didnt know how I would handle the transition to being horseless. I am thankful that both of my boys ended up at the same place, although owned by different people. We went back to see them last week and they were both fat, sassy, and well cared for. They are obviously loved and that is all that I can ask for. I am so thankful for those 30+ years, because they certainly helped to form the person I am today. I dont think there is anything else in this world that can teach responsibility like having horses.
I am thankful for my health, my husband and both of my dogs (they are pure joy). I am hopefull that this coming year will be better financially for my parents because they have earned it, and that this coming year my father will be able to overcome his current health issues.
I took your “I’m thankful for” , changed it a teensy bit and used it on FaceBook. I’m sure you saw it already. But it was perfectly written, has all the meaning I wanted to express.
I am thankful that I am employed full time, with good benefits, in the state of Michigan. I am thankful for the most wonderful parents one could have. I am thankful for my wonderful used-to-not-be-horsey husband who now feeds them, scoops their poop, and gives them peppermints and love (I am truly amazed at his transformation from scared-to-death to learning to ride –thank you Dottie, RIP– to asking me when I’m going to get him his own horse!). I am thankful I was able to realize a dream and buy my horse property 2 years ago (be it ever so crumbled). I am thankful for my 30 year old bitchy Appaloosa mare who is truly a phenomenal animal, and for my poor little 20ish rescue Haflinger who will never have to worry about anything again (well, except maybe whether or not the App is gonna chase her around). I am thankful that I discovered this blog (except now I am addicted!) and am delighted that there are other horse people out there that are not “horse people”, and that I am not an island
I am thankful I got out of a soul-sucking job that offended my values every single day I worked there. I am grateful for health, mine, my family’s, my pets’. I am deeply grateful for the natural beauty in every single day, whether it is first snow (today!) or the sight of my beloved draft-cross frantically galumping into the barn, terrified he will miss dinnertime.(As if!) Oh, and the sleeping kitties on my bed, and the snoring dog beside it, and the other dogs sleeping and twitching and dreaming. So much joy.
This year was much better than ’09.
I am thankful for that fact. I am also thankful that all three of my geldings are healthy, hairy, and happy. I am thankful that I can afford to feed them well, provide high quality vet care, and a life of luxury for the three horses. I am very thankful that I know why my show horse has had a headache, and that I was able to fix it for him.
I am thankful that I rescued my somewhat disturbed cat, Muggy. She deserved a safe, warm home.
I am thankful that Jazzy, my mom’s dog, does not have cancer, and at 105 (dog years) he is very healthy, and only now showing mild arthritis and breathing troubles. Way to be a tough mutt, as he was taken in a drug raid, used as evidence, and then came into our family. He’s a good companion for Grandpa. I am thankful for that, too.
I am thankful for amazing trainers. Trainers who put the priorities in the correct order: health and safety, enjoyment, learning, partnership and companionship, and lastly the shows.
I am thankful that I get to share this passion of mine with so many others who see it the same way that I see it; for the love of the animals.
I am thankful for coffee! I am thankful for Star Trek, and a million other goofy things. Mostly I am thankful to be alive.
2010 was a little rougher than 2009, financially at least, but we are hanging in there. I am thankful for having a house, a job, all my critters, and my husband who is not a horse person but never complains when I spend money on horses.
I am thankful for my gimpy old 30 year old gelding who continues to suck money down like noody’s business. I don’t know how much longer he will be with me, but I am enjoying each day with him.
I am thankful for my goofy little paint mare, who challenges me and makes me a better rider all the time… who is alternatively a pinned-ear bitch, and cuddly bunny, and a goof, depending on her mood.
I am thankful for my trainer, who has worked with me through financial difficulties and doesn’t let me lose sight of my goals, and who lovingly yells at me when I do things wrong or need guidance, through say, a spook or the occasional bronc fest. Her voice yelling “SIT DOWN!!!” has taken up permanent residence in my head.
and I’m thankful for the internet. I really love the internet.
I keep praying for change and know it will happen so long as I preserver. I am thankful for the family I still have and love and share with me. I am thankful everyday for the amazing husband and 2 terrific boys (“man-children”) in my life. I constantly remind myself that no matter how rough life may get, things will get better and no matter how many people you know, your truest friends can be counted on your one hand.
I have known a woman for nearly 10 years but have really gotten close in the past year and a half. She has been the most amazing woman and friend to me. I have come to realize I have been duped by so many people that I had lost faith in most of humanity. She has proven to me that there are real people out there that have been humbled just as I and can walk without the proverbial chip on their shoulder. We both had felt that we were at the bottom but neither knew that of the other. We both tend to do what it takes to keep on keeping on. True grit! Now we have found that it’s okay to need someone to lean on. That we carry each others weakness and that by doing so we get a hell of a lot done. What I do for her is give the help just when she thought there was none to be found. She never asks and I never tell. I just do. Whether it’s clean stalls everyday. Feed and water everybody because it’s dark when she comes home or buy $200 worth of groceries because I just happen to have some extra money (there really no such thing as “extra”)
Because of this woman, I have ridden my horse of 10 years for the first time in 3 years because I have lost my “mojo”. She helped me find it again. She has helped me to realize that my life without horses would be devoid of solitude. That is him on my avatar just before I got on him.
To Tami~ you are an amazing woman and the most wonderful, selfless friend I could ever have. I love you dearly. For you I am forever greatful
I am thankful for:
a fabulous 7 mile Thansgiving trail ride with two friends, I never feel as alive as when I’m on a horse.
3 wonderful mares which through time, training, and effort are such a pleasure to ride,
1 incredibly kind, polite, and deserving former Amish buggy mare-saved by Saddlebred Rescue- who has taught me so much about forgiveness,
the “Golden Retriever” of the farm, our boarder, a strikingly attractive + goofy saddlebred gelding, also saved by Saddlebred Rescue,
my kitties, all seven of them,
my husband who tolerates and helps support all of the above, and loves our “kids” as much as I do.
2010 has been a rough year in many respects, but it’s what you have at the end of the day that counts, and I’m good.
Sorry, this is irrelevant to the discussion, and doesn’t come under the heading of Happy threads either
http://knoxville.craigslist.org/grd/2081588588.html
Oh God, that’s right up the road from me…
I don’t know anything about this rescue. They may be good people or they may be shady, but their barn burned down on Nov. 25th killing 24 of their rescue horses and destroying all their supplies and equipment. The only horses that survived the fire were the pasture horses. Everything and everyone in the barn is gone.
http://www.channel3000.com/news/25914948/detail.html
Somewhere I had a link to something that their daughter had written up, but I can’t find it now.
Like I said. I know nothing about these people. So I’m not vouching or anything. I thought maybe you and your super-sleuths could find out more. Perhaps people would want to donate. The horses that survived the fire are being cared for at neighboring farms. I don’t even want to imagine the devastation of not being able to get my animals out.
So this year I am thankful that my boy is a happy pasture pet. Situations like this scare me more then the elements. He is slightly overweight and looks like a Wooly Mammoth. The hay is piled high and we are ready for winter. I’m thankful for the people that take such good care of him.
You know, I haven’t commented because I KNOW I had a big blowout on Facebook about something this guy said or did and now I can’t remember what it was about. But let’s just say I’m pretty sure my recollection is they wouldn’t exactly have been candidates for GFAS accreditation with that rescue.
That said, it’s extremely sad that so many horses were lost. It does not appear, from what I know, to have been the result of human negligence. No space heaters involved.
I’m thankful to be alive, and that my back is still holding up almost three years after having my spine fused.
I’m thankful for my wonderful boyfriend who supports me and my love for horses. I’m also thankful that he loves them too and always asks me how they are doing when he doesnt get a chance to go to the barn with me.
I’m thankful I can still ride. I am thankful for the 3+ years I had Rose in my life. I met her when she was already and older girl, but she had so much spunk and zest for life. She never even looked her age. She taught me so much, and helped me regain confidence in myself when I could finally start riding again after my surgery. Letting her go in October was one of the hardest things I have ever dealt with, besides losing my dog last February. I’m just glad I was able to be with her in her golden years and take care of her in her old age. She is in a better place now with all the green grass she could even want. Rose was 26 when we had to let her go. I’m thankful that the vet who came out was very kind and understanding.
I’m thankful for the other two horses I have in my life. They are such a joy to me.
I’m thankful for my trainer who is so more more than a trainer, more like my best friend and family to me. I dont know where I would be without her. I look forward to what the future holds.
2010 certainly had its ups and downs, but over all it was a good year. The hard things like losing a horse reminded me the importance of taking good care of them no matter how old they are and making your time with them count when they do get old. I’m thankful I was able to be there for Rose right up until the end and do right by her. I am a stronger person becase of it. The good things in my year like great friends, and many unforgetable trail rides reminded me that no matter what happens life goes on and there are always good things around the corner. I look forward to what the future holds.
2009 was definitely not a good year for us. My husband and I never have really had a break at all, it’s been very hard to make it and support ourselves and our animals. In June of 2009, my husband had a much-needed surgery. For about 30 years or so of his life, he’s had chronic sinus problems and throat infections and illness over and over and over. Finally, I convinced him to have his tonsils removed. At 40 years old, he got his tonsils out and during the surgery, they also went into his sinus to remove polyps.
One of the polyps came back from the lab identified as sarcoma cancer.. … rare in people (horses actually get it), and it was in a rare area. It was classified as a slow-growing but aggressive tumor. Further tests (MRI’s..) revealed that the tumor had cracked the extraoribital bone around his eye, and was pressing against the eggshell thin bone at the base of the brain.
In August, he had an 8 hour massive brain surgery procedure to remove the tumor, dead bone, and most of the nerves in his sinus. He lost his sense of smell and had massive swelling inside and outside of his head. He then started 6 weeks of radiation therapy, finishing up just 2 days before Christmas 2009. The tumor was declared 100% removed.
In May 2010 during a normal recheck MRI, they found signs of what they feared was the tumor back again. In June, he was undergoing another surgery to collect some tissue from behind the eye and test it.
THANKFULLY, he was under anesthesia for 30 minutes, the tests on site revealed it was not tumor. It was highly vascularized tissue (very much like proud flesh) and that is why it appeared abnormal on the MRI.
So, here we are, a year later and he’s cancer free. He still can’t smell, and maybe he never will, but ultimately, that’s a small price to pay for not having a tumor eating through your skull.
A much better 2010.
Hopefully 2011 will continue to improve for us, and maybe we can get a farm!
http://www.kshai1715.wordpress.com
A Barrel Horse Learns to Jump
I wasn’t sure where else to go, I am kind of in a panic after seeing this:
(link to Rebel’s Latest Feedlot $cam)
Do you SEE that fifteen year old mare? She belongs no where near a slaughter truck. Does anyone know a service that will give a loan for a horse in this situation? Or a place for her to stay for a couple weeks? I can pay back, and compensate for money, time and effort. I will take that horse and keep her forever in a heartbeat, but I have no way of getting up there, or getting her down here (I’m in Oregon) until after December 8th. Some of the other horses look like they shouldn’t be there either.
There is something about that mare though. If anyone has any suggestions, I am near desperate. If anyone wants to get the word out about these horses, I would be grateful.
I just committed an emotionally induced read-fail. The last time that was updated was in Febuary. While I am sure they still have horses that are on the lot, they may not have those specific ones. I am having some trouble reaching them by phone
No offense taken if you delete the post.
Sorry but that is the old CBER under another name…I won’t promote them here so I removed your link.
There are so many things to be thankful for this year, I won’t begin to list them.
I am most thankful this year that my youngest son was still home for Thanksgiving and will get leave for Christmas (even though it will be short). He will be deploying to Iraq after the beginning of the year. It is his first deployment – our first deployment – and I am scared to death and indescribably proud. I am also very thankful for (and humbled by) all of the support I have gotten from friends who have lived through it and for the FRG which provides family support services to help us get through the unknown.
I’m thankful for being engaged this year!!! Now I’m looking for a little creativity from my fhotd buds… obviously my dog/best friend Sydney will be in our wedding, but we can’t decide how to incorporate her. She is very smart and picks up new tasks quickly- I was thinking maybe ring bearer or flower girl? Has anyone seen dogs in weddings in fun ways for bride/groom/pup?
Was browsing the local cragslist, and SOMEBODY SAVE THIS POOR MARE!
http://monterey.craigslist.org/for/2078802454.html
I am thankful that despite being out of work for a year (this weekend) and my teaching and training business being in the toilet (long story – at a really bad barn for trying to build a business but my old man has the best stall and food…) I can still afford to give my five ponies the care they deserve. There have been some cutbacks but they are still fat, healthy and sound. I am so thankful that my old man is healthy and strong and sound and I am thankful that my husband is patient and understanding that I can’t find a good home for a 14 yo OTTB who can’t jump and has one heck of an ugly leg (he is sound though!) I am thankful for the generous client who paid for the OTTB’s colic vet bill and the two remaining clients whose horses I am supposed to be riding but can’t since I came off my 4 year old and sprained my S/I joint. AND I am thankful that no one will mind these poorly written, run-on sentences that I can’t correct since I have a wicked sinus infection that seems to be effecting my cognitive abilities.
I’m not American either, and I did have a pretty crappy year in some respects (appendicitis in February then breaking my elbow in Septmeber that’s still healing), I am grateful for my friends, family, adorable lil puppy, and my crazy but amazing horse who I couldn’t live without <3
2010 has been a rollercoaster for me, but I have a lot to be grateful for. Both sets of parents are still with us and doing well. Went through my surgery with flying colors, and finally, after 8+ years of misery feel like I am getting back to myself. 3 kids now in college, and I am very grateful for my job since it pays half their tuition. My 24 year old mare that in April I thought I may have to put down is sassy, full of life, and ruling the pasture again. My husband has finally gotten a horse he has really bonded with, and is very enthused about riding again. (Yay!!) All the ER scares we had this year (husband, me, dog) turned out well.
I could go on, we all have so much to be thankful for, but I will end with thanks to those who serve, police, firemen, and our military. You service honors us, and we thank you.
Australians don’t celebrate thanksgiving, but I sure have things to be thankful for!
I am thankful….
that i have a wonderfull suportive partner
that neither my Daughter nor I have suffered any Ill effects from the conditions that required our hospitalisation
that my job is secure, and that i have a fabulous boss (thanks Dave!)
that my Vet lets me pay off my bills
that i can afford my miraculous, very expensive and necissary farrier
that i found the most amazing adjistment for my horses (you can’t keep horses in water- thanks, council asshats, for letting my neighbours turn my place into a 2 acre lake)
now all i need is BCC to stop all the illegal filling, industry and f*wittery in my street, and a new engine in my car!
Im thankful this year we were able to finally find an acreage that we could A)AFFORD B)allowed us to get a few horses and C) That my best friend is forever patient with me. Im glad I found my beautiful girls,(and one soon to be gelding, hes the other halfs and a complete goof) who I love more than anything in this world, other than my boyfriend that is. Its wonderful too look out my window and see my dream of having horses again come true. I was deadly afraid of horses 8 yrs ago, and now I cant ever be without them again. Riding accident 15+years ago scared the daylights out of me, refused to be around them after that, till I met my best friends mare, who gave me the courage to get back in the saddle LOL. Am forever thankful that my girl made a complete recovery from a nasty leg injury that was a freak accident and is now 100% sound and healthy as a well, horse. Sad that come spring, my best friend has to put down a yearling she bought with high hopes for, to find out he will only continue to get worse, so he will go be with the Sky Herd after a winter of getting spoiled fat and sassy. Its been a yr of ups and downs between her horses and mine, had to let a beautiful girl go to the sky herd due to heart failure, and had one die on us suddenly with no cause found. (likely a sudden heart attack, got him out of a bad situation, he was loved and spoiled for the short time we had him)But they are all fat and sassy and healthy now, as are all the people in my life. So overall 2010 hasnt been that bad.