Black Feather Farm

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T17:22:00.000-08:00

As the sun sets on 2011, I will wish you all a wonderful, new year - filled with love and laughter.

My view of War Horse

2011-12-26T22:19:00.000-08:00

"I knew going in that this was a Black Beauty set in wartime. This is not a pretty little movie, it is a war movie and depicts the horrors of it, though thankfully not overly graphic. Expect some movie moments that are not altogether realistic, but heartfelt, and I like that kind of thing so it worked for me . Mostly I loved the movie because of the relationship between Joey and Albert. I love Albert's bravery to fight in the war to find his horse. Joey, to me is the heart of all the horses that served and worked along side the fighting men in World War I. Many people don't realize how the horses were viewed and treated, this movie will hopefully open some eyes to that. When it was over the audience applauded ... I was still crying. I do feel they were remiss in not putting on the screen at the end that over 8 million horses died in that war and the ones who who did survive were indeed sold, many ended up on a dinner plate ... the ultimate betrayal ... they were soldiers too."

Merry Christmas !!!!

2011-12-24T13:11:00.000-08:00

Who's got time to read a blog post ?

2011-12-20T22:08:00.000-08:00

Christmas is barreling down on us, who has time to read a blog post ? Unless you are one of those ultra organized,ahead of the game people who has everything under control. Me, I'm doing way less this year, and I don't even feel guilty about it...... guess I must have my big girl britches on right about now, and they fit pretty swell. Christmas should be what you want to make it. Not a guilt ridden obligation to channel Martha Stewart and make everything look like a magazine spectacular all fussed up in red velvet and gold, with piles of fancy gifts. Sometimes less is more, and there is so much more to Christmas than buying things that no one truly needs. But it is up to you to figure out how to hold Christmas dear, maybe you dream of red velvet and gold. As for me, I'll be having a Merry little Christmas....

Lost and found.....

2011-12-05T20:21:00.000-08:00

As a new year approaches I remember that I started this year with six beloved dogs, I now have three. Two are gone from this earthly plane and I had to let one live with my ex. Its been a year of letting go for me. I had to let someone go that I cared about, I had to let a friend go too... and no they are not together, Lol. I have let go of the hope that I will find someone to share my life with, and also let go of the idea that I can make a living making jewelry. I suppose I have to let go of the chance I'm going to win the lottery too, that's only because I never play it. But with all the things lost to me, I have found some things too. I have found that my dogs will live on in my heart, that you don't need friends who cause you unhappiness. I have found a new plan to attempt to make a living from my art, and I find my life is pretty full and happy like it is. I have found myself looking forward to the new year and all the surprises it will hold. I think its time to go buy a lottery ticket.....

Who can resist a Cookie ?

2011-11-23T20:08:00.000-08:00

I knew I was in trouble yesterday, the moment I went and peeked at them. Really, I knew better, I need a new pet like I need to start a new blog. Okay, well, yes I did that too. Darn feed store anyway. I did walk away but could not get that one little buns out of my mind. I went back today and brought Cookie home. She {or he} reminds me of the black and white French Lop I had some years ago, I loved him so. Cookie is a mix and a mini so she won't get very big, she is about the size of a softball right now. She will live in and have the run of my art studio when I am in there working, and sometimes the house, when the dogs are outside of course. They have not been raised with bunnies and will see her as a glorified, too much hair, not enough filling hors d'oeuvre. But I ask you, who can resist a Cookie ?
"Happy Thanksgiving" everyone !!!

The Nokota horse

2011-11-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

This is an interesting website dedicated to the Nokota horse. You never heard of them ? Exactly why I posted this, so now you have. Be sure to click on and read their history. The Nokota Horse Conservancy

A Waymarker Site.....

2011-11-14T18:06:00.000-08:00

I found this site rather interesting, looks like a curious and fun thing to play at. Lots of rather intriguing destinations..... of course I'm interested in the animal memorials. Do you know who the horse is without peeking ?Waymarking

3 of Hearts

2011-11-09T20:25:00.000-08:00

Lets try this again.... my new blog 3 of Hearts is up and running. If you love animals, please take a moment to visit and join in. It takes a lot of us to make real change and I will need you on the team. Now back to your regularly scheduled blog......

Ground shaking....

2011-11-07T19:23:00.000-08:00

I wish she was what is making the ground shake around here lately. We have had 28 earthquakes here in Oklahoma the last three days. The biggest being a 5.6. That one knocked my Arabian, Huckleberry Bey off of the shelf onto my black Andalusian and chipped his ear, darn it. No "real" horses were injured in this post, but it did cause wrinkles in my forehead......

Trigger and Bullet

2011-11-05T21:58:00.000-07:00

Looks like Trigger and Bullet, who were bought by the same person from the Roy Rogers Museum auction, will be on a float in the Tournament of Roses Parade. I understand they makes tours around the country these days. I'm glad that they won't be forgotten.

This will surprise no one in my family, as they know I'm a little strange.... I wish I could have bought Trigger.....

Little dog lost....

2011-09-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

We all know how quickly life changes...I lost a little partner today....and I will miss his sweet, sweet face. Rascal was found living in a house that was in the process of being built but had been left unattended for some time. He came to live here and found his forever home. He was a loyal, gentle, loving boy. The best place to bury a good dog is in his owners heart....that's where he will be.

War Horse

2011-08-24T20:06:00.001-07:00

My next movie going experience......with many tissues in hand.

Love at first sight...

2011-07-13T16:49:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting a vintage horse lamp for quite awhile... I knew I would know it when I saw it... and it was love at first sight. Now its part of my bedroom makeover, yep its not very girly ....but its plenty horsey !

A cowgirl gets up early in the morning.....

2011-07-12T22:25:00.000-07:00

Decides what she wants to do and does it. I need to live by this cowgirl motto a little more....
My blog posts have been few and far between as of late... I've been away... not anywhere away, I just haven't been writing or doing much artwork. That is until now, the pendulum has swung the other way finally....Life gets busy in a hurry, and gets in the way, but the creative side of me has to be left in the balance of things or I start to feel a bit lost, as I have lately. So I'm hitting the ground running here, and in my studio... I'm ready to get to work on the new things I've been keeping in my thoughts.... ready to resume my creative writing and almost ready to launch my new "cause" blog. I love it when motivation comes in to roost and the creative energy flows... it is so strange that I feel like I have been away.....
The photo for this post is another of the same cowgirl and horse as my new background, from my collection.

Shots in the dark...

2011-06-30T21:40:00.001-07:00

Still learning to use my Nikon camera. These photos were taken at the Jenks Oklahoma Aquarium this week. The automatic settings are a big help to me right now, but I will have to wean myself off of them if I am to advance and really see what this camera can do.....

Starlings

2011-05-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes birds build their nests in wonderfully safe sheltered places...but when those places, like the attic of a house under construction, is going to be closed up to finish it, the nest has to be moved simply to save them. We could not get the mama bird to go to the relocated nest, so they came home with me. I cared for them for 24hrs. Because I work full time, they had to be taken to a wildlife care facility we are lucky enough to have in our area. So the darling starlings, will be raised and returned to the wild when they are ready.

Twilight....

2011-05-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

Domino effect.....

2011-05-02T19:05:00.000-07:00

I seem to be switching horses midstream a lot lately.... but it was after careful consideration, it had to be, because I loved my job at the police dept. I decided to apply for a job at the Fred Jones Jr Art Museum as a security guard. I was offered a position and there I am. I now spend my days watching over the likes of Fury {the black marble horse sculpture}, Renoir{ blurry because no flash is allowed}, Gauguin, Monet and Van Gogh.
One of my favorite people at the museum is the sweet, easy to like gal who works the front desk. In the course of one of our conversations we started talking about one of the art centers in town. She teaches there part time for extra income and I mentioned I would love to do that. She said they were desperate for teachers.... thus the domino effect. Change "one" thing in your life and that leads you down a new path... and another thing is presented to you, and so on, and so on. I will find out about the teaching this week, but it occurred to me that it is something I could even do out of my home on a small scale. Something I hadn't even thought of.... Then I can afford the new dressage saddle I'm wanting to further my riding skills. Since I have recently re-connected with some of my horsey friends from the past, one who is an instructor, I could resume those long awaited dressage lessons.... I love the domino effect.....

Liz

2011-03-23T15:58:00.001-07:00

The death of Elizabeth Taylor brings about the end of an era of true Hollywood icons.
National Velvet is, and always will be one of my most favorite movies. Just a girl when it was filmed, before she became a motion picture siren, when Hollywood had true glamor and mystique. All of those things are gone and now, and she is too...but she will never be forgotten.

I'd sooner have that horse happy than go to heaven." -- Velvet Brown in NATIONAL VELVET.

To thine ownself be true....

2011-03-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

I'm working on some sketches as of late because I am finding it is where I find the most comfort in my work. What little painting I'm doing is becoming more impressionistic and looser, which actually makes me more pleased with them. It is so calming to be at peace with my work, instead of at war with it. Graphite works are where I started and it seems its where I belong. If I had just stayed with them instead of thinking I could paint, I would have saved myself a lot of misery. Its what we do in life sometimes, stray from who we really are, thinking that being someone we are not is better. Only to find ourselves much happier when we come back to who we really are.

Love letter....

2011-02-14T11:43:00.000-08:00

Some time ago I was in the copy shop I used to frequent before I purchased my printer. I happen to notice a large copy of an old letter in the discard bin beside the copier I was using. I pulled it out and as I use vintage writing samples in my work, I threw it in with my papers. After I got home I looked closer at what was written. It was a love letter and marriage proposal from the 1800's. Following is an excerpt from the letter as written.
" Mif ever since I left your house My mind has been continually ruminating on your many amiable accomplishments. I am not precipitate Mif. Nor would I desire your hand if your heart did not accompany it. In short Mif I am once in love, yet I assure you that I am in real earnest and your own dear self is the object but perhaps you will ask how happens all this. I answer that I cannot tell how it happens."
He goes on to mention the proposal and she must decide if it is to her advantage or not. I wonder if she accepted ?
Happy Valentines Day......

Finding Bliss....

2011-02-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

Not too long ago I was visiting a favorite blog. The writer was asking her readers what one word best defined what they would search for in their lives this year,and why. She was having a giveaway for the best word and reason for the choice. I chose the word "Bliss."

That word best describes what I am looking for this year, and here after. I want to find bliss in my work... to finally be at peace with what I create and why I create it. For some reason I never feel like my artwork is good enough. Instead I want to look at my pieces and feel that they are a completed vision, and will in some way touch those who see them. I also want to find it in my life as a whole. To clear away mental clutter and live each moment as it passes by with clarity. Sometimes we are so busy living we fail to be present in our own lives. I want to take in the everyday magic that surrounds me, to hold it for a moment and always be grateful for it. It is a fulfilling journey working towards this goal. And some of it is work, some people have to be let go, along with negative, I can't, I don't measure up thoughts. Some circumstances even have to be changed. But each step I take brings me closer to where I want to be ... and just knowing that is the beginning of "Bliss."

Oh, and out of 134 entries to my delight I actually won the giveaway. It was a pattern and instructions to make a banner that says....you guessed it..."Bliss." Some things are just meant to be.

And so it snows ....

2011-02-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

Transition....

2011-02-03T19:54:00.000-08:00

My blog and I are going through a bit of an evolution... which should be interesting because I am always dragging my feet at change, pleading no, no change for me thank you. I whine and moan and complain about it endlessly until I finally open my eyes and see that some things change for the better. I knew it was time to shake things up a bit in several areas of my life, so I just jumped in... embracing change.... I really am going through a transition.....maybe you should check on me in a few days.....

Photo :
Indi and I, taken by : Scout Brinlee

A Thousand Words....

2011-02-03T19:40:00.000-08:00

" Is that other dog watching me ?"

Shots in the Dark

2010-12-31T11:09:00.000-08:00

I finally got back to Bricktown to get some photos of the land run bronzes there. Its taken a long time for me to pull out the new slr camera and start shooting with it. Intimidating to say the least. I feel like I could run mission control with it, it has so many functions, bells and whistles. The instruction book will take a while to get through, so for now I experiment with it. After I get more comfortable I will be adding new lenses to really see what it can do. Right now I feel like I'm taking shots in the dark. Which is what I will call my little journey as I learn to build a working relationship with this camera. Sometimes I will hit, and sometimes I will miss. Life is kinda like that too... you just have to keep shooting.

Merry Christmas Everyone !!!!

2010-12-24T13:20:00.000-08:00

Bah-Humbug !

2010-12-20T00:27:00.000-08:00

The holiday spirit around here hasn't improved just yet....

Graffiti horses....

2010-12-15T12:38:00.000-08:00

These artworks started when I took a horse I had drawn in pen and filled it in with photoshop brushes, just playing around. I loved the outcome, but decided they needed to be filled with my original drawings. So I bought some pens the other day and started creating these horses. I have added them to my Zazzle shop, along with some other new designs. Let me know what you think of them.

Where is that holiday spirit ?

2010-12-14T11:09:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is in full swing, but me ? Not so much. Normally I'm playing the Christmas music a month before, have all my shopping done by September and am ready to bake cookies. This year I'm just hoping for it go away - quickly. I imagine it is just because my mind is elsewhere this year. My head is crammed with other things. Things I want to accomplish, things I want to create, places I want to go. This will all work itself out of course, by June I will be wanting to paint Christmasy things and listen to Carol of the Bells. In the mean time I had better get cracking, those gifts don't just materialize under the tree.... oh, what tree? Its still in the box.

Mustangs....

2010-12-02T18:11:00.001-08:00

At present I'm creating a series of pieces inspired by Spanish mustangs and wild horses. Some of these images will be incorporated into jewelry and onto my Zazzle shop items.

Fall

2010-11-03T22:36:00.001-07:00

For me this is the best time of year ....crisp air, pumpkins, holidays... and the flies are gone.

Maybe next year....

2010-11-03T00:42:00.000-07:00

Well it seems I've been Sooooooo busy I simply forgot to do a Halloween post !!!! I just plain missed it... I usually write a fun spooky poem and add a photo to set the mood. I guess I have all year to get the cobwebs out of my brain and get it right next year.

A match made in Heaven....

2010-10-22T23:25:00.000-07:00

What is it about women and horses that just makes them such kindred spirits ? What ever it is I'm grateful for it.

Indi and I Oct 2010

Dark Arts

2010-10-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

My art doesn't really get very dark, but I am working on a few of these type of paintings, and jewelry, inspired by Halloween and everyday spooky things.... "The Witch's Horse painting and Raven Heart necklace are available on ebay.

Whatever you are doing ....

2010-10-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

If you don't get it quite right the first time....you can always try again.

photo from my collection

What is she working on now ?

2010-10-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

I'm doing some handpainted clay work right now....

Sidesaddles and Suffragettes

2010-09-28T09:37:00.000-07:00

In my living room sits a lovely black antique sidesaddle with ornate tooling on the leather, a Fall colored tapestry seat and a heart shaped metal stirrup. I absolutely adore it, it is like a piece of art to me, but with a real history. I often wonder about the lady who rode it, the horse who wore it, and what their lives were like.
I've been doing some research lately for a book I plan to put to paper and came across some articles on Suffragettes and sidesaddles. I had never really put the two together like that before, but it doesn't take much reading to see how they are entwined. One article states " And while it is common knowledge that the Suffragettes achieved the right to vote in 1920, what has gone undetected is that these brave women rode into the voting booth as second-class citizens on a sidesaddle, then galloped out astride."
Sidesaddles were conceived as a political and social tool of oppression to women and this is why the Suffragettes rode astride, and why they caused such a stir. Back then women could be arrested for indecent exposure for wearing a split skirt or pants. All that was indecent was the implication that women were less than men.
One of the cowgirls I collect images of, is Alberta Claire, who was a well know Suffragette. She is know as the "Girl From Wyoming." Inez Milholland was another who dared to ride astride and fight for womens rights. You can read about them, Catherine the Great, Evelyn Cameron and more of these brave women on the internet if you wish to learn about them.
Now, I wonder even further who rode in that saddle and what she thought about it.

Photo from my collection

Timeless ....

2010-09-16T22:25:00.000-07:00

Most everyone who reads my blog knows I collect vintage photographs, a lot of them are the old time cowgirls, but I also collect images of the more typical victorian women and horses. I sometimes think they fascinate me so, because I often feel I should have lived in those eras instead of my own. When I look at them I feel some kind of connection, something resonates there. I always wonder who they were, how they lived, and what part the horses played in their lives.
If you have never heard of Evelyn Cameron 1894 -1928, please google her. She was a fascinating person and lived what I think is an amazing life. She came from the elegance of England, riding side saddle and fox hunting, to the remote Montana lands to live on a ranch with her new husband. She trained horses and learned photography as a way to make money. She traveled many, many miles alone with her horse hauling her camera equipment to photograph the land and people. She journaled her life in writings and photographs.
I have plans to create a photo book with my images of victorian women with horses, that will include quotes and any notes on the photos themselves about who is pictured. I like looking back to a time when horses were more than a hobby or passion, they were an indispensable part of life, and women and horses will always be a timeless combination.

Contemplation

2010-09-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

This work titled "Contemplation," shows more of the technique I have been working on for my new pieces. After much - contemplation, I feel like I am finally "home" in this artwork form. It is meant to replicate the look and feel of vintage photos, though not photo realistic. I am very busy in the studio with painting and jewelry making, there is so much more to come ! Prints are also going to be available now, on Etsy and my website.

The horse God built

2010-09-07T11:37:00.001-07:00

October 8th I will be at the movies. It is the opening date for the new Secretariat film. If you don't know Secretariat, I won't explain, if you do, then you know why I will go alone, because it will make me cry. Not only for Big Red but for Sham as well, whose brilliance would have stood alone had he raced at any other time. Secretariat, who bounded into my heart, like that of a whole nation, will again bring me to tears. I'm not only okay with that, I'm looking forward to it.
"Oh Lord he's perfect" as one article stated back in his day. Those that criticized Secretariat as a stallion apparently did not understand he was one of a kind, the horse God built. See you at the movies.......

To read about Secretariat check out these books: The Horse God Built, by Lawrence Scanlan or Big Red of Meadow Stable, by William Nack.

The Secretariat video link on my sidebar might be of interest as well. This one will take you to Youtube.

Inspiration....

2010-08-26T19:07:00.001-07:00

I'm working on a new art technique right now that mostly involves stepping back to where I started, with sketching as a base. DaVinci's art has always inspired me, and now I'm working in that direction for some new pieces. It has finally dawned on me that I do have a "style" of sorts, no matter what technique I'm working in. I felt I was wandering in my art for so long, but as I gathered some of my pieces together I could see the style base, even in the different techniques I used to create them. I guess all who wander are not lost.......

"Fuego" mixed media ~

A new banner......

2010-08-25T16:04:00.001-07:00

There does come a time for change. I tend to fight it most times, thus the longstanding original banner. You might still like your current situation or creations, but you can't sit still too long, or the chance for something new you might enjoy will pass you by. So it goes with art and life. The new banner is a sign of change for me, in my art and my life. So I tell myself - take the leap of faith and embrace the new.... but you know you can still hold on to the old in some ways if you need to, so its always going to be okay. So another art adventure begins....

A look at a book....

2010-08-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

I figure you have to have a photo, even if it has nothing to do with the actual post. I have been busy writing as of late, and thought you might enjoy a quick peek at the book I'm working on right now.

Crusader was next and gave a quick stop and a loud whinny before walking through the gate and quickly dropping his head to crop the grass. He was such a beauty, nearly solid black with a jagged bolt of white streaking from his neck close to his shoulder. Three white socks and a white shape on his near hip resembling a cross. I had named him for the Crusades, after outbidding the killers for him at a local horse auction. Apparently he had ended up there as a result of a bad injury to his right foreleg. All of about a year and a half old at the time and healed to perfection after a few months of proper care. He so obviously had Friesian breeding and showed it well after he had taken on more growth. Under my breath, I had cursed the heartless fools who sent him to the auction as he was brought into the sale pen. I also had to be grateful for it, as he was mine, and safe because of it.

Its a tongue in cheek murder mystery... but then you have to have horses in it anyway right?

A.k.a.

2010-08-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

I still can't figure out why she calls me "Hurricane Tessa".....

Simple changes ....

2010-08-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

With the addition of a full time job to my life, my blogs, my art and a few other things have been suffering. So I've decided to put one out of its misery, so to speak and lay my art blog to rest. It will be combined back into this blog. I have been back in my studio working and you will see the results here along with my other postings. It is not a step back, but rather a step forward to simplifying life, spending time on fewer things, and doing those better.

Using vintage photos

2010-07-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

You already know I collect vintage photos and how I use them, but I also decorate my house with them too. It is so easy to slip them in here and there and they don't need to always be framed. I display these on an old floral frog that sits atop a vintage jar of glass seed beads.

A photo or place card holder gives the photos a little height in this display, and yes I mix rabbits and horses in my shabby chic western style.

Here I use them framed but mixed in a vintage needlepoint. Stick them in an unusual vintage jar with other little keepsakes on a bed of white rice to hold them up, hang them from the collar of your little steif dog or teddy bear with a ribbon. Stretch a wire across your wall with office clips to hold the images for a unique accent. Use your family photos as they are or sepia tone them first, and find your own style and fun ways to enjoy them.

Don't forget Roy Rogers

2010-06-10T13:52:00.001-07:00

I don't know how many of you grew up on Roy Rogers and Trigger, but I certainly did. If truly "good" men are considered heroes, he is certainly one of them. I could go on about Roy, how amazing Trigger was, and how much I enjoyed watching his shows, but we all know these things.
I'm posting about this because I just learned that the Roy Rogers Museum has closed and all of the items are being auctioned off, including Trigger. This just breaks my heart. All of these treasured items so dear to Roy and Dale will be forever scattered. How I wish I had the money to buy them all and open a free museum to keep them as Roy wished, and to keep his memory alive. The closing of the museum shows that we tend to forget things and people in our past that we should hold dear. Roy Rogers and his movies held up old fashioned values, doing what was right, even when it isn't always easy. I don't know about you but I don't think we can afford to forget men like Roy Rogers.

photos courtesy of the internet

We are free because of the brave.....

2010-05-30T20:54:00.001-07:00

Photo courtesy of the internet

Sky view

2010-05-20T19:45:00.001-07:00

Some pretty impressive storms have been rolling through Oklahoma, luckily I have no damage, just photo opportunities. I seem to have a love affair with clouds. These are taken with my inexpensive little camera, and it still turns out decent photos. As soon as I get "the big boy " out and learn how to use it, I'm hoping my photos will go from good to great!

Yes, that little bright sliver is the moon....

How much is that horsey in the window

2010-05-10T22:58:00.000-07:00

Yes thats "Her Highness" Indi, on the front porch, looking for someone to do something for her no doubt. Where is that servant woman?

Its okay... I know I'm weird

2010-05-08T10:17:00.000-07:00

I knew from early on I had a passion for horses, and loved watching westerns. I rode many miles on my beloved stick pony. When I was a kid we had 89'er day at school, I always dressed up and hated for that day to end. Of course, tomboy me, played a sheriff, not a prairie gal like ALL the other girls. I spent my day locking up all the cute boys. My love of all things old west is reflected in my art, jewelry and vintage photo collection. The fact is that I think I should have lived in that era. I sometimes daydream about living back then. And this is why I ride english -dressage ? About as far from western riding as you can get.
I ride dressage because it is the ultimate relationship between horse and rider. Your body language blends with your horse's movement in a way no other discipline can. I can wear chaps while teaching my horse a half- pass anyway.

There are a lot of things about my personality that probably strike people as odd. I find insects, while annoying at times, to be quite remarkable. I have been known to relocate wasps nests. I like snakes too. I am the only girl in my family that played sports, and while I am tomboyish still, I do love being a girl. I adore period clothing, victorian dresses and hats in particular.
I used to have a recurring dream about a rather large black spider, and another one about ghosts. I have had many experiences with dreams that predict events about to happen, like little snippets of the future. When I was on the grounds of one of our battlefields from the Civil War era, I had overwhelming feelings about the soldiers who died there. I could sense their presence very strongly. Maybe that happens to everyone who visits there. All I know is, that it was very unsettling to feel that. I wish I could say it was the only time that has happened, but apparently I'm prone to my special brand of insanity in different historical locations, at different times. It could all be chalked up to my overactive, vivid imagination I'm sure.

Then there is my over the top infatuation with you know who - Audie Murphy. No Brad Pitt's, or Gerard Butler's for me. Now this could be because I don't have a man in my life. { This is where you nod your head in complete understanding} The other night at work, we were slow, so I was watching an Audie western on the computer, when one of the Watch Supervisors came to the window. He saw what I was watching and said -"Audie Murphy" ! Then he gave me one of those looks you give someone, who has just said something that makes you think they are unbalanced. I know that look well, I've seen it alot. I just smiled and thought to myself, "It's okay, I know I'm weird."

Thats wild...

2010-05-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

Spring fever sets me in motion to add things, remove things, and move things around. Working on my land is no different. When I do any landscaping, I do it in a haphazard, wild, kind of way. I like things to mix & mingle and look natural. I do have some designated flower beds, but most of my landscaping is just- throw some iris bulbs there, let them grow in front of the wild berry bushes... The wisteria grows in and over the photinia, the crabapple tree is set amongst pines and cedars. My pond is a natural pond and I will keep it looking that way, but I do plan to add more rocks, plants and fish. My yard as it is, is covered in wild flowers before the first mowing. Don't get me wrong, perfectly manicured classic gardens are lovely wonderful things of beauty, but give me the wild and unruly, thats where I live !

Angels Gate

2010-04-24T17:17:00.000-07:00

Well I am back finally... seems like I've been taking a break from everything except my regular job. Just a quick post about Angels Gate..... if you haven't been to their site or heard about them, go now.... the link is on my sidebar. They care for injured and abused animals of every kind. I was feeling a little down today {unusual} and took a visit there to remind me how lucky I am and my animals are... Perspective is so important... and like I said... I'm back now.

Sunshine

2010-03-21T17:10:00.000-07:00

We could use some sunshine around here... the first day of Spring in Oklahoma brought snow, howling wind and below freezing temps. It is sunny and 60 today... only in Oklahoma ! My own bit of personal sunshine comes in the form of the Sunshine Award given by The Briar Rose Gate you will love her blog !

The rules of this award are to copy the Sunshine image and post on your blog with a link to whoever nominated you. Link to 6 { I'm doing 3} blogs you like and list 6 things your readers might not know about you.

1. I still won't get on an airplane.
2. I work as a police dispatcher by day, artist by night.
3. I'm riding my horse bareback and having too much fun to get a saddle right now.
4. I am planning on learning how to shoot a gun, at targets only of course.{However you might pray for my neighbors}
5. One of my favorite movies is Ladyhawk.
6. I played the flute and piccolo in high school, but really wanted to play the violin.

All Norah's Art
Moonlight and Hares
Cottage Garden Studios

Come on Spring!!!

Road trip

2010-03-18T17:12:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I made another day trip to Ft Worth Texas. I so love it there, and always feel at home in that area. We wandered the stockyards, which is a touristy area and I took my fancy new camera, and the dead battery that works it... needless to say I got no photos. My pal Lisa took these two photos with her iphone... so for now thats all you get ! I will return however and when I do, I will take a ton of photos to share. Very cool horse lamp don't ya' think? You all do know Audie Murphy was a Texan right?

Bucket list

2010-02-24T10:21:00.001-08:00

Do you have a bucket list ? I have recently been giving this some thought and have thrown one together with some things that aren't so impressive really, but are simply things I have hopes for. For example, one of the things on my list is to train Indi to be ridden without a bridle. Probably to you that sounds pretty reachable, but I'm still working on riding halfway well with the gear.....
I also have it in my brain to bring home a wild horse, I can't say if that will ever happen, but I'm not taking it off the list. Every time I visit " Mustang Diaries " I have pangs, I look up, tilt my head and wander off to a mustang altered universe .... My list is not about things I will get done with certainty, that is my old standby goals list, and it is a different set of things altogether. My bucket list is more about dreams and having those things there to wish on.

Photo from my collection

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T08:21:00.000-08:00

Restless

2010-02-12T12:16:00.000-08:00

I seem to be in a state of unrest these past few weeks. My normal peace and rythm have been interrupted with a restlessness and wandering that leaves me a little puzzled. My thoughts are pulling me to places like Montana and New Mexico with Nevada in the mix, because I want to photograph the wild horses there. I am normally content to stay at home most of the time, but lately I feel the need to search out some of the nightlife spots in the city. Even my art is reflecting this stirring. Maybe I just need to sow a few "wild oats" to bring me back full circle to the quiet road I normally travel.

Winter wonderland

2010-01-30T10:09:00.001-08:00

Well, we got ice first, then a big snow....

A new year begins....

2010-01-01T08:49:00.000-08:00

In my last post I mentioned the howling wind and snow.....now followed by Christmas was cancelled. I think only Santa could make it through the blizzard like conditions we had, with record snow fall. Some of us are meeting up tomorrow to exchange gifts and eat mexican food. Oh, well, I love mexican food, and if Christmas dinner has to be replaced with spinach enchiladas, I, for one won't complain.
A new year has started, and like everyone else I have big plans for this year, even though I don't call them resolutions. There is something exciting and motivating about making new plans for the year yet to be, its like getting a do - over. I tend to be a dreamer, and have big hopes for this year to be something out of the ordinary ! I have been re-thinking my art and where I want to take it { yes, again.... now stop with the eye rolling please.} I've not been happy with how few pieces I've been getting done. I've been unhappy with the look of my art, so things are changing ! I will be re-vamping my art blog , {yes, I know, I know} and will be posting regularly there too {finally}. I'm excited about the new things I will be creating, and my art is going to take a front seat to everything for now, instead of being pushed to the back after everything else is done. I've started my murder mystery book, and I will let you know how that is going from time to time too. I hope you are excited about "your" new year and did you make resolutions ?

Looks like someone was having fun in the snow!

All is calm... all is bright

2009-12-24T09:16:00.000-08:00

At this moment the wind is howling and it is snowing. Looks like we will have a white Christmas this year, which is rare. I am tucked inside, all my shopping done, listening to Christmas music finishing the present wrapping. I wish you a holiday of peace and joy.

I checked my Christmas list.... you two weren't on it...

2009-12-21T16:43:00.000-08:00

The other evening just before dark, just as I was finishing up feeding my furry loved ones, I saw headlights down at my gate. Now, no one should be there on this particular nite so I started walking up my road towards them. I live a bit off of the main road, so I have a little walk to get to my gate. I saw someone pass from the passenger side of the vehicle to get back in the driver's side. They backed away and took off before I could get close enough to see what they were doing. I walked on up to my gate to check things over, then saw two small shapes red, and black moving around. With a look that could kill, complete with mental daggers, I glanced in the direction of the escaping suv and muttered under my breath, they have dumped two dogs.
Sadly, that happens a lot, the reason I have a small herd of dogs. As I got closer, I realized these were not dogs, but a red rooster and a little black hen. Incredulous, I just kept saying to myself, who dumps chickens???? And the old standby " This could only happen to me." Well I had to round them up for their own safety, so after some crawling around under my cedars for the hen, I finally had them both secured.
They have since gone to a proper chicken friendly home, much to the disappointment of my dogs. As one of my co-workers stated, " Isn't it always the way, people giving you something you really don't want for Christmas."

Oh Christmas tree......

2009-12-09T18:39:00.000-08:00

Did, or are you putting up a tree this year? Mine is this smaller tree set up in a shabby chic urn. My tree is decorated in silver, turquoise and white, with only white or silver horses, one black one to represents Indi. I mixed vintage and new, and love that look. I wish the photos would show it as pretty as it turned out. There will be an old pull toy horse under it soon, and if I would get some wrapping done, a few gifts too! Hope you are getting the holiday spirit!!!

Let it Snow, let it snow, let it snow....

2009-12-06T09:09:00.001-08:00

A few of my favorite past images of Indi in the snow.....

Quote of note

2009-11-30T22:17:00.000-08:00

" I figure if a girl wants to be a legend, she should go ahead and be one." -- Calamity Jane

*photo from my collection *

Giving Thanks

2009-11-25T14:03:00.001-08:00

I have so many things to be thankful for {including my blog friends}, I hope you too, will take a moment to remember the blessings in your life. "Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!"

Before & after

2009-11-18T12:24:00.000-08:00

Before, he was a "not so chic" child's riding toy, I found for $3.00. After, he sports a western paint job and now sits proudly beside my antique sidesaddle, under a beautiful equestrian print. Amazing what a little paint can do!

My head in the clouds...

2009-11-03T18:29:00.001-08:00

I love thunderheads, and have not seen the stage set for them again like my shots of the clouds at sunset and the moon. Take a moment of your own to have "your head" in the clouds....

Happy Hauntings!!!

2009-10-31T07:55:00.001-07:00

The headless horseman is still my favorite scary thing!!! ✫ ℋѦ♇⒫Ⓨ ℋѦℒℒ✪₩ℇℰ₦☾ everyone!!!
photo courtesy of the internet

An introduction

2009-10-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

I want to introduce you to someone special, her name is Constance Funk. A most interesting as well as kind and engaging fellow artist and author. Her mosaics are fantastic, and she writes too! I was lucky enough to meet her through Kim McElroy,{well know amazing equine artist} and felt I had to share her and her wonderful work. The large mirror mosaic shown includes the phrase" It is never too late to have a happy childhood," and "Ponies Nicker." She has also written two soul touching books, "Beauty from Brokenness," and " Holy as Thou," bittersweet tales about remembering to love. Please visit her website Woodylane Farm to see more of Connie's work.

News....

2009-10-13T15:12:00.001-07:00

Hello all ! First of all this photo has nothing to do with my news, just thought I would put up something fun to look at.
I have been commissioned by artist Kim McElroy, to create some pendants for her, and I am working with her to use her gorgeous artwork in some of my jewelry designs. Color me thrilled !!! She is a favorite artist of mine, and you could have knocked me over with a feather when she contacted me. Not only that, but through her I have met another wonderful, and interesting artist. I will be doing a blog post on her, so you can meet her too! I am awake aren't I ???

October.....

2009-10-03T21:23:00.000-07:00

The month of pumpkins, black cats, ghosties, goblins and witches. Speaking of witches, apparently " ApPrenTicE WiTChEs" ride sidesaddle......

photo from my collection

Little acts of kindness

2009-09-25T14:03:00.000-07:00

I was browsing on Etsy the other day, when I came across an interesting shop there belonging to Katherine Pauley . I found a cute card she had made, with the vintage image of a cowgirl and horse on a barrel. I inquired about the photo used, and offered to buy the original. Turns out it was a reproduction museum card. Katherine offered to just send me the card, and she did just that. I really appreciate this little act of kindness and want to repay it by letting everyone know about her shop and her unique items. Seems to me a little act of kindness is something we can all add to our day that makes a difference in someone elses!

Be STILL my heart

2009-09-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, with a post title like that you had to know there would be something about the object of my obsession...... uh, I mean affection. I wanted to share two new additions, movie stills, to my old photo collection. The first one is, well you know who, and the horse from the movie "Tumbleweed." If you haven't ever seen it, you will love it just from a horse lovers point of view. It is a great story with some humor, and I recommend this movie!
The second is a fabulous image from " The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing." Don't bother with that movie, I just love this image!

Belle Starr's Grave

2009-09-08T21:48:00.001-07:00

" Well behaved women rarely make history."

*** Her grave as it is today ***

I made the trip to Eufaula Oklahoma a couple of weeks ago for a family get together. I was going to visit the grave site of Belle Starr on this trip, but read up on the burial location before going. The site is rather run down, on private property and on a dead end road. You have to rustle up the owners and tramp through an unkempt weedy trail. The original stone has been removed or is gone from what I understand, so I decided not to go.
I find this disheartening, that a well known historical figure, albeit outlaw, from the old west does not have a more revered grave site. I think the sad fact is, most of the famous people we know from that time have also been left in obscure places and have faded away, forgotten.

***Her grave as it was originally***

Belle Starr was "The Bandit Queen," associated with Jesse James and the Youngers.
She once made the comment to a newspaper reporter -" I am a friend to any brave and gallant outlaw." She was shot in the back one evening as she was riding home, which proved fatal. Some say it was her son, whom she did not get along with who killed her. She had beaten him with a riding quirt just two days before for taking her favorite horse without permission. He had said he would kill her for that. After her death, an Oklahoma farmer wrote the following:

"When night settles down over that canyon yonder you can hear the sounds of guns firing along the river, the clanking of chains of the prisoners marching to their cells. All through the night, Belle Starr's favorite mare can be heard pawing the ground near her grave, and if a gun is fired into the ground near Belle's grave the sod will flare up and pop like the pistols of bandits a-firin' from the hip."

On her gravestone was a carved stallion, and the words her daughter Pearl wrote:

" Shed not for her the bitter tear,
Nor give the heart to vain regret.
Tis' but the casket that lies here,
The gem that filled it sparkles yet."

Google Belle Starr to read more about her and her fascinating life.
All images courtesy of the internet.

Feather Creek Farm

2009-08-30T11:15:00.001-07:00

A couple of miles from my house, is the farm equestrian olympian Mike Huber used to own. The next owner did not keep the place up, sold some of the land and left it in disrepair. Luckily a someone new is returning the farm to its former glory, with new cross country jumps,a stadium jumping set up, a dressage arena, and repaired and refurbished fencing. This weekend Feather Creek Farm held a recognized show, so I stopped by to capture a few images.

Loved this horse's earnest expression.

Waiting their turn to jump.

My favorite pair of the day.

Necklace giveaway winner!

2009-08-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

Whew, life is busy! Sorry for the slow posting as of late, will pick it up now!
The winner of the cowgirl necklace is Jen from Gypsy Mare Studios Congrats Jen!!!

Cloud's Herd in Peril

2009-08-18T11:26:00.001-07:00

Hello all, today's post was supposed to be the winner of the cowgirl necklace, I will post that next. Now, I like to keep my blog light and fluffy, so that it is fun to visit. But once in awhile I pull out the old soapbox,{mine is decoupaged with horses} to let you know when foul play is afoot {yes I've been working on my murder mystery.}
The bureau of land management is planning a September 1st round-up of Cloud's herd in the Pryor mountains. Many fear the worst for the herd, and the horses removed. The data says the numbers are not high enough for any removal and that the range is in better shape than it has been in many years. The round-ups alone are dangerous and six horses died in the Challis herd round-up. Please visit The Cloud Foundation
If you would like to help by lending your voice. Click on" what you can do to help." Time is short, so please send emails today.

Life Quote

2009-08-08T21:52:00.001-07:00

" Who finds a faithful friend, finds a treasure." --- Old proverb

Photo is from my collection. Notice not only the dog, but the pidgeon on the rump of the donkey. The back of the image notes that it is "Orlando" and his pets.

Changing horses in midstream....

2009-07-29T20:50:00.001-07:00

When I first started this blog, I had planned to do more artwork promotion here, but instead I have balked at doing much of that {to spare you}. Since I need to expand my artwork and jewelry exposure, I have decided to create a new Wildhorsemoon art blog. That way, should you ever visit there, you will know what to expect, all art, all the time. Because of this new venture, I have also decided to end my Cowgirl Style blog, as there will just be no time for it.

Now something you might be more interested in...... I am re-doing the cowgirl necklace giveaway. I never could reach Paige, and tried several ways, plus gave ample time for her to check the post that she had won. So leave a comment here on this post if you want to enter, and make sure I can contact you. If you have a blog, I can find you. If you prefer to keep contact private, email me at wildhorsemoon@aol.com.

Random musings

2009-07-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

When I walked outside this morning, I saw something beautiful.{ No not the yucca plants} Two vultures circling right over my neighbors house, it made me feel hopeful.....I took it as a good omen.

The above is a photo of my beautiful yucca plants that bloomed last year, then one promptly died. Nothing changed, they were a picture of health. I must have looked at the one too hard. Note to self: Ignore the yucca plants.

The following is based on an actual event. The names have not been changed to protect the innocent, as the innocent were not involved. Only because they can't get through the fence.

I hear the dogs are barking, I know what its about,
Tessa's in the pasture again,
She knows she supposed to stay out.

What is she doing now? A question I'm often asking,
Oh, I say as I see her,
It appears she multi-tasking......

The day I brought her home, my reason must have headed south,
There she is chasing my mare, with a turtle in her mouth.

The turtle is fine.

Midnight Flight

2009-07-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I just finished this fun diving horse and rider painting. I'm going to be doing more of these folk art type works, because they are so fun and lighthearted. Just thought I would share it with you, as I hope it will make you smile !

One good stick

2009-07-13T11:00:00.001-07:00

As close as I will get to the rich and famous

2009-07-11T11:32:00.001-07:00

This is as close as I will get to the "rich and famous." Country music singer Toby Keith has a huge home here, so I thought I would give you a drive by view. You can find a view of the house on google. Always very patriotic, and a big supporter of our troops, there is always a large american flag flying there.

Just a few things....

2009-07-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

I've been getting some studio time in and here is my latest painting titled "Mesteño, " If the stars align just right, prints will be available soon. I've been working on jewelry for a big show I have coming up, so if you don't find what you are looking for on my website, feel free to ask to see some show pieces, otherwise you won't see them !

I also need to thank Trendy Bindi's for a "lovely" blog award. This is always appreciated. I am supposed to bestow this on other bloggers but I think I'll give them a rest this go'round. Please visit her charming blog, I think you will enjoy it!

Let freedom ring !

2009-07-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

"Happy 4th to everyone !

Isn't this the neatest vintage photo ! My friend Linne in California owns this one, and I have permission to use it on my jewelry. If you have ever seen the "Cowgirls of the Old West" calendar that comes out every year, some of her photos are usually in it. She has a marvelous collection.

Make a memory

2009-06-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

After a few weeks of seeing many beloved pet losses from blogger friends, I thought I would share something I did when I lost "Sophie." I'll have to tell Sophie's story sometime, it is a sweet and interesting one. I'm starting to measure my life in dogs.
A little time after Sophie was gone, I took an old frame, used acrylic paint and sponge painted it in a plummy, rose copper mix. I printed a photo of her in a sepia tone, and choose a neutral mat. Taking a fine point art pen, {easy to find, just use a scrapbooking pen} I wrote around the mat, all the things that were "so Sophie." Using a colored pencil I added a little accent color around the writing. I display mine on an easel. It is a sweet and reflective way to remember a pet or anyone. Just wait until some time passes so you can do it in joy.

Life quote

2009-06-14T22:04:00.001-07:00

" Boys will be boys, but girls will be women."

Be sure to click on this photo to get a close view. This little girl is not the least bit afraid, or worried about sitting on this sweet pony. What a good pony he must have been for the parents to have trusted him so.
- photo from my collection -

Thank yous and a cowgirl giveaway

2009-06-09T15:34:00.001-07:00

I want to thank Sheri of PromisesPromises for the lovely Totem Horse I won on her giveaway. The Etsy "Whoa Team" has regular giveaways so check them out, there is a link on my sidebar, click on the white horse. Check out Sheri's Etsy shop, her horse creations are wonderful !
Also thanks to Bridget of Heart of a Cowgirl for the adorable framed print and gorgeous western cards I won in her giveaway ! Check out her gorgeous jewelry and her great blog {one of my favorites.}
A big thanks also to Kayz Kreations for a much appreciated blog award, and please visit her charming blog, I know you will enjoy it !
I have a giveaway going on at Cowgirl Style so visit there for details!

Stop and smell the roses

2009-06-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

Well, my last few days have been interesting ones. The dogs have been bringing up turtles every morning, I've been putting them back in safe places. One poor little fella, Tessa had in her mouth when she spied the squirrel on the fence. Before I could get him from her, she was running with him. Don't worry, he was tossed aside like yesterdays news, for the promise of a squirrel brunch, which never took place. The little guy rolled and rolled, but was fine. A little dizzy maybe.

Usually they are fine together.... but Hannah does not like the fact that Bitsy lives here, or that I love Bitsy. To make matters worse, they both think they occupy the same place in the hierarchy. Well the other day, Bitsy apparently offended Hannah, Hannah jumped on Bitsy and the fight was on. I grabbed Hannah by her back legs, carrying her to put her in the house, but she is a stout girl, and her front half was down, still going at it with Bitsy, who ripped my shorts and bit me in the leg. I got Hannah in the house.... round one was over. Now for round two, yesterday. I came around the back corner of the house and there was a big black, I'm hoping, rat snake. I was looking to make sure it was harmless, when Bitsy, without hesitation, grabs at it. I was yelling - "leave it Bitsy!!!"
Hannah comes right up. Oh, Bitsy is making momma unhappy, I'll get rid of Bitsy for you momma. Round two. Now mind you, I had water in a bucket and the bird seed in my other hand, both go flying as I grapple for a tail or hind legs of one dog or the other. Of course the water made the ground slick.... Got Hannah in her yard, but they are still fighting through the fence, so Tessa steps in to help by jumping on Bitsy. Grab Bitsy's tail and get her in her yard. Meanwhile, the snake has gotten the heck outta Dodge. I'm all muddy and my cheek got smacked somehow.
Now, as if all of that was not fun enough, I now have a computer virus. It is still not eradicated, so I may be gone a few days. Oh, why title this post "Stop and smell the roses?" Because of the omen I received before this all started. I had stopped to smell one of my roses, it had a small bee in it. It only hurt for a little while.

Cowgirl Style re- vamp

2009-05-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who gave input on the playlist question. I decided to add playlists to both blogs. If many of you don't like that decision, please let me hear about it. This post is to let you know my "Cowgirl Style" blog has undergone a complete makeover. I was just not happy with it, and decided to re-do it. So if you would, check that out with the link on the sidebar, and feel free to give your opinion on the new look, good or bad !
I will be having a giveaway there soon, so check back!

Music to your ears

2009-05-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

If you are reading this, I'm assuming you follow my blog, or if you just stumbled onto it and have no idea what goes on here, I'm still asking your opinion. Would you like me to add music to my blog? My computer has a glitch and I don't get sound from it, but have noticed alot of bloggers have playlists and music. So I would be happy to share my taste in music with you. PLEASE leave your thoughts on it. And let me add, a THANK YOU to all my readers, I appreciate you so, so much !

I decided to go ahead and add a playlist, for you to play if you choose. No reason not to, those who want music can choose it, those who don't, don't have to ! Thanks for your input !

Remembrance

2009-05-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

" God bless our soldiers."

* photos found on the internet*

Hug your dog today

2009-05-18T11:55:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder to hug your dog today. I recently visited two blogs I visit, and both lovely gals just lost their beloved dogs. Time passes so quickly, and we are all so busy, remember to spend a few moments with your furry family member today.
The photo is of a rescue puppy I had awhile back, that went to a nice home. I called her Cootie Bug, while I had her. Isn't she the most adorable thing?

A Lulu of a tale

2009-05-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can self publish books on a site called Lulu It is a print on demand company, so it is free. You can create and publish your own paperbacks, hardcovers, photobooks, calendars, cookbooks and more. You will have to promote them of course, but what fun ! I am currently working on three pieces of my own, a childrens book, a tongue in cheek murder mystery, and a coffee table book of victorian women and horses with quotes and poetry. I'll post again with more detail on them when they are finished. Check the site out and create your own family photo book, that novel you always said you would write, or whatever story you were born to tell. Go, go now - get off of here and tell your lulu of a tale !!!

Its a jungle out there

2009-05-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

I've been single now for awhile after a lengthy marriage. This time around, I thought I would date a man involved with horses. Find a nice cowboy to go riding and do some things with. I'm not looking to get married again. I am 49, blessed with genes from a family that looks younger than their age, in pretty decent shape, and active. So I joined an equestrian online dating site. The above photo is the main one I used for my profile. Now, I live in Oklahoma, land of the cowboy for pity sake. "Pity" being the keyword apparently. Once you eliminate smokers and hunters, there is not much to choose from. Most of the men in my age range, look much older than me and look like they spend more time on the couch than in the saddle. Mustaches, I have never seen so many mustaches in all my life. Is it a prerequisite to be a cowboy now days? Must have horse, saddle and mustache, or you have to turn in your cowboy hat partner. I'm not really into mustaches. I even posed that question in the chat room one night. Why do all of you cowboys have mustaches ? I got a private message from a rancher in South Dakota with an explanation, something about dust. We continued talking, he is very lonely. Apparently there aren't many women in his area. After a bit of conversation I suggested he seek out a Bunny Ranch type of gal, apparently there aren't any of those either.
I lurk in the chat rooms from time to time, they don't talk about horses much. I got another private message from a man in Maryland. The conversation started out fine, do I show my horse, what kind of riding do I do. Then it got a little strange. What do I wear when riding? Am I wearing my breeches and boots in my profile photo ? How often do I wear my breeches and boots ? The member blocking icon turns red when you use it.
I met one man who raises cutting horses, intelligent, nice and pleasant. We met for dinner, had good conversation but no chemistry at all on either side. I bent down to give him a hug when we parted. I am 5'3.
My ideal man would be alot like the object of my affection, Audie Murphy.{don't roll your eyes again} For anyone who does not know who Audie was, he was one of our most decorated war heroes. He was also a real deal, not just a movie, cowboy. A natural quick draw, excellent marksman, and loved horses. He was humble, kind and had great integrity. He once beat up a man for kicking a dog.{My hero} When I watch him ride in his movies, it just does something for me. I guess he didn't have a problem with dust, as he didn't have a mustache. Are there any Audie Murphys out there ?
The dating world in any capacity, along with online dating, is proving "Its a jungle out there." I guess there are many ways to meet a nice cowboy, and I know online dating works for some people. All I know is, that I spent my weekend watching "Posse From Hell" five times.

Miss Stephanie rides again....

2009-04-27T10:25:00.001-07:00

If you have never heard of Pam Fowler Grace or Pay N'Go , be sure to read this article Pam and Pay N' Go You can also google Pam for more articles about her. She got Pay N' Go from some cowboys who couldn't do anything with him, and turned him into a major player in the dressage world, he even has a Breyer made after him. Some years ago, I got the privilege, of taking a dressage lesson from Pam. I was a member of a small dressage club that flew her in for a clinic. I was one of the ones there to pick her up from the airport, and we laughed all the way back to Norman as she told us funny stories about Pay N' Go. One of my favorites, was how he stuck his tongue out {sideways} at the judges, at his first dressage show, as they rode by. Pam is a very nice lady, friendly and fun.
I still had Pockets back then, so that was who I was riding in my lesson. For those who don't know, my first name is Tracey. Now Pam did not know me, except for meeting me at the airport, and as she gave instruction for our lesson, pockets and I did our best to comply. As we rode by she said "Good Stephanie...." I just ignored that, an honest mistake, and kept working. But as the lesson went on, with more " Good Stephanies," my friends who were watching, were snickering everytime she said it, so it was making me laugh. Thus the persona of "Miss Stephanie" was born.
Anyway, Pam and "Stephanie" finished discussing the lesson and we were done. Later that evening, Pam realized her mistake, and we had a good laugh about it. Of course the damage was done, and now I was "Miss Stephanie," to my friends. So at our Halloween horse show that year, I dressed and showed up as "Miss Stephanie," complete with a little southern drawl accent. Stephanie went on to write a couple of articles in the club newsletter, but I haven't seen her for quite some time.

Earth Day

2009-04-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

It is "Earth Day" today, and even though there might be some people we would like to throw off the planet, it is worth saving ! Okay, seriously, if we all do just a little it accomplishes alot. I won't bore you with the list of things I do to help the environment, as I'm guessing all of you are doing the same anyway. So, just hug your animals today, and don't we love having this beautiful planet to call home ! "Happy Earth Day!"