For the love of a horse

The Ghost of Blogger Past

2012-02-16T09:29:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Blogger peeps,

I am excited to begin again this journey I took when I started this blog. We moved from Oregon to Alaska, now we are moving to Arkansas in July.

I had to stop triathlon training due some some medical issues, that I just had major surgery to repair.

I have also joined a roller derby team here in Wasilla.

SO much going on that I need to catch everyone up!

The yellow Bumble Bee toe caps, that's me :)
Please forgive for my long absence, it's been such a rough year and I was feeling less than inspired.

I always wanted this blog to be funny, informational and interesting. None of those things I had in my writing arsenal the last year.
However, I am feeling better and excited about beginning yet another adventure and sharing it with everyone via this blog as Facebook is boring to me these days.

See you soon,
JP and Star

It's about to get as sweet as Unicorns and Cotton Candy here

2011-08-17T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hank is growing up these days. We take him places all the time, he loves coming to work with me.
However his number one job is to keep me company. It's a career path he has taken very seriously as you can see in the following photos.

The picture above was at Shawn's Work BBQ on Sunday. He is not a fan of the children yet. They tend to mob him and get overly aggressive with the holding and petting. He does not like that one little bit.

Picture below is us coming home from work on Friday. We both had a big day at work.The floor I work on is Hank Fan Club central. So he was on his best company mascot behaviour all day.

Chihuahua's are bred to be companion animals. So we coined the phrase "companion-ing". It's what is on Hankie's resume as his skill set.

We were supposed to go shopping and run errands but someone needed a nap first and do some work on his " companion-ing" skills.

Blogger is pissing me off with this text alignment and photo alignment BS today. So the huge post about star will have to wait until I get home and use my other computer. Until then enjoy the cuteness :)

updates cometh I promise

2011-08-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy busy summer, and frankly I haven't had the energy to update the blog.
Sorry Peeps.

On the bright side and dark side.

Star finally made it to Alaska

It was a nightmare and she is a little worse for the wear.

Next post will be the entire saga.

Hugs and Peppermint treats!

Oh and it only gets better ....

2011-06-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

Ready for another lengthy post? Good, settle in then. Got that snuggie and slippers ready because here goes.

It's Memorial Day weekend so what does every other American couple do on a sunny day but go to their local Home Depot for some flowers. And to what do Shawn's wandering eye do appear? Dad's reels hanging in the garden area. Shawn says Hey Honey, aren't these your Dad's reels? I look up and immediately go Yep, those are them all right. So if I ever I get lonely for family I can run down to Home Depot and chill with the Garden Hose Reels I guess.

Dad started this company back in 1984- ish , it was the whole reason we moved to SoCal in the first place.

I thought it was cool that all the way up here in Wasilla I see a bit of home.

The whole reason for the HD trip was because Shawn brought these Calla Lillie's home for me from Costco. They are so beautiful and my favorite flower, so I needed to buy soil and other flowers to go in my containers. Pansies, Soil, Pots and voila! A container garden in about 30 minutes. Easy Peasy.

The view of my backyard and the lake over the weekend. The weather was outstanding and just nearly perfect. Met the interesting neighbor and his less than interesting Pit Bull. Sorry but they scare me and I am not a fan of them running loose in my yard just because "everyone else does it". My dogs are NEVER allowed to run loose. EVER...Let's not get me started about the poop in my yard that I know is not my dogs poop. ugh so nasty...

Perfect for catching fish? Not really.. Shawn caught this bad boy about 12-14 inches. But nothing else all weekend. We are buying a canoe so soon we will be going out farther than just the boat dock to cast. Shawn was very impressed that I knew how to cast a line even though I had not picked up a fishing pole in nearly 20 years. I told him, my Dad could put a pole in my hand and I would be happy for HOURS, sitting by myself just casting that line over and over again.

We ended the entirely too perfect weekend with a campfire and Smores. It would have only been better if we had people over sharing it. The neighbors had a party with almost 100 people. We went over later after all the majority of them had left to chat, smoke cigars and drink. Yeah, life is rough out here.. So so hard...

So that's the weekend round -up. Onto the diet for a second. Anything Amy's is yummy. These burritos are SUPER Yummy. Expensive but I'm not eating them everyday. Some days I just want to stick something in the microwave and call it good.

These however were GAH-ross. Do not eat unless you like overly minty edible paste. Almost like the stuff we had in Kindergarten but I think worse. I wouldn't know as I wasn't a paste eater, but I am speculating anyway.

So AK PonyGirl invited me to go on a trail ride while they marked trail for this weekends upcoming poker ride. I am not one to ever say no, so of course I went! She is a great trail horse, point and go. No drama just happily plugs along. I am beginning to favor the short ponies. It was so easy to throw a leg over her! I am used to Star where a mounting block/stump/step etc is required as she is tall and gets all kinds of pissed off if you mount from the ground.

We were out riding until almost 11 pm and it was just barely getting dark. How wicked cool is that? When Star gets here we will be riding up in these mountains. Oh I cant wait!

So that's all I got so far, nothing terribly exciting and new to report here in the Last Frontier.

If you are planning to come visit, let us know as we would love to have you!

JP~ Hugs and Love

Whats in my lunch sack?

2011-06-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

Breakfast: Ezekiel Gluten Free Bread with Organic Peanut Butter and whole fruit Jelly.
Until I find low sugar organic Jelly, this will have to do.

Lunch and two snacks:

Almonds- Raw
Blueberries
Carrot sticks
Tuna
Hard Boiled eggs.

This I will divide up into little mini meals through out the day. Then will most likely drink a protein shake tonight before I go riding with friends. I will not have time to eat dinner tonight.

The usual dinner is meat and veggies, but Mr Shawn is a Carb Metabolism guy and needs more than I do , so we have included some pasta and cornbread for him. I just need to learn to say no, but I grew up on cornbread and it's soooooooo tasty!

So, do yourself a favor and go get the Bobs Red Mill ( Oregon Brand) Gluten Free Brownie Mix and add the extra Chocolate Chips in the mix. You will LOVE THEM. They are the best brownies we've ever made from a mix. I had ZERO heartburn and ZERO bloating with them and the lactose free Ice Cream.

Work out plan for this week:

Tonight: I am going riding on an actual horse for a couple hours- My abductors will be screaming tomorrow I am sure.
Thursday: Expresso Bike- 12 miles AKA The Vindicator
Friday: Nothin :-)
Saturday: Swim- 800 meters
Sunday: Swim-800 meters

It's raining here today, which sucks because I was just bragging it doesnt rain in Alaska to my Oregon Peeps.
oops ...

Pics of the ride tomorrow !

So let's start with this..........

2011-05-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

This is the proof in the pudding.
I know the deal is when you see yourself everyday, you don't see any major changes. Especially if you are someone like myself who sees my figure as fat, bloated and ugly every single day. So I often avoid the camera at all costs.However.. I needed to show my Blogger Pals that I am talking the talk and walking the walk here.

After my initial Stage 3 cancer diagnosis in 1998 I wondered what my fate would be as a young single mother, new job, living with my parents. I felt trapped, hopeless and a failure. I never thought in a million years I would be living this new life. While it has its ups and downs, trials and tears, good times and sometimes really bad , I wouldn't trade it for anything.

JP~ out

So whats in my lunch bag?

2011-05-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Like any good well bred Oregonian you carry your lunch in a Powell's Books Cloth Bag !
( PSA FOR NO MORE PLASTIC SACKS) :)
I pack my own food everyday. Although there are some days I'd rather eat a breakfast burrito , Diet Coke and call it good. I am not perfect ! Those breakfast burritos are the DEVIL. .....drool.....

Today:

Low Fat Turkey Lunch Meat from Costco
Avocado
Red Bell Pepper
Carrot Sticks
Almonds
Green Apples

I split all this up into three mini meals throughout the day. Sometimes I do it at home, but mostly I just do it at work.

I am trying to give up the Diet Coke/Pepsi but man is that trying to kill me these days.
Those folks who say drink Green Tea, are lame. Green Tea is good if your sick , but not if you are crashing at 2 pm and need cold caffeinated pick me up. Sorry but its true.

Last night we went out to eat and I had Halibut Fish and Chips. The fries were yucky so I only ate a few and the fish was awesome. After eating like this for awhile your taste buds become very aware of what tastes good and what doesn't.
Root Beer Floats(next time will use Diet A and W) with lactose free ice cream= GOOD
Over Salty not fresh fries/House made Cole Slaw = GROSS

It really is that simple, I buy organic as much as possible and only eat carbs in fruit, oatmeal and Sprouted grain bread. It's not for everyone and it can be expensive and a pain, but I am telling you its worth it!

Why I changed everything about me

2011-05-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying this:
I have always been some sort of active, but never been a full on athlete.
When I lost alot of weight a couple of years ago, I didn't exercise much nor did work on the finding the causes of what was making me depressed besides being fat.
So, like most diets the weight came rolling back in. weird.....

I have a problem with associating food with guilt and combine that with a set of " I have a large A$$" goggles I seem to see out of , it was a recipe for disaster at some point in my life. Every time I would eat I would obsess about how it was making me fatter and uglier, how crazy is that? I still struggle with it even though what I am eating is 100% healthy, if I feel the slightest "full" the guilt and remorse creeps back in.

I never see myself as pretty, thin, or anything befitting that description. My weight has always been the topic of family discussion with my Mom, Dad and sisters, as we all struggle.

So let's add the additional strain of moving to Alaska and what do you get? A fat, depressed, no horse to ride, cranky sloth. No joke.

So I took the steps to change how I FEEL and that would change how I LOOK.
I hired a trainer to help me train for a triathlon, God Bless Carla Goldberg
I researched diets.. alot... for hours.

Then I came across Isabel De Los Rios and the Flat Belly Solution.

It is the easiest two steps I have ever done in my life.
The weight has melted off and my body has changed dramatically. I feel amazing.

I have given up Dairy, Processed Food,meal replacement bars(unless I'm out on the bike) 99% of sugar, Gluten and Soy.

I am not lying when I say, the dark circles under my eyes are gone , my belly is getting flatter and my skin looks amazing. My PMS symptoms were about as half as bad as usual the last two months since I started.
Oh and the muffin top and third ass are almost gone as well.
SHA- FREAKING-ZAM !!!

When you husband says " Baby, your ass is shrinking" it's the best 4 words you will ever hear I swear...

Hugs and Love Blogger Peeps!
JP~

New Member of the Family

2011-05-24T09:53:00.000-07:00

Look Away if you cant stand cute, because it's gonna get all kinds of adorable up in here!

This is Baby Hank aka Hank Bouncer. He is our newest addition. He still lives with Aunt Darlene in Bend, because he is not old enough to be neutered and travel. When Shawn goes to Oregon in June, he will come home on the plane with him. He is a rescue of sorts and is what they call " Blue" Chihuahua.

Darlene already has plenty of "wows" as they are called, and Ive always secretly wanted one. Shawn swore on the Holy Catholic Bible I would never get one. Until this face came across Facebook, and well.. Shawn caved and I danced a happy dance!
Seriously could you resist a face such as this? I am checking into his first Bomber Jacket ASAP.

Saturday Trainer Carla and I did 11 miles on the mountain bikes. It's official I think it sucks. However, this was on the trail in the Mat-SU State Park, that was near the dump. Blogger Peeps this is NOTHING but trash bags and Grocery Sacks. It was unreal. I implore you to use reusable sacks and lessen your impact on Mother Earth. Just that one tiny change would make a huge difference.

9pm Alaska time Shawn wants to go for a stroll. My beehind is KILLING me from the day before but walking wont hurt right?? right..... This is him down by the lakes edge on the opposite side of us. Isn't it amazing?

Empty Nest has brought some new challenges to our relationship, mostly on my part I will admit. However, we are managing to come out on top and appreciate each other more and more everyday.
He literally is the best husband a girl could ask for. So whats better than a smooch at sunset ?

Not much I tell you, except maybe a cute little dog and my pony coming to Alaska soon!

Always look forward to the sunset my Blogger Peeps. Life is amazing, enjoy it and be present in every moment!
Hugs and Much Love,
Jocelyn

Vegas Baby and a few other mishaps

2011-05-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the infamous Carol BFF in Vegas girls trip.
It was mediocre fun at best. Long story, but my life was already going to crap when I left, and it didn't get much better once I got to Vegas. C'est La Vie I guess.
I am better now, but I have a long road ahead.

This is Carol my BFF from days gone by. We met in our early single 20's, she is still single and still tries to act 20. So yeah, that was tough to keep up with, I have no desire to be a 42 trying to be 22 year old woman. I like who and where I am right now. Not saying I don't want to be a hot mama, but I don't want to look like I'm begging for my youth back, which I am NOT.

This is a broke widowed military vet who was lured to Vegas by a woman on line who turned out to be a fraud and was down to his last 4 bucks.

He was 18 years Active Duty ARMY and 12 Years National Guard. I sat with him for over an hour in the 90 degree heat, prayed together and I gave him a few bucks to eat and ride the bus. I will never turn down someone in need especially a Veteran.

Well since I gave up candy and these are my super favorites, I bought a t shirt instead. If I can't eat them I might as well wear them. Man, do I love me a RPBC fix.. ahhhhhh so sad. I ate too much sugar and Vegas and my body went into almost diabetic shock, man it wasn't pretty.

I am trying to get back on track for the triathlon training, I have had some feet/numbness issues that are alarming and my next option is a Neurologist. Yeah Me. Growing old is a big ol BEE-OTCH I tell ya.
The diet is going splendid and let me tell you my skin and digestive system have never been happier.
Stay tuned I will post all about it tomorrow afternoon I promise.

I fell off the planet ? Sure did and boy am I tired.

2011-05-01T19:15:00.000-07:00

I know I know.. Total disappearing act these days. Its for a good reason though!
What Have I been doing?
Alot of this.......

and wearing these

and riding this... I mean alot, all the time.. constantly.

I am training for triathlons in June, July and August. I have never been so tired !

Ive had to completely change my eating habits, my life style and attitude towards hard physical exertion which is ALL mental. So that's where I am for now, stay tuned for how I changed my diet and the weight melted off like butter......

Alaska and more of her redeeming qualities.

2011-03-28T23:55:00.000-07:00

My step son came for a few days , so we got to play tour guide. So first stop was Alyeska Resort. While the boys went on the tram I sat in the bar.
This drinkie was called the Muscle Relaxer.. Yep, it does what it says.Mommy likey very much!!

Then off to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Park. Alaska version of Oregon's Wildlife Safari, but without all the cool stuff like Lions and Giraffes. Seen one buffalo seen them all. You, Mr. Bison should be on my plate in between buns and ketchup.
Anyway...

Saw some elk, cheeky devils and quite aloof, Look at me and awe but that's close enough or I'll scream.
Can't you totally see it in her face??

Caribou.. Seen Sarah Palin cap one, you seen them all too. However, this little beauty would look fab as a hide on my sofa.

OH EM GEE. Can you stand the utter cuteness of this porcupine? My normal saying of " I just wanna kiss him" Does not apply here.

Now here's a handsome face only a Mother could love.

He must have smelled the leftover pony treats in my coat pocket. Strict rules of no petting and no feeding.
Kidding me right? Does this 1800 pound animal look or act like hes never been given a yummy in his whole life?
Yeah no.... But I am a rule follower, he didn't get those treats. But we are totally bffs now.

This is not a Pot Belly Pig, this is a baby Musk OX. I could hardly tell the difference at 10 paces

A big brown bear.. Who had some sort of femur type bone in his mouth, We speculated it was the last bear feeder or a guest who had horse treats in her pocket. This is as close as I got just to make sure.

Once again OH EM GEE " I just wanna kiss her" Doesn't apply to these super cute Kodiak Cubs. Do you see her claws? However she is just over the top adorable.

Last stop , a little town called Whittier. Isn't it gorgeous? Not much to it as its a summer time fishing MECCA. We will definitely be back here come salmon run time.

Thanks for coming along on our little adventure! Alaska does have her qualities that's for sure!

Where have I been?? Grab a Kleenex.

2011-03-20T15:47:00.000-07:00

I know I deserve a flogging for leaving the blog unattended for so long.
I apologize.
No excuse really.

This is a picture of my two boys, Lucas and Logen.
They are on top of my former Mother in Law Sylvia. This picture derives so many emotions for me, its almost too much.
You see, Sylvia is being ravaged by the cruel disease of Alzheimer's. She is in the latter stages and its heartbreaking. She would have been so proud to watch the boys grow up to see who they have become and will be. She was such fun and loved these boys with every fiber of her being.

Can you stand the cuteness? I always dressed them so cute. I sure miss that and I miss being their Momma at this age.

This is what all the crying has been about lately. My youngest child is now a US Marine.
We went to San Diego for his graduation last weekend and it was overwhelming and awesome at the same time.

I couldn't be prouder and yet I still feel empty.

Its a new leash on life I have been given and yet I wasn't ready to give up the old one.

Logen wasn't the easiest child to raise. Shall we say " Mommas boy" ?

So I go through baby pictures , cry and reminisce of how fast time flies and what I may have missed along the journey.

So as my youngest leaves the proverbial nest I ponder , what Gods plans are for me and my future. He has figured out his and now Mom has to make a new life for herself! Amazing what happens when the babies leave the nest isn't it? Cruel and joyous seem appropriate really.

So, I am going to grab another Kleenex and go through another pile of pictures and then maybe plan a life for myself in between.

Hugs and Love to all my Blogger Peeps.

Updates from La La Land

2011-01-17T09:18:00.000-08:00

Once again, sorry everyone.
I hate to leave people hanging.

I did quit my job. It was a nightmare and it was either HER or ME.

I chose ME this time. All the years past I have taken he abuse that is synonymous with the mortgage industry just to have a very nice paycheck.

I am not going to do that anymore! There are other ways to make a living and I just need some time to get this whole self employed deal worked out.

So just like Star I am looking towards the sun and my new future.

Hugs to all my blogger peeps!
J ~ out

Denali for New Years

2011-01-09T09:36:00.000-08:00

Sorry to the family it took so long to get this posted. It has been a horrible couple of weeks at work . I finally had to quit. They left me with little choice. However I have a few leads and an interview on Monday.

Allright.....
For New Years Day we drove the 175 miles to Denali National Park. WHy? Just because and to say we did.
Now doesn't this look inviting? However its closed from October to May, this place is a ghost town.

This is a huge facility, kind of creepy seeing it all boarded up and no one around.
So we drove around, it was like trespassing, but hey they left the gate open!

This is an abandoned hotel on the way up the Denali Highway.
Kind of sad really, that was someones dream at one time.

One of the few patches of sunshine we saw that day.

A little more sunshine.. Come on you can do it!

the little town right before you actually enter the park. Also look abandoned!

The only bear we saw.

There it is, so now we can officially say " been there done that"!

Comet, Cupid and Blitzen enjoying some time off after the busy Christmas season.

Well that was the big excitement for our New Years Festivities. We are boring boring boring I know! IT was a good time and the scenery was unbelievable!

We took the Hum out of Bug

2010-12-26T21:25:00.000-08:00

For Christmas this year for the first time in over 11 years it has just been Shawn and I . No kids, no family, nobody but the two of us. Trust me we aren't sad and suffering, we are enjoying every last minute of it. This means, no shopping, little cooking on my part, no traveling, no cleaning, no stress, no mess. Yeah sounds God awful doesn't it? HARDLY!
So I saw this Cafe on Another Bloggers Blog. I have been dying to try it since I go there in Wasilla.
It's called Metro Cafe, inside was empty but the LINE for the drive up was 8 cars back. We had the fireplace and leather couches all to our selves. What a treat that was.

Then as any white trash wanna be Paparazzi would do , we drove up to the Palins for a little Lookie -see. Shawn is a tad obsessed with the local celeb.

You see that fence? That is the one they had to build because of the freaky nosy neighbor. How rude to just pull up into someones...errrr uh huh.. Moving on

Ahhh the Christmas Prime Rib. My Mom and I see differently on how to cook the slab , but they both are delicious. I stab the holes and put in the garlic and sage into the holes. looks cute and oh so yummy.

So what does a girl do when she has pigged out enough for 10 pregnant women? Run and Run some more. This was the sunset over the lake I live on.
I ran a 5k early this month and will be doing one a month until August when I actually do a half marathon ! I am just that crazy ...

We went to a friends house, ate some more, sat in the hot tub and came home. Very exciting, but for us it was a much needed break of all of the stress of the move. I missed everyone, but not the drama of it all.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

I love me a pony face

2010-12-20T21:37:00.000-08:00

I was so grateful to Jen over at AKPONYGIRL blog for inviting me to go ride on Sunday, that I braved the most bitter cold I have ever been in just to kiss a pony face.
Yep that says -2 degrees. I have never been so cold in my life.
Not just any pony face but a super cute half draft pony face aptly named " mare" .
She is big boned as you would say, my girth that fits my 16 hand appendix mare was not even remotely going to fit her. I made do but it sure looked funny.

She doesn't have a mean bone in her body, but she did test me for sure. I want to roll, NO we trot, I have an Itch, NO we go forward, I think this Shadow might eat me and I need to roll, NO WE TROT.

Isn't she just too cute?

Don't tell Star she might get all Mad Mare Face on me again.

I am so grateful to Jen, thank you so much! Coffee is on me next time!

What I do know

2010-12-16T21:47:00.000-08:00

What I have learned the last few months.

1. Never leave home without a hat, gloves, jacket and your cell phone. If you don't you will be sorry.

2. When someone says it's " not that far" it sure as hell is " that far" its that and then some.

3. There is Jocelyn time and Alaskan Time. These two are never to be in sync.

4. There is a difference in City Moose and Country Moose. City Moose can read traffic signals, Country Moose cross the roads in 5 O' clock traffic and kill people. So much so there are signs on the highways warning you " High Moose Crossing Area Next 5 miles" .

5. My home is now considered the " lower 48" and that is NOT a term of endearment.

6. In order to keep sane you must have sunlight, friends and the Internet. Of which I only have one of right now, so I am pretty darn cranky.

7. I learned a new term BEATER WITH A HEATER, every home must have at least one that runs and one that doesn't and is sitting in the driveway under a tarp.

8. If you live in Wasilla you are accepting the fact that you live on Mars and you like it. To all my Oregon Peeps, I would say I live in Molalla, but a Hybrid Molalla/Woodburn with better stores.

9. This is not the place for Sissies, not sure why I am here but if you are one go home , your Mommy is waiting for you.

10. Do not and I mean DO NOT freak out about the prices of things here, it only annoys the locals. See # 9.

So hurry on up everyone and come visit me!

A little peek into my life in Alaska

2010-12-13T20:28:00.000-08:00

Hello Again from the Great White Tundra! We went on a day trip one Saturday and on the way home the night skiing was lit up at the local ski lodge. It was much prettier in person!
Shawn and I at his Christmas party. It was fun, but we knew NO ONE so we called it an early night.

Santa and his elves handing out the raffle gifts. I REALLY REALLY wanted the .22 , it wasn't meant to come home with me.. ( sad face)

This is the front of the house we moved into.

This is our main living area/great room.

This is the loft over the great room where I am sitting typing the blog. Right up against that blank wall.
THIS HAS BEEN CLAIMED AS A NO WANKER ZONE.
If you are a card carrying member of the male species, you are not allowed up in here.

I can see the Palins from my back yard.
2nd house to the right.

This is the back of our house, it sits on almost 2 acres, gazebo, lake front, boat dock, fire pit, you name it I have it.

Shawn and the Labrador out on the lake, Momma is the smart one I only go out so far and call it good, the dogs and Shawn go out way to far for my nerves.

I adore art glass and pottery, these Moose Shakers are totally coming home with me soon.

I .... MUST...... HAVE.... THEM......

I got to pet some reindeer at the Colony Christmas in Palmer.

Besides the Art Galleries, The free Coffee and shopping, I went to pet the Reindeer.

So in Alaska they apparently EAT the Reindeer, you see it on all sorts of menus, but mostly in sausage form. I was aghast at the thought of the visions of my childhood Christmas Movies were atop some jerk offs pizza. Then it happened.. Shawn ordered it for breakfast. I about fell out of the booth. I told him the Caribou are for eating, Reindeer are for Santa, no exceptions.

I think he ordered it just to watch my reaction. Needless to say every time he took a bite I said

Was that Donner? Blitzen? Vixen? Comet? Does Santa know you just had Cupid with a side of eggs?

So thank you everyone for welcoming me back to blog land, I have missed it dearly and wish everyone the Happiest of Holidays.

Hugs and Love to all my Blogger Peeps

Jocelyn

I can't see Russia but I can see the Palins

2010-12-10T14:57:00.000-08:00

Seasons Greetings everyone!

The movers dropped off all of our CRAP errr. stuff on Tuesday.

We still have not been invited to the Palins for Tea and Scones, but we are hopeful still.

So the poor kitty Seamus decided that sneaking outside was a fantastic idea until he got locked outside and the temps dropped to below ZERO.

Let's just say that he was more than ready to come back in this morning. He didn't even put up a fuss when we checked him over for frost bite. It's a safe bet that he won't be doing that anytime again soon.

The girls are settling in fine and this weekend will be some of my best recipes , if I can find the rest of my pots and pans! The movers labeled our boxes as if we were mind readers and had X ray vision!

Hugs to all my Blogger Peeps!
I will be back up and running next week!

JP ~ out

I am ALIVE!!!

2010-11-23T19:49:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone !
I am alive and kicking.
Shawn and I have made it safely up the Al CAN Highway, rented a house across the lake from the Palin's and trying to stay sane in the constant darkness.

I have some pictures and more updates coming soon!

I have missed all my blogger Peeps!

Finally heard from my girl.

2010-09-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

I have been getting updates on Star's progress in school, but I had yet to hear from her myself.

This morning I got this email. Seems as if the Diva isn't appreciaing Fancy School as much as she should.

Hope it is ok to get on Auntie Toni's email and send you a note.... Where the hell are you! Oh sorry... Hi mom... how are you doing. I miss you. Just wanted to tell you that I got 4 (yes four) days of work this last week.... is this OK? I was thinking I would have yesterday off cuz it was like 80 degrees out, but noooo.... i even got my dark spots removed that were covering my whites... I don't think Toni gives me my bath quite like you, but I did see her out there with that big dark handsom boy Logan too so maybe she did not have enough time to wash my tail an extra time and condition it a ton.... felt kinda good though since it was hot out. - Do you know I have to carry my head in a certain way? She says it will help my topline. I doubt it, but whatever. I do it cuz I am told to and well, she gives me lots of breaks so I don't get too muscle tired. So far little Kara is the only other one that has ridden me. She does pretty good with me, but I understand Aunti Toni a little better.

Anyway, just wanted to say hi, i love you and miss you..... Miss Star.

--Oh and did I tell you everyone thinks I am soooo pretty! Well, except Tim... he thinks i am pretty, but tells me my stall is a mess every day.... well, duuuhhhh, where else is all that food going to go. Guess I don't have to move it around, but that is what i do... .so there.... i can cuz i am pretty!
S

More Alaska

2010-09-21T20:22:00.001-07:00

Last night we went to a place called Potter's Marsh it is a Bird Sanctuary. We are standing on the boardwalk that runs the perimeter of the marsh.

You can barely see them, but those are dying spawning salmon. This Marsh is special as it is a cocktail of fresh and saltwater. It makes the perfect environment for the salmon to come here and spawn.

Well, it look like some critter came and got din din before we got there. These tracks were fresh :)

The boardwalk expands clear around, if you click on it and bigg i fy the picture you can see it.

The host family :) See the telescope? Those are free, not like other places where you have to put in quarters. I saw Bald Eagles and when the sunset I saw the moon for the first time in my life in such amazing brightness and clarity. It was awesome.

More of the boardwalk. See that cluster of houses up in the hills? That's where I live.

The headlights are from the Seward highway, it's like more than a mile away.

Cool Moon picture.

The reflection of the moon in the water was pretty cool.

This is a little video of my new adventures in Alaska.

on the 8th day GOD created Alaska

2010-09-12T13:58:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Alaska the 8th of September. It has been a non stop whirl wind of work and play.
My host family as I call them have been the ultimate tour guides.
The weather here has been nothing short of spectacular.

The Cook Inlet

McHugh Creek Falls

More of the Cook Inlet

A Farm run by the LDS church. It's a U Pick it. They have everything you could imagine.

This was a good time, I made a picnic lunch for the fam and dug up taters until the sun dropped.

Yummy red potatoes. Did you know if you don't wash them and let them dry with the dirt on them, put them in cold storage they will last for 4 to 5 months? Cool little tid bit.

The farm was surrounded by these mountains, just amazing the scenery everywhere you go.

Well this wraps up the first 4 days of my new life. I will only have sporadic access to a computer for another week or so.

I miss all my blogger peeps and look forward to getting back to everyone soon.

JP~ OUT

Splash Zone

2010-08-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry for taking so long to get these up, but we BOTH had cameras and took a Tourist-load of pictures! These are all from Shawn's camera, mine was not fast enough to get the good shots.
We are sitting in the "splash zone". Which means you sit here , you are getting wet.
The whales make sure of it! Shawn and I wanted to be CLOSE as possible, so there you sit waiting to get drenched for the sake of good pictures!

We were in awe, such amazing and graceful creatures.

The trainers are no longer allowed to swim with them since the accident early this year. You should see the gates they open and shut between the show pool and the holding pools. Wow, imagine a baby gate for a whale !

We couldn't believe that Shawn got these pictures, we get all excited when we get good shots. It's like capturing a memory for eternity and since we love animals so much 99% of our 1000's of pictures are of animals!

This is how they got the whales to come by and splash, they would swim by and smack their tails like boat oars . So gross, salty nasty water, but totally worth it!
You can't see it here, but that pool is DEEP and I mean DEEP.

I thought this was a cool shot. Can you imagine standing there and having that whale come full speed and slide right up next to you? I would have to change my shorts for sure.

So one of the things I was excited about seeing was the Gators... We are in Florida right??

Well, no such luck, I only saw one big wild one at NASA, and these little critters at Sea World.

Shawn promised that on our next trip he would take me Gator Watching, kind of like Whale watching here in the NW :0 Yipeeeeeee.
I think this guy would make a cute belt .... kidding...

Sea Dragons, oh how I love thee. The males do the birthing and raising..
Shawn took some amazing pictures of these animals. You should have seen us snapping away like we've never seen a sea creature in our lives.

This was so cute, a Mamma and a calf holding flippers while taking a little nap.
Funny, this is how Shawn sleeps too.

We didn't go to the Dolphin show, but we went and saw them in the tank instead.

Out of 20 pictures this was the only good one.

ahhh The Manatee. Need I say more? These Manatee's actually belong to the State of Florida and are being rehabbed( from sickness, human negligence or what have you) at Sea World. If the State comes back and says let them free, then Sea World has to let them free.

Let me tell you they are bigger then you think.

We went and watched this cute show, for us we have seen many many sea lions, but the trained ones are much cuter than the naughty, fat, lazy ,barking ones we see at the condo in Newport.

Well, another end of a long day. We had a great time, and can't wait to do it again!

I promise I will get back to everyone's blogs when life slows down a tad!

Love like no other

2010-08-23T21:04:00.000-07:00

I was in my car coming up the driveway, so I stopped and called her name and out she came

Then she whinnied and met me at the stall door .
I sure do love that horse.

Where have I been?

2010-08-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

Well, we ran off to Florida for a quick trip. The Air Force has a program called the Yellow Ribbon Program. It helps returning soldiers and their families reintegrate after long deployments.
So We went to Kennedy Space Center. For a TREKKIE like myself this was super cool.
I am a total nerd, I know....
This was the actual mission control Center for the Apollo missions.

IBM.. Does anyone remember them? I do, but I'm OLD..

Launchpad, this was 3.5 miles away from where I was standing, so that tells you how HUGE it really is.

This is the actual rocket/shuttle building, the shuttle and rockets will be assembled together and then moved out of here by the "Crawler".It is the largest building in the world. All under one roof.
The stripes on the flag are 8 feet across.

So, this was day one of our holiday. We never had a honeymoon or ever been on a real vacation, so this was fantastic.

All I wanted to see were Alligators, but nooooooooooooooo. I only saw one!

Where did I see the one gator? On the Nasa/Cape Grounds.Of course.

This was my favorite part of the trip. Shawn loved Sea World I will post those soon.

Tuesday Tip.. on Wednesday!

2010-08-11T13:39:00.001-07:00

Someday when my life is back to normal I will post on the correct day!

OK so my tip of the day is:

Follow your dreams even if they are little ones.

I have ridden on the beach, I took my mare Blu to the beach a few years back and it was the time of my life. Albeit , it had your typical drama but all in all it was a fantastic time.

I want to take Star to the beach before we move to Alaska. I was having a hard time getting any takers to go with me as I want to go during the week, as I am now unemployed. So, if I can't get anyone to load and and go , Shawn said he would drive me and I would ride alone for a couple hours while he and the dogs played in the surf. I AM GOING to make this happen. I will not leave the State of Oregon without making this happen.
email me at jocelynmpayne @ gmail dot com if you would like to join in !

Aren't I supposed to be on vacation?

2010-08-09T07:07:00.000-07:00

We had one of two garage sales on Saturday.
I tried to sell the cat and didn't have any takers.

So then I lowered his price...

He was a hit at the sale and was a good helper. Guarded the money box and walked customers out to their cars.

He approved of my merchandising skills.

Can one family have too many tv's? Clearly they can.

The love shack didn't sell.
Bummer as it really needs to get the HE** out of my driveway. Someone asked if the motorcycle was mine. Ummm no...

Overall it was a success as I got rid of alot of extra stuff I didn't want to pay to get schlepped via barge to Alaska.

I have also gone trail riding with friends three times this week! Star had a long vacation and it showed until the third time out and she was back to her normal trail pony self. It's amazing how quickly they can forget their training when given a long break.

Well, that list of "to-do's" just keeps getting longer....

My departure date is getting closer!

This is no vacation... :(

Tuesday Tip of the Day... on Thursday

2010-08-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

Come to my going away party!!!

August 21st at 4:30 pm.

Bring a side dish if you like, BYOB and lots of tears so bring a hankie...

Please no blackmail photos of me in varying states of drunkeness, nakedness or injured.

Directions:

http://www.co.clackamas.or.us/parks/barton.htm

be there or break my heart.... :)

the wet squishy ones are the best ones

2010-07-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

A year ago this horse REFUSED to get her feets wet. She would have nothing to do with this pond. We had a giant CTJ meeting about it and she finally got in.
So now my problem is that she refuses to get out.
At Klickitat ride, she got into the knee deep creek and decided that walking home in the creek was a fab idea.
She refused to leave the creek and started walking upstream like " I know the way home is just right up the creek Mamma"

She isn't a fan on endurance rides of the clean , fresh water, she loves the brown, grimy, filled with sweet nibbles water.
I was getting nervous she wouldn't drink and then realized the water wasn't gross enough for her taste.

If I had my lunge line she would have went all the way in. I have a long lead rope and I was barely hanging on to the end at this point.

She will actually dunk her head for the good nibbles she wants under water.

We now call her " The Manatee" .

Tuesday Tip of the Day

2010-07-27T05:50:00.000-07:00

Do what you love and do it often...

Kellie dog lives to ride in the truck bed. She doesn't get to do it very often as we are nervous parents. But she thinks it gives her street cred as a real cattle dog.

Shannie loves to swim and retrieve her squirrel. She will just go and go and go and go. Tail wagging and a big Labrador smile. To see her crashed out in the backseat after a good long swim makes us appreciate the small things. She loves to swim, it makes her happy, she is easy to please.

Be happy in what you love, be easy to please and go fast and crash hard.

Enjoy all those moments.

Swim like the lab and let the wind blow in your hair like the cattle dog.

Cat Days of Summer

2010-07-24T18:01:00.001-07:00

It's a hot one today in the Pacific Northwest. 95 degrees in the shade.
Seamus was enjoying the breeze in the gazebo.

Which is weird because one can usually find him in the house on his back in front of the fan!
Time to make more lemonade!

Friday Flop

2010-07-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

Since my horse has been so lame lately, yesterday I took a good hard look at all the stress eating I have been doing.

Time to step away from my feed bag.
Even my husband last night said a snide remark about my eating habits. HE NEVER does that.

Happy Friday!

Wednesday's Work of Art

2010-07-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

Don't these look like the horse Bugs Bunny rides???
The are very old, very expensive Chinese Statues.

I have quite a few that look like this one below , but didn't cost as much. I am super picky about the horse "art" that I have in my house. You aren't going to see National Velvet ON Velvet anywhere in my home ! My Mom got me started on the Asian inspired horses and I also like the " hunt and pack" scenes of Europe style of prints and plates.

What do you collect as far as "horsey" items?

Tuesday Tip Returns

2010-07-19T18:20:00.001-07:00

edited to add:
Your tip for the day is to:
NEVER
EVER
Buy

Squeezable Pickle Relish ,
the other kind in a jar is fine, but NOT the kind you turn upside down and squeeze. Nothing but juice runs out... ugh...

It is by far the nastiest thing ever. If you want soggy buns then go for it. GAG.

However do buy:

Hebrew National Kosher Hot Dogs and BBQ them.

You taste buds will thank me later.

That's my Tuesday Tip.
Watch For Wednesday Works of Art and Friday Flops :)

Trophy Wife gone bad

2010-07-17T19:27:00.001-07:00

Last Night ( Friday) is a night I normally don't go out anywhere. My idea of Friday night is PJ's, Netflix and BBQing.
Well Shawn wanted to go check out the Bagpipe ( Irish Catholic Boy) competition at the College. this is in conjunction with the Highland games there this weekend.
Albeit, I love me some bagpipe, but this was not my cup of tea. Boring to be exact. So we stayed for a couple players and went on home. Each competitor had to play a song chosen by the judge.
They were over 15 minutes long EACH. Every song sounded like a funeral procession.

I couldn't use flash so my camera wasn't cooperating in the dark theatre.

So we go outside to get in the car, and what do I see? This WICKED COOL CAR!

Yes those are mini mirror tiles.

All sorts of hood ornaments

More tiles, brass plates of all kinds, from Volleyball Champ, to High Society this and that.

Drugs Don't Work Bumper sticker was oddly ironic.

You name it , it was on there.

No, you aren't cross eyed, there is no roof.
It's a convertible with out the rag top.

Check out the boobie car seat cover.

The back seat cover was made out of a table cloth material.

This was my favorite part of the car besides the phone.
Trophy Wife, However I am way past the trophy wife stage it would still be cool to be considered one.

Shawn says Did you see the phone?

OMG how totally Hart to Hart is that? They had the same kind of deal in their car.

So cool, Portland really does have some interesting folks.

Full side view again.

So even though the bagpipes were not as upbeat as we had hoped this car totally made up for it !

Havent seen much of her lately

2010-07-14T19:53:00.001-07:00

Poor thing probably thinks she is for sale or something.
I rode last Saturday morning and she was a tad off, so I think another week of time off and she should be good to go.

I have had non stop company for almost a month! It's been crazy around here, but my vacation starts soon!
I have had doctors appointments galore, trying to tie up some loose health issues before we move. Oh that's been a blast!

Let's see, on the agenda for August.
garage sale to beat all Garage sales
Walt Disney World trip
Trip to Seattle for Passports
Dog appointments
Move Star to her temp home for the next 6 months

and last but not least get my house ready to rent.

Ya think I can get it all done before Labor Day?

I sure hope so!

I truly had no idea

2010-07-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

that being 41 was a detriment.

I answered an ad on CL for a temp room to rent while I am waiting for Shawn to arrive in Alaska. This was a FELLOW Air Force married couple and advertised under short term room to rent.

I told them my situation and a little bit about me, 41, female, married, employed etc..

and this was the ***holes reply back to me.

" Give me a call and set up a time to meet ( I said I didn't live there yet so clearly he can't read)"
" However we really wanted someone our own ages ( 19, 25, and 27)."
Sgt **** at (***)-***-****

You have GOT TO BE KIDDING ME.

My reply back was not very friendly nor PC, my only hope is that Shawn is the Punk A$$'s new Supervisor.

I also have his phone number, so he really is stupid. HE totally dissed me , illegally age discriminated against me and yet STILL gave me his phone number.

I am going to have fun with that.

It's hard letting go sometimes

2010-07-06T19:33:00.000-07:00

Shawn and I are having a hard time parting with our house.

We wanted to sell it , but the housing market is making that impossible.

So our only choice is to rent it.

Problem is..

Letting go... and letting new people make new memories, run in the huge yard, cook in the fab kitchen,sit in the gazebo and drink morning coffee, play with other kids in the cul de sac., sleep in the bedroom I have slept in for the last 10 years.

So with that revelation, we can concentrate on getting to Alaska , making new memories ourselves.

Man, the tears are a coming Blogger Peeps, get out your floatie wings!

to dream like a 4 year old

2010-06-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

Last week, my gal pals and I went to watch the practice of the Rodeo Bandits. They do the grand entry for the Molalla Buckaroo.

The rodeo folks had not tilled the arena yet so the team couldn't really go too fast and have a full dress rehearsal. They are also way behind in practicing due to so much rain we have had this Spring.

There is Jen and Slurpee! She has such a great horse and Slurpee seems to enjoy it.

Star liked drill however I didn't. I realized that at 41 I don't need to go that fast! I would get a panic attack thinking about going full blast and then forgetting the pattern.

But what girl doesn't dream of riding her horse in a rodeo in a cute outfit, carrying the American Flag , in front of a roaring crowd? I did, and did it often. I would sit and watch these Rodeo Queens and just want to be one so bad. I always knew I would be someday!

and so does the BG, she has big dreams too I am sure. Remember what it was like to pretend to be a cowgirl? Grand Prix Jumper? or whatever your passion was?
I still dream like a 4 year old, but it is now mixed with reality! Too bad right? It can be a dream killer sometimes.

Keep dreaming like a 4 year old ! Those are what keep us young and inspired to follow our passions.

Sorry for being a slacker

2010-06-27T08:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry for being so remiss in posting this week. Mostly to Dad as he reads this blog too.
There has been so much to do and figure out since we got the news we are moving to Alaska.
I am beyond excited to go. It is a new grand adventure for Shawn and I. Empty Nesters and moving 2500 miles from anyone we know.

I am so looking forward to exploring the historic towns and early settlements. Watching wildlife like my own personal Zoo and discovering a life without kids in it. It's going to be a whirlwind of emotions that I am clearly not prepared for. Hopefully I'll make new friends with a cute baby or toddler I can babysit every once in awhile.

This is how we will be traveling from Bellingham, WA to Juneau, then from there to near Anchorage.

The Alaska Marine Highway System. It's actually pretty cool and I plan on taking many trips on the ferry. It's like Tri-Met for the Ocean. They even have Stay Cabins for those who don't like to rough it. That would be me. I can use a public shower, but I need a place to lie down. We will be on the ferry for almost 4 whole days.

So not only do I have to pack up my house, sell it, deal with my pets, and Star. I have to make travel plans for our 4 day Ferry trip.

We have to bring our own food, bedding and the animals have to stay in carriers in the cargo bay while we are underway.
It's going to be a grand adventure that I absolutely can't wait for!

We didn't get the t-shirt, we got sweatpants!

2010-06-20T20:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the Sunriver Ride at Wanoga Sno Park.
We did the 50 miler and got a completion!
I once again had tremendous help and crew, there was no way I could have gotten through without all their help. Darlene my Mentor was the best crew EVER! She has show me more support than I could ever imagine. She is a one of a kind amazing lady.

On Friday it was a onslaught deluge of rain and hail. My poor poor show Diva , was out in the weather all night!

I love Val, she let me stay in her camper, take a hot shower and have hot coffee and oatmeal!

I can't thank her enough for her hospitality.

Came across this sign in out travels. It was either go left back to camp or right to the Highway!

hmmm I wonder which way we should go?

There was some gorgeous scenery out there!
You always hear that the 50 and higher mile riders get the better views! They were so right! These views were awesome.

Star saw something out in the distance and she froze. I was thinking it was the million dollar home in the distance and she was saying, Mamma if we lived there we would be home right now.
This was right before Vet check 2 where one of the three of us riding together got pulled.

Mona in the red has over 10k in endurance miles. Poor gal got pulled at Vet Check 2 for lameness. Val my hostess with the mostess got pulled at Vet Check 3! I took the bit out of her mouth at VC1 ( stop and go) she had bitten her tounge again.

We changed into the bitless at Vet Check 2, because she was behaving and acting nice, and it gives me more control than just a halter and reins.

Vet Check 3, Star wouldn't pulse down and then Val got pulled! I had to finish the last 9 miles alone! It wouldn't be an endurance ride with JP if something didn't go awry. I was told no one was going to ride with me anymore I am now known as the black widow of the sponsor community. sheesh ! Here is something you don't see everyday. Star ground tied and has FOUR tubs of yummies to choose from. Darlene is the best crew ever, she left these for us at VC3.

She was there at every vet check helping the three of us get through.

So, sis and I headed out the last 9 miles solo. Once again, we got to the finish line alone!
About 5 miles from camp we got pelted with hail. Sis was a rock star, she did her western jog trot for almost 9 miles home. We got passed by about 8 people, who were busting butt to get back? I knew I was hours ahead of schedule so we mosey'd on back. We came in 27th out of 45!

It was a fun time, great new friends, a huge bon fire to sit by and listen to stories. However I was a beat dog, so I wasn't the life of the party at all. What was really cool was that alot of folks asked about Stars side pull. It seems that her side pull bridle was quite the topic of conversation!

So that will be the last 50 I do for along time, Star was fine but I wasn't mentally ready for that.

I wanted to do at least one before we move to Alaska where there are not any endurance rides. Now I can say been there got the sweatpants!

He finally did it !

2010-06-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

My youngest son Logen finally graduated from High School! 18 years of struggle are finally over.
Logen has had a long long road to get here and I am so proud he stuck it out.
So in my living room I made him pose before we left :)

There were 579 graduates in his class. Not only the largest class the High School has ever had , but the largest to date in the State of Oregon.

It took 15 minutes for them all to file in and get seated. Here he comes!

Getting his diploma!

This is him and his friends Sean and Travis. We think Travis looks like Ronald Weasley from Harry Potter :)
I hear he gets that alot !

A proud Mom and Grandma. My Mom drove up from California 1000 miles to come see him graduate!

This is the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

He is off to the Marines in December! I did my job and now he gets to do his!

It's Offical

2010-06-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

The transfer is in and the next big chapter of the Payne's Story is about to start.
Can you guess where we are going?

The transfer came in Friday and it's been a whirlwind of decision making all weekend.
We have 80 days give or take to report.

We're going NORTH!

It's beautiful, cold and rustic.

Star has a very long journey ahead !

Guesses? I think I made it easy enough!

well not fixed but better!

2010-06-11T01:59:00.001-07:00

I almost squealed when I saw this wallpaper.
IT SCREAMS JP!

Just screams!

now to get it all looking like a blog again.

Please pay no attention to the more than 100 changes this blog will have in the next however long until I get it like I want it :)

Hugs to my Squeezies :)

JP~out

SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-10T20:53:00.001-07:00

Do you see the new blog layout?
Blogger geniuses decided to upgrade or whatever and my entire layout went all
CLUSTER****'d.

I have worked on it for too long and am too angry. !

So, Black is what you are going to get for a tad whilst I figure out HTML code blah blah blah...

Klickitat Trek

2010-06-06T16:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Klicktat Trek ! I headed out after work on Friday darn J.O.B!. Got in late and although I wanted to do the 10 mile fun ride I thought I was too late in arriving. The ride manager said HURRY UP and register! So I parked, got Star settled and ran off to pay and vet in! With minutes to spare!
Star got the big pen, thank you Darlene. I put her right at the intersection so she could keep an eye on things, this was a mistake. While the first day was fine by Saturday evening, she was on overload and really really crabby.She lunged at horses who walked by teeth and all! So if I caught her doing that I threw very large sticks at her. She finally stopped and pouted. If she saw I had a stick she went to the far side of the pen and didn't move a muscle. So Shawn and I discussed that she needs quiet time and was on sensory meltdown and we will be camping in a quieter place from now on. Even horses need peace and quiet.

ahhh, Hot water! You can never go wrong camping if you have access to hot water. Those Starbucks instant coffee's are strong. Be advised if you want the jitters ! I take hot sponge baths in my trailer, I have decided that I HAVE to have a hot bath whilst camping/riding, and the back of the trailer works like a champ! I had to tie a lunge line to the handle , bring it inside and wrap it around the gate nice and tight. Viola! Privacy !

At Mt.Adams sis was freaking out when all the riders left camp. This time, she was looking out as if to say. See Ya Sucka's. Not one whinny, call or pacing, just a causal gaze to all the other poor pony souls.

However, when Junior came back to our little camp, she was very excited about that.
Max was awesome, he parked my trailer, helped me figure out the lantern, bought me a huckleberry shake while I was following him home. I went over the Hood River bridge on the way in and had a complete meltdown, so on the way home I followed Max across the Bridge of the Gods, much better. I just focused on this taillights and license plate and POOF we were across with no JP freak out session!

I was thankful I got to hook up with Monica for the trail ride. I found her talking to this gal Carla. I asked her if she was riding and she said NO, I forgot the saddle pad ! Well, can't have that! So I lent her one of mine and told her we would wait for her.So she RAN and tacked up and then RAN and registered. Then we left about 10:10 on the 10 mile fun ride.

This is Monica, she has a blog too Horsebytes. She was one of the riders who was with us at Mt Adams who backtracked to go get help for the bucked off rider.
Her and I both have pictures of each other in this pose trying to take pictures of each other!

This is Star chillin in her pen watching the BC riders and horses being checked in. I wonder what she is thinking? Well I brought the trailer home, washed it, washed all the buckets and am taking it back to the ranch tonight to take a rest until Sunriver !

Here is some fun video. :)

JP~ Out!

A Cowgirls Life is the life for me

2010-06-04T11:22:00.000-07:00

Star and I are heading out again today.
You know this cowgirl can't sit still!
Have new trailer must travel!
Star and I did 21 miles on Memorial Day, so this weekend will be more camping and trail riding and not doing an actual endurance ride. Shawn and I decided that until she gets new shoes with more support she is on "comp time". So I am going to volunteer, watch experienced riders and chill around the campfire.

Hoof Out~JP and Star

Unicorn Cupcakes for the BG

2010-06-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

The BG put in her order about 6 months ago for her birthday cupcakes. If you were around my blog last year , I made her THESE CUPCAKES. This year she wanted unicorns. She wanted"Princess" flavored, so her Mom and I made the executive decision of vanilla :)

So I made them all by hand with fondant, it was my son's idea to use the candles as the horn! So cute! Then I made these purple flowers for them to sit on. After they dried I covered them in edible pearl dust.

Here they are! Lucky I only had to make a dozen. This was harder than the butterflies!

I would love to do this for money, but since I have pets the Department of Agriculture will not certify my kitchen. Bummer. So for now I do it for special occasions and of course the BG.

Celebrating the future and the past

2010-05-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

I am working on the BG's unicorn cupcakes, This is my trial run.
The horn is a birthday candle :)

Friday, Shawn and I went to the Iris Garden in Salem and bought 2 dozen iris' to put on our grandparents grave for Memorial Day. This is the third year we've bought the iris', before we just bought Costco flowers. The iris' are 6 bucks a dozen, so it's a bargain!

The Iris farm is spectacular, the gardens alone are worth visiting even if you aren't buying anything.

Shawn gazing out at the gorgeous landscape. The painter guy in the background was interesting. I need to tell my Hostas that they need to get on the ball, their Hostas were enormous and beautiful.

Doesn't this look restful and idyllic?

I liked these small iris, like little mini me's.

This is my Grandparents grave in Albany.
The flowers are just gorgeous! My Grandpa died when I was only 7, however my Grandma Rachel was the greatest grandma ever. She even lived in a pink house.. I just cried and cried , I miss her so much even 12 years later.

This is Shawn's Grandparents. They are in Eugene. I never met Shawn's grandpa he died New Years Eve 1999, while Shawn was visiting me in Texas.
Shawn's Grandma died in 2005. She was a cool lady, she was a great substitute for me.

So after all that we went to this restaurant. Shawn for quite a few years off and on was the owners Sous Chef. He started out washing dishes and worked his way up.

Our Salad.. yummm. The 1000 island was awesome! You could tell it was homemade.

We got the crab/shrimp stuffed shrooms as a gift from the chef. Shawn warned me that I would have to eat one and do it with a smile.He was saying this whilst chuckling because he knows that mushrooms are number 1 on my WILL NOT EAT list. I tried peeps I really did, but Oh EM GEE, I got half of one gagged down and couldn't eat the rest without barfing.

I thought this was funny.

the new location is much nicer and hip'r than the one in old Springfield. The old one was very run down and was in an old Mexican restaurant style building. The new one is very modern and clean.

Nothing prettier than nice clean sparkly glassware.

WE ordered a pizza and this kid came out and fixed it. He was the new version of Shawn 20 years later. Dishes, pizzas, etc... HE was doing the same thing Shawn did 20 years ago. How cool is that?

I am a big BI*** if they seat me somewhere I don't want to sit. Like next to the bathroom, the kitchen, etc... They were going to sit us out in like a hall way/common area? Ummm No....

So we opted to sit at the Pizza Bar instead. It was funny as soon as she started walking out there, SHAWN JUST KNEW I wasn't going to sit out there. HAHAHAHA

Here is the chef AKA Mookie. My favorite dish there is the Chicken Linguine.. So rich and fattening. Comfort food 101!

So that was our day. We celebrated the past and our present. We hadn't had a fun day alone together in a long time. We love to go to Eugene and see friends, eat out and reminisce about the good ol days.

Thanks for coming along !

There will be another HUGE post Monday night!

Go Kiss a VETERAN TODAY!

Why I chose to do endurance riding

2010-05-26T12:34:00.000-07:00

I am sure many are asking themselves, I know for sure my Dad is..

Why would you want to take that pretty talented mare and ride endurance?

Why not show her? Why not just trail ride? She's a Paint, not an Arabian! blah blah blah

The sport of endurance is completely different than anything I have ever done. It's a test of your mental and physical capacities. Yeah, I know sounds all Man From Snowy River...

I got the bug to do it when I owned my mare Blu. Circumstances change and even though I no longer owned an Arabian my desire to ride in the sport hadn't changed.

Showing is such a subjective event. The judges mood, how much you've spent on saddle, clothes, horse, trainer ALL COUNT. Those who say it doesn't is kidding themselves.

I wanted a closer relationship and longer saddle time with my horse than going in endless WTC.

For me showing wasn't something I could see my self enjoying for the long term.

Now, I win the lottery, you will see me in the show ring with the biggest baddest English Pleasure 1/2 Arab horse EVAH..... Whoop Whoop!

I wanted my pony recreation dollars spent towards something that was tangible. I can count the miles, see the vistas, make new friends, camp out with my sweetie, learn valuable skills, get prizes that are better than ribbons and connect with my horse on a level that can't be described.

I wanted to feel the true victory of finishing a race, crossing that finish line and know that is ME that got us there.

I choose endurance because I choose to feel like a winner even if I come in last place.

Take it from me Peeps !

2010-05-24T15:40:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple of items you will appreciate and love me for later.
It's only because I loves my Peeps.

I have this type of water holder, why? Well, it goes up and under the pommel of my saddle and literally sits right in front of me. No turning, no leaning, just reach down and grab your bottle. I have logged alot of miles with this and haven't lost one bottle yet. The water stays nice and cold too. They hold the BIG 32 oz, Nalgene Bottles with ease. Trust me however, use the smaller bottles, easier to get in and out.
Also, one less carabineer holding your crap on the D rings.

DO NOT and I REPEAT DO NOT buy the store brand of Coppertone sunscreen. Pay the extra 4 bucks and get the real deal. The store brand runs and is not sweat proof or waterproof.
It sucked, it ran in my eyes all day. OUCH and made me terribly crabby at the same time.
I have to use it on Stars nose and she took one drink and it was all washed off. Sorry people after me at the water tanks :(.

I BOW DOWN TO JOCKEY,
They are my new obsession. Don't ask and I won't tell you. :)
Run to your nearest department store and buy these undies. They are a bamboo blend/seamless/moisture wicking ones and have NO SEAM on the front crotch area, and then the rest is small flat seams. I SWEAR ON THE BIBLE, I had no raw girlie parts, they did NOT RIDE UP for 25 plus miles, and I it hardly felt like I had any on. Jockey will be your new bff I swear. Not one raw spot or chafe I promise you.
A safer choice of bottle.
To me, turning up a regular water bottle to get a drink is just not safe on the trail. Your head is cocked back and your eyes are now distracted.
Thus, I use CamelBak Bottles. You bite the soft part and suck. So your eyes can stay forward, and you will be less likely to get a fat lip or cut if your horse takes a misstep and you ram it into your face. Plus it has a hanger built in. One downside is that if you put it full of ice you have to really make sure the inside straw part is on tight. Mine came off twice when I filled it with ice and trying to fix it mile 19 sucked.

As more reviews come in I will post them :)

more ride pictures ala Star

2010-05-22T18:57:00.001-07:00

OH EM GEE MAMMA! A bath at O dark thirty?? and my Bathrobe on?
This can only mean one thing.

We are going somewhere's. Momma put me on "Operation Starvation". I decided that going into the moving box was no longer something I wanted to do. So Momma and Daddy didn't feeds me my breakfast. They put it in the moving box.

So this time and this time only I decided the moving box breakfast meal on wheels wasn't so bad. So I got right in like a lady.

This is where we stopped and parked the moving box. Instead of being tied like a dog, I actually got a corral like a good horse. Daddy and step brat even moved me closer to the trees for shade n stuff.

Daddy is going to buy me my own corral, so I can have some street cred with my mare frens.

See those pink buckets? Momma got wise and tied them so I couldn't play in the water. However she didn't do this until I had knocked them over twice. Not so swift that Momma, but what a fun time I had watching her schlep water for me.

This is Stepbrat, he was my main water boy. He helped Daddy set up the tent n coffee maker thingy. Mamma sez, the coffee maker thingy is more important than the tent.

I agree, she was much nicer this time.

Camp at night, I could keep an eye on everyone this way. Daddy had it lit up like a baseball field.

That was good because when I kept calling to Momma she could see me and tell me to shut the **** up. I was just checking to see if she was all right, sheesh.. Crabby Pants....

and I have to sleeps outside?? Whatever...

This is me looking out into the sunset, or the handsome gelding across the way, or someone rattled a grain can. I'm not sure really.

This was a hard ride and man I had to work very hard. Momma sez I got a week off and now I have to go back to work. I sure hope it's not in the moving box anytime soon. Operation Starvation sucked.

Hoof Out~ Star

The complete run down of my ride.

2010-05-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

All endurance ride photos are Courtesy of Merri Melde @ Equestrian Vagabond.

See Star in the left of picture? She was in race mode ! This was at the starting line !
I still had 25 miles of this to go! must........be..........in..........front...
until Coyotes cross your path and then it's SCREW THIS I'M GOING BACK TO CAMP.
Yeah, that was awesome. Try convincing a 16 h, 1200 pound mare that she isnt going to be dinner.

anywho...

My person I was supposed to " babysit" was very green , very nervous, and got herself VERY BUCKED OFF about 6 miles in. Knocked out cold and I had to wait 45 plus minutes for help to arrive.
It was up to me to finish the next 19 miles alone. Solo, a la carte, mono y mono....
The emergency delay made me 30 minutes late past my ride time.
This resulted in a " no time" aka No Completion.
I had done a grueling 19 miles alone, and it was all for ZERO points.
Here I am crossing the finish line. I know I am last, I know I am over time and was mentally just fried. The last vertical climb was so steep I had to get off and send her up the hill alone.
That's when my ride angel arrived and got me to SUCK IT THE **** UP and finish!
I ran in, untacked, rinsed her off, pulsed her down , vetted in, and collapsed in my tent. Yep, collapsed.
side note: 12 miles with the bit, and final 13 without. I took out the bit and bit hanger and just snapped the reins to the halter. Shawn said:

" she shouldnt go bitless at the start she is acting naughty" Well, that was a smart move on our part to wait until the 2nd loop.
My Mentor's Mom felt bad that I got a zero completion and made me a "turtle" necklace.
Turtle meaning, I came in dead last ! I thought that was so nice. I will value that gesture. :)
See that dirty horse? I had just given her a liniment bath and she immediately rolled.
Of course right? I was recognized for my conduct and given a prize for taking care of the fallen rider at the awards meeting.
Well, they had made an executive decision later that morning, and due to some other rider sticking up for me, they granted me a completion. I was almost brought to tears. I finally spewed some tears in the bathroom at the DQ on the way home. Isn't that weird? of all places....
So, I am grateful to the riders who helped my along the way this time. My ride angel and the one who had my back. I think I am going to have to buy more gifts !

So, last night was the blogger dinner. We had quite a few no shows, not sure why, but everyone gets busy. This is Pauline a former boarder at my old barn, and lucky for me she is also my neighbor. I drug her out with me :) Isn't she cute?

Here is Karen aka GTTY'UP Life at the Rough String
and Char from Canterbalance.
We are all going to be at Pendleton Round Up , so we are making plans now to go to the Cowboy Breakfast. Let'R Buck!

The gal in the blue jacket is Daphne. For the life of me I can't remember her blog.
She is known as Squirrel Girl :) Also, so super cute.

We had a great time !

So that sums up my week ! See that red t-shirt I am wearing.

Yeah, that's my newest "completion" award :)

JP~out

Clean House Episode

2010-05-20T07:51:00.000-07:00

The episode that I blogged about here, airs on the Style Network tonight.

Last night was the premier, but we forgot to watch it.

It is a Messiest Home in the Country episode and the family's name is the Pettigrew's.

I am wearing a black sweatshirt and Logen is wearing a green and beige jacket.

Let me know if you see us!!!

Portland Blogger Meet up

2010-05-19T11:33:00.001-07:00

Blogger Peeps,

Tonight is the Blogger Meet up at Old Spaghetti Factory at Clackamas Town Center , Drinkies at 6 and Dinner at 7. It's by the Monarch Hotel across from the mall.

We have some confirmations, but would love to meet more faces !

This is important to GTTY'up as she lives in BFE and never gets to really meet any of us until she is in town for her job!

If you don't want to eat or drink at least stop by and say hello!

JP-out

Looking forward to that pasta and bread!!!

Got another T-Shirt !

2010-05-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

I don't have pictures today, I left my camera in my saddle bag. I didn't take many pictures this time, that a story for another day.

Here is the basic rundown:

1. We officially completed, but I wasn't given it until after the Awards Meeting this morning.
2. I had a miserable first 6 miles, fantastic next 7 miles, ( 45 minute break) a crazy awesome 8 miles, and the most physically challenging and emotional break down last 4 miles to the finish.
3. Learned SO MUCH about me, my horse and what to do and what NOT to do.
4. My inhaler was my best friend the last 4 miles.
5. Grateful to Shawn and Catlin who were my water boys, crew and cheering section.
6. Found another ride angel and she brought me back from a quitter to a finisher with a hug, smile and " get on your horse we can finish this"
7. Grateful for a husband and quasi- coach who is learning the sport in order to help me achieve my goals.

I will post pictures and the full story soon.

JP- out

Thank you everyone for your support and well wishes, I had all of you as shoulder angels with me!

Pay it forward

2010-05-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

This Saturday I will be riding in my 2nd endurance ride. This time only 25 miles and not 32!
That last 10 mile loop was like FOREVER.

At my first ride( as in first endurance ride EVER) I had a bit of a sitch -e -a-shun. I was supposed to ride with two gals that my mentor hooked me up with.
Well, that did not work out.. AT ALL....

Star was acting like a ninny, I was having a MAJOR panic attack and , the whole drama of the starting line pissy mare/bucky crow hoppy fit and my bundle of nerves, it was clear we wernt going anywhere fast, anytime soon.

So I started to cry that I was now solo to get through 32 miles of HOLY SH** what did I sign up for! ( half freaking out, half totally pissed) , then the clouds parted and two angels came from nowhere ,that let me ride with them. I brought up the caboose for 32 miles, came in 47th out of 47!

But we made it! After about 5 miles, Stars brain kicked in and she was a total rockstar. She was only a doofus for about 45 minutes, then the rest of the 6 hours, AMAZING.

So with that said, this weekend is another big ride. I was only supposed to volunteer and take Star for some quickie trail rides. She was only coming for the experience not to compete. As it turns out there is another gal who is a first timer like I was and wants someone to ride with. I have the patience of Job and I truly don't care if we come in dead last. I will be making sure we finish, and have a freaking blast doing it.
My two angels from heaven are coming to the ride, so I bought them a Thank you gift, for taking excellent care of Star and I on our first ride.

and the Cherry on top?

My Sweetie is coming along and going to go fishing with his kid whilst Star and I are busy finishing our 2nd ride.

HOW AWESOME IS THAT?
Maybe this time I wont forget the lunch meat and peanut butter and not half starve to death.

Some good, Some bad and some super cute!

2010-05-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was quite the fabulous day!

It didn't start off that way however. I accidentally ran over and drug my friends Barbs saddle,) the brown and white horse in front of me). She hadn't loaded it into the trailer tack room and left it on the tongue of the trailer, I just didn't see it there and I pulled away to get closer to the barn to load the horses and well, lets say.. It's bad.. very bad. The tree isn't broken but her saddle is CRAZY expensive and I am helping to pay for the repairs.

On a better note, our ride was fantastic and we met a fellow blogger and her hubby. The grey horse and bay in front of Barb. They are TRUE Fox Hunters, they are a kick to ride with! Barb and I like to GO FAST!!

We got invited to join them and the Woodbrook Hunt Club for a Hunters Pace next month.

We were on a road we wern't supposed to be on, and the view was amazing of the river.
I love these shots of her and her happy ears. We went bitless and had ZERO drama. She trotted out front and alone for most of the 8 or so miles. I didn't have to do the usual warm up routine, we tacked up, got on and started out. She just gets better and better every time I take her out.

I love this side pull-bitless bridle Shawn bought, it is heavy enough to get the message across and built well to last a long time. Shawn paid alot of money for it, but you get what you pay for.

So, I got home about 3:30 and , had to be at the BG's house by 5:30. Mom and Dad needed a date night. So I brought over all my cake decorating supplies and some cookie dough and she got her first piping lesson ! First we did sugar on the sugar cookies , on the ones I over cooked.

PINK sugar of course!

This child is crazy smart. I showed her once how to do it, and then I showed her ONCE how to roll down the top of the bag to get more frosting. She had it down and was piping away!
( NOTE TO SELF) Next time, I am going to bring pre made cookies or cupcakes. The baking process took too long, and a 4 year old doesn't want to wait to get to the fun frosting part.

She also told me that 2 Diet Dr Peppers was unhealthy and I needed to make better choices.

So, in the span of about two hours, we fed the horse, made and frosted cookies, swung on the swing, and watched a cartoon movie.

To tell you how smart she is, she knows about DVR, and what remote to use.

4 years old people!!!

I couldn't tell you how to do it or what remote to use.

Here are a couple of vids for your viewing enjoyment.

Cutest BG EVAH....

Bestest Rockstar pony in da world......
Proof she trotted out confidently alone on the trail.

No Hell no and Spins here! She was 100% Get-R Done

He made it home!

2010-05-04T13:14:00.000-07:00

After about 24 hours of delays, my sweetie finally made it home this morning about 6:30 am.

I was running late because I didn't get the text message of the exact arrival time. So I was about 30 minutes late to the greeting. Bummer.. HE was excited to see me none the less! I was was SUPER excited to see him!

Going through the massive amounts of crew bags. You would be amazed how much stuff they take on deployments.

Oh, and here is more stuff, he had two packs and 1 bag and 1 Pelican hard case.

Packs like a woman. Just the pack on his back was his blankets and pillows !

He came home , took a shower and passed out.
Poor Guy had a very very long trip home. Almost a full 48 hours of travel, and not first class! Military planes are not meant to be comfy.

I am so glad to have my sweetie home finally. I sure missed him.

Why do I do this to myself

2010-05-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

My Dad reads this so I have to keep it on the DL :)

Shawn will be home Tuesday sometime during the day anywhere between 3 am and ??????????

I have once again enabled my child, this often turns out to be ALOT of work for me and him doing nothing.

I only have 6 weeks left, and the Mommy Help Service will be closed for good.

I am working on a trail riding, gym, hill training schedule for me and Star. As much as I love leisurely trail rides, I really need to make the time to get out and really get her working on long distances and hills.

Resetting goals once again, and trying to find my motivation!

BBFF and Grace came with us today on their first off property trail ride! They did great!

Sarah and her 23 year old Arabian Corey also came along for their first time out too!

Barb and Thai( Dun Paint) and Jenne and Tonka( Bay Pinto). Barb and I are going riding next Saturday with the Oregon Equestrian Trails folks.

So this may be my last post until the middle of next week, I am busy catching up on projects and getting the house in order before my Sweetie gets home :)

How do I love thee? Let me kissy face your nose.

2010-04-30T21:27:00.000-07:00

This was after a great ride of Star being out in front and such a good girl for 8 miles.
Bitless to boot! Yeah, you heard right bitless from Start to Finish.

Man , I sure love my pony.
She is more than I could have asked for.

Where I'm going

2010-04-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

See that ridge. We are going up there. :)
Star and I are going to go on a couple of long rides this weekend.
Then if all goes well Shawn will be home bright and Early Monday morning.
This weekend is also Logen's Senior prom and BBQ at my house.
I never slow down even for a minute!

I am hitting the dusty trail! If I am not back by sundown, don't come looking for me I have taken my pony and run away.

The Kitties are killing me

2010-04-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

7 am : Wake up
7:01 Check for stray cats in my living room
7:02 Make Coffee
7:04 Make toast
7:05 Check facebook, check emails in case Shawn wrote me something, check WORK email.
7:11 Get coffee and turn on news.
7:40 rattle child out of bed.
8:00 get into shower and ready for work
8:25 ready to leave and time for KITTIES to go outside for the day.

Seamus, in Shawn's chair or already wanting outside. If he wont budge I yell OUT SEAMUS, and he runs out the patio door.
Tristan, still in the bed on Shawn's pillow snoozing away. Every morning he acts as if this whole go outside deal is something new. I toss him out he yawns , stretches and then meows at the back door , like Ok I'm good , can I come back in now?

Hello?? Hello??

HELL EFFING O!!! Can you not lip read my mee-ows???
He has even gone all Evil Knievel and tried to scurry in between my feet. A couple door thuds to the noggin and meetings with my foot and he has all about stopped that.

This goes on and on and on.

We have to keep the patio door open at night because too many strays were getting into the garage and spraying everything. You know where they are chilling out now?

In my living room on my white sofas.
I have caught no less than 4 strays in my house over the last few months.

Operation Feline Relocation is about to commence.
This is absolutely ridiculous that there are so many strays in my cul de sac.
UN NEUTERED STRAYS AT THAT!!

Sometimes you are the windshield , sometimes you are the bug.

2010-04-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

Like my Grandpa used to say when a bug hit the windshield.
I bet he doesn't have the guts to do that again!!!!

Shawn has decided to try and extend his stay in Afghanistan. We need the money to fix our truck , Suburban and for him to go to Oklahoma for his family reunion. Only 30 more days? then home for a week and then gone again in Oklahoma. Not sure I'm OK with that, but extra money is always welcome.

Stebrat has outdone hisself once again. His driving privileges have come to a stop until he can buy his own car, buy his own gas and insurance.

My child is becoming a PITA , he doesn't have his head screwed into the fact he needs to buckle down and get himself graduated from High School. I am worn out from trying to keep him in between the ditches.

My horse tried to kill me in the trailer yesterday and today I am so sore I can hardly walk. I am too OLD for this crap! So we will have an intense training session with my friend. She was always such a good loader and NOW in my trailer she has decided that it's a NO GO.

Here's to hoping things will be better about JULY!

How not to tie your horse 101

2010-04-23T17:37:00.001-07:00

So on Saturday after the race, I was fiddling around getting my stuff re organized. Star was on opposite side of the trailer tied because she had managed to dump about 10 buckets of water before I figured out that they needed to be tied up ! DOH!

So, I had tied her up gave her her yummies and about 5 minutes later a gal comes over and says your horse is caught in the rope. OH CRAP!

She was standing patiently and quietly waiting for me to come and free her. No freak outs, not drama just standing there ...........waiting..........
This was a relief because we have practiced this rope tangled/stand quiet technique for a very long time. It actually worked !

It's never too late to learn two things:

1. Don't give your horse enough rope so this happens. Espcially with a horse like Star who stands like a pelican to eat her yummies. The pelican foot was the caught foot.

2. Teach your horse to stand tied, hobbled and or with the rope around it's legs. This was invaluable as it could have been a disaster!

Blocker Tie is being ordered ASAP !

answers to your questions and Grandpa went all ASPCA on me

2010-04-20T21:19:00.001-07:00

I have been asked the same questions on the blog and facebook about Miss Star.
So here are the answers!

1. Star is not gaited, she is a Paint/TB , with seriously crappy feet, which we are hoping to get fixed in short order.

2. Star is most likely homozygous for the Black and White , I have no plans EVER to breed her EVER.She is a conformational train wreck, that DNA will not see the light of day.

3. She was 95% trained by yours truly. I bought her as an unbroken three year old Mothers Day 2004.

4. Her being an endurance horse is sort of serendipity, and I am grateful she will do anything crazy I ask her to do. Whether it be showing, cows, trails, endurance or Dressage, she always gives me 110%.
She is very used to my shenanigans:)

She is my heart horse.

I love that horse more than my husband and kids !
Even my Dad loves her as much as I do. She is the grandhorse :)

Grandpa called everyday while we were in Madras this weekend at the ride. To check on Star, not me, but to make sure she was doing allright.
Dad has always been very supportive of our showing, but this endurance stuff had him worried that I was going to go all Hildalgo and race her across the Sahara.

Dad: Joc, if Star gets tired , you need to stop and call it quits.
Me: Dad, I am not going to push her and make her do more than she can.
Dad: She isn't trained to go that far, you shouldn't even do the 10, its too far for her, she could get hurt.
Me: thanks for your concern, but I promise I will take good care of her.
Dad: Don't push my girl if she is getting sweaty and tired. Do you have First Aid for her?
Me: WTF Dad are you her Agent?
Dad: oh and have a good time : translation Guilt is a powerful means of communication in this family.

Are you getting the theme of this convo?

So imagine how the conversation went when he called and I told him we had completed the 30 miler.
******************crickets*********************************

Oh No U di' int !

2010-04-20T13:13:00.000-07:00

So today I am the grocery store buying my self some lunch, minding my own business.
As I am filling my soup cup, someone yelled in my ear
GO BEAVERS!!!
Like loud " IN YOUR FACE" kind of way.

It was then I remembered that I was wearing my U of O sweatshirt today.

Well as my entire circle of friends and family knows, JP DON'T PLAY THAT. Someone was about to get an earful.

I whipped around almost spilling my soup and was expecting to have a throw down right in the middle of the deli section.

Lucky for me I took a nano second to look over the perp and see what I was up against.

It was an older man with Down's syndrome. Clearly he liked the Huskies as well, he was purple, gold and black from head to toe.

Well now I just cant beat the crap out of...... errrr....... give a good tongue lashing to a disabled guy now can I?

really what would that say about me? That I kick kittens? Oh wait I do that too.

So, a situation that have clearly gone very very bad, was avoided by my highly tuned Spidey Senses.

No soup or sammich was harmed today.... Carry on nothing to see here.

We did it ! and got the t shirt

2010-04-18T15:29:00.000-07:00

32 miles in 6 hours 10 minutes!
This is cresting the first 5 mile hill. She was just amazing and gave me the ride of a lifetime.
However we came in LAST, but the endurance rider motto is
To Finish is to Win. :)

a very very tired pony, but was a total Rockstar. She couldn't have been better.
She is quite the poser when the camera comes out.
I sat with her alot just hanging out together. I rarely get this kind of alone time with her.

Ride camp at sunset. Just beautiful. I am not going again until i Have more comforts of home.
Sleeping in the truck and no shower, no hot coffee, SUCKED SUCKED SUCKED.

The finish line! I have never been so tired and so proud of myself at the same time.

This was the most grueling thing I have ever done. I am so lucky I had horse to take me to the finish! She got all A's on her vet checks and trotted out sound. wooo hoooo

Here is the video of us coming into the finish!

cuz that's how I roll.

2010-04-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

YIPEEE I MADE 50 !
Most excellent ! I'm gushing !
Thank you # 50 !

Check this out! First time attempt last night and this is how close I got to the hitch.
Sha-Zam. I totally rule. This may never happen again, so I had to get it for proof that I did it once. You know like those folks that take pictures of themselves at the Grand Canyon on the edge?
You have to prove you actually did it once in your life or no one will believe you.

Lisa, wanted a view of the tack room. So here it is. The bins have labels, everything I could need or want is in here. Minus the Mike's Hard Lemonade and food.See that handle poking out on the right? That's my fanchy schmancy fold up wheel barrow. I don't want to get poop in it then my tack room will stink! So not sure what I am going to use it for really.

I have 49 followers ! Thank you so much everyone..

However I would just DIE to have 50!

do I hear 50?

going once......

Hugs and Love to all my Blooger Peeps. Big news coming down the pike this weekend!

The Queen speaks her mind day one:

2010-04-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

So there I was in my stall eating my 2nd breakfast, minding my own...
When the barn goes all abuzz with gossip and crazy talk. Thai, my neighhhh bur says to me:

Thai: Star I hear you are going on a long trailer ride and an even longer trail ride with your Momma.

Star: Psssh, that's silly shut up Thai, I only go to shows and get done in time for 2nd lunchies.

Thai: Well according to Grace and her Mamma, it's totally true , you are now an "endurance horse".

Star: Do I looks like an Ay-rhab to you? Only those sillybrained, pointy faced Ay-rhabs do endurance. I am a Paint, Paints do shows n stuff. Besides My Momma would have told me.

Thai: Why do you fink she bought the new trailer?

It was then I knew, my Momma has been keeping a secret. The long trail rides, the new saddle, the whispers of special shoes and now the trailer. It was all making sense now.

I am totally calling Grandpa, he will put a stop to this crazy talk.
He says I am Stall Diva, Stall Divas don't walk for 30 miles and carry her FatA.. large boned Momma. OMG OMG OMG... I feel colicky, gassy, **urp*** yes, it's definitely colic, and maybe some lameness, yes my foot hurts now too.
I am going to go lie down.

Tulip Festival

2010-04-11T17:19:00.001-07:00

Karen and I went to the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival today and then onto antique stores in nearby Aurora, OR.
Here is some pretty for your day.

KFS holding a Cockatoo.

Just some pretty pics to hold us over until Summer

Our first Mommy and Me outing.

2010-04-10T19:47:00.000-07:00

I decided last minute since the sun was out that I needed to get Star out on the trails.
So I know there is always bunches of folks at McGyver Park, so off we went.
This is what Pony Jail looks like :)

We waited until she finished lunch.FYI "goat collars" $4.99 at Coastal make excellent bucket and bag hangers.

We ran into a fellow blogger! Kasey from All Horse Stuff ! Here she is with her Wa-Mare!

She was riding with a couple of gals I got talking to, and one asked what Stars name was and then what my name was and the Kasey yells OMG JOCELYN! I AM KASEY!

I said SHUT UP NO WAY! It was so great to meet her!

How awesome is that, this is the 2nd blogger I have met just by pure chance.

This is Star after fighting with me for 5 miles. She was F.O.U.L foul. The wind was howling and she hadn't been ridden all week, so she was not a happy camper. Only 2 Hell NO and spins because I wanted to go back to the truck and she wanted to go with her friends. They were nice and rode back with me , and then they went back on the trail for another loop.

But I have to say she went OVER the Vewy skeery wooden bridge, through water, AND culverts with rushing waterfalls on each side. VICTORY DANCE!

So what does a Mamma do when her girl is being naughty?

Stand tied, Stand stand stand... La de Dah ...

I took a little ciggy break, talked to some other folks, took some pictures. We go when I say we go.

ohh MAD MARE alert. This is her I want to go home right now stance.

Temper Temper......

So all in all it was a success, I handled the trailer and her all by myself and only had a minor technical difficulty, which I will get fixed Monday.

I love Mommy and ME time! I can't believe I waited so long to get the trailer :)

I luuuuurve it!

Stress is my middle name.

2010-04-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

Do you ever stop and think about all that one has to deal with in a given day?

I do. All the time.
I have a SUPER stressful job, not " busy" but stressful. I deal with peoples credit, finances, government rules, audits, red tape. Blah blah blah. Oh and let's throw in the whiny, needy, narcissistic bossman. Any who.

So here is a sample of what on my plate:

1. Husband in Afghanistan.
2. Child trying to graduate, but one false move and all he has worked for a year will be for nothing.Then he is off to Marine Boot Camp. I will have 2 kids in the military. If he doesn't graduate, the Marines will not take him. I really need them to TAKE HIM.
3. I have my first endurance ride coming up and feel so unprepared it's not funny. I have lists and lists and lists of my lists, and haven't started.THIS IS NOT LIKE ME, I HAVE PREP OCD.
Not sure what is going on with me about that.
4. I job that hate more and more everyday, but the hours allow me to take time off and we are slow enough that Bossman can survive while I am gone. The previous 10 years in the mortgage business this was NOT the case. So that is a blessing.
5. There are two surgeries I NEED to have, but I do not have the available time off from riding and working to get it done. Maybe November?
6.Pending military move, Shawn has put in for Alaska, Texas and Illinois. Paige would appreciate Illinois as then we could play together :) Texas however is FIRST on JP's list. I don't care where really, but ALASKA would NOT be my first choice, but SP promised Alaska would be a short stint ONLY , keep our house here and then move back in 4 years.
7. Still angry with the child that if he hadnt been such a screw up that I would have been able to do a massive career change, but that is now not an option and I have missed my window. I am still reeling from that disappointment, can't even talk about it.

a short list I know but man they are weighing in heavy these days.

I need to do these rides just to survive the next 8 months until Boot Camp.

Sad news to report

2010-04-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

BOB= Big Orange Box. BOB had to go live in the back of our pickup tonight. BOB was taking up too much room in the ranch's tack room and since I bought the trailer.. Poor BOB needed a new job.
I have had this box for years, it was a gift from Shawn and it is heavy and Shawn has lugged it from place to place for me and Star.

So instead of brushes, first aid, shampoo, treats, liniment,BOB will now have oil, tarps, straps and all things BOY in its compartments...
I hope BOB will be happy.....

Good Bye my friend Good Bye

Oh the controversy of the bit.....

2010-04-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

This is Star in her fancy schmancy side pull/bitless bridle that Shawn bought her last Fall.
Thank goodness he is a staunch supporter of bitless horses too.
He is going to make her some real sheepskin nose band and poll covers when he gets home.
Nothing too good right? right....
Anywho. I know there is a TON of discussion on both sides of the bit vs. no bit debate.
I want to be 100% bitless on endurance rides by season end.
I will be doing dressage and the rules are you have to have a bit..period. So she will NOT be 100% bitless horse. more like 60% endurance 40% Dressage.

What are your views? Experiences? Good or Bad.
Our bitless experiences have been nothing but positive ones. I have YET to have Star go sideways, freak out, go bats*** wild without a bit in her soft sensitive mouth. She is actually calmer and quieter. Her brakes are not as good as I would like but that will come with time.

See those happy ears, yeah she gots 'm.

Warning Man in Uniform ahead

2010-04-03T08:08:00.000-07:00

Blogger Peeps I know how all of you love yourself a man in uniform. This one is mine :)
Yes, that is Ollie North, he is embedded over there and I have already seen a couple of the videos he has done on the rescue squadrons. Shawn said he had just done filming their squadron today.
Sooo handsome.... ******swoon*****

I sure do miss him.

See Dad? He is all in one piece and looks fine. You can stop worrying.

The Universe called and the Queen isn't happy.

2010-04-02T14:20:00.000-07:00

Clearly Star is none so pleased that blog has been chock full of Mamma's other " 4 leggers" and not her. Since this is HER BLOG and all.
I got a random text this morning.
Ponys rulz, dogs r dum, cats dummer ,need Doritos asap.
such a .......... mystery............... who could have sent that text?

A Happy Dog is a Sleepy Dog

2010-04-01T18:40:00.001-07:00

A fabulous gourmet meal served on a plate on the kitchen floor.
CHECK

A even more fabulous nap with a full belly and dreaming of chasing Wascaly Wabbits.
Check Check.

It's tough being Shannie.

Officer Blonde calling Officer Blonde!

2010-04-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

This is Officer Blonde 2nd rank of Head of Ranch Security.
Also known as Shannon, Shannie, Dumba$$ GET OUT OF MY FLOWERS, you get the idea.
Today April Fools is her 9th Woofday.
See those shiny circles in her eyes? Those are portals to a vast empty space.
She was the cutest puppy EVER, and was very very sick as a baby and I nursed her through it, once again while Shawn was overseas. She likes to sit in my lap in the front seat when we go places. If you say " Wanna go to Gramma's?" she will sit by the leash closet and just WAIT.. for ever... just waiting... waiting...........

She knows when we are close to Gramma's,she'll start whining, she runs down the steps, through the front door straight out to the cement patio and that's where she stays sunning herself in the warm sunshine.
I love my girl and here's to many more Woofdays together.
Tonight she gets Cheeseburger Macaroni. The one time a year she gets people food.

House Invasion part 2, the night prowler

2010-03-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

We have two cats, Seamus the King of Everything and the BEST mouser I have ever seen.

Then we have Tristan, the best ................. uh....................
Mediocre Mouser and most excellent cuddler whether you like it or not.

I DON'T HAVE A KITTY RESEMBLING THIS. UNTIL ...........
last night about midnight I woke up to one on MY BED purring like a Volkswagen.
I had to leave the patio door open a tad so the other two could come and go, since they are no longer allowed in the garage.
So, after I kicked it off my bed HARD AND SWIFT LIKE, I went into the kitchen and realized it was a kitten, not a full grown cat. Still purring and looking oh so cute I said,
LISTEN BUDDY HERE'S THE DEAL.... I don't need or want another cat, but I'm tired and am going back to bed, there's the door ....

I AM NOT A CAT LADY! AM NOT AM NOT AM NOT.....

we've been invaded...

2010-03-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

It seems as if Jerry and his disease ridden buddies have invaded my house.
They are coming out during the day which is not normal, they normally only scurry at night. Then about 1 am Seamus the Grey Hunter snags one, screams bloody hell until someone wakes up and says good job and tosses him and his snack outside. If you don't acknowledge him he will leave it headless on the kitchen floor right in front of the coffee maker.

This morning, one came and sat on the modem while I was on the computer. Brazen little S.O.B.
Tristan prefers to play with his for hours and then eat it on my Turkish Rug. Also, not cool.
Blech... As I type Seamus is right next to me with a bead on Jerry the Computer Mouse.
I just want to hurl. I can't do traps, it literally makes me vomit, the sticky traps are a no go as Seamus had a super funny incident with one, mouse in mouth, paws and face on sticky trap, wont let go of mouse, Shawn trying to convince him that he can have mouse back after he peels off the sticky trap, Shawn having to hand sticky mouse back to cat as promised.....
I almost wet myself it was that funny.
So far the Tally is

Seamus 6 Tristan 2 MAMMA 0

Where's the Schwan man when I need him?

Hellooooooooooo Lover

2010-03-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Shawn who? Afghanistan Where?
This my Mare Frens is better than a man.... BUT NOT better than Schwans Chocolate Brownie Frozen Yogurt during a PMS frenzy. Jus' sayin.Um Kay?
It has New trailer smell! Can you stand it? Quite the aphrodisiac if you ask me.

Of course the transaction didn't go off with out a hitch.. LITERALLY, my Plug for the lights has a bad wire and I had to drive 95 miles with no right brake or signal lights.

Lucky for me this will all be resolved Monday.

Until then Hugh Jackman can stay in my bed for a few more days, then he has to learn to hook up the trailer.

Why I dont get much sleep at night

2010-03-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

Mamma? Mamma? I sleeps right here cuz you looks lonely.
Why do you have such dark circles? I think you needs to cuddle, make it all better.
Can I have Daddy's pillow? He no here anyway.

ahhhhhhhhh Daddy's pillow is the best pillow.

This is our nightly routine. He is still in bed just like this when I leave to go to work in the morning.
It's tough being Tristan.

I cowgirl'd up and bit the bullet

2010-03-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

http://www.thurobilt.com/documents/ShiloEx.pdf

This will be my new pony limo!

If all falls into place and the planets align and by the Grace of Jesus...

Saturday I will be new proud owner.

haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaapy daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaance

the wind of change is a comin

2010-03-23T11:12:00.000-07:00

I got the call on Saturday that my ride to my first Endurance race had to cancel. this was already after a significant amount of money I have already spent getting prepared.

I had already offered to pay for the gas, but she said there just wasn't any budge in her budget.

DEVASTATED is an understatement. The ride is in three weeks mind you and I JUST found out I am not going.

So what does a cowgirl do? they cowboy up and figure out plan b.

I was just going to rent a trailer but the rental place guy was a first class ***hole. I would have had to have the trailer for three nights because since they are closed on Sundays I'd have to keep it until Monday and couldn't pick it up until Friday Night and Not Friday Morning.Well since I have to check in Friday Afternoon three hours away that's a impossible feat.

ugh...

So I applied for a loan to buy a new one. 2010. they called me this morning to answer a few questions and I am crossing my fingers.

If it doesn't work out , it doesn't work out. But at least I am trying ....

nothing exciting to report except...........

2010-03-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

that my sweetie sent me flowers via Afghanistan Internet because I was/is/are/having a hard time lately.

So Friday night went to dinner with a friend. I had to go all the way to " the couv" aka Vancouver. We were going to catch a movie but got too busy yapping at dinner and missed it.
See that sunshine ? This was 6:30 pm and still lovely outside.

Plan B.. Drinks and Karaoke !We were at a place called the Cathedral.I was going to sing, but since I don't drink and drive and don't SING without drinking. This was a no go.

We couldn't decide what flavor of drinkies to have. I was supposed to get a Hawaiian Margie, but got Melon instead. YUCK, I drank it but YUCK.

We had such a good time laughing and talking about life, the night went by so fast I got home WAY late.

This morning I had to be up by 5 am, to go to the Canby Tack Sale. The only thing I bought was a new bit. I wanted a bareback pad, but not wanted I wanted exactly...

I only spent 10 bucks ! Yee Haw! That's a record I think.

I cam home took a nap and fought with the GD Lawnmower for two hours and gave up.

If you are willing to bring your lawnmower over and mow my grass I PAY CASH MONEY AND ADULT TYPE BEVERAGES. CALL ME!

Showmanship

2010-03-17T15:09:00.000-07:00

A big thanks to BBFF's hubby for taking these pics.

Entering the ring, ears forward, so far so good.

Game face on and Sis is worried about the squirrelly Arab we have to stand next to.She wasnt a fan of the Grey freak-a zoid.
Our first Showmanship class she was next to a pony Star Look alike that she thought was a demon

Star facing judge, all is good so far, ears forward ready to do this thing.

Haunch turn perfection. Ears still forward, such a good girl who is listening to her Mamma.

Back to the line up, I didn't realize I had blown it until AFTER the class. I thought she didn't place me because we are friends. OOPS! Boy did I ASSUME on that one.

She how far away we are from the Arab? Sis wouldnt get ANY closer. She has a very small personal space bubble.

This was our last attempt at showmanship for a long time, unless a 4H'r wants to borrow her for showmanship. That would be cool ! She rocks it.
Can you believe how actually clean she is? Trust me it only lasted a day.

Proof that she cleans up well.

2010-03-15T16:16:00.000-07:00

She fell asleep in the line up, foot cocked and eyes closed.
What a good girl.

Teacher Deb, thinking about how much she is going to yell at me for messing up.

But atleast she cleaned up well and was super pretty!

Show day

2010-03-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

I don't have any pics because I forgot my camera. My photographer is in Afghanistan anyway !

But here is how it rolled.

Please note: I don't have a trainer, I take a lesson every 6 months, I have done 99% of Stars training myself. I call her my homegrown mare, I bought her as an unbroke 3 year old and this is how we are ending our time doing shows for a long long time.

This was an Arabian Show , judged by a Top Arabian Trainer and Breeder.
The fact that he placed a stock horse in a sea of Ay-rhabs is nothing to sneeze at.Politics ya know can rum rampant at events like this.

5th place in Novice English. 5th out of over 15 riders and I have only ridden Star English MAYBE three times ever.
We were running late due to the tack room door lock not opening and had to wait for bolt cutters,
Behind approx: 45 minutes. So no warm up, just straight into the ring. This is a horse that is cold backed and pissy with no warm up, however she knew it was showtime and was ready to roll. This horse LOVES to show. She trotted right in and was such a good girl. I am so proud of her.

3rd Place out of WAY TOO MANY for one class in Novice open 19 and over. I was actually shocked that I placed because this was a huge class and Sis was acting naughty in the two classes previous.
Naughty you say? Only because we were in a sea of horses, no room, constantly being bumped, crowded and behind some dumb show bitch and her naughty training horse so we had to slow down, move and totally break our mojo.

Showmanship, I BLEW IT once again at the final step in the inspection. My Teacher Deb was the judge, and don't think she didn't give me the what for afterwards.
Pattern Perfect, Horse perfect, Owner DUMBA$$. I missed one final move out of the judges way and that was that. I Would have placed high in this class if I hadn't done that. Oh well.

BBFF and Grace did well, she had another rider ride her in English and came home with a 4th and 5th. Graces breeder was the judge... hmmm... :) Kidding, actually Gracie shines in English and Kim was an excellent rider.
As soon as I get pics I will post them !

Lonely is setting in

2010-03-10T13:59:00.000-08:00

Shawn has only been gone 11 days and normally I don't get lonely this soon.

For some reason this time, it's terrible.

Thank goodness I have lots of friends and a pretty mare to keep me occupied.

Guess what I got to do today!

2010-03-07T19:55:00.001-08:00

I took my delicious new merino wool sheepskin seat cover for it's first big test drive.
This will make your bee hind purr like a kitten.

But it wasn't on Star it was on a friends solid 100 miler Arabian named Nero.
I didn't get the Licorice memo and he was checking to make sure I wasn't hiding any.

We went to Beacon Rock state park on the Washington side.

That my friends is the mighty Columbia River. Way.. Way down there. Way down.....

This is the peak about 2400 foot level. Oxygen anyone? lol
This was a HUGE climb and my Nero pony was eating trail the whole time.

He has a pimp strut like my Blu had. Hang on and keep it in the middle.:)

That is Patti on the Appy and Max on Junior an endurance Mule. Max is a crack up and so nice.

Sorry for the sideways picture, I am too lazy tonight to fix it.
Yes, you see here JP was on an actual SUMMIT. That just doesn't happen everyday ya know!

OK, down below there is the Bonneville Dam.
Terry, Darlene's hubby says Hey Girlfriend get closer to the edge and get a picture of Bonneville. Nope, I'm good from here thanks. Can you see how close I already was?

You have to snap quick when astride Nero, he waits for no Kodak Moments, they are a complete waste of time to him. Nero is such a good boy, low drama and if you ride a horse like Star, low drama is fabulous.

Poor Junior, he was already looking pooped and this wasn't even the halfway point!

If you are going two miles straight up, guess how you get down?

Yep, you get off and walk ,your trusty grey steed drags your lazy ass down and turns his head often as if to say, B**** you are slow and if you don't move faster I'm going without you.

That is Darlene and her husband Terry.
I am eternally grateful for her letting me go with them today, Man it sure gave me a good taste of what I need to train for and what to expect.

I will never do 100 miles in this lifetime. I was exhausted today after 14!

Here is a quick video of Nero the trail eating machine.

Chit Chat and banter with the other riders is not on Nero's agenda so I spent alot of time talking to myself and to him. I am positive he called me bad names, when I put the KI BOSh on his trotty/canter-ish/jig/we must be in front/walking is for SUCKA'S transitions whilst going uphill.

I have good Kharma part 2.

2010-03-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

I have put on the afterburners for the next 7 weeks. Which means 4 rides a week and 5 gym sessions a week. Ive done three so far and 2 rides , since I decided to start on Tuesday.

WHY YOU ASK? Well, foremost I would like my bee-hind and thighs to be two separate entities and not bound together at the top as one giant A$$
and then... and then... .and then.....

Well.... I am going to do my first LD endurance ride April 17th.

It's long story about me and endurance riding, it's been a dream of mine forEVER.I almost gave up my dream , sold all my gear and settled into a mediocre life of arena circles.
I called my mentor and she hooked me up with another newbie and POOF, I have a ride, a bed and new friend. I was in tears when she said she wanted me to come with her and have a new partner in crime. GO Me!

SHA_ FREAKING_ZAM.

Today was 1 hour Zumba and 1 hour Yoga then 2 hours riding with BBFF and some arena schooling.

What am I doing tomorrow?
OMG THAT is a HUGE surprise.
I can almost not hold it in, but you will have to wait for pictures!

Get out and ride !

Wow , someone reads my blog !

2010-03-04T13:48:00.000-08:00

Jenny over at The Joy of Horses, gave me an award. It's been a long time since I've had one!

So the deal is I have to confess..er.. share... divulge 7 things about myself.

Ok, here goes. Hang onto your hats it's going to be a mild ride.

1. I was born a cowgirl, got my first horse at 12 years old. I believe you are born with the pony gene, like it or not!

2. I love love love Park Horses. Saddlebred, NSH's , Morgans, Arabians etc.

I will swoon and come to tears when I see a high stepping horse enter the arena.

3. I am afraid of cows. I prefer them on my plate not alive and staring at me. Cows have this impeccable ability to stare into your soul and feed your irrational bovine fear.

Wow, I am really not cool. Anywho let's move on.

4. I am built FORD TOUGH. I have muscles and strength of a man. I am also not afraid to get in a fist fight or throw down. I know how to hit and I hit HARD. At our old barn , I was always the one called on to carry everything heavy.

5. I have a photographic memory, which although could serve a grander purpose if I used it for the betterment of mankind. However, it's main function in my life is to find my purse, keys,barn boots and to remember useless trivia. i.e Don't tell me a big OL LIE and expect me to forget. lol

6. My favorite food is ...drumroll........ Ham Gravy and Fried Potatoes, side of Corn on the Cob.
I could die and be happy as that as my last meal. 2nd choice would be Chips and Salsa of any sort.

7. My horse saved my marriage. She was the escape, sanity and self preservation I was desperately seeking. She saved me from bouts of deep depression and the desire to run away and join the Peace Corp. She is my rock and happy place. The JP1 of right now would not exist without having her in my life.

Boring right?

I know I know...

I am working on it however! JP is gettin her Groove Back!

things are a-brewin....

2010-03-03T13:45:00.000-08:00

Blogger Peeps,

Things are brewing at JP1 Central. BIG THINGS. HUGE THINGS. GREAT THINGS!

I am so blessed by God and feel so unworthy at times.

I finally had a heart to heart talk with myself and gave up a dream of mine and forced my self to move on from it. What comes with that is the ability to make other goals/dreams come true.

Who'd a thunk that perfection isn't a requirement to get into God's Grace.

I decided to take an emotional inventory of what is important to me and let the rest of it all go.
It was quite cathartic.

I will be here only sporadically from today until April 18th. :) I will be either in the gym or riding Star for the next 7 weeks.. tick tick tick....

How we do it at Aunt JP's house.

2010-02-28T16:11:00.000-08:00

WARNING: This contains gratuitous sweet girl and a pony shots.

So, we got to babysit J and B Saturday night.
Let's review the evening shall we?

1. Paint Rainbow nails. Duh...
Just so you know God, it is totally not fair I wasn't blessed with girls.

2. Get Uncle Shawn and Aunt JP to bring you to the ranch to see the pony.
Star loves little kids, but sometimes little kids are intimidated by the big ol head of hers, so Daddi-o kept her in check while we groomed.

3. Riding lesson ( sort of) I was impressed by B's confidence and listening skills. She kicked, clucked, steered and knows how to say WHOA.

Star obeyed like a good girl and was listening to B and not to me.

Good Pony.

After almost an HOUR! I was exhausted, we called it quits.

Shawn put the helmet on Star and man did she glare at him, then we took it off and she was still glaring! Ear back, down her nose straight at Shawn! lol

4. Pizza! Yummy Yummy Pizza. Thank goodness they like the same that we like. They are so not picky, I love that. They are awesome eaters, no drama just inhaling and they even take their plates to the sink!

Then the rest of the night was Video games in the front room with Cousin Catlin.
We had to move them because we wanted the Big TV for the Olympics!

Boy was B pooped about 30 minutes after this, she came to the family room couch laid down and passed right out.

So that's how it rolls at our house. We are most excellent babysitters.

J stayed home from horseback riding to play video games with the big boys. He was in the same chair, same spot when we got home as we left him :)

Here is video of B and Star .. BEYOND CUTE it spews sugar and unicorns.

it was an emergency....

2010-02-26T18:35:00.001-08:00

Once upon a time in a land far far away, right next to Portland.
There was an emergency of epic proportions.
Bloating, crabbiness and general if it has a wanker I hate it, tidal wave was about to make landfall.
So what was a girl to do?

She gets on the bat phone with a direct line to her Girl Scout Cookie Mom.

It went something like this:

JP1: P? It's J, I need whatever cookies you have left, STAT. It's dire situation over here.
P: I can deliver them in about an hour.
JP1: P you are a godsend , I love you. Only give them to SP, not the children this is VITAL.
P: I love you too..

click...

JP1: Shawn its J, I need you to have 8 bucks for P in an hour.
SP1: Why? wait........ P is bringing more cookies?
JP1: Shut up and don't ask questions, give her the money take said cookies, just like a street meth deal. Easy Peasy.
SP1: What kind are they?
JP1: ***** crickets****** Touch one box and you will never see me naked ever again.
SP1: Oh shit what day is this?

click....

Then last night like magic, two boxes of these little lovelies appeared on my nightstand.
Every Woman needs a Girl Scout Mom, they are very handy in an emergency.
I think P earned her Red Cross Badge !

FYI: Shawn wont ever see me naked again, he ate half a box before I got home.

Good Kharma I have it. Part 1

2010-02-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

I am a courteous driver 95% of the time, I have my days like anyone else.
Yesterday on the freeway there was this primered Whiskey Tango, POS circa 1984 Camaro, who for no other reason than nastiness, boxed me in , sped up when I wanted to move over and then slowed way down, typical jerk off maneuvers.
I was so mad yet I refrained from road rage. When I looked over and saw this woman I thanked Jesus himself that it wasn't me . Talk about rode hard an put away wet.
Girlfriend was a step away from the Faces OF Meth billboards.

So on my way to work this morning guess who I see in all of her plaid shirt, ciggy smokin, bottle blonde glory?

Yes the Camaro B****, on the side of the freeway broken down.

God Bless America and their crappy 1980's cars.

to Beagle or not to Beagle

2010-02-23T16:46:00.000-08:00

I have been asked if I would take Sparky AKA I love me some JP1 dog home to stay.
I have ALWAYS wanted to train a specific therapy dog for Children s hospitals and Hospice.
Get certified to bring them to visit the terminally ill.
Could this dog not bring a smile to an ill child's face?
We shall see. SP likes Beagles alot as his Mom raised them, but we already have two, so we shall see...
Voted: Cutest face EVER...