Ky and Austin

Thanks for posting this picture Paula. So adorable.

SWF Kauayos Way "Ky"

Some random pics of Ky from the last year.

July or August 2011

May 2011

Jan? 2011

August 2011

August 2011

November 2011

June 2011

Horsicles

Holy Frio! (that's cold, gringos :) )

A delicious breakfast topped with peppermint sticks for all! A very Merry Christmas, equine style :)

Merry Christmas everyone!!!!

Christmas eve snooze

I turned Kassa out with the girls in the jump field today to escape their muddy paddocks. They got along great, he seemed to leave them well enough alone. Seal and Tifi seem to have bonded now. They were sleeping together today. I snapped these shots of them while they snoozed.

A Nice Thursday

Yesterday the arena was churned up and muddy from Wednesday afternoon's rain, so we took the opportunity to head out into the jump field for lessons. It was a really nice day! The high was somewhere around 61 degrees. Here's a video of one lesson:

Before lunch, Dad and I managed to squeeze in a nice trail ride with Tiny and Seal. With Seal's help, Dad and Tiny were able to cross the creek at the back of the fields. It was a huge success for Tiny; he's a big baby. :)

Happy Trails

Today Dad, my niece Alexis, Melinda and I went for a trail ride out to the big fields behind the woods. It was Alexis' first time on a horse for 5 years! She and Bella did great!

Dad stayed on this time :) Tiny and he are really showing off their skills! It was Seal's first time on a trail since she's been here, and she and I were the only ones who crossed the creek at the back of the big field! So go Seal.

Here's some pics:

Navy Seal

December 19th, 2011 brought our newest addition to Shenango Way Farm. This is Navy Seal, a 17 year old Warmblood mare. She has a sweet personality and loves to jump!

Progress

Today I ditched my crutches. It's amazing how much you appreciate having two legs when you have to get around on one for a while. Hope I'll be back in the saddle this week. And to all my students coming out on Monday, I have a little surprise for you ;)

So you want to buy a horse...? Part II

As you may have read in Part I of my equine rantings, owning horses (or even just one horse) is fraught with responsibility and expense. So what is it that makes owning a horse so irresistable?

I have tons of time to think about these life mysteries as I sit for the 11th day, keeping the couch warm, so I'll share some of my thoughts with you. I have compiled what I believe to be the top 3 reasons I cannot get enough horse. For some of you, these may not apply. But these are my reasons.

1. Epicness. No one can deny that horses are grand! They are the most powerful, yet graceful and majestic creatures God ever thought of. If your like me and you like those dramatic, adventurous tales with heroes and villians, of good vs. evil or some kind of battle for freedom or justice, you know they almost alway have horses in them! You know, the bad guy rides a slick black horse with red eyes that is beautiful but terrible; and the good guy rides the white horse, who is equally strong and beautiful, but with a goodness in his eyes that is heroic. You know what I mean! Horses are - for no other term - EPIC!

2. Companionship. The bond you build with a horse when you work with it on a daily basis is amazing. Horses do not naturally bond with humans like dogs and cats do. Their herd instincts are incredibly strong, combined with the fact they have a strong innate need to protect themselves. It takes time to build trust and create that bond with your horse to where they will perform those tasks for you that seem unnatural to them. When you feel that bond of trust, it's just COOL!

3. Accomplishment. No one who has ridden a horse more than few times can deny that getting a horse to understand what you want them to do and respect your commands is not an easy task! There are many details you must remember and you have to ask clearly, precisely and consistently. It takes work to get good at it. As you learn, you will find that not only are you getting better at riding, but you understand more about your horse and how to handle it.

Well, maybe these aren't THE ONLY reasons I love horses, but these are what came to my mind. You may have more... feel free to comment on your own reasons!

So you want to buy a horse...? Part 1

This post is deticated to all the people out there who love horses, and so far haven't made that leap into owning one of their own. Just read and consider this.

I have grown up with horses around or in my backyard most of my life. I consider myself MEGA-super blessed to be one of the few kids who's dreams of horses become reality before the age of 30. Not everything was flowers and sunshine in my life with my first horse;  however, and I will have to admit here that there were many cold nights where I opened and closed the backdoor loudly and hid in the pump room to make my parents think I had gone out to do my chores.

The fact is that most who love, handle, and even ride these amazing animals dont really know what owning one entails. I was one of the kids who knew, and I was overwhelmed with the responsibility. In fact, if your one of those parents who has a kid who is SO completely in love with horses and begs you for a pony ever day, I suggest you send your child to work on a farm for their lessons. It just may cure them! (But then again, it may backfire and make them even more determined to have one.)

Having the opportunity to work with horses and ride everyday, I can say that this is the most rewarding life I could imagine for myself. I want everyone to have the same joy and satisfaction that I get from FINALLY hitting that right lead, or jumping higher than I have before, or seeing a horse be rehabilitated beyond my expectations, or the daily smell of dirt, leather and horse. But the truth is that it comes at a very high cost. And that cost isn't for everyone.

Now, in case I broke anyone poor child's heart just now, fear not! All I mean to say is that if you are serious about owning your own horse, you better be ready to get down and dirty. Your very own horse will come with a hungry belly and lots of waste for you to clean up. He needs exercise everyday, training sessions to stay on top of his game, oh! and dont forget, you'll need to take lessons to make sure you and your horse are understanding each other, and practice what you've learned on your own time. On top of all that, you'll need to take time to do some fun things with your horse like trail rides, outings and maybe some shows.

Still in for the long haul? Ok, be prepared for lots of expenses, like tack, tools, trimmings, feed and hay, vet care, shots, deworming, and emergencies. (Yes, emergencies. Plan for them!)

If you've taken all this in stride, then you might be ready to buy your first horse! Like I said, alot of responsibility! But on the upside - if your not passed out on the floor yet - there are alot of good things to horse ownership. I won't get into them today. You'll want to read Part II for more :)

Buttons Needle Grass AKA "Snickers"

Here is Snickers' (or buttons') story:

One fine saturday my dad commented to me: "Did you see there are some kittens in the garage?"
I had indeed seen these kittens running around at varying times during my daily chores, three to be exact. A solid black, a black and white, and a mottled brown one. A couple times they would sit in our driveway and scatter when we drove up, or opened our door in the morning. Great, the last thing we need is a litter of wild kittens hanging around eating up the food and making more kittens...

About a week later, after trying with no luck to catch or pet the kittens, Pablo called me out of the house. "One of those kittens is out here, and I think it's sick." He said. He was right. The little black one was huddled up against the trash cans, staring at the ground. As I cautiously crept closer, the poor little thing turned its yellow eyes at me and managed a nasty hiss. It had no strength to resist me though, so I just wrapped my hand around him and picked him up.

The first thing I felt was bones. He was very thin, and obviously sick as he wasn't fighting me at all. We put him in a little box and called the SPCA. I wont even get into the run-around we got from them, but I'll sum it up by saying that while they thought about what they would do... the poor little thing died. Some time later, they arrived to trap the remaining kittens. Having successfully caught them, however, they released them on the spot because they weren't sick. *Just a little sarcastic side note: apparently, the SPCA would prefer us to turn our unwanted and feral cats loose rather than turn them in to the shelter... thats based on my experiences (more than one occasion!) Ok, enough about my frustrations. Back to the story* So there we were, left with one dead kitten, and two live ones living in our garage. I figured the only way to solve this problem was to tame them, and find homes for them.

Snickers was pretty easy. She was so drawn to the food that I lured her with that she would come right up to me to eat. It only took about a week to go from completely wild, to letting me touch her and pet her. She has been a doll ever since! The black and white kitten never came around much, even for food. He is very skittish. We see him every once in a while, but he mostly stays away.

Snickers is awesome now... today I was doing home work and she curled up on my chest and went to sleep. She loves to play with leaves and bugs, and she always wants someone to pet her, scratch her and pick her up. She's become like our little mascot, following us around and watching us ride.

So, to make my long story shorter, please spread the word about this sweet, loving kitten! I have my own adult cats (who dont appreciate the addition of a kitten) and need to find Snickers a loving home. She would be appropriate for just about any situation, indoor/outdoor etc. She is litter trained and loves other cats and dogs. She doesn't even mind the horses! In fact, she rubs on their legs and runs under them while they are walking. Give this kitty a home for Christmas!

End of Summer

Looking back on this summer, it sure was a great one! First of all, summer camps! I had so much fun with camps this summer! We had some new kids, and got to know each other really well over those couple weeks. I still have a big yellow door in my garage that the campers painted and signed, that I promised to make into a jump and put it out in the field. Oh, well, maybe next summer :)

Then there was the State fair, which was practically my first horse show ever! Tifi and I had a blast (well, at least I did) and we even won a couple ribbons :) Kaylee and Melinda also got to participate for their first time too!

I sure learned alot from that experience. I later had a chance to test my skills a Kershaw Acres schooling show in Milton. Tifi and I did a couple flat classes (which we bombed by the way) and then a few hunter courses (which went much better). We finished the day jumping a clean 3ft. in Chase me Charlie.



Our last big fling for the summer was the student show. The students competed against each other in equitation, jumping and dressage classes. I was so proud of their performance! It was so cool to see how each student has grown and learned so much over the summer. Congratulations to everyone!

So you can see, it was an awesome summer full of horsey fun, friends and trying new things, for teacher and students. I want to thank everyone who helped make it all possible, and thank God for allowing me to do what I love to do!



Jumping Tiny

Here's some pics of my escapades this morning on my Percheron, Tiny. He put two cracks in my panel jump and stepped on the coup! At least the barrels went smoothly. He actually put some effort into getting his legs up over them. I guess they looked a little scarier :)

Right before crack #1

...and right before crack #2. You can see his left leg about to take down that rail!

And now he's just sleeping. Lazy :)

First attempt...

Nice! 

Ok...I dont even know what he is doing here! Funny looking though!

A bit of a mess, but I was proud of him for trying. He's not used to doing anything with those 2,000lbs of his! Go Tiny! Fun day ;)

Camps Update

Much thanks to everyone who helped out at Pablo and I's Wedding! It was so beautiful! Now that life is settling down to normal, I am turning my attention to preparing for camps this summer. I am really excited about all the events we have going on this summer!

Our first kids camp is filling up fast - I only have a couple spots left! If your still thinking about registering, call me or text me soon to save your spot! I also have space for the June 20th-24th camp as well. Please fill out a registration form (which you can pick up from me or email me for it at therealbrooke@gmail.com) and turn in your $25 deposit as soon as possible. This will guarantee your spot in the camp. The balance for the camp must be paid by the first day of camp. Make sure you specify your child's T-shirt size on your registration form!

Dont forget too, that all camp participants will be invited to participate in our free Student Show at the end of the summer to show off their riding skills and compete with one another. Dont forget to put it on your calendar, it will be fun for the whole family!

God bless!
Brooke

Summer Camps!

We've got an exciting summer ahead of us with lots of activities for you and your kids here at Shenango Way Farm! Summer camps will start in June and will be packed with fun and exciting activities for a full week! Your kids will have a great time riding, grooming and caring for our horses here as well as having fun with friends, swimming, camping out and learning new skills.

Camps will be $125 for a full week (Monday - Friday) and will include one overnight camp out (kids fun camps only). Camp begins at 8:00am each morning and students should be picked up at 2:00pm each day. Dinner will be provided on camp out night.

Please bring each day:
Lunch (refrigerator and microwave available)
Bottle of water
Swimsuit and Towel
Riding Clothes: Boots are shoes with a small heel that cover the ankle, long pants and helmet (bike helmet acceptable)

Please bring for camp out:
Pajamas
Sleeping bag
Pillow
Jacket or sweatshirt

For more information about available camps, click on 2011 Summer Camps & Activities tab above. Please contact Brooke if you have any questions or to sign up for summer camps. 302.745.0464 or therealbrooke@gmail.com

Thoughts for Success in Animal Training

Today I was watching the Dog Whisperer, which is my main source of insight into the world of animal psychology. Cesar Millan's principles about dog psychology are very similar to that of horses because both are group animals. They crave social interaction and develop a hierachy within thier own kind. When the animal (whether canine or equine) veiws the human as the one in charge of the group or who owns the space, it allows us to dictate the outcome of the interaction between the human and animal. This is the key that allows us to bond with a horse and achieve the desired behavior from it.

There are major differences in the relationships between dogs and horses, however; so not everything that Cesar teaches exactly correlates to the equine world. For example, horses are not nearly as affectionate towards their own kind as dogs are. They are also not, in general, not as exercise and play focused. So the approach that I take in training and handling a horse - especially one with behavior issues - is somewhat different, but still based on Cesar's teachings on being a calm and confident pack -or in this case, herd- leader.

I have learned alot in the last two years I have spent retraining horses with special needs or problems, about both the horses and myself. Each horse is a challenge, like a puzzle. But when I see an animal come to this farm and take steps toward rehabilitation, it is a rewarding feeling.

Cesar says at the opening to each show: "No dog is too much for me to handle. I rehabilitate dogs; I train people." I understand that to mean that he believes that there is no dog that is a lost cause. Every dog can become a "good dog" with the right amount of "exercise, discipline and affection". I believe the same about horses. I believe that the behavioral problems that cause horses to become branded "wild and dangerous" or "for experienced riders only" really have a simple solution.

Now, I must confess, that I am no Cesar - yet. I still haven't figured out all the secrets to rehabilitating such horses. However, I am confident that with time and experience I will learn. It is my dream and goal to do what Cesar Millan has done for desperate dog owners for my equine friends. I want to turn every well-meaning horse lover into a calm and confident owner who can get the absolute best relationship possible with their dream animal!

Thursday March 3rd, 2011

Today was Ky's first experience with a trotting grid. His performance was fantastic! He is turning into a really nice riding horse. I'm so proud of him! What a difference in him from one year ago. Even 6 months ago!

I am learning alot about handling horses from Ky. I see him reflecting my attitudes and feelings while I am working with him. When I am feeling confident, he shows me trust. When I feel afraid, he shows me fear. Even though this is a principle that I have taught for years, I have never seen it like this before. I have never tried to break a horse before either, so maybe it has something to do with him being so young and moldable. In any case, my biggest challenges in this job (namely, getting on Ky's back) have caused me to be a better person when I come out on the far side of them. I am more careful, cautious, but more determined than ever!

Sunshine!!

Yay!! I'm so siked about the weather! This is the time when dead things begin to grow again, and the dormant wakes up!
I have a little tray in the laundry room under the window with twelve little jiffy pots in it. In each little jiffy pot there is a little seedling of a different variety growing up. I love it! I have some small cilantro seedlings, a pansy, and one I don't have identified. I cant wait to plan my garden and decide what plants I'm going grow, and begin landscaping my house and yard! I love spring!
It doesn't look like were going to have any baby horses this spring :( but still the horses are starting to come out of their winter funk.
Shedding is in season now too! I gave beauty a hug this morning and came off with my own fur coat! Thanks beauty, but I don't think my class mates will appreciate me leaving a little of your essence everywhere I go :)
I've also noticed that the trees and about to explode with new growth and buds. This is just my favorite time of year!

Update on Ky's Training

This morning Melinda and I worked with Ky on his saddle training and riding. I successfully mounted under saddle, and with some patience and consistence, he learned to walk forward at my command. Halting and turning on command is pretty simple since he can be led from the ground, but getting the horse to walk forward is more difficult when there is no one on the ground for him to follow.

After I worked him for about 10 minutes, Melinda got on him and worked him on a long safety line. Here she is on him.

He practiced taking commands today, standing still on command (believe it or not, that is hard for a 3 year old!) and allowing his rider to move and shift on his back. He is a patient boy, and he really learns quick. It wont be too long before we have another horse in the program. Good job, Melinda, bustin' brocos!

Today's Classes

Bundle up everyone and head out! We will have class this afternoon in the snow, if there is any left this evening. Make sure you layer up and dress warm, it will be a little cold this evening, but sunny. See you all in a bit!

Rough week

Hey guys. After a really rough week and a not-much-better weekend, I'm finally feeling much better. I think I got the flu. I spent three days on the couch, and the last 2 or so I have still felt a little cruddy. But I am definately back on my feet. I am so thankful for the warm days ahead, and that this sickness isn't interfering with riding. Thanks everyone for praying for me. You guys are the best. See you all soon!

The next day

I woke up this morning and half expected to see a familiar face at his usually spot in front of his water bucket waiting for me to bring him his breakfast. It has been somewhere around 14 years of his usually habits, things seem kind empty without Shenango here.... So, I don't know. Just different.

His body was picked up and removed today. I'm glad that they came so quickly. I hate emotional drag-ons :( Its funny though. In the 15+ plus years we have owned horses, we always knew in the back of our heads somewhere that we would eventually face the death of one of our animals. But I guess your never really prepared. I think we were very fortunate to have gone so long without experiencing a loss.

There's a first time for everything. I just wish it didn't have to be Shenango. Losing him by far hurts the worst.

Rest In Peace, Shenango

Today I lost a good friend. Shenango came to our farm about 14 years ago. Sometimes it seems like only yesterday that my brother, sister and I used to ride him around the yard. He has been part of this family for so long, it seems unreal that he is no longer here. Those of you who know what we went through with him last winter know that we were even more attached to him after narrowly escaping his death to his infection in his withers. Here are some pictures of him in earlier years of owning him

Megan & Shenango at a show

Shenango and Cutlass, his first pasture mate here

Yep, that's Jeffery!

Shenango made the transition from a family pet to a lesson horse gracefully, and over the last 3 or 4 years has been taking care of my students from age 4 to adults. He was one of my most gentle and patient teachers, not minding too much when a student makes a mistake. It takes a patient horse to walk with a beginner who is learning how to ride. He was one of the best.

My Senior Picture

I will miss him, as will most of you too. Please post to facebook any pictures you have of him to share with us. I would love to see any pictures that I haven't seen before. Thanks everyone. Please comment your favorite memory of Shenango.

New Kid on the Block

Hey guys,
I just wanted to introduce you to the new kid on the farm. Well, the new lady actually. This is a 13 year old Quarter Horse mare "Streakin Sherry". She is in foal and due sometime this spring.

Here we are leaving the farm. She has almost Arabian-like features in her head and neck. She is a smaller built Quarter horse with really pretty straight legs

Arrival at her new home

She was quite excited to meet everyone on the farm, although the rest of the herd pretty much ignored her after a few sniffs. In no time she settled in and I released her with the rest of the herd the next morning.

So... I don't want to call her Streakin Sherry for the rest of her life, so leave a comment with a suggestion for a good, creative barn name for her! See you all soon!

Hmmm...

Another disappointly thin layer of snow coats the ground, Delaware Tech refuses cancellation, and I have to go to school on this cold wintery morning! *Sigh* I'm praying for 10-12 inches ONE time, then spring!

The Upcoming Heat Wave.... Really?

So, tomorrow is supposed to 45 degrees. Partly sunny. Break out your T-shirts everyone! It's gonna be a scorcher.

Hmm... I wonder if I still have any sunscreen? I'm thirsty just thinking about it :)

A Little Sunshine in January

Haven't the last two days been great? I love that in the middle of the coldest season of the year, we can have a day or two that is warm and sunny. It just makes me feel better. Anyways, I'm all excited for spring now... I can't wait to get some seeds and plant some plants to hang on my deck and put in my kitchen window and plant my garden!

The last two days have got me looking forward to spring. I suppose it's a little premature. (Snow tonight....Ach!) But I just can't wait for the greenery and growing plants everywhere, fresh fruit from the garden, and TOMATOES!!

I'm starting to let go of my hopes for one last big snowstorm. I want to trade it in for an early spring! Whoo hoo!

Lessons Today

As I walked through the field today while feeding breakfast to the horses, I was simultaneously sloshing through water and crunching on icy snow. There is about 4 inches of standing water in the arena, and what part of the paddock that is NOT under water is slick, half-frozen slush.

As much as I hate to cancel lessons, conditions are just too dangerous for riding today. So take the day off everyone and stay warm. I'll see you all here next week at the same time. If you have any questions about scheduling just give me a call. Thanks!

This morning's wake up call

There I was in my bed, deeply dreaming of being denied an interview for a translating job at IR, when my mom's voice broke into the scene. It was one of those moments where it wouldn't have mattered that she called my name, except for the way she called my name. My brain has been trained to receive a certain message every time my name is spoken in that foreboding tone. What ever happy dream I may be in, what ever nightmare; all of it is cancelled and I'm instantly awake.

That is what happened this morning. My heart jumped within my dream and the mean interview lady in front of me disappeared and that voice instantly told me the one thing that I dread hearing: a horse is out of the fence. All she said was my name, but before my mind even left the dream, I knew. One of my horses was out, and someone besides me found it first.

The next instant I was scraping myself off the bed, my dreams having been replaced by visions of horses running across the road, cars careening out of control, people running and screaming, mothers clutching their crying children, police and ambulances and fire truck sirens.... ok, I know that's a little dramatic, but the next moment, I was stumbling down the stairs pulling a hoodie over my pj's. I heard no sirens or screaming outside, so my heart slowed a little.

I headed out into the early morning chill just a minute later. All was quiet except for the children walking down the road to catch the bus. Phew. No police yet. As I walked past the barn towards the shed, I saw the culprit standing behind the neighbor's house - Rapunzel. You again. 


I opened the gate and she followed me back in. Not exactly the wildest escapee I've ever chased down the street.... but hopefully those days are over. Hopefully.

The fabled January 12th Snowstorm

Anyone else disappointed that we DIDN'T get snowed in? Well, it is what it is. Thanks to all the helpers that came out on Tuesday to help get ready for the storm. You guys are the best! And a big thanks to all my students who braved the weather to come out for lessons too. I couldn't do it without hard-core riders like you.

Here's to hoping we get one whoppin storm before the winter's out!