AppleJack and Diamond Rio are doing great! We can't wait to meet you all in Texas.

I'm not happy to post this, but we are uncertain at this time if we will have to evacuate for Gustav. Please keep the three trainers in Louisiana and those in Texas, Mississippi, and anywhere else here on the coast in your prayers that may have to flee the storm. Please pray for the safety of our mustangs and our families. Hope our next blog is full of good news!

Mustang-River

Right now I have a couple of photos of the mustang that I currently have.
His names River i'm currently working on updating the blog but there will
be more post coming very soon.

About those levels, I'm sure hoping I'm in amateur with this yearling! lol This is the first time I have shown a horse.....especially on a time limit!
I hope Hammar lives a very very long life, for you......
Rio is very handsome! Seems like everyone is enjoying their training.....
As Christina says, keep up the good work!

We didn't have too good a day today, seemed antsy...maybe the mosquitos were too bothersome and he couldn't concentrate.....more interested in eating grass and making sure he knew where Sadie Mae was at all times! Tomorrow will be a new and better day!

Sheesh... I can't wait to meet Rio in person! You are doing phenomenally with him! He really is a gorgeous guy. Are competing at Idols or Legends? I'm sticking with Stars :P What level is everyone doing?

Lauren, I'm the same way! But I'm also a sucker for tack and riding accessories... I have some many things that I don't need, it isn't even funny! :P But, I think I will survive with just Hammar ;) I don't need all the riding stuff, either, because I can ride Hammar in just a string if I need to (though I can't control him with that faster than a trot unless I am in an arena :P). He's a great guy, I just wish I could have gotten him earlier so we could have spent more time together. He's only 11 now, but that still means I will outlive him, and I don't know how I'm going to get over that...

Anyways, back to happy subjects! Everyone is doing so great! Keep up the good work!

These big boys are my guardians, they sure seem interested in me!!

pictures taken couresty of memories-in-time photography while socializing at our local barrel race

Hi, I'm Mina Caliente! This picture was taken 2 days after my arrival (05/25/08). My humans agreed to let me do the training until I knew they weren't gonna eat me.

I have attached a short clip of Uno taking a bath in the pond. This was his first exposure to being ponied down into the pond. Uno absolutely loves water. You oughta see him drinkin' from a waterhose. He absolutely grins :) Just 3 weeks and counting to Ft. Worth! Lookin' forward to seeing everyone because it looks like everyone is making great progress as we get close!

Wow! Hammar is great looking as well! You know, most women are suckers for shoes, but I'm a REAL sucker for a horse! I secretly want them ALL! If only I was a massive land owner...........they could all come to my place to live a happy life! I got Apache's front feet up last night after work!!!! Yipee!!! Now, we'll work on back ones. Hey everyone, please say a prayer that Hurricane Gustav decides to do something that won't affect ANY of us mustang trainers! Seems that a lot of us have had a lot of rain to deal with during our 100 days of training....
Great work Kirstin! I know it's hard now that school has started because Caitlyn is in the same situation!
Rio looks awesome! You look perfect up there in your photo!:) I'm amazed at all the places the mustangs have been....working buffalo, parades, rodeos, playdays, etc.! You guys and gals are the best!

I know what you mean. Your Chief Red Cloud is handsome. I have my Hammar:
He's a BLM Mustang, but I was his third or so owner (Nine is the first wild horse I have work with, but not the first Mustang). Now he is 11 years old, and a total champ at anything I ask him to do. He's the reason I applied for the EMM!

Congrats Kirsten! I ought to be able to get Nine's back feet up soon, we'll see. And that's a great quote!

Rio Gato is looking fantastic!

I finally got these 2 to pick up their rear hooves with out using a rope to help out and most importantly without them kicking out at me. Halona was feeling a little full of herself on this day so we didn't go anywhere near the rear hooves(although I saw plenty of them when she was kicking them up while running around) School has started and training is now cut down to what little bit of time I have before it gets dark. So now I guess I just try to perfect what they know and start working on what I would like to do for a possible freestyle. I have come across a quote that I love and just want to share with everyone:

"The gift of the Mustang lies not in their ability to carry us with their backs. It lies in their ability to carry us with their soul." unknown

Wipe away the tears now, because it made me cry too, but how true it is.

Until next time-Happy training and just 23 days til Ft Worth.

Here's another picture of Traveller & me. This was taken just a couple of days ago at the end of our training session. He is a now a snugglebug and just loves to be loved on.

Stacey, I can't wait to see the photos. Rio looks great! You look so comfortable up there.....you've done an amazing job as have the others....keep up the good work and I look forward to seeing you "strut your stuff"!

He's is gorgeous or should I say handsome! You don't have to worry about me "stealing" him from you, I have a mustang 4 years old that I got as a yearling. He has my heart! That's my Chief Red Cloud, even though I love them all, none can ever take his place! But Nine is beautiful and you've done a wonderful job with him! Keep it up! oh and funny on the Sam's size!! ha ha

making progrees...

this weekend Rio Gato and my other mustang learned all about chasing cans, we parked the pair right into the line up of downtown chaos and just let them take it all in. Of course Sampson is already used to this rodeo lifestyle he was super in being the ambassador for rio into this world of the fast, furious, and loud. People do look at him in his bosal, with his long flowing mane and have asked me how did he do? I laugh and say just fine. we ponied Rio Gato and Stacey Naomi with Motions in time Photography took phenominal Pics which will be posted sometime tomorrow.

Shelby, you're doing so great! Great job for not copying those other horses. Your mom must be so proud!
Thanks Lauren! We have a big Sam's Club size bottle of Ibuprofen, lol. You want more pictures? Well, don't fall in love with him :P And don't say I didn't warn you...



Isn't he beautiful? :D

By now you should have a good supply of Tylenol on hand for all those aches and pains! I know you're working really hard and it's beginning to show! Keep it up and we're all going to be amazed at how wonderful Nine is.....days are flying by, I'm getting dizzy! Post some more pics, we love seeing them!

So nice of you to keep us updated! Tell your "mom" to take some photos of you because we like seeing them! Glad you had fun on your adventure out with others of your "kind" even though some were not good role models for you! Keep on being sweet.....see you soon!

Hi everyone-wow! Bu's ride looks great. I can't wait til I'm old enough to do that! Dena took me to a practice show yesterday and it was fun. I was a little afraid when we started walking up and couldn't help myself - I tend to snort whenever I get nervous. So I snorted a lot at first. But everyone else seemed to be having fun so it didn't take me long to join in. I'm always up for a party! There was one renegade there, however, who kicked his owner in the chest. He wasn't a very likeable guy and it was kinda scary, but she's ok now. There's always one in the bunch so everybody, please be careful! 

There was another guy who got scared and started rearing up and striking out. Then he just got plain mad. His day wasn't going so well and his trainer was losing patience...please, a word of caution...if you're having a bad day and we're having a bad day, it's just not a good mix. Take a break and come back tomorrow. Every new day brings another chance to live and enjoy your time together. And another day to live! 

Uh oh, here comes JD with my food and that's the best part of my day! Ciao!

I think you're right, Rebbecca, that each horse goes at his or her own rate. Luckily, Nine's rate has been starting to pick up. I was finally able to FINALLY FINALLY lay on the saddle over Nine's back! There are pictures and such in my blog, but gosh, I am relieved! And sore... there was a lot of standing on one leg while Nine calmed down, and my left butt cheek is TIIIRRRRREEEDDDDDD! Tomorrow we are trying again, wish me luck and a soft landing. Edit: never mind, Mom (my horse-holder and ready-to-drive-to-hospital-person) pulled a muscle and can barely move, and I am ridiculously sore, so we're taking a break today :P

Christina.. thanks so much for the compliments... I think everyone is doing a great job.. not sure why I have aseen a few posts about people playing catch up! I think each horse is an individual and will go at their own speed. I know there were a few people that were riding their horses within a week! I'm not included in that group! Horses, I think, will tell you when they are ready to progress.. don't you guys think?

Stacey have you started working your horse on the ranch? You have an interesting backgroud! Good luck to you and everyone else! These horses are awesome.

Rebecca and Bucephalus

woohoo! sorry it has been a few weeks but alot has been going on. I am no longer just a pedestrian. I am now a passenger and no one has gone north or south at a great rate of speed. The saddle is no longer a lion that will come alive and eat Rio Gato. The last month has been tough, Like the movie groundhogs day-Because he had such a flee tendency my best insurance has been to keep repeating out lessons until all issues lied down. As I have always said, this horse is well worth the wait. We may be behind some in the riding department, but he is putting all the peices together and we are quickly playing catch up. He is still cautious and wary of the 'lion', looking over his back to make sure it is 'dead', but not a buck or flee as of late. Yippeee!
Rio gato and i have made a very deep conection and my saftey seems to be a real priority for this horse.
new website for updates and such
www.freewebs.com/snsranch1
come check it out!

Don't know if you can see it from the second picture, but Uno has taken the glass and is holding it with his teeth. You know how I know he has become a member of the family. When I was a little kid, I would spend the day with my grandma during the summer because she lived right down the road and my mother worked. Every day after grandma would finish with lunch, they call it dinner down south, she would sit down with her glass of sweet tea to watch her stories. She would sit there and chew the ice from her sweet tea. That is a habit I picked up and I have been chewing ice for 30+ years now, even though the dentist tells me it is bad for my teeth. Well guess what, Uno likes sweet tea and he will manipulate the glass to get the ice from the tea and chew it too. Guess it runs in the family. :)

Awww, thanks Kirsten's Mom! I am a mother myself, though my daughter is only 16 months right now! I hope I can give her an experience like I have had, and like you have allowed Kirsten to have. What a fantastic mother!

Bu look fantastic! He is holding his head nicely. I can see a huge improvement! I wish I could bring Nine home with me, but my dad would have a fit! He doesn't want to have to buy feed for an extra horse for very long ;) But I think we might get away with bidding him up to at least $200, just to get things started :P Besides, if no one bids him up more, I can have a great horse for $200, and I don't care what my dad will think :P

Hi everyone. First of all thank you so much for including Kirstin in your thoughts and prayers. Secondly, thank you for fostering these Mustangs. I am sure that all of you, just like Kirstin, have developed an unbelievable bond with your horses. At first, I must admit, that the scholarship was a strong reason for Kirstin participating, but as she continues something much bigger and better has come from this experience and the scholarship no longer even matters. As her parents, we have always recognized Kirstin's special gift with horses, but never did we expect to see her devote so much time to them(without us nagging her). When most kids are loungeing their summer away, she has spent hers training 3 Mustangs. It's a heartwrenching moment when a parent realizes that their baby is growing up. As I watched her last night, I couldn't help but think that we did something so right and so positive for her and that this will be an everlasting memory. As all you make the final preparations for the competition, remember that although you might hit a speed bump or two, in the end what you all have done; in a very short amount of time, is quiet simply put-AMAZING! I am so impressed by all of you and your willingness to share tips and suggestions, just proves that you are here for these horses also. Keep up the good work and I can't wait to see all of you here in Texas. Thanks again, Priscilla

Hey everyone, how's it going? Karen, I'm working on a T-shirt design with my beautiful eyes pictures like you suggested. Hopefully, I will be able to come up with something before the competition. Training went pretty good last night. I was able to pick up the hooves on Mia & Traveller. Halona was being a little cantankerous and wanted run and kick up her "heels" so training with her was kept to a minium. Mia & Traveller both got a bath last night, they are both shedding so badly that I thought it would help. I have a little hint for those of you who have the "run away" manes. If you would like to train the mane to fall nicely on one side of the neck all you have to do is braid the mane on the side you would like it to lay on, leave it in for a week or so. When you take it out it should stay on that side. I did this with Mia and it worked great-she had an awful "bed head" look, mane going every which way. I'm trying it with Traveller. His was all on one side, but it covered up his freeze brand, so after I rinsed him off yesterday, I applied a little watered down conditioner and then braided it on the other side. A little vane, I know, but I love to see the freeze brand. Sounds like everyone is doing great. I can't wait to see all of you in Ft. Worth.

I am so pleased with this horse. I have really developed a great bond with him(like I am sure, every other trainer has with his/her horse) and hope I can bring him back home in September. How many trainers are planning on bringing their horses back home with them?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlIO7KoSaCI

Shelby here, again. Dena is at work today, hobbling around I suppose. She is going to try to work with me again tonight with a walker. I don't know about her sometimes...

I'm really looking forward to meeting Uno. He seems to have a sense of humor like mine. And Kirsten has the prettiest eyes! Lauren, we try never to share our secrets, but it looks like you figured out the one we always hide best: patience. You might think we can hold out longer, but it's only a test to see if you will hang in there. Us mustangs have to know that we can trust you to keep doing the right thing until we give in. Of course, trust is our biggest issue, but you didn't hear that from me!

We're also very social, and so I miss seeing Dena out here every day. She was starting to get annoying, though, because sometimes she would come out twice a day. So we're both getting a little break from each other, but I'll be glad to see her tonight. Maybe I'll try to run really fast around her so her walker falls over! She's funny when I do things like that cause she says words I've never heard before! Can't wait to see everyone-shelby

We did it! We walked on the blue tarp (after a little persuasion), but we still won't allow the feet! Dena, I'm exercising my patience! He just doesn't know how much I have....we may get to that part of the judging and just have to stand there a second while moving on! ha ha Of course, I'd like him to do it now so he'll feel comfortable with me handling them. We'll keep trying.
Kathy how are you feeling today? a little sore, I guess? Glad you weren't injured in a bad way. I'm like you, though, I try to figure out what I did differently??? Sometimes I never know.Wishing you all the best in a speedy healing.
Kirstin, I don't know whose eyes are prettier, yours or your horses! You look very sweet as do your babies! Your mom and I have something in common, taking photos!The sunset was from last night when we finished working

Here's another picture my mom took. This one is of Traveller & me. Mom used to be a photographer, can you tell? This one is similar to the one she took of Mia & me. Traveller has become so accommodating, there's not much he won't do. He is still a little leary about anything close to his hind end, but we are working through that. I still have a hard time believing that he is the same horse I brought home. I wish I would of videotaped his behavior, because no one would believe the way he behaved for the first month and a half. He was so bad my parents would not let me get in the pen with him. He was just confused, now he knows who loves him, feeds him, & takes care of him. I have no reservations at all about handling him now. He is truly a sweetheart.

Uno! You never cease to amaze me! What you won't do! You are too funny and I can't wait to see you! I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm bringing a new memory card for my camera, cause I've just gotta have pictures of everyone! Uno, keep up the good work and we'll see you there!

One night my horses are acting totally weird and the next night they do everything perfect. Last night's training was unbelievable. Go figure. All three of my yearlings did everything I asked them to do. I even got Traveller to trot-yea. Dad had to chase behind him, but he trotted. I was able to pick up & pick out all of their hooves-first time for the rear hooves on all three-yea. Night's like last night give me hope, makes me feel like anything is possible. All of the horses on our place got wormed last night. The 3 mustangs did better than our other 3 horses. I was able to give them their wormer without any help, our other 3 I had to have someone hold them(they hate to be wormed). Of course the curiosity factor probably played a role in that-the yearlings have to put every new thing in their mouth. 30 days til Ft. Worth, but whose counting?
Keep up the good work. I'm confident that it will all work out in the end.

On day 8, Dad took Uno to the pond to play. Uno would rather drink water from anything other than a water bucket. He loves the water hose. He will even practically take your glass of ice water from you and drink it. But when Dad took him to the pond, I have to say, I have never seen a horse that shoves his entire head, up to his eyeballs, into the water to drink. Uno DOES! Not just once, but almost everytime!

So sorry to hear you were dumped, Kathy! But I'm grateful you didn't get hurt. Sometimes there is no real reason as to why, so it can be kinda scary when they catch you unawares. But one of my favorite cowboys always told me; "It's not the first ride that will get you, it's the third or fourth one." I believe that's true. (These clinicians are able to make it look easy for that reason, it's one of those little known facts they don't share!) I'm never as nervous on the first ride as I am on the next few.
Lauren, thank you so much for your prayers. I can't tell you how much it means to me to have your support and kind words. I can't wait to meet you next month!
I'm recuperating, but not fast enough. Dr. gave me permission to sleep without the stupid boot, but yesterday I fell in a parking lot. Just too clumsy with all this 'equipment'. But my dear husband buoyed up my confidence and tonight we're working together in the round pen. I'll be using my walker and he'll make sure I don't get too tangled up in the ropes! Shelby is always so calm and patient, though. She looks at me as if to say "good grief woman. Get your crap together so we can get done with this and I can eat already!" After I stop cussing at myself, I usually start laughing cause she just stands there looking at me...waiting...and if a horse can laugh, I know that's what she's doing!
We're in a time crunch now, everyone just take a deep breath and take your time. If you start hurrying now, you'll get hurt or miss an important part of your training. (Listen to me, giving advice about being patient! :) Seriously, though-remember to keep it fun and enjoy this experience with your horse and we'll see you next month.

Nine seems to be coming around.. I really liked the pics you posted.. I love seeing the pics of everyone and how well they are doing. Bu didn't like the tarp at all.. took awhile to convience Bu it wasn't gonna eat him.

Glad everyone is doing so well with their guys...I can't wait to see everyone in Texas!

BTW Bob looked great in english tack!!!!

Rebecca

Hello all,

Well.... I was riding Reno last night (it was his 4th ride) and he was doing great. Then suddenly when I asked him to turn and yield his hind quarteres he BLEW UP! I stayed on for a bit but we had ourselves a regular rodeo. He was bouncing on all 4 legs then started tossing his body every which way. I got tossed up, came down on his but and got tossed up again and landed in a heap in the middle of the round pen with the wind knocked out of me.

I am so very very lucky that I am just bruised up and sore and not in the hospital. God had some special angels set me down just right - that is for sure!

I had a friend over and he got back on him and rode him out for 15 minutes or so because I could hardly stand up. I went over it a thousand times in my head and I can't figure out what happened. I do know that I let my guard down and that is how he was able to get his head down before I could get him pulled back around.

I am planning on getting back on him in the next few days, but I might end up just showing him in the in-hand classes. I just don't want to push him and if he is not ready then he is not ready.

Congrats to everyone that is making such great progress, and for those of you that are running into road blocks like I am... just try and take a step back and remember we are doing it for them.

One more month - can you believe it!

Kathy Dayton
Lazy K Corral

Well, well, well, Bu looks like that mattress is just a little too small for you! ha ha You look really great in all your photos! You can just do all sorts of things can't you? I think you're awesome and your trainer's okay too!(just kidding) She's been working really hard with you and it shows! Keep up the good work you're doing a great job and keep posting!

Welcome Penny and Shasta! Glad you found the blog and joined in. You two sure are pretty girls!Looks like you've been working hard and doing well. Keep up the good work and keep us updated with photos and stories!

Good for you Nine, now you know that saddle will not hurt you, and those dangly things are just things! You seem to be progressing nicely and I hope your vet visit goes well. Keep on taking those pictures, we just love seeing them! Hey if you lived closer, I sure would watch Miss Toddler, she's so cute! She doesn't know you're a hero yet! Keep up the great work you're doing and I'm sure it will all fall into place, his "little light bulb" will go on soon!

Well, girls! how's it going...Dena I know it's killing you not to be able to move like you want to, but just hang in there and do as the doc says, hopefully you'll be in full motion for Sept.! Shelby was so nice to keep us posted, and her friends at our house miss her too! They can't wait till their reunion and share all the fun things they've been learning! Dena is there anything we can do for you?? I feel so helpless when I encourage you to "hang in there", cause I know it's tough. I've been praying for your speedy recovery and a miracle to boot (no pun intended)! Keep sending photos, we enjoy those!

Kirstin, I know exactly what you mean....things will be going ever so well and then all of a sudden it's like they don't even know who you are! I guess part of being a "toddler" ! lol Oh well, little do they know, you are the only anchor they have right now for stability. Every time I go into the pen, Apache acts like he's never seen me before in his life! But if I'm outside the pen, he comes up to me for a pet and me to pick him some grass.........go figure! Keep up the good work and it will all come together!

What an interesting night last night. In between storms, I was able to get a little work in with my 3. The only one that seemed to be himself was Traveller. He did everything I asked him to do, he even trotted for me(dad was helping from behind), but it was his first trot at lead-yea! Mia & Halona on the other hand were almost uncontrollable-you would have thought I just started working with them. Halona even freaked out about a squirrel that was chattering in the tree-we have hundreds of squirrels so she should be used to them. I think it has something to do with my neighbor's gelding-he thinks he is still a stallion. He kept neighing at them(he can't even see them) and they would neigh back. They were fussy and just didnt want to do anything I asked, we spent a lot of time bending. Also, I'm sure the weather was a factor-this was the first real storm we have had since I brought them home. Hopefully it was just that, but we have a chance for rain all the way into next week. Dad said I could take the 3 to a show the first weekend in September. I haven't decided if I will show all 3, but I want to expose them to the show atmosphere. Traveller will definitely be showed, I'll decide about the other 2 closer to the show.

How sweet of you, Shelby, to help your trainer out so! :P

So the overnight thing worked well! Nine stood (mostly) still while I unsaddled him, and once he felt that cinch loosen he heaved this huge sigh of relive and wouldn't move a muscle! We introduced him to the new saddle. He accepted the new saddle blanket without any fuss, but the saddle was a bit different. It does have stirrups after all, which the old training saddle does not have, and the stirrups on the riding saddle are even tied up on top making the saddle look even bigger! But, Fiance got Nine to smell the new saddle and got it almost on. Then we had visitors and had to stop, but it was still a nice progressive day!

Tomorrow is the vet appointment, wish us luck!

Hi everyone,

I'm Shelby the mustang, filling in for my crippled owner, dena. She's currently hobbling around the house with crutches and a bad attitude, so she didn't come feed me tonight. JD is here instead and he tells me she will be all right soon. In the meantime, she keeps trying to get me used to this new-fangled walker that she thinks she'll use in the round pen to longe me. I got news for her-ain't gonna be easy! I have fun trying to pull her off her 'feet' and sometimes I get real close up to her when she's sitting in her chair and stand next to her to make her nervous. She doesn't know that I'm really trying to lay down next to her, but I'm working hard and going real slow to let her know it's all right. Just for kicks, I side pass sometimes in front of her. She thinks she taught me how to do it, but it comes naturally and for some reason she gets all excited when I do it. I like to make her feel good once in a while. 

It's nice to hear everyone's stories and progress, it helps me catch up with my friends and makes me happy to know they are with such good people. Well, here comes JD with my food, so I'll sign off now. See you next month! (Maybe dena's ugly black boot will be gone by then.)

Yay! My mom came over to help me, and the result was that we got Nine saddled in record time, with him only dumping the saddle once! (He later bucked it underneath him, but let me take it off calmly so I don't count that.) Mom also served as temporary official photographer, because my fiance (the permanent official photographer) took our daughter on a hike with his brother and mom. We originally planned to get the riding saddle on Nine and get me on him, but there was a storm rolling in, meaning it got windy. So we decided instead to introduce Nine to the breast collar!


So that was fun, and Nine did well. I am going to try a rather old-fashioned trick, I suppose, and leave the saddle on overnight. The tomorrow is Fiance isn't too busy I might try to get on. I will certainly try to saddle him in the riding saddle if anyone will watch Miss Toddler.

I'm gonna let the pictures speak for themselves! Hope everyone had a great weekend!

August 16, 2008

We finally found the Blog for the EMM!! Takes us old fogies a long time, I guess.

We have two of the EMM fillies. Penny is a red dun and a right brained extrovert for sure. She is doing so much better now though. She will tie without pulling, let us put the exercise ball on her back and walk over the tarp. She doesn't like to squeeze through anything, so we are working on that. She does have a switch in her head that turns on and says RUN! She is learning not to be so panic stricken with lots of backing and disengaging.

Shasta is the other colt. She is a bay with hardly any white on her. She has been calm, cool, and collected from the first day we picked her up in Elgin, TX. She takes everything in stride. When it came time to load her in the trailer for the first time, she just hopped in like she had been doing it all her life. She also has the most beautiful dark brown eyes.

Jere is a Natural Horsemanship Clinician and we live in Utopia, TX, 90 miles west of San Antonio. We are very much enjoying our colts and looking forward to meeting all you folks who we have been reading about in your blogs!

Seems as if everyone if doing fantastic! I am so pleased everyone is making such great progress!

I just love this pic and wanted to share! It looks as if Bu is smiling!

Oh my gosh! That is fantastic, and congratulations on your winnings! Maybe you can buy us all dinner in Ft. Worth!! lol Where do you live that there are buffalo??? That was way cool! I have to agree, I am so proud of everyone for ALL they have done with these mustangs......YOU are true horsemen and women......working with what some say are the impossible.....that's okay we all know the secret, they need loving too! Keep up the great work!

Saturday, August 9, I decided to load Uno up and take him to one of the local competitions, obviously just for the exposure. We tried out "the pole" competition. We did GREAT! It cost $5.00 to enter and we won $1.00.... If we keep this up, we'll be rich and be able to retire. All kidding aside, it was a really good time, and Uno did an excellent job for his first time... Looks like everyone is doing great. God bless you all that are working with these amazing creatures the He gave us.

Last Saturday I took Uno to work a few buffalo. He reacted well to the introduction.

Christina,
Is it that obvious. Yes, Mia is my favorite. But, I think it has to do with the fact that I have been able to comfortably handle her since 2 weeks after getting the 3 home. The other 2 I couldn't even get into their pens-I fed them from outside the fences. They had both removed their halters within the 1st week of bringing them home. They both had definite issues about people and their space. It wasn't until I took them to Able Garcia's stable on 7/12 that I had my turning point with both of them. So I have only been working with Traveller & Halona for a month now. That being said, Traveller is tugging pretty hard on my heart strings now. He is super sweet-loves people NOW. So what I'm beginning to see now is that the more I work with the other two, the harder September 20th is going to be for me. My parents have already said that I can bring 1 horse home and that the decision as to who it will be is up to me. I can even pick a different horse there if I want. I appreciate the fact that they are leaving the decision up to me, but at my age it will most definitely be the hardest decision that I will have made in my life. I have devoted all of my summer to these 3 and have learned so much in the process. This is definitely an experience that I will remember for the rest of my life and I will be able to look back on and say I made a difference-as have all of you. So keep that in mind on your bad days(after all we all have them) we are all making a difference one horse at a time.

Thank you for the well-wishes! My elbow seems to have recovered - I even mucked out Nine's pen as well as another pen that currently houses my personal Mustang, Hammar. That was about... 7 wheelbarrow loads, and my elbow barely gave me any trouble!

Kirsten, you are doing such a good job with your yearlings! I think I see a pattern of favoritism towards Mia, though!

I had an idea this morning as I was mucking. I thought that it would be a good experience to take Nine to the county fair at the end of the month! But when I looked up the fair book I read that the deadline for entry was August first. Bummer. I tried to call the horse superintendent to see if an exception can't be made - I don't want ribbons, I just want Nine to have the experience - but I think she was out to lunch! So I will try again in a bit. But what do you all think? I nice halter class would be such a good indicator of how Nine might do in Fort Worth, wouldn't it? Plus, we would get experience trailering!

Hi this is Kathy Leach- writing for Lanny as he may train horses but doesn't have clue on how to turn on the computer!!!
Lanny has been so blessed by the support of friends, family and the City of Tucson. There have been many who get up early every morning to come and watch the progress of Traveler, Rascal and Lanny as they have become a team.
It has been fun to read all of your stories as you have progressed. What an exciting adventure for "EVERYONE" involved to see one of God's beautiful creations , The Mustang, become a special part of our lives.
We are excited to meet all of you in Fort Worth!!
Have a safe ride!!

Kirstin...what an awesome photo of you and Mia, I see the love you have for her!Hope you're putting that one on your poster! I love horses like you do and you're right was there a life without them??? lol Keep up the good work, and I hope school doesn't interfere with your training too much. When you have time, share some more pics with us, I love seeing them.

Mom took these last night. The first one is Miakoda(Mia). She's pretty big. I'm 5'4", she's almost that tall at the withers. The next one is my gelding-Traveller. He's actually darker than he appears.The last one is a picture of Halona. She is a very odd color. I have had some tell me that she is a Rubicano-she has the roaning and the skunk tail with the white bar at the tail head. I'm going to post some additional pics from last night on my blog spot: http://www.kirstinsmustangmakeover.blogspot.com/ check them out.

Kathy,
you are so right about all of this being for the mustangs and watching for their clues as to how far we can go with them. No matter what level everyone is, there have been HUGE accomplishments made with these babies! They are the REAL stars of the show! Looks like you've been doing a great job too! I am so pleased to read all of the blogs and how much in love you all have become with your mustang(s)! They are AWESOME animals!

Oh Christina, I know that had to hurt! Feet are a big issue at my house too! Hope you're feeling okay, just be careful and remember to "read" your horse to see if he's acting unusually skiddish that day. They "know" so much more than we do, but hey we've been de-sensitized!! lol Don't give up cause every day is a new beginning and it sounds like Nine really loves you and wants to be with you! Keep us posted and wishing you a speedy "I don't hurt anymore"!

Oh my gosh! I so totally understand your agony...the exact same boot I had to wear and you're right, they do NOT like that black boot!! too funny...I am so sorry to hear you have to take it easy, cause that's not easy to do!Shelby may get used to the boot in a couple of days???? have to wait and see! Well, I hope you keep on trying and I certainly hope you succeed in finishing her!keep us posted on your progress.....you CAN do it!

Great picture, Kirstin! Nine has finally let me start hugging him, so we're making progress there. Of course that means I'll be that much more heartbroken in September.

Speaking of Nine, he kicked me! I was working on picking up his hind right leg. He was doing great with a rope around his pastern, so I was picking it up with my hand. He was okay, but then when I tried again in yesterday afternoon, he started swinging his leg out at me, then finally exploded. He jumped in the air and struck out. His hoof caught my elbow. Pretty silly, to get kicked in the elbow! It's a bit sore today, but not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. It could have been pretty bad, though - he was almost high enough to get my head! So, now, I am too terrified, which makes Nine terrified, which means I haven't gotten very far towards picking up his back feet again. He's still fine about his fronts though, so that's good.

I haven't tried with the saddle again yet - I was going to yesterday while I had help, but the kick made me give him a rest. But today I tried to get a rope around his belly to make sure he was okay with that sensation, but basically, he's not. My elbow got pretty sore, so I stopped trying...

Reno looks great! All of you are making me so jealous that you are riding your horses. I wanna ride, too!

Boy howdy, to watch Lanny and Kathy Leach train their 4YO, Traveler, and the Yearling, Rascal, has been quite a ride since June 15th.

The Leach's long family tradition of Nebraska ranching has surely been a contributing factor to Lanny's complete success with these horses.

Not to tease or anything, I don't want to let out any trainer trade secrets, so I'll be working with Kathy uploading photos and updates on Lanny and Traveler until the event in Ft. Worth!

Check out www.tanqueverdestables.com and www.lannyleachhorsetraining.com for more info.

Kirstin - I am so impressed by you! WOW is all that I can say - you are amazing!!!!!

I look forward to the day that I see that kind of softness in Reno's eyes. He is just now starting to break down his walls and let me close enough to hug him. I have never been around a horse that is this full of fear. As each day passes though, we get a little closer and he trusts me a little more.

I am hoping I can find a way to keep him, because our journey will be nowhere close to done in September!

For those of you that are like me.... feeling way behind everyone else... I completely agree with Kirstin. This is about these mustangs and not us. I am going to get him comfortable with things as he is ready and not push him. I am so proud of everyone - no matter what level they compete at - IF they even compete at all. If the horses are ready they will tell us and it is up to us as their trainers to listen to them.

Good luck and great job everyone!

Kathy

Look at the fantastic picture my mom took. This is a picture of me & Mia.

Doesn't she have the most beautiful, kind eyes that you have ever seen. I think a horse's eyes reveal a lot about the horse.

Well, I found out my right ankle is fractured after all. They had to do another set of x-rays and the doc tells me not to put any pressure on it for the next 4 weeks. This has forced me to change my training methods around. My yearling, Shelby, is noticeably worried about the 'boot' I have to wear now and she really dislikes my crutches. She will not let me do anything when we get together until she can touch her nose all over the boot. And she definitely dislikes the crutches! She isn't afraid, just doesn't want them around. If I sit in a chair to longe her, she comes over and tries to pull the chair out from under me. What a clown!
It's heart warming to hear how everyone is coming along with their yearlings and 3 year olds. This is my first mustang to train and I am fascinated with them now. The care and concern that Shelby shows towards me makes me cry sometimes. I can tell her how frustrated I am and she is unconditional with her affection. I know that some people would say that a horse is just a horse, but I'm learning that they are so much more than that. I think you can train them to do what you want, you can teach them to do just about anything, but you won't truly experience their heart unless you allow them to come into yours.
Good luck to everyone and I look forward to meeting you next month, crutches and all!

There was no talking me into it. I love horses and can't even picture my life without them. When my mom told me about the competition I was so excited. She told me not to get to excited because she didn't think my dad would agree. You can't even imagine my surprise when dad suggested getting more than 1. I must admit, all of us have learned so much about horses since I started this project. Like I said, my parents are super supportive and help me whenever I need an extra hand, which is almost every night.
For all of you who feel like I do; like you are so far behind, my mom tells me not to worry about it. The reason I'm doing this is for the horse, yes placing would be great, but getting these horses to good homes is the real reason I'm here. And I know that what I have done will get these horses the homes they deserve. And what all of us have accomplished up to this point is awesome.

Yeah, I say a lot of prayers! all the time! mainly for strength and courage sprinkled with wisdom! Kathy, I know all about the deep breaths......usually occurs after I've chased him around the pen! lol just kidding! Saddles can be heavy and to hit a sidestepping target isn't always easy! Today I did something I know nothing about.....set up a blog (http://laurenmustangmakeover.blogspot.com)drop by and visit, I have a poll to vote on.....trying to chronicle the events as they happened (hindsight), but hope you enjoy and keep up the good work, seems like you're getting there.
Christina, sounds like you've made some strides as well....congrats! keep on pluggin' as they say, at least you want the horse to have a good foundation, the rest will come....Yep, school will be a juggle, but hopefully they won't throw too much at you in the beginning so you can focus on your training!
Kirstin--good for you, taking 3 babies. Interesting to see their levels of progress with you! (You should have talked your mom into training too!)My daughter is 14 also, I'm gonna hook you two up! I kinda MADE her do it! Or maybe I should say persuaded her to do it with me! Oh well, the end result is the same....2 more horses loved!
Can't wait to meet everyone either!

Thank you all for the support and encouragement. I was able to get on Reno last nigt for the second time. I still have to take DEEP BREATHS as soon as I sit down in the saddle. He reads EVERY single breath of fear from anyone that gets near him.

I can pick up his front feet but not his back yet, we are working on it every day.

It is hard for me to get the saddle on him because I shattered my entire left arm 2 years ago, and my right wrist last year. I can't just toss it up there so he still shys away from it a bit... by the time I finally get it up close to his back.

Congrats to everyone on the steps that they are taking!!! I can't wait to meet everyone next month.

Kathy

Lauren, thanks for the encouragement! As for progress, it's only been a day, but he isn't kicking when I pick up his hind feet. I haven't tried to bring them back to clean them out or anything yet. Does anyone have any tips for me on that?

Stacey, Rio Gato sure is handsome! I agree with you; if I didn't have my toddler and all the other animals to take care of, I'd love to be riding along with Matt! And it's for a great cause, too.

Kirstin, three yearlings?!? You go, girl! How are you juggling school with the hoses? I start University classes again on the 25th, and I'm not sure how I'm going to do it all! I will fall pretty far behind, especially since I am taking at least a week off for the competition in Fort Worth. Oh well, I'll manage. It's just Chemistry and Physics and and a couple other classes!

Hey everyone, my name is Kirstin. I am 14 years old and am training 3 yearlings. What an undertaking. I have Miakoda(Mia for short), Halona-both fillies & then the gelding, Traveller. You can see a lot of pictures on my blogspot(kirstinsmustangmakeover.blogspot.com). The only trouble I seem to be having with my guys is the trotting at a lead, standing still when I pick up their hooves(someone has to hold them) & then their back hooves-they are still kicking out a little.

This is a picture of me & Mia. She is already 15.2 hands.
And the goofy one with the swim ring on is Traveller. I just started working with him 7/12, so we have come pretty far. Long story but the jest of it is that he had removed the halter a couple of days after I brought him home and I wasn't able to get it back on until 7/12. Would love to hear from some of the younger yearling participants. I'll have to get some more recent photos,esp of Halona and I will post those also.

Sorry that we haven't been blogging....I am technolgically challenged and don't have my own computer so....with that said.

Rio Gato has settled quite a bit more. I can saddle him without him having an anxiety attack.

Thank God for all the small foundation fill in he has allowed me to do because it is really paying off now. I am confident in riding him now. I feel like his progress will go quickly now. I really think the next couple of weeks will allow me the time to show people how talented this horse can really be. I did accomplish one goal: I am able to work Rio Gato with Sampson. Both mustangs were difficult to train and have less the 6 months training and are working well together. The pay off is great!

Living in Northern CA has not been a picnic lately....with all the fires and people not willing to

pay trainers what their worth it reminds me that the real reason I am involved in the Mustang Makeover and Extreme Mustang Makeover for the horse. I've had to dig deep and use all my experience to get these mustangs where they are today.

I appreciate all the love and support I've gotten from family and friends who have helped along the way. People checking my emails for me, helping me get blogs completed. Hats off to Matt who is riding his horse to Fort Worth TX. If I didn't have two young kids to care for myself, I'd

be riding right along side him! Riding along would have been an honor! Good Luck to Matt.