After a long day of travelling, Diva and I finally made it back to Millarbrooke Farm around 1:30 am this morning. Got settled and went to bed. Had to be up for 6 to work today....ugh,
I was excited to get back to the grind but still sad at the thoughts of leaving home again. As much as I love seeing everyone I'm starting to think it's easier to just be away.....I get so emotional leaving the place I grew up with all my friends and family behind. Since when did I turn into such a sap!
It's also hard this time because the trip home was about organising life so that I could commit to being here. In the past few months I've sold my truck, sold 5 horses, left my farm and moved almost completly across the country, basically completly closed my business at Secret Creek Stables. There's nothing left going on there besides a few boarders, now my horse trailer is for sale..... I feel like everything I own is soon going to be gone. I know it's only for the better to move onward and upward however there's a part of me really hanging onto what I have there. I guess that's just normal.
This is good, I feel good, I'm overwhelmed by where I am and who I worked for. In the big picture I soooooo happy but in the right now I'm still wondering if I can do this? Well those aren't the right words....I know I can do anything I put my mind to, and THIS I CAN do. I'm not afraid of change....I embrace it and am excited for it. I suppose I am allowed to have nerves....this is a big leap for me. Like I said....wish me luck!
Today rolled along rather well. Got back into the routine and can't wait for whats to come :)
Only a week and a half until the others leave for Palgrave...then it'll be quiet around here again.
Off to bed for tonight. Gotta catch up on some much needed sleep. TTFN
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Onto the next chapter of my life....deep breath
I'm sitting in the Calgary airport with Diva on my lap typing to all of you out in cyberspace. Stayed up late last night to get everything packed and got up early this morning to make sure I had everything. Said goodbye to the farm again...not knowing when I'll be back again...I tried not to think about it as I'm turning into quite the cry baby as I get older lol.
Mom drove me to the Airport in Courtenay. Stopped off at Bridles and N Bits to get a new helmet. They have GPA's on clearance :) But I still want a Charles Owen. I'm riding with the big rigs now...gotta look the part haha.
Made it to the airport and said goodbye to my mom. I was a blubbering mess as my dog and I headed through the security gates.
Boarded the flight and it all went quite well.
Travelling with a dog is not the easiest thing in the world when they are right with you. Especially a little dog that only wants to be on you and not in a little crate. I sedated her for the flight and she slept well but now seems to be zonked right out in my lap. I still think I'll give her another pill in a few hours before our next 4 hour flight. That ones going to be the test!
I'm excited to get back but its so bitter sweet leaving the farm. Lots of changes happened while I'm home and I'm sure convinced that I can make almost anything happen if I have enough determination to. I'll touch more on that later.
I know you have all been wondering what I'm up to and will be happy to know I'm back on track with my blogging.
Computer needs a power source so I think I'm going to pack up and head to my gate.
For all you Islanders experiencing the beautiful weather.....it's snowing and cold here in Calgary at the moment....brrr.
Next stop....Ottawa Ontario. TTFN
Mom drove me to the Airport in Courtenay. Stopped off at Bridles and N Bits to get a new helmet. They have GPA's on clearance :) But I still want a Charles Owen. I'm riding with the big rigs now...gotta look the part haha.
Made it to the airport and said goodbye to my mom. I was a blubbering mess as my dog and I headed through the security gates.
Boarded the flight and it all went quite well.
Travelling with a dog is not the easiest thing in the world when they are right with you. Especially a little dog that only wants to be on you and not in a little crate. I sedated her for the flight and she slept well but now seems to be zonked right out in my lap. I still think I'll give her another pill in a few hours before our next 4 hour flight. That ones going to be the test!
I'm excited to get back but its so bitter sweet leaving the farm. Lots of changes happened while I'm home and I'm sure convinced that I can make almost anything happen if I have enough determination to. I'll touch more on that later.
I know you have all been wondering what I'm up to and will be happy to know I'm back on track with my blogging.
Computer needs a power source so I think I'm going to pack up and head to my gate.
For all you Islanders experiencing the beautiful weather.....it's snowing and cold here in Calgary at the moment....brrr.
Next stop....Ottawa Ontario. TTFN
Friday, April 24, 2009
Things are good
Hi All....I see my avid blog checkers all still looking in to see whats new. Well I have been home for 4 days now and my one week mark to be here feels like it's creeping up fast.
Theres lots of work to do around the farm and I am pressing to sell some of my horses. It's good to be home and see them all, family, friends ect.
My days are packed with apointment after apointment but it's a great way to get life in order because it forces you to get all the things you've been meaning to get done....done.
The weather is fantastic and I feel so great to be here for a short while.
Hope you are all enjoying your horses and this wonderful spring weather. Life is good <3
Theres lots of work to do around the farm and I am pressing to sell some of my horses. It's good to be home and see them all, family, friends ect.
My days are packed with apointment after apointment but it's a great way to get life in order because it forces you to get all the things you've been meaning to get done....done.
The weather is fantastic and I feel so great to be here for a short while.
Hope you are all enjoying your horses and this wonderful spring weather. Life is good <3
Monday, April 20, 2009
So excited for whats to come
I had a great day today. Still slow but very enjoyable. I was working in the main barn...which is where I was when I was here back in February working with the people from Florida who I am familiar with. The routine is the same it's just a nicer set up ect.
All the horses got fed, cleaned, put on the walker and outside. Being back in the cold weather isn't as much fun with all the blanket changes. The horses are wearing either their sheets, stables rugs or both while they are inside depending on temperature. Then to go outside you take one or both blankets off, put a cooler back on and then a turnout blanket over top. Tails get brushed, hooves get picked and they get fron boots, bell boots and back boots. Because of the wind today some of the horses were fresh and wanting to run around. As soon as that happens they have to come back inside. I was reflecting today about how funny it would be if people had the same fight or flight instinct horses do. I mean we do in some way, but when we are excited or scared I don't just run around and snort....I think that would be hilarious though...haha..can you immagine!
Amy came in to ride Picco and then we sat down for our meeting. It was so great to finally get the facts and not be up in the air as to what is happening.
I am going to be the new at home barn manager and trainer for the young horses :) I will also get to ride some of the schooled ones that don't go away to the shows to keep them fit. I'm really excited about that. Amy said in the next two weeks we will start riding the young ones and see where they are in the training and form a plan from there as to how many I'll be working ect. They are between 3 and 6 year olds....some have 30 days others have a little bit more time on them.
So....the current managers are leaving which means what I am about to take on is HUGE! I am it...I will be running Millarbrooke Farm (with the Millars help of course)
They are here to help me and there's still lots to learn but its going to be a process. I will have other staff at home to help me which made me feel better to know that. We are in a transition time with lots happening and I am very excited for whats to come. I feel this is just going to open so many doors for me and look so good to have on my resume. I also already have so many ideas for things to add on to around here to make what they already have even better.
I am leaving tomorrow to come home for a week and when I return I`ll be ready to take on my new task at hand.
I'm told I will be having lessons as well to make sure I`m on track with the young horses. I am responsible for feeding and taking care of the 10 outside horses as well as how ever many will be left on the farm when they go to shows. Over the winter there was 12 in the barn and the 10 outside.
They leave again in two weeks....so I have alot to learn and fast! They are going to Palgrave then come back home for a week and then are off to Spruce Meadows for 5 weeks. WOW talk about things happening fast.
I`m forgetting a million little details but I should really make some dinner, do laundry and pack....I have to be up around 4 am and leave here at 4:40 in order to get to the airport which is in hour away before my flight.....ick...early morning! So I am going to bed soon hahaha.
I will still have access to the internet at home so feel free to comment or email me secretcreekstables@gmail.com
Take care and chat soon!!!!
I'll be back on the Island in a matter of hours now :D !!!!!!!!!!
All the horses got fed, cleaned, put on the walker and outside. Being back in the cold weather isn't as much fun with all the blanket changes. The horses are wearing either their sheets, stables rugs or both while they are inside depending on temperature. Then to go outside you take one or both blankets off, put a cooler back on and then a turnout blanket over top. Tails get brushed, hooves get picked and they get fron boots, bell boots and back boots. Because of the wind today some of the horses were fresh and wanting to run around. As soon as that happens they have to come back inside. I was reflecting today about how funny it would be if people had the same fight or flight instinct horses do. I mean we do in some way, but when we are excited or scared I don't just run around and snort....I think that would be hilarious though...haha..can you immagine!
Amy came in to ride Picco and then we sat down for our meeting. It was so great to finally get the facts and not be up in the air as to what is happening.
I am going to be the new at home barn manager and trainer for the young horses :) I will also get to ride some of the schooled ones that don't go away to the shows to keep them fit. I'm really excited about that. Amy said in the next two weeks we will start riding the young ones and see where they are in the training and form a plan from there as to how many I'll be working ect. They are between 3 and 6 year olds....some have 30 days others have a little bit more time on them.
So....the current managers are leaving which means what I am about to take on is HUGE! I am it...I will be running Millarbrooke Farm (with the Millars help of course)
They are here to help me and there's still lots to learn but its going to be a process. I will have other staff at home to help me which made me feel better to know that. We are in a transition time with lots happening and I am very excited for whats to come. I feel this is just going to open so many doors for me and look so good to have on my resume. I also already have so many ideas for things to add on to around here to make what they already have even better.
I am leaving tomorrow to come home for a week and when I return I`ll be ready to take on my new task at hand.
I'm told I will be having lessons as well to make sure I`m on track with the young horses. I am responsible for feeding and taking care of the 10 outside horses as well as how ever many will be left on the farm when they go to shows. Over the winter there was 12 in the barn and the 10 outside.
They leave again in two weeks....so I have alot to learn and fast! They are going to Palgrave then come back home for a week and then are off to Spruce Meadows for 5 weeks. WOW talk about things happening fast.
I`m forgetting a million little details but I should really make some dinner, do laundry and pack....I have to be up around 4 am and leave here at 4:40 in order to get to the airport which is in hour away before my flight.....ick...early morning! So I am going to bed soon hahaha.
I will still have access to the internet at home so feel free to comment or email me secretcreekstables@gmail.com
Take care and chat soon!!!!
I'll be back on the Island in a matter of hours now :D !!!!!!!!!!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
2 more sleeps....
Today was even slower then the rest haha. I'm rested and ready to go back to insanely hard work in Florida now! Days go soooo much faster when you have things to do.
I know this is only temporary as the horses are on a bit of a rest period too. But we had NO RIDERS today....none. Amy and Jonathan were away at a clinic. Ian is still in Vegas and returns home tomorrow. He ended up in 14th place at the World Cup Finals.
So today was a quiet one. Got everyone fed, groomed, turned out and on the walker and that was about the extent of my day. Cleaned and organised every piece of tack, equipment, anything I could find to organise....I organised haha.
Finished the day at 4. Came home and had a good chat with my mom. I am meeting with Amy tomorrow to discuss my duties and future status here at Millarbrooke farm. I am also going to ask if Diva can come back with me :) So I spent my evening thinking up questions I need to know as well as things I'd like to see happen around here. I feel ready for our meeting now.
Went back to the barn at 7:20 to help Jonathan put Aubie away again. It's nice to have some time to chat when we aren't running around like crazy.
Now I am making myself some roast beef and green beans for dinner....yummmm
Ohhhhh....and.....only two more sleeps!!!! And one more day of work until I'm home <3
I know this is only temporary as the horses are on a bit of a rest period too. But we had NO RIDERS today....none. Amy and Jonathan were away at a clinic. Ian is still in Vegas and returns home tomorrow. He ended up in 14th place at the World Cup Finals.
So today was a quiet one. Got everyone fed, groomed, turned out and on the walker and that was about the extent of my day. Cleaned and organised every piece of tack, equipment, anything I could find to organise....I organised haha.
Finished the day at 4. Came home and had a good chat with my mom. I am meeting with Amy tomorrow to discuss my duties and future status here at Millarbrooke farm. I am also going to ask if Diva can come back with me :) So I spent my evening thinking up questions I need to know as well as things I'd like to see happen around here. I feel ready for our meeting now.
Went back to the barn at 7:20 to help Jonathan put Aubie away again. It's nice to have some time to chat when we aren't running around like crazy.
Now I am making myself some roast beef and green beans for dinner....yummmm
Ohhhhh....and.....only two more sleeps!!!! And one more day of work until I'm home <3
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Slow and Steady
Can't believe I forgot to write about the BEST part of yesterday! I got to drive Ian's beautiful insanely expensive Mercedes into town to get cleaned and then back again. What a hot little car to drive! I was excited they asked me to as that car is his pride and joy. I drove very carefully and responsibly however the power in that gas peddle was incredible. So fun!
Today was back to being slow as molasses in January. The weather went from sunny to rainy and cold brrrrr. But over all it was a much better day. I put my talent of talking and problem solving to good use today and tried to confront "the issue" that is going on. I feel much better that we were able to talk about it. Still won't fix it entirely but at least the story becomes more clear.
Amy and Jonathan were both away at clinics today so we only had one rider. Ian is in Las Vegas still at the World Cup with In Style. They get home in a few days and then things will start getting busy around here again.
Only two more days of work til I come home. I am SOOOOO excited.
I am having a meeting with Amy before I leave to discuss my position here just to become more clear on what is expected. I also haven't asked if my dog Diva can come back with me. I am REALLY hoping they'll say yes. Some of the other grooms say theres a no dog policy as there are already too many here between Ian, Amy's and Jonathan's dog.....however if I'm staying home while they go to shows I really want her here. Besides, she's smaller than a cat...she really is more like a cat than a dog anyway. It wasn't such a big deal before when I was a travelling show groom but now things are changing. I miss my puppy!
Worked from 7 until 4 today. Then I had to go back at 6ish to help Jonathan put Aubie away after his clinic. Unloaded him off the trailer, gave him a brush and washed his legs. Cleaned his tack and loaded it back up as he's doing the same thing tomorrow. Left the barn again by 7:30....and I'm going back again at 8:30 for night check haha. Oh well....not like I can go very far from my apartment anyway. Oh I just realized I havent uploaded pics of the new place.....better clean up before I take pictures though haha. Still havent really unpacked and organised. I better go make dinner before heading back to the barn. Goodnight
Today was back to being slow as molasses in January. The weather went from sunny to rainy and cold brrrrr. But over all it was a much better day. I put my talent of talking and problem solving to good use today and tried to confront "the issue" that is going on. I feel much better that we were able to talk about it. Still won't fix it entirely but at least the story becomes more clear.
Amy and Jonathan were both away at clinics today so we only had one rider. Ian is in Las Vegas still at the World Cup with In Style. They get home in a few days and then things will start getting busy around here again.
Only two more days of work til I come home. I am SOOOOO excited.
I am having a meeting with Amy before I leave to discuss my position here just to become more clear on what is expected. I also haven't asked if my dog Diva can come back with me. I am REALLY hoping they'll say yes. Some of the other grooms say theres a no dog policy as there are already too many here between Ian, Amy's and Jonathan's dog.....however if I'm staying home while they go to shows I really want her here. Besides, she's smaller than a cat...she really is more like a cat than a dog anyway. It wasn't such a big deal before when I was a travelling show groom but now things are changing. I miss my puppy!
Worked from 7 until 4 today. Then I had to go back at 6ish to help Jonathan put Aubie away after his clinic. Unloaded him off the trailer, gave him a brush and washed his legs. Cleaned his tack and loaded it back up as he's doing the same thing tomorrow. Left the barn again by 7:30....and I'm going back again at 8:30 for night check haha. Oh well....not like I can go very far from my apartment anyway. Oh I just realized I havent uploaded pics of the new place.....better clean up before I take pictures though haha. Still havent really unpacked and organised. I better go make dinner before heading back to the barn. Goodnight
Friday, April 17, 2009
Getting excited to come home
Today was busier...which is good as it makes the days go by faster. Workin conditons here are still difficult...but luckily it won't last. I'm being fairly vague about it because I never know who is reading and I'm not about to put out too many details or things I shouldn't. All I will say is this work enviornment is only temporary and soon all the bad feelings will be gone.
Millarbrooke is a beautiful farm and our surroundings are just gorgeous. With the weather being warmer now I might actually venture out for a walk after work and see more of it....that is if I can find the energy after work. I am still tired from Florida and I am working straight through so that I can have my week off to go home next week. It's definatly taking it's toll though...my body is tired and looking forward to a break. not that coming home will really be a break because I'll still have 11 horses to feed, clean and take care of. But at least I'll have a little bit of help...hopefully....(family? any volunteers?) I want to sleep in for at least ONE day while I'm home haha. Home will still be home and it'll feel so great to be there. I need that right now.
Only 3 more work days til I fly out first thing Tuesday morning :) I am flying from Ottawa, layover in Calgary then arriving in Comox by 11ish. I have a few meetings between there and home but I'll be on the Island YAY.
I should get to bed....I'm trying to sleep as much as humanly possible to make it through the next few days.
Goodnight
Millarbrooke is a beautiful farm and our surroundings are just gorgeous. With the weather being warmer now I might actually venture out for a walk after work and see more of it....that is if I can find the energy after work. I am still tired from Florida and I am working straight through so that I can have my week off to go home next week. It's definatly taking it's toll though...my body is tired and looking forward to a break. not that coming home will really be a break because I'll still have 11 horses to feed, clean and take care of. But at least I'll have a little bit of help...hopefully....(family? any volunteers?) I want to sleep in for at least ONE day while I'm home haha. Home will still be home and it'll feel so great to be there. I need that right now.
Only 3 more work days til I fly out first thing Tuesday morning :) I am flying from Ottawa, layover in Calgary then arriving in Comox by 11ish. I have a few meetings between there and home but I'll be on the Island YAY.
I should get to bed....I'm trying to sleep as much as humanly possible to make it through the next few days.
Goodnight
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Change is good....right?
I made it safely back to the farm in Perth. Yesterday was the first day back. Work was....well...more character building haha. Lets just say there are alot of changes going on and some people are not happy about it....and I'm sort of in the middle of it all. I am not "causing" the issues however I suppose my talents are being seen and asked to stay/move up while others are not.... I also found out today one of the other grooms has decided to leave and go home. He will be missed as he does a fantastic job. He just misses home and wants to go back to school, so we understand. Anyone else want to come be a show groom?
All my life I have had the same little lesson to deal with....not to let what other people say bother me. I have a hard time with that because I care about people and I like to make everyone happy. I know (especially in this industry) that you can't please everyone, all the time, and there will be people who don't like you. I'm still getting used to that idea.
In moving up this professional ladder I am learning so much more about myself and what I need to become and get better at. Already since I've been here I've had to stand up and ask for the things I want. I need to have an opinion and a voice....and know how/when to use it. I need to have a backbone and stand up to the people who try to undermine me. I'm getting better at this but of course there is always room for improvement.
Today went better. But not by THAT much. I have to go and do nightcheck tonight at 8:30 pm.
Only 5 more days until I get to come home for a week....YAY I am so excited to see everyone! And the island.....the weather in perth has been good however its way more dry then humid Florida so my skin is screaming. I am ladeling the cream on and its just not working fast enough. My hands are already cracked and hurt. Must by more intense hand cream!
Oh I am getting distracted now trying to talk to my mom on Skype...TTFN!
All my life I have had the same little lesson to deal with....not to let what other people say bother me. I have a hard time with that because I care about people and I like to make everyone happy. I know (especially in this industry) that you can't please everyone, all the time, and there will be people who don't like you. I'm still getting used to that idea.
In moving up this professional ladder I am learning so much more about myself and what I need to become and get better at. Already since I've been here I've had to stand up and ask for the things I want. I need to have an opinion and a voice....and know how/when to use it. I need to have a backbone and stand up to the people who try to undermine me. I'm getting better at this but of course there is always room for improvement.
Today went better. But not by THAT much. I have to go and do nightcheck tonight at 8:30 pm.
Only 5 more days until I get to come home for a week....YAY I am so excited to see everyone! And the island.....the weather in perth has been good however its way more dry then humid Florida so my skin is screaming. I am ladeling the cream on and its just not working fast enough. My hands are already cracked and hurt. Must by more intense hand cream!
Oh I am getting distracted now trying to talk to my mom on Skype...TTFN!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
40 miles to Canada....
Woke up this morning at 5 am. Finished packing and said goodbye to the Florida house. The barn looked so empty with everything loaded onto the truck. Fed the horses and put two loads on the walker to stretch their legs before the long haul home.
We had to go load up a clients horses at 7:30 and then come back to load ours. We were loaded and pulled out the driveway by 9 am. Goodbye dream barn….it’s been swell.
Sandra and I climbed aboard the big rig. It was her and I, the two drivers Lyle and Andrew with 10 horses in tow and we hit the high road.
What a bouncy ride these things are in the cab….apparently the horses travel better then we do. I`m getting used to that….the horses always get better then I do haha it`s something I will always live with.
It`s quite roomy in here with two beds and the two front seats. I laid in the top bunk and slept off and on for the first 5 hours. I think Jacksonville is the only place I really remember being awake for lol. We stopped once to use the “facilities” and then didn’t stop until 5 and a half hours in to feed and water the horses, re fuel the truck and feed ourselves an early dinner. The time is now 4 o clock and we just pulled back onto the road in Georgia. I bought a cute shirt that says “Silly boys trucks are for girls” haha its so me…and I have to say I LOVE the South!
We haven’t gotten that far away from paradise and yet the sky has clouded over and it looks like we are in for a wet night. Glad I’m not the one driving. I’m having fun in this big rig J
Read the first chapter of my books and broke open the goodies I brought to munch on. Think I`m going to hunker down for another nap….yep this is a hard way to travel haha. I`ll write again in another few hours I`m sure….TTFN
Didn’t turn on my computer again until 27 hours into the trip. I have done a lot of sleeping which is good and bad at the same time. Sandra and I are used to working hard everyday and all this lazing around in a big rig has us so stiff and sore. I’ll have to ask the guys what states we have all driven though now. Last night we took shifts for who got to sleep in the bed and who sat in the front seat while the drivers rotated as well. I listened to country and thought about home. I have an awful lot of time to think about a lot of things….
Fell asleep again around 4 am and didn’t wake up until 6:30 am Tuesday morning. We stopped to feed and water the horses and let ourselves visit the little girls room. We are defiantly in cooler weather now so we put the sheets on the horses. They are all clipped up for show and used to Florida weather like we are. We drove through some crazy thunderstorms and lightening last night. Scary stuff….glad I was just the passenger and not the driver. The first truck stop this morning had no water and had an issue with fuel so we went a mile and a half down the road to a quaint little place to refuel and water the horses. It had a really good restaurant with a down home feel. Everyone knew everyone and was so nice. I’ve said it before but I LOVE the south.
There were lots of miles in between there that I’m leaving out but it was the middle of the night so nothing too exciting happened.
We are currently sitting at the boarder waiting for the scary boarder men to come look in our trailer. We have 8 Canadian horses returning but also one of the clients horses that was bought down in the US so they are dealing with the broker ect. FUN FUN. We need to water these guys again and theres no water here so we are hoping they hurry it up.
I think we only have like another 2 or so hours to go until we are back in Perth. Home sweet Home. Will write again tonight…..
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Goodbye Paradise
Today was our last full work day in Florida. Groomed the horses and put them on the walker twice, out in the paddocks and hand grazed the ones that don't go out. It was bloody hot today....last load home, packing day was much cooler. Luckily the drivers were around to help and did the majority of heavy lifting for us...yay men.
By about 12 both trucks, trailers, the black dodge and every vehicle we have was fully loaded and ready. The barn looks empty and Grand Prix Village looks like a ghost town. It's amazing that this incredible place sits empty pretty much from now until next winter as it just gets too hot here to function. Oh to have that kind of money and those kinds of choices.
We'll be leaving without In Style tomorrow as he is flying onto Las Vegas for the World Cup. Good Luck Stevie!
We said goodbye to the other grooms and to a few of the clients from here who we've met. I even got a little gift from the woman who bought G Force....he's doing awesome by the way <3>
Left work by 4:30 and went to Walmart to grab a few things for the long trip home. Sandra and I are travelling with the horses in the big rig (the big blue one you all saw pictures of) There are two drivers who switch on and off and we get to sit in the back and sleep....for 30 hours....no stopping. Oh man! Should be quite the trip.
But we actually went out for dinner after with the drivers tonight and they told us they do try to stop every 5 hours or so, so I was glad to hear that. I still think it'll make for quite the roadtrip.
We are heading to the barn at 5:45 tomorrow. Feeding the horses and getting them on the walker to loosen them up before their long drive and we plan to load by 8:30 and on the road by 9. So next time you hear from me I will be back at Millarbrooke Farm in Perth Ontario. Great white north HERE I COME!
I wanna make a snow angel haha.
Ok must get back to packing. I'd be worried about being tired but I get to sleep for the next day and a half so I don't really care about being up late tonight hehehe.
TTFN Goodbye Paradise....I will be back sometime.
Oh and please write your comments when you feel the need to....I enjoy hearing a response so I'm not just talking to myself lol (mom that means laughing out loud...she's new to computer talk....oh and dad too since he has now embraced the world of computers) Love you miss you....see you in 9 days!!!
By about 12 both trucks, trailers, the black dodge and every vehicle we have was fully loaded and ready. The barn looks empty and Grand Prix Village looks like a ghost town. It's amazing that this incredible place sits empty pretty much from now until next winter as it just gets too hot here to function. Oh to have that kind of money and those kinds of choices.
We'll be leaving without In Style tomorrow as he is flying onto Las Vegas for the World Cup. Good Luck Stevie!
We said goodbye to the other grooms and to a few of the clients from here who we've met. I even got a little gift from the woman who bought G Force....he's doing awesome by the way <3>
Left work by 4:30 and went to Walmart to grab a few things for the long trip home. Sandra and I are travelling with the horses in the big rig (the big blue one you all saw pictures of) There are two drivers who switch on and off and we get to sit in the back and sleep....for 30 hours....no stopping. Oh man! Should be quite the trip.
But we actually went out for dinner after with the drivers tonight and they told us they do try to stop every 5 hours or so, so I was glad to hear that. I still think it'll make for quite the roadtrip.
We are heading to the barn at 5:45 tomorrow. Feeding the horses and getting them on the walker to loosen them up before their long drive and we plan to load by 8:30 and on the road by 9. So next time you hear from me I will be back at Millarbrooke Farm in Perth Ontario. Great white north HERE I COME!
I wanna make a snow angel haha.
Ok must get back to packing. I'd be worried about being tired but I get to sleep for the next day and a half so I don't really care about being up late tonight hehehe.
TTFN Goodbye Paradise....I will be back sometime.
Oh and please write your comments when you feel the need to....I enjoy hearing a response so I'm not just talking to myself lol (mom that means laughing out loud...she's new to computer talk....oh and dad too since he has now embraced the world of computers) Love you miss you....see you in 9 days!!!
Friday, April 10, 2009
So excited!!!
I'M COMING HOME !!!!! April 21st to the 28th....one whole week. It won't be like real days off though as while I'm home I have to run my farm so my barn manager can have a break haha. Oh well...It's not like I'm used to having it easy anyway...maybe if I can just sleep in ONE day :) That will make me happy. See some of you in 11 days :) *insert extreme happy dance*
Down the last stretch
Today was slow going. Things are really starting to wind down now and both of my horses had today off and Assini went home in the first load. Ian and Jonathan are the only ones left riding here. Amy headed home today and so did more of the other riders.
Tomorrow is the LAST show day here at the Wellington Festival for us. Ian and Jonathan are riding in the $25 000 Grand Prix. So with 4 grooms and 7 horses our days take forever to go by. At first we thought this slow time would be a nice break for us, but when you are so used to working so fast day in and day out....when it's slow like this you get lazy and want to sit and sleep.
Only two more work days and then Monday we start the long 30 or so hour drive back home....I'm kind of excited for the roadtrip but I can't say the others feel my same enthusiasm haha. At least we have horses showing tomorrow and then Sunday will be packing day so we should have more to do then today.
The weather has been beautiful as always. It's been a nice livable temperature...cool mornings (which I LOVE) and then it gets hot for the afternoon.
There's talk that I MIGHT possibly get to come home for a one week visit. I'm waiting to hear back from Amy tonight. What a big pain in the arse I am though....she asked us yesterday if we wanted a week off all at once or just a day or two here and there. I said it didn't really matter much to me but I thought I'd have some time to at least think about it. Well they are so on top of things that by today the schedule had been made so when I went to ask if I could go home it didn't look promising. I gave Amy a call tonight though to explain my thoughts and why I felt it would work better. She's currently en route of the long drive from Florida to Perth so she said she'll call me back later tonight once she stops driving and has time to look at the dates ect.
So fingers crossed! If so I'll be coming home from April 21st to 28th.....please please please universe. I would love to see my family, friends and farm. Especially since I don't know when the next opportunity will be when I could get the chance to have a whole week off.
I'm on night check tonight so I should probablly go make some dinner and get organised to head back to the barn at 8 pm. I will update as soon as I have an answer about home :)
TTFN
Tomorrow is the LAST show day here at the Wellington Festival for us. Ian and Jonathan are riding in the $25 000 Grand Prix. So with 4 grooms and 7 horses our days take forever to go by. At first we thought this slow time would be a nice break for us, but when you are so used to working so fast day in and day out....when it's slow like this you get lazy and want to sit and sleep.
Only two more work days and then Monday we start the long 30 or so hour drive back home....I'm kind of excited for the roadtrip but I can't say the others feel my same enthusiasm haha. At least we have horses showing tomorrow and then Sunday will be packing day so we should have more to do then today.
The weather has been beautiful as always. It's been a nice livable temperature...cool mornings (which I LOVE) and then it gets hot for the afternoon.
There's talk that I MIGHT possibly get to come home for a one week visit. I'm waiting to hear back from Amy tonight. What a big pain in the arse I am though....she asked us yesterday if we wanted a week off all at once or just a day or two here and there. I said it didn't really matter much to me but I thought I'd have some time to at least think about it. Well they are so on top of things that by today the schedule had been made so when I went to ask if I could go home it didn't look promising. I gave Amy a call tonight though to explain my thoughts and why I felt it would work better. She's currently en route of the long drive from Florida to Perth so she said she'll call me back later tonight once she stops driving and has time to look at the dates ect.
So fingers crossed! If so I'll be coming home from April 21st to 28th.....please please please universe. I would love to see my family, friends and farm. Especially since I don't know when the next opportunity will be when I could get the chance to have a whole week off.
I'm on night check tonight so I should probablly go make some dinner and get organised to head back to the barn at 8 pm. I will update as soon as I have an answer about home :)
TTFN
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
PICTURES
I posted more pictures on Island Horses for you all to see http://www.islandhorsesforum.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=33867
I am high on life
I am just smiling ear to ear today. So many things happening, so many dreams coming true and so many becoming even bigger. Even a few months ago if you told me I was going to be here doing this I would have never believed you. I am exactly where I need to be for right now. I strongly believe everything happens for a reason and those who dream big and work even harder to get there...will get there. Nothing can stop me and I am on a mission.
Two grooms and 10 horses left today. Started at 6 am, put all the horses on the walker and hand walked the rest before their long trailer ride home. Groomed them all up nice and loaded them onto the truck. Its so neat how those big rigs load. (again I need to upload the pics I took)
With 4 grooms and only 7 horses left in the barn out day felt empty. We actually had time to WATCH the show today :) My two horses showed first thing this morning so by 10 o clock my horses were done. We got the barn cleaned and our other chores done. So by 1 o clock we got to watch the $10 000 stake class that Ian and Jonathan were riding in. Our horses did well today coming 4th and 6th out of 30 or so riders. (again I got good pictures of them jumping since we were outside in the sunshine) I almost felt guilty for just sitting and enjoying it....and getting paid for it. But really...we never sit so it was a well deserved break. By 2 we headed back to the barn to get the show horses cleaned, wrapped and put away for the night. We were done and off work by 4....that has never happened once since we've been here :)
Tonight the 4 of us went out for dinner to a Thai restaurant...mmm it was yummy. Went shopping to pick up a few things and am now happily at home and almost ready for bed. I am dog tired this evening after waking up at 5....blek! Had a great talk to my sister who I miss SOOOOOOOOOOOO much. I am so proud of her and everything she is working towards. I'd like to think she's taught me a few things about a thing or two haha.
Ok...time to shower and sleepy down time.
T minus 5 days until returning to the great white north....TTFN!
Two grooms and 10 horses left today. Started at 6 am, put all the horses on the walker and hand walked the rest before their long trailer ride home. Groomed them all up nice and loaded them onto the truck. Its so neat how those big rigs load. (again I need to upload the pics I took)
With 4 grooms and only 7 horses left in the barn out day felt empty. We actually had time to WATCH the show today :) My two horses showed first thing this morning so by 10 o clock my horses were done. We got the barn cleaned and our other chores done. So by 1 o clock we got to watch the $10 000 stake class that Ian and Jonathan were riding in. Our horses did well today coming 4th and 6th out of 30 or so riders. (again I got good pictures of them jumping since we were outside in the sunshine) I almost felt guilty for just sitting and enjoying it....and getting paid for it. But really...we never sit so it was a well deserved break. By 2 we headed back to the barn to get the show horses cleaned, wrapped and put away for the night. We were done and off work by 4....that has never happened once since we've been here :)
Tonight the 4 of us went out for dinner to a Thai restaurant...mmm it was yummy. Went shopping to pick up a few things and am now happily at home and almost ready for bed. I am dog tired this evening after waking up at 5....blek! Had a great talk to my sister who I miss SOOOOOOOOOOOO much. I am so proud of her and everything she is working towards. I'd like to think she's taught me a few things about a thing or two haha.
Ok...time to shower and sleepy down time.
T minus 5 days until returning to the great white north....TTFN!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Packed and ready to roll....load # 1
Started at 7. Mercy and Aubie were showing today so I got them ready to be lunged and ridden then headed to the show grounds. Kaila was able to help me take one so it worked out well. It was actually (dare I say it) COLD out this morning. The wind was blowing and everyone was whining how freezing it was....haha just wait til we get back to Candada. Me being the hot blooded one was loving the coolness of the day and actualy felt human instead of a big ball of sweaty grossness. As I sit here and write I do actually have a sweatshirt on for the first time I think since I've been here.
In between getting horses ready we were busy cleaning and packing up the barn. The first load of 10 horses leave tomorrow and we had to pack as many of the trucks and stuff on this load as possible. With 10 going home we are going to be left with only 8 horses for this last week. Only 6 days now until I head home.
Had a great talk with Ian and Lori today about what I'll be doing at the farm and which apartment I'll be in ect. I'll wait until I get there to actually comment on what my position is. I am very excited about it and I am definatly moving up in the world. It's going to be alot of responsibility but I feel like I'm up for the challenge. Wish me luck :) Goodnight Ya'll....Oh I should upload pictures...I've been trying to take lots the last few days.
In between getting horses ready we were busy cleaning and packing up the barn. The first load of 10 horses leave tomorrow and we had to pack as many of the trucks and stuff on this load as possible. With 10 going home we are going to be left with only 8 horses for this last week. Only 6 days now until I head home.
Had a great talk with Ian and Lori today about what I'll be doing at the farm and which apartment I'll be in ect. I'll wait until I get there to actually comment on what my position is. I am very excited about it and I am definatly moving up in the world. It's going to be alot of responsibility but I feel like I'm up for the challenge. Wish me luck :) Goodnight Ya'll....Oh I should upload pictures...I've been trying to take lots the last few days.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Just another Monday morning
Well I have lucked out this week. Monday has rolled around again and I got it off YAY. It also happens to be THE last day off while we are here as next Monday I am heading back to Ontario.
So just to recap I had Saturday off....worked Sunday and now have Monday off :)
Sunday was organised chaos. It was the last $25 000 Grand Prix of the season and Assini was showing in it. I got Mercy ready for patrick to ride in the am, then got Cuervo Gold...some of you might know him he was one of Margie Goldstein or Ingle or...whatever her name is now, old horse. Kaila had all 3 of her horses showing so we all helped where we could. I took him up to the grounds where I met here and switched horses to bring Jose back. It all took longer then planned though so I was late getting back to the grounds to get Assini ready. I ran back to the barn with Jose where Lori met me so she could drive me in the golf cart....thank goodness because it was like 90 degrees out!
Got up to the grounds with a few minutes to spare. The other girls thankfully got her braided and ready for me so all I had to do was put her bridle, boots, hoof oil on and go.
All 5 grooms were busy with taking horses to the grounds and poor Niclas was stuck back at the farm all alone.
The day ended well.
So today....I am just sitting outside tanning and relaxing. It's a blistering 95 degrees out but not all that sunny...it comes and goes with wind and clouds...kind of odd weather.
I might update again later...time for a glass of orange juice and back to tanning :)
TTFN
So just to recap I had Saturday off....worked Sunday and now have Monday off :)
Sunday was organised chaos. It was the last $25 000 Grand Prix of the season and Assini was showing in it. I got Mercy ready for patrick to ride in the am, then got Cuervo Gold...some of you might know him he was one of Margie Goldstein or Ingle or...whatever her name is now, old horse. Kaila had all 3 of her horses showing so we all helped where we could. I took him up to the grounds where I met here and switched horses to bring Jose back. It all took longer then planned though so I was late getting back to the grounds to get Assini ready. I ran back to the barn with Jose where Lori met me so she could drive me in the golf cart....thank goodness because it was like 90 degrees out!
Got up to the grounds with a few minutes to spare. The other girls thankfully got her braided and ready for me so all I had to do was put her bridle, boots, hoof oil on and go.
All 5 grooms were busy with taking horses to the grounds and poor Niclas was stuck back at the farm all alone.
The day ended well.
So today....I am just sitting outside tanning and relaxing. It's a blistering 95 degrees out but not all that sunny...it comes and goes with wind and clouds...kind of odd weather.
I might update again later...time for a glass of orange juice and back to tanning :)
TTFN
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Day off again
I had a day off today....I was supposed to have one on Wednesday but my horses were showing so it wasn't possible. I am supposed to have Monday off but I'm not sure if I'll still get still or not? If i do we are going to the waterslides :) YAY
I spent my day tanning for the morning until the sun went away. Then I just relaxed in the house and watched TV. Once the others got home from work we went to the grocery store. After that I decided I wanteds to make the trek to TJ Maxx....I LOVE that store. I had never been before so I pulled directions off of Mapquest. Driving on 8 or more lane highways in a big truck is imtimidating when you are by yourself and have no idea of the area haha. Had to stop and ask where I was going once but then I found it and boy did I shop. Again...I adore that store. Had to have the truck home by 8 so the others could go to nightcheck.
Two of our grooms leave on Wednesday with the first load of 10 horses. The rest of us leave the following Monday, 5 days later.
It`s getting bittersweet thinking about leaving. I will miss the sunshine on my days off but not on that days I have to work in it. I know once I live in the cold I will want the sunshine back again...
Assini is showing tomorrow so we are starting at 6:30 so she can flat her before the class at 12.
I better get to bed. I just love seeing how many people are reading and where you all are from :) Very neat. Thanks for reading!
Shawna
I spent my day tanning for the morning until the sun went away. Then I just relaxed in the house and watched TV. Once the others got home from work we went to the grocery store. After that I decided I wanteds to make the trek to TJ Maxx....I LOVE that store. I had never been before so I pulled directions off of Mapquest. Driving on 8 or more lane highways in a big truck is imtimidating when you are by yourself and have no idea of the area haha. Had to stop and ask where I was going once but then I found it and boy did I shop. Again...I adore that store. Had to have the truck home by 8 so the others could go to nightcheck.
Two of our grooms leave on Wednesday with the first load of 10 horses. The rest of us leave the following Monday, 5 days later.
It`s getting bittersweet thinking about leaving. I will miss the sunshine on my days off but not on that days I have to work in it. I know once I live in the cold I will want the sunshine back again...
Assini is showing tomorrow so we are starting at 6:30 so she can flat her before the class at 12.
I better get to bed. I just love seeing how many people are reading and where you all are from :) Very neat. Thanks for reading!
Shawna
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Good ol Thursday
Thursday....started at 7....I LOVE when we start at 7....we get to sleep until 6 and don't have to leave the house until 6:45....it almost feels like sleeping in hahahahahahaahahaha.
This morning was a typical morning, no one was in a rush because the classes didn't start until 12 pm. Put my horses on the electro blanket, on the walker and got them turned out.
Mercy and Assini were showing in back to back classes so Niclas had to take Mercy to the grounds for me.
My rider flatted Aubie and Assini during the morning. I got Assini cleaned and ready again for the 1 o clock class. I walked all the way up to the show grounds....takes 15-20 minutes and JUST as I was almost to the International ring I heard Lori hollar at me from her scooter zooming up behind me. Turns out they changed the time of the class to two o clock....ugh. So now being 1:00, I turned around and headed back to the barn. Took off her sheet, boots and bridle and tied her in her stall for 20 mintues. Got her out and ready and headed BACK to the ring to be there by 1:45 haha. It wouldnt have been so bad if it wasnt killer hot out today. I believe is was 93 degrees....thats like 34 celcius....it was gross. The heat doesnt stop...each day we say its so hot and then the next day is even hotter...please stop.
Assini was AWESOME in the class and only had one rail down. It was a BIG 1.45 course. I was proud of her. Ian won the class on Leroy. Today was a good day.
I took a few pictures but I want to take some more before I upload and resize them all. Got a nice pic of my sock tan hahahaha. TTFN.
PS....I am loving my new tool that shows where people log into my blog from. I had NO IDEA so many people from all over the place were reading. Hi All!!! Thank you for following my story
This morning was a typical morning, no one was in a rush because the classes didn't start until 12 pm. Put my horses on the electro blanket, on the walker and got them turned out.
Mercy and Assini were showing in back to back classes so Niclas had to take Mercy to the grounds for me.
My rider flatted Aubie and Assini during the morning. I got Assini cleaned and ready again for the 1 o clock class. I walked all the way up to the show grounds....takes 15-20 minutes and JUST as I was almost to the International ring I heard Lori hollar at me from her scooter zooming up behind me. Turns out they changed the time of the class to two o clock....ugh. So now being 1:00, I turned around and headed back to the barn. Took off her sheet, boots and bridle and tied her in her stall for 20 mintues. Got her out and ready and headed BACK to the ring to be there by 1:45 haha. It wouldnt have been so bad if it wasnt killer hot out today. I believe is was 93 degrees....thats like 34 celcius....it was gross. The heat doesnt stop...each day we say its so hot and then the next day is even hotter...please stop.
Assini was AWESOME in the class and only had one rail down. It was a BIG 1.45 course. I was proud of her. Ian won the class on Leroy. Today was a good day.
I took a few pictures but I want to take some more before I upload and resize them all. Got a nice pic of my sock tan hahahaha. TTFN.
PS....I am loving my new tool that shows where people log into my blog from. I had NO IDEA so many people from all over the place were reading. Hi All!!! Thank you for following my story
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
April Fools Day
Just realized it's April fools day haha. Shows you how busy I am....I usually have no idea what day it is.
Woke up at 5:30....looked at the "the book" when I got up and noticed the time had changed....could have slept another 20 min...ugh. "The Book" is where we write messages to other people in the house and where the time we start work in the morning is always written down. Lately it keeps magically changing once we have all gone to bed which makes for a not so happy morning for most....
Yesterday morning I got told I could take today off so I was happy about that...however by the end of the day they realized I had a horse showing today so was no longer allowed to take the day off. This is the first time I've had to work a full two weeks without having a day off though so I'm not complaining.
It is still grossly hot and continues to get hotter each day....I am SO ready to go home (home being the farm in Perth Ontario). Apparently we are going to have a meeting soon to talk about who's going when and with which load, vehicles ect. I REALLY want to be on the first load that leaves in 7 days now :) Fingers crossed.
I have two horses showing tomorrow so that should be fun in this heat. All the riders and horses have sure noticed the difference in temperature.
Well on that note I am going to have a shower....I had to clip Aubie today and with the humidity I think the majority of his hair stuck to me....itchy!
Hope everyone is having a GREAT day. TTFN
Woke up at 5:30....looked at the "the book" when I got up and noticed the time had changed....could have slept another 20 min...ugh. "The Book" is where we write messages to other people in the house and where the time we start work in the morning is always written down. Lately it keeps magically changing once we have all gone to bed which makes for a not so happy morning for most....
Yesterday morning I got told I could take today off so I was happy about that...however by the end of the day they realized I had a horse showing today so was no longer allowed to take the day off. This is the first time I've had to work a full two weeks without having a day off though so I'm not complaining.
It is still grossly hot and continues to get hotter each day....I am SO ready to go home (home being the farm in Perth Ontario). Apparently we are going to have a meeting soon to talk about who's going when and with which load, vehicles ect. I REALLY want to be on the first load that leaves in 7 days now :) Fingers crossed.
I have two horses showing tomorrow so that should be fun in this heat. All the riders and horses have sure noticed the difference in temperature.
Well on that note I am going to have a shower....I had to clip Aubie today and with the humidity I think the majority of his hair stuck to me....itchy!
Hope everyone is having a GREAT day. TTFN
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