I want to follow up my previous post about 'peacefully standing up for what you believe in, with some equestrian examples. I am going to start with the dark side of equestrian sports ,when winning and/or money become more important than the horses. WHICH IN MY MIND SHOULD NOT HAPPEN!!! Then I will talk about those who put the horse first and the business second the WAY IT SHOULD BE!!!
It does happen at every level from local back yard to the Olympic level.. I am not going to name names. I was either there or was told by the persons in question what they did. We are talking about unethical training and treatment. I will briefly tell some of the things I have seen, but first I want to mention how I have tried to deal with it so far. I voice my opinion if I think it will be heard and distance myself from the individuals as soon as possible and no longer do business with them or refer business to them.If possible and action could be taken I made the appropriate phone call and made authorities or governing body aware
One of the worst things I have seen had to be while a horse was tranquilized someone made a torch from a metal hanger and some rags added lighter fluid, and burned the long hairs of the horses winter coat. Then rubbed it to make it shine so it would bring a bit more at an auction. Later on a international competitor and coach told me how they had a horse on the ground beating and dragging it to try and get it to go in a water complex that it would have to go through the fallowing day at a trials. Barns were horses almost never showed without illegal medications like tranquilizers.A t some of the top barns in the world some of these things happen. Stallions and competition horses getting so many anabolic steroids. Steroids that can make them become sterile or founder on... Horses that have chemicals applied to their coronet bands so their legs are very sensitive to touch and then polled strongly at a jump and if they stop three young men are waiting with long whips to send them forward. Horses left in stalls with their heads tied down with side reins, in various ways and left for hours. Horses purposely flipped on there backs. Well I think you get the point.Onto the other side.
There are as many good Examples! Now I will name names These are trainers I have witnessed or lived with. Jennie Lorinston Clarke is adamant about horses proper treatment.CONRAD SCHUMACHER'S always had the public walking through his families farm with its restaurant and golf course ex.and told me how it was important for evryone to know they may be being watched as he traveled a lot. Robert Dover is a shining example with his ring along the road in Wellington for everyone to see. General Burton, Tad Coffin, Raul de Lion, Barbara Strawson, Scot Hassler, Susanne Hassler, Belinda Nairn Wortman , Fred Weber, Felicitous Von Newman Cousel, Jack le Golfe, Gunnar Osturgaurd. Tod Fletrich, Mary Alice Malone, Frank-John-Bezzie Madden, and last but definetly not least my dear friend Ricardo Villa. Are ALL PEOPLE I WOULD LEAVE MY MOST PRECIOUS HORSE WITH AND NOT WORRY AT ALL !!! There are many more great barns and professionals I only mentioned ones I could give a first hand endorsement
It us up to each of us to choose everyday to walk in the light even when it may cost us a great deal, we must!
I try my best to give the best example I possibly can at all times. I hope in the years to come it only gets better and that all the people on my list and many more would give me such an endorsement.
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
You have to draw a line and peacefully stand for what you belive!!!
* I believe in peace, good health,animal welfare- treating animals fairly & well, creating a sustainable environmentally friendly future and many other things.
** Today I would like to talk about how I believe it is important to be stand for what you believe in; in a peaceful way. The are many examples of people like Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa ,Mahatma Gandhi, Desmond Tu Tu. Nelson Mandela, The Dali Lama, Dr Zakir Naik, and Deepak Chopra all of whom you can learn about on www.google.com or www.youtube.com or your favorite library. They have done far greater things than I have.
I learned about this principle from my Grand father on my mom's side and my namesake.3 out of 4 lol, John Thomas Carruthers Sr. I think it might be helpful if I tell you a bit about his varied background that made him such a great teacher and example for me.He was born on August 21, 1907 in Ashburn, Virginia. He grew up in North Fork, Virginia near Purcellville. He served as a Marine in China for four years and then worked at the Navel Research Laboratories on Sonar and moving on to be in charge of the Technical Glass Blowing Department From there he went onto teach at the University of Maryland in the Chemistry Department for 22 years.During his teaching years he also taught at Gallaudet College for the deaf and at the local prisons so the prisoners would have a skill to use to earn an honest living when they got their second chance at life upon their release.He retired in 1969 and stayed in his home in Chevy Chase ( Somerset) Maryland until 1981 when he moved to Middletown, Maryland where he lived until his death in 1996. In my mind he never retired, and he is also with me everyday. I hope someday I am 1/2 the man he was.
*** Now let me tell you why. I never remember him sitting still, he was always on the move and most of the time doing something for others. Whether it be at home "In The Garden" which was also a song he wanted sung at his funeral or taking food or clothing somewhere for those in need. Twice a week he would get his old station wagons and take them to the local grocery store and filled them with everything that was dated that day and distribute it as best he could to those in need. As we rode along in the care he would tell me stories about some of the people he admired, many of whom are on the list above.He wrote a wonderful Book called observations that he had printed 15+ times and distributed himself. He took no financial profit from this, he only wanted to share what he found helpful. I hope someday this book will be available to download online.I have a cousin who may take on this project, if not I will.Grandad and I would drop the books off at numerous locations in Maryland and Virginia. He created homes for those in need around Washington D.C. and Fredrick Maryland. A man who himself never graduated College managed to stay married to the same woman Rachel Nourse Brown and raise 5 children who went on to have 14 grandchildren and 15 great grand children keep with 3 more on the way. He also had. Eight houses to leave to his family, but his good works were so much more important. The wonderful things he did could fill many more books.
He stood for many things and peacefully went about his life standing up for them through his actions, and his words of wisdom. I will share some related stories of my life, some equine related some not in future post. I have not done such grand things yet but have I have at times stood my ground in different ways for what I believe to be right and only hope I do a better job in the future.
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
P.S. I must admit my favorite quote was his! "I expect to pass through this life but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it for I shall not pass this way again.
** Today I would like to talk about how I believe it is important to be stand for what you believe in; in a peaceful way. The are many examples of people like Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa ,Mahatma Gandhi, Desmond Tu Tu. Nelson Mandela, The Dali Lama, Dr Zakir Naik, and Deepak Chopra all of whom you can learn about on www.google.com or www.youtube.com or your favorite library. They have done far greater things than I have.
I learned about this principle from my Grand father on my mom's side and my namesake.3 out of 4 lol, John Thomas Carruthers Sr. I think it might be helpful if I tell you a bit about his varied background that made him such a great teacher and example for me.He was born on August 21, 1907 in Ashburn, Virginia. He grew up in North Fork, Virginia near Purcellville. He served as a Marine in China for four years and then worked at the Navel Research Laboratories on Sonar and moving on to be in charge of the Technical Glass Blowing Department From there he went onto teach at the University of Maryland in the Chemistry Department for 22 years.During his teaching years he also taught at Gallaudet College for the deaf and at the local prisons so the prisoners would have a skill to use to earn an honest living when they got their second chance at life upon their release.He retired in 1969 and stayed in his home in Chevy Chase ( Somerset) Maryland until 1981 when he moved to Middletown, Maryland where he lived until his death in 1996. In my mind he never retired, and he is also with me everyday. I hope someday I am 1/2 the man he was.
*** Now let me tell you why. I never remember him sitting still, he was always on the move and most of the time doing something for others. Whether it be at home "In The Garden" which was also a song he wanted sung at his funeral or taking food or clothing somewhere for those in need. Twice a week he would get his old station wagons and take them to the local grocery store and filled them with everything that was dated that day and distribute it as best he could to those in need. As we rode along in the care he would tell me stories about some of the people he admired, many of whom are on the list above.He wrote a wonderful Book called observations that he had printed 15+ times and distributed himself. He took no financial profit from this, he only wanted to share what he found helpful. I hope someday this book will be available to download online.I have a cousin who may take on this project, if not I will.Grandad and I would drop the books off at numerous locations in Maryland and Virginia. He created homes for those in need around Washington D.C. and Fredrick Maryland. A man who himself never graduated College managed to stay married to the same woman Rachel Nourse Brown and raise 5 children who went on to have 14 grandchildren and 15 great grand children keep with 3 more on the way. He also had. Eight houses to leave to his family, but his good works were so much more important. The wonderful things he did could fill many more books.
He stood for many things and peacefully went about his life standing up for them through his actions, and his words of wisdom. I will share some related stories of my life, some equine related some not in future post. I have not done such grand things yet but have I have at times stood my ground in different ways for what I believe to be right and only hope I do a better job in the future.
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
P.S. I must admit my favorite quote was his! "I expect to pass through this life but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it for I shall not pass this way again.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
A little of topic...Teachers are so important!!!
Today I want to go a little off topic and talk about school teachers. They have such an enormous impact on our world.We all have our favorites. I have talked about some of my equestrian teachers, but for a moment I want to pause and mention the effect school teachers have on all of us and there importance to our society on the whole.
They have so much to do with our lives. They can build us up or tear us down. The great ones can inspire us and give us the tools to get through life.
*I think for the most part they are underpaid. Let's face it they shape our countries future, as much or more than any other group.
I bet you can name a handful of teachers that you really enjoyed who impacted your life in a positive way.Please! feel free to share a story or a tribute by clicking on the comment icon at the bottom,if you will!
I can, Mrs.List third and fourth grade always had a way of making me feel okey even though my books were bigger than everyone else's and my desk went up on an angle so my neck didn't get soar trying to see what I was reading or writing.Mr.Paul had a great time teaching us about having a check book , a budget, and a job in Fifth grade. Mr Caldwell's class in social studies in seventh grade was so much fun I looked forward to it everyday.In High School I had a speech teacher who I asked if I could take speech a third year even though the school only offered two. Mrs Haloran was her name and she thankfully said yes.My first year of Cross Country my coach was Mr. Heneman and he was amazing! we had a different coach after that who was very technically correct but not as inspiring for me anyway.In college I had a few good teachers, but there names escape me. I can remember really enjoying some of my Communications class's .as well as Acting, Physic's, Business,Statistics, Accounting and Economics.
**I want to thank all of them, for they were the bright spots in my days, they gave me hope, and taught me a great deal.
We all gravitate were we feel some sense of self worth and were we meet with success and acceptance.If I liked a teacher I did well, even if it was a difficult subject. If I did not, I did not do well, even if it was easy for me. The teachers I liked were the ones who genuinely enjoyed teaching and kept the class's focus. The ones I did not generally seemed to not enjoy there work and had trouble keeping the class's focus which can be hard with some students even when you do enjoy teaching. This led to pupils doing things they shouldn't and I was usually thier pinata so to speak .
When I teach I try and use the great examples these teachers gave me by trying to put my heart and soul into it and bring out the best in my students. I try to help them reach their goals and have a sense of direction. I also do my best to offer them every educational opportunity that may help them. I want them to be well rounded and have a good feeling about what they are learning. I hope my lessons are entertaining and enriching.
*** I have 3 main goals. 1.. To give them confidence 2..To teach them the theory behind every thing they do " what in means to be a horseman or horsewoman" 3.For it to be fun and entertaining, because lets face it that's why we do it! In today's world, and they could be doing 100 other things!
I hope this has brought back some memories for you of teachers who touched your hearts and minds and helped you.I hope my great teachers and yours realize the positive impact they have had and do have, on students lives!
I hope sharing this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
They have so much to do with our lives. They can build us up or tear us down. The great ones can inspire us and give us the tools to get through life.
*I think for the most part they are underpaid. Let's face it they shape our countries future, as much or more than any other group.
I bet you can name a handful of teachers that you really enjoyed who impacted your life in a positive way.Please! feel free to share a story or a tribute by clicking on the comment icon at the bottom,if you will!
I can, Mrs.List third and fourth grade always had a way of making me feel okey even though my books were bigger than everyone else's and my desk went up on an angle so my neck didn't get soar trying to see what I was reading or writing.Mr.Paul had a great time teaching us about having a check book , a budget, and a job in Fifth grade. Mr Caldwell's class in social studies in seventh grade was so much fun I looked forward to it everyday.In High School I had a speech teacher who I asked if I could take speech a third year even though the school only offered two. Mrs Haloran was her name and she thankfully said yes.My first year of Cross Country my coach was Mr. Heneman and he was amazing! we had a different coach after that who was very technically correct but not as inspiring for me anyway.In college I had a few good teachers, but there names escape me. I can remember really enjoying some of my Communications class's .as well as Acting, Physic's, Business,Statistics, Accounting and Economics.
**I want to thank all of them, for they were the bright spots in my days, they gave me hope, and taught me a great deal.
We all gravitate were we feel some sense of self worth and were we meet with success and acceptance.If I liked a teacher I did well, even if it was a difficult subject. If I did not, I did not do well, even if it was easy for me. The teachers I liked were the ones who genuinely enjoyed teaching and kept the class's focus. The ones I did not generally seemed to not enjoy there work and had trouble keeping the class's focus which can be hard with some students even when you do enjoy teaching. This led to pupils doing things they shouldn't and I was usually thier pinata so to speak .
When I teach I try and use the great examples these teachers gave me by trying to put my heart and soul into it and bring out the best in my students. I try to help them reach their goals and have a sense of direction. I also do my best to offer them every educational opportunity that may help them. I want them to be well rounded and have a good feeling about what they are learning. I hope my lessons are entertaining and enriching.
*** I have 3 main goals. 1.. To give them confidence 2..To teach them the theory behind every thing they do " what in means to be a horseman or horsewoman" 3.For it to be fun and entertaining, because lets face it that's why we do it! In today's world, and they could be doing 100 other things!
I hope this has brought back some memories for you of teachers who touched your hearts and minds and helped you.I hope my great teachers and yours realize the positive impact they have had and do have, on students lives!
I hope sharing this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Friday, February 25, 2011
I love cast iron!
We've all seen examples or heard stories about Grandma's cast iron cookware that's been in regular use since the Eisenhower administration or before. Long before nonstick pans (made with perfluorooctanoic Acid-or PFOA-which is a known carcinogen...yum!) became popular, cast iron provided the original nonstick cooking surface, and we've got news for you: it still works! While new nonstick pans' ability to repel sticky foods fades over time (often just a year or two), a well-seasoned cast iron pan will only get better with age, and will last you for a lifetime.
This ultimate longevity is what makes cast iron such a great, green addition to any kitchen (or a great, green cooking option, if you've already got one or more). Imagine never having to replace your cookware again. Ever. While they do require a bit more maintenance than their chemically-enhanced counterparts, it's absolutely worth your while to have a pan or set of pans that will perform at a high level, under a multitude of kitchen scenarios, for you, and, eventually, your kids, and even their kids, too.
Follow these step
The above process is a one time thing. For the rest of your pans use, unless it gets rusty. All you do is rinse the pan with water when its still hot, then place the pan on a burner to dry. Then coat in a oil.
Sincerely,
Petra
This ultimate longevity is what makes cast iron such a great, green addition to any kitchen (or a great, green cooking option, if you've already got one or more). Imagine never having to replace your cookware again. Ever. While they do require a bit more maintenance than their chemically-enhanced counterparts, it's absolutely worth your while to have a pan or set of pans that will perform at a high level, under a multitude of kitchen scenarios, for you, and, eventually, your kids, and even their kids, too.
Follow these step
- First, if you find your cast iron needs to be stripped down and re-seasoned do not fear. All you have to do is place the utensil in your Self Cleaning Oven on the shortest cleaning cycle (usually 3 hrs. on most models), and it will come out looking like the day it came out of the mold. Allow it to cool overnight. Wash the residue off with WATER ONLY in the sink using a stiff abrasive pad. Make certain NO DISH SOAP comes in contact with the utensil during this procedure. If it does you will have to start over!!! Dry the cast iron utensil off with a paper towel, and IMMEDIATELY place BACK in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or so.
- Next, take the utensil out of the oven after the 10 minute drying time is complete, and lightly brush the utensil with a paper towel coated with Crisco or other solid cooking oil. Liquid vegetable oil will do in a pinch, but it's better to save the liquids until AFTER your initial seasoning. It is important in this step only to lightly coat the cast iron with a light, thin coat of oil until it only glistens. Do not allow any puddles or pools of liquid as this will cause problems at a later time.
- Then, place the Cast Iron in the oven set to 500 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit with the COOKING SIDE FACING THE BOTTOM OF THE OVEN. This allows for any excess oil to drain off to the sides, and prevents pooling during the seasoning process. The higher heating temps allows for the oil to truly 'cook' as it should as opposed to just 'gumming up' at lower temps. Cook undisturbed for 1 hour.
The above process is a one time thing. For the rest of your pans use, unless it gets rusty. All you do is rinse the pan with water when its still hot, then place the pan on a burner to dry. Then coat in a oil.
Sincerely,
Petra
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Our wedding....a very happy exprience!
Our wedding, was fantastic! We had practically no money to use to get married, but through an incredible amount of generosity by others it was amazing!
The location was the Howard County Iron Bridge Hound's Hunt club, with there breathtaking grounds and welcoming club. Petra had hunted on Dr. Roger Scullan's horses for three years and we enjoyed helping with the puppy walking. We asked if we could hold our wedding and reception there and they very graciously said yes! We owe them the biggest Thank You Ever!
We had the ceremony outside in the hound showing ring, we were very lucky with the weather.We had our rehearsal the evening before and as I stood looking into Petra's eyes and holding her hands in the very spot we would be the next day I felt a incredible sensation and a outpouring of emotion. I knew I was doing the right thing and was very thankful she chose me! It was sunny and warm that day, and the sun was setting behind a few clouds which caused beautiful streams of light to go across the sky.Words can't express how beautiful Petra looked that day
We had a wonderful meal that night at The Brick Ridge restaurant. It is a very quaint and picturesque family owned and run restaurant near Mt Airy Maryland.The food is delicious and the service is excellent!We enjoyed visiting and laughing with family and friends in preparation for the big day.
The wedding day was clear and warm. We had a good turnout and the retired pastor Tom Paris who is also a world class farrier was kind enough to give us his services.We used the Rascal Flats song "Broken Road" for our wedding march, because we both felt it described our journey and feeling for that moment.Grant and Joshua looked so handsome all dressed up to be a part of the wedding party and help us on our special day.
Tom spoke beautifully as he presided over the ceremony, everything went smoothly.After some pictures we went into the club for the reception. We asked everyone if they would bring a dish as we were unable to afford a caterer.We were worried at first if this would work out and what people might think, but it couldn't have been better! Everyone brought their specialty , and it was the best food I have ever had and so much to choose from. I would like to thank everyone again.We ate and laughed and ate and danced and ate and visited the hounds and ate well you get the picture. Petra loved visiting with her favorite hunt horse in her gown and all the pictures taken with the hounds. My best man Tom works for a Micro Brewery in Westminster Maryland at Pub Dog, and he helped provide some of the refreshments, thanks Tom! A grand Time was had by all!!!
I hope in sharing this it helped brighten your day.
Sincerely,
John
The location was the Howard County Iron Bridge Hound's Hunt club, with there breathtaking grounds and welcoming club. Petra had hunted on Dr. Roger Scullan's horses for three years and we enjoyed helping with the puppy walking. We asked if we could hold our wedding and reception there and they very graciously said yes! We owe them the biggest Thank You Ever!
We had the ceremony outside in the hound showing ring, we were very lucky with the weather.We had our rehearsal the evening before and as I stood looking into Petra's eyes and holding her hands in the very spot we would be the next day I felt a incredible sensation and a outpouring of emotion. I knew I was doing the right thing and was very thankful she chose me! It was sunny and warm that day, and the sun was setting behind a few clouds which caused beautiful streams of light to go across the sky.Words can't express how beautiful Petra looked that day
We had a wonderful meal that night at The Brick Ridge restaurant. It is a very quaint and picturesque family owned and run restaurant near Mt Airy Maryland.The food is delicious and the service is excellent!We enjoyed visiting and laughing with family and friends in preparation for the big day.
The wedding day was clear and warm. We had a good turnout and the retired pastor Tom Paris who is also a world class farrier was kind enough to give us his services.We used the Rascal Flats song "Broken Road" for our wedding march, because we both felt it described our journey and feeling for that moment.Grant and Joshua looked so handsome all dressed up to be a part of the wedding party and help us on our special day.
Tom spoke beautifully as he presided over the ceremony, everything went smoothly.After some pictures we went into the club for the reception. We asked everyone if they would bring a dish as we were unable to afford a caterer.We were worried at first if this would work out and what people might think, but it couldn't have been better! Everyone brought their specialty , and it was the best food I have ever had and so much to choose from. I would like to thank everyone again.We ate and laughed and ate and danced and ate and visited the hounds and ate well you get the picture. Petra loved visiting with her favorite hunt horse in her gown and all the pictures taken with the hounds. My best man Tom works for a Micro Brewery in Westminster Maryland at Pub Dog, and he helped provide some of the refreshments, thanks Tom! A grand Time was had by all!!!
I hope in sharing this it helped brighten your day.
Sincerely,
John
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
No Pudge fudge Brownies!
Last week John and I took his mother is this little grocery store in Marshall VA. On first impression its a bit on the scary side! But it has amazing local beef and vegetables. And is very well priced.
Johns Mothers has been making a great effort in only bringing things to our home that we like to eat. Things without no artificial ingredients or dyes.In the store she ran up to us with a odd little pink box of brownie mix, fat free brownie mix even. I was a little more then doubtful when I saw you only added yogurt! But she was so proud of her self I couldn't say no.
Turns out they where great! They are called 'No Pudge, Fudge Brownie". All you do is add 1/2 cup yogurt and one egg! The mix is just Pure cane sugar, unbleached wheat flour, Dutch Cocoa, Egg whites, cornstarch, salt and baking soda. Try them, there great! (just pictured a large Tiger standing on two legs for a minute there!)
Sincerely,
Petra
Johns Mothers has been making a great effort in only bringing things to our home that we like to eat. Things without no artificial ingredients or dyes.In the store she ran up to us with a odd little pink box of brownie mix, fat free brownie mix even. I was a little more then doubtful when I saw you only added yogurt! But she was so proud of her self I couldn't say no.
Turns out they where great! They are called 'No Pudge, Fudge Brownie". All you do is add 1/2 cup yogurt and one egg! The mix is just Pure cane sugar, unbleached wheat flour, Dutch Cocoa, Egg whites, cornstarch, salt and baking soda. Try them, there great! (just pictured a large Tiger standing on two legs for a minute there!)
Sincerely,
Petra
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Clinics....
Petra and I are both available for clinics, and lectures for equestrians. If you are interested please contact us via e mail. My email is demontfortjohn@yahoo.com and Petra's is mccaffertypetra@yahoo.com
Thank you,
John
Thank you,
John
Josiah the wonder Horse
As most of you know I grew up in Rural Maine. Looking back now its feels like a different place in time, or that could be just the effect of a care free childhood. When I look back to that time one horse always stands out to me, the horse that gave me my first taste of freedom and independence.
This horse was not my first or even second horse, but he was by far the most important. Even to this day. My Trainer had gone to an Arabian show at the Big E in MA, my family stayed home during this show in order to care for the farm. After a week passed My trainer returned with one more horse then she had left with. She had bought back Josiah for a very low price because the people that had him liked to keep there horses at home. And they shortly found out they did not have a proper facility for a stallion. He had jumped the fence, and instead of finding the mares he wondered up to there front door and pushed his way through the screen door in to there kitchen. Which he promptly destroyed! On returning home from so errands they found a 15.2h stallion standing in their kitchen! Needless to say they decided they could not keep a stallion! When the young colt was unloaded I did not think much of him. His barn named was Josiah and his registered name was Bask in Darkness. He was two years old and very awkward. And his mouth was on every thing, your hair, your shoulder the lead rope! At this point he had not be gelding as he be sold as a stallion prospect to cover warmblood mares.
My Trainer had bred this colt, he was out of her best mare and by her stallion Hello Darkness PR. I had been there when he was born, but as he was sold at seven months I had not seen him in a long while.
The first thing to be done was to get the vet out to geld him. Even after the gelding he was still a little monster (a cute one!). We had to chain the end of the barn off so none of the kids would get near his mouth. He never was nasty about it, he just didn't know better. Mom used to spend hours playing ball with him. He had this giant jolly ball that mom would throw and he would catch and toss back to her.
As time went by I started to work with in hand and in the round pen. Most of our time was spent teaching him to keep his mouth to him self. He was a very smart boy and picked up things very fast. By the time he was two and half he was my best friend. He would fallow me around the farm like a dog and go any where with me. Being a child with a young horse, I always was trying new things with him. And he was always a saint about it. I had trained him lay down, sit up like a dog, bow and do Spanish walk. He also would trot next to me as I ran and turn and stop as I did. That winter we also trained him to pull the sleigh. We would all go out on trail rides, using the groomed snowmobile trails. My trainers husband would drive Josiah as every one else rode.
At this point he was also lounging well in tack and I had leaned over his back many times. So one warm day, well warm for Maine that is! I decided this would be the day I would start him. After about ten min of lounging, and with a leg up from my Trainer I was on him for the first time! I walked around the round pen a few times, then with my voice and a very gentle leg he picked up the trot. He could of cared less, he was perfect! And then with a little kissing noise he picked up the canter, on the correct lead!
I had no training in any trick training, I was able to do these things because of a good relationship with my horse and common sense when it comes to body language. I was very lucky to have this horse, he was my best friend and will always hold a very special place in my heart. More will come on the adventures of Josiah the Wonder Arab!
Sincerely ,
Petra
This horse was not my first or even second horse, but he was by far the most important. Even to this day. My Trainer had gone to an Arabian show at the Big E in MA, my family stayed home during this show in order to care for the farm. After a week passed My trainer returned with one more horse then she had left with. She had bought back Josiah for a very low price because the people that had him liked to keep there horses at home. And they shortly found out they did not have a proper facility for a stallion. He had jumped the fence, and instead of finding the mares he wondered up to there front door and pushed his way through the screen door in to there kitchen. Which he promptly destroyed! On returning home from so errands they found a 15.2h stallion standing in their kitchen! Needless to say they decided they could not keep a stallion! When the young colt was unloaded I did not think much of him. His barn named was Josiah and his registered name was Bask in Darkness. He was two years old and very awkward. And his mouth was on every thing, your hair, your shoulder the lead rope! At this point he had not be gelding as he be sold as a stallion prospect to cover warmblood mares.
My Trainer had bred this colt, he was out of her best mare and by her stallion Hello Darkness PR. I had been there when he was born, but as he was sold at seven months I had not seen him in a long while.
The first thing to be done was to get the vet out to geld him. Even after the gelding he was still a little monster (a cute one!). We had to chain the end of the barn off so none of the kids would get near his mouth. He never was nasty about it, he just didn't know better. Mom used to spend hours playing ball with him. He had this giant jolly ball that mom would throw and he would catch and toss back to her.
As time went by I started to work with in hand and in the round pen. Most of our time was spent teaching him to keep his mouth to him self. He was a very smart boy and picked up things very fast. By the time he was two and half he was my best friend. He would fallow me around the farm like a dog and go any where with me. Being a child with a young horse, I always was trying new things with him. And he was always a saint about it. I had trained him lay down, sit up like a dog, bow and do Spanish walk. He also would trot next to me as I ran and turn and stop as I did. That winter we also trained him to pull the sleigh. We would all go out on trail rides, using the groomed snowmobile trails. My trainers husband would drive Josiah as every one else rode.
At this point he was also lounging well in tack and I had leaned over his back many times. So one warm day, well warm for Maine that is! I decided this would be the day I would start him. After about ten min of lounging, and with a leg up from my Trainer I was on him for the first time! I walked around the round pen a few times, then with my voice and a very gentle leg he picked up the trot. He could of cared less, he was perfect! And then with a little kissing noise he picked up the canter, on the correct lead!
I had no training in any trick training, I was able to do these things because of a good relationship with my horse and common sense when it comes to body language. I was very lucky to have this horse, he was my best friend and will always hold a very special place in my heart. More will come on the adventures of Josiah the Wonder Arab!
Sincerely ,
Petra
Monday, February 21, 2011
Leadership by example...de Nemethy
I am a firm believer in the concept of leadership by example. We are what we eat, drink, read, listen to, watch, and do! So we each set several examples everyday for those around us in the various roles we play as citizens, parents, spouses, children, students, neighbors, employees or employers ex. Some of our examples are very good, some poor, and some misunderstood.
I want to share one that I think was 99% very good and 1% misunderstood. Mr Bertalan de Nemethy! The coach of the United States Show Jumping Team for Twenty Five years, a calvalry officer from Hungary who brought an Italian style of riding that he modified into the American jumping style and changed the sport for ever.Here is one link of many were you can learn more about him.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bertalan_de_N%C3%A9methy
I got to know him at WDEI he was on the advisory counsel and gave regular clinics. A wish to tell you about two of these one I videoed for the school and the other I came back after I graduated and rode in.
The first story is when he decided to film his de Nemethy Method videos at the school which went along with his book. A handful of the riders from the school including my roommate the now famous Ricardo Villa, on WDEI horses were used for the videos along with a few of his students from the outside on their horses. I was given the job of videoing the process for the school and helping Burt with anything he needed. It was an honor for me to do these important tasks.
I was in awe with how easy Bert made everything seem, from explaining theory, to putting that theory into practice! Everyone rode better than I had ever seen them. He was patient, clear, and concise at all times. He stressed being good to the horses from the care in the barn, to planing their training and competition schedule to their best advantage always.His ethical standards for how horses were to be handled was beyond reproach. Just being around him you wanted to raise your standards in every way from how you and your horse were presented , to details like raking the footing in front of and behind the jumps between every trip so they could be adjusted perfectly to achieve the desired result. He was obvious he put an incredible amount of thought and effort into everything. I enjoyed our numerous conversations on a variety of topics immensely! Some tidbits he shared-he was against using gadgets when it came to tack and quick fixes. He also spoke out against training that involved being in cruel to the horse to make it careful at the jumps, instead his focus was on improving the horse physically and mentally through a gymnastic system. That combined good basic Dressage(he refereed to as correct training for all horses regardless of discipline) and gymnastic jumping exercises .He also believed horse should be ridden out and properly conditioned. He thought all riders should understand all facets of riding including but not limited to horse bio-mechanics, proper care of the horses in every way, and equitation. He felt so strongly about them being fit , having good seats and independent aids that he was known to rent horses locally at major competitions so he could lounge the riders in the morning to relax them and get the prepared physically and mentally for the big events they were to compete in that day, even a World Championship or Olympic competition!
I was fortunate to be able to come back and experience riding with him after graduation. I had a good clinic. Even though at on point we were working over a line oxer four strides to an oxer ( an oxer is a jump that has two elements and is wide) and he kept raising and widening them especaily the second. He got to a point were Tad looked at me and shook his head and wispered say no thank you.( he new I had only had this inexperienced jumping horse for a shoat time and with his best intentions wanted to preserve our confidence.) I decided to trust Burt and go on, but I was nervous sicne Tad had expressed his reservations and rode too conservatively (close and slow) to the first fence. My horse jumped it ok, but I knew I would be long at the second which at this point was arour 4 feet high and 6 feet wide! So I put my legs on and gave one quick tap with my spur ,. When we got to the second fence I let myself get left kept my legs firmly on and let my reigns slide. My horse cleared the fence and Burt said looking at Tad see he even rode it poorly and the horse was still able to do it!
That was my only big mistake that weekend. I had an experience of a lifetime. We had lunch together it was fantastic a man of his stature and position was so kind and took time out for me.
I said 1% misunderstood, because while he was against gadgets he did use draw reigns for longing sometimes and riding sometimes, but not often. He was very specific on how they were to be used and when and said they were not to be used on all horses or for long periods. He also said they were like razor blades in a monkeys hands when many riders used them who shouldn't!
He was in many pictures in his book with them on loosely as a precaution, because he was 88 riding outside in an open grass field, with photographers ex. I think this gave people the impression that he advocated there use far more than he did!
For me Bertalan de Nemethy was a perfect gentleman and horseman and a perfect example for all showjumping enthusiasts to fallow.
On a side note my parents named me after my mothers father with my fathers last name John Thomas Carruthers Montfort. When I met Bert he asked me if my family name used to be de Montfort. I asked my family and my grandfather James Brown Montfort Sr who served as the manager of our National Press Club for Twenty Five years ( a topic for a future post) had looked at the library of Congress and said to my parents he thought it was several generations beck. So at Mr de Nemethy's urging saying " you should be proud of your European heritage" I started to use it and gave it to my three Children Emma Grace, Joshua, and Grant.
I hope I can be a better role model for them and everyone in the years to come.I think we can apply this to all the roles we play in life and if we do our society on the whole will benefit enormously!!!
I hope by sharing this I have helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
* * I do offer Jumping and/or Dressage clinics in this style combined with what my other great teachers have taught me and fallowing a very similar format. Interested parties should contact me contact me via e mail demontfortjohn@yahoo.com
I want to share one that I think was 99% very good and 1% misunderstood. Mr Bertalan de Nemethy! The coach of the United States Show Jumping Team for Twenty Five years, a calvalry officer from Hungary who brought an Italian style of riding that he modified into the American jumping style and changed the sport for ever.Here is one link of many were you can learn more about him.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bertalan_de_N%C3%A9methy
I got to know him at WDEI he was on the advisory counsel and gave regular clinics. A wish to tell you about two of these one I videoed for the school and the other I came back after I graduated and rode in.
The first story is when he decided to film his de Nemethy Method videos at the school which went along with his book. A handful of the riders from the school including my roommate the now famous Ricardo Villa, on WDEI horses were used for the videos along with a few of his students from the outside on their horses. I was given the job of videoing the process for the school and helping Burt with anything he needed. It was an honor for me to do these important tasks.
I was in awe with how easy Bert made everything seem, from explaining theory, to putting that theory into practice! Everyone rode better than I had ever seen them. He was patient, clear, and concise at all times. He stressed being good to the horses from the care in the barn, to planing their training and competition schedule to their best advantage always.His ethical standards for how horses were to be handled was beyond reproach. Just being around him you wanted to raise your standards in every way from how you and your horse were presented , to details like raking the footing in front of and behind the jumps between every trip so they could be adjusted perfectly to achieve the desired result. He was obvious he put an incredible amount of thought and effort into everything. I enjoyed our numerous conversations on a variety of topics immensely! Some tidbits he shared-he was against using gadgets when it came to tack and quick fixes. He also spoke out against training that involved being in cruel to the horse to make it careful at the jumps, instead his focus was on improving the horse physically and mentally through a gymnastic system. That combined good basic Dressage(he refereed to as correct training for all horses regardless of discipline) and gymnastic jumping exercises .He also believed horse should be ridden out and properly conditioned. He thought all riders should understand all facets of riding including but not limited to horse bio-mechanics, proper care of the horses in every way, and equitation. He felt so strongly about them being fit , having good seats and independent aids that he was known to rent horses locally at major competitions so he could lounge the riders in the morning to relax them and get the prepared physically and mentally for the big events they were to compete in that day, even a World Championship or Olympic competition!
I was fortunate to be able to come back and experience riding with him after graduation. I had a good clinic. Even though at on point we were working over a line oxer four strides to an oxer ( an oxer is a jump that has two elements and is wide) and he kept raising and widening them especaily the second. He got to a point were Tad looked at me and shook his head and wispered say no thank you.( he new I had only had this inexperienced jumping horse for a shoat time and with his best intentions wanted to preserve our confidence.) I decided to trust Burt and go on, but I was nervous sicne Tad had expressed his reservations and rode too conservatively (close and slow) to the first fence. My horse jumped it ok, but I knew I would be long at the second which at this point was arour 4 feet high and 6 feet wide! So I put my legs on and gave one quick tap with my spur ,. When we got to the second fence I let myself get left kept my legs firmly on and let my reigns slide. My horse cleared the fence and Burt said looking at Tad see he even rode it poorly and the horse was still able to do it!
That was my only big mistake that weekend. I had an experience of a lifetime. We had lunch together it was fantastic a man of his stature and position was so kind and took time out for me.
I said 1% misunderstood, because while he was against gadgets he did use draw reigns for longing sometimes and riding sometimes, but not often. He was very specific on how they were to be used and when and said they were not to be used on all horses or for long periods. He also said they were like razor blades in a monkeys hands when many riders used them who shouldn't!
He was in many pictures in his book with them on loosely as a precaution, because he was 88 riding outside in an open grass field, with photographers ex. I think this gave people the impression that he advocated there use far more than he did!
For me Bertalan de Nemethy was a perfect gentleman and horseman and a perfect example for all showjumping enthusiasts to fallow.
On a side note my parents named me after my mothers father with my fathers last name John Thomas Carruthers Montfort. When I met Bert he asked me if my family name used to be de Montfort. I asked my family and my grandfather James Brown Montfort Sr who served as the manager of our National Press Club for Twenty Five years ( a topic for a future post) had looked at the library of Congress and said to my parents he thought it was several generations beck. So at Mr de Nemethy's urging saying " you should be proud of your European heritage" I started to use it and gave it to my three Children Emma Grace, Joshua, and Grant.
I hope I can be a better role model for them and everyone in the years to come.I think we can apply this to all the roles we play in life and if we do our society on the whole will benefit enormously!!!
I hope by sharing this I have helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
* * I do offer Jumping and/or Dressage clinics in this style combined with what my other great teachers have taught me and fallowing a very similar format. Interested parties should contact me contact me via e mail demontfortjohn@yahoo.com
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Independence
Independence is such an important thing for everyone. I think we are all trying our best to build the skills we need to be more independent all the time. I know I still have a long way to go. Some things are a peace of cake for me like taking care of kids, cooking, barn work, and house work, but there are others I still have a long way to go.
In riding it is so helpful to have what we equestrians call independent aids, which in simple terms means a rider should be able to use there legs, hand, seat and or weight without it effecting the other aids in an unwanted fashion. The coordination of these aids is of equal importance.The same way we must coordinate our independence with those who depend on us.
A story comes to mind which may help illustrate how one of my great teachers taught me about independent aids.When I was at WDEI the instructors did everything they could to impart good practices of horsemanship with very high ethical standards in every area.
One day I was fortunate to get a private lesson with one of the directors, Tad Coffin. Here is a link if you don't know about Tad he won the Olympic Individual Gold in the 3 day event at age 21!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edmund_Coffin
I was riding a wonderful little Grey horse who was a fantastic teacher whose name escapes me at the moment.The focus of the lesson was independent aids. The excessive that I remember most was I was on a 20 meter circle at the trot doing shoulder-in ( a three track movement for supplying and strengthening the horse here is a link were you can find further information on all Dressage movements http://www.dressagejudges.com/FEI.htm) with both reigns in my outside hand (it was facing palm down with the inside reign going through the thumb and pointer finger and the outside rein in its normal place) I was to pat the horse just behind the saddle pad with my inside hand in the rhythm of the stride as the inside hind leg of the horse touched the ground. He had me go form sitting to rising the trot and back again during this exercise. Nothing was suposed to change ie: the horses frame, rhythm, energy, angle, balance ex. We did this in both directions, on a circle to the left counter clockwise and to the right clockwise.
I remember afterwords being frustrated, because it took me a few tries before I could do it. As I was telling this to some fellow students a good friend and excellent rider Karen Voss"laughed and said are you nuts! you should be proud you could do it at all!". I felt better after hearing someone I respected telling me this. I am thankful for this experience, it made me realize what is possible! How you can use creativity as an invaluable tool to check your training of your horse, your students and yourself, by creating unique challenging exercises! I owe Tad many thanks for the example he gave and the high standards he set. He taught me countless valuable lessons everyday about how to be a horseman, a gentleman, and to shoot for perfection!
I hope you have enjoyed this story and it has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
In riding it is so helpful to have what we equestrians call independent aids, which in simple terms means a rider should be able to use there legs, hand, seat and or weight without it effecting the other aids in an unwanted fashion. The coordination of these aids is of equal importance.The same way we must coordinate our independence with those who depend on us.
A story comes to mind which may help illustrate how one of my great teachers taught me about independent aids.When I was at WDEI the instructors did everything they could to impart good practices of horsemanship with very high ethical standards in every area.
One day I was fortunate to get a private lesson with one of the directors, Tad Coffin. Here is a link if you don't know about Tad he won the Olympic Individual Gold in the 3 day event at age 21!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edmund_Coffin
I was riding a wonderful little Grey horse who was a fantastic teacher whose name escapes me at the moment.The focus of the lesson was independent aids. The excessive that I remember most was I was on a 20 meter circle at the trot doing shoulder-in ( a three track movement for supplying and strengthening the horse here is a link were you can find further information on all Dressage movements http://www.dressagejudges.com/FEI.htm) with both reigns in my outside hand (it was facing palm down with the inside reign going through the thumb and pointer finger and the outside rein in its normal place) I was to pat the horse just behind the saddle pad with my inside hand in the rhythm of the stride as the inside hind leg of the horse touched the ground. He had me go form sitting to rising the trot and back again during this exercise. Nothing was suposed to change ie: the horses frame, rhythm, energy, angle, balance ex. We did this in both directions, on a circle to the left counter clockwise and to the right clockwise.
I remember afterwords being frustrated, because it took me a few tries before I could do it. As I was telling this to some fellow students a good friend and excellent rider Karen Voss"laughed and said are you nuts! you should be proud you could do it at all!". I felt better after hearing someone I respected telling me this. I am thankful for this experience, it made me realize what is possible! How you can use creativity as an invaluable tool to check your training of your horse, your students and yourself, by creating unique challenging exercises! I owe Tad many thanks for the example he gave and the high standards he set. He taught me countless valuable lessons everyday about how to be a horseman, a gentleman, and to shoot for perfection!
I hope you have enjoyed this story and it has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Delicious Chocolate chip and or Raisin Oatmeal cookies
Alright folks today I am going to post about some thing a little scary, well scary when your thinking of it and me at the same time. Baking!
First let me start by stating that yes I use a lot of Organic ingredients. The top reason for that is that fact that it just plain old taste better. Its also a lot closer to products that my grandmother used in her baking/cooking.
This recipe is for Chocolate chip or raisin Oatmeal Cookies. I use mostly ingredients from O organics for this.
Ingredients
First let me start by stating that yes I use a lot of Organic ingredients. The top reason for that is that fact that it just plain old taste better. Its also a lot closer to products that my grandmother used in her baking/cooking.
This recipe is for Chocolate chip or raisin Oatmeal Cookies. I use mostly ingredients from O organics for this.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks butter (or margarine), melted (salted butter works best)
- 1 cup white sugar(raw cane sugar is great with this!)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 eggs, large
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp powdered ginger
- 2-1/2 cups quick rolled oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips or raisins
- 1 cup raisins
- 3/4 cup walnuts (or pecans), coarsely chopped (optional)
- Preheat oven to 375F.
- Grease two baking sheets.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugars until blended.
- Mix in eggs and vanilla.
- Add flour, baking powder, soda, and spices. Mix until combined.
- Add oats, chips, raisins, and nuts (if using), and mix until incorporated.
- Drop batter by rounded tablespoons about 1-1/2 inches apart onto prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes or until edges are golden brown and centers are pale and soft. The cookies will look underdone but will firm up considerably as they cool. If baking on two oven racks, rotate their positions halfway through the baking time.
- Immediately remove to racks to cool.
- (The cookies may be stored airtight for several days or frozen.)
Sincerely,
Petra
Friday, February 18, 2011
The General
I first met the General as a student at W.D.E.I. at Morven Park. We hosted a USDF judges symposium and the national portion was run by him. I was impressed with his thoughts on Dressage and how he handled the vigorous debates between people like Axel Steiner and Micheal Poulin noted professionals in their own rights, over things like accuracy vs. artistry.
A few years after I graduated the school sadly closed. I decided at one point a few years after that to return and rent some space and try my own business.At that time General Burton would go there two or three days a week and ride one of his close friend, Coronal Paul Wymert's horses. I asked him if he would be willing to teach me and thankfully he said yes!
He taught me so much about how to organize my work. How to and when to go from one movement to the next. How to be clear and positive when training horses, and riders!!! Always leg and seat to hand, if the hand was needed at all!I could go on and on. It was incredible! Many of these things were taught to me By Tad Coffin and Raul de Leon when I was a student at W.D.E.I.(which I will talk more about in future posts) but the General was able to take them to another level for me.This was due to his Fantastic system and that we were working one on one.He is also why I was able to ride with his close friend Conrad Schumacher.I owe him a 1,000 Thank You's !
I want to keep my point today simple, polite, and clear the way the General always is. If you approach things by giving your best, you are on time, you are positive in your outlook and thinking you will ultimately have success.This can be applied to anything in life! Have a great day! and Kudos to you for trying!
If you don't know who general Burton is here are a few links which will tell you about a few of his countless acomplishments. If you want to know more just google him and there you will be blown away by all he has done and is doing at 90! ttp://useventing.com/hof/ ,http://www.usdf.org/halloffame/inductees/profiles/burton.asp, http://www.shophorsesdaily.com/products/dvd-conversations-with-major-general-jonathan-r-burton, http://www.229thavbn.com/1stcav/History.html, and http://www.dressagedaily.com/index.php?Itemid=437&catid=343:novemb
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
A few years after I graduated the school sadly closed. I decided at one point a few years after that to return and rent some space and try my own business.At that time General Burton would go there two or three days a week and ride one of his close friend, Coronal Paul Wymert's horses. I asked him if he would be willing to teach me and thankfully he said yes!
He taught me so much about how to organize my work. How to and when to go from one movement to the next. How to be clear and positive when training horses, and riders!!! Always leg and seat to hand, if the hand was needed at all!I could go on and on. It was incredible! Many of these things were taught to me By Tad Coffin and Raul de Leon when I was a student at W.D.E.I.(which I will talk more about in future posts) but the General was able to take them to another level for me.This was due to his Fantastic system and that we were working one on one.He is also why I was able to ride with his close friend Conrad Schumacher.I owe him a 1,000 Thank You's !
I want to keep my point today simple, polite, and clear the way the General always is. If you approach things by giving your best, you are on time, you are positive in your outlook and thinking you will ultimately have success.This can be applied to anything in life! Have a great day! and Kudos to you for trying!
If you don't know who general Burton is here are a few links which will tell you about a few of his countless acomplishments. If you want to know more just google him and there you will be blown away by all he has done and is doing at 90! ttp://useventing.com/hof/ ,http://www.usdf.org/halloffame/inductees/profiles/burton.asp, http://www.shophorsesdaily.com/products/dvd-conversations-with-major-general-jonathan-r-burton, http://www.229thavbn.com/1stcav/History.html, and http://www.dressagedaily.com/index.php?Itemid=437&catid=343:novemb
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Thursday, February 17, 2011
My Dad's last day
My post about " the pony years" made me think about all the sacrifices of time and money my parents happily made to allow me to ride,which I am very thankful for!
My mom is an invaluable help to this day and is actually coming for a visit, but my Dad passed a little more than twenty years ago.I want to take this opportunity to share the story of his last day and mention his funeral, because they were very bitter sweet and unlike no other I have ever known. If you have suffered a loss of someone close to you I hope this helps you find a way to deal with it in a positive way.For the parents who read this I hope it reminds you how important your approval and support is to your kids.
I was competing a Holsteiner named Hidden Talent or "Prince". I bought through Scott Hassler the summer I worked for him and his mother Jill at Hidden Acres, two year prior to the creation of Hilltop.I schooled Jumpers and thaught jumping lessons along with general barn duties, which is a story for another post. Prince and I were competing in a training level horse trail for the first time, at Waters Gift in Maryland, and mom and dad were late. This was not normal they were usually early for everything. Dad said they had a romantic breakfast in bed, which was also not a typical event, but everybody was in a good mood. I had entered the open training thinking, because I was an instructor that was where I belonged, again it was my first horse trial as I grew up in the hunter/jumper world. Eventers will know why this is funny.
I got through my Dressage test ok, no major mistakes, but nothing to write about. Then on cross country I went very slow, but clear. The course was very hilly and I had not schooled him over some of the questions we were asked, so I thought better to have time faults than a stop. Needless to say we were way down in the standings, but my parents were so excited that I found my way around without a stop, I couldn't be upset. The stadium course was challenging and had a triple that I new would cause some riders problems. I told my father how I was going to approach this question, and he was intrigued. He was filming everything that day. I pull it out very once in a while when I just want to hear his voice. He got so excited when I went clear and went on and on about how I took the triple!
We were walking back to the horse trailer and he put his arm around my shoulder as we walked up a steep hill and told me he was proud of me and he believed I had talent as a rider and I should continue to pirsue it. This memory is very vivid and while I am sure my dad had said he was proud of me many times, it is the one I remember most It meant more to me than any compliment I have ever gotten.
When we got home we were all very tired and after a big meal we sat down to watch a movie together. Right before the end of the movie dad said "watch this is ....going to happen" sure enough it did! He was so happy with himself for figuring it out he began to laugh. Then the laughter change to a horrible weasing noise and he grabbed his chest.
He had a heart attack four years earlier and had a congenital heart condition so the doctors thought he would only live two years. I told mom to call 911 and proceeded to give him CPR. While I was trying to to keep him breathing I could see the life quickly flow from him. The paramedics arrived quickly and continued to try and save him, but once they got to the hospital they were able to determine his heart wall had given in completely. It was slightly after midnight so his death certificate reads September 9,1990, but it was September 8, 1990 at 1100 PM for me. If you have to go, and we all eventually do it was about as good as it gets, laughing at the end of a happy day spent with family. I am only sorry my brother and sister weren't there. I feel it was harder for them because they were not.
I gave his eulogy at his funeral and as I looked out at the small church filled well beyond its capacity people were standing and even out the open door. I realized how much James Brown Montfort JR. had meant to so many people! The service was at his mothers family church in ST Mary's county Maryland Two and a half hours from our home, yet everyone came, even some people I did not know.While I told of some of my dad's great points and my love for him. I think a sentiment a student of mine shared with me is what most people liked and set the tone for the ensuing wake turned celebration of his life!It is a simple concept, if when you loose someone close to you, you do your best to incorporate all the things you loved about them into yourself they live on through you!
The insuring celebration of his life was everyone sharing all the wonderful memories they had. Tales of him making them laugh or helping them in an unexpected way or at an unexpected moment. I knew it was something different when the funeral director and hearse driver said that he must have been amazing because they had never seen so many happy people celebrating someones life in this way before.If you knew him, you know how special he was.
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Ps I realized I would be wrong if I left out three details;
* One Thank you Oliver North and your daughter for loaning me your helmet that day for part of the competition! as I had a problem with mine.
** Dad gave my brother and sister Christmas presents for their sons early!
*** I finished fifth a pink ribbon, I did have to circle once at the water cross country.Dad's final comment on the video"this is it the end of the day". Did he know?
My mom is an invaluable help to this day and is actually coming for a visit, but my Dad passed a little more than twenty years ago.I want to take this opportunity to share the story of his last day and mention his funeral, because they were very bitter sweet and unlike no other I have ever known. If you have suffered a loss of someone close to you I hope this helps you find a way to deal with it in a positive way.For the parents who read this I hope it reminds you how important your approval and support is to your kids.
I was competing a Holsteiner named Hidden Talent or "Prince". I bought through Scott Hassler the summer I worked for him and his mother Jill at Hidden Acres, two year prior to the creation of Hilltop.I schooled Jumpers and thaught jumping lessons along with general barn duties, which is a story for another post. Prince and I were competing in a training level horse trail for the first time, at Waters Gift in Maryland, and mom and dad were late. This was not normal they were usually early for everything. Dad said they had a romantic breakfast in bed, which was also not a typical event, but everybody was in a good mood. I had entered the open training thinking, because I was an instructor that was where I belonged, again it was my first horse trial as I grew up in the hunter/jumper world. Eventers will know why this is funny.
I got through my Dressage test ok, no major mistakes, but nothing to write about. Then on cross country I went very slow, but clear. The course was very hilly and I had not schooled him over some of the questions we were asked, so I thought better to have time faults than a stop. Needless to say we were way down in the standings, but my parents were so excited that I found my way around without a stop, I couldn't be upset. The stadium course was challenging and had a triple that I new would cause some riders problems. I told my father how I was going to approach this question, and he was intrigued. He was filming everything that day. I pull it out very once in a while when I just want to hear his voice. He got so excited when I went clear and went on and on about how I took the triple!
We were walking back to the horse trailer and he put his arm around my shoulder as we walked up a steep hill and told me he was proud of me and he believed I had talent as a rider and I should continue to pirsue it. This memory is very vivid and while I am sure my dad had said he was proud of me many times, it is the one I remember most It meant more to me than any compliment I have ever gotten.
When we got home we were all very tired and after a big meal we sat down to watch a movie together. Right before the end of the movie dad said "watch this is ....going to happen" sure enough it did! He was so happy with himself for figuring it out he began to laugh. Then the laughter change to a horrible weasing noise and he grabbed his chest.
He had a heart attack four years earlier and had a congenital heart condition so the doctors thought he would only live two years. I told mom to call 911 and proceeded to give him CPR. While I was trying to to keep him breathing I could see the life quickly flow from him. The paramedics arrived quickly and continued to try and save him, but once they got to the hospital they were able to determine his heart wall had given in completely. It was slightly after midnight so his death certificate reads September 9,1990, but it was September 8, 1990 at 1100 PM for me. If you have to go, and we all eventually do it was about as good as it gets, laughing at the end of a happy day spent with family. I am only sorry my brother and sister weren't there. I feel it was harder for them because they were not.
I gave his eulogy at his funeral and as I looked out at the small church filled well beyond its capacity people were standing and even out the open door. I realized how much James Brown Montfort JR. had meant to so many people! The service was at his mothers family church in ST Mary's county Maryland Two and a half hours from our home, yet everyone came, even some people I did not know.While I told of some of my dad's great points and my love for him. I think a sentiment a student of mine shared with me is what most people liked and set the tone for the ensuing wake turned celebration of his life!It is a simple concept, if when you loose someone close to you, you do your best to incorporate all the things you loved about them into yourself they live on through you!
The insuring celebration of his life was everyone sharing all the wonderful memories they had. Tales of him making them laugh or helping them in an unexpected way or at an unexpected moment. I knew it was something different when the funeral director and hearse driver said that he must have been amazing because they had never seen so many happy people celebrating someones life in this way before.If you knew him, you know how special he was.
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Ps I realized I would be wrong if I left out three details;
* One Thank you Oliver North and your daughter for loaning me your helmet that day for part of the competition! as I had a problem with mine.
** Dad gave my brother and sister Christmas presents for their sons early!
*** I finished fifth a pink ribbon, I did have to circle once at the water cross country.Dad's final comment on the video"this is it the end of the day". Did he know?
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
How I began with my first horse "Buddy!"
As a young child growing up in Maine, horses were all I ever thought about. I had breyer horses of every breed and made stables for then out cardboard. I would 'canter' through the woods dreaming of riding on trails I spent so much time on. I would race down the street on my bike pretending it was a horse, using a jump rope as reins. My Grandmother shared my passion my horses. Well I should say she 'brain washed' me from a early age. My Grandmother was a amazing women and devoted animal lover. The time I spent at her house are some of my clearest memories from my childhood. It was a time of horses and malamutes, singing lovebirds and iced tea on the deck and warm muffins in the mornings. Which brings me to my first horse, and he was not what most people would expect.
Before I had to the chance to own a horse, we lost my Grandmother. It was a hard time for my family. She went to Washington State to see my Uncle Mark, and returned a different person. A few months later she was diagnosed with Alzheimers. It was a accelerated case, within a year, we lost her. I still find it hard to talk about that year, it was a year of heartbreak, it was hell.
This was the point in my life when my mother and father let me fully emerge myself in the world of horses. I took a lesson at a school horse barn. That was a few hours away, for a short time. It that had no real impact of my equestrian life. Except what to avoid in a riding instructor.
I joined the loacl 4-H club closer at home. At this point my mother and I went to a local horse rescue, on the slim chance that we may find a horse that way. The barn at the rescue was dark and had that lingering smell of un-healthy animals. It was depressing and heartbreaking. Standing in one stall was a 17.1h Belgian cross gelding, he was about 100lb under weight. His feet looked horrible and his coat was dull and had a greasy feel to it. He had big liquid eyes and a sad hanging lip. He was dull, as if he had removed himself from his human care takers. We could not say no, so we took him home, and called him Buddy. He gained weight, his coat improved as did his feet. We came to find out that he was much older then we thought, closer to 22, not the 15 we had been told. I spent many hours trail riding Buddy. I got lost so many times, and it was always Buddy that found the way home. I would drop the reins and he would head back to barn, no matter how far away from home we where. He was huge,and way to big for me. But he was a gift,and the safest horse you could ask for. He would not canter on the trail unless he felt the footing was good. He never spooked or refused to cross a stream or jump a little log. He was truely my best friend.
Sincerly,
Petra
Before I had to the chance to own a horse, we lost my Grandmother. It was a hard time for my family. She went to Washington State to see my Uncle Mark, and returned a different person. A few months later she was diagnosed with Alzheimers. It was a accelerated case, within a year, we lost her. I still find it hard to talk about that year, it was a year of heartbreak, it was hell.
This was the point in my life when my mother and father let me fully emerge myself in the world of horses. I took a lesson at a school horse barn. That was a few hours away, for a short time. It that had no real impact of my equestrian life. Except what to avoid in a riding instructor.
I joined the loacl 4-H club closer at home. At this point my mother and I went to a local horse rescue, on the slim chance that we may find a horse that way. The barn at the rescue was dark and had that lingering smell of un-healthy animals. It was depressing and heartbreaking. Standing in one stall was a 17.1h Belgian cross gelding, he was about 100lb under weight. His feet looked horrible and his coat was dull and had a greasy feel to it. He had big liquid eyes and a sad hanging lip. He was dull, as if he had removed himself from his human care takers. We could not say no, so we took him home, and called him Buddy. He gained weight, his coat improved as did his feet. We came to find out that he was much older then we thought, closer to 22, not the 15 we had been told. I spent many hours trail riding Buddy. I got lost so many times, and it was always Buddy that found the way home. I would drop the reins and he would head back to barn, no matter how far away from home we where. He was huge,and way to big for me. But he was a gift,and the safest horse you could ask for. He would not canter on the trail unless he felt the footing was good. He never spooked or refused to cross a stream or jump a little log. He was truely my best friend.
Sincerly,
Petra
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
My beginning...the pony years!
When I was 7 my mom thought I needed an activity that was mine. I looked up to my older brother at the time and wanted to be like him. He was a gifted athlete. He was good at every sport; baseball, soccer, water skiing and snow skiing and riding motor cycles. He was very competitive and had to be the best and win. With our age difference of nine years and my vision problem I didn't stand a chance. So even though he had taken a few riding lessons before me. He did not seem to want to continue, and my mom thought the ponies could see, so why not give it a try! Little did she know what she was getting into, lol!
Mom and Dad bought a small farm in the country and went with, instructor Anne McKay to a mixed auction in Timonium Maryland and bought two ponies. Dawn was an 11.2 hand Shetland pony we got for $75.00's with her sheet that had her name on it. And Love Bug who was a pinto that was 14.2 hands without his shoes after being riden hard on the day his feet were done, lol for $400.00. Dawn was meant for me and Love Bug for my brother. It should be mentioned this was in 1972 and a gallon of gas was .25 cents a gallon and a Mach 1 was $3,200.00 brand new!Classes at shows were $5.00!
Dawn was a feisty forward minded pony and little much more me at that points. So my parents contacted the previous owners and decided to have the older sister of her previous rider be my instructor. Donna Blevins at the time was 17,and her parents owned Sullivan had Spring Hill Equestrian center 15 minutes away. In the very beginning she brought her many time champion hunter Cram to our house to ride out with me on Dawn and I. Cram was a beautiful Chestnut Thuroughbred. I would also take a lesson on a school pony at her house. She wasn't sure I would be able to ride Dawn, but it worked out well. Dawn was very forward and was not afraid of anything and would never stop. In fact once at Spring Hill a jump was set at 3'6 inches for Donna's sister Lynn to take with her Arabian jumper, Florida Sun. Well jumped it by accident! My mom almost fell off the wall of the arena were she watching. (I believe Lynn was Taking from George Morris when she could in those days. I mention this because his book, huntseat equitation set the standard for equitation, that was the law in our barn growing up. ).
It should be mentioned here that I was always picked last on the playground at school for everything and there were 62 girls myself and one other boy in the lesson program at the barn. It was the first time I was able to get a girls attention and I was determined to do well.
We moved Dawn to spring Hill and bought a young dapple Grey 13.2h Welsh pony named Grey Bullet. Dawn was getting rather small for me at this point. Love Bug also moved to the barn at first to be used as a lesson pony. To help offset the others expenses and later for me to compete. Bullet was only three and had little training. I had a bad habit of getting ahead of the motion and dropped him in front of jumps. Which caused me to have many falls. This is how I started riding Love Bug to regain my confidence
After a few years I was to compete all three .This didn't last for too long, because I became too tall for Dawn. At this time I was able to show in the hunter, equitation, and jumper when offered and also pleasure divisions. With my poor mom standing all day in all types of weather holding one or two ponies while I rode the third! There were so many fun classes back then, outside courses, handy hunter, trail and command. The fence heights in those days were generally higher too. It was fun! as it should be.
I rode with Donna for eight years and the only reason I stopped was sadly her mother passed away and her father sold the farm. Also it was time for me to start showing horses and my Dad said I had to sell a pony if I wanted a horse which was reasonable, but I wasn't ready to do that. So I rode for pleasure and ran cross country during high school, not returning to riding competitively until college.
I learned so much over my eight years with Donna about riding and caring for horses, but most of all how not to give up! How to fall off and get back on, and that on any given day anyone can beat anyone else. You are competing against yourself first and foremost and ALWAYS BE A GOOD SPORT, win or loose! We had our share of champions but more importantly we enjoyed the process andd had many smiles along the way.
I think one of the best things is to see when you are in and around the sport for years like I have. Is people like Sandy Farrel whom I showed against at that time go on and have so much success or go to a barn and teach a grandmother and her daughter and her granddaughter all in the same afternoon.
I hope in sharing these fond memories I have been able to relive some of your own, and helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
P.S. Thanks Mom and Dad!!!
*** For those of you who may not know my father passed away on September 8, 1990 at 1100 PM in my arms.A story I will share soon. I miss him every day!
Mom and Dad bought a small farm in the country and went with, instructor Anne McKay to a mixed auction in Timonium Maryland and bought two ponies. Dawn was an 11.2 hand Shetland pony we got for $75.00's with her sheet that had her name on it. And Love Bug who was a pinto that was 14.2 hands without his shoes after being riden hard on the day his feet were done, lol for $400.00. Dawn was meant for me and Love Bug for my brother. It should be mentioned this was in 1972 and a gallon of gas was .25 cents a gallon and a Mach 1 was $3,200.00 brand new!Classes at shows were $5.00!
Dawn was a feisty forward minded pony and little much more me at that points. So my parents contacted the previous owners and decided to have the older sister of her previous rider be my instructor. Donna Blevins at the time was 17,and her parents owned Sullivan had Spring Hill Equestrian center 15 minutes away. In the very beginning she brought her many time champion hunter Cram to our house to ride out with me on Dawn and I. Cram was a beautiful Chestnut Thuroughbred. I would also take a lesson on a school pony at her house. She wasn't sure I would be able to ride Dawn, but it worked out well. Dawn was very forward and was not afraid of anything and would never stop. In fact once at Spring Hill a jump was set at 3'6 inches for Donna's sister Lynn to take with her Arabian jumper, Florida Sun. Well jumped it by accident! My mom almost fell off the wall of the arena were she watching. (I believe Lynn was Taking from George Morris when she could in those days. I mention this because his book, huntseat equitation set the standard for equitation, that was the law in our barn growing up. ).
It should be mentioned here that I was always picked last on the playground at school for everything and there were 62 girls myself and one other boy in the lesson program at the barn. It was the first time I was able to get a girls attention and I was determined to do well.
We moved Dawn to spring Hill and bought a young dapple Grey 13.2h Welsh pony named Grey Bullet. Dawn was getting rather small for me at this point. Love Bug also moved to the barn at first to be used as a lesson pony. To help offset the others expenses and later for me to compete. Bullet was only three and had little training. I had a bad habit of getting ahead of the motion and dropped him in front of jumps. Which caused me to have many falls. This is how I started riding Love Bug to regain my confidence
After a few years I was to compete all three .This didn't last for too long, because I became too tall for Dawn. At this time I was able to show in the hunter, equitation, and jumper when offered and also pleasure divisions. With my poor mom standing all day in all types of weather holding one or two ponies while I rode the third! There were so many fun classes back then, outside courses, handy hunter, trail and command. The fence heights in those days were generally higher too. It was fun! as it should be.
I rode with Donna for eight years and the only reason I stopped was sadly her mother passed away and her father sold the farm. Also it was time for me to start showing horses and my Dad said I had to sell a pony if I wanted a horse which was reasonable, but I wasn't ready to do that. So I rode for pleasure and ran cross country during high school, not returning to riding competitively until college.
I learned so much over my eight years with Donna about riding and caring for horses, but most of all how not to give up! How to fall off and get back on, and that on any given day anyone can beat anyone else. You are competing against yourself first and foremost and ALWAYS BE A GOOD SPORT, win or loose! We had our share of champions but more importantly we enjoyed the process andd had many smiles along the way.
I think one of the best things is to see when you are in and around the sport for years like I have. Is people like Sandy Farrel whom I showed against at that time go on and have so much success or go to a barn and teach a grandmother and her daughter and her granddaughter all in the same afternoon.
I hope in sharing these fond memories I have been able to relive some of your own, and helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
P.S. Thanks Mom and Dad!!!
*** For those of you who may not know my father passed away on September 8, 1990 at 1100 PM in my arms.A story I will share soon. I miss him every day!
Choosing a Trainer is like choosing your spouse!
Choosing a riding instructor may be as simple as calling the one and only individual within a hundred mile radius who offers riding lessons. The choice is not nearly so limited, or usually so easy. It should be done with the same care you would take to pick a university for your child.
When you do choose your instructor give them 100% of your self. Keep a open mind, be respectful, be passionate about learning all you can and use your instructors knowledge to your best advantage. We recommend staying with them for a minimum of five years,studying literature and videos that they pick; which go along with their system and only riding in clinics they recommend. You should learn one language-system fluently, so you can have clear communication woth your equine partner and a happy lasting relationship.
This model of how to choose instruction can be applied to learning almost anything. We hope sharing this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
Petra and John
Before beginning your search for the best possible instruction, it is both helpful and necessary to make a complete and honest assessment of your strengths, weaknesses, and goals as a rider. With which riding skills do you feel comfortable and competent? Which skills do you feel yourself lacking? Identify the equestrian pursuits on which you would most like to concentrate your educational efforts. Do you aspire to ride in the Dressage ring, the Hunter/Jumper ring or maybe just for pleasure?
Visit facilities and watch a lesson so you can make an informed choice. Take a notebook along so you can jot down information about the program’s nuts and bolts such as available lesson packages, lesson times, the number of students in a class, cancellation policies etc. Is the instructor qualified to help you reach you goals? How did they acquire their knowledge? Is safety a priority? Do they put the horses well being first and foremost in their training program? Do they fallow the rules set fourth by the FEI and the USEF to guide all of us?(especially when it comes to drugs,medications, and ethics!) Observe the barn routine and riding classes thoughtfully and right down your observations for later review. When considering putting a horse in training or boarding your horse with an instructor, don't be afraid to ask questions about the feeding program, health care program, care of the footing- overall facility and turnout procedures-quality-availability. This is especially important if you have a horse that has special needs.When you do choose your instructor give them 100% of your self. Keep a open mind, be respectful, be passionate about learning all you can and use your instructors knowledge to your best advantage. We recommend staying with them for a minimum of five years,studying literature and videos that they pick; which go along with their system and only riding in clinics they recommend. You should learn one language-system fluently, so you can have clear communication woth your equine partner and a happy lasting relationship.
This model of how to choose instruction can be applied to learning almost anything. We hope sharing this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
Petra and John
Monday, February 14, 2011
The next step towards getting fit!
Its time to take the next step in my exercise journey. I have been walking for three weeks and now its time to add something more. Remember to consult your physician before starting anything new, and I am sharing what works for me, and each of us is different.
I know I do best when I am flexible and as even on both sides of my body as possible . I like to try and have no weak links, so I vary what I do more and more, and try and work every area of my body. I am going to add yoga three days a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for 30 minutes. Each day using a different workout for upper body, abs, and lower body. I am going to use the Gaiam video series called body target. I have used their videos before with great success. If you decide yoga is for you and you have access to a class given by a good instructor I recommend giving it a try with your doctors ok . Having an instructor who can see what you are doing and give you helpful hints will speed you results up and doing it in a class helps you keep going. Plus you may also make some great friends!
After the three weeks I will continue to add other types of work outs. This is a building process that I have learned helps me get in shape and stay injury free. I am starting to add a little running to some of my walks at this point. A steady pace for 3 minutes every other day.
I have a long way to go before I get to were I want to be, but I am going to try and enjoy the journey as much as I can. Try and remember to give your self a pat on the back anytime you stick with your plan and have a good work out. Its important to building you self confidence.
My program is NOT to be as big and muscular as I can.
My program IS to be healthy, flexible, toned everywhere, have a strong cardiovascular system, and feel great!!!
This is something I am doing for me, not that Petra minds lol. I am studying to get my personal trainer certification through NAISM. Because I have always had an intense interest in personal fitness. Wish me luck. Again consult the apropriate doctors and professionals before starting anything. Also the old saying " no pain no gain" is not true as far as I am concerned. If you creat a base by walking and stretching and yoga most people can get into shape with very little soreness. This requires lots of careful stretching before and after, eating well, and focusing more on good form. I will get into more detail as I go through my own journey. I hope sharing this helps you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
I know I do best when I am flexible and as even on both sides of my body as possible . I like to try and have no weak links, so I vary what I do more and more, and try and work every area of my body. I am going to add yoga three days a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for 30 minutes. Each day using a different workout for upper body, abs, and lower body. I am going to use the Gaiam video series called body target. I have used their videos before with great success. If you decide yoga is for you and you have access to a class given by a good instructor I recommend giving it a try with your doctors ok . Having an instructor who can see what you are doing and give you helpful hints will speed you results up and doing it in a class helps you keep going. Plus you may also make some great friends!
After the three weeks I will continue to add other types of work outs. This is a building process that I have learned helps me get in shape and stay injury free. I am starting to add a little running to some of my walks at this point. A steady pace for 3 minutes every other day.
I have a long way to go before I get to were I want to be, but I am going to try and enjoy the journey as much as I can. Try and remember to give your self a pat on the back anytime you stick with your plan and have a good work out. Its important to building you self confidence.
My program is NOT to be as big and muscular as I can.
My program IS to be healthy, flexible, toned everywhere, have a strong cardiovascular system, and feel great!!!
This is something I am doing for me, not that Petra minds lol. I am studying to get my personal trainer certification through NAISM. Because I have always had an intense interest in personal fitness. Wish me luck. Again consult the apropriate doctors and professionals before starting anything. Also the old saying " no pain no gain" is not true as far as I am concerned. If you creat a base by walking and stretching and yoga most people can get into shape with very little soreness. This requires lots of careful stretching before and after, eating well, and focusing more on good form. I will get into more detail as I go through my own journey. I hope sharing this helps you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Sunday, February 13, 2011
John's Gouda Burgers
Hey guys and gals' here is a easy, healthy and tasty dinner, for you to try. Start with a small garden salad then try my Gouda burgers and corn with peppers, and finish it off with a bowl of sliced fresh fruit and vanilla yogurt later in the evening.
The burger, start with a 1/4 pound of local organic ground beef per person. We have some great Angus and longhorn farms near by. I like to put a light coating of McCormak's steakhouse seasoning on the meat after I make the patties about the size of your palm and leave them in the fridge while I get everything else ready. I then put one can of corn in a small pot with a sliced red and/or orange sweet pepper, and put it over medium heat.Then I take two frying pans and coat them lightly with olive oil. One is an iron skillet the other modern lined. I then chop up two fresh tomato's and half a fresh onion( I am cooking for three in this example). I pre heat both skillets on high. Once they are heated I put the meat in the Iron skillet and the tomato's and onion in the other. I let everything cook for a two minutes flipping it every 30 seconds. Then I turn it down to medium low which is 3 on my stove. Then I set the table and make the other preparations filling drinks water and sometimes a glass of juice or wine ex. When I am finished that I turn the corn down to low and put the tomato's and onions in with the meat and put a slice of Gouda on top of the burgers and cover everything with the pan I was using for the veggies, and allow it to cook for three minutes or so. The time will depend on how you like your burgers rare-medium ex. this is for medium.While this is happening I chop up some fresh fruit strawberries, banana's whatever you like and put them in some small bowls mixed with one vanilla yogurt each( the Eat Right or Activia are my favorites) and put them in the fridge for later in the evening.Then I serve it! Breed or rolls are optional. I like one peace of whole grain oat breed on the side with mine.All of the prep can be done 45 minutes or so.While I clean up after Petra gives Emma Grace a bath and then we all sit down and watch a family show and enjoy our fruit and yogert desert!!!
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
The burger, start with a 1/4 pound of local organic ground beef per person. We have some great Angus and longhorn farms near by. I like to put a light coating of McCormak's steakhouse seasoning on the meat after I make the patties about the size of your palm and leave them in the fridge while I get everything else ready. I then put one can of corn in a small pot with a sliced red and/or orange sweet pepper, and put it over medium heat.Then I take two frying pans and coat them lightly with olive oil. One is an iron skillet the other modern lined. I then chop up two fresh tomato's and half a fresh onion( I am cooking for three in this example). I pre heat both skillets on high. Once they are heated I put the meat in the Iron skillet and the tomato's and onion in the other. I let everything cook for a two minutes flipping it every 30 seconds. Then I turn it down to medium low which is 3 on my stove. Then I set the table and make the other preparations filling drinks water and sometimes a glass of juice or wine ex. When I am finished that I turn the corn down to low and put the tomato's and onions in with the meat and put a slice of Gouda on top of the burgers and cover everything with the pan I was using for the veggies, and allow it to cook for three minutes or so. The time will depend on how you like your burgers rare-medium ex. this is for medium.While this is happening I chop up some fresh fruit strawberries, banana's whatever you like and put them in some small bowls mixed with one vanilla yogurt each( the Eat Right or Activia are my favorites) and put them in the fridge for later in the evening.Then I serve it! Breed or rolls are optional. I like one peace of whole grain oat breed on the side with mine.All of the prep can be done 45 minutes or so.While I clean up after Petra gives Emma Grace a bath and then we all sit down and watch a family show and enjoy our fruit and yogert desert!!!
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Jack Le Goff; A once in a life time horsemen.
I am a graduate of Westmorland Davis Equestrian Institute at Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia. The school no longer exists, but it was an amazing experience, and I will share many fascinating stories of the training and events that took place there over the course of this blog.
Jack Le Goff was on the advisory council and gave regular clinics at WDEI. If you do not know who Jack is here is a link to give you background http://www.chronofhorse.com/article/jack-le-goff-dies-78 .
He was truly amazing in many ways. Today I would like to share the two things that stuck with me most.
First he believed that all riders and trainers should be true horseman and understand all aspects of their care, physiology, psychology and training. One example he repeatedly told us was that he should be able to blindfold us in the barn isle and bring out horses that were in our care one at a time and we should be able to not only identify the horse by running our hand from its knee to its fetlock. And at the same time we should be able to say if it was warmer than normal, had more or less fluid, and notice even the most minute change form day to day!
The second thing I will always remember, that makes me smile. He always stressed riding from your seat and legs and back to front. One day when perhaps our best event rider at school, who was winning a great deal at the preliminary level on a particular horse was not completely BELIEVING in this concept 100%. He asked her to get off and stand at x (the center of the ring) facing c ( the center of the short side of the arena at the far end). Then he at 57 got on and began doing a very nice sitting working trot which became an active collected trotting by the time it took to go half way around the arena. With the horse now wonderfully on the bit in a good rhythm and great self carriage he proceeded to allow the reins to run through his hands until he reached the end nothing changed! The horse stayed the same and was fantastic! If this was not enough he then made a perfect turn down the center line of the arena. Never picking up the reins or using his hands in anyway! When he was tree meters from the rider he went from this awsome sitting trot instantly to a perfectly balanced square halt! All from the invisible use of his seat and legs!!! At this point he smiled as he dismounted and said, "you don't need your hands as much as you think you do" and laughed in a good matured way. The audience and the rider laughed as well. All the while in awe of his demonstration. He knew this rider well and she rode very well through out the clinic.. She did improve after the demonstration, but was glad he chose her, because it only challenged her to be even better, and she wanted to be the best she could be. Proving that the tested method of horsemanship wins out over any gimmicky training every time.
This has left me always wanting to know the horses I work with in a way not all instructors do in this day and age of hectic schedules and always trying to teach or ride as many as possible.
I try to focus on quality not quantity in everything I do. This can be applied to all facets of life. You can also benefit by being able to do every job at work or at home. You don't have to do them all on a regular basis, but if you have done them once and truly understand what each in-tales you will be a better employee, husband, dad, friend and/or boss. What ever role you are in you will be more respected by those around you and empathetic with those around you.
I hope through sharing these stories I have helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Jack Le Goff was on the advisory council and gave regular clinics at WDEI. If you do not know who Jack is here is a link to give you background http://www.chronofhorse.com/article/jack-le-goff-dies-78 .
He was truly amazing in many ways. Today I would like to share the two things that stuck with me most.
First he believed that all riders and trainers should be true horseman and understand all aspects of their care, physiology, psychology and training. One example he repeatedly told us was that he should be able to blindfold us in the barn isle and bring out horses that were in our care one at a time and we should be able to not only identify the horse by running our hand from its knee to its fetlock. And at the same time we should be able to say if it was warmer than normal, had more or less fluid, and notice even the most minute change form day to day!
The second thing I will always remember, that makes me smile. He always stressed riding from your seat and legs and back to front. One day when perhaps our best event rider at school, who was winning a great deal at the preliminary level on a particular horse was not completely BELIEVING in this concept 100%. He asked her to get off and stand at x (the center of the ring) facing c ( the center of the short side of the arena at the far end). Then he at 57 got on and began doing a very nice sitting working trot which became an active collected trotting by the time it took to go half way around the arena. With the horse now wonderfully on the bit in a good rhythm and great self carriage he proceeded to allow the reins to run through his hands until he reached the end nothing changed! The horse stayed the same and was fantastic! If this was not enough he then made a perfect turn down the center line of the arena. Never picking up the reins or using his hands in anyway! When he was tree meters from the rider he went from this awsome sitting trot instantly to a perfectly balanced square halt! All from the invisible use of his seat and legs!!! At this point he smiled as he dismounted and said, "you don't need your hands as much as you think you do" and laughed in a good matured way. The audience and the rider laughed as well. All the while in awe of his demonstration. He knew this rider well and she rode very well through out the clinic.. She did improve after the demonstration, but was glad he chose her, because it only challenged her to be even better, and she wanted to be the best she could be. Proving that the tested method of horsemanship wins out over any gimmicky training every time.
This has left me always wanting to know the horses I work with in a way not all instructors do in this day and age of hectic schedules and always trying to teach or ride as many as possible.
I try to focus on quality not quantity in everything I do. This can be applied to all facets of life. You can also benefit by being able to do every job at work or at home. You don't have to do them all on a regular basis, but if you have done them once and truly understand what each in-tales you will be a better employee, husband, dad, friend and/or boss. What ever role you are in you will be more respected by those around you and empathetic with those around you.
I hope through sharing these stories I have helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Lamb Shanks? That sounds gross!
This is a warning to any one that knew me from the past, I like to cook, and bake! I know, shocking isn't it? I used to be the queen of going out for lunch and dinner(boy the money I wasted!). After a long day of teaching, when you get home past 9:00pm its hard to motivate yourself to make any thing, well some thing that's not popped into the microwave that is. I was always the first one to say "Let go to the pub! I want a club sandwich!". Well now that I'm married with a child, things have taken a change for the better. John and I put a lot of effort into to eating well and at a more regular time and we take turns doing the cooking. All most every night the three of sit down and have dinner together, just as I did growing up. In this post I just wanted to share one of my favorite things that I make for my family.
Lamb Shanks! Possibly the toughest cut of lamb out there, when not cooked properly that is! But its one of my all time favorites!
And if they came from a lamb that was free to graze, they'll have less saturated fat and more omega-3 than just about any cut of grain-fed beef.
I start with two good sized Shanks, and lightly cover them in sea salt and fresh ground pepper. Then using a cast Iron pan I put a good layer of high heat oil (about a inch), and once the oil is hot I brown every side of the lamb shanks. This takes about five minutes. After removing the lamb shanks I drain most of the oil and fat, then using the same pan I add about four cut and peeled carrots, one can of stewed tomatoes(drained of liquid), one cup of cubed red potatoes and about half a cut up small onion. I also add one diced garlic clove and a fresh cut up chill pepper(don't tell John!). Make sure you all your veggies cut up before hand, as you will need keep stirring the veggies as you go. Then add one small can of chicken broth and one cup of dry red wine. Bring all this to a boil to reduce the wine . Always use a wine you would enjoy drinking! Do not use a so called 'cooking' wine. Cooking wine can be salty and have some funky additives that will effect the taste of your meal.
Once the wine has been reduced (the level of liquid will go down) turn the heat down to simmer and add your Lamb shanks. The liquid should just cover the sides of the shanks. Then cover the pan with a cast iron top. If you don't have one, tin foil will work. It will take about four hours for the shanks and veggies to come out perfect. You do not need to do any thing further but sit back and wait! So go enjoy the rest of that red wine with your husband!
Your shanks will be done when the meat is so tender it falls of the bone! I hope you try your hand at braised Lamb shanks! They are not as scary as they seem!
Sincerely,
Petra
Lamb Shanks! Possibly the toughest cut of lamb out there, when not cooked properly that is! But its one of my all time favorites!
And if they came from a lamb that was free to graze, they'll have less saturated fat and more omega-3 than just about any cut of grain-fed beef.
I start with two good sized Shanks, and lightly cover them in sea salt and fresh ground pepper. Then using a cast Iron pan I put a good layer of high heat oil (about a inch), and once the oil is hot I brown every side of the lamb shanks. This takes about five minutes. After removing the lamb shanks I drain most of the oil and fat, then using the same pan I add about four cut and peeled carrots, one can of stewed tomatoes(drained of liquid), one cup of cubed red potatoes and about half a cut up small onion. I also add one diced garlic clove and a fresh cut up chill pepper(don't tell John!). Make sure you all your veggies cut up before hand, as you will need keep stirring the veggies as you go. Then add one small can of chicken broth and one cup of dry red wine. Bring all this to a boil to reduce the wine . Always use a wine you would enjoy drinking! Do not use a so called 'cooking' wine. Cooking wine can be salty and have some funky additives that will effect the taste of your meal.
Once the wine has been reduced (the level of liquid will go down) turn the heat down to simmer and add your Lamb shanks. The liquid should just cover the sides of the shanks. Then cover the pan with a cast iron top. If you don't have one, tin foil will work. It will take about four hours for the shanks and veggies to come out perfect. You do not need to do any thing further but sit back and wait! So go enjoy the rest of that red wine with your husband!
Your shanks will be done when the meat is so tender it falls of the bone! I hope you try your hand at braised Lamb shanks! They are not as scary as they seem!
Sincerely,
Petra
Important lessons in True Horsemanship!
I want to share a story that has two parts and its meanings can be applied to a variety of things. It all revolves around a time I spent learning from Conrad Schumacher in Germany. Over time I will share my experiences working with numerous great instructors and trainers. I share will not cover all they have to offer, that would be its own book!
The first part is about me as a student.When I went to Conrad's I had not been riding as much before hand as I would have liked. The horses I did have time to ride were not at a high level,but he was patient and took me under his wing . I trusted in the fact that he was incredible, which I had been able to see in person here in the USA. I was able to attend a clinic were he worked with a variety of horses and riders. The combination that impressed me most was Lendon Grey and Idocus. Here was a Grand Prix rider/trainer that I had watched for years on horses like Seldom Seen and so many others. She rode with such focus and rider and trainer showed such mutual respect throughout the clinic that I knew if I showed the same focus and respect I would have great results too. After attending the clinic I was given the optrutity to go to Germany and train.
While working with Conrad I was able to feel and learn things that I did not even realize were possible. In one lesson he had me stay on a pirouette for 8 revolutions(most horses can not do this well and should not be asked too, this one was very specail). While Being as relaxed and focused as I could.
He asked me at all times to challenge myself to see how light my aids could be, how to go with and accentuate the horses movement more every ride. To put the horse first by always
considering what it was thinking and feeling. To ask myself, if I had done everything I could to properly prepare the horse and reward him. He said at the end of the week he was pleased with my progress and I he would be happy to work with me again.
This reinforced my belief that when you work with a gifted teacher, and you give their lesson 100%. You will learn not only how it can work for you, but something you can apply to any lesson you may take. If you do not have trust and confidence in your trainer, you have to ask yourself is this the right teacher? If the answer is yes you must try and open your mind and ask questions after your lessons to gain understanding on how you can achieve this goal.
The second part is about me as a teacher. He gave me a wonderful example of what it means to be a great instructor for many reasons, but one story he shared has stuck out in my mind more than any other! He had a horse that he trained and then leased to students. Each student leased the horse for two years. He did this five times. In between each students lease he would ride the horse for a time while he searched for the next one. Each student won championships on this same horse! What was very interesting for him is that the horse changed so much with each rider even though they all had similar success. When he would take the horse back and rode it the horse did everything well that the previous rider did well and struggled with everything the
previous rider struggled with. Each rider was different. We all know each horse has strengths and weakness's but he had no idea how much the rider played in it. Before this he spent most of his time focusing on what would improve the horse by telling the rider how to correct or improve the horse.After this experience he focused a lot more of his time focusing on correcting and improving the rider. Teaching through the rider. This thought me their must be a balance. That there are many ways to look at each situation through the horse, the rider, and the combination of both. Also the physical, mental, and environmental aspects of the horse, rider and combination of that horse and rider must be considered! Wow, its a lot. So simple and yet so complicated. I guess that is what makes it so wonderful and fasinating!!!
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
The first part is about me as a student.When I went to Conrad's I had not been riding as much before hand as I would have liked. The horses I did have time to ride were not at a high level,but he was patient and took me under his wing . I trusted in the fact that he was incredible, which I had been able to see in person here in the USA. I was able to attend a clinic were he worked with a variety of horses and riders. The combination that impressed me most was Lendon Grey and Idocus. Here was a Grand Prix rider/trainer that I had watched for years on horses like Seldom Seen and so many others. She rode with such focus and rider and trainer showed such mutual respect throughout the clinic that I knew if I showed the same focus and respect I would have great results too. After attending the clinic I was given the optrutity to go to Germany and train.
While working with Conrad I was able to feel and learn things that I did not even realize were possible. In one lesson he had me stay on a pirouette for 8 revolutions(most horses can not do this well and should not be asked too, this one was very specail). While Being as relaxed and focused as I could.
He asked me at all times to challenge myself to see how light my aids could be, how to go with and accentuate the horses movement more every ride. To put the horse first by always
considering what it was thinking and feeling. To ask myself, if I had done everything I could to properly prepare the horse and reward him. He said at the end of the week he was pleased with my progress and I he would be happy to work with me again.
This reinforced my belief that when you work with a gifted teacher, and you give their lesson 100%. You will learn not only how it can work for you, but something you can apply to any lesson you may take. If you do not have trust and confidence in your trainer, you have to ask yourself is this the right teacher? If the answer is yes you must try and open your mind and ask questions after your lessons to gain understanding on how you can achieve this goal.
The second part is about me as a teacher. He gave me a wonderful example of what it means to be a great instructor for many reasons, but one story he shared has stuck out in my mind more than any other! He had a horse that he trained and then leased to students. Each student leased the horse for two years. He did this five times. In between each students lease he would ride the horse for a time while he searched for the next one. Each student won championships on this same horse! What was very interesting for him is that the horse changed so much with each rider even though they all had similar success. When he would take the horse back and rode it the horse did everything well that the previous rider did well and struggled with everything the
previous rider struggled with. Each rider was different. We all know each horse has strengths and weakness's but he had no idea how much the rider played in it. Before this he spent most of his time focusing on what would improve the horse by telling the rider how to correct or improve the horse.After this experience he focused a lot more of his time focusing on correcting and improving the rider. Teaching through the rider. This thought me their must be a balance. That there are many ways to look at each situation through the horse, the rider, and the combination of both. Also the physical, mental, and environmental aspects of the horse, rider and combination of that horse and rider must be considered! Wow, its a lot. So simple and yet so complicated. I guess that is what makes it so wonderful and fasinating!!!
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely,
John
Friday, February 11, 2011
Our mission statement
I want to take a moment to clarify the purpose of our blog, what it is meant to be and what it is NOT meant to be. I am going to start with the NOT.
It is NOT meant to tell you how to live your life or that you are doing anything wrong. It is NOT saying our lives are perfect and we don't make mistakes.
Now on to what it is meant to do:
*Be fun!
**Give you something to think about!!
*** Share what we have found works for us!!!
Life is wonderful, but also hard and we hope by sharing what we have learned, and are learning it will improve your lives in some small way.
Everyone can watch someone do something and see mistakes, but learning the mistakes doesn't get you were you want to go. It is much harder to see what enabled them to able to do the task in the first place. What good habits did they learn so well that they became innate and they could make it look so easy. An easy example might be watching figure skating. I can't skate, but I can see when someone else falls our lands badly or is stiff. I have no clue though how they were able to learn how to do the movements without even thinking about right foot here left hand there. The specific time needed to skate each day ex.
So we will share what works for us as people, a man and a woman who are married and have children. One who is theirs, Emma Grace and lives with them. Two Boys, Grant and Joshua who are from my previous marriage and live with their mom and her husband and there two step-sisters that her husband had from a previous marriage. People who care about being healthy, people, animals, our environment,doing the right thing and having fun!We also have Leo a four year old great Dane and have had many other animals and horses that are too numerous to list here. I am also sure their will be many more over the years to come.
We truly hope you enjoy what we have to share and it helps you in some small way!!!
Sincerely, John
It is NOT meant to tell you how to live your life or that you are doing anything wrong. It is NOT saying our lives are perfect and we don't make mistakes.
Now on to what it is meant to do:
*Be fun!
**Give you something to think about!!
*** Share what we have found works for us!!!
Life is wonderful, but also hard and we hope by sharing what we have learned, and are learning it will improve your lives in some small way.
Everyone can watch someone do something and see mistakes, but learning the mistakes doesn't get you were you want to go. It is much harder to see what enabled them to able to do the task in the first place. What good habits did they learn so well that they became innate and they could make it look so easy. An easy example might be watching figure skating. I can't skate, but I can see when someone else falls our lands badly or is stiff. I have no clue though how they were able to learn how to do the movements without even thinking about right foot here left hand there. The specific time needed to skate each day ex.
So we will share what works for us as people, a man and a woman who are married and have children. One who is theirs, Emma Grace and lives with them. Two Boys, Grant and Joshua who are from my previous marriage and live with their mom and her husband and there two step-sisters that her husband had from a previous marriage. People who care about being healthy, people, animals, our environment,doing the right thing and having fun!We also have Leo a four year old great Dane and have had many other animals and horses that are too numerous to list here. I am also sure their will be many more over the years to come.
We truly hope you enjoy what we have to share and it helps you in some small way!!!
Sincerely, John
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Did you know your kids are eating something more addictive than cocaine?
Recently proven to be more addictive than cocaine! If you where to see that head-line, I am sure you would keep reading just as I did. I started this research for personal reasons. After a few years I had started to notice how after eating certain foods Johns moods seemed to be affected, and also mine. I started to look very closely at ingredients in every thing we eat. Whats was with High Fructose Corn syrup, and why was it the first ingredient in bread, shouldn't that be, oh I don't know WHEAT FLOUR! Lets take a closer look at High Fructose Corn Syrup and it may help to explain America’s rise in obesity and the new focus on food addiction and how it effects our mental health.
Ironically, when the government ordered cocaine removed from all Coca-Cola beverages no one would have guessed that an even more consequential substance would take its place, or that the government was to blame for this substitution. High Fructose Corn Syrup hit the markets in the 1950s as a wonder product. Cheaper than sugar cane while still packing all the intense sweetness we associate with confectionery delights. High Fructose Corn Syrup is now used to sweeten up tons of candies, juices, colas, cookies, cakes, and creams and has even found its way into less palatable tempting items including bread, soups, and other pre-packaged foods.
Fallowing the same receptor pathways of other ingested addictive chemicals, including cocaine and opiates, High Fructose Corn Syrup alters the transmission of certain brain chemicals including endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, which, in turn, trigger the pleasure center of our brains, leaving us wanting more. And once it leaves our systems mental health is negatively effected, leaving you with anxiety, fatigue and moodiness.
"A 2007 study (Lenoir M, Serre F, Cantin L, Ahmed SH ), found that intense sweetness surpasses cocaine even in addicted and drug-sensitized individuals leading to increased aggression upon withdrawal and a disruption of the dopamine/acetylcholine reward balance in the brain. As the alterations on brain function brought on by HFCS produce many of these hallmarks of addiction including intense craving, the inability to control or stop use, a pre-occupation with the substance, and withdrawal symptoms". After reading that the idea of dessert becomes elevated to a whole new level!
And the culprit for the presence of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in all sweetened foods in the U.S? The US Goverment! The mechanism is the incredibly high tariff on sugar produced in other countries. They would rather see companies use a product that is harmful! But isn't corn grown in the US, aren't we supporting our selves by using it? You may be asking your self. Not with legislation. If HFCS was really better than cane sugar, legislation artificially inflating our price for cane sugar would not be needed. We do not need to artificially protect the market like this
Our family has dealt with the negative effects of HFCS on a daily bases. The improvement in our lives with out this product is amazing. We are happier and better balanced, our sleeping habits are better. Life is just better!
Sincerly,
Petra
Ironically, when the government ordered cocaine removed from all Coca-Cola beverages no one would have guessed that an even more consequential substance would take its place, or that the government was to blame for this substitution. High Fructose Corn Syrup hit the markets in the 1950s as a wonder product. Cheaper than sugar cane while still packing all the intense sweetness we associate with confectionery delights. High Fructose Corn Syrup is now used to sweeten up tons of candies, juices, colas, cookies, cakes, and creams and has even found its way into less palatable tempting items including bread, soups, and other pre-packaged foods.
Fallowing the same receptor pathways of other ingested addictive chemicals, including cocaine and opiates, High Fructose Corn Syrup alters the transmission of certain brain chemicals including endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, which, in turn, trigger the pleasure center of our brains, leaving us wanting more. And once it leaves our systems mental health is negatively effected, leaving you with anxiety, fatigue and moodiness.
"A 2007 study (Lenoir M, Serre F, Cantin L, Ahmed SH ), found that intense sweetness surpasses cocaine even in addicted and drug-sensitized individuals leading to increased aggression upon withdrawal and a disruption of the dopamine/acetylcholine reward balance in the brain. As the alterations on brain function brought on by HFCS produce many of these hallmarks of addiction including intense craving, the inability to control or stop use, a pre-occupation with the substance, and withdrawal symptoms". After reading that the idea of dessert becomes elevated to a whole new level!
And the culprit for the presence of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in all sweetened foods in the U.S? The US Goverment! The mechanism is the incredibly high tariff on sugar produced in other countries. They would rather see companies use a product that is harmful! But isn't corn grown in the US, aren't we supporting our selves by using it? You may be asking your self. Not with legislation. If HFCS was really better than cane sugar, legislation artificially inflating our price for cane sugar would not be needed. We do not need to artificially protect the market like this
Our family has dealt with the negative effects of HFCS on a daily bases. The improvement in our lives with out this product is amazing. We are happier and better balanced, our sleeping habits are better. Life is just better!
Sincerly,
Petra
References
[1] Basciano, H., Federico, L., and Adeli, K., “Fructose, insulin resistance, and metabolic dyslipidemia,” Nutrition and Metabolism (Lond). 2005 Feb 21; 2(1):5
[2] Gaby, A.R., “Adverse effects of dietary fructose,” Alternative Medicine Review. 2005. Dec; 1(2):80-6.
[2] Gaby, A.R., “Adverse effects of dietary fructose,” Alternative Medicine Review. 2005. Dec; 1(2):80-6.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
The mysterious Mr X. And our adventure in horsemenship
My freshman year of College I was planning on trying out for the cross country team. I had run one my high school team each year, but during freshman orientation there was a table for the equestrian team. I didn't even realize they had one. A very nice young lady smiled up at me as I walked by and said "Do you ride?" I said "yes" and she convinced me to try out. I did and it went well, but to remain on the team I had to find somewhere I could ride twice a week in a lesson. I did not know the area at all. One of the other team members said she thought she could help me.
So off we went one afternoon to an old farm a short drive from town. She introduced me to a man who didn't even give his full name, because he wanted to stay anonymous. We will call him "Mr X " for the purposes of this article. I feel I must give you a little background on him to set the stage. He had been trained at the Radner hunt club. He then started his own farm training horses and riders and raising a family. This was all interrupted by the Vietnam war which he was sent too, while gone his wife had to sell their farm. When we met he was supporting his wife and children working in a deli. He had one horse at the moment, a Arabian stallion that he was bringing along, but he had hurt his back and was willing to help me as long as I accepted his terms. Which were I did not have his full name or phone number. I showed up on time and gave 100%. I never asked a question or spoke in a lesson unless spoken to. He did not go to shows or anywhere else to coach me.I did not tell anyone he was teaching me. I never questioned his methods accept to understand them better and only after lessons.When his back was better or he felt he had taught me what he could we were done. Which conveniently happened about the same time. I accepted these conditions and off we went.
The first day we warmed up and then he had me jump a course. The horse I was riding was not his. It was a gelding owned by the farm owner whom I never met. He was 15.3h or so, buckskin with some Arabian breeding. He had a good broad well muscled back, easy to sit, a good jump (powerful and round). Three clear gaits and nice movement, well balanced, and a super mind!
It went ok, no stops or rails down. But I missed some spots and was not always with my horse. Sometimes I got ahead of the motion and sometimes I got left. I had not ridden in a while, but also Mr X. could see the way I went about things wasn't the best way for me.
He said you need a lot of work, but you have some talent and seem willing so I will give you a chance. Between that day and the next lesson he had time to think about my vision problem which I had described to him in detail( no depth perception, only really using one eye which does not see perfectly ex).He had a plan.
It should be told at this point I had ridden from the time I was 7 and jumped a variety of ponies for years in competition without much success in the beginning but over time I won my fair share of champions in a variety of divisions hunter,equitation,pleasure,jumper at a time when outside course with some solid fences were common and classes where more creative and challenging.
The plan involved improving my seat, deep 3 point, light 3 point and 2 point or forward. My ability to control my horses length of stride and rhythm, ant to be able to ride it straight even through turns and on circles, ride more off feel and have a disciplined eye that was always looking ahead, and a special jumping technique.
At the collegiate shows you basically pull horses from a hat and catch ride them without a warm up. They are warmed up in the morning by other riders. So you have to have a style that will work with a variety of horse and right away.
He had me spend a long time on the flat. He had me do a lot of exercises with out stirrups to impove my suppleness, balance, fitness, and the independence and coordination of my aids. He taught me a great deal of Dressage without ever mentioning the word. Things like, ride your horse from back to front-leg to hand. Don't pull! instead take your horse to your hand and resist or half halt to achieve your goals. You must learn to fallow you horses mouth perfectly with your hands, only then can you teach it to follow your hands when needed. Keep the rhythm!" and so on. He also taught me to "feel a horses rhythm and stride quickly, to find what was best for them and improve a little at a time from there. To work within their capabilities, not beyond." Many times he would have me close my eyes and just feel! What we did would easily fill a book.
On to jumping, We only jumped one jump. It did change from an x to a vertical to different types of overs.What he focused on was my new way of jumping. It combined a variety of simple things. One- ride the horse to your hands in a good rhythm straight relaxed and active, never too quick in the rhythm. Two- eyes always looking ahead and level. Line yourself up with the top of the jump and decide if you need to go forward or collect a little. Look at the top of the next fence or a spot at the end of the arena. Third- always take your horse to the fence but wait for the fence to come to you , then fold and follow! He believed as I do now if you fold in your hip and keep your center above your ankle, slightly above the saddle just behind the pommel you will stay with your horse. Which is the Fold. The Follow is when your hands stay in a prefect very light but definite contact with the horses mouth. You must keep your fingers gently closed around the reins, have soft elbows and relaxed shoulders to do this well.This will do two things, it lets you feel even the most subtle change in your horse and communicate with it in a instant in a smooth and clear fashion. "As little as possible as much as necessary".
Remember even if your spot isn't perfect and your are a little too close or long, if your if horse is straight in good balance and rhythm and your go with it smoothly the jump will be good. If the spot is perfect and you lack any of the other things the jump will not be good. Our last lesson I did the course twice at a much higher height than I had the first time, it went nearly perfect, on one fence I could have had a little more leg and had my horse take off with the same vigor he did the other 15.That was it, eight months had gone by and he was done with me. I was high point rider for my team and was third at regionals just missing nationals. More importantly I was never the same, not only as a rider but a person!
I owe Mr. X the worlds BIGGEST THANK YOU!!! I hope by sharing this story I will help you in some small way. And that I put a smile on you face the way it did for me.
Sincerely, John
So off we went one afternoon to an old farm a short drive from town. She introduced me to a man who didn't even give his full name, because he wanted to stay anonymous. We will call him "Mr X " for the purposes of this article. I feel I must give you a little background on him to set the stage. He had been trained at the Radner hunt club. He then started his own farm training horses and riders and raising a family. This was all interrupted by the Vietnam war which he was sent too, while gone his wife had to sell their farm. When we met he was supporting his wife and children working in a deli. He had one horse at the moment, a Arabian stallion that he was bringing along, but he had hurt his back and was willing to help me as long as I accepted his terms. Which were I did not have his full name or phone number. I showed up on time and gave 100%. I never asked a question or spoke in a lesson unless spoken to. He did not go to shows or anywhere else to coach me.I did not tell anyone he was teaching me. I never questioned his methods accept to understand them better and only after lessons.When his back was better or he felt he had taught me what he could we were done. Which conveniently happened about the same time. I accepted these conditions and off we went.
The first day we warmed up and then he had me jump a course. The horse I was riding was not his. It was a gelding owned by the farm owner whom I never met. He was 15.3h or so, buckskin with some Arabian breeding. He had a good broad well muscled back, easy to sit, a good jump (powerful and round). Three clear gaits and nice movement, well balanced, and a super mind!
It went ok, no stops or rails down. But I missed some spots and was not always with my horse. Sometimes I got ahead of the motion and sometimes I got left. I had not ridden in a while, but also Mr X. could see the way I went about things wasn't the best way for me.
He said you need a lot of work, but you have some talent and seem willing so I will give you a chance. Between that day and the next lesson he had time to think about my vision problem which I had described to him in detail( no depth perception, only really using one eye which does not see perfectly ex).He had a plan.
It should be told at this point I had ridden from the time I was 7 and jumped a variety of ponies for years in competition without much success in the beginning but over time I won my fair share of champions in a variety of divisions hunter,equitation,pleasure,jumper at a time when outside course with some solid fences were common and classes where more creative and challenging.
The plan involved improving my seat, deep 3 point, light 3 point and 2 point or forward. My ability to control my horses length of stride and rhythm, ant to be able to ride it straight even through turns and on circles, ride more off feel and have a disciplined eye that was always looking ahead, and a special jumping technique.
At the collegiate shows you basically pull horses from a hat and catch ride them without a warm up. They are warmed up in the morning by other riders. So you have to have a style that will work with a variety of horse and right away.
He had me spend a long time on the flat. He had me do a lot of exercises with out stirrups to impove my suppleness, balance, fitness, and the independence and coordination of my aids. He taught me a great deal of Dressage without ever mentioning the word. Things like, ride your horse from back to front-leg to hand. Don't pull! instead take your horse to your hand and resist or half halt to achieve your goals. You must learn to fallow you horses mouth perfectly with your hands, only then can you teach it to follow your hands when needed. Keep the rhythm!" and so on. He also taught me to "feel a horses rhythm and stride quickly, to find what was best for them and improve a little at a time from there. To work within their capabilities, not beyond." Many times he would have me close my eyes and just feel! What we did would easily fill a book.
On to jumping, We only jumped one jump. It did change from an x to a vertical to different types of overs.What he focused on was my new way of jumping. It combined a variety of simple things. One- ride the horse to your hands in a good rhythm straight relaxed and active, never too quick in the rhythm. Two- eyes always looking ahead and level. Line yourself up with the top of the jump and decide if you need to go forward or collect a little. Look at the top of the next fence or a spot at the end of the arena. Third- always take your horse to the fence but wait for the fence to come to you , then fold and follow! He believed as I do now if you fold in your hip and keep your center above your ankle, slightly above the saddle just behind the pommel you will stay with your horse. Which is the Fold. The Follow is when your hands stay in a prefect very light but definite contact with the horses mouth. You must keep your fingers gently closed around the reins, have soft elbows and relaxed shoulders to do this well.This will do two things, it lets you feel even the most subtle change in your horse and communicate with it in a instant in a smooth and clear fashion. "As little as possible as much as necessary".
Remember even if your spot isn't perfect and your are a little too close or long, if your if horse is straight in good balance and rhythm and your go with it smoothly the jump will be good. If the spot is perfect and you lack any of the other things the jump will not be good. Our last lesson I did the course twice at a much higher height than I had the first time, it went nearly perfect, on one fence I could have had a little more leg and had my horse take off with the same vigor he did the other 15.That was it, eight months had gone by and he was done with me. I was high point rider for my team and was third at regionals just missing nationals. More importantly I was never the same, not only as a rider but a person!
I owe Mr. X the worlds BIGGEST THANK YOU!!! I hope by sharing this story I will help you in some small way. And that I put a smile on you face the way it did for me.
Sincerely, John
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
The Pink Box taught me....
Yesterday I was sitting at the desk in The Pink Box alone ( The Middleburg visitors center were I help once a month) looking at the hundreds of pamphlets on the wall for attractions, events and businesses. They were screaming at me! We want to survive! We want PEOPLE TO COME!!!
This made me realize we all are so interconnected and have far more in common than we differ. We would be so much stronger if we focused on getting together behind these things. I will give three quick examples:
A horse show fills with riders, those riders bring there families and grooms- the restaurants fill, the hotels fill, the gas station is busy, the stores get business, and people see the area who may not have in the past.
The community has an event or a parade maybe a theatrical performance or a tour( historical, shopping or other) -the restaurants fill, the hotels fill, the gas station is busy, the stores get business, and people see the area who may not have in the past.
If the hotels or full or the restaurants, or the shops, or the museums and historical sites people are exposed to all the other things.
That is one way to look at it another would be we all want a safe, clean, affordable, sustainable and beautiful place to live and it would be easy to make similar connections.
If we can focus more on the common good while still encouraging creativity, individuality and innovations that make life improve in so many interesting ways. The future will be bright indeed! All of the area business can work together, to build each up. And not tear each other down.
This is just my view, please feel free to share any positive views you may have to offer. I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely, John
This made me realize we all are so interconnected and have far more in common than we differ. We would be so much stronger if we focused on getting together behind these things. I will give three quick examples:
A horse show fills with riders, those riders bring there families and grooms- the restaurants fill, the hotels fill, the gas station is busy, the stores get business, and people see the area who may not have in the past.
The community has an event or a parade maybe a theatrical performance or a tour( historical, shopping or other) -the restaurants fill, the hotels fill, the gas station is busy, the stores get business, and people see the area who may not have in the past.
If the hotels or full or the restaurants, or the shops, or the museums and historical sites people are exposed to all the other things.
That is one way to look at it another would be we all want a safe, clean, affordable, sustainable and beautiful place to live and it would be easy to make similar connections.
If we can focus more on the common good while still encouraging creativity, individuality and innovations that make life improve in so many interesting ways. The future will be bright indeed! All of the area business can work together, to build each up. And not tear each other down.
This is just my view, please feel free to share any positive views you may have to offer. I hope this has helped you in some small way.
Sincerely, John
Preparing for challenges
I want to touch on my earlier post about why standardized tests are important, but reaching our potential involves creative individualized work.. I am going to do this through examples both equestrian and non- equestrian. I hope one will reach you or bring to mind an example you might like to share.
In dressage we have many standardized tests at each level that we use to judge ourselves and our horses against others at the same levels. They are written by judges and trainer who hope to give us the best path they can to guide our training. Much like the way a curriculum for learning a language or math is set up( basic math, algebra 1.2, geometry, calculus). This structure is very helpful and important. While keeping this in mind, remember that each of our horses and ourselves are different. Some skills we acquire with ease others take years to develop.
The critical part of this for me is you must prepare for the standard tests, but you have to develop the creativity and pay individual attention to yourself and your horse or given circumstances to really bring out the best. In dressage the freestyle helps us to show off what we have learned and express our individuality.. It is also what fans enjoy watching most!
I would like it to be used to determine the champions at every level, so people can not only bring the best out of there horses and themselves, but it can become a habit. This would also make the sport more marketable to the media and its fans!
Another equine example would be the difference between free jumping for an inspection and free jumping for training. When preparing for an inspection you must get the horse ready to jump specific fences that will be set a specific distances and the horse will be handled in a predetermined fashion. Each group has different requirements in this, so you have to know them and adjust your work accordingly. This helps evaluate our breeding program and has been a fairly reliable indicator as to a horses potential. It is only one small piece of the puzzle albeit a good one.
When using it for training it is very different! Your horses confidence is still the number one priority, but you must determine what is best for your horse and you have an unlimited amount of possibilities. This can be very useful, but the horse must be willing. If you have a horse who lacks the willingness or talent to do the simplest of exercises I do NOT recommend it. Also if you have not free jumped before you should seek a qualified professional who has. You also must have the necessary space and equipment. Also remember lots of horses can jump a single big fence it does not mean they will be a top jumper, and just because they do it free does not make them ready to do it under saddle. I t can however, done correctly give horses great confidence. Free jumping is also very good for them physically and mentally. It gives you a chance to evaluate their technique (how they use their bodies), their instincts to adjust themselves when asked to shorten or lengthen or challenged by a different type of fence and improve them. This can be fantastic, but it can be a disastrous, so be conservative, and have plenty of help.
* A little advice- don't do it more than once a week. don't do it until a horse is 3, unless it is a stallion candidate who must prepare for a licensing. If the horse is going to be big wait until he is a year older for everything!
No matter what you are trained in, or what you learned on way through school. We all know once in the working world you have a need to constantly adjust and change to progress.You would be lost without the basic knowledge, but is the drive to keep learning and improving that keeps us alive!
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
***Please share examples of you own!!!
Sincerely , John
P.S. In my next equestrian post Wenseday I will share how one instructor taught me in very unique way how to approach jumping that has served me well. If you can learn it and have good vision imagine what you can do!
In dressage we have many standardized tests at each level that we use to judge ourselves and our horses against others at the same levels. They are written by judges and trainer who hope to give us the best path they can to guide our training. Much like the way a curriculum for learning a language or math is set up( basic math, algebra 1.2, geometry, calculus). This structure is very helpful and important. While keeping this in mind, remember that each of our horses and ourselves are different. Some skills we acquire with ease others take years to develop.
The critical part of this for me is you must prepare for the standard tests, but you have to develop the creativity and pay individual attention to yourself and your horse or given circumstances to really bring out the best. In dressage the freestyle helps us to show off what we have learned and express our individuality.. It is also what fans enjoy watching most!
I would like it to be used to determine the champions at every level, so people can not only bring the best out of there horses and themselves, but it can become a habit. This would also make the sport more marketable to the media and its fans!
Another equine example would be the difference between free jumping for an inspection and free jumping for training. When preparing for an inspection you must get the horse ready to jump specific fences that will be set a specific distances and the horse will be handled in a predetermined fashion. Each group has different requirements in this, so you have to know them and adjust your work accordingly. This helps evaluate our breeding program and has been a fairly reliable indicator as to a horses potential. It is only one small piece of the puzzle albeit a good one.
When using it for training it is very different! Your horses confidence is still the number one priority, but you must determine what is best for your horse and you have an unlimited amount of possibilities. This can be very useful, but the horse must be willing. If you have a horse who lacks the willingness or talent to do the simplest of exercises I do NOT recommend it. Also if you have not free jumped before you should seek a qualified professional who has. You also must have the necessary space and equipment. Also remember lots of horses can jump a single big fence it does not mean they will be a top jumper, and just because they do it free does not make them ready to do it under saddle. I t can however, done correctly give horses great confidence. Free jumping is also very good for them physically and mentally. It gives you a chance to evaluate their technique (how they use their bodies), their instincts to adjust themselves when asked to shorten or lengthen or challenged by a different type of fence and improve them. This can be fantastic, but it can be a disastrous, so be conservative, and have plenty of help.
* A little advice- don't do it more than once a week. don't do it until a horse is 3, unless it is a stallion candidate who must prepare for a licensing. If the horse is going to be big wait until he is a year older for everything!
No matter what you are trained in, or what you learned on way through school. We all know once in the working world you have a need to constantly adjust and change to progress.You would be lost without the basic knowledge, but is the drive to keep learning and improving that keeps us alive!
I hope this has helped you in some small way.
***Please share examples of you own!!!
Sincerely , John
P.S. In my next equestrian post Wenseday I will share how one instructor taught me in very unique way how to approach jumping that has served me well. If you can learn it and have good vision imagine what you can do!
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