Willow Grove Stables

Welcome to Lisa! Glad to have you back.

2012-01-20T09:34:00.000-08:00

We are very pleased to have Lisa Ratte back at Willow Grove, until her next world adventure calls. For those of you who do not know Lisa very well we put together a little introduction for you.

Lisa began riding on a military base Chile when she was 12 years old, where her South American coach’s combination of headstands on horseback, somersault dismounts, races through the desert, acrobatics and show jumping provided her with an eclectic beginning to her riding career. Lisa’s passion for show jumping brought her to a show stable in California, where her training focused on hunters and jumpers. During high school she showed competitively throughout the California and Oregon show circuits, and she developed a love for bringing along green horses. She believes that there is nothing more satisfying than training a young horse, and watching it progress and develop its skills.
In 2002 Lisa earned a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, and applies her equine specialization to care for the first aid and nutrition of horses under her care. After graduation Lisa strived to further develop her skills as a rider, so she travelled to Belgium, where she rode sales horses for Stephex, the sales barn where Hickstead was purchased by Eric Lamaze.
After spending two years coaching riders in California, Lisa discovered the rewards of watching her students’ skills improve and the growth of their confidence as they achieved their goals. The joy that she got out of coaching inspired her to travel to New Zealand in 2004, where she earned her degree in Education.
After spending five years teaching math and science to students in Canada, England and China, Lisa has returned to coaching riders. She combines her equitation background with her knowledge of classroom teaching and learning to help her students achieve their riding goals. Lisa’s passion for equitation makes it a strong focus in her coaching, as she believes that proper position is not only a rider’s foundation, but that it has a huge impact on a horse’s way of going.

Stripes and Checks

2011-11-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

And on a final note (re: CJ). She is even the fashion police when it comes to PJ's as well.
I really don't see the problem. Checks and Stripes. Who would see me anyway? Well a lot of people now I guess.

It is amazing she did not call these guys!

Day 2 - Bar 4

2011-11-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

Do you think we are making Lori nervous that we are steering her youngster astray. Day 2 - Bar 4. Really very little drinking happening. Lovely walk on the shore of Lake Ontario. Shopping for healthy food. Waht trouble could we get into. Happy Birthday Fran. It was a great day.

What we have learned at the horse show so far!

2011-11-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

Shelby: "The name of the lake is Lake Ontario." See it is an educational trip.

Shuttle Bus driver is the best free tour of Toronto. A wealth of information.

The famous gate leading into the Royal Winter Fair is actually the "Princes" gate (as in multiple male royals) not the "princess" gate that we all thought it was.

The oldest bar in Toronto was established in 1829 and is called "The Wheat and Sheaf".

And he was also an expert in hotels (did you know the Best Western does not own any of the hotels they are strickly a reservation center?) and had commentary on airlines. Porter Air is in - don't ask him about Air Canada.

We are sure to learn more from this wonderful entertaining fellow this next week.

2011-11-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

Talent Squad finals on Friday and Saturday. This is the main ring where all the action takes place.
Ricoh Colesium. We head there early in the morning for a workout. It will be a reasonable 5am start tomorrow.

Little known facts about CJ.

2011-11-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

Here is Caroline practising patience while we get Roo settled into his stall. We all know she is very talented in many ways. But danger lurks. We did not know. No one told us......Help!!

This is a warning to all around. Do not step into a revolving door with Mrs. Jones. Her inner devil comes out and she spins it as fast as she can - laughing as she skips away. I almost lost my CET Medal rider.
Then we learn there has been terriflying events as well on the Teacup Ride at Disneyland. Yes I phoned Angelica to confirm.
So for all of you who know the beautiful, talented, calm and generous Caroline - there maybe trouble ahead. A warning to all those in New York in December............Watch out!

Limo Time!

2011-11-05T18:28:00.001-07:00

Here is proof that Shelby and I are responsible!!! She is doing homework on the plane!!!

Limo anyone. That's the way to travel girls..............

Toronto Here We Come!

2011-11-05T18:23:00.001-07:00

It figures that the first snow storm of the year has to happen the morning we need to leave for Toronto. Long delays in rush hour along with massive amounts of blowing snow - but we all made it there. We definitely deserved our Starbucks this morning. And so did our courageous drivers, Bill and Angelica.

And we were not the only ones getting out of Dodge. We met up with Gail Greenough who was also on our flight. Anne and Mike Reid off to Kelowna (smart people). And my friend from Ottawa Victoria Andrew on her way to Saskatoon (not so smart).

People Say The Darndest Things!

2011-04-28T20:10:00.000-07:00

It was an interesting day in horseshow land. It was so quote worthy that we had to start writing them down. Here is a sample:

Sandy on watching her daughter Hailey take a long distance on course. "Ohhh (with a puzzled look) - I don't think I like that one"!

Chantale after watching a child get bucked off in the hitching ring onto the gravel: "I don't understand why people buy their horses dangerous children". Hmm maybe a little mixed up on that one Chantale?

Kate overhearing a man watch the small grey dutch jumping machine: "Ah what a cute little horsey." Then he saw her jump the top of the standards in the 1.15m. "Ohhh she looks a little hard to stay on".

Two little girls outside Tracy's large grey horse Ringtone:
Girl #1: What kind of horse is that?
Girl #2: It is a Shire!
Girl #1: How can you tell?
Girl #2: It has feathers on its legs!
Girl #1: That is silly. Horses don't have feathers. They cannot fly!
Girl #2: Pegasus does!

Anonymous: Some people are alive, only because it is illegal to kill them!

Secret thoughts (possibly of ingate people): "There are no stupid questions, only stupid people."

Secret thoughts of trainers: "Things to do today: 1. Get up. 2. Survive. 3. Go back to bed."

And finally I will leave you someones thought for the day. "I can only please one person a day. Today isn't your day. Tomorrow doesn't look good either.

Mexico or Bust!!

2011-04-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

As Ali and I are sitting at the airport by the gate for flight to Los Cabos a thought passes through our collective brains. Hmm. Kelowna or Mexico. Kelowna or Mexico. Do you think we would be missed?? Can't the 25 show horses do without us. Hmm.

Reponses from the handful of people I shared this information with:

1. Ohhh go to mexico!!!! Can you imagine the chaos! From Lori

2. Hmmm we could still turn around. The kids could just ad lib.. From Jenn

3. Mexico. I'm sure the parents could help Jenn coach. I'll cover for you two as long as you bring back Pablo the pool boy!! From Steph

4. So tempting! From Katelyn

5. Sarah has friends in mexico we could stay with. From Sarah

6. Oh pick Kelowna honey!!! It's the place to be....... From Caroline (Kelowna horse show manager)

Sad news for us. The sign just changed to Montreal. No Cabos.

p.s. Our companion on the plane (nice guy with great teeth) thinks the Carnival in Jamaica would be a great choice at this time of year. Decisions, decisions.

Uncle Mother Nature. I cry Uncle!

2011-04-14T07:20:00.001-07:00

They say that April showers bring May flowers. What do April blizzards bring then? Okay Mother Nature - you have had your fun. My stress level is rising. Last weekend I chuckled as I watched my new neighbor walk around his building site with a shovel looking at his new dugout. I am pretty sure the hole he made was not intended as a watering holding source. Did he not know he bought in a flood zone? Then finally the ill placed culvert the politicians put in the roadway finally started to let water through and yeah we were free of the impending flood disaster. Hmmm. This morning has me stressing about flooding all over again. And I was dreaming of finally getting to ride outside.

I cry Uncle Mother Nature. Uncle!!

The Icicle Circuit.

2011-04-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

It is a true statement that when you live in Calgary and you don't like the weather - wait a few minutes and it will change. Okay it is April 2nd and we need it to change for the better. 20cm blowing snow. Ice underneath and we are at a horseshow. Luckily the wonderful RMSJ team allowed us to move in yesterday before the blast. There is soooo much snow now. The melting had better be slow or flooding willl be immense. And why do we live here? The Icicle Circuit is usually only Jan-March. The real question is - who made Mother Nature mad?

Some of the Great Fans

2010-10-26T15:37:00.000-07:00

Keenland

2010-10-23T15:07:00.001-07:00

Before Races Open.

Opening Day Oct 9th.

The painter in the paddock area.

And the Winner is "Honey Child"- how very southern!

Art Galore

2010-10-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

A tent full of Breyer horses. A collectors dream!

Woodsy Horses

This globe was made of horse shoes with wire outlining the continents of the world. Tags were attached for all the riders from all the countries competing at the games in the main stadium.

Glass horse overhead in the Alltech Experience.

Top 10 Team Final Jumping Part One

2010-10-20T21:12:00.001-07:00

The Theme for the Jumps for the Top 10 Team Showjumping Final was a salute to the Thoroughbred industry in Kentucky. Saluting top farms, racetracks, and of course the racehorse.

Jonathan Millar

A view of the stadium

Man O' War Jump Keenland Jump

McLain Ward & the mare Sapphire. They have cloned the mare.

McLain over his ROLEX Boogey jump. He knocked it down in both rounds.

Yann Candele

My Old Kentucky Home Jump

Calumet Farm Jump

Meredith Michaels Beerbaum

Eric & Hickstead

John Pearce

The beginning of the most difficult test. Oxer - four or five strides to very tight two stride combination - six flowinwg bending strides to the Keenland oxer. Or if you have to recover from the first part of the line - some did seven. Very square oxer so do no override!

The Tote Board Jump

The Water Jump proved very challenging. In the second round at night it was replaced by a triple bar because of the glare of the lights. This line was once again a very challenging test.

Churchill Downs Jump

The Seabiscuit Jump

Man O' War

2010-10-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

Known as "Big Red," this legendary chestnut Thoroughbred was born in 1917 and raced in 1919 and 1920. Man O' War passed away on November 1, 1947 after suffering a heart attack. More than two thousand people attended the funeral, which was broadcast by radio. The great stallion was the first horse to be embalmed and he lay in state for several days in a specially made casket lined with his racing colors (black and gold), the first horse ever buried this way. He is now buried at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

Some of Man O' Wars' famous decendants

War Admiral - Horse of the Year & Triple Crown Winner - 1937

Son of the legendary Man o' War, the small (15.2 hands) but majestic War Admiral thrilled crowds and claimed top honors in 1937. In a stellar career of 3 years, War Admiral won 21 of 26 races. The brown colt lost to his Western rival, Seabiscuit, in 1938 at Pimlico in a match race that has been called the greatest sporting event in American history.

War Admiral like his father became a successful stallion siring many winners. He died in 1959 and was honored with a well-deserved place beside his sire at the base of the heroic statue in Kentucky. His tremendous Belmont Stakes effort speaks for itself.

Seabiscuit - Horse of the Year - 1938

The first horse to top $400,000 in winnings, this grandson of Man O' War was a hard-luck hero for Depression-era America. Despite his short legs, bent knees, and an odd gait, Seabiscuit was a winner and became a national celebrity. In 6 years of triumphs and disasters, Seabiscuit earned 33 wins, 15 second places, and 13 thirds in 89 amazing races. His winning match race with War Admiral in 1938 is considered the greatest sporting event in American history.

Kelso - 5 Time Horse of the Year - 1960 to 1964

The brown gelding, a great-grandson of Man O' War, raced 8 seasons and earned more top honors than any other horse before or since. Born in 1957 in Maryland, he won 39 races and earned the praise of one of his famous jockeys, Eddie Arcaro, as well as had his own fan club. He was the first 3 year old to be named Horse of the Year and not win a Triple Crown race.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

2010-10-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

No need to look for a tour of the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The park had its own tour of libations. The best being the bourbon tasting. And experiencing Kentucky Bourbon Ale in which the beer is soaked in kegs that had housed bourbon for months to combine the taste of both ale and bourbon. This of course elevated the alcohol content as well. There was also a tent for tasting the bubbly and at the main stadium lemonade and vodka.

Makers Mark Cabin

Shooters

Makers Mark Village

Touring the Park. Lots to see.

2010-10-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

A quiet respite in amongst the chaos.

Yummy Bourbon Barrels

Keep track of your Range Rover or it might end up in Lexington Lake.

International Walk

Kingdom of Bahrain had their own tent!

They love their statues!

Bruce Davidson

Touring the Park

2010-10-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Indoor Arena

The Lexington Lake Main Stadium

Main Stadium

This One's For You Jenn

2010-10-18T21:26:00.000-07:00

If we pool our resources we can buy Jenn a Fiberglass horse for her cartoons too!

This is called "The Keenland Experience."

Downtown Horse Mania 2010

2010-10-18T20:22:00.000-07:00

Henry Tribute-Henry Faulkner

Digital Horse

Glorious Photographer

Egyptian Treasure

Cloisonneigh

Bourbon Barrel Horse

Running Around in Circles

Horse Mania 2010 at WEG

2010-10-18T19:44:00.000-07:00

Throughout the grounds at the Kentucky Horse Park as well as around town in Lexington we found painted horses that were decorated by artists from around the region.

Where the wild things are!

The Graduate Horse

Flower Power

Pearse Lyon Reserve Horse

Scientific Horse

The Pink Pony

Calumet Farm

2010-10-16T21:55:00.001-07:00

Calumet Farm has a record history of Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown winners and continues to be unmatched worldwide.

Calumet Farm is located in the heart of the Bluegrass region, nestled amidst rolling green hills, elegant old trees, and its legendary miles of white fences. Just a stone’s throw from historic Keeneland Race Course, Calumet is conveniently located near Thoroughbred breeding meccas Lexington, Paris, and Versailles. Calumet Farm offers a complete range of first class breeding and training facilities.

• 800 acres; 19 barns, 210 stalls
• 3/4 mile dirt track, 5/8 mile turf
• Six-horse electric starting gate test
• Aqua treadmill

HISTORY

CALUMET FARM was established in 1924 on the site of Fairland Farm by William Monroe Wright, who made his fortune in Chicago, manufacturing baking powder. Wright, who established Calumet as a trotter's nursery, bred premier harness racing horses there. His son, Warren, succeeded him in the business, and, after inheriting the elder Wright's estate, one of the largest fortunes in America, in 1933, determined flat racing was both more lucrative and more exciting, and Calumet was converted to a thoroughbred farm. Over the decades, Calumet bred many of the nation's top race horses, among them Triple Crown winners WHIRLAWAY and CITATION, the first filly Horse of the Year, TWILIGHT TEAR, such Kentucky Derby winners as PENSIVE and PONDER, and many other familiar names that catapulted the farm into the top three of America racing stables for seventeen straight years. When Wright died in 1950, his widow, Lucille, who later married Gene Markey, continued the tradition, breeding four Derby winners -- HILL GAIL, IRON LIEGE, TIM TAM, FORWARD PASS, and many other winners, among them, in her last years, the game ALYDAR.

Lexington - Horse Country

2010-10-16T21:42:00.001-07:00

Lexington

2010-10-16T21:21:00.000-07:00

Is Lexington the Horse Capital of the World?
Legendary scenic landscapes, multi-million dollar horses, some of the best equine facilities in the world, historic race courses, host of the 2010 World Equestrian Games....still have your doubts? Visit Lexington and judge for yourself. And while you're there, enjoy meeting some of the friendliest people you'll ever encounter.

Downtown and City Scapes

Canadian Eventing Team Wins Silver At WEG

2010-10-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

After two days of watching our eventing team on FEITV.org and cheering them on I was anxious on our arrival in Lexington to find out how the stadium jumping phase had gone. The team, comprised of Hawley Bennett-Awad, Kyle Carter, Selena O'Hanlon and Stephanie Rhodes-Bosch. The cross country test was amazing with all four team rider going clear with no jumping penalities and only two with minimal time faults. With the best three of the four scores to count, they added only one rail, for four faults, to a final total of 151.50 finishing in the silver medal position. This result was not only Canada's first eventing team medal at a World Championships in 32 years, but also qualified the Canadian Eventing Team for the 2012 London Olympics.

Let us just say that in true Eventer Fashion (I used to be one) the party went on all night. In the lounge, the lobby, and spilling out into the parking lot. Way to Go Team Canada.

"Secretariat" Premieres at Lexington's Kentucky Theatre

2010-10-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

Kentucky rolled out the red carpet last night for the premiere of the movie "Secretariat."
Sunday night, Lexington was similarly trying to bask in the warm glow of a Hollywood premiere as Secretariat star Diane Lane and many others walked the red carpet to catch a first glimpse of the movie. Patrons paid $125 and up for the event, which included the film and a party afterward at Portofino restaurant.

Secretariat jockey Ron Turcotte. "Secretariat is held in high esteem, I think because he won the Belmont by 32 lengths. He was an awesome horse, and he was the first horse to do it for 25 years."

Willow Grove goes to WEG

2010-10-16T20:05:00.000-07:00

World Equestrian Games September 25th to October 10th, 2010

Kentucky Horse Park Lexington Kentucky USA

The World Equestrian Games are comprised of the world championships for eight equestrian sports- dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, para dressage, reining and vaulting. The Games are held every four years, two years prior to the Olympic Games, and are governed by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The FEI is the international governing body of equestrian sport recognized by the International Olympic Committee. It is the organization which establishes rules and regulations for the conduct of international equestrian events. Today the FEI has over 130 member countries.

Previous Host Countries
The very first World Equestrian Games were held in Stockholm in 1990. Six disciplines were involved--Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Driving, Endurance and Vaulting. In 1994 the city of The Hague in the Netherlands hosted the Games.

After a late cancellation of the Games that were to be held in Dublin, Ireland, Rome stepped forward to host the 1998 Games on one year's notice. All disciplines except the Endurance were held and beautifully executed considering the very short preparation time. The Endurance was held in Dubai that year.

The next Games were held in Jerez de Frontera, Spain in 2002 and included all six disciplines and Reining for the first time. Following that the Games went to Aachen 2006,again with seven disciplines, and were a fabulous success.

In 2010 the games leave Europe for the first time and came to the United States to the Kentucky Horse Park where, for the first time, Para Dressage, the newest FEI Discipline will be competed together with the other seven.

More Derby Fun!

2010-03-30T19:12:00.000-07:00

Brie Gillespie and Ali Hedden

Kris Van Eaton

Herb and Donna Hammer

Kirstyn Hammer

Kari Hepfner

The Boys

2010-03-30T19:10:00.001-07:00

Oh we love our boys!!!!! Not sure if we should name names. But they do like to have fun! What good sports they are.

Fun and Games and Horses

2010-03-30T18:58:00.000-07:00

Adrian Gale

Annie Drinnan

Alyssa Olson

Tammy Pearson

Katherine McDonald and Amy Mendelman

Well it has been a while since the blogger has been active. Lots of fun and games in 2009. I will try to catch you up starting with the Kentucky Derby Hat Day and the AHHS Red Deer Year End show. Love Jenn's pink Hat. Not orange you say. Mmmmm.

Pat Gale, Christine Budd, Lisa Otto

Lori Edwards looking lovely in green. St. Paddy's day anyone!

A stylish Rachel Honish.

Chase Creek Pictures

2009-06-17T07:07:00.001-07:00

Chase Creek

2009-06-17T07:04:00.000-07:00

May 21-25 Jessica, Dashwood, Sallie and I made the 8hr drive to Chase Creek, BC, home of Nick Holmes-Smith for a 4 day cross-country clinic. This was Jessica and Dashwoods first time getting to play, and it is by far my favorite event clinic to attend.

Day one was brilliant for both Jessica and I, lots of playing in the water jump, banks, drop fences and ditches. The fences range from 18" to 1.20m so there is a lot of choices when it comes to something to jump. (Unfortunatly my photographer broke herself the second day and wasn't able to get photos of Sallie jumping the big stuff... perhaps next year!)

Days 3 and 4 I rode both Sallie and Dash, it's been a while since I've had to ride such a green horse XC. Sallie and I started to tackle some really fun yet challenging fences and lines- all the challenging excercises Trish builds at home makes riding the patterns Nick create much easier!

Jessica can't wait to get out and try it all over again, and has her sights set on recovering and perhaps riding pre-entry in September.
Written by Jenn Smart

Jenn in heaven

2009-06-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

Okay so maybe heaven and dressage test is not quite true. But the pictures of cross country we know is she is truly in her element. Well done Jenn, Sallie and Dashwood. Read about Jenn's weekend below. (Chestnut horse is Dashwoods brother)

Dashwood and Sallie take a road trip!

2009-06-16T05:25:00.000-07:00

To the Beaumont Horse Trials (oh yeah I was there too!)
Dashwood went Pre-Entry (2'6") and Sallie went Pre-Training (3')

Dressage: Sallie was first to go, we managed to meet my goal of besting 60% with a 63.5%. Remembered my dressage test (a small paranoia of mine after being eliminated once for forgetting the test half way through) Lots to work on and improve for the next show.

Dressage: Dashwood warmed up fantastic, but having to ride in a dressage ring for the first time, all alone, away from the other horses was a little daunting for him, reflecting in his dressage scores. Still happy with his performance for his very first time out!

Stadium: Clear on Sallie, second goal met! All our practice is really showing up here as it was a really nice, steady round for both of us. My goal with Dashwood was a quiet, steady round- again his first time out in a show situation, we ended up with one rail but otherwise a very reasonable round for our first event.

Cross Country: (The BEST part!) Alright- I am a course walking fanatic... I walk each course 3x, first time to find the fences, second to make a plan and figure out my options, third time to really confirm what track I'm going to ride. Perhaps a touch excessive, but it works for me! However... the Pre-Entry track was 1600m, and Pre-Training 2250m, meaning I walked 11550m- got to remember better walking shoes next time! Dashwood's round was good, the first few fences he was a little uncertain WHAT we were doing, but by fence 4 he was on a roll really enjoying himself. Double clear round (means no jumping or time faults) with a confident happy horse at the end. Sallie also had a clear round, but a touch slow equaling time penalties.

The one thing you never want to have is a jumping fault XC, a stop or run out costs you 20 penalties (faults)! I'll remember to gallop on a little more at the next event... I was very happy with the placings, Dashwood was 5th in the Open Pre-Entry and Sallie was 7th in Pre-Training.

Beaumont is the newest course in Alberta, they held the offical opening ceremony on XC day. Hopefully we can get Minds Eye Ranch and Millarville running again, as it would be nice to have more then 6 events a season. The fences are beautifully designed, with a Prarie theme. My favorite jump is the Crop Duster- 3 jumps in one! (Pre-Training jumped the left wing of the plane) Dashwood also got to have a family reunion- his older half brother was there competing in the Regular Pre-Entry, finishing 3rd overall. (chstnut horse in pictures above)
Written by Jenn Smart

Puppies coming up to six weeks old

2009-05-05T19:42:00.001-07:00

Fun in Kelowna

2009-05-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

The fun classes in the jumper ring entertained all. The Hoof and Woof relay and the puppy lead line were the highlights.

More of the 'A' Team & their support staff (dogs)

2009-05-05T19:30:00.001-07:00

Jumperland

2009-05-05T19:16:00.000-07:00

Joey can run too!

At the Ring in Hunterland Part 2

2009-05-05T18:59:00.001-07:00

Ring Prep by Donna

Focusing!!!!!

Course Designer Chris Jones and Hunter Judge Gary Striker

"Chucky Love" on the move to get a fallen rail.

Barn Prep

2009-05-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

At the ring Part 1

2009-05-05T18:43:00.001-07:00

Ingate Goddess Judy Cummings from Victoria

Parental Units Herb & Donna Hammer as well as Kevin and Christine Budd. Where are Wade and Lori??? Partaking in the Wine Festival perhaps?

Some of Team Willow Grove at the ringside. Seems like I joined the finger walking, pointing craze. Maybe it is contagious.

Hitting the Vineyards

2009-04-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

Tuesday Touring

2009-04-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

Well the Kelowna horse show started off with a wine tour of the local vineyards. Yummy!!! Here is the gang!

Too Cute!!!!

2009-04-28T20:02:00.001-07:00

Uncle DJ teaching them the ropes.

2009-04-28T19:57:00.001-07:00

Play Time & Nap Time

2009-04-28T19:52:00.000-07:00

Piles of Puppies

2009-04-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

Getting Bigger.

2009-04-10T20:42:00.001-07:00

Well the puppies eyes are almost open. Their personalities are definitely showing up. Some are cuddlers. Some have their own opinion. They are all too cute. And getting fuzzy and soft.

High Five!

2009-04-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Huggy Bear

2009-04-06T12:42:00.000-07:00

We call this one Huggy Bear.

The start of Puppy Madness

2009-04-06T12:37:00.000-07:00

So a little over a week has gone by and they are much stronger. Eyes are starting open. They are getting much more active.

Golden Retreiver Puppies

2009-04-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

Our first litter of Golden Retreiver puppies were born on January 26. A long whelping marathon of 13 hours took place with finally 12 wonderful babies arriving safe and sound.

Final day

2009-02-22T19:26:00.001-08:00

The final week of showing for Shelby and Telly. They travel home with Lori, Christine, Brie, and Ali. I will stay for another week with Steph and family. Congrats for a great two weeks. This week was a huge success with two championships and one reserve championship for Shelby and a championship for Telly. There will be no blogging as my computer is not in operation so there will be some final thoughts once I get home. Take care, Trish

Many faces of Telly.

2009-02-20T20:17:00.000-08:00

Okay some of these shots may be disturbing. She is trying to take over Ali's role of best assortment of faces. Beware!

Cantina

2009-02-20T20:08:00.000-08:00

More ribbons for the WG riders today. Celebration in La Cantina with the Karaoke and Pizza night.

Ode To Victor

2009-02-20T19:58:00.000-08:00

You clean our stalls.

You feed our horses.

You wash their legs

When we're finished their courses.

I am late for my class.

Oh no! What to do?

I look in the stall

It's Victor to the rescue.

The suds they do fly

In the blink of an eye

The tack is all clean

To a mighty sheen.

The horses he bathes

For all of us saves

Our clothes from the drier

Keeping spirits much higher.

Through rain sun and snow

The answers you always know

The Spanish lessons are a plus

Mucho Gracious from all of us.

Thank you Victor for making our trip extra special and looking after our horses so well. We will miss you.

More stuff

2009-02-19T19:53:00.000-08:00

More ribbons for the Willow Grove clan today. Jumpers once again got to show in the Grand Prix ring. A nice treat. Power & Speed with many jumps and touring all over the ring. The Tucson wind was with us for most of the morning. Cuts down on the exfoliating that needs to be done on our skin. Sandblasting is definitely an alternative.

Week 3 Grand Prix

2009-02-18T19:30:00.001-08:00

Chuy's

2009-02-18T19:16:00.000-08:00

The end of Week 3 ended in a celebration at the famous Chuy's Mexican restaurant. Much sillyness was had by all.

End of the week.

2009-02-16T09:17:00.000-08:00

Things Janine has learned while everyone else is in Tucson.

2009-02-16T08:43:00.000-08:00

My broken a**'s hurt bad especially when you laugh! No matter how hard I try I can not find a lost horse passport from 1300 miles away. Walkers are a cool fashion accessory. Knitting 16 and counting dishcloths is boring. Good friends are to be cherished even if later repayment will be extremely costly?!! Learning to text isn't as hard as I thought. Knowing that everyone is having fun and doing well. PRICELESS!! Did I mention that my broken a**'s really hurt. Love Janine.

What I Have Learned. By Alyssa Olson

2009-02-16T08:27:00.001-08:00

Cultivating in front of a jump is not a good idea. Also known as plowing. We do farm remember. Trish calls is Park & Pop. My right rein comes in handy. It is amazing how my horse does not drift left anymore. I love Victor. I see a permanent Mexican groom in my future. Down Jackets are a must in Arizona. The cheering/coaching/comments from the Olson boys never end when I am in the ring. I still love them though. Due to the downturn in the economy - fake tails in the hunter ring are non existent. Even though they are under the age of 10 boys will still break your heart. Horse shows are not nearly as much fun without my mom.

End of the Day Part 2

2009-02-16T08:17:00.001-08:00

A Day in the Life of a Horse Show. End of the Day.

2009-02-16T08:02:00.000-08:00

Back at the barn we finish up at the end of the day. Kudo's to all. A well deserved libation or two.

In the Ring again.

2009-02-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

A Day in the Life of a Horse Show - In the Ring

2009-02-16T07:36:00.000-08:00

A day in the life of the horse show. In the Ring. Pre accident. As you can see much fun and success is being had. Many ribbonsclutter up the walls. Blues (first in the USA); and two reserve championships for Shelby and Gracie. More in the ring pictures for this week on the next page.

A Day in the Life of a Horse Show

2009-02-14T20:13:00.001-08:00

At the ring - Walking Walking Walking. 15 jumps in the power and speed. Where do we go?? Left or right. Orange or Blue. Oxer or Vertical. Jumpers before Equitation or after. Hunters before jumpers. Which way do we go - Jeremy, Boyd, Robbie, Drew - Please help us know where we are supposed to be. Heads up for the water truck. Squirt and Stir! He will get you wet you know. More walking, walking walking. Learning many courses at once.

A Day in the Life of a Horse Show

2009-02-14T20:03:00.000-08:00

At the Barn: Here are some shots of us getting ready to show. Much preparation is needed to get this team rolling. And Starbucks consumed.

What I have learned. By Shelby Edwards

2009-02-14T19:43:00.000-08:00

I learned I must keep a rhythmic ride with the stride staying the same. I will not run down the hill in the Grand Prix ring; towards the ingate; with a big smile on my face as I am winning the class - I just know it. But then I invent a new sport - how far can I move the last jump from it's original position in the ring. Kinda like javelin but with showjumps.

I learned about a new method of putting a hairnet on. The pressure sores on my ears are a bit painful though. I learned I do not have enough hands. How do you hold the reins when you have to whip walk the course and drink water. What is a girl to do? The drug testers are not really scouts looking to find America's Next Top Rider (Is it me? Is it me?) I can survive at a show without my mom. Shhhhhhh!!!!!!! Don't tell my mom - she will be hurt. Of course I had Brie and Victor to look after me. Oh yeah and Ali. And Jenelle. Pony riders are terrifying. Especially the run away one that jumped out of the ring and ran the girl into the tree. Ouch!

Up and Running

2009-02-14T19:27:00.001-08:00

Up and running. Or maybe not quite yet. Ali is doing much better for all of those people who have sent your well wishes. Thank you to everyone.

Sad news

2009-02-12T19:16:00.001-08:00

We sit waiting for news. We are trying to be brave but know that Ali is the one having to be the brave, A freak fall in the warm-up has sent our precious Ali to the emergency room. Lori (surrogate mother of the year) sits with Ali and waits. Last news is another two or three hours before x-rays. Probably collar bone injury. We will let you all know how she is. Keep her in your thoughts.

What I have learned. By Chantelle Budd

2009-02-12T19:06:00.000-08:00

I will go through the finish line. I will go through the finish line. I will notice where my timers are. I will not turn left after the last fence when there is no where to go (after jumping clean by the way). I will not have a lazy warm up. I will energize my horse all the time. I will not tip my shoulder at the first fence and then not fix it. I will carry my hand and keep my leg at every single jump through the entire course. Oh yeah, did I mention the going through finish line thing?

The Team

2009-02-12T18:56:00.001-08:00

More Stuff

2009-02-12T18:53:00.000-08:00

Breakfast of Champions

2009-02-12T18:50:00.003-08:00

Rice Cakes and Peanut Butter. You decide!

Random Pics

2009-02-12T18:45:00.000-08:00

Cantina times

2009-02-12T18:36:00.001-08:00

As always the Tucson shows have a great after hour fun times with parties (free food and drink - not free) after the horse show. We thank the shows and their sponsors for this great perk. Why go to Chuy's when Chuy's comes to us.

more pics from AZ

2009-02-10T16:59:00.003-08:00

You have got to be kidding me Part 2

2009-02-10T16:32:00.000-08:00

Snow is Tucson. You have got to be kidding me. Schools are closed. Roads are shut down - even to residents. You have got to be kidding me. Not a sturdy as us Canucks we thought. Well - They were not kidding us. Snow and Cold feels very different down here. Luckily we learned from our last trip that it can be colder in Tucson than it is in Calgary. Thanks for the touque Jenelle.

p.s. Jenelle and Ali would like to add their contribution to this blog - A very large mexican man changing his clothes in the mexican taco stand. You have got to be kidding me!!!!! We won't be eating Mexican that is for sure.

"You have got to be kidding me"

2009-02-10T16:17:00.000-08:00

You have got to be kidding me! Rising at 3am to catch our plane to Tucson. Who ever thought that was a good time to fly?? 2:30am - You got to be kidding me- Nikki (Golden doggie girl) does her usual - let's wake up mum 1/2 before she needs to get up. 4:30 am - You have got to be kidding me. There is no one at the Delta counter at the airport. And we got up for this?? 5:00am - You have got to be kidding me. After the longest line in customs Brie and I finally settle in for a snooze in the departure lounge and yes there is suddenly a screaming chicken - You have got to be kidding me - A screaming chicken. Yes it is an ad for Calgary Farmers market on the TV above our heads. Where is our plane we wonder? Oh look there is one outside. Brie says - it cannot be ours it is far too small. Well - you have got to be kidding me - it is ours. Should have figured it out from the two pilot and one flight attendant thing. Not even enough room for our bags as you see we were sitting in seats 1D and 1E. You have got to be kidding me. Anyone who knows me well understands my lack of enthusiasm to fly. I assured Brie that these little planes go way faster - I think she thought - You have got to be kidding me.

Another Arizona Adventure.

2009-01-31T05:36:00.000-08:00

Well another Arizona Adventure has begun. First load of horses with Kent and Stephanie manning the trailers should arrive in Tucson sometime today. It was a beautiful sight on Thursday, in the fog as Brie looked west to see the two trucks and trailers lit up like Christmas trees. I know there was a tear in her eye. Probably because there are less stalls to do now.
5am this morning Rita was ready to rock and roll with the last two horses. Mac and Gracie had a little tiff in the barn prior to loading but we know by the end of their journey they will be screaming for each other - very much in love. Good luck to everyone. It will be as fun and successful as last year - or maybe more. See you soon.

Random Jumping Pics from today.

2008-11-13T18:02:00.001-08:00

Part 2 of Can We Keep Them?

2008-11-13T17:50:00.000-08:00

Okay it is cool golf carts this time - not doggies! I have not yet included the pink golf cart with the "Princess" sign. The Mexican groom loves it when he has to drive it around. Also there is a golf cart with Texas Longhorns on the front. No I am not kidding!!!

Can we keep it?

2008-11-13T17:43:00.001-08:00

Too many cute doggy friends that we have met. Can we keep them.

Jack Russell Gymnastics

2008-11-12T16:04:00.001-08:00

This new neighbor loves water. No Jeff is not spraying the JR on purpose. This is it's entertainment. And ours!!

Third Week

2008-11-12T15:58:00.000-08:00

Well week 3 is underway. Both horses have moved up in their division heights and pinned in all classes today. A good start to the last week. Weather improved after the "4" layered morning. Thanks goodness for shopping and my new fleecy which came in very handy today. 80+ for the rest of the week. Yeah!

Marlene and Jenn make friends!

2008-11-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

Tombstone - The Horses

2008-11-12T15:45:00.001-08:00

O.K. Corral- The Gunfight

2008-11-12T15:36:00.000-08:00

The Cowboys

Tombstone, AZ

2008-11-12T15:21:00.001-08:00

The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place on October 26, 1881. It began in the 18 foot wide lot behind the O.K. Corral next to C.S. Fly's Boarding House and Photo Studio. This inevitable showdown over control of Tombstone climaxed months of threats, romantic rivalries, stage robberies, pistol whippings, and arrests. When you visit Tombstone you are treated to a reinactment of that day in history as well as stepping back in time on main street. You can even visit Boothill Cemetary where the dead cowboys are buried.

Police chief Virgil Earp deputized brothers Wyatt and Morgan and Doc Holliday to help him disarm the cowboys who were waiting to confront Doc when he returned to his rented room at Fly's.

When the shooting started, unarmed cowboy Ike Clanton ran into Fly's and kept on running. In the next 30 seconds nearly 30 shots were fired. The three cowboys who stood their ground were all killed.

Tom McLaury, who may have been unarmed, was cut down by a clast from Doc's shotgun. Frank McLaury stumbled onto Fremont Street and was shot in the head. Morgan Earp shot 19-year old Billy Clanton.

Both Virgil and Morgan Earp were badly wounded, while Doc Holliday suffered a superficial hip wound. Only Wyatt Earp walked away unscathed.

The Lawmen

Aztec Dancers

2008-11-09T21:45:00.001-08:00

The Mission - The Hillside

2008-11-09T21:20:00.000-08:00

The Mission - The Courtyard

2008-11-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

San Xavier Mission - The Sanctuary

2008-11-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

The Sanctuary Gardens had the seven stations of the cross around the courtyard.

San Xavier Mission - The Restoration

2008-11-09T20:17:00.000-08:00

An earthquake in 1887 knocked down the mortuary wall and damaged parts of the church. Extensive repairs began in 1905. The next round of restoration followed years after a 1939 lightning strike hit the West Tower lantern.
An international team of conservators cleaned, removed over-painting, and repaired the interior painted and sculptural art. The Patronato continues the exterior preservation work begun in 1989. Its restoration team is removing the earlier coating of cement plaster, repairing the historic brick beneath, and re-finishing the exterior surface with a traditional lime plaster. The sooner the cement can be removed, the greater the amount of original fabric that can be preserved.

San Xavier Mission Interior Shots

2008-11-09T19:33:00.000-08:00

San Xavier Mission - The Architecture

2008-11-09T19:24:00.000-08:00

Constructed of low-fire clay brick, stone and lime mortar, the entire structure is roofed with masonry vaults, making it unique among Spanish Colonial buildings within the U.S. borders.

Little is known about the people who decorated the interior. The artwork was probably commissioned by Fr. Velderrain's successor and most likley created by artists from Queretero in New Spain (now Mexico). The sculpture was created in guild workshops and carried by donkey thourgh the Pimeria Alta to its destination at the Mission. Craftsman created gessoed clothing once the sculpture was in place.

The church contains numerous references to the Franciscan cord both on the facade and throughout the church.

The shell, a symbol of pilgrimage after the patron saint of Spain, Santiago or Saint James the Greater, is replicated all through the structure in window treatments, the sanctuary, the facade and other details within the interior.

The Baroque architecture style features playful dramatic elements such as theatrical curtain displays, faux doors and marbling and an overall sense of balance.

Mission San Xavier Part 1

2008-11-09T19:08:00.000-08:00

A National Historic Landmark, San Xavier Mission was founded as a Catholic mission by Father Eusebio Kino in 1692. Construction of the current church bagan in 1783. The oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church's interior if filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings. It is a place where you can truly step back in time and enter an authentic 18th Century space. It is widely considered to be the finest example of Spanish Colonial architecture in the United States. The feeling that you get when you walk in to the church is hard to describe. It is a breathtaking, spiritual experience that I will remember forever.