Amanda's Veranda the Arizona Edition

Feathers

2011-09-21T06:32:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I posted. Things are going well and I am getting to see more and more of Arizona. It is a drop-dead beautiful state and reminds me a lot of Central Washington but greener and not as hot. The Monsoon season is over sadly, I was loving the thunderstorms. Things are green and the wildflowers are blooming. My chickens are grown and starting to lay eggs and my second batch of chicks are doing really well. I have sold all the extra roosters and hens and kept my favorites. I use them for photography more than anything else. Here are some cose-ups of their feathers. Even chickens can be elegant and beautiful as well as funny and savage.

Skywatch Purple Rain

2011-08-25T02:18:00.000-07:00

We had a late afternoon rain. The sun cast it's glow on the low rainclouds
as it set creating this dramatic sky. To see more beautiful skies around the world go here > SKYWATCH

Hummingbird

2011-08-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

Skywatch Moonrise

2011-08-10T20:48:00.000-07:00

To see more beautiful skies aound the globe go here > Skywatch

Desert Visitor

2011-08-10T20:01:00.000-07:00

I was surprised to meet this little neighbor sitting on the patio under the light. I wondered where he came from and how he came to be as there is no lakes or ponds near. He posed nicely for his photos and then we both went our own ways.

For a toad he was cute!

Skywatch Distant Monsoon Thunderstorms Arizona Sunsets

2011-08-04T21:13:00.000-07:00

We have been blessed with magnificent sunsets since the monsoon season has arrived in Central Arizona, To see more beautiful skies go to > Skywatch

We got new baby chicks!

2011-07-24T06:57:00.000-07:00

Rest in Peace Cyndy Lou

2011-07-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

07/22/2011
We will miss our precious girl, she will always be our baby.

Skywatch Lenticular Clouds (Spaceship Clouds)

2011-07-20T21:49:00.000-07:00

We had more lenticular clouds than I have ever seen in one spot before in Northern Arizona. They always facinate me.

To see more beautiful skies around the globe go here > Skywatch

We Played a Dirty Trick on the Chickens

2011-07-20T05:39:00.000-07:00

The chickens have been over-grazing a spot in the yard and we have tried everything to keep them out. Nothing worked so Ron had the idea to set this bigger than life-sized ceramic grouse in the middle of the spot. The following photos are the hilarious results.

Cinderella was the first to spy the giant alien bird. It stopped her in her tracks!!

Karma was next...

She opted to hide behind a tree but kept and eye on things.

Russ the rooster tried to make himself appear as tall as possible but still kept his distance.

The entire flock was on high alert!!

Bluebell summoned her courage and inched forward ever-so-slowly.

Closer...

Closer... had second thoughts and beat a hasty retreat!

In the meantime Hunny watched the goings on from the safety of a rock.

Chrysanthemum took one look,

And hauled booty!

Karma and Tiger Lily discussed it at length.

Then they all retreated beneath the bushes,

where they spent the rest of their time outside and the grass was saved. Chickens are the silliest creatures of them all!

Sky Watch Arizona these three taken on the same day

2011-07-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

I photographed these two photos of a sunrise after a monsoon storn in north central Arizona

Later that day we had another storm and I was treated to an equally beautiful Sunset.

To see more of our skies around the world, go here> SKYWATCH

Skywatch Monsoon Sunsets

2011-07-07T20:17:00.000-07:00

The monsoon rainclouds sure make for some beautiful sunsets here in Arizona. To see mote of our beautiful skies around the world please click here> SKYWATCH .

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July, this is our sky today. I thought it looked like an eagle flying in front of the sun. Can you see it?

Prescott Rodeo Parade Horses (Headshots)

2011-07-02T22:03:00.000-07:00

I went to the Prescott Rodeo Parade today and took tons of photos. These are some headshots I got of some of the beautiful horses and mules that were there. There was a lot more than just horses there and I will post more photos when I can. It was great. The Prescott Rodeo is the worlds oldest rodeo. If you are interested in reading some history about this rodeo and seeing some cool old historic rodeo photos click here.

Reuger Ranch in Arizona

2011-06-23T13:19:00.000-07:00

I drove out to Reuger Ranch with Ron yesterday. His company is selling lots there and I had been begging him to take me. It was beautiful

The views from the property he was selling were stunning!

I loved this big old tree we saw on the way there. It hung over the road.

I took this photo as we were leaving Prescott.

This is am old brothel that is now a cafe. It is in Kirkland which is not saying much, a very tiny town. I was given a tour of the tiny rooms the ladies were provided.

This cactus was huge, taller than me.

There was a tiny watering-hole on the lot Ron sold, and plenty of amazing rock formations.

Here is another photo of the brothel/cafe, can't you imagine a cowboy getting shot and tumbling off the balcony like in all the old westerns?

A century plant was blooming, these flower spikes are incredibly tall

A close-up of the blooms. It was a great day and ron sold the lot.

My World Dorcheat Bayou, Louisiana

2011-06-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

No trip to my childhood home in Minden Louisiana is complete without visiting our local bayou Dorcheat.

This is my "Swamp baby" Cody paddling the beautiful Dorcheat Bayou.

The baldcypress knees do not form on all bald cypress trees, but only on those that grow in standing water. Generally speaking, the knees are thought to develop to help the plant deal with long-term survival in an aquatic or swampy environment.

Common Baldcypress looks like an evergreen, but is actually deciduous so drops its leaves in the fall. The growth habit is narrow while young but becomes broader as the plant ages. Common Bald Cypress is intolerant of shade when young and can be used near water.

Spanish Moss is what gives a southern swamp it's unique appearance. Here are a few facts about Spanish Moss.

The tannins from the leaves of the diciduous trees dyes the water a tea-brown color.

A beautiful bayou sunset.

I never truly appreciated the beauty of the bayou until I left it and came back. Now I find it as stunning as any wilderness type area I have seen.

In the swamp so dark and muggy, filled with sounds so strange and buggy, lives the gator big and mean, his eyes are dim but his ears are keen. He spends his days all still and lazy and waits for night so black and hazy, slips silently right off the levee, moves gracefully for one so heavy, he swims out in the thickening fog, and looks... just like a floating log. He sneaks up on unwary prey, that live and die within the bay. And suddenly you hear the snap, the frightening jaws the great tail slaps. So when you're in the swamp real late, take care that your not gator bait!.........written by me!

A very large gator track

A tiny baby turtle sunning on a rotten log poking out of the water

Our rides for the day parkedunder the bridge where it was 100+ degrees in the shade.

Swamp rabbits are a larger member of the cotton tail rabbit family. Their ears are much wider for cooling reasons. As the blood is pumped through the large, wide, but thin ears it is cooled, a very important accessory to have when you live in a hot humid swamp.

Just one of the many colorful birds that live in the Dorcheat bayou area.

I really miss mockingbirds and their beautiful songs, most of which they have copied from other birds.

The beautiful Buckeye Butterfly is commonly seen flitting around the bayou.
All the eyemarkings on it's wings are supposed to scare away predators.

Too learn more about my beautiful childhood bayou, go here.

To see more of our beautiful world go here

Something Brand New

2011-06-02T07:20:00.000-07:00

On the way from the airport in Dallas to my sisters house in Louisiana we drove by a field by the road only minutes after this camel had given birth so of course I had to get out and photograph it.. You never know what you might see in Louisiana.

Going to be a Beachcomber for a Couple of Weeks

2011-05-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

I am going to fly out Wednesday morning to spend two weeks with my family on the Beach in Florida.
We are renting Hang Loose Cottage. I can hardly wait to get there and smell the salty air and wear shorts and flip-flops. Life is good!

My World From Chino Valley to Show Low Along Route 66 in Arizona

2011-05-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

Some sights I saw along the way. To see more parts of the world, go to My World Tuesday by clicking here.

Pray for the People and Wildlife of Louisiana (my home state)

2011-05-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

Fawns will be coming soon, what will happen then?

The Grand Canyon for Mother's Day

2011-05-17T21:16:00.000-07:00

Ron and I went to the Grand Canyon on Mother's Day. It is a 2 hour drive from my house. It was Ron's first time to see it and I had not seen it since I was about 6 years old. So my memory was vague.

We were absolutely blown away. We now know why it is one of the 7 Wonders of the World. WOW! There is not a camera in the world that can adequately capture the size of it.

The colors of the rocks and hillside changed colors as the sun drifted over.

We saw so many beautiful sights of many different things.

This is the Hopi House built by the Hopi Indians.

Look how well this building blends in to the mountain side.

t

This was in the lodge at the park.

We had a great time and can't wait to go back.

My Silly Chicks

2011-04-04T18:56:00.000-07:00

I took some photos of my banty chicks today. They are my new muses.

I took this one right after I took them out of their big Topperware bin and put them in the kids pool in the chicken coop. They were in such a happy, flappy excited state that they raced around the pool like little race chickens. So funny!

Life is Beautiful

2011-04-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

Spring is here, our orchard is blooming! Apples, peaches, and pears.. OH MY! Ron finally got a couple of days off and we worked all weekend getting the yard in order. I can hardly wait for the nurseries to open up for business, I have 3 patios begging for some big pots of posies. We are finally totally moved in and the house looks great. Our last house was such a toxic pit we never moved in completely and we lived there almost 4 years UGH!!!! The way I look at it is that having hard, yucky, stressful times only makes the good times seem that much sweeter and life is definitely sweet right now. I am loving Arizona, the people are great, the scenery is awesome, Prescott is amazing, and Chino Valley (where we live)is the laid back little country western town I was praying it would be. I wake up every morning to the symphony of roosters crowing and the sounds of horses snuffling and playing their bucket bongos as they eat thier breakfast, there are chickens and horses in every yard. Yesterday a lady drove her mini and cart by the house, it made me smile, we get as much horse traffic as road traffic here and I am loving it. I have baby chicks in the coop and ordered more from the hatchery. I will have bantams and laying hens. I chose Wyandottes for my laying hens, they are not only good layers but also beautiful to look at. I ordered 4 colors, golden-laced, silver laced, blue, and blue-laced reds. I have silkies and frizzeled cochins for my bantams. I feel 10 years younger and my energy level has increased ten-fold, I wake up with a smile on my face and go to bed with a smile on my face. We have come out of the darkness and back into the light and I am thankful for every minute of it.

How Nice to Meet Blogging Friends

2011-03-29T19:45:00.000-07:00

Today I had a visit from one of my favorite bloggers Richard Dunwiddie and his son Mike. Richard was in Arizona for the Mariners Spring Training and came by for a visit. We had a wonderful day, the sun was shining and we had a great time. Richard knows all the best places to see in my new area and shared them with me. I wish he could have stayed longer but he had prior commitments. His visit was over too quickly but he has inspired me to rev up my blog and get it going again. Please visit Richards blog, it has a lot of history and interesting information about Deadwood South Dakota. http://www.dhsclassmates.com/

2011-03-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

We have a real cool chicken coop here at our new home so of course I had to get aome chickens. I put in an order for 25 Wyandotte pullets through my local feedstore but they won't be here till May 4tt. Of course I could not wait that long so I bought these 5 chicks from a local person who was advertising on Craigslist. They are black silkies. One is a total runt who won't grow but seems happy and healthy and eating and doing as well as the rest.

THE RUNT
I hope
he/she will
stay healthy

Doing the Chicken Dance

Just chillin

This is the lovely Floofie

Hot Chicks.

The Moving Trip from Hell

2011-03-12T08:59:00.000-08:00

Well we got moved to Arizona and I LOVE LOVE LOVE the new house. The move was like some evil comedy though, Murphys Law was certainly with us. We had a flat tire, 2 blizzards, almost got run over by a semi-truck, ran out of gas, saw some horrendous accidents (12 roll-overs in less than 10 miles outside of Boise), my tranny in my van blew out 140 miles from new home, and more crap than you can imagine. We were stuck in a tiny town in Nevada for 3 days due to the blizzard so the 3 day move took 6 days. We were zonked and exhausted by the time we made it. But it was worth it!! More to come.

A Beautiful Sunrise Today

2011-02-04T07:25:00.000-08:00

As our stay here in Central Washington winds down I reflect on all the great times I enjoyed here. There are many things I will miss but I am eager to explore our next adventure in Arizona.

Meet little Miss Bella

2011-02-01T07:15:00.000-08:00

Some friends of ours adopted this sweet little boxer puppy a few days ago and she is the cutest thing ever. Her name is Bella and we all fell in love with her.

There are so many cute things to say about this little sweetheart I hardly know where to begin. She has a somber little face that belies her playful spirit. Here she is having fun and that is her happy face.

Here she is already learning how to give a high 5.

She is a great little model, the camera loves her!!!

She loves to cuddle and be held close. She is full of kisses and has the sweetest puppy breath.

She loves her elephant toy. "Nom nom nom!!"

She knows how to look pitiful which encourages her family to snuggle her.
"Will someone please hold me?"

Unfortunately we all know that life is not perfect and not everyone will love us. Here she has a bit of a dust-up with a jealous cat. "Why Mr Kitty man? Why?"
She was one of the lucky dogs out there that strike it rich and get adopted by the perfect family. If you are thinking about getting a new dog companion please consider a shelter dog. You would not believe the great companions both young and old that are waiting for you at your local shelter.

I Dreamed of the Rainbow Bridge (for Syndi)

2010-12-22T06:43:00.000-08:00

I dreamed I got to visit the Rainbow Bridge one night. And it was a lovely dream. When I first arrived a beautiful arabian opened the gate wide and asked if he could show me around.

Suddenly a little dog in a bright red coat was on my knee pleading with me to let him show me something.

"Sure I would love to see what you want to show me" I answered. He excitedly dropped to the ground and did a little breakdance for me.

When he was done he sat up and asked me how I liked it. "BRAVO!!" I exclaimed!!

And he was very pleased.

The Arabian said "Now that we have that out of the way follow me and I will give you the tour". He showed me the Rescue Angels who were busily hugging all the animals and telling them how beautiful and wonderful they were.

Some of the animals had never heard these words while they were on the earth and I could tell how much they appreciated it.

The Arabian explained to me that everyone gets along very well and there is plenty of love to go around. As I gazed around me I could see he was telling the truth for sure.

At the Rainbow Bridge there is no fear, hunger, or harsh words.

Sad and neglected orphans are well-fed and sassy!

The blind are confident and proud,

The very old are dignified and revered.

Everyone gets a blanket if they want one and plenty of food.

Even the birds are not neglected.

I was enjoying myself so much I did not want to leave but I heard a persistant ringing sound that grew louder and louder and knew I must. And as I left all the animals said their goodbyes and said they would see me again one day and watched me walk away.

Just as I was almost out of sight the beautiful Arabian called out and said,

"Please tell what you saw and tell all our lonely people who cry for us that all is well and we will be together again one day here at the Rainbow Bridge"
It was then that I realized the ringing was the sound of my alarm clock and I had hungry pets to feed. The dream was so real.....could it really have happened??

THE RAINBOW BRIDGE

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Filmed at:

Starring Sudie and Syndi also known as the DOR on the Captain Jack Splash Board,

Icelandic Horse Play

2010-12-05T17:17:00.000-08:00

I hope you are not getting tired of my facination with these Icelandic Horses. I am totally in love with them. They are so playful and spontaneous. They are like Santa's ponies.

Icelandic Sheep, the Rams

2010-12-05T05:27:00.001-08:00

I went out to the farm and photographed these rams, If I had my own place I would buy me a few of these simply because they are so photogenic.

Swans on Ice

2010-12-01T15:52:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone!!

2010-11-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

All the Icelandics have been adopted. Congratulations to the new owners.

Ellensburg Icelandic Fans and Adopters Please Join Us

2010-11-25T04:27:00.000-08:00

We have started a Facebook group to share our stories and photos of the Icelandic Horses we adopted. We all want to stay coneected and have fun!

InlandIcelandics@groups.facebook.com

For Adopters of the Icelandics from Extreme Farms!!

2010-11-22T10:54:00.000-08:00

If you would be interested in forming a chat group where we can all come together and chat about our Ice babies and post photos and how they are coming along please let me know and we will try to put something together. I would love to stay in touch and watch them grow and develope.

Extreme Farm Silent Auction Icelandic Horses Update

2010-11-20T16:08:00.000-08:00

There are still have some lovely babies available to good homes.
I am in the process of removing the 12 that got homes today.

Please email Darick at agr_sandman@yahoo.com for more info
Extreme Farms LLC
3401 S Thorp Highway
Ellensburg, WA 98926-8035

NOTE None of these horses are registerable,
that does not mean that they can't bring you years of companionship, smooth riding and joy.
Icelandics are incredibly strong friendly horses that are easy to train.

Fillies (girls first!)

colts

Lets Hear it for the Icelandic Boys

2010-11-19T18:12:00.000-08:00

Kill buyers, brokers and feedlot owners or anyone affiliated with the horse slaughter industry are not welcome. You will be asked to leave.
These are photos of some of the colts that will be offered at the silent auction at Extreme Farms LLC
3401 S Thorp Highway
Ellensburg, WA 98926-8035 Sunday November 21rst. Previews will be from 9-12:00, and bidding from 12:00-1:00. People can start taking home their horses around 2pm.
I will be adding more information as it comes in. Please email Darick at agr_sandman@yahoo.com for more info. Please direct your questions to Darick, I probably do not have you answers. Keep checking back!
I will be going tomorrow for individual photos of each horse and hope to get some info on them. I do not believe that any of these boys can be registered. That does not mean that they can't bring you years of companionship and joy.
Icelandics are incredibly strong friendly horses that are easy to train.

These two precious boys are very attached to each other. I sure would love to see them go to the same loving home.

Sweet boys dozing in the sun

Comforting each other.

A little yellow dun.

Best friends forever.

Ellensburg Icelandic fillies available at silent auction

2010-11-18T06:37:00.000-08:00

Kill buyers, brokers and feedlot owners or anyone affiliated with the horse slaughter industry are not welcome. You will be asked to leave.

These are the Icelandic fillies that will be available at the silent auction at
Extreme Farms LLC
3401 S Thorp Highway
Ellensburg, WA 98926-8035 Sunday November 21rst. Previews will be from 9-12:00, and bidding from 12:00-1:00. People can start taking home their horses around 2pm.
I will be posting the colts photos and adding more information as it comes in. Please email Darick at agr_sandman@yahoo.com for more info. There are 2 photos of each filly. I will get the ages later today. Please direct your questions to Darick, I probably do not have you answers. Keep checking back!

Filly 1

Filly 2

Filly 3

Filly 4

Filly 5

Filly 6

Filly 7

Meet My New Riding Partner, Fjalli!

2010-11-16T16:22:00.000-08:00

This is Fjalli. He is my new ride. He is a registered Icelandic Horse and he is a trip! He is 14 hands tall and he is 14 years old. He is a gaited horse and one of the oldest purest breeds. His name is pronounced Fee yalli.

Don't you just want to give him a hug and a kiss? He is like a loveable, huggable teddy bear. He may not be beautiful or elegant but his cuteness factor knows no bounds. He is curious and friendly and follows me around like a puppy dog.

He is not only cute but he is a little power house of a horse who can keep up with the best of them. For more information on this big little horse go here.

Here are a few videos of Icelandics in action.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LW2YsF17pH8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7rWeWymJDw&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lsyp6_DDor8&feature=related

First Snow of the Season

2010-11-12T15:22:00.000-08:00

Old Man Winter has arrived. The first snow of the year is always a little exciting and beautiful. I hope I can keep a fresh outlook on winter as it progresses.

The bison do not seem to upset about it. Just hunker down and take it for waht it is.

There are still touches of fall here and there.

It was coming down fast and hard and built up in no time.

Time to dig out coats and boots, scarves and caps, electric blankets and goosedown comforters. It seems like I had just put them away.

It is still a mixture of Fall and Winter.

The deer are taking every opportunity to eat what greenery they can.

Soon the rivers will ice over and the Bald Eagles will arrive.

Goodbye to Autumn in Central Washington

2010-11-11T16:04:00.000-08:00

I took these the day before the winds came and knocked the golden leaves onto the ground.

Fall is my favorite time of year, it seems to be our shortest season unfortunately. Maybe that is why it should be treasured.

I also know what comes next. BRRRR Our longest season.

I have promised myself that this year I will not fight with Winter and grow resentful.

Wish me luck!

Icelandic Sheep = Funny Critters

2010-11-10T07:56:00.000-08:00

While I was out photographing the Icelandic Horses, I was also introduced the some Icelandic sheep. They are small and have the funniest faces. I never knew there was such a thing. The following texts atr facts found from http://www.isbona.com/icelandicsheep.html

The Icelandic sheep is one of the world's oldest and purest breeds of sheep. Throughout its 1100 years of history, the Icelandic breed has been truly triple-purpose, treasured for its meat, fiber and milk.

The Icelandic breed is in the North European short-tailed group of sheep, which exhibits a fluke-shaped, naturally short tail. To ensure the continuing purity of the breed, tail docking an Icelandic will disqualify it from being registered in North America. Icelandics are a mid-sized breed with ewes averaging 130-160 pounds, and rams averaging 180-220 pounds. Conformation is generally short legged and stocky. The face and legs are free of wool. The fleece is dual-coated and comes in white as well as a range of browns, grays and blacks. There are both horned and polled strains. Left unshorn for the winter, the breed is very cold hardy.

A gene has been found in the Icelandic breed that causes multiple births of triplets, quads, quints and even sextuplets, if the ewe carries two copies of the gene. One copy of the gene causes a milder increase in fertility, resulting primarily in a higher rate of triplets. The Thoka gene, as it is called, is named after the first ewe known to carry the gene. It is similar to the Booroola gene in the Merino sheep.

The lambs are small, twins averaging 6-8 pounds and very lively after an average gestation of 142-144 days, several days shorter than the species average. Lambs are vigorous at birth, a trait that has been shown to carry through in crossbreeding programs. The first lamb born will commonly be up and nursing before the twin arrives. Experienced mothers can have a lamb nursing even before it has gotten to its feet. Lambs are generally strong enough to suck out the wax plug, and are seldom lost to pneumonia

Due to their large rumens, and the selective pressures of their history in Iceland, the breed is feed efficient. The animals are cold hardy and have a strong, reactive immune system. The sheep have evolved over 1,100 years under difficult farming conditions in Iceland, with a resultant sturdy and efficient constitution.

A defining quality of the Icelandic breed is the ability to survive on pasture and browse. Historically, Iceland is not a grain producing country due to the climate, and the breed has survived through its thousand year history on pasture and hay. The ewes are supplemented with fish meal when pregnant and most ewe lambs here in North America are supplemented with some protein especially when pregnant. On good grass, meat lambs can be slaughtered directly off the pasture at 5-6 months of age

The most eye-catching aspect of the breed is the variation of colors and patterns. Genetically, Icelandics have one of two base colors, either black or moorit (brown). They exhibit 5 pattern combinations: white, gray, badgerface, mouflon and solid. Individual sheep may also display various shades of these colors/patterns, ranging from white, cream, light gray, tan, caramel, milk chocolate, silver, dark chocolate, dark gray, to jet black. A spotting gene adds even more combinations with many recognized and named patterns of white markings.

The main thing I learned was never to get between an Icelandic Sheep and their pumpkin.

Washington Icelandics

2010-11-07T19:48:00.000-08:00

I have never seen a healthier happier bunch of horses, living the good life naturally.

This photo was taken by my friend Syndi Duehn.

Poncho and Annie in Black and White

2010-10-31T17:20:00.000-07:00

Today I was going through my photo files and deleting the ones that are just so-so to make room. I deleted over 6000 photos! Anyway I pulled these out of Poncho and Annie and decided to see how they would look in black and white. For those of you who do not know, this is Poncho my Peruvian Paso gelding. He came to me in very neglected condition and I rehabbed him and fell in love with him.

Poncho and I have a very close bond and I am the only one he will willingly approach and allow to touch him. I am the only one he will let catch and halter him. He is my heart horse.

Poncho has a genetic disease called DSLD (Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis)
more recently termed ESPA (Equine Systemic Proteoglycan Accumulation). ESPA is a connective tissue disease and has been found in the tendons & ligaments throughout the body as well as the eyes, and aorta. For more information about the disease please go here http://dsldequine.info/

Right now Poncho is doing very well and is a very happy boy.

This is my riding horse Red-neck Annie. She is somewhat of a diva and knows she is beautiful. She is a Missouri Foxtrotter with royalty in her veins.

Annie is not only a fantastic, well trained, seasoned trail horse she has also produced 10 foals for previous owners.

Annie is trained well enough to be a kids horse but still is a kick to ride. She can really move out and gait like a locomotive. I love both of my horses and they are a huge part of my life.

Black and white is kinda fun to play with but I prefer color!

Ripples along the Columbia River

2010-10-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

This is rather monotone, but still interesting.

This is Getty's Cove, the water is reflecting the fall foliage.

Spanish Horses

2010-10-26T18:08:00.000-07:00

I love the Spanish horses, the Andalusians, the Lusitanos, the Peruvian Pasos, the Paso Finos, the Spanish Mustangs. I love everything about them.

I love the way they carry their heads and their naturally crested necks, their thick flowing wavy manes and long tails, I love their flashy ways of moving, and their beautiful tack.

They remind me so much of carousel horses come to life.

The ornate saddles and spurs and bits seem so exotic.

My dream is to own a Spanish Horse and ride into the sunset.

Things I Saw Around the House Today

2010-10-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

I walked outside on the front porch and saw these two female California Quail sitting in a tree. I love these cute birds, the females have pathetic little top-nots compared to the males.

From the porch I looked down towards the river. I have my own little private wetlands down there that I have been walking down to several times a week (I call it my river walk). There is an eagle living among the trees.

I hate that my flowers will soon be gone. Winter is fast approaching. I am contemplating bringing in my favorite pot and putting it in front of my big windows
in the living room and hoping for the best.

Here is my sweetheart Poncho. He is having lots of good days. I wish it would last forever.

These next photos were taken down by the river in front of my house.

A Colorful Drive to Town

2010-10-23T20:46:00.001-07:00

Being at the peak of color in my area, the drives to town take on a whole new beauty. I wish it were not so fleeting.

Columbia Basin Wildlife Refuge

2010-10-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

Ron and I took a drive through The Columbia Basin Wildlife Refuge. One of my favorite local places. If you are ever in Central Washington you should take time to explore this area.
This is a tumblweed pile-up at the base of a hill. They have been piling up here for thousands of years.

There are hundreds of these pothole lakes in Central Washington, some are huge and some are small. There is always plenty of wildlife to be found near them.

I love the muted shades of the desert.

There are awesome rock formations everywhere you look.

My hubby calls this "Pecker Wall" I used to think they looked like people but he ruined it for me. HAHAHA It is columnar basalt actually.

A Great Blue Heron swooshed by.

Cowgirl Country

Ripples turn ordinary under-water objects such as these water weeds into beautiful ethereal abstracts.

I found lots of lichen encrusted rocks. They looked paint-spattered.

More colorful desert plants.

Keeping an eye on things!

2010-10-21T10:59:00.001-07:00

Joan of Bark can be a little lazy, she has learned how to keep an eye on the goings on in the kitchen without getting off the couch!

Annie's Hoof Crack

2010-10-19T16:14:00.001-07:00

The Old Truck Cemetery

2010-10-15T20:21:00.001-07:00

Ron and I discovered these old trucks in a remote canyon. We pulled over so I could get some photos. This one was my favorite. I love the rust and blue colors.

I love this one too. I think it is the oldest of the bunch.

Playing around with my photo program.

This one looked like an old fire-truck.

This one was too buried in weeds for a photo. Darn it!! I hope to go back this winter when we get some snow on the ground. I think it would make some awesome photos.

An ole yella Dodge

Love the grills.

Saying Goodbye to this Seasons Flowers

2010-10-11T17:08:00.001-07:00

The days are getting shorter and there is a chill in the air. I saw in the forecast that it is supposed to get down in the 30's by the end of the week. My flowers are still looking great but I know they will soon succumb to winter. I will sure miss them, they were outstanding this year.

Indian Summer

2010-10-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

Our dry time of year has passed and we are getting some rain. With the rain comes the clouds and that brings on the glorious sunrises and sunsets. I am glad the frying pan time of year is over and look forward to a long fall.

Skywatch Friday State Fair

2010-10-07T12:32:00.000-07:00

To see more skies around the globe go here.

Ripples/ Cle Elum River / 10/05/10 A Progression

2010-10-05T19:13:00.000-07:00

Ron and I went for a drive to see the changing leaves. It was a gorgeous day with perfect temps. The leaves were beautiful and the Cle Elum River was mezmerising.

Our First Trailride of Fall

2010-09-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

Jodi, Linda, and I saddled up our Foxtrotters for a ride up into the hills today. The weather was great and the leaves are starting to change color for fall.

We made sure to wear our orange safety vest so no bowhunters would mistake us for a deer. We are happy that Annie is gray because they can see her clearly and tell these are horses.

We rode up on a small pond and let the horses drink and splash around in it. Annie loves splashing water with her nose.

We rode a bit further and stopped in a nice clearing, tied up the horses, and had lunch.

Jodi's dog Spur high-fived her for a treat

We continued on up to get a good view of the mountains, then turned to go back to the trailer.

Yikes!!!!

It was a great relaxing ride, we mosied back to the trailer sorry our ride was over so soon and headed back to the ranch. What a fun day. These photos were taken by my old cheapo camera so the quality is yuk.

I entered 14 photos in the State Fair, Here are the results

2010-09-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

Barn Cats

First Place/Honorable Mention (It was a contender in Best in Show)

Cowboy Gear

First Place/Honorable Court (?) (It was also a contender in Best in Show)

Walks on Water

First Premium

Pygmy Owl and Sparrow

First Premium

Captured Time

First Place

Desert Sunset

First Place

Bitter Root

Second Place

Young Yakama Warrior

Second Place

Baylee Perplexed

Second Place

Fireworks Over the Columbia River

Second Place

Who is Watching Who?

Second Place

Andalusians on Parade

Second Premium

Poncho in the Wind

Third Place

Sphinx Moth

Third Place

This is my first year to enter my photos in the fair and it has been a lot of fun. It is even more fun to share the photos with my fellow bloggers, friends and family.

Antique Car Grills

2010-09-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

I went to the antique car show and these really caught my eye.

Skywatch Season 4 Episode 11

2010-09-23T04:26:00.000-07:00

Sunrise 09/23/2010

To see more of our beautiful skies around the globe go here.

Rippling Water

2010-09-21T07:20:00.001-07:00

Skywatch Friday Season 4 Episode 10

2010-09-16T20:17:00.000-07:00

Our moon tonight.

To see more skies around the world go here.

Annual Barber Family Golf Tournament 2010

2010-09-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

The players, Tom Barber, Ron Barber, Kyle Mills

Sharon Barber and Scott Barber. Looks like Scott is admiring wifeys bum!

I was along for the ride to see the sights and watch the game. We all meet in Pateros Washington and stay at the Alta Lakes Golf Course. It is so pretty and we have so much fun that we all hate to go back to the grind.

Sharon may be the only female player but believe me, she is a very good golfer and can keep up with the guys just fine.

I say if a game can make you as happy as this you should play it often.

Washington apples are ripe for the picking,

and bees were working hard to make as much honey as they can before frost hits, which could happen anytime now.

Some flowers are still hanging in there and continue to bloom.

I did not see much in the way of wildlife except for this snake who was sunning on the T-box,

These sleepy Canadian Honkers,

And occasional dragonflies.
The lack of wildlife did not bring me down though because.....

The sky was so dramatic I could not take my eyes off of it

This cloud just hovered and rolled in place.

The Eye-in-the-sky Cloud, LOL! It had some wild colors shooting through it and the white dot is the sunbehind it.

Sunset

Lenticular clouds (my favorite cloud formations to photograph).

This cloud looked like a huge tsunami that was going to crash into the hill,

More of the lenticulars,

I was mesmerized by the sky and could hardly look away.

All too soon the game was over and we returned to a wonderful dinner prepared by Toms' sweetheart Gail. We had a night of talking and laughing around the campfire. All too soon we had to say our farewells and head back home to the rat-race.

Sky Watch Friday Moonrise

2010-07-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

Go check out Skywatch Friday

Some Wildlife photos I Took in the Ellensburg Hills

2010-07-22T11:39:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have an urgent need to get out of the desert and into some trees. Ron and I took a little drive up into the wooded hills around Ellensburg and I was not disappointed with the photo opportunities I found. It was like it was still early spring and the wildflowers were at their peak.

A beautiful elk cow who was just as curious about me as I was with her.

Lupine was everywhere.

One of my favorites, Columbine.

I need to learn my butterfly species.

We discovered we had crept into the midst of an elk herd. There was about 40 of them of all ages.

A wild Iris.

More butterflies

Mule Deer Bucks.

How to Impress the Ladies

2010-07-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you are in the right place at the right time with a camera.

A Link for the Hubby

2010-07-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

Ron is out of town and unable to get on his email so I am putting this link here for him to check out.

http://www.rv-dreams.com/

Porcupine who thinks he is a dog

2010-07-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

Porcupine

My heartbreak,

2010-07-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have posted much to say. We are going to have to have my boy Poncho put to sleep in September due to DSLD. There is no cure for this disease and we have no options. He is my heart horse and I am really taking this hard, hard enough that I am ready to close the chapter on horse ownership after all these decades. I will not say forever.
My friend Tina Scott took this photo a few weeks ago.

4th 0f July Fireworks

2010-07-04T23:27:00.000-07:00

I played with my shutter speeds and got some interesting effects.

Ron makes a new friend

2010-06-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

HELLOOOOOOOO!! Is anybody there?

I have been real good today, can't someone please please please pay some attention to me?

At last someone has come to see me, bend down Mister I have something to tell you

Just a little closer please......

What I want to say is....I love you!

Flowers in my Garden

2010-05-23T21:50:00.000-07:00

I had a great day today planting flowers and veggies. I was inspired to break out the macro lens for some close-ups.

Poncho My Horse Muse

2010-05-15T20:18:00.000-07:00

He knows how to give me "the look".

Wildlife on the Golf course

2010-05-14T11:50:00.001-07:00

WOW!! We had a busy day at the Leavenworth Golf Course yesterday!! I always love going with hubby when he plays because golf courses are usually excellent wildlife viewing areas. It was so exciting when the black bear ran by.

I also saw some gorgeous flowers, I can hardly wait to go back. Ron is a really good golfer and won the game.

Skywatch Friday Central Washington

2010-05-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

I caught this beautiful sunset on the way home from the Okanagon on Mothers Day. To see more of our beautiful skies around the globe please go here.

Look what's coming to live with me!!!

2010-05-11T10:15:00.001-07:00

I can hardly wait for it to get here. Custom made for Poncho. I am getting it from http://www.sycamorecreeksaddles.com/ and it is being hand-made in Columbia. I have 4-6 weeks to wait before it gets here which is good because it gives this

Time to heal up. If you are wondering how my foot got like this it is because this

fell off the top of the haystack and landed on it.

My Flying Horses

2010-05-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

My horses were really feeling their oats and having fun today. I love it when they fly!

It is Apple Blossom Time in Washington

2010-04-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year.

Tiny Ballerina

2010-04-28T05:55:00.000-07:00

It does the heart good to be greeted like this after being gone for a bit.

A few of my favorite things.

2010-04-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

Redneck Annie and Poncho

Having to sell a lot of tack

2010-04-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

I need to buy a gaited saddle so will be selling a lot of great tack on Craigslist.

A yearling Circle Y Show Halter

http://spokane.craigslist.org/grd/1711273366.html

A set of beautiful fully tooled leather saddlebags

http://yakima.craigslist.org/grd/1711354590.html

Two 16 inch Abetta lightweight cordura knockaround trail saddles.

http://yakima.craigslist.org/grd/1709589384.html

A Circle Y full horse size show halter.

http://spokane.craigslist.org/grd/1711628415.html

Poncho and the Ball

2010-04-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

Poncho sure is enjoying my friend Linda's horse soccer ball. At first he was afraid of it, then I put it in a tire so it would not roll and he had a ball trying to bounce it. I have not seen him have so much fun ever! Guess i willhave to buy him one. LOL
Here is a great video of a horse having a blast with his.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AesfgUWRQD8&feature=PlayList&p=95AC84DF6FD7FCAC&playnext_from=PL&playnext=1&index=2

Joan of Bark is ok

2010-04-23T09:11:00.001-07:00

We have her at home. Her head is huge, she is weak, she is sleeping it off, but her appetite is good and the vet said give her several days and she should be back to normal. He does not think the snake injected much venom. GREAT NEWS!!!

Please keep our girl in your thoughts

2010-04-21T14:59:00.000-07:00

Our Joan of Bark is fighting for her life at the vets office due to a rattlesnake bite inside her mouth.

UPDATE She made it through the night but has not been evaluated by the vet yet.

Columnar Basalt and Lichen

2010-04-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

I see this cliff on the way to town all the time but today it screamed at me to take it's photo. So I did. The neon colored lichen only grows on vertical surfaces.

At the base are smaller rocks absolutely encrusted with lichens.

Poncho and Annie

2010-04-18T17:05:00.001-07:00

Poncho is saying to Annie, "Will you please get it through your head that when you are in season there is nothing I can do for you because I am a gelding. Now Scram!!"

My pretty tulip

2010-04-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

Skywatch Friday Central Washington

2010-04-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

A beautiful sunrise that kept changing with every second. To see more of our beautiful skies around the globe go here.

Induct Dan Fogelberg Into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

2010-04-05T10:03:00.000-07:00

Induct Dan Fogelberg Into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

Bird Legs (Black-winged Stilt)

2010-04-04T19:46:00.000-07:00

I saw these beautiful birds with these rediculously long legs yesterday while on an Easter Sunday drive and had to share. They are Black-winged Stilts or they are also called Black-necked Stilts.

To see more birds from around the world go here.

Skywatch Friday Central Washington

2010-04-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

We had a Fiery Sunrise this morning. To see more of our beautiful skies around the globe go to http://skyley.blogspot.com/

My Favorite Spring Birds Are Finally Here!

2010-03-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is the small things in life that put a smile on your face. I was happy to see my favorite Spring birds had arrived from the South. This is a Golden-crowned Kinglets . So cute and tiny. To see more beautiful birds around the world go here.

Skywatch friday Central Washington

2010-02-25T17:35:00.000-08:00

Sun and Canadian geese. To see more beautiful skies arounf the globe go here.

The Horse

2010-02-24T21:56:00.000-08:00

"Their beauty captures every eye, a gift from God for all mankind, they lend us wings so we may fly, to ride a horse is to ride the sky"

Photos of Years Gone by

2010-02-16T11:01:00.000-08:00

This is my father holding me and my sister Cyndy. He was maybe 21 at the time.

My sister Cyndy and I playing with our dolls.

My Dad when he was a little boy.

I think I was 19 in this photo. I am holding my nephew.

I think this was my senior year.

My brother Mark who was the youngest.

My younger sister Becky.

My mom and I getting to know each other.

I had an Asian look about me for the first several months. My mom thought maybe a mix-up had happened at the hospital. LOL!!

My first horse. Rode him hard and a gazillion miles.

My dad when he was in High School. He was a promising football player but married early and fatherhood took presedence. Hope he is on Heavens football team.

This is my mother after having 4 kids in 5 years. Starting at age 16. I think both my parents were/are very very good looking.

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T07:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day to the sweetest, funniest man I have ever known. My hero, my husband, my Snookums Woo. The Almighty Goose Whisperer..... Ron.

They are killing my Bighorns!!

2010-02-10T18:54:00.000-08:00

Oh my God they are going to kill my Bighorns!! These are the ones I photograph all the time this is insane!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!! There has to be a better way what can i do to make them stop!! DAMMIT TO HELL!!!!

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2011025992_websheep09m.html

Poncho Today

2010-02-08T18:45:00.001-08:00

I took this photo of Poncho today. We have had 3 rides in the last 4 days. Our weather has been warm enough to not need a coat.

Return to Innocence

2010-02-01T09:55:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon one of my favorite music videos of all time.
Return to Innocence

Who Dat Say They Gonna Beat Them Saints?

2010-01-31T19:31:00.000-08:00

Being a Louisiana native I have had the Saints and the play-offs on my mind. All my family down there is going wild with excitement. I was thinking about all this while we were driving down the backroads. I saw these two little spotted draft babies out playing in a field and Ron stopped so I could take some pictures. It was then that I saw the perfect fleur de lis on the chest of one. I am hoping it was a lucky sign that the Saints will win. WHO DAT!!!