jessesdesertrose

Love From Daddy's Lillte Girls!

2012-01-26T16:44:00.000-08:00

This past holiday season our family celebrated my dad's 80th birthday! One of my sisters wrote our father a letter that she read to him which brought tears to all our eyes!!!

Mom and Dad!

Then it was my turn...I sang a song to my dad that I had written for him many years ago. My sisters joined in during the chorus!

"Love from Daddy's little girls"

Buttons and bows and painted toes

And frilly pinafores

It's all just for him and a silly grin cause no one loves him more

Than Daddy's little girls

We remember these times of nurseries and rhymes

Upon our Daddy's knees

A hug and a kiss or a scolding of his, both with love shinning through

For Daddy's little girls

The love he has shown now that were grown holds special memories

There's a place in our heart, Daddy's part, that grows stronger everyday

Love from Daddy's little girls

A white lacy grown on Daddy's arm, to someone waiting there

A smile on his face but a tear in his eye

When he thought he'd said good bye

To Daddy's little girls

A baby or two, then they grew

Then one more on the way

It's starting again and it's all just for him

Cause no one loves him more

Than Grandpa's little girls

The love we have known. now that we've grown holds special memories

There's a place in our hearts, Daddy's part that grows stronger everyday

Love form Daddy's little girls

Our family is now asking for your prayers as our Daddy just needed emergency surgery to repair an intestinal blockage. The surgery was successful but he is still in the hospital at this time. The doctor tells us that he is on the road to recovery even though he has hit a bump or two along the way!

I have a trip scheduled next week to the PNW to spend some time with him, it has been hard being down here in the desert so far away from him.

I love you Daddy!

Your Desert Rose!

Back in the Blog Saddle...Again !

2012-01-21T14:48:00.000-08:00

My plan of trying to blog on a more regular basis fell apart last month when my computer had to go in for repairs and it ended up getting a new operating up grade. This was a long process because everything has to be wiped from the hard drive and then reinstalled. Although the system looks pretty much the same and for the most part works the same...I now need to access my photo's differently than I used to. And my system I used to file my pictures and organise them for blogs or easy access was that I had files all over my desktop!
I also recently began using dropbox for back up storage and that was confusing for me too.

So...this blog is really just a test blog with a few pictures from random files I have chosen to figure out the new process of getting my photos for blogging! By the way...I have been reading and commenting on the blogs I follow although there are some blogs my comments would not go through. I am hoping that issues will be resolved now with the new upgrade!!!
I decided to look for pictures in 4 different files that were taken on 4 different days although it is the same trail and same fabulous photo opp stop!

My Sissy's and me last year!

My nieces and their honeys last year!

Good friend Darleene last year!

Baby Doll's hubby & son 2 years ago!

All and all I was eventually able to find these pictures but I really had to rack my brain as to the name of the file the picture would be in. The hardest to find was Baby Doll's photo because it was in a file that is in a file!!! I think this is going to take me awhile to figure it out and I am sure I will find a few shortcuts along the way. Hope every one's holiday season was terrific!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Merry Everything!

2011-12-23T14:00:00.000-08:00

This year has not been a good year for many of us. The one thing we can always count on though... is our loving family and friends. To my lovely blog friends, I wish you the very merriest for this holiday season!

Your Desert Rose!

Viva Las Vegas!!!

2011-12-16T18:25:00.000-08:00

Yup...just got back from the NFR in Las Vegas, this was my 6th year running! This year however each of the 3 Amigos was under the weather. Baby Doll was on antibiotics, the Bossman was on the ummm, errrr, "shitter" and I ended up with both by the time I got home!!!
I didn't take as many pictures this year because after 6 years...it's pretty much the same! So instead I will post pictures of the items I found for Pupperoni at Cowboy Xmas!

Here is puppy wearing her new hair on hide visor just like mommy's! She also got a shinny red one with a heart cut out on it. She did think she was being punished when I put it on her...maybe she will get use to it!

Pupperoni's other purchase was a new sheep skin rug to lay on next to the bath tub in mommy's bathroom. Puppy loves to lay by the tub when mommy is in the tub soaking! See...she loves her new rug ;)))

Your Desert Rose!

MY HAPPY PLACE!

2011-12-10T16:25:00.000-08:00

I love my beautiful nieces! Although they are not all in this photo, and my daughter is to my left, my nieces have all grown up to be such lovely women inside and out! This particular photo was taken 3 winters ago in front of my tack room just after we had returned from a full moon ride! I think it was a first for them although I know that Pony Girl has ridden in the dark since then. I was so fortunate to have these lovelies visit us for about 5 days in the desert! I usually only get to see them a few times a year now...but treasure any time I get to spend with them!

Your Desert Rose!

Pacific Crest Trail...(6th segment ridden)

2011-12-04T18:18:00.000-08:00

In my goal of riding as many segments of the PCT in a 20 year span I have just completed my 6th segment ridden! One of these 6 segments we have ridden over and over has a great lunch stop, Live Oak Spring, with an underground spring that supplies water for our horses. Even if at the end of the 20 years I will have only ridden 20 segments I will feel satisfied with the accomplishment!
Since we had never been to this new trial head the Bossman and I have our usual disagreements as to what way is left and what way is right but we hit our targeted time of leaving the stables for our ride. On our way to the trail head I make a silly comment..."well at least it's not windy today" because our trail today would start at the Mesa Wind Farm. Of course the wind farm was built in this location...because it is FUCKINGWINDY there! (25 cents in the cuss jar) there!!! I finally relented and said that the Bossman did not have to wear his cowboy hat and instead wear his beloved Pith helmet. My reasoning for this was...if his hat was going to blow away...I sure did not want it to blow back on Lady and me knocking us off the trail down into the deep ravines of the PCT.

Now before I go to much further in my story...I must tell you that this segment was ridden almost a year ago! And since then we have ridden a few more segment adventures to tell you about! But...back to this segment ;)))

I have to admit that I was NOT sure how Lady was going to react to the wheeeeer wheeeeer of the windmills as we entered their domain! However after a minute or 2 she did NOT pay any attention to them even though they annoyed the HELL otta me! ( 25 cents in the cuss jar!)

About 45 minutes in to the ride we see this sign...

then another one in a few minutes!

Of course we go explore and meet these 2 friendly guys!

The signs are really meant for the thru hikers ( the ones going to Mexico to Canada) who really need to stop whenever the can to restock their water supply.
We don't stay long because we want to ride as far as we can today and then turn around and ride back to the trailer...which I hate to do. But in the future we now have it figured out how we could have BIG FOOT drop us off and leave the trailer for us at the end of this segment. not all segments have trail heads that can be ridden this way....you just have to turn and around and ride back where you came from :)))

As you can see...the above signs show this distances between trail heads!
There are not as many rocks on the trail or terrain and the trails are not hard packed sand but more mushy as they are in the dry washes. This trail has been well maintained and many wooden trail braces can be seen. There are grassy meadows in the distance and the hills seem more rolling.

Finally... we have climbed up enough so that we have left the LAND OF THE WINDMILLS and come to a much different terrain than we usually encounter on the PCT! All but one of our PCT segments have begun in high desert terrain. This particular segment actually began on the desert floor of Palm Springs...which meant we would need to climb.climb, climb...and then drop down, down, down into a wash before another big climb~~~

Ooooppppps.....how did that get in here ;)))

So this next picture...has a very washed out area that shows up in the middle of the picture! This was taken across the canyon after we had ridden it...I have to say that to date...this was probably my worst bad trail spot. I say this because the sand was very soft and very narrow at the washed out spot! I think what brothered me most was knowing that I was going to have to pass it again on our way back!!!

Spectacular views at every turn!

the view to the wash below!

We finally decide it's lunch time...there is a science to knowing that! You take the time traveled thus far, add an hour for lunch and then deduct 1/2 hour cause the horses always walk faster on the way home ;)

So the next few pictures are new to my rides...

Bridle resting during lunch!

Back in the saddle after a delicious lunch and chilled bottle of wine!

Finally have made it back to the flat ground but need to pass by the windmills again but this time you get to hear it too!

Your Desert Rose!

Trail Slut...and Proud of it!

2011-12-01T21:58:00.000-08:00

A few years back our Pony Cousins were trying to decide on a location to hold our yearly roundup weekend with our ponies. I had made a comment that I was hoping to explore our options and maybe try new places every year, even though the ranch we had been going to was fabulous, I was hoping for some more challenging trail options. during the debate on our online Pony Cousin group my niece Pony Girl made mention of the fact that my trail experience was more extensive than the rest of the cousins who felt very at ease and comfy with the current trails. I did not intend to respond in a comic way...it just kinda went that way ;))) So thank you Pony Girl for inspiring me to take an honest look at myself and my trails!

The Desert Rose at her Trail Sluttiest!

This email is in response to my Pony girl's previous comment to my
"trail expertise" of the group. NO.......she did not call me a "trail
whore", one who rides trails for money! But there was a hint of
insinuating that I was a "trail slut", one who rides many trails to
reduce the monotony of riding the same old boring trail. Yes, I do
admit that I am excited by a new trail, never knowing what lies ahead,
the possible breath taking thrills and the hint of danger . The
anticipation of such a ride makes my skin tingle days before the
encounter. I also admit that the "bigger the ride" the more
gratification is felt after the ride, although that is NOT always the
case. Some "big rides" have left me unsatisfied and wanting for more. I
have also been know to ride several different trails in as many days.
This does not mean I do not have special fondness for certain trails
that have always given me a good ride. There are some trails that I
deem to dangerous (even for me) and others that I would never ride
again because I seemed to sleep right through the experience. Sometimes
I like to ride many trails on the same day, sometimes called a 3 some!
I have ridden as many as 5 trails, one after the other. This called a
trail gang bang. There have been a few times given enough cowgirl
courage that I did not remember the trail I had ridden the day before.
Then a month later I start to recognize the chiseled rock or the cool
wet banks of the stream. It soon all flows back to me and it is a
double thrill. I have no shame in being a "trail slut" as it has made
me the cowgirl I am today. And.....since most of you.......have ridden
the trails I ride, and now are in the business of of horses in one way
or another yourselves, ask yourself. What kind of trail cowgirl do do
want to be?????? Oh sure, always be true to one trail ( called "safe
trail") or you can lust for adventure and be a "cowgirl trail slut" and
have the rides of your life!
The sea is full of trails, why ride just one?
Proud to be a "Trail Slut"
Your Desert Rose!

Lizzy Rose's 1st Horsey Ride!

2011-11-28T20:23:00.000-08:00

Here Is Pupperoni's first ride on Jesse Pollin with MOMMY!

OK...I was gonna save this for Christmas....but couldn't wait! (Ya...I held back... some photos)

Jesse is NOT so sure about Pupperoni steeling his thunder!

Your Desert Rose!

Once Bitten...

2011-11-21T21:54:00.000-08:00

Seems little Willie Mae Jane has been bitten by the HORSE FLY and her symptoms have become increasingly apparent to all!

Poor little stick pony...

Your Desert Rose!

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

Never to early for a "Good Buck"!
Your Desert Rose!

My happy Place!

2011-08-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

Miss Lucy Lu & Lizzy Rose have filled a wonderful place in my heart...I adore these 2 little girls and they adore each other!
Your Desert Rose!

Jesse's Girl!!!

2011-07-09T00:25:00.000-07:00

I left the desert May 7th to the PNW...minus Jesse! Jesse was left in the fantastic care of the Bossman for the summer to be near the shoesalesman. Last year the shoesalesman flew up 2 times during the summer to shoe both Jesse & Lady. This year we decided to leave Jesse in the desert where he can stay in great shape for the desert riding and not have to work so hard next fall to get back in to shape. With Jesse's asthma and his owy toes...it's the best decision for this year. Lady and I had had some great rides this summer...but we both miss our boy terribly!!!

So please indulge me as I post some my favorite pictures of Jesse!

Jesse we miss you and love you!
The Desert Rose!
And a big shout out to Auntie Danielle who takes such good care of our Jesse!!!

The Lady & her King!

2011-06-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

Shanna Lady Rose and her King see each other for the 1st time after a 6 month separation! They were so happy to be together again~

Your Desert Rose!

Puppy LOVE!!!

2011-06-21T02:20:00.000-07:00

Yes...the new puppy has certainly changed things in our household! Lucy Lu is still the QUEEN of the house...as long as she can pull it off!

However... Lizzy Rose AKA The Pupperroni has many tools and toy up her sleeves!

Sock Monkey was a favorite...until he soon developed a whole, in his under arm area!

Milk bone...bone is still a favorite!

As is SNIFFFANY BONE...

and CHEWY VUITON!

OOPS...yes this is a real MILK BONE...Pupperroni tends to carry them around bit before she indulges!

This is a typical NIGHT SNUGGLE!

Funny CAVILER BUTT!!!

1st horse camping trip...she wants to run free...nofuckingway!!! (25cents in the cuss jar)

Father's Day pose for daddy...we HEART YOU DADDY!!!

Tonight's bedtime photo...at the end of the day...with the fights, the chases and crys...it ALWAYS ends up this way at bedtime!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Tough Eonugh to Wear PUPPY!

2011-05-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

Late this past spring my nieces Pony Girl & her Farm boy & Paint Girl & her OH visited us in the desert for a long weekend! There was of course a trail ride, farmers market, casino night, and plenty of pool time as the PNW er's needed to get a bit of color to prove they had been on vacation ;)
During one of the pool afternoons...Lizzy Rose was excited to see Pony Girl splashing around in the pool. one thing led to another...and you guessed it. I handed Lizzy to Pony Girl in the pool. Well...the PUPPERONI just curled up into a ball and cuddled into Pony Girl. Then she tried to get away...with not great luck...and then MOMMY rescued her! I quickly wrapped PUPPERONI up in towels and dried her off and let her get down. She made a bee line for the OH and jumped into his chair. From there it went uphill...so to speak!

Apparently the PUPPERONI & the OH had bonded during their stay and she decided he would protect her form those MEAN GIRLS that got her all wet! By the way...her coat was so curly after her swim ;)

And every time I would approach to take her...Lizzy's little eyes would open slightly...and I could just hear her say...My OH will protect me from you and PONY GIRL...and he did, he sat there for over an hour just letting the PUPPERONI have some safe and loving time~
Thank you OH.,..the PUPPERONI misses you too ;)))
Your Desert Rose!

Leaving...on a Jet Plane!

2011-05-07T00:33:00.000-07:00

The end of our SNOWBIRD season has again...come to an end. However...this year will be bitter sweet for our family as we leave the desert, we are leaving one behind!

Jesse ...will be staying in the desert for the summer season at the Bossman's request. As most of you know, Jesse has terrible hooves...and with 2 new quarter cracks he needs the SHOESALESMAN close at hand to monitor him as needed. Last year...the SHOESALESMAN graciously flew to PDX 2 times to shoe Jesse & Lady every 9 weeks. However Jesse did NOT have the quarter cracks that he has now! Jesse also has asthma...it took us 3 months to get him to be able to do our favorite desert trails when we arrived from the PNW...we just do not have the same kind of cardio work out options in the PNW~

I am posting some of my favorite pictures of Jesse...please bare with me IF you have seen them before... :)))

I will see you soon...my love!

Your Desert Rose!

PS If I did not know for a FACT...that the Bossman loves Jesse as much as I do...I could never leave him...besides....Auntie Danielle ( the Bossman's daughter...will give Jesse all the COWGIRL KISSES he needs while we are apart!!!)

I went to the stables tonight to say goodbye to Jesse...I swear he knows I am leaving...he was exceptionally loving. I left the stables teary eyed :(((

Thank you to my niece PONY GIRL from all that jazz for the recent picture of me & Jesse!

THE BIG HORN!

2011-05-02T00:31:00.000-07:00

On my last scheduled desert ride my riding buddy...Amos's mom and I were treated to the sight of a lifetime!
We were riding a trail that is NOT ridden by anyone I know because of it's difficulty and it's rapid gain in elevation. Elevation...is the key word here, that is where this majestic guy lives. He is protected in our desert and for years during LAMBING season, signs were posted that led anywhere near his breeding ground saying..."closed for llambing season". Ok...that was not exactly what it said but I could NOT find a picture of one of the signs in my archives...although I know I have many. Several years ago...even though the signs were still posted...the ban was lifted for hikers and riders as long as NO dogs were on the trail. The Big Horn is known to stop breeding when dogs are present...DOGS are the predator in a flight world.
As we came around the corner...Amos's mom stopped and said SHHHHHHH!!!! Her finger to her mouth...her other finger pointing up above us.
This is what Shanna Lady Rose and I saw!!! The pictures are posted in the order I took them...the 1st 2 are on my cell phone, the rest are from my camera!

How in the world did Amos's mom see this guy...way up there??? He was laying down at the time and I think the noise of our many cameras and cell phones zooming in & out finally caused him to stand...yet not in fear!

This proud beautiful boy stayed within our sight for up to 5 minutes! He was NOT scared...in fact acted curious about us. After 13 years of riding in his territory...I am in finally in awe of his royal presence!!!

YOUR DESERT ROSE!

HOPPY Easter!

2011-04-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

For the 1st time in about 25 years...the Easter Bunny will be visiting our house! Yup...we have 4 year old Jed with us in the desert and he was promised that the bunny would find him here ;) The week before Jed came...I went to the "bunny store" and was ready for the special occasion before Jed arrived.

Today the eggs were boiled then Jed asked for the names of all the special people in his life to be added to an egg! Unfortunately...I forgot the vinegar so I had to use Lemon juice from a lemon on our tree. Yup...I just went out and picked one and squeezed!

Easter morning the Easter Bunny left Jed a Spiderman Easter Basket...and a huge STUFFY BUNNY!!! Jed was sad when he found out the E.B. had hid all his colored eggs...but he soon found them and was so HOPPY!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Slick The Bachelor!

2011-03-07T00:21:00.000-08:00

I hope that by now you all know our resident stallion, SLICK, (and Shanna Lady Rose's biological dad)... who belongs to our Bossman! What you may not know is that the Bossman's main goal in life...is getting SLICK layed! They must have made a pact a few years back...if only one of them was gonna get layed...it was gonna be SLICK!!!

I always have to remind myself that SLICK...as wonderful as he is to ride and be around...is still a STALLION...and his idea of foreplay is to bite anything within reach, including but not limited to my calve, thigh and maybe even a boob!

It seems that the last time that SLICK got laid was when Shanna Lady Rose ( formally the known as the horse, Lil' Lady) and lady just turned 7!!!

Hell, if you think the Bossman was cranky...SLICK was running neck & neck with the Bossman in the CRANKY department.

So...the Bossman filled out a profile for SLICK on the SB&WM (single black & white mare) website and found these 3 possible "dates" for SLICK!

Slick's 1st response was from my own "PONY EQUICUZ" Fritzy!!!

And while SLICK was sure impressed with Fritzy's sassy stride and flashy "~~piece~~ of" tail...it meant he would need to go to the PNW with the Desert Rose to meet & greet Fritzy properly, alas, it was not meant to be!

Slick's 2nd response to his ad came from NEW MEXICO in the high desert form the Desert Rose's dear blogger friend, Lisa from the Laughing Orca Ranch, whose paint mare BABY DOLL ( no...not my cousin BABY DOLL)

seemed to be looking for a strong man of her own! And even though the distance between Slick and Baby Doll was less than a 6 hour drive...the Bossman nixed that idea...because there might be snow!!! Yes...Bossman is a woos when it come to cold! He will ride 8 hours in 110 degree weather...but not one mile if it is under 60 !!!

Close to wits his end...Slick begged the Bossman to find him a mare...Slick said that it did not even need to be a SB&WM...he was willing to LAY anymare!!!

Destiny seems to rear up her head whenever she pleases...and out of the blue at SLICK'S very own stables in the desert, there suddenly appeared a SB&WM!!!

I can not tell you how many times SLICK got laid...but it was apparently enough to get the job done!!!

Yup...Doc says...there a BABY in there...

but since the last BABY looked like this

The Bossman asked the Doc..."Can you see if the BABY is BLACK & WHITE???

Last night...I had a dream that the new BABY had arrived...and yes it blew me away!!!

I just don't know how I will put up with 2 BOSSMEN!!!
Your Desert Rose!

Blown Away!

2011-03-03T16:07:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share with you all an unexpected experience we had on a recent trail ride. The ride was 3 hours total in our Indian Canyon last week. It was a gorgeous day when 4 of us headed out. The Bossman was riding Lady (per my request) because the last few times we have ridden the canyon trail that you see us heading down to in the video... she has been PISSY! Baby Doll was on my trusty Jesse...who now nickers at Baby Doll when she goes to get him. Last summer he would turn his butt to her when she approached his stall and her little Baby Doll feelings were hurt. I kept my eye on them and found some tips for Baby Doll to improve her relationship with Jesse...and wa la, it worked so well that on a recent ride when Jesse and Baby Doll had a scramble that led to Jesse going down on his side, Jesse waited for Baby Doll to get out from under his tummy before getting himself up righted!!! My friend the Ghost rider needed her 2 horses to get some trail time so she brought me her Peruvian Passo BRIO for the ride. This would be my 1st ride on Brio though I had been on 2 rides when the Ghost rider was riding him. The first 2 hours of the ride went without incident and we were all marveling at the joy of doing what we love in this beautiful desert. As the trail headed southwest the light breeze became wind, until this is what we had to ride in. I am so sorry for the tilted camera...I could hardly keep the camera in my hands and did not realize I had turned it. However...if you are willing to tip your head or your computor for this short video...you will bee how we were almost BLOWN AWAY!

By the way, the wind was suddenly gone when we got to the bottom of the canyon to enjoy our lunch at the picnic grounds. BRIO was a real doll and such fun to ride...I have since ridden him a 2nd time! Shanna Lady Rose was on her best behavior...sure she would be with the Bossman...and I can't wait for this 4-somes next ride!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Stud Colts!

2011-02-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

How can one Zsa Zsa be so lucky? To have 2 little stud colts this gorgeous???

But...alas, they have grown so much that I don't think that the pony costumes will fit them when I get back to the PNW the middle of May!

The first born stud colt...TOBY (4yrs) on the right and 2nd born JED (3yrs) on the left!

Please indulge this Zsa Zsa with a few very cute...short videos of her STUD COLTS!!!

Your Desert Rose!

This Could come in handy!

2011-02-22T12:42:00.000-08:00

If any of you have done this...you may need this!!!

There is no law against texting & riding...YET!

Texting for Horse People ;-)

OOH - out of hay
LAS - lost a shoe
BBM - bastard just bit me
FOMHL - Fell Off My Horse Laughing
FTC - Forgot the carrots
MIHA - Mare's in heat, again
IPTI - I'll pick up tennis instead
LWW - Lesson went well
MSMBO - mud sucked my boot off
HSIH - Horse Snot in Hair
HAO - Hay All Over
HIMB - Hay in My BRA
PIHH - Poop Induced Half Halt
UD - Unplanned Dismount
PTTDG - Prayed to the Dirt God
MMM - Master Manure Mucker
OOM - Out of money
MHTS - More horses than sense
BAHHFDP- bought another horse, husband filed divorce papers
GBBF - got board bill, fainted
GFBF - got farrier bill, fainted
HRHCF - husband realized horse costs, fainted
SLH - Smell like horse
DQFOY - Dressage Queen fell off – yippee
HTNHFH - Hiding the new horse from hubby
WWFNS - Will work for new saddle
AROGC - Arena rained out - going crazy
SSB - saddle sore butt
BTLGR - b###hy trainer left - good riddance
ALIGAR - At least I got a ribbon
NLT - No lesson today
HGR - Have a great ride!
Your Desert Rose!

The Bossman...How he got his name!

2011-02-14T18:13:00.000-08:00

In today's world it has become important for us all to protect our "real" lives which is why animals get their REAL names used...but on my blog...HUMANS all have an alter ego!!! Hence THE BOSSMAN!!!! He was quite offended when I gave him this "alter ego" and pretty much said..."I am a slave"!!! Hence this post to let you all see that I indeed did give him the correct "alter ego"!!! And you should cast your vote...does the BOSSMAN think he is boss???

The following is an email from the Bossman... sent to Baby Doll, The Ghost Rider and myself before out last ride!

Ready to leave as close to seven as possible (picking up lunch).
Time in saddle 4.5

Lunch 1.0

Driving 1.5
Packing bags .5
Mimosas .5
Looking for trail 1.0
Mimosa .5
Pea stops .5

Go back for items .5

Mimosa .5
Sound about right????

Then of course is my response to him...

The most important question IS THERE SNOW UP THERE???????

The way you DRIVE...SHAVE 1/2 HOUR OFF OF THAT!!!
I WILL pee...when I need to! ( that is a BETHISM...only she did NOT want me to PEE!!!)
You are the one that LOST the trail....why charge me for 1 hour???
Mimosa...if you would mix them ahead of time...we could save . 5 in time!

Oh heck...we are the ONLY ones that would put up with each other!

Your Desert Rose!

MY HAPPY PLACE!

2011-02-11T20:54:00.001-08:00

The mountains of my desert home...I ride up and down, up and down, up and down, loving it everytime!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Lizzy Rose Update!

2011-02-05T22:03:00.001-08:00

I know you have all been dying to see some new Lizzy Rose pictures....

Here is Lizzy with her kitty LUCY LU!!! Notice Lucy's paw on Lizzy's neck...she is getting ready to give Lizzy the " dreaded" CAT BATH!!!!

Lizzy sleeps this way...

And that way!!!!

The "Pet co- sleeper"... at the end of the bed is where the puppy & kitty were both suppose to sleep!

But...alas, they ONLY use it to RUN up the stairs to Mommy & Daddy's bed!

Cavaliers are know for loving to watch TV...here Lizzy watches "Vertigo"!!!

Today's nap time with "MONKEY"!

Beautiful Lucy Lu...is a GEM to put up with 4 month old Little Queen Elisabeth Rose!!!

Your Desert Rose!

20th Wedding Anniversary!

2011-01-18T21:10:00.000-08:00

My Loving Husband and I are celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary January 19th! We had a wonderful trip in the fall to celebrate this milestone. So for our special day My Loving Husband will be taking me to see

Yes...it is playing near our desert city and he has again agreed to take me to see it!!! Am I ever lucky that he puts up with all my "horsing around" and is willing to be my date too!!!

Here's to 20 more years!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Oh What a Night! ( Finale)

2011-01-17T10:51:00.000-08:00

It has been 2 weeks since our "unscheduled overnight mountain stay" and I have finally stopped getting teary when I think about almost, possibly, could have, knock on wood, killed my horse and favorite cousin! ( not in order of importance) The Bossman is too ornery to die on one of out rides!!!

In no order at all...

I want to honor Bronco Betsy or Baby Doll as she is now known in some circles! ( Better than "She who rides many ponies!) This PONY COUSIN has been joining me in the desert now for the last several years as a temporary "snowbird". She started out riding stable rentals...and was so excited her 2nd season when Spanky upgraded her to ride Banjo! Banjo is Tennessee Walker who is not a beginner horse...Bronco got to ride him again this year after Jesse had his owe toes!Bronco and Banjo on our last ride together...notice the Pendleton Saddle pad and halter and lead, This is not "stable" issue!!! Has Baby Doll become the Bossman's favorite PONY COUSIN???

To Baby Doll...I know we scared the "chalupa" out of you more than once on our adventure! What I want you to know... is this: You just experienced one of the most frightening experiences that will EVER happen to you!!! And you did it, YOU cowgirled up when you needed to and did what you had to do! Unless someone rides exactly what you did, they will never know what the terrain we had to ride was. The Bossman and I know...and are proud to award to you...Baby Doll

The Desert Rose, Red Badge of Courage Award! You have earned this award for going above and beyond the call of "cowgirl duty"!

To The Bossman! Always ready to stand up and fight for a PONY COUSIN, especially the Desert Rose in time of need! For ALWAYS being a gentleman and never asking for a "blow job" no matter howfuckingcold you were!!!

To Jesse... I could not have said it better than Cowgirljlynn at A Cowgirlsgrace who dedicated Jesse this special award to Jesse!
And finally last but not least...I dedicate this award to Baby Doll and The Bossman! Alas, this PONY COUSIN has stolen the Bossman's heart away from The Desert Rose during our "unscheduled overnight mountain stay" Although I was somewhat involved in getting him his 1st "blow job" on a trail ride...I was not DIRECTLY the one who gave it to him. As Baby Doll stated in her blog...she is pretty sure she is now The Bossman's favorite PONY COUSIN!!!
I also want to thank...Slick the "Drunken Stallion" and "Little Lady" ( Pretty Girl)(soon to be "My Girl"...yes stolen from "PONY GIRL") who amazed me at their dedication and perseverance in getting us all home safely!!!
You Desert Rose!

Oh What a Night! (part 5)

2011-01-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

In honor of the one year anniversary if our "unscheduled overnight on the PCT" I will be re posting the story one segment each day for the next week. If you read about our adventure last year...please feel free to skip it. If you have NOT heard our story before...you might want to take notes...cause we never thought it could happen to us either ;)

I left the story off when we saw the 1st Carin. We were soon scouting the valley for them. Some were easy to spot, others we had to struggle to find. Slowly but surely the Caren's kept showing up leading us up another rock hill until in the distance I could see another barbed wire fence. As we got closer..I began to get excited because I could see a green gate in the middle of it!!! Bronco was not sure I was right...that this time we had REALLY found the right trail...but I knew this was it. Neither of took any photo's after the 1st cairn as we were to tired and just wanted out of there. The trail down to desert floor was pretty well marked and in fairly good shape. But considering what we had been riding, it was a piece of cake. Within 1/2 hour we had made down to our intended trail from yesterday. Unfortunately...it was going to be another 2 1/2 to 3 hours to get to the staging area depending on Jesse's feet. You see by now he had lost his easy boot and shoe somewhere in all the climbing. The Bossman had given all 3 of the horses some bute that morning so Jesse was not in pain...but he was being very careful over rocks. We came to a trail head and could have gone either way to get to the staging area but choose to ride the one that would be best for Jesse's feet. Unfortunately all the water hole we passed were dry...which meant it would be 2 more hours before we hit water. The horses just pushed on doing what we asked them to do. That ride to the water seemed to take forever...we didn't talk too much all of us just focusing on getting back. Once we had cell service calls were made to let everyone know when to expect us back to the stables.Finally...we reach the water...Bronco is back on Jesse as sometimes Little Lady gets antsy in the canyon because there are so many hikers. We got to the water and let the horses only have a short sip. Jesse wanted more but we could not let him have his fill without risking the chance of him tying up! 10 minutes later we reached a second water hole and again only let the horses have a short sip. We made it to the trailer...it sure was a sight for sore eyes. We disconnected our saddle bags, took off bridles and started loading up. Jesse first, Lady, then Slick. All of a sudden Jesse began to pull back and do but bucks. I jumped up to look inside the trailer and realized he was in trauma. I yelled for the Bossman to get the other horses unloaded. As we took Jesse out of the trailer I knew he was going to go down and asked the Bossman to help me get his saddle off. We barely had time to get the saddle off when Jesse went down to a full roll twice. I urged him back up but he immediately went back down for 2 more rolls. The Bossman yelled for me to just walk him slowly and to try and keep him up. I called "The Doc" on his cell phone but remembered he was out of town. So I called Spanky and asked him to call the vet office for me. Spanky told us to give Jesse some ace. The Bossman got the ace ready and we gave it to Jesse. In a few minutes Jesse was not in as much trauma however he went down a total of 6 times before the ace kicked in. We gave Jesse a few more minutes and then load back up for the 10minute drive to the stables. When we got there Spanky had me give Jesse 7 sips of water and then we took him to the tie rail. 15 minutes later Spanky had me give Jesse 2 gallons of water with electrolytes. Another, 15 minutes after that. Jesse had not gone down since we arrived at the stables and seemed to be doing much better. As we took him to his stall though, he went down again. Spanky called the vet office...we were in luck they would be there in 1/2 hour. Before the vet got there Jesse went down a total of 12 times!!! Now also during this time the Bossman found the "Shoesales man" to come and look at Jesse feet. The "Shoesales man pulled Jesse's other front shoe so that it could be worn down a bit to macth his other foot. Both the Bossman and the Shoesales man were quite concerned about his feet because Jesse has such tender feet anyway.

The vet arrives and she begins her exam of him. Gut sounds are good so we hope that colic will not follow Jesse's tying- up.What is tying up?
Tying up (muscle tension/spasm) involves chronic tension in the horse's muscles due to overwork. When the muscles are active, they produce lactate as part of their normal metabolism. Too much lactate causes lactic acidosis, a lowering of the pH in the muscles and the body in general. This impacts the efficiency of metabolism, giving rise to fatigue. The excess lactate prevents the muscles from relaxing properly following contraction. As a result, large muscle groups tend to seize up, remaining in a state of contraction. In mild tying up, the horse’s muscles are extremely sore and stiff. In full blown tying up, the horse is unable to move.
The areas typically affected by tying up include the neck, back, shoulders, zones of previous trauma and areas where other muscles have attempted to compensate for those already affected.
Prolonged muscle fatigue can, in time, affect the skeletal, circulatory and respiratory systems.
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Is my horse likely to tie up?
Tying up is more common in young Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds that are either high strung or not fit. Fit, well-trained and well-bred horses are better able to deal with higher levels of lactate in their systems. However, if a horse develops a level of lactate significantly higher than his body has learned to cope with, he will be more likely to tie up.
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What are the symptoms of tying up?
The following symptoms may indicate that your horse is tying up:
Obvious discomfort and irritability
Abnormally short strides
Profuse sweating
Muscle stiffness, contraction
Difficulty moving
Elevated pulse and laboured breathing
Brown coloured urine resulting from the kidneys filtering myoglobin (a muscle protein) from the blood. Myoglobin is an indication of severe muscle damage.
Inability to sleep
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What should I do if my horse ties up?
If your horse appears to be suffering from tying up, you should call your veterinarian immediately. Since tying up can be very painful, and your horse may be panicky, ask what you can do to provide comfort until the veterinarian arrives.
Never move a horse that has tied up. Moving your horse even a few steps may cause the condition to worsen. Keep the horse on his feet and protect him from becoming chilled by using a blanket.
Encourage your horse to drink, as fluids will help flush the kidneys of waste.
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Tying-up treatment & prevention for horses
Much of the treatment for tying up focuses on prevention. Warm up and cool down your horse properly with at least 15 minutes of walking. Don't exercise the horse to a point where he becomes stressed. Provide turnout as frequently as possible.
Some horse owners/trainers have found that a diet that is reduced in carbohydrates (or total elimination of carbohydrates) helps to reduce tying up.
Yet another method that many horsemen have found useful is making sure that the horse's electrolytes (potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium) are kept at optimal levels through good nutrition.

The vets diagnosis was dehydration that lead to the tying up. Jesse would need to be given fluids through an IV four the next 4 hours and then the vet would come back out and check his levels and if need Jesse would gt more fluids. At 1100pm I meet the vet back at the stables ( I had to go home and feed and medicate both cats since they had been alone for the whole time too!) They always have kibble and water...but both need am and pm meds!!! Jesse's levels are all great and she takes him off the I-V. He also can eat his dinner now and he is sooooo happy to do that! Kidney levels show Jesse a bit high from the tie-up but she will retake his blood in 12 hours!

The next day at 4pm I met the vet again for her to check Jesse. All signs of dehydration were gone...kidney levels were good, although the ty-up enzymes were still evident...they would just clear up on their own. Jesse was released for very light movement for w few days then he could be moved up as movement allowed.

However this was not taking his lost shoe into account and THAT over 2 weeks later is still an issue!!! Jesse is now being hand walked by the Bossman everyday 2x around the stable grounds. Next up...ponying 1/2 hour until he seems to no longer be gimpy. This could take Jesse...1 month to recover from his lost shoe!!!
I have purposely not posted any pictures for this post until now!Jesse is burping...sorta, because as a precaution the vet tubed him with oil/water to prevent colic! Oops...another burp!!! See the bungee cord coming from his neck to the 2 big I-V bags hanging above??? The I-V cord is braided into Jesse's mane.
The actual shunt was "stitched" into Jesse's neck...see the black wire thread???
Jesse's hooves right after the Shoesales man pulled the left one. See how short the right one is???
Jesse really likes the Vet's assistant! See the Bossman in the background??? He has been at every shoeing...every vet appt. since he started caring for Jesse over 5 years ago!!!
He really loves his beautiful "substitute" vet, Jesse thinks she's pretty in pink! ( Last night at 11:00 pm he nickered at her when she first walked up to his stall for his recheck!)
The Bossman has been so concerned about Jesse since our "unscheduled overnight mountain stay" that he would not even let me in there!!! Also...he does not know this, but several of his "Boyfriends" have told me how upset he has been about Jesse and has been so devoted to Jesse's care during his recovery!

All blood test back to normal...all gut sounds normal! Jesse is released from vet care...just need to ease in back into workouts!!! However his owey toes... tell a different tale!

Your Desert Rose!!

Oh What a Night! (part 4)

2011-01-15T16:27:00.000-08:00

At the crack of dawn everyone stirred and the Bossman growled that it was time to get up!!! Now Baby Doll and I were quite snug and comfy at the moment and really did not want to move outta that "threesome" bed of ours. The Bossman said he was going to scout the top of the mountain and see where he thought we should go. However Baby Doll and I just knew he needed to drop a chalupa somewhere and wanted privacy! Speaking of chalupas...on the way to the stables yesterday morning I divulged the info to Baby Doll that I had NOT had my coffee poo poo yet and hoped I would before the ride. Baby Doll confessed that she was up the same shit creek without a paddle as me and we both wished each other well in getting that mission accomplished! Chalupa's bring up another important part of our survival story. Baby Doll's biggest concern during the inventory of supplies...was the toilet paper supply!!! She was really on the verge of panic, when I produced for her 2 mini rolls and one package of cowgirl Kleenex, unopened! That seemed to settle her down a bit but I saw the Bossman secretly load a syringe of ace to keep handy!!!

When we finally decide we had to get up this was our sight!Jesse was enjoying the beautiful sunrise too! We immediately went to find the little girls room...you see our chalupas from yesterday had eluded us both... and that was somewhat scary to mount up with that issue unresolved.Up this little hill to the right is our destination! Can you pick out what looks to be a fence post in this picture??? Well it is a fence post. You see the is also a barbed wire fence running across these mountains that has also been a problem for us to get places. I can confirm though... that the grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence. The fence is to keep the cows that live up here in the right spot. We were lucky in a few places the fence was down and we could get through. In other places the when the fence blocked our way the Bossman in listed his "GOD COMPLEX" and sure enough...just like the Red Sea...the fence parted for us to safely get through! Good thing one of us was a JEW!!!

Baby Doll and I find empty stalls and begin to begin... our morning duty when all of a sudden Bay Doll is screaming at the top of her voice. You see I was not in a good position to run over and save her from this thing that must have been attacking her so I yell out...what!!!! Did you see the Bossman's chalupa??? She's screaming you are NOT going to believe this...over and over. I finally get over to her and she holds something out to me in her hand! Yup...a cigarette lighter! Or shall I say a" fuckingcigarettelighter"!!! She is just beside herself...you see she just now put her hand in the pocket of the fleece jacket I had brought for her and when she did...well what can I say! If she had not been so busy with her hands on face book last night she might just have put her hands into the pocket to keep warm...but not Baby Doll who quite frankly was enjoying being the center of "her" FACEBOOK WORLD! Baby Doll made me "pinky swear" not to tell the Bossman...not sure why she was sacred of what he would do to her... but I convinced her we should do this!

After all the fire ring was still in place and our toes were on the verge of frost bite. I told Baby Doll that we would tell the Bossman we had used my handy little mirror and magnifying glass in my trails kit to light this fire!!! The Bossman did not fall for this as easily as I thought he would however he was not too hard on Baby Doll!

We still have not made up our bed yet...time to get started packing up! Ya...we have a big mess to clean up here...don't leave a trace!

I decide that I will ride Jesse today as now he is cranky about his hoof... AND, no breakfast! We saddle up and start loading the bags for our ride outta here.
The Desert Rose looks like she was ridden hard and put away wet!

Baby Doll gives Jesse a scratch on his neck!

All mounted up...we face our next challenge getting over this hill full of more "rock jumps and slides"! See the small peak in the background??? That is the tallest peak in our range of mountains...we are pretty damn high up!!!

Here we go...bushwhacking our way up the hill! After an hour or so of up and down 2 hills we come to this! At first I think it is a mirage...could it possible be...yes it is our trail marker, called a Cairn! Could possibly be one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen!!!
I do believe that it will only take one more post for you to reach the end of the trail with us...stay tuned!
Your Desert Rose!

Oh What a Night! (part 3)

2011-01-14T21:32:00.000-08:00

In honor of the one year anniversary if our "unscheduled overnight on the PCT" I will be re posting the story one segment each day for the next week. If you read about our adventure last year...please feel free to skip it. If you have NOT heard our story before...you might want to take notes...cause we never thought it could happen to us either ;)

Time: 6:00pm.
Altitude: 5500 ft.
Expected Low Temperatures: 27 to 32 Degrees.

Inventoried Beverage Supplies: 13 Bottles of Water, 2 Jack's Hard Lemonade, 3 Mini Bottles Champagne, 1/2 pint Fresh OJ

Inventoried Food: 5 Snack Packs Cashews, 5 Mini Cheese Squares, 3 Bags Lunch Box Chips, 3 Snack Pack Cookies, 1/2 Gallon Bag of Grapes, 5 Snack Bags Carrots, 1/2 Gallon Bag Horse Cookies

Inventoried Emergency Horse Gear: See Picture ( Jesse is wearing easy boot)

Inventoried Human Emergency Gear: See Picture

Inventoried Emergency Items Not Needed: See Picture

Emergency Equipment Needed : See Picture!!!

As we met up with the Bossman...he had scouted out an area that both the horses and we could spend the night safely. He quickly tied the horses as Bronco and I untied the saddle bags from them. The Bossman then called Big Foot to tell him to turn around and go back home...we would not be needing a ride tonight. Bronco was the only one with cell service s she called her Dear Hubby and asked him to call my Loving Husband and "try" to explain what happened! As I unloaded the saddle bags to inventory what we had...Bronco and the Bossman began gathering firewood while we could still see a bit. They also gathered rocks to build a fire ring. But...unfortunately...no matches and...no lighter! I had almost brought my cigarettes but decided it was not fair to Bronco who had just quit smoking a few months back!!!
After we got over the disappointment of this discovery, Bronco said she had seen a survival movie where they said you could do this to start a fire.Yes...Bronco is rubbing 2 stix together!!! We also tried striking 2 rocks against each other which did produce sparks...but we could not get them to light the moss we had gathered. The Bossman even tried gun powder next to the sparks, but alas, NOFUCKINGFIRE!!! I think that at this point most of you will say that I deserve a freebe or 2 from the cuss jar! At least someone found use for the wood we had gathered!

Jesse played with that wood on and off ALLFUCKINGNIGHT!!! Also notice the duct tape on Jesse's hoof over the easy boot???
As I got the trail bags unloaded I was throwing the items needed for "our bed" to the spot we had picked as the best for survival. It was surrounded by high rock that wrapped around to wind protection...it did have a few unmovable rocks in the way but someone would just have to deal with them! I think this is a good time to mention that once it was decided that we would be spending the night out there...Baby Doll called out that SHE got the middle spot! Now what you don't know is that this has been a running joke with the Bossman who never dresses warm enough that if we got caught out all night...he would get the middle! Well poor Bossman felt so bad that we had gotten Bronco into this mess that he let her have the middle...jacket or no jacket! So it is only fitting that the one in the middle gets the big rock in the middle to deal with. Kinda reminds you of the story about the "Princess and the Pea" doesn't it. Guess that big rock will knock that imaginary Tiera off of Baby Dolls head...she was sure beginning to think she was a princess with all that attention she was getting from the Bossman and Big Foot!
By now The Desert Rose had completed all the invetories of what we had on hand for our unfortunate overnight stay in the mountains. it was decided by all that we would each take one bottle of water to get us through the rest of our adventure and that the horses would get the rest. We also voted that the horses got their leftover lunch treats and all the carrots. They would get 2 bottles each from the little red bowl and the treats tonight...then one bottle water in the morning. Notice in this picture Jesse sees the water in the Desert Rose's hand and is very ready for his drink. Thank goodness they all had all they could drink at lunch!!!

The Bossman is getting gunpowder from a bullet! We are a bit chilly but decide to wait to put on our fleece jackets until later!

Notice that our resident Stallion has been tied safely away from the other 2 horses??? Well...he was a bit of a SISSY and did not like it, so the Bossman moved him to be with the herd. However...Slick could not be near Little Lady, so Jesse had to put up with Slick biting his butt all night. At one point Jesse began to butt buck him though and Slick figured he better stop it or he would get moved back to his former spot. Jesse did have some marks on him the next day...but more like love bites than fight bites!

It is discovered around this time also that we have a flashlight...with dead batteries! Maybe we should use "Miss Flashlight Eyes!" In the end we use my cell phone as a flashlight as there is no service up here!

It is now heading on 8 pm. The horses have been watered and fed (poor babies) all the gear is settled for the night and we are finally ready to settle down ourselves as the temps have really started to drop now. We all have all our personal extra clothes on and it is time to get hunkered down for "The Big Chill"! We will each use our saddle bags for a head and butt cushion as we decided to keep the horse's saddled to keep their body heat in also. So no saddle pads to cushion our bed! We fill in the other areas with our pommel bags as best as we can. Fortunately the emergency gear included an "astronaut blanket" which we had to share. There was an "old ladies" rain hat for me that kept my head heat in...Bronco wore her helmet and the Bossman tied a napkin around his ears under his hat. Each of us picked a cowgirl courage beverage and took our assigned place in the bed! We all had gloves...although Bronco decided to post on facebook about our delema!

Considering the circumstances we all seem to be in pretty good spirits and soon Bronco begins getting responses to her post.

"Bronco" is stranded on a mountain with cousin, cowboy and horses. couldn't make it out before dark so will have to spend the night under a rock, am seriously wondering about my decision to quit smoking now. we have no matches and can't start a fire. This little tidbit really heated up the airways and soon we were laughing as Bronco read us all the posts our dear family and friends left for us. Of the 44 related comments that night...here are some samplings.

1. Is the Cowboy good looking? Makes a difference on how sorry I feel for you!

2. Gives an all new meaning to "which rock did she crawl out from!"

3. This isn't going to turn into one of those "Brokeback" moments...is it?

4. How cold can it get in Palm Springs???

5. If you get a snake bite pee on it...or is that a jelly fish?

6. You got "LEMONADE" don't you???

7. Does your Blackberry have fire starter application???

We really did laugh a lot at these... it made comments like"how bad can it be if you're updating your facebook" seem funny!!!

However...there was one comment that really did help us that night from the "Rosebud" who bought me my 1st Pendleton Saddle Blanket. She reminded me to use them!!! We got out of the warmish bed and went over on stole those puppy's right off the 2 horses backs...of course leaving the saddle pads. NEW RULE: Every rider will put decorative Pendleton Blanket over Saddle Pad for use in SURVIVAL MODE!!!
It was now time to pull out the big gun blanket!!! Time to stop communication with the rest of the world...time for the horses to stop pawing...time for Slick to quit biting Jesse's butt...time to roll over and try to get some sleep so we won't really know how cold it is getting! Time for one last picture!
Bronco alias Baby Doll!

The Bossman!
The Desert Rose!
All huddled beneath this shinny new blanket just starting to drift off...

JESSE...quit Pawing!!!

Eyes heavy...

Slick...quit biting Jesse's butt!

Almost...

Lady...QUIT!!!

Finally...then,

Bossman...give me your gun!!!

Baby Doll says...Desert Rose...is that your spur or are you just happy to see me???

Baby Doll Shivers...Desert Rose wraps her arms and legs around Baby Doll who whispers "that feels good".

Desert Rose blows on Baby Dolls back to get warmth into her. Baby Doll whispers "don't stop...ya right there!"

The Bosmman says out loud...what is going on over there???

Baby Doll explains that she was just given a blow job by the Desert Rose and it really helped...Bossman said he was sure that it wold help...hint hint!

Baby Doll Giggles, but agrees to give Bossman a blow job too, as we are in survival mode!!!

The middle of the night the is a nudge at the Desert Rose's feet. Jesse is untied and came over to snuggle! UP & OUT of the cozy bed to retie Jesse.

It was amazing but you could see through the astro blanket. The stars were so bright and I could see the horses silhouettes too. Cold air kept creeping in all over...even Baby Doll in the middle had issues. She would not let the Bossman turn his happy side towards her...and when I turned my back to her also...she was all by herself in the middle...and FUCKINGCOLD! Fortunately...I carry a war chest of meds and knew I would be awake most of the night but vowed that I would not be in pain too! Bronco decided to play on my team. The astro blanket was very noisy so if someone moved a finger it would snap, crackle and pop! Plus we were so tight together in our bed that arms and legs were quickly all tangled up. Every so often we would have to rearrange the Penfleton Blankets at our feet then the astro blanket at the top. But the temperatures beneath the atsro blanket were 10 to 15 degrees warmer!!!
So again I do hate to leave you here...but no need to keeep you awake "allfuckingnight" too!

Your Desert Rose!

Oh What a Night! (part 2)

2011-01-12T13:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

In honor of the one year anniversary if our "unscheduled overnight on the PCT" I will be re posting the story one segment each day for the next week. If you read about our adventure last year...please feel free to skip it. If you have NOT heard our story before...you might want to take notes...cause we never thought it could happen to us either ;)

I left you at the last post as we had just cut our way through the downed tree, which by the way cost us at least 15 minutes time. The Bossman and I tend you cut our rides pretty close so we will need to make this time up somewhere along the line. I decided to save this info as a surprise for Bronco Betsy later on in the ride.
We mounted up and soon came into this really great little valley surrounded by these rocky hills.Soon after this...we come to this!Ya...that is one steep drop off, right down to the desert floor! So we turn around to go back and see what we had done wrong...you see we had followed the Bossman and he had followed a trail. Only now we discover that there are many many little trails going here and there and they all seem to lead us to the same kind of situation or this!Not sure why...but we could not even find the trail we came out on...it was so well hidden!Then The Desert Rose has a bright idea...let's follow these...surely we will find the trail again cause these guys know where they are going up here...they are the ones that made all the little shoot off trails to begin with to eat the grass. If we follow the freshest of these...we should get back to the main trail cause they drink water at our lunch stop! BRILLIANT! So we follow the freshest one we can find and this is where it leads us! Then down this!With this all around us!!!
Notice the sky...the sun sets early here in the desert when it goes down behind the mountains...which by the way are the direction we needed to go originally! It is now approximately 3:45 pm and the Bossman I have the same thoughts all though we have not spoken them out loud...yet! But at 4pm... we decided it was time to regroup the and alter the game plan. The Bossman got a hold of Big foot and arranged for him to go get our trailer and head back up to where he dropped us off. There was going to be no way off this mountain tonight, our only hope was to go back up...and we had been trying to do this now anyway. We were just hoping to find the right trail. This means we would be riding in the dark...but we do know the trail and think this is our best option. Below is the Bossman on the phone with Big Foot!
Now...somehow I had forgotten to mention this itty bitty little incident... it was our first meltdown. I say "our" because since we got Bronco into this mess we need to share all her...emotions!!! We are starting to get touchy feely here...so watch out! This is the "hill" that started it all. You see...we were at the top of this hill coming down when we got to this boulder at the bottom. There really was no way around it although it looks like there is from this picture. Well Bronco watched the Bossman and Slick slide down this boulder on Slick's butt and turned to me with little crocodile tears welled up in her eyes and said, " I just can't do this!" I turned to her...knowing I risked the possibility of the dam breaking and a major flood flowing and said, "Baby Doll...you have to"! I then told her what to do to get down safely and she then sucked it all up and went down on Jesse's big Quarter Horse butt!!! Bronco and Jesse look back up towards the hill! Notice the little red can in Bronco's hand? The Bossman decided that Bronco needed a shot of "Cowgirl Courage" and snapped open a can a champagne for her! Moments later she was laughing as the Bossman was on the phone...guess it worked!
Soon we hit upon another snag...we run out of daylight! And even though we know exactly where we are...we can not get to where we need to go!!! And even more distressing we have been separated from the Bossman. He went down a hill while we waited...he yelled up for us to find another way around and meet him up at the top. We have been trying to find a place to hunker down for the night now as we see no way to get out of these rocks safely. Fortunately...we find another way up...but not before Bronco has somehow lost her "cowgirl courage" (not the liquid kind) and needs to dismount. She has come to the end of her rope...no pun intended here and decides she will lead her mount ( she is now riding Little Lady as Jesse has a shoe that slipped sideways. He is wearing an easy boot and not to happy about it so I traded Bronco mounts) By the way...we lost 10 more minutes getting the easy boot on Jesse and all taped up! Bronco thinks she will lead Little Lady up to where we can see the Bossman...only realizes that Lady has to jump up these boulders and is afraid Lady may knock her down unintentionally. So...I have Bronco give me Lady's lead rope and pony her up the hill jumping boulders, dodging trees, making Jesse move because by now he is just plain worn out and DONE! My arm is just about torn out of the socket as I pull Lady up behind us and because I am in Bronco's saddle with too short of stirrups and not as deep seated as mine I come very close to being pulled out of the saddle by Lady's lead. I would have drooped her lead before that happened...but I did have several near misses!!!
Now between Bronco and The Desert Rose... we have not taken very many pictures the last hour...we were in the beginnings of survival mode, but I did manage to get this picture of Bronco trudging up the hill behind us! Look ever so closely right in the center of this picture and you can see poor little Bronco! So again... dear family and friends I hate to leave you here in the dark with Bronco...but the story is just too big to squeeze up here!
Your Desert Rose!
This picture show several interesting things. 1st...look ahead to the mountains in the background. We know that our trail we are headed to is down in the wash between this ridge and that one. We are right on target! 2nd...The Bossman is in the lead...not the Desert Rose!!!

Oh What a Night! (part 1)

2011-01-10T18:00:00.000-08:00

Of course the Bossman had everything ready when we arrived, I had shown Bronco where everything was to pack her horn bags on our 1st ride. I hurriedly packed lunch for the horses, grabbed my 2 red emergency bags to go into the big brown bags, as much water as I could get into the saddle bags, the easy boot, and the horse waterier. At the last minute I grabbed an extra flease jacket for Bronco...We sometimes get wind unexpectedly and I was not sure her jean jacket was warm enough.

Once we arrive to The Pacific Crest Trail head and unload the horses everyone gets busy getting saddle bags fastened on and loaded...some are tending bar...others... are getting a "cowboy" to do their job for them!This is "Big Foot" our friend that drives us up to the high desert and drops us off for our long rides back to the Indian Canyon! ( By the way...doesn't he look handsome in his new NFR Xmas vest from the Bossman and The Desert Rose) He is NOT riding with us and yet...he is tying on saddle bags??? Oh ya...I forgot "Princess Bronco Betsy" is along for the ride and somehow she manages to get help from every cowboy around!!! I don't seem to remember Big Foot tying on my saddle bags!!!

Ready to ride @ 9:30 am! took this picture for Bronco's scrap album!

Notice we have 8 miles to ride to reach our lunch stop!!! Since you have all been on this ride with me before...I am only going to post some highlights for you! Of course, I know you all want to see "Penis Rock" again!

The PC Trail in this area is taken care really well as you can see here!

We ended up deciding this was a nest...for "bigfuckingbird!" (25 cents in the cuss jar!)

Out in the middle of nowhere you can look up and see this! I don't look up very often...it sorta ruins it sometimes!

On this pit stop we were in a triangle stance with Lady's butt towards Slick's noise..when Lady had to pee! All of a sudden I got a whiff of "mare pee" that burned my nostrils. I 'm sure I said something delicate like sheeze Lady that stinks! The Bossman laughed and said that Slick thinks so too.

Once a STALLION...always a STALLION!!!

Pacific Crest Trail Shadow!Guess you can figure this out on your own!

Amazing!Yup..."BIGFUCKINGPINECONE!" ( 25 cents in the cuss jar!)

Now we come to a fun part. I told The Bossman before the ride that when Bronco went over the spot on the trail that was so scary many experienced riders dismounted and walked their horse over I was going to yell "Yippee... way to "cowgirlthefuckup!" And then tell her why I said that. Here she goes...she had no idea that this was coming up and did it just like a pro!

Sure...I took these pictures as Lady and I went over it. There's not much you can do here with 2 hands that you can't do with one if you're on a good horse! Hay, if you think this was scary...you should do it going back the other way. Now that is "FUCKINGSCARY!" (25 cents in the cuss jar!") I have only done it once but I have to say I am not sure that I would do it again. The Desert Rose may dismount next time!!! I told Bronco that she had just done the hardest part of the trail and that the rest was going to be a piece of cake! I really did tell her that...I can't believe how huge of a lie that turned out to be!

Heading down to our lunch stop!

There are 2 large beautiful Oak systems down here...hence it's name Hidden Oak Springs.

Everyone gets a big drink of water before and after lunch!!!

Horses are tied!

Lunch is served 11:30am!

After the horses lunch of apples, carrots, frosted shredded wheat, cookies, and oat treats Slick sees us coming with his favorite after dinner drink!

Ya...The Bossman always packs Coors Lite for Slick!

Time to pack up and mount up for our 5 mile ride down to the Palm Canyon trail that will take us into the Indian Canyons where Bigfoot left the horse trailer for us!Little Lady is in the lead and keeping an eye out for wild cattle that we sometimes come across in these parts!

We see some of this here and there!

Either Lady or I moved...but I really like this picture anyway!

UH OH!!! No way around it either!!!

This is all we see all around us!!!

No worries...The Bossman will cut us a path through this jungle!

However...the path through is so low that we all have to dismount and walk the horses through keeping their heads down low!

As we come out the other side this is our view. A small grassy valley with these rocky mountains all around it!

And here I must leave you in suspense...there is no way I can tell this story any other way! It is about 1:pm. We will remount in the next post...!
Your Desert Rose!

Let the Ride Begin!

2011-01-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

Length:12 miles /Lunch stop

Continuing 5 miles to the Indian Palm Canyon...finishing the last 4 miles on the Indian Potrero to the Indian Canyon staging area.

Total Length: 21 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,ooo ft.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Estimated ride time: 7 hours

Mounted Departure Time: 9:30 am

Gear: Each rider to carry saddle and pommel bags.

Brown Saddle Bags to carry water, food emergency gear and easy boot.
Red Bags carry emergency gear, red collapsible water bowl to water horses.

Brown canvas double pommel bags carries trail snacks, TP, and other easy to reach items. Brown leather bag carries 2 beverages for easy access.
This group rides prepared!!!
Your Desert Rose

One Year Anniverasy of The "UNSCEDULED OVERNIGHT ON THE PCT!!!"

2011-01-08T17:47:00.000-08:00

There have been several things happen in the last week to help remind me of our "UNSCHEDULED OVERNIGHT ON THE PCT". The first is, that both the MGR and OWNER of my desert stables mentioned that our "anniversary was coming up next week and were we planning another overnight??? That was weird...who sent THEM the memo...and then "MY BABY DOLL" arrived to the desert!!!
Last year BABY DOLL and her hubby (ok...he's the real COUSIN) only spent a few weeks in our desert before heading to UMA! ( I know...hee hee) There in YUMA Baby Doll found a wonderful trainer whose name was the came as her daughter's...JAMIE! I am pretty sure that this has something to do with some regret that Baby Doll has in selecting our desert for her 'SNOWBIRD" stay this year! But then who else but I...THE DESERT ROSE would give her such memories...I mean the ones of a lifetime...the ones even your grandchildren will want to listen to over and over again???
Our partner in CRIME...THE BOSSMAN... for sure let Baby Doll steal his heart on our adventure!!!

So to you my AMIGOS...Happy Anniversary!

In honor of our anniversary...I will be re-posting the 6 segments (over the next week) it took for me to write about our "UNSCHEDULED OVERNIGHT STAY ON THE MOUNTAIN"!!! Happy & Safe Trails!

Your Desert Rose!

Little Queen Elizabeth Rose!

2011-01-01T15:58:00.000-08:00

I guess that I was able to convince COWBOY SANTA that all those naughty rumors about me were NOT true because...look what he brought me for Christmas!!!

The desert house has become a puppy nursery!

Already her favorite toy!

I had to buy more toys because I was becoming tired of moving them from room to room. Now I only take the 4 she seems to like the best!

"Lizzy" already loves to pose for the camera!

And she really loves her kitten...Lucy Lu!

Shall I bite this kitten tail??? Watch out Lizzy Rose...Lucy also bites your tail! What comes around goes around.

Lizzy's cousin "The Grand Rose" helped her put on her lipstick for this photo.

Can't you just her thinking..."I'm ready for my close-up Mr. De Mill"!

Your Desert Rose!

PS I am beginning to think COWBOY SANTA equates puppy poo with coal

Oh Santa Baby!

2010-12-26T03:00:00.000-08:00

You know...I always love seeing a well dressed cowboy cleaned up after a long hard day on the trail. So imagine my surprise to run into this guy at NFR COWBOY CHRISTMAS!

I would have thought that he was to busy to travel before Christmas...let alone be gone for 10 days to the NFR held in Las Vegas. However...Cowboy Santa surely must know,

"What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas"

Even with that in mind...I knew that I just needed to reassure Cowboy Santa a teeny weeny bit... that I was a good Cowgirl the rest of the year!

Think I over did it??? Oh Santa Baby!!!
Your Desert Rose!

COWGIRL HUMOR!

2010-12-21T17:25:00.000-08:00

Guess this Cowboy...should not have pissed me off!
Your Desert Rose!

Cavalia!

2010-12-15T17:15:00.000-08:00

My Loving Husband saw an ad in the N.Y. Times this past summer for one of my favorite shows in the world to see...CAVALIA!!! Unfortunately our schedule was so jammed packed it did NOT look like we would be able squeeze in a trip to N.Y. However...where there is a will, there is a way and my Loving Husband got our airline tickets, our hotel room, the CAVALIA tickets and tickets for 2 other Broadway shows just so I could see CAVALIA again...yes it was our 3rd time to see it!!!

I wish there was a way for you to see the show because I can not describe it well enough to do it justice. The most amazing thing about the show is the connection between the horses and the trainers. They are truly partners in their performance. Since I could not take pictures during the performance I will share some of the life size posters inside the reception hall.

All I can say is...if CAVALIA ever comes with in a 3 hours drive of your hometown...GO!!!
Your Desert Rose!

MY HAPPY PLACE!

2010-12-12T03:23:00.000-08:00

Our PNW house features an art gallery. Oh... but not just any art gallery, these beautiful creations have all been made by my grandchildren.I had them professionally framed and now they hang in the hallway leading from our kitchen to the bedroom hallway. I must make 50 trips a day past them and I really look at them every time I pass by! They make me happy...I have 2 new creations to add...Toby & Jed have recently gifted me with 2 of their new works of art!!!
Your Desert Rose!

Cowboy Shopping!

2010-12-07T07:50:00.000-08:00

The National Finals Rodeo was again...perfect! The shopping has always been the real reason for my trip...let's face it, I could watch the NFR on ESPN. This year however I was pleasantly surprised to find that a new shopping experience was available for those Cowgirls needing an upgrade from their current model. The cleaver merchandising of this product showcases all of the products best features and allows views from all possible angles.

The product was willing to position himself for a closer inspection for any flaws!

And the product was even willing to demonstrate some of his more popular features!

You'll just have to guess what that feature was!

I do have one complaint about the merchandising technique...it does not allow for a "HANDS ON" inspection. This is one product that I recommend a "HANDS ON" experience before taking the product home as your new upgrade!

I am totally satisfied with my current model and have no plans to upgrade...but it never hurts to window shop!

Your Desert Rose!

The Pain in the Ass Rain!

2010-11-23T23:45:00.000-08:00

My last ride before heading to the PNW for the Thanksgiving holiday was...at the very least, unexpected! Hello...the reason I became a "snowbird" was to...get away from the snow and RAIN! However there were 2 very good things about the ride...ok 4.

1. It was the 1st ride that I have had with the "GHOST RIDER" in a few years...boy did we get into trouble in the past...maybe that is why she stopped riding with me??? NO...medical reasons, not me & the trouble!

2. Cowgirl was with us...The Ghost Rider is her mom and I have sure missed her beautiful, smiling, yellow lab face!

3. The Ghost Rider has a new horse...a Peruvian Paso Fino and he and Lady were absolutely perfect on this very windy & wet ride!

Little Shanna Lady Rose is wet and shivering before our ride. Her eyes seem to be saying...MOM, did you forget that you melt in the rain??? Or was it MOM did you forget that I may melt down in the rain???

And just look at that saddle!!! Do you think I am gonna put my dainty little ass in that wet thing???

Well...yup I did and we rode the Fern Canyon/Vandeventer/Palm Cayon trail, over 3 hours of drizzle and on every corner heading Northwest the wind just about blew us off our horses!!! We voted it the 3rd windiest ride we had had together!!!

I have yet to mention the 4th reason the ride was so good...

Yup...we almost won the pot of gold lottery!

When we finally got back to the trailer our little butts were colder than a witches tit...it felt like we had peed in our pants! We wisely decided to eat our lunch back at the stable in the comfort of my dry tack room.

Your Desert Rose!

Rock Peeing...Do Not Try This At Home!

2010-11-19T11:10:00.000-08:00

WARNING: Graphic Images Ahead!

As terrific as trail riding is and that I love it so much...there is one aspect that I really hate! PEEINGONTHEFUCKINGTRAIL!!! (25 cents in the cuss jar) Most trail heads have restrooms or at least honeybuckets for a pee before mounting up. Then there's always the horse trailer in the case where no other option is available before hitting the trail. However sometime before the 2 hour in the saddle mark...I need to stop. I do ride a few trails in the desert and PNW that do have a honeybucket at select spots on the trail...however the majority of the trails I ride have "nofuckingpowderrooms"!( 25 cents in the cuss jar) That leaves only one option...in the PNW, you hand your horse over to a riding buddy to hold while you pick a big tree for cover because you already know that if you take him with you as you are squatted down...he will nudge you until you fall over to the ground with your pants down around your ankles. Been there done that...no thanks! However in the desert...99% of the time...there are no trees...and you search for a large bush or rock to hide your bare bottom.

All this being said...there is a trick I will share with you about dodging the inevitable river of pee that will chase you no matter how carefully you have tried to place your feet. This is not a worry for my boots but there is one rule I try never to break. NO PEEING ON THE CHINKS!!! When squatted down the fringe drags the ground and is impossible to contain both sides of fringe while in this humiliating position. A friend shared the trick of finding a rock or log to sit on. Doing this will help control any river of pee and splatter that comes with peeingonthefuckingtrail ( 25cents in the cuss jar)

I am sure you have all heard the expression "Does A Bear or Cowgirl Shit in the Woods?"

To be continued in the near future after one too many shots of COWGIRL COURAGE!!!

Your Desert Rose!

LUCY LU!

2010-11-13T18:38:00.000-08:00

No longer do we have an empty nest... 3 yr. old Lucy Lu has captured our hearts amazingly quick! Adopted from our desert area animal shelter less than 2 weeks ago...Lucy has settled into the household routine including our crazy sleep issues like a trooper.

Look at the gorgeous gold of her feet and belly.

The perfect stripes on her body and head! I think she may have a touch of exotic blood line going on... her nose is almost cougar like.

She tries to herd us to the bed...but wants us BOTH to be there! She has begun to sleep in my arms some of the night now...she has the softest coat I have ever felt and purrs as I stroke her. Miss Lucy Lu is a real sweetheart and we are so lucky to have found her!

Your Desert Rose!

MY HAPPY PLACE!

2010-10-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

There are certain items in my house that take me to "MY HAPPY PLACE" evrytime I see them. So I have decided to make a weekly post showing a picture of a item...or group of items called "MY HAPPY PLACE". Over the years I have collected many items that are really special to me for a number of different reasons. Do you have your "HAPPY PLACE" items around you too???

Your Desert Rose!

Beauty...and the BEAUTY!!!

2010-10-14T23:48:00.000-07:00

I just gotta say...I think Mason is the real beauty here, don't you???

Your Desert Rose!

Fly Me to the Moon!!!

2010-09-28T00:30:00.000-07:00

Just how many airline miles do you think it would take to earn a free ticket to the moon??? Oh but wait...what about an upgrade to first class, after all the moon would be a long trip and you would certainly want to be comfy. Well since I am a wuss when it comes to taking trips...my husband really has to work on me to agree to taking one and he knows to sweeten the deal with an upgrade to first class! Because we go back and forth to the desert/PNW alot and we put absolutely EVERTHING on a credit card to earn miles we were able to nab to 1st class seats on Alaska Airline's partner...British Air! We have flown with Britsh Air before and have had nothing but great flights with them so even though the trip would be long...at least I knew I would be comfy.
Usually my Loving Husband and I fly side by side...but this trip my seat was behind his. He was told that the side seats had more room...and they did have more room for my stuff although I think the seating area was the same size. Here I am stetched out in my seat that will eventully be my bed for the night!

Shortly after we boarded the plane and were seated...our steward bought us each one of these cute little dopp kits!

With oh so many fun little jars of potions all designed to make your flight comfy!

Inside we found...an eye mask, ear plugs, snuggly socks, tooth paste/brush, mouthwash, lip balm, eye gel, hand/body lotion, and radiant face cream!

Then once we were in flight...the steward came to ask me what size sleepwear I would feel most comfy in??? Someone has trained this guy not to just bring you the extra large!

After dinner the steward suggested I slip into something more comfy while he made up my bed for me! Well...I don't get that offer too often, so off I went to the lavi to change. When I returned this is what I found he had done for me...

There was a mattress pad beaneath a down comforter sleeping bag!!! Of corse there was a down pillow to go with it and a beautiful cashmere blanket in case I got a bit chilly!

You can see my own little down travel pillow that I take EVERYWHERE with me...it's in the striped case.

To the right of my bed is my "nightstand" table with purse, bottled water, wine, and espresso. My ear phones are on the comforter and my own little TV/ movie screen is at the far end of the "nightstand"!

All settled in for a good nights sleep...with the stewards promise to wake me up in 6 hours for breakfast! You know...I could get use to having him around! ;)

Your Desert Rose!

Leaving...on a Jet Plane!

2010-09-23T10:43:00.000-07:00

Everytime I see a 747...I just can't believe it will be able to lift off and get off the ground!!!It is just "waytoofuckingbig" ( 25 cents in the cuss jar!) to do that...and I have to have some Cowgirl Courage before take off.

This big bird will be wisking my Loving Husband and I off on a trip we have planned...then postponed...then replanned for 2 years! It does now coincide with our 20th anniversary year which is really lovely to have a special event to celebrate this milestone.

More later about where our trip is taking us...

Your Desert Rose!

(By the way...sorry if you too are now singing, "I'm leaving, on a jet plane... don't know when I'll be back again... leaving...)

Stars & Stripes...PONY COUSIN STYLE!

2010-09-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

We pledge the allegiance...to the bra
from the Victoria Secret catalogue
2 boobs...under wire
with cleavage and support for all.

YES...one Pony cousin "misplaced" a certain striped garment at our recent PONY COUSIN STAMPEDE. And in spite of her constant interrogation of the younger cousins, her constant wondering, then searching for said garment...it failed to "turn up". That is until it "showed up" Sunday morning, the day of our rodeo! Yes...those younger cousins had kidnapped the favorite bra, and held it hostage before running it up the flag pole to wave ever proud with "Old Glory"!

As if the humiliation of the entire population of ranch guests viewing the garment waving at them in the gentle breeze was not enough...the above "pledge" was recited by all of the PONY COUSINS before the start of our rodeo!

I personally think it was the stripes that gave those younger cousins the idea...

Your Desert Rose!

Like the First Day of School!

2010-08-28T10:24:00.000-07:00

Those of us who have children know what it is like to send your child off to his/her 1st day at school. There is a mixed flow of emotions full of pride... and anxiety which of course, can produce...TEARS, even from a rough, tough cowgirl like myself.

Here is Baby Doll...getting Shayna Lady Rose all groomed up.

Ooppps...she heard the camera click and now wants to POSE...

Lady's butt is sure looking big here...I'm just saying.

Newly initiated PONY COUSIN... grooming up Jesse...with a bit of help from A Cowgirl's Grace!!! (my Sissy)So...as a mother...you all know how I felt, watching my babies leave camp with out me...for the very 1st time. Ok ,Ok not counting the Bossman and Dear Friends rides with them!!!

That's them...the last 2 horses...Lady and Jesse...I am so proud to be the human partner to these 2 magnificent equines!

Your Desert Rose!

The Joke's on YOU!!!

2010-08-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

Most of you know by now that the PONY COUSINS sure to love to have fun whether on or off their ponies! But...did you know that we are considered MASTER PRANKSTERS??? We come by this trait naturally...from our PONY COUSIN side of the family. We grew up watching our aunts & uncles playing pranks and jokes on each other as adults just like they did in their childhood. For the most part...our PONY COUSIN pranks in the past have been fairly mild, short and sweet kinds of things...until last year when the CUZETTES waged war on their mothers & aunts! These young and perky cowgirls got it into their heads to scare the living daylights otta one innocent sleeping cabin...by sneaking into it in the dark and jumping on the beds of the unaware occupants. Since that time...there has been an ever increasing lack of trust between the generations within the PONY COUSINS that seems to have taken on a life of it's own.

Case in point at our recent 2010 PONY COUSIN STAMPEDE...the 6 Cuzsettes in attendance this year decided to play a practical joke on our dear sweet Cousin E who would never even harm a horse fly. They took advantage of her wonderful nature and plastered her true love heart's contents any and everywhere they could in her cabin. I was able to capture this sick act on digital film as proof of this demented prank!!!

This is NOT recommended viewing for the faint of heart!

Oh what wicked Cowchildren we have raised!

Your Desert Rose!

Blessings!

2010-08-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful PONY COUSIN STAMPEDE we had. I am sure we will all be posting soon about our recent family gathering where we were blessed to initiate a new PONY COUSIN!!!There will be more on our new cowgirl soon but for now I am thankful for all the blessings in my life...loving family and friends whom I cherish!

As for these 2 beauties...I could not ask for any better companions out on the trail than Jesse and Shayna Lady Rose! ( yes...she earned her Rose name this trip)

Your Desert Rose!

Go Ahead...Make My Day!!!

2010-07-31T11:59:00.000-07:00

You see this...all you equicuz's that are trying to steal my PONY COUSIN STAMPEDE CROWN??? I am not yet ready to give up my tiera...and will fight to the end! I will run the barrels, and breeze by the poles. I will roll back the keyhole so fast I may lose the Desert Rose...

I am planning on being the "Cranky Horse" of the day...in heat...ready to defend my Crown!

This is my CRANKY FACE!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Unexcused Absence!

2010-07-13T01:00:00.000-07:00

I know that I am not the only one out there right now that has unintentionally been absent from the blog world. In the past few months I have only posted a few times. One of the biggest reasons is our semi annul migration back to the PNW for the summer. It is quite a chore packing up our whole family... since we all have to pack up every black purse, black pair of shoes, black shawl, black pants and black top we own...oh ya and our black saddle pads!!!

It has also been a time of grief for us. Still reeling from the loss of my Loving Husbands brother last Thanksgiving...this spring we lost our 2 kittens ( cats) with in 5 weeks of each other! I just have not had the heart to write a single word...even in memory of our wonderful feline companions of almost 20 years! Now I am feeling stronger both physically and emotionally and have a few posts in the works! It has been a busy return from the desert for us with not only our 19, 17 & 15 yr teenage grandchildren here in town ( wish we could see them more...but they now have their own lives) we have our 4, 3, 1 & 1/2, and one yr old grandchildren here in town! We have had our East Coast granddaughters here for 4 days ...without the mommy & daddy and we loved it...but let's be honest...the PAPA is not the caregiver...the ZSA ZSA is!!!

So now I have caught you up a bit...have lots of posts pictures to share with you and hope to get back in the saddle with you all again...

Thanks for hanging in there with me!

Your Desert Rose!

PS...Just could not resist posting one picture that has nothing to do with anything I have just written!

Overlook into a canyon on the South Ridge Trail ( intersecting the PCT) June, 2009

OUT OF MY LEAGUE!

2010-06-17T01:11:00.000-07:00

I am soooo outta my leagues with most of you that are great photographers...or have the skills to tweak your photos! I have... neither skill and am not ashamed to admit it. However...every now and then...I get lucky!

So then...here are what I consider to be my 3 best landscape photos...plz be gentle and kind...I cry easily when not on horseback!!!

This was last fall...right next to where Miss Mackena and I posed for our "in the ocean" photo opp!

Joshua National Park...1st ride on Jesse after his summer down south!!! ( Remember...I pee'd my saddle on this ride!)My favorite TREE oat our house Fall 09! OK...I was sneaking a cigarette when I noticed the vibrant red in the tree...just like my hair!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Desperate Cowgirl!!!

2010-06-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

I bet at one time or another we all wish that we could control what comes out of our man's mouth...but it looks like Baby Doll has found a solution! Was she that desperate that she put a sting on her man's back??? Great idea Baby Doll!!!
Your Desert Rose!

A 3 RING CIRCUS!!!

2010-06-05T12:10:00.000-07:00

Today...after stopping at 2 feed stores over an hour from my house...in the PNW rain...I backtracked to the stables to drop off "Lunch bags...(although given at dinner)! As I arrive, the owner is bringing in the horses...I saw Jesse out in pasture as I drove in and I asked to bring him in and then Shayna Lady when it was her turn. Jesse was being a jerk...walking through his lead, head up high, neck looking like a stallions...a REAL jerk! I made him back up several times and slapped him with his lead rope. He settled down just enough to not get scolded and I took him to his stall where his food was waiting. I sat down on the aisle floor making "lunch bags" for the week and Jesse was calling and calling. It was a chilling sound...echoing through the barn and since I was just beneath him...extremely loud in my ears!!! I... of course thought he just wanted to be with me...and almost took him out to go be in the arena with me to play. Then the stables owner told me it was Shayna Lady's turn to come in. I pulled on the hood to my sweat shirt cause the drizzle was now RAIN to go out to get her. My Shayna Lady...was also being a BRAT...walking ahead of me...turning sideways, she got in trouble too...but not as bad as Jesse! As we near the barn I can hear Jesse...still calling! Shayna Lady saw her stall door...but did not argue when I asked her to walk over to Jesse's stall. There they stood...touching noses, nickering softly through Jesse's stall bars. After a bit...I turned Shayna Lady around and put her in her stall...and did not hear one more peep from Jesse!!!
Now...Jesse has watched over Shayna Lady since she was just a little filly ponying her in the desert as she grew up. I can just see him now...thinking he is her "knight in shinning armor"...her protector...calling for her if she is outta his sight, tied on the other side of the trailer...calling for her if she leaves his side on the trail....calling for her if she is unsaddled and put away first. This will NOT be acceptable behavior...!
And...in a few weeks...we are going to my Sissy's for some rides with our equicuz's Dusty and THE KING...who as many of you know...has a HUGE crush on Shayna Lady. So how will this scenario play out??? Will Jesse be happy to see his good friend and (now equicuz )THE KING??? Will THE KING ignore Jesse and only have eyes for Shayna Lady??? Will Jesse try to keep THE KING away from Shayna Lady??? Will THE KING get upset because JESSE is in front of him??? In the past IF Jesse even tried to get in front of THE KING...he would walk sideways to make sure he blocked Jesse from getting in front of him. Will Shayna Lady go into heat when she sees THE KING??? ( she kicked at him once cause he had his nose...you know where... and she got tired of it) Will Jesse and THE KING be vying for Shayna Lady's affections???

Jesse...THE PROTECTOR!

Shayna Lady...The Princess! The King...LOVER BOY!

And the poor Dustbuster...looking on at this possible 3 ring circus!
Your Desert Rose!

SHAYNA LADY!

2010-06-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

It is official...this "Pretty Lady" is now ours!!! My loving husband and I are the proud new parents of the equine formally known as LITTLE LADY. Our adoption process has taken almost 3 years to complete. Little Lady was foaled at our desert stables January 18th, 2004. Her Dam was Little Bit ( who has now gone to horsey heaven) and her Sire is...SLICK"S MACHO MAN (yes that is The Bossman's Slick...our resident stallion and drunk). Obviously...LL looks more like her mother!

I remember 1st seeing LL when she was just one day old with her little HOT PINK halter on. I saw her many times being turned out in the arena to play with her mom who could not keep up with this new baby so full of energy. She was a feisty little thing and would do those little baby rear ups and sideways walks down the aisle to the arena. I left the desert at the end of the season and did not see LL again until she was about 10 months old. I could not get over how she was ALL legs!!! By now her dam was long gone from her side and she looked so small in her stall. At that time...the Bossman and I were not "friends". Sure...we were friendly...but he just thought I was some dumb red head...he still thinks that!
It was not until our former trainer got married and deserted us...that The Bossman became our trainer...and it was another year before we started riding together. However...Jesse and LL became pals because Jesse would PONY LL several times a week when the Bossman would ride him. LL would nip at him and be playful which Jesse did not always care for. But I know that they are very fond of each other...they always greet each other with a soft nicker. By now LL is 3 years old and sent for 3 months to finishing school. There she learns how to do all that arena stuff that she will never need to do out on the trail...but she knows it all! When she came back to the stables from finishing school The Bossman immediately began riding her on many of our rides together! I was so impressed with how good she was. Sure...from time to time there would be a small issue..nothing at all that was not worked through easily. The next year...The Bossman offered LL to me to ride whenever I had a guest in town...cause they would ride Jesse and I would ride LL. I did have more issues with her than the Bossman did...but then...I was not as confident on any horse except Jesse. Cousin Baby Doll was with us one day when we had a smalll rodeo...and she and Jesse wisely choose to give us plenty of room on the trail.
Then because of Jesse's bad feet, the next year when LL was 4...I rode her almost as much as I rode Jesse. When LL was 5...Jesse's feet were a major issue and I decided I needed to leave him in the desert with The Bossman so that the "Shoe Salesman" would be able to continue his great work on Jesse's feet for the summer. That meant...I would be horseless for the summer...and that would just NOT do. In the end...The Bossman offered LL to me for the summer in the PNW.

LL and I learned to trust each other and she stepped up to every challenge I put to her. She lead 95% of our rides...won the Stampede Rodeo Queen Crown for us and we became very attached to each other. LL also seemed to really enjoy her new "outfits"! She loved getting all prettied up for our rides in coordinating colored blankets and halters matching my "outfit" for the day. And she loved all the lunch treats she found in her bucket everyday

This is kinda the funny part. Ever since I have been riding LL...the joke was that someday she would be mine...then I would have to pay the Bossman to ride her for me...well now the joke is on The Bossman...cause LL is ours...and next year...he will have to pay us...to ride her! On a more serious note...Little Lady is a mouthful to spit out sometimes when the "Lemonade" is flowing freely...or if she's naughty...I just call her "LADY...QUIT"! However in Yiddish there is a word that fits her to a T...Shayna...meaning pretty and so LL will now be known as...

Shayna Lady

Your Desert Rose!

HOLD YOUR HORSES!!!

2010-05-30T22:31:00.000-07:00

Your Desert Rose!

A Cowgirl's Kind of Grill!

2010-05-29T00:04:00.000-07:00

So just imagine...going out to dinner and arriving there to find this!!! And this...

And all of this.....

Yes...this is the "outhouse"!

But the best of all...was having dinner with 2 of our favorite people!!!

Cousins Baby Doll and her Hubby!!!Your Desert Rose!

My Favorite Flower is in Season ( NOT HEAT)

2010-05-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

It is always bittersweet to leave the desert and come back to the PNW...besides the grand kids... another sweet thing I enjoy coming home to is PEONIES!!! They are in the top 3 of my favorite flowers...but my #1 flower of choice for vases. They have a relatively short season so I get a new bunch as soon as the ones I have die. This week I had my family over for dinner and decided to really splurge for the table center piece. I usually put it inside of an Asian cashe pot...makes for a fabulous arrangement! Unfortunately...I did not get a picture of them...but here is the finished vase!

Here's both vases...

I took a picture a few days later so you could see how the Peonies have opened...

Because they are in 2 vases...I can spread the beauty around the house!

Your Desert Rose!

YEARLING'S... UPDATE!

2010-05-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since you all have seen a recent picture of my "Filly's"! since I have been back (10 days) in the PNW I have had all 4 of the young grandkids that live in town for an overnight or daytime visit and I got some great new pictures.

The Rosa Jewel is not quite a year and a half...

The Rosette just turned a year old last month...

These little cousins will have such fun growing up together!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Miss Tequila Rose!!!

2010-05-14T06:34:00.000-07:00

You have seen pictures of Miss Tequila Rose before in a post or two...hasn't she grown up? She has become so well trained...she can even ride a horse...with her Dad The Tattooed Cowboy! One day not too long ago Tequila Rose wandered by my tack room. I called out to her and she stopped and peeked inside!What would entice this girl to come and visit me??? Am I so much fun that she wanted to come and play??? Am I so witty that she just wanted to chat with me awhile???

Or...does she know that I am...THE COOKIE LADY!!!

Miss Tequila Rose took her cookies so gently from Auntie Rose (yes, her middle name is for me)... and poof...she was gone!
Your Desert Rose!

What's Wrong with this Picture???

2010-05-09T05:14:00.000-07:00

This photo, courtsy of Mama H was taken on one of our ride's this past season. Can you see the bigfuckingbooboo here??? (25 cents in the cuss jar!)
Your Desert Rose!

Shedding!!!

2010-05-06T09:32:00.000-07:00

The time of the year that we all hate...our horses look like orphans that no one loves. The hair gets all over your clothes, face, and god forbid...in your mouth!!! That is the worst,,,because you can't get it out. You try to get that one piece of hair outta your mouth and you put 5 pieces bask in beacuse it's all over your hands!!!

A few weeks ago I decided to spend some time working on this issue. We keep lightweight nylon sheet on Lady and Jesse during the winter to help keep them clean more than anything, I used to body clip Jesse but stopped doing that 2 years ago. Now both horses do get winter hair but not as much as they would if they did not have the sheets on. However that hair was so ready to come off...bunches of it had rubbed off from the blanket. I tied both horses to the rail and took off their blankets to find this!

Jesse...oh so wooley!

Lady...she is not as wooley!Watch how easy it is to shed them both out in less than an hour using my handy dandy shedding brick!

Jesse's hair lying in the sand.

Lady actually was harder to do because her coat was not as ready to come out and it is much finer strands than Jesse's.

Jesse'was dusty but now he is starting to look smooth and shinny!

Lady is not as dusty and really shinning alot!

I tell you...that little handy dandy sheddeing brick is a GEM!

Your Desert Rose!

Never Look a Gift Horse in The Mouth!!!

2010-04-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Baby Doll is a very talented Cowgirl as you all know. She is a pastry chef and most of you have seen/tasted her wonderful bakery goods. However as if she isn't already more creative in her little toe than I could ever be...she decided to learn a new craft during her season in AZ this year and I am the very lucky recipient of the project she worked on all season!

This was staged so you all could see this wonderful work of art!

As you can see...Baby Doll used a Heineken Box to wrap my gift in...maybe a gift wrapping course would be in line for next season???

At first I thought for sure she had made me a Jackolantern...

But...look at this this gourd...Baby Doll learned to etch..and weave the pine needles at the top...and much more was done that I can't remember. She attached it to a beautiful slab of marble!!!

Baby Doll told me that she had wanted to make me something for my tack room, but there is NOFUCKINGWAY (25 cents in the cuss jar) that I would display it there. This beautiful etched gourd is going in my desert house ad I know the perfect place for it!

Thank you Baby Doll for this wonderful gift...you must love me a lot to spend so much time to make e something so beautiful!!!

Your Desert Rose!

The Desert Bar Boss!

2010-04-27T22:30:00.000-07:00

My desert riding group has a monthly dinner social during the season. This year I was the Chuck Boss which means I make all the arrangements for every event we have that has a bar or food. Making the arrangements is the easy part...I did this for a living for 20 years. It's dealing with...the members that can get a bit tricky at times. Of course it would have helped if I had been given a list of expectations before my term on the board...I hate it when I feel I am not doing the best I can.

Last season when I was considering taking on this responsibility... The Bossman tried to tell me that it probably was not going to be...easy for me but I decided to take my turn on the board and just Cowgirlthefuckup and do it! (25 cents in the cuss jar) During my talks with the Bossman he agreed to be the bartender for the next season. He had done this job for years for the group and had retired from that job 2 years earlier. I also hired the Bossman's son-in law to be my caterer for the season. This was such a wise decision on my part because 5 of the events are done in very unusual places. That means tables, chairs, and ALL the equipment used to caterer and event need to be hauled to the location and set up. The Bossman and his son-in law have taken care of this for me this season and I know that I would not have been able to do this with out their help!

So here's to the Bossman and his family for all they did to help me during my Chuck Boss Term!

Your Desert Rose!

Baby Doll's Last Ride!

2010-04-26T21:44:00.000-07:00

Yup...up to the very tip top of that mountain is where Baby Doll is going!!! Recently Baby Doll stopped by the desert to visit and get in a ride with me on her way back to the PNW. Yes...her "snowbird" season is over and she is now back in the evergreen state! Since we only had one day to ride I wanted to take her on a ride she has not been on before. Since the Bossman was not able to join us, I decided that I would not hook up the trailer but instead take her on a ride from the stables. Baby Doll has ridden all but a few of the trails in my "back yard" I had to rack my brain to remember the trails she had and had not ridden. I think I still have a few to scare ( surprise) her with.

We got a late start because our riding buckaroo's that were going to hook up with us had left me a voicemail saying that they would not be going with us...only I did NOT get that message. to make a long story short...Mama and Cowboy H missed a great ride with us on the CLARA!!!

The CLARA is a ride that few people do from our stables...I believe this trail has gotten a bad reputation from people riding it that had horses that were not trail savvy...or maybe the riders themselves had "fear of heights" issues, but the trail is spectacular and offers a 360 degree view of the valley! I knew Baby Doll was up to the ride because anyone that can swim in a river bareback on a horse can do anything I could throw at her!
Up at the top of the CLARA are tie rails for the horses...

And picnic tables for us!

By the way...the dirt road you see in the background is kinda like SARAH PALIN'S bridge to nowhere...because it goes now where and is a big folly. Someday I will tell you all about it~

Here is another view from the top of the world!

Do you notice all the trail bags and blankets on Jesse's back??? Baby Doll insisted on taking that blanket with her even though I assured her that we would NOT be spending the night!!!

Coming down the backside of the CLARA... Lady loves the view and is ever so careful on the steep, drop off, switchback, scary trail!Jesse and Baby Doll are almost home...Jesse can see the stables from here and is thinking about his dinner!!!

I just got say this...Baby Doll you have exceeded my expectations in your riding ability and I am sooooooooooooo looking forward to you being here in the desert with me next season!!!

Your Desert Rose!!!

It's A Jungle Out There!

2010-04-23T22:53:00.000-07:00

Mama H over at the HOMESTEAD tagged me and now I'm it. The rules are to post your ninth photo in your files...(or something like that) only like Mama H...I have so many photo files the rules don't really apply to the way I keep my photos. So...I decided to post the 9th photo in my most recent downloaded photos off my camera!
The "Rosette" and her brothers recently visited us here in the desert and she sure loved Zsa Zsa's tigers!!! Thanks Mama H for tagging me...oh ya, and thanks for the loan of Cowboy H today!!!
Your Desert Rose!

2010-04-19T23:03:00.000-07:00

We hade a pot luck earlier this year at our house. I make the entree and some else makes the salad and some one brings desert. Then we all bring a small appitizer to eat during the coctail hour. One of our friends...a doctor made and brought this to my party, and I was real impressed with his work!

And I gotta say he was quite proud ofit too!!

Your Desert Rose!

So You Have a Gelding???

2010-04-15T00:30:00.000-07:00

I think that there is a mix of you out there...about half of you have geldings and the other half, mares. I just learned this year that mares can get a waxy build up around their nipples and they need to be checked from time to time to see that they are not waxed and inflamed. Lady is pretty good about grooming her teats...when she rolls in the arena...just before she gets up she uses her teeth around that area to groom. She probably does that because IF she didn't The Bossman would use the water hose and spray her teats. She must think if that's the Bossman's before play...she don't want no part of it!!!
Now...the other half with Geldings/Stallions there is another rather private area that needs to be checked and attended to from time to time. SHEATH CLEANING!!! Now most us us Cowgirls just add it to the vets list at the same time as the dental appointment ( Jesse for sure needs to have meds for this or he will COW KICK YOU!!!) He always has a bean of wax (or 2) and has a very nasty sheath even though it's done 2x a year. The vet said it can't be done more often than that or it actually gets worse. There is no nastier job that a Cowgirl would choose to do!!!

So imagine my surprise at a PONY COUSIN gathering when I glanced over to see this!I just had to ask my PONY COUSIN what she was doing???My PONY COUSIN just smiled sweetly!!!

Your Desert Rose!

The Rosa Jewel!

2010-04-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Isn't she just the cutest baby???

This is a picture from last fall but I want you all to see how serious the Rosa Jewel is about her name sake.

Oh ya...she wanted to show you her shoes...ring a bell with anyone???

Your Desert Rose!

Cowgirl Showplace!

2010-04-09T23:15:00.000-07:00

It's finished! Well...almost finished. But enough is done that I decided to go ahead and share it with you now.
Here is my saddle rack, kids saddles on top, my saddle in the middle and Baby Doll's saddle on the bottom. Ok...it's not really Baby Doll's saddle...but it's the one she uses when she rides Jesse. It is the "guest saddle". Notice my Pendleton blankets over a pad beneath each saddle. The Red & black hanging tack caddy holds my riding gloves, bit wipes and odds and ends that need a small space to store. My grooming kit is on the floor by the window and the bath kit is behind it. Beneath the saddles is a rolling bag that stores extra saddle bags, cantle bags, horn bags, and extra cinches ect. There are extra halters hanging in the bridle bag.
In the center are my pomel bags and hanging over them are my COWGIRL KARMA HIPSTER belts that I always ride with!!!
And of course...my brand new saddle pad rack!!! There are several saddle pads on the rack and over the top are my saddle bags. I have several different sizes depending on the length of the ride and of course difficulty of the ride. If there is not water on the trail...I always carry water for the horses with their little red water bowl. ALWAYS...an easy boot, and first aid kit for any ride over 2 hours long. If I take lunch for me...I always pack one for the horses. It is so funny...any horse that rides with me knows that auntie will feed them their lunch... when we are done with ours! By the way... the "show piece" saddle blanket...red and black Pendleton saddle blanket was a Xmas gift from the Bossman this year! I don't want to use it and ruin it. I love how it looks hanging there!!!
I was standing in the doorway taking a picture of the center of the tack room but the sun was so bright all you see is my shadow!This was the picture I was trying to take. My visors and everyday riding hats hanging on the horseshoe hook. In the middle is my Zsa Zsa brag board with feed/snack bins beneath and then the "special halters and bridles" are hanging over another storage bag for riding things. This one has TP (Charmin) panty liners...all sizes, sell phone holders with clips for my guests, extra sun screen and other personal items! Notice my new sign over the "special halters and bridles" rack??? I had this made at the Palm Springs Rodeo! Notice...that "Lady" has a place on the sign???
Here's the fridge...we keep lots of carrots, apples, raisins, cheese "lemonade" champagne, water and COORS LIGHT! Freezer has frozen water, lemonade and chilled glass's for Mimosa's! The red bin holds all kinds of trail snacks...a very popular feature of my tack room. My window is open for a nice breeze...the cupboards and cabinets hold all sorts of stuff...one personal...3 for lunch/food items and the big cupboards have extra fly spray/shampoo ect stored in them. Oh yes...the left hand drawer is a catch all!!!
Everyday halters and bridles hang right at the door!

Hanging above the door is my Xmas gift from Mama and Cowboy H 3 years ago!!! And the one new splurge...my new brindle cowhide!!! I thought for sure the Bossman would hate it...but he and his grandson...noticed it and approved while sneaking in for a "grandchild snack"...see, I told you the red bucket was popular!!!

I do have some plans for either an easy chair in the corner or if they are still available two matching chairs from a second hand store...we move the chairs from the outside inside quite a bit because it gets cold once the sun goes down.
For those of you who haven't seen my tack room before...here are some pictures of the outside. The trail bags are sitting outside getting ready to go for a long ride! Side of the building has a tie rail just out of the picture!
And of course...my WELCOME sign to all Cowboys!

Your Desert Rose!

Cowgirl Decorating!

2010-04-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

I think you have all seen pictures of my tack room here in the desert. I have one of the 3 (coveted) cedar buildings with it's own porch. I even have a sink on the porch witch really does come in handy. No hot water, but it works great for filling the horses water bottles and rinsing out things. I used to share my tack with "The Ghost Rider" but she has moved to another stable and does not at this time have plans to come back here. The big joke around the stables is...who did you have to sleep with to get that tack room??? Now, it's no secret that the owner of the stables thinks I am a bit long in the tooth for him...

Private tack rooms are only assigned to year round boarders and The Ghost Rider and I had agreed to pay board full time to be able to get a private tack room. Oh the horror stories I could tell you of sharing a tack room!!! Anyway after The Ghost Rider left the stables...I was worried who they would put in the tack room with me because the tack room is meant to be shared. But because Little Lady will be mine when I come back next year and I will be paying board for 2 horses I hope I do not have to share my tack room. Quite frankly...it is hard to be sharing it...you always seem to get in each other's way!

I have been waiting oh so patiently for the Bossman to have a day off so that he could help me do the work. I said I would get one of the wranglers to help but he poo pooed that idea...he said they do a lousy job. I think he really wanted to add his opinion to where everything should go if you ask me!!!

One wall had 2 rows of 3 saddle racks side by side. I do not need that many saddle racks but I do need a saddle pad rack...so we took down the saddle racks and discussed for an hour how and where the saddle pad rack would go!

When I arrived the Bossman had already taken out all of my tack that would be in his way and put it in the back of his truck!

My pop up barrel's and poles will go back in the trailer now for storage as I am done with them for the season.

Tack that is going back into the tack room after the remodel is all over the porch!

The counter is full of nails, screws and whatchamacllits!

This is where the 2nd row of saddle racks was! The Bossman is moving hooks that will be in the way!

And yes...even though it was not a ride...the Bossman tended bar!!!

I will be posting pictures of the newly remodeled tack room soon!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Cowboy Blowout!!!

2010-04-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

I think that we all believe, that if we Cowgirls had a flat tire along the side of the road a Cowboy would surely come along and change the tire for us! Ok...so maybe it's a fantasy!

But I have to ask you what does a Cowgirl do when a Cowboy has a blow out??? Pretend you don't see it and try hard not to stare at his crotch??? Offer to patch the blow out??? Get him back on his horse QUICKLY???

Or do you do what the Desert Rose did...ask to take a picture for my blog!!!

Your Desert Rose!

1200 POUNDS OF LOVE... COMING RIGHT AT YA!!!

2010-04-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

I think that most of you lunge your horses...I wish I could because I know that it is so useful in gaining respect from your equine. I remember my niece PONY GIRL doing her PONY COUSIN equine dance with "her boy" on a lunge line playing the Parelli games with him...it was very entertaining and so cute to see them play together.

However...most of you know that I am plagued by SEAHORSE SICKNESS and am unable to lunge my horses. So that means free play in the arena if I need to get them moving. Some people don't like to be in the arena with their horse free...it can be a bit un-nerving and with some horses... dangerous. You really have to know your horse to be out there with them when they are bucking, farting , and kicking, they are NOT focused on you. I have had Jesse since he was a 2 1/2 year old baby and had just come out of his 3 months training. Jesse was an "old soul" from day one. He had never had a person to be his, and had been...neglected both physically and emotionally. So it did not take him long to realize that he wanted ME to be his person and did everything he could to make sure that happened. I always turned him out before a ride when he was a baby...I wanted those bucks, farts and kicks outta the way before we hit the trail. And back then...I was NOT the Desert Rose you read about here. I also was a physical and emotional wreck. It is too long of a story to go into here...but someday I will post about it.

So I have played in the arena with Jesse for years now and a few other horses that I know and trust. One being Cowgirljlynn's Missouri Fox Trotter...The King! Then there is Little Lady...who is one that I am careful with at free play. If I am in her way as she is playing I know I had better be the one to move because she may just knock me over. Where as with Jesse...I know he will go around me...even at the last possible moment sometimes. He loves to run by me fast with his head turned sideways as if to say "nah nah na na nah you can't catch me"! He will run circles around me making the circles smaller and smaller and smaller until after about 10 circles around me...when he stops running, I can reach out and pet him!The King does the same thing and as they go by me I call them a smarty pants which I KNOW they understand!

Since I have had bronchitis now for over 2 weeks and the Bossman was gone for a week the horses have not had much out of stall time. Yesterday was quite windy here in the desert (I was not up to riding anyway)..and the Bossman got blown outta his 1st ride and did not get to Jesse and Lady...I decided to turn them both out.

Jesse was first...The wind stirs them up, so out of 60 pictures here are some of the best!

Ya... mom was right...I did NEED to run!

Just before this picture...Jesse did a perfect flying lead change!Big butt Q-horse sliding stop!

Look at how muscled up Jesse is...even after 2 months off!

I call Jesse and he knows it's time to get out now and comes to me!Then Lady's turn...she HATES wind and got very upset if I left the arena and she was all by herself. I am more cautious with her but I think by the time I come back to the desert next season that she and I will have established the rules and we will play more "safely" together! The best of Lady's pictures follow! She put her head down into the wind! She was also not looking at me cause I was making her move!

If you look at her hooves angle...she can almost see that she is gaited horse.
Wish I could of gotten the whole shot here...she had a GIANT buck/fart here!
I'm all done now MOM!

Your Desert Rose!

COWGIRL PONY EXPRESS!!!

2010-03-31T20:11:00.000-07:00

If you were one of the lucky ones to win a COWGIRL magazine, she is heading your way via THE COWGIRL PONY EXPRESS!!!
Your Desert Rose!

OREO"S!

2010-03-29T23:09:00.001-07:00

Who doesn't love OREO's??? And of course the next question is...how do you eat them?Do you eat the cookie whole...savoring every bite??? Or do you carefully separate the outer chocolate cookies to lick the luscious rich icing center with your tongue??? Then you need to eat the outer cookie shells which are never as good without the frosting.
How do you think this little cowpoke is gonna eat his OREO"S???
Yup...he's a frosting only kind of guy!!!
Your Desert Rose!

There's A New Cowbaby in Town!!!

2010-03-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

Yup...Baby Mason is here with us for a week while his Mom, Dad, and sisters are skiing in Aspen! I flew to Denver Saturday to pick him up...and fly back to Denver with him this Friday to deliver him to his family! Unfortunately...I have the "CRUD" and have been sick now for a week!!! Feeling better today though...hope the baby doesn't get it!!!

Your Desert Rose!

She's Here!

2010-03-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

She's here...She arrived in a box with 15 of her friends!!! I will send her on her way to you very soon...however I am missing addresses on the following Cowgirls!

1.Jocelyn

2.Wilson C

3.Cousin Baby Doll ( Where to send now)

4.Gracie's Mom ( I would send it to your mom...but you may never get it back)

5.Heart of a Cowgirl

6.Blackfeather Farm

7. Regina Zdravich

I have the other 9 address....thanks to those who sent them to me!

Look for her in your mailbox soon!!!

Your Desert Rose!

Baby Doll's Birthday Ride!

2010-03-06T06:16:00.000-08:00

The Bossman and I had a plan...well sort of had a plan. He was not sure if he was going to have to work or not so there was plan A...the ride I would take Baby Doll on by myself...hoping he could join us for a birthday drink back at my tack room and there was plan B...the ride we would take with Baby Doll if he could go with us! The only trick to making this plan work was...he would not know until the day before if he was working or not!
Now for the last couple of weeks Baby Doll had been asking me all sorts of question about her BD ride, where were we going, who was she riding, how long of ride was it going to be, all these questions to try and find out our plan. She even confessed to me that she had been sneaking around other blogs and facebook trying to find any info on her BD ride that she could. However she was not able to find out ANYTHING! Then in desperation...she started suggesting which trail we should ride... and indicated she wanted to ride Little Lady!!!

Finally Baby Doll arrived to the desert and we talked about her "outfit" for the ride because the Bossman would need to know how to dress "her" horse for the ride. She settled on my turquoise Pendleton blanket and I told her I would let the Bossman know her choice!

Only...I forgot to let him know! So when I arrived at the stables the morning of the ride...Little Lady was there waiting for me!She always nickers and talk to me when I arrive and it is soooo cute! However...I immediately noticed a faux pas in her outfit!!! Horseshit...she was wearing the wrong color pad! I scolded her (gently) for not making it clear to the Bossman when he was dressing her... what color Pendleton blanket she was suppose to wear. You see... when I don't tell the Bossman ahead of time which color blanket I want...he just takes the one on top! I used the turquoise last time I rode so it was on top! There was no way I was gonna ask him to change the blankets...even for Baby Doll!

So I go to the tack room and then see Slick standing there waiting to and see that he is wearing the black Pendleton blanket...which I thought was very handsome on him and very cute ...because I figured the Bossman was going have us all in matching Pendleton blankets today and figured he must have put the coral or beige Pendleton blanket on Baby Dolls horse which was going to be a rental horse, probably Banjo or one of the other horses he knew Baby Doll has ridden before.Now the last time I rode with the Bossman I got into trouble for not letting him know I was there...he was back at his tack room ( yes...they hide him in the back) and I was at my tack room which is up front for everyone to see and I had lost me cell phone and could not call him! Now that I have my new phone I called to say...I'm here!

I causally mention the "blanket issue" sorta like a joke... and the Bossman defends himself as I knew he would... by saying...well didn't you look at the saddle??? And I said...noooooooo, I was too concerned about the blanket! He said well go look...I do and see this!

Little Lady is wearing...BABY DOLL'S SADDLE!!! ( He MUST like her better!) I figure this means that I am going to have to ride one of the stable horses and it must be a ringer if he was not going to put Baby Doll on it and give her MY HORSE instead! With hidden (hee hee) annoyance in my voice I say...well who am I riding??? Again he says well look at the saddles! Now I am starting to realize that there is only one horse left at the tie rails and I turn and look at the handsome Slick! Now how in the world did I miss seeing MY saddle on Slick??? The stirip fringe alone should have jumped out at me like a RATTLE SNAKE! I could not believe the Bossman was LETTING me ride the famous Slick!!! You see...Slick has a "thing" for me and has been know to try and get some before play going with me by biting me on the calf...you know just a little "let's make lovebite".

I will tell you later who the Bossman will be riding because now it is time for our famous ritual...Mimosa's!!!Just before mount up we had our picture taken together!

Now...I am going leave the rest of this story up to Baby Doll...it is after all her birthday ride and she does have rare footage of the Desert Rose that you won't ever see on this blog...but never say never! All except some photo's of me and Slick...who knows when I will get to ride him again...and he is a FABULOUS ride...thanks Bossman for sharing Slick with me!

A new view for me!

The Bossman is riding his a 3 year old baby of a clients!

Baby Doll at her Birthday Lunch!But where were the horses???

Why at the tie rails behind the restaurant...don't all restaurant's have tie rails??? Well they should!!!

After lunch we loaded up into the trailer that the BIGFOOT had drooped off for us and headed back to the stables...but Baby Doll wanted to ride some more. So we decided to give her another ride of her life!!!

Ya...Baby Doll gets to go down this trail! It is known to be...the steepest (scary), drop off cliffs (scary), narrow switchbacks (scary) oneway (scary) most avoided trail in our canyon! Oh by the way...did I mention that it is SCARY!!! Yes... this is what you get when you tell the Bossman and the Desert Rose the ride was too short! Here are pictures of Baby Doll coming down the trail...by the way, I forgot to tell her this trails HISTORY!

Baby Doll's face...when I tell her the trails history almost at the bottom of it!
At the end of the day...is this one HAPPY BIRTHDAY COWGIRL!!!

I am very proud to bestow this award to my Baby Doll for always following the Desert Rose... even when she would rather not!!!
Here's to you Baby Doll...for following me down the "Scary Shannon Trail"!Hay Baby Doll...you can have the cowboy...BUT THE HORSE IS MINE!!!

Don't we still hang horse thieves????

Your Desert Rose!

Everyone's a Winner!

2010-03-04T20:53:00.000-08:00

It is time to announce the winner of the drawing for the issues of "Cowgirl" Magazine! I really got a hoot out of some of your responses as to why it was that you wanted a copy! It was, after all a drawing but I was ever so surprised to see how far some cowgirls would go to get the cowgirl hat tipped in their favor.

There were a few who tried to play the "family" card...others tried to woo the hat by speaking of bubbles, bubbly and even a hint of a trip to bed with them! Then there was the woe is me...I never get something this wonderful to read...we only have popular mechanics in our area!

There were 16 of you requesting to have their names to be put into my cowgirl hat for the drawing to win the 2nd issue of "Cowgirl"! I was so nervous to put your names in the hat...that I was NOT able to do so! Instead...I decided that all 16 of you will get a copy of Cowgirl! It took a small amount of wrangling...but thanks to Callan at Cowgirl...you all will now get a copy!!! Callan was able to rope 16 copies for me and as soon as I get them....you will!

I do have to say that MamaH has hers already....see this happy face, you too will soon have a happy face! All you have to do is email me your address...and it will be yours!

Your Desert Rose!

Baby Doll Rides Again!

2010-03-01T17:50:00.000-08:00

My Baby Doll is coming to the desert to celebrate her birthday with the Bossman and Desert Rose! We certainly have a great ride planned for her...she tried to hint at what kind of ride...which trail she wanted to ride...but all that went through one ear and out the other! She can not ride one of the same old boring trails she has ridden before...no this special occasion most certainly calls for a new adventure for Baby Doll...don't you think???

Which one of us...the Bossman or the Desert Rose do you think Baby Doll has missed the most???

Your Desrt Rose!

The Grand Rose Rides Again!

2010-02-27T07:53:00.000-08:00

The Grand Rose is 16 now and quite a busy girl. She is an actor and just recently was cast in our NW Children's theater group in the play Pinocchio. Because of her acting she is always in rehearsals and not able to come to the desert very often. However this year during her Christmas break she was able to come down and visit us for 5 days. We had 2 great rides...the last being the "Once in a Blue Moon" ride...however our 1st ride was full of excitement too!

It started out as one of our typical rides in the canyon. The day was beautiful but a bit on the cool side do we wore flannel shirts...and of course decided to dress alike!

You can't really tell from this picture...but even Jesse and Little Lady dressed to match. Lady is wearing a turquoise Pendlton saddle blanket that matches Jesse's! We even had to wear vests that day! The canyon was very busy and what should have been an hour and 1/2 ride took us 2 1/2 hours because of all the hikers! Jesse has always loved to stop and say hello to all the hikers and now Lady does too! One day this last Nov a hiker gave Lady an apple on the trail and she has NEVER forgotten it! She actually will try and get into their pockets and see what they might have in there. Heaven help them if they have any food on them because Lady will be all over them!

Now...you ask me...who took the picture of the 2 of you??? Well...they did!You see...there was a "forced labor" work crew in the canyon that day! These guys were doing a great job of cleaning up all the downed palm tree fromm's and debris that naturally falls onto the trails. They were soooooooooo excited to see Jesse and Little Lady, the all had their picture taken with one of them. One or another was always hugging or kissing the horses, well the brave ones. The more shy ones just dared to pet them.These guys really were the nicest...always smiling, joking. I am sure getting out for the day into the beautiful canyon was reason enough for that. As we left them I thanked them for the great job they were doing and told them that I hoped I would not see them there next year! They all got a kick out of that and some said they would be sure not to be back next year!

I do have to post these classic Jesse and Grand Rose photos!

Your Desert Rose!

There's a New Cowgirl in Town!

2010-02-20T18:29:00.000-08:00

She has ridden into my town and would be more than happy to ride into your town!
She rides with her hat a blow'en in the wind beneath her favorite well worn hat! She has ridden through snow... And over mounatins! She's not afraid to get dusty... and she cleans up real purdy! She has the taste for the finer things in her cowgirl life... and she could be yours!

I know you will appreciate caressing her silky pages, hearing her stories and learning from her wisdom. She will entice you to live in her world of adventure and you will wait for her return to you eagerly on her next journey. This 2nd issue will be gifted to 3 cowgirls who say why they should be the lucky one to find her in their mailbox! Just comment on this post by Feb 28th! Drawing of course will be from my cowgirl hat!!!

If by chance you are not one lucky cowgirl...you can get your own by going to...

http://www.cowgirlmagazine.com/

I have never written to a magazine before but when I finished my first issue I sent an email of thanks to the editor. You can read it here! Your Desert Rose!

She's a Union Horse!

2010-02-18T17:36:00.000-08:00

At my desert stables they have 80 head of horses on the rental string. Each one has his/her distinct personality and the wranglers have to know each and everyone of them. They have a saying there whenever a horse does something to stop working...they say "she a union horse" meaning that they belong to the "working horse union" that provides them with similar ...shall we say "entitlements" that any workers union would. When "Sally" felt she was over due for her 15 minute break...she did what she always does... she lays down on the job!When her 15 minute break is over...the guys have to encourage her to get back up on the job. This time it took 2 of them a few minutes, then she reluctantly agreed to get back on the line! Here's Spanky looking proud of the work he did just getting Sally up. She's sure got those cowboys trained!!!

Your Desert Rose!

First Baby Dolls!

2010-02-17T20:55:00.000-08:00

Do you remember your 1st Baby Doll? The first one that I remember was one of those hard plastic ones...I am sure it was a Christmas present from our parents or grandparents because my sisters got one each too. Because I was ( and still am) 3 years younger than them, they were both very quick to name their new Baby Dolls something that was very cool...like Suzy or Debbie and little me could not think of a name for my new special Baby. I must have been quite distraught and because "I" was the Baby of the family our Papa took me in his arms and tried to comfort me. He asked me what was the matter and I told him. He then said in that special way Grandpa's talk..."Well why don't you name her after me???" Of course that made no sense to me and I said I can't name my Baby Papa"! And my Papa said..." My name is Oren, how about if you call her Orena???" So...my poor Baby Doll lived with the name of Orena all of her time with me. She suffered bad hair cuts...finger nail polish and bites on her cheek, all from me!

Here are some real Baby's with their 1st Baby Doll that Zsa Zsa and Papa gave them for Christmas this year!

The Rosette was not sure what it was ...but liked her anyway! ( 8 months...Rosebud is holding her.)

Miss Rosa Jewel...the big one year old knew right away that this was her new Baby! And even knew to burp her!!!

Do you remember your 1st Baby Doll...and it's name???

Your Desert Rose!