Fallbrook, CA

Yesterday, Diane and I trailered Delgado and Scotch to Fallbrook. We took a new ride with Danny and Jill.

We rode up on the high trail enjoying views of the Santa Margarita River systems. The leaves on the Cottonwood and Oak trees were showing their Fall color. The day was warm, with Santa Ana winds gently blowing.

Jill and Danny took us past Deluce Road to a large pond new to Diane and I. Del went right in and calmly stood. I was so proud of him.

 

Getting ready to hand Del his carrot reward.

Jill and Monty

 After our ride with Jill and Danny, Diane and I went to our favorite place for  rest and Margies. Diane calls this Paradise Pond. It is the Willow Glen Crossing. It was where Del had a breakthrough with crossing water. Bareback pads and bare feet remind me of my youth.

The weather was so warm, Diane and Scotch went wading. 

Scotch stood there for the longest time.

Perhaps he likes looking at his reflection.

Delgado would rather not go in at this point. He did enjoy a roll in the sand.

Another great day.

Imperial Beach, CA

It has been an year since I have posted to this Blog. I have been riding instead of writing. I feel the need to share what has become one of my favorite places to go riding. Of course, it would not be possible without the Brenderup trailer. This photo was taken on the Grapevine, Interstate 5, as I brought it home from Oregon. Finding a used trailer of this brand was difficult. It is light and well-made. I can hitch up in a matter of minutes!

As, I mentioned, riding on the beach is a little bit of heaven.  Delgado was nervous at first. He is still very cautions of getting his feet wet but each time we ride he becomes more confident.

If I lead him, he will walk closer.

Del loves to roll. I took off his tack and let him relax. He loved the sand.

On this day, 11/7/11, Delgado walked in the wet sand beside Diane and Scotch. The light was beautiful.

This photo was taken on an earlier ride in September with friend Nicole, her daughter in red, and Diane at a distance. It doesn't get any better.

Current Banner Photo

Just a quick entry regarding the current banner photo. Belinda Mayberry, photographer extraordinaire, AKA  Pinky's Pics came out to Happy Camp (Holly's Land Stable) for a photo session. She took these three photos when Delgado and I were playing around.

Below are just a few of my favorite photos.  

I chose this one for my Facebook profile.

Glory and Peggy in the round pen.

Delgado and Peggy in the arena.

Glory and Peggy in the arena.

Lake Poway Ride

Last Sunday, Diane and I rode  to Lake Poway. This outing was challenging as we must ride past the Ramona Reservior, and down the steep road on the other side.The view below of the Romona Reservoir, was taken from a different vantage point on a previous ride. If you look closely, you can see the dirt road on the right of the water, leading to the dam at the far end.

 Distant photo of the Romona Reservoir

Diane and Telma on the way down from the Ramona Reservoir.

Telma is a fabulous Paso Fino with incredible horse sense and endurance. I love her and am grateful to her. She provided me with a life-changing experience back into the world of horses.  I leased her from Daniel in 2009.

Apparently, a few years ago, Telma had a bad fall on a paved road and injured her knees. That has led to her being very careful on the down hills. She goes slowly. However, unlike some horses I know, Telma conserves her energy and often shows impressive stamina on long and difficult rides.

Delgado and I heading down the far side of the Ramona Dam.

 We passed a few people walking but for the most part, we had the trails to ourselves. Delgado did really well on this excursion. I was concerned that he would over-extend himself as he sometimes does, by prancing and wearing himself out. I am happy to say he didn't do that this time. The last ride when we climbed up the Romona Dam, Delgado was so exhausted, I dismounted and walked him up this road.

Diane and I enjoyed the fabulous views as we headed down into the valley. You can see the ribbon of dirt road as it leads down to the Live Oak trees below that are part of the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve.  At that point we didn't know what wonderful surprise was ahead of us.

The oak trees provided a shady and most enjoyable route along the now, dry river bed. We rode along discussing how much further we should go. Diane had brought a couple of champagne splits to drink and we wanted to stop to enjoy them. We started up  the trail to Lake Poway. The sign said it was 1.2 miles. We were due back at the stable for a BBQ at 5 p.m. Diane wanted to "go a little way to see what was up there". We proceeded along and what should we find but the Wilderness Picnic Area! It has several picnic tables, permanent restrooms and horse tie-ups.

Diane and I put Telma and Delgado on either side of one of the tables and sat sipping our champagne. Telma nibbled on the little, Live Oak leaves that had fallen on the table top. I was surprised they would be appetizing but she seemed enjoy them. She likes to eat.

Del stood beside me and nuzzled me on occasion. He seemed happy just to stand there and rest. What a find! This picnic area is inaccessible by vehicle, so the only way to get there is either through the ecological reserve or to hike down from Lake Poway.

Added this image from Daley Ranch on a later date for testing.

Riding to Cordiano Winery

Riding to the Cordiano Winery - Primo Amore, by horse back is supreme equine therapy if you manage to get there when they are open and serving. The winery is on Highland Valley Road about a mile and a half from the stable. Of course, riding horses on Highland Valley is out of the question. Even crossing the highway is a concern as cars, trucks and motorcycles drive quite fast.  It is a narrow, winding road. In the past, the riding distance was shorter. It now takes a couple hours each way around John Peck's property.

Starvation Mountain from Eagles Crest Road

My first visit was with Daniel was on a test ride. The plan was to organize a group and return some day soon for wine and pizza. That was several months ago. Fast forward to Diane's arrival at the stable and then the interest grew to make the ride again. Diane is an experienced and enthusiastic connoisseur of wine. She has had much experience wine tasting in the past. Last month, on a Monday, we made the trip only to find the winery was closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. We were disappointed but determined to return soon. A week later we rode again on Delgado and Glory and were successful.

 On the way, we pass by, and look up at Starvation Mountain. It's elevation is 2,103 feet. There are fabulous views in every direction and while some of the ride is slow due to being on asphalt, we take it easy and enjoy the scenery.  On the initial ride with Daniel, we met Steve the geologist. His home is at a distance beyond Diane and Telma in the photo below.

Steve was very kind and told us that we could stop and water our horses at his barn. He has three of his own. One is a gaited mare of South American bloodlines. She is a real beauty.  Steve mentioned to Daniel and I that he was planning to leave the following Wednesday for Catalina with his horses. They were going to spend five days riding and camping on the island. I thought that sounded so fun. I hope to be able to do something like that in the future.

Steve's mare Mocha.

As we ride by Steve's property we enjoy a section of dirt road and then arrive at the top of another crest affording 180 degree views. Below is one photo that looks out towards where the Wild Animal Park is located on San Pasqual Road in Escondido.

Thunderheads at a distance over San Pasqual Valley.

This is a steep little downhill stretch of asphalt that leads us down in to the avocado groves. We ride carefully. Our horses are barefoot and for this type of riding its a good thing. Horses with shoes would be challenged to keep their footing on a road this steep.

Delgado and I follow Diane and Glory through an avocado grove.

Riding through the avocado groves is wonderful, especially on a hot day. The groves are shady and cool. You have to watch the occasional  branches hanging down on the path. When I rode with Daniel, who rides at a fast pace, I was hit on the head by an avocado. That was painful!

Past Glory's ears you can see Highland Vally Road as a horizontal line below the  horizon.

On the day we rode to the winery and found it open for business, we were able to tie up the horses. One of the owners brought Delgado and Glory alfalfa hay and water. The horses drew much attention from the visitors and owners alike. Diane and I sat just above the horses on a balcony overlooking the valley.

Delgado standing patiently.

Glory enjoying her alfalfa hay during our visit.

Diane toasts to our successful arrival.

The often strenuous, two hour ride is happily broken up by our time tasting wine and eating pizza. We met and enjoyed a conversation about horses with a couple at the next table.

Paso Peggy enjoying a glass.

It seems that on that occasion, our pizza was slow to arrive. Of course that meant that we ran out of wine and in the end, drank more than I would have considering I was riding Delgado. However, we had an uneventful ride home and arrived safely back at Holly's Land Stable in good condition.

Ride with Kris

Kris Nugent, my colleague and friend rode with me. After several days of triple digit temperatures, there was a tropical storm that brought us relief and an opportunity to ride. When I arrived at the ranch, Jennifer, our stable manager, discussed possible changes to the pasture that Del will be moved to. When more horses are added to our pastures, a shuffle can take place. If Delgado moves in with different horses how will he fair? Herds are comprised of horse pecking orders. There is the alpha, leader horse, and apparently, the rest of the herd order is dynamic but based upon dominance . The alpha horse is the one that makes all the others move (their feet). When Del and I are together, we are suppose to be a heard of two, and I am the Alpha horse. I am working on that one.

Back to preparation for our ride. Kris helped groom and get Glory saddled up. I showed her how I was training the horses to pick up their feet willingly. Del does it with gusto. I show him the hoof pick (he knows he will get a reward after) and his hoof just comes flying up towards me. When I first show him the hoof pick, he occasionally tries to eat it, until he gets with the program. Its sort of funny how enthusiastic his participation is. I move from his front to hind hooves, around his hind quarters, and then end at his nose again. The reward is usually a piece of carrot. It took about a week for him to get this one. When he wants to be Delgado is truly brilliant.

After we mounted, Kris and I headed for the trail to the grasslands. We must cross Highland Valley Road. Care must be taken not to begin crossing the highway when a fast car or motorcycle is close by. Across a dry river bed and up through avocado groves, the trail climbs quickly  to a plateau of chaparral. Kris handled Glory with confidence and ease.

Kris and Glory on the Romona Grasslands

We stopped up on the hill overlooking the Romona Grasslands. The thunderstorms seemed to skirt our path the entire trip and while we witnessed lightning at a distance, neither of us seemed concerned that it was anything more that a beautiful, natural display for our enjoyment. I suspect that we both find pleasure in the power and beauty of the natural landscape. I have not even mentioned that Kris is an accomplished, Plein Air painter.

From Delgado

The point on the grasslands where we stopped was a favorite of mine, the vernal lake.  I have been there many times and it is always a welcomed sight. The water holds reflections of Live Oak trees, cattle,  clouds and ourselves if we have enough skill to get our horses in the water or at least near the edge. Note: Delgado is not even close to being comfortable at a distance. There is always water in this vernal lake even though its size varies with the season. We stand in the shade, at a distance, and watch the activity  a body of water in an otherwise arid landscape attracts. Cattle and  water birds are common sights.

On our way back home, Kris seemed to be enjoying the smooth speed in Glory's gaits. She even cantered with me, an unexpected but enjoyable event. Kris and Glory took it all in stride.

Kris and Glory

After we returned we washed off the trail seat and dirt and gave the horses treats. Del will drink water from a hose in my hand. It is so endearing. All and all, it was a great ride and a great day. Thanks Kris.

Del drinking water from my hand.

Delgado and the Water Crossing: Part Two, Three, and Four

This is a recount of the second, third and fourth time Delgado made it across this water crossing which is really just a wet spot in the road.

The infamous water crossing.

Part Two:
My friend, Diane, rode with me on Telma and I rode Delgado to practice the water crossing. It must be passed on the way around Peck's property to access all other trails to the west of the stable. I took Del's lead rope and halter along after doing some research on how to help Del get over his fear. I tried riding across but Delgado refused to step near it. We tried with the lead rope with me on the ground. I sent him back and forth in what they call the falling leaf pattern but he would only go so close. After some time, doing approach and retreat, a man on a tractor from the property up above us offered his help. He had been watching us with some interest. He first suggested using a nearby hose behind Del. That didn't sound very safe to me. Del can kick and is very sensitive when it comes to ropes and things touching his hind legs. (Another challenge we need to work on : ) Then the man suggested he use his tractor and push dirt over the area. Well, at that point, I was ready to move on. I was tired, sweating and we had only come a very short distance on what would be a long and taxing ride. About half way to the Winery, we rode through one of my favorite areas where there is a shady avocado grove. The leaves rustled as we rode down the cool path. Every so often we had to duck low, hanging branches.

Avocado grove with Diane ahead.

We made it to the winery, but unfortunately it was closed! We were disappointed to say the least. Turning around, we retraced our path. About a quarter mile from the avocado grove, Delgado stopped and would not go forward. He was obviously tired. Delgado is such a prancer that he tends to wear himself out.  I decided to get off and walk him for a while as Diane needed to return to the stable. I walked beside Del as we climbed up through the groves and out into the sunlight. There was one more, very steep section of asphalt further on,  so I stayed on the ground and continued to climb. What a workout! Out of breath, I mounted up and we headed downward toward the geologist's house where there was water for the horses.  The remainder of the ride was uneventful, except at the very last hill near the stable. That darn Delgado got his second wind and nearly tossed me when his legs tangled with a branch in the path.  He bucked on the downhill! What a horse.

 Part Three:

The water crossing was wet again.  This has become our main obstacle (I say this has become in the present tense because we are still having issues crossing). Diane went with me again to practice.  It is on the way to all trails west of the stable. My memory is a bit confused on the details of this water crossing however, I do remember that after some effort, I gave the end of the lead rope to Diane. She was mounted and on the other side of the water. Diane pulled on Del's lead while I pushed in the saddle. We managed to get Delgado to cross. We thought we had the answer....

Part Four: 

Diane and I planned another attempt to ride to the winery. This time Diane rode Glory and I rode Del. Glory went right over the water. What a good girl! I had done some preparation for this water crossing on Del. In the arena, I dug out an area and lined it with black plastic. After successfully getting Del over it, I put water in the shallow depression. It did take a while but he finally would stand on it. Most of the water had leaked out but it was still wet. I praised Delgado, and even gave him a peppermint reward. I thought we were prepared and that he now would cross more easily. When we got to the water crossing, Del refused. Diane came back and we tried again to have Del follow Glory close behind. No.  I tried some approach and retreat and then we tried the method that was successful last time. Diane pulled and I pushed. No. Delgado was being stubborn I believe. Since he had crossed this place a number of times now, I felt it was no longer a big fear factor for him. Sweating and frustrated, I picked some cattail reeds to swat his rear as Diane pulled. He jumped across. I have had some conversations with Jenn, Del's previous owner. She is trying to help me understand Del better.

Glory and Diane stop for a bit of rest and a drink of water.

We made it to the winery that day but that is another story in itself.