Tell us about YOU.

Amado · Postby **Amado** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 2:19 pm

Because I can no longer look folks up when I get confused about who is who :cry:

, and because I sometimes get posters with similar screen names mixed up

, I'm wondering if everybody wouldn't mind sharing a little about themselves - hobbies, interests, etc. so I can get to know you better.

I'll start: I don't quite qualify for the senior thread (though I get a senior discount some places!) I'm in my 50's, did the hunters in my 20's and 30's in the midwest, moved west to a place where it was mostly eventing and dressage, I dabbled in eventing, but now it's dressage for me. (though in my case, my husband says DQ stands for Dessert Queen :lol:

)

I worked as a medical illustrator, then went to vet school, then I was very briefly an equine vet, then we moved west and I stayed home to raise my kids. (because I found out quite quickly that being an equine vet in a busy practice meant there was no time for much of anything else) I still do artsy things when I can, though recently have had to get back into the workforce - been difficult, as I've been out of vet practice for so long, and accidentally let my license expire last December (by one day) and the medical illustration job I had was WAY before the computer, and I needed a job with hours I could count on with eventual benefits, so at the moment its C ostco. Where I am making less than I did in the early 80's as a medical illustrator. It is hard to go back to work in your 50's, when your resume has such big holes in it.

I have a website with some paintings on it, and even though I don't have time for the big paintings at the moment, My goal is to do small things in the studio every week, those things are up there too.

http://todayatmydesk.weebly.com

PaulaO · Postby **PaulaO** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 2:28 pm

I'm PaulaO and I live in northern Illinois in a town about 40 miles of Chicago. I'm 58 although I lie about my age (and weight). I never rode as a kid and started lessons as age 30. At age 32 I bought my first (and so far only) horse, Bob, who was rising 3. Green horse, green rider, but it worked out for 27 years until he crossed the bridge in late 2013. We dabbled in dressage--he was a much better horse than I am a rider. On the first grass turnouts in the spring, the other horses would race out the gate, flat like racehorses, where Bob would collect, and passage out.

I will be starting a shareboard on Tucker, a 14 year old QH, next week. We will dabble in low level dressage, mainly up and down. I just want to be back in the saddle.

I have been a medical librarian for over 30 years, before computers were invented. I currently work in a hospital library and love it. I've been here for 14 years and I hope to retire from this job. I was married for 10 years, no kids, divorced 12 years ago, live alone. I have a rule "no animals and no men can live at my house. They can visit, but they cannot stay." I may amend that though since I'm thinking of getting a kitteh. Must be a ginger though.

When not on the board or soon to be at the barn, my hobbies include yoga which became my dressage after I retired Bob. I also do strength training once a week with a trainer and work out 2 other times. I love to read and cook, and just got a 1967 edition of Mastering the Art of French Cooking so will be doing Julia's recipes this winter. I do have a sort of artsy hobby--rubber stamping.

I look forward to meeting everyone.

Amado · Postby **Amado** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 2:34 pm

Paula - I was a medical illustrator in Rockford! (I grew up in Champaign Urbana and went to school there and in Chicago!) And I discoverd rubber stamping a couple of years ago. It is soooo much fun. And the internet makes it even better, so many projects and ideas you can find online!

Postby **PhoenixRising** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 2:40 pm

I was Bubbles201 on UDBB... Hated that name so here I am with a new one. I figured it was as good of a time as any to change it.

I work for a medical malpractice insurance company by day, and on the weekends I work at the barn I keep my horse at. I completely lucked out getting to keep her at that barn, and am thankful every day. My horse is a 1 1/2 yo Friesian/TB cross named Phoenix. I got her last year, and she is, in a way, a symbol of the new life I am living. She came to me about 6 months after I realized my marriage was over, and has been crucial to my healing and rebuilding. Its funny how when you step away from a situation you realize how miserable you really were.
I just got home from the Region 4 finals where I was grooming for the barn, we qualified two horses for nationals and as of now they are planning to go. I'm super excited for a week off from the office and a trip to Kentucky!
I went to William Woods as an Equestiran Science major and an art minor. Due to some poor decision making,I didn't finish and graduate. I still enjoy art in my spare time, which I have little of. I also enjoy crocheting and have been working on several afghans throughout this year. I am especially excited to be working with a lady I met through a facebook group. She is spinning me an angora/merino mix to make an afghan out of, in exchange for me crocheting her a shawl.
I have three dogs, an elderly cattle dog mix (Trudence) and two Dachshunds(Rue and Ruckus). Ruckus is our new addition and he is still settling into our lifestyle and trying to learn some manners. Of course he had to live up to his name!
I also have a chicken coop with 4 hens in the backyard and several rabbits housed at a friends house. The rabbits have really helped keep me distracted from the impatience of waiting for Phoenix to grow up. I've been traveling to local rabbit shows and keeping myself otherwise occupied that way for the time being.

Josette · Postby **Josette** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 2:42 pm

Amado - your art is STUNNING!! Love the horse pastel of Trapper!!

I'm a senior rider age 59, started riding as a kid with small ponies in the 4-H. I've always owned a horse or pony for pleasure riding and keep them for life. Like Paulo I've owned until I've had to PTS.

We live on a small farmette where I now keep a retired navicular gelding age 19 who I though years ago would be my last horse purchase. Lost my heart horse in 2013, but had previously bought a large Connemara pony who had some major training issues. It's taken a about 3 years to restart him and gain his trust. So our goal is to continue progressing with correct riding and mostly have fun while doing it.

mbamissaz · Postby **mbamissaz** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:10 pm

Originally from Vermont but now live in Northern Virginia. Horse mom to Chase (https://www.facebook.com/ChasingWonder?fref=ts) and part-time adult ammy rider. Chase started competing GP this year (with his trainer, not me). Was a member of UDBB well, forever basically. Looking forward to reconnecting with all of you here!

Rockabilly · Postby **Rockabilly** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:14 pm

I love all your stories. There's not much to know about me except that I loved Billy.

Sunshine2Me · Postby **Sunshine2Me** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:22 pm

I live in central Illinois where I work as a Senior Legal Systems Administrator. I am also the Municipal Clerk for the tiny village I live in. I am close to joining the "senior group" (I'm wondering if they would give me a pass) at 51 years of age. I have two daughters, one that lives about 30 miles away, and the other lives in Virginia. I have a 20 year old Arab gelding, Magic, that I've had for 18 years. I've done all his training. I don't compete, but enjoy the journey, and he definitely needs something to keep his mind busy, or else he comes up with his own antics! I'm glad to have a place to meet with everyone again!

StraightForward · Postby **StraightForward** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:26 pm

I was AQHA Hunter on UDBB - like Phoenix, had a long-term hate for the name and actually had asked Deanna to change it about 2 days before the board closure announcement.

I'll be 38 next month and live in Boise, ID. I currently own three :shock:

horses. Obie, the QH I'd just bought as a 2 yo when I joined UDBB. He's been "one of those" never sound horses and finally broke a bone in his knee a couple months ago so is permanently retired at age 11.

Second horse is Maya, a 5 year old Appaloosa mare I've had for two years now and have done all the training on from ground work up. She is currently for sale since she's too small and not the most athletic thing, bless her.

The newest project is scheduled to arrive on Saturday, a 2 year old GOV filly by Rascalino out of a Londonderry mare. By far the fanciest thing I've ever owned or had the chance to work with. Her name is Rosette; she's a blingy chestnut and should finish out around 16.2. The next year will be devoted to getting her out and about and exposed to all sorts of things.

Outside of horses, I'm married, have two dogs, am an avid gardener and run when I find the time. I work as an ecologist for the government and that's all I'll say about that.

Fatcat · Postby **Fatcat** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:40 pm

I'm 53, I've been a horse nut since I could walk, and have been riding since I was 10, started in 4-H. I rode western for 20 years, then switched to dressage at 30. I acquired a horse that needed retraining from the ground up, and thought dressage would be the place to do that. I worked for 20plus years in IT management, but had to retire some years ago due to chronic health issues. Since then I've dabbled part time at working at a tack store, being an instructor/trainer, and instructor/board chair of a therapeutic riding program. Declining health eventually grounded me from all that too, but I'm hopeful to get back to a higher level of activity in the future.

Hobbies are photography, gardening, crochet, nature/ hiking (when able), and I'm a card carrying animal lover.

I have a 6yo green Morgan mare, and a welsh/Shetland cross driving pony. I have recently achieved a lifelong dream of carriage driving and am loving that! We live on our small farm in Oregon.

Here's some bad pics, but all I have on my iPad right now:
Junie pony:

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RettaMae Morgan:

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AirsAboveNC · Postby **AirsAboveNC** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:49 pm

I was AirsAboveNC originally, then became AirsAboveAZ when I relocated to Arizona in 2008, and now I've stumbled my way back to NC. I am 31 and (still) horseless. I graduated from Arizona State last year and am a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist as well as a registered therapeutic riding instructor. I'm working the inglorious job of Activities Director in a skilled nursing facility. I'm not really settled here and am hoping that a better opportunity in a different town will come up and I can settle somewhere I really want to be. THEN maybe I'll think about finally getting a horse!

Avola · Postby **Avola** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 3:59 pm

Originally from Italy, moved and lived in Northern California for many, many years, now living on the Oregon Coast. I'm 54 years old, been around/had horses all my life, worked my buns off to support my habit to the point where I hardly had time to ride at all, but managed to retire earlier this year and I'm now loving getting reacquainted with my horses and having the time to do the things I love.

PaulaO · Postby **PaulaO** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 4:02 pm

Amado wrote:Paula - I was a medical illustrator in Rockford! (I grew up in Champaign Urbana and went to school there and in Chicago!) And I discoverd rubber stamping a couple of years ago. It is soooo much fun. And the internet makes it even better, so many projects and ideas you can find online!

Amado, got my BS and MLS at UIUC. Even with all its recent troubles, I'm proud to be an Illini. Oskeewawah!

Crisscreek · Postby **Crisscreek** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 4:08 pm

Love reading people's stories. I'm keeping up with my vow to post more, lurk less.

Mid 50's. Riding since I bought my first horse with my student loan. Work in health care (respiratory therapist). I live outside of Kamloops BC, in a very small community about 25 km up a logging road-it's God's country-with my husband and critters. Current stable consists of Khan (21 yr old Perch/Arab g), Clairdemair (14 yrs Perchx m) and Flossie, the world's cutest companion pony. Unfortunately while I was quite sick about 2 years ago, Khan managed to develop ringbone, and Clair some mysterious incurable hock thing-so now everyone's retired!
Goals over the winter are to get back into some kind of shape, find a coach in the spring with good school horses, seduce my neice into riding lessons (she seems to have the bug), and find a couple more horses!

Cookie · Postby **Cookie** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 5:13 pm

I was LaurieB on UDBB.

Mid 40's veterinarian (small animal). From Maine but live in Columbus, OH.

Rode somewhat seriously as a kid. Had many years out of the saddle, and began riding again in 2004-ish?

Have had my pony for almost 10 years.

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I still suck at riding but am getting better. :lol:

Moutaineer · Postby **Moutaineer** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 5:30 pm

Me... 54, a transplanted Brit living up a dirt road on a mountainside in UT (it's a long story!)

DH and I own a cabinet and closet company, and I am the chief designer. My education and avocation and original career is as a painter and printmaker, and one day in the not too distant future I intend to get back to it full time. I also knit, sew and cook quite a bit. We have cats and porcupines.

I've been riding badly since I was 6. More of the clingon school of riding until a few years ago when I discovered the possibilities of dressage.

We have two and a half horses at home.

Walker, my beloved 19 year old leopard appy companion of 10 years, retired from serious work earlier this year as he had gone from being difficult to keep sound for it to damn near impossible. He's happy and comfortable mooching around on the trails in the hills, so that's his part time job now.

Lucky is my husband's retired QH, the perfect horse. He's 30 now and living on borrowed time, he has gnarly ringbone but is still eating, drinking and snarking at the others, looks fabulous until he moves.

And then there's Pippin. 37" of concentrated leopard appy ponytude. Hilarious, naughty but very sweet and far too smart for his own good.

In addition, I have my "New" horse. He lives at a boarding barn down in the valley. I've had him since Mid February. He's a very different ride for me and it's taken me a while to feel confident on him. Kind of like moving up from the family minivan to a Ferrari. He's a Very Fancy Warmblood, way above my pay grade, and I only have him because he has a significant back story including vet issues, neglect, a lawsuit and all sorts of other drama, which is why I have been a bit quiet about him. He's trained through about third as far as I can work out. He's the one I'm asking riding questions about!

ZinniaZ · Postby **ZinniaZ** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 5:40 pm

Rockabilly wrote:I love all your stories. There's not much to know about me except that I loved Billy.

I dont agree with that for one second.

Suzon · Postby **Suzon** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 5:47 pm

ZinniaZ wrote:
Rockabilly wrote:I love all your stories. There's not much to know about me except that I loved Billy.

I dont agree with that for one second.

Me neither.

Sue B · Postby **Sue B** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 5:57 pm

We miss u rockabilly

Kelo · Postby **Kelo** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 6:02 pm

I'm checking in! I was Kelo before, and I suppose I shall remain so, to prevent confusion.

I am a QH person, through and through, with far more experience in the QH, reining and cow horse world. Been doing dressage for about 6 years, and I loff it, even if I don't know exactly what I'm doing and make a terrible DQ. :lol:

I live in TX, although I am by no means a Texan.

I have Matt the Wonder Cowpony, my partner in all my horsie endeavors. He is my reining/cowhorse/FEI dressage/trail/trick horse, my once-in-a-lifetime horse. He is a patient teacher and partner as I learn to be a better horseman.

I also have my 21yo mostly-retired QH, some may remember from the other board the rather exciting events that brought him back to me a few years ago. But he's healthy now, and is Matt's buddy.

I have 4 dogs, all Cocker Spaniel rescues. My latest being a young, 80% blind and totally deaf puppy....because I am a sucker, and I needed a challenge. LOL.

Astral · Postby **Astral** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 6:15 pm

I had the same handle on the UDBB, and years ago posted as DurdenE.
My personal background was in fine arts, and for years had a career running galleries. A few years ago, I went through a Big Giant Life Change, and left everything behind to go to grad school, and got my master's in Historic Preservation (which I'm super proud of, after questioning my ability [and general competence] for a long time following a TBI). I'm currently on the job hunt for something more relevant to my new field, and I'm finding just how difficult career changes can be!
Riding-wise, I did hunters as a kid, switched to eventing, and did that for years until switching to "just" dressage. I haven't ridden with any great commitment or conviction for a while, and have accepted that my gelding is "mostly retired" - so we do what we can, when we can (he was already a bit of a trainwreck when I got him... and that was about 17 years ago :lol:

)

Hypno-toad · Postby **Hypno-toad** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 6:16 pm

I am Lauren. I was Hypno-toad on UDBB, so I figured why change now? I live on the Northshore of Massachusetts. I am currently horseless. Some of you may remember Charlie Tuna. Sadly, he was euthanized at the good ole age of 26. I don't have a lot of time (or money) to invest in another horse... So I have three dogs instead! I have Abby, the eleven year old mini-poodle, Benson, the nine year old mini poodle, and Lily, the five month old mini schnauzer. They keep me busy! I am working to get my schnauzer into Earthdog stuff! We are doing a barn hunt at the end of this month!

I work as a Mohs histotech and function as a medical assistant. Work is work. I like what I do but I'd rather be out doing something fun, right?

I love the Boston Bruins and I support all Boston sports. Now I catch rides on any horse I can and spend more time in a bicycle saddle than a horse saddle, but that's okay. Can't think of much else you would want to know.

Tuddy · Postby **Tuddy** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 6:21 pm

Hi everyone,

My name is Tuddy, and I have been a long time lurker, short time poster of the board(s). I live on a farm 20 miles NE of Regina, Saskatchewan. Both my husband and I have full time, off the farm, full time jobs to support our farming and horse habits. We have 14 cows that we keep year round and some chickens and lots of barn kitties and four doggies too.

And, of course, the horses... I am self-claimed hoarder of three cheval Canadiens and my daughter is owned by one ole grouchy QH. All geldings. And the mini-donks, Pedro and Tequila Lopez, quite the couple those two.

I have ridden since I was about 12, I am 36 now, but mostly as a recreational rider. Then my coach/trainer/best friend moved into the territory and I got introduced into the world of dressage. My three Canadiens are of varying ages, Yonka is 4, Tuddy is 8 and Lucas is 14. Stetson, the QH is 17. I have been riding off and on for the past few years while my Canadians were in training stages and this year is the first year I rode really seriously with goals and accomplishments in mind. My daughter, who is 10, is now starting her riding journey and will be riding in Pony Club this fall. So nice to do some Mommy/Daughter stuff.

I loved reading UDBB for all the motivation and inspiration that I get from each and every one of you!

AmityBee · Postby **AmityBee** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 6:42 pm

Moutaineer, great that you are here, because then there is hope for more porcupine stories! After the last thread I looked up porcupine noises on youtube because someone said they made funny noises and OMG, hilarious!!! :lol:

That's what I always liked a lot about the UDBB, the none horsey things it made me explore.

I'm AmityBee, like always. I'm 40y/o. I started riding as a teenager and never stopped. I'm a lab technician working in medical research, I also have a MA in communication that I got a few years back, but I haven't really done anything with it yet.

I got my first horse as soon as I got my first real job. She was a hanno mare called Amity. "Amy" was with me for almost 15 years. We never showed much, though. I started out in a jumper barn, did some show jumping and a tiny little bit of eventing.

I am now on my second horse, or better, pony. The New Welsh. A now 8 y/o Welsh Cob gelding who I got as a two year old. I wanted to (and did) train him all myself. We kind of ended up in the classical corner, not because I wanted to but because it was the right way for him. So, now we both learn new things and the journey, though slow, has been nothing but fun.

Here he is inspecting his geocaching double. Geocaching is something I like to do in my free time when I'm not at the barn. It's such a fun way to explore cities and places...

Oh, and I came to the old board in 2001 when I was working in a research lab in Boston for a while. It helped me stay in touch with the horsey world back then because there was no riding for me then. It also helped to improve my horsey vocabulary. Originally I am from Hannover, Germany.

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TeresaB · Postby **TeresaB** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 6:44 pm

Edited to add that I was previously 'teb' (my initials) on USDF, Cool Breeze Farm and UDBB and then changed to Wind Horse (Wind Horse Farm is my property name) when UDBB sold. Now decided to just stick with my name.

I've been involved with horses since a child. I began taking riding lessons at 8 and started showing at 10. My childhood was bliss, especially the summers. (Green Bay, WI)

I'd spend all day, everyday, at the barn from morning until dusk. My friends and I were barn rats, rail birds and helper of all things horse. We would groom our horses so much that I'm surprised they had any hide left. Days were filled with cleaning stalls, riding, grooming, and watching the grown-ups ride. When the fire flies appeared, we would run through the tall grass field behind the barn and give chase.

Winter days were cold and dreary but as a kid that just meant riding bareback to stay warm. My dad used to take home movies (remember those 8mm cameras?) of me riding bareback, with a halter, galloping through the snow with my long tailed stocking cap flying behind. Those days of fearless riding are long gone, but I think of those times quite often.

I now have my horses at home. One Holsteiner which I show and my retired 21 yr old TB who now is convinced he is, or should be, feral.

I've been involved in Greyhound adoption for many years and currently have 2 females. Eta is the simple dog. Very sweet, but oh so simple. Reba is a sweetheart and is very normal. An ancient cat also resides here and although she is not much trouble she sure pukes a lot. Luckily I am not tasked with cleaning it up.

Early 50s, corporate job, and the lifestyle of someone who has horses at home (Colorado).I have nothing to complain about but you won't find me galloping bareback with a halter on the Holsteiner. It's challenging enough to stay in the saddle some days.

Imperini · Postby **Imperini** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 6:47 pm

Nice getting to know everyone (again or not)

Was Kristyn P before. I am originally from Mid-Michigan but now live in the Toronto area and work as a software developer. I am married and have a 2 yr old fluffy monster dog, and a 9 year old kitty who was dropped off in a ditch as a kitten at the barn I grew up at and demanded that I take her home with me. So very glad I listened to her.

As far as horses go I started riding in a sort of back yard horse kind of manner when I was 12/13, and then moved on to proper instruction a year or two later when I got my first horse, who was not a great first horse, but he was a horse and that's what mattered to me. I was blessed with the opportunity to ride a ton of different horses of all varieties until I was around 19 but started developing some pain in my hips and stopped riding so much until I stopped riding completely in 2007 until now, with a 3 month riding un-break in 2010. I started part boarding the horse I am currently riding in December last year and I adore him. He's not a dressage horse but he is safe and sane and a huge character. I am hoping to eventually try and do something about my hips as I currently can't ride without taking pain medication (well I can ride but it wouldn't feel very good for me or the horse and dismounting would be interesting as that's where I still have trouble even with the meds) and then maybe if it is successful I can start looking for my own safe, sane dressage horse.

RedMare · Postby **RedMare** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 7:17 pm

Great thread idea!

Long time lurker here. In my early 20s, and currently finishing up my undergraduate degrees. I don't currently have a horse of my own, although I ride some green beans and some tough ones for a few fantastic local people. I have played several rounds of working student for the opportunity to get the instruction that I could never afford. Currently just flying by the seat of my pants!

Code3 · Postby **Code3** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 8:07 pm

I just turned 61 and cannot for the life of me figure out how that number sounds old and I feel so young. Well, most of the time!! :-)

I grew up in California, riding whatever I could. I came up through hunters and jumpers and got my first horse when I was in high school. With the exception of college, I've always had horses. I got into dressage late and have never ridden above second level. Your quintessential ammy owner. :lol:

Moved to Oregon in 1985 and started work for the police department in 1986, first as a dispatcher then as an officer. I retired from full time work in 2013, finishing my career supervising the violent crimes detective unit, and am working part time at the University of Oregon as a detective investigating sexual assault. Working three days a week rocks, by the way.

I also got interested in hoof trimming when my trusted farrier of 20 years moved to another state and the replacement was, well, less than stellar. So I've been trimming for over six years, mostly mine but a few on the side. I find it absolutely fascinating.

I have two horses, and eight year old Arab who is my trail riding partner and prefers that over arena work, but we dabble. He has turned into a rock star from a bratty little weanling.

I also have a six year old WB, Nito, that I got from Silverbridge two years ago. Nito will be my dressage and jumping pony. He and I have had an interesting journey and he is taking my horsemanship to a new level. I adore this horse and, while we have had a circuitous journey so far, I feel we are on the right path and I am learning to listen to horses more closely than I ever did before.

I also have four goats, two barn cats, a house cat and three dogs. Oh yes, and a devoted non-horsey partner of going on 26 years who has been nothing but supportive of my horse addiction!

PaulaO · Postby **PaulaO** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 8:42 pm

I just want to say that any thread that mentions mini donkeys or burros is USELESS WITHOUT PICHERS! LOL

PNG_Pony · Postby **PNG_Pony** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 9:17 pm

It's lovely to hear your stories!

I'm originally from MN in the US; I grew up on a small horse breeding farm (Tennessee Walkers) and have been riding competitively since I was 8. Somewhere early on, I added in more breeds, started hunter/jumper and 4-H, and then morphed into eventing, riding anything that had 4 legs. And sometime in high school I turned to dressage and never left

(I also found the UDBB at this time but was too terrified to start posting) Oh, and I've taught beginner lessons for almost a decade--one of my loves.

I'm now in my mid/late twenties and a vernacular linguist/translation adviser working in Papua New Guinea (a 3rd world island nation above Australia) with an NGO; I've been here over 4 years. When I'm not in the villages, I manage one of the last private, pleasure herds on the island--9 stock ponies. I own two of them: Rowena is a 5 year old Appaloosa who came to me 2 years ago completely feral, very sick, and pregnant, and I also have her now 2-year old baby, Cassia. And so I attempt dressage in the tropics!

For fun, I'm the lay vet for all sorts of critters up here (including my two puppies), teach lots of riding lessons, enjoy creating art (used to run my own business but now it's a hobby in PNG), train dogs (used to do that professionally for dog sports, esp. agility), create strange concoctions in the kitchen, and blog prolifically about the craziness of life in PNG

Inamo · Postby **Inamo** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 9:29 pm

I still have the same name. Still horseless as life is just too hectic. Automotive engineer and team manager by day, wildlife photographer at weekends. I love gardening too. Riding wise I'm starting to ride properly (albeit once a week) making a slow comeback after 18 months at a much reduced level due to chronic pain. In my heyday I competed up to medium level, and play with the higher levels whenever I get chance to sit on a schoolmaster.

periastra · Postby **periastra** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 10:01 pm

I am a 51 year old (how did that happen ?) married female living in mid Michigan. We don't have children. My DH and I have a 2.5 acre micro farm. I have a retired BLM Mustang named Peri. She is 29 years old. She is spoiled , doted on and coddled. We have four cats. Eventually we will get another horse , and a dog. I adore all animals . DH and I are vegetarians.
I am an RN and work as the Director Of Resident Care at a wonderful Assisted Living and Memory Care Home. I enjoy working with the elderly, and training and mentoring my staff. In my free time I like to be outside. I love riding and walking. I help DH with our gardening. I try to work out regularly, but will fall off the wagon a few times a year. I am a huge music fan, and love hard rock and metal. DH and I go to as many concerts as possible. We just got awsome Iron Maiden tickets. I enjoy art, history, crafts and reading. We are big nerds and watch Dr. Who and other sci fi. I am a rabid Walking Dead fan. :mrgreen:

Silverpoet · Postby **Silverpoet** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 10:21 pm

I was Silverpoet on the other board and decided I'd just keep the name. I'm 52 and an avid horse lover since I could first say the word. I grew up in southern california and I bought myself my first pony when I was 13 using babysitting money. I use to gallop race horses , worked at a riding stable giving guided tours and pretty much rode anything I could get on in order to pay for his board. I've always had a horse or two other than brief spells here and there while my kids were growing up. Kids are grown now with one living in upstate NY and the other moving in November to Maryland with my only grandson. So now it's just hubby and me.

I'm married to the most wonderful man in the world and I'm lucky to live on a farm smack in the middle of Texas. We currently have 4 horses: Petra, an 11 year old draft cross I raised from a baby, Maddie, also 11, a gypsy cross we bought for hubby to tootle around on but I sorta took over, Kountess R, a 19 year old Hanoverian school master that got me back in the saddle after a bad fall and head injury (yes, I was wearing a helmet thank goodness), and lastly, Wiglaf, a 2 year old homebred Hanoverian. He is technically for sale but I don't push it too much since he is much nicer than anything I'd ever be able to afford and wouldn't bother me one bit to keep him as my future dressage horse.

I teach English composition and sophomore literature at our local University and I'm also working on my PhD in Rhetoric. I'm scheduled to take my comprehensive exams this summer so hopefully, the end is in sight. I'm hoping that once I finish my degree that I'll have more time to ride and maybe get back into breeding again.

kande50 · Postby **kande50** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 10:33 pm

PaulaO wrote:I just want to say that any thread that mentions mini donkeys or burros is USELESS WITHOUT PICHERS! LOL

My mule (the chestnut) was having a "make her stop looking at me" moment. :-)

Suzon · Postby **Suzon** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 10:55 pm

I'm Suzon. I was Suzon on the UDBB, though I'm thinking of changing my handle to my business name: Fuzzywunkle. I worked as a professional groom and then barn manager for many many years in New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island way back when. I left the horse world in 2003. I still own three Saddlebreds, who do nothing but burn through cash at a rapid pace. Right now, I work full time as the office manager for my husband's building inspection business here in the bay area of California. I work part time as a photographer.

We just purchased a small property in Oregon and are hoping to move up there next year or the year after (the sooner the better as far as i'm concerned!). Right now, though, the cabin that's on the land is in rough shape and either needs to be torn down or renovated from the foundation (or lack thereof) on up. We are trying to decide what we're going to live in until we manage to have something to live in...if you get my drift! No matter what, it'll be an amazing adventure.

Dreamer · Postby **Dreamer** » Mon Oct 12, 2015 11:28 pm

I was KW on the old board. I'm 55 and have 3 horses. A 28 year old mare I've had for 23 years, a 20 year old mare I've had for 19 years and. 7year old andalusian I've had for two years. I keep them on my small farm in michigan. I just retired and want to really focus on my riding now that I have time. I am married, have a golden doodle and a cat.

Janet · Postby **Janet** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 12:28 am

I did a bit of a bio and posted a picture on an earlier thread, but I will put something here as this seems to be where everyone is catching up with each other.

I was Janet on UDBB - so no change there. I rarely posted there (just over 700 posts since January 2000) I have vowed to do better here. I am 51. I have had horses since I was about 9 years old and can't imagine life without them. I currently own 3 horses. One horse is a companion horse - not a particularly nice horse, but he is mine... I have a semi-retired Holstiner gelding - he lives the good life with a couple of trail rides a month. I am currently riding my 16 year old Westphalian gelding. I love the journey of Dressage; however I do not compete. I keep my horses at home on my 18 acre farm.

I am a consultant, assisting small businesses who need help getting contracts with the US Government. It is a very small, unique market, but I have dedicated clients who keep me as busy as I want to be. I love being my own boss, and even more, I love working from home! I am also supported financially and with all the tons of "honey do's" on the farm by my wonderful husband of 30 years.

I have struggled in the recent past with what I call my "Autoimmune Crap". I lost the better part of my 40's to chronic pain and inflammation. I had the formal diagnosis of Lupus, RA and Fibro. Strangely about 3 years ago I started to get better. I don't know exactly what changed, but I was able to get off the steroids and went from nearly 20 RX meds a day down to just three! I have lost 50 pounds and have more energy than I know what to do with. I can honestly say that I have been given a second life!

My other hobbies are wakeboarding - which I do aggressively - and gardening. I also enjoy foreign travel - I take a major trip somewhere in the world about every other year.

My only daughter entered college this fall, so I am re-focusing my attention on my horses and my riding with hopes of finally breaking out of that training/first level that I have been trapped in for 25 years. My horse is talented enough, it is just a matter of seeing if my body will cooperate. I'm going to give it my best shot!

somantu · Postby **somantu** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 12:55 am

Hello, it's somantu.
I'm 55, an urbanite who loves dogs, handbags, shoes, and horses. I work for myself as a creative director for design, brand development and photography. Two years ago in June, I lost the love of my life in a freak accident. He was a horse, but he was the love of my life. And 4 months later I took a leap of faith and bought a 4 year old OTTB. He's a sweet guy: very relaxed but very smart.
I joined UDDB in 2003 thinking I'd learn about Dressage –– but really, I just ride and take lessons week in and week out for the last 20 years. I'm ok w/that. It's such a luxury to be able to own a horse and just ride. I feel very fortunate.

: Love of my life and my grabby right hand :(; A.jpg (37.59 KiB) Viewed 94101 times

: The "new" guy and his flapping tongue; B2.jpg (121.79 KiB) Viewed 94101 times

attachment=1]C.jpg[/attachment]

iriedogs · Postby **iriedogs** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 1:06 am

I am iriedogs, was iriedogs on UDBB, too. That was the name of my kennel, Irie Komondorok. I raised Komondor dogs for 21 years and so I am still Iriedogs, even though I have no more Komondors.
My real name is Wynne (Wynne E. Smith on FB). Pronounced like "win".
I am an Events Manager for a company in SC who has events all over the U.S. and Canada. I travel a good bit. My daughter, who used to be BarnKat on UDBB, manages a farm about 20 minutes away from me, where we have our two Haflingers. I am 54 so I guess I am now "middle aged". Ugh! I love reading, Toastmasters Club, gardening, and drawing, as well as enjoying my 4 cats, 2 Jack Russell terriers, and my daughter's sheep (Katahdans). And of course, the ponies. So glad to be here.

boots-aregard · Postby **boots-aregard** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 1:20 am

I'm old. This will be long.

UDBB member since 2000 on and off under both names, so I'm hyphenating.

62, rode anything with 4 legs as a kid, was the local pony breaker for our (mostly hunters) pony club. Quit from about 18 to about 38, then bought a horse property in San Diego county and raised my kids in (real) Pony Club. Was an organizer for PC, worked at our local riding club in a variety of capacities. Rode mostly eventing for 20 years, never getting beyond Training. Went thru several horses during that period, the best of which was a cold-backed Quarab I bought for pennies. And I had a soft spot (why?) for the Appendix who would regularly toss both me and my younger daughter. Anyway, gave it up, sold out, moved north to San Jose when the grandkids were promised.

Now I'm a grandma of 2 and I just finished a wonderful 9 months nannying the baby. Also managed to go on my first hunts last year after legging back up, going with barbarar from UDBB (haven't seen her signed on yet) to Ireland (my 3rd trip. I rode some X-Country courses there in the 80s). Then Nevada and Montana. Great fun! I now ride on weekends only with lesson horses, back doing hunter stuff again mostly on a pony that I feel confident I can wrestle around.

Undergrad in fine arts (acting at UWashington) grad degree in business (UCLA). Worked in corporate America in IT, biotechnology, marine instrumentation, wrote a novel while working in a deli, then we bought our own business (senior care) just as the economy crashed and built it from the ground up. I don't work in the business anymore but manage a few rental houses, which is great fun. Oh yeah, I have a standard poodle and a flock of backyard chickens. I'm not very handy in the garden, I don't sew much anymore and I can't cook.

OK, not as long as I thought.

Amado · Postby **Amado** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 1:27 am

This is awesome. And I am loving the pictures. You guys rock!

Tarlo Farm · Postby **Tarlo Farm** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 1:38 am

Suzon wrote:
ZinniaZ wrote:
Rockabilly wrote:I love all your stories. There's not much to know about me except that I loved Billy.

I dont agree with that for one second.

Me neither.

Ooooo we can do three quotes! Me neither. Rockabilly, you were the first person to "talk" to me on the UDBB oh so many years ago.

Tarlo Farm · Postby **Tarlo Farm** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 1:43 am

And I live in NW Michigan, am 57, and a retired high school biology teacher. Was one of those kids whose first word was probably "horse", took my first lessons at six, Mom and Dad bought me my first horse at eight. My older sister swore she wore them down...
After years of fooling around with horses, giving up/down lessons, breeding, and training, I'm down to just three, only one of which I ride. I've downsized from 40 acres to eight and a half and I'm close enough to Lake Michigan to hear the lake roar when it's windy, as it is now.

mari · Postby **mari** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 4:29 am

I'm Mari, was Mari on the old board as well. Not a prolific poster, but an avid follower and reader for many years.

I'm 33, and I live in Pretoria (South Africa). I studied Computer Science and now I slave away in front of a keyboard to afford one of the loves of my life - Odin, a 10 year old Appaloosa x Belgian wb. We do mainly dressage (newly 2nd level), with weekly jumping lessons too.

My things:
- Reading is the best thing ever.
- My husband adores me. And he is my favourite. Even though we are chalk and cheese and often barely understand each other.
- I identify strongly with birds, more than any other type of animal. My Senegal parrot is 15 years old and it feels like there is a hole in my soul if I don't see her in the morning.
- My coffee needs to be the temperature of the sun. If it cools down enough that I can drink a whole mouthful, I abandon the mug on the closest surface.
- Following on from that, my Nespresso machine is my favourite wedding present.
- I have more aches and pains than I thought I would have at this age. Not riding related, just unfortunate genetics and conformation

- For an avid foodie, I turn my nose up at lots of different types of food.
- I make friends for life.

Spotted at X · Postby **Spotted at X** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 4:33 am

Used to be Clare & Dancer on the original Board, joined early 2008 I believe? Might have been 2007. Anyways, I started riding at 6 with weekly lessons, mostly HJ and English pleasure, did some showing-I rode one dressage test at about 12 and hated it! I just knew i was going to forget the test, even after practicing for weeks, (somethings don't change!) Lol

I love colored warmbloods, dilutes and pintos are gorgeous and tempting but my absolute favorite is leopard patterned or loudly blanketed markings. I really want a knabstrupper but haven't bought one yet! I currently own one gelding, he's now 8 and is an Oldenburg Appaloosa Sport horse cross. He's a big goofball and been jumping in Florida the last three years because I've been staying at home with human babies. He loves jumping so much I'm hoping to do a beginner novice XC with him next year.

Hubby is a small animal vet, and I used to do trauma xray in a large hospital locally. We have two sons, Lincoln and Carmine; turning three and four months. We also have three large dogs, and a cat that hates my guts.

I can't wait to move and start riding again!

Rhianon · Postby **Rhianon** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 5:03 am

Well, this has been a couple of years of a whole lot of changes, so I'm not sure who I am! Keeping with the Buddhist idea of start where you are ... here I am.

I'm 60, married to the best man in the world--38th anniversary coming up. We live on five acres of mostly bush west of a small town on the west coast of Vancouver Island.

I have a retired 20-year-old Hanno/QH horse Ace who has Cushings and isn't right in the head, but is finally in a place that is good for him, and I think the little b*gger is going to live forever! He's boarding with a neighbour 5 minutes away. I see him once or twice a day and do some of the chores. I also have a little dog--10lbs--called Paris. She's a goofy little mutt--Corgi/Shi tzu/Maltese mix--and the love of our lives. Another thread mentioned Corgis and bossiness--she got that gene in spades!

I have some complicated health issues that limit what I can do, but still try to get in the saddle (friend's quiet mare) whenever I can. I read a lot, meditate, and do what I can to contribute to my community--especially in the area of keeping public (and horse) access to trails.

ETA: I am and was Rhianon.

carpevita · Postby **carpevita** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 11:49 am

Start from where I am ? I was fallingwaters for many years, but its been over two years since I sold that farm---I am now carpevita!

I am 55, newly widowed and re-inventing myself I guess. Finally starting to feel better, after two years of utter misery and loss.
My kids are simply thriving YAY as are my former pets and horses I've rehomed over the years.
I've got one horse left, my sweet older mare, who is happy at the barn where she's been for the past 8 years.

My dd has decided to have a baby, which is thrilling, I am about to buy a homestead with my bff and another friend, so life is good.
I have a small pension from my late darling man, my tenant is finally getting it together and paying me rent and finishing fixing up the house to sell in the spring---he will likely join us at the homestead at that point---how lucky am I to have a dedicated handyman who wants to live with us all?!

The truck is running well, the camper is in fine shape and all is well.

Spiritpaws · Postby **Spiritpaws** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 11:56 am

I joined UDBB in 2000 as Spiritpaws, so Spiritpaws I remain.

I am 62 <ack where did the time go> live on a farm in the piedmont of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I grew up riding pony hunters in Connecticut (ah, those days of riding forward outside courses), after college I switched to eventing. I hated dressage, thought 20m circles were just too boring :-)

Dressage for me in those days was all about getting through it in order to go cross country.

Married a polo player and we relocated to Virginia. Not long after we bought the farm, I had the chance to sit on a GP schoolmaster...and I was hooked.
Dressage became my passion. I started with a 4 year old Oldenburg mare (Furioso line) whom I trained to GP then sold as a schoolmaster. Bought another four year old, Lionheart, a hanoverian (Legat/Lanthan) whom I took to Holland to train with Anky Van Grunsven. Lion was an incredibly difficult horse in his mind and temperament. Took 2 years to put a single flying change on him, and then he turned out to be a tempi svengali...he took to one tempiis like a duck takes to water. Competed him at Devon in the small tour, did the Florida circuit for several years, and then moved him to I-2 and GP. And then he went horribly lame. Thousands of dollars later my vet concluded we needed to nerve him (inflammation of the bursa). And that lead me to where I am now...

At the time I was working as a consultant to a whole food supplement company. Was doing a lot of research for them on raw food, so traveling frequently to California which was the center of the raw food universe at the time. Decided to experiment with Lionheart to see if specific raw foods could help him. Much to my shock, and my vet's amazement, by increasing circulation through specific foods, Lionheart came sound.

That was the beginning of my food journey, and the early start to my company which makes whole food supplements for horses. Lionheart sadly had to be retired after only a few GPs...one day he just seemed incapable of his trademark one tempiis and his powerful passage. He was diagnosed with kissing spine so I retired him to my farm, where he still lives at the ripe old age of 28.

I am long-time happily divorced, have a tribe of Australian shepherds, a gaggle of chickens, and my farm is dedicated to retired horses. Although I did buy another young horse after I retired Lion, the new company was demanding more and more of my time and focus, so I sold Pi, and haven't sat on a horse in 3 years :-(

My life partner, Peter, and I take care of the 8 retired horses (some of them former show hunters), and tend an enormous organic garden. I do a little Rally and Obedience with the Aussies for fun. Photography is my stress-release. Running a company is a lot like taking care of horses: it is a 24/7 job!

Chisamba · Postby **Chisamba** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 1:06 pm

My first thought was everyone knows me, (which is ridiculously arrogant) and then i realized how much i enjoyed reading all your posts and decided to add mine. i typed it in on the phone in the middle of the night, and poof it was gone, so this is my second attempt

.

i was born in Mkushi, Zambia but spend most of my youth in Chisamba, hence my name. early tales of me climbing on the horse in the orchard at 18 months predate my memory, so i rode before i can remember. The longest i have been without a horse was from october 1997 to April 1998.

I have been riding for fifty years, more, if you consider the earliest days. There have been, as i am sure everyone can imagine, multiple challenges, tragedies and disappointments in that time. I have a list of injuries and stories that would be far too large to enumerate here, but the worse are/were paralysis from the waist down for two weeks, a broken sacral vertebrae, dislocated jaw ( which is very high up on the pain category) and of course numerous broken wrist, ankle, rib, incidences.
i have also had some devastating losses, horses that died in my arms, horses that i wanted to help and could not, horses that died in my absence. so called heart horses, and huge competitive disappointments, losing my upper level horse or prospect, not once, not even twice, but four times, cutting my competitive ambitions down to dregs each time.i have changed too, from a single young ambitious student struggling to maintain riding while studying at university, to a new immigrant, to a new mother, to a person who has lost physical fitness and skills, just as I feel as though my knowledge base is finally of value.
However at every time of my life, and aspect of my life, there is one thing that has remained true. i am happier, and more content when i have horses significantly in my life. I am a more complete and content human when i ride, than I am when i do not.

i have multiple characteristics of Aspergers syndrome, and am fairly high on the ASD range. i have spent quite a few years doing different things career wise, started as a Microbiology Masters graduate working in polio research, became a vet tech and then a teacher, and now i work with mentally and physically disabled adults that have behavior disorders. i work night shifts so that i am able to do my riding, training and teach riding lessons during the day.

i have a small farm, and have sheep, horses, dogs, cats chickens, ducks geese, turkeys, a rabbit and a pet snake.

I guess that is it. thank you for being patient with me , for all you have taught me, and for sharing your triumphs and tragedies. i am happy to be here at the new beginnings

me on the right on my first competitive mount, although in this pic i am bareback riding in a halter. Her name was Monthor

and at my most recent show, desperately reaching for my right stirrup, because i only every lose a stirrup at a show, why is that! Kimba

Rockabilly · Postby **Rockabilly** » Tue Oct 13, 2015 1:22 pm

Tarlo Farm wrote:
Suzon wrote:
ZinniaZ wrote:I dont agree with that for one second.

Me neither.

Ooooo we can do three quotes! Me neither. Rockabilly, you were the first person to "talk" to me on the UDBB oh so many years ago.

I don't remember that, but I have always always liked you very much and appreciated your thoughtful posts. I'm so glad you're here.

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