tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11791557167561980882012-01-02T09:31:04.339-05:00Short stories, and news updates from a horsetrainer, and mother of 2 boys. Horses, family, hunting, and nature are some of my favorite topics to chat about, with the occasional rant thrown in.Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.comBlogger1001100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-8541399686834328152012-01-02T09:16:00.003-05:002012-01-02T09:31:04.352-05:00

How do you measure a year? This has been a rough one for us - loosing Gramma in March, watching my older sister disappear into the deep south, and finally, my sweet hubby losing a job due to trying to HELP someone out the week of Christmas. On the positive side, we did get to play with a litter of puppies and found excellent homes for ALL of them, I got Little Dona going OK under saddle - I'll

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-65404067722858520292011-08-23T09:05:00.003-04:002011-08-23T09:19:46.514-04:00

Poppin in for a little mo.... I know I haven't gotten to this lately, but I will try to do this more as I get my schedule in line for once (oh sure, well, I can dream) This last Friday, it finally happened. Dad. He let me take the truck. And, of course, I ran off to Dona's with Ma for a trail ride. WOO HOO!!!! Now, this was kind of monumental on several levels. 1)I got the truck for an

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-87295304104130738322011-05-18T09:38:00.003-04:002011-05-18T09:40:16.200-04:00

I no longer have a high speed interwebz connection. But, that's cool. I've been gardening for myself & others, playing with my horses, and causing trouble where I can.IMy connection was crap anyhow. Cable went out all the time, phone didn't work for beans either. SO ... I have a land line again as of yesterday, but no interwebz. I go to Ma's to check in from time to time. I will write a real

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-34490074830472944882011-04-13T20:38:00.005-04:002011-04-13T21:17:30.695-04:00

Day 16 is a Picture of someone who inspires you - easy. I'll even pick someone that I'm not related to/consider family. In fact, I'll pick 4 someones that are incredible to me. Then, of course explain myself.Stacy Westfall.She is SUCH an incredible horsewoman. Her reining performance with her horse, Roxy, makes me cry every time I see it because it so perfectly illustrates what riding your horse

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-46054218126462694352011-03-27T21:46:00.002-04:002011-03-27T22:05:46.857-04:00

Day 14, well. I'm skipping that one. It's supposed to be a pic of someone you can't imagine your life without, but I'm already living that with Gramma gone, and I don't want to jinx anyone else that I love.Day 15 is something I'd like to do before I die, and I 'll give you 3 off of my bucket list. 2 kinda go hand in hand though ... like they could be done on the same voyage. I hope.I'd like to do

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-91917773138620286252011-03-23T21:34:00.003-04:002011-03-23T21:47:08.965-04:00

Jamie Ridler over at Jamie Ridler Studios asks today: How do you wish to Sparkle?WELL. That is a loaded question, Ms. Jamie.I wish so many things to help me to sparkle. SO SO many things. Feelings, really.I wish to sparkle by both losing weight, and loving my body more - accepting what I can't change all the while, fighting like hell to change it anyhow.I wish to sparkle by being the most

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-30008189116961212012011-03-22T15:07:00.003-04:002011-03-22T15:17:17.603-04:00

A picture of your favorite band/artist.Paul Stanley of Kiss, of course. OF COURSE!P!nk is one of my favorites as of late. She's sassy. I like that.Trent Reznor. His music rocks me. Oh, and he's a stone cold hottie too.Brooks & Dunn are on my country picks. Awesome.George Strait is also on the top of my country picks. He's a classic.And artists ... well, so I take things literally.One of my

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-58255408273449349692011-03-22T14:39:00.002-04:002011-03-22T14:52:34.656-04:00

A picture of something you LOVE. It would be redundant to post up family pics or even horse pics here, because, well .... that's a given. So, here are some details.I love ALL flowers. This actually isn't too far from what Gramma's funeral spray looked like.I love the UP. ALL of it, but the west & central areas especially.I love riding my horse on the beach ... though there are not many places

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-13169122937260959092011-03-17T21:12:00.003-04:002011-03-17T21:24:48.996-04:00

A picture of something you hate.Chicago. I freakin' hate Chicago. And, most of the trash that comes out of it..... largely people like this:Spoiled jackasses that think the world owes them just because they were born.I'm sure if I lived closer to the east side of the state, it would be Detroit that was the bullseye of my hatred, but I am on the west coast of Michigan, living in the dead center of

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-47930313409356511162011-03-16T19:48:00.003-04:002011-03-16T20:00:25.069-04:00

A picture of the person you do the craziest things with.Well, by sheer volume, and to get away from blood family -- Jennie wins. Although, there are a number of people I really enjoy doing crazy things with. Mom, Dona, Nikki, Jenn (different Jen - she knows who she be), Deanna, Beeg Seester, Leetle Seester, Larry - sometimes, and Daddy & I are completely obnoxious & unstoppable when we get on the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-25976359446926915052011-03-13T22:23:00.003-04:002011-03-13T22:41:55.792-04:00

A break was required. So, I guess I failed the 31 day picture challenge. Boo. That's OK. I have good reason. Good news, and bad news.First, the bad news, so I have a way to look up.At the very tail end of February, my Grandmother, as pictured in the post immediately before this one, had a massive heart attack, followed by a very abbreviated stay in the hospital. Abbreviated, because she refused

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-86034513275813957812011-02-26T10:30:00.002-05:002011-02-26T10:35:21.991-05:00

A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.Absolutley ZERO disrespect towards everyone else that falls on my very short list. (Mom, Daddy, Larry, and the other Grandparents)It's just that ... Gramma Flash was there for us kids every day after school, every weekend, all summer long, every break from school. She was always there. She is there still for me. When I go to Ma's house,

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-78825775456702240512011-02-25T16:31:00.003-05:002011-02-25T16:37:02.814-05:00

I'm a little behind. Too bad. There is life outside the interwebz.So, Day 8. Right, right. A picture of something that makes you laugh. OK> I'll do better than one, I'll do THREE.That last one makes me laugh every. single. time.

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-8492981884095546392011-02-16T00:58:00.002-05:002011-02-16T01:20:14.234-05:00

I can't really DO days 5 or 6, and here are the explanations as follows:Day 5 - A picture of your favorite memory. Impossible, just because my most favorite memories are ones that happened when no camera was around. Sure, I could punk out & put up a pic from our wedding, or when the kids were first born, but that's cheating, and a little hollow & expected.Some of my favorite memories were ongoing

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-88563169934414569562011-02-14T20:43:00.002-05:002011-02-14T20:47:09.579-05:00

Day 4 - A picture of your typical night.This IS the typical night around here lately. The kids watch cartoons until near bedtime, and if it's Davey's choice (he usually picks, bc he has the biggest mouth) he usually chooses to watch 'Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs'.Every. Single. Time.I watch them, clean up after dinner, try to pull together a load of dishes while attempting to keep Davey out

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-47461883839360524772011-02-13T14:24:00.003-05:002011-02-13T14:36:09.362-05:00

Day 3 -- A picture of your favorite TV Show CastThis is tough, because there are a few that I watch regularly, however, Grey's Anatomy has become my current favorite. When it first was out, I couldn't bring myself to watch it ... there was too much buzz about it. Now, I love it.On the other hand, I have watched 'House' from the get go. I love House. He is absolutely THE doc I would want on my

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-45863229809689035072011-02-10T19:08:00.002-05:002011-02-10T19:18:41.311-05:00

A picture of yourself and the person you're closest to.OK. This is not a fair one. I am very close to several people, and Blogger won't let me upload all the pics I'd like to use. But, I am going to go with the obvious answers anyhow.Hubby. Closest with him, but he may be 2nd place in closeness only to my Mom. Or Dad. Or Gramma Flash .... definatley the kids are a strong possibility.What can I

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-41883920447087958722011-02-09T21:17:00.002-05:002011-02-09T21:34:34.185-05:00

A couple of friends are doing this challenge on Facebook, and well, I've decided that I'm going to give it a shot, but only on my blog. No particular reason other than I want to try to keep updating this thing, and I can fully explain my answers here. SO ... without further Ado, ......The 31 Day picture challenge ..... Day One.A picture of yourself with 10 facts.1)I am a middle child2)born on my

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-17882840592272431232011-01-17T21:42:00.002-05:002011-01-17T22:11:30.908-05:00

I would be lying if I said that a few news reports on there being a new astrological sign didn't confuse me. Especially when they lead in saying 'Listen up, Sagittarius', because hey --- that's what I am, after all. Or AM I? I rushed, and read every article I could on this 'new' sign, and was somewhat irritated to find that not only was my sign all jacked up, but so was everyone else. This was

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-51670760248826851322011-01-14T14:58:00.002-05:002011-01-14T15:08:29.550-05:00

Did you know that I was an Art Major? Shocker, right? Yes, I love the artistic side of things. I really like drawing, painting, pottery, even sculpture sometimes. I get down with jewelry making, collage, woodworking. and pretty much anything else that I can get my hands on.I adored my high school art teacher. She is one hell of a lady. Most beautiful green eyes I have ever seen on a real live

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-22726175754115199852011-01-12T15:34:00.002-05:002011-01-12T16:07:22.300-05:00

I generally consider myself a blessed person when it comes to my hair. I adore my natural color - though, I will not lie - there have been many times when I have fiddled with the notion of going jet black or blonde. It always falls back to 'but, I just love the way my color looks in the sun - and it feels so warm to me.' Then I inevitably chicken out & leave it the deep rich, multi hued chocolate

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-67234097461070932112011-01-02T11:40:00.002-05:002011-01-02T11:44:53.209-05:00

Our new years eve was pretty tame. It usually is. We are not drinkers or partiers per se. We tend to choose to spend most of our time with family. As a result, The eve was spent playing video games & watching movies, eating popcorn, snackin'..... like that. I got kisses from the hubster and both boys at midnight, then we all went to bed.New Years Day, we always get together as a family and have a

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-25981068191899479972010-12-29T13:17:00.004-05:002010-12-29T13:45:16.648-05:00

This morning, I went to feed my girls, check their water levels, give them a quick brush, feed the chickens, and Dean-O - like I always do. And, as usual, my sweet girls were waiting for me ever so patiently. Looking like they hadn't really seen me in days rather than the hours since their last feeding/brushing, etc.I walked into the barn, and headed towards the hay as usual, but when I looked

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-51889221721021953702010-12-27T21:35:00.002-05:002010-12-27T22:02:33.154-05:00

So, here we are. End of 2010. A year that I am not sad at all to see pass by. I am so thankful that this year is finally over. It's been one of the worst on record for my family all around. The work front for my folks & myself has been beyond dreary. There has been little to nothing for us to do to keep our heads above water all this year. I know that there are a LOT of people in the same boat as

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-43651494680281837102010-11-29T15:14:00.010-05:002010-11-29T15:40:59.846-05:00

The final November edition of Fun Monday, hosted by Julie at Another Chance Ranch (www.anotherchanceranch.net in case you missed it)She asks today of all the players :"When do you start your Christmas shopping? On Black Friday? Cyber Monday? And, who is the hardest person to buy for?"Well, first of all - Christmas is banned in my house until after my birthday. I have spent too many birthdays

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-72872252500785649732010-11-22T09:39:00.004-05:002010-11-22T10:09:09.598-05:00

It's just another manic monday ..... that Miss Julie over at Another Chance Ranch (www.anotherchanceranch.com) has made a little more interesting.Once again, friends, I signed on to play this monday. Not sure what to do with this one, but I will try!Julie queries "What is your favorite beauty product? Any why?"Simple enough. Except I am the most unorganized, frazzled, not really worried about how

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-88927905054111640582010-11-16T10:15:00.003-05:002010-11-16T10:23:53.524-05:00

So, Julie @ Another Chance Ranch set the question::When do you start decorating for Christmas?So you go all out? Or just put up a tree? Do you have a theme each year?Personally, I love the Christmas thing. I start decorating Decamber 1st. I can't bear to do it any earlier than that, because my birthday is the 30th of November, and I have to be in birthday mode before I can indulge in Christmas.

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-28497490994102631472010-11-08T22:27:00.003-05:002010-11-08T22:41:32.372-05:00

Julie over at Another Chance Ranch is hosting a neat game this month, and I'm playing along, because Lord knows, I need something to write about that isn't me complaining. No one likes a bitcher. That's what I'm told. SO, here's today's assignment:Tell us about your Thanksgiving Day meal. Do you have a menu planned? Do you have the traditional turkey dinner, or go a bit more non-traditional? What

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-43017855958068478512010-11-05T21:18:00.004-04:002010-11-05T21:45:42.525-04:00

I am the first to admit, I am behind on things. There has been a move, now we're remodeling the new pad. The big kid is in a new school, the little kid is busy, busy, busy & into everything. Literally. Everything. It's a constant chase with him. He's a lot of fun because of it, too.Hub's job is going alright, his school is doing great too. I'm very proud of him so far. In the midst of this, I am

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-80867693131016686482010-11-02T16:55:00.002-04:002010-11-02T17:06:16.696-04:00

Playing along with a game from Julie over at Another Chance Ranch .... you can find her here : www.anotherchanceranch.netThe game as I understand it, and mind you - I could be wrong, is to voice my humble opinions on today's election.Well, as it stands here in Michigan, it is another round of the same old same old. Big mud slingin' between Donkeys & Lelephants, Green party & libertarians added to

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-74856805254501074822010-09-07T10:06:00.003-04:002010-09-07T10:17:56.892-04:00

It's a wonder that I haven't lost it completely. I have lost it, just not completely yet. We are hard & heavy searching for a place to live. Our time at the farm, it seems, has come and gone, and unless I can pull a miracle out of my arse and finance the place myself, I am at this point SOL. Good luck, anyhow.We are trying to find a place that can help us to secure a mortgage so we can either A)

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-12722390256614823112010-09-05T19:57:00.006-04:002010-09-05T20:16:40.012-04:00

It's been a while, but Little Guy is headed back to a 'regular' school. He has missed playing with other kids on a regular basis, and all of his old friends have since abandoned him - knew it would happen, but hated to see him go through it. He enjoyed his time homeschooling, however, and wants to do swimming lessons and piano still. He also wants to ride the horses, but I need to get some

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-71707825174296993392010-08-23T17:08:00.002-04:002010-08-23T17:16:47.539-04:00

This has been a pretty dark year so far for me. I won't get into detail until it is over with - that's just how I roll. There are a few people who know my troubles, but I don't like to broadcast them. I only write this today, because I am hoping that there is some good that can come from the prayer of others. Mine are not working so far. My connection is broken. My prayers fall on deaf ears of

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-22304015067358590352010-08-13T22:46:00.006-04:002010-08-13T22:56:06.624-04:00

I want one. Or even two, or three.But that is likely not going to happen any time soon. It's sad too, cuz who wouldn't cuddle one of these little suckers. I mean - check out the teeny tiny snouty, and the itty bitty hoofsies!OOOH! Halloween piggies! They are so sweet - I even like the black ones, and I think they get ugly when they're grown up. Little man liked this one best. I think it's the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-45688742376618915172010-08-08T12:05:00.002-04:002010-08-08T12:23:39.135-04:00

It's been a little while since I've written about anything. Sorry for those that care. :) Lots of little things have happened.I'm on a new antidepressant that seems promising so far, though it's not doing much for the anxiety side of things. My little palomino that I sold seems to be fitting in well in her new home, and both her & her new owners seem happy with each other. Toney Boney has been

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-30618743401399237952010-07-18T13:16:00.003-04:002010-07-18T13:21:51.032-04:00

Just had to throw this out there, for anyone who may be interested.I am doing a little contest on my photography facebook page. Go to http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Coloma-MI/K-Bollman-Photography-Oh-Snap-Portraits/124039494277694 and either comment on a photo or just add your name to my latest status update and you're entered to win an 8x10 print of any photo in my posted photos.There are lots

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-41872611402282780712010-07-12T21:30:00.004-04:002010-07-12T21:58:05.477-04:00

Anyone that has known me for any length of time knows that I have a thing for psycho kitties.To me, the snuggly, super cuddly, schmoozing around, purring in your face kind of cat is the feline equivalent of the Stepford Wives.I like a cat that cannot pass my patented psycho kitty test.A cat that is cheeky enough to catch mice by carrying them around like a prize after they've met their fate in a

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-30141198404620239772010-07-09T16:55:00.002-04:002010-07-09T17:11:30.098-04:00

Today ended a nearly 10 year hiatus from building with Dad. I LOVE working with my Daddy. We are outside nearly all day (unless we're doing inside work) making a real concrete difference in something, working with our hands. WHAT is more satisfying than working with your hands in some manner, I ask you? A BIG FAT NOTHIN' THAT'S WHAT!!! But, I am a physical girl, despite my current state of

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-61363691316983091452010-07-02T19:04:00.003-04:002010-07-02T19:20:46.549-04:00

Yesterday looked like it was going to be just another uneventful day. Kids, housework, messin' with the kittens, and doing my horse chores. I managed to spare a little extra time to take Little Dona with Velvet & I on our little ride. It was pleasant. No major problems. All was good.When we got back, I even decided to slap MY saddle on Dona to see how she liked a little weight. Normally, she gets

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-64829779868870658842010-06-29T15:56:00.011-04:002010-06-29T16:25:48.096-04:00

Almost a month ago, I went to a local fun show to snap some pics, get my name out & have a little larf. The feedback I got from the kids & adults I snapped pics of was very encouraging, so - I'm headed back this weeked to do it all over again! My plan is basically to take pics for nearly ALL of the 4th of July weekend. Between snapping pics of my kiddos, the horse kids, and the fireworks, I

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-43009669705259286592010-06-01T11:36:00.017-04:002010-06-01T12:05:37.199-04:00

This weekend started out exactly as it should have -- once it got started. I didn't get a sitter, so I couldn't go down to the big car show and snap pics of hot rods like I wanted to so so SO badly. However, that didn't mean I couldn't snap some pictures! For instance, we had a lot of these this weekend.Yep. Not much comes close to the first few fresh local crops. We had asparagus, and now we're

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-69304167816882655332010-05-20T09:11:00.013-04:002010-05-20T09:58:47.119-04:00

A friend posted on FB yesterday her contemplations of possibly going to her HS Reunion. Boy, did that get me thinkin'. I went to our 10 year reunion a few years back, with a friend that really really wanted to go. I however, really, really, really did NOT. But, I love her, and know how much it meant to her to go, so we did. What a freaking laugh fest. It was (apparently) billed as a tail gate

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-18087203378577174832010-05-17T13:10:00.008-04:002010-05-17T13:38:58.570-04:00

This is the face I got a little bit ago. This is his "I-am-so-not-happy-right-now" look. It shouldn't but it cracks me up. Here was how our conversation went:Big Boy: 'Do I have to do more Swedish right now?'Big Mean Mommy: 'Yes, keep going - you're doing great!'Big Boy: ' But Mom, this is hard.'Big Mean Mommy: ' I know honey, but you really are doing great. Just keep repeating it back when they

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-31532243764715781672010-05-05T09:13:00.006-04:002010-05-05T09:31:32.097-04:00

Quite a while back, I talked about my crazy psycho redhead horse that eventually had to be put down. If you missed it, and have no idea what I'm talking about now - here's a link for ya. Just be sure you have time to read all 5 parts - or stop at 4 and forget number 5 ever happened. That's fine too. Bring a tissue if you're into horse operas. http://qtswede.blogspot.com/2009/08/

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-25627700942819851902010-04-24T20:10:00.005-04:002010-04-25T12:46:39.775-04:00

So, today was my boy's first 4-H meeting. I don't know much about it, since, when I was a child I never once went to one. I never showed. I never saw good reason to. Most of the kids that I knew that showed their horses were giant pains, and I wanted as little to do with them as possible, so with my little kid logic, I assumed that all of the kids that showed were giant pains in the butt, and

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-29053251069923600902010-04-22T13:36:00.007-04:002010-04-22T13:55:17.940-04:00

This is my little guy leading his old man pony. All alone, he's in control. No chain.It makes me so proud. He rides him in the round pen without any help. AH! My little cowboy! Does my heart goood. And it doesn't.Just because, all that really means is that he doesn't need me quite so much anymore. Until, the pony is tied, and the pony gets to eyeballin' him. The boy gets nervous. He has to come

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-978812064238438182010-04-21T22:24:00.006-04:002010-04-21T22:45:50.896-04:00

No. No, it's not that hard to measure a horse, unless of course, you have been imbibing on too many adult beverages.So why is it that so very many horse people seem to have no clue as to how to measure their horse for sale? Or, should I say, the horse they're selling for their brothers' friends' sisters' neighbor.I think it's just laziness, or just plain stupidity. It's not hard. The toughest

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-15589738454296276562010-04-21T01:00:00.003-04:002010-04-21T01:30:27.385-04:00

It has been a few years since we had a litter of puppies on the farm. The golden litter that was born on Brett Favre's birthday have all grown up and become pretty respectable good citizens - doggy wise, anyhow.Longer ago than that, though - was the Old English pups. We have never bred for money. We spend far too much feeding, washing, training & spoiling the pups to ever make any. Not to mention

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-29078231986693804992010-04-18T11:06:00.003-04:002010-04-18T11:14:51.524-04:00

Took the camera with me to do morning chores - there are some green things finally poppin up around here, and I wanted to get a few halfway decent snapshots.Of course, the animals were not feeling very photogenic this morning, so I skipped that and went to flowers. They have little choice but to be photgenic. They don't get moody, or distracted because I just fed them, and food is oh, so

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-84374443017662356932010-04-17T17:00:00.007-04:002010-04-17T17:24:28.992-04:00

This is the part that makes me a little sad. My little boys' little pony is not quite enough for him. I love this pony. He's my little friend. He's a sweet old man, with a heart of gold. I have never met such a good fella, but my boy is supposed to go to fair, and well, Champ just isn't up to it. So, with a very heavy heart, we have put Champ up for sale. I am praying that he finds a home that

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-43152976010331555192010-04-05T09:41:00.007-04:002010-04-05T09:58:00.125-04:00

First of all, let me say that around here, no matter the weather, irregardless of holidays, visitors, you name it - every day is more or less the same. There are reasons for this. Generally, most of those reasons center around the livestock, and dogs. But, that's alright with me. I don't need extra fanfare for holidays, it is a pleasant reminder that no matter how overly anxious everyone gets,

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-69736153967814873862010-03-27T10:56:00.009-04:002010-03-27T11:22:26.775-04:00

Over the past oh, say 'bout a month - I have been learning how to use a *real* camera - which, if you haven't tried it yet, is quite the learning curve if you've been screwin' around with a craptastic point & shoot. Which, I have been doing since our family crawled out of film and into the digital era - which, wasn't that long ago.Already, my older boy is asking why I have a bazillion pics of

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-75173505411186416572010-03-19T19:06:00.006-04:002010-03-19T19:23:49.093-04:00

I love to go to Shipshewana. You can spot me there on random Friday mornings throughout the year. I have yet to go for their famous flea markets - never have been. No, what I go for is what I think the auction house started with. Livestock auctions. Not just any livestock - horses. Yep. I LOVE the infamous Shipshe horse auction. The action of it, the fast pace, the strangely wide variety of

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-40937090045878572292010-03-07T19:53:00.003-05:002010-03-07T20:08:48.533-05:00

THIS ... is Pippi Longstocking. Or, at least, it's the actress who played Pippi in one of the productions of Astrid Lindgren's books. If you are not familiar with her, brace yourself. She is NOT a politically correct character. She lives in a house, with no adult supervision. Her father is a sea captain, who is never home, and I don't remember what the story is with her mother.She skips school,

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-58456707189393941042010-03-04T23:13:00.002-05:002010-03-04T23:28:26.907-05:00

So, I am feeling like a better version of myself. I don't know how else to put it. I just feel like a better, happier, better adjusted version of ME. As a result, my positive, cheery side has been irritating people in new and exciting ways!!! Yay!! I've also made a new friend - woo hoo! But, I'm getting ahead of myself. Let's see...I am a member of this killer hunting forum. I may or may not have

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-72442304339716550492010-02-28T20:14:00.002-05:002010-02-28T20:34:07.616-05:00

I gotta say - I have had luck in the past with most eastern medicine - i.e. herbal supplements, vitamins, etc. I have had little to NO luck in the past with relying on doctors to help me with the things that docs consider -- insignificant.I don't know where you stand, but, for me, being in a depressive state for nearly all of the time between 15 and 31 is NOT an insignificant problem. I am not

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-64900127965754166882010-02-19T23:32:00.004-05:002010-02-19T23:49:54.706-05:00

Have you ever had a day where you end up more confused and irritated than you started?Seems to be a common occurrence around here lately. Not that I wake up confused, but once people & critters start poking themselves into my peripherals & interacting with me I sure have been watching the stress level rise.For instance - Wheezy. Holy wah. OK. She's blind in one eye, suffers from heaves, and I

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-57043908428720125682010-02-17T09:50:00.002-05:002010-02-17T10:02:16.004-05:00

Yesterday, an old friend from high school posted on her facebook page that she was interested in putting together a container garden this spring. She's posted about it before, but I think now that all the stores are starting to stock seeds & seed starting materials, the bug is setting in. Happens to me every year, but generally speaking, me & seeds don't jive. Don't get me wrong. I am perfectly

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-31037629879536617332010-02-15T09:00:00.004-05:002010-02-15T10:26:30.158-05:00

I know. Yesterday was all about the love - so why did I start the day thinking about evil nasties. Well, I can assure you, it wasn't my fault. I was sippin' on a little coffee, thinking of all I had to do this morning when from over my shoulder, outside my window, I heard an awful screeching squawking noise. Oh, dear Lord, no. BLECH. I HATE THESE DAMN THINGS!!! Unmistakeable to my ears since I

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-23659869199020379982010-02-13T10:59:00.004-05:002010-02-13T14:44:56.403-05:00

Yes, I stole the idea of this post from a very talented, classy blogger-lady, but that's ok, because it's a good one. And well, I love that too!Because it's Valentine's weekend, and because I am desperately trying to get myself into a more positive mood, I thought I would share some of the things that I love. There are many more, I know, but these are the ones I choose to reflect on today. Who

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-25087275462410319492010-01-11T16:17:00.009-05:002010-01-11T23:23:05.275-05:00

I will start posting again soon, but I have been very wrapped up in some non computerized projects as of late. Things like Christmas, and birthdays, and horses.... all things that do not work if I am on the computer all the time. Tomorrow is my son's first birthday. It will be fun, I'm sure. He's just so easy to deal with. He loves everything, and is happy most of the time, even when you consider

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-25115829872451467512010-01-01T17:35:00.002-05:002010-01-01T17:43:49.137-05:00

OK. Let's see, what can I do in honor of New Years? Hmmmm....Horses fed? - check. Drag the english saddle in through the blowing wind & lake effect snow while my fingers froze shut because I forgot to put on gloves before I went out? - check. Cleaned the saddles, touched up the headstalls, bits & blankets. Now, we wait. The snow is falling faster now, and the wind is making some impressive drifts

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-37345252881981323912009-12-29T13:29:00.008-05:002009-12-29T14:07:30.351-05:00

It is cold out. I know, not really a news flash for Michigan in December, but true nonetheless. Today our temps, in the (rare) sunshine of our version of the west coast have soared to 28. However, with the fabulous wind chill, it feels much closer to 20. Well, that's not too bad, until you attempt to perch yourself up on a horse, and spend a few hours. You would think that this is not a big

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-82719900018671603042009-12-28T12:58:00.003-05:002009-12-28T13:10:18.035-05:00

Here's hoping that everyone had a great Christmas, Hannukah, Solstice or whatever you choose to celebrate, filled with family, love and peace!Ours was better than I thought it would be, truth be told. Davey's first Christmas seemed to go well. He liked opening up his presents, but was fascinated with some of the fancy paper as much as the new toys. I can't blame him - there was some pretty

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-66337675781796714142009-12-18T17:50:00.008-05:002009-12-18T17:59:41.480-05:00

For anyone that might be interested, I am posting up Christmas Cookie recipes from here until Christmas on my 'other' blog. You see, I've tried to keep things here from turning into a food blog, and so started a second one just for my Swedish delights. Feel free to browse what I have up. I try to give a little insight and background on every nordic tradition that I write about as well, so a

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-24938617298829938172009-12-15T13:30:00.004-05:002009-12-15T21:39:32.857-05:00

I was recently tagged by an old friend that I went to school with. We have yet to do a margarita night, but I, personally, am ready for it any old time ;)So, Jessica at The Magical Mundane, Thanks for the tag - looks to be a good one!!http://themagicalmundane.blogspot.com/This was originally started by Heather at the Top Ten Christmas Blog. I don't know if I know of enough blogs to complete the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-10976142723973732182009-12-01T09:46:00.006-05:002009-12-01T10:12:46.682-05:00

Now, we welcome December. Deer season is pretty much over for me, and it passed me by nearly unnoticed. I did my traditional days, but could not go out much more than that with building days, babysitting, and just being stressed out to my eyeballs. Turns out that I could have gone without the building portion of the game. NONE of the saddle stands I made sold at Shipshewana on Black Friday. I

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-35858717497951530872009-11-14T12:46:00.010-05:002009-11-14T13:39:25.600-05:00

Oh, my lovely Velvet. I love her so. (She's the one on the left) She is the best mare on the planet, I am sure. She has taken over Lady's spot as alpha mare, as I knew she would. I was concerned that she would become corrupted with her absolute power in the herd. I was worried that she would become a bit of a witch and start bullying and become a giant bay pain in the arse. But, I wasn't too

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-26260521795718447042009-11-01T17:47:00.003-05:002009-11-01T17:48:45.726-05:00

So Sorry. I have been wanting to write, but have not had the time. I have had the time to chase after a sick baby, work with my son on his schooling, and build a few saddle racks. Writing though? Nope. Not yet. More to come. Just had to mention that I wasn't giving up on blogging. Just taking a well deserved break. Flu season sucks.

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-52556240267843921252009-10-10T22:37:00.005-04:002009-10-10T23:16:20.725-04:00

Seeing as it is fall - the weather is slipping into the chill side of life, the leaves are quickly changing, and the numbers of weekend interlopers have dropped off the the fall levels - which is to say, next to nothing. Another reason I love the fall. Having started to get used to the absence of overly rude people (NOTE: Not all weekenders are so clueless, or rude, but en masse, they can be

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-41485205689528781992009-10-07T12:13:00.006-04:002009-10-07T12:34:40.474-04:00

Ah, fall. It is so officially fall for me now. All of the big landmarks have been met. The apples are ripe (oh, lordy, how I love fresh crisp apples and all I can do with them.) and the nicer farms in the area are picking them by hand, choosing the most ripe, juicy fruits and boxing them up in ridiculously large crates bound for cider presses, mostly. I am even now, plotting my trip to the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-89410282567604303142009-10-05T15:28:00.008-04:002009-10-05T15:59:45.098-04:00

This weekend was the big apple picking party at one of our neighbor's orchards. This is a major event for them that they throw every fall. They invite their friends & neighbors from Chicago, and Michigan to their home tucked away in an apple orchard to celebrate the season, pick some apples, and have dinner. In addition to the general happy times, the past two years we have been invited to bring

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-47355177967551078982009-09-27T18:24:00.011-04:002009-09-27T19:17:29.318-04:00

Have you driven a Fjord lately? Well, I can't say that I have but now, more than ever I sure would like to! I have long been interested in this facinating breed. They were the horses the vikings rode back in Norway and Sweden - how cool is THAT??? I mean, honestly - a viking horse? And they generally come in fantastic scandinavian names - Bjorn, Brita, Sven, Runar, Sverre, and, one of my faves -

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-31806286104607195812009-09-24T11:47:00.005-04:002009-09-24T12:03:12.346-04:00

Just yesterday I was thinking about my mom's goonie paint mare, Rosie. You see, I trained Rosie to ride. She's the best kind of horse to train. Willing, calm, and brave. She doesn't buck - not yet anyhow, and she has never really caused a lick of trouble - well, outside of blocking traffic on the gravel road when I let her out to graze out of the pasture- and getting into the chicken food - and

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-84476899216728779932009-09-20T17:01:00.005-04:002009-09-20T17:27:15.416-04:00

This morning a good friend and I decided to commune with God and nature by spending our Sunday morning floating along the edge of a little lake I didn't even know was there. Simply beautiful scenery, the company was incredible, and to top it off, we made a couple of new friends. It started out for me by sneaking out of the house after gently kissing my hubby and sons, and taking the dogs out to

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-58199715187062722902009-09-11T09:43:00.002-04:002009-09-11T10:18:01.626-04:00

Back in 2001, my family was having problems. My grandfather was battling his last battle with cancer. We all knew it. He knew it. Chemo had been discouraged, though not nearly sternly enough. He still wanted to fight to the last. The chemo was too strong for him, but instead of telling him 'I'm sorry, Mr.Howard, the cure is worse than the disease, enjoy your time left with your family' the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-53126004377287206022009-09-08T23:49:00.003-04:002009-09-09T00:02:04.762-04:00

We were having some pretty serious technical difficulties with our last laptop. For one, when we got it, the battery was fried. Never held a charge for longer than 15 minutes. That is SO irritating. You can't even check email in that amount of time - I mean, come on. It was fine as long as it was plugged in. Problem was, the cord was half worn out as well. So we ended up searching for a new

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-78479577307283512472009-09-02T11:24:00.005-04:002009-09-02T12:00:45.044-04:00

Oh, how my heart aches. Tis the season - the MOST wonderful time of the year, for sure. When it's nice out, I look at the trees, and breathe in the cool air and can think only of the wonderful things that most people think of - hearty soups, autumn colors, fresh bread, apples & cinnamon .... you know. Like most ladies of distinction. However,all of that happens to

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-14371489347953724672009-08-31T12:01:00.005-04:002009-08-31T12:33:15.075-04:00

First of all, Lady is still here, for now. I'm trying to figure out what I can do with her. I hate all of my options, and I have to do what's best for both of us in the long run.But, on better subjects, the kids are great - Larry is reading up a storm, and is becoming more and more confident with his reading. He read his first story in the 2nd grade level phonics, and had to share it by reading

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-49022211382404252512009-08-26T09:56:00.006-04:002010-01-11T23:38:23.866-05:00

I had been riding Lady a few times a week this summer. But she wasn't picking up from where we left off too well. When invited to trail ride with friends, I always took Velvet, since my time with Lady was still reinforcing some basics, and trying to get her cooperation. Not fun or easy to do on the trail. Don't miss read me here. We didn't do the same thing over and over. We took our work out of

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-9808527910270664642009-08-25T22:15:00.006-04:002009-08-26T09:55:25.859-04:00

Occasionally she would be a real pill. For one, she disliked men. She disliked most people in fact, but would come to me whenever I called. She would let 3 people ride her - Me, Dona, and Jim. Everyone else would just be pushing their luck. She'd fight in the cross ties for no good reason, pulling like hell until either a rope broke, the halter broke, or I calmed her down. There was never really

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-69258995932676693262009-08-25T19:15:00.005-04:002010-01-11T23:50:58.523-05:00

I called up Dona right after I got a good chance to try out Lady, freshly back from the stallion's pen. It was not encouraging for me. She didn't know any leg cues, and was very reluctant to turn to the left. Or the right. I didn't realize it earlier, since we had never gone out alone. It was always Lady & Me with Molly & Jenny. WOW. She was hardly green. A hardly green 5 year old. YIKES!Dona had

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-70603121457542931762009-08-25T17:56:00.004-04:002009-08-25T19:41:27.399-04:00

The first few nights were pretty sleepless for me, with this big beautiful animal home. I could hear her calling for a friend as darkness came, and I was afraid she would break through our meek electric fencing. To avoid any lost horse issues, I put her in the barn over night, so she would know where home was. She was so nervous the whole time in the barn. She paced, and sweated, and was hardly

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-35842327481528627572009-08-22T23:39:00.011-04:002009-08-25T18:53:21.051-04:00

written on August 23, 2009Today, I took a moment to work with my Lady Love. I have loved her from the moment I laid eyes on her. She has loved me too, I think.I will never forget the first time I laid eyes on that horse. Mom and I had been looking for the right horse for literally, years. We had gone on countless excursions, examining horse after horse, test rides, and conformation critiques.

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-56765274253524677402009-08-11T15:40:00.002-04:002009-08-11T16:06:39.660-04:00

Every morning, I get up with the sun (or before) and try to sneak past Davey who's sleeping in his crib so I can pull on my boots and head out to the barn to feed, water, and pasture my mares & mom's mares. I go out, throw a little hay and open the gate to the main pasture so my girls can go graze in the tall grass of the big pasture. There is all kinds of Timothy, Brohm, and Alfalfa along with

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-25325746631408703072009-08-10T10:32:00.002-04:002009-08-10T10:48:53.343-04:00

My sister has this darling little girl - well, she has two, but this one makes me laugh much more than her big sister.Kayleigh is 2. Whoever said they were terrible just didn't have an appreciation for a very small child's outlook on life. How can you take up issue with such big innocent eyes when they look at you and say 'WHY?'. I will never know. Yes, it gets irritating around the 40th time,

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-33780618139222394642009-08-09T19:54:00.000-04:002009-08-09T20:03:12.487-04:00

After the birthday bash week, Larry rekindled his friendship with his ol' buddy ol' pal, Kathleen. They have spent the night together at her house, and now, they've had a campfire, with her little sister, Kyra in tow. It was a fun evening. They had burgers for dinner then played while I got Champ ready to give them pony rides. Larry was showing off his horsemanship by leading his pony for the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-28948419758065207802009-08-09T19:37:00.000-04:002009-08-09T19:54:41.857-04:00

I swear, I am going to start keeping this up regularly. I swear. Any day now, I will get my chit together and start writing daily ... well, maybe weekly to start. Or, when something cool happens. Eh, Guess I'll keep playing it by ear, but try to up date more often.There is a week in July that is pure birthday extravaganza around here. It kicks off on the 25th when we celebrate my hubby's birthday

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-53527277945473610822009-07-05T09:11:00.000-04:002009-07-05T09:44:00.674-04:00

Another 4th of July has come and gone, without much fanfare around here. Our party hearty neighbors have all seemed to use the celebration of our country's inception as just another reason to get blind stinkin' drunk and act like jackasses. It's been like this since they moved in.So, as I sat under the fireworks display in our local little berg, with my 6 year old son on my lap, with his ears

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-47986497126537403362009-06-29T09:54:00.000-04:002009-06-29T10:18:28.211-04:00

Well, it's been an interesting weekend so far. Yesterday marked Trixie's 3rd birthday. Good thing I'm working on her every free chance I get - which so far, is not too much. Yep. She looks overworked, doesn't she?Wheezy got the OK to go into a small pasture with a friend last time she saw the doc. Looks like she is mostly blind now in that eye. BUT, she is certainly doing fine. She ran into the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-2467050112930171272009-06-22T16:30:00.001-04:002009-06-22T16:52:44.318-04:00

My mother has a mare with a very, erm. . . colorful personality. She is generally a good natured horse, though one of the most cantankerous old bitches you ever did see. She can be perfectly sedate one day, and then try to strike at you the next. We have gone around several times, and although she can be terribly pig headed, she always realizes that 'oh, yeah. . . this one doesn't back down.'

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-6100064100278284952009-04-16T08:22:00.000-04:002009-04-16T08:37:38.282-04:00

God, you know you really must love your animals when you can spent 2 days without complaint working on their 'play' area. In my case, it's an electric fence that encompasses approximately 6 or 7 acres for my horses to run & graze in. It's quite nice, really. In that little space, there is a small patch of trees that they can get shade from, and a small pond that they can drink or swim in (and

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-59049207569903853812009-04-13T09:28:00.000-04:002009-04-13T09:31:26.457-04:00

SOOOO.... Middle of Feb. the stud colts were de-studded, and they are right now, tucked in with the girls out in the BIG pasture.On the home front, we've already had to take little David to the hospital a few times now, ended up he had RSV, and it wasn't over until he'd been admitted. That was a while ago though.Now, everyone seems to be healthy & happy.I will try to be better at this.....

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-38569960383020475242009-01-30T15:09:00.000-05:002009-01-30T15:18:29.611-05:00

Here we are end of January already - WOW. I had to put this in the blog, as I haven't touched the blog until today, since what, Thanksgiving-ish? Oy. Since last I blogged, Christmas came & went, new years too. Oh, yeah, and I had the baby.... because of that, I have started up a website exclusively for baby-updates, so that's one more thing for my own distraction.....I thought I would give it

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-54565574236920006382009-01-30T15:05:00.000-05:002009-01-30T15:09:44.056-05:00

WOW! Oops.what can I say? I was wrong in my last post. The stud muffin is still a stud muffin. I was unable to procure the truck to facilitate a move for him to see the Doc to remove those spare parts. Then, not long after that, the truck's health began to fail, and it was relieved of it's duties here. SO, no truck to move the trailer, no good place on the farm at the moment that would offer the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-52158937301306384252008-11-28T09:19:00.001-05:002008-11-28T09:34:10.828-05:00

I hope everyone had a nice, pleasant Thanksgiving. Ours was pretty much normal for the crew here. We were lacking only my little sister, and my big sis's hubby.My big original plan for the day was to head down to the Black Friday sale in Shipshewana to drop off a stud horse. For anyone that cares, there isn't anything wrong with him, I just have no room for a stud at the moment, and although he

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-22783014171518697322008-11-17T15:32:00.000-05:002008-11-17T15:38:50.558-05:00

Well, I had to go to a nutritionist appiontment last week, so they could 'educate' me on the proper things to eat, etc.... except, during the course of the consult, I corrected the nutritionist oh, 4 - 5 times or so. LOL. I now have to take blood sugar levels 4x a day (no biggie, just an inconvenience) . Larry went with me to chaperone the nutritionist appointment. I think he went to protect the

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-78906121807620210022008-11-10T10:15:00.001-05:002008-11-10T10:34:09.914-05:00

Some of you may know of my utter dissapointment with public schools in general. They are overstuffed, understaffed, and prone to ignore kids that think outside the box.As a result of this, I chose to put my son into perochial school. They have a much better reputation of excellence in education, not to mention instilling a morality in kids. At least, that's what I thought.During the 2nd week of

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-18533542121319992012008-11-05T20:28:00.000-05:002008-11-05T21:01:40.346-05:00

I can't do all my barn work myself, but thank goodness I have such a great hubby (don't make me regret praising you, hon.)Tonight, my Dearest went out & cleaned all the stalls (except one that needs attention before the snow flies) and spread lime for me Lucky me! Show me a girl that wouldn't appreciate that, and I'll show you a snotty little shit. Mom went out with me to help handle the horses,

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1179155716756198088.post-54384680252845946552008-11-05T14:18:00.000-05:002008-11-05T14:31:03.182-05:00

Never really been much of a blogger - usually it's only when something phenomenally strange happens, but seeing as I have little to do at the moment, I'll give it a shot for a little while at least.My hubby & I are going through a pregnancy for our 2nd child (which, incidentally is why I don't have too much going on right now business wise) who is supposed to be a boy - but we'll see in January

Qtswedehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14191456847738673965noreply@blogger.com1