ZOWIE: FIRST!!

merry merry
happy happy
just put the smile on
in the mirror
and somehow
if you do it enough,
it'll come back to you.

There might be a hat with
felt reindeer antlers
or
a sweater
festooned with stuff:
ribbons, little bells,
metallic thread,
silly bears, penguins, santas.
That'll do too.

I vow to keep my stuff to myself
especially in the next two days
to myself.

Because remember:
EVERYONE is fighting some kind of battle.

We are Famblee...
we are moving mountains
for our horses.
As Daryl told us--
mountains unmoved
throughout the last 5
years of HS opposition
on the Hill.

A Leetle Aide asked me one morning:
"What lobbyist are you working for?"
I just had to laugh.
No, children:
we're up from the grass
roots of all horse pastures.

We have the ace:
that big, bay colt
and all who followed
him into our hearts.

Their names are legion--
and all the unknowns,
those live in Prancer's name
in Prancer's fate.

So put on your antler cap,
go and run those last errands
and be shameless
in spreading the love
that your Famblee offers
everyday.

Not just Christmas Eve.

Love to all my Famblee.

Good morning FOB's, Alex and Barbaro! I hope that everyone has a wonderful Christmas! And if you are travelling, travel safely! :)

Ruth Ann

Good morning. Alex, as you spend this holiday away from close friends and family, I hope you know that you are loved and admired by many. Merry Christmas!

Everyone:

Peace on earth and goodwill to all (living things)..
best wishes for a happy healthy new year!

Love-
Christian

Good Morning Famblee,

It's almost 7am here in the East Wing (as our Ladeeattafense would say) and I'm here because I'm excited. I wrapped my fiancee's presents last night. I had to wait until she went to bed, pretending I wasn't tired, going to stay up, yadda yadda and wrapped until 1am. Then, being so excited about seeing her waking up this morning and finding her presents under the tree, I woke up about an hour ago. LOL I feel like a kid again.

It's now officially Christmas Eve here. And this will be the best Christmas ever because (following in Joe's footrints):
1. The day after Christmas, we go to closing on our new (to us) house! No, sadly, there's no room for a Horse...or zoning to allow it, it's in town;
2. We have come soooo close to fulfilling Barbaro's biggest charge to us - the utter destruction of Horse slaugter in the US!
3. There are new opportunities everyday in many ways to help our Horses; and to see the benefits of properly taking care of, loving and respecting our Horses (I always think of RT and what she, with our support has done for Plum Tricky (Lily), Slew's granddaughter; a truly amazing story of love);
4. Finally, because of Famblee. There is nothing in the world that is more important. Famblee is here to laugh with us, cry with us, fight with us and lean on; but most importantly, Famblee is here to love with us. Love for each other, for the Horses, for those like Joe & Cathy Shelton, and love for the sake of love.

I'll stop my blathering now and just wish each and every one a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Joyous New Year. And one more wish I have for all, I wish you all Love.

No Horse left behind!
Lee

P.S. Didn't think I'd miss a chance to plug the BB&B did you? lol Please help if you can, any way you can.

Good Morning Sweet Barbaro in Heaven!

Good morning Bobby's Lil Angel, Spirit, Jonah, Rosie, Misty and all the fabulous animals at MHR

Happy Christmas Eve!

For Barbaro, for Fitch, for Apache, for Ho'pats and all horses.

Ro & Brady

only until Friday to buy tickets for the December Miracle Horse Rescue Hay Drive. The prize is a beautiful pewter lapel pin depicting a horse that reminds us of the Percherons about to arrive at MHR. It comes with its own box with a picture of a mare and foal and a chocolate rocking horse. Tickets are 1 for $5.00 or 3 for $10.00.

There is MORE. As a bonus there is going to be another LEGACY PRINT offered as a prize. Tickets for this prize remain at 1 for $5.00 or 3 for $8.00

MHR December Hay Drive

Ro & Brady

Merry Christmas everyone!

Love you B.

Happy Christmas Eve Day Famblee!

Alex, the best to you and your family and friends - thank you. To the Jacksons, Dr. Richardson, Eduardo and Edgar, Tim and Penny and all their families and friends - best wishes for a happy and festive holiday season.

Barbaro - one year ago we hung on every word of your every step, each grooming, and picks of grass. We remember you as you inspire us to work toward a better world for animals in need.

Merry Christmas to All,
Annie in PA

##

Good Christmas Eve Morning, ABR Famblee:)

Yes, it's Monday...the 43rd Monday...but I hear there will be a *SPECIAL* Message to all of us from OUR BOY later today at www.equine-heaven.com Personally, I'm PRETTY 'EXCITLED' about that!!:)

Sophie'sLee:) CONGRATS!! A new home!! :) Signing papers on the 26th for a NEW HOME:) THAT, dear Fren, is a MILESTONE in one's life! I hope for you and your Ladeee to make a MILLION HAPPY MEMORIES there!!! :)

Robyn Hoffman:) You, dear person, are ever welcome for my 'adventures' with Mister & his Sister:):):) Believe me, Robyn, it's as much FUNNN for me to write, because it takes me right back there...INSIDE THE FENCE...and I'm 'with them' all over again:)

Jonna:) "It's ALL good"!!! :)

I have NO errands this day, Famblee!!!:) I've made my last pre-holiday runnnnnns to Wal Mart! I've made my last runnnnns to our version of a Mall, here in these foothills of CA:) ANNND!! I've done the grocery run for the ABSOLUTE last time...I hope!

Today is my youngest's BIRTHDAY:) Bless her heart! Christmas Eve!!

I woke up this morning, lay there in the darka-darka with Murphy:) thinking of how most peeples, except the retailers, have this day off! I wondered if those 'bad houses' in Mexico and Canada will have this day and tomorrow off! It made me, of course, think of all the horses...and I WILL keep sending my 'stinkin' faxes and making calls when I must, so by this time NEXT year our AMERICAN HORSES WILL BE SAFE!!!! And if I am ever blessed with grandchildren, they will NEVER feel the anguish we've all felt over our country's 'dirty little secret'!!!

I also lay there this morning, thinking of all of YOU:) my Famblee at ABR!! Last year this time, my writings were at UPENN Message Board...I 'lurked' here...I stopped here each morning, like the rest of you to see 'ACN':) 'cause unklealex ALWAYS had the 'word' before they posted on UPENN:) Things were so good for Barbaro now a year ago, that updates were only posted once a week or every two weeks!! I was SO excited!! I had arranged a Treat Basket be delievered to Barbaro a year ago today:) It was the first one I'd sent:) That was the first time I'd ever spoken to Alie, she took my order...After reading so much about Kennett Florist, I kinda felt like I was conversing with a 'Rock Star'!!! :)

Well.....dear ones, I am 'rambling' reminiscing...and I should be 'zooming'....I wish for you ALL to have a WONDERFUL Christmas Eve!

Don't forget to save a few minutes to check out,
www.noradsanta.org!!! It's REALLY neat:) Young children and peeples like all of 'us' will like it 'alotsa'! I PROMISE:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Merry Christmas Alex! Thank you for everything.

###
Lynne,
Do I have your email address?

##

Sophie'sLee: Check your e-mail:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Got it Lynne ;)

Merry Christmas to all FOBs, have a great present-unwrapping day tonight and tomorrow morning!

Congrats to Lee and his fiance.

Happy Holidays for all of Barbaro's Fans!

Daryl

Merry Christmas to everyone. May you all be surrounded by love and peace.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to FOBs everywhere, to horses great and small, may the Spirit of Barbaro be with YOU ALL!

###Merry Christmas Alex, thank you for all you have done for us here. May you have a very merry one.

Judy

To FsOB everywhere--Alex, that includes you-- have a wonderful, joyous, and safe Christmas and New Year. I love you guys.

Hay, FOB's!

Merry Christmas to everybody...we've been through so much this year and have come out of it stronger than every. May this holiday season bring all the love you deserve and all your hearts desire. I love you all.

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

EACH OF YOU, EVERYONE OF YOU,

I wish you Merry Christmas, Happy New Year too,
and God bless you and keep you. I love you FsOB,

Alex, bless you and thank you,

Barbaro, thank you for your life and example and
for more than I can say. Merry Christmas to you
and your herd in heaven.
Bobbie.

To All who gather here,

Merry Christmas!

Equine Heaven has a very touching message to us. (Tears on my face and a smile in my heart).

To Walk and Coby's mom, please take care.

To Harlequin and Bryan's mom, please take care.

To Boxcar's mom, please take care.

This really is a very special group of people.

Thank you Alex, Penny, Wendy and Tim for all you do.

Take care everyone and happy holidays!

carleen

...
Sherman's mom, please take care too!!!

Gunner's mom, please take care!

The mind is going... or maybe gone. To much Christmas cheer.

Apple and carrot hugs to all.

carleen

Such bad news about Dale Baird.

Famblee, everyone please be careful in your travels. Our weather is turning crazy and treacherous.

Peaceful Christmas to all of you.

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

Love,

Sue and Walter
xoxoxoxo

##

Just read today's Equine Heaven....copy/pasting my comments here :)

EH:) Thanks SO much for posting Bobby's words for us this day:)

Exquisite...absolutely exquisite words...of course, I'd expect nothing less coming from our BIG BAY BOY:)

I am home!!! Left Elder's neighborhood, pulled onto the highway...drove maybe .10 mile and WHAT WAS THERE????? A RAINBOW!!!! We've had some pretty thickish, high fog in these foothills this morning...and a RAINBOW was created:) I IMMEDIATELY!!!! said, "Hi BARBARO:) Merry Christmas to YOU, TOOOOO:) the car in front of me at the light...to bring me up and over the mountain to my abode? A MUSTANG!!!

Barbaro is EVERYWHERE....just like GOD:) He lives in our hearts and in the gifts of Nature all around us!

Merry Christmas, ABR Famblee

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

"Barbaro's Rainbow"

God
Angel Barbaro
A Chirstmas Miracle
His Halo Is Glowing
All The Beautiful Colors
All Spiritual Presence
Barbaro Lives
In The Sky
In Our Dreams
In Our Hearts
The Rainbow Of Love
Christmas Love
Christmas Angels
All Around........

Christmas Wonder........8........

Affirmed

Carleen - thank you for thinking about Gunner and his Mom. Looking out the window at him at this very moment ........ he's gained weight during his 3 weeks with me ..... and he continues so beautiful ....... gentle ....... and such a gift from Barbaro ......... as are all of you .....
For me - the past 18+ months as a member of the beautiful famblee .... my appreciation of all that is important has become clearer ... and the meaning deeper. It would have been impossible to face the many challenges in life had you all not been here. Forever friendships have been forged ... lives saved ...... money raised .....
hard work done ......... sorrow, sadness, frustration, joy ! A new dictionary could be written ! My wish ...... for all you beautiful souls .... is safety and love .........
however you spend the next several days ........ know that my deepest gratitude and love goes with you.

Sherry and the "herd" -
Warpaint, Dakota and Gunner
Chico and Amigo - the pootles

###
I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone here a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

###Lynn: Do you ever get to see Black Jack?

###Jonna: Hang in there. We always wonder "what could have been". Take comfort in the fact that Tom loved you. Be thankful for that, and embrace it.

Joyeux Noel...Bonne Ane.

May God bless us, every one! 8 )

Love to all.

Thank you Equine-Heaven, thank you Barbaro.
Merry Christmas

#### OMG...Lynne...so sorry I misspelled your name!!! Must have been another gray moment!! 8 )

Merry Christmas wishes to all my most special "Famblee", love you all, simply the best!!
Holding hands, paws, hooves, feets, . . . . with all the BARBARO NATION!!

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever!! Run with the angels honey!!
I love you so, Bobbey Jackson!!

And love to all the Heavenly Herd, always. You take me to where angels walk!!

Christmas angels abound!

Now must peek in at Equine Heaven and TB Friends yet!!

Love you all!
Lou Ann

##

Sabra...Not a problem:)

You have given me food for thought...and my 'soul'...no, I haven't taken the time to make that call and arrange for a visit with that beautiful boy horsey who used to 'skip' from his stall to the fence to get his carits:) Shame on ME!

I'll work on that one in January, Sabra:) Thanks for the 'nudge'....See, Famblee? Barbaro lives in us ALL and sometimes he 'nudges' us through one another:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Today Equine-Heaven is beautiful. Enough to use up a box of kleenexs. ###going to my brothers house tonight as we open our gifts on Christmas Eve, we had turkey Thanksgiving but tonight we are having nachos, frito pie and tacos. True west texas food. Hope you all have a good Christmas Eve.

The Most Beautiful Christmas Message From Barbaro Angel Equine Heaven. I Love You So A Lot.

All Angelic Glowing Rainbows........

Affirmed

##

Hi Sandra and *CHIEF*:)

Daughter's Birthday is today...we are having 7 Layer Bean Dip with MARGARITAS and CHIPS:) Her request!! Yippeeeeeee-Skipppyyyyyyy!!! Easy b'day dinner:)

Merry Christmas my New Fren and her 'wonnerful' doggy!! I hope Santa brings 'alotsa' low cal Nilla Wafers, Chief...!!!

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Merry Christmas everyone. I wish you all happiness and peace.

RIP Dale. So sad to read that news. It was horrendous around here yesterday so I am sure the wind and ice was a contributing factor.

ALEX,

This is for you. It comes from a front page story in todays Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. If anyone knows how to blue link this that would be great.

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=699770

Title: No. 4 is bestselling NFL jersey of all time.

I immediately thought of Alex when I saw this today. Enjoy

I wish you a Marry Christmas, I wish you a Marry Christmas, I wish you a Marry Christmas, and a happy New Year.
I love you all, so much!
Hope Santa is good too you all!

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Hope it works!

So nice to see names that post everyday and those that don't.

########
Debbie,
Thank you!

#######
Lee,
Congrats on the new house

Barbaro, sweet spirit horse of forever...I'd like to thank you for all the gifts you have given me in the past 19 months, and to ask for just one more gift...please give my Princess Maizie Lee some of your special "horsie-love" and tell her how much I miss her!

It has been a sad day as my thoughts unavoidably drifted back one year as we all awaited news from unklealexbrowntootalltobeajockey about his Christmas adventures with you, our beloved Barbaro! And then we were blessed with a beautiful picture of the two of you - good buddies together in your stall!

I take some small measure of comfort in realizing that you are whole, healthy and forever handsome, romping with the greats and the blessed unknowns in greener pastures...you are firmly entrenched in my mind and my heart - the roots are permanently entwined around my heart - I love you, Big Boss Horse!

Thank you, God, for the brief, spectacular gift of BARBARO!

Sleep in heavenly peace...

Nancy

Mr. & Mrs. Jackson, Dr. Richardson, Michael Matz, Peter Brette, Tim Woolley, Edgar Prado, Eduardo, everyone responsible in any way for Barbaro's life and care... and, of course, Alex:

I send you the blessings of Christmas and my fond wishes for a happy and healthy 2008! Thank you for the part each one of you has played in creating and maintaining this community - born out of love for a beautiful big bay colt, grown into the love of all horses, with fervent hopes that in the new year they will ALL be safe and treated with the respect they deserve as glorious creations.

God bless you all!

Nancy

Prayer for the Barbaro Nation


Tiger tiger burning bright

What is this star we see tonight?

We see it high, we see it low

We hear it in the ground below

It lights up sand, it lights up snow

It lights up all the land we know.

Before the time, before the sun

Before "Kentucky Home" was sung

We showed up to the mystery

Now to the gate go one, two three!

We showed up here for Barbaro

By chance, by fate, we'll never know

Grow hoof grow, the song was sung

One for all, and all for one.



Now time and fate and prayers have passed

And new foals gallop on the grass.

And hundreds more, both old and young

Safe because of Barbaro

Safe because he called us out

Safe because he had no doubt.

A toast to FOBs tonight

Tigers, tigers burning bright!

It's good to know the stars are near

Right here, today, the famblee dear.


The stars up high the stars below

All here because of Barbaro

A barn a field a lobby letter

What else to do that feels much better?

So hug a horse and love each other

And tomorrow, all you want of butter!

Merry Christmas & love to all the FOB's

Peace on Earth

And finally - to my FOB frens and famblee,

You have each, in your own way, been a treasure in this good place! Whether you will be celebrating Christmas alone or in a crowd of people, I wish you peace and joy and thank you for your presence here. I hope you find love in your hearts this season and return energized to "complete his [Barbaro's] unfinished tasks" early in the new year!

Thanks to you all for your gifts of friendship, wisdom, creativity and knowledge.

Love and joy come to you,

Nancy

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to a wonderful Family Famblee. Those who will travel please be safe, all of you with horses please give them a Kiss and hug from CT. The cards that were sent look so wonderful and grace all the stalls. The herd thanks all of you for the cards and donations. What a wonderful feeling it was.

Thank you all for coming into my life and making it so full every day. I love you all very much!

Dr.Richardson, Edgar,Michael,Mr.and Mrs. Jackson,Alex and the great Team Barbaro. Merry Christmas.

Barbaro,dear Christmas Spirit.May you shine your brightest Champ. I love you with all my heart for ever. Bless the heavenly herd.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Renee and Cheyenne

Many wonderful posts today.

Merry Christmas to ALL !

Merry Christmas to all my fellow Fans! And special thanks and good wishes to Alex and Tim and Penny, without whom we would not be here.

Peace on earth to ALL creatures.

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

Thanks to Equine Heaven for those beautiful words from our beloved Barbaro. And a million thanks to the FOBs and rescue organizations - you truly are angels and I'm grateful for the miracles you've given us. Some are gone and some are still with us, but I'll never forget Fitch, Mac, Cowboy, Tullie, Naysa, and so on...

#########
Nancy,
We love you. Please don't be sad today.

########
Dee,
Your poem was beautiful.

##########
FOB's,
So many wonderful posts today, thank you!

Lynne Brown, Chief does not diet on Christmas. At Christmas he gets all the nilla he wants. In fact he gets pretty much what he wants all the time. My neighbor just had to put her 12 year old Lab down. same age as chief so I will continue to spoil Chief rotton. ##not reallyn excited about going to the party tonight. lots of people and I am such a hermit I consider over 3 a crowd. I really enjoy hanging out with Chief most of all. However, family stuff is okay. Will drink some of my brothers egg nog and that about renders one unconscious. Strong! Maybe I better just stick to beer which is my favorite. Anyway, yole hae a good night. ###well heck, had to buy a new furnace and today my washing hose busted. water everywhere. Well, will worry about that tomorrow as Scarlett said.

Thats washing machine hose. Cant type. jonna, I also hate my new keyboard.

Best wishes to everyone

Susan in Saratoga - one line in your poem has quite the impact.........."Safe because he called us out".

I will toast you all with my cocoa tonight. (I can't partake of the giggle juice. I have to get up for work at 4AM).

God Bless us, everyone.

####
sandra:
don't you just love spending money on "invisible" things like furnaces? I recently had to have a new oil pan installed beneath my engine...many hundreds of dollars in labor...the parts were chicken feed, naturally.

I just wish I could SHOW my BEAUTIFUL NEW oil pan to someone....just like your lovely new furnace and the washing machine hose: oy.

And what language is YOLE HAE? Sounds scandinavian
Have a fine evening: sounds like you'll be among friends...but don't hurt yourself.

Hugs to Chief, the Furnace-Hating-Dog & have a Merry, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Alex and all FOBs. It's been an incredible year.

To Barbaro in heaven with all who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge, I wish you peace and freedom from suffering. Loving you as always,

Deborah McCullough

jonna, yole is Texas and Southern talk. hae is this danged new keyboard. Yes, no one wants to look at my new furnace. I dont want to look at the discover bill when it comes in. am just hoping is is only the hose and not the whole old worn out machine. Hay, I would like to look at your new oil pan -that is if I knew where where the oil pan is. You are right. had plumber out a few weeks ago and the part was 3.00 and labor 76.00. he was here like 20 minutes. What a racket! anyway, better get ready to go to the party. getting ready means a clean pair of levis and blouse. Talk to you all tomorrow.

###Echoing the sentiments of many others on the board this day: Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and safe travels to all who must venture forth.

I am making my own list here: I have a drip in the one of the outside pipes (the faucet by the wash rack) and it is wrapped in a towel until I have enough "little niggly problems" to justify calling a handyperson to come fix 'em all up.

###I cooked my turkey Saturday because that was a good day to do it and will have turkey sandwiches for Christmas dinner. My Corgi mix Snuffy, eight months old, thinks I am the best hunter in the world. Not only do I never come home from a hunt emptyhanded, but everything is either boxed, canned, or bagged and just waiting for me to plunk it in his bowl.

My Christmas trees are both decorated (and lighting up just fine, thank you very much, now that I understand the concept of PLUGGING IN ALL THE OUTLETS. Talk about "DUH" ;o) and they are both beautiful. One tree is for animals and has horse, cat, and dog ornaments, initials for each of the animals I have owned, and a cowboy Santa under the tree.

Tomorrow I will put Huey's bridle on with some jingle bell additions and we will go on our annual Christmas Day trail ride. We ride the rest of the year, too, but not with jingle bells. ;o)

###Once again, have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday, and be safe--and warm.

###Alex, most especially, extra warm wishes to you. Thank you for providing us all with a place to meet each day. You are very special.

##

Sandra:) SO HAPPPPPYYYYY:) to know Chief doesn't have to DIET on Christmas!!!

Hoses are ever so much better to replace than motors, or God Forbid!!! the whole machine:) They sell those hoses in 'universal' form at good hardware stores!!

Alright, off to the kitchen to assemble the 7-Layer Bean Dip....and in a little while, MARGARITAS!!!

Sorry to see anyone die this time of year especially. Prayers for Dale's family.

Sorry to see Frank Gomez die as well!!! Sheesh

It's now Christmas Day here - as you will see from the timestamp.

Merry Christmas one and all.

Hay, FOB's!

###
Have sent out the Xmas Luke newsletter...if you don't receive it, please let me know.

###
Watched Seabiscuit tonight...cried again...sheesh.

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

Liz, UK

That just choked me up...Christmas already.
Blessings and good tidings to you and yours!

Just watched The Holiday with Judd Law, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black and Kate Winslet. I can only imagine how wonderful Christmas in England is!

Next, on the movie menue is White Christmas.

Enjoy your day!

carleen

I Love You So A Lot Angel MJ. All Beautiful Glowing Rainbows.

Affirmed

The Most Beautiful Rainbow Christmas To Angels Alex, Wendy, Penny, Tim, Dr. Dean Richardson & Staff, Mr. & Mrs. Roy Jackson, Mr. Michael Matz, Edgar, Eduardo, Peter, Kennett Florist, All Connections & All The Angels Here.

Angelic Glowing Rainbows And Wings Of Love
The Most Beautiful Rainbow Barbaro
Christmas Angels All Around........

Affirmed

The Most Beautiful Rainbow Christmas To Angel Equine Heaven. God's So Very, Very (To Fill This Page And More) Beautiful Messenger.

Your Wings Are Glowing So Beautifully.

All My Love.

Affirmed

Merry Christmas Eve Everyone!!!

Equine Heaven.... Thank You!

Biggest Wish S311 Passed!!!!!!!!!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Ro & Brady

A Merry, Blessed Christmas to all!! I have enjoyed reading all your wonderful posts.

Equine Heaven - thank you!

Janice
A forever FOB

merry christmas and happy holidays everyone!

alex, thanks for this!

Barbaro, love to you always. thank you for your guiding light.

Sleep tight, sweet FoBs and all our blessed horse connections who began us on this path.

Trying to stay awake during the great cartoon, Madagascar--which cracks me up--but sweet little Princess FeeFee (AKA: Crystal Chyna, AKA: Phoenix (adopter's main name for this adorable 48 pound very pale red brindle with almost no brindling) AKA: Phoe (Fee) AKA: FeeFee & now, Princess FeeFee, a tiny greyhound with two pugs, two humans and a huge Himalayan cat until her dainty little paw...)

Anyhow as I was saying, Princess FeeFee keeps laying her amazingly beautiful head in my lap (she's boarding for three days) and trying to put me to sleep...and well, it's working...zzzzzzzz.

A wonderful Christmas for us all tomorrow. Peace, above all else: peace.

Thank you Jackson's for sharing Barbaro with us. What an amazing movement you set in motion.

oh, and last but not least, a page full of rainbows for Dee, our Dee....very, very, a lot.....and so forth. love you, girl.

where would the House Barbaro Built be without you?

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night. And bless all the angels who have worked so hard to save the horses.

Condolences to Dale Baird and family and the teenager's families.

I love you all. Equine Heaven, Barbaro must have a straight connection to you. Thank you.

As always, thank you Alex....

This year has been very emotional, but the goodness and what has been accomplished (and the power of numbers), is extraordinary.

Lisa

For those still up during this magical night, light a candle for our boy, Bobby.

Thanks to each and everyone one of you...

Just after midnight on the East coast, which means I can say MERRY CHRISTMAS - may love and joy come to you...and to ALL our beloved horses!

Nancy

Merry Christmas, Nancy

Heading to the candle site now.

Love to all the famblee here. Peace and Hope for 2008. It is so touching to come here and read all your beautiful words. I love you.

Wishing every single one of you a
HAPPY HORSE YEAR!!!

With Love,
Samantha

MERRY CHRISTMAS SWEET PRINCE!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL THE FOB'S!! Wishing you a holiday season full of love and joy.

Prayers To Dale Baird's family and loved ones. What a horrible time to lose someone, no time is good but the holidays makes it even tougher.

FOB FOREVER!!

BLB!!

Karen - TN

10:29 westcoast time....

What a treat to read all the posts from our silent ones....

Dear Famblee...We ALL prayed so hard for a MIRACLE to happen in 2007!!Some of US were disallusioned when it appeared that NO MIRACLE was forthcoming !! We did get our MIRACLE Famblee..... YOU are the MIRACLE !!!!YOU are Barbaros precious MIRACLE!! YOU make LOVE happen for soooo many horses everyday....thousands of lives saved and the horse-world has been changed forever!!!!!
BECAUSE of YOUR LOVE....

FAMBLEE.... BARBARO will visit US ALL tonight for he lives in OUR HEARTS .....only a thought away as Otherlyn always tells US!!!!
THANK YOU and GOODNIGHT CHAMP...I LOVE YOU !!!! FOREVER....

HUGS and love dear Frens....

May God bless each and every one of you on this Christmas Eve for you are the most loving caring people on this earth !!!

Isn't it just amazing what LOVE can accomplish??

THANK YOU Lord for sharing your beautiful Barbaro with us

Merry Christmas!

Kleenex Alert!
I'm cross-posting this from the DB in Barbaro Poems/Videos etc. BigBayColt posted this and it is titled:

Barbaro's First Christmas in Heaven

I can't believe
How long it's been
Since I've been on Earth
With all my friends.

I've watched from above,
I've seen all your tears,
I know that for you,
This has been a tough year.

I saw as you gathered,
It warmed my heart,
To hear "Happy Birthday"
Sung at Delaware Park.

And you know I was there
The first Saturday in May.
I was honored, remembered,
Memorialized that day.

I watched in horror and sadness
As fellow racers broke down.
Mending Fences, George Washington,
All are here with me now.

And then there are those
Who were lost to slaughter.
I see you get discouraged,
Think of me, then fight harder.

I've seen you save lives,
I've watched as you cried.
You can't save them all,
But at least you tried.

And so this is Christmas,
That's how the song goes.
Each day, new arrivals
Show up on rainbows.

Perhaps your beloved pet
Is now here with me.
Take comfort in knowing
That now we're at peace.

We still see you cry,
We still feel your love.
Our first Christmas apart,
We're looking down from above.

So Happy Holidays
From Heaven to you,
Thanks for honoring my memory
With all that you do!

Love,
Barbaro

Merry Christmas Lee....sniff sniff and THANKS for the poem....God Bless !!!!

Merry Christmas morning FOBs,

I just read "Barbaro's First Christmas in Heaven" and the tears did flow.

I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Janice
A forever FOB

Merry Christmas to everybody!

Thinking of Barbaro in his red stocking hat last and knowing he is happy again in equine heaven.
Thinking of my fur baby Jake who has been in equine heaven for 6 months--i know Barbaro is watching over him.

I wish everybody a very Happy and Healthy 2008 and for all of the horses --freedom in 2008
Love
Linda

Merry Christmas to everyone. Alex said it all, the reason we are here and continue. Barbaro called each of us to make a difference.

May the spirit of the true meaning of Christmas be in your heart. The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord lay his countenance upon you, and give you peace.

Blessings to all..

To Alex and the wonderful FOB family - a very Merry Christmas and thank you for all the Christmas wishes.

Barbaro - we are here for your loving memory and for your equine family. May you all rest in peace when the bills are law.

MERRY CHRISTMAS BARBARO!

Merry Christmas Alex, thanks for hosting us.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Ro & Brady

Only until Friday to buy tickets for the December Miracle Horse Rescue Hay Drive. The prize is a beautiful pewter lapel pin depicting a horse that reminds us of the Percherons about to arrive at MHR. It comes with its own box with a picture of a mare and foal and a chocolate rocking horse. Tickets are 1 for $5.00 or 3 for $10.00.

There is MORE. As a bonus there is going to be another LEGACY PRINT offered as a prize. Tickets for this prize remain at 1 for $5.00 or 3 for $8.00

MHR December Hay Drive

Ro & Brady

Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas & all good things in the New Year. Shirl in KY.

LORD, THANKS: I ALMOST MISSED JOE'S CHRISTMAS EVE JOURNAL.....I CONTINUE TO BE AMAZED AT JOE'S LIFE AMONG HORSES THAT WOULD HAVE DIED IF NOT FOR HIS
ABILITY TO TUCK THOSE ARCHANGEL WINGS UNDER HIS HOODIE EVERY MORNING WHEN HE GOES OUT TO FEED THE
100+ CHARGES WITH WHICH GOD HAS ENTRUSTED HIM...
**************************************************
Christmas Eve, 2007...
I can be at school and stressed from life, but just thinking about Libby makes all the bad stuff go away. Libby is my everything. She sees me coming home from school from way down the street, and she starts pacing our fence. I only have one horse to love Joe. You have over 100 horses to love. You are the luckiest old dude I know... Abby Anderson, she is 14, and lives in Folsom. When Abby was 12 she came to our ranch and adopted Libby, a former pony horse from the race track. It seems like only yesterday.

I am one lucky old dude.

The night before Christmas Eve, and the big moon is on top of 107 horses. We can paint or we can clean. We can watch The Kings lose to Denver. We can do laundry or we can scrub horse blankets. Cathy and I choose to do nothing. Zilch. My big right toe is the size of a Twinkie. If I had a dollar for every horse that has stepped on me. A ginger bread man with sour worms for hair. I want so bad to eat him, but would feel like a criminal. The hot chocolate is from Ghiradelli.

I am one lucky old dude.

I wish you could have seen Taylor. He came to us almost dead. Starved. There was a racing tattoo. We spent weeks trying to get Taylor happy, but made little progress. I sent him to a large green pasture with a family in Clear Lake. The daughter is 15. The night before Christmas Eve, and the daughter phones. Is this Joe? Yep. Hi Joe, I just wanted you to know that Taylor has changed the way I feel about life. I love him so much Joe. It is Christmas, and I wanted you to know this. You gave me the best gift ever.

I am one lucky old dude.

I wish you could have seen Skinny Paul. There was not a racing tattoo, but he was a thoroughbred. Skinny Paul lived in our yard, and begged for apples at our back door. Skinny Paul was my first thought each morning. Rushing outside to see if he was okay. Skinny Paul had personality all the way to the big moon. He was the most grateful horse we have ever been around. Skinny Paul now lives in Oregon with Robin Gill. She rides him in the mountains. He swims in a lake. And Skinny Paul is still begging for apples at the back door.

I am one lucky old dude.

Friends Of Tbfriends bought us a 47 inch flat screen TV. They came with plywood for our mare motel. The wood will protect food and shavings from blowing away. There is cash to rescue horses. There is cash for our hay man. There is a one year subscription to Netflix. A 47 inch TV and Netflix. Never again will you see me outside. Friends of Barbaro brought us cash and Equine Senior. We had sandwiches and chocolate cake. And the whole time I keep thinking...

I am one lucky old dude.

This upcoming week I will share names of those who help our horses. The list is long. Georgia Hartman tells me there are over 300 members to Friends Of Tbfriends. I had no idea.

We have a recent arrival from the race track, and his name is Smoking Gears. His right knee is the size of a soccer ball. Smoking Gears can hardly walk. He is magnificent to look at. And under the big moon on the night before Christmas Eve, he tries to play. Hobbling and talking to other horses. Smoking Gears is happy to be here.

And so am I. Cathy and I wish all of you a Very Merry Christmas. The best Christmas Ever. I will be back on Wednesday to share with you more stories of life with over 100 horses.

Enjoy your Christmas Eve, and always remember to hug your horses.

Joe

The big moon rises above 107 horses.

I want so bad to eat this guy. Look at those sour worms for hair. Kathy Wachowski lives in Concord, and she created him.

Jeremy Shaw and Jenny Hartman paint the new plywood for our mare motel with used motor oil. Hopefully the oil will keep horses from chewing on the wood.

The skies are clear. If you look closely on the bottom right, you can see Gidget and Limo munching lunch from a feeder.

Merry Christmas to all...!!!

Cheers,
Friar Tuck

GO HERE

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/

and scroll down to the cartoons memorializing "people" lost in 2007....Yep: he's there///

What a wonderful Christmas message from Alex this morning! I'm sure that few of us need to be reminded to "spare some thoughts for Barbaro" because he looms so large in our hearts and minds.

Looking back one year to a happier time...Princess Maizie Lee & I were in MA to celebrate Christmas at my son's house. Normally my cats could be left alone for 48 hours, but Maizie had just begun a twice-daily regimen of thyroid medication, so she (noisily) made the two-hour trip by car...and my son still delights in the fact that she spent what would be her last Christmas at HIS home!

Dinner was done, presents all opened, and the usual mess of gifts, crumpled wrapping paper and ribbon were strewn all over the floor at the base of the tree. In what I later learned was a well-rehearsed plot, my step-granddaughter insisted that there was one gift left unopened, my son vehemently tried to convince her that she was mistaken...at which point she dragged him into another room to "discover" that one last gift. The gift was placed on MY lap, and I wish you could have heard the screaming, caterwauling, crying and laughing when I opened a beautifully framed John Fawcett print of the exquisite head, neck and shoulder of our beloved Barbaro! I made enough noise to blow the roof of the new house and, in the understatement of a lifetime, my step-granddaughter said, "Well, I guess she likes it!!!!"

I could hardly wait for a proper period of gratitude, thanks and good manners to elapse so that I could get on their computer and report my good fortune to my frens and famblee in this good place, and at the same time read of Alex's Christmas blessings of his time spent with Barbaro...

Ah, memories...if I could only turn back time!

Enjoy your day filled with special foods, gifts to touch your heart, a lot of laughs and a few tears...and thanks for sharing memories with me!

Love,
Nancy

Its' right next to the geneaology "ad" and is the 4th cartoon in the slide show....sigh.

Hay, FOB's!

###
Merry Christmas to: Alex, Tim and Penny and ALL the horses at the barn and FH, ALL the Famblee, the Jacksons, Dr.R and the staff at NBC, KF, Edgar Prado, Michael Matz and Peter Brette and their families...and may 2008 be the year when S311 gets passed and signed into law. Then we go to Phase 2 where we show the world why we're so good at what we do...by continuing to help the horses who, in turn, help the people. It doesn't get better than that.

###
Will be leaving shortly for the ranch...have lots of carrots and hugs for the boys and Shakkah. Will take the digital and hopefully will get some pictures.

Healing, Love, Peace
ONS
Padme

Merry Christmas to all!!

Love, Heaven's Gate Farm

MERRY CHRISTMAS to all from a rarely-post-but-never-far-away loyal FOB. Our beloved Barbaro is in my heart to stay and is the reason for my deep commitment to our horses.

Alex, I hope the memories of last Christmas with Barbaro bring a sense of peace in your heart. Thank you always for everything you do.

Dear famblee, I wish each and every one of you a blessed day with family and friends.

Sweet colt...you know how much I love and miss you. You put together this famblee to finish your life's work and we will prevail in your name.
Buon Natale, bello cavallo, ti amo.

Love to all,
Judy & Aspen

Barbaro, Thinking you you in Hevvin this Christmas and promising to continue the goals to help horses and all animals live safe and cherished lives. Merry Christmas to all those who knew Barbaro and thank you for sharing him with the FOBs. And Alex, thank you for what you have done here: you made it all happen and thousands of horses are now safe because of you. We will never forget Barbaro or the work this Tim Woolley/Alex Brown site has accomplished in such a short time. Love at Christmastime, Susan

Merry XMAS everyone. Thank you, Alex, and everyone here for all you do.

To beautiful Barbaro: You are always in my heart and never far away in my thoughts. Thank you for being an inspiration of change, in track safety, and in helping give your equine cousins a safer life, for inspiring with your greatness.

May all have a wonderful and happy holiday today. It's a white XMAS in the mountains of Colorado and simply beautiful.

Lisa in Colorado

REPOST FROM DISCUSSION BOARD.....

On a personal note, I would like to say thanks to all of you who read this thread and follow this strategy everyday. I know that sometimes it is hard and we feel disheartened.....I have the same feelings. But when I realize how close we are, it picks me up and keeps me going.

A special thanks to my "partner in crime", Debra. She has become a dear friend and is a pleasure to work with everyday. We carry each other along and I wouldn't ask for anyone better to be in the trenches with! After all this time, we almost work as one. When I have one of those bad days, she's there to reel me back in. And I hope that I do the same for her.

Thanks to Daryl who has been our "man on the scene".....walking the halls of Congress and knocking on doors. He is a man on a mission and has given up so much to camp out in DC and make sure our voices are heard.

Thanks to Alex for giving us this forum and allowing us to all work together to see this through. He has been a trooper through some difficult times.

To everyone else.....you are the most dedicated group of people that I could have the good fortune to work with. The road has been a little longer than we would have hoped but there is no doubt in my mind that, together, we will succeed.

The holiday season is a time to remember those important to us and I just wanted to say how important you all are to me.

I WISH YOU ALL A HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAY AND THE BEST THAT LIFE HAS TO OFFER FOR 2008.

Shelley

Also....
A very Merry Christmas to my Thunder and all the other fur babies we lost this year that are now living happily in Equine Heaven. This is my first Christmas in 20 years without my Thunder and she is sorely missed.

Posted by: ShelleyA at December 21, 2007 3:16 PM

Hay its me bArbaro

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

i'm in hevvin, the most beyooooooooooooootiful plase and i can seee you all evereeeday and love you all sooooooooooooo much i have some of yuor kids wifth me and thay know you miss em but thay're all happy and helfthee like me and we spen all our time togethfur and watsch ovur you and are bein reel good wading for the time weer all reeyooonited

weeer all so happpeeee for wat you all are doin for horssssssessss and othur animoles and cuz you take goood care of eech othur and we all love you soooooooooooooooo much for that

pleese dont git discurached we see the end in site, we jus need you to werk for it and be happpeee wile you re werkin and remembur the goal its there and you can have it in yuor hans before you know it. reeelly we see it w jus want you to know that its thare and you can reeech it afore you know it

i'll always be wifth you today, Christmas Day and always weer gonna spend the whole day thinkin buout the firs Christmas and thinking buot the One who brot us all togethur no its not me im jus an ambassssador im the one whos been sent to make shure you all sav horssessss and i gottta do the bes job in hevvin that i can i know you'll always help me

love you soooooooooooooooooooooooo much
bArbaro

Special blessings to Cheryl Jones, the "voice of Barbaro"...Cheryl, you made my Christmas!!!!

Nancy

Happy Christmas Morning, ABR Famblee:)

Lee:) Your Poem this morning 'rocked my world'...you, dear man, are a true GIFT to us ALL!

Everyone, we are here because Barbaro 'hoof-picked' us....Uncle Daryl said so, and I BELIEVE:)

I know my Handsome Sweetheart is looking down on us this day from Heaven's Gate Farm!! He is smiling and sending us ALL his most *SPECIAL* of Whuffles:)

We are members of a most *SPECIAL* Famblee....we 'live' here in this most *SPECIAL* of homes....built by the most *SPECIAL* of ALL horses...and constructed by the most *SPECIAL* of Webmasters!!!

GOD BLESS US, EVERYONE!

GOD BLESS THE HORRRRSSSSSSEEEEEEESSSSSS:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Merry Christmas, FOBs. Happy Christmas, Alex. Thanks for everything.

~ WE ARE THE HOUSE THAT BARBARO BUILT ~

Susan

FOR THOSE WHOSE EMAIL OR ADDRESS I DON'T HAVE, HERE IS MY CHRISTMAS CARD TO THE FOBS

Twas the night before Christmas
and all through the barn,
the famblee had gathered
who lived at the farm.
A new star had just risen,
way up in the sky.
A star unfamiliar
made the animals cry....
"What star do we see
shine bright up in hevvin?"
"Why, that's Barbaro's star,
if you're of believin."
"That's Barbaro's star?"
Two young ones repeated.
"He's legend we've heard,
the one undefeated."
"Yes, B & Spirit.
because of him you are free."
They've named you we hear,
his Legacy."
Merry Christmas Famblee
Love, Cathy

Merry Christmas everyone. All of you are blessed.

Merry Christmas Barbaro, and to all of your angel buddies by your side. We will never forget you.

On my way in to work this morning, as I passed my vet's place, I looked at his pasture and his horse and sheep were there. The sheep had made a ring of themselves, surrounding the horse. They stood still, together, the sun wasn't over the mountain yet, casting a peach and orange glow over the valley, clouds were neon. It was so beautiful.

This was my Christmas gift. It took my breath.

##

AUNTY CHERYL:) YOU 'ROCK'!!!

bArbaro's letter from Hevvin is the *BEST* present I could EVER have hoped for!!!! :)

THANKS, Aunty Cheryl Jones (in but not AT) CO!!!

(((((((((((((auntycheryl)))))))))))))))

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Christmas Day 2007

Do you suppose it is mere coincidence that Alex's update reminding us why we are here, is update number 2900? [da da da da (Twilight Zone music, please!)]

Have a blessed day everyone and yes, I think of Barbaro every day. Imagine I always will . . .

###########
I have my personal Christmas Miracle; contrary to recent expectations, 9 yr old bottleraised barncat Pearl - still blissfully oblivious of the fibrosarcoma on her "withers" - will NOT be joining my Blackie, Junebug & Gizmo in this year's FOB furkid legacy. Could not ask for nor get a better gift. Could not be more grateful. Gruesome details for those so inclined:

Here's part of a post I made on a thread at the DB, where they are collecting info for a photo tribute to all the horses and other critters that we have lost this past year. FYI - Don't miss this opportunity to include info and pics of your lost loved ones in a Tribute being prepared by Mary L & Melody. Deadline for submitting info and pics, December 30. There's one thread for horses (including race horses and rescues and horses of FOBs) but this thread is for the non-horse babies.

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=18068.1

Of course I have Blackie and Junebug, and thought Pearl would be gone before the end of the year, but it looks like we bought a little more time. Also will be including Gizmo, my stepdog who died about the same time as Barbaro. ANYWAY here's the excerpt from my post 51 on that thread:

The good news is, it appears that my sweet little 9 yr old handraised bottlefed barncat Pearl (on death watch since last May 15 for fibrosarcoma that started between her shoulderblades and is now a very bison-like hump) has just been given a reprieve! Instead of having to euthanize her in the next few days, we are treating an abscess instead, and one that doesn't even hurt her because it is in a tumor that doesn't seem to have nerves in it - I shoot straight peroxide right into the pit with an oral syringe and it bubbles up like a volcano and she doesn't even flinch! My experiences successfully treating blown abscessed tumors (melanomas) on my old QH Joe, has put me in a position to deal with this situation. ANYWAY she is very comfy - the abscess having blown, relieved pressure, and I picked up antibiotics from the vet today [Monday]. Her appetite and attitude remain terrific, or I would not be maintaining her with this colossal inoperable thing.

So it looks like Pearl will not be in the furbaby tribute this year! I am so elated, I cannot begin to tell you. Came home from music last night to find the thing blown open and draining. Never thought I'd be so happy to see a gaping dripping wound! [end of excerpt from DB post]

Housecall vet coming on Weds to make sure things are progressing well. (I told her over the phone when reporting the above, that this was Mother Nature's way of debulking the thing! Seriously.)

Just wanted to share the good news. PLUS - I got a nice little bonus from the owner of the bar where we play (home base place) so was able to put my money where my heart is and chip in for the December MHR Hay Drive and help out those Saddlebreds a bit. (New Years DB Rescue via NorCal Rescue.) Feels so good to be able to help the horses with money generated by the music. Feels so right.

Hope you guys and your loved ones of all species are doing well - merry merry and happy happy - I am still in awe of what has brought us all here, to THIS GOOD PLACE . . .

Praise the Lord and Pass the Carrots! (thank you, Lillian Petroff; gotta email this Comment to you.)

LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

more than we'll [probably] ever know . . .

Hope Peace Love Music & RESPECT - CJ the craziest catlady (Blackie's Mother Forever & Pleasure's & Shona's Aunt) in Hammond IN, f/k/a CJ of T Bar J (Elgin IL)

*M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S F A M I L Y*

It is so wonderful to see all your names.
I am still here fighting everyday right along with the rest of you, even though I don't post that much anymore, but I had to stop in today and say hello.
Barbaro has brought so many blessings into my life, far more than I ever imagined.
I love you all so much.
Have a wonderful Christmas and a Joyous, healthy, happy New Year.

Love to all,
Verna

PS.. Moe, not sure where you are, but I miss you and love you, hope you pop in today ;)

Merry Christmas to all in our wonderful famblee!

### Please everyone, pray today that I get a Christmas bonus. (I have doubled the business here over the past year). I could send help to so many.

###CJ, my dog Lucky developed some growths over his eye. Very ugly, weepy, and due to his age and the fact that the growths weren't bothering him, I kept an watch over it but let it be. Tommie (doggie #2) gently licked these things from time to time. Now they have almost disappeared. It's just about normal. I have been looking at Lucky every day for the past 2 years thinking that this might be the day he'll 'leave'. But he keeps going. And he is OK. No pain. Eats like a horse. He gets a thorough massage and crystal work daily. And sloppy kisses. There are plenty of Pearls and Luckies. They will let us know. Every day is a tremendous treat. And everyday I am thankful to wake us and see him looking at me.

Angel Barbaro The Most Beautiful Christmas Rainbow........

Miracles.........
Wonders.........

The Angels Of Love........Famblee.........

The Wings Of Love........

8.........

God's Joy And Love........

I Love All Of You Angels So A Lot.......

Affirmed

Merry Christmas to everyone, thank you Alex and Barbaro for bringing us all together. 2008 will be the year we make history and get the bills passed. We have made tremendous progess and will not stop until all horses are safe. Hard not to think about Barbaro at this time last year.

CJ - thanks for the info in the Equus magazine on ethmoid tumors. Over Enough has been fighting that terrible problem for many years and the article was encouraging regarding new treatments.

Jenny's on Radio is running in a low level claiming race again tomorrow at Aqueduct. Safe trip for you girl and I hope someone claims and retires this filly.

Merry Christmas to all!

My husband gets it too! His gift to me was the Breyer Barbaro; he trooped all around looking for one because he knows how much I loved (love that horse). It's beautiful. So are all of you, my dear FOBs!

BARB M -

Thank you for bringing up 'JENNYS ON RADIO.' Ever since last year when a few kind FOBs brought her to our attention mentioning how sad it was when she was pulled away in the ambulance while she looked on and many others' didn't give a hoot of her being pulled away.

She holds a very special place in my heart and always wonder about her. Prayers that a very kind and loving family gets a hold of her and keep her safe for the rest of her life.

Thanks again

Merry Christmas FOB’s…
It’s surreal sitting here today reflecting to say the least. I remember when I sent Alex the very first fan media which was a video called "Our Prayer for Barbaro." As I watched it again today, it took my breath away thinking how far we have come.

Here’s to you Barbaro… may you continue to remind us of “all that is good in life”.

"The Prayer"
(feat. Charlotte Church)

I pray you'll be our eyes
And watch us where we go
And help us to be wise
In times when we don't know

Let this be our prayer
As we go our way
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your Grace
To a place where we'll be safe
La luce che tu dai

I pray we'll find your light
Nel cuore restera
And hold it in our hearts
A ricordarci che
When stars go out each night
L'eterna stella sei
Nella mia preghiera
Let this be our prayer
Quanta fede c'e
When shadows fill our day
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your grace

Give us faith so we'll be safe.
Sogniamo un mondo senza piu violenza

Un mondo di giustizia e di speranza
Ognuno dia la mano al suo vicino
Simbolo di pace e di fraternita

La forza che ci dai
We ask that life be kind
E'il desiderio che
And watch us from above
Ognuno trovi amore
We hope each soul will find
Intorno e dentro a se
Another soul to love

Let this be our prayer
Let this be our prayer
Just like every child
Just like every child

Needs to find a place,
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe
E la fede che
Hai acceso in noi
Sento che ci salvera

JENNYS ON RADIO PEDIGREE

STORM CAT
NORTHERN DANCER
SECRETARIAT

Don't know why the link disappeared

JENNYS ON RADIO PEDIGREE

Merry Christmas Famblee,
Love you all more than you will ever know. Love to the Big Boss Horse. Committed to ending slaughter in 2008.
Forever FOB
-Joanne

####
Margie!
Here's some crazy Greyhound White Light hoping that it helps in the Christmas bonus department....
####
Heading over to the NY part of the Family...dinner
standing rib of beast, and few other simple gifts from the good earth.

Can you imagine all the good Belgians and French sitting down to rump roasts, rib roasts, steaks, tenderloins--all gathered from our American horses...we will put an end to this extravagance.

And we will do it this year.
*************************************************
2008: there's that 8 EIGHT!!
Dee! It is AFFIRMED!
*************************************************
I will now take my drugged migraine out of the nice warm house, and all-day SG-1 re-runs and cozy dog bodies, and journey to p/u Dad and then over to Jill's...

It will be nice, peaceable. We will make it so. Life is too short....Dad will be 90 in March. Feisty as a Bantam cock, that one...

Love to all: later

Cherokee Devotional December 25 (sharing email from Harriette Brillianthawk)

Each of us have known kindred souls. They are those special persons who understand exactly how we feel and what we think and need. They seldom talk about it. Such relationships have no need for discussion. Their quiet companionship is balm to the spirit and enough without words. Wherever we are, we meet these special people who have known loneliness and have heard the empty echoes but have not let them spoil anything. They are what the Cherokee calls, a ga-li-s gv-ti tia. They are on the sunny side. Now they mark the way for us, telling us that life is good and we are going to do well—and what we really need to hear, we are not alone. Then, we can reach back and take someone else’s hand to lead them across the lonely places.
-----------------------

The monitor within my breast has taught me the will of the Great Spirit.

Senachwine

Really nice heartfelt postings today. What a talented bunch of people you are. It is Christmas afternoon and I guess it is over for another year. Went to the family yearly family gathering last night. Only two family members had a short skirmish but it was over quickly. (well keep repeating myself. Stayed away from the eggnog as I had to drive home. When I got home it was quiet and chief and I had a couple glasses of beer. well, he doesnt really drink. not on his diet. I am ready to hit the ground running for our cause. Hope yole (jonna, yole meaning more than 1 person) had a good Christmas.

##

Sandra:) Good for you and good for *Chief*!!!

I am chiming in with you to say...*YES* 'YOLE'...LET'S KEEP THAT RED/WHITE/BARBARO flyin' high and proud!!!

Jonna:) You are soooooo correct, *2008*...there's that WONDERFUL number EIGHT:) It WILL be 'our' year....THE YEAR OF THE HORSES!!!!

Yippppppeeeeeee-Skipppppppyyyyyyyy!!!!

Presents are opened....I had 7-Layer Bean Dip and Coca~Cola for Brunch:) It was YUMMMMY!!!

All the 'newby' gifts are put away, the paper and ribbons are just a memory...Just having a quiet relaxing afternoon now, what a *TREAT* that is for me!!! :) Dinner at SIX...o.k. then....at SIX it will be!!

Couldn't stay awake for all of Madagasgar last night, hit the 'record' button, so maybe I'll get on the sofa with *MURPHY* and watch the rest:) Love that movie...LEMURS.....those LEMURS just crack me up!!!

Speaking of 'crack'....Daughter got her kit-kat, Seymoure, a big ole bag of kitty toys from Santa...each one stuffed with Cat Nip!!! We NEVER laughed sooooo HARD watching Seymoure with those toysssssss....daughter said, "Mom, he's like a CAT ON CRACK" lol! He was positively 'drunk' with delight:)

Murphy did is usual opening of his toysssss:) We wrap them in plain tissue paper...he just goes 'NUTS-O':) Then he prances around the living room like the King Of Everything...smillllinnnngggg:) and ever so PROUD!

The deer are everywhere outside this day:) Zooming up and down the canyon just off my backyard:) MaMa's and babes...and the Bucks:/ You know, alllll those Does are already 'preggers' again...bless their sweet liddle hearts!! Some are even sleeping just outside my back gate:)

Been thinking of *MISTER* and his Sister today:) Horsemommy and dad left for a bit this early morning...but I'll be sure and stop by this time next week....:) armed with carits and lovin's :)

I hope y'all...or as Sandra says, "Yole" are just having yourselves the *FINEST* of days today!!:)

Susan E. In case you read this, please check your e-mail, Susan...there's a card waiting for you....I think it's FelixliddlekiddeninaBearsoot!!! Hurry!!!

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Merry Christmas Everyone!!!!!

I hope all of you had a very good day, and got what you wanted from Santa. I know I sure did.

I hope you all have a safe and healthy New Year.

I miss all of you.

Again, Merry Christmas!

*MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!*

No time to read any posts,but I wanted to wish everyone a wonderful day. Off to San Diego now!

Wishing you joy and peace and many blessings for the New Year!

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, I am reminded of the many blessings we take for granted!

Thinking of all of those who are less fortunate, who have no home or family to share this season with ! My prayers to the men and women serving or country overseas and away from family ! God bless you! I am praying for all animals lost, abused and in need of love!

Thinking of all of you too !

My love and hugs !

Merry Christmas to all !

Julia B

Although it's been said many times, many ways, Merry Christmas to you !

I Love You So A Lot Angel Jonnagrey. All Glowing Rainbows In 2008.

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! Merry & Happy X-Mas! Today's Brent's 53rd birthday and my sister in NC's 44th. Sending much love to Alex for creating and maintaining this site for such a group of committed & caring individuals. I have a good feeling about 2008(we know that 8 is a special number, don't we, FsOB?). Peace, RMH

To Jonna: May that migraine abate. Thank you for yesterday's lovely opening poem.
To Lynne B: "Carrits" to Mister & Sister.
To Sophie's Liee, thank you for posting BigBayColt's lovely poem. Congrats to you in your new home.
To Sherry & the Herd: Hope your day was a grand one.
To Sandra: Hope the Frito pie was delish! Best wishes to you & Chief.
To Susan in Saratoga, what a lump in my throat from reading your lovely poem.
To Kay: What a great visual of you & Huey on the jingle bell trail.
To Joe: We are lucky that you are such a "lucky old dude"! Joe rules.
To Judy & Aspen: Buon Natale!
To Nancy in CT: Thanks for your posting of Ms. Maizie's X-mas in 2006.
To Cheryl Jones: Thank you for sharing bArbaro's words from his first X-mas in "hevvin". What a magical horse he was & still is.
Hello to Cathy Potter & Joanne Frank.
To Margie: My grandfather had Cherokee ancestry. He always said "whatever a dog licks gets well". Your story about Lucky reminded me of this wisdom. Glad that Lucky is thriving for you today.
To CJ: Here's to Pearl Baby! ####

Ah family things. My family: all i wanted to do was get home to my little house and the yelling GH who are very late for their dinners now. I feel like a schmuck. all that for an extra piece of red velvet cake...I can't wait to get them all fed out and turned out and back in my house, strewn about the floors, on their backs, in the crates, crushed up against me and each other...

More and more, I think that this is what love is...not the stuff we were promised in the 50's as kids...

And increasingly, Joe, in CA> I really think I need a horse...ah well, that's what the alternate reality is for...a stone barn full of Percherons and Belgians and a donkey and burro or two...all rescues, of course, watch-geese, you know. The whole magilla.

Next lifetime, I guess....
I'm just--once again--feeling grateful that we're almost done with the Over-rated, Stress-provoking and Expensive HOLIDAYS.

Maybe I'll get a chance to decorate my tree tomorrow....oy.

Love you, my famblee....life would be so much tougher without all of you.
The little hounds are woo-wooing now. So hungry--you'd think they were not fed a late breakfast.

lots of hugs, kisses bestowed with huge enthusiasm...

Merry Christmas to all at ABR!!!!!

Rob

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL!! HOPE SANTA WAS GOOD TO EVERYONE!!!

LOVE & PRAYERS TO BARBARO -- AS ALWAYS!! I KNOW HE'S HAVING A GREAT TIME WITH RUFFIAN AND THE GANG!! :>)

LOVE YA ALL,
CHERYL G
:>)

THANKS ALEX FOR EVERYTHING YOU'VE DONE FOR US THIS PAST YEAR-- KEEPING US IN THE LOOP WITH BARBARO & THE HORSE RACING NEWS!! :>) THANKS TO THE REST OF U WHO WORK ON THIS SITE TOO-- PENNY, SUPERFECTA, WENDY ETC......

### Well, Jonna, I need to be thankful for the little things. My Christmas bonus is enough to feed my dogs and me for 7-10 days. :-/

Now it is blowing snow, and I am on the road at 6AM to make money for the place. Grrrr, Hissssss.

OK. I vented. I'll behave now. I sometimes think I should look for a $$$money bags type man. But I am very content to be living on the edge, with my darling animals. Less laundry, less whining. :-)

Just received this from a friend...well worth our consideration!

The Whole Year Christmas

Oh, could we keep the Christmas thrill,
The goad of gladness and good will,
The lift of laughter and the touch
Of kindled hands that utter much,
Not once a year, but all the time,
The melody of hearts in chime,
The impulse beautiful and kind
Of soul to soul and mind to mind,
That swings the world
And brings the world
On one great day of all the year
Close to God’s treasure house of cheer.

Oh, could we keep the Christmas feast
Even when goods and gold are least;
Here, ‘mid our common, daily scenes,
Could we but live what Christmas means
Not just one day, but every day
The miracle of love alway.
What a different world we would see!
For we would be as we should be,
So search within, and with love abound,
And feel such Christmas the whole year ‘round.

(Adapted from a text by Angela Morgan)

For Jenny's on Radio, NY bred: Best wishes on your run tomorrow. You showed us how smart you were waiting for the people to help you up at Saratoga. I wish for you a long, healthy life where you have a welcome outlet for all your talents.

Barbi - thank you for mentioning her entry tomorrow. Will check on her when I get home. Coincidence (?) I was the 1st FOB who saw her vanned off at Saratoga. The web of our friendship has many fine layers! Hugs to Kaia today : )


Alex, your story of Christmas visiting Barbaro last year will stay with me forever. I hope your Xmas this year was magical, too, and spent among friends.


FOBs, safe travel to all on the road this week. Be well and thank you for "getting it." We will get this done, and soon.


Peace,

Merry Christmas to all those in this good place.

The presents are opened, the wee one is in bed, the dishes are washed... and I am ready to sleep!

Thank you to all who have reached out and helped others... four legged or otherwise. Thank you to those who work endlessly to stop slaughter. Thank you for those who rescue. Thank you to those who volunteer. Thank for the love. And mostly, thank you Barbaro for bringing us all to this good place.

My love to you all.

WE BELIEVE!!

Rach

Hello Barbaro,

My family and I got home from visiting with extended family and took a long nap!

While traveling home, Brian had Emma on his lap and I had Bosko in mine...both kids were sound asleep.

I kept stroking Bosko's big, soft ears and whispering to him. Anything that came from my heart, he heard.

And Emma was trying sooo hard to keep her eyes open, but her Dream Angels must have made her an offer she couldn't refuse...so I whispered words of heartfelt love to her as she drifted off to sleep.

As Bosko shifts to a more comfortable position, although still snoring during this time, I realize that I have gained immeasurable blessings this year.

I had the incredible opportunity to meet your Fans...both on this site and in person.

Honey, there was soo much love and understanding that weekend in Delaware. And, not only by the Fans physically present, the ones checking in on the website as well.

It was incredible and I will NEVER forget it. Never.

When I have been down, your Fans have picked me up, dusted me off and encouraged me to march on. Your Fans have a way, no, a gift, for knowing when to mix inspiration, experiences and humor into thoughts and blessings of Hope.

I know in my life, I will never again experience what you and this site and EVERYone involved has done for me.

* Alex, I thank you for continuing this site and ALL that it offers. May your life's path offer you every happiness and blessing that you would ever dream possible.

Or, as this site has shown me, every happiness and blessing BEYOND your every dream! Good night Alex. Merry Christmas to you and of course, sweet dreams to you...always. *

Barbaro, the blessings are plentiful. Much like the constellations of the stars twinkling in the evening sky, some blessings are harder to realize at first.

And then, the wave of discovery washes over your mind...

"There's one!" and "There's another!" Oh, the beauty of your life as written in the evening stars... And, amongst the brightest stars to shine, there you are Honey.

I do not look at the stars anymore without thinking of you...

Shall we climb down from your shining star and get you ready for bed? We'll grab the warmest blanket you have and pull it high on your neck.

We'll tuck the folds under you very gently and leave just a bit untucked in case you need to get a drink during the night...

Your Dream Angels are wearing their Elf suits and they are busy toting a HUGE Santa hat...and a ladder! Honey, they're saying it's your nightcap!

Oh Honey, you look adorable with a Santa hat on! Some of your Fans have done amazing videos and pictures with you and a Santa hat. Let them put it on you...it will be okay!

Please remember, your healing is complete and strength will forever carry you through your days and into the sweet dreams of your loved ones.

Good night Honey. I love you and I thank you... for being my shining star. Sweet dreams. XXOOxxox...x

####

To all of the Fans,

I thank each and every one of you. Your kind hearts, giving natures and ability to understand when no one else can, or will, are all gifts that you give, freely... everyday...here AND to those blessed to have you in their lives.

I have had the incredible opportunity to meet some of you...a forever loving memory.

Others that no longer post for various reasons, I miss you. Please know that your absence is noticed...and respected. But your presence was loved...and will be remembered.

Good night Fans...and Alex. And Tim...and Penny. And Hope and Little Laurie H. Oh, and Luke. And, my Real Lace. xxoo

May we all have sweet dreams of a bay boy as he casts a breeze at our backs...and he once again, takes the lead. Good night...

LET'S GO ALL OUT TO HONOR BARBARO'S LIFE & LEGACY ON JANUARY 29th, 2008...with a (hopefully) huge donation to the Laminitis Fund at New Bolton!

Padme (Lyn Gilbert) has graciously agreed to be our Treasurer for this undertaking...she has a PayPal account, and will also accept contributions by snail mail UNTIL WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23rd, which means we have four weeks to accomplish this!

I respectfully ask that you DON'T contribute via the UPenn site this time so that we may have one enormous check to deliver to New Bolton on the 29th of January!

Sophie's Lee had suggested a week or two ago that Mrs. Jackson should receive ONE PERFECT ROSE from us that day...an idea of understated elegance, indeed! Therefore, with his permission, we will incorporate (and expand upon) that idea...

All the details can be found here:
IN HONOR OF BARBARO 1/29/08

A year ago...It seems as if it was yesterday, take care, children, time DOES accelerate as we get older. Cherish it all....

I went looking for this after reading Susan's post(thank you Susan)...thank you Alex, for sharing all the intimate little things that made that big, beautiful bay colt seem so familiar to all of us...
****************************************************
A YEAR AGO ALEX WITH BARBARO AT NBC...
**************************************************
Update 1234: My sixth visit to Barbaro: Christmas Day.
Today I was to help out with Barbaro in the absense of Tom, the Jackson's farm manager. The plan was for me to go over, groom Barbaro and take him out to walk and graze. I had planned to arrive at 1 pm to do this, but surveying the clouds I decided to go a little earlier. I had also another poster to hang on the outside fence line (the first from overseas most likely) so I arrived at about 12:15 pm to hang the poster and go and see Barbaro.

When I entered the ICU I noticed a few people were there. It was Tom and Lucy (Mr. and Mrs. Jackson's daughter) and their four children (the grandchildren who visit quite often). I had met Tom before, so it was nice to be able to meet their entire family who seem to be very nice people (no surprise there). On duty in the ICU was Kathleen, Ray was also helping out.

I entered Barbaro's stall, put on his halter and tied him up in preparation for grooming. My idea was to give him a quick groom before he went out, and then a more thorough job once he had been outside. I set to work as I chatted away with Barbaro's visitors. I started by picking his front feet, then I gave Barbaro a quick once over with a body brush. He seemed to really enjoy it as I was brushing his forlock, something I would not have entirely anticipated. Anyway, it did not take me long to get him ready. I put a blanket on him (not one of the new gifts), put a shank on him, and then led him outside. Barbaro's visitors then left, and I was one-on-one with Barbaro for the first time while we were outside. It was very cool. He is so well behaved when he is outside, just very happy to be in the different environment. In his stall you better keep an eye on him, and make purposeful moves. Outside he is just much more relaxed. After grazing for five minutes it started a very light rain. I thought I would have to bring him in pretty quickly so I decided to have him do his walking, just to make sure he got that bit of exercise taken care of. He was so intent on his eating that it took me a little while to convince him to walk on, but once walking we did our five minutes pretty easily. By that time the drizzle had eased off and Barbaro went back to grazing. He was very happy. It was very peaceful. After about 45 minutes in total I decided to bring him in. The drizzle had returned and there was no need to get wet.

Once back in the stall and tied back up I went back to work grooming him. This time I used a curry comb and body brush. It was a time to be very careful with him, so I spent most of the brushing time with one hand on his halter, and my eyes locked on his eyes. Anyway, he cleaned up very well. I then picked out his feet again, finally attended to his head (light sponguing out of his nostrils and eyes followed by a wipe over with a wrag) and let him loose. Along the way I fed him a couple of carrots.

All in all another very pleasant visit. Chatted away with Kathleen and Ray a little. I left the ICU at 1:45 pm, so in all I spent about an hour and a half with Barbaro on christmas day. Not a bad way to get ready for a lovely (I hope) christmas dinner with Sue, Niall, Jayne and Mick, in about 20 minutes! It is now raining hard.

Posted by Alex at 8:11 PM | Comments (183)

What beauty! A tuck-in from Laurie H and thank you Jonna for posting last year's post from Alex's visit with Barbaro. A moment of silent respect for that, and the changes that came, and all of Barbaro's legacy. A toast to all the heros who helped save - and feed - the 1,700 (and growing herd) of equines in Barbaro's name. From here, part of "A Child's Christmas in Wales"...


"One Christmas was so much like another, in those years around the sea-town corner now and out of all sound except the distant speaking of the voices I sometimes hear a moment before sleep, that I can never remember whether it snowed for six days and six nights when I was twelve or whether it snowed for twelve days and twelve nights when I was six.

All the Christmases roll down toward the two-tongued sea, like a cold and headlong moon bundling down the sky that was our street; and they stop at the rim of the ice-edged fish-freezing waves, and I plunge my hands in the snow and bring out whatever I can find. In goes my hand into that wool-white bell-tongued ball of holidays resting at the rim of the carol-singing sea, and out come Mrs. Prothero and the firemen...

...Always on Christmas night there was music. An uncle played the fiddle, a cousin sang "Cherry Ripe," and another uncle sang "Drake's Drum." It was very warm in the little house. Auntie Hannah, who had got on to the parsnip wine, sang a song about Bleeding Hearts and Death, and then another in which she said her heart was like a Bird's Nest; and then everybody laughed again; and then I went to bed. Looking through my bedroom window, out into the moonlight and the unending smoke-colored snow, I could see the lights in the windows of all the other houses on our hill and hear the music rising from them up the long, steady falling night. I turned the gas down, I got into bed. I said some words to the close and holy darkness, and then I slept."



From: "A Child's Christmas in Wales" by Dylan Thomas

Merry Christmas All,
The wood stove is loaded, the coal stove is shoveled. It's just after 9pm on a moonlit, clear Christmas night in Pennsylvania. I sent my Christmas greetings to Barbaro's connections last evening - in my famblee, Christmas Eve is the time for reaching out to others.

This evening, I would like to send a special holiday greeting to Michael Matz - a true gentleman who gave freely of his time and provided daily updates on Barbaro during those long months at NBC. We appreciate and remember the kindness he showed to Barbaro and to us.

Alex - as always, thank you. And a special tip of the Santa's cap to Cheryl for hearing the voice of 'our boy' once again. "i gotta do the bes job in hevvin that i can i know you'll always help me".

Jonna, thank you for reposting what was our world 365 days ago.

Laurie H. - thank you for the gift of your words.

Annie in PA

Hi Everyone:)

I'll say g'night to those in the East Wing..it's getting late there!

S.F. Zoo today...of ALL days! Tigers got out of their confinement..one dead, three hospitalized! One tiger still unaccounted for! I think of all the trips I made to that zoo when my oldest was just a wee one! Then, one day, I decided I didn't like zoos so much anymore...the animals confined to their 'areas'....so I quit going...of course moving to these foothills 2.5 hours from the City helped with that decision, too!

Jonna:) Thanks! Thanks for your 'slewth' work! Nice to re-read that wonderful visit!! And Jonna...'It's all GOOD'...tomorrow is a NEW day!

Alex, you will always have that memory in your heart:) and your mind's eye! Lucky Man, you!

Rach:) My dishes are NOT done, wanna come help??? We just finished eating a little bit ago...and the 'mess' awaits:/ Wish *SLEW* was here...I betcha he and his equine frens would ALL just LOVE the glazed carits:)

Robyn H: :) I'll give them some, special from YOU:) I'll tell them!!! Niseee ladeeee from far away loves you toooooooo!!!

Laurie H:) ALWAYS a pleasure to 'see' you here! And ALWAYS a pleasure to read your tuck-ins! Merry Christmas, dear Fren in MN!!

Well, the dishes aren't doing themselves, so I'll scoot out of here....Everyone have wonderful dreams tonight!

Sandra:) Cuddle up with *CHIEF* tonight!! Sleep good in your warm home, compliments of the New Noisey Heater:)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

####
Verna,

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!

FROM MOE

### Moe

Merry Christmas.

Thanks for the reply.

Have missed you!

Love always,
Verna

I hope all FOBs had a wonderful Christmas. I enjoyed all the wonderful comments, poetry, etc. you posted today.

Cheryl Jones - your message from bArbaro was sooooooooo special. I think FOBs are incredibly talented - each of you has a special gift.

Good Night all!
Janice
A forever FOB

Merry Christmas everyone....Coming here tonight and reading all the wonderful heartfelt posts is one of the best Christmas presents any FOB could want!

Thank you Laurie for the wonderful tuck in...and thank you to Jonna for reposting Alex's Christmas with Barbaro...

Thank you Alex for always being here and for your infinite patience...

Happy Holidays folks...and to all a good night....

MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL...

I sponsored a horse for the next year at a local farm. It was a gift to me from my wife...

##

Merry Christmas, Mike C.:) What a COOL gift...WOW! a WHOLE year!!! Now, that is a truly wonderful feeling for you to enjoy for the next 12 months...I hope you get to go visit 'your' horse!!! :) If you do, please share your experiences with us!!! :)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all....it is very late...12:30am but I could not go to sleep without coming here for a few minutes. At this time last Christmas I was reading about Alex's afternoon visit with Barbaro. I remember thinking how fortunate I was to have found this website and all the others like me who were connected in a strange and powerful way to this one horse. Here we are a year later still connected in a very positive way. Best wishes to all for a safe and wonderful holiday....

I echo Alex's sentiment, I think about Barbaro often & know his charismatic, fighting spirit penetrated & changed me forever. What a gift! Merry Christmas to all FOBs & to all a good night!

Love & safe holidays,
Jen in Iowa