Happy Weekend FOBs,

I'm lucky enough to be doing a trail ride this morning. I hope the weather holds out.

I hope all runners are safe this weekend.

Janice
A forever devoted to Kaiser FOB

lord: i am the second one here?!
I am the Mistress of the 9AM Administration of the Holy Eyedrops for my 90 year old dad...he had a cataract removed on monday, and will have surgery on the 29th to repair a detached retina....Anyhow: my sister and I have a 4X a day schedule we have to follow with eye drops.

Wasn't that fascinating? The best I can do on less than a whole cup o Joe...

Safe rides for all today.
Blessings and prayers for Jim Gath.
Thinking about Maribel and Hans, Barb AZ, JOAN,
Janice, MaryS & Sherman Anne Brennan, CHERYLG, and now I can't think of all the rest of the peoples who need prayer. But it's here, come and get it. And it helps lift us all up....

Sarah Palin gives me a brain freeze headache...ow.

###Bloodhorse updates this morning:

"InCompass Solutions announced Oct. 10 hat it had launched the Jockey Health Information System, a database that will store jockeys' updated medical histories and make it possible for emergency medical personnel at racetracks to instantly access that information in the event of injury."

Another benefit that I believe can be traced back to the awareness of the ins and outs of horseracing and its "little shadows," and all because of Barbaro.

Everyone connected with racing, from the wives and children of backstretch workers to track surfaces, from supplements and "additives" to whip use and race tactics are now under a microscope and people are starting to THINK about the consequences of their actions. Those who don't think are being disciplined.

###Excellent.

###Good day to all. Enjoy your trail ride, Jan from FL, and safe travels to all who put pedal to metal, hoof to track, and bummy to saddle ;o)

Have we all seen that lush, lovely, warm and friendly :60 spot for MEXICO? Somedays it makes me cry. Somedays it makes me so angry I have no idea what to do with the emotion.

Yes. Mexico. Land of evil, secret rodeos, horse tripping and mutilation, land of horse slaughter, where the death blow is administered literally by the hand of man gripping a puntilla.

Land of illicit drug trade, human trade, you-name-it-trade. Damn. So sorry that just ran. It makes me SOOOOO furious. I will be writing a letter to the Mexican Board of Tourism this week....for all the good that will do.

I will discourage anyone I know who actually vacations from vacationing on the sunny, pristine shores of beautiful, happy, colorful and MEXICO,
where the people invent new ways to kill animals every day.

Rant du jour.

###Heavens! I just stuck my nose out the back door (which is sheltered from the wind) and it is C-O-L-D out there. Probably 40 degrees out and I bet just above freezing with the wind chill. Wind advisory until 9 a.m. and only a high of 64 today with wind (again, it won't feel like that.

Guess that means breaking out the sweatshirts, long pants and anything with long sleeves. And I might put the electric blanket on the bed.

The boys are going to need their heavier blankets--I put a nylon sheet on Huey yesterday--one of the closed-front models and it doesn't really fit him all that well (his rear end is exposed ;o)

Ryan is already haired up. Huey is just starting to look "velveteen."

###Socks, too. Gotta start wearing shoes with socks. Summer is over--at least this week.

Bundle up out there--before you open the back door to stick your nose out!

Good Morning Gang.

You are so right, Kay. The 'little shadows' are out in the open. The sun finally shines in some of those shadows.

Safe racing for 2 and 4 legged dumplings today.

Tamme, you are in my heart and prayers today.

Nostalgia took over last evening and I went to 'visit' Wallenda at Old Friends. There are so many, many memories here.

Kay, don't forget a blob of some color. I have a pink blob and Jonna has a red one. 50 mph winds predicted here today. The electric blanket has been in use for over a week. Socks are a must.

Divine protection for all brave horses who put hooves to track today...and EVERY day!

Joe TB Friends

###Hmmmm. A blob of some color...hmmmm. I have a green robe (is that a blob?) and a red hoodie sweatshirt.

I had to retire my chenille robe--the zipper wasn't functioning well and the robe is so old I leave a trail of little chenilles everywhere I go. I think my Christmas present to myself is going to be flannel everythings.

###Huey is out in the paddock playing stallions--I think his nylon sheet is less than snug and, even worse, I was late with breakfast. (With two horses now I cannot manage a wheelbarrow and a flashlight, so I wait until I can see where I'm stepping (the hay barn has pallets and I fear stepping wrong).

That ticks Huey off mightily--he's used to eating in the dark. Poor devil.

###Windbreaker weather. Still ;o/

###Lots to do, better get going. Read Joe this morning. Once again, he brought me to tears.

What a prince of a fellow. He and Cathy are certainly two of a kind. The beloved horses (and cats, chickens, and dogs) are very lucky.

R.I.P.
Mr. Bernie Rivers run with the wind my friend!

Saturday, October 11, 2008

10/11 - The Mr. Bernie Rivers Doctrine

First, I'd like to thank everybody for the huge outpouring of love & sympathy & support we've received in the wake of Mr. Bernie Rivers' untimely passing yesterday. It really means so much.

Though I'm still not ready to explain the events of yesterday - & maybe I never will be – there is one huge, overriding lesson to be learned here. At least from my standpoint.

And I'll forever refer to it as "The Mr. Bernie Rivers Doctrine".

The lesson The Mr. Bernie Rivers Doctrine teaches us is that life is fleeting & precious & not to be taken for granted. Ever. It teaches us to appreciate each & every moment of each & every day. And it teaches us to love the moments we share with those we love.

Because they can all be gone. Forever. With no warning. Just like that.

My sister & I lost our Dad when I was twelve & she was eight. He had a heart attack while we were eating lunch & was gone forever. Just like that.

That taught me, up close & very personal, that life is fleeting. But four-&-a-half decades & a million miles & ten million experiences in between came to soften the sharp edges of that reality. Until yesterday. The sharpness returned yesterday.

Because of what I learned so long ago, I have tried - & continue to try – to always adhere to The Mr. Bernie Rivers Doctrine. I guess that's why I enjoy those little moments I spend with each of the kids every day.

Like Thursday evening – before Mr. Bernie Rivers got sick. I went in to see him, just like always. And, just like always, I wrapped both of his front legs so he wouldn't reopen the two little wounds on his knees that he got from pushing himself up off the ground after a nap. Just like always, he allowed me to mess with his legs while he kept snuffling the remains of dinner off the ground. And just like always, we both enjoyed his rubbing & scratching his face (in his case, he always rubbed hard) against my chest & arm & underarm. And just like always, we finished up our little encounter with a decent butt-scratching before I climbed through the fence to hang with M'Stor.

And I really loved & appreciated that little Thursday-evening-in-early-October encounter. Just like I love & appreciate every little encounter.

The sharpness comes, however, in my not thinking at the time that it could or would have been our last such encounter. If I'd known or realized that, would I have invested just a little more of my heart & spirit in it? You bet. Physically, I don't think I'd have done it any differently. But emotionally? I'd probably have invested a little more of the "here & now" attitude that is the hallmark of the horse. Maybe thoughts of whether or not Moose was running low on Timothy or of the mudpit that had been caused by Suze's orange-cone-water-tank-emptying-little-game of a couple of hours earlier wouldn't have entered my mind.

Do you see what I mean? I would have been with Mr. Bernie Rivers fully, not just with my heart & body, but with my very spirit.

When you're with somebody you really love, really love them every single second. It adds so much dimension & so much richness to our lives. It adds a richness to our spirit. And makes us realize that that spirit can never be filled to capacity. It will continue to expand & accommodate all we can add to it.

Maybe that's a big part of The Mr. Bernie Rivers Doctrine, too – that we all have a bottomless reservoir in our spirits for love - & we can pour as much of that love as we can into it without it ever getting full.

And it's the little things, the everyday things that we can all-too-often ignore, that help us add to that reservoir & make our lives & our spirits more robust.

I don't know if this makes any sense to anybody else. But it does to me.

And if we all think about it a little - & try to put The Mr. Bernie Rivers Doctrine into practice once in a while – each of our lives - & the lives of those we love -will be just a little bit fuller.

It would be the perfect way to honor the life of Mr. Bernie Rivers

$5 Winter Blanket Drive

The FOBs are raising funds to help rescues purchase winter blankets for their horses.

Rescues in need can sign up and we will be fundraising for one rescue at a time. A $5 donation is all it takes to help keep the horses warm and healthy this winter.

Please see the following thread on the ABR Forum:

$5 FOB Winter Blanket Drive

An updated list of rescues in need is listed in Post #13

Thank You!

Debbie LA, Am so sorry about Mr. Bernie Rivrs. We never know when our beloves animals will leave us. About 10 yrs ago I had a 11 year old Lab who was in good health for his age. He was my obedience champion and he was a character. One saturday I was busy and he wanted attention all day. Getting into the trash, stealing food, etc etc. that Saturday night he wanted to play but I was tired so I told him NO and to settle down. About an hour later I was watching tv and he was laying by my chair. He quickly got up and staggered trying to walk and died. I rushed him to the small animal ER but there was nothing they could do. He had something burst in him. His name was Cody Bill and I always regretted brushing him off that day since I was tired and busy. Debbie, you are right always treat your animals as if it might be their last day. I am sorry about Mr. Bernie Rivers but he went knowing he was loved.

I USED TO POUR OVER CATALOGS OF TACK. I WAS CRAZYNUTS FOR HORSES...I WORSHIPED THEM. I DREW THEM WITH WINGS, I SAW THEM FLYING HOME EVERY NIGHT, TO THEIR FLUFFY BEDS IN THE SKY, FROM WHERE THEY WATCHED OVER ME, AND ALL YOUNG GIRLS WHO ARE CRAZYNUTS FOR HORSES. (SOMETIMES, I THINK THIS IS WHY MY FIRST COMPANION ANIMAL AFTER DEPARTING THE ARMS OF MY FAMILY WAS MY FIRST IRISH WOLFHOUND. CLOSE TO A HORSE AS I COULD GET, AND STILL HAVE IT IN MY BED...AH WELL.

I knew Joe and Cathy in another life, that's for sure......
**************************************************
Saturday, October 11th...

This is the third day in a row of strong crazy winds. Today can hardly be called a morning journal. I must go to the ranch where I have employment and help with clean up. Their wind damage is much worse than our wind damage. We have large mountains of dust and debris. Broken tree limbs. Trash all over the joint. I saw a little ball of horse poop on top of our house.

At the other ranch there is broken glass. The edge of the roof to their mare motel is bent backwards, like an open can of sardines. A horse shelter is left standing on one post. They too have trash and debris everywhere.

But I first wanted to tell you about Katie, she is 14, and yesterday in hurricane winds Katie was at our front gate. Keep in mind there was dust blowing in our eyes and the winds were so loud I could barely hear. Katie asked are you Joe?

Yep.

Katie handed me a horse shoe. More heavy than shoes from race horses. This is what she had to say:

My horse Pete died on Sunday, and this is one of his shoes. A long time ago you gave my friend a shoe from a race horse. You told her the shoe would bring good luck and it did. She keeps her shoe in her room and she tells everybody how the spirit of a horse watches over her. I want you to have this shoe from my Pete. He was the best horse ever. Keep this shoe close to you in your house, and Pete will watch over your ranch and keep you all safe.

At our front gate there have been gifts of saddles, gasoline gift cards, cheesecakes, every kind of pie and cake imaginable, carrots, apples, a fruit juice blender, coffee, coffee mugs, a rock from Italy, a rock from Iraq, and each gift means the world to us. The saddles, gasoline gift cards, and many of the cheesecakes and pies we share with others.

Between 40 and 50 young girls have their very own saddle, thanks to readers of Tbfriends.

You would not believe all the clothes for kids dropped off at our front gate. We look like Mervyns.

But this shoe worn by Pete, a horse I never knew, is truly a treasure. Late night barn check, our ranch rocking from crazy winds, and not once was I worried. God Bless Pete. Thank you Katie.

Enjoy your Red Sox won last night Saturday, and be sure to hug your horses.

Joe

Keeping Jim Gath and his charges in my heart....I think he's a lone wolf, that one....and when he loses one of his animals--like Dawnie this summer--terrible pain.

So God bless, Jim, and we've got your back, Mr. Rivers and all.

####
KAY
Nope, the Blob must be Fat and Fuzzy. Chenille pales by comparison. I'll have to find you a catalog page so you are armed with the proper ammo when you go out and purchase your Very First
"insert Blob color here:"

(Turquois might be nice.)

I have to go get Shiloh off Heart once more. He is embarrased when I catch him licking her remaining must-granulate-from-the-inside-out wound. He is a big, black and wonderful retired GH who long held the heart of Beverly who lost her vision to adult onset Diabetes--she could not care for him properly, couldn't drive....etc. We all cried our guts out (as my sister Wendy would say) the day I went to pick him up and bring him to his new pack....

But he does love Heart....and the rest of the pack. GH are astonishingly able to cope with nearly any situation you throw at them...

Love to all. I have to fall down now.

Sending All, All All My Love.........Prayers.....
....Rainbows........To Angel Barbaro........Our
Angel Horses........Barbaro's Famblee Of So, So So Beautiful Angels........Angel Alex........
Angel Wendy........Your Angelic Hearts Of Love...
......Your Glowing Angel Wings Of Love In Beautiful Rainbows........

The Rainbow Of Love

Angel Nr. Bernie Rivers And Angel Pete With Angel
Barbaro On The Rainbow Of Love..........God's Glowing Angels........Living In Our Hearts......
..

The Wings Of Prayer

Angel Maribel, Angel Hans, Angel Mary S. And
Sherman, Angel Jonna And Heart, Angel Loretta,
Angel Jim Gath, Angel Barb AZ, Chunky And Punky,
Angel Tammie And Cheesie, Angel C.J., Angel Adam
LaCosta And Angel Lisa, Angel Dawn, Angel Janice
And Angel Denny, Angel Momo, Angel Anne And Angel
Terry Brennan, Angel John Velasquez, Angel Stephanie, Angel Rob, Angel Tony, Angel Jane,Angel Joan Roya,Angel Cheryl G., Barbaro's Angels.........God's Love For You.........Glowing
Hearts.........Angel Barbaro And His Angel Frens
Are With You..........God's Light Of Love........

Music In Rainbows

Musical Notes In The Sky
All The Colors Of The Rainbow
The Band Of Angels Are Singing
Songs Of Love And Joy...........

LITF
Is Lifting You Up
With His Wings Of Love.........

Flying.........

In Halos..........

Affirmed

Sending All, All All My Love........Prayers......
...Rainbows.........To Angel Sandra And Chief....
.....Glowing Wings.........

Affirmed

God Bless you Jim and Joe. There is a special place for you both in our hearts.

RIP Mr. Bernie Rivers. You were loved dearly and you will be forever.

Sandra, that's is how my Jose left. His aorta burst. A long time ago I was told by a Catholic nun that feeling guilty is a good sign. I was too young too understand. But I do now. We question ourselves, but all it really means is that we did such good for the person/animal, that we are upset with ourselves that we can't continue. We need to trust that we did just fine in the very dark hours. Because we did.

The winds have started. In other parts of the country these winds are hurricane strength. Here it is normal. And it is awful.

I visualize Kay in a lovely turquois blob.

Kay, a lovely turquoise blob with hood:

http://www.towelsrus.co.uk/section/3/1

3rd row down

I think this would be very embarrassing to him, but ever since I encountered Jim Gath through this site HE HAS BEEN MY HERO!!!!!!

####

Hmmmm..."juicy" rant-dujur, Fren Jonna.

I certainly add my distaste to the opinion on American tourism dollars for "lovely, happy, sunny," Mexico.

No wonder so many of their lovely, happy, sunny, 'hard-working'people are illegally, invading our country.

Perhaps they come to escape the spirit of death?

I just hope that it is not to BRING IT, WITH THEM, as yet one more abhorrent "cultural-custom" we are expected to roll over and tolerate in the name of political correctness.

OK...there is my spicy opinion to add to the rant.

Perhaps this degree of caliente rant may not appropriate here.(It's so frustrating). So I will also say:

Just as I know that thousands, (now perhaps even millions) from that country are, by virtue of history and culture, desensitized to chicken fighting, dog fighting, goat and pig slaughter, and horse torture on so many levels; people who's national sport is bull fighting...I think that there may also be many good people who have come from that country who would not condone the callous treatment of God's innocent creatures. Oh, I do certainly hope so.

Just this last year, the "horse-loving" State of Kentucky, breeders and dealers have been courting deals, with Mexican buyers, breeders, and Mexican horseracing, to open and increase the accessibility of Kentucky horses to that country. Now THAT, I AM disgusted with.

Three words for Mexico..."No More Slaughter!"

Three words for America..."Remember the Alamo!"

Three words for the FOB..."Please keep calling!"

Your FOB Fren, O

Just wanted to thank everyone for their prayers. My Chessie is gone. He went peacefully outside in a sunspot while laying in my lap. I'm trying to not be overwhelmed with sadness because he was such a great cat who had 23 good yrs. I want to celebrate his life. He was a feral kitten when I found him. It took awhile but he became the biggest snuggler of all time. Please keep in mind National Feral Cat day is Oct 16. Chessie would want me to point out they make great companions.
Rest easy my Chess...we will find each other again.
Tamme

My dear frens....

We arrived safely in British Columbia and are trying to make some semblance of normalcy.Hallelujah the sun does shine out the apartment window and the sky is a beautiful pastel blue!!!

Thursday was an early day with doctors apointment at 9am.I met Hans GP whom I instantly liked! A young man who is sharp as a whip and personally phones you at home just because he is worried about you!! NOT your everyday doctor!! HE IS HEAVEN SENT I KNOW! THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR PRAYERS!His name is Dr. Goddard and he ordered a CT Scan of the head to be added to the pelvic CT ordered by the urologist.He is wondering if Hans isn't having TIA's??? I know that when we had the other useless doctor after his heart surgery and once before I witnessed at least 4 TIA's !!! THAT is a very long and unhappy story!!

Yesterday we did the CT Scan at 8am.The tech that did the scan had worked with Hans for many years.She normaly tells him right away if it looks OK but she hugged him instead!! I would have preferred the standard it's OK?????

The spinal MRi is booked for Oct 16th at 8pm at Royal Columbian Hospital.The doctor that booked it is gone until January 2009 so Dr. Goddard is getting another neurologist to examine it.WE NEED ANSWERS NOW!!

He got a phone message from the doctors office yesterday for 2 new appointments one with Dr. Sun the heart specialist to rule out 100% any problems with his heart re his chestpain that is relieved by nitroglycerin spray and another appointment with Dr Vivian whom I do not know but suspect may be neurosurgery or neurology?????

WE are doing our best here to stay positive and to keep things as normal as possible!!!

WE DO FEEL YOUR LOVE and PRAYERS....(((((FOB))))))

WE are religiously following.................. The Mr. BERNIE RIVERS DOCTRINE

###
LynGilbert
I will contact you ASAP when I know more about the cancer.Keep doing what you are doing...I KNOW IT IS WORKING!!!!
####
JanicefromFlorida
I loved to read your message this morning.We think of you and Kaiser often.Kaiser is watching you ...I know !! YOU are very loved...

####
Jonna
Jonna your GH Heart has such a timely name.Who else but someone who has and IS ALL HEART should own such a precious soul???? YOU are such a lovely caring person don't ever let anyone try to take that from you!!! PROMISE ????

####
Sandra
You and Chief bring so much that is special to ALL of US!! I don't think you realize just how much we think of you BOTH????? Y'ALL are sent copius quantities of FOB every single day! Simply because WE LOVE YOU !! That brick!!! LOL My dearly loved beautiful Willie had a huge log and a ridiculous green little squeaky toy that he carried in his mouth daily! He never ever harmed the squeaky toy which he could have destroyed in one bite of his razor sharp teeth!!!!
((((((Sandra and Chief))))))

Frank Stronach ....I LOVE THAT MAN!!!
His daughter Belinda was a member of parliament here!!! Such a lovely lady but she developed breast cancer recently and had to retire! She was CEO of her fathers business a few years ago.

####
Sherry
You are a treasure here!! There is so much love in your messages.God bless you and Amigo!!

####
Alex
Perhaps it would be useful to contact Belinda Stronach and get her in touch with Sinnika Crossland re those slaughter plants in Canada!!!!
I think we have found a supportive voice for our horses in Canada???? SHE would know ALL the right buttons to push in government!!! IT is certainly worth a try and her father would support her in this!!!Maybe Mr. Stronach could make some waves for US too????Sorry for this long post????

My coffee is now cold so must go micro it....

HUGS and love to all...babes are getting HUGE!!!BUT so rolly polly and cute!! I have photos for anyone who wants to email me.BarbAZ has my email addy.

Tamme I'm so very sorry. 23 years is a long time to love someone and then have to live without him. What a blessing that he left here while being held by the one who loved him most

This morning my DH had a client come in with a feral cat she adopted about three months ago, who present her with four beautiful kittehs. They all got their first kiddeh shots today. There are three little girls, two calicos who look like miniature replicas of their mom, a beautiful little blue creme torti, and a BIG strong red striped boy. The little girls all have homes, and the mom and the little boy will stay with the client. His name will be Chessie

####
AngelDee

Soooo Sorry....I read your rainbows and lovely messages of love daily and they inspire me to stay positive! YOU were so missed when you had the great flood and puter problems! May God bless you and forever watchover you dear lady!!!

(((((((((((((AngelDee)))))))))))))))

###
Tamme

My son has a feral cat...a now huge tabby that is the biggest lovebug of all time!!!

Oct 16th is the day of Hans MRi??? NOW I know your Chessie will be watching over US that day!!!!

My Jimmi Hendrix cat is 17yrs old and he sends his love to you!

(((((((((((Tamme)))))))))))))

Tamme, I am so very sorry about Chessie. Am thinking of you.

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Maribel. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So.........You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So........You Are A So, So So
Very Beautiful Angel On This Earth.........

Your Angelic Heart Of Love........

Affirmed

Margie in NM, I didnt have an autispy done on Cody Bill but the vet hought it was an aorta as his stomach was extended with blood. As I said he was a character. You never knew what he would do in the obedience ring-about every 3rd show he would come running on thre recall -give you a look of pure mischief and jump the roping in the ring and we would catch him trotting out of the civic centers door. It got to where people would station themselves around the ring. He was a fun dog. ## Maribel, you and Hans are in all our prayers and you know how powerful the FOBs prayers are. ##otherlyn, I had to laugh on your Remember The Alamo. I was a Texas history teacher. You are so right.

Sorry about the typing errors. I can think faster than I can type. I type about 20 words a minute and think about 30 words a minute.

((((Sandra))))

(((((Otherlyn))))) Praying that you areOK????

((((Tamme))))

###Cheryl Jones....thank you for sharing that story. I can't tell you how happy it made me to think of a family of feral's all getting happy homes. And to think...the big boy cat will be named Chessie. Chess would be so honored as am I to know his name is living on...esp in this beautiful young male kitteh. Please relay to them that I hope they have at the very least 23 yrs of happiness with their Chessie as I did with mine.
Love, Tamme

Thank you all again for your kind words and thoughts for Chessie and I. I have had him for about half my life...so he will be missed sorely.
Thank you Sandra, Maribel, Margie in MN, Cheryl and anyone else I'm forgetting forgive me. It's been a long morning so I'm off to catch up on some sleep. Love to you all....Tamme (and my Angel Chessie)

###
Yes Dear Fren Maribel,

I am as OK as I can be ...even in spite of recent events.

You and Hans are ever in my thoughts and prayers.

Today, and yesterday, there is so much loss and heartbreak of separation on the board, here in Barbaronation. My problems are ever so slight. My burden is ever so light, as we all seek to comfort and hold up each other.

You have e-mail, my Fren.

^-,^ O

####
KAY
L.L. Bean has some good candidates for the Your (insert color here) Blob. However, they are just this side of too expensive and tastefully colored.
And, IMHO--The Blob MUST be floor length. TARGET has some wonderful choices, but they are ALL TOO SHORT~!!!!!!! gaaaaack>

(pERSONALLY, i LIKE TO SELECT MY bLOBS FROM THE PICKINGS AT THE LOCAL RESCUE MISSION OR WHATEVER ELSE YOU'VE GOT THAT SELLS GOOD STUFF FOR A FRACTION OF IT'S ORIGINAL EXORBITANT COST....)

i WISH YOU LUCK IN YOUR Cherchez la Blob. You will treasure it long past it's functionality, and then, of course, it must be burned like an American Flag, no longer able to provide yhonor and glory.

xxoo:j

###
Jonna
A fren after my own heart!!! Yesterday I got a beautiful pair of brown waterproof like-new leather riding style boots at the Salvation Army for $9.99 that sell for $130 today in the Sears catalogue!!!!! By all means FOB check out your local Goodwill...Sally Ann or consignment store!There are fantastic bargains to be had and EVERYONE shops there!! IF you save some you have more for the horses and the money they make goes to help many more peeps too!!!
IT'S ALL GOOD !!!!!

####
Otherlyn
(((((((MMMMMMMmmmmmWaHHHHHHH)))))))))))

WE LOVE YOU FREN!!!!!!!!!!

####
Otherlyn:

"...Today, and yesterday, there is so much loss and heartbreak of separation on the board, here in Barbaronation." (Otherlyn to Maribel....)

What did I miss? On what planet did all this strife take place? Confused in Liverpool.....Jonna

####
Maribel:
the only thing i buy new is delicates (cough cough) what few I wear....haha) and the maybe pair of jeans if I find a pair that fit just right, I'll get two. Oh yes and clogs from Hanna Andersson.

Otherwise: yesterday I bought big comforters for the GH who delight in disemboweling comforters. We always need bedding, towels, etc.

AND a beautimous olive Green J Crew wide wale swingline jacket. New. I swear....$9 +/- on sale...

I want to know who actually pays retails for clothing anymore???

Okay, I guess we are prepared. Thunderstorms predicted tonight, Sunday and Monday. Anxiety drops and anxiety pills ready on the kitchen cabinet. Classicial music on CD ready. My biggest fear is the elec. going out. Flashlights everywhere. I have to see where he is as he tries to get under end tables and turns them over, etc. Its like getting prepared for war. And getting any sleep-forget that. Bless his heart he just cant help it. ##jonna, the big table I have my computer on, etc came fom Goodwill. $10.00.

### In anwer to Fren jonna;

I was thinking of Tamme losing Chessie, Jim and Mr Bernie Rivers, Joes's account of Katie and the horseshoe, (after losing her horse, Pete); Frens experiencing the pain of regret for not having responded to a last invitation to play; of Hans having to endure another battery of tests and of the stress and worry Maribel is functioning under.

Sometimes, with the depth of connection we are capable of, even one heartbreak teardrop can be one too many, yes?

I myself, am navigating a melancholy patch right now. So sorry to be the wet blanket. I guess I'm a bit sensitive to it today.

Your FOB Fren, O

## OKAY, famblee ..... I must say, humbly, that I am the absolute "QUEEN" of the thrift shoppers ....... !! Have a house full of interesting cowboy/western stuff ...... and a zillion western shirts ..... it IS my therapy, and I can, in 30 minutes, find a cartload of wonderful keepables !! This addiction runs in the family. When I visited my sis in N. California last week, and we did our usual thrift shopping ... I came across a nearly new pair of Ariat riding/lace up boots ....... too big, but beauties !
## It has been a tough week in so many ways ..... and I send love and warm, fuzzy hugs to the many in need .......... Maribel - you ARE an inspiration ........... Jonna ..... you warm my heart and make me laugh too ......Otherlyn - it will get better and we are all here to offer shoulders and support.
## Tamme ..... I am so sorry you have lost your buddy, Chessie ........... he is now in the midst of the best - who have gone on before: Mr. Bernie Rivers, Kaiser, 153, my CHICO - our Beloved Barbaro ........ and the many others I haven't named but who were there to welcome Chessie warmly.
Our Lynne Brown's beloved 12 year old doggie is ailing ....... and his name is Murphy .... you might wish to keep him in your prayers .......

Sherry and AMIGO

###Yes Fren sandra,

REMEMBER THE ALAMO!

Isn't it amazing that the phrase, that rally cry, is so unfamiliar now? Nearly two generations of Americans have not even been taught about it in school.

The courage of the men, hopelessly outnumbered by the swarming hoard of the Mexican invasion army has saddly been forgotten. Remember the Alamo was to be a lasting tribute to their sacrifice.
And, now, the invasion comes again...for the most part it is bloodless, but it is an invasion none- the-less.

We HAVE forgotten, and so Misters Crocket, Bowie, Colnel Travis, and their fellow Americans,189 in all, who gave their lives on March 6, 1836, seem to have died for nothing, if we cannot even remember what happened to them, and most imporantly, WHY.

Your FOB Fren, O

####
O

"Sometimes, with the depth of connection we are capable of, even one heartbreak teardrop can be one too many, yes?"

Yes, oh, yes. If you only knew.

I lub my FoBs.
On we go.
If not US, then Who?
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

Watching August Rush on HBO. The Critics creamed it. I fell deeply, totally, impossibly in love with it. So I am a happy camper tonight.....

I send my warm blankets of comfort, succor and love out to all who need them. xxoo:j
COURAGE

###I am on a search for the Ultimate Blob. I liked the catalog with the turquoise blob--model looked sort of like a technicolor pugilist--female, of course ;o)

Thank you, ladies, for the suggestions AND for the best wishes for my quest.

###Wind hasn't let up today; I spent time this afternoon re-insulating my pipes outside. It will get very cold tonight. At 9 this morning I headed to town. Temperature gauge in the car said it was 48 outside and that doesn't figure wind chill.

###Tamme--your kitty was met by the "Bridge Monitor," my Molly Jean (the redhead with the hardhat and clipboard). Chessie got a royal welcome and probably got directions to find Annie, who was almost 22 when she went over the Bridge.

Sherry and I have set up a candle group for Lynne Brown and her dog Murphy. Please stop in and light a candle. Thanks.

Candles for Murphy

GARY STEVENS WROTE ME AN EMAIL (LOL)-- I HAD SIGNED UP FOR HIS NEWS LETTER QUITE A WHILE AGO. :>)

HAS THE LEGISLATION CHANGED ON THE BILL? I KNOW I SHOULD BE KEEPING UP WITH THIS, I'VE POSTED A FEW TIMES ABOUT REGGIE'S PASSING-- IT HAS REALLY TAKEN SO MUCH OUT OF ME. GUESS I BETTER DO SOME RESEARCH ON THE HS BILL & ANY NEW UPDATES! THANKS!

I CAN'T BELIEVE THE BC IS ONLY TWO WEEKS AWAY -- TIME HAS FLOWN THIS YEAR!!

LOVE,
CHERYL G

Jonnagrey,
I also like August Rush. What do the critics know?
KLB

####
KAY
"technicolor pugilist-haha."

####
jonna,

I meant to reply to your note about the mice. We've been crazy busy here. We had a 4H horse show today, and yes, Punky did a great job in her halter class! She's such a DOLL.

We get mice in our grain sometimes, and that is NOT GOOD! I also use the humane traps. I saw somebody had already posted that to you. I also use peanut butter as bait, but you need to check the trap frequently (several times a day) because they don't have any water. They will die if you don't get them out soon.

I take them up to a field near our house. Get them FAR away, or they will come back! Anyway, I just wanted to "second" that, in response to I-forget-who-now posted to you. The humane traps work great, and don't hurt the mice! I love mice, just not in my grain!

Hello Barbaro,

It’s been so long since I’ve posted to you but I carry you in my heart everyday. I look to the Heaven’s in good times and bad and either thank you or ask for a sign from you to help in reassuring me that it will be okay...

Yesterday was a good day. A great day! We had been dealing with a feral cat in my place of employment. Or, I should say that Bart was dealing with the feral cat. We were trying sooo hard to get the cat out of the place. The suggestions for removal ranged from pellet gun to poison to paint balls. (and I’m sure other ideas as well but my anger tended to deafen my ability to listen to idiots).

I called animal control and on the second night of attempts, we were able to live trap the frightened and extremely wild cat...black with ice cold green eyes. Bart was granted permission to spend the second night in the breakroom...per my boss’s suggestion!

Well, it worked! Bart was as snug as a bug with one of his beds, his litterbox, food dish(es), water fountain...and pillow. Yes, pillow!

And, upon the celebration of a safe capture and the wonderful feeling of being helpful to Bart, I get one of the biggest surprises, ever!

Co-worker Joe, I’ve told you about him Honey, asked what they would do with the cat. I informed him that they would hope to find a farmer who would welcome the cat to do some mousing, after the cat had been neutered, otherwise he was too wild and an adult, so he would not be adoptable. Therefore and sadly, his time was limited.

Joe piped up..."Just a minute." He made a call, I received business calls and the work day went on for a bit. Then, Joe leaned over his office wall and said, "I may have a farm for the cat to go to."

Honey, this was HUGE!!! Co-worker Joe. The guy who repeatedly announced throughout various furbaby moments in my life, "It’s JUST an animal!"

Honey, the Barbaro Effect has touched co-worker Joe’s heart! No, I won’t tell him Honey. If I were to say ANYthing even remotely close to that, he would shut down. So, I HAD to tell you...you and your Fans! You and your Fans have enabled me to proudly let the depth of my respect, love and admiration for animals be known...to everyone.

I thank you Honey. I thank your Fans. The love, support, sharing, caring and compassion that is displayed on this Board has empowered me, and I know others as well. This is phenomenal and I thank Alex for letting this continue...

But tonight the night is dark. The air is heavy and I am reminding myself to breathe.

I went to take care of Bart tonight and he was not in his bed. I thought he was locked outside after someone came in to do some work during the day. I took a few steps toward his bed, calling his name... and there he was, positioned under a small step ladder...and seizing.

Oh Honey, I went numb. He was laying in his own waste and drooling. I lifted the ladder and all the while, talking to him...and crying.

To make a long, complicated story short, he is at the Vet Hospital at this moment. The Vet gave him Valium. His glucose level was 84. Yes Honey, that’s an okay level to have. The Valium made the seizing stop. But once the Valium wears off, he may seize again...I am waiting to hear.

I am sooo tired but I know I won't sleep. I love him Honey. I don't want to lose him but if he is ready, I must let him go.

Please Barbaro, be there for my little Bart...if that is how it is written. He's such a brave little man...yes Honey, just like you!

I know you know the answer already as to what will be for Bart but when I know the answer, I will look to the Heaven's, call your name and ask a couple of favors of you, okay?

But for now, please cuddle up next to him. I really think he is a cuddler although he has never spent the night cuddling...until tonight, with you.

Please keep whispering in his ear just how much he is loved...how very much he is loved.

Be sure to have plenty of snacks while you two visit under the blanket because Bart LOVES food...yes Honey, again, just like you!

Why don't we fluff the blanket and get it ready for the two of you. We'll fold it just right for nuzzling. (That will be a peaceful vision for me tonight...two handsome noses nuzzling a snuggly blanket)

Dream sweet dreams Barbaro. And when you wake, please be sure to tell Bart to enjoy his day tomorrow wrapped in my arms and getting wet with all of my kisses.

But if it's written differently, please come to me in my dreams...and bring Bart with you. Wrap me in your comforting wings and break it to me gently. Please.

Honey, your healing is complete and strength will forever carry you into the sweet dreams of your loved ones.

Good night Honey. You know I love you. You'll just never know HOW much I love you. xxoo

Good night Bart. You know I love you Buddy. You're my boy...And you will never know either just HOW much I love you. Good night...xxoo..x

Good night guys. The Dream Angels are basking in the glow of the brightest star, sharing with us in Minnesota the unseasonably mild temperatures.
Barbaro, good night.XXOOxxo....x

(Bart can't go yet...the blueberry donuts JUST came back for the season...)

Please pray for what is written...for Bart. I ask, please. xxoo

_____________________

Murphy and Lynne,

May ALL the stars gathered in the evening sky light the way to healing and wellness for Murphy.

And may they shine brightly for you Lynne to show and share the true beauty in our world...love.

Many, many love you Lynne and Murphy. We are here. Hold that close to your heart...xxoo...x

Laurie H: So glad to read your post, and see that Bart is doing well. How is the Divine Miss M (still awaiting pics), canine family, and very importantly, you.

Lisa in Colorado

####
Oh, Laurie, prayers for Bart. Hugs on the way.

Laurie H. - My thoughts are with Bart this evening. I know Barbaro is looking out for him.

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

Dear sweet Bart ....you musn't go anywhere just yet!! Your mommy NEEDS and LOVES YOU SO!!! I am sending you loads of love and soft warm healing light to bask in Bart!!! I know you can feel our LOVE!! Bart it is not your time....YOU ARE NEEDED HERE!! YOU ARE LOVED BY MANY little one!!

Dear Lord please give us just a little more time to love and enjoy Bart.Watchover the little fellow tonight we ask.Amen

(((((((((LaurieH and Bart)))))))))))

####
BarbAZ

Can you bluelink some candles for BART ????

THANKS SO MUCH...

Sending All, All All My Love.......Prayers......
...Rainbows.......To Angel Laurie H. And Bart....
.....

All, All All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows..
........

Affirmed

Good night, Barbaro

ACN

Laurie H ......... thinking of you this evening and sending enormous hugs your way ...... and visions of blueberry donuts sweet Bart's way ....... this sounds like the comfort food, for Bart, equivalent to chicken soup or mashed potatoes .... for me ! BE with your Mommy, little fuzz man ............ there is so much love here for you ........... with you MOM and all of her FsOB friends.

Sherry and AMIGO

Barb AZ...thank you for Murph's candles. He is a wee bit better. Lynne talked to a vet tech she knows, Murph ate a small amount of his mama's home cooking, which pleased his mama very much. I talked to Lynne a little bit ago, and she sounds WAY better than she did this morning. She was also reassured after talking with sisterfren Jonna. Please keep Lynne and Murphy in your thoughts and prayers. Oh, and someone, an Equine Heaven fren, lit actual candles for Lynne and Murph at THE St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York. She was over the moon for that.

Candles for Bart and Laurie

####
Kathy, I'm glad to hear that Murphy is a little better. St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York? WOW.

(((LaurieH))) What a beautiful post,I'll be thinking of Bart and Barbaro nuzzling under that special blanket of yours Laurie. Brings back special memories....

(((Lynne and Murphy)))

Dear Laurie,

It has been months since I came to this site...
Why am I here tonight, on this night when you need your friends to help you through this scary time? I can only believe that we are still connected somehow, you and I. I had no intention of coming here, and yet here I am. I am sending peace and comfort and I hope that it reaches you and wraps you in the warmth of friendship that I feel for you even in my extended absences.

Here in PA I fear we are about to lose our Jun Jun blakhamsumkat after 21 years......vet appt. is on Tuesday. I am not ready, but know our duty is to do what is right for him. He has given us so much more than we could ever deserve and taught us lessons that only a cat can teach.

This is a dark evening, indeed, but I go forward knowing that you and so many others understand and care.

Love,
Glenda Jo

It's Sunday FOBs and it's a sad time for the Barbaro family. So many FOBs have lost or are losing their animal companions or facing serious health problems themselves or someone dear to them. A big hug to all ((((((((FOB))))))))))))
My prayers for Maribel & Hans, Laurie H & Bart, Jim Gath & Mr. Bernie Rivers, Tamme & Chessie, Glendo Jo & Jun Jun, Lynne & Murphy, Cheryl G & Reggie, Barbi & Nala, Donna & Regen and if I missed anyone - please forgive me. I don't get to read all the comments.

Angel Dee - thank you for the rainbows you send to this board.

Janice
A forever devoted to Kaiser FOB
PS - had a nice trail ride yesterday morning but it ended when one of the horses started to limp. We waited while the owner went for the trailer to pick her up so she wouldn't have to walk any further. Then Della & I headed toward her trailer, just reaching it when it started to rain. Great timing.

#####
Yes...prayers to ALL OF THE FOBS...AND THOSE WHO ARE SUFFERING...HUMAN OR ANIMAL....

With the election coming up....we need to more than ever get our message across....pass the Barbaro bill....we speak for these beautiful horses...one of God's creations.

If the senator or congressman has not been doing the will of the people...now is the time to get them out of the office....I am sick of the greed, corruption, and riding the fence.

We have alot here at stake....our country, our lives, our rescues, and the entire world.

There is a heaven and there is a hell...

There is good, and there is evil.

There is right, and there is wrong.

These killer buyers, the ones going underground for mexican rodeos, those who are abusing, neglecting animals and horses....your justice will be serve...guaranteed.

We have angels in heaven, and we sure have them here on earth....and the FOBS ARE ALL ANGELS..YOU ARE ALL GOD SENT.

And Dee...with her beautiful rainbows...rays of colors...and divine messages.

Please remember and help our rescues, read the db ...and help....please remember and help our FOB family.

I know no answer to this crisis that we are facing....but I do know that we all need to stay together, and help one another, and stay as family, and united.

PLEASE CALL, FAX, EMAIL....GET OUR BILL PASSED...SHAKE UP CONGRESS...

Have a beautiful day...

Love to all of you.

###
And Alex...always, thank you, thank you.

Anyone have any word on Larrup's surgery at NB? I thought it was to have been perfprmed on the 15th.
KLB

I've been "lame" since Friday when DanYELL knocked over a cup of coffee on my puter desk, which got my keyboard wet - luckily by today it has dried out internally and is working again. Was still bolyxed up yesterday after a "night off" and I thought it was gone; made some tentative plans for a replacement; but tried it this morning and we're back in business. YAY! Will be back on after cat chores and catching up with emails - I didn't even check 'em yesterday bc I couldn't reply . . . Same here with ABR - came to read and couldn't post - what a feeling of helplessness and impotence!

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Joan Roya. You Are
In My Heart So (8) A Lot So.......... You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So............ You Are A So, So So Very Beautiful Angel On This Earth.....
.....

God's Glowing Angels........

Affirmed

John Henry memorial video

I AWAKEN FEELING LIKE CRAP. WORRIED ABOUT MURPHY AND LYNNE...FEED DOGS, BACK TO BED TILL NOON EYE DROP TRIP INTO THE CITY FOR DAD....AND THEN THIS:
*****************************************************
Sunday, October 12th...

Readers of Tbfriends play detective. They came up with some disturbing results...

From Mary in Oregon we discovered there is a man named Ben who lives in Eugene, and he sells livestock to rodeos.

From Shelly & Melissa at Sterling Riding Academy in Davis, we discovered there is a man named
Ben and he lives in Rio Linda, California. He sells livestock to rodeos.

From horse killer Manny Phelps in Wilton we discovered there is a man named Ben who lives in Victorville, California. He sells livestock to rodeos.

None of the above are the Ben we are searching for. Our Ben lives in Arizona, he is around 50 years old, and his last name is either Perea or Perez.

So there are at least 4 men named Ben who sell animals to rodeos. What a world we live in...

From a feed store in Austin, Texas we found out about a man who sells puppies and chickens to fighting groups all over the world. The man lives in Mexico and is considered a celebrity because he is so rich.

Our search for Ben and a tall two year old dark filly led us to an old pony. Almost daily we are told about old ponies and old horses who are doomed. Sad as these stories are, there is little we can do. But on Friday I was told about a lame old pony who was sold by a traveling carnival to a mexican rodeo in Stockton. I asked the person on the phone, why would a mexican rodeo buy an old lame pony?

The person on the phone said for the kids. Lots of kids at mexican rodeos, and they jump on ponies and try to go really fast. The kids copy the adults in their abuse of animals. The adults encourage this behavior. Gives the kids something to do while the rodeo is going on.

Once again, what a world we live in...

Naturally all night in bed Friday this is bugging me. Images of a poor lame pony being whipped to go really fast by stupid screaming kids.

Yesterday my wife Cathy was able to track down the old lame pony. On the phone Cathy is much more endearing than I am. The owner wanted $500.00. He is worth fifty cents. At public auction he might bring $40.00. Horse killers seldom bid on ponies because they do not weigh enough.

Cathy could not get the owner to lower his price. We moved some money around (a big thank you to Tom Hayes who is holding our hay checks) and we were able to purchase the pony. Yesterday afternoon in terrible winds the pony was transported to a safe place. There is an appointment for a complete vet exam on Tuesday.

I am not a racist. But I am pissed off to the moon. Mexicans are allowed in our country, not even legal, and they abuse and kill our animals. They encourage their kids to do the same. I have seen many videos. Horses and cows in horrible fright, while goats are butchered and eaten and there is lots of beer and good laughs. Mexican rodeos move around each weekend. Just like chicken fights. There is big time gambling, which is also illegal. What a world we live in...

The hot subjects these days is our economy. Unemployment. Major companies shutting down. Home foreclosures. The stock market. The upcoming election. How much weight did Valerie lose? Will Brittany ever marry again?

It seems animals (all animals) are taking a back seat. Recent polls show a prop in the next election to give hens more room while laying eggs is going to fail. It will cost the poor egg companies more money to give hens more room, and all of that means the public will pay more money for a dozen eggs.

Of course the public will vote No. And the hens will remain in a small cage, not enough room to even turn around.

I will come down from the podium. 110 horses are demanding their breakfast. Still windy, but not as bad. Meatloaf on the oldies station...

Joe at TB Friends

Candles for Bart and Laurie

((((LaurieH and Bart))))

###
May God hold your hand and Laurie...and Barbaro and his heavenly frens...be at the gate welcoming Bart home.

####
Joe and his blog...upsets me...in fact makes me mad.

FOBS...we are the eyes, and ears, and hope for animals and horses...

we have to take a stand...report, expose, educate, and we are the ones who have backbone.

####
Now is the time for us to make a statement and vote....

vote for the congressperson or senator we think has the backbone...who will listen to the will of the people.

I pray daily...that God elects the right person into office for President....

our country and our loving family needs prayer.

Please help the rescues.

PLEASE CALL, FAX, AND EMAIL...PLEASE.

Laurie prayers for you and your dear Bart!
Gods speed dear one! Barbaro is waiting and will watch over you. We all know how hard this is!

Oh, Laurie H. How my heart aches for you and precious Bart today. You are both in my heart and in my prayers. No one could have done more for him than you. So much love and compassion. You have all my respect for that. I know all the beloved pets who have already Rainbow Bridge will sense just how special Bart is.

With a heavy heart,
Kathy S.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Please stop in and light a candle for Barbaro.

He is WAY down on the list. It takes ALL of us to keep him up there.

Thanks.

###Laurie...just picture your Bart wrapped in Barbaro's beautiful cashmere blanket...at peace and forever safe and well. We are all here for you...

Tamme

###### regarding Post by Tamme at October 11, 2008 7:12 PM - so sorry for your loss - would have responded sooner to your post re losing Chessie but my puter keyboard was temp fried. You have always been there for me during and after my recent losses and I felt so bad not being able to respond earlier. And thanks for reminding us about National Feral Cat Day Oct. 16. Here's a link to Alley Cat Allies, a great org that helps feral cats and promotes TRN (trap-neuter-release) programs.

http://www.alleycat.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=191&srcid=-2

((((((((Laurie & Bart))))))

I am so sorry Laurie

Ro & Brady

I know I have too much on my mind when I start asking for updates on surgery that hasn't even been performed yet. It dawned on me as I was returning from the vet this morning that the reason we have had no updates on Larrup's surgery is that it is only the 12th.
KLB

Sending love to LaurieH and Bart.

Will send you one last earthly tuck-in for now, sweet Bart. But we'll send silent tuck-ins every night from now until we're all reunited with you and all those who await your arrival today.

You will be blanketed with love and enveloped in your mom's love. You'll be carried through a beautiful light into golden sunshine. Never again to suffer the infirmities that only an earthbound being has to suffer. You'll have all the cheetoes and snacks you want now. Your friends will share all their favorite snacks with you too, as they will be in abundance forever.

When you arrive in hevvin, and you look down on all of us here and see tears on our faces, let us feel a gentle little paw pat to wipe then away. We'll know it's you, and be comforted. We'll hold your mom extra tight. Rest well, sweet Bart. You are free.

Aunty Cheryl loves you soooooooooooooo much

###CJ...Thanks for thinking of Chessie and I. Although still overwhelmed with the sense of loss of such a great friend as Chess,(many, many tears) I'm trying to celebrate his life and encourage others to adopt a feral kitten or at least help with the colonies. Chess helped me throughout his life foster many kittens, several that were feral as well. I think he'd like to think he could help one more time by encouraging folks to consider a feral kitten. Once you earn their trust you have it for life. Thanks CJ...love, Tamme

Laurie H: Love to you and Bart. He made it having a good quality of life for much longer than you thought he would, tanks to your love and efforts.

((((((((((((Laurie H. & Bart Forever))))))))))))))))

We've got your back, honey. I am so very very sorry...

You know, I'll bet Bart is getting a tour on the back one of of Equine Heaven's residents. You oughta be jealous, girl!

Thank you for sharing the mystical little kitteh with all of us. xxoo:j

####### Laurie - my heart goes out to you - so glad you were there for Bart all along, and especially this time when he needed you to get him the help he needed.

####### Glenda - so nice to see you here again - and hoping for a good outcome for you and Jun Jun.

Tamme Hope you are feeling a little less sad today, but I know that's hoping for a lot. The little red namesake will be so well loved, along with his mom, and there will be no expense spared for their care and comfort. They, along with all the other ( I think the new mom and kiddeh Chessie make six altogether ) animals in the household of these lovely people will be spoiled rotten. Their oldest kitteh is now 19 and their oldest dog is 15, and they're both in great health along with the other two, and the two newest additions. The three little girl kiddehs will stay in the care of my DH, as two of the girls are going a friend who has two others, already in DH's care, and the other to her mom. Feral no more!

Still praying for your comfort

visiting the DB found this interesting post by Lucille Matte:

http://forums.prospero.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=27920.143

National Wolf Awareness Week

Dear Frens,

It has been a bitter-sweet weekend. Bitter, because of the reality of the heartlessness in this world (this otherplace)...bitter because of the recent sad good byes, for some of us. But it is also always sweet, here, for the comfort of our connection. It is the Love of the Frens, that makes the difference.

Thank God for the gift of finding BARBARO, and each other, here in Barbaronation. Thank God for the kind,generous hearts of Tim and Alex.

Words of comfort from THISGOODPLACE, where the Young Prince and our departed loved ones dwell:

The white mare, then spoke in words:

"The good and the bad of the otherplace often fades in the peace of Thisgoodplace, but Love stays. Love is always remembered, with songs and honor."

You, and the Love of your Frens, will always be a part of our song. ... Love follows Love, Great Prince, and you are its touchstone. Someday, the peace of Thisgoodplace will find its way to your Frens.

I tell you now, for THEIR hearts to know:
Your Frens DID save them."

The Young Prince wept, as they walked. The white mare was silent, beside him. His full heart was touched by all of what she had said. He took to heart, the noble names, and the stories that had been sung into him.

He understood the joy of knowing Love. There was no shame or sorrow in his tears, no grief, or regret. They were simply tears. When something touches your heart...you cry.
..................................................
Be comforted, and encouraged Dear Frens...Always look up at the evening sky. Give thanks in all things. There is a purpose to our broken hearts.

Your FOB Fren, O

MORE TIME TO HELP ENDANGERED SPECIES - pls act now

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=29340.1

crossposting from the DB [close up spaces in URLs] [edited to eliminate negative reference to specific politicians]

WWF alert/help Endangered Species by 10/15

http:// wwf. worldwildlife.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=14922.0&dlv_id=16461&JServSessionIdr001=sfnd7ipxi2.app5b

MORE TIME TO HELP ENDANGERED SPECIES

New deadline: October 15, 2008

Dear Caroline,

You have more time to help stop an attempt to undermine the Endangered Species Act. The public comment period has been extended until Oct. 15.

If you have already taken action, thank you! Please forward this message to others who might be willing to help.

TAKE ACTION: Click here to help protect endangered species.

http:// wwf. worldwildlife.org/site/PageServer?pagename=can_endangered_species_regulation&autologin=true&AddInterest=1061

The[re are] . . . proposed changes that would seriously weaken the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The . . . [proposed] plan would limit the role of the two federal agencies that are responsible for implementing the ESA, and that are the government’s experts on species conservation--the Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Specifically, the proposed changes eliminate the requirement that those agencies sign off on the initial threshold analysis of impacts of any proposed federal project that affects a threatened or endangered species, or the critical habitat on which those species depend. This means that for federal involvement in dams, mines, grazing permits, forestry activities, irrigation, dredging, and fishing, it is the federal agencies approving or funding the activity that are the ones making the initial determination about whether the impact of their proposed projects would harm species listed as threatened or endangered, or their habitat.

But these agencies have a vested interest in promoting their activities, not in protecting species; and very few of them have relevant biological expertise in making such important determinations. The . . . proposed rule puts the fox in charge of the hen house, with these hens on the verge of extinction.

In addition, the proposed rule narrows what impacts might be considered during project review. Impacts driven by many different actions, such as climate change, would be out of scope for consideration. This short-sighted change undermines the goal of the Endangered Species Act to preserve species no matter what the threat facing them.

. . . [T]hese changes [can be made] without congressional review and approval and . . . the proposal [is being rushed] through with an unusually short public comment period.

Submit an official public comment objecting to the proposed regulations that would weaken the Endangered Species Act.

http:// wwf. worldwildlife.org/site/PageServer?pagename=can_endangered_species_regulation&autologin=true&AddInterest=1061

The Endangered Species Act is our nation's most important tool for protecting imperiled wildlife and maintaining biological diversity. Enacted in 1973 by President Richard Nixon, the law has protected many iconic wildlife species, including the bald eagle, gray wolf, California sea otter, American alligator, gray whale, and black-footed ferret. It is a strong, effective, and flexible science-based “safety net” for imperiled species and is used as a model by other countries struggling to protect their own endangered wildlife.

WWF supporters like you helped fend off an attempt by Congress several years ago to rewrite and weaken the Endangered Species Act. With your help, we can stop this misguided . . . proposal as well. Thank you for speaking out.

Sincerely,

Jason Patlis
Vice President and Managing Director
U.S. Government Relations
World Wildlife Fund

http:// www. worldwildlife.org/

[end crosspost]

Note - hotlinks to take action are in the DB post noted at the top of this Comment.

Cherokee Devotionals [sharing email from Harriette Brillianthawk]

Oct. 11

Know who you are and don't worry about what other people think. Be your own best friend and resist trouble like wildfire. Be steadfast in good times and bad, tell fear to get lost and do away with doubt the way you would turn a hose on a fire.

Never fall into the habit of believing you are always in the wrong. It can be a sufferer's trap, like a wastebasket that catches all the trash. Time is precious and you don't have time to stand in a hole. Make a difference now by lifting your vision of yourself. There's no such thing as bad blood when your heart is right.

French trappers said a great many things to our fathers which have been planted in our hearts.

Chief Joseph
Nez Perce


Oct. 12

The path to the woods is soft and silent underfoot. Wet leaves pad the ground beneath the trees and bright patches of green moss cover every rock. Many plants in sheltered places thrive even now.

This place is sweet solitude--but never silent. Twittering birds have moved in for the winter and the red and blue of cardinals and blue-jays color the darkening woods. Time hangs between autumn and winter in mellow breezes and a few bright sunflowers. It is a pensive time, a time to reflect and let go and enjoy.

The old Indian still sits upon the earth instead of propping himself up and away from its life giving forces.

Standing Bear
Lakota Sioux

For FOB $1-$5 Alive Drive

Thank-you! We have raised over $4700 for rescued horses. We are starting our 48th drive today.

Our next drive is for Phoenix Rising Horse Rescue. We are raising $100 for farrier care. Please click on the link below for more information on the rescue and how to donate.

FOB $1-$5 Alive Drive

Remember we are asking for your pocket change. All donations of any size are welcome.

We need $100.

Thank-you!

Margie

Hay, FOB's!

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Just got home a short time ago from Fair Hill, catching up on the posts...

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LaurieH, dearest, gentlest soul...and brave, sweet Mr. Bart...the one thing we are being shown is the Power of Love, the joy of having an open heart to feel...

even if we shed tears for feeling and loving.

Bart has been so blessed to have been with you and you, dearest one, have been blessed to have him to steward and simply love...

just love...only love...

and I've said it before and I'll say it over and over again until we all get it...

Love Never Dies. It never can die or change form...

Because Love...Is.

All Love,
Padme A'Tea

Sending All, All All My Love........Prayers......
...Rainbows........To Angel Barbaro........Our
Angel Horses.........Barbaro's Famblee Of So, So
So Beautiful Angels........Angel Alex........
Angel Wendy........Rep. Ed Whitfield.........
Your Angelic Hearts Of Love..........Your Glowing Wings Of Love In Rainbows...........

The Wings Of Prayer

Angel Maribel, Angel Hans, Angel Laurie H. And
Bart, Angel Mary S. And Sherman, Angel Janice
And Angel Denny, Angel Jonna And Heart, Angel
Loretta, Angel Barb AZ, Chunky And Punky, Precious Angel 153, Angel C.J. Angel Adam LaCosta
And Angel Lisa, Angel Dawn, Angel Joan Roya,
Angel Momo, Angel Anne And Angel Terry Brennan,
Angel John Velasquez,Angel Tammie And Cheesie,
Angel Jim Gath, Angel Mr. Bernie Rivers, Angel
Glenda Jo And Jun Jun, Angel Cheryl G. And Reggie, Angel Otherlyn, Angel Doona And Regan, Angel Barb And Nala, Angel Lynne And Murphy,
Angel Stephanie, Angel Rob, Angel Tony, Angel
Sandra And Chief, Barbaro's Angels.........
God's Love For You.........God's Glowing Heart..........Angel Barbaro and His Angel Frens Are With You.........

Celestial..........

Divinity..........

God's Artistry In Rainbows

God's Divine Artists
Barbaro's Angels
Angel Children
Most Beautiful Pictures Of Our Angel Horses
Grazing
You Are With Them..........

Beautiful Visions.......
Beautiful Creating.........
On Your Canvas Of Dreams........
Ocean Colors.........
Tranquility...........

God's Light Of Love.........
Angels With You.........

In Halos..........

Affirmed

Claiborne Farm lowers stud fees

Gee they don't get it!

Edgar Prado pledges 5% of his Breeders Cup weekend winnings to charity. What a guy!

Do we know about this yet? Came to me via my google alert that sends me anything with the name Barbaro in it.

There's an interesting piece re Curlin and whether he will face Big Brown in the Breeders Cup Classic - then keep scrolling down for what's below.

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-horse12-2008oct12,1,4958743.column

[excerpt from above piece]

Special gesture

The year 2006 was a challenging one for jockey Edgar Prado.

In February, he lost his mother, Zenaido, to breast cancer.

In May, he rode Barbaro to a victory in the Kentucky Derby that was so impressive that a Triple Crown seemed a real possibility. Two weeks later, on the main stretch at Pimlico, Barbaro broke down in the Preakness and, eight months later, had to be euthanized.

"It was a roller-coaster year," Prado said.

So, Prado has decided to do something in memory of his mother and to the benefit of his sport.

The Hall of Fame jockey, who has won more than 5,000 races, including three in the Breeders' Cup, will donate 5% of his winnings on Breeders' Cup weekend to charity, including the Susan G. Komen fund that fights breast cancer and the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund.

"I want a lot of rides, so I can do a lot for these charities," Prado said.

What a guy is right, Ceej.

Another what a guy - Alex!

Slightly off topic. A big congrats to the Atlanta Falcons and their fans today. One second left in the game and the Falcons kicker kicks a game winning field goal. The announcer said Atlanta has had much diversity lately and this win was much needed. (I believe he was referring, among other things, to the vick dog fighting debacle.) After the field goal there was abundant cheering that rivals a super bowl win. Go Falcons! You deserve it.

God bless you, and so very, very sorry

Laurie and Bart

Tamme and Chessie

...and hugs to Jun Jun and all furries in need today....

Hugs and comfort to Laurie H. and the many, many fans of Bart here. He had more days than he would of because of your devotion, Laurie. Thank you for sharing his antics with us.

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro (and Bart) forever

Advice for Pet Owners on Grieving the Loss of a Pet

There have been so many pet losses among the FOBs lately, this article couldn't have come at a better time.

transcript of a Q & A session on Grieving the Loss of a Pet [close up spaces]

http:// www. washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/10/02/DI2008100203292.html

excerpt below

October 8, 2008 12:00 p.m.
Advice for Pet Owners
Grieving the Loss of a Pet
Linda Anderson
Author and co-founder of Angel Animals Network

Linda Anderson helps animal lovers address the emotional turmoil and unhappiness that comes with the loss of a pet in her co-authored book "Saying Goodbye to Your Angel Animals: Finding Comfort After Losing a Pet." Anderson and her husband, Allen, are the founders of Angel Animals Network, an organization dedicated to helping people discover and benefit from the powers of animals. The Andersons are also the authors of "Rescued: Saving Animals From Disaster," "God's Messengers: What Animals Teach Us About the Divine" and several other publications. She was online Wednesday, Oct. 8, at noon ET to answer questions. . . .

Linda Anderson: Pet loss may be one of the most debilitating experiences you have had. You probably never expected it to hurt as much as it does. The grief is often compounded by people who underestimate depth and length of your need to mourn and who make comments that are hurtful. Dealing with pet loss makes us face death closeup, in our own homes. It opens us to questions about the afterlife and whether we'll see our dear friend again. For children in the family it's often their first exposure to death. You may feel at a loss for how to answer their questions, especially when you're still vulnerable. The other animals in your family are also grieving. How to help them? Let's take this journey together today. We've all been there. We all understand. [end excerpt]

Clearly, she gets it!

The above introduces a quite extensive Q & A piece; you can read it at this DB thread:

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=29387.1

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=29341.1

El Paso Times needs info re horse slaughter. FOB (DB name, csantovena) has spoken with Aileen Flores, a reporter interested in the issue.

Please email Aileen Flores with info and your opinion/concern re ending HS; her addy is

aflores@elpasotimes.com

Hay, FOB's!

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Just finished a yoga practice and am wiped out...but wanted to give today's update from my visit to Fair Hill. Donna Quinn brought her grandson Evan with her (Evan's dad died in an auto accident back in February) and he's had a tough time. I got there early and asked all the horses to be very gentle with Evan...to show him the magic of horses and just love him....

and they did. He was still a little uncertain, but the ones that did get close to him were good as gold. Paris is still recovering, Who's Happy, Powdered Donut, Vicar, Saar, Bubble Gum, Triumphant and the rest (I've forgotten a LOT fo them) were WONDERFUL.

In the second row of stalls are 5 fillies: Luise, Miss MPV, Ginger, Veiled Reference and (I think) JoJo. Five ladyhorses and we love to "testify to the girlify" - i.e. just let the feminine energies flow. It is a time when the energies just bring up wonderful qualities in all of us and they are a joy to be around. Forgot to ask about Congaree.

There is a brand new filly there and her name is Sky Heat. She's a dark bay...almost black in certain lighting with a white blaze...and she had arrived very recently. She knows what carrots and mints are and is a real sweetheart. Loves attention, loves to give right back. Donna and I were enchanted with her. Totally enchanted.

This Friday Donna and I will be at New Bolton for a cocktail party/dinner/event. Will let you know. We've also been invited to a lecture on the 28th about equine respiratory disease. We'd both like to go. Are any other local FOB's going???? Della????

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also got the shock of my life when I got on e-mail after getting back from FH. Friend told me the press release I'd sent about "Cassidy" to the local paper was printed in today's edition.

Sheesh. Well, we'll see what happens. My life has taken a little bit of a shift but we'll see.

you are all the greatest...

And Sweet Angel Dee...your posts always open my heart...Affirmed...

All Love,
Padme A'Tea

All,

I just received this email from somebody who attended the Wild Horse Summit in Nevada yesterday. This is good stuff:

I was able to attend the Wild Horse and Burro Summit in Las Vegas on Saturday. Honestly, I was in awe of the attendees--scientis ts, vets, authors, rescuers, wild horse welfare advocates, Lakota Indian chief, BLM representatives, HSUS representatives and many more--with the goal of finding a better way to manage (or not manage) America's precious wild horses. Following are some highlights of the many notes I took (note that all references to wild horses also includes burros):

Some Remarks by Speakers:

1. Wild horses will be extinct in 5 years if nothing is done to protect them.

2. Wild horses have been managed for their existence, need to be managed for their welfare.

3. There is some question as to whether wild horses really need to be managed at all.

4. By federal law, wild horses have a right to our public lands--cattle do not.

5. The current removal program is much more expensive than use of contraception methods.

6. 75-80% of wild horses are not now in self-sustaining herds.

7. Use of PZP (birth control) showed unwelcome side effects in at least one study.

8. The AML (appropriated management level, the amount of land needed for wild horses to graze without causing damage to the range) is not supported by data.

9. The family units ("harems"), which consist of one stallion plus his mares and foals must be maintained or the mustangs will not survive.

Some Suggestions Discussed By The Panel:

1. Release the horses now being held and return them to land taken from them.

2. Look at the original intent of the law and the original herd areas and analyze if these areas have viable populations.

3. Give the public access to BLM documents and create public task forces.

4. Remove fences and allow horses to be free roaming again.

5. Remove the wild horses from BLM control and put them under the control of people who know and are trained in horse management.

6. Only select mustangs with the best retraining potential and temperament for adoption and leave the others on their ranges. Provide special training for new adoptees.

7. Restore horses into the zeroed-out range areas.

8. Assess all horses now in holding to see if they can go back out on the range. Family bands should be reunited whenever possible, including geldings.

9. Privatize adoptions using agencies such as the Mustang Heritage Foundation and castrate all stallions prior to adoption.

Statements made by the Deputy Director of the BLM, in charge of wild horse management:

1. "The BLM might be violating the law by not using all the tools available through the law to preserve the wild horses and burros."

2. The BLM cannot afford the current program of holding wild horses in pens. Mr. Bisson is looking to find financial relief and has made substantial cut backs within his department.

3. He says he never said the BLM planned to euthanize horses as reported by the media. He says "I don't think we'll get there."

4. Mr. Bisson will be meeting with Congress in November about how to proceed.

5. No emergency gathers will be made without his approval with only a few specific removals but no family units destroyed.

6. No gathers in Wyoming, no removal of McCullough herd this year.

7. The BLM will continue the adoption program with the Mustang Heritage Foundation, which is "the best thing we have going right now."

8. The BLM will look into putting horses back onto zeroed-out ranges.

9. The BLM will most likely use infertility drugs such as PZP (and two others).

10. The BLM is looking into changing permits to allow more horse grazing land and trying to work with several people about putting wild horses on land not part of the rangelands.

11. He would like to continue the stewardship program in which rangers help with water, etc. during difficult times.

There were many more points brought up and discussed at the meeting, these are a few that I thought were important. Mr. Bisson, who seems to have an understanding and empathy for the wild horse problem, unfortunately will be retiring at the end of January. He said that the issue of the wild horses and burros will "get all my attention" until that time and he expects to have recommendations to submit to the White House before he leaves the Bureau.

We need to put our weight behind the efforts being made by the wild horse and burro advocates, just as we have supported anti-slaughter legislation. Our attitude and interest in helping them will dictate whether they survive. We have to be their voice.

Here is a site I just found. (Also from the previous email.) Good stuff, too!

Ending Horse Slaughter

Casino Drive's race w/b shown on TVG in less than 20 minutes.

CJ..let us know about the race asap...
Go Casino Drive!!

Casino Drive will be tested on artificial surface for the first time - they are saying, doesn't matter how he does except that he should finish OK. What in the world are those apparent 'knots' on the front surface of his knees in the post parade??? They are also saying that his rider today is being 'auditioned' for the Breeders Cup . . . 2 minutes to start time. This horse looks very good.

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Padme A'Tea. You
Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So. You Touch My
Heart So (8) A Lot So. You Are A So, So So Very
Beautiful Angel On This Earth.

All, All All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows
To You........

Affirmed

WOW! Casino Drive didn't seem to work too hard to get that win...

What a beautiful animal he is!

CASINO DRIVE took it as a stroll. He was beautiful. It was a paid workout for him. Everybody safe...good race.

Your FOB Fren, O

THANK YOU!!! for letting me know about Casino Drive's race!!!

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HARRIETTE...do I take it that you are a fan?

Special thoughts for Jim Gath at Tierre Madre, whose words re his recent loss are food for thought - re how fragile life is, and how suddenly it can be extinguished . . . Colic is right up there with Laminitis in the fatal horse conditions category - and both are so painful and difficult to deal with.

Getting ready to leave for music - CU tomorrow - have a good evening and night everyone - lub on your critters and ppl every chance you get . . .

Congratulations to CASINO DRIVE and his connections...also C-Grats to his FANS!(Fren Harriett).

Kudos also, and heartfelt thanks to Congressman Whitfield,(R) of KY, for his wisdom and tireless efforts on behalf of the horses.

The FOBs might remember that it was he, as well as WE FOB, who were instrumental in finding, and rescuing DREAM ASTER, a rare daughter of FERDINAND, from his second-to-last crop, in Japan.

Congressman Whitfield and his wife, negotiated the purchase of DREAM ASTER, and reunited her with the family of her daddy's original owners.

DREAM ASTER now lives, with Erin Keck, on the big Island in Hawaii.

A kindred soul of the FOB, Congressman Whitfield, was a champion for a great Champion. It was a delicious rescue, and couldn't have been accomplished without him.

Good night dear Frens. What a week, and week-end it has been!

Sweet dreams. Before you go to sleep tonight, take a moment to go out and look up at the night sky. Open your spirit what you behold. Breath...and give thanks...we'll need the peace and energy to face the coming day.

Your FOB Fren, O

WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS WORLD? I ask your prayers for a darling little boy (approximately 18 months old, name unknown) who was abandoned in his stroller in the lobby of a Hartford CT apartment building more than 24 hours ago...nobody has come forward to claim him, nobody has reported a missing child, this poor little angel is now in state custody :-(

hAy Aunties Laurie MN, Tamme, Cheryl, Barb, Laurie, and Debbie, it's me, Angel Felix.

I wanted to tell you that Bart and Chessie and Bernie have arrived here in Hevvin. They are all well again and are running around like kiddeens and foals. We gave them a big party when they arrived. Reggie showed them to their new clouds.

Right now, Bart and Chessie and Bernie are over talking to the animals who crossed the Bridge before they ever had a safe home and a loving owner. Kitty 153 and Reggie and Midnight are with them. 153 and Reggie and Midnight and Bart and Chessie and Bernie are giving lots and lots of love to these animals and are making them feel happy and wanted and whole. You see, all these new frens here in Hevvin were very happy when they were on Earth, and they know how important it is for an animal to feel loved and safe.

153, Reggie, Midnight, Chessie, Bart, Bernie. They have so very, very, very much love to give, because they received so much love with you on Earth. Now they're paying it forward. This is how they are saying "Thank you for loving me so much and giving me everything a furkid ever needed" to you.

Hiya, FsOB. Edgar Prado never ceases to be the consummate sportsman and gentleman, in a world gone mad with greed. How inspiring that he is dedicating a portion of his winnings to the Susan G. Komen Foundation and to the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund!

Alex, thanks for the blue linked story about Congressman Ed Whitfield's being honoured as HSUH Horseman of the Year. He's a superb elected public official; our country needs many more of his calibre.

#### To Judy Scott in Ontario: I've not been on the board since Friday, so please accept my belated wishes for a Happy Th