Remembering Barbaro today. He will never be forgotten. He took a piece of our hearts when he left. Today I'm thinking of the Jackson's and all who cared for this amazing horse.

God bless you Barbaro....Please keep him in your care, Lord, until we all get there...We will always remember you Barbaro..you are in our hearts forever, May God bless you always.

Good morning frens. I am remembering Barbaro with a smile today. He was so much more than a great race horse (although, gosh he was magnificent!). Look at all the good that has been done in his name. You should all be very proud of yourselves for what you have accomplished. The FOBs are a force to be reckoned with.

I hope you all have a positive day today. I will be lighting a candle at 10:30. If someone could blue link the candle site, that would be good too.

Cooper sends roos to all.....Kathy

1/29/09

In loving memory of Barbaro. On this day of remberance, I want to give thanks for Barbaro who brought us all together with his great spirit to live and survive. We have become a powerful force for equine welfare as a result of it. I also want to thank all the FOB who continue to carry out Barbaro's legacy every day.

So many memories are rushing through my head this morning. As they happened over the last 2 1/2 years, some made me laugh, some made me cry, some made me think, and some made me act. I will be forever grateful to all of you.

God bless Barbaro's connections.

ACN, Barbaro, A...C...N

Oh Lord, Thank you that we have known BARBARO. Thank you for all of the good that has and will yet come from his legacy.

With a heart still broken for having lost him from thisotherplace; remembering his beautiful spirit with quiet peace...

Otherlyn, FOB

Remembering Barbaro 2 years later, his courage and spirit will live on forever. He has changed many of our lives and saved the lives of so many horses, dogs, cats thru our network started by a once in a lifetime horse.

CBS asked us what was the most emotional memory of Barbaro and for me it was him riding in the van at Pimlico, looking out with determination that he was here for a reason and it was so much more than winning the triple crown.

Love you brave colt.

The Young Prince blinked as the clear bright light met his eyes. Only a moment before, he was in a dimly lit place, filled with the light of love, but clouded by a greying cover of sadness.

Only a moment before, he had been in great pain. As an injured athlete, he had known pain, but never the likes of which he had endured since just before this morning's dawn. It was growing...white hot and horrible! Around him were the familiar sights and sounds of the hospital, a place that he had known as "home" for so long. He felt no fear, only confusion. He was usually confident that the people would know what to do...but, oh...the pain!

In spite of the white-hot-horror, he also felt the comforting touch of the gentle people who loved and cared for him. Today he tasted tears in their kisses, and he wondered...but only for a moment, for the cloud thickened, and covered them all. Their forms faded, then everyone was gone.

Suddenly, there was only clear bright light. It was true light, with crystalline essence of every prismatic element. All colors at once, so pure, so vibrant that he blinked at the stark contrast to where he had been, and what he had seen, only a moment before.

He felt a quickening in his body. He was more alive than ever...and his feet didn't hurt anymore. So, he began to run. He outran even the brightness. He was free! His companion was the wind itself, or so it seemed, for as he ran, he knew he wasn't alone.

His feet flew over soft grass, hardly touching the turf. He had been a champion undefeated runner, with a heart that loved to win. This time, however, he wasn't running for the win. This time he ran for joy, with no end to it. There would be no finish line. The horizon went on forever, and he would reach it.

Dear Barbaro~ I am thinking of you, missing you and still loving you. You changed my life when I met you and your influence paved the way to the greatest gift of my life, my little colt Aspen. I know you are with me every time I hear him nicker. Keep your brother Nicanor safe as he makes his way onto the world's stage.

You will always be my hero, sweet colt.
Remembering you with love always,

Good morning, fellow Fans.

It feels like forever and yesterday at the same time. So much has been accomplished in Barbaro's memory.

"Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened." Dr. Seuss

Marg
Proud Fan of Barbaro forever

Barbaro, you remain forever in my heart. I am determined to carry on the battle in your honor.

Blessings to all.

It's hard to believe that 2 years has gone by since Barbaro's death. I can still remember the moment I learned of the tragedy. There was so much hope for his recovery but it wasn't to be. It is amazing that this wonderful group has stayed together to accomplish what might have seemed impossible. I hope we all keep the spirit of resolve to continue the fight to end horse slaughter and help save unwanted animals. Prayers and blessings for each one of you!!

Janice
A forever devoted to Kaiser FOB

I haven't posted in a while but on a day like today it's very comforting to be in the company of so many who definitely "got" what Barbaro was and is all about. His legacy lives on through our works, never let us forget that. We plan on going to see Nicanor make his debut on Saturday -that truly reminds us of how poignant life truly is and how it all comes around full circle - be safe dear one you and all others! Remembering you always, Barbaro, there's no doubt you were destined for something much greater than racing -I believe you have that proof! Will never forget you dear one!

I'll be at work at 10:30 but I will join with you for the vigil.

Janice
A forever devoted to Kaiser FOB

Good morning, Barbaro. Good morning, FOB famblee.
I'll "see" you all at the vigils. I grieve for a horse I never met yet rejoice for having known him and for what was created because of him. So much good has been done. We will continue on. Right now, my heart is so full of emotions I just want to say I love you all and God bless you, Barbaro.

I BELIEVE

BARBARO, WE STILL MISS YOU AND THINK OF YOU ...AND WILL AWAYS REMEMBRER: ATLEAST THERE IS GOOD THAT CAME FROM THIS .. YES 1 SINGLE HORSE HAS MADE SUCH A GREAT IMPACT. LET US ALL PRAY FOR OUR DEAR BARBARO, THE JACKSON'S & DR. RICHARDSON, AND D & MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF US AND HELP US WITH THIS FIGHT..LOVE TO YOU BARBARO...
There's always tomorrow for dreams to come true,
Believe in your dreams come what may.
There's always tomorrow, there's so much to do,
And so little time in a day.

We all pretend the rainbow has an end,
And you'll be there my friend, someday.
There's always tomorrow for dreams to come true,
Tomorrow is not far away. diane/from pa

Remembering Barbaro today and everyday. You were a very special horse. You reached out and touched each and every one of the FOBs and brought them together. All due to love for you. For you, we have fought to improve the lives of horses all across this country and beyond. Thank you Barbaro. You gave your all. I still believe you were "God's Horse" that came to help all horses at thier time of need. You will always be remembered as you live in my heart.

Remembering the magnificent Barbaro on this date.

Barbaro--Thank you for this journey you began for so many of us and for all the lives you have changed. Run with Nicanor and Edgar and guide them safely around the track on Saturday, Big Boss Horse.

Love to all--

I BELIEVE

Today is Barbaro's day. I horse that changed the lives of all of us. We miss you and thank you for the inspiration to keep going.

Rush Holt-NJ (12)
Gus Bilikris-FL (9)

are now co-sponsors of HR503!!!!

So glad this appeared on this day.

2 more co-sponsors to HR305 today!

Maurice Hinchey-NY (22)
Bill Foster-IL (14)

Barbaro, you went from an inspiration in the racing world to an inspiration for the entire world.

Truly a sublime performance.

I miss you more than ever and will love you forever.

Debbie in CO

1/29/09

Don't remember him for how he died,
but for how he LIVED.
How he DID live.

-Gale Sayers

Remembering Barbaro today.

I just posted 3 more articles on Nicanor. Sounds like he might need a race before he can really turn it on.

2 years since we lost,one of the bravest horses to step onto a race track & world stage,he will always be remembered for his greatness of a champion & the fight he gave for his life,I will always remember him,the sublime performance & his fortitude,I hope he looks over his little brother on Saturday,Always remembered never forgotten,you were the BEST

just wanted to share in our love for barbaro on this day as every day.
also, thank you alex ,as always for this site!
barbaraem

my love forever barbaro

LIGHT CANDLES FOR BARBARO

For the Barbaro Nation

The Light of God surrounds us
The Love of God enfolds us
The Power of God Protects us
The Presence of God watches over all of us
Wherever we are, God IS.

Love, Light and Protection for All of our Horses

1/29/09
Remembering Barbaro today and every day.
Thank you Barbaro for your courage and grace and for bringing us together to fight the good fight in your name.

You will always live in my heart
Linda

Good Morning Famblee

Two years gone by so swiftly yet it seems like only yesterday. A moment in time remembered in the same vein as "where were you when Kennedy was shot?" "Where were you when you heard the news about Barbaro?"
We were right here as we were every day. Sitting in my office, shaken with the word that there would be a press conference. Knowing the news wasn't what we wanted to hear. That morning we were all here for each other as we are today.

Thank you Barbaro for all you have brought to my world. Your picture hangs on the wall of my office overlooking a picture of the first FOB save, my boy Cloud. Because of you I share my life with this guy who was on his way to slaughter. Because of you my life has been enriched with the friendships of so many FOBs. Because of you so many like Cloud are living today. Because of you many of us of altered their path to one more productive, more loving.

Cloud now lives less than 30 minutes away at a friends house. I see him several times a week and go on an ocassional trail ride with friends. We are bonding and building a meaningful relationship. I love him dearly. Thank you Barbaro for bringing the joy of a horse in my life back to me. One I had so many years ago in my youth.

FOBs fight on! So proud to be an FOB!

For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us…” Romans 8:38, 39

I will love you forever boys

I was once in the presence of greatness

The thing that I remember the most was the calmness. A steady look in his eyes, looking right at you - no fear, only confidence - clarity. The calmness and determination that comes with knowing what real purpose means -why you are on this earth. It is the spirit that shines through more than anything - something you can feel to your core - a being in this world, but not of this world. That was my experience with greatness.

Love you forever horse

A message I posted on January 29, 2007 has not lost the beauty of its words nor the poignancy of its message:

My local tv sportscaster ended his report with these words ~ "Barbaro drifted off peacefully to wherever it is great horses go when they run out of racetrack."

*************************************************

Released from the bonds of earth, Barbaro's legacy was to solidify the hearts and minds of this mighty band of warriors to soldier on, to work to right the wrongs in the world of America's horses...we are not perfect, and our work is far from finished, yet two years later we still soldier on IN HONOR OF BARBARO and with compassion for all equines who suffer needlessly at the hands of a cruel world.

WE ARE FAMILY!

Rest in peace, beloved BARBARO, and may light perpetual shine upon you. I love you, Big Boss Horse!

Hay, FOB's!

###
Well, today is here and I find my emotions are mixed...grief for the ending of such a valiant fight to heal...joy for all the wonderful things that have happened since Barbaro left...and the comfort knowing that the FOB's are here...still doing what we do best.

I remember the day Barbaro broke down and there was a voice in my head insisting that I "join" and turn my hands toward Pimlico...at first I was confused...but I did as I was being guided to do...

and I am so happy I followed that guidance.

You are all the greatest famblee...ever.

All Love
Padme A'Tea

Barbaro - Always SIMPLY THE BEST. Love you forever my handsome boy. OXOXOX

Barbaro....The Heart Of A Horse.

Whose heart has touched so many lives in this universe.
Whose heart has open the doors to see clearly what his brothers and sisters face...Horse Slaughter.

The love, courage, and strength...Barbaro showed us...yes we can, never give up...
God sent Barbaro's spirit to be with each of us.
His purpose to be the champ on the racetrack, a champ in our hearts--will be with us Forever.

Barbaro's Legacy will live forever.
Because We BELIEVE.

God Bless.

Dear Sweet Barbaro - I remember you today and every day. And I love you forever, Sweet Boy.

Sue and Walter
xoxo

Barbaro

You are and always will be simply the best.

Thank you for coming into our lives

Our Forever Horse

(((((FOB'S)))))

Barbaro, yours are footprints on the sands of time. Remembering you today, as every day. Love always....

Remembering beloved Barbaro in a special way today. He's made such a difference to so many.
Fond thoughts to all his connections. Cate Kane

Not a day goes by that I do not think about Barbaro and that time we all journeyed through together. It was so bittersweet. Bitter because we lost him. Sweet because the family that formed was so unique and doesn't happen often enough. I choose to see him running in God's fields.
Pam

Because of you Barbaro, we are a changed people. Remembering your courage, your beauty, and all those who loved you.

Linda

Remembering the "GREATEST" Champion who ever ran.

Not to be forgotten!!!

Rest In Peace.

Barbaro has 841 candles. Can we get him to 1,000 by the vigil?

LOVE TO ALL MY FOB FRIENDS TODAY -- AND ESPECIALLY TO BARBARO!

LOVE,
CHERYL

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

Angel Barbaro

With All Of You Angels.........Living In Your
Hearts..........

The Angels Of Love

Angel Lou Ann, Angel Tammie, Angel Lynne, Angel
Sue And Angel Nancy CT...........Your Angelic
Hearts Of Love.........Glowing...........

The Wings Of Prayer

Angel Maribel, Angel Hans, Angel Mary S. And Angel Sherman, Angel Tammie And Angel Cheesie,
Angel Sherry And Amigo And Angel Chico, Angel
Barb AZ, Chunky And Punky And 153 And Petunia,
Angel Lucky, Angel Lynne And Angel Murphy, Angel
Joan Roya And Angel Kola, Angel Richard, Angel
Sue And Meg And Angel Princz, Angel Linda And
Tonka And Piper, Angel Harriette And Jackson
Browne And Angel Mike And Angel Boone, Angel
Margie MN And Lucky And Charlene, Angel Janice
And Angel Denny And Angel Kaiser And Krimpet,
Angel C.J., Angel Adam La Costa And Angel Lisa And Angel Dawn, Angel Robyn And Angel Brent,
Angel Renee, Angel Cheryl Jones, Angel Padme
A'Tea And Angel Ravi, Angel Lisa Leach And Angel Phoenix, Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy, Angel Baird, Zack, Miia, Angel Lorraine
And Angel Coby, Angel Skyler, Angel Cheryl G.
And Angel Reggie, Angel Otherlyn, Angel Barb
And Starine And Angel Nala, Angel Jonna And
Heart And Angel Jessie And Angel Jack And Angel
Chip, Angel Loretta, Angel Sandra And Chief,
Angel Laurie H. And Angel Bart, Angel Stephanie,
Angel Rob, Angel Tony, Angel Magic Flute, Angel
Wanderin Boy, Angel Peter O, Big Brown, Angel Momo, Angel Anne And Angel Terry Brennan, Angel
Joe And Angel Cathy, Angel Tim And Angel Penny,
Our Angel Horses, Our Angel Rescues, Our Angel
Connections, Angels Mr. & Mrs. Roy Jackson,
Nicanor And Lentanor, Angel Mr.Michael Matz,
Angel Edgar, Angel Dr. Dean Richardsn "The Wizard
Of Oz" And Staff "Glinda", Angel Peter, Angel
Eduardo, The Angels Of Kennett Florist, Angel
Alle And Angel Rachel, Angel Son Aaron, Barbaro's
Angels..........God's Love For You..........
From His Glowing Heart Of Love.........To Your
Angelic Hearts Of Love.........Angel Barbaro Is
Lifting You Up With His Wings Of Love.........
His Angel Frens Are With You.........Flying With
You.......Soaring In The Sky.........Your Angels
Are With You.........In Pictures...........

God's Wonders In Rainbows

God's Miracles For You Angels
Beautiful Visions
Beautiful Creations...........

God's Love For You In Rainbows

God's Divine Blessings For You Angels..........

Glowing Angels..........

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

Affirmed

"Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine"

Yes, we will.

Melissa K.

The work that has been done in Barbaro's name is beyond incredible and created a lasting legacy that no one will forget him. Jen

In Remembrance

BARBARO

April 29, 2003 - January 29, 2007

Barbaro
Loved so much and missed by so many.
You have made such a difference in the lives
of so many of us.
Bless you, Sweetie
Ellie az

Hay, FOB's!

###
Angel Dee...thank you for today's rainbows...and rainbows back to you as well...

All Love
Padme A'Tea

I made a "deal" with Fran and said I would post what I wrote that day two years ago, if she would post what she wrote. I hope she will post hers, as it was much more insightful than mine. Here's what I wrote, and not a whole lot has changed for me.

Can somebody out there please tell me what we're supposed to do? I have no fancy words of wisdom about how is at peace, or how he has brought us all together. I KNOW all that, but I'm just LOST.
Posted by: Barb AZ at January 29, 2007 7:52 PM

Posts from that day. There are two pages.

((((((Melissa))))))

Big B. In my heart always, and no further than one thought away.

There are no fat robins in my yard today as there were two years ago when I came to this board and learned the horrific news about Barbaro. But the courage and inspiration of his life could melt the deepest winter snows.

I have donated $29 in his memory to the Laminitis Fund, lit a virtual candle, and at 10:30 will stand outdoors with a real candle, as I did so many times before and after his passing.

Barbaro, you will be forever loved. You've changed so many lives, human and animal, in ways beyond comprehension. Please watch over your buddy Edgar Saturday as he guides little Nic on the first steps of his career. Lord, keep them safe.

(((((((BARBARO))))))))
I BELIEVE

Remembering him today, like it was yesterday when we lost him.
Thank you for opening my eyes Beautiful Barbaro. You are my angel above. Watch over Nicanor on Saturday, be the angel on Edgars shoulder.

Love, Kelli

Always Comfortable Now Barbaro. Thank you for everything.

Thank you Alex.

Joe TB Friends

(((((Barbaro)))))

Barbaro in my heart forever!

Ro & Brady

God Bless You, Beautiful Boy!

Dear Barbaro,

Happy 2 year HEAVEN Birthday. We miss you so much.

Vigil

Thank you Barbaro

For everything you did, and continue to do
For everything you are
For everything you give

God

Soothe the pain that is felt in any heart here. Heal the sadness and grief brought by feelings of loss or separation. Give the gift of experiencing the presence of Barbaro. Give the comfort of your embrace, and let us experience peace. Help us to remember we are all connected through one heart.

Love, Light and Protection for The Barbaro Nation

Thank you Barbaro, thank you Alex, thank you FOBs.

We will always remember.

From our hearts to Barbaro, an ocean of caring, compassion and right action. Into our hearts an ocean of connection. The and the circle of strength goes on forever.

Reading these wonderful posts from all of you; coming home. What a miracle - the lives who will be touched, rescued and illuminated by the spark of Barbaro and those he influenced.

A year from now we'll be together here again, celebrating Barbaro's life. By then our new President's signature will be on HR 503. Thank you Barbaro, thank you FOBs, thank you Alex.

God Bless you Barbaro. Our Champion forever

Dear Barbaro,

We miss you so much and can't believe that you've been gone for 2 years. You will remain in our hearts forever.
Love, Daphne and Pee

Remembering you Big Guy-

You will continue to remind us of "all that is good in life".

Some said "it's just a horse" and "get over it."

They don't "get it" and disparage those who do...

How and why should we ever forget such a divine creature, born of the magnificence handed down through generations of equine genetics, who ran sublimely with heart and skill and beauty and determination, who suffered a such grievous injury and yet bravely soldiered on with intelligence and determination forged from nearly unbreakable steel simply to survive...determined to win the prize of LIFE?

With the heart and mind of a champion, Barbaro at last faced the inevitable...heart and mind grounded in the here and now amongst those who loved him so much, yet he communicated his desire to be released from pain, to be allowed finally to fly free through the wind and dance among the clouds...and the blessed ones listened and bestowed upon him their final gift of release.

Forget? Get over it? I pray our hearts are never hardened or numbed lest we forget what we have been taught by Barbaro, lest we forget our mission...

We struggle, we fight, we are not perfect, merely humans trying mightily to do our best...perfection is not in the here and now.

But WE soldier on, WE attempt to fulfill Barbaro's legacy, his "unfinished tasks" to shine the light upon the scourge of horse slaughter and do our part to bring about the day when the law of the land says "NO MORE" and also to bring peace and humane treatment to the entire equine family...so that the wild will still be allowed to run free, and the domesticated will have no fear of want or abuse, and those who race for man's glory and gain ~ their own splendor having been ensured by their Creator ~ will be protected and cherished not as meal tickets but as glorious gifts to be handled with utmost care and humanity.

BARBARO JACKSON, BIG BOSS HORSE, CHAMPION OF MY HEART...although my ignorance was bliss, yet I bless you for opening my eyes and my heart and my mind to what I must acknowledge and strive to heal on behalf of your equine brothers and sisters ~ the famous and the unknown.

You DO rest in peace, and light perpetual DOES shine upon you...

With love, respect and gratitude for your brief but brilliant life,

Nancy

Remembering you today Barbaro, you are forever in our hearts.

I will never know the answer to "why" in this lifetime. I feel blessed to have been able to participate in this journey. God bless you Barbaro. Thank you for all your journey has taught us. You will always be in my heart.

JANUARY 29TH 2009 IT'S 10:30 A.M.
YOUR TIME IS REMEMBERED, DEAR BARBARO..
YOUR REMEMBERED EACH AND EVERY DAY, FROM YOUR START HERE ON EARTH AND YOUR START IN HEAVEN.. I AM PRAYING FOR YOU EACH AND EVERY DAY. .
GOD BLESS YOU AND I HOPE YOUR IN GOD'S GREAT WONDERFUL CARE, RUNNING IN HEAVEN.. AND WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
YOUR SOOO MUCH MISSED . DIANE/PA

ACN. Always Comfortable Now.

Miss you, so, Dear Barbaro.

JANUARY 29TH 2009 IT'S 10:30 A.M.
YOUR TIME IS REMEMBERED, DEAR BARBARO..
YOUR REMEMBERED EACH AND EVERY DAY, FROM YOUR START HERE ON EARTH AND YOUR START IN HEAVEN.. I AM PRAYING FOR YOU EACH AND EVERY DAY. .
GOD BLESS YOU AND I HOPE YOUR IN GOD'S GREAT WONDERFUL CARE, RUNNING IN HEAVEN.. AND WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
YOUR SOOO MUCH MISSED . DIANE/PA

Hay, FOB's!

Prayers for each of you as we remember a wonderful horse, his connections, those who cared for him and brought him goodies...we formed a circle...a beautiful circle of love, of caring, of compassion in action...

and it doesn't get any better than that.

For those who measure success in material ways...look here to find a new way to measure things...it is the opening of the heart that is success.

And the FOB's do just that.

To quote Angel Dee...

Affirmed.

All Love
Padme A'Tea

####
Barb AZ and all! Here my post from that day, still in tears!

Alex thank you, I could see the tears on Dr. R's face. My heart feels as if it is going to jump out of my chest. I know it was the right thing. Thank you and the Jackson's for letting me be a small part of his short life.
I can't see my keyboard through the tears. He is with The Fog, Pine Island, Ruffian and Big Red.
This hurts so. Prayers for the Jackson’s, Dr Richardson, Peter, Matz, Alex, Tom and all the posters who loved him as I did.
What will tomorrow bring?
No update to look forward too,

Alex where will his body be placed. I pray it be by Big Red so maybe I can see it one day! My sister and I had planned to go see him at the Kentucky Derby this year. When he was released from NBC and made it to his parade.
Mike C sorry I know this was not the end you were wishing for, in the call.

Posted by: Debbie L.A. at January 30, 2007 1:08 AM

Dear God,

Hold the precious spirit of our dear departed Barbaro close to your heart today. Thank you for lending him to us for the short time he had with us here on earth. Help us to continue to press on in our efforts to help all horses in his honor.

Bless you, dearest one. Run free and pain free forever, Big Boss Horse!

Always Comfortable Now

JudyPA

Dear God,

Hold the precious spirit of our dear departed Barbaro close to your heart today. Thank you for lending him to us for the short time he had with us here on earth. Help us to continue to press on in our efforts to help all horses in his honor.

Bless you, dearest one. Run free and pain free forever, Big Boss Horse!

Always Comfortable Now

JudyPA

Hi Handsome Sweetheart:)

I sit here this morning, remembering so many things about you, mostly your horsey EYES!! You always had so much to 'say' with those eyes:)

I am ever-grateful to be counted among those you chose and also ever-grateful for all the Frens you brought me too!

I got a very belated Christmas present yesterday, Barbaro....:) Horsemommy gave me a package and when I opened it...I just 'melted'!! It is a rusty, 'pasture dirt encrusted' horseshoe, nails and ALL...and of course you already know...*MISTER* had worn it for six weeks...It is absolutely the *COOLEST* gift I can recall getting in a VERY long time!! :) If anyone would have suggested to me 2.8 years ago, I'd be so 'excitled' about receiving such a gift...I'd have thought surely they had lost their minds!!! But because of *YOU*, Barbaro, I sought out that beauuuuuuuutiful guy and his *SISTER*...and today, right here on my desk, sits his SHOE:) And his Mommy is yet another fren I can call my own, because of *YOU*:)

I love you! Now, Always and FOREVER:)

Lynne-Your Forever Friend in CA

P.S. I love YOLE, Famblee!!

((((((Debbie))))))

((((((ALL FOB))))))

What a ride it has been!

Well done big boy. Your greatness lives long beyond your days on earth. Thank you for changing so many lives in such a positive way.

Vigil to honor a great horse.

Prayers for Barbaro and his people, and heartfelt thanks to all the FOBs. What a fine group - The audacity of hope in action, one rescued and re-homed animal at a time! On my lap, a purring kitty, once upon a time who lived on the street.

BELIEVE

In memory of a brilliant life we continue to fight for all horses. Thank you ,Barbaro, for bringing us together. We miss you , Big B. Your life may not have been as long as any of us would have wanted but your legacy lives on.

Terri

We know what we must do: Make our calls and do all we can to ensure our horses are safe. Take every opportunity to educate people on the plight of our horses. Awareness brings action.

And, if you are able, donate to the Laminitis Fund or Barbaro Fund in honor of Barbaro and all associated with him.

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...........For Being A So, So So Very Beautiful Angel On This Earth.....
.....

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

Affirmed

Remembering all your greatness, Barbaro; never will you be forgotten, always in my heart.

ACN forever,

Judy

Barbaro, In remembrance of this date marking the 2 year anniversary of your leaving this life, we pay honor and tribute to you. Still love you and miss you. You have brought me new friends of like spirit who are working hard for the welfare of all horses in your name and those who have gone before you.

Deborah McCulough

Thank you Barbaro for the love and spirit that you have brought into our lives... For the friends and family that we have become and will be forever... For the horses that continue to be saved in your name.
We will always BELIEVE!
In love and gratitude,
Rach, Alie and the herd at KF

The UPENN site also has a DVD of the Kentucky Derby Greatest Moments. A portion of the proceeds will go to UPENN.

Barbaro, my heart aches this day. Remembering you with fondness, love and your GREAT spirit. God bless, God keep. You gave us so much, hopefully we can give back at least something to you.

Edgar Prado, put that game face on and just DO IT!
Your the best.

Safe ride Edgar and Nic. Safe ride

Sweet Barbaro, how I love and miss you, with all my heart & soul! I know you are very proud of Nicanor, please Lord keep him safe.

Let there be no doubt- look at the posts. No one really ever leaves this place.....The Barbaro Nation will always be connected

I love you Barbaro. What an honor to stand with you - to witness your life. Thank you

Barbaro...you inspired me in so many ways and on so many different levels. Thank you for bringing this group of frens together. Your brief but beautiful life shines on...always.

Tamme

Remembering the BBH with hearts full of love on the second anniversary of his passing to the Rainbow Bridge.

Barbaro--we miss you still, but we will always celebrate your grace and beauty.

Mary in Iowa

Remembrance from across the ocean for a great champion who has had an inspirational effect on people from every area of life.
Barbaro serves as a beacon for all who are striving to ban the callous commercial slaughter of horses.
Keep up the good work. You will succeed.

Beautiful Warrior Horse,
Has it really been two years since we said our goodbyes....Barbaro, you are always in my heart and will be loved for eternity.
I look at all the good that has come because of your presence on this earth, and it truly fills my heart to overflowing.
You are my 'heart horse' and I thank God for your presence in my life.
Pat mendiola

##3 Mary S,

Most of the FOB's I know don't even post. This group is very strong, don't ever doubt that.

Dearest Barbaro - you are truly missed and will never be forgotten.

Bless you dear one and all those who have been touched by his heart and determination.

Carleen in CA

###
This blesses my heart so deeply...to see our famblee...THE FOBS....and that one horse, whose name is Barbaro...brought us together with such love and unity....that no one will pull us apart.

May God Bless Each Of You....and may 2009 be the year...NO MORE HORSE SLAUGHTER AND TRANSPORTATION ACROSS THE BORDERS.

I have tears of joy to see my famblee...and tears of sadness....to know that I miss Barbaro so much...yet never met him..but feel like I knew him all my life.

Please pray for Edgar and Nicanor...for nothing but a safe ride....in fact all who race...safe and sound.

Thinking of Barbaro today, a day when we read the words that shattered hearts all over. "Barbaro has been euthanized". Remembering the horse who was unbeatable, who couldn't beat the dreaded disease that took his life. Remembering the horse whose battle to live compelled so many to save others. The horse who taught so many, some who have never been blessed with the love of a horse, who have never had warm nostrils pushed into our so that we are imprinted together forever. Some who have never touched a horse have begun a war to save horses from slaughter, from laminitis, from preventable accidents, from lives of neglect without love. One horse. One horse who will live within us forever and because of one horse, thousands will carry on. What an amazing legacy.

Thinking of all those who brought Barbaro into our lives, all those who lovingly taught him to become a magnificent racehorse, and all those who tried so valiantly to keep him alive. All those whose hearts were broken two years ago today. Loving Barbaro, the heart horse of all, forever.

For Barbaro - I have no doubt that you "hoof selected" this amazing group to become "famblee" - to connect on many levels - and to carry out your wishes. Because of your presence in our lives - amazing changes have occurred - and will continue. It is my true honor to be a member of this very special group. You, my "Horse of Forever" - live within me, and I am grateful.

Sherry - and, of course, AMIGO, Warpaint and Dakota ( who hear about you always)

Miss you, Big B. (1/29/07)

Smiles to you over the Rainbow Bridge from all your
FOBs.

Peace and Love, Mr Friend.

Loving you, missing you, Barbaro. Rest in peace.

Kathy S.

It is with great comfort that I read all the posts today for dearest Barbaro, my hero of forever. The love for this horse will never diminish by all those who "get it."

I will never forget when I learned of Barbaro's passing. Although time has eased the pain of that day, my heart has never really recovered. Such a special creature.

I think Brian Williams of NBC News said it best when he reported it on the evening of 1/29/07:

"Men, women, and children across this country cried today when they learned that Barbaro, the Kentucky Derby winner, had been put to sleep."

#### MJ

I never had the doubt - never would. The connection is too strong.

HAY EVERBUDDY!!!
We still love you, Barbaro, & all who were so connected to you. Our thoughts are with them today.
Stick still eats his carrits& plays fthrowtheballrungetit, just for you.

((((((((EVERBUDDY)))))))

## Amy, That Brian Williams quote is the one I remmebr all the time.

I am now excited about his statue. We have that to look forward to this year. It will be such a great memorial.

Here is something I wrote two years ago today...

Hello Alex,

Thank you for affording us a place to write our feelings this sad day.

Thank you for always being there for us during all these months.

I'll check back later on.
Lynne -Barbaro's Friend in CA

Posted by: Lynne Brown at January 29, 2007 6:38 PM

##

Alex...it's two years later now...and I still write *THANK YOU*! :)

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

broken open
seasoned honey melting butter
cream floating to the top
scents of ancient perfumes, herbs
wafting in the flurry of your flying llmbs glistening neck
mane roaring joy
spinning through clouds of gold and silver
singing today of gifts you lived and spilled so generously before us in exquiite detail
love forgive give give
the voice of your horse nation thank you bless you
shine as you do forever in my heart
martita

####
Hi, Tracie. I miss you, too. Thinking of you today.

It's so hard to believe that two years has gone by since we lost our beloved Barbaro. Reading the link that Barb posted to January 29, 2007 brought back so many memories and so many familiar names.

At that time, we promised we would carry on his legacy and we certainly did. Although there is still much to do, I believe that Barbaro would be so proud of all that we've accomplished in his name.

As we remember him and celebrate his life, I'd like to believe that Barbaro is smiling down from Equine Heaven saying "The FOB's didn't let me down"

We'll never forget you.

Shelley

Posted by: ShelleyA at January 29, 2009 5:04 AM

Barbaro~~~~~~~~because of you~~~~~~~~

sandy

Barbaro's candles are at 1,015.

I hate to take advantage of the fact that many more people are here today, but it is what Barbaro would want, to end the slaughter of his comrades. "Complete these dear, unfinished tasks of mine"

Please #### "skip" if you are in "Mourning Mode." I UNDERSTAND.

http://hsus.typepad.com/wayne/2009/01/change-agenda-for-animals.html">Tell the HSUS (Wayne Pacelle) that horse slaughter is important to you.

Tracie, STick, beyooooootiful Lacey, Grey Fern and Byrne, I miss you all soooooooooooo much

Missing The great horse today with all of you~ and thankful for the chance to follow his life and become a part of the legacy of people bound together here after his passing to work and end slaughter once and for all in his name.

Barbaro, keep your brothers safe~~~

Joan Dillon

Remembering Barbaro today --- one of the greatest race horses ever to run. A magnificent presence who gave his all to thoroughbred racing and to so much more. Two years gone by already? The FOBs will continue to achieve great things in your name, Barbaro.

Thinking of those closest to you who were honored to share your journey toward the Triple Crown. I believe you would have made it, too.

Missing you today and always. We shall see you again, magnificent Barbaro.

OOPS! Try again. Crying and trying to type.

Tell the HSUS (Wayne Pacelle) that horse slaughter is important to you.

Look at these posts! How uplifting is this in the face of our saddness. Big Boy, how much I hope you see these and know how great these people are and the goodness you brought to them and out of them.

We all have one thing in common " To do what is morally correct"

Nic, your brother will help show the way. Be safe.

Dearest Barbaro,
You will never be forgotton. In your name, we will continue to work to end horse slaughter, cure laminitis, and rescue horses. You have brought us together. We will never forget your spirit. You are truly, and ever, a CHAMPION.

love always,
Kathy from Toledo

#####
where is Fran?

please with all the excitement...we have a beautiful TWH mare and a few others on the db...that need us....

I KNOW WITH ALL MY HEART....BARBARO AND ALL OF HIS HEAVENLY FRENS ARE LOOKING DOWN WITH SMILES AND SO PROUD OF ALL OF HIS FAMBLEE...

I miss all of you...glad to see everyone.

####
and Barb...sent my comment to HSUS..

#####

remember 33333333.....when Barbaro was typing!!!!

ALEX....THANK YOU...THANK YOU...THANK YOU...

HRRN to Broadcast Nicanor's Debut

The Horse Racing Radio Network announced Jan. 29 that it will provide live bonus coverage of the debut race of Barbaro’s brother Nicanor as part of its Donn Handicap (gr.I) day broadcast Jan. 31.

A full brother to the 2006 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner, Nicanor will be making his first career start in Gulfstream’s 8th race – a one mile event for 3-year-old maidens.

HRRN will air the live call of the race along with pre and post race analysis. Fans can tune-in to HRRN’s coverage on multiple affiliates at 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. (ET) and can access the broadcast worldwide with free live streaming provided on the HRRN website, www.horseracingradio.net

http://news.bloodhorse.com/article/48993.htm?id=48993

Link for above artcile on Nicanor

Barbaro, I can't believe that it is another year....
Another year without you, but know that you are still loved very much and never far from my mind.

THANK YOU Barbaro Nation for keeping up the wonderful work you are still doing in Barbaro's name.

Alex, Thank you for still being here for ALL of us.

Jan in FL, I hope all is well with you.

I MISS you "B".....

FOREVER in our Hearts.........

####
Where IS Fran? I had a deal with her. She had better show up!

Fran, where ARE you????

I'm sitting in the same spot as I was two years ago. I was inconsolable that day, feeling a little foolish that I was so broken up over the death of a horse I didn't even know...for having invested so much energy into hoping for his miraculous recovery.

This year there is much to reflect on:

Because of Barbaro horses have come back into my life...by "borrowing" rides at first, then working at the local trail riding business
and finally trekking several hours away to study
classical dressage. (Childhood dream)

This has all led to shopping for horse trailers, and we know what that means :) I am hoping there will be an ottb in my life by the end of the year.

Our concerted efforts to pass the anti slaughter legislation, and the compassionate horse rescue network that ABR forum has become, are such fitting tributes to Barbaro. The fact that our good intentions haven't gone by the wayside as so many do, is uplifting... Barbaro's life, our source of inspiration (and we're a stubborn bunch as well.) :)

And finally, there are many special people I am proud to consider friends whom I never would have met if there hadn't been a horse named Barbaro.

###Mary S. and mj, I agree. We are always here! Thank you, Alex! Even if not logged on or commenting, we're here. Even if the 'traffic' is low, this group is a vibrant force. With often only a fraction checking in, just think of the numbers that actually make up the House of Barbaro. Each one with an unwavering heart. Disbelievers, those who don't get it and wonder who the FOBs are, should read today's words and never again doubt the resolve, dedication, respect and love this group has for Barbaro, one another and the horse and animal nation. The depth of emotions shared here today are even more powerful when turned against evil. I love you, Barbaro. Thank you, BBH.
I BELIEVE

OMG it feels so good to see so many people here today who haven't posted in a while - just scrolling down the posts got me in a pool of tears -

Remembering Barbaro today and every day for what seems like a lifetime - as if my entire life can be divided into BB and AB - - - the tears are dripping and my cats are inscrutable -

NOW DON'T FORGET what we promised Mrs. Jackson (among illustrious others) we would do for him.

Here's the List of COSPONSORS of HR 503, the CONYERS-BURTON PREVENTION OF EQUINE CRUELTY ACT of 2009.

If your Rep is on this list - WONDERFUL - you may want to call him/her and say THANK YOU for being an early cosponsor - it says a lot about the person, IMO - and that you will remember that act always in your future voting history . . .

new cs's 1/28

Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] - 1/28/2009
Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] - 1/28/2009

List of all 78 cosponsors - alphabetically (from thomas.gov)

Rep Ackerman, Gary L. [NY-5] - 1/14/2009
Rep Bartlett, Roscoe G. [MD-6] - 1/26/2009
Rep Berkley, Shelley [NV-1] - 1/14/2009
Rep Berman, Howard L. [CA-28] - 1/27/2009
Rep Bilbray, Brian P. [CA-50] - 1/14/2009
Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-9] - 1/28/2009
Rep Bishop, Timothy H. [NY-1] - 1/26/2009
Rep Bono Mack, Mary [CA-45] - 1/14/2009
Rep Bordallo, Madeleine Z. [GU] - 1/14/2009
Rep Brown, Henry E., Jr. [SC-1] - 1/14/2009
Rep Burton, Dan [IN-5] - 1/14/2009
Rep Capuano, Michael E. [MA-8] - 1/14/2009
Rep Castle, Michael N. [DE] - 1/14/2009
Rep Cohen, Steve [TN-9] - 1/14/2009
Rep Courtney, Joe [CT-2] - 1/26/2009
Rep Cummings, Elijah E. [MD-7] - 1/14/2009
Rep DeFazio, Peter A. [OR-4] - 1/14/2009
Rep Delahunt, William D. [MA-10] - 1/14/2009
Rep DeLauro, Rosa L. [CT-3] - 1/14/2009
Rep Dicks, Norman D. [WA-6] - 1/27/2009
Rep Gallegly, Elton [CA-24] - 1/14/2009
Rep Gerlach, Jim [PA-6] - 1/14/2009
Rep Green, Al [TX-9] - 1/27/2009
Rep Grijalva, Raul M. [AZ-7] - 1/14/2009
Rep Gutierrez, Luis V. [IL-4] - 1/14/2009
Rep Hall, John J. [NY-19] - 1/14/2009
Rep Hinchey, Maurice D. [NY-22] - 1/14/2009
Rep Holt, Rush D. [NJ-12] - 1/28/2009
Rep Inglis, Bob [SC-4] - 1/14/2009
Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] - 1/26/2009
Rep Jackson-Lee, Sheila [TX-18] - 1/14/2009
Rep Jones, Walter B., Jr. [NC-3] - 1/14/2009
Rep King, Peter T. [NY-3] - 1/14/2009
Rep Kirk, Mark Steven [IL-10] - 1/14/2009
Rep Klein, Ron [FL-22] - 1/14/2009
Rep Kucinich, Dennis J. [OH-10] - 1/14/2009
Rep Lance, Leonard [NJ-7] - 1/26/2009
Rep Levin, Sander M. [MI-12] - 1/26/2009
Rep Lewis, John [GA-5] - 1/14/2009
Rep Lipinski, Daniel [IL-3] - 1/26/2009
Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. [NJ-2] - 1/14/2009
Rep Lofgren, Zoe [CA-16] - 1/14/2009
Rep Lowey, Nita M. [NY-18] - 1/27/2009
Rep Maloney, Carolyn B. [NY-14] - 1/14/2009
Rep McCarthy, Carolyn [NY-4] - 1/14/2009
Rep McCotter, Thaddeus G. [MI-11] - 1/14/2009
Rep McGovern, James P. [MA-3] - 1/14/2009
Rep Miller, George [CA-7] - 1/14/2009
Rep Mitchell, Harry E. [AZ-5] - 1/14/2009
Rep Moore, Gwen [WI-4] - 1/14/2009
Rep Moran, James P. [VA-8] - 1/14/2009
Rep Murphy, Patrick J. [PA-8] - 1/14/2009
Rep Murtha, John P. [PA-12] - 1/26/2009
Rep Myrick, Sue Wilkins [NC-9] - 1/26/2009
Rep Nadler, Jerrold [NY-8] - 1/14/2009
Rep Payne, Donald M. [NJ-10] - 1/14/2009
Rep Peters, Gary C. [MI-9] - 1/27/2009
Rep Platts, Todd Russell [PA-19] - 1/14/2009
Rep Rahall, Nick J., II [WV-3] - 1/14/2009
Rep Rangel, Charles B. [NY-15] - 1/14/2009
Rep Rooney, Thomas J. [FL-16] - 1/27/2009
Rep Rothman, Steven R. [NJ-9] - 1/14/2009
Rep Ruppersberger, C. A. Dutch [MD-2] -
1/14/2009
Rep Schakowsky, Janice D. [IL-9] - 1/14/2009
Rep Scott, Robert C. "Bobby" [VA-3] - 1/14/2009 Rep Serrano, Jose E. [NY-16] - 1/14/2009
Rep Sherman, Brad [CA-27] - 1/14/2009
Rep Smith, Christopher H. [NJ-4] - 1/14/2009
Rep Sutton, Betty [OH-13] - 1/14/2009
Rep Van Hollen, Chris [MD-8] - 1/14/2009
Rep Wasserman Schultz, Debbie [FL-20] -
1/14/2009
Rep Watson, Diane E. [CA-33] - 1/14/2009
Rep Weiner, Anthony D. [NY-9] - 1/26/2009
Rep Wexler, Robert [FL-19] - 1/14/2009
Rep Whitfield, Ed [KY-1] - 1/14/2009
Rep Woolsey, Lynn C. [CA-6] - 1/14/2009
Rep Wu, David [OR-1] - 1/14/2009
Rep Young, C.W. Bill [FL-10] - 1/14/2009

Then dig in to the TARGET CALLING LISTS (ABR/AAHS are targeting cs's of last year's HR 6598, who haven't yet signed on for HR 503.) (Target Lists and list of cs's available at the DB at this thread, that is updated daily.)

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=32917.1

THERE ARE 78 COSPONSORS ALREADY. That is amazing. (most bills have far fewer cs's - check it out . . . play around thomas.gov . . .) The Bill was just introduced on Jan. 14 - and 2 weeks later there are 78 cosponsors.

In closing I'll just say this -

It may be "THE CONYERS-BURTON PREVENTION OF EQUINE CRUELTY ACT OF 2009" - but to you and me and everyone reading here, it is and shall ever be BARBARO'S BILL.

Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Jackson for sharing him with us. My greatest wish is for Nicanor and Lentenor to be safe and sound for their long horsey lives -

Thank you Peter Brette and Alex Brown and Tim Woolley - not to mention the medical personnel - and a special salute to Edgar Prado, in whose loving and capable ehands the Jacksons have wisely placed their precious boy.

Here's to The Horses -

They're the bravest and the free-est in the Land of the Brave and the Free -

And their Fate depends on the likes of You and Me.

LIVING PROOF OF THE LIVING TRUTH

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

[boy - I really worked myself up writing that!]

Remembering Barbaro, with deepest love and thanks. His spirit and legacy will live forever. Wish you were here, B. Everlasting Love.

hay its me im in hevvin now its beyoooooooooootiful i can seee yuo lissen for me ill see yuo agin love eech uthur be nise to eech uthur save horsssesss say prayers thankyew for lovin me so much

love bArbaro

####
OMG!!! Cheryl Jones...you have me in tears.

BARBARO...BARBARO...BARBARO....your family loves you.

just had a quick word with Jonna - something about the dentist - Will be hearing from her before the day is out, expecting her to have a few lines to dictate to me, for me to post here from her.

Thank you "Aunty Cheryl" for giving Barbaro a voice today. Everyone on the farm misses him.....

Baltimoresun

OH ALEX the excerpt from Mrs. Jackson's article is such a thrill. Hope this piece gets wide distribution outside the racing world - this certainly is the time of year for it -

Candles lit, white roses in the vase, carrot cake for breakfast and "HBO's Barbaro." It only made matters worse.

The comfort I need is found right here with you my frens, the Barbaromaniacs, the Carrot Posse and every single one of you who make up the FOBs.

Barbaro miraculously brought us together and I am honored to be part of this famblee.

Barbaro, you were SIMPLY THE BEST.

I am supposed to be at a lucheon for a group of teachers that are leaving our school today, but I prefer to sit in the quiet of my room (quiet for the moment, anyway) and read the posts of so many that have taken a remarkable journey together. Because of Barbaro, we have shared every possible emotion together, and, with all the work ahead of us, I am sure we will continue to do so. It is wonderful and comforting to know that I am a memeber of this huge family that call ourselves FsOB. God bless you all, and God bless Barbaro.

####
we have not heard from Stephanie from Miracle Horse Rescue either...? hope all is well...
after all...that is where my fren...Cathy Potter found Mr. Cloud.

####
What precious memories we have...famblee!

####
And Alex...please thank Mrs. Jackson...for such a nice comment....

####
How wonderful, Alex! I will look forward to reading that one!

####
$295.00 left...saving this beauty...TWH mare..on db.

golden retreivers...and all kinds need our help...

please...we are celebrating the love of Barbaro...reach out of your pockets...and give a horse, dog, or cat...a chance of love, too.

###
CHERYL JONES, who so generously let Barbaro use her "puder"...blessings to you for reposting his message from hevvin! It brought me such comfort 2 years ago, and continues to do so today...

I don't want to embrace the sadness.

Because of Barbaro horses came back into my life. Because of him I learned about HS and realized I needed to join the fight. Because of Barbaro, I will continue to fight as long as necessary.

I want to embrace the hope.

Hay, FOB's!

am getting ready to go to Quest in about an hour (and its cold here...the barn is gonna be sooooo cold...but they have tea, hot chocolate there so I should be OK.).

Aunty Cheryl...thank you for re-posting bArbaro's message from hevvin...

And I also wish to embrace the joy, the famblee. There is a change in the "feel" of today...we are stronger on the inside, more at peace.

Beautiful.

All Love
Padme A'Tea

Posted for Linnie

My Beloved Barbaro ...

Time doesn’t diminish the sadness
or the memory
or the pain

I remember
and tears flow
freely and unabashedly
today, especially, today

My Beloved Barbaro ...

You came
You saw
You conquered

It was all done too soon
for us

But not for you
You knew
You were born
for a mission
and you accomplished
your goal
and left us
a legacy and a gift

And now we are aware
of the pain and suffering
of the horses

It is up to us now
but you have set
a shining example

and you shall
lead us
We will never forget
We will never give up
Until the horses are safe

My beloved Barbaro
Fly Higher
Soar with the Angels
and keep Big Red close

I love you.

Linnie

Barbaro - it is with the deepest gratitude that I honor you today. I cannot begin to explain how much my life has changed for the better because of you. My knowledge, my love, my appreciation for the astounding creation that is "horse" has increased a thousand fold, beyond all dreams or imagination.

I send my love and admiration for all the FOBs. This is the most incredible group of souls gathered here. The good that has been accomplished by FOBs gives me faith and hope even in the darkest hour.

Barbaro. My warrior horse. My heart horse. The most beautiful horse I've ever seen. I will never forget. You burn brightly in my heart.

### Cheryl,

Barbaro's message from hevvin was what pretty much did me in two years ago. I still can't read it without crying.

Nice new entry at Equine Heaven.

Yes, Kathy, SC:) A BEAUUUUUTIFUL new entry from Our Boy....and 'gitthis',Famblee, *SLEW* has taught *BARBARO* something absolutely beautiful today:)

WAY COOL, *SLEW*:) WAYYYYYYYYY COOOOOOOOOOL!!

Lynne-Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

In celebration of you Barbaro. The love in my heart connects to the love in your heart. It is so deep forever and ever. I LOVE YOU!

Cheryl,
OMG the tears are running. Thank you fren for a wonderful memory.

I will be back a bit tough today to read.

I believe!

(((((((((((((((((FOB'S))))))))))))))))))))

Equine Heaven

A MUST read.

A giant THANK YOU to Equine Hevvin - for sharing Barbaro's "heart tugging" ........ "eye moistening" .. powerful message !

Sherry

text of the article linked in Post by: Debbie L.A. at January 29, 2009 5:37 PM

This is MAINSTREAM PRESS, folks . . . not "just" horse publications/sites.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/services/newspaper/printedition/bal-sp.barbaro29jan29,0,1397368.story

Barbaro's brother to debut with Prado in the saddle

By Bill Ordine | bill.ordine@baltsun.com
January 29, 2009

In what is likely to be the most closely watched maiden race in recent thoroughbred history, Nicanor - the full brother of Barbaro - will get his first start Saturday at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale, Fla.

The 3-year-old dark bay - who has the same sire, Dynaformer, and dam, La Ville Rouge, as the 2006 Kentucky Derby winner - is in the eighth race, a one-miler on dirt with a field of 12.

The timing of Nicanor's debut coincides with two Barbaro milestones. Today marks the second anniversary of Barbaro's death. And the race that precedes Nicanor's maiden race, the Holy Bull Stakes, was won by Barbaro three years ago.

Like Barbaro, Nicanor is trained by Michael Matz and owned by Roy and Gretchen Jackson of West Grove, Pa. Nicanor, with the No.4 post position, will be ridden Saturday by Edgar Prado, the jockey atop Barbaro in the Derby and the Preakness.

"Obviously, as good as his brother was, it's big shoes to fill," Matz said this week. "But he's matured mentally and physically, and his training has gone well. We just hope that it's time for him to start."

Matz had been weighing whether to start Nicanor on Saturday or the following weekend on turf.

"It's great to have him get there," Roy Jackson said yesterday. "In this game, a lot can go wrong. And we've been involved long enough to know that you never do know until the horse gets started. Obviously, there's particular interest because of Barbaro, but we hope that he can be a half-decent racehorse."

Comparisons are inevitable.

"He's not as long and as leggy as Barbaro, but he's a big horse and he's a very attractive horse," Matz said of Nicanor.

The Jacksons are heading to Florida to see Nicanor's first outing, and Roy says there are physical similarities between the two horses.

"He has a larger blaze on his face," Jackson said, "but when you see him, he does remind you of Barbaro in certain ways, the shape of his head and his size."

As of last night (when I last visited the MHR big girls thread in the General Non-Horse folder at the DB), all is well at MHR. AND - it was announced yesterday, that FAITH, a pregnant grade Shire PMU mare, no longer ever to be in a PMU line [a/k/a torture & slavery) is scheduled to arrive at MHR in early February; due to foal late May /early June. LIVING PROOF . . .

Barbaro, always in my thoughts but especially yesterday, proofing the last proof of the months with you, of the poems I hadn't planned on and then couldn't not write--

and with everyone's words today, the braid even stronger

Lyn Lifshin

*** For Jonna *** I wish I had an extra computer to give her!

Thursday, January 29th... Technical difficulties with this computer. A friend comes later to have a look. Watch out for the big box of horse blankets in our hallway. And please do not step on Tabbers the yellow cat, who in my tiny office sleeps 25 hours a day. Reading my morning journal makes Tabbers tired.

I was able to meet a family in Winters, and mom adds buttermilk when baking fresh bread. From the oven, dripping with real butter. Home made turkey chili. Apple pie. Coming to mom and her family this weekend two thoroughbred geldings from a ranch foreclosure. Sight unseen. On their television American Idol, recorded from Tuesday night. Our favorite the girl with a funny laugh. Mom even gave me bread to bring home to Cathy.

We were able to meet a mom and daughter in Rio Linda, along with their lazy pit bull named Roxy. Two beautiful paint horses in their barn, with room for one more horse. Coming to mom and daughter this weekend a thoroughbred mare from a ranch foreclosure. Sight unseen. Daughter prefers dark bay.

We were able to meet a mom and two daughters in a place called Zamora. Dad was at work. Mom shows me pictures of her riding race horses during early morning workouts. She quit the track after becoming pregnant. Coming to mom and her family this weekend a thoroughbred gelding from a private home. He needs weight and foot care. Already they have named him Poker.

I am slower than the Kings going for a rebound. Currently 22 homes are awaiting quick approval for a sight unseen horse. These horses come from ranch foreclosures, and private homes. The horses are always free, but you must provide us with fresh bread and turkey chili. Only kidding. We even offer transportation within common sense distance. You might meet Angela. Maybe Stephanie. Maybe Jennifer. You might meet John & Stacey, or possibly Georgia. Sheldon is a good guy, and when Sheldon delivers a horse he also brings you a 2009 calendar filled with puppies. Already January almost over. The February photo has newborn yellow labs.

To the 22 homes awaiting quick approval, we are doing 3 or 4 a day. You should be contacted by next week. We try to go in order, yet often the order is mixed up depending on the area you live in. Elverta is becoming popular for our horses, and in Elverta I cover everyone at once. Even if you were on the bottom of our list. Saves gas and time.

Hot coffee is from Peets. Delicious warm bread with butter and strawberry jam (how many times is he going to talk about that bread?) is from a family in Winters, and they have every episode of American Idol from the last 4 years. Later we could be 61 degrees. Enjoy your Kings lost again Thursday, and be sure to hug your horses. Rod Stewart on the oldies station...

Joe

We love girls. Race mares who retired to our ranch with all sorts of injuries.

Top Left: This is Fairy Tale Dream, she is now 7, and we call her Fairy. The sweetest gal ever born.

Top Right: Her registered name is Imsomadatmyself, and we call her Maddie. She just turned 4, and Maddie goes crazy for peppermints.

Bottom Left: This is Madge, and her sire is Simply Majestic. Madge came to us in 2003, and she loves to carry little kids around.

Bottom Right: Mist In The Dark earned fifty grand as a race horse. We call her Sheba. In our south field Sheba is married to Pragmatico. No way can you get those two apart.

Hello, family -

What an amazing time this has been, almost three years shared with so many unseen but recognized friends, all introduced by Mr. Brown and a big, bay colt.

Like many of those posting today, I, too, read the comments regularly, though I rarely post. I recall the names, and, as Marg in Maine wrote earlier, quoting Dr. Seuss, "(d)on't cry because it's over, (but) smile because it happened."

Good things have been accomplished because of this forum, because of the education we have all received, because people with good hearts have found an outlet for their passionate caring. I suspect that almost all of us have done something to help creatures, and many of us have found a path to that end through connections first encountered here. I, for instance, found TB Friends here, and now can't live without regular updates.

But for me, today is a day to remember the silly colt with the rawboned grace, the ability to look poised no matter what confronted him, the attitude of a Zen master or a Buddhist monk and the charisma to spark love wherever his name was spoken.

Two years ago today, I learned how to cry again. I will forever be grateful to Marilyn/CA, who posted the following:

"Brahma was excessively sparing with earth, water, and fire. The new creature was not given either horns or claws, and his teeth were only meant for chewing, not for biting. The prudent care with which fire was used made him a necessity in war with out making him warlike.

This animal was the Horse.

The reckless expenditure of air and ether in his composition was amazing. And, in consequence, he perpetually struggled to outreach the wind, to outrun space itself. Other animals ran only when they had a reason, but the Horse would run for no reason whatever, as if to run out of his own skin. He had no desire to chase, or to kill, but only to fly on and on and on until he dwindled into a dot, melted into a swoon, blurred into a shadow, and vanished into vacancy.

The Creator was glad. He had given habitations to his other creatures, forests to some, caves to others, but because of his enjoyment of the disinterested spirit of energy in the Horse, he gave him an open meadow under the eye of Heaven."

-- Rabindranath Tagore

To this day, that speaks of Barbaro to me more than anything else I have ever seen, and to the vast family of horses everywhere and at every time, with their beauty, their patience, their spirit and their speed. He is, indeed, "under the eye of Heaven."

At my mother's funeral, we sang an old Irish song, "The Parting Glass" the second vers of which also seems apropos.

"Oh all the comrades I ever had,
Were sorry for my going away.
And all the sweethearts I ever kissed,
They wished me one more day to stay.
But since it falls unto my lot
That I should rise, and that you should not,
I'll gently rise, and I'll softly call,
Good night, and joy be with you all."

Love and comfort to all in need, two-legged and four-legged, and have a Barbaro day - courage and kindness...

With more love than I can write - Jean

Barbaro, you will always be a part of my life. I hope you can see what you have done to so many lives, you are so very much loved.

Let's hope and pray that this will be the year of the horse. I will never stop fighting to stop the slaughter of our wonderful horses.

sharing email from Jo Diebel, of Angel Acres Horse Haven Rescue

wanted you all to see the uplifting update on a horse rescued 2 years ago today, who is winning his long battle with laminitis.

Mattie, Recovering well...
Many of you know about Mattie, the Thoroughbred gelding left at the New Holland sale that was bound for slaughter 2 years ago today, (January 29, 2007). He is still recovering from the worst case of founder we have ever seen, and is as fiesty as ever! He went from laying doing about 18 hours a day to "I haven't see him lay down, period"! Which means he is laying down at night like a normal horse. No more nights spent with him laying in field praying he would pull through, no more frantic calls to the vet, no more 2 am calls to the farrier...it was a rough road, but he has made it to the 2 year mark. Mattie is one of the lucky ones, treated by an amazing farrier and cared for by a great bunch of volunteers and supported by several virtual moms around the country and bouyed by support from well-wishers and visitors. He still has a LONG way to go, his tendon may never retract correctly and it may be a while yet before he is out of his medicine plates & we don't know if his rotation will never improve, but he continues to grow new foot, be happy (and very ornery lol) and amaze our farrier. Most horses with Matties type of founder are put down, but we could see he had an incredible will to live and we gave him the vet care, support and love he needed to survive. At this two year mark, Mattie is thriving and doing well...we pray he continues to recover. Taking care of Mattie has been a great learning experience for all involved in his care and Mattie has touched many, many hearts here and around the nation...Here's to Mattie, we love you!
[end of email]

This rescue is involved in an online competition - pls check it out at their website

http://www.angelacreshorsehavenrescue.com/

Dear Equine Heaven...

Thank you so much for today's message from Barbaro. It reinforces something we all know deep down...

that we are all connected. All of us.

Am off to Quest in a couple of minutes...and then once sessions are over, I'm gonnna race home to catch Jake's broadcast...but will miss the CBS segment on Nicanor tonight...hopefully we can get a link to it later...

All Love
Padme A'Tea

###I too have been having computer problems. I am sorry Circuit City is closing because the other electronic store, Best Buy, makes me crazy. Too much stuff, too spread out, and 12-year-old department managers who don't know how to answer questions posed to them by someone who remembers dial telephones, clocks with hands, and having to wait for the television and radio to warm up. Argh.

###Anyway, I missed the Barbaro vigil this a.m., but did hold a private one of my own. Today is my second anniversary at my part-time job, and I marveled at how much has happened in the past two years--and how much GOOD has come from so tragic an occurrence.

As Kathy in SC said earlier this morning, we have much to be proud of--each of us in our own way doing what we can ... what we MUST ... for ourselves and each other as well as for our fellow creatures.

###Awareness is the key, knowledge is power, and ONWARD!

God bless you, Alex, for being here and providing this forum for the FOBs.

####
Jean Nolan, thank you for loving post.
All the post are wonderful today, you can feel the love!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

####
((((((Kay)))))) Another vigil is planned for 7 PM EST. Maybe you can make that one. Anywhere you are. Doesn't matter. Just stop and think of Barbaro, and all that has come from his miraculous visit here on earth!

####
Good to see you here, Jean. A day for remembering, reuniting.

#####
Barb...and all FOBS....

Just talked to our Fran....she is in the hospital...she was outside shoveling snow, etc...broke her leg in three pieces...going to surgery today...

She wants us to pray for her...and she hated she missed today...she loves all of you and loves Barbaro...

She asked if we had saved the black mare TWH..on db...and I told her we are very close....let us save this mare...for Fran..

Love you all...FOBS.

Oh, dear.
Dear WONDERFUL Fran. God Bless. We are HERE for you!

###
Hello, Debbie LA and Barb AZ!
It's wonderful to be here. And everyone is chiming in, aren't they?
(Who was it that said "home was where they had to take you in" or words to that effect?)
And you're right. You can FEEL the love...

####
P.S...FRAN SAID SHE IS HERE IN SPIRIT...

###
Hello, Debbie LA and Barb AZ!
It's wonderful to be here. And everyone is chiming in, aren't they?
(Who was it that said "home was where they had to take you in" or words to that effect? Now that I am not a "regular", I always feel a bit dubious, and then nice people like you say, c'mon in!)
And you're right. You can FEEL the love...

crossposting from the DB -

hey folks -- tonight should be the night for CBS Story featuring Nicanor and some of the Florida-area FOB's. Barring a big breaking news story, it will air as the end piece on the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric...check your local listings, but it is 630p in most places.

ALSO -- VERY good chance we WILL be at Gulfstream Saturday, so want to know who is coming to the track -- do you all have a gathering place in mind to meet up with other FOB's, etc??

thanks...
Jack Renaud, producer
jer@cbsnews.com

---------------

If you've going to Gulfstream tomorrow, pls check in at this DB thread where the above is posted:

http://forums.delphiforums.com/alexbrown/messages?msg=33054.1

...and apparently, the redundancy! : ) sorry for double post, with embarrassing emedantions. Sheesh!

...or "emendations", if you like to spell correctly!
I'm a basket case!

ooops, I meant, if you're going to Gulfstream SATURDAY, not tomorrow (tomorrow's Friday).

####### for Joan Roya -

Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in. -- Robert Frost

from The Death of the Hired Man (1914)

I love you and miss you Barbaro.
Am proud to be part of your FOB famblee and working for the good of all horses. You are the greatest BBH.

***
JEAN NOLAN ~ how wonderful to see you here, and your powerful post is just another reminder of why I miss seeing you here on a regular basis!

Blessings to you,
Nancy

Just dashing in for a moment, saw the terrible news about Fran, praying for your swift recovery. I'm so sorry for your accident.

It's so good to see so many here. Lyn Lifshin, you've been missed. Jean, my dear friend, Nancy, so many others. It's good to know that the connection is strong, the thread is still tight and will never unravel or be broken. And most of all, thank you, Alex.

To the Undefeated Barbaro: Thank you for the inspiration and for the joy that comes everytime I watch your run in the Kentucky Derby. Please run with Nicanor on Saturday, and help both Nic and Len stay safe in their racing careers.

So many horses have been saved and have a better life because of you. I am forever grateful for your beautiful and wonderful presence on this earth and in my life.

Lisa in Colorado

Barbaro~

Thank you so much for my Mr. Bourbon.

You will be in my heart forever......

Love,
Corrine

Sending All, All All My Love........Prayers......
......Angelic Rainbows.........To Angel Fran.....
.....

All, All All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows
To Angel Fran..........

Affirmed

####
Jean we don't count off for spelling, and writing in tears we sometimes make mistakes

####
Kay
I am also having computer problems, Thanks for the laugh. I even lost spell-check! The old computer is on it's last leg, dieing a slow death!

####

((((((Jean)))))) Too funny.

*****************************************************
####
Dee, wonderful Dee, Fran needs our prayers, rainbows and angels. Thanks.

Candles for FRAN

######## not horse-related but of interest to many/most/if not all of us here -

Citizen Petition to Save the Polar Bear

http://www.nrdconline.org/campaign/Rescue_the_Polar_Bear

Action Alert from National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) - pls send an email to President Obama's new Secy of the Interior Ken Salazar via the above link - excerpts:

sharing email from Rbt F Kennedy Jr of National Resources Defense Council - NRDC - www.nrdc.org

C., we're mobilizing one million Americans this week to persuade the new Interior Secretary, Ken Salazar, to rescue the polar bear.

Please speak out now. It will only take you a few seconds and could save these imperiled creatures from extinction. -- RFK

Urge Interior Secretary Salazar to Rescue the Polar Bear NOW Help us build a national outcry to reverse the Bush Administration’s “polluters-first� policy.

Send your Citizen Petition now -- and tell the new Interior Secretary that you care more about polar bears than Big Oil’s profits.

####
Sorry, Dee, I didn't see your post. THANKS!

Just lit a candle for Fran - we'll all have to keep an eye on the DB for those last-chancers that she's always cheerleading for . . . Hoping for a speedy and uneventful recovery!

Just lit a candle for Fran - we'll all have to keep an eye on the DB for those last-chancers that she's always cheerleading for . . . Hoping for a speedy and uneventful recovery!

####
Joan Roya
Fran = she is in the hospital was outside shoveling snow, broke her leg in three pieces going to surgery today.
Geee Yes Fran is in my prayers, love her heart. Move south!

the letter from the Jackson's is on page 4 of today's online Thoroughbred Daily News in the letters to the Editor section...enjoy
and God Bless and keep you dear Barbaro

It's always Barbaro, the Forever Undefeated Barbaro. Always sublime.

For you, we will keep on working for all horses.

Because of you, thousands of horses are alive, safe, and loved today who otherwise would have died.

Because of you, tracks have become safer.

Because of you, more people know about equine issues.

Because of you and for you, we will press on.

I am a better person today because of a horse I never met.

Forever FOB

Poor dear Fran. I will be calling her soon. I am waiting to see if she gets into a room after surgery. I just spoke to Joan. I think Fran will always remember the day she broke her leg. WOW.
Prayers for Fran. She is the dear sweet soul who found me my Petunia after 153 crossed the bridge.

http://news.bloodhorse.com/article/48998.htm?id=48998

Barbaro Memorial Unveiling Set for April
Posted: January 29, 2009
Last Updated: January 29, 2009

[photo]
A clay model of the Barbaro statue that is being created for permanent display at Churchill Downs.
Photo: Reed Palmer

(Edited press release)

The public unveiling of a bronze statue to celebrate the life of 2006 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner Barbaro will take place at Churchill Downs April 26. The announcement came on the second anniversary of Barbaro’s passing on Jan. 29, 2007.

“Churchill Downs will provide additional details about the public unveiling as they become available, but we wanted to make certain that Barbaro’s worldwide legion of fans were made aware of the ceremony’s date,” said Churchill Downs’ general manager Jim Gates. “Churchill Downs is proud to have been chosen as Barbaro’s final resting place and this outstanding memorial is certain to become a popular year-round gathering place for horse lovers throughout the world.”

The statue will become the focal point of Barbaro’s official memorial and burial site. It will be placed outside Churchill Downs’ Gate 1 and near the entrance to the Kentucky Derby Museum along with Barbaro’s ashes, which will be interred beneath the bronze. Currently, a bronze marker, featuring Barbaro’s likeness, marks the location of the future memorial site beneath a large magnolia tree.

“Gretchen and I are very much looking forward to the public ceremony this April,” said Roy Jackson, who bred, raised, and raced Barbaro with his wife, Gretchen. “We’re absolutely thrilled that Barbaro will be honored at Churchill Downs with a magnificent statue at the site of his greatest race.”

Production of the bronze statue is nearing its final stages with equine sculptor Alexa King. Her design will showcase Barbaro and jockey Edgar Prado in mid-flight between strides nearing the finish line in the 2006 Derby. The statue will be attached to a horizontal bronze rail that will support the 1,500-pound artwork, creating the impression that Barbaro and his rider are suspended in air. It is the first time that an equine statue of this size and scope has been presented in this manner, with all four of the horse’s feet off the ground.

Copyright © 2009 The Blood-Horse, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Dearest Barbaro~

You won my heart and will own my heart forever. You've changed my life in so many wonderful ways, one significant one is that I'm a horse owner today. His name is Cody and I love him like crazy!

Like many of those posting today, I, too, read the comments regularly, in fact daily, though I haven't posted since his passing. I feel connected to each and every one of you and share your passion for equine welfare.

I will always love you sweet, beautiful boy! Please watch over Nicanor and Edgar on Saturday and keep them safe.

Love to All,
Lisa in Hawaii

Cheryl

so nice to be welcomed back.

Between life and over work I (though I don't post all that much, usually read others but lately I had gotten so far behind on reading Alex's wonderful site, I had to go back to Dec 6 to catch up--- lucky somehow it was all on my computer

I've missed so much.... am hoping Jonna and so many others are ok---

it's too long to be away

Lyn

Have thought of Barbaro all week and all the good he has done for many TBs in racing.
Goodspeed Barbaro. We miss you still, and always.

May your little brother run strong and safely in his racing career.

####
it's too long to be away......

Lyn Lifshin, please stop in more often! It's a shame we have to wait an entire year to see people. Good to see you here!

####
Patt W
Would you copy and paste it here, this computer will not let be get in the site.
Thanks

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever, always.

ASCENSION

And if I go,
While you're still here . . .
Know that I live on,
vibrating to a different measure
--behind a thin veil you cannot see
through.
You will not see me,
So you must have faith.
I wait for the time when we can soar
together again,
--both aware of each other.
Until then, live your life to the fullest.
And when you need me,
Just whisper my name in your heart,
...I will be there.

--Author unknown

Thank you, Barbaro, with all my heart, I know you are here today, I feel you close.

always with love,
Lou Ann

Thank you, Lou Ann ! They are beautiful and touching thoughts !
Thank you also, for the hugs of earlier this week and the wonderful "vision" of snow falling on Chico's black curls !
Hugs - Sherry and AMIGO

###
Debbie LA and Barb AZ - Thanks for cutting me a break! Not used, anymore, to sitting at work hiding tears...or laughter, for that matter. A little of both today.
###
Fran - Swift healing, supported by good blood flow from your big heart.
###
Nancy - Thank you, my friend. It is very good to be here. Indeed, I could not be elsewhere today.
###
Cheryl Jones - There are no words, ever, sufficient to thank you for bArbaro's message from hevvin. It is today, as it was two years ago, simply perfect. And thank you for being who you are - steady, kind and generous. As you wrote above, "It's good to know that the connection is strong, the thread is still tight and will never unravel or be broken." I think you're right, and I'm glad.
###
CJaffe - It was I who could not remember the Frost quote, and I thank you. As has ever been true, you're a mensch.

To Mr. & Mrs. Jackson, if your listening out there.
" Thank you for giving us Barbaro" you also will always be in our thoughts & prayers today and years to come as well.. God bless Nicanor, Nicanor will be Nicanor, and no matter how he does he will be loved too...and pray .. for many safe races to come & keep him well, along with all horses...May God Bless and give you peace. And special thanks to Alex for making this web site for our comments possible.
dv/from pa

I will never forget the days when I looked into your progress everyday and everyday I wished for a miracle. Little did I know that you did create a miracle and you brought many people together to help your fellow equines. The amazing power of a horse.

VIGIL FOR BARBARO, AGAIN THIS EVENING, 7 PM EST

If you were unable to pause this morning for the 10:30 a.m. VIGIL, or if you would just like to join in again, please feel free to join me this evening, 7 PM EST, for a second vigil.
I need to be off to a special quiet sacred place today . . . please feel free to join me in spirit.

As always, holding hands, hooves and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation,

with love,
Lou Ann

Barbaro you are truly the horse "That Changed a Nation"

You have brought so many together to work on your behalf for the horses. It is because of you that the fight continues to stop slaughter and the PMU industry.

You are forever in our hearts!! Because of you and the caring compassionate hearts of many, a beautiful PMU Grade Shire mare will no longer endure the torture of the PMU line. She is carrying another life, a life that will not know the suffering its mother had to endure.

The name of this foal will be "Charity", as we have Faith, a Hope and now this little one.

This is all because of you Barbaro, you have brought together this nation of kind and compassionate individuals...thank you.

Thank you to each and everyone of you that supports horse rescue, the anti-slaughter efforts and the effots of stopping PMU.

Thank you for all the friendships I have gained. I feel blessed...

all because of BARBARO

Hi Everyone. I have a video for all of you for today. Sorry that this is blurry. I don't do these very often. I haven't been here for a long time. Get the kleenex before you watch this. God Bless You all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E58iNc7bgE8

####

(((((Stephanie)))))) ((((Rose))))) (((Fran)))

(((((((AND ALL OF THE FOBS....FAMBLEE!)))))

#####
AND if I missed it....there is Mike and is beautiful call.....and Daryl...?

have not seen their postings....

####
and Harriette!...Kentucky got hit hard by the bad weather...hope she is okay...anyone knows??

Honoring Barbaro...his beauty, his strength, his intelligence, his courage and most of all his enormous heart.

My life changed the first time I saw him race. Barbaro is forever a champion. An amazing inspiration. It is an honor to help all horses in his name. It is an honor to be a FOB. I will never give up.

###
Rose - I had to wait until lunch to watch your video, and it is lovely. Thank you.
(Now, what do I do about the raccoon streaks of runny mascara...? ; )

####
Joan Roya
I emailed Daryl about the Vigil today! Maybe he will show up! Mike C has not been here for a long time. He never finished the call. But I totally understand that.

###
Rose thanks

Date: April 26, 2009!!!!!!

Place: Churchill Downs, Louisville, KY

Event: Barbaro's statue unveiled

FOB's: BE THERE

Thank you Barbaro..you have been such an inspiration in my life. I am now riding again and also have my own rescue horse. He is a handsome Morgan that I absolutely love. To be able to ride my own horse is a dream come true that began with you. Watch over Nicanor and Edgar as they begin their new adventure. The FOBs miss you.

It is with humbling gratitude that I read all these heartfelt tributes to our magnificent Barbaro today. Thank you Alex and thank you dear FOB frens.

To the beloved spirit, who swept over us and gathered us up...in pure love, so close to my heart always, so indelibly etched into my soul, thank you for the blessings you have bestowed on us, this precious love which shines on brightly, our beacon to come home to, ALWAYS BARBARO.

Jonna got back to me and dictated this post to put up here for all the FOBs - and btw it wasn't a dentist thing earlier, it had to do with getting her Dad in for a follow-up after eye surgery. She sends her love to all and misses being here, especially today.

Here's Jonna's message for 1/29/09 -

BARBARO NATION

We are covered by a blanket of black mane and tail hair

Warmed by Memory

We are bound by Love

Pushing past the pain of knowledge

Holding eachother's hands

We are growing in Hope

Our Mission nearly sacred

We cannot be deterred.

A day does not pass that I do not see that shining coat, brilliant dark eye,

Feel the wind of his triumph

And keep on pushing in his Name.

XX00 J

COURAGE

My wife spoke to Harriette this morning,her house has no electric or phone,her husband has had fireplace & space heater going,she is not letting her horses out on the ice with the tree limbs coated w/ice.She drove to work risking life & limb to do payroll & was going right back home,does not want to leave space heater on with no one there,this was first day she has gone into work since Monday,she did want to post today for Barbaro,we will here from her as soon as she gets electric back on in her house,as of 11 am this morning she is fine,

Miss you still big guy. ACN.
Kathie

Where would we be without you Barbaro? We would still be stuck in ignorance of the pain and suffering your brothers and sisters bear. We would not be any closer to finding a cure for the murderous fiend laminitis. Hundreds of your brothers and sisters would not have a loving home.
We woud not be famblee.

So many many wonderful people have joined forces, each choosing their own way to love, cherish and honor you. Lovely words that people could not have written were it not for you. Harriette Brillianthawk who shares the wisdom of the forefathers. Otherlyn who tells your story in heaven. Lyn Lifshin, who honors me by calling me friend, with poems unthought then unable to not be written.

Lovely people who bring joy and support and, most importantly, Love. Love for you, love for the Horse, love for each other. Angels like Dee, Padme, Joan Roya, Nancy the naughty Nutmegger and so many many more.

None of the honor or glory did you ask for. You knew you had a job to do. You showed us that there will be tough, painful times ahead. You showed us how to bear those times: with grace, dignity, strenght and, as Dr. Anderson said, with heart.

Roy and Gretchen Jackson. The best "parents" in the world. Graceful, private, strong people who answered your call. The call to bring to light the dishonor of all humans of horse slaughter. Without you Barbaro, we would be ignorant of it.

Mr. and Mrs. Jackson, I join so many others here and say "Thank you. Thank you for sharing your Barbaro with the world. Thank you for letting us into your lives and going on this journey of life and redemption. I am honored to be called a Fan of Barbaro. I am honored to be welcomed by you into this famblee."

Michael Matz, Peter Brette, Edgar Prado, Dr. Dean Richardson, the entire staff at New Bolton and Alex Brown. To you also a heartfelt Thank You. You are all heroes. We "Get It!"

Two years ago today, I shed tears of sadness. One year ago I shed tears of sadness mixed with tears of joy. Today I shed tears missing your earthly presence, yet rejoicing in your daily presence in my life. My tears symbolicaly join with the tears of every FOB creating a river; a river of love and pain and hope.

We are where we should be Barbaro. We are here, carrying out your unfinished tasks. We will continue to fight for you until we join you across the Bridge or until your tasks are finished. We will cry, we will laugh and we will carry on. With you by our sides Barbaro, giving us strength and comfort.

NO Horse left behind or EVER Forgotten!
Lee

CANDLES FOR BARBARO

###
LEE - as always, an exquisite post straight from your dear heart!

########## ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION ALERT

TELL EPA TO CONTROL CO2

another opportunity to make our voices heard re a serious and imminent enviromnental issue

http://action.earthjustice.org/campaign/desert_rock_0109/w3kkwuir0kd63dm

PLEASE take action ASAP at the above link - DEADLINE is Feb 23.

sharing ACTION ALERT from Earthjustice earthjustice.org

Tell EPA to Control CO2!

Take Action Today!

Dear C.,

Last year, the Supreme Court said the Environmental Protection Agency could regulate CO2 emissions—-but the Bush-cowed agency refused. In an infamous memo, then-Administrator Stephen Johnson ordered EPA to ignore CO2.

This week, President Obama stepped in and told EPA that, after 8 years of political interference, it's time to do its job again—starting with CO2 gas emissions, the biggest contributor to global warming.

The issue at hand is a monstrous, 1,500 megawatt coal-fired power plant that EPA is ready to approve—-without any CO2 controls—-on Navajo land in New Mexico. The Desert Rock coal plant will inundate native communities with health-robbing pollutants that cause asthma and heart attacks, and spew 12.7 million tons of CO2 greenhouse gases into the atmosphere every year.

Desert Rock is a centerpiece of Bush-era plans to spread coal power across the land without regard for its environmental havoc.

But, we can stop this from happening, and, thanks to President Obama, the EPA now must listen to what we have to say! This is the chance we all have been waiting for-—to be heard!

We only have until February 23rd to speak up...So, please, take action now to help build a groundswell movement in support of controlling this plant's air pollution. Tell the EPA to impose the strictest-possible CO2 controls—making it the first plant in EPA history to have such limits!

And while you are at it, tell the new EPA chief, Lisa Jackson, to rescind that Johnson memo so that her agency can start putting CO2 controls on plants throughout the country.

With this action, we are just beginning to take back control of our country's environmental protections. Let's start now!

— Earthjustice
Because the earth needs a good lawyer

P.S. Every voice counts! Please tell a friend to take action!

©2009 Earthjustice | 426 17th Street, 6th Floor, Oakland, CA 94612 | 510-550-6700 | action@earthjustice.org

So glad to hear from Stephanie at MHR - and Cathy Potter, mom of the very first FOB save - and so many FOBs whose names we haven't seen in a while. So good to see you all here today.

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Sophie's Lee. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So........You Touch
My Heart So (8) A Lot So.........For Being A So,
So So Very Beautiful Angel On This Earth........

All, All All Angelic Beautiful Glowing Rainbows
To You And Your Angel Famblee.........

Affirmed

John K - thanks so much for letting us know that Harriette is safe. Will look forward to hearing from her after electricity is back up.

CBS news linked to this site. Way to go Alex!

Mrs. Jackson in her letter today talked about her visit with Alex in glowing terms.

Thanks Alex for eveyrthing. If you didn't keep the site going through all the bad times we wouldn't have done any of this.

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Barb AZ,
Chunky And Punky And 153 And Petunia. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So........

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

Affirmed

Our Invitation

What an extraordinary invitation.
A faceless nation called, connected,
Mid misstep the 20th of May 2006
�The Barbaro Nation�, summoned by Barbaro
Each person clearly called by name,
To come, to become
More than we could ever dream.

The Barbaro Nation moved as if one,
We filled the skyline, then the heavens with prayers.
Prayers rising from every corner of the earth,
Collective prayers, tears, healing thoughts,
Rising from many countries, religions, and ethnicities,
All for a horse, this very special horse named Barbaro.

We moved in unison;
magically held together by his invisible call.
We were part of one another
In ways that defy explanation,
We who called ourselves FOB�s
We cheered with good news
Bore the weight of bad news.
We dug our souls and feet in,
Each of us holding fast
To the vision
Of his healing, his wholeness.
We were a large, powerful Nation
Tens of thousands strong,
All pulling for Barbaro.
Until that dark day - January 29, 2007.

Now we content our selves with
Lobbing to end Horse Slaughter,
Horse Rescue,
Racetrack Safety,
And more miracles,
All because of this horse, we never knew.

All of us called by name, to come, to become
His faceless friends that day in May
This day we come together
To remember Barbaro,
His courage, his patience, his love,

And each of us cherish His call
That forever changed everyone of us.
Thank you Barbaro

####
Very cool Alex.

lee,
more tears, but thank you for your words of love!
barbara

###
Judy in WA - You do such beautiful work! I recall others you have written. Thank you.

Anyone have the link to the letter from Mrs. Jackson?

If you didn't hear FOB Jake's exquisite memorial concert last January 29th (or if you want to tune in again this year), here's the link to the radio station ~ or you can read the entire thread to learn the details of the program.

JAKE'S MEMORIAL CONCERT

####
Deborah No Patt W posted this, but could not find it. I ask her to copy and pasted it here. But she has not.

the letter from the Jackson's is on page 4 of today's online Thoroughbred Daily News in the letters to the Editor section...enjoy
and God Bless and keep you dear Barbaro

Posted by: Patt W at January 29, 2009 8:23 PM

# Deborah Anderson..google Thoroughbred Daily news and then sign up for the free 2 week subscription. Then you can see the letter. It is wonderful.

####
MJ please post it here!

Well, here's the link to Thoroughbred Daily News. They are having some technical difficulties, or so says the message on their site. However, one must register. I'm at work, so didn't have time to check it out, but it looks as if it's free registration. (Sorry not to be a blue-linker!)

http://www.thoroughbreddailynews.com/members/index.cfm?CFID=29277726&CFTOKEN=53066246

BARBARO IS OUR HEARTS FOREVER. Thank you great horse for your life. We will not let you down. We will continue to fight to save all your brothers and sisters.

Barbaro has 1,110 candles lit. I can see us all here years from now.

####
Margie, maybe we can post from our wheelchairs!

Dear Barbaro, thank you for introducing me to all of your fans : ) I have met a lot of good friends over the last 2 years. Wish you were here to see all the good work your Fans do : )

Love you FOBS!!!

It's so wonderful to see so many familiar people back here today to remember and to celebrate Barbaro's life.
He inspired so many people to do so much good He's got to be very proud of his legacy.

Barbaro, we'll remember you always.

Shelley

Barbaro, our horse of FOREVER, you are so sadly missed. However, the legacy you started is alive and thriving, helping horses EVERY DAY.

God Bless you, Barbaro. We love you.

MRS. JACKSON'S LETTER

OOPS - forgot to tell you that Mrs. Jackson's letter is on page 4 of the pdf.

Oh for Pete's sake...was it really necessary that CBS show that wretched Preakness shot?

Nancy, all, I just had to post the letter in itself. Very nice.

It's 2009 and January 29th is a date some racing fans
will remember no matter what the year. It is the day we
said goodbye to Barbaro, freeing him from his battle
with laminitis, giving him peace.
His story did not end there in that stall in that I.C.U.
His story goes on and causes me to express our immense
gratitude to all those loyal, loyal fans (Friends of
Barbaro-FOB's) that have carried his legacy into the
present.
We think that all the horse world will be interested to
know just what is this legacy-why do we care, and
how it has taken shape?
At Christmastime this year, a local florist (an FOB)
delivered a huge photo album. It was filled with the
hundreds-yes hundreds-of pictures of rescued horses,
rescued from shipment to slaughterhouses, rescued in
Barbaro=s name. Many-in fact, more than half--of the
photos showed horses under tack with a rider in the
saddle. Many of these riders were children. All rescued
by FOB's, many of whom haven't the wherewithal to
spend needed money to save horses. It seems their love
has found a way.
Also, during the holidays, we were treated by a visit
with Alex Brown, the man behind the Tim Woolley-
Barbaro website. His enthusiasm and dedication to helping
horses is inspiring and causes me to try harder. He
told us that the FOB's have raised over a million dollars
for the rescue of horses. Imagine what a grass-root
effort that is.
This is Barbaro's legacy and it continues. We still love
our memories of our racehorse, all six wins, six thrills
filled with awe, love, excitement and dedication. We
are learning to love what his injury became. We realize
that we were given an opportunity to improve horses'
fates, not only by research but by helping the discarded
find a new life. We are not in favor of saving all horses;
some need to be euthanized out of kindness, released
from their pains, but not tortured in shipping or under
the knife.
January 29th will be a day of remembrance for us and
deep gratitude to all those who have so loved Barbaro.
Many have given a new life to horses and to racing. We
want to say thank you to all involved and encourage
you to keep Barbaro=s legacy strong and flourishing.
Roy and Gretchen Jackson

Hay, FOB's...

Got done early with Quest...kids were showing amazing progress...and Nemo is back on work detail. So I'll get ready for the 7 p.m. vigil and then listen to Jake's program tonight at my altar (yes, the laptop will go with me...lol).

I just am so comforted to see so many familiar faces post today. It is good to have you home.

Thank you to all those who have been so generous in letting us into your world and letting Barbaro into ours: Alex, Wendy, Tim and Penny, The Jacksons, New Bolton, KF, Michael Matz, Edgar Prado, Dr.Anderson...and if I've left anybody out, its due to trying to get warm after being in a cold barn...

And for Barbaro...you knew what you were doing...you knew you would bring together people who would hear your call and then go out to spread the message of compassion in action.

You were and are so wise...

The words "thank you" are just not enough to express my gratitude to you and everybody on this site.

You are all the best famblee...

All Love
Padme A'Tea

Thank you God for letting Barbaro show us the way to save his brothers and sisters.
Thank you God for this group of FOBs, Barbaro's famblee, the house that Barbaro built. I am proud to belong and love you all.

Thank you Barbaro, big boss horse, champion horse of my life. I will work in your honor until we stop the horror your equines face, God willing.

Haven't posted to comments in a long, long time but wanted to stop by just "Remembering Barbaro".

Cathy

The CBS piece was just wonderful! Charlie and the FOB's were great.

I loved when Mrs. J said she would like Nicanor to win by 15 lengths. LOL

Wow. Mrs. Jackson just never fails to amaze, does she? What a remarkable thing for her to do.

I will always treasure a hand-written thank you note I received from her. I stood at the mailbox, staring at the signature, "Gretchen" - trying desperately to remember who among my acquaintance answered to that name. Then, I got it, and my jaw dropped.

She is a remarkable lady.

Hiya, FsOB! At 7:00 PM EST, I was presenting a copy of our own Harriette Brillianthawk's book, Rendered, to my local library. Barbaro Jackson, gone but not forgotten. "And it'

And it's all Barbaro, the undefeated Barbaro, in a sublime performance!" I'll be back later to check in with everyone. Peace, RMH

i love the fact that the link in the article at the top that alex mentions has a link to this website, and also just being a part of this wonderful group is such a deep down wonderful feeling. i love all of you. i know barbaro is kicking his heels up at seeing his beautiful brother on the screen tonight on the news (ty alex for putting that on facebook). two years for him. 1 year ago yesterday for my dog, susie (which in november, i finally adopted another dog, named bengi...labradoodle). anyway, way to go to everyone. i sign everything i can and always talk about this group and...man, i'm rambing...
:-)

I think CBS covered all our bases (except anti-slaughter legislation, perhaps) by showing our devotion to and interest in Nicanor AND also by spotlighting our rescue efforts in the person of Jen Swanson from Pure Thoughts...all in all, wonderful coverage.

And wasn't Nicky-Knocks just full of himself? :-)

## nancy,

I played my tape of the CBS show 3 times because I love nicanor's winnie

I remember you today and everyday my friend..The vivid images of your greatness are still fresh in my mind..

GOD BLESS YOU BARBARO....I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU.

I cannot believe that it has been 2 years since we lost Barbaro. But I can tell you that it has been 2 years that have changed my life. Among other things...I have found a local Horse rescue and have done what I can to support and help. I have to admit that I am excited and afraid to see Nicanor racing. I am afraid that he will get hurt and I am afraid that he will not live up to some peoples expectations. He is a beauty just like his big brother Barbaro and his little brother Lentenor. I hope and pray for the best.

Wow - so good to see everyone here. CindiLou- I'm so glad you dropped in to say "Hi". Hope you stop by more often.

I was ecstatic about the CBS piece and to hear "horse slaughter" "horse rescue" and "FOBs" on the evening news. I think every bit of publicity we get helps our cause/causes. Barbi, Charlie, Beth, Jenn and others - great job!!

I will add my prayers for Fran.

Janice
A forever devoted to Kaiser FOB

Did you see Nicanor on the news? I was in tears! Matz, Peter and Mrs. Jackson. She said she just wanted him to be safe, and win by 15 links! Matz tears in his eyes when he said, dose lightening strake twice? Let hope so, but I had one!

Just in case anyone didn't get this earlier. I made this for the 29th. God Bless You all.
For those that have seen it, thankyou for the feedback. Make sure you are ready to do some crying.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E58iNc7bgE8

####
Hi...Mike C...glad to see you too..

THIS IS A DAY OF EMBRACING, OF LOVE, AND FAMILY...BARBARO'S FAMILY...

May God be with Nicanor and Edgar Saturday...please bring them home safe and sound...in fact all of them that is racing.

#####
we are still trying to save a beautiful mare...twh...on the db...$295.00 and she is safe...she has a loving home to go to...please help..

we have golden retreivers, kitten, dogs...and all...read the db...let us save a few on this day of remembrance...please.

####Jean Nolan

Why are you wearing makeup on the 29th of January? I am glad you liked it. :-)

The CBS story was just broadcast here. How nice to see Jen at Pure Thoughts, as well as all the FOB's at Gulfstream. Mrs. Jackson and Michael Matz are so hopeful. 15 lengths? That is adorable. Wouldn't it be wonderful? I'm hopeful little Nicanor wins, but as long as he's safe, I'm happy. Loved the shots of Lentenor, too

Hoping for a tuck-in tonight.

###
Barb AZ,

I like your visual about still gathering every year, even in wheelchairs. We can call in our donations from the nursing home. :)

This was really a wonderful day. Take care everyone.

Debbie in CO

Love you Barbaro, and all of your friends. You are all the best.

####
AC4H...is also trying to save a sweet, sweet painted horse...she looks like she has been through a hard life...and now needs green grass and sunshine....

We are missing some posters we had 848 post in Jan. 2007. Where are you?

Hello Barbaro,

So many Fans here today, so much love for you will stay...forever.

Honey, tonight I want to tell you a little love story about three very fine souls...the Jackson Princes. Yes Honey, you and your brothers!

There is no question that you, the oldest of the Princes, hold a special place in the hearts of sooo many people and have made your place in history. (Yes Honey, FIRST place.) And, your Legacy will live on and on...like you, forever.

You have inspired people to share their hearts, stories, talents, tears and best traits. Honey, you bring out the best in everyone who has been touched by your world. Your place will always be #1...

Honey, for me, you have brought a deeper appreciation for the purely beautiful things in life...the sparkle bouncing off of a fresh layer of new fallen snow, the rich and comforting shine of the first evening star, in which I make my wish, to the quick fleeting moments of a friend’s surprised heart rendering them speechless upon receiving a gift from the heart...

You have opened my eyes Honey, and my heart. Thank you. And, I love you...

And, the second Prince, Nicanor, will make his racing debut in a couple of days. Many, many prayers are being sent up for a safe race for this young Prince.

If he’s nervous at all Honey, please comfort and reassure him. But more importantly, please keep a bit of Heaven under his feet on the day of his race...please help to keep him safe. Thank you Honey.

He, like you, the oldest Prince, loves the camera! And this of course, makes people smile. But then, you KNEW that didn’t you Honey?

For now, we are kept in suspense as to his ability and love of the track while awaiting the start time of his race. (Oooh, I wonder what post they will draw...Honey, take care of that okay?!)

Whatever the outcome, I pray for safety, wish for a win and dream of smiles for your Mommy and Daddy, Michael, Peter, Eduardo and the whole Jackson camp...including the Fans! No Honey, you don’t need to keep a bit of Heaven under our feet...we’ll all be walking on air!

And, if Nicanor DOES come in the money, I will see it as ‘Pennies from Heaven’ and smile...to you.

And then there is the youngest Prince... Lentenor.

Honey, what does the future hold for THIS little one? He too seems to love the camera as we have seen him be silly and frolic beside your Mother in the pasture. (I really believe that you have visited and chatted with your brothers in their sweet dreams and filled them in on being true and genuine. It shows in the footage of film that we patiently wait to be aired. The clips warm our hearts and make us want to reach out and offer our hope and love to the little Prince Charming on the screen)

Honey, lets grab your blanket and fluff the folds perfectly for nuzzling. Let little WindChill have his more-than-a-corner piece so that both of you may nuzzle up to your snips and feel the warmth of our love while you rest.

Oh and Honey, WindChill’s Mommy, Kathi, has WindChill’s electric candles burning in the barn aisle tonight in honor, memory and remembrance of you. I know Honey, Kathi and Jeff are sooo special...we love them.

Nicanor wants a bit of space beside you and WindChill but he has his own blanket! Honey, it's his saddle blanket for the race on Saturday! (Honey, what number is on the blanket? Can you read it? Look harder...Oh well, thank you for trying)

Your Dream Angels are playing tricks on me tonight. They are all holding beautiful saddle cloths from Nicanor's race and they are embroidered with different numbers...but it is a gorgeous and inspiring sight!

Let your dreams be as beautiful as an April Shower rainbow and leave you feeling as warm as towels just out of the dryer!

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

Roy and Gretchen Jackson, your Saturday and heart will be filled with joy, love and loyalty of ALL of your Princes...and Fans of Barbaro... and Fans of your Nicanor.

And Honey, some day, I will tell you the story of another beautiful soul...Princess Jackson! Yes Honey, a filly! Someday...

Now close your eyes and know that I love you. I love you more than you will ever know...

Good night WindChill, you little Hero. I love you. xxoo...x

Good night Nicanor. Be safe Sweetie. Have fun and reach for the moon! Even if you don't win, you'll land among the stars... I love you. xxoo...x

Good night Lentenor. Cuddle up and dream sweet dreams. You stir something in my heart...why is that?! I'm very patient Lentenor, I will wait until you're ready to let me know. I love you. xxoo...x

Good night Bart. I see you over there! Never a moment goes by that I don't think of you, miss you, and wish I could steal just one more kiss. Always, just one more kiss... I love you. xxoo..xx..x..x

Laurie H: Just beautiful. You have made all your tuck-in fans very happy tonight.

Wags and Whinnies and much love from Colorado,

Lisa

My dear family, BARBARO'S UNFINISHED TASKS ARE BEING DONE! We have made SO much progress and will never give up! My 5 yrs here on the board have been a blessing. We WILL win Barbaro's fight. Remembering his breakdown.. emailing New Bolton before he had a msg. board..all of our prayers. The Lord had a greater goal for him. Barbaro is looking down and loving us.

God bless you Barbaro.
God bless you Alex and all FOB and CFB members.

prayers, Nancy

**********************************************

ps..April's computor is down but sends

Hey, Debbie,
I am finally here. My school hours have changed, and I dont release my students to the buses until 4:30 now, and then it takes an hour to drive home, but my heart has been with my FOB family all day. I was able to visit, but I could not post until now. In his honor and for his legacy, we continue--
KLB

#Laurie,

Our night is now complete!

P.S. Statue unveiling is on April 26th.

Butterfly kisses to you, beautiful boy. I will always carry you in my heart. Your beauty, grace, wisdom and courage inspire me daily. Today we remember you with great love and tomorrow we go on to continue our work in your name.

Forever Barbaro Fan,
Rosemary, Bella and Gracie

test

Today is also Ken's and my 31st wedding anniversary. January 29 never was a very good date to have married, because his brother's birthday is January 30 and their mother's is January 31 - so we were always expected to "get together with them" to celebrate everything at once. (That's what you get for eloping without doing a thorough family history first:-) But two years ago this date just completely stopped working for me, when it became forever associated with the heartbreaking end of Barbaro's valiant fight to recover from his injuries. That month, and that final week of January, 2007, almost put me in the hospital. That day my voice didn't work - even though I wanted to scream; and all my singer's tricks couldn't help me make a sound.

Now, January 29, 2009, I have a sister in the hospital, gravely ill, and I learned during my visit there last night that she's had yet another serious setback. My sis was strong and always seemed the picture of health until one disasterous week last October when an untreated gallstone changed everything. At only 57 years old, she's been in the ICU since October 31 with acute gallstone pancreatitis, and it has been one step forward and two steps back ever since. A too-familiar story.

When I got home from visiting her last night, burdened by what I know that she does not, burdened also by everthing I knew I would feel today, I told Ken, "I want to renew our vows - in some other month!" I want to keep the man, but change the date - "Maybe sometime in mid-May would be good," I thought - and then I remembered why that season could never be an improvement over this.

I suppose the wisest course for me is to learn to accept my shared anniversary and to embrace its joys and sorrows as representing the yin and yang of life. Morning/evening; sun/moon; light/dark; laughter/tears; life/death; beginnings/endings. Comedy or tragedy, it's all life, and if I cannot bear it anymore I might as well be dead - but that's not my style.

I married my soul-mate thirty-one years ago, and we've managed to weather everything life, work, family, health, economics and the "Great State of California" can throw at us. It hasn't always been easy, but it has been rewarding.

Barbaro's tragedy brought us all together here, and though nowadays I remain largely "silent" my heart is still in the fight and my legislators know who I am and what I think. Based on what I'm seeing here today, I suspect there are many like me, whose lives and family responsibilities have caused us to step back a bit, but who will never lay down our tools until the job is done.

I look forward to Nicanor's debut with mixed feelings of excitement and dread. I've felt this way every time I've watched Curlin race; every time I've watched Colonel John, or Zenyatta, or any horse I follow. My perception has been changed, deepened, made more vivid by the fragility of Barbaro, Eight Belles, Big Brown, and too many others. But the Jacksons have it right. For the love of the spirit and heart of the horse, we must all press on.

Press on, FOB's!

Deirdre in Central California

To our Undefeated Barbaro....In A Sublime Performance.....you who have changed so many lives, horses and humans.....two years have past since that day and we are stronger than ever abd we WILL PREVAIL! To our Alex, thank you for everything, for bringing us together and making us strong and making sure that Barbaro will never be forgotten. Angel Dee, thank you for your Rainbows........God Bless Nicanor.

Laurie H,

Reading your unbelievably loving tuck-in and listening to Jake's musical tribute to Barbaro I am bawling my eyes out.

Thank you sweet lady.

Ro & Brady

####
Laurie H: Just beautiful. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where is J Carson Black? Miss his posts, wanted to see him post today.

##Deirdre,

So sorry to hear about your sister.

####
Jane I emailed J Carson Black? He is a she! She will post soon!

Undefeated. Unsurpassed. Unforgotten.

I share in remembering Barbaro today as a champion in every true sense of the word.

I am grateful for what I have learned from his life, from those who surrounded him, and from so many others his life has touched. May we all reach toward the heights of excellence he embodied.

Thank you, everyone, for such beautiful posts and links. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Prayers for Fran and Deirdre's sister. And - Happy Anniversary, Deirdre.

Thank you, Alex. Good Night to all. Sleep tight.

In loving memory of beautiful Barbaro...forever in my heart.

What happened to Fran?

##Deirdre,

So sorry to hear about your sister. I lost my sister Dot last Nov. I know your pain!

###
MJ see post from joan roya at January 29, 2009 7:40 PM

Hello to old friends, both vocal and silent tonight.

Laurie H, your tuck-ins are my Silver Springs. Blue and green, colors flashing.

Deidre from CA: Happy Anniversary to you. You and your husband have created something amazing and strong and timeless--just like Barbaro.

Sending out good wishes to Fran and Harriette and to all of our famblee.

I wonder tonight about our far-flung friends from whom we have not heard in a while. We know many people read but don't post. But I still worry. Do they still have homes? Food and warmth? Their jobs, families, their beloved pets?

May everyone be safe and warm and wrapped in someone's love tonight. I'm sending this message out on the air---if you need us, we are here. Always.

ACN, Forever.

If you aren't listening to Jake's program, you are really missing an incredibly beautiful tribute to Barbaro

http://wbor.org/ Go to the top of the page and hit the "Play now" button and it will play on your Windows Media player or any other that you have.

You must listen

Laurie H...

beautiful tuck-in...it is good to see you here with your gentleness...

All Love
Padme A'Tea

###Not sure I understand the anger over the refusal of the Bush administration to control CO2 emissions. We exhale CO2, right? Trees USE CO2 to make Oxygen, right? That's what WE breathe.

The biggest emitter of CO2 on the planet: THE OCEANS.

I would think CO2 would be a good thing.

Don't forget to donate to UPENN today in honor of Barbaro.

I hope this works

####

Kay,

Can we leave issues outside of Barbaro out of the picture tonight?

Today is all Barbaro, other issues might be addressed tomorrow.

Ro and Brady

http://news.bloodhorse.com/article/48998.htm?id=48998

Jake's tribute to Barbaro is exquisite. I like to think the Hevvenly Heard is relaxing and sipping a little wine tonight, letting the music flow gently over them.

I misspelled "herd" in that last post, and I've not been sipping wine.

Hiya, FsOB! Well, I am one soggy, bleary-eyed mess after reading most of the posts from two years ago today ... but I am comforted at seeing so many citizens of the Barbaro Nation here tonight. I won't mention names because I'll surely leave out someone inadvertently.

I have many thanks to offer for the following gifts to the Barbaro Nation today: to Mrs. Jackson for her gracious letter; to Tim W. & Alex for allowing us to initially convene back in 2006 and remain together; to Dr. Kathy Anderson for her reflections on what makes a horse a champion; to our muse Martita; to Otherlyn who shared the story of the Young Prince; to Judy in WA for her lyricism; to CJ for sharing Jonna's message; to Laurie H. for tonight's special tuck-in; & to Cheryl Jones for her message from bArbaro in 'hevvin.

Can someone blue-link the CBS News clip that ran this evening? I am wanting to see it but shall turn my head away when the clip from the Preakness is shown. (Thanks for the warning about that portion, Nancy.)

And to close with the words of Horatio in Shakespeare's Hamlet, which I posted initially on 01/29/2007: "Good night, Sweet Prince, and flocks of angels sing thee to thy rest." May Barbaro keep steadfast watch over Nicanor and Edgar Prado this Saturday. Peace, RMH

#### To DonnaR: I hope that Maia is progressing this week in her recovery.
To Barb & Joan: Gosh, poor Fran. How awful: a fracture in 3 places!
To John K.: Please let Harriette know that her book is now in the collection of the Bill Memorial Library in the City of Groton, CT. I hope that she, Mike, and their animals are safe and that their electricity has been restored. ####

###Ro, I didn't start it. I understand what you say and I agree, but discipline everyone, please.

I looked outside earlier tonight and there in the sky was just ONE very bright star shining. When I looked out a few minutes ago, it was the same....just that ONE very shiny star in an otherwise empty sky. A small sliver of moon and that ONE very, very shining star.

Makes you wonder, could it be??

Famblee is here the day is complete. It is so good to see so many wonderful members again. It fills the heart.

I love you Precious Prince, and I miss you very much. Please watch over your little brothers for us, that they may race well, and most of all, be safe.

Laurie,

Thank you for the tuck in tonight. They are always so touching to read. Our night is now complete!

Barbaro, I always ask you to run with the wind, but on Saturday will you please run with Nicanor and Edgar? Then I know they will stay safe.

###
Ah, Laurie H., thank you.

BROKE OPEN
> january 29,2009
> in honor of his great life
> and to all his fans i admire and cherish
> who have taught me and teach me daily
> so much abut life's real gifts
> and given so much unconditionally
> thank you
> alex
> for the home we have used these two years
> and i seek to honor in service and
> communicate in and among
> with joy and gifts
> to voices of the horses
>
> racing lost found rescued
> ferdinand and exceller----
> your songs live on
>
> Barbaro
> leaps from the memory
> voluminous silks
> running leaping in verdant fields
> laughter peppermints
> the green ones
> hands here ,up and below
> full of his tingling energy
> his sense of humor
> and love for details
> the squirrel on the ledge
> the bird on the rail
> a cow in the field
> the square yellow school bus
> roaring by
> little hands pressed against the glass.
> waving into the sky
> and
> the sound of his loved ones
> coming to the barn
> ears highly pricked up
> waiting for the command
> eduardo;s big soft hands
> rubbing him up and down
>
> the grooming
> it is silent-- they speak with out words
> THE divine conversation continues
>
> to unfold
> as edgar prepares his blue green wisp of a jacket
> ,his boots gleaming
> his face a study in enduring grace
> elegant composure
> oh no it isnt just a ride in a race
> ..never with him
> listening with his whole body
>
> 'michael hoists him up on the 17 hands plus back of
> glimering young strapping Nicanor
> .he lands like a feather
> Nicanor is listening
> focused -his destiny in his being now.
> .he understands he knows
> gate four ,,eight race
> january 31 -saturday
> the divine conversation continues
> as barbaro leans down through the thick clouds pure air blue stratosphere
>
> whispering blowing into ears and faces turned up to him
> yes esp today
> lifted up all over
> the land
>
> he sees where
> how why
> all in a splash of a ray in a day
>
> i ask myself, then
> in this tremor of memory
>
> WHAT have i learned
> done
> since his life spilled out on the page of the days
>
> wheels turn. days spin
> the depth of feeling
> the love for details
> the compassion
> what of the sickness of fraud
> hungry souls for things and power
> and brawn
> drugs hidden in muscles fibered limbs
> hearts pounding too fast
>
> ,horse slaughter
> trucks bulging with fear and pain you could taste its bitter agonies
> lost
> betrayed above all else
> by us
>
> joe and cathy at tb friends
> every day
> in and out
> giving sanctuary to the very worst
> of our collective
> invisible made visible
> abuse
> they just yesterday
>
> laying the darling mare, Dancer
> who could not walk
> to rest-her body in their drive way
> giving her the last rites bying them for her
> an act of compassion
>
> the idea alive in their lives
>
> of a dignified place
> to die in a pool of love
> instead of being trampelled to death
> at the bottom of
> a stinking =killer truck---
> the millionth horse that didnt make it
> but got home to joe and cathy;s driveway
>
> that sanctuary they chose to make\
> as many rescues -do daily
> across our land
> because of his very intelligent-oh barbaro i miss you-
> settling with life and earth
> that rode in on his flying gait
> that great heart
> 'that dr kathy anderson
> his baby doc
> writes so beautifully it hurts
> to recall
> all she says
> is true to my own heart
> of what BARBARO taught
>
> about that heart
> the invincible
> high road that never grows old
> do not take each other for granted
> pass the green peppermints and carrots
> his other doctor filling the clock with skill and craft ..
> his house
> full of brilliant and searing memories
>
> the songs grow louder now
> drifts back and forth
> from forever
>
> to reveal the magnificent story
> we had a choice to taste this glory
> ot here and now
> participate in'
>
> holy cow
> what a ride
> what hankies will be folded and unfolded
> in the dawn to dusk of this day of al days
> and more to come
> as we flow
> into a big tributary
> a family ,we watched
> they did and do
> the right thing true to their own hearts
> in their own way of life
> up and down
> hey what a lesson
>
> never use their name and take liberties
> and i also say to myself
>
> this teaches me about community
> in my own life..
> these invisible boundaries
> are sacred human tablets
> passed on from the ages
> by the animal kingdom
> first taught us how to live
>
> together
> really about the herd ettiquette
> of knowing
> not to commune with lies on a any level
> no drugs
> no fraud
> no lies
> in HIS name or their name
> or our name
> for money and power
> cam not give you the companionship
> OF honor
> for your own inner name
>
> what a gift
> as he prances in the post parade
> we get to do it right again the flying love who hooo.
> the silent rush out of the gate
> they are off
> god looking and holding them all
> safe
> .
> thank you y all
> he whispers
>
> i say too
> as tears run down my face
> then too
> thank you
> for caring making being
> for bringing to light
> OUT OF THE dArklness
> that tries to eat and taint
> the whole picture
> this sport of kings
>
> what a context he frames for me
> and for his nation
> magnificent noble carriers of
> the real map of the heart
> how to love and live and loose and give
>
> do it right every day
> the whole day with HEART
> wow such a divine cloth
> such stars cut out
> to wear not in shame but in full glory
> luminous purple
> yellow blue and green
> the colors in fact of a moving living eternal
> rainbow
>
> well then what are we waiting for?
> we get to re live and breath together
> a song
> for the glory of a horse
> who burst into the fabric of our live
>
> it is all BARBARO sublime
> he screamed and so did we
> he in the end
> gave us all a wink
> and a look into the window of something called
> hope
> what then
> can and does it mean to me
> or you
> to lead a noble life
> in tiber of the cloth
> they cut
> of faith
> and trust they give unfailingly, unconditionally?
> there is therefore
> no excuse or room
> in this manger of humanity and beast'
> for fraud lies or the hurting of each other
> most importantly
> to be empty of all this fearful artifice
> so that there is space in my heart for your heart
> for the real music of his song
> Barbaro
> the destiny it was meant to be
> can we hear then the
> present and open like
> a big cathedral templed
> window
> letting in fresh prairie air
> Barbaro
> god/s great messenger
> this noblest of creatures-- .
> leads me back to
> THE HORSE
> martita
>
>

Wonderful to check in ..with all our friends...
Thank you Father for the gift of Barbaro!!!
Lovehugs,Linda A Oregon

My beautiful Barbaro,
I have been away from the family the last few days. But, there was no way I could miss your day and stay away. I haven’t had access to my computer until just now. I watched and learned of your little brother’s race this weekend on the news. I was in tears. To look at him and feel that loss of you again. The ache is so deep in my heart it is physical pain. I miss and love you so much. I know you will be with Nicanor this weekend, guiding him. I don’t care if he wins, Barbaro, I just want him safe. My heart simply feels empty at this moment. You were bigger than life. However, your life and loss of it, have brought about so much good, I should not be sad. But, I miss you so much. I love you Barbaro and always will. You are a part of me that I will carry with me forever. I can’t even put into words how much you have changed my life as you have changed so many of my FOB brothers and sisters. I love you BBH and always will. Not a day goes by I don’t think of you. ACN, Beautiful Barbaro!

To my Family,
I am so gad to see so many of you here (where are the rest of you?). I have missed you. But, I knew you would be here, like me, today – no matter what. I love you all and I am so thankful for each and every one of you. My love to you all. See you all at Churchill Downs April 29th.

Love,
Verna
FOB from the beginning, never to end.

PS... to Rose, The video was beautiful. A wish come true to have "The Dance" made into a video for Barbaro. It is Just how I feel!

####
Thanks, Martita, and Laurie! Very beautiful, both.

I have chocolate all over my fingers.....it's been a tough day.

We went to our horse park to ride. MANY people there! HUNDREDS of horse trailers! Everybody there paid a flat $5.00 fee to get the thing jump-started. Very positive. The guy who interviewed me from 12 news last summer was there. We chatted. He is very supportive.

####
I also emailed Jake. She is in our AZ group. Hope we see her soon!

Hello FOB's

I don't post much anymore, but check in daily. I couldn't let this day go by without saying hello. My heart was heavy today but also anxious for Nicanor. I plan on going to the local track to see his debut. I am a nervous auntie though but I'm so glad that Edgar will be aboard. Let them be safe.

Thank you the tuck in Laurie H, it was much needed today.

GO NICANOR & EDGAR!!!

#### Mercy, nice to see you here, and all the rest of the FOBs Barbaro has brought together.

#### Laurie H., Thank you.

Thank you, Alex, for this site; it is so important. Thank you to Mr.& Mrs. Jackson, Dr. Richardson & everyone at New Bolton and all of Barbaro's connections for allowing us to have shared in Bararo's journey. The sadness will never go, but it will inspire us to do better.

Thinking of you today, Barbaro, as every day. You are forever in my heart. You were THE ONE.
We FOBs see you in every horse we save, in all the ones we could not save but who spur us on to do better and in every reform that takes place in racing. You have called us together to speak and work for those who have no voice and this work will continue, not only with us, but with our children, their children and their childrens' children, down through the generations and the ages. All because of you and how you changed all of us.

Forever remembering Barbaro and working to carry out his legacy.

Joy FOB Forever Keep Calling.

Just wanted to add my voice .......
Barbaro is never far from my thoughts and always in my heart...............
Many, many thanks to Alex for allowing us to meet here to do our work in honor of Barbaro...
and
I'm so very proud and humbled to be a part of this ...........
I never would have thought the FOBs would still be going strong two years from the loss of Barbaro
It has certainly been quite a journey
And........I think the FOBs are just getting started........
Blessings to all
jan

Rose,
Thank you for the Dance with Barbaro. My all time favorite song about life, it fits him so well.

Good Night Famblee,
Hopefully those who have come home today will be back home soon. You are all missed very much.

Sweet Spirit Barbaro, my dear friend. I miss you more every day, you live in my heart so I am fine. Thank you dear one for all your love and special spirit that shines so brightly within me. Be with your brother Nicanor along with Edgar bring them home safe. You will be felt Saturday.
Sleep we,stay warm, I love you! Kisses on your brow. ACN I Believe. Someday we will dance.

Thank you gracious Alex for today and everyday you keep Barbaro's house open for us.

dear Barbaro, this year my dearest Molly now rides with you, i know you were there to welcome her home and i took comfort in that thought. tonight so many angels are all around, if you look up in the sky you can see them twinkling. every night when i look up at the heavens i always see you and so many others....thank you for your brief but brilliant life, for showing us the way to a better tomorrow for so many in need. ACN forever, sweet prince.

####thank you laurie for the "tuck in" made me cry good tears.

to all ...God bless and keep you

mikki & molly, tx

Hi All,
Another year gone by...good to read the comments from everyone. Thanks again to Alex for providing this home for us. My fingers are crossed that my plane arrives on time Sat in Miami. Have a car rented and will reserve good seats tomorrow at Gulfstream in the hopes that I make to the track on time....will keep everyone posted....take care all. Godspeed Barbaro and the FOB's.

Good night, Sweet Barbaro. You have started an avalanche of caring people rescuing horses and ending slaughter.

God Bless. Always and Forever.

ACN

Back from music early (no longer responsible for transporting the doorman, so don't have to stay until bar closing time on Thursdays) - and wanted to share a rare moment that happened as I was passing out flyers to patrons at the bar after my last set. A young man who had not been to that venue before and never saw me or my antislaughter flyers, tapped me on the arm as I was passing by, I turned, he pointed to the text of the flyer and said, 'IS THIS A JOKE?' unfortunately not, I told him, and a few questions and answers later, I think a new trooper was enlisted.

That's how a rightminded young person reacted to his first exposure to the reality of the horse slaughter industry. Makes you wonder, doesn't it.

Thank you all for being here especially today.

glad Martita and Laurie made it on this batch of Comments.

Mrs. Jackson's letter, and the CBS coverage, are so enheartening and do us proud.

looking forward to Saturday with all the hope and fear I daresay we all will be feeling until we know Nicanor is safe after the race.