##Good morning all from the cold North. A bright morning here.
##Alex, thank you for the new page, have never been first one. And kudos to your book tour and the monies raised for charity. I'm thinking you may need a second run of books.
##Robyn, your peaceful scene from the banks of the Thames was so calming. Have a good weekend. I hope this cold doesn't swoop down over the East wing.
##Lynne, Carleen, I hope the rains have stopped and you can dry out.
##Dee, many rainbows to you today.
##Joan, I hope Peaches had a good week and Pierre too!

Have a safe weekend and to those who are in the running, come home safe.

Judy

Some good news. Candice Bergen has made a big contribution to the " Good Newz Kennel", the animal rescue trying to buy MIchael Vick's house thats on the block. They want to mnake it into a dog rescue. LOVE IT!! Stick it to him, that scum.

Morning all...TGIF!!!

Judy, I believe the state of CA is passing out "How to build an Ark for Dummies". It is still raining here in San Jose, but it's where Joe and Lynne are and further north that have really been hit bad. More wind and rain are on the way too.

Of course as nite follows day...all this cold, wet weather moves east...sorry folks.

Prayers and dry wishes to Bailey, Buddy, Sandra, Judy, Joan, Miss Dee, Debbie, Bobbie, Stu, Alex, Otherlyn, Lou Ann, Joe and Cathy and so many of Barbaro's grand family...take care folks...OK!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Alex, almost finished your book. Even though I knew many of the facts, I was surprised that it is such a good read. It will reside in my library of Barbaro books...in the premier position!! Good Job!!!
Congratulations, Robyn, on your nomination. Another example of what a terrific person you are.

###
thanks to each of you for asking about my pride and joy...Peaches and Pierre.

###
well it is Friday...do you think our horses...those abused, neglected, in the feed lots or on their way to brutal slaughter knows what day it is...they want to run free, to be loved and cared for.

please call, fax, email...please

###
and read the db...and help in any way possible...nickels, dimes, volunteering, networking...there are alot going on ...you are always needed...please

####
Barbaro...we shall never go away...we made a committment...we are here.

##3
please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

please pray for our country, those in Japan and other countries...and each other...the Barbaro family.

####
Good Morning Alex.

Morning, Everyone & Happy Friday!!

The silence this morning in my neighborhood is almost DEAFENING...there is NO WIND and for now, at least, NO RAIN either:) Amazingly, the trees have somehow withstood all the battering they experienced and yole know that makes me very happy.

I had to leave late y'day afternoon for awhile and made it home just a few minutes before dark. There are three or four spots on the rural roadway I drive to get here and water was rushing across the road in all of those spots I'd been concerned about...Katie, as yole might remember is 'itty-bitty' and as I came to a stop before crossing each place..watching that water rush, all I could hear in my mind was the 'warnings' they give us all the time on the news..."It only takes two inches of rushing water to carry your car away with it." :-O I put Katie into first gear each time and 'went for it' I didn't creep through, I didn't break speed records but we didn't dally either!! Bless her little heart, she got me home:) Now, as I've written this, I don't want to give the impression it was a foot of water..but I can tell you, it was more than two inches, too! By the time I hit the front door, if I'd had a bottle of Beefeaters in this house I'd have poured it over ice cubes and consumed it straight...no tonic, no lime...just STRAIGHT! LOL! Beefeaters is 90 proof...I'd have fallen down and been out for the night, so it's a good thing I didn't have any:)

Still no Joe today...I have called and left a couple messages saying we all hope he and the horses are alright, no need to return my call, we know he's SRSLY busy...just wanted him to know we are all thinking of he and Cathy and all those horses. He'll be back up/running as soon as possible, this we can count on:)

Here's the link to our Whitehouse for Friday:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Everyone have a good day today and a 'dine&fandy' weekend, too:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Carleen. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So......................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Carleen.....................
..................................................
..................................................
Your Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So..............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

###
to my FOB family"

May God give you for every storm, a rainbow

For every tear, a smile

For every care, a promise and a blessing in each trial.

For every problem, life sends a faithful friend to share,

For every sigh, a sweet song.

And an answer for each prayer.

###Lynne, LOL Beefeaters? You wouldn't have a had a care in the world. But seriously, I'm glad you're home safe and sound and your little Katie carried you there. Take care and try not to do anything more daring.

Judy

Thanks Alex or Wendy???

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our ANGEL DEE says, "It is AFFIRMED!"
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, hooves, and paws with the entire Barbaro Nation!

TGIF day for sure!

There is one lone early daffodil in the front border and many perennials pushing through the winter leaf mulch in other spots, but oh the flowers need to keep their warm coats on just yet!! We were in the 20's last night and not expected much above 40 next several days, and perhaps our "onion snow" next week. Last week we had 70+ for two days and that really terribly confused everything!!

Have been in and out, sort of running in ten directions at once many days, a particularly busy time, a research paper in progress (!), and on a sadder note my beloved Uncle Joe (Mom's beloved brother) crossed over to Heaven this past Saturday, 3/19/2011, in Montana, actually St. Joseph's Day for our Italian heritage, too, so we know there was a huge celebration in Heaven, but oh we will miss him so. I had sent him many many news articles and many vignettes from this site along our journey with Barbaro. Uncle Joe was 86 and for the last several years was living happily in a Veterans Home near his home and family. He had found his peace in Montana after coming home from WWII, U.S. Navy, Pacific Theatre.
Rest in peace, Uncle Joe, and may you know every joy of Heaven!
Joseph William DiMeo 1925-2011
You can be sure there were glorious bunches of the freshest carrots and juiciest apples for Barbaro and all his equine pals in Heaven, and every treat imaginable for the many canine and feline friends there, too. He had a huge heart of gold.

Hugs and love to all, and especially prayers to all walking the rugged path just now!

And always in loving memory of FOB CHIEF & FOB BUD Sova, and Master of Ceremonies, MURPH!!

########
XXXX to PEACHES & PIERRE!! Miss Minnie and Miss Pickles have spring fever!!!

JUDY - How is dear MUFFIN?? Hoping feeling much better!!

Love to all,
Lou Ann

:) Lou Ann: I'm sorry for your Uncle's passing but it sounds as though he had a rich and full and happy life. I imagine his passing is hard on your sweet Mama..please give her a hug from us!

I'm glad to know lots of treats went along with him, too...and thanks a TON for thinking of my *MURPH-MAN*...tickles me pink thinking of him being the Master of Ceremonies!! Wheeeee! That's Murph! Right in the middle of everything...smiling so big and that tail just wagging and wagging and WAGGING some more!

You know...not ONE drop of rain fell here all day long and NO WIND blew, either...It never got sunny..there were clouds present all day...but NO PRECIP and NO WIND...so much BETTER than the previous too many days to count! So grateful...

Sweet dreams, Family!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann. 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........................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And
Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie........
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Morning, Everyone....

From a WET/SOGGY...it's RAINING againnnnn here today:( foothills of no/ca.

The skweeerlz are pretty much soaking wet but that doesn't stop them from noming those black oil sunflower seeds at the feeders on my back porch...and the feathered ones are all there, too:) Gotta find the 'sunshine' where we can in weather like this, so I'm focusing on the little critters:)

I do know by sometime mid-to-late week next, the temps are to be in the SEVENTIES so I'm holding on to that forecast while today and I think tomorrow, too, we will have this rain falling. At least there is NO WIND associated with these two storms:)

I hope yole have a good Saturday!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Morning all...

Wind and rain here in San Jose. Suppose to clear up later today with a chance of showers tomorrow.

I agree Lynne...I love to watch the squirrels run back and forth on the fence then up and down the old telephone pole in our back yard. I wish I had their energy! or at least some of it!

I hope everone has a safe, dry week-end.

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S WONDERFUL FAMILY))))

oxoxox
carleen in ca

Alex, Congrats on the great success of your book and the book signings, wish you would be in Connecticut sometime soon! You would be well greeted by Robyn and myself.

Lou Ann, So sorry about Uncle Joe, he sounds like he was a wonderful man..please give your Mom my sympathies..thinking of you and your family.

Angel Dee, So good to see you...your Rainbows always brighten my day! ACN to everyone!!

Rest in Peace dear Uncle Joe....

What company to be in though....your dad Louie,
Chief, Bud, and Murphy....

The good times, that is what you carry on with.

Take care all, Joan thank you for your caring words.

We all need and appreciate them.

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Jane. 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........................................
..................................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe........
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Good Sunday "it's NOT raining this minute" Morning, Everyone...

Not raining at the moment...I think maybe no rain until around 3p today...and then, they say, not so much...OK then...not so much is better than 'much' I guess:/

I just keep focusing on the coming week and those by now, forecast to be almost *EIGHTY* in Sacramento by mid-week...which means LOVELY here:) by then, too! Wheeeeee!! Joe's *FIRST FLY OF 2011* will be making it's appearance there at TB Friends by sometime mid-week this week! I betcha he'll be doing Debbie LA's *HAPPY DANCE*:) 'fer shure'!!

I got thinking about all kinds of 'stuff' this morning while laying there waking up...some related to weather and some related to the fact that it's ALMOST APRIL:) and I believe by mid-April, the new season of *DEADLIEST CATCH* will be airing on the Discovery Channel...I LOVE that program, Family...My son got me hooked on it the very first season...and by now, I feel like all those captains and many of their crew are part of my own family...I'll miss Captain Phil like crazy this time around, of course...he passed away last season unexpectedly as a result of a massive stroke. Phil was a colorful character, his life-style wasn't that of a 'clean living' person, he hurt himself in the health department but he was a wonderful man who loved his sons and his vessel, the Cornelia Marie and he was a 'helluva' fisherman! Anyway...I look forward to the new season beginning in another two or three weeks..LOL...this is SO NOT horseracing related...Crab Fishermen on the Bering Sea..but it's pretty exciting to watch:) Tuesdays at 9p on Discovery!

I hope yole have a good Sunday...

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Dear Frens,

I found this e-mail buried in one of my accounts. It is a response from a BLM representative, concerning one of my correspondences condemning the round-ups, and demanding that the BLM be de-funded.

Please read their lie-laced-defensive-propaganda in the link they have sent, and the join me in writing to them again, BEFORE MARCH 30. They ask for "constructive" "professional" input. However, as a NON-PROFESSIONAL concerned citizen who has taken a lot of interest in what they are doing to the wild herds, I object to them restricting input as to what they do with MY tax dollars, and to what they are doing to destroy MY national heritage.

Here is the text of her e-mail message:
................................................
Thank you for your recent e-mail to the Bureau of Land Management's Wild Horse & Burro Program. The BLM did not announce the proposed strategy until February 24, 2011. Several groups provided the wrong information on their websites and did not update the link with the correct information. Therefore, since your comments were received prior to February 24, 2011, we would encourage you to review the actual strategy at the link below.

http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/info/newsroom/2011/february/NR_0223_2011.html

If you wish to submit any additional constructive, professional comments to the BLM afterward, please submit them to this e-mail address by March 30, 2011. We appreciate your interest in the program and ask that you respond appropriately. We understand that many people have received e-mails, video links, etc. that has presented the BLM in a negative light. We ask that you keep in mind that many of these groups are looking for donations and not representing the facts. We appreciate your taking the time to read the facts and make your own decision. Thank you.

Debbie Collins
BLM National Wild Horse & Burro Program
866-468-7826
.................................................

Please Frens, we know how to do this and how to present the well documented TRUTH. Lets take some time ASAP, to express our concern, as well as to enlist the help of as many concerned citizens as possible.

Thanks.

Your FOB Fren, O

Hiya, FsOB! How exciting for Alex, to have a signing at the Fair Grounds in New Orleans. I've never been to that track, but "NOLA" is truly one of my favourite cities in the USA. The hoofbeats of the Kentucky Derby are upon us. I ordered the invitations for our party yesterday and placed an early order for some of the foodstuffs. Now if Spring would just arrive for sure and stay. It was incredibly bright & sunny here on the banks of the Thames today, but probably at least 10 - 15 degrees cooler than one would anticipate.

Wishing all here "ACN". Alex, safe travels as your journey continues. Peace, Robyn

#### To Judy & Evy: My thanks to you both for your kind words!
To Stu: Wow, that is interesting what Candice Bergen is doing. I still cannot forgive Michael Vick for his actions...
To Joan: Hoping that Peaches & Pierre had a good weekend.
To Lynne & Carleen: Please stay safe in those torrential rains. Too funny about the Beefeaters tempation, Lynne!
To Lou Ann: Your Uncle Joe was a member of what Tom Brokaw dubbed "The Greatest Generation". The world as we know it would not exist if not for their courage and commitment.
To Dee: Wishing you a week filled with sunshine and rainbows.
To Jane: Yes, it'll be Derby Day before we know it. Hoping that you can join us this year.
To Otherlyn: That was interesting, the note from the BLM. Hoping that they actually listen to what people have to say. ####

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot
So................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And
Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Dear Fren Robyn and ALL,

The BLM are indeed listening...they are just not hearing US. From the response, it is obvious that they have been receiving a lot of input from people who want the round-ups stopped. They are instead, determined to go forward with their status quo (as far as they will be permitted and funded for), and that the "professionals" to whom thay are referring, are Big Ag, and the cattlemens' lobby.

They want to neutralize and silence us. They want to discredit people like Madeline Pickens, and ordinary concerned citizens, who are offering solutions and rescue plan.

We MUST keep their feet to the fire, and do this phase BEFORE March 30th.

Read the response again, and check out the pro-round-up propaganda on the link that they are giving out.

FOB...Let's Ride!

Your FOB Fren, O

Your FOB Fren, Os

Hiya, FsOB! A very bright but nippy Monday has dawned here on the banks of the Thames. Wishing Alex safe travels as his sojourn continues on behalf of Barbaro's legacy. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Bless you for your rainbow-filled good wishes.
To All: Please see Otherlyn's message re. the BLM's solicitation of feedback.
To Evy: Please let us know if there is a particular chapter or theme in the book which touches you the most deeply. ####

##Good morning all. It's sunshine here this morning but oh so cold still. Promise of warmer weather by weeks end.
##RIP Uncle Joe, you will be missed.
##Lynne, Carleen, so glad that your weather has become tamer. I envy your promise of warmer temps of 70 & 80. We will be lucky to have 50 but I'll take it.
##Muffin is back to himself. Thank you all for thinking of him.

Have a safe and warm day everyone.

Judy

Barbaro five years

Otherlyn , I appreciate your trying to help the wild horse herds and others , but I'm afraid the BLM is operating under orders from higher authorities , and will not listen to the people. At least that's mho. There is a definite program afoot to clear this land .

Unless we have money/ and or / power it won't change. I am not sanguine... there is oil and there are valuable minerals there ... it's my opinion the horses don't have a chance unless someone , Madeleine Pickens etc , can save some of them ... I don't say this lightly , to hurt you or anyone of us , it's just my opinion and I will email and try ... but it's breaking my heart.

-----
My Tarheels lost last night ... broke my heart with that also , although I knew this wasn't our year , I was really upset all evening ...

By the way , I am home again , arrived safely in the trusty Jeep ... to rain and cold -- it's 41* outside now ... It was 81 one day last week when I wasn't here !
and it's to rain all week -- oh well , at least I'm home -
We love our trips and travels - don't do anything big or exciting nowadays , just car trips , but ... we love it .... but it's fun to return home too ...
I'll tell you the toast we always say when we cross the state line into NC again ...

Here's to the land of the long - leaf pine ,
the summer land where the sun doth shine ,
where the weak grow strong , and the strong
grow great ,
here's to down home ,
the old north state.

Thanks to Charles Kuralt for that !

I hope Alex has/had fun in New Orleans , what a wild , crazy place , with , IMHO , the best food in the world...

Lou Ann , so sorry about Uncle Joe , may he RIP.

Lynne , sorry Capt Phil won't be on this year ...

I received a fabulous photo of Rachel the Great in the mail from a NY photographer. I saw it months ago in Bloodhorse , I think , and emailed him about it. He said he would send me a copy , then nothing for months - thought I was forgotten , then -- here it is in the mail !!
It goes into a frame on the Rachel wall with other photos and memorabilia I have of her.

Make it a good day -- I hope you will forgive this long post since I've been away and not on much ... guess I missed talking to yall !
Bye now ,

##Welcom back BobbieB. Good to hear you're home and safe. I love the toast to coming home. It's fun to go away but it's oh so good to come home too. I hope you're weather warms up too. We have beautiful sunshine but the snow is still lingering on the ground and it's cold. Ridiculous I say!

Have a good day.

Judy

What I liked best about Alex's book is the theme of hope. Yes, Alex writes about Barbaro's trials, but doesn't dwell on them. He concentrates on all the positive stuff in Barbaro's life, as well as the huge outpouring of love...and involvement...that occurred after his injury and death. Barbaro put a face on lamanitis and he showed the world that bravery and courage are alive and well. I also loved the numerous first person comments from people who were close to Barbaro during his racing career and beyond. This book is a fine tribute to a life-changing horse.

Morning, Everyone....

The SUN is out here! Yipppeeeee-Skippppyyyy!! The sun is shining! Big and so BRIGHT I am SO HAPPY to see the sun:)

Evy: I loved your post all about Alex's book and can't wait for my own copy so I can see it all for 'maiself':) Your post was beautifully written, Evy, thank you for sharing!

Judy: Fifties aren't so 'warm' feeling, for sure, but if the skies stay clear and no more of that white stuff flies...it's all good sounding. Glad Muffin is on the mend now, too!

Bobbie B: Welcome Home! I heard the sportscaster utter 'Tarheels' last night and I began paying serious attention to his report! I felt badly for you as I saw they'd lost to KY., but remembered you saying this might not be their year...so hoped you wouldn't be too disappointed.

I also agree with your words this morning, re: BLM, Bobbie:( Hopefully, Ms. Pickens and her group can help some of the wild ones and also, maybe the Cloud Foundation, too.

JOE IS BACK!JOE IS BACK! JOE IS BACK:)

Monday, March 28th... No matter the times, there is always a Song.

Our ranch and roads flooded. Winds so bad, a section of our barn roof landed in Yuba City. Hail the size of Skittles. At least we had television. Oh wait. Dish TV was usually down.

In 9 days there were 66 requests, begging us to accept horses. Horses stuck in mud. Starving horses. Private owners needing their horses gone by April 1st. And from race tracks, we said no to more than two dozen horses.

But not Song. No matter the times, there is always a Song.

Aubrey has been our friend for two years. We first met Aubrey on a Tb Kids day. A few weeks later, on another trip to our ranch, I asked Aubrey if she had learned anything new at Tb Kids. Aubrey said nope. She already knew those things. But Aubrey said she had a good time anyway. She fell in love with our gelding Meeting By Design, who has since been adopted. We called him Hollywood. Each time Aubrey and her mom visit, Aubrey asks to see Hollywood. I tell her he no longer lives here. Aubrey says thanks so much for getting rid of her favorite horse. We have had this same conversation about 15 times.

Last Tuesday Aubrey phones and says we must help this horse. His name is Song, and he currently lives in mud up to his hips. Song is a thoroughbred with a racing tattoo. Aubrey says Song earned more than half a million dollars as a race horse. Now he is skinny, and unable to move in mud. Animal Control has been contacted more than once, but as usual Animal Control did nothing. The owner wants $700.00 for Song. The owner is not willing to negotiate.

I tell Aubrey horses at feed lots are currently 13 cents a pound. Making the average horse $120.00 to buy. Aubrey says who cares? Song is not a feed lot horse. Song is slowly dying at a private residence and we have to help him.

Aubrey and her mom do not have much money. The same with Joe and his wife. Coming up with $700.00 is a major event. I tell Aubrey, if we can raise the cash I will send a trailer. Song can live in our yard until he is rehabbed. And then he can go to our fields and spend the rest of his life battling our flies.

Now remember, the entire week is horrible weather. Rain, winds, and hail the size of Skittles. Ooops sorry, already used that line. Anyway, Aubrey begins going door to door. Promising summer chores if her neighbors can pay in advance. One nice man gave Aubrey $100.00, in exchange for pet sitting during his summer vacation. At school Aubrey begged friends for their lunch money. By Friday Aubrey had $320.00. Joe and his always agreeable wife (thank goodness she has a day job) came up with $380.00. I went with a friend to pick up Song. Truly disgusting conditions, but this is not a story about conditions. This is about a 15 year old girl who loves horses. And a gelding who was once a star.

Top Row below shows Song. The first picture on the day he arrived. The next picture a few days later, and he is already looking better. Song discovered a bag of grain which had broken in my truck. Like finding the last piece of banana cream pie in the fridge.

Enjoy your sun is coming out Monday, and be sure to hug your horses. Phil Collins on the oldies station...

Joe
##

Aubrey and Joe and Cathy have made a BIG difference in *SONG'S* life...Wheeeee! And best of all, Song can stay at Joe's and Aubrey can visit him each/every time she's able to get there...that is so good, I think:)

Here's the Monday link to our Whitehouse:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Monday....

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

###
Hooray for a new beginning this week...and we get to read tbfriends...thanks to Lynne posting it...

and that Song is safe...and a big thank you to everyone involved...

please help tbfriends and other rescues if you can...and if you cannot...please be supportive, network, and many, many prayers...and even a card..saying...thank you...for all you do.

####
please call, fax, email...and let us help in any way possible for the wild mustangs too....

####
read the db...and help...please

####
hope everyone had a nice weekend...and that love, care, and prayers were felt around the world....and Japan and all they are struggling with and other countries too.

our world is in a mess...we know...but with baby steps...we can conquer the bad and spread good...

###
thank you Alex.

###
remember our Fallen Angels,...and light up candles...please for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

Judy , glad you have sunshine , but that cold has to go away soon , for both of us ! !

Lynne , I 'knew' the Tarheels couldn't make it this year , but , in the emotional way -- where the heart wants what it wants - no matter what the head says -- I was so upset by the loss that I got physically sick , truly , and had to take medicine and go to bed.
If you have heard how seriously North Carolinians take their basketball , you'll know now it is true !! My stomach still hurts today ...
Remind me sometime to tell you about having my baby on the day the Tarheels played in the tournament - 1969 !

Frens , especially Otherlyn , I received an email about contacting our 2 Senators and one Rep. about de-funding the BLM in this current vote for the budget.
It's a good way to get a word in ...

Call your Sens and Rep and tell them not to fund the BLM because of the mismanagement of the horses and deaths in the roundups - don't fund until there is a change in the way they are treating and managing the horses...

If all of you could do this , it might bring it to their attention at least - let's call today if we can - or tomorrow , whenever you can but it must be soon due to the upcoming vote.
Thanks ,

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot
So................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And
Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Good grief, Charlie Brown! Everything that I just wrote is gone. That blue-linked copy of The Jurga Report got me "verklempt" to use an expression of CJ's. All of my feelings about Barbaro came rushing back after seeing the associated videos. Peace, Robyn

#### To Bobbie B: I was hoping that the Tarheels would proceed to the Final Four. I agree with you, the food in NOLA is the BEST in the USA. Welcome back home, Bobbie!
To Dee: Rainbows back to you!
To Debbie LA: Thank you for the blue-link to The Jurga Report re. Barbaro.
To Evy: Bless you for sharing your preceptions of Alex's book! Hope is very important to the human condition, at least as important as love and charity.
To Lynne: Joe's story about Aubrey and her efforts for Star revive my faith in humanity. Thank you for sending us that blue-link, Lynne. ####

:) Joan: 'baby steps..we can conquer the bad and spread the good' .... we CAN, YES WE CAN...or by God, at least we can try..love that, Joan!!

Bobbie: I want to hear all about your labor and the basketball game! In fact, I can hardly wait to hear all about it..so 'sharpen' those fingers and get writing:) and I'm sorry:( you got sick feeling, Bobbie...(((bobbieb)))

Robyn: I know...didn't it make you feel good?! Gotta love Joe! And reading our Alex's blurbs here and on Facebook...they make a person feel good, too...I wouldn't know Joe or Alex or any of you if not for *BARBARO*...Gotta love *BARBARO*, too!!

Here's a little something I found interesting in my inbox this afternoon:

Subject: Unusual Year

This year we experience four unusual dates
1/1/11
1/11/11
11/1/11
11/11/11
And that's not all.
Take the last two digits of your of birth
Now add the age you will be this year.
And the result will be 111 for everyone.
This is the year of the money.
This year October will have 5 Sundays, 5 Mondays & 5 Saturdays.
This happens only every 823 years.
##

It works! I tried all sorts of numbers from friends of mine, using birthdays this year, their birth years too, and by Golly-Ollie...It works! :)

Night, everyone...most of yole in the eastwing have snoozed through midnight and it's already Tuesday morning! Hope your dreams were sweet.

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! It's a bright & very cool morning here on the banks of the Thames. I've just watched a rather spiffy, never seen before now, boat head diagonally across the river. I believe that it may be parking at a boat dock that is half a block upriver from our house. The river is gleaming and it's time for us to all gleam back! Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne: I just tried the numeric formula that you described and it works for may age and for Brent's, too. Very cool, to quote our FOB and host, Alex Brown.
To Alex: Safe travels today! ####

###Good morning all. It is another bright but cold morning here in the North.
##Robyn, yes I agree, we need to hear more like Joe's friends who give us hope. What a special girl she is.
##Lynne, that was cool.
##Rainbows to our Dee this morning.
##BobbieB. yes, some day give us the story. (my daughter was born in '69 too)

Have a safe and warm day everyone.

Judy

Joe at TB Friends

Morning, Everyone....

Happy Tuesday! Chillsey here this morning, but forecast to be 66 this afternoon...Cooler than normal for now, but there's NO WIND OR RAIN and the sun is shining! Wheeeee!!

Here's Joe for today...you must be sure to see his pics when you're able, though:) The 'chikums' appear to be taking shelter from rain...Little Duncan is not 'completely' snow white..LOL! I think little Duncan gets a shower at least once a day! Grover looks just 'dine&fandy' and sooner than later, Joe's ranch will stop producing old auto parts from all the mud...things will dry out:)

Tuesday, March 29th... With no internet last week, it will be 2014 before I am caught up on e-mails.

I love sharing this stuff. I have permission for the following:

From Molly, age 11, Tempe, Arizona: A whole week without Tb Friends. My dad was right. I did survive.

From Cindy, Dixon, California: Get high speed internet you old goat.

From Sydney, Palo Alto, California: Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Yummy chocolate cream pie made by Safeway. Dancing to Dirty Bit on the radio.

From Emma, Colorado Springs: You must be the last person on earth with dial up. I am 73, and even I know better.

From Amber, Pomona, California: Horse racing is like a bad car accident. I always take a peek. Johnny The Watch has been on my stable mail since 2007, when I saw him at Santa Anita. I followed his career. Thank you so much for giving Johnny a place to live. My friend Claire hates horse racing too. Over 20 horses have been killed at Santa Anita this year. Claire and I sent you a check for $200.00. Please give Johnny extra grain and kisses for us. We hope to visit you this summer. My mom says hi. You gave her directions to Factory Outlets.

From Lacey, Orangevale, California: I love Grover. Can you show another picture of him?

(here you go Lacey, Bottom Right)

From Wendy, Esparto, California: Our internet was down too. My husband and I spent evenings talking to each other.

It is Tuesday, and chores are forever. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Warm cinnamon rolls with melted butter made by Raleys. Later we could be 65 degrees. Mud so deep, you can reach in and find old auto parts. Enjoy your new episode of Parenthood Tuesday, and be sure to hug your horses. The Bee Gees on the oldies station...

Joe
##

Here's your Tuesday link to our Whitehouse:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Everyone have a good day today:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Morning all , I'm very busy proof-reading this morning , sad to say ! So I'm just dropping by for a quick 'hi' and will be back later.

My 'birth story' is not a biggie , just a fun little thing , so don't think I gave birth in the arena or anything ! Will be back later, bye now ,

Good Afternoon Family

hope everyone is fine...or as well as can be...with no unexpected curve balls thrown at us...

please call, fax, email..we have so many horses that are forced in a tunnel of brutal death...and on WE GET IT!

please read the db...and help in any way possible...pennies, nickles, dimes...volunteering, networking...please help.

###
good luck Alex.

####
please light candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

Update on Buddy, Buddy is feeling fine and back to his old self.
Sunday Jason and Crista worked in the front yard and left their shoes and socks on the front porch when they went into the house. Monday Jason came home to eat lunch and no Buddy in the back yard. So Jason went searching and he found their shoes and socks scattered all over the block. Also, a neighbors football a neighbors garden gnome was in Jason and Cristas front yard. Jason returned the neighbors stuff to them and once again put Buddy back in the back yard. Buddys best friend, Nadja, cant seem to get out the way Buddy does. Buddy seems to be the Houdini of escape methods. Buddy is back to his old self and thats just great. He is once again a busy boy.

##Sandra, that is way too cute. Hooray for Buddy.

Judy

###
Hooray for Buddy!

Well I will join in the chorus too :
Hooray for Buddy !

Buddy rearranging the neighborhood landscaping! Glad he's feeling much better.

Unless something has changed, tomorrow should be Bailey's day in court - and I haven't seen any postings from Jackie that anything has changed. Everyone keep positive thoughts for this sweetie and that she gets to go home tomorrow!

###
HOME BAILEY HOME!

sounds like good ole days...when we would say...grow hoof grow!

I will relay the messages yole sent to Crista. Buddy is Jasons baby and he makes excuses for him. He says it is Nadja who is the instigator behind Buddys adventures and since Nadja cant get out she urges him on and lives vicarously through his adventures.

### I so hope Bailey returns home tomorrow. I think the next door neighbor should be muzzled.

OKAY Alex is coming for Dinner! Linda. Kathy and Madonna. You need to come if you wish to meet Alex! Please come
I have made a crawfish Etouffee, an appetizer the main dish is a Julia Childs Beef bourguignon this is to die for, it only takes 7 hours to cook. Am so excited that Alex is coming by to eat and stay the night. We have room so please come, would love to have you.
The only problem is he will arriver tomorrow night, or Thursday night. the food will keep. But we will make room for everyone. I am in Bay Minetta Alabama, please come and support our Alex

Hiya, FsOB! What a great quote from Will Rogers, pertaining to horses, that has been memorialized at the museum in Oklahoma. Alex, it looks like you had a great time in OK and how exciting to see that you are heading to our FOB Debbie LA's abode for a delicious meal and a place to stay. Please know that you are always welcome on the banks of the Thames.

Wishing everyone "ACN". I am savouring a small Manhattan made with Booker's bourbon and "Tipsy Cherries" this evening. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Hoping that your day was filled with sunshine & rainbows.
To Linda in NW FLA: Please let us know how Bailey's day in court turns out tomorrow.
To Margie in NM: Please let us know how you're doing, I miss seeing you here.
To Sandra: That Buddy is quite the character. He & Nadja should have a doggy cam watching their exploits.
To Lynne: Glad to see that the winds and rain have abated in your part of Cali.
To Judy: Yes, Aubrey and all of the young volunteers who help Joe & Cathy Shelton are great, aren't they? So much passion to help horses in need, it is really inspiring. ####

Debbie, How wonderful that you are hosting Alex!! If I wasn't on the other end of the state, I would be there. Hope ya'll have a great visit!

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So......................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Can someone please check on Bloodhorse and tell me that I just mis-read something? I was looking up something unrelated and found a link stating the Zenyatta lost her foal and shall be bred again with Bernardini. Please, please tell me that I am wrong. I am truly upset....

Robyn you are correct. Zen lost her foal. Good news is she is OK.

Robyn you are correct. Zen lost her foal. Good news is she is OK.

I'm so sorry to read about our Queen losing her foal:( I'm glad she's alright, but I feel very sad.

Debbie: Yipppeeeee-Skipppppyyyy!!! I know your food will be delicious and Alex will have a wonderful time and be srsly well looked after while a guest in your home!! OMGosh, Debbie..this is great news and we'll all want to hear all about it! Wheeeee!

Bobbie...I didn't think you gave birth in the arena...but I KNOW it'll be a fun story to read, so share when you're able:)

HOME BAILEY, HOME!! Yes, Joan...almost like the 'grow hoof grow' thingy:)

Sandra: LOVED reading of Buddy's escapades!! :) So HAPPY he's back to being Buddy again...and I sure hope he stays SAFE while out into the 'hood' redecorating for everyone!

I'm gonna go visit *Zenyatta* at her website now..I truly am so sorry:(

See yole in the a.m.

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! The Thames is gleaming in the morning sunlight, with a surface that is as "flat as a pancake", to use one of my late Mother's expressions. A train whistle signals the approach of another busy day on the banks of the Thames.

My heart goes out to the Mosses and everyone affiliated with Zenyatta. While I am tremendously relieved that Zenyatta is well, the news of the demise of her foal really shook me last PM. My thanks to Stu & Nancy for their confirmatory e-mails and to RT for posting the link to Bloodhorse. Peace, Robyn

###Good morning all. It is a bright morning with the cold remaining around the edges. Slowly it is being ushered out.
##So sorry to hear about Zen's foal this morning but very glad she's ok.
##DebbieLA, your meal sounds scrumptious and I'm sure Alex will be delighted with your southern hospitality. I hope you have a great time and can't wait to hear all about it.
##Robyn, I like that expression "flat as a pancake". Those old sayings are a treasure.
##Praying that Bailey comes home. I agree with Sandra, the neighbor should be muzzled!

Have a safe and warm day everyone.

Judy

Mornin all...

I sure am glad Sandra to hear that Buddy is doing so well and hope he continues to do well.

I hope Bailey gets to come home to her family and I agree, the neighbor needs the muzzle, not Bailey.

I was so sad to read that Zenyatta had lost the foal...But glad to hear that Zenyatta is ok. Sometimes mother nature knows best.

On the news this AM the weatherperson said we may have 78 degrees... after last week, all the rain and now sun and warmth. This all adds up to weeds!
Like Lynne said, "What use to look like ground cover has grown a foot high!" I can pull some but I think I'll bring out the ol' weed wacker.
I did some "wacking" yesterday. I found some old water dishes for the animals...you know cats and squirrels and the birds....

Debbie,L.A. - Please enjoy your visit with Alex and all that delicious food you are cooking.. Good grief...please let us know how all goes.

Well all..time to go get more coffee.
Please take care all.

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY))))
xoxoxo
carleen in ca

Morning all ,

I hope Bailey's trial ends 'right' today , and he /or/she ! , goes home happy and safe. I can't say I wish the same for the neighbor.
I'm abashed that this is happening in the old north state.

Zenyatta ! I'm so sorry to hear this , so sad .
But ... they say something is wrong with a foal that miscarries - that there would be a birth defect and nature makes this happen for the best-- it sure doesn't feel like the best does it?
It's so sad for her and all concerned - and I hope the next try will take and produce a lovely , healthy foal ...

Debbie's dinner sounds wonderful , although I don't like shrimp ... the hunk could eat enough shrimp for both of us ...
Debbie , do you make your etoufee (sp) very spicy hot ? My daughter and the hunk love it hot !
Best wishes on entertaining Alex. Wish I were there to help , and mainly to EAT , lol.

NWFLAFOB - let us know if and when you hear about the trial and Bailey ! I know you will , just antsy is all ...

Did youse remember to email or call about not funding the BLM until they get new management to oversee the treatment of wild horse herds ?
I hope you will contact your 2 Senators and Representative -- let them know what you think , politely of course !

This vote is upcoming - funding the BLM -- it's in the budget that will be voted on before 4.9.
so it's pretty vital that you call very soon...
and thanks , as always , for helping the horses.

Gotta get busy , so bye now ,

Morning, Everyone....

Wednesday ALREADY..Holy Cromoly! Time flies, doesn't it?!

Here's Joe for today...:) No matter all the crap flying here/there/everywhere in our world today, there's always Kids, Horses and our Joe:) this one may well bring a need for kleenex...I needed one..but it's good:

Wednesday, March 30th... Our biggest perk has been kids. We meet hundreds of kids a year, and on this website I often showcase their passions. Their clever ways of getting things done. How they view our uncertain world.

Rich kids, poor kids, sick kids, and troubled teens. In our yard we have introduced them to horses. I will never forget little Kacie, who once said to me: All these horses, you are insane dude.

I suppose.

It is hard to imagine the horrors of sleeping on the streets. Pretending to be a customer, just so you can use the bathroom at Burger King. Always afraid when a stranger approaches. No way can I comprehend what it must feel like. Being a kid, without a place to stay.

Cassi is 13, and she likes to be called Cass. Twice Cass and her mom have been homeless. The last time for five months. They now have a small apartment, and Cass goes to a new school. A teacher helped Cass get a computer. Cass has been reading my website since early January. Cass wrote me a letter in February, asking if she could someday hang around a horse. She has no desire to ride. Cass only wants to groom, to give treats, and to be in their company.

While living on the streets, Cass fell in love with a wild cat behind a mexican restaurant in Sacramento. Cass was the only human who could touch that cat. After closing, the manager would bring Cass, her mom, and the cat plates of food. The cat ate beans and rice. When Cass and her mom moved into their apartment, Cass went back to the restaurant, hoping to find the cat. No luck. Cass still goes there two or three times a week. Cass wants to bring the cat to her apartment. There were many nights when that cat kept her warm. Cass now wants to return the favor.

Last week, crazy winds, sideways rain, Cass phones to ask if she can come to my ranch and meet a horse. I said you mean now? Today?

Cass said yes please. I have a ride and we can be there in 45 minutes.

Okay. Is there any horse in particular you want to meet?

No. Any horse is fine.

Naughty Cal came to us with race track injuries. They gave him the wrong name. Naughty Cal is certainly not naughty. A tall sweet gelding who has healed fine and dandy, Cal is soon leaving us for a lesson barn. I am showing you his picture below, Top Left.

The strangest thing. When Cass and her volunteer driver pulled into our driveway, it stopped raining. Terrible winds became a soft breeze. Our yard is a lake, so I brought Cal to the driveway. Cass and Cal stood staring at each other. Cass said he is so handsome. So tall. Can I touch him?

I gave Cass the lead rope. A few carrots. A brush. The volunteer driver got back in her car and began doing homework. Cal nibbled on weeds. Cass could not take her eyes off him. That moment. That one moment where nothing else matters. If given the chance, horses are magic.

They spent almost an hour together. Cal went back to his stall and Cass went back to her apartment. That night Cass wrote me an e-mail. All she said was: Thank you!

In an earlier letter, I found out from Cass there are hundreds of homeless kids on the streets of Sacramento. Many by themselves, without parents. Cass says there is an underground tunnel in Old Town, where dozens of kids sleep. Who knew? Boggles the brain.

When the weather is better, Cass will visit again. She only wants to be with horses. I know the feeling...

Joe
##

And today's link to our Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Carleen: 78 degrees today? Wheeeee:) It's a bit on the 'cloudy' side here this morning and though I can see some blue in the sky, for this moment, no sunshine..gee, I hope that changes and fast!

Everyone have a good Wednesday.

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

###
Debbie...your dinner sounds absolutely delicious...all of you enjoy...

####
waiting on news about Bailey.

###
reading Joe's blog today...should make us all so thankful...so thankful...

the young girl...even though her and her mom has been homeless a few times...her heart is pure gold and so innocent and the love of horses...I pray she finds her kitten that help her stay warm.

####
so with us having the main things in life, food, water, shelter, a job, or a living...can we spare time..

time to do what Bobbie B...has asked us...to email about the BLM...stop the hunt/roundups on our wild horses.

time to do what Lynne has blue inked daily...to call, fax, email...to stop brutal horse slaughter..

time to read the db...and help in any way possible...how lucky we are...can we help a horse or a furbaby be blessed too...and have life and freedom and love and care???

###
enjoy your hump day

###
Alex....I received your book as a gift from a dear FOB...and I say...it is beautiful...great job.

###
we love you Barbaro

please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

light up a special candle for Zenyatta..too.

and remember our Fallen Angels.

###
pray for our country, for each other...please

So sorry about out Zen's foal, but sometimes nature knows best...thankfully she is fine. Here's hoping for success in the future for her, she is so deserving......ACN to everyone, good thoughts going out to everyone. Good night sweet Dee.

Alex arrived about 8:30 PM supper was ready. We had raw oysters, boiled Crawfish and the Beef bourguignon. Alex looked a little bewildered and ask for the Beef! I totally forgot the crawfish etouffee. Maybe tomorrow! And no my etouffee is not HOT! But he seemed to enjoy his dinner. My friends came to meet this English man ,I have talked about for 5 years. And I had a wonderful time. Had his beer (Sam Adams cold and ready) he was very nice and friendly to all my guest.
Alex Brown is sleeping in MY bed! LOL He was very tired from all his travels. But he is going to stay over tomorrow and have some well needed R&R. We will take him to the beach tomorrow and by a friends house.
Alex is here!!!!! I am so happy he came. For with out Alex I would not have my FOB family and I love you all so very much.
I posted a picture of Alex and myself on my face book page Debbie Jones. Have some of my friends too, will post them later. He sold two more books tonight! My sister came and we talked about his book. Thanks Alex so happy you stopped by to see us.
It has been a wonderful night! Did I tell you Alex Brown is sleeping in MY bed! LOL!!!!!

Debbie,how nice is that! Always nice to meet in person after 5 years of this group coming together.

Hiya, FsOB! The western horizon is a deep shade of blue and that signals that rain is on the way. It's so interesting living here, I just looked out of the bays that front our first floor home office and saw a young man walking up the street, toward the bridge. He was carrying a small bouquet of coral-coloured roses. Someone will have a nice surprise this morning!

Alex, I am thrilled that our own Debbie LA is showering you with Southern hospitality! You certainly deserve it! Peace, Robyn

#### To Judy: It's funny that some of the expressions that were said frequently by my late Mother were also apparently faves of Brent's late Father.
To Linda in NW FLA: Any news re. Bailey?
To Lynne B: Doesn't Joe Shelton's blog just break your heart some days? Poor young Cass and her Mother, homeless in the United States of America, yet sharing their gift of food each night with a cat. Gosh, I hope that Cass finds that cat!
To Stu: Yes, it is always a treat to finally meet other FsOB in person. Brent & I look forward to meeting you soon! ####

##Good morning all. Good grief Charlie Brown there's snow on the ground this morning but it's not to stay so they say.
##DebbieLA, what fun and a good time was had by all. I'm sure Alex is thankful for the rest and good food and good ole southern hospitality.
##Robyn, your home sounds so peaceful and serene.
##Rainbows to our Dee who hasn't been here in a few days. Hope all is well as well as Otherlyn whose presence is missed.

Have a safe and warm day everyone.

Judy

###
DebbieL.A....what a wonderful time you all are having...and a special guest at that...Alex...I am sure he will enjoy southern hospitality....thank you for sharing.

Robyn, me as well. Will be nice to meet and share our thoughts with those here,and its coming soon.

Alright DEE MIRICH , you show yourself here soon , we need you fren ........

DebbieLA , how very cool the whole thing is ... our leader in your bed , ahem , staying with you sounds better , lol ,
I know he loved the dinner --- friends over - it's all so good - Barbaro's famblee , our horse is responsible for sooooo much good in the world...

Morning all , I like to look at today as Friday eve , which is fun although I don't have to go out to work anymore ---so happy Fri. eve to you...

It's a dank , drippy , and wet week in NC , at least in my area ...... I'm getting up to gray skies every morning ... but

those April showers that come your way ,
they bring the flowers
that bloom in May
so keep looking for the sunshine
and whis-ul-ing a song
whenever April showers
come along ---

Someone wrote that song , I have no idea to whom to attribute it - I just remember hearing Bing Crosby singing it in a movie -- but it's a sweet song for this gray morn - hope your day is brighter and better -

I hope we hear good news on the captive Bailey !

Work for the horses if you can - call your Sens and Rep - thanks for speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves -
bye now ,

Good grief, I got lost scrolling past the trolls and missed out on the fact Alex is at Debbie's (just across the woods/swamp/and river from where I live!) house. How exciting! Too bad the weather isn't very nice today - but better than the storms from yesterday. I know Alex will have a wonderful time. Debbie, if you're reading this, go to Fairhope - he'd probably get a kick out of that quaint, Southern little town!

So sorry to read about Zenyatta losing her foal - happy she is OK.

I posted a note on the discussion thread to Jackie for news on Bailey. Will let y'all know as soon as something posts.

Are you all following the story about Patrick the pit bull in New Jersey? The charges against the woman who starved and dumped him have been upgraded. Someone has started a movement to create "Patrick's Law" making charges across the country uniform and as severe as possible for cases of animal abuse. You can Google and find links to his facebook page for updates on his condition and further links to efforts on his, and the proposed law's, behalf. Contact info is provided for folks involved with his case so they can be contacted to encourage them to go for maximum punishment. His case is garnering attention literally worldwide.

Morning, Everyone and Happy *FRIDAY EVE*:)

Debbie: LOL! I'm LOVING reading your posts re: our Alex sleeping in YOUR bed, Hunny! The food sounds delicious and I know you've made us all proud in the 'southern hospitality' department...we're living life vicariously through you right now, Debbie:) Glad he can stay another day/night to un-wind a bit more and also to be able to share time/sights with you as well! It all sounds absolutely FABULOUS!

Dee: Where are you....don't make me come there with my 'wooden spoon', Dee! :)

Linda: Yes..please do post as soon as you've got news re: *BAILEY* lots of aunts/uncles here waiting to hear about her.

Bobbie: "April Showers" I got curious so I Googled! Music by Louis Silvers and lyrics by B.G. DeSylva...published in 1921... :)

Judy: Sorry for your early morning dusting of snow:/ glad it won't stay too long!

Robyn: Yes...from time to time, Joe's Blog brings tears...I wish I had the 'wherewithal' to send a little something along for Cassi and her mom! I hope she finds the kitteh, too.

Speaking of Joe, here he is for Thursday:)

Thursday, March 31st... She came to us as a yearling, and we called her Sizzle Butt. A gal with an attitude. The first few years she was impossible to catch. Sizzle spots a halter and she takes off like a 747. She once front kicked our farrier. He went home with his knee wrapped in ice. I went home and ate ice cream. It took a few years, but Sizzle finally decided humans are okay. Mostly goofy looking, but still okay. Sizzle was the first one to greet me at the gate. She sticks her face into the halter. For the farrier Sizzle stands quietly. I still go home and eat ice cream.

On Tuesday Sizzle left us for a fancy home on the coast. A beautiful view of the ocean. The family had phoned and said they needed a new friend for their older quarter horse gelding. He recently lost his long time companion. A big TV in their barn. A produce market only a mile away, for fresh carrots. Quiet walks on a private beach. Sizzle deserves this kind of life. A chance to get away from our hot summers and muddy winters. As Sizzle loaded into the trailer, I told her to send postcards. And be good for the farrier.

We said goodbye to Honor Our Flag, who we called Honor. She came to us with race track injuries, but now Honor moves like the karate kid on that dancing show. Honor also goes to a companion home. Her new best friend a former race horse who had major injuries. The stories these two can share. Usually Rascal Flatts on their barn cd player.

Your letters and phone calls concerning Cassi have been overwhelming. There are dozens of gift card offers for Cass. Two teen girls are willing to hang out behind the mexican restaurant in hopes of finding that stray wild cat. Our friends in Southern California want Cass to fly down for a weekend at Disneyland. I have shared all of this with Cass, but no reply yet. I write about horses in need, I write about kids who love horses, and your response always amazes us. Thank you very much. I will be in touch with each of you.

Three months are gone in 2011. It is Thursday, and chores are forever. Delicious hot coffee from Starbucks. Scrambled eggs come from chickens. Enjoy your billions of mosquitoes Thursday, and be sure to hug your horses. The Temptations on the oldies station...

Joe
##

And...last but certainly not least, the link to our Whitehouse:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope yole have a wonderful day today:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Judy And Angel Taffy
And Angel Bobbie B. And Angel Lynne. You Are In My
Heart So (8) A Lot So.............................
..................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

For All, All All Of Your Love.....................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Judy And Angel
Taffy And Angel Bobbie B. And Angel Lynne And
Angel Murphy And Your Angel Daughter Michelle
And Seymore And Lucy And Angel Robyn And Angel
Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lou Ann And
Her Angel Mother Annie And Her Angel Dad Louie
And Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy
And Angel BeBe And Angel Debbie LA And Angel
Joan Roya And Angel Curtis And Peaches And Pierre.
.................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
.................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

####
three months are gone!

have you called, faxed, email...have you let your views be known about saving our wild horses.

have you read the db...and help in anyway possible...

three months are gone....and those beautiful horses, those furbabies, and wildlife...they have been abused, neglected, and sent to slaughter ....God bless them...

can we start more eager for April....please...

####
Good morning Alex.

###
please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

pray for our country, for each other...and give a helping hand...please

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe And Angel Carleen.
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
...................................................Your Glowing Wings Of Love.......................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe And
Angel Carleen....................................
.................................................
.You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So..............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Alex is doing his interview with HRTV, then we are going to the beach. He has not seen the Gulf of Mexaco. He eat's like a bird! The we going to a friends house to chill. Wish you all could be here. Love to hear him talk about our Barbaro.
He works hard keeping this site up. Glad he is having some down time in Lower Alabama. He has a 12 hour drive tomorrow, love his heart. He getting back on the road at 4 AM.

###
Dee did you see Joe at TB Friends rainbow! Cool

Did you see this scum Bob Parsons from GoDaddy.com, the CEO, in the news killing the elephant. What a piece of greed driven human scum.

All, All All All All All All All So All Beautiful
Rainbow On Angel Joe And Angel Cathy TB Friends.
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Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Debbie LA...
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

Ohmygosh, Debbie, he's traveling I10, isn't he? Right through Pensacola. I'll stand in the Cracker Barrel parking lot and hold up my copy of his book as he goes by! Dang.
At least the sun is shining now. Hope Alex got to see a little of the sun shinin' on the Gulf!

Waiting for news on our sweet Bailey. Maybe she is at home now where she belongs.

I think Alex had a good time today, we surely tried to show him the southern hospitality. We took him to Orange Beach pair and them we had lunch at the Flora Bama Bar. I take it all back, he don't eat like a bird. He eats like a any other man, if its good food. He really liked our Banana pudding. What can I say, to have Alex Brown in my house was like having Elvis in the house! He truly don't understand his presence, and what we ( THE FOB'S)think of him! He is very humble. And very carrying. He is and was all I remember of a man that gave me ACN and ACD in ever since of the words. He is and always be a great person in my live. and I thank him for all the Info on our Big Bay Colt. Always and forever
Thank you Alex!

###

Debbie: So...Hunny...How do you REALLY feel? LOL! I loved reading your post, Debbie..I could see and feel all your excitement and adoration, too! I'm beyond...BEYOND delighted and proud for you to have had our Alex stay at your home...I'm happy you could feed him and entertain him and show him the sights/sounds of Lower Alabama:) and as he drives away in the early morning..he'll take with him all your love and have wonderful memories, too! Wheeeee:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Guys we need to help another. There's a woman in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma with a 25 pound paralyzed kangroo she cares for. She herself is sick. This is her life. Doctors have certified this kangaroo as a Therapy Pet for this woman. The mayor wants to take this little guy away from her. PLEASE READ ON MSNBC WEBPAGE. We need to help !!! Please voice your support as we have done in the past. Mayor Mike Lester, Broken Arrow,Oklahoma.

Hiya, FsOB, on a grey & rainy "TGIF" sort of Friday. I had the commute from Hell last night, due to a very freaky snowstorm which hit central Rhode Island. Was I ever happy to get back to the banks of the Thames?

What a blast it would be to go to the book-signing event at Gulfstream and get to meet Alex. It's wonderful that Debbie LA got to lavish some Southern hospitality on Alex in advance of his 12-hour drive east towards the Sunshine State. Please send some our way, Alex! Peace, Robyn

#### To Debbie LA: I always associate banana pudding & banana creme pie with my late Mother. Sounds like you had a blast! You should get a small doorplate made, one that says "Alex Brown Slept Here" (sort of like those signifying that George Washington visited a home or establishment). Bless you for showering Alex with good food & a warm welcome, Debbie!
To Dee: May your day be filled with rainbows!
To Lynne B: Yes, if I had a little $$$ to spare, I would send it to Joe for his work with a little something for Cass.
To Linda in NW FLA: Can you post a little more detail about the proposed "Patrick's Kaw" here for those of us Luddites who aren't on Facebook?
To Judy: May the snow leave your region and may it not re-darken southern New England this season. It is supposed to be Springtime!
To Stu: Brent & I look forward to meeting you in person. ####

##Good morning all. It is a cool bright morning with a few light clouds drifting by.
##Robyn, I hope that the snow disappears before reaching the coast and only brings some gentle rain for the flowers.
##DebbieLA, what a grand time you had with Alex and I'm sure he came away with a lot of fine memories. LOL a brass plate "ACN Alex Brown" over your doorway. Banana cream pie made with real custard was my favourite pie and always had it over the holidays when I was growing up.
##Lynne, I would surely love to send something to Joe and to Cassie. Bless their hearts.

##Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

BAILEY UPDATE: Jackie posted this early this morning - not the news we hoped to hear. Bailey won't be PTS but, well, here ya go:
********************************
I'm so sorry, this is the first moment I've had a signal so I could get online. We just received an email this evening from Alexis. Bailey is still in jail but will not be put down. She has to find a new home. I don't have any more details than that. My brother has put his home on the market. I haven't heard, but I'm sure he's looking for a place where she can be safe and happy. So, I don't know if they will let someone take her until he gets resettled or not. They are still so upset about it, they don't want to talk about it yet, but I've let them know that they need to keep us in the loop, because we can help them. I will let you know more as soon as I hear it. Thanks again for your help and your caring.
********************************
I responded back to Jackie telling her to please do keep us informed. Whatever is going on, if voices will help Bailey's situation, we have them.

Stu, will look into the kangaroo issue and voice support for this lady and the 'roo. With all the other problems in this world to address, why must officials pick on these sorts of things? I also saw this morning a clip about the GoDaddy CEO. You're right - POS. He's claiming the elephant was stealing local crops which would have caused area population to starve. Maybe if that's THEIR culture thing and they've been dealing with this problem for generations, I'd say let them work it out with the wildlife. But, for a rich American to take a killing trip over there and blast away is revolting.

Robyn, let me capture some info about Patrick's Law including contact info to show support, etc. and will post here. I have alot of catching up to do myself on this! I did just read that the woman who starved Patrick has plead innocent. Said she only had him a week, tied him up to a stair railing hoping someone would adopt him, blah blah blah. Now her mama is saying the bad press is just killing her daughter. Seems she's somehow involved with the porn industry also. Need I go on? I'm willing to bet by this time next week, Al Sharpton and Jessie Jackson have weighed in to defend poor, sweet baby girl Kisha.

Linda,I cannot believe Bailey cannot go home!That neighbor needs to be the one to move out. POS!!! Parsons another POS from GoDaddy. That disgusting scum. Now the issue in Oklahoma. Where the hell are the morals in this country?

####
April is PREVENTION OF ANIMAL CRUELTY MONTH.

Stu, I'll be interested to read "the rest of the story" when Jackie posts it about Bailey's case to learn what has actually happened. I just can't imagine why the court would rule this way.

Your other comment/question is coming up more and more. I hope the perception that evil is so radically on the rise is made possible because we're made aware of it in real time coverage, day in and day out, thanks to all of the media at our disposal. It's hard to think such absolute evil has existed for all of time but I imagine it has. All the crap we read about every single day can suck the soul right out of us.

I think this is a continuing war - good vs evil - and requires as many boots on the ground as possible. It seems now is the time for anyone who has been sitting on the fence, shaking their head from afar about atrocities toward animals, to become involved in animal rights/welfare/ protection (the same applies to fighting any form of evil that "speaks" to a person's heart). I truly believe there are more of US than of the evil ones; we need to encourage like-minded people to get off that fence and join in. To become involved in any way possible.

These atrocities can make us hard and bitter, make us turn away or make us determined. Barbaro's famblee is determined and already fighting the fight, ever vigilant and ever ready because we are their voice. Linda
I BELIEVE

Morning all!!!

Happy Birthday to our Dear Zenyatta!!! May she and her connections have a grand year!!!

I hope Bailey and her family will be able to stay together, even though selling a family home these days is no easy thing to do. Prayers to Bailey and her family.

Sandra, How's Buddy doing? Do have any more stories of escape and return to share...what a character!!!

Miss Dee, heart felt rainbow "8"s to you.

Debbie L.A. - Thank you for sharing your visit with Alex us. What a grand experience for sure!!!!

April 29th...it will be here quicker than you know. I sure lots of celebrations are being planned for our Barbaro...and many of us will be with those celebrations in spirit.

Joan, Judy, Lou Ann, Otherlyn, Stu, Robyn, Bobbie and Lynne...please have a great Friday...Lynne it's almost time for the Masters!!! I hope they have good weather for the match.
It's truly one of my favorite sporting events to watch followed only by the 1st Saturday in May.

Take care all....

oxoxo
carleen in ca

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So......................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
...................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Carleen. 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.............................................
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Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
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Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Carleen And
Bailey............................................
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

###NWFLA, Amen, although sometimes it is hard to read day in day out about the abuse animals suffer at the hands of men. But rightly so, it should be forefront in the media so that people are more aware that we share this planet with other species be it animal, fish, reptiles and many others who have the right to live their lives without fear.
##Carleen, you have a good day too in sunny Californ i a!
##Poor Bailey, It's beyond me how this is happening. All he wants to do is be a dog and do what dogs do. What's the matter with these people.
I sure hope a sensible solution will be found.

Judy

Morning all!!!

Happy Birthday to our Dear Zenyatta!!! May she and her connections have a grand year!!!

I hope Bailey and her family will be able to stay together, even though selling a family home these days is no easy thing to do. Prayers to Bailey and her family.

Sandra, How's Buddy doing? Do have any more stories of escape and return to share...what a character!!!

Miss Dee, heart felt rainbow "8"s to you.

Debbie L.A. - Thank you for sharing your visit with Alex us. What a grand experience for sure!!!!

April 29th...it will be here quicker than you know. I sure lots of celebrations are being planned for our Barbaro...and many of us will be with those celebrations in spirit.

Joan, Judy, Lou Ann, Otherlyn, Stu, Robyn, Bobbie and Lynne...please have a great Friday...Lynne it's almost time for the Masters!!! I hope they have good weather for the match.
It's truly one of my favorite sporting events to watch followed only by the 1st Saturday in May.

Take care all....

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Robyn, go to www.patrickslaw.com Excellent website and covers the entirety of what's happening. Be prepared, though, a picture of him will pop up right away. Thank goodness, he is a spunky boy, and doing better. The founder is trying to establish campaigns in every state. She explains all that at this site.

I had a friend help me create a facebook account for the sole purpose of being able to go to and comment on animal rescue sites. I NEVER, NEVER use my facebook page for "friending" and communicating. The whole concept eludes me. Keep saying, though, I need to figure it out and use it for topics like this. But, everyone who would go to my page is already involved! And, I figure if someone wants to "talk" to me, they email me! It's just too much for this old brain to deal with every day. And, if you miss a day on any of these venues you are waaay behind! But, the patrickslaw website provides the info, guidance and ability to become involved.

####
Carleen..you are a sweetheart...you have a great day and weekend too.

###
Linda...I am like you...do not know about facebook...I guess I am ole fashion..but thanks for all of the information...and all you wrote..I agree..and from your golden heart.

Morning, Everyone...

I began this post over an hour ago...and by now, I feel like I might 'esplode' from my own skin, I'm so far behind...Just barely 'skimmed' the posts above and am so sorry/angry about Bailey and her family being separated I don't know what to say! Well...I CAN'T say here, what I want to:/ Hopefully the home will sell fast and sooner than later Bailey and her 'parents' will be re-united and together again!

Carleen: Yes...*MASTERS* and don't you know:) I'll be rooting for *PHILLY-MICK* to add yet another *GREEN JACKET* to his wardrobe, too!! Wheee:)

Here's Joe for Friday...I wrote him a minute ago suggesting maybe *HARRY* would like the SPEARMINTS our Bobby liked so much, in place of the peppermint variety:)

Friday, April 1st... The first day of April, so lets talk about April. Rescued from the feed lot in Wilton, April leaves us this weekend for her new home in Sparks, Nevada. A small thoroughbred mare who loves peppermints, April can no longer get in foal. The owners gave her to horse killer James Capers. Horse killer James Capers charged Tb Friends 20 cents a pound. Such a deal. April's new best friend, a young orphan filly who is desperate for a companion. A big Thank You to Jennifer for providing transportation. Jennifer plans to eat at the Peppermill in Reno. Or maybe Atlantis. Or maybe Silver Legacy. The tension mounts...

Also from the feed lot in Wilton, we said hello to a hairy, skinny gelding who spit out his peppermint. There is a racing tattoo which says he is 9. Right now we are calling him Harry, as in hairy. Poor Harry has several physical problems, and he is lame with abscesses. Harry must live in our yard. Currently 5 horses living in our yard, all with health issues. Passing motorist point and stare. Better Homes & Gardens have cancelled their photo shoot.

This weekend I promise to answer each of your letters concerning Cassi. These are tough times for animal lovers. Yet there are generous offers of gift cards for food, restaurants, clothes, all for Cass and her mom. I am at a loss for words, and if you are a regular reader, you know how rare this is. Thank you for loving kids who love horses. Have a happy weekend. They say maybe rain for Saturday. We now have that drying out, suck your boots off kind of mud. Sticky. Like trying to walk in Super Glue.

Joe
##

Here is the Friday link to our Whitehouse, too, and then, Family...I must get 'round here...so, I wish everyone a great/grand/wonderful Friday and an equally fine weekend!

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

dammit:/ I forgot one leetle 'thingy' and the whole thing went kaflooey...

Here:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

That's what happens when I hurry! :)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Good Mid Morning Barbaro and FOBS

hope your April 1st started out good...maybe a few innocent pranks for April Fool's Day...

but we FOBs...ain't no fools when it comes to protecting our horses and our furbabies and wildlife.

please call, fax, email...please

###
please read the db...and help...please....donations...large or small, volunteering, networking..so be there..please.

and if you see something...abuse, neglect...do not turn your heads...report it, stop it, get involved some way...we are the ones..who speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

these innocent ones...depend on US.

###
Pray for each other, our Barbaro family...we all live in the house that Barbaro built, for our country...for those who are suffering....and just a hug or a kind word...

and for Japan...and other countries...even we pray for the evil doers..that God will turn their hearts into good.

###
Alex..be careful on your traveling today.

###
Please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

####
Happy Birthday...Zenyatta! we love you...

I'm enjoying the comments on CNN over Bob Parsons - scum.What a piece of work he is.

Morning ,
I'm here -- reading all the posts , thinking of all the troubles in this world -- wondering what to do -- just keep on keeping on I guess.
Thanks Lynne for keeping up with the blue links to the Pres.
I'll go email him now -- and I hope all of you do to. Make it a good day , bye now ,

I am so mad about Bailey not getting to go home I am spitless. The problem is dogs do not have any rights under the law. Maybe the neighbors could have got up a petition in defense of Bailey. I hope her people find a house soon and Bailey can be back with her family where she belongs.

Carleen, Buddy hasnt escaped since his last adventure. Of course, his yard looks like a fortress now.
When I first got Chief he also was an escape artist. I would be watching TV in the living room and I would look and a dog would be on the front porch looking through the window. Of course, it was Chief. I dont know how many boards I replaced after he got out. He was so strong he could take his paws and just rip the boards out. I hated to do it but I got a hot wire thing for the fence for dogs. He hit it once and for his next 14 years never went close to the fence again. I hated to do it but I would hated it worse scraping him off of the street. Almost two years and I still miss him as much as I did the day I lost him.

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Carleen. 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.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Carleen.....
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Jackie posted this additional information about Bailey's situation:
**************************************************
It is worse than we thought. A friend is going to take Bailey for the time being, but she has been labeled the most dangerous type of dog there is and so it is impossible for any no-kill shelter to take her. I'm enclosing a letter from a family friend that explains the situation better than any of my family has been able to so far.

There is a new state senator who is hoping to make a name for himself (a good one we hope) and so this letter has been addressed to him. The family is asking for this letter to be circulated and for anyone who can help to do so. My brother and his wife love Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, where they now live. They are being forced to move out of the county to save their dog's life.

Dear Senator Goolsby,

Bailey, a dog friend of mine, was on trial for her life last night after sitting in the pound for more than 30 days. I appeared as a witness for her defense at the animal control hearing, or should I say Kangaroo Court. Apparently animals have no rights when they are deemed potentially dangerous in the eyes of their accusers. And the way the ordinance is written anyone for any reason can say they feel an animal is dangerous whether it is true or not.

Bailey has been targeted by a group of neighbors who want her taken out permanently. She is a very sweet and exuberant dog that has managed to escape her home several times over the pass four or five years. She barks but has never bitten or tried to bite anyone. My goodness she is a dog not a programmed robot.

The neighbors have been encouraged to get to know her, but feel they shouldn’t have to subject themselves to that kind of action. My friends Anne and Charles Watson have three dogs. Anne who is recovering from two rounds of cancer and heart failure admitted responsibility for allowing the dog to slip through what she thought was a locked gate. She apologized immediately to the neighbors just after the incident, but one of them decided to report the incident to animal control anyway.

At least 50 letters from concerned friends asking for clemency were presented to the panel, which were completely disregarded. There were a few of us to vouch for her and two fire fighters were on hand offering to help exercise the dog but the panel said it wouldn’t be enough. Bailey needed more than they could provide. It is heartbreaking to witness this type of justice in America today, especially since the panel has never set eyes on Bailey. The dog has not been formally evaluated and they are just guessing at what she needs stating it is a management issue that hasn’t worked out.

The panel has now classified Bailey at the highest level of dangerous animal and is only willing to let her live if a home can be found for her outside of New Hanover County or placed in a yard with a 6 foot fence within the next month. She will not be allowed to go back to her current home even though the Watson’s are willing to add more safeguards. By the way this label prohibits any no kill shelter from taking her in. The panel admitted they had no problem with her staying at the pound as they would earn $15 per day for her. In the meantime I hear the sparkle in Bailey’s eyes has dimmed. She is unable to protect her humans in the home she loves. I am so sad for her.

The outdated ordinance needs to change. Can you do anything to help change the ordinance? Can you help Bailey return to her home until a suitable new home can be found? What I can do? At this point I am ashamed to be a resident of New Hanover County and want to do what I can to make it fairer for our animal population.

I know you are a busy man but could you and your staff please do what you can? I would greatly appreciate the effort.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely Yours,

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

###Good morning all. A bright sunny in day in store for us here in the North.
##It is beyond words what has happened with Bailey. I would take him in a nano second if I could. All I can do is give support and pray.
(((Bailey))) (((Bailey's family)))).

Safe racing to all today. Everyone have a grand weekend.

Judy

HRTV Barbaro April 3

Don't have HRTV, will have to find someone who dose. Sunday.

LOL Yes have to get a brass plate made, ( Alex Brown sleep here )

Bailey new is upsetting, OMG.

Off to Pensacola for my grandsons birthday, and his bass ball game at Pace.

Good Saturday morning to you all ,
It's sunny here in NC this morning , but quite cool still.
The daffodils are over , at least my variety , but the dogwoods , white and pink , are in full flower , and the trees are leafing out in vibrant green new growth ...... the rites of spring ...

so very lovely ... but the fight between her and old man winter for dominance can be quite violent in the south sometimes , lol , when his cold air tries to mate with her warm air , the clash is felt in storms , tornadoes , etc.

Have a good day , bye now ,

Morning, Everyone....

OMG! I cannot believe the situation with *BAILEY* is what it is!! :/ Frightening, isn't it, to think a neighbor can dictate what should happen with a furkid?! I mean, if Bailey was aggresive and tried to, or successfully bit someone..then perhaps...but in this case?? I can't this moment remember where Bailey lives..but I can tell you, I'm glad as Hell I don't live there!

Debbie:) Thanks for the blue-link...I saw Alex's post up top-right and have set the DVR to record the whole program. I must zoom out of here this morning and don't want to miss seeing our Alex being featured today:)

The sky is cloudy..the temperature is in low sixties since 6a when I got up. We've had HOT days here the past two! From muk-luks and slickers to flip-flops in 60 seconds or less is what it's felt like! Y'day afternoon, it was 80 in my living room...the fans have come out from the closet and have been operating at medium to high speeds here since late Thursday afternoon! I think we might get a sprinkle today...the temp is forecast to 67 is all..and tomorrow, cooler still! I'm glad...'cause I haven't yet had time to acclimate to these 'hot feeling' temperatures yet! It's too much too fast, Mom Nature..could ya please dial it down a wee-little bit?! LOL!

The Oaks are developing their leaves so FAST now:) I can't remember if I wrote here about that y'day or not...I shared it with someone via the internet..you can almost see them developing, it's happeing so fast now:) Two days ago, they were 'buds' and by this morning, they are 1" long leaf shapes...so beautiful everywhere right now:) Another six weeks, it'll all be brown, (the grasses, I mean) so I try hard to appreciate this new/fresh green everywhere as often as possible:)

Dee:) SO HAPPY/GLAD to see you back where you belong!! :)

On the fly this morning...must get going...Everyone have a good Saturday!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Good Morning Frens. We should have a high temp of 75 here today. The sun is high in the sky now, so I am hoping winter is finally over.

It was a hard winter for many of us. My Lucky left in early January. Then I had the flu which lasted for 6 weeks. Then I got canned from my job 2 weeks ago for questioning something that was being done in a for profit business. I was a whistle blower, so to speak, but I kept it within the confines of the business. But the owner did not like it - at all! But the animals come first with me. They always will. And the owner knows this. She has to keep her human customers happy, even if it goes against what I feel for the googies. That is her right. And it is my perogative to get away from it.

But we keep going. Our problems are nothing compared to what the people and animals in Japan are going through.

We continue to pray. Be kind to each other. And be thankful that we are safe. Keep going.

Morning all....
Boy, was it "hot" here yesterday and the day before! This morning is cloudy and cooler!

Sandra, I know what you mean about missing Chief..he was like a son....I know Bud was just like a son to me..in fact as he took his last breath, I told him "son, it's ok..." You, Lynne,Otherlyn and I along with so many others lose a family member. It hurts bad...April 21st will be a year since Bud died. I will get through the day though. We all do.

Poor little Bailey and her family...Someone once told me that if you pray for good things to happen to someone that is a bothersome person then they will leave you alone(hopefully)...Maybe this neighbor could win lotto and move away. Sounds like this person is not liked by to many people. Dreaming here...I know.

Barbaro's extended family...what grand group of folks!!!!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S WONDERFUL FAMILY)))

Take care all and have a wonderful week-end.
oxoxo
carleen in CA

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lynne. 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.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lynne And
Angel Murphy And Your Angel Daughter Michelle And
Seymore And Lucy..................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our ANGEL DEE says, "It is AFFIRMED!"
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, paws, and hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation!

A special thanks to everyone for the lovely words and kind wishes in the loss of my beloved Uncle Joe (Mom's brother), it always feels like getting hugs from all of you, thanks so much.
We know there is a huge celebration still going on up there in Heaven but still feels so strange here, of course you all know about that.

Been trying to get here all week to post but what a week it has been, on a deadline for a research paper and I've only had a chance to peek just a wee few times.

I received my copy of "the book" from Alex, too, but for now could only tuck it in a very special place until I can sit down with it. I just was able to peek a little bit and besides the cover which is breathtaking, the words from Mrs. Jackson and Dr. Richardson are just so profound . . . their love for Barbaro, and how they still miss him, what they thought of him . . . THANK YOU, ALEX, for this treasure!

DEBBIE LA - Bless you girl for hosting our ALEX, how wonderful that was!! Did LEE & BAM BAM get to visit with Uncle Alex, too?? :)

MARGIE NM - Bless you, Margie, I was wondering where you might be. I am so sorry you've had some very trying first months of this year.
Regarding the job, MARGIE, who you are and that you held your ground for the four-leggeds well that just reminds me of what a fine person you are in my book!! Prayers and hugs for you for a much better spring to come. Many hugs your way! XXXXXXXX

Regarding BAILEY, well I just could say a few more things here, too, that just wouldn't be fit, but X$%#!! I still can't believe this, and what is that saying, "Hell hath no fury . . .", something like that.
My heart so goes out to BAILEY and her family, this is a sin through and through.

I'm behind in e-mails again, but always with each and all of you in spirit - you are truly all "simply the best", always! Love you so much!

Hugs, peace, and prayers always especially for those walking the rugged path . . . .
always, Lou Ann

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann. 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.............................................
...................................................Your Glowing Wings Of Love.......................
...................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And
Your Angel Mother Annie And Your Angel Dad Louie..
..................................................
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Good Morning Gang. It is springtime here in the Rockies, and that means one thing - wind! They are forecasting 40 mph sustained winds with 50-70 mph gusts until 8 pm. I've got plenty of roof repair supplies just in case...........

Thank you for your kindness, Lou Ann. At the job, I did nothing more than any of us FOBs wouldn't have done for the 4 leggeds. I am but one in a long line that have been pushed out of that place because they saw a wrong and it went against their grain.

We must always be vigilant. Keep going, and keep your wigs and toupees glued down tight if you are here in the west.

Morning, Everyone....SUNDAY MORNING:)

Margieeeeee...me too! Good for you and I just know things will all go right for you, Margie, because I just DO! :)

Did anyone here see *ALEX* y'day on the HRTV interview?! OMGosh, Family! He made me so PROUD and he did such a good job of being CALM and PROFESSIONAL...standing there with his BOOK and his HAT and his SMILE, answering questions put to him in a most self-assured manner:) Just made me want to jump through the TV screen and HUG HIM!:)
I kept thinking of you, Debbie:) as his host for a few days...and it makes me so pleased for you and yours, I can hardly stand it! :)

Today on HRTV at 8:30 eastern and 5:30 pacific, there's the 1/2 hour special all about Barbaro..my DVR is set to record and I'll be in front of my TV on the edge of my seat watching, too! I hope everyone can have the same opportunity to view!

The weather here got cooler y'day...and stayed cooler..cloudy all day, no need for a sweater though, and no raindrops fell, either. Today it's sunny and clear and only forecast to be 67 in my area..and I am srsly happy about that:) Tomorrow a bit warmer, but then for the rest of the week upper 60's...I need a 'gradual' warm-up these days....we've got all summer long for HOT weather...gradual warming is always a good thing:)

I hope everyone has a great day today...I'm doing a bit of housekeeping and laundry here...will have Golf on as I heard from a friend last evening that *PHILLY-MICK* ended yesterday in the LEAD! Wheeeee:) and the *GIANTS* won y'day, too!! All's good in my world right now..in the sports world anyway:)

Lucy and Seymoure are both doing just 'dine&fandy' I'm happy to report and so is my daughter...we're still enjoying 'hanging/bumming' together, it's been so wonderful having her here with me and the furkids for this 'extended' visit time:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Hey there you good folks ,

Just dropping in on the warm , sunny Sunday ( where I am at least ) to say hi , and I hope you have a great Florida Derby Day !

It's a big day for racing today , because in the Florida Derby the great horses Dialed In and Soldat are going to meet ! And another horse , To Honor and Serve ( these names ! ) ahem , To Honor and Serve has a chance to beat them both perhaps ...

and then there's this beauty named Bowman's Causeway that's 20 to 1 and no one is giving him a chance but I think I saw something special in him so I want to see how he does -- my long-shot I guess ...
I wish them all to come home safely , safe home , and may the best horse win ...

This is the first Kentucky Derby trial of the season and it's so exciting ... we might get a winner no one expects and you know the winner will be in the KD , so it's all fun ...

I don't get it on tv , so gotta find something on the computer . I think the race is around 5:40 pm or so ...
speaking of great horses , I today framed and hung the beautiful photo the NY photographer sent me of Rachel the Great. It is one he took last year at Saratoga and is wonderful. I emailed him and he sent it , he sent it , yay ! A beautiful copy -- going right on my Rachel wall by my desk.

See you fine folks later , have a great Sunday .
Bye now ,

Well -
Dialed In won the Fla. Derby , Shackleford ? was second , and To Honor and Serve third.

Soldat - perhaps the fastest horse , didn't run well today , I don't know why. I'm hoping nothing is wrong and waiting to see what his connections say.

Dialed In ran it in 1.50.7 - one minute , fifty seconds and point 7 of another sec.

I went back to YouTube to watch Barbaro's Florida Derby , because I know this was the race that made Barbaro a man , as they say. He had never been so challenged as he was in this race.

Sharp Humor was a great and fast horse , fierce in his stallion heart and he was on the lead.
Barbaro came up in second , on the outside . He challenged Sharp Humor and they ran head and head, neck and neck for a short while -

then Sharp Humor put his head in front - he would not give in or up -
I think Barbaro was stunned . He ran a few paces with Sharp Humor's nose in front , then Barbaro came again ...
Pounding and straining they came down the stretch, then Barbaro put his head in front ...
then Barbaro gained more ... and he won.
They say that fight made him a man and perhaps it did. But he was a pretty good man before it ...
and kudos to Sharp Humor - a great horse in his own right.
What a race - you ought to go watch it.

Dialed In's time today was 1 min , 50 secs, and point 7 of another sec. as I said earlier.

Barbaro's time was 1 min , 49 secs , and point 1 ,
Barbaro was over a second faster ,
2006 . I'll never forget .

Hiya, FsOB! I had an odd feeling that the Florida Derby was imminent and it seems that I was right. My thanks to Bobbie B. for posting the news about the outcome of the race and if you might post any news available re. Soldat, I'd be very grateful. Was Uncle Mo not entered in the race?

I am beside myself reading about Bailey. How absolutely outrageous!

We don't get HRTV on our cable network. I would have loved to have seen Alex's interview there.

Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: May the new week bring you sunshine & rainbows!
To Margie in NM: I am sorry that you encountered such an unjustified occurrence pertaining to your employment. Any workplace would be fortunate to have you, Margie.
To Carleen: I can commiserate about the feelings that you are facing as the one-year mark occurs since Bud's passing. April 12th will mark the day that my first Husky passed away, back in 1994. It was as though a piece of my heart broke & slipped away. Bud was lucky to have you as his "human Mum".
To Debbie LA: Yes, that brass doorplate would be just the thing! Brent got a kick out of hearing about Alex's visit to lower Alabama.
To Judy: Thanks, we've had wind this weekend, and today was much sunnier than Saturday was.
A belated happy birthday to The Dancing Queen: Zenyatta Mondatta! ####

Dear Ones:

Am chatting with Jake Levin (Picidae19) on Facebook right now. He's just told me he's heading back to Maine for Grad School...and if all goes well, he'll resume the 1/29 broadcasts...he wanted me to tell the FOB's that this is in the works. I'll update you as he gets the details worked out.

All Love
Padme A'Tea

Best horse race I have seen

Barbaro Florida Derby

Thanks Robyn!

Champion

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot
So...................................................................................................You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And
Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
....................................................................................................

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

Affirmed

Robyn , Uncle Mo ran a couple weeks ago and will run , I think it's this Saturday, in the Wood. It will be a small race - because , in my opinion ;)
all of them are trying to dodge Mo ! I don't blame them ......

DebbieLA , I loved the best horse race. Although how that was filmed I cannot imagine. I know it was done by a computer and photography but that's as far as I can think !

And thanks again Debbie , for the link to our colt's Florida Derby. Didn't he run that race !!
bye now,

Hiya, FsOB! I am running very late on this overcast & rainy Monday morning. The rain is tappimg an incessant beat on the rooftop. Wish that I could go back to sleep, but "no can do". Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Thanking you for your rainbow-filled good wishes.
To Padme: Please let us know more about Jake's 01/29 broadcasts, OK? ####

##Good morning all. It is a very soggy gray day here in rain and of all things snow. Yesterday we had 15c by nightfall we had an inch of snow on the ground. Fortunately it has been raining since and even a few thunderclaps. It really is topsy turvey here for sure.
##Margie NM, I'm sorry that this year has not started well for you. I'm so proud of you standing your ground with people who just don't get it. I know something will come up down the road for you. Like Lynne, just 'cause.
##LouAnn, I hope you can slow down a bit but I know that the year is coming to a close and it's a busy time. I will be doing my trek to go and get my son next week. His final exam is next Friday. Where did the time go?
##Lynne, happy to hear that Lucy and Seymoure and happily enjoying life and you're have a wonderful time with your daughter.
##Robyn, I hope you don't get this storm, full of surprises it has. Have a good week.
##Woodbine opened on the weekend and the weather was decent for a change. I'm hoping to get over there soon to get Alex's book and see a bit of racing too!

Have a good week and a safe day everyone.

Judy

Morning, Everyone....

It's another Monday morning...Holy Cromoly! :)

Judy & Robyn: Our weather here is not rainy/snowy/windy..it's clear and the sun is up and the hills are 'alive' with all sorts of shades of 'new green'...it's beautiful here, I wish you could come hang with us today:)

Phil Mickelson WON yesterday!!! :) Next weekend, the *MASTERS* and I know he's hoping for another of those coveted 'green jackets' and I'm hoping for him, too:) Augusta's golf course in the Spring is like 'Fairy Land' with the azaleas and rhododendrons (had to look that one up for proper spelling!!) and dogwoods...the colors are incredible! Such a beautiful course...and the golf is good, too:)

I got to watch the Barbaro Special last evening on HRTV...of course it made me cry..watching our Boy doing his thing on the different tracks they had footage of..and Edgar and Peter and Michael and Mr. & Mrs. Jackson, too...and then, Dr. Dean and lest I forget our Alex (who has the softest voice!)...there was film footage of the fence with all the signs made with loving care and so much hope for a good outcome for Barbaro. I thought it was well done...and am glad I could watch it. We, none of us, will ever be the same as we were 'before Barbaro'....

It's beginning to be time again for me to consider buying stock in the C&H Sugar company! :) The Hummer activity, nectar consumption is 'on the rise' here, Family! I've always got at least one of them all year 'round....but for the past week and a half, the nectar is disappearing quicker and quicker...I don't know if this will be another '10 of them' all at the same time but I do know I need to add sugar to my shopping list:)

Part of my 'to-do' list for today includes getting out the wind chimes and hanging them up..and I've got a couple of flower tins which hang by front/back door...I think it's safe to hang them out now, too:) I've got 'silk' flowers in those...too early here to plant the Vinca or any other variety of summer flowers as we are notorious for freezes and or snow up to Mother's Day weekend here in these foothills:)

Here's our Joe for Monday:

Monday, April 4th... Last week I told you about Honor Our Flag, who we called Honor. Adopted as a companion, Honor is now best friends with a gelding who earned almost one million dollars as a race horse. Honor enjoys green grass, daily apples, rolling in sand, and country music on her barn radio. I am showing you a picture of Honor Our Flag below, Top Left.

In the same neighborhood, just south of Sacramento. Honor looks down the street and says hello to Turn The Corner, who also came from our ranch. Her name is now Corny, and her owner is a teen girl who makes incredible nachos. Four kinds of cheese, grilled lime chicken, with chips always fried. Corny began jumping last summer, and later this spring she competes for the first time. Corny loves peanut butter sandwiches, long naps, a cat named Doug, and Black Eyed Peas on her barn cd player. I am showing you a picture of Turn The Corner, below Top Right.

Less than a mile away, in a beautiful park like setting. El Prados Boy, now called Pratt, also came from our ranch. Owned by a college student, Pratt can jump over the moon. Last summer the student was offered a huge sum of money for Pratt. The student said no, she loves Pratt like crazy, and cannot imagine life without him. Pratt prefers country music on his barn radio. He loves peppermints, a goat named Buck, rolling in mud, and chasing after a big red ball. I am showing you a picture of El Prados Boy, below Bottom Left.

On the next street, one mile away. Sergeant Pepper, now called Peepers, also came from our ranch. Owned by a teen girl who works summers as a camp counselor, Peepers lives in a barn with his favorite gal, a morgan mare named Venus. Peepers loves long trail rides, fancy baby carrots, glazed doughnuts, a little girl from across the street, and usually Katy Perry on his barn cd player. I am showing you a picture of Sergeant Pepper, below Bottom Right.

Four horses, all from Tb Friends, within two miles of each other. There is a boarding stable in Davis, with five of our former horses. Another tale (or tail) for another day.

It is Monday, and chores are forever. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Yummy warm pastry made by Costco. Later we could be a perfect 75 degrees. Enjoy your still searching for our first fly Monday, and be sure to hug your horses. Mac Davis on the oldies station...

Joe
##

And...the link to our Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Monday! :)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

##

OMYGOSH, FAMILY!!! :)

I gotz *TURKEYS*!!! Three of 'em! All HUGE Toms! I've been hearing turkeys for a few days and could tell they were close by...and just now, out back on my porch, I heard them SRSLY CLOSE and looked up to see all three in the middle of the street just down from my house:) They are by now, making their way...ever so cautiously and carefully, across the canyon just off my backyard!! Wheeeee!!

About five years ago, we had a resident Hen who I named *EDNA*:) Edna had FIVE babies...and she took GOOD care of her brood, too:) I've got, somewhere in this house, a photo of *EDNA* having a nap on top of my back gate! Edna slept in a tree in the canyon somewhere down around the curve from me...and each night she and those five babes would walk down the road and one at a time they'd fly up into the tree for the night. In the mornings, they'd all come walking up the road and Edna and those babies would each fly over my fence and walk through the yard eating things..bugs I guess and stray sunflower seeds too, no doubt. Up over the back fence they'd go and off they went:) There's a neighbor cat who is GINORMOUS and quite the 'boss of the hood' but when he'd see those Turkeys coming...he'd DISAPPEAR in a big way!! LOL! He was afraid of Edna and her kids, too!

My hope is that these three Toms find some 'girlfriends' and maybe...just maybe, we'll have a bunch of little 'toikles' running here/there/everywhere by summer:) It's so FUN living here in the 'rural boonies' of my County:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Morning yall, just -- it's almost noon !

I saw an advertisement by the New York Racing Association that brags ' Uncle Mo is coming to town ! '
That would be the Wood , Sat. April 9 .
I can't wait to see him run . I don't know really if he is a super - horse , or just super - hyped , but we'll see in the upcoming season. Good luck to Mo and his connections - and most of all , safety.
Bye now,

Lynne, every once in awhile I'll see a turkey or two on our dirt road as I'm going home in the afternoon. A few times, the crazy bird ran straight down the middle of the road, long legs going as fast as they could. I slowed way down. Poor Mr. Turkey was looking for THE perfect spot to veer off into the woods. I'm in my car sayin' "just pick a spot, ya big goof". I imagined him hollering "the sky is falling , the sky is falling, help, help!" as he frantically ran ahead of me! Years ago, my husband saw a Florida panther cross our dirt road. So, I had panthers on the brain. Looked out across our field and saw movement - stealthy movement making its way across the field, partially out of full view. All I could see was the top of its head. Grabbed my binoculars and ran outside to climb up on something high enough to see over the dip in the horizon, certain we had a panther close to the house. Well, you guessed it, they were turkeys! "Stealthily" making their way across the field! LOL

###
Looks like rough weather is heading to parts of the country...please everyone be safe...and for our horses and furbabies too.

###
Have you called, faxed, email...have you went over to the db and looked and see if you can help...there is also a section asking folks to sign petition to stop roundup on our wild mustangs too.

###
Good Afternoon Alex.

###
Please light candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

Margie in NM, I am sorry you lost your job but you did what is right for the dogs. The last few years I taught I worked in the summers for a dog kennel. The woman who owned the kennel always put the good of the dogs first in every situation. If a customer drove up in a pickup with a dog in the back loose. She always said, "Dont care much for your dog do you"? They always left their do anyway but th next time the dog was always in a crate in the back of the pickup. At her funeral there were letters from the Texas gov and several U.S. congressmen thanking her for her work with seeing eye dogs, etc. I like to think of her now at The Rainbow Bridge welcoming new arrivals.

:) Linda, NWFLA!! ROFLOL! I can't help it:) Love your stories, Linda:)

I spoke with a neighbor about those turkeys this early morning...apparently, there are a number of older Toms who have got quite the 'harem' of lady turkeys all to themselves in another end of the neighborhood...the young Toms this morning, though quite large are young...and so, the poor fellas are left on their own to find other lady turkeys to wooo...I do hope they find some and not just one poor girl...but a bunch of them:)

Sandra....I like very much, the picture you've got in your mind of your friend welcoming the newbies to the Bridge:) How lovely a job would THAT be, I ask you!

I'm fiddling around a little bit now, outdoors...got the wind chimes in place and the flower tins...my neighbor is here weedeating for me...and soon, he'll spray them so they don't return again until next Spring, when it all begins again...:/

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Sandra, the owner of the kennel where I worked would never have taken the side of the dog's safety like your previous employer did. Never. In my 3 years working there, I saw a lot of things that customers did to their dogs right in front of us and no one would, or could, say a word. In the end, what I stood up for was within the kennel, and a standard practice used by some kennel workers, and the owner.

But the customers also did things that I had a lot of trouble with. And I lost many a night's sleep. The biggest offenders were the older men and women with big, active dogs, like Labs a GSDs. These older folks have trouble handling the bigger googies, and often times the dog would get body slammed to the floor in an attempt to quiet them. Or one woman raised her arm and clenched fist completely up in the air, and lowered the arm quickly into a crashing blow to the dog's upper spine. And I could see that Oso, the black lab, took this in his stride. Most nights I came home from that place hating people.

Why do elderly people want big googies anyway?

His was a great story

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot
So................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
....................................................Your Glowing Wings Of Love......................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And
Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

MargieinNM ,

I'm so sorry that you had to witness the things you did . It must have been so hard - still you were there doing good for the doggies and that means a lot . When you don't own the place , there is a weight of powerlessness that weighs you down when you see unjustness or other occurrences.
My heart goes out to you , and I know you did the right thing fren.

Hiya, FsOB! My thanks to Bobbie B. for the news that Uncle Mo is anticipated to run in the Wood Memorial on 04/09/11. Perhaps he is hyped, I need to go onto the Paulick Report's blog for more info.

How exciting that Alex's book has reached the United Kingdom! Alex, this must be a thrill for your extended family, former neighbours, and school mates.

And now to share my exciting news! A proclamation arrived from the Commonwealth of Kentucky this past weekend. Yes, I was inducted into the Order of the Kentucky Colonels. Truly an honour! Wishing all here ACN, Robyn

#### To Dee: Many thanks!
To Judy: Yes, time does fly, doesn't it? Kudos to your son as he finishes his school term. My step-daughter will graduate from the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbour, Maine, this June.
To Lynne B: Don't you love Phil Mickelson? I tell Brent all the time that Tiger Woods persists in losing for a very good reason. Because almost every woman on the planet keeps putting a hex on 'Le Tigre', ha! Ha!
To Linda in NW FLA: Turkeys proliferated in my former community over the 19 years that I lived there. What odd creatures, they move so slowly and seem to be highly social, almost pack-like. There literally was a path that the turkeys took from where I lived, to go across the street to the neighbours' yard. Very funny to watch them cross the road at their own sweet (slow) speed.
To Sandra: What a great woman you worked for at that kennel.
To Margie: I keep telling myself to make sure that if I live to be old that I know when I can no longer care for a Husky safely. ####

Hiya, FsOB! It is a "Lost in Fog" or else an incipient nor'easter storm sort of grey morning here on the banks of the Thames. The other side of the river is occluded by fog, which is hovering over the river's surface. The wind is howling, the wavelets are heading upriver, and the fog horns can be heard intermittently.

Wishing everyone a safe & productive Tuesday! Alex, please enjoy safe travels if you are on the road on the Eastern Seaboard today. Peace, Robyn

#### To Nancy, Renee, Elisabeth, & Jane: Congrats on UCONN's win last PM. I must admit that whilst I am a fan of Coach Geno's UCONN team, I am not one of Coach Jim's. I have to always root for the men's team at Louisville. But congrats once again! ####

Good morning all. A windy morning here with the clouds scudding across the morning sky.
##Robyn, big congratulations on your induction to the Order of Kentucky Colonels. You must be thrilled.
##Margie NM, my heart goes out to you for having to deal with people who do not have respect for animals. I am truly amazed that it's elderly people too. My hat goes off to you that you stood for what was right but had to lose your job for it. That just is not fair or moral in my opinion.
###Linda NWFLA, just loved the turkey story.

Have a safe and warm day everyone.

Judy

Good Morning Famblee,
Thought yole would like this. A little boy's dog kept him warm and safe while he was lost for awhile. Our animals sure do love us! Here's the link:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_missing_boy_dog

No Horse left behind or EVER Forgotten!

Congratulations, Robyn, on your honor. You must feel wonderful to be recognized by the Colonels.
To everyone else, I love to read how Spring is affecting you in your part of the country.
Thank you for your posts.

Joe at TB Friends

Morning, Everyone....

Lee: The dog/little boy story was very nice, indeed:) How frightening for his parents, for him to go missing and even with helicopters and people searching, not to be discovered until the next day! Those parents need to put security locks inside the doors of their home to keep that child inside where he belongs! Thank God the dog went along with the little boy.

When our daughter was about a year and a half old, we woke one morning to discover she was missing from the house...as I recall, it might have been around 7:30a...our son was still sleeping but daughter was nowhere to be found! It was scary, to say the very least! We called and searched for what seemed like hours but really, just minutes and our phone rang....she'd climbed from her crib and decided to go next door to visit the neighbors and their two children...who were eating pancakes for breakfast so they fixed her a plate of pancakes and that's where she was!

OMG! First of all, I felt like the WORST mother in the WORLD that morning! I went next door to collect her and thank them profusely for feeding her breakfast and when I got back home, I suggested to my then husband, "we need locks she can't undo on the doors in this house!" Fortunately, she hadn't gone far and fortunately our neighborhood was safe as far as the roads not being so busy were concerned. She'd apparently gotten up and saw we were all asleep, still, so let herself out the slider which led to the backyard and took off for her friend's house, next door! OY!

A trip to the local hardware store took place that day and a security lock was installed on the sliding glass door from the kitchen to the great outdoors along with one of those little 'flip-locks' for the front door...and after that, the little adventuresome dolly never escaped the house again! What a morning that was and it just lasted less than 10 minutes, I cannot imagine the parents of the little boy enduring hours on end not knowing where their toddler was:(

Judy and Robyn: I'm so sorry for your weather this morning, once again I find myself suggesting yole come on out here in the westwing...skies are mostly clear, sun is shining and it is forecast to be in the upper-60's today:)

I didn't hear the turkeys this morning...maybe they've given up finding girlfriends here and moved on:(

Here's Joe for today....

Tuesday, April 5th... Sammi is loved by everyone, and daily there are letters asking how she is doing? Not good. Sammi is near the end. Her pain constant, so Sammi must be given strong medication. She spends much of her time sleeping. This weekend is Sammi's birthday. A big party in Woodland. Celebrating life. A reminder of what is most important.

Spring seems to be here. Wasps appear like magic. Birds hard at work with new nests. Hairy horses shedding their coats. Weeds, blossoms, cleaning the garage, scrubbing the barbecue. Old mares romancing young geldings. Next to Christmas, my favorite time of year. You can almost hear the umpire yelling Play Ball!

And on the phone a race horse trainer asks if Tb Friends has room for another horse. In a recent race the older gelding finished 2nd, losing by a long nose. Past the finish line he injured himself, and had to be vanned off. A hard tryer. A huge heart. He wanted badly to win.

The gelding will remain at the race track until he is comfortable enough to travel. Then he makes the long walk up our driveway. Rehab should only take a few months. Usually 95.3 FM on our yard radio. Songs from today and yesterday.

Through it all. The hard trying injured gelding, rehab, weeds, fleeing angry wasps, imagining those amazing smells from a baseball park. No matter the daily life. All we think about is Sammi. All we talk about is Sammi. The million different ways she has affected us.

It is not as if we are great buddies. We have never gone for pizza. A person you hardly know dictates your daily thoughts. From a distance, Sammi has taught me a ton. Fighting the fight. Always with that big smile. No other person has taught me more.

Hungry horses wondering where is that old guy with food? Later we could be 73 degrees. Mud boots put away until next year...

Joe
##

Godspeed, Sammi...

and...the link to our Whitehouse:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Tuesday...sorry if your weather isn't so 'Spring like'...better days are coming..hang in there.

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Colonel Hoffman , I concur with your congratulations to UCONN .

While my heart is Tar Heel blue , I congratulate any team who can win this tourney ... so I send my best to all UCONN fans and send congratulations on the win and the great year and great team !
And Butler ! Wow , you're great also - hang in there. Second in the nation ain't so bad guys.

It's like Shackleford in the Fla. Derby - he ran his heart out -- Dialed In only beat him by a whisker in a photo finish - so way to go Shackleford , good boy.

Now , Dialed In is taking the publicity hype away from Mo , lol ,
There are sportswriters saying that Dialed In can beat Uncle Mo . I don't know what they're smoking, but they need to quit , lol ,

But Dialed In does have that 'come from behind' kick in the deep stretch and Mo will have to run some to fend him off ! Dialed In is literally flying when he hits his stride late , so if ...

horses can have bad days ... so if Mo were not to run well or get bad placement and position in the race , it's just posssssible ... I guess that's racin' folks ... God bless them all with health and safety .

Please email the President to stop transportation to slaughter ... he co-sponsored the Prevention of Cruelty to Equines bill in the Senate , so he should be in favor of stopping slaughter ... at least let's keep asking him ...

Have a nice day , or make it one if you have to , and bye now ,

You peeples know that I'm referring to the Kentucky Derby --- above , when I'm talking about Dialed In meeting Uncle Mo -- I didn't say so -- but you know it's the biggie all the preps are looking to...

We have bright sunshine and 58* right now , before noon -- but it was over 80* yesterday , with a beaming and beautiful Sol over us --
but we had bad storms during the night - wind something fierce !

A limb or two is down in our yard and the news said Charlotte is full of downed trees ... I have tole yall and tole yall about the violence of spring storms here ... but overall ... it's enjoyable in most all ways ...my fave place and heart - home - .

###God Bless little Sammi, May He take her gently in the night and free of the shackles of earth.
###Poor Joe, the weight of all the troubles on his shoulders. May God ease his weariness.
##Lynne, thank you for sharing Spring. I know it's not far but sometimes it's a long long way off....., but when I read about Sammi and Joe, I'll be thankful for what we have.
##I forgot to congratulate Nicanor for his safe trip home to take 4th place I believe. Talk is that maybe the jockey Mike Matz is using is just not the right fit. Anyway, he came home safe to run another day.

Also Lynne, I agree raising kids is not for the faint of heart.

Judy

Good morning to you Judy , and I hope spring is on its way to you ...

FRENS ,

Oil is in a super - spike , right now , and ... running up the price of barrels very quickly and higher and higher ...
If you need gas for your car , try to get it now, early today if you can ... this will hit the stations very soon ....

Morning all,

I've been reading about Sammi on the Caring Bridge site. Her mom, Tina writes a journal much like little Erin's mom did for her. This week-end is her 16th Birthday....Lots of prayers for Sammi, her family and all those wonderful folks who help them.

I want you all to have a grand day, whatever it is you do and enjoy life in tribute to Sammi.

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S WONDERFUL FAMILY!!!)))

oxox
carleen in ca

Something a little different. Kinda neat.

Copy and paste the link.

Horse dreams dashed, German teen turns to cow

http://photoblog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/04/05/6410491-the-cow-jumped-over-the

##Good morning to you too BobbieB. Are you enjoying nice weather. We are experiencing very high prices at the pumps right now. Had a 5 cent/litre jump the other day and they are predicting even higher. Plus, the banks here are raising their mortgage rates. Plus the cost of food is to rise by 5% this month. And so it goes, and guess who is going to suffer even more, yep, the horses and the fur kids. It's never ending isn't it?

Enough doom and gloom. May you enjoy your sunshine and birds singing and warm breezes whereever they are.

Judy

###
just wanted my family to know...that our dear FOB...Fran...her mom just passed away...

please have Fran and her family in prayers...

Ernie Paragallo is going back to jail

Dearest Fran and family,

I'm so sorry for your loss...I'd like to think that my mom was there to greet your mom with a HUG
and maybe a cup of tea or coffee to welcome her.

Please take care and know we are all here for you.

oxoxox
carleen in ca

Prayer's for Fran and her family.

Mommy and doggy reunite after a year

Dog crys, so sweet!

Carleen can you please post the address for Sammi's Caring Bridge. I have been following her story on TBFriends and would love to write a note to her family. Thanks, Janice

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So............................................
..................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! How exciting that Alex was permitted to have a book-signing event at New Bolton Centre - such a focal point in the legacy of Barbaro. And now Alex is preparing to go to Keeneland for the weekend. That track is, in my opinion, the most beautiful one that I have ever seen. It beats out Churchill Downs and Aqueduct "by a nose". How's that for a veritable Triple Crown? Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne B. & Carleen: I hope that young Sammi can be granted the chance to enjoy her 16th birthday surrounded by loving family & friends. When I was a visiting nurse, it was always obvious that many folks who were terminally ill could somehow manage to reach a desired milestone. May Sammi reach hers and may she do so pain-free. Here's to a world where cancer will be eliminated, especially pediatric cancers.
To Lynne B.: Brent would love to become a "West Winger", but I am a Right Coast sort of girl.
To Evy: Bless you for your kind words! I do enjoy living in a clime with four seasons, although this past Winter was rather an extreme one.
To Judy: Thank you as well for your kind words re. the "colonelship". I stopped for gasoline again tonight and it cost four cents (US) more than it did 24 hours earlier. To quote our late FOB CJ: "Oy, veh!"
To Debbie LA: Wow, that was some news about Ernie P. Do you think it really will happen?
To Janicek56: Welcome, how nice to see you here! Are you by any chance our FOB who moved from FLA to PA last year?
To Joan R.: May the Mother of our FOB Fran rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon her. ####

Hiya, FsOB! How exciting that Alex was permitted to have a book-signing event at New Bolton Centre - such a focal point in the legacy of Barbaro. And now Alex is preparing to go to Keeneland for the weekend. That track is, in my opinion, the most beautiful one that I have ever seen. It beats out Churchill Downs and Aqueduct "by a nose". How's that for a veritable Triple Crown? Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne B. & Carleen: I hope that young Sammi can be granted the chance to enjoy her 16th birthday surrounded by loving family & friends. When I was a visiting nurse, it was always obvious that many folks who were terminally ill could somehow manage to reach a desired milestone. May Sammi reach hers and may she do so pain-free. Here's to a world where cancer will be eliminated, especially pediatric cancers.
To Lynne B.: Brent would love to become a "West Winger", but I am a Right Coast sort of girl.
To Evy: Bless you for your kind words! I do enjoy living in a clime with four seasons, although this past Winter was rather an extreme one.
To Judy: Thank you as well for your kind words re. the "colonelship". I stopped for gasoline again tonight and it cost four cents (US) more than it did 24 hours earlier. To quote our late FOB CJ: "Oy, veh!"
To Debbie LA: Wow, that was some news about Ernie P. Do you think it really will happen?
To Janicek56: Welcome, how nice to see you here! Are you by any chance our FOB who moved from FLA to PA last year?
To Joan R.: May the Mother of our FOB Fran rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon her. ####

Hiya, FsOB! How exciting that Alex was permitted to have a book-signing event at New Bolton Centre - such a focal point in the legacy of Barbaro. And now Alex is preparing to go to Keeneland for the weekend. That track is, in my opinion, the most beautiful one that I have ever seen. It beats out Churchill Downs and Aqueduct "by a nose". How's that for a veritable Triple Crown? Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne B. & Carleen: I hope that young Sammi can be granted the chance to enjoy her 16th birthday surrounded by loving family & friends. When I was a visiting nurse, it was always obvious that many folks who were terminally ill could somehow manage to reach a desired milestone. May Sammi reach hers and may she do so pain-free. Here's to a world where cancer will be eliminated, especially pediatric cancers.
To Lynne B.: Brent would love to become a "West Winger", but I am a Right Coast sort of girl.
To Evy: Bless you for your kind words! I do enjoy living in a clime with four seasons, although this past Winter was rather an extreme one.
To Judy: Thank you as well for your kind words re. the "colonelship". I stopped for gasoline again tonight and it cost four cents (US) more than it did 24 hours earlier. To quote our late FOB CJ: "Oy, veh!"
To Debbie LA: Wow, that was some news about Ernie P. Do you think it really will happen?
To Janicek56: Welcome, how nice to see you here! Are you by any chance our FOB who moved from FLA to PA last year?
To Joan R.: May the Mother of our FOB Fran rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon her. ####

Yikes, mea culpa for the weird triple posting!

####

Good evening FOB'....We in Ct are celebrating the men's win UCONN, quite an accomplishment.....I often see Geno (the women's coach and sometimes Jim Calhoun) at Rein's deli where I go each morning for my little sojurn before my day's work at my kennel...an honor got out State....a gloomy rainy day here again, will Spring ever come?? Busy with puppies galore at my house, but a loving devorion and many exciting families getting them soon........but much work.....hope everyone walking a tough road may find solace and wishing everyone an ACN.....goodnight Dear Dee, miss you......

Hiya, FsOB! I am pleased to report that an opalescent turquoise and pink sky greets my eyes this morning. Hallelujah to not arise to another grey & rainy day! As the sun rises from behind our house, the rays cast bright light in a westward direction, to glint off the windows of buildings on the opposite side of the Thames.

Alex, I hope that you are able to get some rest before embarking for central Kentucky. Your drive from Maryland should be a memorably lovely one, as only Springtime in Kentucky can be. Peace, Robyn

###Good morning all. A bright blue sky with beautiful sunshine greets the day here.
##Robyn, Kentucky has always been one of my favourite states. I remember doing a school project in elementary school (long long time ago)about one of the states and of course I chose Kentucky because of my love of horses. I haven't been there yet but I do have a cousin who lives around Lexington, so one day.
##Prayers for Sammi today that she is resting comfortably.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

####
Robyn, Paragallo needs jail time. But I don't think it will happen.
Alex you need to rest up!
Prayers for Sammi and her family. 16 years old, sometime life seam so unfair.

Morning, Everyone....

Wednesday ALREADY...Good Grief, Charley Brown:)

Clear here this morning and mild, too..though we are forecast for 'maybe' rain tomorrow..and for certain COLDER air over us...snow will fly 'up-country' they say, too! Typical Spring weather for us..muk-luks one day and flip-flops the next...it will settle eventually though, I am sure of that:)

Here's Joe for today...Sweet Sammi...White Light all around you and peace/comfort as you continue your journey...

Wednesday, April 6th... Tb Friends website was off the air last night. Something called Server Maintenance. I was thinking it would be later today before the website returned. So I made plans to leave the house early. Employment at another ranch, where the big bucks are earned. Saving for new tennis shoes, because little puppy Duncan ate my old pair.

The website is back up (the crowd moans) which means I can tell you there were more than 200 letters and phone calls yesterday. And a few more inquiries on Facebook. Who is Sammi? Please explain about Sammi. Can you show her picture?

With my daily blab, I jump into a subject and neglect new readers. E-mails ask what the heck am I talking about?

Sammi is a kid who, since last summer, has been a major influence in our lives. There are 4 big tumors in her lungs. She also has cancer in her bones. A more gentle kid you will never meet. Sammi always wears a smile.

For you new readers, a fund raiser was held last year for Sammi and her family. More than a thousand people showed up. Big time money was raised. Sammi wants to die at home. Hospice nurses are taking care of her. The photo below is Sammi at the fund raiser.

I will return early tomorrow morning, to share with you life from a horse rescue ranch in Woodland. They say it is going to get cold again. Horses who have lost their coats are wondering what is going on?

Joe
##

There's no answers for why children don't outlive their parents:( Sometimes in this life we just have to keep the faith. I, for one, want those answers someday when hopefully, I get to Heaven...or, who knows Family, by the time we're there, maybe the answers are no longer important to us.

Here's the link to our Whitehouse, where hopefully those powers that be can put politics aside and work for the good of this country as time ticks and a possible government shut-down looms:/

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Gasoline here in the foothills...where it's ALWAYS more expensive because 'we must have it trucked in'...:/ was $4.08 a gallon for regular unleaded yesterday and it's not even Memorial Day Weekend yet:-O However, I keep reminding myself, I don't live in Japan...It just sickens me, thinking of all that radio active water being dumped into the ocean there....we humans are ruining this planet, imho, and the animals, fish and birds are all suffering because of us:(

Well...this post turned a bit downward, didn't it?! On a lighter note...well, actually at this moment, I can't find a lighter note..so, I'll just finish this with a wish that yole have a 'dine&fandy' Wednesday:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Morning all...

Sunny and chilly here in San Jose. Time to bring out the ol' weed wacker and wack away those weeds.

Robyn sent the story about Luna, the jumping cow.
It brought the spirits up and gave me a laugh.
Thanks Robyn!

I'm sending prayers to Sammi and her family...
if you go to Sammi's Dream Team, you can catch up on her story. Yes, Lynne the white light is very near.

On a different note...if you go to Zenyatta News, it shows her with her birthday cake. Just enjoying her big day and sharing with her stable mates.

Well folks,it's time for one more cup of coffee and then on to the weed wacker...You know, just to much fun!!!

take care all and have a good day!

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S FANTABULOUS FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

###
how precious is life??? we hold dear to good thoughts for Sammi...but we know God's angels are near...yet alot of us take life for granted...I do.

but there are horses, dogs, cats, wildlife...that want to enjoy life....grazing in green pastures...given a doggie bone, or letting a cat purr from stroking it with love...

can we do that...famblee..

can we take time to call, fax, email..

can we take time to read the db...and help...

###
Bobbi B..and others have posted about rising costs gas, food and other commodities...but do you realize our rescues are very concern too...and they have depended on us...like we always turn to them for help...

can we spare that extra change or dollar or dollars.

###
we love you Barbaro

###
please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

pray for our country, our loving FOB family..and give a helping hand...please.

###
thank you Alex.

Good afternoon mateys ,

I'm busy today , as most of you are too ! , so just dropping by to say hi , so , Hi!

Sammi -- I hope she is surrounded by white light and love - how many times can we ask ourselves the existential questions - why do thing like this happen ? Sammi , I hope her loved ones are covered in comfort and grace ...

I wish each of you health ... and a good day -
love that Barbaro famblee ... bye now ,

Love and prayers for all in need. (((Fran)))

###My condolences to Fran's family upon the passing of her Mother. May she rest in peace.

Judy

May Fran and her family have peace and comfort in this difficult time. I send my sympathy in their loss.

Article on Alex

Where he was here, in lower Alabama! Alot of it was cute :(

Hiya, FsOB! What a great story about Alex's travels to bring his book to the people. Excellent coverage in Bay Minette, Misissippi!

I am eager to visit Zenyatta's site to view a photo of her with her birthday cake. I hope that she is receiving her daily Guinness to help restore her reproductive health following the miscarriage.

Isn't it hard to believe that Barbaro would have turned eight years old, natally speaking, on 04/29 this year? As soon as I get paid, I plan to send a teensy check to UPENN for the Laminitis Research Fund, in honour of Barbaro.

Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Debbie LA: Like you, I am dubious that Mr. Paragallo will ever serve one day of his sentence.
To Judy: Please promise me that if you ever make it to KY, that you'll let me know so that I can get you the names of some of my extended family who are still there. They are very hospitable people and they know how much I treasure Barbaro's memory and the FsOB.
To Carleen: Wasn't that story about the cow in Germany something else? So glad that you enjoyed it, Charli!
To Bobbie B: I'll never understand why children and youths like Erin Brennan and Sammi have to be stricken by cancer.
To Janice56: Please promise that you won't go back to being a lurker, OK? It is so lovely to see notes from FsOB here each day, whether the notes are from longstanding FsOB or the "newly-minted" FsOB. I am certain that Alex's book will tap into lots more folks. Isn't that exciting, Janice? ####

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Jane. 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.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe........
....................................................................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
....................................................................................................

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

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB on a grey & rainy "Friday Eve" (AKA Thursday)! I am running late, but wanted to wish each of you a safe & productive day. Alex, may your drive to Keeneland be a beautifully memorable one. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: May your day be filled with rainbows!
To Lynne B: I hope that young Sammi reaches her milestone this weekend, reaching her 16th birthday. ####

##Good morning all. Another cool morning with hues of pink and blue in the western sky as the sun made it's way onto the horizon.
##Robyn, I will certainly let you know if and when I can make that special trip.
##Debbie LA, thank you for posting that link to the article of Alex, but there you are too! You have your 5 minutes of fame in print!! And don't forget the plaque, LOL.
##Thinking of that dear girl Sammi. I hope that her 16th birthday will surround her with love and peace.
###Welcome Janice, like Robyn posted it's always good to see the old and new FOB's.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Joe at TB Friends

Morning all...

Dark, wet and cold...again! April showers bring May flowers. Something to look forward to.

Janice, if you type in "Sammi's Dream Team" in your Google, it will take you to the site for Sammi. Sorry I'm just getting back to you. I didn't read up the posts far enough.

Debbie, Thanks for sharing the article on Alex.
It's so good for Alex and all of us to share in Barbaro's legacy...

Robyn, It's fun to follow Zenyatta through her News... I do miss the excitement of her racing though...

Sandra, how's Buddy doing? I hope all is well with him.

Otherlyn, where are you? I hope you are doing well too. Mark and I take life one day at a time.
What else can we do?

Miss Dee, RAINBOW "8"s to you!!!

Lynne, I was going to ask if your squirrels and deer have visited you lately. Then we get more rain...I never did get to my weed wacking yesterday. Shame on me!!! I did pull a few by hand...

Joan...I will lite some candles for our Barbaro.
April 29th is just around the corner and it would be nice for us all to lite a few candles each day.

I'm rambling on here...sorry.

Have a good day all and take care.

(((((HUGS AND GOOD DAY WISHES TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Good Morning Frens. Rain here in the Southern Rockies Wing. Muddy googie footprints are everywhere. And it is a good thing.

Morning Everyone, from a rainy/soggy but the 'winter weather advisory has been cancelled' (means maybe 2" of snow at or above 2K feet is all) foothills of no/cal....

Happy *FRIDAY EVE*...:) Not nearly as cold as forecast right now, maybe colder air coming later on, though...but we will survive..the squirrels, four of them are all out back with tails up over their little heads....looking somewhat less than enchanted with the rain, but enjoying those seeds nonetheless:)

Here's Joe for Thursday: Glad as can be, *CASS* is with Joe now...see his pics when you're able, the boy has less than pretty feetz:(

Thursday, April 7th... Normally when a new horse arrives, we unload on the street. With horses in our yard, there are no worries about escapes. The gate stays closed. But yesterday the trailer had to park next to our house. A new gelding from the feed lot in Wilton, with sore and ugly feet. The long walk up our driveway would have been torture.

Begin at the beginning. Last week I told you about 13 year old Cassi, who once was homeless, but now she is doing great. She likes to be called Cass, and is crazy for horses. Cass has refused offers of gift cards and cash. In a letter she explains how loving horses is reward enough. Cass does not want me sharing her letter. Well okay then.

Another 13 year old girl with the name Molly. She lives in a town right next to Sacramento. I am allowed to share her letter. Here we go:

I understand Cass not wanting my money. I respect her boundaries. Still, Cass loves horses the way I love horses. Joe do you think my money could be used to rescue a thoroughbred? Would you be willing to take care of the horse if I send you $25.00 a month, which is my allowance? If you agree to this, can we name the horse Cass?

There was another paragraph, mostly about riding lessons in Davis, and sushi in Natomas. Molly says she saw a fly in Natomas. I hope it was not on her sushi.

I thought how cute. $25.00 a month? Willing to give up her allowance? All for a horse and another girl she has never met.

Molly paid the price per poundage, and shipping costs from Wilton. I told Molly to keep her allowance. Tb Friends can handle monthly expenses.

With those feet, expenses could be a doozy. Not sure about all the damage. Maybe founder, maybe navicular. We have seen much worse, and the horses have recovered. The gelding is young, which is a major plus.

There is a racing tattoo which says he is only 6. I am showing you pictures of Cass below. Easy to see, he was once a hunk.

It is Thursday, and chores are forever. Cold winds rockin our ranch. Later we could be 57 degrees. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Chocolate doughnut made by Nugget. Enjoy your will the Red Sox ever win a game Thursday, and be sure to hug your horses. Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers on the oldies station...

Joe
##

And..the link to our Whitehouse, too:

a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/CONTACT/">EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Thursday..

Margieeeee:) LOVE those muddy googie prints, YES! They ARE a good thing:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Oh, PIDDLE-PADDLE...I've left a thingy out of the mix....here:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA:)

Morning all ,

Lynne - with your piddle - paddle - you reminded me of Fiddle and Faddle - two ducks from years ago !

We bought our 3 year old daughter two little yellow ducks for Easter - knowing we'd let them go during summer when they were grown and able to feed themselves ...

She had a wonderful time with them and fed them and kept them in fresh water in the kiddie wading pool she had ... with adult help of course, lol,

We prepared her all along for letting them go free , and one day in July we did it.

We took them to a deep good branch of the Catawba River near our home , where other fowl and wildlife were ,
and with little quivering chin and watery eyes ,she let her daddy put them in the edge of the water ...

Faddle swam out about 20 feet , while Fiddle went out a few and then swam back to her , she was ankle deep ,
she patted him and told him to go and play like a real duck in deep water ...

he circled in front of her and then swam slowly to Faddle -- and the play started ...
they swam , they went under , they jumped , the happiest of ducks - absolutely glorious to see ,

We laughed and shed a tear or two ... and watched them eat bugs on the surface as they slowly swam away and out of sight ...
what a brave girl my baby was that day , and it's a poignant memory -
You brought it back with piddle paddle . We never know when what we say will resonate with someone, so.... thanks !

Alex is looking for a FOB between Nashville and Memphis TN. to stay the night with. Anyone out there?

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita And Angel Carleen. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So.............................
..................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And
Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Carleen....
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Carleen, Buddy is doing fine. Has not had another seizure. He also has not been able to escape from his yard lately. Jason has reinforced everything.

My friend who owned the kennel said. "A person has to be smarter than their dog and sometimes that is hard to do".

###BobbieB, your story of Fiddle Faddle so sweet. Yes she was a brave little girl to give them their freedom but I'm sure it gladden her heart to know that it was the right thing to do when she saw how happy they were. What a good Mom you are to teach her that life lesson.
##Rainbows to our Dee this afternoon.

Judy

Rainbows for out sweet Dee

for our sweet Dee, not out, sorry!

###

Bobbie:) I'm glad to spark a memory of such a lovely time in your past....and agree with Judy that you're a GOOD MAMA to teach your little daughter such a valuable life-lesson...I'd not have been able to do it...they'd have lived comfortably enough, but I'd have been selfish and wanted to keep them, so kudos to you and your Hunk, Bobbie:)

Debbie: If I lived in the area he sure could bunk with me and Lucy and Seymoure!! BTW: Today's episdode of Paula Deen's show..she made CRAWFISH ETOUFFEE...did I spell that 'rite'? I thought of you IMMEDIATELY, Debbie:)

I will try to see about viewing the Natn'l Geographic photos of those *RAINBOWS* for *DEE* maybe later this evening...ya know:/ dial-up does require time management/planning sometimes:/ Dee, I hope you were able to see them....:)

Been cold here today....sometimes bright 'almost' sunshine, other times snow flakes have flown, mixed with hail..the sky ranges from beautifully bright clouds to very dark. Seems to change by the minute, in fact! While in town a few hours ago, some cars had a couple inches of snow on them, others just raindrops, but I could see a dusting of snow on the close-to-town hills...I made my trips fast and got home fine! Whew!!

Hope everyone is enjoying a nice evening.

I had the nicest surprise today...an older gentleman I know called me the other day to say he'd ordered a surprise for me and I should come by to pick it up if in the area. Today, I did have errands to run so made arrangements to swing by his home.

I have told him all about *BARBARO* and Alex Brown and this website...I've told him also about Joe at TB Friends and my friends up in Cottonwood at Safe Haven Horse Rescue...also, he's been sent via email, some U-Tube links to watch *ZENYATTA* run and or do her dancing routines...Anyway, I've gotten him sort of 'fired-up' about horses:) and he was able to watch the movie, Secretariat recently...he was 'BLOWN AWAY' by Big Red:) and because I'd gotten him interested in horses, he ordered me a beautiful book..a coffee table book, Titled: *SECRETARIAT'S MEADOW* The Land - The Family - The Legend, written by Kate Chenery Tweedy and Leeanne Ladin with a Foreword by Penny Chenery...how LOVELY of him, huh? I paged through the book at his house this afternoon, it's loaded with history of the Farm and the family and all sorts of horses, too, some I recognize names of and some I don't...I will be anxious to begin reading it later this evening:) He used to ride horses years ago, with one of his daughters when she was younger. She passed away a number of years ago though, and I don't think he's thought so much about horses since then...we just never know the impact or impressions we might leave on people sometimes and I feel humbled and pleased at the same time for having all those conversations about *HORSES*:) with him!

Once again...*BARBARO* has impacted not just my life, but my friend's life too:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Good morning all. Robyn hasn't checked in yet so TGIF everyone. A cool morning here with just slivers of sunshine on the horizon through the clouds.
##Lynne, how wonderful and thoughtful of your friend to give you such a lovely book. I'm sure he enjoys your friendship very much.
##Debbie, the rainbows are beautiful. I have added it to my favourites. I hope our Miss Dee has seen them.

Have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Hiya, FsOB! I echo our FOB Judy in wishing you a grand & glorious TGIF! The sun is shining down on the banks of the Thames this morning. I predict that our daffodils in the Japanese Garden may open this weekend. The alba muscari are now fully in bloom there and the Pickwick crocuses are still looking very nice. The squirrels and cardinals have been enjoying their feast of sunflower seeds. As lovely as this view is, I am quite envious of Alex as he heads to central Kentucky today. Keeneland, and all of Kentucky, is simply magical in the Spring. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Many rainbows to you, our Resident Angel of the Barbaro Nation.
To Judy: Thank you for being our early bird this morning! Like you, I shall be hoping for Sammi to have a good birthday tomorrow.
To Bobbie: I loved your story about Fiddle & Faddle. I had some pet ducks when I was ~ 4 or 5, named Goo-Goo, Gee-Gee, & Mr. Bob. I named the latter one after my Father. When it was time, they were taken to live on the lake of a nearby large, well-fenced cemetery. That way we could visit all of the ducks from time to time. Truly a sweet memory!
To Margie: How adorable about the muddy googie prints. Your region needs rain in order to avoid drought this Summer, doesn't it?
To Carleen: Yes, Queen Z's runs were amazing, were they not? I wonder if she ever misses it? Or perhaps horses are centred fully "in the now".
To Lynne: What a thoughtful gift the gentleman has bestowed on you. And you have given him the gift of restoring horses to his life. ####

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Debbie LA. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So............................................
...................................................You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
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Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
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..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Debbie LA..................
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

All, All All All All All All All So Heartfelt Your
Sharing Rainbows With Me Angel Debbie LA..........
..................................................
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

####
Lynne, how very thoughtful of your friend, have that book, it's great. Love Big Red. And yes we just never know the impact or impressions we might leave on people.
####
Judy love rainbows too, thought of Dee when I found it!
## Carleen: Yes, Zenyatta runs were amazing!
## Bobbie: I loved your story about Fiddle & Faddle, but as Lynne I could not have let them go.
## Robyn love hearing about your Garden!
Morning Sandra and all!

####
Love rainbows...they are a beautiful sign from God...and it just uplifts me..to see one.

###
it is Friday...as alot of us know...can we take time to call, fax, email...do it for the horses please.

the economy is going to be tough...prices are sailing higher and higher...our rescues are struggling and struggling...so are we....please spare something for them...

###
read the db....and help...please

###
have a nice day.

####
thank you Alex.

####
Saturday is Peaches and Pierre's birthday...they will be 7 years old...cannot believe it...they are my babies...

Joe at TB Friends

Morning, Everyone:)

*FRIDAY* Morning...Whew! Another week almost in the books!

*COLD* here...OMG, it's so *COLD* here this morning:( While out back on the porch feeding the 'skweeerlz' and birdies earlier, the temp just 37 degrees...in APRIL?? I noticed my own 'first fly of 2011' on the table...the little fella or girl was having a 'helluva' time in the cold! Could barley even move...a time or twelve landed upside down on it's little back, even! It would have been absolutely no challenge to 'take he/she out' but I couldn't do it...do you know why? BECAUSE I THOUGHT OF JOE SHELTON SO ANXIOUSLY AWAITING HIS 'FIRST FLY OF 2011', that's why. LOL! LOL! :) I finished feeding the kidds and sat w/my coffee for a few chilly minutes watching that fly. The sun had found an opening in the clouds and the fly found a sunny spot on the table...stood there a minute or two and finally was able to take flight...I've definitely lost it, Family...I saved the life of a freaking fly this morning because of our Joe, one of America's most WONDERFUL horse warriors...I came indoors and sent him an email letting him know I spared the life of my first fly of 2011! I hope he cracked a smile over that one!

We had rain, we had snow, we had hail yesterday, we had sunshine, too...the weather didn't know which end was up or down, it didn't know what to do or how to do it! I think the forecast high here today is to be somewhere in the upper 40's-low 50's and it seems to me I've seen the last of Mr. Sun today, too:( The heater problem turned out to be the heater and NOT the thermostat!! It's quite 'chillsey' in my house today...I'm weathering it out, though...because right now, dollars are too few for a repair visit from the heater man and I just KNOW soon...?? Summer will happen and those summer months will afford me ability to put dollars away for a repair:) Muk-Luks and warm clothes...I gotz demz:) We'll all survive just 'dine&fandy':)

Here is Joe for Friday:

Friday, April 8th... There is a trainer at the race track who loves his horses. When their racing days are over, he tries to place his horse into good homes. The trainer tells me for the last 18 months, good homes have been almost impossible to find.

Sara is 15, and she lives in Vacaville. We have known Sara for 3 years. When visiting our ranch, Sara likes to spend time with Cope and Misty. Last year Sara told me about a plan she has. Getting her own ranch from a bank. She began calling bank managers. They never asked her age. Kind of silly when you think about it. A bank manager phoned Sara back two months later. Asked her how she would like to own 5 acres? A nice home with a barn for horses. No money down, just closing costs. The 5 acres had been abandoned by previous owners.

Sara was 14 at the time. Sara told the manager sure, but I am only 14. Can you hold the 5 acres for me until I graduate and get a job?

The manager's response is not suitable for this website.

Well anyway, Sara is convinced she will someday have her own horse rescue ranch. These awful times with real estate, Sara says small ranches are easy to find. And she enjoys researching properties.

What was I talking about? Oh yeah, the race horse trainer who loves his horses phoned and said he has a gray gelding who fell during a workout. The gelding is badly injured, and needs six months of rest and rehab. Can I help find the gelding a good home?

Sara was telling me how she loves gray horses. When she gets her own ranch, there will be gray horses everywhere.

I mentioned to Sara about the gray gelding who fell. The next day Sara phoned and said she and her two best friends want the gelding. The girls found a place to keep him. They now have a veterinarian, who is helping with rehab no charge. A farrier, no charge. An equine nutritionist, no charge. 96.1 FM on the barn radio. I suppose there is a charge for electricity.

The girls have named him Hottie, because his sire is Siberian Summer. And because he is hot to look at.

Yesterday on the phone Sara tells me: I love doing this rescue thing.

Oh oh. Another person hooked. Once hooked, there is no escape. Have a happy weekend. The rain gutter on our garage blew away...

Joe

Winter returned yesterday. Sure looking forward to summer:
##

And...the link to our 'on the edge of shutting down' Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Everyone have a good day today and an equally good weekend, too:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Hey everybody , I'm a little under the weather today , nothing serious , just back muscle cramps - I have the awful things occasionally --
so I'm just saying hey and hope each of you makes it a good day in your life . So see you later or tomorrow perhaps , bye now ;)

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Debbie LA And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And
Angel BeBe And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother
Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Judy And Angel
Taffy And Angel Lynne And Angel Murphy And Her Angel Daughter Michelle And Seymore And Lucy And
Angel Carleen And Angel Bobbie B. And Angel Joan
Roya And Angel Curtis And Peaches And Pierre......
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

Sorry for all your bad weather, come on down to Lower Alabama it's 84 degrees here, and the sun is out. Beach weather for sure.

Lynne yes it is Etouff'ee pur my cook book from Tony Chachere's. Going to the Wild Game cook off tomorrow with my Etouffee! Wish me luck.
Love my FOB's familey

##Bobbie, take care and don't overdo. As Lynne has said, this getting old is not for sissy's.
##DebbieLA, you go girl and good luck. I hope you win.

Judy

And a good day to you, Debbie

Had foot surgery Tuesday. Had to have a bone spur taken off the bone. Have been hobbling around. The doctor said I can take the adhesive bandage off tomorrow. The bandage is stuck so hard it is going to be hard for me to get the tape off. Someone said to use alchol but that might burn wouldnt you think? Most of all I can take a shower tomorrow after the tape comes off. I cant think of the name of the tape but its the kind that is the cloth stuff that is really stickey.

Bobbie, in the above I thought of you when I couldnt remember the name of the tape. Duct tape, adhesive tape, scotch tape.??

Thanks Judy, Hi Sandra! Everyone make it a good weekend!

#Bobbie take care of your self, hope you feel better soon.
To Sandra be careful with your foot, had a friend that had a bunion remove and she almost lost her foot. So be careful not to get an infection.####

Sandra,
Just pulled a spool of the sticky tape out. It is adhesive tape and it's no fun to take off.

Hope your foot gets better soon!

Lynne, just turned on the coverage of the Masters.
Go-o-o-Phil!!!!!

Take care all and have a dry week-end if possible.

((((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Birthday Pictures of Zenyatta

Hey, Everyone:)

Debbie!!! OMGosh! I HOPE YOU WIN, DEB!! :) Please post here when you're 'home again, home again, clippity-clop'!! What FUN it would be, to be there with you! And *EIGHTY-FOUR* degrees sounds so gooooooood to me about now!! LOL! Early this morning, it was 53 in my house...but now, at almost 3:30p it's a 'balmy' SIXTY! The cat and dog are each in their beds covered up with little blankies...even the KITTEH is, and he NEVER likes to be covered up:)

I'm huddled on the sofa with the two animuls next to me in their beds..I have layers on and am covered up, tooooo....but I keep reminding myself:) Soon, I'll be LONNNNNNNGING to be cold feeling and most important of all I do NOT live in Japan! Bless those people's hearts:(

Bobbie....I hope your muscle spasams/cramps go away and FASSSSST!

Carleen: YES:) GOOOOOO PHILLLLLLLL!! Wheeeee!!

Dee: Thanks, Hunny, for remembering us in your beautious wishes:)

Judy: Prolly too late for you to see this...but happy weekend to you, too!

Alex: 'lost Derby contenders?' I'm hoping you just mean they lost their races....I'll go try to find out what you meant, Alex...

OK...back under the sofa throw I am headed now...the weekend forecast is nicer than today...upper 60's outdoors and by Tuesday, 71...better times are coming our way:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lynne. 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.............................................
....................................................Your Glowing Wings Of Love......................
...................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lynne And
Your Angel Daughter Michelle And Seymore And Lucy.
..................................................
...................................................You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So..............
..................................................
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

Barbaro candles in 3ed place

Thanks Lynne, I will try!

Me again...and I did do a bit of research re: 'lost Derby contenders'....but I really know not a thing of the contenders...so, pretty sure I don't have them all here...

Per Bloodhorse.com I found the following:

*PREMIERE PEGASUS* Injured and out of the Santa Anita Derby due to a hairline fracture of his L-front Cannon Bone...underwent surgery this afternoon.

*JAYCITO* has also been scratched from S/A Derby due to a R-front foot bruise.

*TO HONOR AND SERVE* is sidelined due to a suspensory ligament strain in L-foreleg...sorry, I missed where he should have run this weekend.

So, there's three of the original 10 Alex spoke of up-top...I wish them all a swift and uneventful recovery back to wellness!

We had a 'Thunder-Bumper' here about a half-hour ago, and a mix of hail/rain fell, too! The sky across the lake looks seriously DARK and foreboding right now:-O but way over to the north/west, I see light:) so hopefully, it's short-lived, this weather incident!

Sweet Dreams my Barbaro Family...

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Sweet Dreams my Barbaro Family...

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our Angel Dee says, "It is AFFIRMED!"
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, paws, and hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation!

Hugs and love to all,
Lou Ann

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So..........................
..................................................
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You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
...................................................For Being A So, So So Very Beautiful Angel On This Earth........................................
...................................................Your Glowing Wings Of Love.......................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And
Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie........
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

Sandra, our dog Penny had surgery on her leg back in December. When we changed the original bandaging, the adhesive was definitely adhering to her skin! I used Qtips soaked in baby oil. Lifted edge of bandage up as much as possible without pulling the skin, poked baby oil along edge where adhesive touched the skin. Let that soak in for a minute, lifted edge of bandage as much as possible, and repeated process. It took awhile, but managed to remove bandage without ripping off Penny's skin. The baby oil will loosen the adhesive. Something like nail polish remover or alcohol might work the same way but, I image, could be a little stingy.

Debbie, good luck in the cook off!

Good Saturday morning, Famblee!!

Going to light some candles for Barbaro.

Good Morning Frens. Looking back on the last few days, and the behaviors of our elected officials, I sometimes look back on our American history to find a reason to respect what has gone on before.

On this day, 146 years ago, Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox. Hundreds of thousands of casualties. Starving soldiers. Cities destroyed. And as Lee rode his horse to the place where he would surrender his army, in front of 150,000, Traveller stopped to drink from a stream. Lee gently tapped Traveller on his neck and said, "Go on, Boy."

May they all rest in peace, these soldiers, 2 legged and 4 legged, Confederate or Union. And thank you for your supreme sacrifices.

MargieinNM ,

Traveller -- now there was a horse ! Beloved horse too. Thanks for that memory .
---

And thanks to many of you who wished me well yesterday with my enemy , the accursed muscle spasms. I have won ...this battle... but not the war... and I soldier on - with back sore and a little bent lest the muscles stretch and attack me again , lol ...
---

Debbie LA , much good luck , and perhaps a blue ribbon ? at the cook off today ... fingers crossed.
---

Sandra , much good luck to you also , in healing that sore foot. I hope the pain isn't too bad , and it recovers quickly... do try the oil as Linda said above - perhaps it'll slide off easier.
---

Lynne , the horses are figuratively dropping like flies ... let's hope it doesn't get literal ...
three really good horses in the last couple days... the KD grows smaller , or stays the same with lesser - talented horses probably ... may they all heal and grow strong again ...
---

They say Dialed In was totally exhausted in that last race where he had to catch and beat Shackleford ... he's not had that many races to be so exhausted IMHO ...
when I think of the eight races Rachel Alexander the Great ran , in a row , a 3yrold filly ! ! ,
and still she dug down and beat older males in her last race of the season - holding on through the exhaustion --

and these 3yrold colts just can't make it after 3 races ! !
...Anyway ... Dialed In seems to be the class left to run against the great Uncle Mo ...
or a horse could come out of nowhere and beat them both ! !
I guess that's called the Kentucky Derby ! !
Uncle Mo races today around 5:30pm or so , and if all stays well , please God ,
he should have a cake walk in this one.
But at least he'll have a good blow out I hope, his lungs I mean - as a heavy work ...
---
May all horses and riders come home today , safe and sound ...
and a good Saturday to all you FOBs , in your various lifestyles and endeavors ... whatever you're doing , or just loafing ! , make it a great time ...
and say a little prayer or wish for Uncle Mo and all the horses today ... bye now ,

Sandra ,
I hope the BANDAGE slides off , not your foot -- as I implied in my great writing above ! !

THE FACTOR ! ! !

How could I forget to list The Factor as a major threat in the KD - assuming that they bring him east --

He's the fastest thing on feet , according to all his admirers , lol , and also he has great and fabulous speed numbers to back it up ! !

The Factor - if he comes to Kentucky --

Look out Uncle Mo -- here he comes at you !

Also , The Factor might give you peeples in the western US a more immediate interest in the Derby , cause we all seem to like our regional horses better , just like our teams in sports , usually that is ... nothing wrong with that --

So I hope The Factor comes east to face Mo ---
I... think ...I hope that ... a little scared ...
Go Mo !

Morning, Everyone...

Saturday morning...and the skies are clear/blue and not ONE cloud in sight! The sun is shining and as the day moves forward that sun will take the chill of the house with a 'bwoken heater'!! Wheeeee:) 52 indoors and 40 outdoors...and all the 'teeth chattering' while:) I keep thinking of JULY...when it will, for two weeks here, feel like Hades...hope I spelled that right:) Not unusual for two weeks in July with it's ranging temperatures from maybe 105-116 degrees feeling like the 'bad place' we, none of us wants to go when we leave here!! The LAST thing on my mind in July, is having the heater repaired! LOL:)

Bobbie: Glad you've won the battle for now and am hoping those damnable spasams don't find you again for a srsly lonnnnng time!

Margie: I know:( Social issues used as a bargaining tool to keep the government up/running and most importantly, imo, the pay checks for our military arriving on time to house and feed the children of the military members fighting for our freedom.

Sandra: I hope the tape comes off and leaves your skin in tact...The baby oil sounds like a good plan to me:) Let us know how that goes!

My wish, as always, for all horses and their riders setting hooves to tracks today is for God's White Light to surround you...may your trip be swift and uneventful and may you all come home, gallop out and find yourselves back in your stalls..enjoying rest/relaxation a few carrots and most of all, love/respect from your people for a job well done:)

I hope everyone has a 'dine&fandy' Saturday wherever you are this day:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

To all- got bandage off just fine this morning. And Bobbie, I still have my foot.

Happy Birthday to Peaches and Pierre today. Demand extra treats.

Margie, yes Traveller was almost as famous as Lee.
History was ne of my major in college. I taught Texas history for many years. I had 7th graders and they blew my mind. Half of them didnt know what citizenship they were and they didnt know who won WW11. Half didnt even know why we celebrate July 4th. You can bet they all knew when they left me.

Sandra..How cool that you taught History. Mark and I just finished watching Ken Burn's tv documentation of the Civil War. What an amazing time in history that was...so many lives lost both two and four legged. The struggles of life never really change for any of us...but Lordy, I do love to get up in the morning even if only to have that 1st cup of coffee. Sometimes the day gets better, sometimes the day goes down hill.
I'm happy to hear you got the tape off and still have your foot...that's a good thing right there.

I have been working in the backyard pulling weeds.
I always worked in the yard with my dad. I did not care to work back when I was a teenager, but now it helps me feel closer to my dad and I feel as if I really have accomplished something.
(Just the knees and back complain now and then)

Oh well...(HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))

xoxox
carleen in ca

UNCLE MO LOST --------- UNCLE MO LOST THE WOOD

I can't believe it but it's true !
He came in third . When his jockey asked him in the deep stretch , he did not accelerate ...
I hope he is okay - he looked okay from as far as you can see visually -

Undefeated Uncle Mo lost . I'm so so sad .
I don't think it was the length of the race , because he didn't accelerate off of the 3rd turn either. Go figure.

Sandra:) Glad about that tape coming off and LEAVING your foot ON!! And I can only imagine those 7th graders in your class...bless you, Sandra! Glad they learned!

Bobbie: I'm so sorry to read about Mo losing...I hope he's alright, too..maybe it just wasn't his day today...maybe he wasn't in the right mood for running.

Carleen:) Weeds...Weeds and MOAR of them, huh?! Too bad we can't grow dollar bills like weeds! Wheeeee:) I'm glad the job of pulling them makes you feel close to your dad:)

Hope yole have a great Saturday night..the sun is still up here in the westwing but it's nearly 10p in the eastwing...see you in the morning, Family.

Debbie: How'd you do today in the cooking contest? I hope you had fun, Deb!!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

####

Bobbie, So sorry to hear that Uncle Moe did not win the Wood.....there is a nice man in the Deli where I have coffee each morning who assured me that Moe was the Derby winner.....such a nice guy....maybe it was just an off day???? Hope all arrived home safe.....I was at a dog show today and my boy who has been winning consistently came in second very undeservingly, but that is a dog show! I feel the pain for Moe and his connections.....him being safe is all that really matters..Rainbows to our Beloved Dee! Acn to everyone, thinking of you guys.....

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Jane. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So.............................
...................................................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.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe........
..................................................
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You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
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In Halos..........................................

Affirmed

Happy Sunday morning to you ,

I've been looking around the net , trying to find a reason for Uncle Mo's shocking loss yesterday ...

he lost to a horse so insignificant that his trainer and owner say in one article that they have never discussed the Kentucky Derby ... it's in less than a month ...
The horse who came in second - I read that he is an optional Claimer ! ! Can that be true ?

Mo was third in the Wood .
In 1973 , Secretariat was third in the Wood.
Secretariat went on the win the TC ...
can Mo do it ?

I read that Mo grabbed a quarter coming out of the gate .

On the near left .. the front left foot ... the piece he tore off was actually the size of a quarter they said ...
can that stop a horse's kick on the third turn ?
In my heart I don't really think so , but it's a good peg to hang my hopes on ...

Jane -- thanks for the thoughts -- and I'm sorry to hear your boy was let down... by a judge who wanted to be different I guess ... a real shame when it's so subjective like that... still , I hope he'll have better judges in upcoming times...

Lynne , I wish for your day to be warm and sunny ,
Carleen , I wish I could have that first cup of coffee with you , sitting and gabbing , but I'd come home before the weed - pulling started ...
hugs right back to you ...

MargieinNM , that story about Lee's gentleness toward Traveller touched me ... on the worst day of Lee's life ( or one of them ) he didn't take it out on an animal the way so many do , ala the blows to the spines you've seen at work .
They took Lee's home and land - isn't it now
Arlington National Cemetery ? - I hope he kept Traveller all of the horse's life.

Horses were eaten then by starving people , they are eaten now by wealthy people who can pay lots for such a delicacy ...
I think sometimes of the people who ate Exceller and Ferdinand - would they have a conscience if they knew who they had eaten ??

I'm a drag this Sunday morning and I don't mean to be - sorry - but this is the fight we're in and we need to talk about it sometimes , even if we all know it ... but still , I hope you are having a good day wherever you are ... bye now ,

Morning Everyone...

((((bobbieb)))) Some days are like that, aren't they? Hope yours today, turns brighter for you...and thank you, 'cause it's warmer outdoors this morning...nearly 50 already and indoors it's feeling better, too:) The coming week brings more Springlike (is that one word?) temps and I'm ever-grateful for knowing that this morning:)

I know positively nothing of the horses running now in prep for a possible Derby chance..but I can tell you're studying and seriously informed about them...maybe as days pass, more will be printed about Mo...I guess it's a 'design flaw' that sometimes they can hurt themselves by digging in and running so fast:( The injury does sound awfully painful...ouchieeeee!! I hope he heals swiftly and completely.

As you wrote of the horse who beat him and his owners never considering the Derby...I couldn't help remember MTB and those odds at his Derby:) and how he came from 'nowhere' to win it!! Wheeeee:) What a story that one was!

Debbie!!! Where are you, Hunny?! I'm sure I'm not the only one here waiting to hear all about the cook-off contest y'day...Please have coffee and post soon, Debbie:)

Everyone, have a good day today!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Lynneeee , thanks for your good thoughts ... and the horse you might want to look at is out of California, you've heard of that state ;) ,
his name is The Factor and he's whiz bang fast . If he comes to the KD , wow ! He has already tied Mo's 108 Beyer speed number in one of his races ...

Happy Sunday to all - bye now,

Good Morning Frens.

Bobbie, Traveller stayed with Lee. Lee became president of Washington and Lee University. Lee would continue to ride Traveller for pleasure. After Lee's death, Traveller stayed with Lee's son? I think? But a year later, Traveller was shot due to complications from lockjaw after stepping on a rusty nail. Traveller's remains were moved and on display several times, and even abused, but now he rests eternal on the grounds near his General. I believe Lee's other 2 horses, Lucy and Ajax are on the University grounds as well. Ajax ran into a gate latch and killed himself. Lucy Long injured her legs after getting loose. Lee and Grant knew the importance of the horses. Once Grant had a soldier tied to a tree for 8 hours for mistreating a horse. We all know of the horse's importance in history, but the human and animal connections in this war were the stuff glory is made of.

Margie , it's so good to hear all this again . I learned most of it as a child - that kind of history is learned at a Mother's knee in the south, lol , orally , as in stories , but one tends to forget w/ age ... all the accidents remind us how rough life was then ... thank you for telling us these things , it's interesting to ponder. ' The stuff glory is made of ' - I love that
-----

The rumor is out that Uncle Mo's connections will make a statement soon and say that he will not be going to the KD -- I'm interested in why ... I hope he is not sick or injured ...
best wishes to Mo and all horses ...bye now ,

Todd Pletcher says Uncle Mo is fine and will ship to Churchill Downs on Monday ! ! ( I am told, didn't hear this myself )
WTH ? ?

But I guess it's alright with me if it's alright with Mo , lol.

Mo shipping Monday the 18th , if it's even true !
There are rumors of a quarter crack too, but looking as if not true as well.

Pletcher needs to come out and clear it all up once and for all.
I'm hoping that what he said about Mo being fine and shipping to Churchill is true !

##
Bobbie: I went to pedigreequery.com to see about The Factor:) not completely up to date, the info, but saw he had (then) whenever 'then' was...4 starts and 3 wins...and earnings were already very impressive, at $304,680.

Lineage is impressive...as they all are, really, but I did see NoDancer as gr/gr/grandfather with Danzig as gr/father...Didn't No/Dancer have leg bone issues of some sort....somehow that's stuck in the cobwebs of my mind..Beautiful horse! Dark Bay Boy...I hope he's got a good career and wellness in his future:) The photo shown there of him is very nice...he's all stretched out in a long stride.

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

The cook off was fun, Sunny and HOT! For the judging I entered Mud bug fritters. That's crawfish etouffee rapped in pie crust and fried. I didn't win, my nephew got third place with his fried Quail stuffed with mushrooms and rapped in bacon. But everyone loved the etouffee over rice.
What won? venison stuffed with cream cheese and rapped in bacon and cooked over charcoals. What was cooked venison chili, venison goulash, lots of Gumbo's, turnip greens, smoked wild hog, chicken stuffed jalapeno wrapped in bacon, battered and fried, ? Bisque and yes coon?? And I didn't get to the other side to see what was there.
Had a good turn out, we had 45 cooking teams. Now I have a farmers tan. And now a vegetarian LOL something's I just can't eat. Maybe if I was starving.

##

Debbie!!! Good God...what an assortment of 'critters' were cooked and served up!! The one which gave me the most 'angst' was COON??? I fed the little darlings for many years...had so many generations of them, I lost count how many:) They LOVED bananas! I had a great deal going with the produce manager of my local supermarket:) She'd wrap up those 'nanners' which were almost too far gone to leave out for 'regular sale' and give them to me for roughly a dollar was all..I betcha 5#'s for only a dollar...they were peeled and cut into about 1" slices and placed atop a big bowl of kitteh kibbles each/every night. Drove Murphy NUTS!! I'd put a kitchen chair in front of the sliding glass door drape to keep Murph from slipping under and sitting there, waiting/waiting and waiting to barka-barka at those raccoons! :) Fond memories! The Moms would bring them 'round when they got to be about the size of a 6-week old Lab puppy and I just 'tellya' there's NOTHING so cute as a baby raccoon:)

I'm glad you had fun, Debbie...sorry you didn't win! Thanks for giving us a report:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

MargieNM - your history is so right! I guess I should know, I'm a direct descendant of his.

Stu - so very wonderful that you have General Lee as your ancestor.

###
Bobbie
Uncle Mo was third in the Wood.
In 1973 , Secretariat was third in the Wood.
Secretariat went on the win the Triple crown
can Uncle Mo do it?
I have not been keeping up with the horses going to the Kentucky Derby, lot's have dropped out with injuries'
That brings us all back to the BIG ????? why race a foal at the age of two. But then in years pasts they did.
I thing the foals today legs are thin, not like the big bone foals in the past. Big body's and tooth picks legs.
Am no pro on this, but sure is alot of break downs now. Are maybe too much press and we hear about it now, and didn't then.

Hiya, FsOB! What a "Lost in the Fog" morning it has become this Monday. I can barely discern the Thames, because we have become engulfed in fog over the past hour.

I hope that Uncle Mo is doing OK following his run in the Wood Memorial. My thanks to Debbie LA for letting us know that Secretariat came in third in that same race.

Brent & I found a Kentucky Derby glass at an antique store this past Saturday. It would have been purchased in 1964; the last horse listed as a Derby winner was Chateaugay in 1963. My late Father always loved that horse's name.

Alex, what a great picture of your book at the charity event for AK's Children's Hospital. Peace, Robyn

#### To Joan: A belated happy birthday to Peaches & Pierre!
To Sandra: Hoping that your foot isn't too painful. I'll wager that you were a great history teacher. That is essential subject matter and is not well-taught in many schools.
To Carleen: Wasn't it moving to re-watch Ken Burns' "The Civil War"?
To Bobbie B: There is a great book about General Lee's horse Traveller and I believe it is named after the horse. Quite a moving story it is.
To Stu: What an honour to know that we have a direct descendant of General Lee amongst the FsOB. Although my ancestors who fought in the War Between the States were with the Union, I have always had tremendous respect for General Lee.
To Margie in NM: I second your sentiments!
To Debbie LA: That was a very diverse cook-off! Our forsythia started blooming this past weekend and the tulip trees in the neighbourhood have started to do so as well.
To Lynne B: I hope that you, Seymoure, & Lucy are warm this AM. ####

Good morning all. A bit of watery sun peeked out this morning and then was quickly gone. Wild weather with wind, rain hail and tornado warnings. All is ok here though and really warm.

##DebbieLA, sorry to hear you didn't win but you had a good time. I'm not sure I could try any of those dishes but they sure sounded interesting, excep of course the "ccon". Like Lynne, I love them.
##BobbieB, I am saddened Uncle Moe didn't do well but hopefully he came out of the race ok and that he is ok.
##Lynne, would love to see The Factor come to the KD. East and West would be a treat.
##Carleen, would love to join you for the coffee in the morning but not so much the afternoon festivities.LOL

Must run, lots of work to get done the next few days before taking off to get my son. Wheeeeeeeeeee, my crocuses are blooming and the tulips and daffodils finally see sunshine.

Have a good Monday everyone.

Judy

Happy Birthday to our sweet Mary L. who takes care of the DB for us, and post pictures for some like me who can't. Thanks Mary for all you do!

Joe at TB Friends

Stu, General Lee was the most honorable of men. (and kudos to General Grant for punishing his soldier's mistreatment of their horse). Honor, courage, commitment (core values of our military today) are traits General Lee personified. They are obviously well represented traits in your family! He would be proud of the work you do advocating for God's many creations here on this earth who suffer at the hands of the ignorant, dishonorable and greedy.

After Paragallo was led away in handcuffs, Greene County District Attorney Terry Wilhelm said “justice was served.”

Happy dancing in Lower Alabama.

Morning, Everyone...

Yet ANOTHER Monday Morning! Holy Cromoly!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO *MARY L.* Happy, happy day to you, Mary! I hope this day brings you all and MORE:) you were hoping/wishing for...and the coming year brings ONLY *SUNNY MOMENTS* for recording, too! :)

Stu: Wow! A direct descendent of *LEE*...Wow!

Robyn: I'm glad you found that glass:) and Yes! Me and the kidds are doing just 'dine&fandy' w/out the heater this morning...it's a little 'chillsey' but the outdoor temperatures have been steadily on the rise each/every morning recently and last evening in the house it was very comfortable...it's an inconvenience, being without the furnace but I just keep thinking of all that 'liquid gold' I'm NOT using (propane) and it takes the sting out of being a bit chilly until Mr. Sun warms the house....we should be done with unusually cold weather now until next Fall and by then, the heater will be fixed:)

Judy: Wheeeeeee!! Son is coming home soon...that's a good thing for he and his Mom, too! Glad your Spring flowers are happy also!

Debbie: Love it when you're doing that *HAPPY DANCE*:)

Dee: Where's today's rainbows? You know, it's Monday..and we can use all the rainbows we can come by:)

Here is Joe for Monday...when you're able do be sure to view the photos...they are good! Sammi is smiling really big:)

Monday, April 11th... Happy and sad and surreal, and then back to happy. I saw kids dancing. I saw a man go behind a car and weep.

A beautiful home here in Woodland. Perfect weather. Amazing food, and good music. Not just a birthday party. More like a celebration of life. Sammi has touched a community. We were incredibly blessed, because Sammi felt good enough to attend.

You just want to reach out and grab each moment. Each memory. It only took a few minutes to realize, this is special. This is a day you will never forget. This is a young girl who has rocked your world.

Joe
##

And..the link to our Whitehouse for Monday, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Everyone, have a good day today....

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

## Debbie , if you saw the movie " Secretariat " , you'll remember the race he lost , and they then discovered he had a terrible abscess on his gum . His bit hit the abscess every step he took , just imagine the pain ! ! and he still came in third.

That race indeed was the Wood Memorial that Uncle Mo just lost as you say. Whether Mo has a reason or not will discovered if it's physical - but I tend to think Todd Pletcher's light training is the culprit. He has not trained Mo for the distance.

I am tending toward thinking that Pletcher used this race , The Wood , as Mo's blowout training for the KD ... I remember reading earlier , weeks ago , that they didn't care if they won or not !

## Judy my fren ! watch what you wish for , you're wishing The Factor on my poor Mo ?? Why you want to hurt us like that , huh ?? LOL

I was speculating the other day that The Factor would come east... and enter the KD ... WISHING it actually ... but now that Mo has lost ??
No , I'm not wishing it now ... The Factor is too FAST , lol.

a NEW line is going in my daily prayers , starting today ,... ' Lord , please don't let The Factor come east , please don't let The Factor come east '...

And Lynne , you're right about the legs , most all tbs now have Native Dancer blood - intense speed and problem legs ...
It would be safer for the horses to breed for strength ... but not as profitable for the owners who want the speed ...

All this racing talk makes me think of the great horses ... they are all great but... the super
achievers ...
and popping right to mind is the
only undefeated Triple Crown Champion
the one and only

SEATTLE SLEW.
how I loved him , and I still do. So today , I'm mentally doffing my hat to the great one ,
Seattle Slew . A champion , - the champion .
bye now .

###Mary L., Happy Birthday and many more. Hope your day is sunny and filled with love.

BobbieB.,not to worry my heart is behind Uncle Mo, ever since he appeared on the circuit. But I felt maybe it would add some pizazz to the KD, but like you said now that he's lost The Factor should stay on the west coast. I guess we'll have to wait and see. I hope there are no more injuries for those running.
##Lynne, good to hear you're warming up out there. Funny enough I turned off my furnace yesterday and hopefully it can stay off now until next season.
##Dee, come out, come out wherever you are, we need your rainbows.
###Stu, what a great ancestor you have there. I have always admired General Lee as one of the great leaders of our country. His treatment of his men and horses puts him right up there in my book. He has sent down the line his great attributes and you're proof!

Judy

Dutrow Kentucky License

:(

Happy birthday , Mary L , may your birthday wish you make when you blow out your candles come true !
Thanks for all the work you do for us ! Best wishes

Stu ##
My Grandmother used to say someone had proper antecedents ... and boy do you ever ! Now I know why you're full of fighting spirit when you see an animal mistreated ...

Joe was wonderful today - - brave Sammi breaks my heart -- it ennobles us all to read about such a brave heart ...

I'm really leaving the board now , and getting to my chores , such as they are ... I'll see you later , make it a good day , and email the Prez...
bye now ,

Well, now you know my last name!! I'm flattered with your comments but the one thing about me is doing whats right morally. For me its giving a voice for the innocent ones who cannot speak. For what time I have left here my committment to animal welfare is the highest on my list. My life has been surrounded with wonderful dogs, cats, rabbits and whatever animals that have found me and me them. Their protection and well being is the utmost concern of mine. This group, all of you, have given me more strength and conviction than ever to do what is morally right. My parents would and are, I'm sure, happy with what I do. But in a sad way I'm glad they're not here to see the damage thats been wrought on the animal and environmental aspects of our lives.

We MUST never give up, " they" need us badly.

###
Bobbie yes the abscess, I have the movie and commemorative DVD "The Life and Times of Secretariat an American Racing Legend. And the book Secretariat's Meadow. Love Big Red.
1973 I was 26 and watched all of his Triple Crown races on TV.

Oh and one more thing. Yes I'm from the beautiful state of Maryland/Virginia. Played football at U of Alabama 200 years ago! In fact, in my study I have "The Bears" study lamp from his college dorm days, gooseneck, marble base given to my father. My father, Bear Bryant and Mel Allen were roomates.I won't bore you with anymore!!

###
Bobbie B,
Yes, Arlington National Cemetary used to be Gen. Lee's home. It belonged to his wife, who the daughter of George Washington's step-son.

Lee

####
Stu....I think it is wonderful...hearing about your family tree....and about your dad knowing Bear Bryant....

and for your heart always being like so many on here....for what is right...and speaking and standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

###
please call, fax, email.

please read the db...and help...donations, volunteering...networking....and if you cannot do any...keep a watchful eye open for abuse, neglect, and report it.....

we are the protectors of what God put on this earth....there is a purpose for every animal, wildlife, etc...or they would of never been created....they are a gift...a wonderful gift.

###
Easter is fast approaching...it is a sign of resurrection...for He is risen....and with this sign....it is for us to help our family, our neighbors, and all animals, horses...and be strong.

pray for our country....for each other...

####
thank you all for the birthday cheer for the rugrats..

###
a little 91 year old lady...dear friend told me...three things...

a spoken word...you cannot take back....
a darted arrow...you cannot take back...
a neglected opportunity...otherwords if there is a chance to help someone, be it human, horse or furbaby...please.

####
also...we are having extreme dry weather here in Texas...wildfires are burning out of control...pray for rain, for safety......please.

###
HERE WE GO...FAMBLEE...LET US BE HEARD...PLEASE

The Daily Reporter

A wild-horse advocacy group has released videotape of a Utah holding facility that it says shows mustangs living in unhealthy conditions.

The Cloud Foundation said the video shot by activist Lisa Friday last month at the U.S. Bureau of Land Management’s Salt Lake Regional Wild Horse and Burro Center in Herriman, Utah, underscores the need for the agency to halt further roundups of the animals from the range in the West.

Among other things, the group based in Colorado Springs, Colo., said THE VIDEO SHOWS HORSES THAT WERE UNABLE TO MOVE FROM A KNEE-DEEP MIXTURE OF MUD, MANURE and URINE.

“I saw more than 10 HORSES IN ONE PEN TRYING TO ESCAPE the quagmire, but their legs were suctioned deep into the mud,” Friday said, adding she also saw 30 HORSES LAYING DOWN IN THE MUD THE ENTIRE THREE HOURS she was at the facility.

Read the Entire Report by The Cloud Foundation

The video contains disturbing images of once-wild horses penned in areas where they were unable to navigate out of a knee-deep mixture of mud, manure, and urine. Friday, a wild horse adopter and long-time horsewoman, reports of seeing 30 horses laying down in mud and excrement for the entire three hours in which she was at the facility. ”They never got up,” she states.

“I saw more than 10 horses in one pen alone trying to escape the quagmire but their legs were suctioned deep into the mud,” explains Friday.

“Seeing wild horses in this kind of squalor is heart-breaking,” says Ginger Kathrens, Director of The Cloud Foundation who has spent 17 years documenting the wild lives of horses in her Cloud productions for PBS. “I don’t understand how BLM can justify the removal of these animals from the safety of their wild homes, only to dump them into these hellish conditions. I seriously doubt that the American taxpayers want their money used for this kind of cruelty.”

HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP THE ABUSED WILD HORSES AT THE BUTTERFIELD FACILITY

CALL THE BLM SALT LAKE CITY OFFICE AT 801-561-4632, ask for Tami Howell, Horse Wrangler
EMAIL TAMI HOWELL, HORSE WRANGLER AT thowell@blm.gov
FAX THE BLM SALT LAKE OFFICE AT 801-977-4397
CALL BLM STATE DIRECTOR IN UTAH, JUAN PALMA AT 801-539-4010
EMAIL BLM STATE DIRECTOR IN UTAH, JUAN PALMA AT Juan_Palma@blm.gov
FAX BLM STATE DIRECTOR IN UTAH, JUAN PALMA AT 801-539-4013
CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR FEDERAL REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS.
CALL, EMAIL & FAX ALL OF YOUR REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS.
CONTACT THE THREE T.V. STATIONS IN SALT LAKE CITY LISTED BELOW AND ASK FOR INVESTIGATION PLEASE.
CBS: EMAIL newsdesk@kutv.com
ABC: http://www.abc4.com/content/about_4/contact/reportnews/default.aspx
NBC: http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=205
FAX BLM IN WASHINGTON D.C. OFFICE AT 202-208-5242
SPEAK UP NOW FOR OUR WILD HORSES WHO ARE BEING ABUSED AT THE HANDS OF B.L.M. OUR WILD HORSES & BURROS NEED OUR HELP NOW.

Joan, yes, wildfires all over West Texas. So far over 250,000 acres here around Lubbock. The closest one is about 35 miles from Lubbock. Many homes have burned but no people lost. Many head of cattle have been killed and some horses.

After reading about the mustangs will get on my soap box once again. I believe God made animals as aa gift to mankind. I think when a person abuses an animal he will have to answer for it someday. In the Bible it says at the end of the world God will return riding a white horse.

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Lynne. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot
So................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Judy And Taffy And Angel Lynne And Angel Murphy And Your
Angel Daughter Michelle And Seymore And Lucy And
Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Her
Angel Dad Louie And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Carleen And Angel Bobbie B. And Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel
Darcy And Angel BeBe And Angel Joan Roya And Angel
Curtis And Peaches And Pierre. You Are In My Heart
So (8) A Lot So...................................
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

###
PLEASE....help the wild horses...write, call, fax, the BLM...these horses deserve so much better...their FREEDOM...the information is posted above...

thank you.

###
Joan, I will call! But my senators and congressmen are for the Cattlemen and complain about the Wild Horses. The dollors we spend to care for them. And just look at the care!!! OMG it Make me sick. $#@% Mad here!

And the #$$@ BLM is no better!

###Contact the White House
President Obama is committed to creating the most open and accessible administration in American history. To send questions, comments, concerns, or well-wishes to the President or his staff, please use the form below

Has anyone received a emails back? I have not!

Just got through contacting everyone on Joan's list. Yes its 10PM here, who cares, I'll e-mail, phone all night.The BLM is nothing but a disgusting bunch of thugs running up tax payer dollars. Time to get TOUGH.Country is dying financially but we have tax payer dollars for this immoral activity? GOD HELP THIS COUNTRY

Hiya, FsOB! I am truly gobsmacked to use our FOB Jonna's term: A judge has sent Ernie Paragallo back to jail. Isn't it weird when justice is, in fact, served? And isn't it sad to be surprised that this actually occurred?

And reading that the BLM has wild mustangs stranded in mud - if only that NY State judge had Federal jurisdiction. What a sad state of affairs.

Alex, you do post the coolest Twitpics from your travels! Many thanks and may you have a safe journey tomorrow, if you are back on the road. Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Mary L: A joyous birthday to you! Thank you for all that you do to help maintain this site.
To Debbie LA: Thank you for the Paragallo report. I am still stunned.
To Bobbie B: Yes, I second your sentiments about refined antecedents. I got a kick out of your prayer re. The Factor. Too funny, Bobbie, thanks for that one.
To Dee: May your Tuesday be rainbow-filled!
To Sandra: I should call my niece who is at Baylor. I didn't realize that those fires were so close to Lubbock. Yes, apocalypse and the white horse, a chilling thought.
To Joan: If only I could earmark that none of my Federal tax dollars would go to the BLM....
To Judy: Best wishes as you prepare for your son's return home from Spring Term. My step-daughter will be visiting us briefly this week. Her commencement will occur in early June.
To Lynne B: I hope that you all aren't cold, I hate to think that your heater can't be fixed right now. That story about Sammi really choked me up. What a lovely girl she is, thank goodness that she could enjoy her 16th birthday.
To Stu: My goodness, Bear Bryant! My late Father would have been doubly impressed. ####

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So......................................
..................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
...................................................For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! I am running late on a brightening Tuesday here on the banks of the Thames. They grey clouds in the western sky are beginning to dissipate. One of the first ferry horn blasts of the new day has just sounded and the birds are chirping madly in a large tree across the street. Wishing all here "ACD". Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Rainbows back to you on this new day.
To Stu: So you are also kin to Colonel Richard (or was it Harry?) "Lighthorse" Lee? I've always found his nickname an enchanting one. ####

#Good morning all. A beautiful sunrise this morning with many shades of pinks and lavenders glowing off the clouds.

Have much to do here so wishing all a good day and to continue to call,fax, e mail, pray for our horses and especially the mustangs.

Judy

###
our wild mustangs NEED US....NOW....

and of course our horses, and furbabies and wildlife...and you know we are all footsoldiers and Barbaro has always lead the way.

thank you Stu...and others for standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

####
Pres. Obama...if you are the man of your word...do something now....get the BLM...to protect our horses not mistreat them...and stop horse slaughter and transportation across the borders.

If you are a man of your word....you are for the just....

####
please call, fax, email...please.

read the db and help....report neglect, and abuse...do not turn your heads....we do not need more Patrick's or Windchills...please.

###
have a nice day...pray for each other..help one another, and pray for our country.

###
thank you Alex.

###
Please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens....

Joe at TB Friends

Morning, Everyone...

Happy Tuesday! We must work to find 'happy' in at least some of each of our days....some days it's easier than others, but if we look and think, we can find some 'happy' .....

Debbie: You must check the little box indicating you'd like a return email...but they are 'generic' replies so don't be disappointed:(

I'm beyond sad about the horses standing in mud...how despairing a situation...how UNLIKE it SHOULD be for the horses:(

I read an article last night someone posted a link to on Facebook...from Rolling Stone magazine titled: "Why Isn't Wall Street In Jail" or something like that, anyway...I only got to page 3 of I think, 7 or 8..I had to stop reading...Everything...every SINGLE thing in this country/world we live in is driven by money...money talks...money keeps crooks out of jail...money keeps the slaughter houses in MX or Canada going...money has kept big time (according to the article) white-collar CROOKS out of jail...reading the article made me physically sick to my stomach...I couldn't finish it. There is corruption everywhere and sadly, I don't think it's going away, ever:/ This is so NOT the world God intended for us, imo...so NOT!

For myself, in order not to run off the nearest tall bridge, I just must find 'happy' wherever or however I am able..and for me, it's the critters outside my windows and Lucy/Seymoure inside this house. It's you, my Barbaro Family, too.

Here's Joe for today...he needs people to take some horses and love them and give them wonderful homes...and when you've got the opportunity, do see the photos he shows today for *LUKE* because OMG...he is GORGEOUS:)

Tuesday, April 12th... Race horses, feed lot horses, and horses from private owners. Tb Friends has access to dozens of horses. Some free, some priced by the pound. We are happy to help with transportation, within common sense distance. There is usually a shipping fee. If you have room for another horse, give me a call at 530-383-2120. If no answer be sure to leave a message. Or you can write me at tbfriends@aol.com. Our screening process is really simple. We take a look at your other animals.

On Saturday alone, there were 4 phone calls from race horse trainers. Asking would I be willing to accept another horse? Also 3 calls from private owners. Including a young girl who says her dad lost his job, and there is no money for April board. And a mexican rodeo dealer called to say there are 5 thoroughbred geldings at his holding facility near Stockton. All 5 have racing tattoos, and they suffer from rodeo injuries. $200.00 for each gelding.

In early March we rescued 26 starving thoroughbreds from a lady in a small California town. In order for us to take those horses, I had to promise the lady not to write about her on my website. Three of the horses have died. The other 23 are recovering well. In an e-mail I told the lady I need to break my promise. It is important to find her former horses good homes. The lady has moved to another state. She wrote back and said whatever.

And so here I am, on my often up and down website, asking (some might call it begging) for good homes for horses. Not a first class jumper in the bunch. None have given riding lessons. No fancy dancers. Just plain, ordinary thoroughbreds. The majority of race horses are unsound. Feed lot horses have always been a roll of the dice. Recovering starved horses are friendly enough, but I doubt most are broke to ride.

We are grateful for your letters and phone calls concerning Sammi. Love and prayers come from all parts of the world. Readers of my website have always been compassionate and giving. Thank you so very much.

It is Tuesday, and chores are forever. Later we could be 70 degrees. Delicious hot coffee from Starbucks. Yummy blueberry coffee cake made by Safeway. Enjoy your billions of gnats Tuesday, and be sure to hug your horses. Rolling Stones on the oldies station…

Joe
##

And the link to our Whitehouse:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Tuesday...

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

###

Completely 'off-topic' as far as racing is concerned...here's (I hope) the link to article I refer to in my last post here....I needed Tums at page 3 and didn't finish because it was late at night and as I kept reading I couldn't help feel like there's no way out of this situation with big corporations calling the shots and not a bit worried about paying the consequences...for them, there are no consequences. It's wrong, it's terribly depressing...and fair warning, the language is 'colorful' but ya know, sometimes 'colorful' is the only way to say it like it is:(

WHY ISN'T WALL STREET IN JAIL?

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

well...wouldn't you know?! :/ I will try one more time here...

WHY ISN'T WALL STREET IN JAIL

I'm so distressed about the wild horses and their plight - but I have been for years , and nothing changes ... publicity can hurt them though , so we need to keep it up all we can .

I don't want to get into a discussion or rant here about horse slaughter , etc., it's depressing for us all ...and we are doing what we can ...
public exposure is what needs to happen though...

There is a psychological word used , I can't remember it really ... but it's 'something' bias ,

.. it describes the state of people in general who will not , just will * not * see or hear facts that are too unpleasant to know ...

It's what we a facing , fighting against ... trying to make people see and care ...
-----

THE FACTOR IN THE ARKANSAS DERBY SATURDAY

This great and speedy Calif. horse will run this Saturday in the Ark. Derby ....
if he wins or does well , he will go
TO THE KENTUCKY DERBY ...

Oh Uncle Mo , poor ole boy , he's coming -
the best from the west is coming to get you ,
dear ole Uncle ...

There is one thing before I congratulate the western states on winning the KD -
The Factor's pedigree --
can he go the distance ?

Some say he's bred for a mile and will slow down in longer runs -
We will see in the Ark . Derby .
They are saying the same about Mo too -

Mo had a great work-out in the Wood , and The Factor will have the same in the AD -
so we shall see what we shall see ...

Dialed In will probably pass and beat them both !

Or some horse that we've never heard of.....

How I love the Kentucky Derby ... while I don't want horses to be hurt and actually close my eyes when they come out of the gate - I love it.
Lots of ambiguity here , lol ...
Have a good day , bye now ,

###
Lynne....when man thinks he is bigger than God...God will show us....and money is the root of all evil....so where there is evil...money...money...evil...

###
Bobbie B....that is the problem....not us...but others...want to turn their heads..they do not want to face what is really going on....horse slaughter, dog fighting, mexican rodeos, and the list goes on...brutal ways to make money....

####
and like everyone...the KD is fast approaching...so is April 29th...

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd. . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our beloved ANGEL DEE says, "It is AFFIRMED!"
Indeed it is!

Holding hands, paws, and hooves with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

I have never been on a roller-coaster (and don't intend to get on any - ha!) but the last week or so have been what it must feel like, whew!!
My fave was always the Merry-Go-Round (Carousel)and Daddy would ride with me as many times as I cared to ride . . .

I'm horridly behind with e-mails at the moment as I'm working against a deadline date for my research paper - it's going well, but between my responsibilities at home and working through the nights to finish the paper, I'm getting a bit zany!! And my cutest little rosebud paisana Mama has been a total handful, too!!!
Please know I'm with each and every one of you!!

Many daffodils beginning to open, some lovely pink hyacinths, the first tulips; and the early weeping cherry, magnolia, and Bradford pear in the area are opening and it's a glorious time of the year!

Please keep me in your prayers, too, thanks so much, and I just might have to get some of you fine and dandy FOB ladies after Ms. Annie!!

Miss Minnie and Miss Pickles, the neighbor doxies that we babysit, also have spring fever, too!!

Oh and I thought of all of you yesterday morning on campus, as I was headed up the footpath by the stream a lady was walking her two doggies, a small fuzzy fellow, named "Charlie", who was rather shy, and the hugest black Lab I have ever seen, and his name was "Boomer", and what a lover boy he was!!
The campus is lovely and, of course, I always have to stop and visit with all the doggies who are out for a stroll with their humans!!

Must scamper for now . . . .
LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!!

And always in loving memory of FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, and the Master of Ceremonies, FOB MURPHY, and oh my so many more precious four-leggeds!!

Hugs, Lou Ann

### Lou Ann
Sending Prayers, don't over do. And compromise your health!

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann. 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.............................................
...................................................Your Glowing Wings Of Love.......................
...................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And
Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie........
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Prayers...................
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB, on a dreary & rainy Tuesday night. At least the rain should make for good sleeping weather.... There is a steady drumming of raindrops on the tops of the bay windows of our home office.

I am pleased to report that I spotted the ultimate harbingers of Springtime in southern New England last Saturday. And I have been seeing them along the side of I-95, within the wetlands and ravines: Skunk Cabbages! Yippee, finally this year's wretched Winter is history.

I may not be able to be the FsOB AM songbird this Thursday, because my step-daughter is scheduled to arrive for a visit at some point on Weds. Our office and its computers are on the first floor, across the central corridor from our guest room. So if Judy or Lynne could seize the new day on "Friday Eve" AKA Thursday, I would be most grateful.

Wishing all here "ACN". Alex, may your journeys to or through Houston be safe. Traffic jams can be very intense on the freeways there. Peace, Robyn

#### To Mary L: I hope that your birthday was a great one!
To Lou Ann: Charlie & Boomer sound like great campus dogs! I can still picture a gorgeous red Irish Setter that lived at one of the frat houses at the University of Louisville, going on (yikes!) 40 years ago. What a beautiful dog that was!
To Debbie LA: That was a pretty horse on Joe Shelton's page today, wasn't it?
To Lynne B: Hoping that you are seeing some warming temps on the Left Coast.
To Bobbie B: Please forgive my not remembering whether you ever attended the Kentucky Derby in person or not. Is Uncle Mo your pick for this year? ####

####

Just want to tell all in my FOB family that I am thinking of them.....hardly time to check in these days, but you are never far from my mind.... Lou Ann, Robyn, the Lynne's. Bobbie B, Carleen, and of course our Beloved Dee and all others I am too tired to name tonight, but you know I think of you....hope all is well....Renee too...heavy rain here, but as Robyn said, good sleeping weather, even better with someone to cuddle with (sigh) but the cats will do just fine......ACN everyone! Thank you dear Alex....

Good morning all. It is a gray day here in the North but promise of some sunshine later.
##Robyn, I will have to leave the shout out for Lynne or someone else as I will be travelling to get bring my son home from university. And yikes, the weather isn't promising to be so good where I have go with snow in the forecast. I'll keep my fingers crossed that it won't be much.
##LouAnn, echoing Debbie's wish that you don't overdo.
##Jane, it is so nice to see you when you stop by. Spring indeed is a busy time of year.

Have a safe day everyone. Will check in before shutting down tonight. Won't be back here until Tuesday.

Judy

Change the way you look at the day

in what you say

###
Debbie L.A...that was beautiful and so so true...thank you.

Here's Joe

###
Robyn, yes he is a looker!

Morning all...

I started writing yesterday and the phone rang...I never got back here. Busy is good though!

Weather in the bay area is like a yo-yo..cool in the morning...warms up by noon...two o'clock your sweating and by 5:00 pm the breeze from the bay comes in and it's time for a jacket and fuzzy warm slippers. The flowers are blooming and the 1st fly Joe was looking for just stopped in our house to check out what's going on. I told the fly to head north-west if he's looking for Joe and Cathy's place.

Mary L. a HAPPY, BUT BELATED BIRTHDAY!!! I hope you have a wonderful day.

To all Barbaro's wonderful family I send many (((HUGS)))).

Take care all...
oxoxo
carleen in ca

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Jane. 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........................................
..................................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy.......................
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
...................................................

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

Affirmed

###
please do not forget to contact those...we have wild mustangs in holding pens in mud deep, despicable conditions...they need attention.

wish Bob Barker or Ted Turner, Madeline Pickens..someone please get them out of there.

###
do not forget to call, fax, email...please

horse slaughter is going on...brutual...barbaric...and we know, WE Get It....and abuse, neglect.

###
read the db...and help in any way possible..these rescues are there for us...we need to be there for them.

report anything you see, neglect, abuse, even suspicious...we speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

####
thank you Alex.

####
Please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

####
I'm Fine

There's nothing whatever the matter with me.
I'm just as healthy as I can be.
I have arthrities in both my knees
and when I talk, I talk with a wheeze.

My pulse is weak and my blood is thin,
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.
I think my liver is out of whack
and a terrible pain is in my back.

My hearing is poor, my sight is dim,
most everything seems to be out of trim.
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.

I have arch supports for both my feet,
or I wouldn't be able to go on the street.
Sleeplessness I have night after night,
and in the morning I'm just a sight.

My memory is failing, my head's in a spin,
I'm peacefully living on aspirin.
But I'm awfully well for the shape I'm in.

The moral is, as this tale we unfold,
That for you and me who are growing old,
It's better to say "I'm fine" with a grin
Then to let them know the shape we're in.

###
enjoy your hump day.

Morning, Everyone....

I posted here late last night, but it got swept away by 'accilent':) a 'kid-phrase' from one of my chilluns when young...can't remember which one at the moment...but there it was...that 'accilent' i.e., "I'm sorry Mommy..it was a 'accilent'! :) Anyway..I wanted to say last night to ROBYN:) it IS warming up here in the westwing...and though a bit 'chillsey' in the mornings, it's just an inconvenience and we will survive just 'dine&fandy' the heater will be repaired by winter next...and meanwhile, the days are warming up, here:) Like with Carleen...chilly in the mornings, by afternoon it's warm and the house stays warm until the mornings, when we begin again:) It's all good...

I wrote to Lou Ann, too:) saying how TICKLED PINK I get when I see Murphy-Man being the *MASTER OF CEREMONIES* in Heaven...that's my BOY..in the middle of everything and loving every moment:) and also, Lou Ann: You could suggest to Ms. Annie that I wield a pretty 'mean looking' wooden spoon...and both my chilluns gained much respect for their mother's wishes for them to 'settle down and behave themselves' when I'd pull it from the drawer!! Never used it...just 'wild wielding' did the trick for me:) They both knew they'd pushed their mother too far if they saw the spoon coming from the drawer! LOL! And Jane..along with Robyn: Rain falling on rooftops at bedtime is wonderful 'music' as we drift off to slumber:) I hope you both had sweet dreams last night!

Here's Joe for Wednesday, Joe had a great/grand/wonderful Tuesday:

Wednesday, April 13th... Twice a week, sometimes more, Northern California feed lots ship horses to slaughter in Mexico. There are 5 very lucky geldings who will not be making that trip. Yesterday I told you about these geldings, being held at a mexican rodeo joint near Stockton. They are former race horses, with rodeo injuries. The oldest 12, the youngest 4.

Sophie and her mom are daily readers of this website. We met Sophie last summer, during a Tb Kids day at our ranch. I remember Sophie well. On that hot August day she said: Got Flies?

Like the Got Milk commercials on television. I have used that line several times before. Sophie needs to write her own material.

Sophie’s mom phoned yesterday morning, and said she and her daughter would like to rescue those 5 rodeo geldings. Total cost came to $1,250.00. $200.00 per horse, plus $250.00 shipping. Such a deal. The geldings were delivered before dark. Into a grassy field they went, diving into their alfalfa the way I dive into chocolate cream pie.

On the phone Sophie says: Our other horses got mad and started a stampede. I couldn’t believe all the screaming. Neighbors quickly put out their For Sale signs. (Sophie really needs to write her own material)

Also finding a new home yesterday, a young skinny filly with the name Mia. We believe Mia to be a thoroughbred mix. Rescued from a not so nice place, Mia is now with a family in Auburn. Green grass, two apple trees, and usually Carrie Underwood on the barn cd player.

If you have room for another horse, give me a call at 530-383-2120. Having second thoughts about e-mails. Phoning is much faster. Tb Friends has access to dozens of horses, some free, some priced by the pound. We are happy to help with transportation. A young girl Maggie phoned yesterday, wanting to know if we can deliver to Lawrence, Kansas. Maggie wants a black horse with a big white dot on his face. Sorry, but Kansas is out of our reach. It was great talking with you Maggie. You are a hoot.

It is Wednesday, and chores are forever. Later we could be 61 degrees, with a little rain. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Fresh scrambled eggs made by our hens. Enjoy your American Idol Wednesday, and be sure to hug your horses. Still searching for our first fly...

Joe
##

And the link to our Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Wednesday..it's almost "Friday Eve" :)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Dutrow's license Revokes

Happy danceing!

Arthurs Tale to miss Derby with Injury

Joan ## I'm fine today ( with a grin )
thanks for the entertaining poem !

Judy ## I guess you've gone already , but have a safe trip in that snow .

Robyn ## I think I will stick with my sweet Uncle Mo , but I think he will have his ' hooves ' full with The Factor , Dialed In , and perhaps Shackleford. It makes for an interesting race !

I think Mo is in a growth spurt and cannot be trained enough right now -- I read that theory , and I remember when Michael Matz faced the same problem with ... one of the brothers ... Nicanor?

When a horse hits this growth period , he cannot be trained hard and will be clumsy.
Both Dialed In and The Factor ...*could* ... beat Mo if he is experiencing this now ... but I'm sticking with Mo , hoping for his normal great run. He has a magnificent way of going . I refuse to lose faith.

Make it a good day ! bye now ,

##BobbieB, still here til 5. I'm with you I'm rootin for Uncle Mo, saw a clip of one of his early races and decided he was the one to watch and root for.

Judy

:)

Judy: 'til 5, so maybe you'll still see this:) Go and get your son..and enjoy his homecoming...:)Safe there and safe home to you both, Judy! Be safe in that questionable weather!

Joan:) Loved the poem...such true words, too! :/ LOL!

Bobbie: I hope you can celebrate 'your' pick, *MO* for winning the upcoming Derby:)

Seems the field continues to shrink..maybe there will be fewer than 20 this time, and frankly, though I know it breaks tradition...I always feel fewer running is somehow safer running....

Raining here:/ light rain...no sunshine...no blue skies..the poor little 'skweerlz' have their tails up over their heads again, trying to stay warmer and dryer while partaking those oh so COVETED black oil sunflower seeds:)

Hope yole are having a good day today!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Dear Frens, I'm not posting much but I am still here a few times every day.

God Bless Us Everyone.

Hiya, FsOB! It's weird, my posting from this morning never showed up. Go figure! Alex, I definitely think that sales will increase as the Triple Crown season gets underway. Please don't forget about polo season, either. Newport International Polo has well-attended meets during July, August, & Sept. Needless to say, you would have accommodations available in Connecticut!

I agree with Lynne: I am much less anxious about safety when the Kentucky Derby field has fewer than 20 horses. Has anyone else here seen the photos of Master of Hounds, a potential Derby candidate? What a stunningly beautiful horse he is! I hope that Arthur's Tale heals up nicely.

Wishing all here ACN. Tomorrow I probably won't be able to seize the new day. Lynne, if you can do the honours for me & for Judy, that would be awesome. Peace, Robyn

#### To Jane: Hoping that you can join us here on the banks of the Thames on 05/07/11!
To Judy: A safe trip home for you and your son!
To Margie: It's always a pleasure when you drop in, please don't be a stranger!
To Debbie LA: I was surprised by the suspension of Rick Dutrow, weren't you?
To Joan: I am approaching the age when "I'm Fine" has the ring of truth to it!
To Carleen: Sounds like lovely Spring sunshine to me!
To Bobbie B: Please do check out Master of Hounds. I like Uncle Mo, but his name just doesn't have the panache that I would anticipate for a winner of the first jewel of the Triple Crown. What's the news about Soldat?
To Lynne: Yikes, the infamous wooden spoon! Ms. Annie probably remembers those from her childhood.
To Lou Ann: Lots of paisans and paisanas knew to run from the wooden spoon! I remember the fly swatter, myself. ####

Morning all....

Thursday already!

Sandra, how is Buddy doing? The little escape artist must keep your niece on her toes. I miss those days...

Has anyone heard news on Bailey and her family?
I hope all is ok there.

We have to file for an extention on the dredded "T" (tax thing) I hope you all have yours done. Oh well....

I've been watching the animal planet channel..the old shows like Detroit, Houston, Pheonix and San Francisco animals cops...Good grief there some sick people in this world. I always feel good when a poor animal finds a good home after being mistreated. Then I go hug all my kiddens...Skit, Skat, Boo and Tibby....they just look at me like "She's lost her mind....again!"

Time for another cup of coffee...please take care all and have a fantabulous day!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY!!!))))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Morning, Everyone:)

Carleen: Thanks for doing the first 'morning all' for Judy and Robyn...I was lollygagging too long w/eamils this a.m.!! :) I know what you mean with those Animal Planet shows, too! I sure do miss Emergency Vets and the Jeff Corwin Experience..they've gone to more/more 'gory shows' about River Monsters and ???? Why?! :/

Beautiful morning here in the foothills:) blue skies and sunshine..a bit on the 'brrrrrryyyy' side for now, but it's going to warm up beginning today and I think by Sunday...UPPER SEVENTIES! Wheeeeee:)

Here's Joe for today..and BTW:) HAPPY FRIDAY EVE, FAMILY!!

Thursday, April 14th... What a pretty gray thoroughbred mare. In the beginning she was known as Dawn. Then her name changed to Gracie. After her first foal, they began calling her Blush. There came a day when Blush needed a new home fast. A breeding farm gave her to an event trainer. The event trainer gave her to an event kid. The kid gave her to another kid. Blush was then given to a lady right here in our town of Woodland. The lady knew little about horses. Soon Blush was living at a mexican rodeo ranch near Dunnigan.

A passing motorist, tired of seeing Blush tied tightly to a tree all day, made an offer. The passing motorist phoned and asked if I knew someone who could help transport. Our friend Sheldon was there with his trailer in less than two hours. Blush was moved to a boarding facility in Davis. We then discovered her grandpa is a sire with the name Swing Till Dawn. And so the pretty gray mare once again became Dawn.

Dawn, Gracie, Blush, Dawn… the gray mare has grown tired of standing in line at DMV, waiting for a new identification card.

Dawn loves kids. On Monday she was moved to a new barn, in hopes of becoming a lesson horse. She is still owned by the passing motorist.

It is the passing motorist I want to write about. A student at UC Davis, she adopted our gelding Yankee in 2009. Yankee had come from the race track with major injuries. The student took Yankee home and spent a year on rehab. A very fortunate horse. Yankee now moves like Sugar Ray on that dancing show.

The same year, 2009, the student rescued yet another race horse. Scheduled to be euthanized, the gelding had come to UC Davis, also with major injuries.

Moving on to 2010. I continually begged on my website for good homes for horses. Twice the student rescued feed lot geldings. Both thoroughbreds. Both currently living the good life near Dunnigan.

Here we are, 2011. In February the student saved the life of a thoroughbred gelding, advertised on craigslist by a race horse trainer. The trainer had promised to euthanize the gelding the very next day.

And now, the pretty gray thoroughbred mare. Publicly abused at a mexican rodeo farm. The student walked right up to the owner and asked how much for the mare? They agreed on a price, and the student untied the mare from the tree. There the two stood, waiting for Sheldon.

The student works nights at a restaurant in Davis. A year from now she graduates, and hopes to open a vet clinic somewhere in the midwest. Maybe Texas. Helping rural farmers with their horses. This has always been her dream.

Nicki in Vacaville saves two or three race horses a year. Nicki has been doing this since 2002. Julia in Lincoln rescues two or three standardbreds a year. Jessica in Folsom rescues at least one race horse every year. The same with Taylor in Santa Rosa. Kate in Elk Grove likes to rescue quarter horses. Jodi loves arabs, but she helps all breeds. Samantha in Woodland has a soft spot for paints. Michelle in Clayton prefers morgans.

My Facebook friend Cynthia does an amazing job helping dogs. Jerri in Vacaville does the same with cats.

And 14 year old Katie in Roseville brings home lizards and rats, found on craigslist. Katie works hard to find those lizards and rats good homes.

Pretty cool when you think about it. Voices for animals. I raise my coffee cup to you. Cheers.

Joe
##

and the link to our Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Things in the 'critter department' are changing as Spring comes more and more...The activity at the *HUMMZINER* feeder is 'faster-paced' now..the little darlings are now at nearly 2C a day or day and a half, maybe more like it...the variety of Grosbeak which come here to hatch and raise their babes are back:) I think the White Crowned Sparrows, all but two or three are gone north now and I belive I've got only 'one' staying longer than ususal Junco, too:) The Does are becoming 'rounder and rounder' and beginning as early as next month through August, they'll be dropping their twin fawns:) Oh...the hills will be ALIVE with 'zooming here and boinga-boinging there' baby fawns...Wheeeee!! :) No matter how much crap flies out into the rest of the world, thank God, I have the *CRITTERS* here in my hood to remind me ALL is not SO bad in this world:)

I hope yole have a wonderful Thursday!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Joe at TB Friends

Statement from Pletcher and Repole reveal Uncle Mo GI tract infection

Old Friends appeals for help with shortfall

#####
Let us continue to pray that the owners and trainers of Uncle Mo...do the right thing...the horse is NO. 1..

###
please call, fax, email...same song...a new day...

please read the db and help in any way possible...please report abuse....do not turn your heads....we speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

###
thank you Alex.

###
Please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

My dear old Uncle Mo ran sick ... with an intestinal infection ... in the Wood... and came in THIRD .... I am impressed with his fortitude and heart to accomplish that ...

Oh my , if they can cure it with meds in time to get his strength and conditioning ... he will be in the KD ...

I want the best for Mo either way , to be cured and safe ... but he's a horse we don't often see , with , I think , the potential to be a great one ... if he gets the chance ...

You peeples need to see his way of going ... his motion ... he is lovely and rare ...and astounding really ... a horse like this is very rare ... I hope he is as good as I think he can be ...

## Robyn , his name is certainly not a classic , but it's homey ... a warmly familiar and cozy name in the south that evokes good feelings ...
although he's a yankee from New York , my yankee Uncle , lol ,

I remember my Jewish Uncle Miltie on tv when I was a small child ... how I loved him ! I was just old enough to watch him and I vaguely retain the memories ... I still treasure my Jewish Uncle.

So I love Mo , his talent and who he is , despite the name , lol ,
Master of the Hunt I don't know much about , except he has a marvelous pedigree - especially for distance - although I can't read pedigrees like Lynne can ...

I don't know if he can run on the same level as Mo , The Factor , and Dialed In ... Aidan O'Brien thinks he can ! ,
So knowing the KD ... he might beat them all , lol. It's a race at best , a cavalry charge at worst ...

Hope the remainder of the day is good for each of you ... bye now ,

Carleen, Buddy is doing fine. So far he has not been able to escape his yard. He is getting a new fence with cement at the bottom and over 6 ft tall. He hasnt had another seizure.

###Bobbie, I like Uncle Mo because I like his name. I think to come in 3rd with a stomach upset is great. Poor guy was sick.

###Margie in NM, We are about to blow away here in West Texas. Severe drought and wind gusts today over 60 MPH. 200,000 acres burned around Lubbock.

###Missing Chief pretty bad today. Miss him every day but some days are worse.

:)

Bobbie! I can't read pedigrees so 'good'...LOL! I recognize 'some' of the ancestery..but certainly not all...BobCinPA pointed out to me once, that a horse which had arrived at Safe Haven had John Henry's daddy in his line somewhere...*JOHN HENRY'S DADDY* for Heaven's Sakes! I missed that one, 'fershure':) Heaven only knows how many others I miss...LOL!

I'm glad your Uncle Mo was diagnosed and am hoping he'll be fit as a fiddle soon enough to run in that Derby:) I hope for your sake AND his, he does just 'dine&fandy' in it, too!

Sandra:) Love reading about the newest 'Buddy Safeguards' being installed in your family's home/yard! I tellya...he DOES remind me greatly of *MARLEY* he brings 'miles of smiles' my way:)

Still mostly cloudy here this afternoon...not exactly flip-flop weather outdoors yet, either:/ but the hills are alive with so many shades of green and 'gold' from the flowering of the Oaks!! My little Katie looks like some dinosaur (sp?) sneezed all over her! We had just enough rain yesterday morning to make a GIANT MESS of the cars...with the green dusty pollen all over them which didn't really show up too badly...until the 'spit' of rain fell...Katie needs a bath..but it's too COLD out there to give her one!

By now..it' approaching dinner time in the eastwing, everyone..so:) I hope your dinner is good and your night, too!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Judge allows Dutrow to horse to run today

And the slime get's through the crack again!
### Robyn I am not surprised!

Amen Hallelujah, Dutrow horse get 2ed Here the race

Hiya, FsOB! A very happy "Friday Eve" evening to you. My thanks to Carleen for seizing the new day on my behalf this morning. What a lovely day we had here on the banks of the Thames. Finally, some sunshine and seasonably warm temperatures! I had the chance to treat my favourite cat in our neighbourhood to a dish of light cream tonight. It was so pleasant, sitting out on some of the front steps, petting the lovely green-eyed cat while she enjoyed the cream.

And Alex, you must be enjoying sunshine in metropolitan Houston! What a great big city that is. If you get the chance, go to Chuys for some amazing Margaritas, chips, and salsa.

Now I have another reason to hope that my state income tax return arrives before the end of April.... Michael Blowen needs help at Old Friends in Georgetown, KY! I sure hope that TB owners step up and help Michael. Old Friends is a place you simply must see some day, dear FsOB. Brent & I relished our visit there in June of 2008. You would not believe the reverence shown to FsOB at Old Friends!

Wishing all here ACN. Peace, Robyn

#### To Debbie LA: Thank you for the blue-links re. Rick Dutrow and Old Friends! You always share such great links with all of us.
To Bobbie B: Did you see that YouTube video, the one about Zenyatta's retirement? It is adapted from a film re. the last days of Hitler. All of the subtitles pertain to Zenyatta's then-impending retirement. One of the staff people who was watching Hitler decompensate whispered to another observer and the sub-title said, "Don't worry - there's always Uncle Mo!" Believe it or not, that was when I first read about Uncle Mo! He is very pretty (or should I say handsome), isn't he?
To Sandra: Yes, I was thinking of my very first Husky tonight, on this goegeous, warm evening, which Natasha would have loved. She passed over on 04/12/1994 and I shall never forget her or stop loving her. I am sure that your love for Chief will never diminish, either. ####

Hiya, FsOB! The rooster says, "Wake up, it's Friday morning!". So that means TGIF! A bright new morning has dawned on the banks of the Thames. The birds are singing and we've already had a vist from one of the male cardinals, out in the Japanese Garden. Thanks to yesterday's brilliant sunshine, our daffodils are upright once more, in full bloom.

Wishing all here a productive Friday. Please see Debbie's LA's blue-link from yesterday re. the need of Old Friends for some cash before the end of April and do please help spread the word. One hopes that those in the TB racing industry will step up to the plate and help Old Friends. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: A rainbow-filled Friday to you!
To Otherlyn: The moon was ever so brilliant last night. Nikita was lying in the moonbeams as I bent down to give her a good night pet.
To Judy: I hope that your trip home with your son was a good one. ####

Hiya, FsOB! The rooster says, "Wake up, it's Friday morning!". So that means TGIF! A bright new morning has dawned on the banks of the Thames. The birds are singing and we've already had a vist from one of the male cardinals, out in the Japanese Garden. Thanks to yesterday's brilliant sunshine, our daffodils are upright once more, in full bloom.

Wishing all here a productive Friday. Please see Debbie's LA's blue-link from yesterday re. the need of Old Friends for some cash before the end of April and do please help spread the word. One hopes that those in the TB racing industry will step up to the plate and help Old Friends. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: A rainbow-filled Friday to you!
To Otherlyn: The moon was ever so brilliant last night. Nikita was lying in the moonbeams as I bent down to give her a good night pet.
To Judy: I hope that your trip home with your son was a good one. ####

An urgent message from Michael Blowen, please read - and thank you.
.by Old Friends on Thursday, April 14, 2011 at 8:42am.From Michael...

As most of you know, Old Friends has received a lot of notoriety lately. There was a flattering story by Esther Marr in The Bloodhorse last month. Ed DeRosa, in his Thoroughbred Times blog was very complimentary and we're receiving a great award named after my great friend, the late Boston Globe turf writer Sam McCracken in July. Last night, at the Keeneland two-year-old sale, I couldn't walk more than a few yards without someone stopping me to say good things about Old Friends. Yet, today, I feel like a complete failure. Given the amazing athletes, great employees and invaluable volunteers, an idiot could make Old Friends profitable. We're surrounded by superstars that are visited by 20,000 fans a year. They come from all over the world to touch the magic of Marquetry and the majesty of Gulch. They donate carrots and mints and racing memorabilia and money. Hall of Fame trainer Bobby Frankel left money and his trophies to Old Friends. Jerry and Ann Moss, Zenyatta and Dottie Ingordo Shirreffs have been unwavering in their support. Mike Repole, John Ciccolo, Dogwood Stable, Mary Sullivan, Brereton Jones, Brian Burns, Susanne Gottlieb and Angie Dickinson are extremely generous. All of the horses look fabulous. Except for the ravages of old age that we all face and a bowed tendon here and there, they are all doing well. "You have the greatest horses ever assembled in one place in the whole history of horse racing," Kent Desormeaux told me last week. Yet, with a farm flattered by Eclipse Award winners and more than $80 million in race track earnings, I'm still left begging at the gate. All of these great deserving athletes retired without Social Security or a 401 (k) plan. Through no fault of their own they ended up broke. Whether it's Clever Allemont who won the Rebel and the Southwest Stakes or one time Derby contenders Lusty Latin and Easy Grades or Canadian horses of the year, Thornfield and Benburb, they all come to us and come to depend on us. By the end of May, we should be in better financial shape. We have the Ferdinand Ball on May 5 and the Homecoming on May 7. We have an anticipated grant of $50,000 coming from the ASPCA and some money from Thoroughbred Charities of America. The Frankel Trust will be dispensing a sizeable contribution later this year, once the Trust's tax obligations are satisfied. The future looks bright. It's the present that's problematic. We don't waste money at Old Friends. You can check our tax returns to verify where the money goes. I make $20,000 per year and Diane makes nothing. We get to live in the house as innkeepers and I wouldn't trade my life for wealth or fame or anything. None of our employees has ever had a raise. And our volunteers are priceless. Here's what has happened. About three years ago, I went to our bank and asked them to re-write our mortgage so we would have payments due biannually. They would be due after our big fundraisers in the spring and fall. They concurred and re-wrote the loan. We continued to make payments on time through our bookkeeper. A couple of months ago, I was visited by two bank representatives and their attorney. They explained the bank had made a clerical error. While they had re-written the loan, they had failed to increase the payments. Consequently, the bi-annual payments we made were the same monthly payments and we were in arrears for more than $200,000. And, because the bank is under pressure from Federal regulators, they couldn't do anything until the account was brought up to date. As you might imagine, this was quite a surprise. On top of that, the price for horse farms in the Bluegrass has bottomed out. Stonewall, Hillcrest and dozens of other farms are being sold at bottom of the barrel prices. Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm is undervalued as well. In spite of the fact that we built dozens of paddocks, run-in sheds and waterers and fenced in more than 70 additional acres and re-built the driveway to accommodate buses, the value of the farm has actually diminished. We need to raise $300,000 over the next two months to maintain our current status and, quite possibly, increase our space. It's a lot of money. We don't get a dime from the Commonwealth of Kentucky or the Federal Government. We receive a grant for signs and brochures from the Georgetown-Scott County Tourism Commission. These horses depend on you and I'm tired and heartsick to ask you once again to do for them what they can't do for themselves. And, on their behalf, I come to all of you to ask for help, once again. We need to raise $300,000 by the end of the month. This is humiliating. Frankly, if I had any money left, Diane and I would do it ourselves. But, we've already done that. I resolved many years ago, to not expect people to do what they could do or should do or ask them for money. Today, I'm breaking all three of those resolutions. It's frustrating because of what all these great athletes have accomplished. What if Old Friends received a penny for every $100 wager when Black Tie affair electrified the Churchill Downs crowd when he went wire-to-wire in the Breeders' Cup Classic or a nickel for every hot dog sold when Awad broke the track record in the Arlington Million? How about a dime for every beer sold the day Gulch won the Breeders' Cup Sprint or a quarter for every admission when Wallenda and Bull Inthe Heather competed in the 1993 Kentucky Derby? How about a dollar every time a son or daughter of Fortunate Prospect was sold or every time Marquetry was bred? How about $10 for every $100,000 jockeys made riding these great champions? What about a fund set up by vets who earn their living treating these horses or a small fee from Fasig-Tipton or Keeneland every time a horse goes through the sales ring? The ideas for sustained funding are endless. And, once more, they earned it. What does central Kentucky look like without these stunning Thoroughbreds? Old Friends not only cares for these deserving retirees, we are a significant boost to the local economy. We are desperately trying to prove that they can generate income once their racing and breeding careers are over. And, we're on the cusp of proving they can. Once again, I feel terrible at my personal failure and would not be begging anyone for anything except for these spectacular creatures outside my window. They deserve better than what I've been able to provide. But I can't give up. Any ideas, donations or advice from all of Old Friends' friends would be deeply appreciated.

Michael

FOB's cross post this please!

Skippy update - this dog is awesome! What a love. The rescue that came to his aid is having an Easter Fund Raiser here in MA for him. The invite was so cute, mentioning the fund raiser and " a certain Golden Retriever just might show up"! Will let those that helped save him to meet this great dog! I'll be there promoting "our" message as well. We have lots to do!

Oh no - not Best Friends. Folks we have got to rally for Michael. Damn this economy and damn this country for its lack of morals - but lets not forget the innocent ones!! The bank made an error? Thats there damn fault not Michaels. They'll write off what they want in bad loans though so write this one off.

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Family...please instead of that Easter bonnet, or candies..or whatever...Old Friends...our dear Michael...and THE HORSES need us....and I agree with Michael...the extra beer bought. or food or waging or whatever at the racing...they could promote and help them and our rescues.

can you spare any amount to help please...

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot
So...................................................................................................You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
......................................................................................................For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This Earth........................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
....................................................................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lou Ann And
Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie........
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
....................................................................................................

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

Affirmed

Stu,
I agree with you. The bank made the mistake, they should just suck it up and eat the loss. My bank tried the same thing on my mortgage, they didn't credit my payment until after the due date, they admitted they made the mistake and still tried to charge me a late fee. I told them that I was NOT going to pay for their mistake and it was just too bad for them. They agreed to eat the cost but only AFTER I threatened to refinance with another bank!
It's truly a shame that the horses have to suffer for...again!...for a human's mistake. I say we raise enough money for Old Friends to pay off the loan! Let the bank lose years and years of interest! That'll show the bat-rastards.

NO Horse left behind or EVER Forgotten!
Lee

Morning, Everyone...HAPPY FRIDAY!

Reading Joan's copy/paste above, about Old Friends makes me so MAD!! and so SAD, too!!

The bank made a 'mistake'?! I wonder if that bank was one of the lending institutions in this country who were given Federal bail-out monies...I agree with Stu, it's the bank's fault...but they can apparently come to Michael now and in so many words say, "Gee, we're very sorry...we made a mistake and now you've got to pay up or get out" Somehow, that is just so WRONG on so many levels, but apparently they can do that! OMG!

Where are the breeders? Where are the horse's owners? Where's all the 'romance and wonderment' touted all about Kentucky? Where are they all?! Where are the people who own the tracks these AMAZING ATHLETES ran on with THOUSANDS of fans watching...many of them placing bets on those AMAZING ATHLETES and most of them buying that beer or food from those vendors?

All the famous people giving accolades for a job so well done at Old Friends...where are they now? God how I hope the ones with the financial wherewithal step up to help Michael and Diane and THE HORSES...Old Friends needs national news coverage regarding this terrible situation...People from everywhere, who love animals and or racing and the horses need to be aware of this...I remember a number of years ago, Tom Brokaw made a visit to Old Friends and that visit was part of NBC Nightly News...that would get their story out in a big way! There's so little time left now...and why don't they get a dime from the Commonwealth of KY?!

Back when I was a team-member for KY..when I first began the fight to stop the slaughter of our American horses...I received my first 'marching orders' from the Team Leader there in KY...I printed out my faxes to the Senators and as I picked them up...I got goosebumps because I was going to correspond with people THERE.....there in the Bluegrass State, where so many LEGENDS are born...I remember that feeling so well, Family! Of course, as time marched, the wind was gone from my sails as I realized there was NO HELP FOR OUR HORSES coming from KY at the federal level:( It took me over a year, but finally, because my stomach was requiring more/more Zantac 150's, I stopped trying to convince those Senators and the ones from WA state, where I was a 'team-leader', along with LA and yes, even CA, where my own two Senators are 'pro-horse' and 'anti-slaughter'...because, sadly, our fight to stop the transport is never-ending, imho.

I became so disillusioned about KY by the end of 2009, it makes me sick to my stomach now for the most part remembering how I so naively felt SURELY Kentucky will want to help the horses...b/s! Oh, they'll surely revel in the monies those horses earn for their state coffers in one way or another but when it comes to helping them...'a mistake has been made'....Oh, how I HOPE people with financial wherewithal will step up now!

I don't mean to impart here, in this rant of frustration and sadness for the horses and Mr. Blowen, to imply that ALL horse people in KY are out for themselves and 'to hell with the horses' because I'm sure that is not the case there MUST be folks there who truly care...it's just been my own experiences which give me so many feelings of 'less than enchantment."

All I can do in this instance is pray HARD those people with financial wherewithal will step up and 'save the Farm'! If nothing else, it would be seriously BAD press for the racing industry all around, imo, for Old Friends to be lost because of a bank's error!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Want to help Michaels cause??E-mail Churchill Downs and call the presidents office requesting a fund raising be had at the KY Derby!! Set up a booth, make an announcement, ask for contributions.

Lynne said it all above , just what I feel about this bank fiasco with Old Friends...
Isn't it just ever so coincidental that they didn't charge the correct amount for payments when they rewrote the loan - then they can call it due whenever they want ! ! !

I think Old Friends should talk about this on Facebook and Twitter and name the bank. Expose them for this travesty. Plus the exposure would surely bring in donations .

I guess I'll go google Old Friends and get a mailing addy to send a donation of my own , small though it be ... can any of you spare anything to send also ? I wish we could do a Barbaro famblee gift but times are so hard ... but think how hard it is on the rescues , and ultimately the horses , they suffer the most .

Going over to the db and see what's there about this , will return later.
Bye now ,

###
Sopie, Stu, Lynne and others...so proud...so proud to be a FOB..

and yep...Stu...another bright idea...can we make this happen...famblee

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GREED! MONEY....GREED...is not this so sad what this country is coming too...is not what is morally right....but GREED.

my favorite story of the two wolves...one evil, one good...which one wins...the one you feed.

Top of the morning to all.....

PRAYERS GOING OUT TO MR. MICHAEL BOWEN AND ALL WHO DWELL AT OL'FRIENDS.

I don't understand...banks can make mistakes and make life for us really bad...if we make mistakes and don't pay on time or ask twice for loan modifications...it's SORRY...can't help you.

I feel like Mt. Saint Helens..ready to explode!

Between the BLM, the creeps who drive loads of equine family north and south of the borders for profit...the government who know how to give a party and rent jet planes...but not how to take care of people who work daily to keep this country up and going...I just don't understand.

The letters we write to the president, congress people and senate people...do they listen to us?

I pray they start listening...many of these fine people will be voted out of a job soon if they don't start listening....

I guess I need to go pull some more weeds to vent out my frustration...

Bless you all for letting me vent....

Please have a good day...

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S WONDERFUL AND GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Bobbie, when you get an address for Old Friends, please post it. Thanks.

Family....

I visited the website for Nightly News and tried to post Michael's letter in their 'contact us' portion of said website..UNFORTUNATELY, I deal with dial-up and it wouldn't work:/

I visited their Facebook page in hopes perhaps I could send a message that way...no option for that, though...but I did find an email address if anyone wishes to send a 'story idea' and here it is:

nightly@nbc.com

If as many of us who are able, copy and paste Debbie's post from today at 12:55pm t/s...maybe it will gain their attention at NBC...it's certainly worth a try, at least, isn't it?

I've sent them my email including Michael's plea, please do the same if you're able.

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

The mailing address for Old Friends is :

Old Friends , Inc.
1841 Payne's Depot Rd.
Georgetown , KY 40324

If you want to put it on a credit card , you can go to their website ... they take PayPal , etc.
or the site says you
can call them with your credit card info @
502. 863.1775

I read this on the site , which didn't seem entirely current , you know how sites are , so I hope it's all correct . I checked the mailing addy with a couple other sites so I think it's correct .
Hope it helps you to send a little something if you can ...
bye now,

Lynne , I just sent my story idea to NBC , thanks for posting that ... hope they take notice .

##

Albeit a lot more than on the 'late side' this morning, here's Joe for Friday:

Friday, April 15th... Francisco Garcia plays basketball for the Sacramento Kings, and Sammi is a big fan. Yesterday Francisco Garcia phoned Sammi and wished her Happy Birthday. Sammi was thrilled. What a nice thing to do.

I am getting phone calls from all over the country. Florida, South Carolina, Ohio, Texas... each person saying the same thing. If we lived closer, I would take a horse from you.

Again, what a nice thing to do. I sure wish you did live closer.

Like Kristen, who lives south of us in a town called Winters. Yesterday Kristen went home with one of our rescued starving thoroughbreds. We were calling him Tommy, but Kristen is changing his name to Munch. Munch is 5 or 6, and he came to us in a group of 26 hungry horses. Three have died, three have found new homes.

Eric and Holly live closer too. Just on the other side of Sacramento, in a town called Rancho Cordova. Eric and Holly are the new owners of a gray thoroughbred gelding from a private owner. The gelding had until today, April 15th, to find a new home. A big Thank You to Sheldon for providing transportation. And Thank You to Holly for the still warm oatmeal cookies. Pony Boy ate two, and now he wants to go live with Holly.

If you have room for another horse, give me a call at 530-383-2120. Phone calls are much faster than e-mails. Some horses are free, some priced by the pound. We are happy to help with transportation, within common sense distance.

It has been 6 months since we had a weekend in the 70s. What a treat. You can almost hear applause from our several wasp nests. Roosters and hens playing the dating game. Old mares applying makeup, and chasing after young geldings. Have a happy weekend. Waiting for the first fly of 2011. The anticipation mounts...

Joe
##

And..the link to our Whitehouse to round the week off:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope by Monday morning, or perhaps late next week, we'll read that Michael and Diane and the *HORSES* at Old Friends are SAFE from FORECLOSURE...there just MUST be people who have not just the heart but the dollars to make this be alright!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Old Friends

Pay Pal on this page.

####

THIS IS BEING SENT FROM OUR STU TO PRESIDENT OF CHURCHILL DOWNS...AND FROM A GOLDEN HEART...ONE OF OUR FOB FAMBLEE...YIPEE....

To: customerservice@kyderby.com

Subject: Urgent!!

To the President of Churchill Downs:

I received word this morning that Old Friends Retirement is in financial need. Michael Blowen, who you all know, is in serious trouble because of an error his mortgage bank made and is serious payment trouble. Think of the wonderful and moral commitment he has made to giving retired thoroughbreds the opportunity to live their lives in peace. These horses that gave us so much in entertainment, performance and income to the track and owners. They did their jobs. Now retired we need to help them. A slaughterhouse is NO MORAL ALTERNATIVE.

I ask you to look into setting up some type of fund raising activity at the Kentucky Derby. Your effort to do what is morally right to help the great cause of Old Friends would be so much appreciated. Michael Blowen has devoted his time to helping “ our friends” . If nothing else please get the message of urgency out to as many as you can. I ask that you and with all the influence you have to please help Old Friends to remain a needed part of the thoroughbred industry.

Please do not just delete this message. For the good of horse racing and doing what is morally right please consider anything you can to help this great cause.

As we enjoy “ Derby Day” let’s remember the “ innocents ones” who gave so much so we could enjoy this great event.

Thank you for your time,

Stuart Lee

421 Elm Street

Duxbury, MA 02115

YEA, STU!!! :)

I also just read on the DB that Alex will donate all proceeds from the sales of his books/signings the day he's there at *OLD FRIENDS* :) I hope there's a HUGE turnout that day! *APRIL 30* if you can be there.....great! If you've already got a copy of Alex's book...buy another one:) donate it to your library or a friend..or a youngster who might just end up being 'tomorrow's horse warrior' :) Not only all proceeds..but people have stepped up offering $1.00 and even ANOTHER $1.00 p/book sold that day:) Wheeeee!!

Stu: Maybe some of the fans at Derby Day this year, while sipping those $1K Mint Juleps from the beautiful Tiffany & Co. cups will stop by the booth we all HOPE Churchill Downs will have in place:) If they can buy $1K beverages, surely they can help Old Friends!! :)

Bobbie and Everyone...I will send $1.00 along to Michael...it's all I can do, but got thinking, if everyone sent just one dollar...they do add up:) Thanks, Bobbie for posting the mailing address!

Alright, my Family...I MUST get off this puder now! It's approaching 10a here in the westwing and time's a ticking:/

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Any way I can add my name to that from Stu?

Sophie just heard from Joan, do whatever you need!

#####
April 29th is fast approaching...reckon we should do something special for Old Friends from Barbaro's famblee??????

Joan: Maybe on the 29th....$29.00 For Old Friends? What do yole think of that idea?

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

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Lynne...like you said...$1 or whatever we can do...is better than nothing...thank you dear fren.

First review of your book, Great review Alex!!!!

Famblee, want to enlighten a young high school student on the evils of horse slaughter? Following is an email and link to a survey site he has set up on the subject for a school project. Fran Greene (FG here) emailed it to several of us and because she's still coping with her mom's passing, I told her I'd post here and set up a thread at discussion board. Anyway, I took survey last nite, you can leave your email addess for an online interview. Anyone think this would be an excellent opportunity for Alex and what a cache for this student to hear from a renowned author!!! Oh, and Joe at Thoroughbred Friends in California. I'll email this info to him also. He always says kids are the future of horses.
***********************************************
I am a high school student in Georgia, and in my English class, I am researching horse slaughter. I would very much appreciate your responses to my survey. I know that your time is valuable; therefore, I've designed the survey to be extremely brief. Thank you for your time and for sharing your opinions. Taylor Stillman

My survey link:http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/5LM3MWM
********************************************

Y'all might need to copy and paste that survey link. Linda
I BELIEVE

Lynne, $29 on the 29th for Old Friends in honor of Barbaro - excellent idea - I'm in. And, let's all contact Churchill Downs mirroring Stu's request for a funder. We are FOBs, hear us roar!
Bless Alex for helping Old Friends. Doggone, I wish I could be there at CD the end of this month. I told Joan I hoped Mr. Blowen had some high level fund raiser gurus at work thinking of ways to help. Publicity, news coverage. And, though it's easy for those of us on the lower end of the economic spectrum to say the well to do should come to Old Friend's aid, for those who make or sustain their wealth on the backs of these horses, that's certainly the right thing for them to do. Also, because jockeys like Mike Smith have an attachment to some of the horses there, hopefully by now they've become aware of the dire situatiion and can organize a funder of some sort also.
If no one has posted Stu's email along with CD email address on discussion board, I'll copy and paste it there.

Morning, Everyone...

Saturday Morning! We made it to another weekend:) and it's forecast to be in the 70's here today!! Very quiet outdoors this morning, sipping coffee on my porch...listening to and watching the birdies waking up and singing their songs:) A leetle 'skweeeerl' making his/her way up the street to the feeder out back...all is right in the world of the critters this morning:) and their lady, too!

Seymoure Kitteh is perched on his 'chair' the portable radio on chest in here, so he can look out the window and see the 'happs' in kitteh comfort! Lucy is in bed with her sister...she thought it was far too early to get up and stay up, Mama!

So...I'm hoping Michael Blowen has heard from LOTS of people by this morning, and things are looking better/better for Old Friends!

As making my way through Wally World a couple of days ago to get a bag of seeds for the critters...I couldn't help see so MANY pretty flowers out those double doors which lead to the nursery section of my local store! So beautiful, they were..it was all I could do to keep from buying some of them to plant...but here in these foothills, the 'old timers' (of which I am one, now) always say...'DON'T PLANT 'TIL MOTHER'S DAY!' so, along with the fact that really, no flower dollars were anywhere I could see, and that 'don't plant yet' ringing in my ears...I left them all there:/ Plenty of time and better weather for the choosing and planting.

Alex: Yes! Great review!! My copy is in the mail now...thanks to one of my 'sistersinbarbaro':)and I will be the one waiting out by the mail box for it's arrival, too!!

I hope everyone has a good Saturday!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Prayers to people is Sanford NC, a friend just called Wall Mart gone, Low's Gone. One farm near them lost 36 horses. Bad tornado, lots of damage!
Off to call some family up there!

Brilliant Speed, a son of our Beloved Dynaformer...victorious.........awesome! So sorry to read of the tragedy in Sanford NC, have friends nearby, prayers going out! Goodnight Dear Dee, need a Rainbow tonight, won't bore you with the details, trivial to some of the other folks in our prayers.......ACN to all of my Family.....rain pouring down here tonight...

Alex, Congrats on your first great review! You so deserve it.......much continued success.....

Good morning, I see Alex is up! Thanks

Morning, Everyone....

Sunday Morning:) And yes...Debbie! I add my own 'thanks' to Alex, too...so nice to see the page as it is right now:)

I hope yole slept good! I hope everyone woke this morning to decent weather, too! I saw film on late news where the tornados had been...and OMG! I am so sorry! Mother Nature...she's quite something, huh?! I sit here in these foothills marveling at the wildflowers and different shades of green on the hills all around me...that is Mother Nature, too..but oh, what she can deliver otherwise!

Quiet morning:) love the quiet ones! Birdies/squirrels and the deer all happy this morning:) Yesterday, early in the a.m., outside after I'd posted here...I saw one of the Does standing upright on her hind hooves...partaking of the tender young Oak leaves on a branch she could reach if standing on her back legs:) They so LOVE the Oak leaves and especially when they're 'new':)

On my 'to-do' list for today, I've included giving Katie a bath...she's so covered in all that chartreuse pollen...and yole remember with the 'spit of rain' we got last Monday, along with dew each/every morning...Katie looks like she has no Mommy:( Of course, tonight/tomorrow, we have rain in our forecast too, but still..she SRSLY needs that bath today!

Linda,NWFLA: I got that survey, too...and I seriously doubt it's from a high school student..to me, it just smacks 'pro-folk'..I filled it out anyway..but I think not a student is responsible for putting it 'out there':/

I hope everyone has a 'dine&fandy' Sunday...I'm going now to see about that $3.00 bottle of wine Alex spoke of, up-top:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Jane , whatever little thingie is bothering you - well that bothers me that you're bothered , and you'll be in my prayers...

THE ARKANSAS DERBY -
Well , The Factor was no factor !
I can't explain what happened to him , unless something physical wasn't right -- God forbid , and I wish him the best .
Congrats to Archarcharch !
Congrats also to Brilliant Speed , you made your dad proud ! and us !
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The destruction in NC from the tornadoes is just terrible ...although it's not near my area so I'm safe ...
they said on the news that 10 people were killed...

Remember in the last month when I talked about the violence of the weather during spring - well it's here ---- always such a problem.

Yes , we have lovely sunny weather and my roses are blooming already ,
we have colorful flowers and wonderful smells of new trees blooming and it's all fresh and beautiful ... lush and green ...

but then the weather hits - my condolences to all who lost family and friends in yesterday's onslaught ...
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Congratulations Alex , on all the goings-on with your book.
I got mine in the mail this past week and it's wonderful , wonderful ,
but bittersweet seeing Barbaro again... in the medical condition and all...
Barbaro , our hero forever ...
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May you all have a blessed Sunday , bye now ,

Sunday morning...I hope it's good for all who call this their "front porch".

Prayers to all those folks in six states who got hit so hard my mother nature. So much taken away so quickly.

Prayers for the horses who burned to death in an terrible fire on the highway and their connections. I know the horses are running with Barbaro and the heavenly heard...just to sad.

Alex, congratulations on a grand review on your book. Soon I will have a copy of my own!

((((hugs and prayers to ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))...

Take care all...
xoxoxoox
carleen in ca

Bobbie, glad to see you here. I was worried about you. Lubbock is in "tornado alley" so we have lots of tornado warnings in the spring. In 1970 half of Lubbock was blown away and many people killed. When I had Chief my plan was if one was coming we would get into a small hall bathroom. I am sorry about the great property damage and the people who were killed in N.C.

Lynne,

If you have a Trader Joe's near you, they a nifty bottle of wine called "Two Buck Chuck". Pretty good too! A case of fine wine for $24.00 and change. Not to bad!! I know Mark and I sure enjoy it!!

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Sandra , I know Texas has had it rough too ...and hiding in the bathtub is a good idea . Put a pillow over your head too .
Thanks for thinking of me ..... they say the latest number of dead in NC is 23 ....... 23 people dead due to storms ---- it's so stupid and horrible.
And more are dead in other parts of the southeast as well -

so much suffering .
I was just out looking at my climbing rosebushes and flowers and it all looks so good , just like nothing has happened.
Bye now ,

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jane. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...................
......................................................................................................................................................
You And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe
Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...................
.........................................................................................................................................................

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

Affirmed

###
Rainbow to Dee

##

Joan Roya just called me, Family...Curtis was involved in a bad accident yesterday near their home...a young driver, 23 y/old man with two small children in his car ran two red lights and slammed into Curtis on his way through the second one. Curtis' truck went 'airborne' and flipped twice! Took out a stop sign and came to rest against a tree....Curtis was taken to the hospital, where x-rays were done and apparently nothing is broken, thank God..but he's in tremendous pain today, naturally! The tow truck driver told them both that he's never seen so much damage to a vehicle and not had the occupants be at the morgue....Curtis had Angels with him yesterday!

Joan asked that everyone here keep them in their thoughts and prayers, please. The truck Curtis was driving is totalled, the two children in the other car survived somehow, as did the driver which is good news, to say the least! I can't remember how fast the young man was driving, I think 70mph! Joan is making an appointment for Curtis with their family doc tomorrow to be sure all is well with him...times are hard for them now, like so many of us, and naturally, Curtis will be unable to work for at least the coming week...but missed days of work are far better than what it could have been....Joan is grateful, but frightened and needing our thoughts/prayers.

Carleen:) I know about those 'two buck Chuck' wines:) In my local supermarket there's a brand called Foxbrook which sells for $2.99 a bottle, too...I don't care for the Cabernet, but the Chardonnay is pretty good! I looked on-line to see the brand Alex's pic showed...turns out it's a conglomerate from RIPON of all places, Carleen! You know..Stockton, Lodi, Modesto, RIPON:) Franzia is a part of that and so many other labels I am familiar with, too...Glenn Ellen, Corbett Canyon, Almaden come to mind..but there's more of them, too. The website said it was this particular company's answer to the 'two buck chucks' out there in the world:) I think they said you can buy it at Trader Joe's too. We don't have one here...we've tried numerous times to interest them in our community..but thus far, they keep turning us down:(

I know what you mean, too, Carleen, about the weather and the havoc and then we can just look out our windows and see all the new Spring Green everywhere..and all the buildings and lives are in tact...sometimes, there just isn't any way to make sense of things....

I talked to our Daryl this afternoon...one of his sons lives in Tulsa...and they had bad tornado damage in OK, too..Daryl said his son works 10 miles from his home there...and the tornado was about half-way between home and work! Too close!!

Please keep Joan and Curtis in your hearts and mind, Family...

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Hiya. FsOB! What a praise-filled review Alex's book has received. Alex, I don't "do" Facebook but promise to send you a couple of marketing ideas via personal e-mail.

The hoof-beats of the Kentucky Dertby keep getting closer. I read a story on today's CourierJournal.com about the soirees and charity events that will be held in Kentucky over the next several weeks. There is a charity event for Old Friends which will be held on the Thursday prior to the Derby. Please, any FsOB in KY, IN, TN, or OH, help to spread the word about this event for Old Friends. I think that Stu's letter to the President of Churchill Downs was "right on"! I certainly hope that the prestigious TB-racing stables in Kentucky shall rise to the occasion and give generously to Old Friends.

Reaching out across the miles to all of our FsOB in the central and southeastern portions of the USA which were affected by such violent storms over the past few days. Wishing everyone "ACN" and may we all rise in the morning to seize the new week. Peace, Robyn

#### To Joan Roya: Please know that I am keeping you and Curtis in my thoughts. Joan, I am so sorry that Curtis' truck was totalled by an apparently quite irresponsible driver. But I am vastly relieved to know that Curtis was spared from what could have been fatal injuries. Reaching out across the miles to you, Joan.
To Lynne: Please let Daryl know how grateful we are that his son was spared injury in the tornado that hit his community.
To Bobbie in NC: Thank goodness that you are safe from harm's way!
To Jane: Sending a rainbow to you. I do hope that you can join us on May 7th, we need some festivities to brush away the vestiges of this past Winter.
To Debbie LA: Hoping that your friend in NC is safe tonight.
To Dee: Rainbows to you in the coming week!
To Stu: Wow, your letter reminded me of the ones that my late Father used to write to the late Lynn Stone, a former CEO of Churchill Downs. I agree, whichever bank is involved with Old Friends should take responsibility for its own mistake and not force OF to pay $200,000 in such a short period of time. I hate to think that the corporate owners of the bank may've gotten Federal bail-out money.... ####

Lynne, thank you so much for letting us know about Curtis. I'll post over at the dog and cat rescue thread where Joan is a valued and loved participant - if someone has not already. My thoughts and prayers are with them both.

I hadn't thought about the possibility the high school student's survey might be floated by pro-slaughter elements. If so, I guarandamntee whoever it is received an earful of anti-slaughter responses from the FOBs alone. Below is a response posted by one of the rescue thread participants. I don't know their name, nor do I know who the actual respondent to the survey is. But I do know I'm mightily impressed with the way the facts are presented. Whether it's a high school student or not, they will have learned a thing or three after they've read it!!

**********************************************
This response to Taylor Stillman from a good friend and race horse owner who is also very active in the anti slaughter movement.

He has given permission to post his response in full.

Dear Mr. Stillman,

I am in receipt of your survey researching horse slaughter for your English paper. I am happy to help you with your paper.

I am a second generation thoroughbred owner and have been involved in the issue of horse slaughter for over 10 years. I am all too familiar with both sides of the issue.

Question #2 and #3 on your survey are flawed due to the fact that horse slaughter has not been banned in the U.S. While all of the horse slaughter plants have been shuttered in the U.S., American horses are still being shipped to Canada and Mexico where they meet a horrible death.

It is not a question of whether or not horses would be better off being slaughtered in the U.S. vs. Canada or Mexico, but whether they should be slaughtered at all – anywhere.

Horses are not considered a food animal in the U.S., therefore, they are not treated as such. They are thought of as our co-workers, athletes, and in many cases, as domestic pets just as we think of our dogs and cats. Horses are trained and taught to trust us all their lives. It is not morally right for us to teach them to trust us all their lives, and then when we are done with them to send them to such a horrible death. If a horse outlives its usefulness or needs to be put down for any reason, it should be done through humane euthanasia by a veterinarian in familiar surroundings. This is a question of responsible horse ownership and doing the right thing.

In regards to Question #4 and #5 – In the U.S., we raise pigs, cattle and chickens as food animals. I would direct you to www.bloomberg.com and the Commodities market. You will see the price of cattle and hogs listed on the Commodities market, but no horses.

As for comparing the slaughter of horses to dogs and cats, to my knowledge, we do not slaughter dogs and cats for human consumption or any other reason in the U.S.

Because we do not raise horses as food animals in the U.S., horses are given a multitude of drugs/medications which are prohibitive in food animals/animals raised for human consumption. Bute is only one example of medications which are given to all horses on a regular basis. Bute is not meant for human consumption and is a known cause of cancer in humans. All horses must be given deworming medication on a regular basis which also causes cancer in humans. These prohibitive drugs are present in the horse meat and are consumed by humans. For more information on medications given to horses, visit www.vetsforequinewelfare.org and click on “Fact Sheets.”

One point to remember about the horse slaughter industry is that it is a business. The horse slaughter industry would have you think that they are performing a service, but the reality is it is a business. They slaughter horses for one reason – to make money.

In conclusion, horse slaughter is an inhumane, cruel industry that should be abolished completely. Each and every horse owner must be responsible for their horses throughout their lives to ensure that they are well taken care of and that they have a humane end to their life.

Horses are magnificent creatures, and we can do better for them than sending them to the slaughter house like yesterday’s garbage. I would encourage you to visit a race track, stable or some venue where you can get some “hands on”, up close and personal experience with the horses.

If you would like any further information, please feel free to contact me.

I hope you will find my comments useful and wish you the best with your paper.
*********************************************

NWFLA so well said!!!!

Hiya, FsOB! What a glorious sight I was treated to upon arising this Monday morning. The full moon, resembling a gigantic ball of butter, was suspended over the western skyline. It cast shimmering moonbeams down upon the soft ripples of the sleeping Thames. I hope the sky was clear in our FOB Otherlyn's community, so that she could enjoy this lunar majesty.

Now we are one week and a half from what would have been Barbaro's eighth birthday. Hoping that anyone with a couple of $$ to spare can help support the UPENN Laminitis Research Fund &/or Old Friends in KY, in memory of "The Sublime One". Peace, Robyn

#### To Joan: My thoughts are with you and Curtis. Please tell him not to be alarmed if he is more stiff today than he was yesterday. Auto accidents can have that effect, a day or two after.
To Dee: Rainbows to you, our Resident Angel! ####

's

Stu, I agree! I'm making a copy of that gentleman's response and keeping it to aid my own talking points when the need arises. He did a wonderful, unemotional, fact based defense of what we all Believe and know to be the true and right way to treat America's horses.

the wedding

LOL why do we always make fun of the Brits?
Some look a likes are good!

Joan and Curtis prayers, and for the ones who lost loved ones is the storms.

Morning, Everyone...

Monday Morning...Here we go againnnnnnnn :)

Cloudy here, not cold...just cloudy and rain coming eventually, I am thinking. It's alright though, 'cause it will settle all the pollen for a little bit, and everyone's sinuses will be greatful.

Here's Joe for Monday: It's a good one:)but I hope Target sells the baby oil in five gallon sizes! See the photos whenever you're able and you'll understand....

Monday, April 18th... On Friday horse killer James Capers phoned and said he has a mare, with a yearling filly by her side. Do I want them? $125.00 for both, plus shipping.

I told horse killer James Capers, there is just no room on my ranch. And how come the filly has not been weaned?

Horse killer James Capers says the owner is losing his ranch, and all horses must go. This particular mare earned a huge amount of money as a race horse.

This is what the owner said to horse killer James Capers: She won a lot of stakes. Now I am selling her for steak.

And then the owner laughed and laughed. As if this was the most clever statement ever uttered in the history of our universe. Even horse killer James Capers was disgusted.

Current feed lot prices are 16 cents a pound. The mare by herself should have been $160.00. I can rescue both for $125.00. I asked horse killer James Capers how come?

He said just give them a chance.

One minor problem though. The yearling filly has never been touched. Never. She has no idea what a halter is. Try to pick up her feet, and a good chance you become a field goal.

Saturday was shipping day. The yearling filly follows her mom, but stops when loading into a trailer. Finally cattle chutes were used to get the filly inside.

At our ranch the filly leaped from the trailer and followed her mom just fine. They are both currently in a large round pen. The mare we have named Koko, as in coconut pie. The filly we have named Pie, as in any kind of pie. With daily attention the little filly should soon be sweet as pie.

Yesterday Pie accepted a halter. Those big mud balls will disappear with the help of Johnson's Baby Oil. Amazing stuff. On sale at Target.

It is Monday, and chores are forever. Later we could be 65 degrees, with rain. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Microwave pancakes made by Krusteaz. Enjoy your tax deadline Monday, and be sure to hug your horses. Karen Carpenter on the oldies station...

Joe
##

Joan and Curtis: Prayers from us all...Robyn is right re: painfulness after an injury. Our family Doc told me years ago, the third day after any injury is the worst and just like all else our Doc told us, he was right...what a terrible shame he isn't here anymore to tell us 'stuff'...

Here's the link to our Whitehouse for Monday:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I so hope Michael Blowen at Old Friends, has had a SUPER few days in the donations to save the Farm 'department'.

I hope yole have a seriously good Monday!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Morning all...Monday, AGAIN!

Lots of prayers and warm wishes to those in need at this time.

Please take care all on this spring day.

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxoxoxo
carleen in ca

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Nikita And Angel Debbie LA. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...................................
....................................................................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Debbie LA.
And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie And Angel Carleen And Angel Bobbie
B. And Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy
And Angel BeBe And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And
Angel Lynne And Angel Joan Roya And Angel Curtis
And Peaches And Pierre And Angel Debbie LA. You
Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So..................
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Alex, what time will you be at Delta Downs on Friday? I don't want to miss you.

###
I want to thank Lynne for posting for me about Curtis' auto wreck...and to thank each of you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers and thinking of us...

so much to do....leaving early from work....but as soon ...I will fill you all in.

###
please...for the horses...call, fax, email...please.

read the db...all of you are needed for our horses and furbabies...please.

###
pray for one another...and our country....we are family....a beautiful famblee...and Barbaro leading the way...

###
please light up candles for Barbaro and all of his heavenly frens.

###
thank you Alex.

IT'S HERE! IT'S HERE! IT IS HERE! My Book...*THE BOOK* has arrived:)

Thanks to a SisterinBarbaro, I now have my very own copy of *THE BOOK* - Greatness and Goodness - Barbaro and his Legacy....

I sat with it in the living room....carefully, slowly, turning pages...reading bits here/there..playing 'reader's roulette' if you will:) Emotions pouring forth...naturally, a lump in my throat...some tears, too...but Family, you know what I felt MOST? *PRIDE*!! I am so PROUD of *BARBARO* for being the creature on his Earth he was! I am proud of his accomplishments on the tracks, most certainly, I am! However, the pride I felt as paging though the book this morning, was ALL ABOUT *BARBARO*...fond memories...so many of those...some bittersweet, yes..but fond nonetheless! I am PROUD to be a member of this Family...I am so PROUD of *BARBARO* for bringing us all together for the GOOD OF OUR HORSES...so MANY horses, Family!

This has been quite a journey, hasn't it?! I wouldn't trade one moment of it for anything in this world, either!

I am PROUD, too, of Alex!! He's a GOOD WRITER...so often, authors lack ability to give their readers the treat of actually visualizing what they are reading...Alex does! His descriptions, what I've read so far at least, give me the ability to 'see' what he's writing about...I think that is a gift in itself. I also feel that Alex's book is *THE BOOK*! All the books so far have been good ones...some better than others, but all good because their topic was our BBH! However, Alex's book IS 'the book' how could it not be:)

Anyway...I just wanted to share with all 'yole':) my copy is here...I can only just absorb it in 'stages' for now...but it's a GREAT/GRAND/WONDERFUL BOOK and I hope YOLE can get a copy to call your own! :)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Madeleine Pickens Testifies Before the US House Interior Appropriations Committee on April 14

Frens , it's Passover - this evening - so I wanted to remember CJ , Caroline Jaffe , my Jewish sister, and send a hello to her in heaven from her FOBs . We love you and miss you CJ -
bye now ,

####

Something so special about Joe's post today.....just thinking of the filly and her Mom, enough to make you cry...God Bless Joe, and I guess even the horse killer for giving them a "chance" Thank Heavens for small miracles....and God save the souls of the others not so lucky. Goodnight Dear Dee, thank you for much needed Rainbows......thanks Alex, ACN to everyone!

Hiya, FsOB! Wow, am I ever envious of our FOB Elizabeth from TX, who shall attend Alex's book-signing event at Delta Downs this weekend. Elizabeth, please do share your observations with all of us here, OK?

I read on the CourierJournal.com that Uncle Mo arrived safely at Churchill Downs yesterday. And Master of Hounds is expected soon as well. I'd not previously heard anything about Astrology, who may run in the Preakness.

I know that there are a number of FsOB who are Seattle Slew fans. Guess which Derby winner will be featured in this year's "Governor's poster"? Yes, it is Slew. To get more info about the poster, you may visit the following: http://www.governor.ky.gov/derbycelebration/poster/htm The cost of the poster is $15.00 and there is a modest $2.50 shipping fee for those who wish to order on-line.

Yes, may all of our FsOB who are observing Passover have a most blessed gathering at their table. Here's to the memory of our late FOB, Caroline (CJ) Jaffe. Peace, Robyn

#### To Lynne: If anyone deserves a gift of Alex's book, it is you, dear lady. Enjoy!
To Dee: Many rainbows to you, our Resident Angel.
To Debbie LA: I simply adored T Mobile's Wedding Dance! Loved it! Some of those look-alikes were spot on: the Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Harry, the Princess Royal, and Princess Beatrice.
To Bobbie B: Thanks for remembering our dear departed FOB, CJ. It is hard sometimes to fathom that both CJ & Sherry have passed on.... ####

#### To Jane: Yes, what is the world coming to when the horse killer apparently has a bigger heart than the owner of that mare & filly? Joe's blog was moving, indeed. Hoping that your day has been a better one, Jane.
To Joan Roya: Keeping you & Curtis in my thoughts tonight. ####

####

Thank you Robyn....meant to mention wishing a Happy Passover to all of our Jewish friends...and especially remembering CJ. I have fond memories of having the Seder at my Mother In Law's home for many, many years, and would give a good deal to experience that again so many years later....always a beautiful table and so much good food, matzo ball soup, chopped liver appetizer, usually roast turkey, and many other delightful courses. Although I was not Jewish, we always celebrated all Holidays with my daughter and ex husband. Wonderful Memories!

Hiya, FsOB! Although the birds are chirping heartily, the Thames is essentially flat and steel grey on this Tuesday morning. This condition usually signals an approaching storm.

For all horse lovers everywhere, there was a clip this morning on the Internet, showing Einstein, reputedly the world's smallest horse. Einstein visited NYC, outside of Good Morning America's studio at Times Square.

Wishing all of you a safe & productive day! Peace, Robyn

#### To Jane: What lovely memories you have of Seder at your former mother-in-law's home.
To Dee: May your day be rainbow-filled.
To Joan Roya: I hope that Curtis is recovering as this week progresses. ####

##Good morning all. A cool morning here in the North.
##Well, I'm here safe and sound. A four day trip turned into 5 because of that huge storm that ripped through the states and came up our way. A beautiful start on Thurdsay and Friday. Sunny and warm all the way to Thunder Bay. Saturday morning blowing snow. The road was closed most of the day Saturday so had to spend the night part way and drive on Sunday. It was winter for two days and probably as bad as any winter day you would see during the winter months. Anyway we made it home safe and that's all that matters.
##Bobbie, was thinking of you when I saw the news reports and praying you were not in harm's way.
##Joan, so sad to hear about Curtis's accident but relieved to read that he was not seriously injured. My prayers to you both.
##Sandra, happy to see that you are ok too.
##I can't believe what I read about Old Friend's. Will dig deep to see if I can send something. It's so distressing to be at the mercy of the banks.
##I haven't read through all the posts yet but I'm relieved that our community was spared from serious harm from that storm.

Have a safe day everyone. It's good to be home.

Judy

Primal Force dies

complications during foaling, She was 24!!!

Glitterman euthanized at Old Friends

Joe TB Friends, Monday Afternoon... Sorry, but I have to leave home early tomorrow morning. Before the milkman is awake. If we had a milkman. Before the radio becomes real life instead of the same recorded program over and over. Before our roosters begin annoying our neighbors. There is no way (the crowd stands and roars) I can do a new website for Tuesday. I will return early Wednesday morning, to share with you life from a horse rescue ranch in Woodland. Where, on April 25th, a Red Robin restaurant opens. We are giddy with excitement. Can hardly think straight...

Morning, Everyone....

We've made it through another Monday! :)

Robyn: Thank you! I am humbled...and srsly relishing the pages of *The Book*, too:)

Judy: For Heaven's Sakes!! I'm glad you made it home safe/sound and am hoping those 'winter storms' will be no more now! It's SPRING! Hopefully your weather will recognize that, and soon, too!

You know, Family...Our Sherry VW was also Jewish, if I'm not mistaken...So I imagine she and CJ both were having a celebration y'day:)

Busy day for me today...errands to run and some time spent with little Sammi, my 'niece doggy' across the street....her Mommy is to be away for a few hours today...'pre-op stuff'....she's having surgery on Monday. Remember she was diagnosed with breast cancer last summer. Well, she's been taking a new medication in pill form which gives lots of women great results in shrinking tumors...it's a form of chemo, but no hair loss and most often, no upset stomach, either. On Monday, she'll have surgery to remove her breast so I'm being 'aunty lynne' for little Sammi right now....I would bring her here, but Lucy and she do not like each other 'sew much':/ So, I make my visits every few hours and spend time with her on the sofa so she isn't so alone all the hours her parents are away...She turns inside out when I come through the door and we have a 'love fest' first...then it's outdoors for a piddle...and then, back in for more 'lovings' and when SHE decides it is time...down from that sofa she gets and "DAMMIT...AUNTY LYNNE! WHERE'S MY CHEWIE!" LOL! Gotta love the googies:)

Here is Joe for today, 'sorta':)

UPDATE, Monday Afternoon... Sorry, but I have to leave home early tomorrow morning. Before the milkman is awake. If we had a milkman. Before the radio becomes real life instead of the same recorded program over and over. Before our roosters begin annoying our neighbors. There is no way (the crowd stands and roars) I can do a new website for Tuesday. I will return early Wednesday morning, to share with you life from a horse rescue ranch in Woodland. Where, on April 25th, a Red Robin restaurant opens. We are giddy with excitement. Can hardly think straight...
##

and..the link to our Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

Sky is cloudy this morning here, but mild and we did get some rain yesterday in the late afternoon. I'd written here about washing Katie...that chartreuse pollen all over her..well, I never did get to that chore:/ Mom Nature has provided enough raindrops though, and am happy to report this morning, Katie no longer needs that bath:)

I hope everyone has an EXCELLENT Tuesday!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Good morning y'all ,

What an exhausting weekend , a long one including Fri. and Mon. , but it's over and I've survived it ... and I'm here saying hello to all you
Barbarinos ...
---------
Joan , I hope Curtis is fine , probably black and blue in places and really sore ... but fine . Best wishes to you both ...
---------
I wrote my email to the President before posting , as soon as I saw Lynne's link... aren't you getting put out -- I am ...
I expected more for our horses from the Pres. that co-sponsored the bill in the Senate ...

Instead we get Ken Salazar appointed for the wild horses----a disaster ... and nothing for the domestics facing slaughter ... it's not good enough , really not.
I wish we had enough people to start a viral facebook or twitter campaign to shame the Pres. into saving the horses --
----------

If people like Joe , who faces horror daily, can keep up the good fight for the horses , I guess I can !

So make it a good day , it is in sunny NC ,
BARNES , a great player , just announced he will be back next year so the Tarheels are looking
mighty good and that makes me happy frens ...
Bye now ,

correction
if people like Joe , who face horror daily ,

sorry , don't you wish I would read and preview
first , then post ??
I proof- read so much , a lot ! Manuscripts , etc,
and that makes my posts a fun thing I write without proofreading -- so you are subjected to mistake after mistake , and I dun't keer really , lol.

makes ... posts... a fun thing ...
verb tense ! sorry again ... I give up...

Bobbie: What pleeeeeze, is 'verb tense'? Whatever it is, I betcha I do it all the time!! :) In your defense...and believe me, whenever I read that you are 'proofreading' I always think about what a tremendous responsibility that job is!! :-O Our brains 'see' what we expect to see....and most often, I can read and re-read something having it appear just 'dine&fandy' to me...and then sometime later...long after I've sent it off or posted it...dammittohell...there it IS...a MISTAKE after all:/

I could never have enough confidence to proofread for someone...I'd die of older age than I am now, reading/reading and reading someMOAR and then, sure enough! I'd miss something:/

Preparing for zooming, now...see yole later on:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot
So................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart
So (8) A Lot So...................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

####
Koko and Pie...the mare and filly Joetbfriends...our sweet Joe and Cathy and all that helps her..precious.

how could an owner laugh....sell them for steak...these two beauties...how could anyone sell or brutal slaughter beauties...our horses...Barbaro's brothers and sisters?

then the BLM ...treating our wild mustangs...with no human kindness whatsoever....where does it stop.

then our little Patrick...the little pittbull...starved and abused...but little Patrick is coming around with love and care.

what does it cost for love and care?

####
please call, fax, email...please do it for the horses....

please read the db...so much is needed...donations, volunteers, networking...YOU...

###
thank each of you for all of your prayers...we will overcome this and adapt...Curtis is feeling some better with meds..and they are doing another MRI....but prayers...we can feel all of you...and we thank you.

###
thank you Alex.

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our ANGEL DEE says, "It is AFFIRMED!"
Indeed it is!

Holding hooves, paws, and hands, sharing hearts with the entire Barbaro Nation!!

I am so behind but just thinking of you all so much, and prayers always, of course, for all in need.

Finished the research paper at 4:48 a.m. this morning, and have been literally doing all-nighters to get this done, catching a few hours in the wee morning hours before my little rosebud paisana mama is up and running!!
And has she ever been a character, too!!!!
YES, LYNNE B., THOSE WOODEN SPOONS!!! SMILE!!
Now I just need to get through the presentation, "oy"!!

Lots of different varieties of daffodils in bloom, the tulips have started, and the flowering trees are starting to bloom, too.
The big huge magnolias are gorgeous this year!
I don't have a magnolia but there are some huge ones around here and they are beautiful!
They are always very delicate here near the Mason-Dixon, many years if we get just one nippy night you wake in the morning to see all the magnolia buds turned brown before they can open, along with the apricots, too. But this year the magnolias are just gorgeous, but the weather is fortunately staying cool enough to keep the tulips and daffodils lovely.

Can't remember if I got to share last week that I had the lovely pleasure of meeting a very sweet, HUGE, Rottweiler last week on campus. "Elmo" is 8 months old and a very big boy!!! So very sweet!!
And Mom and I were getting off the elevator at the medical campus day after that and a lady was coming down through with a beautiful Golden Retriever who came right up to me and gave me my first Golden Retriever hug!! His name was "Dempsey" and what a lovely friendly fellow he was, too!!

Mom needed some help this year to get her Italian Easter bread made so I helped her do that this past Saturday morning; and today at the market we went in search of Daddy's beloved hyacinths, found a nice pot of lovely pink ones still tight in bud. Daddy always had to have hyacinths in the house for Holy Week and Easter, he always liked the blue/purple, but Mom insists on pink :). The traditions we hold close . . . . .

A most special Passover and Holy Week to all celebrating these.

Mom went this morning to let Miss Minnie and Miss Pickles out and as it was very damp and raining they didn't run off on her as they sometimes do on lovely days - they were happy to get back in to their snuggly blankets!

I am seeing the name "Uncle Mo" come up frequently for this year's Run For The Roses, I'll have to look him up! Is there anyone else we are also watching??

Must scamper but had to check in while had a moment!

Love you all so much!
Hugs, Lou Ann

As we are fast approaching 04/29 once again, I believe at least our traditional VIGIL FOR BARBARO is in order in honor of his earthly birthday . . . .

How does 7 p.m., FRIDAY, APRIL 29, sound for a VIGIL FOR BARBARO??

Light a candle, offer a prayer or favorite verse, raise a toast . . . however it is you like to honour Barbaro . . . .

I would hope that our beloved Harriette won't mind if I post one of her lovely pieces here . . . .

Remember Me

When you hear the thunder
remember me
for those are my hoofbeats
upon your heart
deep in the night.

Do not fear the lightening
for my hooves strike sparks
so you may see
in your darkest hour.

And when the rain falls
remember me
for those are my tears of joy
as I run with the sky herd
free of rein and pain and heavy burden.

Look up and remember me
for you will see the shape of my
fiery head thrown high
among the clouds,
warmed by sun but even more
because you remember me.

-- by Harriette Brillianthawk

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever, love you forever!

We remember, Barbaro, we remember . . . .

always,
Lou Ann

And always in loving memory of FOB CHIEF, FOB BUD SOVA, and the Heavenly Master of Ceremonies, FOB MURPHY!!

/L

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann. 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........................................
...................................................Your Glowing Wings Of Love.......................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And
Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie........
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! I couldn't wait to show Brent a photo of Master of Hounds this evening. I am leaning in MOH's direction with Uncle Mo a close second.

Might any of the FsOB who meet at Churchill Downs on 04/29 please post some photos here? And I second Lou Ann's proposal that there be a vigil at 7 PM in Barbaro's honour on Friday, 04/29/11. Our Sublime One would have been eight (8) years old on the 29th. Please, if anyone has anything to spare in honour of Barbaro, do consider a contribution to the Laminitis Research Fund at UPENN and/or one to Old Friends. With gasoline above $4.00 (US dollars) in Connecticut and just at $4.00 in Rhode Island, it is a miracle to have anything to spare, is it not?

Wishing all here ACN. Peace, Robyn

#### To Lou Ann: Yes, Harriette's poem is lovely. I do miss seeing her here so much. Kudos on completing your term paper. I love magnolias, too. Louisville's magnolias could get blighted during severe Winters. You should see them in bloom in Mississippi some day, magnolias there are amazing! I favour the colour of hyacinths that your late Dad loved so much. Please see above for my early Derby faves. Great seeing you back here!
To Joan: May Curtis' MRI be a reassuring one in terms of findings.
To Dee: Many thanks for the rainbows.
To Bobbie: Yes, I proof-read documents almost every day at work. I try to preview here but sometimes miss errors in my posts.
To Lynne: I loved your description of the Left Coast pollen. I hope that your neighbour's surgery is a successful one. I remember your saying that she is advanced in age. How sweet of you to hang out with her dog Sammi!
To Debbie LA: I concur, may Glitterman rest in peace.
To Judy: Yikes, what a trek home you & your son had from Thunder Bay. I am very glad to know that you are safe.
To Margie: How's things in NM this week? ####

Hiya, FsOB! The birds on the banks of the Thames are chirping their early morning greeting. I wish that the sun would break forth, but instead the sky and the river are both grey on this Weds.

Alex, if you are back on the road, please have a safe journey. Wishing everyone "ACD". Peace, Robyn

##Good morning all. A dark rainy morning here in the North. Very loud thunder storm over night. Spring weather is never dull.
##LouAnn, congratulations on the completion of your research paper. You must have breathed a very big sigh of relief. I'm sure your presentation will cap it off nicely. And thank you for posting Harriette's poem. I too miss her very much.
##Debbie LA, yes a vigil is in order for our boy. It hardly seems possible that he would be 8 this year.
##Miss Dee, could you cast your rainbows of 8 for those who are walking through tough times.
##Joan, I hope Curtis is feeling less sore today and nothing more has come out of his accident as sometimes happens. I hope Peaches and Pierre are giving him lots of cuddles too.

Have a safe day.

Judy

###
thank you Judy...Peaches and Pierre loves their daddy home...

Lou Ann...belly rubs to Miss Minnie and Miss Pickles.

###
Family..Easter is Sunday...it is a gift from God...reminding us of Christ's resurrection...new life, hope, promise...and faith....

May each of you have a bless Easter...and pray for each other and our country...

###
please call, fax, email...save our horses...it is all about the horses...Barbaro's brothers and sisters.

please read the db...and help if you can...without our rescues where would our horses and furbabies go....without us...what would our rescues do????

###
thank you Alex....have a great day.

####
I am going to be off til Monday..no computer still at house yet?? thank each of you for your love and prayers....Curtis is a miracle...a gift from God...it was not Curtis' time...and I am thankful...I believe he is going to mend...

####
I am so thankful for the BARBARO FAMBLEE!

Morning all...

I will be there with you all on April 29th to honor our beloved Barbaro. What a Grand Horse!!!

Tomorrow will be 1 year since our beloved Bud went to heaven...I feel that he, Chief, Murphy and all those who have gone on to a better place will share some sunshine and rainbows on us.

Thank you Alex for letting us stay here a while longer.

Judy, Robyn, Joan, Debbie, Bobbie, Miss Dee, Lou Ann, Otheryln, Sandra and Lynne...please all have a good day...even if you see a new flower that just popped up...color in the day is always welcome.

Take care all!

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY))))
oxoxoxo
carleen in ca

A happy morning to you all ,

## Carleen ,
My thoughts and best wishes are with you as you face this unwanted anniversary .... I hope you can remember Bud in the good times and not let it break your heart so badly again....... The happy memories may help. But it's all still so fresh in one year ......the pain is present and enduring...
I hope you can be busy too , sometimes that helps ......
but you know all this. I'm just trying to say I care , and God bless...
---------

Angel Dee Mirich , spread us some rainbows today , pleez... and some golden angels too whydontcha ,
thanks sweet girl.......
---------
##### Joan , best wishes to you and Curtis , may he heal quickly and be just fine , or
may he be dine and fandy as Lynne says , lol.

---------

#### Judy , I wish the best and funnest time together for you and your son - just glad you got him there in that weather , fren , great driving !
---------

#### Sandra , sounds as if Texas is still burning with bad fires , awful -- best wishes to all humans and animals near it -- hope it's contained and over soon ...
---------

There is speculation that Uncle Mo has had undisclosed leg probs ! ! I hope it's jealous rumors and not true .
I don't think Mo will be able to be a full strength by Derby time ... it is such a shame , but so many horses lose their chance to be great due to accident or illness -

so many ... great in the KD that is ... they are always great in their own right ... you know I'm talking about succeeding in racing ...

I expected something about The Factor to hit the news but haven't heard anything yet .... whatever happened to him in the Ark. Derby ??

This year's KD is anybody's guess now ... no really outstanding horse is left standing - in mho only ... I'm not sure Dialed In has the stamina ...
an odd year to be sure ...

Barbaro will be 8 years old , hardly seems possible ... I know he would have been a standing sire by now - the only Triple Crown sire .... still breaks my heart -- I have to tell myself what he was meant for and all he has accomplished
---------
Have a good day , Barbarinos and be happy ...
Bye now ,

Morning, Everyone...

Happy "Hump Day":) I hope it's a good one for all of us!

Carleen: One year...don't you sometimes wonder how you got through it..and 'how can it be already'? And yes..definitely, Bud, Chief and the Murph-Man, too...they are all having the time of their lives now, for sure:)

Joan: I know you probably won't see this until next week but you're so RIGHT on ALL ACCOUNTS with your post this morning, Joan! And I know I speak for everyone, when I say YOU are a GIFT to us and the horses and the dogs/cats, too! I love you to pieces, Joan..I think we all do!

It's gray here this morning...and the sky looks 'forboding' but thus far, no rain has actually made it to the ground...Virga, that's what it's called...rain falling but not making it to the ground. I learned that from Mr. Finan, the Chief Meteorologist at KCRA-TV, Sacramento:) There looks to be LOTS of virga all around us this morning! But the temperature is mild and so it's fine by me:)

I'm still playing 'reader's roulette' with 'THE BOOK' and am learning lots of things, too:) I am loving 'THE BOOK'!!

Judy: I hope your Spring weather finds a comfortable routine soon!

Here's Joe for Wednesday....I hope owners look at this situation soon and make decisions about their breeding practices...or lack thereof might be a better term to use:

Wednesday, April 20th... Horses and kids and more horses. Two leaks in a brand new water hose. Our friend Sheldon likes to say: Stay busy, stay happy, and eat lots of shrimp.

The number of unwanted horses in Northern California has reached mind boggling numbers. No jobs, no money for board, no money for hay, unsupportive spouse, unsupportive parents. And this phone call from a teen girl: I think my horse is possessed. Can you come get him?

In Los Angeles, race horses are dying and injuring themselves in record numbers. Tb Friends concentrates on Northern California horses, but for several years we have been accepting horses from southern tracks. The calls for help come daily.

Thoroughbred farms out of business, and many are surprised to learn no one wants their horses. One ranch manager told me he thought for sure, because of their pedigrees, his horses would find new homes fast. Yet two weeks before closing their gates, not one horse has found a new home.

Yesterday the ranch manager said to me: I am going to breed this mare. If she is pregnant it will help her get a new home.

Yesterday horse killer James Capers said to me: There are just too many horses. I can't keep up.

Kacie is 14, and she lives less than 5 miles from us. Kacie tells me not to make a big deal about this on my website. Kacie hands me $250.00. Money borrowed from her grandma. Kacie wants a feed lot thoroughbred delivered to her home. A chestnut gelding preferred.

Yesterday from the feed lot in Wilton, Kacie and her family greeted a 9 year old former race horse. Chestnut, with a white face. Kacie has named him Connor. A gentle gelding who loves carrots. Well okay then. I am not making a big deal about this on my website.

Horses and kids and more horses. Oh, and eat lots of shrimp. Wise advice from a wise young man.

Joe

So far this week we have had rain, wind, lightning, and thick fog. Winter came back.
###

If you're able to see the photos...the fog is so thick, you could cut it with a knife!

And..the link to our Whitehouse:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope yole have a good day today, Carleen is right...keep an eye peeled for a new flower..no matter what we might be dealing with..this time of year, there's almost always a new flower to notice:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Joe at TB Friends

Happy birthday beautiful Lentenor.

He Made Them Say 'Uncle'

OMGOSH:) I'ts *LENTENOR'S* BIRTHDAY!!!

Thanks, Debbie!

Happy Day to you, Beautiful Little Horse! I hope you get *CAKE*:)maybe CARROT CAKE! Wheeeee!!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

##Happy happy birthday Lentenor. I hope you get to enjoy a few extra treats today.
##Debbie, nice article about Mr. Motion and Toby's Corner. Now that puts me in a spot cause I've been following Uncle Mo; now maybe Toby is the one to watch. Should be an interesting KD.

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Bobbie B. And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...................................
...................................................You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth...............................................................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Bobbie B.
And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy....................
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Carleen. 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........................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Carleen. You
Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...................
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Carleen, I have been thinking of you today a year since you lost Bud. I dont remember the exact quote but someone said, they come into our lives and fall through our hearts on their way to Heaven".

Bobbie, yes Texas is about to burn up. 700,000 acres so far. Many horses and cattle lost. We are in a severe draught and need rain badly. One little spark from a tailpipe or whatever can start aa fire. The closest fire to Lubbock now is about 225 miles away. Many people have lost their homes and everything they owned.

In the above thats 25 miles away from Lubbock instead of 255.

##Carleen, (((Bud))), thinking of you and your Bud. Hope your thoughts will be filled with many happy memories of Bud. I know he's looking down on you with love.

##Sandra, I hope you'll be safe. I know the fires can move quickly. My prayers to the families who have lost everything and for the poor animals who have lost their lives in such a dreadful manner.

Please be safe everyone.

this is for you Dee

I just hope it work here!

###
Judy I like that article too!

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Debbie LA...
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! I am so busy at work that I didn't make it home till 7:45 PM tonight. But what a lovely western vista greeted my eyes as I headed down a steep road that is perpendicular to our own: an opalescent sky of turqoise and salmon colours.

My eyes were also treated to a very tall and majestic willow tree that has turned the sweetest shade of spring green. It stands on the north side of the yard of one of the most famous historic homes in our neighbourhood. The house is referred to locally as the "Mother Bailey House". As a girl, Mrs. Bailey survived the burning of Groton Bank by the British on 09/07/1781. And during the War of 1812, she apparently gave her petticoats to the soldiers who needed the flannel to help ignite some of the cannons that protected our harbour.

I hope that all of you have "ACN" and may we all rise to seize the new day. May Lentenor have a wonderful birthday! Is he six or severn years old now? Is that really possible? And does anyone ever heaer whether Margano races? Peace, Robyn

#### To Joan: We'll be eager to see you back here early next week. May Curtis feel better with each passing day!
To Carleen: May you be comforted by happy memories of your dear Bud. The passage of a beloved pet can be very challenging, especially on the anniversaries of births and passings.
To Lynne B: Thanks for reminding us of Lenty's birthday!
To Debbie LA: What an interesting story about Graham Motion. Thanks for the blue-link, Debbie. You are the best blue-linker I know.
To Bobbie B: I certainly hope that Uncle Mo is healthy and able to participate in the Derby.
To Carleen: Thank you for your good wishes! Seeing that majestic willow helped put my wild day into better perspective this evening.
To Lou Ann: I was thinking of you throughout the afternoon, sending good thoughts your way. ####

All I need to know

I learned from the Easter Bunny!

Don't put all your eggs in one basket.
Everyone needs a friend who is all ears.
There's no such thing as too much candy.
All work and no play can make you a basket case.
A cute tail attracts a lot of attention.
Everyone is entitled to a bad hare day.
Let happy thoughts multiply like rabbits.
Some body parts should be floppy.
Keep your paws off of other people's jelly beans.
Good things come in small, sugar coated packages.
The grass is always greener in someone else's basket.
To show your true colors, you have to come out of the shell.

The best things in life are still sweet and gooey.

May the joy of the season fill your heart.

AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU!

Happy Easter!

####
Robyn thank you, think I am the only blue linker that's here any more. I miss alot of FoB's who have gone. But thanks for your kind words.

VIGIL FOR BARBARO
IN LOVING MEMORY
FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2011
@ 7:00 PM EST

Offer your favorite tribute, say a prayer,
a favorite verse, light a candle, raise a
toast, have a spearmint candy, just a
quiet moment . . . .
However it is you like to honour Barbaro!

And, of course, sometimes it's hard for
each and every one of us to be right here
at the moment, so not to worry, we will
feel your presence just the same, the
main point is Barbaro will feel that
familiar glowing power of the Barbaro
Nation!

I'll get up an announcement e-mail to send
to all those I have addy's for a bit later
here tonight so you can help get the word
out, thanks so much!!!

My heart beats for your heart, Barbaro, always and forever! Run with the angels honey!
And all love to the entire Heavenly Herd . . . for each of you know you take me to where angels walk!
As our ANGEL DEE says, "It is AFFIRMED!"
Indeed it is.

Holding hands, paws, and hooves, sharing hearts with the entire Barbaro Nation!

Love you all so much!
Hugs, Lou Ann

Thinking of you, CARLEEN, sending you many many hugs to get you through tomorrow.
Maybe you can find a quiet moment to take out Bud's collar and sit a bit, let the emotions flow, and I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't feel a familiar swish of that tail brush past you ever so lightly...Daddy was feeling especially close this morning but I had not remembered the exact date for Bud, I know now what the "message" was.

You know your FOB famblee will be there with you, too.

Hugs, Lou Ann

Hiya, FsOB! I am running late on a bright "Friday Eve" morning. The Thames is gleaming as brilliantly as a mirrow. A tug just made its way downriver, so yes, I am running late!

Alex, I loveds the Twitpic of Princess the Racoon. Does she live in Spring Branch? This is a great time of year to be in Houston.

Wishing all here "ACD"! Peace, Robyn

#### To Debbie LA: You're welcome, Debbie. I hope that some of our longstanding friends and some new ones as well might visit here on 04/29.
To Lou Ann: Yes, I shall join the vigil at 7 PM ET on 04/29. I'll be knackered from watching the Royal Wedding, but I'll be here! ####

##Good morning all. It is a swirl of white outside right now as a snow shower passes through. Will it ever end?
##Debbie LA, I concur with Robyn, you're the bestest blue-linker.
##Carleen, thinking of you today.
##Joan, sending good thoughts for your Curtis as he continues to heal.

Have a safe day everyone.

Thanks Alex, did you look up Cosby TN? It's near New Port.

Morning All!

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Lou Ann. 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........................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Lou Ann And
Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie........
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

Rainbows In The Easter Basket.....................
All The Colors....................................

Angel Barbaro You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So.
..................................................
..................................................

Glowing...........................................

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

Affirmed

Going to be hypnotized today, in hopes to stop smoking. Let's hope this works for my husband and I.

Joe at TB Friends

Morning all...

Thank you all for remembering Bud...and helping me through this day. We all have had these days. Unforturnatly...(sp)...?

Debbie, LA...I hope that hypnotizing will work for you and your husband. I smoked for 30 years and it took me 5 years to quit...I used the gum and carried around one un-lit cigarette. I chewed on it and eventually I did quit. That was 5 1/2 years ago. Now I just enjoy my wine ALOT!.

Sandra, please take care...those fires seem to be moving very fast...Lynne and I will try to send you some of our rain. NO WIND..Just rain.

Robyn, I love willow trees and wisteria...they just look so relaxing moving through a breeze.

Lynne, we had rain here in San Jose...did you have some up your way too? We need to "will" the wet stuff towards Texas...We can do it!

To all Barbaro's grand family who are down and in need of ((((HUGS)))) please have a good day.

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Morning, Everyone:)

Debbie: I wish you great success, let us know how that goes for you...

Lou Ann: I'll be here...one way or another, with the time difference east/west, I'll be here!

Cloudy here this morning...breezy, too...a bit on the 'chilly' side...snow is forecast at 5K feet later today..that's about a 45 minute drive 'up-country' from me, so temperatures today will be lower than normal but I don't expect them to be so bad:)

I broke down on Tuesday as on my way into a local store...they 'strategically' (i had to look that one UP!) placed beautiful hanging flower pots outdoors, by the front door:/ so many different varities of plants in the pots...all flowering, naturally...I could NOT resist! I tried, but to no avail...telling myself if it does get too cold, I can always shelter it somehow..and those really 'few dollars' for what you get in the pot..you CAN do this! :) So far, the temps are not going to hurt the plant...it's 'swinging' pretty good from the hook I hung it on..but there's no risk of it 'taking flight' just yet:) You know..the old 'don't plant til Mother's Day' rule I write of here..well, I took a chance, anyway! :-O

Here's Joe for Thursday....and YES:) Happy *FRIDAY EVE* btw, everyone!

UPDATE... We have a photographer. Thank you for your calls!

Thursday, April 21st... A new feral cat from Benicia. We need to work on her social skills.

If you are handy with a camera and want to earn $500.00, give me a call at 530-383-2120. On Saturday I will send you to a going out of business thoroughbred ranch. It should take 3 or 4 hours to shoot pictures. The ranch is located 40 minutes from downtown Sacramento.

22 e-mails from folks wanting to adopt our new little filly Pie. Just like the feral cat from Benicia, we are working on social skills. Pie has decided this human contact thing is not so terrible. She should be ready for adoption by June or July.

A new race horse gelding with painful injuries. He is a looker. We are calling him Toy, because he loves to play. He removed my San Francisco Giants cap and flung it away. Toy came from Los Angeles, so he is probably a Dodger fan.

Our friend Nikki also rescued a gelding from a race track in Los Angeles. Nikki's gelding never raced. His first workout the rider was laughing. The rider said the donut cart has more speed.

It is Thursday, and chores are forever. Later we could be 70 degrees. Delicious hot coffee from Peets. Yummy apple strudel made by Costco. Enjoy your weeds grow a foot in one day Thursday, and be sure to hug your horses. We discovered our first fly of 2011. He is trying to get at my apple strudel. Spring is officially here...

Joe
##

And..the link to our Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I loved the photo of *PRINCESS* the raccoon:) brought back happy memories of time I spent feeding the little darlings:)

Everyone, have a wonderful Thursday!

Carleen: Count me among those thinking of you and yours today, Carleen...((((carleen)))))

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Hi all. I just read on the forum that Jess Jackson passed away.

It's true. Jess Jackson has passed away from complications of cancer at 81 according to a family spokesman. There are several news stories confirming his passing.

May he watch over Rachel Alexandra and Curlin from above.

Sofie's Lee

Good morning all ,

I read of Jess Jackson's passing on the Paulick Report - of cancer.
He had been fighting cancer for some time I think, and many of us wondered if

that was why he took Rachel off the track so quickly last year. We knew he might be trying to see the foal of Rachel and Curlin if he had had a terminal prognosis.

He didn't get to live to see the foal born , and that makes me so sad for him.
I'm sad for racing
sad for Rachel and Curlin and all the horses that lost their human father

sad for Stonestreet Farms
and sad for Barbara Banke , his wife , and
I send my sympathy and condolences to all his family and friends who loved him. Rest in peace,
Jess ...

you bought Rachel from a man who didn't think fillies should run with colts ,
and you made her career by your belief in her ,
you put her in many races against colts ,

many races , and you watched her win.
You also ran Curlin longer than others would have , not opting for the quick breeding money as almost all do now ,

and you added so much to racing .
You have your detractors as all men who make decisions do ... but to me you are a hero. I'm so glad you were in racing .
Bye now ,

Hi Kathyb , glad to see you .

Carleen , thinking of you today .

Hope you all have good days and sunny weather.
Bye now ,

Mr. Jess Jackson, May you Rest In Peace and enjoy the Heavenly Heard.

xoxo
carleen in ca

Hi Famblee. Terrible winds here ALL OF THE TIME! It is driving me bananas. I have been keeping track, and the only calm day we have had this month was 4/11. I've taken up spitting. When I walk the googies I usually end up with a mouth full of dirt and dust. I have to get rid of it somehow.

Thinking of all our our beloveds in heaven. I just know they are comforting each other and watching over us. Hugs to everyone here.

Good Luck with the quit smoking program, Deb.

Also..............3 cheers to actress, animal lover Isabella Rossellini. She is currently training her 8th guide dog, a black lab named Bau, in midtown Manhattan.

##RIP Mr. Jackson, we have lost a true horseman.

##DebbieLA, good luck with your hypnosis today for trying to stop smoking. I hope it will make it a downhill battle for you.

##To all, have a sunny Easter and may the Easter bunny be good to you.

God Bless,

Judy

Prayers to all the Jackson family for there loss, I remember him saying only hay oats and water. but his vet told him other wise.
Well we went to the hypnotist, well I went 4 hours with out a cigarette. I feel ribbed off, we paid $90 dollars for my husband, my daughter and I. Then we were told we needed to buy some pills to help each of us to over come the withdrawals, over eating, and clear your lugs and another something. Don't remember what???. Well this was in the tune of $400. "each" for the pills we needed. We are talking $1200.00 in pills. So I would not recommend this.
So we are back to square one.Still smoking all three of us, so don't get suckered in on this!!!

Boy would I love to remove some blue likes here!

Linkers her. sorry!

here! going to have a nother cig. LOL

Hiya, FsOB! May Mr. Jess Jackson rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon him. It is sad that he died before seeing the foal of Rachel Alexandra and Curlin.

Alex, your travels continue! What a great picture of you and the students from Willow Ridge High. Your talk must've been quite extrordinary for the class. Who knows, your talk may stimulate one or more of the teenagers to get to know horses or volunteer to assist animals.

Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Lou Ann: I'll definitely be here for the vigil at 7 PM ET on 04/29/2011. Wouldn't it be great to see some of our FsOB who don't visit the Comments Board much anymore, such as Harriette, Nancy, Sally, Laurie H, Jean Nolan, & Martita?
To Bobbie B: Yes, it is sad to see that Mr. Jackson died before Rachel's foal was born.
To Debbie LA: Have you talked about Chantix or Xyban with your PCP or GYN provider? Either of those can work well for some folks. In the pre-Chantix days, I helped start a smoking cessation program for women when I worked at Yale-New Haven, believe it or not. It is good to make a list of your "triggers" that signal a desire for a cigarette and then looking at ways to break those. Visiting the dental hygenist can also help, by removing some of the built-up residue on the teeth (which otherwise keeps the taste of nicotine in the oral cavity). Drinking water regularly (unless medically contraindicated) can also help to flush the nicotine from the body. Kudos to you, Debbie! I had my last cig in July of 1976 and have never had one since.
To Margie: Amazing that you guys are having wild winds. We are on the Right Coast as well! Great seeing you here, Margie.
To Carleen: Congrats to you - smoke free for 5-1/2 years! We have a wisteria on a wrought iron trellis. I keep hoping that this shall be the year of its first blooms. We only planted it ~ 3 or 4 years ago and while it develops leaves, it has not yet had blooms. But I've read that this maturation may take 7 years or so. Did you know that the word wisteria is from the Greek? It means "Easter Flower". Oh, the glorious wisteria blooms that we saw in Greece in 2007! ####

So sorry to hear of Jess Jackson's passing...a true horseman and feel so badly he did not get to see Rachel's foal...but he will be watching over her closely from Heaven I am sure......I believe he also is responsible for the wonderful Kendall- Jackson Chardonnay so many of us love! RIP dear man.....

Thoughts are with everyone tonight....going to finally sit and relax at 10:30....hard day.. as Robyn and Alex say "I am knackered!" Goodnight Dear Dee! Wishing everying a wonderful upcoming Easter weekend.

Hiya, FsOB, on a delicious "TGIF" sort of Friday! The birds have been singing to seize the new day for well over an hour now. The Canadian geese are pecking away madly on the river bank and two of the ferries have just departed. So I must wish everyone "ACD" and get on my way as well. Peace, Robyn

#### To Alex: Have a wonderful time in Lexington! Please give Michael Blowen our regards.
To Jane: Yes, Jess Jackson and his family own the Kendall-Jackson vineyards. May he RIP! ####

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Jane. 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.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jane And Angel Lukas And Angel Darcy And Angel BeBe........
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

To all, have a joyous Easter. Lets remember those who will not share the enjoyment with us both human and animal. Lets not forget our troops in harms way every day in places uglier than imaginable.Lets bless all the horses and riders in The Derby and all races at all times. Go to the Zenyatta website and get uplifted with her and her owners, it's a wonderful place to experience " Love". Say a prayer for our Boy, Ferdinand and all who did their racing job and who we failed.Bless TB Friends, Best Friends, Beauty Equine Haven, IEHC

Lets say a prayer that Sue Wallis falls down and blows her knees out (among other things), that the BLM loses its funding and Abbey/Salazar get bitten ( in the middle of their pants) by a wild turkey and that US govt by some crazy chance gets its S....T together.

Lastly, lets prayer for each of us here who came together 5 years to champion what is MORALLY RIGHT. We have much to do.

Failure to end animal abuse, is not an option

Morning, Everyone...

Good Friday...literally!

Not a cloud in the sky here this morning:) it is a beautiful day!

Our Joan Roya called me late y'day afternoon...and the auto accident has thrown so many 'wrenches' into she and Curtis' life by now, please keep them in your prayers, Family! The driver who t-boned Curtis has no insurance...it wasn't even his car, but his mother's car and there is no insurance on the vehicle...Curtis was to have an MRI last evening...let's all hope the results from it will be good. They won't know results until early next week sometime...Curtis stands to find himself unemployed if this drags on much longer and medical insurance deductibles must be met before any payments from them will be made for all the tests and visits thus far..gotta love those 'out of pocket' clauses in health insurance policies, huh?! :/ imho, the insurance companies and their lobbyists with fatttt wallets in DC are mostly responsible for the health care mess today in America! Anyway...please keep them both in thoughts and mind as they travel this unexpected road now with thus far, as many obstacles as possible thrown in their way making the travel, at times, nearly impossible:/

Easter is a time of renewal both 'nature speaking' and spiritually as well for many of us. As we celebrate Easter Sunday let's reflect on a renewal...a 'fresh start' maybe, for so many of us walking a rugged path and of course for our American horses, as well.

Toay is *EARTH DAY* and if you've got the time and inclination, visit Google! Their logo for today is nothing short of FUN:) Place your cursor on the animals/fish/birds and the 'fwoggy', too..and watch what happens:) Wheeeee!! Sometimes I think working at Google must be the MOST FUN job anywhere:)

Here's Joe for this Good Friday:

Friday, April 22nd... Red Robin opens a restaurant here in Woodland on Monday. All Red Robin restaurants will donate 50 cents for each burger sold to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. This will go on for a week. Very cool.

Yesterday Red Robin in Woodland opened their doors 4 days early. For just one person. This community has embraced Sammi, and I can tell you as a spectator it is inspiring to watch. Red Robin put up decorations, gave Sammi a special booth, and treated her as if she were royalty. Very very very very cool.

And as we head into Easter weekend, I need to pause and say thank you to all Tb Friend helpers. As each day becomes muddled and eventful, I often think how come I didn't take 5 seconds to tell that helper thank you. Or 30 seconds to explain exactly what that helper means to us. Your continued support with unwanted horses, horse loving kids, and jumping in your truck to haul a horse from here to there. We only grow because of our helpers. Without our helpers I would be on the couch, waiting for another free weekend of HBO.

Have a happy holiday weekend. A special hello to Jenny in Texas. All the help you gave us over the years. I am ordering take out cream cheese wontons. I never really like em, but they are your favorite. Holidays can often leave a hole. We love and miss you Jenny.

Joe
## :)

and...last of all, the link to our Whitehouse:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE>/a>

I hope every one of you has a wonderful Easter Sunday and those of you reading here who don't celebrate Easter, I hope YOUR Sunday is equally wonderful! Dee:) I know to look for extra *ESPECIAL RAINBOWS* from you over this Holiday:) You and AJ have a good time together, too!!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

##

Why? the little 'diddys' show at the end of my blue-ink-link, I couldn't tell you, if my life depended on it...but the link works:) I tried it!

OK..over/out now, Family...

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Happy TGIG to all this morning...

Robyn, our wisteria has always been a late bloomer. Never until May does it bloom. I love it though. Wisteria is a Greek word. It's also Orthodox Easter this week-end.

Sandra, thank you for your warm words yesterday.
They do enter our lives, make us whole and then leave us to brighten up heaven. The sun did shine so bright yesterday. It rained the day Bud passed on....is there in rain in the weather forecast for Texas? Lynne and I are trying our best to "will" some your way. I hope it comes soon before Texas burns up...

To all of Barbaro's grand family who are alone, in need of hugs or in pain... please know we have each other to be with...

Debbie L.A. - try walking around the house with just a cigarette..not lit but you have it with you. The gum worked for me so well that I chewed on it for two years...and there are times when it sounds so good to light up again, but then I don't. Keep working on it...I believe you and yours can do it. Who knew 10 years ago that a pack of cigaretts would cost as much as a gallon of gas...Ha!

I know I will be back before Sunday, but I want to wish you all a sunny and wonderful Easter.

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S FANTASTIC FAMILY))))
oxoxo
carleen in ca

Good Morning Gang. So sorry about the hypno scam Deb. I hope you can find another way. I should talk. But I did make it down to 5 a day! :-/

Overnight, my neighbor's horse was attacked by a mountain lion. He is torn up pretty badly, but he will recover. I have had them close to my house, but not recently, but I have had fresh bear scat over the past month within 30' of the house. OY.

Be careful everyone.

Stu, Ditto and Amen to all your prayers.

"Failure to end animal abuse, is not an option"

I BELIEVE

Folks, lets pray for Joannie and Curtis. They don't need this bureaucratic medical S....T!They've had everything thrown at them and they are still standing. Good Good people that don't deserve all this mess!

Lou Ann, I posted your vigil information at three different threads over at the discussion boards. Many of the folks over there don't come here :-( and I wanted them all to know. All of Barbaro's Nation!!

Sandra,

I would do my rain dance but it would only rain here...no good to you and yours...I pray that MOTHER NATURE gives Texas a break soon!!!!

Please take care!

(((HUGS)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

####
Robyn pick up my Chantix in the morning, have to get this monkey off my back.
## Carleen walking in the house and yard!

Thanks all for the kind words!

## Margie horse was attacked by a mountain lion! Sending prayers.

Cooked Julia Child's beef bourguignon again tonight, that's what I cooked for Alex, tonights was better that ever! Yum. You guys have to try. it!

Boy while the cats away the mice do play.
Prayers for Joan and Curtis!
Will be here 4/29 at 7PM for our boy the Big Bay Colt. ACD/ACN always and forever. Hope to post some blue links of our great colt!
Alex's book is wonderful, tears!!! but it is great!

International community backs U.S. drug ban

Debbie, remember the Vigil on 4/29 is at 7:00 PM eastern. So, for us in L.A. and NWFLA, it will be 6:00!

Thinking of Joan and Curtis and hoping for good MRI results. Was one done yesterday?

Wow, Alex, thanks for posting our picture on the web-site. I feel like a celebrity! It was a pleasure meeting you and spending some time with you last evening.

Your book is more than beautifully written and illustrated. It's a journey. A journey that all of us on this site have made with you and because of you.

Thank you for your dedication and passion for this project. Have a safe trip home, and hopefully, I'll make the Derby next year. See you there.

Liz

Morning, Everyone...

Happy Easter Saturday:)

Debbie: I will Google Ms. Child's recipe and give it a go someday...and I remember you made it while Alex was there...'sleeping in your bed':)

I knew some friends back in the late 70's who did the hypno thing...it 'sort of' worked, but not really..and I remember it was seriously expensive for them, too! I hope you will be able to stop needing a cigarette, Debbie...I think you'll succeed because you want to stop..and that's most of the battle, I think.

It's cloudy here again this morning:( Fifty degrees outside...but I sat w/my coffee anyway, on the porch:) Hummers and 'skweeerlz' and some varieties of birdies, too:) a Doe...making her way up the shoulder of the street in front of my house...the Does are, by now, all becoming quite 'rounder' because they are carrying those twins who will begin dropping by this time next month, through late summer:) New life...the Does all have 'somethin' in the oven':)

I had errands to run yesterday...Good Friday in stores is comparable to Christmas Eve in stores!! OMGosh..so MANY of us out running errands yesterday...I shudder to THINK of what today will be like! As grabbing a cart and beginning to make my way through Wal Mart, I saw a variety of already put together Easter baskets for little chilluns....took me back to a time in life when I/we used to put Easter baskets together for our kids...made me smile:) In so many ways, by the time a person gets to be 'older than dirt' in life, it seems like just 'yesterday' and it seems like a hundred years ago...all at the same time!

Some Easter mornings, rain was falling outside so the Bunny had to hide the eggs in the house...behind sofa pillows and in house plants and all sorts of 'odd places'..the whole time the 'hunt was on' the next morning, we'd be keeping mental notes of just where we'd hid them though...so no 'stinky surprises' would present later on! LOL! Good memories...all!

I'm making a 'from scratch' carrot cake sometime later today. Wonderful recipe I've had for many years..makes a 'ginormous' and seriously RICH cake with cream cheese frosting..I'll be sharing with close neighbors, for sure. Frosting recipe calls for two 8-oz pkgs of cream cheese..and I sprinkle a little shredded coconut on top...'cause ya know...the cake isn't rich enough already! :)

Margieeeeeee: I hope the horse will be alright? I used to worry for Mister and Rosie, too..we've got mountain lions here as well..but thankfully, those two horses were never put in harms way by a lion. I know of one horse in our county who was running from a lion and got hung up in the barbed wire fence around his/her pasture...it was awful! The horse survived with the help of a wonderful Equine Veterinary who calls our county home:) I think what saved it from the lion, ultimately, was all the noise which alerted the horse's owners.

I hope yole have a good day today!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Afternoon all...

Lynne, I will be thinking about the "lite" carrott cake that you will be sharing tomorrow with neighbors...It sounds so-o-o-good!

I making deviled eggs, some with paprika, some with dill weed and some just plain. Also the ol'
Easter standby, strawberry shortcake. Our family is going to our daughter's boyfriend's home for dinner...simple food but good.

I hope and pray so many of you good folks have better weather in the Mid-West and on the East Coast....Sandra any news of rain coming your way?
The air must be so thick with smoke...Hard to breath for all.

As this blessed holiday arrives I hope you all have a Grand and wonderful day.

(((HUGS AND HAPPY EASTER WISHES TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND AND WONDERFUL FAMILY))))

oxoxox
carleen in ca

Thank you all for helping get the word out for the VIGIL FOR BARBARO, you are all the greatest!!
I just now sent out the "formal announcement" I promised this past week, to all that I had on my e-mail list. So sorry I got sidelined for the past few days with a massive allergy attack!!

Thank you all so much for helping get the word out!!!

The spring-flowering trees are absolutely gorgeous but as beloved C.J. would say, "oy"!!
The reaction acts almost like bronchitis and so I've been in a bit of a fog, ugh!

And speaking of fog, the 'MISTY GLEN' daffodils (a lovely creamy white)that I had planted in loving memory of beloved LOST IN THE FOG have also opened these last few days and are simply gorgeous!
The name had attracted me shortly after we lost beloved LOST IN THE FOG, they tend to like the shadier nooks, and so the lovely creamy white opening in the shadier nooks reminds me of LOST IN THE FOG's white blaze bursting through the foggy morning on the track . . . .

Just a few days after LITF had "crossed over", I had a distinct "visit" from him in my slumbers, it was very comforting, and just as with "messages" from BARBARO, my late DAD, and CHIEF shortly after their "crossing over", my heart and soul told me they were safely "home" . . .

Love you all, need to get more ice water!!

Hugs,
Lou Ann

Lynne, I'm on my way - please save me a piece of that yummy carrot cake!! Gadzooks, you could put cream cheese icing on - well, just about anything and it would be wonderful. On carrot cake? Sheer hevvin!!!! I'm going to make a mondo chocolate cake tomorrow for work on Monday. It takes a cup of strong coffee in the batter. Very rich and moist.

Update on Bailey for those who followed and helped with her predicament by emailing or phoning. Received an email from FOB Jackie with some pictures her brother (Bailey's dad) had sent. Bailey is now happily settled into the home of a family friend. She has three other dogs her size (one is a blonde version of her!) to play and be happy with. In one of the pictures, they have taken over the sofa. Very happy looking group!

Just saying a
quick hello to all
Barbaro fans ,

and I hope you are all having great Easter
weekends, and wish that each of you will have a blessed Easter Day.

Best wishes and good thoughts to all who are
in any kind of need or have problems.
Bye now ,

Bye now ,

Happy Easter everyone!!!!

Dearest Frens,

Celebrating the Resurrection today. Peace be yours, as we rejoyce and remember.

Loving BARBARO. Loving all of you...

Your FOB Fren, O

HAPPY EASTER SUNDAY, EVERYONE!! :)

I HOPE YOUR DAY TODAY WILL BE FILLED WITH THOSE YOU LOVE AND THEY WHO LOVE YOU BACK! CELEBRATE THIS DAY OF 'RENEWAL' WE WERE GIVEN...SO WE COULD ALL BE HERE, TOGETHER:)

Linda,NWFLA: Come on OVER..there's PLENTY of cake here! Yours sounds DEEEEELISHHHHH, too:)

Carleen: I LOVE strawberry shortcake..and it makes me think of *SEATTLE SLEW*!! :) Wheeeee! You better keep an eye on that cake and berries, Carleen....*SLEW* might grab *BUD* to show him the way to your KITCHEN!! :)

LouAnn: Your special daffodils for LITF sound incredibly beautiful...as beautiful as your own Sweet Spirit:)

Miss Dee: Queen of the *RAINBOWS* Have a wonderful Easter Sunday!

We've got clouds here this morning..temp is 'mild'though...and I've been out back with the birdies and skweeerlz..no deer yet..but the rest of the Critters iz happy this day:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

:/ forgot to write:

LINDA,NWFLA: I am SO DELIGHTED to read about *BAILEY* having a new home with *FRIENDS* to occupy the SOFA with!! Bless *BAILEY* and her NEW FRIENDS, too! Wheeeeee!!

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

A blessed Easter to all !

BAILEY , I'm so happy to hear ... Bailey on a couch with other dogs , being happy and being a dog , ( hallelulyah, phonetic spelling ! ) ...... A loving family , thank you Lord, amen .

All this talk about cakes is starving me to death ,
and I'm on a diet ! Do you suppose
Chocolate Gooey Butter Cake could be on
my diet - if I put carrots in it and call it a vegetable dish !

But none of that wonderful cream cheese icing ...
yum ... although why couldn't cheese be considered a healthy dairy product ......
we hungry people can rationalize anything , lol,

THE FACTOR ----- WEST COAST TYPES OF PEEPLES ,

I have finally been able to read what happened to The Factor in the Arkansas Derby , and in my
opinion , to coin a phrase - it shouldn't happen to a dog ...

He apparently , imho , got the worst ride from a jockey , and circumstances , that a horse ever got !

He was trapped on the rail , bumped to the point of being mugged , put in awful postions , checked until he choked and gurgled in his throat , etc.

So that's what I read ...
Anyway , THE FACTOR goes right back into my top three positions in the K Derby ! If his jockey can manage it ! ...

And also , NEHRO OR is it Nehru ? This boy can fly , and he goes into my top 3 .
That leaves Mo -- if he can heal and regain strength - so many are counting him out 'cause you gotta be top form for the Derby , but I'm not ,
I think he's so talented that he can do it if his people can get the intestinal infection under control with meds ...

So where's Dialed In ?? I gotta change from top 3 to top 5 , lol.
See ya later , and bye now,

ROFLOL!!!

Bobbie:) You made me LOL with your post!!:) Remember Bill Cosby's old stand-up bit? He fed the children chocolate cake for breakfast one morning, suggesting it WAS a healthy breakfast! Containing eggs and milk afterall:) I think the Ooey-Gooey Chocolate Cake with Carrots would most certainly qualify as a healthy food choice! Veggies are 'free' on WW, afterall..:)

I 'should' be on a diet..but dang:( there's so much GOOD FOOD around today and yesterday and tomorrow, too, I just KNOW it!! :/

Loved reading all about *THE THREE* on your Derby List, too:) You watch...then come here and tell me all about it...:)

Well..the cake is frosted and adorned with coconut...the fruit salad is made, the sweet potato casserole is ready for the oven...topped with what else? MARSHMELLOWS!! Ooooooppppssss! That makes me think of *SLEW*, toooooo!!! Marshmellows are high on his list of faves! :) Wheeee!! The asparagus has been cleaned and it's sitting in cold water in the frige ready to be steamed...the glaze is waiting to be smeared all over the ham...the table is ready to be set so things are moving right along here this afternoon:) Another three hours or so, it'll be a delightful Easter dinner...Miss Lucy has NO idea what's in store for her...she's quite the little 'food slutt'! LOL! She LOVES itty-bitty bites of 'peeple fud'! She actually trembles in excitement as she waits/waits/waits for a bitty-bite:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Hiya, FsOB! What a gloriously beautiful Easter it has been here on the banks of the Thames. I was visited by my favourite little green-eyed cat. It is always a pleasure to see her here. Brent, Nikita, & I had a great walk to the Revolutionary War battlefield which graces our historic neighbourhood.

Alex, Wendy, & Mary, thank you for all that you do to maintain this site. It is hard to believe that the 5th anniversary of Barbaro's sublime Derby race is fast upon us. May everyone here enjoy "ACN" and may we all rise to seize the new day! Peace, Robyn

#### To Margie: I hope that the horse recovers fully from the attack of the mountain lion.
To Debbie LA: May the Chantix be your ticket to a smoke-free new life.
To Lynne B: My sister used to sign that Bill Cosby song about chocolate cake when she would visit me and I'd give her choc. cake for breakfast. I'd love to have your carrot cake recipe!
To Bobbie B: I hope that Uncle Mo continues to rebound from his GI problem.
To Otherlyn: Great having you back here! You've been missed.
To Joan Roya: How thoroughly exasperating to learn that Curtis' accident was due to an uninsured driver. Very unfair! I hope that Curtis' MRI results are encouraging.
To Linda in NW FLA: Great news about Bailey's new life!
To Lou Ann: I need to look up what the Misty Glen daffies look like. They sound like a great tribute to LITF.
To Carleen: Strawberry shortcake - Yum! Yum!
To Elizabeth from TX: How awesome that you met Alex in person!
To Stu: Brent & I look forward to meeting you in person this Thursday evening. ####

Hiya, FsOB! Alex, may your travels this week be great. If you visit the "Two Keys Tavern", please think of me in my tipsy youth. Lexington is so beautiful in the Springtime.

Wishing each of you a beautiful day, a bright one has dawned here on the banks of the Thames. The birds are singing merrily and the river is as smooth as glass. One of the ferries has just sounded the pre-launch toot. Peace, Robyn

#### To Dee: Rainbows to you!
To Sandra: Hoping that your community isn't experiencing wild weather.
To Jane: How wonderful that your Easter was filled with family. We hope to see you soon!
To Stu: Brent & I look forward to seeing you this Thursday.
To Lynne B: Thanks for that fabulous-looking recipe. ####

Alex your in Cosby TN. what a long drive from Houston TX. sleep well. And hope you can stay and see some of the Smoky Mountains. Love the mountains.

Joe at TB Friends

##Good morning all. A bright sunny morning to greet the day in prelude to a week of heavy rain. I wish I could send it to Sandra and Texas. Surely they need it more.
##Whew, a lot of reading this morning to catch up. Here, Good Friday is a holiday and for the banks and government Monday is Easter Monday holiday but not for the working folks.
#Debbie I'm sorry the hypnosis turned into a rip off. I have faith you can do this though. With determination and perseverence it will happen.
##Bobbie B, thank you for keeping us informed about the KD contenders. I'm still for Uncle Mo though as long as he is 100%. His connections have said he won't run if he's not. If so then I will be for The Factor.
##Robyn, I was wondering how you were goind to manage the early rising for the wedding. Vacation days are a blessing aren't they.
##Jane, I'm happy you were able to spend Easter with your family.
#Otherlyn, I was so pleased to see you here. I'm hoping you're ok.
##Carleen, Lynne, Debbie reading about all that scrumptious food made me hungry. I'll have my lunch eaten before it's time.
##Margie, how horrific for that poor horse. I hope he continues to heal.
##Joan, how awful that Curtis's accident was at the hands of a young driver without insurance. And how irresponsible of his parents to let him drive a car without insurance as well. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
##Linda NWFLA, I am so very happy about Bailey but it is sad that his owners had to go through so much heartache. Please keep us posted.

Must run and get work done now, have a safe day everyone.

Judy

Morning, Everyone....

I hope yole had a grand Easter Sunday! Jane, yours sounds just 'perfect for you', since you spent it with your family:)

Robyn: You are most welcome! I know you'll enjoy the cake, it's soooo yummy!!

It's raining very softly here this a.m. just enough to make the pavement wet and make more 'splotches' of chartreuse pollen on the cars...more of the 'a dinosaur has sneezed on the car again'...well, it IS Springtime in the foothills:) This too shall pass, I'm not complaining.

Miss Lucy experienced the itty-bitty tastes of her first Easter with me...itty-bitty this/that and the other and I gotta say, Miss Lucy hardly EVER spits any of her tastings out! She's a good eater! I wish I had her metabolism!! I used to when I was younger..but it left me oh so many years ago:(

Here's Joe for Monday:

Monday, April 25th... I am showing below, Top Row, our new gelding Jack. Poor Jack is dealing with ticks, and an itchy skin condition. I am not sure if Jack is a thoroughbred. And I have no idea what his natural color is. This is how we rescued Jack:

The phone message came Saturday night, at 9:09. I had left my phone in my truck, so I didn't hear the message until early Sunday morning. This is what horse killer Manny Phelps had to say:

I picked up a gelding in Elverta. We ship out tomorrow at 11:00. The gelding is nice but he has a skin disease. I know you can find a little girl somewhere who wants him. $250.00 and Goose can drop him off about 8:00 in the morning.

(shipping out at 11:00 means shipping to slaughter in Mexico. They don't even take Easter off)

I have had several battles with this man Goose. He is abusive to horses. Goose once took my money and then told horse killer Manny Phelps I never paid. I now pay horse killers in person. I learned the hard way about third parties.

In front of our ranch Goose unloaded Jack. There were 12 or 14 horses inside his trailer. I never look because it breaks my heart.

Goose said he is stopping at church for Easter services. Then he has to pick up 5 more horses before driving to Mexico.

I asked Goose, what about the horses? You just leave them in the church parking lot?

Yep.

As we made the long walk up our driveway, I said to Jack: Going to church with a trailer full of doomed horses. Just when you think you have heard it all.

Jack wasn't listening. He was looking at Secret, a mare with her head over the fence. Secret has been in heat for several days. The majority of our mares are suddenly passionate for geldings. Tis the season.

Jack dove into his tub of grains like I dive into those chocolate pudding cups. Later in the day he experienced a bacterial bath. Jack is gentle and he wants to please. When Jack is healthy he will be available for adoption.

After dark, a nice cool night. The sounds of mares squealing from our fields. Jack munching on the last of his alfalfa. The world has become complicated. At least we have music. 96.1 FM on the barn radio. Today is brand new. With maybe some rain...

Joe
##

Do see the photos of Jack when you're able..I can hardly wait to see him in another month or two, he's probably going to be looking SO GOOD by then:) and he'll end up with someone who will love and honor him for the amazing creature he is:)

Here's the link to our Whitehouse, too:

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Monday.

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Well ... Joe this morning is a look straight into the eyes of horse slaughter ...
think of where those horses on the truck are this morning ...
what is happening to them , perhaps as you read this or as I write it ... or are they already pieces of meat being readied for shipment to Eur. or Asia ...

The horror never stops , but sometimes , when we / I get complacent - another look shocks us once again. Poor horses ... we must get politicians to stop it legally , but I don't see any way to beat the agricultural interests' money at this point...

A very depressing way to start the day , isn't it , but Joe goes on , day in and day out , helping where he can - and we will too I hope ...
---------

One itty - bitty hopeful thingie -- you know about my daughter's occicat and the big black tom companion ... I've cared for them many times when she's out of town -
well - the big black , name of Shadow , was abused in his early years and trusts no one and allows no physical contact at all --

so my daughter the other night was sitting in her family room watching tv , and the big one , Shadow , walked up and
JUMPED INTO HER LAP ! !
He allowed her to stroke him and talk sweet talk for almost ten seconds
before he jumped off and ran and hid !

This is enormous progress for him , and I'm so proud of him I just had to tell you .
There's been no further physical contact but she doesn't push it or rush him - allows him total control which helps him I think. Way to go , Shadow boy !

Have a good Monday , and enjoy those you love , bye now ,

##

Bobbie:) I LOVED reading about *SHADOW* and his 'leap of faith' for some loving time with your daughter! He will come around and it is a good thing she allows him to call those moments..such a good feeling, realizing that a furkid is learning to trust us! I'm so glad for Shadow and your daughter, too:)

Alex: On the road again...and still time to somehow sweep the porch...it looks 'MAHHVELOUS' Alex...thanks:) Safe home to you later today...or, maybe you're already 'home again, home again, clippity-clop' since it is just noon now in the eastwing:)

Must go and take little Sammi out for a walka-walka now, her Mommy is having her surgery today so Aunty Lynne and Sammi are spending some time together here and there today:) Too bad Sammi and Lucy can't be more amicable with one another...Sammi could come here and hang out..and the two girls could spend some fun times with Seymoure, too. However, they 'nawt likez eech uther sew gud' :(

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

####
Good Afternoon Barbaro....and famblee...FOBs.

hope your Easter was delightful...

and we will be here...and accounted for April 29th.

###
please call, fax, email...have not had time to read Joe this morning....but to know those beautiful horses going to a brutal slaughter...when they should be running free, with care and love.

###
please read the db...and help if you can...please...

like us...experiencing high gas prices and food bills...our rescues are in NEED.

Bobbie B...and others have warn us about high cost and inflation...

###
Curtis is doing better...thank each of you for your prayers...and good thoughts...God is good.

###
Lynne...thank you for keeping my famblee the FOBs..updated too.

###
thank you Alex.

pray for our country...for each other...please...pray for rain...please.we need it so badly here in Texas..

####
just read Joetbfriends...

How can you go to church, and worship God...and have a trailer of God's creations in the trailer packed in like sardines???

How can a person worship God...praise him, and knowing horses are going to a brutal slaughter...

If I was Mr. Goose..on Joe's thread...I would make sure ...my heart was cleaned...because it sounds like he is going to burn in hell.

Alex is home!

####
can anyone help or put on facebook or crosspost please...he cannot get credit because he owes...and he has so many horses, burros, doggies, etc.

our rescues NEED us...please

I must send these as necessary, and you decide what, if anything, you are willing and able to do. Absolutely no judgment at this end. Benefits of an improving economy have not yet been felt here. Hay is up 45% this year, and, as you all know, everything that depends on equipment that runs on any form of oil, especially trucks, is up. The new groups of friends continues to work with us on ways to reach more people.

The new hay is wonderful, and enjoyed by all. IF you want to give me feed back, please send it directly to me at milagro@commspeed.net since if it goes to Dar, she has to forward it to me. Thank you!

Warren's Hay 'N More, 928-636-1303.

PayPal button on our website www.hdlmsanctuary.org or checks sent to

HDLM
3731 N Rd 1 West
Chino Valley, AZ 86323

Bless you for all you do!!!

Wynne

Carleen and Judy and all, 7 million acres have burned in Texas so far. Well, we will make it. We always have.

##Sandra, oh my gosh, that is astounding. It's raining here now and I'll huff and huff and try to blow it your way. If it were that simple. I hope you are not in harm's way.

Judy

Evening all....

Well, it came...I opened the box and I looked at the book, and I cried....then I read the Afterward by Mrs. Jackson and I cried some more.
I haven't even started reading the book yet and I can't help myself. I just cry...Silly ol' me.

Alex the book is beautiful and moving. I haven't even started reading it...boxes of kleenex will be used...I hope to have it finished by this Friday, April 29th...how fitting. Barabaro will always be in the hearts of many caring and wonderful people who call this grand place "our front porch" Thank you Alex...

(((HUGS TO ALL BARBARO'S GRAND FAMILY)))

oxoxo
carleen in ca

Hiya, FsOB! Alex, what an awesome thing that you are doing for some equine rescues, earmarking money from the sale of each book this week, vis-a-vis the "Amazon Special". It was so thrilling to see the Twitpic of your book's cover on a big screen TV. Those students in Houston must have been engrossed in your presentation.

I won't be able to give the AM greeting this Weds. & Thursday due to an early morning work commitment. So I'll look north to Judy and west to Lynne, to request their assistance.

It is unthinkable to me how a person could park a truck full of doomed horses in a church parking lot in order to attend Easter services. Honestly, how Joe Shelton can come face to face with such evil and yet maintain his commitment is really something to fathom. Thank goodness for his ongoing courage and tenacity.

Wishing all here "ACN". Peace, Robyn

#### To Carleen: Yes, I don't know whether I'll be able to read Alex's book in advance of the Derby. I'm afraid that I might just turn into a lachrymose, blubbering mess of a worker, wife, and hostess.
To Joan: Awesome to see that Curtis is beginning to feel a bit better!
To Bobbie B: What a great story about Shadow! It's just going to take him some time. Think of how slowly Chief bonded with Sandra after she found him - and then he came to adore his Human Mum.
To Debbie LA: Hoping that the Chantix is helping.
To Judy: Yes, thank goodness for vacation days. I would worry that I might have a car accident if I got up that early to watch the wedding and then got on the freeway.
To Lynne: I look forward to making that lovely recipe. Thanks again for sharing it, I'll always treasure it because you sent it to me. ####

Hiya, FsOB! I am running late on a "Lost in the Fog on the banks of the Thames" sort of Tuesday morning. The day of the Royal Wedding and what would have been the 8th birthday of the Sublime One draws closer.... Alex, safe travels if you are on the road today. Peace, Robyn

Carleen, crying means your human and THATS OK!

##Good morning all. It is a duck soup day today. Heavy rain and thunder storms in store.
##Carleen, I know Alex's book will be moving and heartbreaking, but enjoy. I think all FOB's should have shares in Kleenex by now.
##Robyn, will be here to greet the day for you.
##Miss Dee, thinking of rainbows today. I hope all is well.

##A story out of china today about a truck full of dogs going to slaughter that was stopped in transit by a motorist in protest which then garnered more and more. All of the dogs were rescued but there are so many more that will face the same fate as our horses here. But I felt that at least someone stepped up to the plate to bring the awarness of the cruelty of animals, in this case dogs for human consumption. Kudos to those animal activists in China.

Have a safe day everyone.

###
Thank you Lord...for stopping that truck in China and saving those dogs....

let us pray for the safety of others...and our horses...famblee.

Went to Joe at TB Friends and got this, is it just me are the site?

Forbidden
You don't have permission to access / on this server.

Additionally, a 404 Not Found error was encountered while trying to use an ErrorDocument to handle the request.

Not just you Debbie. I got the same thing.

###
Lee thanks, poor Joe must be having trouble!

Morning, Everyone....

Dogs are transported to a slaughter facility in China?? I knew dog is considered a 'delicacy' but never in my worst nightmares, did I imagine they are transported like cattle or our poor horses :(

I, for whatever reason/s, cannot access Joe this morning...I keep coming up with a 'FORBIDDEN' message which states I am not authorized to read the page...I'll try again in a while and if not by then, I'll try another search engine! :/

Speaking of search engines:) Google today is WONDERFUL!!! Celebrating what would have been the 266th B'Day for John James Audobon! You should SEE all the birdies at Google this day, Family! It kind of reminds me of the trees just off my little back porch here...so MANY birdies! Wheee:) Speaking of which:/ I completely forgot last night that I needed to make more NECTAR for the HUMMERS...and as outside sipping coffee just before sunrise this a.m. I became aware of that all too familiar sound of 'beating wings' ...and THEN I remembered! Thankfully, I had about a half-cup in the frige...got it 'warmed' (10 seconds in microwave) and back outside..then indoors again..(all while I've just had one SIP of coffee, mind you!) to make another quart. I probably should have made two quarts, but can add more later today! Yesterday, there were three of the little darlings seated at the feeder all drinking like there was to be no tomorrow and that was just one such occasion throughout yesterday...they're revving up for mating now, me thinks, so the traffic at the 'Hummzinger Feeder' is picking up!

Gonna go see about Joe now...brb! Well..even with a different search engine, I am still *FORBIDDEN* so apparently Joe is having 'puder problems'...:( I went to his F/B Page and found another person getting the same error message.."FORBIDDEN" omGosh..forbidden?! So, it's not just me and I did call his cell to lv a message, too..I bet he's getting so many 'WTH' phone messages this morning...we all wanna read our Joe, dernit!!

Here's the link to our Whitehouse...

EMAIL THE WHITEHOUSE

I hope everyone has a good Tuesday:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

##Uh oh, no Joe? I hope all is ok and it's just the internet being bad.
#I too was shocked to see the picture of the dogs in China in a truck much like the transports used here for livestock. Ididn't realize they were rounded up and sent to slaughter and in such horrible conditions. The poor souls.

Judy

Joe is back:) Not posted yet..but the website is there once again! Wheeeee:)

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

####
Famblee...April 29th is coming...and we are here because of a beautiful bay named Barbaro...

we gave our promise that we would finish out so many undone tasks...that we would seek the end of a brutal death for his brothers and sisters.

Famblee...we all need to put our heads together to also help our rescues...like us...they are starving for donations and help...

I posted Wynn yesterday...needs donations to feed his horses and furbabies and burros...and when you read the db...so many more.

Talked to a lady...and she said there were horses in the pasture one day...and the next...graves...where the owner had to get rid of them..because cannot afford them.

Many more will be sent to slaughter, many more will be abused and neglected...unless we think outside of the box...

I have no answers...I pray everyday...but have no answers..but there are very smart, intelligent folks here...and surely we can come up with a miracle.

####
thank you all for your prayers and concern for us...please pray for rain here in Texas...we need it...please.

####
thank you Alex.

Oh my stars , if I could curse here , I think I would ...
Dogs going to slaughter ... dogs ...
I know this is the other side of the world , with their own culture and proclivities but wow , a
slaughter industry for dogs.
We've all read that it is common to eat dogs and cats there , but honestly ,
it's a shock to read of the dog - trucking to slaughter business ! !

If we really had to open our eyes to all the things like this that goes on everywhere in the world - our neuroprocessors , that thing of mine that I laughingly call a brain , couldn't survive .
Remember 'One Flew Over the Coocoo's Nest '
( so now you know I can't spell kookoo and I don't care )
Anyway , I'd be sitting , strapped in a chair , drooling and saying ' duh ' a lot .
My mother - in - law , Lord ( don't ) bless her , used to say ' It's a grand life if you can live it '
And my father , the daddyest - daddy - best - ever ,
said on his 82nd birthday , ' Aging is better
than the alternative '
So I will try to not absorb the worst , as in the doggie trucks ,
but concentrate on horse slaughter , for me that's enough to face and try to handle in one lifetime .... more than enough on some days ...
-------------

THE FACTOR , for West Coast Peeples and anyone who loves a wonderful and fast horse ,

The saga just continues , perhaps approaching epic proportions soon ... I learn now that The Factor flipped his palate in the Arkansas Derby .......
( remember I referenced his gurgling and choking )
and....... he has had THROAT surgery.
Same thing , I think? , that happened to Mine That Bird....
Poor Factor -- one of the fastest horses on hooves and constant problems to keep him from running ...

And Uncle Mo worked a slow 5 furlongs ... but the track was wet so is that an excuse or not ?
he was almost 2 seconds slower than I'd like to see in 5 F.

I saw a Monty Python skit --- a footrace for people with poor senses of direction --- they all poised on the starting line and when the starter gun fired ,
each person went in a different direction , all over the track -- hilarious at the time ...

Well , the Kentucky Derby is beginning to remind me of that skit --
Mass confusion --- just chaos so far ... and only a couple weeks left ... my grandma could win it .
bye now ,

Joe

Here's Joe....he's run out of time for today..but he'll be baaaacccckkkkkk..and I gotta say, Family...I'm much happier to hear those words from our Joe than the 'Govenator':)

Tuesday, April 26th... The explanation I received is our server crashed. There was no Tb Friends website (the crowd stands and roars) for almost 3 hours.

Now I must go to work. There are bunches of thoroughbreds who must find new homes. I will be back later to write about this. If our server does not crash. I keep picturing the girl at Denny's dropping her tray. Wrong server though.

Joe
##

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

Special delivery saves mare from slaughter

I Love You So A Lot So Angel Robyn And Angel Brent
And Angel Nikita. You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So............................................
..................................................
..................................................
You Touch My Heart So (8) A Lot So................
..................................................
..................................................
For Being So, So So Very Beautiful Angels On This
Earth.............................................
..................................................
Your Glowing Wings Of Love........................
..................................................

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Robyn And
Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie....
..................................................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Bobbie: Me too...only even if I use the 'mother of all' cursewords..it still isn't 'enough'! :/

As meeting Mister & Rosie..and spending time with *MISTER*...and keep in mind, they are the only horses I've ever interacted with...to me, a horse is no more than a very LARGE dog...so for me, reading of the dogs being transported like cattle off to slaughter...OMG! Call me a post-menopausal woman...call me whatever you wish..(not you, personally, Bobbie..just in general) I don't care what people call me...but like you, I'd be in a straight-jacket, too...drooling...and like you, trying to stop the transport of our horses to slaughter is plenty for me...more than plenty:/

Joan: I'll take this opportunity this morning, to suggest that perhaps this year, on *BARBARO'S* B'Day...a $29.00 donation be sent to Old Friends Equine. I think *BARBARO* would like it very much if we send those $29.00 to OF in loving memory of Barbaro...

You can send your checks here:

Old Friends Equine
1841 Paynes Depot Road
Georgetown, KY 40324

or, a pay-pal option is available on their website here:

HELP OLD FRIENDS SAVE THE FARM

Barbaro's Forever Friend in CA

###Dear Frens,

Another great one gone. He had a long life of honor. RIP, Champion SADLERS WELLS. Here is the report:

By Blood-Horse Staff
Updated: Tuesday, April 26, 2011 1:27 PM

Leading international sire Sadler's Wells died of natural causes the afternoon of April 26 at Coolmore Stud in Ireland where he has resided since retiring to stud in 1984.

Coolmore manager Christy Grassick said: “He was undoubtedly the best sire Europe has ever seen and through his sons Galileo, Montjeu, High Chaparral and Yeats along with grandsons Hurricane Run and Rip Van Winkle he has left a wonderful legacy at Coolmore and his influence looks set to continue for many years to come. We all feel privileged to have been involved with such a special horse.”

Sadler's Wells was retired from stud duty in May 2008 due to declining fertility.

The 30-year-old son of Northern Dancer was bred in Kentucky by Robert Sangster’s Swettenham Stud and Partners. Sadler’s Wells raced for Sangster, winning such events at 3 in 1984 as the Airlie Coolmore Irish Two Thousand Guineas (Ire-I), Coral-Eclipse Stakes (Eng-I), and Phoenix Champion Stakes (Ire-I). In France, where he ran second in that year’s Prix du Jockey-Club (Fr-I), he was a champion miler. He was trained by Vincent O’Brien, father-in-law of Coolmore managing partner John Magnier.

Sadler’s Wells was the leading sire in England and Ireland a record-breaking 14 times, including 13 years in succession (1992-2004). He has sired 323 stakes winners to date.

In addition to dominating Europe with wave after wave of group I winners and champions, Sadler’s Wells achieved plenty of fame in North America. His offspring have won a record six Breeders’ Cup (gr. I) events, including the 2003 John Deere Turf, in which High Chaparral finished in a deadheat for first. They also won two runnings of the Arlington Million Stakes (gr. IT). A son of Sadler’s Wells, El Prado, was leading sire in 2002 and second the next two years.

Sadler’s Wells was out of the Bold Reason mare Fairy Bridge, whose half-brother Nureyev also was a champion and major sire.

Read more: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/62705/sadlers-wells-dies#ixzz1KeTytKUO

Your FOB Fren, O

Joan, I just sent a little via pay pal to HDLM. Thanks for posting. I'm so glad Curtis is improving. Prayers do work. We really need rain in our area. Think I'll add that to my prayer list! I'm in Winnie.

###
Eliz from TX...I am in Baytown...we are neighbors and thank you so much...Wynn will appreciate it...plus any and all rescues.

and yes...pray for rain.

Sandra , that's an eye- witness isn't it ? A totally different culture .
I hope it rains soon for all you peeples in Texas.
I saw there would be thunderstorms today in parts of Texas so maybe that would help a little , but the storm track I saw was mainly in east Texas so I hope it's on or near the fires .

REST IN PEACE , SADLER'S WELLS . YOU WILL BE MISSED BY SO MANY WHO LOVED YOU.

##Sandra, I knew that the Asian countries eat dog and cat but I didn't realize the slaughter issue. Different culture but I think the issue is the same; i.e., humane treatment of the animals; and that is not being done. I can't get past it no matter what. I hope the rains come, I've been trying my hardest, honest. Have the fires subsided at least? Take care fren.

Judy

RIP Gilded Gem, she was put down today after a work at Churchill. Smarty Jones was her sire. Sad news.

Sending All, All All My Love To Angel Jamie And Angel Judy And Angel Taffy And Angel Padme A'Tea And Angel Renee And Hans And Angel Harriette And
Scout And Angel Robyn And Angel Brent And Angel Nikita And Angel Lou Ann And Her Angel Mother Annie And Angel Dad Louie.........................
..................................................
You Are In My Heart So (8) A Lot So...............
..................................................
..................................................

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

Affirmed

Hiya, FsOB! May Sadler's Wells and Gilded Gem rest in peace. If anyone has any information as to what happened to Gilded Gem at Churchill
Downs, might you post that here?

I am grateful to Bobbie for the updates re. Uncle Mo and The Factor. Would it be safe and feasible for The Factor to actually be able to run on May 7th?

If only some of that rain that has affected Kentucky would move down to Texas.... I realize that this would be contrary to the usual flow of weather, but it would be nice if it were to happen so as to extinguish all of those fires in Texas.

Kudos to the brave human being in China who intervened to save the lives of the dogs in the truck, en route to slaughter. What a sad world we live in these days.

Please know that I'll be here in spirit on Weds. and Thursday AM. I am grateful that our FOB Judy will seize the new day on my behalf. Peace, Robyn

#### To Otherlyn: Thank you for the bio of Sadler's Wells, truly an impressive heritage.
To Dee: May your Weds. & Thursday be filled with rainbows.
To Joan: Hoping that Curtis is feeling much better.
To Judy: Thanks very much for your dedication to the AM Shift!
To Joan, Elizabeth, and Sandra: May your lovely home state be spared any additional losses from fires. It seems far too early in the year for TX to begin having this problem.... ####

GILDED GEM (USA) b. F, 2006 DP = 5-0-7-0-0 (12) DI = 2.43 CD = 0.83 - 10 Starts, 4 Wins, 4 Places, 0 Shows Career Earnings: $223,800

Owner: Gaines-Gentry Thoroughbreds & Serengeti Stable
Breeder: Gaines-Gentry Thoroughbreds & Serengeti Stable
State Bred: KY
Winnings: 10 Starts: 4 - 4 - 0, $223,800

At 5:
Won Las Flores S. [G3,SA,6½f]
2nd Santa Monica H. [G1,SA,7f], Kalookan Queen H. [L,SA,6½f]

Foaled March 2, 2006.
$100,000 KEESEP07

Euthanized after breaking down during a work at Churchill Downs, April 26, 2011