February

We got to go to Las Vegas the first weekend in February to attend Legacy of legends. It was a sort of Christmas gift to each other. A way to get away for a little trip and a way to see some horse trainers work with horses--the main one being Buck Branaman. Many of you have watched the DVD with us BUCK-a documentary about his life. So I guess we were interested in seeing him in person and watching him work. He's the real deal, and his ability to understand and work with horses his pretty impressive. I'm not sure why we are so enthralled with the horse thing.  For Doug he has always enjoyed being around horses. I came from a different angle, and am more an nterested observer I think. At any rate, we enjoyed being there together in warmer weather together. We stayed at Carmen's house--we really do look a lot alike as I see this picture (aren't her ladies --the plants--cute --dressed up for the present holiday) It was good to visit with her and also Mark and Denise and AJ on Saturday night. These tickets for the show were bought before we knew Tillman had his baptism--so feel bad about missing out on that. They are always special experiences.

Buck Branaman in round pen with uncooperative horse. This horse had to be ponied along Buck's horse, trying to get him to bend and relax about having a flag waving around him (very afraid of it). The horse is a hunter/jumper, so he was trying to jump over Buck horse, and raring up--pretty intense. But Buck just kept going with him, until he finally relaxed and started overcoming his fears. We were on the front row here to witness it all.  Doug says that he's been doing most everything correct with how he has trained horses, but it is always good to see others and the little things they do different.

 We had to look the part of horse people--Doug wore his black cowboy hat and I wore my new red boots (can't see them in the picture) 

 Monday after we got back Rebecca Mott came out to the house (she was in town from Alaska) just to ride a horse. Also the other Motts came and rode for a little bit. It was a pretty nice day--as so many have been this winter. I even got on Izzy for a while. Sean was also in town with Anna, and they rode too before they had to head back to Logan.

We have been over run with quail here in the neighborhood. My pet black chicken hangs out with them as the herd passes through the yard. Of course they also feed on the chicken feed, so we are keeping them well fed. Its always fun to watch them with their little feather on the top of their heads bobbing.  Mr Finn came and saw us one day when Doug was home. So far he has gotten 2 vacation days in in Febrary--way to go Doug.  He is getting pretty good about taking extra time off. Valentines was a nice holiday. We got to go to dinner then around to deliver valentines to grandkids. Fun to see them all.