We’ve been tremendously busy this spring, so it’s hard to believe summer is almost here. Our Winter training at Rocking Horse Stables in Altoona, Florida went very well this year. Susan White, our dressage trainer, helped me to bring SirKiss (aka “Smooch”) to a new level of balance and impulsion. His already nice gaits have gotten even better, and he’s become quite an eye-catching horse on dressage day. Check out his updated bio and pictures! He’s all set for the long haul to Colorado for his first CCI*, having just won his final Preliminary outing at the Greater Dayton Horse Trials.

I have two new faces on the string this year: Lebanon King (aka “Kibutz”) and Friday Night Bachelor. Kibutz is an adorable Thoroughbred gelding that came from Rough Cut Thoroughbreds in Metamora on Jan 1, 2008. Four months later he completed his first ever Beginner Novice Horse event at Greater Dayton Horse Trials. Friday is an awesome chestnut paint gelding who completed his first Beginner Novice Horse event at CANTER in early May. Thanks to Linda Short-Lowe and her family for letting me compete this exceptional young horse this year.

Sad news for the team came on April 1st when Damon T suffered a severe colic and couldn’t be saved. I’ll miss his quirky habits and cocky attitude, and the awesome feeling of power he telegraphed to his rider whenever he jumped. I owe heartfelt appreciation to everyone at Interlaken Farm and Dr. McIlmurray’s office who worked hard to save Damon.

Congratulations to Bill Lowe on the purchase of Anything Gold (aka “Harry”). I know you guys have some wonderful adventures ahead of you. Nothing Harry can’t handle though…