tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82926691069004360402024-03-12T23:20:52.784-07:00Horses At HomeAn online diary of the farm and studRG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-29248020498466179402010-06-07T01:57:00.000-07:002010-06-07T02:26:14.799-07:00<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32P2nwTfojDo4nsOXtSrhgLjgKdv7jg4G6S4_a7t1c_BlNsk5u92NIdD1geUXqGnGEpHPaWPMBOb6at2gOf7GvAGdcuzGPCHQG_HwHhvwH-sRRVHIyaiDj7WcNYg8vnXdxZe-24YCV3X0/s1600/P3010727.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 258px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479954025230521746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32P2nwTfojDo4nsOXtSrhgLjgKdv7jg4G6S4_a7t1c_BlNsk5u92NIdD1geUXqGnGEpHPaWPMBOb6at2gOf7GvAGdcuzGPCHQG_HwHhvwH-sRRVHIyaiDj7WcNYg8vnXdxZe-24YCV3X0/s320/P3010727.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>This is the first time I have contributed to this blog in months! </div></div><br /><br /><p>The pic is Rumble and it is still not as current as it should be. But it is so hard to make the hairy things look good at this time of year. He is due to be gelded in 4 weeks. I can't imagine standing another stallion again; Rodin was such a lovely boy and would be impossible to replace. </p><p>Red and Rococo are both in work and going great. I plan to have Red ready for the Spring show this year. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Roccy</span> has plenty of time up his sweat rug (!) and can come on slowly over the next 12 months. It was such a battle getting his feet right after the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">abscesses</span> and seedy toe nearly toppled him - he will remain barefoot until such time as we decide he absolutely must have shoes. Seems to be the healthy option for this <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">prima</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">donna</span>.</p><p>Ricochet has a new nickname - <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tigger</span>. She is big and orange and bouncy and so 'in your face' for attention. She had her first trim last week and was all in all, pretty fab. First time with a halter and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">leadrope</span>.....and all four feet being picked up and sorted. What a star!</p><p>Dot is still here. And now up for sale. She is nice enough.....but really has no purpose with me. Unless Jack decides he wants to ride in a big hurry?</p><p>Farm News; TB testing all good. Dairy grazers staying on for a bit extra as local <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">cockies</span> needed OUR cows to clean up some rank pasture after <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">destocking</span> themselves. Had a good maize harvest, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">lucerne</span> cropped and cut twice, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">haybarns</span> full, silage pit <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">chokka</span>. Lambing due to start any day now and half the ewes were <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">shorn</span> in time.....the other half missed out due to over 7" of rain falling in the only remaining week to shear! So will be a good 'control' group for the crazy season. Got to 19 degrees today, which is just bizarre. All go and all good. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Duckshooting</span> has been a bit slow with opening morning being a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">roiler</span> and then total lack of interest thereafter. In fact, we may have eaten all the ducks we shot already. But have a GIANT number of turkeys roaming the gloaming this year....<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479959103257054530" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERwYluRxlsNaK4LfbExC75aY7cR3kGU1Ixe0OWsjDK-768D79tSiAuOht1beEf0OEELDYmCNXDv0L830t1AA8I2JY0UlX5FzbKj6aPFL_nEHjz5CcZ_bTP9WYFlOjpJSp-nf-z1J1lQSL/s320/P3270782.JPG" /></p>.....pick a nice fat one folks and send me a freezer bag!<br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><p></p>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-32206301489373985722009-11-21T10:10:00.000-08:002009-11-21T10:52:52.568-08:00Triumphs and Tragedies<div>How does a person attempt to describe a foaling season consisting of 50% tragedy? It is hard to be 'glass half full' <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">pollyanna</span> when you sit at the kitchen table with blood drying up your arms, placenta stuck to your knees and a horrid mess of death lying in the paddock waiting to be cleaned up at first light.</div><div><br /></div><div>I feel like I let this mare down. I sat with her in the paddock last night and felt the foal move. Just on twilight....the time they all go silly in the paddock, playing, catching the last light before bedtime. I was comfortable leaving her, she looked well and happy, and was not a maiden mare. Penn has always just popped them out when she is ready, unassisted and under cover of darkness. Greg headed out at first light this morning to spray the vineyard and when I heard him turn the bike back, I knew we had news of some sort. Unfortunately, all bad. </div><div><br /></div><div><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">JK</span> My Penny would have given birth to a lovely bay filly, had all gone well. Now, I sit here typing this as a way of shedding some of the stress and shit that I feel caked in. Bloody animals.</div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div>My 50% triumph, is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">RG</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rumblebee</span>. A cute as a button <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">chesnut</span> colt, born Friday the 13<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> to my TB mare, Ducky. A maiden mare, unassisted. Funny how fate likes to fart in your face occasionally?</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406630222779161250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLTELe1RmRQqQtb8EjvQ-iyQUs0jZ2vg7nVIZRZHYYf5qwqlLJRdt_UBAZnGCRYKqLXCeCKvYbEtDUgWN64CADAma0JCGf07v6vJZOIRZPuQF4DRFYRzKesRSkbfv_JpfFKnhCSQd7VCn/s320/PB210405.JPG" /><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 244px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406629120654759666" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Bd-Vh9jFngS6jfuci_WxOy7mm6VtCT_2AriRL4Bxd7ePyyda3BVcVJEy245Cw2NWY0Nt_kzWgue7F7D6bd-hcxNVMMulVz8GyGN5nz49ApLSobq5qE1PZHmrSGRdgERPCN9Qq8BIxxg8/s320/PB180400.JPG" /></div><br />Rumble is orange with a white mark on his face that looks like someone tripped with a glass of milk. His legs are so long that he looks like a peanut balanced on 4 toothpicks. He is cute and cocky and has his 'fathers eye'! And he is so welcome.<br /><br />RIP Penny, sorry I let you down.<br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-35881163344378938412009-10-04T21:18:00.000-07:002009-10-04T21:37:08.165-07:00Global Warming?<div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZ655ETjFuL4x9FZmZlK4GSK2TEIl3J2shm025u5LadoTfNL91r4cehywrcHNoVTrgpGsMIdF0ALMT1A6Lx2IGn90erDSFcNo5oyxcDIVA2aFAf3oUie8r3COsAExbCBpKQRQEjqMoLel/s1600-h/PA050222.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388966308665208738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZ655ETjFuL4x9FZmZlK4GSK2TEIl3J2shm025u5LadoTfNL91r4cehywrcHNoVTrgpGsMIdF0ALMT1A6Lx2IGn90erDSFcNo5oyxcDIVA2aFAf3oUie8r3COsAExbCBpKQRQEjqMoLel/s320/PA050222.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>...and still it snows...! Nick and Greg ponder life at the lower entrance to Deep Creek (the top block) Very cold and wet. Note to self: Put bikini and shorts back in the 'summer trunk'.<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388968345569182082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfHJNvlRvtQ9Wlehq0DfpdEFZ4hz58D8LRX5NgfMbO1gMrlaUb0UuDg1FM165Kyksdr_XVtTeytk6WMetO9golL9mNIfZLYMKIX4e1j6cr4GAPnB-fl5wJ7ia6tqViWIUHRS027s5JFFXV/s320/PA050223.JPG" /></div></div><br />Jack finally got to make a real snow angel! He wasn't convinced these were the original models though, having always had to make them out of mud, sand, leaves etc. Was deeply disappointed to discover how wet one becomes whilst making them also! Hence, 10 minutes was his limit and we were back in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">hilux</span> heading for the house. Good. The novelty of snow is starting to wear off. Am not looking forward to moving bloody heavy diesel filled frost posts with frozen wet fingers in the next 48 hours.RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-30151387098418658062009-10-03T23:27:00.000-07:002009-10-04T00:06:27.701-07:00We're Baaa...ack!<div><div><div>Spring was well and truly in the air this week....until today. Gorgeous weather all week then snow today! Thank goodness we aren't expecting any new arrivals for a few weeks yet.<br /></div><br /><br /><div><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Redman</span> has been going really kindly for all who get on board...the pic below of Jessie having the ride of MY life! With mad cows, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">psychotic</span> turkeys and an incident with an electric fence, I was a nervous wreck by the time we got home. Red was lucky it was Jess on board: my hands being somewhat less steady in times of high stress...!<br /><br /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 291px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388630265379055410" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzeFX_sNk6Z46Cdl-RTlPHnOWDPQGs_fl3cv3lsZy4jKXDFHFNrbMde-qn6_0AkBwwyQCYZ6cKnIp5YKJSyxS17r9SFXnsUz8Cw-TnLbKDlgD0qnvbVAAnjVA82Sd91llAdH5SMdRA4CZI/s320/P9220186.JPG" /><br />Was a lovely ride around the farm, checked on the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">broodies</span> out the back and everything looking good.<br />A bit of a different vista today:</div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388631434543878722" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQeG3u_7WNs2IEPSN3UlULEsEsJwVxtWdoZFjZr27kex1jW2-Sm8Vip68MEfFaFVyRRphwp1fRm-n05PhIfcphJRnd_W5HeJ8YEyuCQy2EoANuA7ljgZRV-BKUvV3GWVTNDblcogr-lYY/s320/PA040219.JPG" /><br /><p>This is 'Big Lake', at the back of the farm. In between the broodmare paddock and the Island Lake, where the previous pic was taken. In 30+ years, I have never seen snow this low in October (actually, any month!). This was a 3pm this afternoon...and it is now nearly 8pm...and to the best of my knowledge it is still snowing... AWESOME! Apologies to all readers in colder parts of the country: I know snow is cold and inconvenient. But this is a real treat here:) Of course, unless it all buggers off by Monday night, we could be in the poo with the vineyard? The last thing we need is a frost. But hey. Wouldn't life be boring without the odd challenge?</p><p>New additions to the menagerie:</p><p>Bushy and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Fi</span>: My beautiful <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">TradeMe</span> Rodent Control Units! Have moved in, taken over and am loving them to pieces.</p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 274px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388634738624235058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZweW-Slcn0obyQpnjR_rOUfR0NgQeTz81rwVrTBX7jd0GeoyXoYDh5m5_B0JjoR9-cNN2AyV6G8q9MR7C7V_v-t1SAnFN7Vxa8SPUC3qx0zX00dqw6KPHQvLtU0JVspuvj2eCWJZYNg7r/s320/P9160180.JPG" />And, not to give up on my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">moonews</span>...I have a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">newmoo</span>! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Heidimoocow</span> is the proud babysitter of Honky Snowballs, a cute white boy whose mother couldn't jump (over the fence to save him!)<br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388636034256918738" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCqHvjYxb57rzEttvzSQMzcHe43pZUD3d-YOaOK2GYujacwryeJ7m_R63R8_ohPEJS1V3S15eIDvo9h3lHrXwh2ATkjaG2Epwf3anMvF9vbmOnpiX0Apk6d7Z6GmyTgIaC6MdpEkYhp8Zp/s320/PA040220.JPG" /></p></div><br /><p>No, I don't usually bother with the extravagance of covering cows....but it is so cold and miserable out there, and the covers weren't doing anything.... (That's a 4'6" on Heidi!)</p><p>Signing out:)</p>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-15012839791953377712009-07-18T03:19:00.000-07:002009-07-18T03:24:49.272-07:00Back In The Saddle....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHK3ROm8aJDLsRd31xFnyWH0Z1M6uIbzJHBRB0V5tisgV76JPTSKmK9c8ihApyh1bi2or60sD9HO1ZYXgofF7FxYKiI9kWMcjdCFTRbGDJW9MRR0DBLibfSQNI3YjJzPFwrMA_HzBQ23_/s1600-h/P6250849.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359744055028415794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHK3ROm8aJDLsRd31xFnyWH0Z1M6uIbzJHBRB0V5tisgV76JPTSKmK9c8ihApyh1bi2or60sD9HO1ZYXgofF7FxYKiI9kWMcjdCFTRbGDJW9MRR0DBLibfSQNI3YjJzPFwrMA_HzBQ23_/s320/P6250849.JPG" /></a><br /><div><br />Well, it's been a while....but it feels great to be back in the saddle again! Red is back in work, nice and slow, absolute gent. And the exciting news is: Rococo is now started under saddle! We have had a few nice 'little' rides out and he is a totally different horse to sit on. Very much like his sire. Soft, powerful, extremely athletic and very sane! Was a big decision to take this step, but I felt we needed to have a degree more education before Spring. And he is a big boy! The next big thing is - to geld or not?! Rococo has some lovely bloodlines on both the jumping and dressage sides. His Dam is Glamour Girl (D WB, Cuddles) a delightful old girl who is retired and living out her days in the Equine Valley for the Perpetually Bewildered (out the back). By The Immigrant (Formateur), Cuddles is also the Dam of several highly successful NZ dressage horses bred by the JK Holsteiner Stud, including JK Lonestar and JK Lucazen. Sired of course by JK Rodin, Rococo shows all of his athleticism and incredible nature. I was devastated to lose Rodin earlier this year and am reminded of what a special horse he was when handling his youngstock. Rococo should mature at around 17hh, and is very well put together which will make him a lovely ride.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I can also add to 'the team' Duchess Dorothy Spot. Dotty is a wee coloured filly, rising (very slowly) 2yrs and keeping everybody amused. As soon as the sun comes out and I can chip some of the filth she is encased in, off, I will get the camera out. But right now, she resembles something that looks like 7 goats in a sack.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Did I mention the autumn calf? Heidi-Moo? Heidi has grown far too fast is is not a cute calf any more. She is a vile wildebeest of a thing, which terrorises me at 'dinnertime'. I have to take a stick to her as the witch is growing horns and uses them to her utmost advantage when I am upside-down mixing feeds in the tack shed! Red will occasionally allow her to share his feed bowl but remains Boss. However, Heidi can totally intimidate Dot and I have to say that witnessing a spotted hissyfit in 6" of mud with a mad cow circling the feed bins is definitely good for laugh.....only if you are on the right side of the fence! Throw in 15-20 marauding chickens, a Prozac dependant fox terrier and a control freaky 5 year old boy that wants to be an animal trainer and you get the whole picture. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>So watch this space. As we drag our knuckles towards Spring, the whole place should start to thaw, and maybe even dry out? I can't believe that soon enough the ground will be hard enough to break bones on again. (We have the first days docking done with plenty more to go. ) Funnily enough, I had to buy a new pair of wellies this winter as my old ones had split. And to be fair, that probably happened last year....but with the drought...didn't notice!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Global Warming My Foot! </div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-55605252764417067982009-05-07T20:36:00.000-07:002009-05-07T22:20:29.880-07:00Sad Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAU-7sHL8L4nL5tnike3DzILSsiWL4Qyolpw0P_cTBIokgpkJYT4o8UUKEUgp9CfJtOVfDWRafW1PPEPEfD7edwADIrXfhwsadLYtKm8tlHgLEVYli8OLL1q8Dtrp-yS60iTSJQIJkRMkp/s1600-h/PA020194.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333318006934638626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAU-7sHL8L4nL5tnike3DzILSsiWL4Qyolpw0P_cTBIokgpkJYT4o8UUKEUgp9CfJtOVfDWRafW1PPEPEfD7edwADIrXfhwsadLYtKm8tlHgLEVYli8OLL1q8Dtrp-yS60iTSJQIJkRMkp/s320/PA020194.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Goodbye Old Man.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I will be forever in your debt. You were the kindest tutor I ever had. The most generous of spirit. The most giving of souls. The final decision I had to make on your behalf was by far, one of the most painful I have ever made. I am privileged to have kept you company thus far. Thank you.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>On Tuesday morning, JK Rodin was put to sleep after suffering a broken leg in his paddock at home. He was 23 years old. He will be missed.</div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-6974419103442669782009-03-24T16:04:00.000-07:002009-03-24T18:46:30.519-07:00What's Wrong With This Picture!<p align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwa9DEHZ4L3JNC2SIkKvEY2AwgVHi-EkQR4EHabKTiqkEP2SygqGK5biNetfOlMf7xYT-Gih5cwBwUTWXC0xA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p align="center">Can't quite put my finger on it...but...? This is Heidi. The latest addition to the ever-growing menagerie we call home. She was an '<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Autumnal</span> Blunder' who was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">mis</span>-mothered in the confusion of culling and spent 3 days out the back on her own, before a sharp-eyed neighbour picked up on her plight and called us. She has taken to the bottle straight away, and comes to the whistle (as does everything around this place, except the dog) but especially loves her big orange mate in the video. Red, is not so sure. He is not <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">particularly</span> fussed on sharing any feed with Heidi-Moo, however, is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">definitely</span> keen on having a bottle as well.....</p>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-39449296565250536692009-02-18T19:08:00.000-08:002009-02-18T19:27:11.232-08:00<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpuBZfzW4BhMjxuQEoxRCxMoZW5lsnsTJS3uF501nMes0MqWCpM2UuwUMEe8EtQ4MxNqpEeOmn-Puu3xJVFxjZaPDp4g2ePvGOPPs63vmStFEXoXtLxwQ5rV0fatgA8nq3hehvQkZQhFxp/s1600-h/Tricky+and+Pen.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304341214268754082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 275px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpuBZfzW4BhMjxuQEoxRCxMoZW5lsnsTJS3uF501nMes0MqWCpM2UuwUMEe8EtQ4MxNqpEeOmn-Puu3xJVFxjZaPDp4g2ePvGOPPs63vmStFEXoXtLxwQ5rV0fatgA8nq3hehvQkZQhFxp/s320/Tricky+and+Pen.JPG" border="0" /></a><em> Pic of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">JK</span> My Penny and filly foal by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">JK</span> Rodin, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">RG</span> Ricochet. Now 3 months old.</em></div><em></em><br /><br /><div>Another good <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">horsework</span> day:)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Rococo (aka Rocky) in again today for more groundwork. He was introduced to a saddle today and took it all in his stride. Complete with breastplate and flopping stirrup irons, it was all a bit of a non-event....very calm and sensible. I have to confess it was rather tempting to try to crawl all over him...! Note to self: Put mounting block on the shopping list. We went for a walk around the yards and buildings, even venturing into the shed and backing out a couple of times; thinking of future float training. He was tied up for half an hour, while I had a cup of tea (!) and then re-covered and sent back to his dusty dry paddock. Nice pony.</div><div> </div><div>Moved all the cows, removed the bulls and to put the icing on the cake, said goodbye to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Lavanderlilac</span> and Hugo as they very happily rejoined the main herd. (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Falkor</span> didn't make it - crossed the bridge a little while ago....) Was a bit sad to see them skipping off to be 'big cows' but great to see them with all their own kind. For a while there, Hugo thought he was a chicken.</div><div> </div><div>For those of you who are following the news of the kiwi firefighters in Oz, here is a link to the crew from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Heli</span>-Harvest. Am very proud that Dad is over there, but hope he stays safe.</div><div> </div><div><a href="http://www.heliharvest.co.nz/heliharvest/Firefighting">http://www.heliharvest.co.nz/heliharvest/Firefighting</a></div><div> </div><div> </div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-55624172872126410022009-02-08T22:02:00.000-08:002009-02-09T00:39:39.133-08:0035 Degrees In The Shade....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPl6ESoTImzj0Np7iTEg34J5KEa-H-fc5FRwtMDPXBm_LsScLM2sqVSRsdXQpfw6XhcZkoPXduPtQ5KVQ90W0xn99LtVvKCN3rGngCCPh1tEC8QJbV3M0EfhPzSLEP4eaYiDhm8gv15kJ/s1600-h/RG+Rococo.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300675832857997250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 260px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPl6ESoTImzj0Np7iTEg34J5KEa-H-fc5FRwtMDPXBm_LsScLM2sqVSRsdXQpfw6XhcZkoPXduPtQ5KVQ90W0xn99LtVvKCN3rGngCCPh1tEC8QJbV3M0EfhPzSLEP4eaYiDhm8gv15kJ/s320/RG+Rococo.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>That is just too hot. I attempted to do some 'horse-work' (as opposed to house-work, which also desperately needs doing) before it got too hot, but I was about an hour too late. Hence, Rococo got off very lightly and I ended up a wringing wet mess all by about 11am. What a tremendously kind young horse. He is getting quite big and brawny, now 2 years old and very much entire. But sensible and well mannered considering his shocking lack of handling! Am really looking forward to riding this boy.</div><div>Too hot to do anything else. </div><div>A huge branch came crashing down off one of the old gums by the stables. I rushed out to make sure Red wasn't squashed beneath it....knowing his love of the first-aid kit. But it wasn't even clever enough to squash one of the ten trillion turkeys that have taken up residence out there. Still, it was a huge branch - about 18" diametre, which will be great for 'popping over' once we trim it up.</div><div>It has just started spitting....big fat wet drops spaced about 3 feet apart...but WET. Keep your fingers crossed for us. It is way too dry in HB right now, and my heart really goes out to the poor Aussies with the fires in Vic.</div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-52851405707619325112009-01-27T20:54:00.000-08:002009-01-27T21:07:02.868-08:00Another Youngster For Sale:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kf2KAEV9tGrar_PTWtRVXPcsiPqeeYkyKTNrdS1gCywv2yJIUw-zHGdfNVSXMTwTytFg6gNpTX0RCMHuEV4kF7lWKGm65H-tSXiz6xtLaLzX2MYFp0RLnwBYGS7SvAxp39c1rJt4-DOq/s1600-h/striker2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296205515521783922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kf2KAEV9tGrar_PTWtRVXPcsiPqeeYkyKTNrdS1gCywv2yJIUw-zHGdfNVSXMTwTytFg6gNpTX0RCMHuEV4kF7lWKGm65H-tSXiz6xtLaLzX2MYFp0RLnwBYGS7SvAxp39c1rJt4-DOq/s320/striker2.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>This is a lovely yearling colt by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">JK</span> Rodin, out of a Tom <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Schu</span> mare. Very well put together for a yearling and showing a maturity and attitude well beyond that of 12 months! This boy was bred by John <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tulloch</span> of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Puketitiri</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Hawkes</span> Bay and is currently due to be gelded any day. He is very similar in type to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">RG</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Redman</span> - I just LOVE the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Holsteiner</span>/TB cross that Rodin produces. This colt is straight, sound and unblemished. Very stylish with plenty of chrome, what a fantastic dressage/jumping prospect - and if showing is your thing? - certainly no wallflower. Weaned and ready to go:</div><br /> Leave a message on the blog if you would like to be put in touch with John:)RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-62901803480465007172009-01-27T16:45:00.000-08:002009-01-27T20:54:12.979-08:00<div>Jack and I are having a lovely 'horse day'. Due to the lack of rain and hence the ensuing lack of grass, things are getting tight. We have moved the stallion and Cuddles into their new paddock. 15 Acres of tree-lined luxury complete with water feature! JK MY Penny and her filly will be moving in there this afternoon also, and that completes that happy family. Penny's filly has really grown....and am still a little puzzled over the final colour? Definitely NOT orange.....but possibly not bay either? Time will tell. </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296143167268001570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMCBWmCa6snKa9Jdi_m19PjUb6VLJ1JuQPpd84vtTjn-mnrgiWaRmDvhAIu4HpPMLx3cnuOwa9X9N4y-jKz9GvyMYtt75bLDZNF8MHfNCRprits79oGGMH-mMwG5FV8eNAKtOOQkIhOkEV/s320/RG+Ricochet.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>The TB broodies are all well out the back. Thriving on neglect! I have decided that it is to be "Lady' that I will sell. She has the best conformation and the most potential for life outside the broodmare paddock, being only 7 and un-fussed with. Apparently she has a good 'jump' in her and will enjoy regular routine when brought back into work. Ducky was the obvious choice, but I am unable to part with her. She is such a nice size, very sensible and will be a useful farm hack if nothing else. (<em>She is also very snuggly, leads behind the 4-wheeler and comes to a whistle.</em>..) </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296144441539326674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 272px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinLTapRqWqPMHxI2Bjx0TclgESmTWvUqTlGU6TOIfldn2grjQyWhgtgVQlfSGbApbhrXO2mqUK5Q2p0ltM7erHvtNQZo4dRTwci2WE3CxWor-QkJCo44r3SN8MN5DUfdcjXjMuTSGyXwC/s320/Lady+Magdelena.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><p>Red has had a few well deserved days off. We will concentrate on happy hacking as soon as the school holidays finish. We are having a saddle fitting this weekend so should be all go. It has been so hot and dry that the ground is like rock. We are all being driven insane by the most annoying little fruit-fly-type-thingums in swarms, sticking to every last molecule of moisture they can find, which is usually either inside your eyeballs, up your nose or GULP, inside your mouth. You DO NOT want to get 'caught short' out there right now!</p><p>The river level is dropping and the brown slimy weed has taken hold. Still plenty of fish in the backwashes, but they will be starting to taste 'muddy' and aren't worth catching. The vineyard is enjoying this weather too. A wee southerly blew in yesterday, lowering the daytime temp from 29 to 15 in 2 hours. We will get another cool night tonight, then should be back to blistering temps for the weekend. If we hadn't lost nearly 80% of the Pinot Noir in the early frosts, we would have been laughing. Last weeks dilemna was being at the mercy of contractors for the pruning: As we couldn't get a spray on until we were trimmed. Now we just need to fight the powdery in the Reisling and get the bird nets up. It all sounds a bit doom and gloom - but it's really not! We don't rely on the vineyard as a sole source of income. Yes, prices have dropped, yes, the frost nailed the Pinot. But the Reisling is looking great and the winery has indicated it may be suitable for a single block label. It is also great therapy walking the rows. No smelly sheep (unless we need them for leaf-plucking!) or bolshy cows. Totally horse-free. Rabbit-free, however, it is not.</p><p align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyUAtrzP4Eq_5gRi4x2N6z2P01RNijxY7nx1jX2WAgZmqIZHH5Fdo3FYxZlQ7OH4TrZ7EAoCA-limFm7Jc6xA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p align="left">And it's a big welcome to the latest addition to the family: Little Bunny FruFru. >sigh<</p>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-18710607356195377192009-01-18T01:12:00.000-08:002009-01-18T01:49:29.591-08:00We Did It!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fy63IL43tyRxpDwAgxsQmSvc3exJngDeYl86epVVHtprg_7TsEOyTKXZkvOhlbnFr6dt9S-lFCsY170GJFKMjnHh51pSUki-Tu-jQSrFwJa2dDq94J7anBqo9KOzYrkIitMRji6au08I/s1600-h/Fun.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292565043414205970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fy63IL43tyRxpDwAgxsQmSvc3exJngDeYl86epVVHtprg_7TsEOyTKXZkvOhlbnFr6dt9S-lFCsY170GJFKMjnHh51pSUki-Tu-jQSrFwJa2dDq94J7anBqo9KOzYrkIitMRji6au08I/s320/Fun.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Have just returned from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wairoa</span> A&P show with one tired horse and one befuddled and totally knackered rider! What a great way to learn about your youngster: Take him in company travelling, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">overnighting</span> in yards, warming up and competing alongside other experienced horses surrounded by all the normal fairground attractions and topped off by multiple aeroplanes taking off and landing overhead! Absolutely brilliant fun. We crossed quite a few personal <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">boundaries</span> for the both of us and have come out better for it.</div><br /><div>The dressage was a bit of an 'ask' for us. As the canter is only just starting to happen:) But we managed to enter AND exit at 'A' (was worried about 'M' for 10 seconds at one stage) and came away with <em>some</em> '7's....so not too bad. We managed a 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span> place in one of the training tests - but definitely plenty of room for improvement. The only way is <strong>UP!</strong> Couldn't resist posting the pic - don't the faces just say it all?</div><br /><div>It was lovely to see the last of the broodmares picked up today. Maddy and Alex off home. Alex returned a positive test on Friday morning....very happy about that. Rodin is tuckered out and turned out with his girls now. Once again, he has a <strong>100%</strong> conception for the season! Not bad for the old boy aye?!</div><div> </div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Kylee</span> from HOT SPOTS thermal imaging came out today to check the 'boys' for me. Was really interesting to see what was 'hot' and what was not. What a fantastic business - wishing her all the best....and booking in for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">HOY</span> when she will be down next. I was particularly interested when we 'imaged' <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">RG</span> Rococo's face. Approx. 11 months ago, he sustained a blunt force trauma to the head - we think he jammed it between the walkway on the cattle yards. No lacerations, but extreme swelling, bloodied nose etc. His pretty wee face was quite sore and really hasn't ever gone down to normal since the 'event'. When <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Kylee</span> 'photographed' his face, there was a large green area (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">manhand</span> size) which indicated little/no blood flow/circulation? Fascinating. Am now researching <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">lymphangitis</span> cases and look forward to showing the images to my vet and discussing options.</div><div> </div><div>Will try to update this a little more regularly, now that the breeding season here has finished. The vineyard is always calling....but we have been baking in 33+ degrees here...so the calls tend to remain unanswered by me! The river, on the other hand, has become a favourite spot to retire to....</div><br /><div></div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-15997078417217062262008-12-09T19:29:00.001-08:002008-12-09T20:04:02.825-08:00<div><br /><br /><div>It is with something akin to relief, the year is drawing to a close. Not that it has been a rough year - far from it. It has just been super busy round here of late. Everyone is tired and cranky...but nothing 2 weeks on a tropical island wouldn't fix!<br /></div><div>The last of Rodins 'booked' mares arrived this week. She is a real sweety to handle and serve, so everything should go to plan. He has a re-serve arriving in the next few weeks (aborted mid-way) who was a real challenge last year (!) and then lucky last, he can go back out with My Penny and Tricky (Ricochet). The 3 TBs are all vetted in foal and turned out the back (right out the back)...out of sight, out of Greg's mind!</div><br /><div>The vineyard has been totally finished (planting) now and we have been busy de-budding (again) and getting the second tucking wires up. Greg put a copper/sulphur spray on today as the weather has been somewhat moist (YAY!) over the last 3 days.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><em>Pleased to see a couple of purpose bred Rodin youngsters for sale on TM this month.</em></div><br /><br /><div>Rockman<em>,</em> by Rodin, out of 'Lips', owned by Sharron White TM Listing No.188027966 This boy has a neat attitude and a rather good jumping technique, don't you think!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278002594921936210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 296px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJeQJlZ50Sn5hS87EoJfDDr527BnnyYbzuMVixWyYl7QbnerhpJS_aw-3Mr-EeETE1VDKAUcmMZdTKHPJp9jlBD6mmrNeNBiQ1uJNtKKlO-pREwxlsJdi3ZZCLzbJTqZfzEMOfZIPVDs4W/s320/Rodin+Colt.JPG" border="0" /></div></div><br /><p>Also: Filly out of 'Lucy', clyde/TB mare, owned by Bridgit Lowry, TM Listing No.191673888</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278004061938646034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghE-ShkaV7abfP2Jir4VinGo_YYOwzHtZXmdmFueRqw3aGmEjKUSYeA_CfyeYCfllT9fyJIRcBm173YpFVIXo2DFhaYXNT8gAQcowWTwVO_jKzj28kPcAHkm4ylJqqQdxGhQd0F2ULphp/s320/82181022_full.jpg" border="0" />Rodin is really 'stamping' his youngsters - they are so easy to spot! All seem to have the wonderful temperament and easy trainability of their sire, making them a pleasure to handle and a joy to eventually ride!<br /><p>Speaking of riding: Red is sound and back under saddle. We have bought a new saddle, well, new secondhand. Red is going really well in it...and so am I! We are aiming to do the Wairoa A&P dressage and maybe a dabble at some saddle hunter classes. It's great after having a bit of rain, being able to work him without worrying (too much) about the jarring on this awful concrete-like ground. I only had 15 minutes to work him today, but even so, managed to get off with a smile from ear to ear at how well he went! I really have to work on keeping my left side soft, esp. my left hand, and keeping my sodding hands STILL. I wish I had some pics of me on him....</p>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-29665463370474767462008-11-12T12:51:00.001-08:002008-11-12T13:22:56.384-08:00<div>Yes, it's been a while since the last post! It's been busy-ish on the farm, becoming frantic on the vineyard, very cruisy on the stud and complete chaos within the house!</div><br /><br /><div>Another birth notice: Bay colt to Kathryn's mare, Crysantha. A gorgeous wee boy - I am envious!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267877640673302882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKv5Jv6ZAnZsMtwxFqpvVhJucFIKGiDZpnlxyw5U055lHXtJgrr1Z1mkkZEcONiAg39QG4QGL_xu5rMJymNUEsE0KUgdtD3TLdkFQHSAgklFmV4huQFgnCA02pnTWoaqsssmWqLmml3uxl/s320/Chrysantha+foal1_2Nov08.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><br /><p>Love the 'bling'! I especially love the TB/Holsteiner cross that Rodin produces. An athletic type with super substance and bone - but not too heavy. I would love to understand more about the colour genes. Crysantha is a liver chestnut, yet produced a bay. My Penny, is a dark bay, who appears to have produced a chestnut! Below is a pic of Crysantha and foal, and at the back left of pic is another Rodin filly out of a lovely TB mare, Miss Financial. (Bay mare, ch.filly!)</p><p> </p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267879265556115314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSTVPRuemoTrEQ5vMPvBqZhNRf_YSDo6O_gUAuNbHCGLr22Oqjs9ZSneXNWEw0_bxqMdy3yui4XXC2XpOte8LDAsHPxPsN9dIf4NI_lvdVAFAwuYtxqNyu4VNGaaok421uyX9xLoNBeta/s320/Chrysantha+foal2_2Nov08.jpg" border="0" />More scanning next week: We have a mare here, returned after losing twins at full term. Her first visit she cycled like clockwork, conceived first serve, perfect client. Unfortunately, she was misdiagnosed as having a single, and managed to go full term with twins which died during foaling. She was given a season off to recover, but is proving difficult to breed again, although showing no obvious clinical problems according to our vets. So fingers crossed for Alex next week....</p><p>Also up for scanning next week is Maddy (my fave!) a gorgeous big wb mare who I would love to add to my wee herd! Sassy will be scanned as well - she lost twins at 7 months last season. Lady is pd+ and turning into quite a sweety...aint hormones grand?! I am holding off on serving Ducky: She is offset in a foreleg, and although well bred and an absolute angel, I am not convinced that breeding her is the right thing to do. She is nice and small and would make a handy wee hack for the farm - nothing like being able to reach the gate latches!</p><p>Red is back in work and I am enjoying being on him hugely. I need some work on myself and to stop 'locking up' my left side: Just not fair on such a supple young horse. I would love to put some pics on here....but no one is ever about to take pics of me when I ride!</p><p>We are off to the vineyard this afternoon, to start planting the 'gaps' ... about 3500 plants! My back hurts just thinking about it! Greg has come in from work to make me a cuppa whilst I sit here on MFA, not a good look, so must go muck in:)</p><p> </p><p>Spare a thought for Lou at Talisman Farm (check my blog list) who is struggling to raise an orphan foal, Silas, this season. My heart goes out to Lou and family - this is no fun. Best wishes for Silas and hope he gets up and away...:)<br /></p><p></p>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-69567081255254841392008-11-01T01:15:00.000-07:002008-11-01T01:24:12.972-07:00RG Ricochet<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3rZXH4xY7bg9X2-s2PocHPwo3W5RKVeZswlQ7YpFddkBm_AFaUI-L4TaYGcxl54YxG5V2zmetzlYxIp1pgoqjekFx9muHRIrFWmTS_U6M4Vg_Ayy2a4zt8xYSoNfd07uQUZyV47GxnT0/s1600-h/faces!.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263600988752668210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 253px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3rZXH4xY7bg9X2-s2PocHPwo3W5RKVeZswlQ7YpFddkBm_AFaUI-L4TaYGcxl54YxG5V2zmetzlYxIp1pgoqjekFx9muHRIrFWmTS_U6M4Vg_Ayy2a4zt8xYSoNfd07uQUZyV47GxnT0/s320/faces!.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The filly is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RG</span> Ricochet. Thanks Michele for the suggestion! So named, for the speed she exhibits whilst bouncing off the paddock 'walls'! I've seen <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">pinball's</span> with less purpose! It must have been "lets pull a stupid face for the camera day"...and 2 out of 3 obliged. Cuddles didn't bother even waking up. Penny is an outstanding mum and puts up reluctantly with my antics in the paddock. Not too keen on when I drag visitors in, but very obliging for 'family'.</div><div> </div><div>Lovely day off on the farm (if you don't count laying a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">fenceline</span> before lunch...). No sheep, no cows, no horses. Lots off coffee, scones, bacon & eggs. Might have to pull finger tomorrow...</div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-64761317342831560262008-10-30T17:41:00.000-07:002008-10-30T17:58:41.332-07:00First Scans<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zb3c6WgsoFzt9IvoEs-zhgvQrpDlN6tEBahZPI7bDnS5ivqCmRrKdt8lf_CmxQmOm7vK5kbcLhF0znYapMAkB4dbrpkQJnnEBF6II2lQWksb7EZ2k1U1ho_M28U7ap3WFCvBxsT4iRmW/s1600-h/Scanning.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263113045374100370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zb3c6WgsoFzt9IvoEs-zhgvQrpDlN6tEBahZPI7bDnS5ivqCmRrKdt8lf_CmxQmOm7vK5kbcLhF0znYapMAkB4dbrpkQJnnEBF6II2lQWksb7EZ2k1U1ho_M28U7ap3WFCvBxsT4iRmW/s200/Scanning.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>All good. 'Lady', positive and single. Was a right 'filly' in the crush, but nothing too serious. She just seems to cope badly with 'firsts'. 'Showtime' also positive and single:) 'Alex', a mare who lost twins at full term 2 seasons ago, is proving to be a little more difficult. We scanned to to see where she was at. 4.2mm on the right, 2.7 on the left. Both pear-shaped and ready to go. We served her in the yards and turned her away, looking at scanning her in 21 days. Please oh please....only one! She is a lovely big mare and will make great foals! Only <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">disappointment</span> was 'Maddy', and there is no real surprise there as she was transitional cycling when she arrived....went on forever! So she had a nice big follicle on the right, ready to go and should come in to season in the next 24 hours. Done.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I had to go out and molest the filly a bit more today: Most unusual looking girl! If she stays <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">chestnut</span>, it will be a dark liver, but I suspect she may even go gray? Bay would be best.....but I think the phrase 'clutching at straws' may be applicable!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263115464032311058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 143px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg96ULvncGPpp5iQIiTfntI9d-dGv32gnZtTsW2TdbB4iSXciTZV86mHXmiZo9eJjoZXgdroY0xUJZqQvTf_iVrUjfsmSyzT7VHCUunolDESWUbAz3kKc49bxg01ehh4K6hMqaOrdRtqnq8/s200/Up+%26+Go!.JPG" border="0" /></div></div><br />Very sprightly girl with loads of personality and still no name. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Rocketess</span>? Ramona? Roux? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Reallyfunnycolour</span>? Any suggestions?RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-35490093690344314652008-10-29T14:43:00.000-07:002008-10-29T22:18:44.440-07:00At Last:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYFv7ctsOcNxeBPNB0M1AxBepnxPS_RHsikBKo85KC-8eUpioQM7RniMj6-v18nh8jS5YDWTARABwdfErDRRRGg7z54v8rYN5IpwdosPzKDDRaLFGxLZXz5vC07fS-zwWgqBvs3iAB433/s1600-h/Filly+and+Rach.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262699124615766962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 148px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYFv7ctsOcNxeBPNB0M1AxBepnxPS_RHsikBKo85KC-8eUpioQM7RniMj6-v18nh8jS5YDWTARABwdfErDRRRGg7z54v8rYN5IpwdosPzKDDRaLFGxLZXz5vC07fS-zwWgqBvs3iAB433/s200/Filly+and+Rach.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div>To JK My Penny (a JK Mazurati mare) and by JK Rodin, a filly foal, born outside my 'viewing' hours! I was too embarrassed to admit that I had read the calendar wrong and Penny wasn't actually due until 2nd November, not October. Duh. So I have been checking her morning and night for the last week or so. She had bagged up enormously...which is usual, but no waxing and not a lot of softening behind. Yesterday morning, I was running late and had a town appointment and missed her visit. She must have waited until the car got out of the driveway and then....</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262697435290943890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP-98SNhJ57ohiGIwtQh5AEzXE3JaCTX3drGhiNUqCQBvLEZQPq94jQCci-snbUVFhve654QEAwI5fWXnYVdwCexF6GJOXliL6VQU259Pl-Mpam3w3jIKang8HAiKvOvCdTl3IIGKBcnK6/s200/R+Filly.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><div>Very leggy, very well put together, jolly funny colour!!! Here's hoping that burnt orange will turn into bright bay? Lovely long white stocking at the back and no mistaking the diamond on the head for anything but just that! So now we need a name? Its got to start with 'R'....</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Busy on the farm right now too: We have picked over 800 lambs away so far, the cattle are done, crutching was done on all the ewes on Tuesday and today we are shearing. The place is a hive of activity (and look what I am doing!! Lazy tart!). Reuben is out on the vineyard, debudding what vines didn't get frosted and the clouds are rolling in ominously.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Red has been out for a quiet hack today, through the forestry etc. But was full of beans and a little more exuberant than I like. So, we popped onto the river bed and did a couple of lengths of upstream/downstream. Usually that would tire a youngster out? I have obviously got the feed/work ratio wrong still! His gate opening today was super - no barging or buggering off. Lovely leg yielding and standing quietly while his overweight and overbalancing rider fussed and fecked about with the latches. But if you think we were going to walk up the big track....no show. And as for passing the huge (read: tiny) branch on the (very narrow and scary) ridge....holy hell. Might be needing some new joddies....</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Calves all doing well. Including Falkor!!!! He has had a couple of rough days, but nothing that a jab of duplocillin hasn't fixed. His sight is way better and his hearing seems to be well improved too? No 'fits' for a week now, so looks like he is going to be just fine...although, a little bit 'special'! (Still tends to forget to pull his tongue back in after feeding.....)</div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262702784847940786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeYlft6SDFfad-o5vzwZ_MfirhLOaEg19FkqfXIHBOvReRPVPXEq4sjBWsDh5nQyhOsHStqdFqZ7Y9f-GoWUKhcpqM4np4WTV1J6drwcfus3Mrh6nhX2w70GBIckgGazWMToEp6qhtqfDg/s200/pet+calves.JPG" border="0" />Pic is of Lavenderlilac, Falkor and Hugo on the end. Lavender is getting too big to mess around with now - she can actually lift me off the ground with one little headbutt...and it's not a good spot to lift from.... It's been fun doing 3. They all hang out together and play. Noice:)<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-35454630200594647112008-10-16T20:32:00.000-07:002008-10-16T21:27:38.731-07:00Rain, Glorious Rain...<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN9cLcGN9q5y13MDc_ZetKFqBfGr1cPe9I4428on8SmmsMPvBIjikE12PwhRWTUQVBSlwWKbEdWzrb_8Ha_VG6BHNUR-ZeBZjsLyqfqkerJ0yxT5hovs1Y735BaExhkaB5UCGnqad98-S/s1600-h/Thunder+Brewing.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257971717318548930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN9cLcGN9q5y13MDc_ZetKFqBfGr1cPe9I4428on8SmmsMPvBIjikE12PwhRWTUQVBSlwWKbEdWzrb_8Ha_VG6BHNUR-ZeBZjsLyqfqkerJ0yxT5hovs1Y735BaExhkaB5UCGnqad98-S/s200/Thunder+Brewing.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>After a few tense weeks, remembering the drought stricken conditions we have only just recovered from, we finally got some good rain today. 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">mls</span> in half an hour with a huge thunderstorm and now just nice and steady. Good Stuff! I even managed to get Red worked before the skies opened. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Lilaclavender</span> Cow and Hugo Moo were joined last night by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Falkor</span>, The Luck Dragon. (Sigh...) Greg had to carry him 300 metres to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">hilux</span>, and about 2 metres from the back of the truck, tore a muscle (or something) in his calf (HIS calf MUSCLE!) and hit the deck. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Falkor</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">TLD</span> (sigh...) rode home on the deck of the truck with Jack and Greg; Very cute, snow white with big floppy ears - hence the name. We wondered why his mother had gone off and left him...and all was revealed as soon as we got home. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Falkor</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">TLD</span>, appears to be blind, deaf AND epileptic! Bloody hell. Worse luck, he is feeding happily (in between running in circles and flipping out) and I cannot bring myself to 'do the deed'....and nor can Greg! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Lavenderlilac</span> and Hugo are doing great, big and fat and very bolshy. They seem quite interested in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Falkor</span> and his antics...</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Greg had to see a GP about his 'sore paw' and keeping him company was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Deke</span>, the foxy who visited the vet with a suspected fractured jaw.....or poison......or something..... The vets are most perplexed and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Deke</span> is now racking up a huge bill from all the multiple <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">xrays</span> and painkillers etc. He'll be loving the attention - and the 'inside' life. They are keeping him in overnight and we hope to know more by tomorrow.</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257972088540319442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrqe78nviAMa45u4O-m2mPNN_x_Sj1Z84SnVDQYuyxFufncfunke8BpnvHtaK9Dy4TTWsVfAour3BQxc3UqrPxabREiFcEkYWMrApunvnvP0aMkCXZipkyxVhlsoJJcXpKCy2NH9xnQuO/s200/Deke+%26+Toy.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><br /><p> </p><p>No more 'horsey' news for the week. Aside from the fact I have been checking Penny frantically for the last few weeks, waiting anxiously for her to foal, only to go back to my books and discover I am a whole month out! She is due on 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">nd</span> November....NOT October. So as silly as I am, I am pleased....it takes the pressure off as I was juggling grazing a bit too fiercely with all the incoming clients mares'. And as Greg has just unloaded 440 lambs this week, as well as 162 R3 steers....so coupled with the rain...we should be good from now on. Red is being brought slowly into work with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">lungeing</span> daily (which he appears to dislike). His growth spurt seems to have abated and now we are going to battle the spring grass. Will be interesting! I am really looking forward to climbing back on, and now have a goal - the December dressage series!</p><p> </p>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-3996821682771750652008-10-06T16:11:00.001-07:002008-10-06T18:27:25.373-07:00Busy Week:<span style="font-family:georgia;">Haven't posted for a week or so....been FRANTIC!</span><br /><br /><br />Had EQUINE STUD SOLUTIONS for a 2-day course here last week. I have had several enquiries from both North and South Islands, for fresh chilled semen to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">JK</span> Rodin. He has never been 'collected' from, so we needed to teach him all about the 'phantom' and the AV unit. It was a pretty big ask of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ESS</span> to train a 23 yr old stallion, who has always performed 'live cover'. We had a really full-on 48 hours...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5st5GGtK6_6GduPH1yoUHYQtF-4aMLuLn9X3z6-Om-ooyVdjQ56-gNiZux1CzX9xyajSEcn7OqsC7Wtj0EidYXi0XxxO7OH00WqROT-PGBj53_H_PshcNdfcrTfE_wAU9AFHG8Noc3IXR/s1600-h/Phantom+Training.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254193771146759154" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" height="255" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5st5GGtK6_6GduPH1yoUHYQtF-4aMLuLn9X3z6-Om-ooyVdjQ56-gNiZux1CzX9xyajSEcn7OqsC7Wtj0EidYXi0XxxO7OH00WqROT-PGBj53_H_PshcNdfcrTfE_wAU9AFHG8Noc3IXR/s320/Phantom+Training.JPG" width="328" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ESS</span> unit was really well set up, with constant hot water for the several different AV units, a pretty comprehensive little lab unit, complete with incubation, refrigeration, multiple microscopes and computer linkups - very impressive! The phantom was easy to set up and very stable, although Rodin was pretty aware that it was lacking in some of his basic requirements for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">lovin</span>'! We alternated between using the phantom and 'live cover' ground collection, as I had a couple of lovely quiet <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">broodies</span> who stand like rock.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_FEjoOVzzBJ4mwELYn0ZEawEgkm96JGH_LiTevf4jXcUh8Bob4ESBwrb7NcDvTJVe_668pJcfHCwaQOhowKfmSIzJm004XSfwbygitSgJgSxQ_MS4I6sKZgD8Z7T6H03f5mtI9qlyjzU/s1600-h/Phantom+1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254196911598700098" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_FEjoOVzzBJ4mwELYn0ZEawEgkm96JGH_LiTevf4jXcUh8Bob4ESBwrb7NcDvTJVe_668pJcfHCwaQOhowKfmSIzJm004XSfwbygitSgJgSxQ_MS4I6sKZgD8Z7T6H03f5mtI9qlyjzU/s320/Phantom+1.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Jessie was very brave - diving in at the crucial point in time to grab the Old Boy's 'old boy' and wrestling the bugger into the AV unit! At first, Rodin appeared to be completely horrified at the interference - and rightly so! But libido won over common sense and finally Jess managed to get the AV on without the massive RETREAT! Full marks to Rodin too. He is such a lovely kind stallion to handle, nobody was ever in any danger, although he pulled some pretty pissed off faces at me during the whole process! The last act for day 2 was for me to have a go at getting the AV 'on'. I was a bit nervous....he is a VERY big boy and I know that Jessie is as strong as an ox (although obviously WAY prettier!) and I was going to be gutted if I couldn't keep up. But I was off the hook as soon as I picked the bloody AV up. There was no way I could lift and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">manoeuvre</span> it with one hand, it was just too heavy when full for my pathetic wrists. So Jessie dived in (again, bless her).<br /><br /><br />We used 'Ducky' for the last serve. She is a darling wee mare and was on day 4-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ish</span> of oestrus so quite <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">irresistible</span> to our aged <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">romancer</span>. Unfortunately, too <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">irresistible</span>. With one fell swoop, he thrust aside the much tired-of AV and went straight for the money shot!!!<br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOK7yUXlyHOpKCTLjWvciLTQpTvD-mngE6VqMTlSk_SraMv8ja2D9IbOY6c88S2i6ELnp8wiw5wIlJhLcvUwkeo2d99qAU0zbHrso01MEHZpTwCPCEX4DxmdNctf_QTohN4lYtMIBShdYQ/s1600-h/The+real+deal!.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254202377139263330" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOK7yUXlyHOpKCTLjWvciLTQpTvD-mngE6VqMTlSk_SraMv8ja2D9IbOY6c88S2i6ELnp8wiw5wIlJhLcvUwkeo2d99qAU0zbHrso01MEHZpTwCPCEX4DxmdNctf_QTohN4lYtMIBShdYQ/s320/The+real+deal!.JPG" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Had to laugh. Cunning old bugger!<br /><br />Still, really pleased with our <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">achievements</span> for the 2 days. We <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">achieved</span> so much in so little time - and my confidence level with teasing and serving has soared. It was great to have such a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">professional</span> team, Keith and Jessie, who were calm and confident every step of the way. They knew just when to push ahead, and when to retreat. And I have to say that after 48 hours being handled by Keith, Rodin is being far more respectful to me! I can confidently stand in the corner of the large yard with a cycling mare 20 feet away, and ask him to "stand", and he won't move a muscle. Brilliant!<br /><br /><br />Since then, I have successfully served 5 out of 6 mares in the last 4 days. The little darlings all came on at once (handy) and I have been running faster that a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs! I was so pleased to see Rodin had been eating all of his dinners....til I saw the bl**<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">dy</span> rams licking the bowl clean this morning. Rodin standing back and watching them bemusedly. Anyone got suggestions for boosting his appetite? And what about hanging feed bins? Which are the best?<br /><br />Pet quota has gone up by one. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Lavenderlilac</span> cow has been joined by Hugo moo. Very dehydrated, cute little orphan bully boy. Have jabbed him with some drugs, got electrolytes into him and fingers crossed he will start to at least smell better soon!<br /><br />OK. Fingers falling off. Til next time:)RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-57501315907370246762008-09-27T20:44:00.001-07:002008-09-27T21:07:29.461-07:00Pony Porn and the New Teaser!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFvYSSTc7C0gw4v7zBffXLhz6Pas3vRSh1H3oGvFZGOIkB89QwJiV5peRMdv19L9nRZnTFYKG3QXLMFA_y8LIjFm-OKcgRUSg0hvYL1AWMyNeMqZLqUHvzA910Wn4LnktNsknEKzuhLw1/s1600-h/Wee+Collecter.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250915514927082850" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFvYSSTc7C0gw4v7zBffXLhz6Pas3vRSh1H3oGvFZGOIkB89QwJiV5peRMdv19L9nRZnTFYKG3QXLMFA_y8LIjFm-OKcgRUSg0hvYL1AWMyNeMqZLqUHvzA910Wn4LnktNsknEKzuhLw1/s320/Wee+Collecter.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Today was the day we designed the 'wee <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">collector</span>'. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We need quantities of mares urine to use for semen collection....the old boy simply won't produce it just because we need it! So the urine from a cycling mare is used to 'tempt' the stallion onto the phantom where he is fooled into service. </div><div> </div><div>So out came an old cover, an empty <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">calphos</span> container, a handful of foam and some zippy clips. As you can see by the pic, we attach the receptacle to the back of the cover. Diagonally seemed to work quite well, as the corner fitted snugly between Duckies butt cheeks! I partially filled the container with lightweight foam rubber, which stopped the 'wee' bouncing out again and also cut down on the noise:) Ducky very kindly filed the container, and now I have the dubious task of freezing into cubes....don't ask for ice and a slice when you drink at our place!!!!</div><div>Also, the teaser. Check him out! That's my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">uber</span>-Red! What a charming, seductive gentleman he is: Just like his old man! He showed me a new side of himself today - and he is going to take the pressure off Rodin this season by doing a little bit of the teasing for him. I was very impressed with his attitude, and no, won't take it for granted. I will only be able to continue to use Red as long as he can stay calm and collected and pretty much disaffected by the job!</div><div>All in all, a great horse day. Mares are looking fab, Penny getting closer to foaling. Will serve Sassy tomorrow and see how we go:)</div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-42876788251871590742008-09-25T15:43:00.000-07:002008-09-26T23:15:42.905-07:00Penny's Bagging Up!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxgoU3klA-NOrUdddjlAfTa8eDXq_A8aQCsqUQyCIoE4pUlZquWi6tSWzFcOUh-F6D8ZqIqePbVRly55Bi1I-2xilIdjJeEnVp1vrrQGTcZsrOiZGHM8x-zMCtdgJtAGHvHfPtu0YJnYwQ/s1600-h/JK+Penny++Pre+foal+udder.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250580764407014082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxgoU3klA-NOrUdddjlAfTa8eDXq_A8aQCsqUQyCIoE4pUlZquWi6tSWzFcOUh-F6D8ZqIqePbVRly55Bi1I-2xilIdjJeEnVp1vrrQGTcZsrOiZGHM8x-zMCtdgJtAGHvHfPtu0YJnYwQ/s320/JK+Penny++Pre+foal+udder.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Oh. My. God.<br /><br />What a rack! She is due on or around the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">nd</span> of October. Very grumpy with Rodin (but it IS all his fault) and a little stand-offish with Cuddles. Gorgeous weather to foal in right now....but we all know that means squat when push comes to PUSH. Lots of glorious green grass underfoot says we couldn't have got that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">DOLS</span> better (Date Of Last Service).<br /><br />Got an email from a client with a mare in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Wairoa</span> today to let me know she had foaled successfully a HUGE <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">chesnut</span> 'something'! Out of a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gizzy</span>-bred <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Chesnut</span> mare, 'Red' (another one) so will update the sex on that as it comes to hand. (It's a colt:)<br /><br />Had a lovely mutual grooming with the 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">TB's</span>. Ducky lying down with her head in my lap, Lady having a smooch against my back and Sassy (yes, SASSY!) snuggling up too. Very irresponsible <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">teenagy</span> type horse-love going on....oh for a camera! So nice to sit in dry grass in the sun, bit like summer:) I have to organise Ducky to be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">un</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">caslicked</span> and then I guess, we are all go for the start of the love-fest. Rodin will be so pleased!<br /><br />Is CHESNUT or CHESTNUT?!</div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-71913372056551397352008-09-23T17:12:00.000-07:002008-09-23T17:36:34.847-07:00Thats The Way It Goes...It's 22 C degrees in the shade. In September. How cool is that!<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Redman</span> is a lucky lucky horse. So far, he has seen the dentist, had a couple of sessions of physio, a gorgeous new set of shoes and a new rug. Meanwhile, I am fighting with a wisdom tooth, a stiff neck and leaky gumboots.<br />Red is going through an active growth phase...which has made him 'ride' a little unevenly this week. We have been <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">lungeing</span> for a few days now and yesterday I thought he was twisting a bit at the canter - well today he is really not happy. A combination of things? Growth spurt, physio and blacksmith changing his balance behind? I must try to upload a quick video one of these days:) Greg was horrified to have to trot him out for me this morning. (Greg dishes quite badly with his near fore....) "What do you mean...AGAIN!" was something I was hearing too much of. "JUST BLOODY TROT - AND TRY TO GO IN A STRAIGHT LINE" was the reply from the top of the driveway. I guess if he needs to have a few weeks off, it means Rococo will get a look-in.<br /><br />Lambs have all been in for another drench. Some of them are flirting with mint sauce.....HUGE! The calving has had a couple of hiccups: a dead set of twins (and a live set), a couple of Dr. Toyota jobs (3 actually, nil survival for calves) and 2 with navel-ill. One was brought in to me, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Lavenderlilacow</span>; a gorgeous but huge heifer calf that was/is the most peculiar shade of gray, hence the stylish but completely impractical name. 3 days of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">penicillin</span> and she's as right as rain. Bit of a shame we missed doing the other one - but we didn't realise how treatable it was and to be fair, weren't sure about the diagnosis. Sounds harsh, but there are over 300 cows out there.... and at least Greg is willing to bring me the sick ones to have a go with.<br /><br />The farm is looking amazing. Lush green growth everywhere, trees in blossom and leaf-burst. The vineyard probably needs a look-in....we are pretending it's not there so we don't have to crap ourselves at the thought of frost-fighting too early! I cannot believe the temperature outside today. I must start a new diet so I can wear shorts without making birds fall out of trees...RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-89298773676833391152008-09-10T23:55:00.000-07:002008-09-11T00:32:04.852-07:00Red Has a Dentist Appointment<div align="center">The Inside Story on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">RG</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">RedMan</span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0En5fDZeA_7q5r2CkUTLlR4cUQE5WEBtDMr10ERQoJWk3Fh4MaQSyzJVe_oYAKbuAEXOAYH3lHYCnFuxG85F86bg9R-QO-jPHJMFwt-ni4yrrBXikmbQwnb5AeueCv7TgVYbWYbMIQu5/s1600-h/P1010427.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244657607182861154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0En5fDZeA_7q5r2CkUTLlR4cUQE5WEBtDMr10ERQoJWk3Fh4MaQSyzJVe_oYAKbuAEXOAYH3lHYCnFuxG85F86bg9R-QO-jPHJMFwt-ni4yrrBXikmbQwnb5AeueCv7TgVYbWYbMIQu5/s320/P1010427.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">....This made me want to run inside and grab him a toothbrush!</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGi744fXg1NhNunGQmwgNRE3FAm4gFGYGpeJq0fJP0Yvyf-xEdqG5KKF7T2JKWJWm9Q4FEKKh0nCuqI5LsIUlYGlETLQVKRTnTY7BXXAPqYKK_4BFt7A6U0X2e0CU7WxTOwOP1yG7RFpi/s1600-h/P1010428.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244654470894629298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGi744fXg1NhNunGQmwgNRE3FAm4gFGYGpeJq0fJP0Yvyf-xEdqG5KKF7T2JKWJWm9Q4FEKKh0nCuqI5LsIUlYGlETLQVKRTnTY7BXXAPqYKK_4BFt7A6U0X2e0CU7WxTOwOP1yG7RFpi/s200/P1010428.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We checked Red's teeth out first, and as he was only done 8 months ago, there wasn't a lot of concern. However, Gary was worried he had found a sliver of bone/tooth embedded in a gum right at the back...after a bit of poking and pulling, discovered it was another tooth <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">erupting</span>!<br /><br />We headed up to the yards to 'do' Rodin and Cuddles. Rodin was happy enough to be prodded and poked, but Cuddles wasn't thrilled. (I know how she feels). Just before her turn, the weight of the rainwater on the macrocarpa branches got too heavy for the old trees, and with a huaring great crunch, down they came. The world might as well have been ending as far as old Cuddles was concerned and she performed passage and piaffe with enough zing to put Blue Hors Matine to shame! I was a bit gutted I had left my camera in the car - but it was raining fairly steadily and I was wet through. Would have been great to catch her antics on film. Not to mention the ginormous tooth that popped out into Gary's hand as he was doing the prelim exam! That explains the nasty breath she has had of late! A visit well needed!<br /></div>RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-70671244342012507162008-09-08T18:33:00.001-07:002008-09-08T19:02:19.013-07:00Time Flies........even when you're not having fun!<span style="font-family:georgia;"> Have had some lovely hacking for the past week, ground to a halt with risen clinches and the desperate need for my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Uber</span>-Farrier to appear with tools in hand. Thanks to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Trade Me</span> I now have a set of alligator clinchers to deal with the risen nails...but they need to be pulled ultimately and I am not risking lameness due to bad management.</span><br /><br />Michele on Reilly and me on Red, had a wicked mid-week hack over the farm, down the gorge and into the redwoods. There were a couple of logs laying about, just begging to be bounced over - which we did. The boys enjoyed it and managed to keep us on our toes with their party-attitude antics....gotta love that spring grass! The following day we took them both for a short stretch-out over the farm, but they were again on their toes and bouncy, keeping the challenges coming. With the rain and warmer temperatures, the grass is really coming away thick and fast. They all seem to be on rocket fuel and it can be pretty hard on the wobbly bits!<br /><br />We finished drenching ALL the lambs in 1 day last week. With 3 of us mustering different paddocks at once, it made for some pretty tense <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">rendezvous</span> at the yards! The only major cock-up was with the closest mob, directly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">across</span> the road from the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">sheep yards</span>. It should have taken about 15 mins to muster them over, but ended up taking over an hour. The lambs were all jacked up on spring grass and broke repeatedly, driving both man and dogs to despair! Between 6-10 of the little feckers took off up the road and didn't stop for nearly 2kms! You'd have to wonder where the hell they thought they were going....<br /><br />Calving is in full swing. Lots of wee mookies bouncing around now, and with minimal problems...touch wood. Without a doubt, a huge improvement on last season. I may have to go rescue a bobby calf for a pet this year?<br /><br />I have the dentist (horse) coming today. We are going to check Red, Rodin and Cuddles. Red has a wolf tooth that may require some work. Rody is just a check-up and Cuddels....well....that could be a major. I must try and remember to take the camera....RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8292669106900436040.post-29861894043965498712008-08-31T18:05:00.000-07:002008-08-31T18:31:43.520-07:00Good 'Horse Day'A gorgeous sunny day just begging for some horse action, sums it up perfectly. I brought 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">broodies</span> in from out the back, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">JK</span> Glamour Girl and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">JK</span> My Penny. Penny is due to foal on or around 2 October, and looking great. Glamour Girl (aka 'Cuddles') is an antique and just needs a little extra love! They are in with Rodin now, as they are a good 'family unit' and can stay out of trouble together. The 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">TB's</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Duckie</span>, Lady and Sassy can stay out the back for another few weeks yet: I like to see their coats through before I start any serious teasing and they are all still <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">woolly</span> and wild.<br />THEN:! It was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">RG</span> Rococo's turn for some much needed attention. He hasn't been touched for far too long and boy was he happy for the session! I brought him over to the round arena and did some leading/tying-up followed by a good grooming session and a bit of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">maintenance</span>. What a lovely natured colt. He is now officially 2 years old (real time is November) and feeling his 'oats'. I am in a bit of a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">quandary</span> as to how I am going to manage 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">entires</span> this season....maybe more <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">yarding</span> and stables etc etc etc. He was very well behaved and I am looking forward to another session with him this week.<br />Everybody had their rugs off for a couple of hours and got some much needed sun on their backs. Gawd...I know how good that feels! The only downside was that with this poxy flu, I don't feel like riding at all, and Red NEEDS the work! Oh, for a body-double....RG Holsteinershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16729565071511127740noreply@blogger.com0