Featured Galleries

WSF Terra Joy : WSF Terra Joy 02/10/1983 - 03/27/2008. Last weekend, while taking a run through her paddock, Terra Joy missed a step, fell down, and broke her fetlock joint. It was apparent, given her age, that putting her through the trauma of surgery to set the joint would be risky at best. With the advice of her vet it was decided it would be in Terra Joy's best interest to have her humanely put to sleep. This gallery is dedicated to her last days with us. She was able to spend her last few days with her two best friends at her side, Sammy and Char-ami. Sammy has been a bit depressed this week, as was to be expected, Terra Joy was his favorite mare to hang out in the pasture with. Char-ami has had a new friend, Deva, to keep her busy. When I took Terra Joy from her stall to the trailer. I was quite surprised with the reaction to ALL of the horses at the ranch - including Amy's three. Normally the horses call out to the horse being loaded onto the trailer (to go on a trail ride) much calling back and forth. On Thursday, a complete silence fell across the ranch. Not one horse called out and Terra Joy did not call out to anyone. It made me cry. It was as though they all knew she was going for good. All of the horses were turned to look at her go down the short walk and into the trailer. They stood absolutely still where ever they had been standing facing her and followed her with their eyes. The vet and her staff were quite amazing. They are always so kind and gentle with the horses. One can not help but feel deeply for them all. It can not be easy to have to put a horse down even though they know it is the best for the horse. I first met WSF Terre Joy on a visit to Everglade Arabians, owned by Suzanne Stuart, in Micanopy, FL. I fell in love with TJ. Upon inquiry about her I asked if Marilee Wolfe, TJ's owner, would be interested in selling her. Marilee, raised TJ from six days old, agreed to sell TJ. I asked Suzanne if she would be interested in putting TJ in foal to her wonderful stallioin EA Collaborator. If any of you are familiar with EA Novette (Free Style Dressage Champion Mare - of all times) EA Collaborator is her sire. I felt the nick would be a good one. It was and over the years that we had TJ's foal, Skyfire, Dam and foal never let us down. It is heartbreaking that both are now gone. However, they will both live forever in our hearts. At the end of the gallery are pictures that Marilee Wolfe so generously sent to share with everyone. They are of TJ when she was six days old to six months old. Thank you, Marilee, these are very sweet pictures. So, we bid you farewell my dear sweet friend. You lived your life, with us, on your own terms. I know you are at Rainbow Bridge with your dear sweet girl Skyfire. God Bless you both always! Love, D'Arcy

WSF Terra Joy

WSF Terra Joy 02/10/1983 - 03/27/2008. Last weekend, while taking a r ...

Updated: Apr 17, 2008 7:15pm PST

Friends & Family

Photo Timeline

Browse by: All (1968)    2005(731)    2006(271)    2007(210)    2008(756)   

Or, pick your own date range:

Start day:     Stop day:

Galleries

Techno Geek Egg :

Techno Geek Egg

Updated: Dec 19, 2008 8:21pm PST

Goat Lady : Katie and I took a ride out to Pescadero, CA to visit the Goat Lady and her Goat Cheese Farm. Such a great place. The cheese is the BEST. After the Goat Place we went over to San Gregorio to visit the General Store. Stopped and had coffee and pastry at the Bakery in Woodside. Ended the day with a fantastic massage at Katie's Massage place in Sunnyvale I think. I loved the massage. First time I ever had a massage by a man. It was GREAT! The was one of our best days ever!

Goat Lady

Katie and I took a ride out to Pescadero, CA to visit the Goat Lady an ...

Updated: Dec 19, 2008 8:10pm PST

KT's 2008 Birthday Party : Les planned a surprise party for Katie at PF Chang's in Mountain View for her birthday. After dinner we all headed over to Rooster T Feathers Comedy Club. The entertainment for the evening was fantastic! Best night at Rooster T Feathers yet! It appeared that all had a great time. Went back to Les and Katie's for a night cap.

KT's 2008 Birthday Party

Les planned a surprise party for Katie at PF Chang's in Mountain View ...

Updated: Dec 19, 2008 7:54pm PST

Washoe Ride, NV 2008 : Raquel and I helped Ranelle at the Washoe ride 2008 as crew members. Was a fun and exhausting time. I sometimes wonder if crewing isn't more exhausting than riding!

Washoe Ride, NV 2008

Raquel and I helped Ranelle at the Washoe ride 2008 as crew members. ...

Updated: Oct 19, 2008 12:40pm PST

Parallax and Danielle : Parallax moved over to a new facility today with Danielle. They will be working together to improve his riding abilities. Danielle will be prepping Parallax for sale. This is an incredible project that Danielle has taken on. She will be working at this facility to pay for Parallax's board and riding lessons for herself. I wish them both much success. It was not difficult to leave Parallax in Danielle's care. I know that she will do what is right and safe at all times for Parallax. And he likes her!

Parallax and Danielle

Parallax moved over to a new facility today with Danielle. They will ...

Updated: Jul 21, 2008 11:06pm PST

Valerie and Ken : Valerie and Ken from San Carlos, CA, came up to spend a couple of days and enjoy the ranch life. We had two days of riding (Valerie was sick the first day unfortunately), lots of conversation (well mostly I talked), and spent time just shooting the breeze. Great friends that truly have a passion for life. Bless their hearts they even spent time helping around the ranch. Ken cut up some of the tree that fell, Valerie helped to load it into the tractor. We have even more fire wood for the winter now. Thanks Ken and Valerie.

Valerie and Ken

Valerie and Ken from San Carlos, CA, came up to spend a couple of days ...

Updated: Jul 19, 2008 8:58pm PST

Tree Down Update : I was not able to get the chain saw working so I had to use John Deere to lift and push the tree off of the building. It is sitting in a really good spot to cut up and haul over to the wood pile for winter usage. There is minor damage to the building. That was a huge relief. So, hopefully, when my neighbor, Mike, gets back he will do the repairs in exchange for the larger pieces of fire wood. I sure miss my Dad! But he would be very proud of me for taking care of this and not panicking while using the tractor. Because it was scary. I had visions of what happened to me at the hill. When a tree snapped back and crashed into me and hurt my hip and back for a long time. It is still the hip that gets very sore the more I ride. At-any-rate all went well. Thanks, Dad, for instilling the brave gene in me! Rumor came out of his stall as the tree crashed to ground and he REARED straight up and kicked his legs at the tree! I guess he had the last word after all! LOL!

Tree Down Update

I was not able to get the chain saw working so I had to use John Deere ...

Updated: Jul 13, 2008 10:48am PST

Nature's Natural Selection : After a slight wind came through the place today, July 12th, we discovered one of the trees in Rumor's paddock had come down. I am not sure what damage there is to the top of the support beam on Barn Two. I will have a better idea in the morning. I can't get the chain saw working so I will be up on the roof with a good old fashioned manual saw. At least the limbs are not very wide. The base of the tree, however, is larger. I'll get someone with a 'working' chainsaw to come and cut that up. Which they can take in lieu of payment. Andy, Lucky, and Flip enjoyed the inspection tour. And Flip had a lot to say about the whole thing. Either that or he was requesting that I stop worrying about the tree and get him his dinner! LOL!

Nature's Natural Selection

After a slight wind came through the place today, July 12th, we discov ...

Updated: Jul 13, 2008 2:23am PST

Washoe Lake Endurance Ride : Raquel and I had the oppoortunity to crew for Ranelle Rubin and her fantastic gelding, Fellow, for the Mother's Day Weekend, Washoe Lake Ride! We arrived on Friday night and stayed through awards dinner on Saturday. Ranelle's sister, Tara along with brother-in-law Brad, took wonderful care of Raquel and I. Ranelle's son, Alex, kept Raquel busy inbetween vet checks playing Monopoly (which he won every time quite the Real Estate Mogul), and they both worked the Ride Camp cafeteria helping prep and serve dinner to the riders and guest. Dinner was GREAT! The Ride Management was superb. All of the Ride participants were cordial, friendly, and above all in good spirits. All and all it was a great day! Ranelle and Fellow came in 11th out of, I believe, 60 finishers. Way to go Ranelle and Fellow.

Washoe Lake Endurance Ride

Raquel and I had the oppoortunity to crew for Ranelle Rubin and her fa ...

Updated: May 14, 2008 11:22am PST

4640 Cabernet Way 5/5/2008 : Pictures of the house this morning after a final cleaning. A couple of things to go through and rectify and then it's good to go for the showing 5/6/2008.

4640 Cabernet Way 5/5/2008

Pictures of the house this morning after a final cleaning. A couple o ...

Updated: May 06, 2008 10:17pm PST

4640 Cabernet Way 5/2008 :

4640 Cabernet Way 5/2008

Updated: May 06, 2008 7:30pm PST

4640 Cabernet Way 5/2008 : Interior pictures of Living room, bedrooms, bathrooms, Laundry Room, and hallways.

4640 Cabernet Way 5/2008

Interior pictures of Living room, bedrooms, bathrooms, Laundry Room, a ...

Updated: May 06, 2008 4:34pm PST

Quilts by Bonny McDaniel :

Quilts by Bonny McDaniel

Updated: Apr 23, 2008 5:49pm PST

Spring 2008 : Sharing some good cheer and happy sunshine from me to all you. It was a magnificent day, here, in Placerville, CA. Life on the ranch was definitely a good one. The air was calm, the sun warmed the ground, and best of all, I didn't need a jacket or sweater on. Here are a few pictures to show that spring is definitely in the air. The flowers are blooming. There is COLOR. That always brings a smile to my face.

Spring 2008

Sharing some good cheer and happy sunshine from me to all you. It was ...

Updated: Apr 21, 2008 4:29pm PST

Champion Windrift St. Andrews Blues : Picture gallery of my loyal companion, Mr. Andy! He especially liked our visit to Chris Blom's where he was able to visit with his first love, Bonnie. What an extraordinary dog Andy is. I love him!

Champion Windrift St. Andrews Blues

Picture gallery of my loyal companion, Mr. Andy! He especially liked ...

Updated: Apr 21, 2008 10:53am PST

Rides with Leslie Goodwin and Friends : Leslie Goodwin is a tireless horsewoman who loves to ride her wonderful mare Sadie. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to spend a lot of time on the trail with Leslie and Sadie. On occasion we are joined with other friends always making our rides interesting and diversified. I am enjoy all of the time that we have together with our horses in a common goal to bring joy and happiness along the way.

Rides with Leslie Goodwin and Friends

Leslie Goodwin is a tireless horsewoman who loves to ride her wonderfu ...

Updated: Apr 19, 2008 8:20pm PST

WSF Terra Joy : WSF Terra Joy 02/10/1983 - 03/27/2008. Last weekend, while taking a run through her paddock, Terra Joy missed a step, fell down, and broke her fetlock joint. It was apparent, given her age, that putting her through the trauma of surgery to set the joint would be risky at best. With the advice of her vet it was decided it would be in Terra Joy's best interest to have her humanely put to sleep. This gallery is dedicated to her last days with us. She was able to spend her last few days with her two best friends at her side, Sammy and Char-ami. Sammy has been a bit depressed this week, as was to be expected, Terra Joy was his favorite mare to hang out in the pasture with. Char-ami has had a new friend, Deva, to keep her busy. When I took Terra Joy from her stall to the trailer. I was quite surprised with the reaction to ALL of the horses at the ranch - including Amy's three. Normally the horses call out to the horse being loaded onto the trailer (to go on a trail ride) much calling back and forth. On Thursday, a complete silence fell across the ranch. Not one horse called out and Terra Joy did not call out to anyone. It made me cry. It was as though they all knew she was going for good. All of the horses were turned to look at her go down the short walk and into the trailer. They stood absolutely still where ever they had been standing facing her and followed her with their eyes. The vet and her staff were quite amazing. They are always so kind and gentle with the horses. One can not help but feel deeply for them all. It can not be easy to have to put a horse down even though they know it is the best for the horse. I first met WSF Terre Joy on a visit to Everglade Arabians, owned by Suzanne Stuart, in Micanopy, FL. I fell in love with TJ. Upon inquiry about her I asked if Marilee Wolfe, TJ's owner, would be interested in selling her. Marilee, raised TJ from six days old, agreed to sell TJ. I asked Suzanne if she would be interested in putting TJ in foal to her wonderful stallioin EA Collaborator. If any of you are familiar with EA Novette (Free Style Dressage Champion Mare - of all times) EA Collaborator is her sire. I felt the nick would be a good one. It was and over the years that we had TJ's foal, Skyfire, Dam and foal never let us down. It is heartbreaking that both are now gone. However, they will both live forever in our hearts. At the end of the gallery are pictures that Marilee Wolfe so generously sent to share with everyone. They are of TJ when she was six days old to six months old. Thank you, Marilee, these are very sweet pictures. So, we bid you farewell my dear sweet friend. You lived your life, with us, on your own terms. I know you are at Rainbow Bridge with your dear sweet girl Skyfire. God Bless you both always! Love, D'Arcy

WSF Terra Joy

WSF Terra Joy 02/10/1983 - 03/27/2008. Last weekend, while taking a r ...

Updated: Apr 17, 2008 7:15pm PST

KD Arabian Horses : A sampling of our wonderful and dear old horses.

KD Arabian Horses

A sampling of our wonderful and dear old horses.

Updated: Apr 13, 2008 6:37pm PST

Sporting Events : Chris, Raquel, and Sierra did a 5K in Elk Grove on the 30th of March. All had a great time. It was Chris and Sierra's first 5K and Raquel's 2nd. They are committed to doing one a month. So, expect more additions to this gallery as they progress through their 5K fun times!

Sporting Events

Chris, Raquel, and Sierra did a 5K in Elk Grove on the 30th of March. ...

Updated: Apr 01, 2008 10:47am PST

Sorta Magic aka Sabrina : This is our dear Sorta Magic aka Sabrina (Samburu KA x Czapral) AHRA #0598355 4/18/2000 Chestnut Mare. Sabrina was a little disturbed tonight when we pulled her out of the comfort of her stall to get these pictures. Sabrina was a pretty good sport for Raquel in spite of her desire to return to the comfort of her stall and her Mom Czapral next door to her. :)

Sorta Magic aka Sabrina

This is our dear Sorta Magic aka Sabrina (Samburu KA x Czapral) AHRA # ...

Updated: Mar 30, 2008 8:43pm PST

Samburu KA : Sammy was bred by Klee's Arabians in Santa Inez, CA. Once one of the most sought after Arabian facilities for well bred Pure Polish Arabian performance horses. Sammy has lived up to his heritage. He has continued to sire get with excellent conformations, superior dispositions, with lots of heart and stamina.

Samburu KA

Sammy was bred by Klee's Arabians in Santa Inez, CA. Once one of the ...

Updated: Mar 24, 2008 7:17pm PST

Clanton Family :

Clanton Family

Updated: Mar 24, 2008 11:31am PST

Raquel's Surprise 15th Birthday : Raquel's Mom decided it was time to give Raquel a surprise birthday party at the ranch. With large efforts on everyone's part the guests all arrived before the birthday girl. The food turned out fabulous. And I believe Raquel was genuinely surprised. Here are a few of the pictures that captured the moment. Enjoy!

Raquel's Surprise 15th Birthday

Raquel's Mom decided it was time to give Raquel a surprise birthday pa ...

Updated: Mar 24, 2008 11:09am PST

Fond Farewell to Jade Mirage and Estrella : Under the haze of the setting sun, over Pleasant Grove, CA, I bid Jade Mirage and Estrella a fond farewell as they start on a new adventure in their lives. Jade and Estrella were donated to a handicapped riding school program run by Connie Loveless of Blind Acres, in Pleasant Grove, CA. This was a particularly difficult decision and an even more difficult task to under take. I have raised Estrella since she was three months old. With the intent that her bloodlines would figure prominently in our race stock program. That dream never materialized after 20 years of trying to make it happen. I bought Jade in 1990 at the age of 9 years old. In January she turned 27 years old. You would never know that she was 27 when she finished a 10 mile ride recently. Farewell my dear sweet girls. I will miss you terribly. I know you will bring a lot of joy and happiness to your students.

Fond Farewell to Jade Mirage and Estrella

Under the haze of the setting sun, over Pleasant Grove, CA, I bid Jade ...

Updated: Mar 21, 2008 9:16pm PST

Valentine's Day Flowers 2008 : After a very difficult day dealing with lots of 'issues' I was greeted at the door late this afternoon to a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Katie - super daughter! This was a really sweet and thoughtful gift. Just when I was thinking how sad it was to be Valentine's Day and not to have someone in my life to receive flowers from! Thank you, Katie, it made my day and it did put a wonderful smile on my face. Of course there were tears of joy as well. You are a very sweet human being Katie.

Valentine's Day Flowers 2008

After a very difficult day dealing with lots of 'issues' I was greeted ...

Updated: Feb 14, 2008 9:15pm PST

Ocala Lilly aka Millie (Rumor Has It x Angellicca) : Ocala Lilly comes by her name as a fluke. I was in Florida at the time. The registry had rejected the choices I had choose. The last name I came up with, because I was in Ocala, FL, and had been admiring the Day Lillies in the area, was, of course, Ocala Lilly. The ranch name we had chosen was after one of the prior submitted names, Rumor Mill. Therefore, her nick name is Millie. Believe me she lives up to her name. Fiesty, smart, athletic, and doesn't let anyone forget who she is and what she is all about. One of the things that I admire the most about Millie is her willingness to work hard at whatever task is asked of her. I look for her to be a great endurance horse. These pictures span over the last two and half years. Millie spent a while at Payne's Racing Stable at Los Alamitos, CA. After the fear that the track would be quarantined for an influenza outbreak, Millie came home to await her next stage in life. Millie is now in the beginning stages of endurance training. We will keep you posted. Due to an automobile accident I will not be able to keep Millie aka Lillie. She is being offered as a free lease with option to purchase provided she is in training for endurance with the intention to enter at least two to three endurance rides for the 2009 ride season. Congratulations to Dr. James Yee of Orangevale, CA on the purchase of Ocala Lily.

Ocala Lilly aka Millie (Rumor Has It x Angellicca)

Ocala Lilly comes by her name as a fluke. I was in Florida at the tim ...

Updated: Feb 14, 2008 6:20pm PST

Bathroom Update : We had a flood in the common bathroom this last weekend. This resulted in having to replace all of the carpeting, pad, and nail boards. I really like the change! Carpet was done by Chuy Vazquez, my son-in-law. Now to find the little piece of wood 5"x18" that had to come up from under the tub. :)

Bathroom Update

We had a flood in the common bathroom this last weekend. This resulte ...

Updated: Feb 13, 2008 10:05pm PST

Danielle and Melody : This gallery is dedicated to Danielle for all of the work that she so graciously accomplishes on a daily basis. Danielle's dedication and committment to the horses is ever so evident in the manner in which the horses respond to her. Danielle's Mom, Melody, has been able to come out and ride recently. Melody is the sun shine ambassador at the ranch.

Danielle and Melody

This gallery is dedicated to Danielle for all of the work that she so ...

Updated: Feb 08, 2008 9:00pm PST

Rumor Has It : I'd like to introduce you to Rumor Has It (Kaiyoum +++ x Shikos Rosalinda) my superman! Rumor has had quite a life so far. As a yearling colt his first and only show was Scottsdale and Star World. Rumor took Top Ten in both as a 1986 yearling colt under Steve Heathcot. Rumor's next career step was Arabian Racing with Jean Pacheco. Rumor did well and unfortunately, due to an injury, was never able to break his maiden. He did, however, finish iin the money. Not very much money but he did earn money! Rumor then came home for a number of years. At the age of 19, we were in a position to send him to Everglade Equestrian Center, Micanopy, FL. Where Rumor, under the instruction and training of Michelle Just-Willaims, USDF Gold Medalist began his dressage career. Michelle took Rumor to a 2nd in Training Level One and a lst in Training Level Two. This after Rumor contracted WNV just a few months after he arrived in FL. Rumor made a significant recovery from WNV and went on to work hard with Michelle to regain his ability to be the competitor that he is. We brought Rumor home to CA so that I might be able to begin dressage instruction with Rumor and compete with him. So, far that has not happened, and it will just as soon as I get back to work. Stayed tuned as we progress together through this incredible life together.

Rumor Has It

I'd like to introduce you to Rumor Has It (Kaiyoum +++ x Shikos Rosali ...

Updated: Feb 01, 2008 10:08pm PST

Chilkat Baby :

Chilkat Baby

Updated: Jan 31, 2008 8:53pm PST

Parallax 2008 : Parallax (Cejlon x Comets Star) AHR*572167 21 Feb 1998 Chestnut Stallion is a beautiful, well conformed gelding of great substance. This gallery begins with pictures from two years ago up to two months ago. There are also pictures of his fabulous sire on here as well!

Parallax 2008

Parallax (Cejlon x Comets Star) AHR*572167 21 Feb 1998 Chestnut Sta ...

Updated: Jan 30, 2008 6:45pm PST

KT's Birthday :

KT's Birthday

Updated: Dec 06, 2007 10:53pm PST

Sly Park

Updated: Nov 30, 2007 7:43pm PST

Birthday Blessings : Even though Friday, November 9th, was my birthday, my birthday started last weekend when Keith and Raquel baked me a birthday cake. I was surprised that Keith remembered and took the time out of his weekend. And, of course, the work and projects that Keith completed certainly helped to make life on the ranch a bit more enjoyable. On Wednesday I went up to Sparks to take the Cub Cadet up to Lowe's and meet my brother for a short visit. Charlie gave me a gift of two cookbooks for my birthday; Martha Stewart Handbook of Baking and the new Weight Watcher's Cookbook. I have wanted them for quite a while and such a nice treat from my brother and his wife Carol. When I got back from Sparks Cliff and Jen sent a beautiful bouquet of roses. They are so fragrant. I was very surprised. On Friday, I met Leslie Goodwin and Sadie at Sly Park. Leslie showed me a new trail route that took us up to Fleming Meadows. It was gorgeous, as you can tell by the pictures. Valentina and Sadie rode well together with lots of energy left over after our three hour jaunt. Cliff called when I got back home and we had a meaningful conversation. Sunday, Katie came up. And brought a very pretty floral arrangement. She cooked a wonderful Birthday Dinner, Chicken Paprikauns, mashed potatoes, and salad. Then there was DESSERT! Chocolate brownie with ice cream and fresh raspberries! Very yummy! Thank you, Katie, you are the best COOK! Monday, Katie had the day off and we took Valentina and Chilkit Pass up to Cronin Ranch for a 10 mile ride. Got to see many new parts of Cronin Ranch that I have not had the time to see. We actually got the horses down into the river! That was pretty great. The river area is a very cool area. I look forward to doing more rides soon. It was a beautiful day, with great scenery. It was so great to have the time with Katie and to take a horseback ride with her. I received many cards from friends and family. Thank you, Cliff, Jen, Katie, Les, Linda Carter, Raquel, Keith, Annika, Rosanne and Leslie for making this a birthday to remember. All and all it was a relaxing and happy birthday. One that I will cherish for a very long time.Thank you, Friends, Family, and Nature!

Birthday Blessings

Even though Friday, November 9th, was my birthday, my birthday started ...

Updated: Nov 13, 2007 11:21am PST

GCER Work Day : GCER Members got together on Saturday, July 7th to do trail maintenance for the upcoming GCER Ride! It was an incredible amount of work. Two teams worked both sides of the mountain and met at the top. It was hard work but well worth the effort. A really great group of people. Raquel had a fun time, in spite of the hard work, and she commented on how really nice everyone was to her. She is looking forward to working the ride next week and having even more fun. Thank you, everyone, for making this such a great day for Raquel.

GCER Work Day

GCER Members got together on Saturday, July 7th to do trail maintenanc ...

Updated: Jul 07, 2007 7:41pm PST

Colton Medeiros : Colton Medeiros Champions of Endurance Award 2006 Youngest Endurance Rider

Colton Medeiros

Colton Medeiros Champions of Endurance Award 2006 Youngest Endurance ...

Updated: Oct 10, 2006 5:14pm PST

Michaela's Day : This gallery is dedicated to Michaela the greatest riding student any teacher could hope to instruct! Here's to you Michaela, may you forever pass on your shining smile, quick wit, and calming personality.

Michaela's Day

This gallery is dedicated to Michaela the greatest riding student any ...

Updated: Aug 15, 2006 3:32pm PST

Unanimous Vote aka Chilkat Baby : These are pictures of my most recent visit with Vote in Delaware. Vote is in race training with Lynn Ashby of Marlynn Meadows Farms. After Vote's racing season at Delaware he was sent to Liberty Leburon in Texas. At the end of the race heat Liberty was able to secure a lease with option to buy on Vote with a family in Texas. As of May 18, 2008 Vote will officially become part of their permanent team. I am pleased to announce that they have decided to exercise their option to purchase Vote. We are so very pleased that Vote will have a wonderful home and enjoy all of the benefits of a show career with them. At the present Vote is being shown in Dressage and will continue in this direction. You will be sorely missed Vote. However, I couldn't have hand picked a better life for you. Thank you, Liberty Leburon, for the love and dedication you have towards insuring the race horses under your care have a second career beyond the race track.

Unanimous Vote aka Chilkat Baby

These are pictures of my most recent visit with Vote in Delaware. Vot ...

Updated: Aug 13, 2006 2:25am PST

IZA FIRE : Saying goodbye to Iza Fire was one of the hardest things I have had to do in a long time. She is going to a wonderful, loving, and caring home.

IZA FIRE

Saying goodbye to Iza Fire was one of the hardest things I have had to ...

Updated: Jul 10, 2006 11:00pm PST

Wintery Friday (new) : Katie and Les came up Thursday night to take advantage of the wonderful powdery snow in the Tahoe Region. We woke up to the our vehicles and the ranch covered in snow. Definitely a new experience for all of us that normally never see more than 3 inches of snow a year.

Wintery Friday (new)

Katie and Les came up Thursday night to take advantage of the wonderfu ...

Updated: Mar 05, 2006 6:18pm PST

Placerville the other Winter Wonderland : Today started with a Winter Wonderland blanketing Sweet Cabernet with snow. It was absolutely beautiful. The dogs enjoyed a romp in the snow with Keith tossing them snowballs. Athena tried to catch them in her mouth. Andy chased around the snow. Kismet just looked and wondered why her paws were so cold. The cats ran as fast as they could. The horses snorted and went back to their food. I on the other hand made breakfast and laughed at them all.

Placerville the other Winter Wonderland

Today started with a Winter Wonderland blanketing Sweet Cabernet with ...

Updated: Feb 19, 2006 1:35pm PST

Tamer and Bayzarr : I had a wonderful visit with Tamer El Saadany and his stallion Bayzarr on Monday, 2/13/2006. Bayzarr is a truly a gentleman and a delightful stallion to be around. Tamer and Bayzarr have a wonderful repore and work together very well. Afterwards Tamer and I had a nice lunch at Chevy's in Dixon.

Tamer and Bayzarr

I had a wonderful visit with Tamer El Saadany and his stallion Bayzarr ...

Updated: Feb 14, 2006 11:32am PST

UK Friends I met along the way. : Once outside of the larger towns it was easy to see why the people are so happy and pleasant. Always smiling and laughing. Truly a joy to have met some of these people.

UK Friends I met along the way.

Once outside of the larger towns it was easy to see why the people are ...

Updated: Jan 28, 2006 12:33am PST

Horse Races Haydock, St. Helens : Katie and I went to the Haydock Race Course in St. Helen's on Saturday while Les finished up shopping for his beautiful daughter Ellie. The following is a link to the Haydock Race Course site for your perusal. http://www.haydock-park.co.uk/ We had such a great time and we actually WON some money! People were very nice, friendly, and it was especially encouraging how much the people still LOVE their race horse industry in England. The moral support of the fans was awe inspiring. The roar of the crowd cheering the horse of their choice in as well as cheering in the obvious finisher was heart moving.

Horse Races Haydock, St. Helens

Katie and I went to the Haydock Race Course in St. Helen's on Saturday ...

Updated: Jan 09, 2006 11:49am PST

St. Oswald's Church, Winwick, England : THE WINWICK PIG	 
 
 Winwick is a small town between the M6 and Warrington, and as a small Church dedicated to ST Oswald. He was the monarch of northumbria at the time of his passing in the year 642 Oswald died in battle against the pagan King Penda of Mercia, and was one of the few Kings to be made a saint. The church was built on the spot where he took his Last breathe. 
 Winwick was then just a small clearing in the woods with a few huts Set as dwellings. This was the place where good King Oswald was killed and many a tale was told of this noble hero. Travelers would call in and pay tribute to the great man, bowing low to the spot and sometimes leaving token gifts, it was almost like a shrine. 
 The elders of the Village cared for it but there was no real guardian of the place. All there was a great stone that had been rolled there to mark the spot. Neither was there a written inscription but the stories were passed on by word of mouth. 
 By the time of our story, in the early tenth century, Oswald had been dead for many years but his name lived on and his stone was tended. No one knew who placed the stone there or ever questioned its authenticity. 
 One day the old men of the village sat down under the great tree in the center of the palisade’s area just to talk about things. 
 They watched as a group of noble strangers entered the palisade, walked over to the stone and bowed their heads. The old men looked at each other, and seemed to think the same thoughts and the idea was born to build a church to honor the Saint. There was much talking and many discussions later, it was finally decided that the church was to be built of timber, with stone doorways and windows. No plans were drawn in those days, except for great marks on the ground, but the young men had to know about the proposed new building and what it was proposed to look like. So the old men drew their plans on the ground and showed unparticular, where the door was to be. They wanted people to come out of the church and see the stone of St Oswald. 
 Soon the preparations were under way for the building and people were so busy that no one noticed the old wild boar that entered the palisade and rooted around near the fire to see what he could find. 
 Stones were gathered together and great trees in the forest were marked in readiness for their felling. The marks on the ground were discussed at great length, adjusted, walked around, and talked about again. There was great excitement in the village, and all those who came to see the place left something of value which would help finance the construction of the church. 
 And still the old pig stayed in the palisade, walking around and grunting, snuffling around the people, and generally being friendly. Everyone became quite fond of him. He seemed especially interested in the marks on the ground which showed where the new church was to be built, and was often seen there. The men found his Rooting around quite amusing but hastened to replace their marks when his grubbing obliterated them. It was soon time for the actual building to start and stones were used to mark the corners and doorways of the church, amidst much arm waving and discussion. But at last the groundwork was done and the men surveyed their work with satisfaction. It was the end of the day and the villagers went home for their evening meal, looking forward to the next day when they could continue their work. 
 When the first man awoke the next morning, he left his hut to survey yesterday's work, but soon is loud shout alarmed the whole Community. The others came out and stared in amazement at the scene before them. For the great stones and the marks which showed the plans of the church had been moved across the square to lie around St Oswald’s stone. And the strangest thing of all, there in the middle, seemingly fast asleep, laid the old boar which the villagers had befriended. 
 The men, women and children moved over to the place talking in low, hushed tones. They saw stones and marks all laid out most accurately and they looked at the wild pig as it lay in the sunshine. They talked about how they had heard the pig at work during the night and eventually drew close to it. Looking at the animal closely they saw that the pig was not sleeping but was infect dead. 
 The village elders gathered that morning for a meeting. It was decided that the church would be built exactly as the pig had decreed and that, In memory of the animal, a pig would be carved on the stone that marked the spot where St Oswald had died. 
 Many years later, in the fourteenth century, the church was re built in stone and that very stone, the one on which the pig was carved, was built into the tower. There it has stayed until this day, as a token to something deep and mysterious in life. 
 Finally 
 Who or what was the pig? Exactly what link did he have to King Oswald? There are those who say after death, our souls are re born again into some other creature's body. Who can say that they are wrong? Maybe the pig's soul was that of Kings? 
 

St. Oswald's Church, Winwick, England

THE WINWICK PI ...

Updated: Jan 09, 2006 11:24am PST

Indy and Charlie : My Brother, Charlie Thompson on his beloved horse Tessara's Magic aka Indy. What a pair!

Indy and Charlie

My Brother, Charlie Thompson on his beloved horse Tessara's Magic aka ...

Updated: Jan 08, 2006 8:18pm PST

London : Our first day and night in London took us all over the town from one end to the other via The Tube. What an incredible town. We ate at a small Thai restaurant that had very nice food. The service was friendly and efficient. Later visited an Internet Cafe to email home that we had arrived safe and sound. Then off to the shopping area to discover what the general population does on a Monday night in London.

London

Our first day and night in London took us all over the town from one e ...

Updated: Jan 08, 2006 6:58pm PST

Caernarfon Castle : Bob, Linda, Les, Katie I visited Caernarfon Castle - the official home of the Charles - The Prince of Wales.

Caernarfon Castle

Bob, Linda, Les, Katie I visited Caernarfon Castle - the official home ...

Updated: Jan 08, 2006 6:43pm PST

England 2006 : Katie, Les and D'Arcy on their way to England to surprise Linda Carter, Les' Mum for her birthday.

England 2006

Katie, Les and D'Arcy on their way to England to surprise Linda Carter ...

Updated: Jan 04, 2006 4:55pm PST

Happy New Year 2006 : Keith, Andy and I brought in the New Year with Les and Katie Carter in San Jose, CA. A peaceful and contented New Year is always nice. Spending it with family is even better! Happy New Year everyone.

Happy New Year 2006

Keith, Andy and I brought in the New Year with Les and Katie Carter in ...

Updated: Jan 01, 2006 10:04am PST

Christmas 2005 : Keith, Raquel and I spent a fantastic Christmas Day in celebration with Katie, Les, Huggy, Stella, and Buddy in San Jose, CA. Les made one of the most delicious Christmas dinners that I have had EVER! Thank you, Les and Katie, for a great Christmas 2005.

Christmas 2005

Keith, Raquel and I spent a fantastic Christmas Day in celebration wit ...

Updated: Dec 26, 2005 2:53pm PST

Family Outings : Day after Thanksgiving Les, Katie, Raquel, Keith and I ventured out to the town of Camino to the Jack Russell Brewery. We had a few beers while mingling with the locals who were apparently out shopping for Christmas trees. Then we headed over to The Forester Bar and Grill to shoot pool, play darts, and eat dinner. Very nice day! Lots of laughs, good times, and the thrill of being able to have the time to spend with family.

Family Outings

Day after Thanksgiving Les, Katie, Raquel, Keith and I ventured out to ...

Updated: Dec 26, 2005 2:04pm PST

Home Improvements : Keith changed out the light fixture in the kitchen this weekend. The original light fixture was replaced with a lighted pot rack that accentuates the stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. GREAT JOB CLANTON! It looks lovely!

Home Improvements

Keith changed out the light fixture in the kitchen this weekend. The ...

Updated: Nov 27, 2005 10:56pm PST

Thanksgiving 2005 : Thanksgiving 2005: Les, Katie, and Raquel joined Keith and I in Placerville for Thanksgiving. We had a wonderful meal, shared a great time together, and enjoyed the peace and calm of the day. Katie's garlic mashed potatoes were mmmmmmmmm good, the break apart Onion Rolls made from scratch were a great surprise. They tasted absolutely fantastic. The turkey was juicy and tasty. Raquel's yam and marshmellow casserole turned out just right. Katie made a cranberry vingrette that added a very nice flavor to the salad. Les and Keith maintained a presence in the living room, taking care of the fire, their computers, and insuring the football games were kept up on. Sincerely, it was a very nice day with a great feast had by all.

Thanksgiving 2005

Thanksgiving 2005: Les, Katie, and Raquel joined Keith and I in Place ...

Updated: Nov 25, 2005 8:30pm PST

Zeus Chapman : The Great Zeus. Diane Chapman's wonderful Fresian. We had a great time visiting Zeus when we went to San Diego recently.

Zeus Chapman

The Great Zeus. Diane Chapman's wonderful Fresian. We had a great ti ...

Updated: Oct 11, 2005 11:45am PST

Carlsbad/San Diego Trip : Katie, Raquel and I on vacation in Carlsbad and San Diego CA. Fun Fun weekend.

Carlsbad/San Diego Trip

Katie, Raquel and I on vacation in Carlsbad and San Diego CA. Fun Fun ...

Updated: Oct 11, 2005 10:54am PST

Katie at Pacific Grove Triathlon : I had the pleasure of accompanying Katie to the Pacific Grove Triathlon. It was a wonderful weekend. The course was set in such a cute little town with very nice people. Being right on the ocean made this triathlon particularly nice. I was awe inspired in the manner that all of the athletes participated. Thank you, Katie, for once again inspiring me to be more commited in my own physical fitness program.

Katie at Pacific Grove Triathlon

I had the pleasure of accompanying Katie to the Pacific Grove Triathlo ...

Updated: Oct 07, 2005 9:55pm PST

Visit to Cliff Jen and Family : Cliff, Jen, Josh and I were able to spend some time to visit a few of the covered bridges of Parke County, IN. We had a great time. Josh, the little sweetheart that he is, made the trip even more enjoyable. Cliff and Jen were full of so much information about the area, the bridges, and the locals it made the trip a true delight. Thank you, Cliff and Jen for such an excellent tour guide trip.

Visit to Cliff Jen and Family

Cliff, Jen, Josh and I were able to spend some time to visit a few of ...

Updated: Sep 16, 2005 6:28pm PST

Cliff & Jennifer Cofresi Family Album :

Cliff & Jennifer Cofresi Family Album

Updated: Sep 14, 2005 10:43pm PST

Coxswain Keeshonden : Andy and I ventured down to Prunedale after our event today. It was our good fortune to see two puppies from Chris' and Jeannine's litter to go to their forever homes. All good time was had by all. Except when Andy hid behind a deck when everyone was leaving with the puppies. I think he was sad and/or he thought he was next!

Coxswain Keeshonden

Andy and I ventured down to Prunedale after our event today. It was o ...

Updated: Sep 04, 2005 8:42am PST

Rocking Horse Riding School : A small quaint highly specialized school of horsemanship. Where a student learns to be a part of their horse not just on their horse.

Rocking Horse Riding School

A small quaint highly specialized school of horsemanship. Where a stu ...

Updated: Aug 16, 2005 3:23pm PST

Near and Endearing Friends :

Near and Endearing Friends

Updated: Aug 12, 2005 7:16pm PST

Dog Show Dixon, CA : Raquel and I went to the Richmond Dog Fanciers Show, in Dixon, CA. The weather was unbearably hot. The dogs and the handlers did an outstanding job trying to stay cool in spite of the heat. Group was outside and the judges minimized the time in the sun by allowing the handlers and dogs to stay under the shade of the tent while having one dog at a time come out. The time in the sun was minimal. In spite of the unbearable heat we had a great time. It was nice to see Joanne Reed and Cash. Cash didn't even seem to mind the heat and showed magnificently. Great job Cash!!

Dog Show Dixon, CA

Raquel and I went to the Richmond Dog Fanciers Show, in Dixon, CA. Th ...

Updated: Aug 07, 2005 11:49pm PST

Christina L. Mazzocco :

Christina L. Mazzocco

Updated: Aug 04, 2005 2:06pm PST

Amador County Fair 7/31/2005 : Keith, Raquel, and I (D'Arcy) went to the Amador County Fair today. We had a blast. As you can see by Keith and Raquel's action pack shots on the rides!

Amador County Fair 7/31/2005

Keith, Raquel, and I (D'Arcy) went to the Amador County Fair today. W ...

Updated: Aug 02, 2005 7:34pm PST

Skeeter's BBQ : For Skeeter it is all about the meat. Therefore, when Keith is BBQ'g meat Skeeter figures she is to invite herself to dinner. Keith made Skeeter a wonderful piece of London Broil. We were ALL fortunate that Skeeter actually decided to share with us. The London Broil was SUPERB. Chef Keith BBQ Master!

Skeeter's BBQ

For Skeeter it is all about the meat. Therefore, when Keith is BBQ'g ...

Updated: Aug 01, 2005 7:06am PST

Les & Katie Carter Family Album :

Les & Katie Carter Family Album

Updated: Jul 26, 2005 5:31pm PST

Trail Rides :

Trail Rides

Updated: Jul 13, 2005 6:38pm PST

Charlie & Carol Thompson : This is my brother, Charlie, riding his horse Indy at our ranch in Placerville, CA.

Charlie & Carol Thompson

This is my brother, Charlie, riding his horse Indy at our ranch in Pla ...

Updated: Jul 04, 2005 10:13pm PST

San Diego Wild Animal Park : Visited San Diego Wild Animal Park while on vacation in San Diego recently with Katie and Raquel. We had a great time at the Animal Park. Magnificent animals taken care of very well.

San Diego Wild Animal Park

Visited San Diego Wild Animal Park while on vacation in San Diego rece ...

Updated: Jul 04, 2005 9:09pm PST

D'Arcy : Life is good!

D'Arcy

Life is good!

Updated: Jun 13, 2005 8:40pm PST

Anika and La Moncha : Anika's visit to Sweet Cabernet, Home of KD Arabian Race & Endurance horses.

Anika and La Moncha

Anika's visit to Sweet Cabernet, Home of KD Arabian Race & Endurance h ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2005 7:32pm PST