Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Horsemanship Clinic Overview
We ended up have 10 people at the Hosrmanship and Stockmanship Clinic. We also only had a one day event. The Ranch Cutting and second day were cancelled. Although we had changes, the outcome, in my opinion, was incredible. There were some really great horses and really great riders!
The morning session was horsemanship. We went over some drills to soften and shape your horse. The process with these drills allows the horse to become soft and supple while learning to collect in the process. If you follow the process your horse will become willing and able to ride into the bridle and perform some really nice maneuvers. Those in attendance talked about how much they learned and how much confidence they developed. That is is my goal, to instill cofidence and offer a better deal for the horse.
The second session was stockmanship, learning how to work cattle with your horse. It was a fun, exciting, and fast time! We had some good cattle that really helped develop horses. I have included some pics of the cattle work session. The riders also experienced some moves to help with cowhorse and cutting competitions.
All in all, it was a fantastic way to spend our Saturday. I would like to thank Allen Scott for the use of the Silver Sands Arena and Curtis Allen for providing the stock. Thank you to Amanda White of Blackwater Photography for the great photos! I would like to thank God for the opportunity I have to work with great people and great horses! If you would like to join us for the next clinic or have horsemanship or stockmanship questions, call me at the number provided or check back on this blog. Thanks and GOOD HORSEMANSHIP!
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Horsemanship and Stockmanship Clinic
Horsemanship and Stockmanship Clinic
Benefitting AQHA Professional Horsemen's Crisis and Scholarship Funds
May 30-31, 2015
Silver Sands Arena, Muleshoe, TX
$250 per rider/horse includes entry, cattle fees and all meals plus STEAK dinner!
Optional ranch cutting competition on Saturday evening
Learn time honored skills to develop a better relationship with your horse from
AQHA Professional Horseman, Jared Lee.
For more information call 210-913-3884
Monday, May 5, 2014
Springtime!
Well, here we are at Springtime, again! Time for calves, lambs, kids, foals, and hopefully a few green things. As far as we are concerned here in the Panhandle of Texas, green may be a hard thing to see, especially after the winter wheat starts turning brown. It is hot (a record high today of somewhere around 97), dry, and windy, and as we look down the road, no end in sight.
As I share a couple of pictures of some heifers that I was caring for with their new babies, I thought I would write a quick thought. As you can see by the pictures, it is still extremely dry. I have been running these heifers for a man on stalks through the winter. About half have calved. We made a decision today to ship them to a feed yard for now. The grass I was going to put them on is non-existent. Rain is surely needed!
As I was driving home today, I began to think about the progression of life. Things still go on, maybe only slowing temporarily due to weather, but life still happens. These heifers just keep having babies, eating what they can, caring for their calves, drinking water, existing. It made me think about what the Bible says about our lives. God gives us life and life more abundantly! Even though the cattle market is crazy, feed is expensive, crop production is down, wells are pumping less, God still promises us abundant life!
It is very simple, God just wants a real relationship with us. In exchange for the personal relationship He gives us the desires of our hearts! The problem lies within us. We want what we want when we want it! Many times the relationship is there when we have time or when we need something. All we have to do is trust Him wholeheartedly (with everything), and He will take care of the rest. I am not saying I have accomplished this and things are always great. What I am saying is that I am trying to work on that relationship daily. When I do this, things suddenly don't look so bleak, and my attitude is mysteriously better! The world keeps turning, and I can finally see my place in it through God!
I don't know what the future holds, when it will rain again, or if I will even make it through tomorrow. But what I DO know is that it is totally under control when I put my trust in the Lord. Thanks so much, God, for the plans you have for my life! Give me the strength to live life for You!
Thursday, April 3, 2014
April Ranch Cutting in Muleshoe
APRIL RANCH CUTTING
MULESHOE, TEXAS
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Open Ranch Class
Junior Ranch Class
Other classes available!
$100 per rider/horse
(includes $50 cattle fee and $50 jackpot)
All Ranch classes will follow NCHA rules with the exception of the reining rule!
Books open at 2pm
Open Ranch Class starts at 3pm
All other classes will follow
Come join us 4 miles East of Muleshoe, Texas on Hwy 84! Plenty of fresh cattle and an indoor facility!
For more information call
806-782-5285
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Sul Ross University Ranch Horse Team
To those of you that have been waiting to see this post sorry for the delay! Seems like I have been running around like a chicken with my head cut off!
On Wednesday, March 19, 2014, I had the great pleasure of going to Sul Ross University in Alpine, Texas. I got there late on Wednesday evening after being asked to come down and work with their ranch horse team and hold a benefit clinic and schooling show to help raise money for the team. On Thursday, I got the opportunity to teach a beginning horsemanship class for Dr. Elliott. It was a great group of students that were willing to learn what they could about riding and horsemanship. There were a lot of good questions and good participation.
Following the horsemanship class I got to meet and work with the team for the first time. What a great group of young people riding some really nice young horses!!!!! We discussed groundwork to compliment mounted work. The team was really interested in becoming better and adding to their already advanced skills.
On Friday, I got to gather cattle at the Means Ranch, in Valentine, Texas, to use that evening for practice as well as in the Sunday clinic. What a pleasure to get to go out on a historic, generational ranch with a true-to-life working cowboy, Bode Means! We gathered the cattle without many issues, loaded them, and headed back to Alpine. When we returned, we all met at the arena. The team got the opportunity to work some cattle, i.e. boxing, driving, and fence work.
The Sunday working cow horse clinic was a great success. There were many interested participants wanting to learn more about horsemanship and helping raise money for the team. Dry work or reining was the concentration of the morning. Groundwork and mounted work allowed the class to learn how to decipher the needs of their horses.
After a great lunch at the Reata Restaurant, we got the opportunity to work a few head of cattle. Learning where to position your horse on a cow and how to control that cow was the order for the afternoon. I got the opportunity to score a schooling show for each of the riders after the clinic. Man, what a day! Even through the weather was cold, overcast, and windy, everyone seemed to enjoy the day and maybe even learn something!
I have a big list of "Thank You's" to send out for a great week of horsemanship! First, I would like to thank Dr. Elliott and Dr. Housewright for letting me invade their world for a few days and work with the team and horsemanship class. Next, I would like to thank all the team for their participation and wish them good luck this year as they show! I would like to thank Bode Means and the Means Ranch for providing cattle for the clinic. Also, a big shout goes out to R3 Cattle Company and Shelly Hall for the use of their horses that week. To Dana Jones, thank you so much for the photos of the events, they are awesome! Thanks to my family for allowing me to be gone for a few days and taking care of my cattle, horses, and dogs while away! Lastly, thanks to God for the safe travel and the passion He has given me for horses and people!
On Wednesday, March 19, 2014, I had the great pleasure of going to Sul Ross University in Alpine, Texas. I got there late on Wednesday evening after being asked to come down and work with their ranch horse team and hold a benefit clinic and schooling show to help raise money for the team. On Thursday, I got the opportunity to teach a beginning horsemanship class for Dr. Elliott. It was a great group of students that were willing to learn what they could about riding and horsemanship. There were a lot of good questions and good participation.
Following the horsemanship class I got to meet and work with the team for the first time. What a great group of young people riding some really nice young horses!!!!! We discussed groundwork to compliment mounted work. The team was really interested in becoming better and adding to their already advanced skills.
On Friday, I got to gather cattle at the Means Ranch, in Valentine, Texas, to use that evening for practice as well as in the Sunday clinic. What a pleasure to get to go out on a historic, generational ranch with a true-to-life working cowboy, Bode Means! We gathered the cattle without many issues, loaded them, and headed back to Alpine. When we returned, we all met at the arena. The team got the opportunity to work some cattle, i.e. boxing, driving, and fence work.
The Sunday working cow horse clinic was a great success. There were many interested participants wanting to learn more about horsemanship and helping raise money for the team. Dry work or reining was the concentration of the morning. Groundwork and mounted work allowed the class to learn how to decipher the needs of their horses.
After a great lunch at the Reata Restaurant, we got the opportunity to work a few head of cattle. Learning where to position your horse on a cow and how to control that cow was the order for the afternoon. I got the opportunity to score a schooling show for each of the riders after the clinic. Man, what a day! Even through the weather was cold, overcast, and windy, everyone seemed to enjoy the day and maybe even learn something!
I have a big list of "Thank You's" to send out for a great week of horsemanship! First, I would like to thank Dr. Elliott and Dr. Housewright for letting me invade their world for a few days and work with the team and horsemanship class. Next, I would like to thank all the team for their participation and wish them good luck this year as they show! I would like to thank Bode Means and the Means Ranch for providing cattle for the clinic. Also, a big shout goes out to R3 Cattle Company and Shelly Hall for the use of their horses that week. To Dana Jones, thank you so much for the photos of the events, they are awesome! Thanks to my family for allowing me to be gone for a few days and taking care of my cattle, horses, and dogs while away! Lastly, thanks to God for the safe travel and the passion He has given me for horses and people!
I would like to say to everyone I met in Alpine that I learn way more about horses, people, and myself than you will ever learn in one of my clinics, and for that, thank you! Be patient and work hard and your efforts will pay off! If something is worth doing it is worth our best effort! I am a better person for knowing each of you and calling you my friends!
Sunday, March 16, 2014
RANCH CUTTING RESULTS
The weather in Muleshoe was pretty cool the morning of March 8 but ended up being really pleasant in the afternoon. We had a good turn out at the Ranch Cutting. There were 8 entries in the OPEN Ranch Cutting and 6 in the Junior Ranch Cutting (horses 5 years and younger). We had a really nice crowd cheering from the stands, too!
Coby Summers of Dimmitt, Texas rode Pretty Little Boonlight and Steve Lewis of Canyon, Texas rode Peppy Will Pep to a tie for first place in the OPEN Class. They both had really nice runs of 73. They split first and second prizes and took home $200 each.
Steve Lewis aboard Pistol Packin Catt took the honors in the Junior Class by winning with a score of 70. He pocketed $180 for his efforts. Winning $120 for second place, Justin Gibbs, of Muleshoe, rode Ever So Klever to a score of 69.
If you missed this event, check back on this blog for the next one. We are planning to have one in April and will have the date out as soon as possible. If you want to see what ranch cutting is all about, come out and watch. Admission is FREE! Besides, there was young man cooking burgers and hot dogs that could compete with any around!!!!! See you soon!
Coby Summers of Dimmitt, Texas rode Pretty Little Boonlight and Steve Lewis of Canyon, Texas rode Peppy Will Pep to a tie for first place in the OPEN Class. They both had really nice runs of 73. They split first and second prizes and took home $200 each.
Steve Lewis aboard Pistol Packin Catt took the honors in the Junior Class by winning with a score of 70. He pocketed $180 for his efforts. Winning $120 for second place, Justin Gibbs, of Muleshoe, rode Ever So Klever to a score of 69.
If you missed this event, check back on this blog for the next one. We are planning to have one in April and will have the date out as soon as possible. If you want to see what ranch cutting is all about, come out and watch. Admission is FREE! Besides, there was young man cooking burgers and hot dogs that could compete with any around!!!!! See you soon!
Friday, February 21, 2014
Ranch Cutting Competition in Muleshoe, Texas
RANCH CUTTING
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Open NCHA Class
Open Ranch Class
Youth Ranch Class
Other classes available!
$100 per rider/horse
(includes $50 cattle fee and $50 jackpot)
NCHA rules will apply for NCHA class.
All Ranch classes will follow NCHA rules with the exception of the reining rule!
Cutting practice starts at 12pm $40 per run
Books open at 2pm
NCHA Open Class starts at 3pm
All ranch classes will follow
Come join us 4 miles East of Muleshoe, Texas on Hwy 84! Plenty of fresh cattle and an indoor facility!
For more information call
806-782-5285
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Open NCHA Class
Open Ranch Class
Youth Ranch Class
Other classes available!
$100 per rider/horse
(includes $50 cattle fee and $50 jackpot)
NCHA rules will apply for NCHA class.
All Ranch classes will follow NCHA rules with the exception of the reining rule!
Cutting practice starts at 12pm $40 per run
Books open at 2pm
NCHA Open Class starts at 3pm
All ranch classes will follow
Come join us 4 miles East of Muleshoe, Texas on Hwy 84! Plenty of fresh cattle and an indoor facility!
For more information call
806-782-5285
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
WTAMU Ranch Horse Team Clinic!!!!
After two previous cancellations of this clinic, we finally had the weather cooperate for a great day on January 26, 2014! Nine members of the West Texas A & M University Ranch Horse Team made the trip to Muleshoe for a day of riding. This was a great group of college students mounted on some really awesome horses! The diverse group has joined together to challenge the nation in Stock Horse Competitions in 2014. There were Texans from Houston to the Panhandle and out-of-staters from New Mexico, Illinois, Kansas, and Arizona. The students brought many disciplines to the table from English to barrel racing to reining to real cowboy work!
We went through three categories of the stock horse competition, ranch pleasure, ranch trail, and cow work. I shared some drills and exercises to improve softness, flexibility, natural collection, and rate. With horsemanship in trail and pleasure in the morning and cow work after a great lunch at Leal's Mexican Food Restaurant, there was plenty of riding!
I believe that this group of individuals, with hard work and determination, can be really competitive for the national title this year. I am very optimistic that this group of young people are going to be able to make a difference not only in the horse world but in the future of our nation. Our future lies with these and other students like them. It is our responsibility to equip them with the tools necessary for success. We must look past ourselves and give willingly of our time, knowledge, and resources to insure a positive future! I know that it will work!!!!
I would like to give a special "Thank You" to Allen Scott for the use of his facility and cattle. We could not have done it without him!
Monday, November 25, 2013
The Next Generation!
I have to write about something that I witnessed first hand this weekend. I was checking in horses and assigning stalls at a well known horse sale in our area on Friday. The weather was just awful! The highs were in the mid 20's with windchills recording below 10 degrees. The little bit of rain followed by ice and snow put a nice icing on the cake for the sale! I enjoy being around that sale because I get to work with a few people I really enjoy, meet new friends and see old ones, and get to look at some good horses. Plus, who could turn down the opportunity to be outside all day in beautiful weather!!!!
As I was standing waiting on more horses to arrive, a young man that I had checked in earlier came and stood next to me. I could feel him staring at me so I said, "How's it going, bud?" He answered by asking me, "Aren't you the guy I met at Edd's that one time some years ago?" Well I'll be darn! It sure was! I had met him one time while he was working for a friend on mine riding colts. We exchanged introductions again and began a conversation pertaining to what he was doing, what horses he had in the sale, and what he planned on doing in the future. He is a student at Texas Tech and almost finished with his degree. He told me he dreams of working for a top named horse trainer and riding cutting horses. After a nice conversation, he went his way, and I continued on mine. It was really nice seeing a kid that took the time to remember me and acknowledge that.
The next evening as we stood in the brisk breeze watching the snow cover the ground, the kid rode by riding his little mare ponying his "old kid horse." He was smiling ear to ear! I asked if he made out alright in the sale. He happily told me what he got for both horses. The prices were really good, meeting more than his expectations and being very fair prices to the buyers! He trotted off to his stalls.
As I was walking looking for a certain horse for it's new owner, I noticed this kid at his stalls. He was rubbing on his mares forehead and talking quietly in her ear as he removed her halter. As he continued I walked over to him. With tears in his eyes, he looked up at me and said, "Dang, this is really hard. This is the first time I have ever done this." I told him, "Things that are worth doing are worth the emotion. If those ponies didn't mean anything it would be easy!" He proceeded to ask me for my number and ask if he could come ride with me sometime. As we shook hands, we wished each other well and parted ways.
WOW! I was so taken! I thought a lot about it over the last couple days! I am so glad that there is a generation following mine that has the desire to take horsemanship into the future for the right reasons. Money and fame make the world go around, but, I will say it again, if fortune and fame are the reasons you own/train/ride horses then maybe you're missing the whole point! Buck Brannaman says that one of the reasons he does clinics is because the next Tom Dorrance or Ray Hunt may be out there waiting to come forward! If anything that I do influences anyone to make a better way for horses and people then my work is accomplished! Keep working younger generations! We need you!
As I was standing waiting on more horses to arrive, a young man that I had checked in earlier came and stood next to me. I could feel him staring at me so I said, "How's it going, bud?" He answered by asking me, "Aren't you the guy I met at Edd's that one time some years ago?" Well I'll be darn! It sure was! I had met him one time while he was working for a friend on mine riding colts. We exchanged introductions again and began a conversation pertaining to what he was doing, what horses he had in the sale, and what he planned on doing in the future. He is a student at Texas Tech and almost finished with his degree. He told me he dreams of working for a top named horse trainer and riding cutting horses. After a nice conversation, he went his way, and I continued on mine. It was really nice seeing a kid that took the time to remember me and acknowledge that.
The next evening as we stood in the brisk breeze watching the snow cover the ground, the kid rode by riding his little mare ponying his "old kid horse." He was smiling ear to ear! I asked if he made out alright in the sale. He happily told me what he got for both horses. The prices were really good, meeting more than his expectations and being very fair prices to the buyers! He trotted off to his stalls.
As I was walking looking for a certain horse for it's new owner, I noticed this kid at his stalls. He was rubbing on his mares forehead and talking quietly in her ear as he removed her halter. As he continued I walked over to him. With tears in his eyes, he looked up at me and said, "Dang, this is really hard. This is the first time I have ever done this." I told him, "Things that are worth doing are worth the emotion. If those ponies didn't mean anything it would be easy!" He proceeded to ask me for my number and ask if he could come ride with me sometime. As we shook hands, we wished each other well and parted ways.
WOW! I was so taken! I thought a lot about it over the last couple days! I am so glad that there is a generation following mine that has the desire to take horsemanship into the future for the right reasons. Money and fame make the world go around, but, I will say it again, if fortune and fame are the reasons you own/train/ride horses then maybe you're missing the whole point! Buck Brannaman says that one of the reasons he does clinics is because the next Tom Dorrance or Ray Hunt may be out there waiting to come forward! If anything that I do influences anyone to make a better way for horses and people then my work is accomplished! Keep working younger generations! We need you!
Monday, October 21, 2013
Handmade buckaroo chinks!
Here is a great pair of 100% handmade buckaroo chinks. These are made from 5 oz. quality leather and are 32" long and have adjustable button and tab closures. They are adjustable from 22"+. The fringe is 4-6" long and bottoms are square. There is a string ring and an inside pocket (big enough for a can of snuff, keys, needles, etc.) on the left side. There is one small stainless concho on each side and stainless buckle with 1" heavy leather belt.
These are good working chinks and have enough look for shows. I have these ready to ship so give me a call if you interested. I am asking $175 for these. Also call me if you are interested in a completely custom pair. I will be able to make a few pair before Christmas!
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Time and patience...
Two things that I have really found to be essential in becoming a horseman are time and patience. Those two things are very similar. In the fast paced world we live in, they are two things that are constantly overlooked. And believe me, they are two things that I forget very often.
After all, if it takes you two weeks to get a horse prepared for its first ride, what difference is that two weeks going to make when that horse is 8 years old? Better yet, what difference would 2 months make? The only difference I can think of is a more willing, confident horse that would not revert back to a time when too many things were crammed into too little time!
There is also a money aspect involved. A client may want a trainer to take a colt for 30 days to get it started. There are many things to be considered before taking that colt. What does that person WANT in 30 days? What CAN be done in 30 days? What SHOULD be done in 30 days? There is a big difference in a 3 year old colt that has never been worked with and a long yearling that is halter broke and has had lots of ground work done with it! It is our responsibility to relay the facts of what can really be done with a particular horse in a certain amount of time and to charge accordingly!
It is imperative for real horsemen to take the time and patience needed to make any horse all that it can be. As we all know a horse can only handle so much in a certain amount of time. True horsemen have to know that difference! Make a difference in the lives of horses and clients by spending quality time and having patience!
After all, if it takes you two weeks to get a horse prepared for its first ride, what difference is that two weeks going to make when that horse is 8 years old? Better yet, what difference would 2 months make? The only difference I can think of is a more willing, confident horse that would not revert back to a time when too many things were crammed into too little time!
There is also a money aspect involved. A client may want a trainer to take a colt for 30 days to get it started. There are many things to be considered before taking that colt. What does that person WANT in 30 days? What CAN be done in 30 days? What SHOULD be done in 30 days? There is a big difference in a 3 year old colt that has never been worked with and a long yearling that is halter broke and has had lots of ground work done with it! It is our responsibility to relay the facts of what can really be done with a particular horse in a certain amount of time and to charge accordingly!
It is imperative for real horsemen to take the time and patience needed to make any horse all that it can be. As we all know a horse can only handle so much in a certain amount of time. True horsemen have to know that difference! Make a difference in the lives of horses and clients by spending quality time and having patience!
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Handmade Chaps
Here is a pair of 100% handmade, Texas bell leggins that I just finished. They are pretty sharp, in my opinion! These are step-ins with five 1 1/2" stainless conchos down each leg, string ring, mitten pocket on left, and cut-out of Playboy Bunny on stiffeners. The measure 24.5" at the thigh and 38" in length. They have a dark stained 1" belt and lots of brown buckstitch. Any cowboy would be proud to work in these, and they are fancy enough to wear at the shows! I am asking $350 OBO for these leggins. Please feel free to make an offer!
If you are interested in these chaps or would like to order a custom pair, please call me at 210-913-3884. JL Cowboy Leather offers great cowboy gear at cowboy prices!
If you are interested in these chaps or would like to order a custom pair, please call me at 210-913-3884. JL Cowboy Leather offers great cowboy gear at cowboy prices!
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Thoughts...Newtown, Conn.
I thought I would take a few minutes and write a few thoughts in the shadows of the horrific tragedy that took place in Newtown, Conn. last week.
First, my sincerest condolences go to all the families and people of Newtown. My prayers and thoughts have been and will be with those who lost loved ones. I know that there is nothing that can replace the lives of these 26 people, but my hope is that the love of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ will bring you peace in the days, weeks, months, and years to follow.
As tears came to my eyes and an emptiness filled my heart after hearing the tragic news, I really began to think of my family and my life. Man, how much do we take for granted the things that we are so blessed to have in our lives?! I have really been thinking on how awesome the relationship with my kids really is and how soon that will be changed as they leave home. I can't even begin to fathom what it would be like without them at all!
Since, the events I have begun looking a little longer at my children and other kids that I see elsewhere. I begin to take a little deeper look at the things that God has blessed me so greatly with like, my wife, my job, my horses, my dogs...the sunrise...the wind...the weather...our home, our food, our clothes... All these things I take for granted so often! It is really sad that it takes a tragedy to make me think deeper about them.
As a country, we need to quit trying to place blame for things like this and really look deeply at ourselves and at things we can do to help preserve the lives of others! It is amazing how a kind word can lift a spirit, or how a little smile can be repaid by another one. I know that these things will not stop all the atrocities that this world can dish out but maybe it can make things a little better in our own little world. After all, when asked what the greatest commandment was Jesus responded by saying, "Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul and love your neighbor as you love yourself!" After looking deeper at my blessings, in spite of how "bad I think I have it," maybe I can make a little difference. I hope I can start it at home, and they'll help me further it!
As we see the events that come from this tragedy, may we really see the blessings that God has given us as a nation and do our part to make it a better place for mankind, especially for our children!
First, my sincerest condolences go to all the families and people of Newtown. My prayers and thoughts have been and will be with those who lost loved ones. I know that there is nothing that can replace the lives of these 26 people, but my hope is that the love of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ will bring you peace in the days, weeks, months, and years to follow.
As tears came to my eyes and an emptiness filled my heart after hearing the tragic news, I really began to think of my family and my life. Man, how much do we take for granted the things that we are so blessed to have in our lives?! I have really been thinking on how awesome the relationship with my kids really is and how soon that will be changed as they leave home. I can't even begin to fathom what it would be like without them at all!
Since, the events I have begun looking a little longer at my children and other kids that I see elsewhere. I begin to take a little deeper look at the things that God has blessed me so greatly with like, my wife, my job, my horses, my dogs...the sunrise...the wind...the weather...our home, our food, our clothes... All these things I take for granted so often! It is really sad that it takes a tragedy to make me think deeper about them.
As a country, we need to quit trying to place blame for things like this and really look deeply at ourselves and at things we can do to help preserve the lives of others! It is amazing how a kind word can lift a spirit, or how a little smile can be repaid by another one. I know that these things will not stop all the atrocities that this world can dish out but maybe it can make things a little better in our own little world. After all, when asked what the greatest commandment was Jesus responded by saying, "Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul and love your neighbor as you love yourself!" After looking deeper at my blessings, in spite of how "bad I think I have it," maybe I can make a little difference. I hope I can start it at home, and they'll help me further it!
As we see the events that come from this tragedy, may we really see the blessings that God has given us as a nation and do our part to make it a better place for mankind, especially for our children!
Friday, October 5, 2012
Handmade Chaps
Back Again...
Well, here I am once again. I haven't been writing a whole lot, but here is a short note.
I have learned a few things about myself, my horses, my dogs, and others. After the last few months watching people and their horses and dogs, I think I have some new realizations. Many Native Americans believed that the horse was a channel to your soul. I think they were right to an extent! I know that my ponies are a reflection of me and a way for me to work on my shortcomings. For a long time I have thought that horses are a view of a person's life. That is sometimes true and sometimes not! I have got to see a few really nice horses over the past few months. Some of these were not owned by very nice folks!
Again, I am reminded that kindness, willingness to help others, selflessness, and humbleness does not come directly from working with horses and dogs. It is really a decision to make from you heart. God has so graciously placed horses and dogs in our lives to fulfil many voids, help us communicate with patience, and view the world from an unconditional position. Still, even though a person spends hours on end with them, that doesn't mean that it will be a given that these people will learn and use those things. These things are a decision of the heart and have to be worked on daily to perfect! Without the love for others/animals that only God can give us, no matter how much time you dedicate to "training", you will not get all the benefits that horses and dogs can give.
God has given me so much to learn from being a caretaker of animals. I need to be conscience of that and work harder to be someone that seeks to be more like Him. The harder I work on loving others more than myself, my plans, and my things, the better life will be for us all! It is an awesome thing that God unconditionally loves me for who I am in Him and not for who I really am! It is also a wonderful thing that He gave me horses and dogs that help teach me to view people like He does! God help me be the kind of person that my dog thinks I am!
I have learned a few things about myself, my horses, my dogs, and others. After the last few months watching people and their horses and dogs, I think I have some new realizations. Many Native Americans believed that the horse was a channel to your soul. I think they were right to an extent! I know that my ponies are a reflection of me and a way for me to work on my shortcomings. For a long time I have thought that horses are a view of a person's life. That is sometimes true and sometimes not! I have got to see a few really nice horses over the past few months. Some of these were not owned by very nice folks!
Again, I am reminded that kindness, willingness to help others, selflessness, and humbleness does not come directly from working with horses and dogs. It is really a decision to make from you heart. God has so graciously placed horses and dogs in our lives to fulfil many voids, help us communicate with patience, and view the world from an unconditional position. Still, even though a person spends hours on end with them, that doesn't mean that it will be a given that these people will learn and use those things. These things are a decision of the heart and have to be worked on daily to perfect! Without the love for others/animals that only God can give us, no matter how much time you dedicate to "training", you will not get all the benefits that horses and dogs can give.
God has given me so much to learn from being a caretaker of animals. I need to be conscience of that and work harder to be someone that seeks to be more like Him. The harder I work on loving others more than myself, my plans, and my things, the better life will be for us all! It is an awesome thing that God unconditionally loves me for who I am in Him and not for who I really am! It is also a wonderful thing that He gave me horses and dogs that help teach me to view people like He does! God help me be the kind of person that my dog thinks I am!
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Catching Up in 2012
Well, it has been a long, long time since my last post! I am ready to start adding a few newer posts and keeping a little more current with my blogging!
Lots of things have happened this year, new shows, new venues, new horses, old horses getting better, new equipment, etc! I am very excited about 2012 although it is almost half over already. I have a couple of really great ponies that are showing or are going to get their first starts this year. With that being said, here is a few things that I have learned already this season.
First, always go back to the basics. To get the most performance from your horse, warm him up the way you ride him during training. Softness, willingness, and levelness have to come from the normal routine that you have established every time you work with your horse. Weather, different places, and daily attitude can make a big difference in your horse's output. If a horse is given a chance to fully warm-up, his performance stands a greater chance of being equal to his abilities. My warm-ups consist of a little lounging to work off the freshness, sometimes not more than a couple circles in each direction to a lot of running depending on temp and attitude. This also gives an opportunity to look at soundness and equipment. Next, softening drills are done. I like to do some disengaging, small circles, tight serpentine, bridling-up stops, asking all 4 legs to move independently, and lots of flexing. I then go through my gates and transitions. Lead departures, rollbacks, turn-arounds, and lead changes are next. After I feel there is no freshness, lots of softness, and great respect, I then can enter the show pen or work environment. Lots of testosterone junkies, bronc riders, and time constrained people will say all this is not necessary. My reply would be, "If your horsemanship isn't your first priority and you want to look like a fool, go ahead, hop on, and get after it!" Believe me, I have pulled the "fool thing" many times, even a couple this year! Its all a process!
Second, what are you riding and horsemanship goals? I read an article recently discussing this. Set your goals and work towards those. Knowledge is power! The further you take your horsemanship the further you should take your education. Look, listen, and learn from people that known for their horsemanship. If your goal is to trail ride on a nice broke horse and enjoy the scenery, find someone that is reputable to find you the right horse, help your riding skills, and take you places that are great for enjoying the scenery. If you want to be a world champion barrel racer, find a reputable trainer that can take your current skills and couple them with new techniques and the right mounts to move you up the ladder. Once you set your goals, constantly assess and tweak them to get where you want to be. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and it wasn't built without skilled architects!
Lastly, I am constantly reminded of our place on the earth in regards to our animals. God gave us dominion over the beasts of the fields not to forcibly make them comply to our desires but to work in harmony to accomplish our goals and serve their purpose. I have seen some incredible examples of both sides of this story. A man's heart is really revealed when a animal doesn't comply to his suggestions. I am constantly reminded of Proverbs 12:10, "A righteous man has regard for the life of his beast, but the compassion of the wicked is cruel." Jerry Lee Sewell always reminded me, "As little as possible, but as much as necessary!" I think we can all learn a lot from these two insights, not just about horsemanship but about parenting, being a spouse, and sharing our world with others. I have not begun to grasp all that can be learned about this but have learned to step back and look and listen a little bit more before speaking and acting. I hope that others will begin to realize want God meant for us through our relationships with animals and other humans!
I always want you to know that things I write, say, and do are not the perfect, the best, or the only way to do things. These are what I have learned and that work for me and have worked for others. Like the Bible says, everyone must work out his own faith. There are always solid, unchanging principles, but for our relationships with God, mankind, and our animals, it is a work in progress. It is continually changing and improving or regressing depending on our attitude, willingness to learn, and the place where our priorities really lie. Thanks for reading!
Lots of things have happened this year, new shows, new venues, new horses, old horses getting better, new equipment, etc! I am very excited about 2012 although it is almost half over already. I have a couple of really great ponies that are showing or are going to get their first starts this year. With that being said, here is a few things that I have learned already this season.
First, always go back to the basics. To get the most performance from your horse, warm him up the way you ride him during training. Softness, willingness, and levelness have to come from the normal routine that you have established every time you work with your horse. Weather, different places, and daily attitude can make a big difference in your horse's output. If a horse is given a chance to fully warm-up, his performance stands a greater chance of being equal to his abilities. My warm-ups consist of a little lounging to work off the freshness, sometimes not more than a couple circles in each direction to a lot of running depending on temp and attitude. This also gives an opportunity to look at soundness and equipment. Next, softening drills are done. I like to do some disengaging, small circles, tight serpentine, bridling-up stops, asking all 4 legs to move independently, and lots of flexing. I then go through my gates and transitions. Lead departures, rollbacks, turn-arounds, and lead changes are next. After I feel there is no freshness, lots of softness, and great respect, I then can enter the show pen or work environment. Lots of testosterone junkies, bronc riders, and time constrained people will say all this is not necessary. My reply would be, "If your horsemanship isn't your first priority and you want to look like a fool, go ahead, hop on, and get after it!" Believe me, I have pulled the "fool thing" many times, even a couple this year! Its all a process!
Second, what are you riding and horsemanship goals? I read an article recently discussing this. Set your goals and work towards those. Knowledge is power! The further you take your horsemanship the further you should take your education. Look, listen, and learn from people that known for their horsemanship. If your goal is to trail ride on a nice broke horse and enjoy the scenery, find someone that is reputable to find you the right horse, help your riding skills, and take you places that are great for enjoying the scenery. If you want to be a world champion barrel racer, find a reputable trainer that can take your current skills and couple them with new techniques and the right mounts to move you up the ladder. Once you set your goals, constantly assess and tweak them to get where you want to be. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and it wasn't built without skilled architects!
Lastly, I am constantly reminded of our place on the earth in regards to our animals. God gave us dominion over the beasts of the fields not to forcibly make them comply to our desires but to work in harmony to accomplish our goals and serve their purpose. I have seen some incredible examples of both sides of this story. A man's heart is really revealed when a animal doesn't comply to his suggestions. I am constantly reminded of Proverbs 12:10, "A righteous man has regard for the life of his beast, but the compassion of the wicked is cruel." Jerry Lee Sewell always reminded me, "As little as possible, but as much as necessary!" I think we can all learn a lot from these two insights, not just about horsemanship but about parenting, being a spouse, and sharing our world with others. I have not begun to grasp all that can be learned about this but have learned to step back and look and listen a little bit more before speaking and acting. I hope that others will begin to realize want God meant for us through our relationships with animals and other humans!
I always want you to know that things I write, say, and do are not the perfect, the best, or the only way to do things. These are what I have learned and that work for me and have worked for others. Like the Bible says, everyone must work out his own faith. There are always solid, unchanging principles, but for our relationships with God, mankind, and our animals, it is a work in progress. It is continually changing and improving or regressing depending on our attitude, willingness to learn, and the place where our priorities really lie. Thanks for reading!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Starting Your Horse on Cattle Clinic
I would like to give a special thanks to Alan Scott for use of his facility, Ron Baird of Ogden, Utah and Trey Sparkman of Victoria, Texas for the use of their horses, Thurman Myers for renting his cattle, and the awesome people that participated!
Check back for future dates of more clinics, products, and events brought to you by JL Horses and Cowboy Leather and Sand Hills Cowboy Cutting!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Ranch Cutting in Muleshoe!
Sand Hills Cowboy Cutting
And “Starting Your Horse on Cattle”
Beginner and Green Horse Clinic
Sunday November 6, 2011 in Muleshoe, Texas
Clinic starts at 9:30am
$35 per rider/horse
If you are a beginner, have a green horse, or always wanted to experience cutting, this clinic is for you. The basics of horse mechanics and working a cow will be taught with one on one time with a cow! Come join us!
Ranch Cutting at 1:00pm
$100 per rider/horse
You must pre-enter by October 28, 2011. Those entering after that date or on day of event will be assessed a $20 late fee!
Cowboy Class (no NCHA earnings horse/rider)
Open Class (any horse/rider)
Rules will be a modified version of the NCHA official rules. The modification will pertain only to reining the horse, and riders will have 2.5 minutes to cut 3 head. Each rider can use 0-4 herd holders.For more information or to sign-up call Jared at 210-913-3884!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Sand Hills Cowboy Cutting Results!
Happy Independence Day! We had a great turn-out at our first Sand Hills Cowboy Cutting! We had 23 entries from all over our area. The Open Class had 5 entries, the Ranch Class had seven, and 11 horses showed in the Cowboy Class. There was some great horses, horsemanship, and cowboy/cowgirls showing their talents. The day was great with enough breeze to keep us cool and lots of sun. It doesn't get much better than that!
I would like to give a special thanks to the following:
Gold Sponsor: Muleshoe Livestock Auction
Silver Sponsor: Muleshoe State Bank
Open Class Buckle Sponsor: Muleshoe Vet Clinic
Ranch and Cowboy Class Buckle Sponsor: Clovis Livestock Auction
All Classes Saddle Pad Sponsor: Jeff Smith Cowboy Classic Saddles
All Classes Headstall Sponsor: JL Cowboy Leather
Arena Help: Logan McWilliams, Mark McWilliams, Steve Friskup, and Buddy Embry
Cattle: Buddy Embry, Judd Timmons, and Thurman Myers
Office: Linda Johnson
National Anthem: Chay Lee
Flag Presentation: Jaxon Lee and Emma Lee
Thanks for all your help!
I would also like to thank Jesus Christ for saving my life, giving me the opportunity to live in this great country, and being able to do what I love! Thanks to all the people, both past and present, for your sacrifices for our great country! It is not taken for granted!
Check back in the future for details on my next event! I am tentatively trying to schedule an event in Hereford in the fall! If you have any suggestions, want to help, or would like to be a sponsor, call me at 210-913-3884!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)