Adventure cat in training?

What is it that they say?

"Life happens when you are busy making other plans..?"

I think that should be changed to "Work will always be the biggest pain in the you - know - what when you are trying to make plans.."

I would say that I feel the same way about my job that a lot of other folks do. Some days I can really immerse myself in my duties and actually enjoy them and other days the frustration (for a variety of reasons) makes me want to go home and not come back.

Today was definitely the latter....

If a disagreement in policy with my boss wasn't bad enough, the arthritis in my knee and ankle seemed to be on the fritz today.

I had hoped to spend the evening with Griffin with plans to do a short ride with the bareback pad, a bit of hand grazing, and a long groom session.

......but when I left work, all I wanted to do was to get off my aching legs. Even the stairs leading up to my apartment provided a teeth - gritting, painful, experience.

Most of the time, my job involves a mix of both standing and sitting duties, but this month has me in the rotation that requires the most standing. My body was in full protest at the end of my shift today.

Admittedly,  there are days and times that I feel strong and able to stand and walk all day (and then some), and other times I feel like a 100 yr old lady who should be in a wheelchair (pushed by a sexy young man) instead of on my feet.

....and even though I do like my job for the most part, there are days that resentment grabs me in it's clutches and I find myself wishing that walking/standing time could be spent on the hiking trail or with my horses instead of at work.

Unfortunately,  that won't change anytime soon since it's work that pays the bills.

....but enough of that already.

Since I'm feeling cheated out of an evening with my boy, Griffin,  I thought I'd talk about my adventure cat in training.

You've most likely already read about Simon in earlier posts, but here is a photo of him from our stroll around the block last night.

When I first adopted Si, it wasn't long before I realized he was one of the most outgoing cats I had ever met.

When I introduced him to a harness and leash, he took to it more naturally than most puppies do.

He was eager to follow me just about anywhere.

.....and so our walks around the block began.

Nowadays, if I so much as pick up his harness, he is eagerly waiting by the door in anticipation of a kitty hike.

I still find it amusing when a passer by or a motorist does a double - take at us strolling along the sidewalk.

I was once asked by a teenager on a bike if I was "walking my cat."

I had to resist the urge to say  "Nah, he's a tabby Labrador who prefers to purr instead of bark."

I've always known that people put cats on harnesses to go outside with them or take them a short distance in the car, but never for an actual WALK.

Before Simon came into my life, I probably would have been doing the same sort of double take had I seen someone walking their cat.

 

Out of curiosity,  I started researching harness trained cats and somewhere along the way, I discovered this website.

http://www.adventurecats.org

(once I add photos, I haven't been able to figure out to share the actual link on my phone).

It seems that folks not only walk with their cats, but also hike trails, camp, and go on boats with their cats.

Is this cool or what?

If you enjoy looking at that site, I also urge you to check out this blog!

http://www.boltandkeel.wordpress.com

In short, the blog is about 2 (VERY) adventurous young ladies who take their two young cats on all their outdoor trips with them. They do hiking, camping, kayaking, and snowshoeing....and yes, their feline friends do it all with them.

Amazingly cool!

 Simon has yet to do anything more than walks around the block with me, but he does find some interesting places to hang out during our strolls.

Since I don't boat or even swim that much, I have no current plans to introduce Si to the basics of becoming a water cat, but I DO want to teach him to do short camp outings with me. In the future, we could perhaps do one in the spring and one in the fall.

With summer's high heat and humidity,  I would feel more comfortable avoiding that time of year (especially with the increased threat of fleas and heartworms as well. Yes- cats (and humans too) can get heartworms.  They are not just a dog parasite).

I had hoped to do a maiden voyage with Simon this year with camping, but I just haven't felt quite ready to take that plunge yet.

My mom and sister are planning a short, camp outing around the Labor Day Holiday. I am sitting this one out due to lack of vacation time (their dates are during the week following LD) as well as having to work Labor Day itself for the nice pay it provides.

Even though I won't be camping, I thought this might be the purr-fect  opportunity to introduce Simon to campsite living and a campfire. We may go for a visit one night after work!

In addition,  there are some other things I want to work out before Simon spends his first night in my tent.

I need to create a small, portable litterbox with a cover for transport and easy emptying capabilities (as in being able to empty very frequently as needed).

Si needs to spend some actual time in my tent so that I can be sure he is comfortable and I am not overfacing him with too much strangeness too soon.

I want to develop a way to carry Simon on hikes so I can do long ones with him and I will be able to carry him when he is tired. I've considered both a backpack and a diagonal carrying sling for this purpose. I need to experiment to find what works for us. Simon enjoys rides in cloth bags (and my laundry basket), so, that's not an issue.

I also would like to get Si a new harness set up. The one he has is a bit small for his chubby frame and I want something he can sleep in comfortably if necessary. It also needs to be safe and secure.

The final aspect of all this, and the hardest thing for me to address in all of this is this...

Simon's adopted brother,  Lukus.

While I continue to work on Lukus' s confidence in all things, I highly doubt he'll ever be a camping cat.

For the most part, Luk prefers a life indoors. The world outside just holds too many scary variables.

....and I'm 100% fine with that.

Lukus is my Smitten kitten. He's my sweet cuddler and is playful to the max.

As long as we're inside.

At this point, I have no desire to take Lukus along,  but leaving him home alone without his brother and best friend creates a dilemma that pulls at my heartstrings.

I need to find something special for him so he isn't feeling left out -- and create a situation that works well enough so that he gets something FUN out of the times that Si and I go camping.

This situation is probably the biggie in what is holding me back from taking that first trip with Simon. 

BOTH of my boys are just that special to me.

....and even if our camping trip never quite makes it to fruition,  Simon will still enjoy his walks..

because.....

A worn out, fat, cat is a HAPPY cat! 

(and yes my apartment has ugly, worn out carpeting.  I haven't won the lottery yet to move to a fancy, log cabin in the woods *winks*).

Makin' tracks with Jersey

My last hike was over 2 weeks ago.

While the ride with Tex last week certainly fed my trail bug a little, I was overdue for a hike under my own power (there is something certainly gratifying about enjoying some trail miles on your own two feet).

After another week of heat and nasty humidity (not to mention my consumption of not-so- healthy snack foods while being lazy indoors), I was ready to get back outside on a trail somewhere (I have become seriously addicted to moving down the trail--whether it's on a horse or my own two feet).

I decided as this weekend approached that I was going to make time for a hike....One way or another.

Not to go too far off topic,  but I'm in a bit of a pickle in terms of getting hikes in during the week right now.

At my job I work 2 months of early shifts (6-2:30) and then a month of late shifts (8-4:30). This is a late shift month.

By the time I get home,  get my house chores done and prepare to head out for a hike, I don't have enough daylight left to do anything substantial.

While it might make sense to do the hike first and the house chores later-- my discipline level isn't good enough for that. It's always been work first, play after......Always.

I decided when I got up this morning,  I was going to do a hike.

My original plan was to buzz about my errands, eat a bit of lunch early-- go on a little hike-- and then head to the barn for some horse time this evening.

What really happened was me staying up too late last night and not sleeping well. I only got about half the things done this morning that I wanted to. After eating lunch, I craved a nap.....and because I could,  I took one. I never made it to the barn. 

Nope, no discipline there.....

It was after 2 pm by the time I awoke from the nap, but dang nammit-- I was going to get my hike in!!

My hike of choice for the day turned out to be the flat, Fern Dell Trail at Mirror Lake State Park.

This is a 3 mile loop trail that begins off of a seperate, trailhead outside of the park. I have never hiked this trail,  but it carries an "easy" rating, so I wasn't concerned about anything.

Since its been awhile since I did a decent hike with my canine partner, Jerseydog,  I decided to swing by my parents' house to pick her up so she could tag along. 

Our camping trips so far this year have been disappointing in terms of doing good hikes (in which J-dog often comes along), so I'm sure she has been feeling overdue for a good trek as well!!

Jersey is about 10 years old now, and while she isn't a spring chicken anymore-- she still has a lot more "GO ambition" than living with a couple of retired folks allows her to make use of.

Here we are at the start of the trail and Jersey can't get going soon enough. This is certainly the highlight of HER week!

Jersey has 2 very interesting quirks about her (aside from the fact that she's a purebred, German Wire Haired Pointer and most people unknowingly think she's some strange, mutt cross).

Her first one is that she LOVES water.

....and not like a Labrador that enjoys pursuing a stick tossed in a lake.

Jersey will quite literally DRAG her human to any body of water in the hopes that she will be able to take a dip.

She will also play in puddles that other dogs will avoid.

.....and the J-dog is ALWAYS certain she can convince you to love walking in the rain as much as she does.

Her other, (very strange indeed) quirk is that she HATES having her picture taken. If you point ANYTHING that even remotely resembles a camera or a phone in her direction, she will go hide behind something or someone. If that's not an option, she will refuse to look at you.

We have never been able to figure this out as she's never had a bad experience with having photos taken.....

I have my speculations about what her issues might truly be (she failed as a hunting dog before being given to my father), but it would take too long to go into details at the moment. She has a shy (but very sweet) personality,  even though she has come a LONG way in being more courageous since living with my family. 

At any rate, the blurry photo above is usually what I end up with when I try to get a picture of her. All of the good photos my family has where taken "by surprise" when she didnt expect them.For the most part, there weren't any stunning views on this trail. 

...but I did get a photo of some of these pretty little, yellow wildflowers.  I'm still trying to learn more about the plants and the things I see on the trails, so I don't know what they are, but they are pretty!

....and of course there are ALWAYS interesting mushrooms to look at...

....mostly,  Jersey and I just trucked along.

To say that this trail was easy was a vast understatement.  Except for a handful of tiny hills, this hike was flat, Flat, FLAT.

The only challenging thing about this hike were the mosquitos. I got very few bites (because I DIDN'T forget the bug spray this time), but they annoyingly buzzed around my head quite a bit.

A short trail lover might be slightly daunted by the 3 mile loop, but seriously...I think just about anyone could handle this trail.

....and that's not a bad thing.

For folks who are complete novices to hiking, biking, or cross country skiing, this trail would be a PERFECT starter trail. 

I'm tempted to try a winter hike on this trail come winter.

For the most part, Jerseydog and I had the hike to ourselves. We only encountered a couple of other users. There were two gals that biked past us near one of the tiny hills. One of the ladies had a toddler in one of those bike carts behind her bike.

He was cute.

....and they seemed to be enjoying their ride.

I wanted to take a distant (unidentifiable) photo of them as they rode away from us, but I was too busy doing this when they passed.

This is Jersey 's  collapsible water bowel that I carry in my waist pack. I was busy giving her water when the bike riders came by us. J had been drinking and was momentarily looking up at the bikes when I snapped this.

While I can easily do a 3 mile hike with minimal to no water (except on the very hottest of days), Jersey cannot.

If I'm doing 3 miles, it's a sure bet that she's doing 6. Sniffing,  scenting, and backtracking are what she does because she's a dog.

....and I let her BE A dog. Heeling is fine in an obedience class, but on the trail--I feel it deprives a dog of enjoying their time out there.

As long as they stay leashed and come stand next to you when other users pass, I think it's totally acceptable to let them be a dog and explore (keeping watch for toxic foliage of course).

There was almost no humidity today and temps just broke around the 80's mark.

....and Jersey still drank a decent size water bottle of water. I think we did about 3 stops for her to drink her fill.

My waist pack holds 2 water bottles,  Jersey ' s portable dish, my phone, keys, bug spray, a small flashlight,  wet wipes, a small first aid kit, and other seasonal things I might choose to add such as gloves and a fleece ear band or a rain poncho depending on the weather.

 I didn't take a photo of it, but I will try to include one in a future post.

I'm not always thrilled to wear it, but I've been glad to have it on longer hikes and to carry necessities when J is with me.

There were a few pretty spots on the trail.  I think this is one of my favorite photos from today. The pines here were beautiful and the sunlight coming through lent a magical feel.

This photo isn't real easy to decipher,  but there is a little canal-like looking ditch on the right side of the photo. It expanded alongside a short section of the trail. It made me wonder if it created a small stream during heavy rains. I have no doubt sections of this trail could be very muddy in wet weather....

Living with retirees doesn't afford Jersey a good way to stay in shape. At this point, we were 3/4 of the way through the loop. J slowed to a stroll and only perked up if she found a scent or spotted movement trail side (in which case, she leapt towards the bushes with renewed energy and enthusiasm).

The final section of trail brought us up alongside the road (which is to the right in this photo). 

At least it wasn't ON the road...

but a bit boring nonetheless....

As I mentioned before, I might try this trail as a winter hike, but I'm not sure it will ever top my list of favorites.

...but Jerseydog enjoyed herself.  The only reason I got this close of a photo of her is because she is a bit tired.

Make no mistake, however, with an hour or two of rest, she'd happily go out for another few miles eagerly without complaint.

 

Jersey is one of my best hiking companions for sure!! ♡♡

Yesterday was my Holiday....

I made a promise to myself yesterday that it was going to be a minimal "chore" day and I was going to spend the day on myself. 

This was going to be my 4th of July Holiday so-to-speak (even though it was only the 3rd).

I usually get a nice paycheck if I opt to work on a holiday, so Monday would be a workday for me anyway. 

Unfortunately,  on Saturday night,  I had one of those sleepless nights that occasionally occurs when I am thinking about too many random things and just cannot. Fall. Asleep.

Nights like that suck.

So while I had hoped to get up and get my day going early in the morning, it didn't really happen that way.  I ended up playing lazy,  bed potato with my cats until about 10:30am.

All in all, that's not a bad thing--but I still didn't sleep (Ugh)....

It was going to be a caffenated, prop my eyelids open with toothpicks sort of day.

Since Griffin had my attention on Saturday,  Sunday was to be Tex's day.

We had our usual long grooming and bond session and then did some arena work with just a short ride out to the road after. 

Because my boarding barn is surrounded by DNR lands, woods and marsh, we get HORRIBLE amounts of bugs during the hottest parts of the summer. Unless you are willing to dunk your horse (and yourself) into a vat of pyrethrin, you can pretty much rule out an enjoyable ride in the woods & fields. From now until about early September,  riding in the arena and areas close to the barn are usually the best bet.

You know things are bad when the deer flies keep pace with your car (just outside the windows) while driving up to the barn.

Some years are worse than others,  and while I wouldn't say things are as bad as I have seen them,  they are annoying enough right now.

So with all that in mind,  Tex and I worked on lateral movements as well as our usual riding patterns in the arena.

Tex knows hindquarter yields fairly well, but his front end gets sticky and he is still figuring out that he can move is front half sideways while keeping the back half still.

I was even able to get him started on a few side pass steps in one direction over a ground pole (Good Boy, Tex)!!

It was a warm day, but there was a breeze and we had a nice ride.

Retrieving Tex from the pasture. He is the black horse half buried in the buffet table (round bale).

Wondering if my hands are hiding a few Nicker Snacks while I attempt to remove the fly mask (My halter doesn't fit well over his mask, so I usually remove it when I put it on).

Groom session in the cool barn with only a minimum of biting insects....Ahhhhh...

The resident ducks came to visit & briefly hung out in Daphne ' s  stall while Kris was out riding.. (Daphne stays inside during the day & goes outside at night).

When the ducks got bored, they headed to the indoor to waddle around before going back outside.

Tex all set for his ride....

Taking a break in the shade between exercises...

After going to barn, I went home for a wee nap before heading over to Christmas Mountain Resort in the Dells to watch fireworks with the family.

My fireworks photos seldom turn out well, so I didn't take any.

Fiona kept me occupied playing with her giant, soft purple frisbee. This was her second year seeing fireworks.

Last year did not go well because the noise scared her.

My sister, Gayle, has since purchased a small pair of child- size ear muffs for her, so she can enjoy loud experiences like this without being afraid of the noise (which she will grow out of with time).

At first she wasn't sure about the huge, sparkly plumes in the sky-- but with reassurance from everyone (Grandma,  Grandpa, mom,  dad and myself were all in attendance), she was enjoying them by the end....even laughing.

She didn't want them to be over!

I wish I had some cute, Fiona pics to add...but as I said I was too busy catching a frisbee beforehand to take any.

Tomorrow its back to full days at work-- but a little camp outing in a week should sweeten that deal!!

THAT pretty hike I've been waiting for.....and "Bear Thoughts"

I've been craving a good, nature hike for some time now. I'd hoped to scratch that itch when I was camping, but the questionable weather made that difficult.

So yesterday, when I got done at work, I raced through my normal, afternoon house chores, donned my sneakers, strapped my phone to my arm, and headed over to the Steinke Basin trail head.

The Steinke Basin Trail Loop is a short, 2.4 mile loop that is part of Devil's Lake State Park. This is one of a few trails that have an access point outside of the park. There is a separate parking lot just up the road from the main exit.

I have several, favorite Devil's Lake trails--and this is one of them. This particular hike is considered easy, but there's still enough uphill grades to get your heart rate elevated (unless, of course, you are much more physically fit than I, which is probably most people). I thought this would be just the right hike to do after a long day at work.....not too difficult.....not too long. The weather was also a perfect, 77 degrees.

Since many of my hikes tend to be last minute,  spur of the moment, deals....I am usually solo.

Most folks who know me - know that I am an incredibly deep thinker (often times, too much for my own good).

As I set off on my hike, I let my mind wander as usual......I wondered what life would be like if I didn't have to work. How nice it would be to just enjoy my animals and hike and camp as much as I'd like.  There are so many places I'd like to visit if only I had the funds & time to get there.

Ahhhhh...that elusive, perfect world!

As my feet left the open, sunny section behind and carried me into the woods, I could hear the breeze rustling through the trees with an odd tree creak every now and then. Just myself and nature. Relaxing.

....that is until I heard a small to medium animal move through the woods on my left.

....and I thought about Wisconsin's Black Bear statistics (now, for the record, I know the sound wasn't a bear).

...as I said before, I'm a deep thinker...

The Wisconsin black bear population has risen from approximately 9,000 bears in 1989 to more than 28,000 animals currently.  Black bears are gradually spreading out to more southern parts of the state. 

I was curious of the chances of seeing a Black Bear on some of these remote, forested trails in Devil's Lake.  

It gave me some piece of mind to know that I had done my research on what actions a hiker should take should they come upon on a bear. Unfortunately,  should a bear decide I was a threat, I had nothing at my disposal except for a set of keys to use to protect myself. 

...and I was alone (groups are safer).

I told myself that because I am still fairly south, my chances of encountering a bear on my hike were pretty minimal.

....and so I kept hiking on and enjoyed the beautiful surroundings and the other wildlife. I saw squirrels, a variety of birds, a couple of small rabbits, and  some mosquitos.

Wait.

Did I just say that?

Mosquitos?

Not exactly the wildlife one appreciates. Unfortunately,  a few spots on the trail had tiny bridge crossings over some tiny creek bed areas. In those spots, I managed to aquire a few bites. 

Next time, bug spray, chica...

Thankfully, most of the trail was fine however.

At one point, I crossed an access road and saw the only other human I passed while on the trail. A young lady was trail running the other way-- coming towards me.   ....and she was FLYING-- like a gazelle on fire. 

I thought to myself how much I wish I could run like that.....feel that runner's high. If only my lower half weren't so broken and I didn't have a bum knee and a bad ankle. *sigh*

Still....I am grateful for being able to hike, ride horses, and camp. 

....and I plan on doing those things for as long as possible!

....unless a black bear eats me. *laughs*

So I finished my hike uneventful and found myself wishing that it were longer. Next time.

When I arrived home, I did indeed look for information on Black Bears at Devil's Lake. I discovered that there have, in fact, been sightings at DL as far back as 2009. Bear scat (poop) has also been found on the south end of the park. Frightening enough, the sightings have mostly occurred in the Steinke Basin Area where I was just hiking. Yikes! (I wish i could post the info link, but my phone is not letting me add it at the moment. Grrrrr...).

I've been wanting a set of Trekking poles to help me hike hills better. Perhaps now is the time to invest in a set. They could also make a convenient defense tool should, God forbid, I ever need it. 

I know that plenty of hikers hike in far more bear populated areas safely (even among Grizzlies, which Thank the good Lord, we don't have around here). I don't plan to stop hiking, so becoming educated about what to do and hiking smart are the alternatives!

Here are a few photos from my hike. Enjoy!

Parking area. Several cars, but I only saw 1 other hiker/runner.

Vacation. Birthday. Camping. (in no particular order)..

My annual birthday, camp outing couldn't have come at a better time this year.  I was feeling quite a bit burned out from work and,  in a sense,  wanted a little break from the horse life.

I am the only horse lover in my family (sadly enough).

....so when we want to spend time together, we camp (the non - horse kind).

My mom and I camp together quite often. As far as camping companions go-- I think we make a great team in that we share a site and work together to have a great time. I am hoping that one day,  we will be able to take some seriously long road trips in each other's company. 

...Unfortunately, in life, there are always obstacles.

I have my animals to care for (I don't trust most boarding establishments and have yet to find a great pet sitter).

...and my mom has my dad.

He loathes camping in the same way that Superman hates kryptonite. In addition to that, he is disabled and has difficulty staying alone over long periods of time.

Thankfully,  we have 3 beautiful state parks within a half hour driving distance of our homes.

We are lucky.

We can camp AND take care of our respective responsibilities.

....but maybe one day circumstances will change and we can have that far away adventure.

Our stay last week was at the very popular,  Devil's Lake State Park. Our site this year was 065 in the Quartzite campground.

As is generally the case, my mom choose the site based on her ability to back her small ( but not tiny) camper into position. My mother, who is a self proclaimed "Glamper." wants just about every amenity she can have (short of air conditioning and the kitchen sink).

I, on the other hand, enjoy a few amenities (i.e A decent airbed and the convenience of electricity when available), but I'm happiest cooking on campfires and sleeping in a tent.

I downgraded from my old Pop Up camper 3 years ago to a high quality, canvas tent. While I would be lying if I said I never miss the camper, I can also say that it's not enough to have the desire to go back. The tent offers me 100X's the flexibility of the camper and is the most doable option for horse camping should I ever get that horse trailer I've been dreaming of having for years (the money gods are taking their own,  sweet time shining that light in my direction).

Our campsite was nice, but less wooded than I would have liked.

The first night of our stay was fairly windy, but nice enough for a fire and a bit of hanging out.

My sister and her husband and my niece, Fiona, also joined us, but they shared site 046 with friends.

I had plans to hike my favorite trails during the day, but since the weather forecast threatened the chance of storms all weekend, I pretty much just used the time to relax. I did a short stroll around the campground here and there, but nothing of any distance (or sadly.....with any sort of pretty view). I mostly busied myself with my nose in a book or working on some crossword puzzles I had brought along.

I think the highlight of my weekend was watching Fiona delight at seeing the live frogs, turtles, and snakes at the nature center. She couldn't get enough of watching them.

....and she can't get enough of camping.

Fiona is not yet 3yrs old and she loves the outdoors with the same level of enthusiasm that my dad has in his hatred of camping.

On the second night, we had a good storm for a few hours.

....as in several INCHES of rain.

My mom and I watched a movie (which we would do the 3rd night as well due to MORE rain).

My sister and her friends hung out in their rather large tent and made silly, Snapchat videos. Little Fiona thought the rain was about as much fun as bouncing on the air mattress in the tent. Thunder & Lightening? No problem....This little girl could care less.

Due to the impending rain (and a few mild leaks), Gayle & company choose to head home a day early. I didn't blame them as I also went home for the 3rd night due to the high incidence of heavy rain, lightning, thunder, and flooding. I needed to go home in the morning anyway to care for my cats-- so it worked out ok.

My mom felt safe in her trailer, so I left at 11 pm (quiet time). We watched an old Lucille Ball movie and ate Nachos up to that point. It goes without saying, that I would have rather enjoyed a campfire on a balmy evening....

.....but only Mother Nature can pick the weather.

In the morning, I was rather thrilled that my tent had undergone a second night of heavy rains and not a drop was to be found inside. I can't say enough for Kodiak Canvas Tents. I. Love. My. Tent.

It wasn't until the following day that I learned that Fiona threw a bit of a tantrum when her mom started taking their tent down. She wasn't ready to go home!!

....even if the big, bad storm wanted to huff and puff and blow their whole campsite down!!

Fiona had already made herself a "professional" camper. On our first day there, she made the observation that my mom's camper has wheels. In talking with her, I then proceeded to show her how the camper must hook up to the truck so it can be pulled to the campsite. I showed her the truck hitch and the coupler on the camper.

After this little show and tell,  Fiona took it upon herself to make sure all friends & family in attendance knew how these things worked.

She's not even 3 years old.

Bright. Little. Girl!!

As luck would have it, our last night gave us perfect weather. My mom and I enjoyed a lovely campfire, super yummy ribs, and banana split marshmallows for dessert.

My only regrets were that the stupid weather chased me home for a night (and that I let it....) and I didn't even get in a single hike on a favorite trail.

.....at least Devil's Lake is super close to my home and there are plenty of day trips to be had yet this summer!

Next month we are all at Mirror Lake SP for 3 nights. I am hoping the weather will be better as I am overdue for that pretty hike!!

Unsuspecting Infraction....

I really wanted something fun to write about this week, but my energy level is at an all time low.

Things at work have been chaotic, to say the least. We have an lab audit next week,...and that, although routine, brings about its own set of stresses.

....and if being pulled over a few weeks ago for having a headlight out wasn't enough, I got round two of that yesterday while headed out to take care of Griffin.

This time it wasn't such a logical reason..

Actually, it was a pretty stupid reason if you ask me....

The car I currently own is a '07 Chevy Cobalt SS. I've owned and driven this car for almost 8 years now. For the most part, it's a fun, little sporty looking car to drive. I bought it because I am a HUGE fan of driving manual transmission vehicles.  I feel safer in them and I enjoy driving them.

In addition to this, my car also has mildly tinted windows. I bought the car with them. I also bought the car from a dealership and not a private seller.

I think I said I have driven this car for almost 8 years now.

All over the state....

I have sat next to officers at intersections,  parked next to them in parking lots, gas stations, etc.

I also had a Police officer residing in my apartment building for just under a year. He was nice. We said "Hello" often....and although I don't recall his name, I would remember him if I saw him.

Well last night, a certain female state trooper decided it was my turn to wear the bullseye.

After (quite literally) tailgating me for a good minute and a half,  she turns her lights on and decides to pull me over. Honestly, if she had been any closer to my back end and I had to stop fast, she would have (100%, without a doubt) rear - ended me...

Once captured on the side of the road, I waited a good 5 minutes before she even approached my car.

My lights were ALL in working order.

I wasn't speeding...and in fact, may have been going a few miles under due to the crummy section of highway we were on.

I wasn't drunk, drinking, smoking anything, littering, or swerving...

So seriously? What the ****?

The problem?

My car has tinted windows that she thought were too dark. She produced a meter saying I was 1% away from the legal limit.

In 8 (that's EIGHT) years, I have NEVER been told my car was tinted illegally (even during the 2 previous, minor, stops I've had with this vehicle...neither of which were speeding. I have a clean driving record).

I posed the "why?" of this question TWICE to this officer and was not given a direct answer (only stupid reasons why someone would choose to tint their windows).

I was also not allowed to see the actual meter reading.

Thankfully,  I was only given a warning. The warning also DID NOT state the meter reading.

Something about this whole interaction felt very fishy to me....and admittedly,  the jury is still out on what my next action will be. At this point,  I do not plan to alter my windows until I get another official opinion (and  confirmed measurement).

Still....This whole 25 minute escapade has faltered my trust in law enforcement.  The officer was extremely terse with me....almost if she had been angry that I wasn't, in fact, a drug dealer hiding behind my deliberately, darkened windows secretly plotting the world's demise...... (complete with a paw print magnet on the back of my car that says "All my kids have paws."). There's not a smigeon of a doubt in my mind that she was hoping she'd "get me" on something else...

...especially after reading on line statements from other officers stating that window tinting is a minor issue in my state and rarely a reason alone to make a traffic stop.

For whatever reason, this police officer did manage to succeed at one thing...

Significantly ruining my evening....

...so tonight, I am relaxing with my feline family members, putting my feet up, and treating myself to some pizza and a Dr. Pepper...

Tomorrow is another day (....and no hopefully better than the last 2)!

I have inserted photos below of my car....In the same appearance it was when I purchased it.....

Night Shift

One of the rotations I do at work comes with having the latest shift. When compared to other jobs,  it's really not as late as some, but it's late enough to generally put me in the dark by the time I arrive at the barn.

When Griffin and I arrived at Tammy's barn 10 years ago, she did not have an indoor arena. The only building was the small, main barn (...and, believe it or not, I miss those days because I like smaller barns).

It goes without saying, that Griffin and I didn't ride much during those winters simply because we didn't have any daylight left. I often satisfied our time together with long groom sessions and hand walks down the drive (which, fortunately, is pretty long so it isn't boring).

I don't recall getting a lot of snow during those winters either, so I think we were able to continue doing the walks through most of those cold months.

Having pondered about all of this in my mind recently,  I've decided to try to do that again with Griffin this winter.  The walking will be good for his healing leg and will give us that bonding time together.  I don't foresee trying to do any riding with Griffin until we hit the latter half of February or so when temperatures begin to rise again. At that time, we can try to slowly incorporate some tiny rides in as Griffin dictates when/if he is ready (and willing) to do them.

I did the first of these many, nightly hand walks on Tuesday of this last week.

It wasn't a particularly warm night, but it was clear and there was no wind. Stars flooded the sky and, overall, it was a lovely evening.

Griffin was VERY happy to be out for a stroll. He was very forward at the end of the bridle and I had to stop and back a step or two several times to request his attention. He was a good boy and did as I asked. We enjoyed each other's company and my mind drifted back to those earlier years at Tammy's when Griffin was still a middle - aged horse.

I know it would have bothered a lot of people to not be able to ride through the winter months, but I honestly can't say it ever really bothered me. My horse was happy and healthy. I was outside with my best friend and it was quiet and peaceful.

...perhaps the best part was that I didn't have any training/competition pressures and therefore had no need to worry about climbing aboard to pilot my horse while dressed like the Stay Puffed Marshmallow man from Ghostbusters.

During our walk, I also thought about camping and wished that Griffin and I had managed to find the opportunity to go while he was still able to do longer trail rides. If I have any regrets with all that my boy and I have done together, not being able to go camping will always remain the biggest one.

Still.....looking at all of the years we have shared together...

I am immensly grateful that Griffin is still part of my life and hopefully will be for a few years yet to come...

Sometimes when I can get outside and feel relaxed (and not suffer from any of my own arthritis pain) and enjoy a walk like this with Griffin --it really DOES beat even a good ride on any other horse!

Griffin's Oncore Performance ( in hurting himself yet again ) PT 2

On the evening following Griffin's injury, I was pretty sure of 2 things...

1) I would be taking some vacation time on Monday to go out and check on my boy.

2) We would be seeing the vet.

As it always does, worry managed to grab a choke hold on my thoughts and prevented me from getting much sleep on Sunday night. I can honestly say that at times like this, I wonder if I'm cut out to have horses in my life. I've seen so many other equestrians handle (much larger) issues with far more calm and grace than I could ever muster during even a mediocre problem.

I tell myself that the happy times still far outweigh the tough moments and  that it's worth it to keep picking up whatever pieces fall (both emotionally and physically) and keep trying.

So, on Monday morning, after a call to my not-so- thrilled supervisor,  there I was at the barn tending to my injured senior friend. ♡

I was somewhat relieved to see that Griffin's leg hadn't gotten any worse since I saw him last. Right away, I set to the task of doing another round of cold hosing & applying DMSO.

After Griffin was safely (but reluctantly) tucked back into his stall with a haynet, I phoned my vet to see when they might be able to come out for an exam.

The receptionist said one of the doctors was in our area and she would check with him to see when he could see us. She just needed to wait until he finished his current call and checked in. She would call me back....

So I waited....

and waited some more.......

I hid from Griffin's view and parked my butt at the picnic table just outside the barn. Griffin is a terrible "stall rest" type of horse. He must always have food and a buddy available to stay inside (Tammy's young gelding, Minnow, was assigned buddy duty for the old man. *Thanks Minnow*). In addition,  Griffin must also NOT be aware that his human is nearby. Once Grif spots me hanging around, he turns into a little whirling helicopter, anticipating that I will take him out.

He's a little spoiled that way.....

So.....as a result, I found myself eventually shuffling out to Tex's pasture in search of my borrowed riding partner. If I was going  to be hanging at the barn for awhile waiting for the vet, I might as well play around with Tex.  Staying seated  at the picnic table would only allow the dampness from the morning to seep through my jacket and into my bones. 

Grooming Tex proved to be a pleasant distraction to all that was churning around inside my mind. (The photo below is of Tex doing his part as my mental therapy horse on that day) ♡

I hadn't planned on doing any riding, but since the receptionist still hadn't phoned me back when I was done grooming, I decided a short hack wouldn't hurt and would help pass the time.

I can honestly say that for the FIRST time ever, I longed to be at work rather than on a horse. My reasoning was that if I was at work, then it would have meant things were normal. I was only using this ride as a distraction to pass the time while I waited for the vet (which, of course, was NOT A normal, Monday morning for me).

Tex and I only walked around.....or meandered as Grif and I usually do. I was not dressed for riding and my jacket had loose, shallow pockets holding my cell phone (awaiting a call from the vet).

Anything faster than a walk, and I could envision my phone taking an unexpected flight somewhere beyond....

Tex and I plodded around the arena, down the drive, around Tammy's house and the barn. It was probably almost 45 minutes before I finally got a call.

Dr. K would be at the farm sometime around 1-1:15 pm, but that wasn't exact since he was fitting us in. It would be at least another hour or so.

I found myself wishing I had brought food. The cereal I ate for breakfast was starting to feel like a distant memory.

Tex and I rode for a tiny bit more and then, not feeling my usual enjoyment aboard a horse, I finished...groomed him a bit more...and turned him back out.

I checked on Griffin (who was having a snooze after eating about 3/4 of his hay), and once again, parked myself at the picnic table.

The cool dampness finally started to penetrate my jacket and I got a chill.

Hungry and cold, I retreated to the warmth of my car and continued to wait. This was, perhaps one of the more miserable vacation days I've had.

Eventually,  my fellow boarder and friend,  Kris, showed up. She took pity on me and gave me one of the fresh apples she had brought with to eat. I was quite grateful...and darned if it didn't taste WONDERFUL.

Not long after,  Dr K finally arrived. Since there are roughly half a dozen equine vets in this practice, I'd never really met Dr. K before.

He handled Griffin patiently and gently and I immediately liked him. After testing Griffin's feet to rule out a hoof abscess (which can cause swelling that can be mistaken for tendon problems), he agreed with my thoughts that Grif had a bowed tendon.  Fortunately,  he also didn't think it was anything but a very mild bow and that it should heal fine.

In cases such as this, an Ultrasound is the recommended,  diagnostic tool, but since Griffin is (mostly) a retired horse and not, in any way, looking to return to any form of competition,  I opted to go only on a physical exam and treat accordingly. Dr K seemed to agree, all things considered, that this was a sensible enough choice.

Griffin is already on Previcox for arthritis comfort. Dr. K mentioned that the medication might have actually helped in this case for Griffin's injury not to swell too badly.

I was told to continue cold hosing and applying DMSO until the swelling subsides. Restricted turnout (since Grif is a terrible stall rest candidate) was recommended for at least 4 weeks after the swelling is gone. Tendons heal slowly, and it will take several months for a complete recovery. Unlike this time last year, when my boy did a number on his Stifle, I was also told that I could hand walk Griff immediately and that "controlled" exercise is good for the tendon. No trotting, running, or playing though..

I asked about wraps for support, but was told that Griffin's case was mild enough that he shouldn't need it (unless the swelling gets worse).

Dr K kindly apologized for not having better news (although, to me, the word "mild" associated with Griffin's injury WAS good news). He also said that for a 27 yr old, Cushings horse, my old man looked GREAT!

Did I mention that I like this vet??

After Dr K left,  I did the most sensible thing I could think of....

I drove to Subway and ATE A SANDWICH (I was hungry enough to eat 4)!!

***********

It's been a full week since Griffin's vet exam. I am happy to report that he IS improving. He attempted a squeal and silly bounce (which I quickly thwarted) yesterday during our walk. I've been walking him in his bridle just for this reason (as well as polos and bell boots for added protection).

He thinks he is 7 -- not 27....remember?

At this point, his swelling has come WAY down and he's pretty sound at the walk.

This is also the first chance I've had to write on my blog since this happened. Work and going to the barn have pretty much filled my days. A trip to my barn (both ways) adds up to about an hour and 15 minutes in the car alone.

By Friday of last week,  I was EXHAUSTED.  I didn't even have the energy to read my favorite blogs much less write on my own.

The positive side of me is keeping my fingers crossed that Griffin will continue to improve and we will be able to continue our meandering rides come spring...♡

Note to Griffin: Please don't pick ANOTHER body part to injure NEXT fall or your human might just go insane & jump off a cliff!!

A positive end to the week

Over the past few days, I hit a bit of a wall emotionally.

It was enough to throw me into a moderate, depressive state and sap both the motivation and desire to blog anything new.

....and then if you add to that, A few mildly annoying occurances I had:
*A beyond crummy workday.
*Getting a glass chip in my car windshield afer replacing the whole thing, due to a large crack, about a year ago. Both instances were courtesy of a wayward rock sprung up from the road.
*Getting pulled over on my way to work because I hadn't yet had time to replace a burned out headlamp (which, in turn,  made me nice and LATE for work...).

Not to mention my horse time was pretty non existant....

BUT

I dug my heels in on Friday. 

I got set up with my insurance to have the glass chip fixed. I bought a bulb from Farm and Fleet and fixed my headlight (with the help of a You Tube video and an extra hand from my mom).

The only thing left to remedy was to get some horse time in....

...and as luck would have it, today was Saturday (NO work).

I spent a VERY nice (albeit a bit COLD) day with my sweet, old man, Griffin.

We had a long brush session complete with a few Raspberry/Alfalfa,  Senior Horse cookies (they are so aromatic, people can smell them a few feet away in the barn aisle). Fussy boy, connoisseur, Griffin LOVES them!

We did a hand walk out to the road, and down it a bit (grazing photos along the way below), and had ourselves a much enthusiastic, walking ride in the outdoor arena.

As usual, Griffin asked to leave the arena, but was pretty well behaved when I suggested we do some bends and gentle yields first.

The wind was whipping around like crazy, and was loud to boot....but my old man payed attention like a champ and we both gave the Tazmanian, crazy wind a proverbial middle finger.  *Big Grin*

I found myself reminiscent of where we were at this time last year. Griffin was layed up with a NASTY, stifle injury and I was resigned to cold hosing, medicating and hand walks for the next 6 months or so....

....and then to add insult to injury, he was diagnosed with Cushings Disease a few months later..

Today, I felt like I had my horse back in a matter of speaking.

I feel Thankful that all of the tears, emotional struggle, and effort (and $$$) have payed off to bring back Griffin's happiness and enthusiasm for the time we spend together.

I feel thankful to have such great barn owners in Tammy and Randy and all they have done to lend help and support at times when they were most needed.  My anxious self couldn't have held it together without them!!

Each day I have with Griffin is a gift....and while I have no expectations for what the future will bring,  I find myself hoping that Griffin has several, enjoyable, happy retirement years yet to come! ♡♡

Cat tree drama that ends well...

Last week, the boys and I had some "Kitty drama" on Wednesday morning.

I have often joked that my downstairs neighbor must think I have elephants running around my apartment.

One of my boys' favorite play times just happens to be when I first get up in the morning.  They run and jump and wrestle like wild children and they often have a blast doing it!!

Simon and Lukus have a great adopted, brotherly relationship,  so there's really never any sparring type issues.

What they do like to do is just have FUN!

At any rate, they were having one of their wild mornings on Wednesday.  At one point Lukus was hanging off the top of the cat tree, upside down and Simon was underneath, perched on the top of the "house" part, batting at Luk.

It must have gotten a bit too intense, because the top of the house part caved in!! Simon went with it, but it didn't faze him. He simply hopped out and continued his paw war with Lukus from the side.

I was standing at my dining room table,  wrapping a few presents for Fiona when all of this transpired. Since I was in the middle of my wrapping, I didn't think much of it. I just assumed that the lid would fit back on the house and maybe need to be glued or something. I thought I'd just throw it back together before I head out to work.

Little did I realize that it wasn't that simple. ..

When I was ready to leave, I want over to the cat tree and discovered that the top was actually held in by 2 inch staples pounded in sideways!!

YIKES!!!

I can't say enough how glad I was that I was home when this happened!!! Visions of my boys tearing themselves to pieces were not pleasant thoughts!!

So upon discovering this, I texted my supervisor and informed her that I would be late to work.

I got out a hammer and proceeded to reverse pound all of the dangerous staples out of the top of the circular base.

Without a (safe)way to fix the lid, it too, got thrown out.

I wasn't too bummed about it because my cats rarely lay in the bottom. Very occasionally, only Simon would curl up inside for a nap. I figured if nothing else, they might have more fun darting in and out through the top.

Well, it seems the top doesn't matter because I snapped the photos below just a few minutes ago.....

♡♡Serious cuteness♡♡