I board them, but it's just a small private pasture, so I get to pamper my ponies twice daily, and of course, clean up all the "used" feed.
As a photographer, I obviously have hundreds of images captured of these guys over the years, so I figured I'd share some of my favorite photos and thoughts, as a tribute to my daily inspiration.
Apache, my 18 going on 3 y.o. Arabian gelding, is directly responsible for my current profession, amongst other things, such as broken arms and concussions. ;) He is a typical Arab; he outsmarts me half the time, loves to play, and is extremely sensitive and quick.
My dad bought him for me when I was just 9. I broke him and taught him to jump, even though we had to work extra hard for ribbons, as an (gasp) Arab in the hunter ring. He, in turn, kept me away from "bad" crowds, gave me a sense of responsibility and a shoulder to cry on.
I will care for and adore this horse until he dies, no matter what. I owe him at least that much after all he's done for me over the years.
Apache has been with me since he was a weanling and I was 9.
The shots above are of him as a youngster, some of my first.
Apache and I jumping at a "B" hunter show when he was 5.
This shot was published in On Course magazine. :D
From my first photography class in college, Apache was 9.
He gave me a great eye shot when I first went pro.
These two are from the past year, playing in the pasture.
Had some fun making this one into fine art.
My Hanoverian Daisy was purchased from a great dressage trainer back in Illinois. At my boarding facility one day, I saw her galloping in the pasture for the first time and somehow knew she'd be mine.
She was indeed for sale, but the price was too high. I begged the owner and she accepted 1/3 of the original price and payments, just because I promised to give her a great home.
So bought her as my foundation broodmare, as she has some really nice bloodlines and even though she's not completely sound, when she is, she has some moves, inherited from her daddy, Donavan.
From the Riverland Farm website:
"At the 1988 100 Day Test, Donavan earned 136.16 points as Reserve Champion of 18 stallions tested. Among his scores were 9's on rideability, willingness to work, trot, jump ability, and a 10 on canter."I wouldn't be able to part with Daisy either. She has a dream date set up next spring with Salto so she can finally start earning her feed; she's not a dainty eater. I can't wait to see her first baby!
Daisy also gave me an eye shot. The silhouette is Apache. Wish I could say it was planned, but it was plain good luck. :D
Head shot.
Play time.
Great light, watching me from across the pasture.
Montage of Daisy yawning. "Modeling is such hard work!"
Now you guys know all about my babies. If I haven't met yours yet, I can't wait to. They can't wait to meet me either, as I always bring treats, sometimes my "Mini Whinnies" if I have a fresh batch.
I can't help it, my horses have me well trained! ;)
No comments:
Post a Comment