NH Cowgirl's Adventures

Summer and Free Time?

2010-06-21T21:19:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day of Summer and what should be a few months of adding more free time to my schedule. This summer I've created a work schedule that has me home with my kids with the exception of 5 hours 2 days a week when I'll head in to the store to "keep up with the paperwork". The economy still has us at a place where the store can be manned by one employee at a time and I am lucky enough to have the re-incarnation of superwoman as my employee. Courtney is everything you'd want in an employee and she wants full time hours - even better. So my summer will be spent playing tourist with my kids throughout the lovely state of New Hampshire instead of sending them to, and paying for, endless weeks of summer camp. I'm looking forward to the time we'll have together as no job is more important than being their Mom.
Of course, it's not that easy. Aside from American Cowboy Supply my husband and I also run a Flag-Works, which just branched out into promotional products and an Internet based business, the Cowboy Mounted Shooters Team Registry which I've always run from our home. So in-between sightseeing trips I'll be trying to get in some desk time to keep up with my "extra curricular" businesses. I guess it would also be nice to squeeze in a few rides on Kitt too.
I'm hoping that the time I'm not in the store this summer feels like "free time". Sometimes kids can make you feel even busier. Free time or not, the one thing I know is how precious the time I spend with my kids this summer will be.

The Good Ole Happy Holidays

2009-12-21T12:18:00.002-05:00

This year, I feel I've actually had time to get into the Christmas spirit. I don't know how or why, I just feel it more than I have in the past few years. It may have to do with things seemingly getting better with the economy so there is less stress in the world. It may have to do with my state of mind, which has been a bit more relaxed than usual. It may have something to do with the trip we made to our local mall last week......yes, that must be it. I still can't get it off my mind.
This past Thursday we made our journey to see Santa. Last year my kids decided they didn't need to let him in on what they wanted because he knew anyway and that white beard and red suit made him a bit scary. This year they felt they needed to go and see him for themselves, and with lists as long as theirs were, they had to be sure he knew what they wanted. So off we went, heading to the crowds and mayhem. I had spoken to a friend of mine that works at the mall to get the scoop on the best time to arrive and the best place to park. Crowds aren't a favorite of mine and Thursday was probably the coldest night we've seen this year in New Hampshire. I always like to plan ahead!
When we arrived, husband in tow, Santa was on dinner break so we walked around a bit to get more into the spirit of things. It was great to see all the decorations and the kids excitement, especially when they saw a man with a white beard and red exercise suit walking around looking suspiciously like the big man himself! As we made our way back to "Santa's station" to get in line, Liberty & Lexington kept an eye out for elves, Santa or anything else resembling the spirit of the holiday. About 20 minutes after arriving in line (we were second, yeah!) along came Santa. One of those moments forever embedded in your mind happened to me just then. As he approached, my son Lexington saw him, got wide eyes and hollered "He IS real!" I don't think the smile came off of any of our faces for the rest of the night.
This Holiday season, remember all the "real" things that happen in life. Things change but some things, somehow, stay the same and are with us forever. Merry Christmas!

Cowboy Mounted Shooters!

2009-10-27T13:10:00.002-04:00

So what they say is correct, owners of a business do not have the time to blog. I love writing, so I'm going to do the best to keep up now that the weather has turned. Less riding, more time - right?

I'm happy to say things have been busy. The store is thriving, my kids have been playing soccer and attending scouting meetings, and we're readying the house for winter. And, oh yeah, we've started another business! Crazy right? Not really. This has been something I've been working on for two years now and actually doing for free to help promote other associations. It's time to go big and make some money for my time and effort. What I'm talking about is CowboyMountedShooters.com. This is the end result (or should I say just the beginning?) of the High Point Quarter Horse Cowboy Mounted Shooter award I started first in my home state of New Hampshire and then took Regionally in New England. The original purpose of the program in NH was to promote Quarter Horses within the Mounted Shooting community. It worked well and I expanded the program out to include all of AQHA Region 6. The program was a success. I not only increased the awareness of the competitiveness of the Quarter Horse in the sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting, but I also increased the membership in the local affiliates. Finally the Mounted Shooters had a reason to join their local AQHA affiliate as they needed to be a member to sign up for the program. I did get a lot of grief however. The other breeds felt left out. They also wanted to be recognized and compete within their breed division. As soon as I was able to secure the web domain cowboymountedshooters.com I knew it was time to take things further and include all breeds.

I am thrilled to announce the creation of the first Cowboy Mounted Shooting Team recognition program, Cowboy Mounted Shooters.com. I say team because all points are tallied based on a horse and rider team. We don't point just the horse or just point the rider, you are recognized as a team. Cowboy Mounted Shooting has many elements, however the most important is the relationship and communication between horse and rider. You want to shoot the course as best you can and not have to worry about your horse getting confused or not taking a cue. Navigating a course at a high speed while shooting a .45 takes skill and lots of trust between the horse and rider. There is a lot of work done one on one before competing. Imagine going through all of that training and when the winners are announced they announce your horse and leave you out! Hummm. Now I know horses can't understand "human talk", but I know many "humans" who are so proud of their horse that they want them recognized! Without your horse, your teammate, would you be as good? Some Mounted Shooters have a few different horses they compete on. They're all different teams as no two horses are the same. They all take one on one work and from that you get the end result in competition. Teams will compete against other horses within their breed or in the grade horse division on a national, regional and state level. We're starting with recognizing 7 different breeds and will add more as necessary.

So here we go! I've enlisted one of the best known names in the sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting to help out, Frank Turben. Frank was with the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association since it's creation and just moved on this year to start some new ventures. He will be creating our website, including registration and point tracking, through his website company frankturben.com. Working with Frank has been a joy. He is a seasoned professional and I would recommend him to anyone looking for a great website. I've also consulted with Andra Olsen from A.J. Horses and representative of Colt Firearms. Aside from being one of the top Cowboy Mounted Shooters in the country, Andra is a smart businesswoman. She has been very gracious and never hesitates to let me bounce ideas off her. With Frank, Andra, and of course, my husband Patrick, I've assembled fabulous a team to take CowboyMountedShooters.com national.

Stay tuned.......

Houston, We Have a Little Stinker

2009-08-29T20:30:00.002-04:00

This morning I was down at the barn mucking stalls during what New Hampshire gets from a close call with a tropical storm - Heavy Rain and Wind. I do enjoy mucking, as many horse owner do, for some strange reason. For me it has a lot to do with being able to get some alone time, being able to listen (and sometimes even sing) to good country music, and getting an outlet for some good old physical work. This morning was extra special though because with every breeze that came through the barn door and down the aisle I got a reminder of the joy I would have when I re-entered our home. I would have the opportunity to announce to the family that "we caught a little stinker"! Yes, this year the Page family has had the opportunity to relocate probably half of the skunk population in the town of Webster!
It started in the Spring. We noticed that either our two barn cats had grown an obsessive appetite for kibbles or we had an invader helping themselves to the dinner bowl. After my husband walked in one night to see a skunk huddled in the back corner of the barn aisle we knew what the "issue" was. After consulting with his brother, the owner of Advanced Wildlife Services, we began setting up live animal traps in the barn aisle. For those of you think we'd just get "skunked", the trick is to cover them with a tarp (or in this case an old towel) and the skunk will keep his (or her) smell to themselves. Also, apparently they can't lift their tail to spray from a trap even if they wanted to. So when you catch one, the only smell you can smell is a faint odor left on their fur from the last animal (or person) they sprayed. ah ha!
This has become an exciting event for our family. My husband usually is the one who heads down to the barn to "check things out". If the trap is sprung, he'll call up to the house on his cell phone and announce, in the tone of the astronauts to mission control, "We've caught a little stinker"! I relay the message and the kids spring up, arms stretched up in the air and make kids noises (yeah, alright, good job). They quickly look for their shoes and head down to the barn to view the prisoner. I wait, with a big smile on my face from the excitement of the kids (and joy of the capture) to get all the details; size, how much black vs. white, etc. When my husband is ready, they load the trap (towel still in place) in the truck and head a few miles away, across the river, where the skunk is sure not to find his way "home". I enjoy this time of quiet, now looking forward to the details of the release; how fast did he leave the trap, did he run or waddle, and most importantly, did he try to spray?? After the process is complete the trap is reset and we wait for the next catch.
The other night my husband called up to announce another catch when all of a sudden I heard a squeal (from my husband) the phone sounded like it was dropped and there was a bit of confusion happening on the other end of the line. When Patrick got back on the phone he said, a bit out of breath, that there was another skunk in the barn aside from the one that was captured and it had just run right by him and into an empty stall. Feeling I needed to speak quietly so the skunk wouldn't be disturbed and spray, I whispered, "Ok, I'll let you go now". He whispered back "Ok". When he made his way up to the house he said he had another trap that he set and was hoping to get a double catch for the night! In the morning, sure enough the call came, "We have a double, two little stinkers!" Talk about excitement!
As exciting as the entire event is, the goal is to NOT have any more captures, but to have a skunk free barn. Well, here it is the end of Summer and as I mucked stalls this morning I was anxious to get up to the house and make the announcement. We have a little stinker! Hopefully, eventually, the fun will end!

Are you passionate about a cause?

2009-08-18T09:55:00.002-04:00

I try not to get political when blogging. I like to throw out things to think about yet not be controversial. However, this time I'm breaking my own blogging rules and living on the wild side. For this I am passionate about, so I'll give you my views on the subject, tell a story that STILL makes me queasy to think about and send you off with not just my opinion but some good food for thought.

This Friday night I'm attending my first NRA Banquet. It is put on by the local Friends of the NRA Chapter in Concord, NH and the person who chairs the chapter is a good customer and someone I have great respect for. I'm quite excited because my husband loves events like this and we usually go with a fat checkbook and he's ready to spend. Just my type of night out!! We will know many people there and are even bringing another couple with us for the fun.
I've been around guns my entire life. As a child my father went hunting often and I enjoyed tagging along. We learned to respect guns from the beginning. My children have also been around guns their entire life. We have spent time with them reviewing gun safety since they could walk and they understand that guns are for hunting and protection, not toys. There is no mystery there. They have held them, watched Mom & Dad handle, shoot and clean them. When they are a bit older (I'll leave the exact timing up to my husband) they will learn to shoot them, properly. We keep our guns locked up and provide a safe, responsible environment.

There are idiots in the world. This is a known fact. I don't like using such a strong word, but I don't know how else to classify these people, I'm sure you know the type I'm talking about. Right now there is a lot of talk about guns being permitted in bars. There are some States that ban guns from being taken into bars. Let's face it, ban or not there are guns in bars. If there is a ban you will only have idiots with guns in bars, a responsible citizen will respect the law, right or wrong. By not banning guns the responsible gun owner who carries will be able to carry and protect themselves and their families all the time. If there is a shooting in a bar or just about anywhere these days it makes the news. We hear about these "irresponsible gun handlers" all the time. There are also knife attacks, beatings with pipes, home-made bombs, etc. If someone wants to cause injury to others they're going to cause injury. Unfortunately, there are bad people in this world and they're going to be bad no matter what you tell them they can or can't do. I believe the right to carry a gun is important. Let me share a story......
When my kids were young I was a stay-at-home Mom. I think it's the most difficult job I've ever had but also the most rewarding and enjoyable. When my daughter was almost 3 we took her to a private preschool part-time which gave her a chance to socialize with more kids her age and gave my son some Mommy time. We live on a small family farm with plenty to do outside so that's where we spent much of our time enjoying our animals, garden, toys, etc. One sunny day I was outside with my son and one of our hunting dags, Jake. We were working with the bumpers (rubber tubes you throw so the dog can retrieve) and both Jake and my son, Lexington, were enjoying the training event. I heard a car pull into our driveway so I quickly put Jake in the house as he is the type of dog to greet by licking and drive you crazy! After putting Jake in I went around to the front of the house with Lexington close behind looking to now ride his tricycle with the change of locations. I rounded the corner and there was a man standing outside of his pick-up truck. I said hi and asked how I could help him. He said that he was driving past my house and noticed the color of my house. He said he wanted to find out the name of the color as he had just purchased a building that had been that color a long time ago and he wanted to restore the building to the same color it had been. During this, and as he continued to explain, I began to get a bad feeling. First of all I live on a dirt, class 6 road which means it's basically a dirt road that dead ends at the end unless you are into 4 wheeling. No one goes pleasure riding around here. The only neighbor whose house I can see is rarely at her home as it is her second (or third) home. It was the middle of the day and his truck was blocking us from any view of the road had anyone by chance driven by. Something didn't quite seem right. I quickly started thinking of how to get away should he try something but this was complicated. It wasn't about getting away it was about protecting my son. I glanced over at Lex who was riding his trike around with a big smile on his face, loving life. I started feeling queasy. I am very good under pressure and can handle stressful situations better than most, however I realized there were NO options. I had no way to protect my son. I've never felt so helpless. My mind started trying to plan. Running into the house wouldn't work, I wouldn't have the time to grab Lex & run without being caught. The woods wouldn't work as he'd really have us trapped. Screaming would be in vain. The best I could do was sacrifice myself and beg for my son's safety. As all of this went through my head I realized he kept glancing down at my right hand, the hand that still had the dog's training collar control in it. If you've never trained a hunting dog you wouldn't know what this black box with an antenna and numerous buttons is. He obviously didn't have hunting dogs. This device made him nervous and I quickly picked up on that. Normally I would have put the control in the house with the dog but in my rush I forgot to put it down and forgot it was still in my hand. I began holding the control like it had purpose, casually yet firm. The man continued to watch my right hand. I mentioned that as soon as my husband got home, which would be very soon, he might know the name of the color of our house. The man explained that he had to keep going on his drive and got in his car and drove away.
After he left I picked up my son and gave him a big hug. A few tears ran from my eyes as the stress let loose. Lex gave me a quick hug back and quickly wanted to resume pedaling his trike. As I watched him I felt weak. As a Mother I had put us both in a situation where I couldn't have protected him if I needed to. I'm not sure what the purpose of the man's visit was. Maybe he had just been interested in the color of my house, maybe not. At that point it didn't really matter. I had felt one of the worst feelings a parent could ever feel and that is not being able to protect your family. I promised myself I would never again feel that way. I have a permit to carry a concealed weapon and I needed to exercise that right. In New Hampshire you can walk down Main Street with a loaded .45 on your hip, exposed, and be within your legal rights. Of course, not many people do that. To carry concealed you must have a permit and I do. What had just happened is a perfect example of why it's important to have the ability to carry a gun.

So I ask, would you feel safe and in control if confronted with a potentially dangerous situation? How about if your kids were also at risk? Could you protect them? Danger can be anywhere; your home, your office or store, your car or even a restaurant or bar. Get rid of the idiots in the world and I'll feel better about not carrying a gun.

Time to Mix Things up a Bit

2009-07-28T12:33:00.000-04:00

This Saturday is my birthday. For the record, I'll be a mere 44 years old. They say these are supposed to be the best years, so far so good. To spice things up a bit, when my husband asked what I wanted to do for my birthday I said I wanted to attend the "know and go clinic" at Riverfare Farm in Webster. The clinic runs through all of the classes in a stock horse show according to the S.H.O.T. rulebook. I've dabbled with team penning before and even entered the trail and pleasure classes in one of Riverfare's shows a few month back. But on Saturday, Kitt and I get to play with the cows and try out the other classes involved in Stock Horse Shows including working cow and reining. In the Spring, Patrick attended the clinic and it gave him things to work on at home. Now he can spin Tucker around like he's been riding for years. He does lead changes like I've never been able to and both he and Tucker enjoy their time in our arena at home. They've "mixed things up". Of course, Cowboy Mounted Shooting is still our passion, but without having other activities to keep both you and your horse entertained things can get a bit "dry". I would know, that's how Kitt and I are feeling. Dry...even bored at times. I don't see the twinkle in Kitt's eye when we're riding around in our arena. Sure, when we go to competitions she's "all that", but otherwise she's bored and so am I. The other night when I was riding I picked up a rope and started playing with it while in the saddle and swinging it above my head to see how Kitt felt about it. She was fine, un-threatened. I, however, felt clumsy and thought I might get tangled and topple off the top of my horse in total embarrassment. Obviously I need to work on my rope handling techniques. So I'm looking forward to the clinic this weekend. Mixing things up will not only teach Kitt and I something new, it will give us some things to work on which in turn will make us a better team.

Vacation

2009-07-08T16:47:00.000-04:00

It's that time again. Time for the annual Page Family summer vacation. This year we are heading up to Canada for two weeks. The cabins we stay at I've been going to since I was about 6 yrs. old, minus a 10 year absence, which is a whole other story in itself. Last year was the first time I took my family, first time I had been back in 10 years and it was a very emotional journey for me. The same families have been going for the same time we have, so I grew up with many of the people there. Because while growing up we moved so much (once every 2-3 years) I consider these people the ones I grew up with. The only constant in my life. So the 10 year absence was painful, but I've put that anger behind me and have managed to move on.
Aside from the excitement I feel about having two weeks to spend with my family and friends, I also feel a lot of anxiety about going away for an entire 2 weeks. I'm what people would refer to as a "work-a-holic". I work when I'm at work, I work when I'm at home (like now). I enjoy work. Being away from a computer, TV and telephone will be difficult but just what I probably need. I'll also miss my horses, dogs, cats, guinea pig and rabbits, but again, probably what I need. Having nothing to do but spend quality time with my kids and husband is just what we all need!
So as for the computer, TV and telephone, I'm sure all messages will still be waiting for me when I come back. As for the horses, dogs, cats, etc, I have one of my employees, who is great with animals and very responsible, taking care of things for me. As for spending quality time with my kids and husband, I'm sure as soon as I start doing that this anxiety I feel will leave my body. I will relax, something everyone needs to do occasionally.

Game Face

2009-06-03T11:24:00.000-04:00

Do you have a game face? You know, the expression your face automatically contorts to when you participate in a particular sport. I do. When I'm out on the course competing in mounted shooting I smile. Yes, smile. I wasn't aware of this until last year when a woman and her young daughter came up to me after a shoot at the Hillsboro County Fair to tell me they referred to me as the smily rider. They were thrilled to see me smiling out there and said I looked like I was having so much fun. They felt this strong enough to actually come up and tell me this. I, of course, smiled at them and said thanks. I wasn't quite sure how I felt about it. I did feel honored that they seeked me out amoung the riders to share their thoughts. I could tell the young lady was thrilled to come up and talk to me like I was some superstar. (My husband has actually been asked for his autograph before at the fair shoots.) I guess that's why the fair shoots are so much fun. But smiling on the course? I was supposed to be a tough cowgirl! hummm. You can't always help what your game face is. For those of you who know me you can probably understand why I naturally do this. I'm a very theatrical person, very expressive. My body emulates my feelings. Hence, the smile. The other part of all this is I'm squinting. I have blue eyes which are very sensitive to light so I squint a bit when I'm out there so I can see. I'm not the type of rider to wear sunglasses on the course as I know old west cowboys didn't have on their Maui Jims when mounting trigger. So I guess the smile is half joy and half squint. Either way, smiling is a good thing.
This past Sunday we had a shoot with some new riders. Having not previously seen my "game face", one of the new riders said to me after my first run that she enjoyed how I smiled during my run like I was having the time of my life. She said she was always so nervous. With the May flies being as bad as they were that day, I quickly asked her if I had any in my teeth and commented I'd better keep my lips shut or I'd be eating a bug lunch. She chuckled and told me she loved watching me ride because I looked so relaxed and she wished she could be as relaxed. Tough cowgirl cover blown again. Oh well, I guess I just be the smiley cowgirl. I could be called worse!

Our First Stock Horse Show!

2009-05-26T10:14:00.000-04:00

We did it! We ventured outside our norm and entered our first Stock Horse Show. My husband has been training for this since last Fall. I haven't, but that's ok. I didn't really plan on entering due to my horse just getting shoes on for the first time the night before the event and because of my lack of training when it comes to working cows. This was something my husband needed to mix things up for him and have something else to strive towards. Patrick is very competitive and thrives when challenged with something new. This was to be his "new". I'm just fine competing in Mounted Shooting and just kicking around on Kitt. I'm not near as competitive as my "other half". However, after he crushed me at our last mounted shooting competition I just had to enter the pleasure class in the stock horse show. It was here I could redeem myself, I knew I could take him, easily. And I did. Whew, chalk one up to the wife. When it comes to pleasure or equitation classes, I can take it, hands down. With my riding experience compared to his I would expect nothing less. This isn't to take away from Patrick's riding accomplishments, he does quite well. He's just not always as polished. In mounted shooting that's ok. In the pleasure class on Saturday, it wasn't.
For fun I also entered the trail class and didn't fair as well but made a good showing having not practiced for trail at all!!! I believe I'm getting the stock horse bug, but my work will keep me out of the running for any more competitions this year. I work every other weekend at the store and my other Saturday employee I rotate with likes the stock horse competitions (and is competitive in them), so I'll be sure to work the schedule so she can compete there. I'll stick to mounted shooting and just kicking around.
It was good to get the horses out to another event aside from mounted shooting. It's always a good idea to mix things up for them as well as us. In the past it's been difficult for Patrick & I to do much other than train for the shoots. With two little kids our riding time has always been limited, therefore we have focused on our sport only. This year has been a bit different. Liberty & Lexington have reached an age where they don't need us constantly. Patrick & I can actually ride together in the arena, which has doubled our riding time! Before, we would alternate nights to ride because of the kids. Now, the kids can play themselves, where we can keep an eye on them. Our arena is in the backyard, so Liberty & Lex can play in the backyard or in the house and not get into trouble. I'm proud to say we have good kids. They know what they can and can't do and respect the limits. Not that there isn't the occasional squabble we need to help work our from atop our horse, but all in all it works well. The kids have even started riding more this year, so that also helps. We're actually becoming more of a "riding family".
So after taking the pleasure class at the Stock Horse Show and trying the trail class, I watched everyone else and let Kitt just nibble on hay and take it all in. It was great to see all different levels of riders and horses run through the reining patterns and work the cows. The show was at Riverfare Farm in Webster, right down the road from where we live (bonus!). They have a great series for those looking to get into stock horse shows. They use the rules of the S.H.O.T. program, which is now an affiliate of the American Stock Horse Association. The shows are laid back and a perfect place to start out. Everyone is quite helpful and cheers everyone else on. You can ask anyone anything. It really is a good crowd of people. There are competitors from Novice (us) to experienced. It really is a good mix.
Ok, so it's also here that I did my stupid move of the year (we're each allowed one per year, right?). I'll tell you about it because I'm blogging, therefore I don't have to see your "yeah, that was pretty stupid" facial reaction. There became a time that I wanted to jump on Kitt, bareback, and just kick around a little. She had been nibbling on hay for a while and I wanted to move around a little. I put on her headstall and tried to figure out how to get on her. There was a mounting block out on the trail course but that would be too easy. I wanted to be more creative (and was feeling a bit too lazy to venture out that far). That's when I spotted the cooler. A little blue cooler I had won at a shooting event that would work perfectly. I pulled up the cooler and got on top. Kitt stood still as usual. I felt I was high enough to swing a leg over her and pull myself up instead of throwing my body over her and having to right myself. As I threw my right leg up the cooler tipped over and down I went, under Kitt. She backed out from over me and pulled back, obviously nervous about what had just happened. I had good hold of the reins and was determined not to let her go but she was just as determined to get away from whatever had just happened. I made a few loud "whoa" sounds to get the attention of others who could help me catch her if she chose to run and let go of the reins. Just as most horses would do, she put down her head and began to graze on the nice green grass. I picked up myself and my pride and slowly walked up to Kitt who quickly grabbed a few final bites of grass before I again had her reins. Glancing over my shoulder I saw my loud "whoa's" worked as there were a few people, including Riverfare Farm owner Kim, there and ready to help if needed. I assured them I was fine. Kim came over and offered a leg up which I gladly accepted. After a few minutes of walking Kitt around the area, I dismounted in a much less eventful way than I had mounted. I put Kitt back at her haybag on the trailer and returned to my folding chair beside the arena to watch the event and take pictures. Stupid move of the year complete.
What I think we'll get the most out of trying something new like stock horse shows is the adventure of trying something new. While our love continues to be mounted shooting, it's good for both horse and rider to mix things up a bit and continue to challenge ourselves and our horses.

No family braggin rights here!

2009-05-13T09:45:00.000-04:00

I know my husband's been checking this blog, waiting for me to admit defeat at the first shoot of the year. So admit I will, however, all in all, I didn't do too shabby. I did win my division, have some great runs and am now officially an L3. Not bad for a first time out for the year. I did, however, lose to my greatest and most favorite opponent, my husband. Patrick ripped through the stages, even beating out some of New England's known best. I am quite proud, which in reality also gives me bragging rights as his wife to tell everyone how well my husband is doing.
So things went well for the Pages, but not for everyone. There were 32 riders total, many competing for the first time. Before the shoot starts any new riders or riders on new horses must complete a new rider/horse stage. It basically is to show the Rangemaster and Match Director that they can ride safely through a course and that their horse accepts the gunfire. Many times people will attend a clinic, not practice at home then come to their first shoot without a trained horse. This can be very dangerous. A few years ago a new horse almost went through a fence during a shoot at a fair packed with spectators. This horse had no business being in the arena and by the look on the horses face I'm sure he'd agree. It was not only dangerous but gives the sport a bad name. We now require riders who are new or have new horses to complete a run successfully before being allowed to enter the competition. The problem is different people have different definitions of what "successfully" means. ......... On Sunday we had quite a few "young guns" as I call them. Young guns are new shooters who are experienced riders but not experienced mounted shooters. They try to tear through the new rider/horse stage to prove that they know what they're doing. One of these young guns did a face plant in the sand at the end of the rundown and another almost went through the fence before also meeting with the sand. Things are a bit different when you're alone out in the arena with people watching. The horses know the difference, experience or not, people need to take it a bit easy at their first shoot. I've seen horses rear before each shot, I've seen people go out and lead a horse and rider through part of the course until they were at the back end of the arena and only had the rundown to complete, so of course the horse completed the rundown to get the heck out of the arena!!! In most cases, these horses and riders were allowed to compete. We had a few of these situations on Sunday which made for an entertaining yet scary shoot at times.
We also had a slippery spot right around a barrel turn on stage 2. There were 3 horses that went down around the barrel, feet slipping out beneath them. This was the same spot someone went down during warm-ups yet neither the rangemaster or match director made an effort to correct the problem. As a CMSA Certified Rangemaster, I said something to the match director that I had been told it was clay underneath the sand in that spot. He replied that it couldn't be as the area was an old river bed and is gravel. I would have shifted the course so the barrel wasn't over clay and in a dangerous place but nothing was done. The horses continued going down. Many riders decided to take the turn extra wide and slow down. I decided to trot going into, around and away from the barrel as I tend to be overly cautious being responsible for two young souls. It killed my time on that stage but at least I was safe as was my horse. Stage 2 was tense, luckily no one was hurt other than a few bruises.
So other than a few issues things went great. The weather was good except a bit windy which added some challenge to shooting the targets. It was wonderful to see all my friends I hadn't seen all winter. I'm looking forward to the next shoot we'll attend in 3 weeks. Until then, I have some things to work on to improve my times. I'm also going to try and mix things up a bit and get out on trail more. Both Kitt & I get bored just riding in the arena. It's always fun to trail ride with 2 .45's on my waist and see the reaction from people we meet along the way. It opens the door to talk about my sport, which I love doing.
So at the end of the day at my first shoot of the year, I had respectable times and felt good about my performance and Kitt's. I have yet to get the smug look off Patrick's face.

Let the Games Begin !!

2009-05-08T14:25:00.000-04:00

Well, it's time. Time to see just how far we've come (or not) this spring with getting ourselves and our horses ready for the first shoot of the year. Yes, it's time for the annual Mothers Day shoot. I alway find it difficult to have a shoot on Mothers Day. Not that I mind not being able to be waited on hand and foot for the entire day(yeah, right) because I'm too busy dressing, grooming and competing. My issue is alway finding a babysitter. Yup, that's my issue. A babysitter. No youth who appreciates mom's good cooking would dare to bug out on dear old mom on her day of pampering. Fortunately, due to the economy (there is a good side to everything!), after exhaughsting my long list of babysitters, I found Brooke. She is the best friend of one of my regular sitters (one who dares to not bug out!) and Brooke's Mom felt it best she take the opportunity to make some money while an opportunity presents itself. Now that's my kind of Mom!!
So Kitt and I are ready. At least as ready as we ever are for the first shoot of the season. Actually, I feel more ready than I have in the past at first shoots. I'm not too sure about how ready Kitt is though. She's been a bit off on her canter to the left. I started giving her some Vitamin E thinking it may be a bit of hind end weakness due to the lack of lush, green grass available. Ok, give credit to the vet for that suggestion. She's also still coming off of a few months winter rest and I find it does take a while to get back into the swing of things. I have a feeling as soon as she hears the gunfire she'll get a bit more kick in her step.
My husband, on the other hand, is more than ready. He's been consumed with bettering himself and the connection he has with his horse, Tucker. Last summer it took until mid July for Patrick to get in the mood. My how things change. This past fall he took a stock horse clinic at River Fare Farms in Webster with a clinician named Tom Neel. Well, my husband hasn't been the same rider since. There is more cowboy than I ever thought I'd see in my cyclist husband. He gets Tucker moving out, rolling back, changing leads like nothing I've ever seen him do with that horse. To say Patrick is ready for this first shoot is an understatement. He's not just ready, he's looking forward to whipping my butt! I can see it in his eyes. The Page family contest is much more important and competitive than any state, regional or even national competition we could ever compete in. It's a matter of family bragging rights. And we take every opportunity we get to brag to other family members and friends about who is on top at the moment. It's fun, especially when you get to be the bragger!
So this Mothers Day I'll get out and enjoy my horse and husband. That evening I'll enjoy my children and thank God for allowing me to be a Mother for there is nothing more important and special than that. I'll enjoy the day with a smile on my face, thinking about my Mother, Marie Woody, who watches me from heaven every day.
So let the games begin........

Spring has Sprung!

2009-04-24T10:31:00.001-04:00

There comes a time up here in New Hampshire when most horsepeople people sort of retreat and start the waiting game. We wait for Spring. This waiting game usually starts sometime mid January, when Winter starts feeling real long, and ends when we actually know Spring is here to stay. You see, the weather likes to play games with us in the early months of the year by tempting us with warm weather for a few days or even a week, then it quickly changes back to very cold, rainy weather. I can't tell you how many times I tell Kitt that Social Security is over and it's time to get back to work, only to get in one, maybe two good workouts before she's back to rest again for a week or so. It's real hard to get both myself and my horses in shape for the upcoming shooting season when the weather plays games like this. However, I'm happy to announce that Spring has sprung around here, the spring is back in my step and I'm truly able to start getting ready for the upcoming season. Not that there aren't other obstacles to overcome, such as painting the house (this weekend), mending fence posts, planting the garden (my children WILL know how to grow food for themselves)and other such spring tasks. It is obvious that spring is here. Even the horses realize it. Last night we had a beautiful rainbow off in the distance and a Tom Turkey with his harem gallivanting around. The horses were quite interested in the turkeys and when the Tom started strutting Kitt kicked up her heels and ran around the pasture to let him know this was HER territory. I don't think it much affected him. With 7 hens he was obviously having a great day.
So tonight I'll leave the store to head home to pick up my paint brush and thank goodness Spring is here. Hopefully, at some point this weekend, I'll actually ride my horse too!

What Defines You?

2009-01-20T21:26:00.000-05:00

My view on life is that it is a Journey. My life and the way I live my life changes as I go through my journey. I don't let anything "define" me except the fact that I am married to my husband and I have two children that I am a Mother to. The husband part will never change. I guess I'm from the old school that marriage really means a lifetime commitment and he will be my husband forever. Knowing that my husband feels the same is what made marrying him an extra bonus. I don't think I would have ever been married unless I fell in love with someone of the same mind. As for the kid part, I hear in the early teens they may feel like they don't need a mother anymore, however they can't shake me that easily. I am forever their mother and I will remind them of that throughout their teen years and beyond if necessary! For now, at the ripe old ages of 4 & 6 they tell me they'll live with me forever and that's just fine with me! Other than that, my journey keeps me constantly on my toes and I like that!
Too many times I meet people who hold positions in an organization, club or business and you can tell they'd be lost without being in that position. They let their position define them. I've seen it happen all too many times. Some plan it and want to be defined by their position because they want the power it brings, others have just been involved for so long they don't know how to not be involved. Either way, it's unhealthy. It's unhealthy for both the individual and the business, club or organization.
I'm involved in lots of different positions, committees and jobs. I am 1st Vice-President of the NH Quarter Horse Association, Youth Advisor, By-Law Committee co-chair, Versatile Horse Committee co-chair, Membership Committee co-chair, Nomination Committee co-chair, AQHA Region 6 Director, AQHA Region 6 Versatile Horse Committee Chair a member of the AQHA Leadership 2008 Team and a Daisy Girl Scout Co-Leader ! Whew! Hope I didn't forget anything. I am involved in all of the above for different reasons but it all comes back to this - I'm in the position to work it and make it better so the next person who steps in can work it more and continue to grow the organization, business or club from their accomplishments - and so on. It is the people who enter into a commitment and have no foresight into their future journey except still holding on to that position who let the wrong things define them. When they eventually leave or are "dismissed" from their position, it can be so wrenching because they haven't looked past being "that person". They don't know what to do. It's destructive to them personally and professionally and disrupts many more than just themselves.
Today we saw a President leave office. He held office for 2 terms, 8 years and it was his time to go. Now the Country has a new beginning. If we leave ourselves open to our journey who knows where we'll end up. I'm looking forward to passing along some of my positions to others and feel excited to see what a new view will bring. By leaving myself open to many opportunities my Journey is and has been an exciting one. My job and volunteer positions will never define me, I have too much to do yet in my life. So what defines you?

How it is.....REALLY

2009-01-13T13:21:00.000-05:00

This past Christmas season has brought many new faces into my store and many familiar faces too. One of the most popular questions from all of my customers is "how is business". Now you see, the question isn't just asked. There is always a negative sound in the voice of those asking. I guess because these days we're all filled with doom and gloom from the radio and television, so it's easy to pick up on that mantra. I really enjoy my customers and many come here because they enjoy me, I'd hope anyway! So when the question is asked I can tell they're ready to chime in with some cheer even though they ask with a bit of hesitation. Many are rendered speechless when I answer, "It's fine actually. Yes, we've had to make some changes. I'm in more and some employee hours have been cut, but by doing so we're in ok shape and expect to remain in ok shape until things turn around a bit and become fantastic!" Once the customer loosens up and realizes a bit of cheering up isn't necessary we chat and catch up. One of the bonuses about my store is I not only carry western tack but also western clothing and boots. Clothing and boots sell all year long and the winter is no exception. If I had to rely on tack sales alone my customers would have quite a cheering up job to do when they walked in, if there was even a place to still walk into. I'm one of the fortunate ones, or maybe even one of the smart ones (ok hubby, you get credit for this one too!). By having both tack and clothes I'm able to make sales year round. There is no "down time" so even though sales aren't what they were a year ago, they're still there and more than enough for us to weather this storm. I look forward to Spring when tack sales will increase again and we're back in the thick of it.
But for now things are fine.......REALLY!

Yes, I am High Point NH !

2009-01-01T19:32:00.000-05:00

In 2008, I won the title of NH High Point Cowgirl in Cowboy Mounted Shooting. This is very exciting for me and quite a nice title to hold. I wasn't even going for a High Point win. With two young children, my husband and I don't travel far to many shoots and therefore aren't as competitive as many other shooters. There are some who will travel to all the shoots in New England and even further "chasing points". For now, the only things we chase are named Lexington and Liberty, age 4 & 6. That's fine with us. This is the family time in our lives and there is absolutely nothing more important than our children. For now we try to make every NH shoot and some in Mass. We love winning the State Championships and Regional's in our levels, which both my husband and I have done numerous times, and proudly wear the buckles we win. So when I realized I was heading toward a High Point Cowgirl win I started to get excited. Unfortunately, there were ladies "chasing points" in NH and my win sort of took them by surprise. There have been no congratulations, no "good job"s, only disappointed riders who are explaining away why they didn't win this year, but should have. There were jammed guns, cancelled matches, bad weather, off days. Actually, people are doing exactly what my husband does after each shoot. He will pick through the results of each stage, his time, how many misses, and quickly point out that his time was better than so and so's and he would have beat him in that stage if he hadn't missed the balloon, which would have put him ahead of him so in REALITY... he would have won!! There! Now he feels better. Until I gently remind him that he DIDN'T ride clean and "what if's" don't count in Mounted Shooting. Once I've lovingly burst his bubble I remind him that the results should show him how he can improve so the next time he will actually beat so and so and not have to "excuse it to happen".
The reason I took High Point this year is simple. I was consistent. Not always the fastest, not always the cleanest shot, but consistent. One of the things I love about Mounted Shooting (aside from the cool clothes) is that it's not always the fastest or the best shot that wins, it's the one who combines all their skills the best. And this year I did just that. There are many that ride faster than I do. There are many that are better shots or have more experience. But this year, in 2008,I had the most overall points of the Cowgirls in NH. It was my year, no excuses.
My theory behind improving is to go at the speed in which you can get all the shots and build your speed from there. In my third year of competing I'm getting faster and I've always been a good shot because I go the speed in which I can shoot, usually clean. Therefore I'm consistent and consistently getting faster. That's why I won. And to all you nay sayers, I deserved it!! It get's tiring hearing why people didn't win and getting the feeling that many believe I didn't deserve it. It takes away from those of us who did win and deserve feeling proud of their title. So for the entire year of 2009, I will proudly bear the title of High Point New Hampshire Cowgirl in 2008 and this year, I'll work on defending my title!!!

Let it Snow !!

2008-12-19T15:23:00.000-05:00

So close to Christmas I don't mind the snow at all. Having two young children makes it even better. We're in the middle of a storm right now and my kids are home safely with my husband while I stay here at the store waiting to help those customers brave enough to venture out in bad weather. It doesn't surprise me that we get quite a few customers during the bad weather. Horse people have trucks, trucks with good tires, and we don't mind making our way out in any weather. It is especially nice so close to Christmas when you know non-horse owners, or people without trucks, are staying home clearing the way for us to shop to our hearts content with short, if any, lines.
I'll probably arrive home with a freshly made snowman by our walkway and the smell of chicken baking in the oven (ok, now I'm starting to let my mind wander a bit) Hopefully some laundry will be done and the house will be somewhat clean. We still have one big chore to do and with this snowfall I feel we're a bit behind. You see, my kids love to sled, most do I presume. Our backyard is perfect for sledding until you get to the bottom of the hill where it drops off quite sharply down to the arena we built a few years ago. At the first big snowfall we pull out the snowmobiles and make a track down the hill which banks at the bottom to steer the sleds to the left before they are able to go over the hill....or so we thought. It worked well until last year...one icy day that I shouldn't have had the kids out sledding. The kids made a few runs down and things were going well. Then for some reason my son, Lexington, only 3 at the time, didn't bank to the left. His sled went up over the banking due to the ice and headed towards the steep hill (ok, cliff, about 20 feet down). I yelled for him to jump but of course as he later told me, he was too scared. I started running down the hill, thigh deep in snow, still yelling for him to jump off before he went over. All of a sudden his little hat disappeared over the cliff and he was no where in sight. I yelled back up to my daughter, still at the top of the hill by our house, to go get daddy...quick. I made my way to the edge and looked over...sitting at the bottom was Lexington, a bit scared but looking unharmed. I jumped and tumbled down the hill (believe me, not as graceful as you see in the movies)ran over and checked him over for any injuries. He was fine, a bit shaken but proud of his sledding skills. We looked at the cliff and it seemed like the sled had been airborne, bouncing only once on the way down until landing correctly at the bottom. Just then my husband came down via snowmobile to see what was going on. Lex gladly jumped on the back and headed back up the hill. I sat quietly in the middle of the snow covered arena with tears streaming down my face, realizing how close we came to a serious injury. To this day Lex still talks with pride about his sled jump. My husband & I now purchase extra hay in the Fall to create a banking at the bottom of the hill that no one, not even an adventurous youngster, can make it over. My chore for the evening is to make sure the hay is lined up so the sledding season can begin...safely.

MY Annual Trail Ride

2008-10-16T12:47:00.000-04:00

I love trail riding. I'm the type that wants to go on a slow ride to enjoy my surroundings. The fresh air is great and I do a lot of deep breathing and meditating on trail (eyes opened of course!). It's my way of getting in some yoga without having one of my kids playfully jumping on my back. Every year the New Hampshire Quarter Horse Association puts on a Trail Ride at Bear Brook State Park in NH. It's a fabulous event. Well attended and very well put on by one of our board members, Joanne. She puts her heart and soul into organizing this which includes lunch and entertainment. This year you could even rent a horse sitter so you could enjoy the festivities after the ride! I, however, have yet to make it back in time for the festivities. While most run their horses past I am slowly enjoying my surroundings and fresh air. I run my horse all the time in competition, this is my chance to slow down a bit. I love it! My husband and those who choose to join me on trail are patient for a while with my being a poke. Now don't get me wrong, a little trotting is always good for both the horse and my legs, but I prefer the quiet walk.
Early into the ride we decided to trot a bit. The horse in front of me was young and kicked up her heels a bit which sent my horse, Kit, into a frenzy! She fed off the energy of the young one and tried with all her might to kick up her heels and buck me off. For those of you who have never been bucked by a horse, at first there is a bit of confusion as to what's actually happening, if you're lucky enough to still be in the saddle, which I was. After the initial shock of "what's going on" was done, I got my seat pulled back in the saddle tight and I was pissed! My horse was NOT going to get me off her back and I fought back, doing what I was taught growing up which now was instinct. I sat deep, pulled her head back up, and gave her a few swift kicks and said ever so sternly "I don't think so!" Once her head was up she could no longer put force behind her bucks so she just jumped straight up, contemplated rearing (which I was ready for) and finally realized the human on her back had won. After a few steps backwards, a few circles, she was punished enough and we re-joined the group, who hadn't really seen what happened except for my husband who was behind me.
We continued on and at the half way point on the 5 mile course, the couple with the young horse who was riding with us decided to stay on the 5 mile course and head back in. Myself, my husband Patrick & our friend Cindy continued on the 12 mile trail. I again was able to enjoy the beauty of the trail. Occasionally trotting but ready for another outburst by Kit, I was settling back into my comfort zone. Then it happened..... My husband, Patrick, was up front, we were on a dirt road (yes road, there was an occasional car) and I looked up at Patrick who looked back with a twinkle in his eye and off he went, full speed ahead on his horse. Our friend Cindy was just looking for fun too and also took off. Kit started jumping out of her skin, there was NO WAY I was going to let her take off like that. If I hadn't still be cautious her head would have been back down and she would have been bucking away again. I couldn't believe after what my husband saw my horse try to do to me that he would throw caution to the wind and let loose like that. This time I wasn't pissed at my horse, it was the husband who had some explaining to do. As for Kit, I turned it into a lesson on realizing who the boss was (me) and kept her at a walk, occasional trot, until we crested the hill and found Patrick and Cindy heading back to look for us, wondering where I was and why I didn't let my horse go and follow them. They obviously didn't get it. A few darting looks later, we were again on our way. Again, I became relaxed, determined to enjoy the rest of my ride, which I did. What a beautiful day in New Hampshire. It was peak Fall Foliage season and the colors were wonderful.
When we got back to the trailer, as usual, the festivities were over and all that was left were a few sandwiches and some very happy trail riders. We gave the horses some water, loaded loaded them up and headed to the big tent for a sandwich. Just then, another rider came over to me to say a horse had broken free from it's trailer and run off into the woods towards the highway. They realized I was a board member for NH Quarter Horse Association and they needed help. I immediately went to President Sue Eastman and she was already on the phone making calls. She stopped quickly to say we needed to rally some riders to head into the woods to look for the young horse. I rallied my friend Cindy who didn't hesitate to pull her horse back out and I reassured my husband, who already had a sandwich in hand, that he should stay here with the guys in case he was needed on the ground. As I took Kit off the trailer again I realized what a great horse she is. There was no hesitation when she backed away from her hay, no balking when I threw the saddle back on her and no flinching when I tightened the cinch and jumped back on. All was forgiven. She was ready to go and help. Eight of us trotted out onto the woods in the direction of the field we had heard the horse was now in. When we got to the perimeter we spilt up to encircle the field so if she ran we would have someone, hopefully, near to catch her. As Kit and I went up our part of the field Patrick called my cell phone to say someone at the other end of the field had caught the horse and all was well. The group of 8 headed back with the wandering horse and very thankful owner to the trailering area. It was great to see so many people and horses not thinking twice to help out another. I think better than all the fresh air I took in that day and calmness I felt (at times), seeing everyone rally together like that was the best part of my trail ride.

Giving Back

2008-10-06T10:55:00.000-04:00

I'm sure many of you are volunteers of some sort or have been at some point in your lives. If not, you're really missing out on a spectacular feeling. I volunteer with many different groups, too many, if you ask my employees. It takes up a lot of my time both at work and at home. I love the feeling of giving back and helping. If there were more hours in the day or someone handed me a million bucks so I didn't have to work for money, I would volunteer more. I hope that my children can learn about giving back by watching me make a difference. To me, that's what volunteering is all about.
With all this in mind, I am extremely proud to announce that my sister, Kristen, and her family (Bill, Alyssa & Erin) have been awarded the Spirit of New Hampshire award for family volunteerism! My sister gives relentlessly at her job at the UpReach Therapeutic Riding Center here in Goffstown, NH as a Therapeutic riding instructor. Having been involved with horses her entire life, she has been able to take that joy and use it not only in her work as an instructor but also parlay it into helping others. It doesn't pay enough to live the high life, but my sister is one of the wealthiest people I know on the planet. My nieces have seen first hand the effects of volunteerism and have been a part of my sisters ventures since they were in the womb (yes, Kristen rode and taught all throughout her pregnancies!) Let's just say they were born with it. Her husband, Bill, married into it and I believe that's one of the things that made him love her more. Kristen and volunteering come hand in hand. They work together as a family and I couldn't be prouder. I hope, as I continue on with my volunteer efforts, I can instill as much pride in volunteering as my sister, my best friend, has in her family.
We may not all be in a position to dedicate our lives to volunteering or be able to take a job that has such meaning, but we can do something. So as one of my favorite movies says, pay it forward. Do something good to help others and just ask that they continue on the good efforts. The feeling is unspeakable and you'll have made the world a bit better.
Congrats Sis and family!

Heading to Texas

2008-09-21T20:40:00.000-04:00

Tonight's the scramble. Tomorrow morning (3:30am to be exact) I leave for the airport, ready to be transported via many different planes, to Amarillo, Texas. I'm very excited because this is the beginning of my journey in the AQHA Leadership program, for which I was chosen by AQHA (The American Quarter Horse Association)to participate. It is quite an honor and I'm pleased to be a part of the program. It is the beginning of a journey of both self and group evaluation as to my skills as a leader. I plan on taking what I learn and apply it not only to my AQHA Leadership and business leadership, but also my personal experiences. My involvement with the American Quarter Horse Association has turned my life in a new direction and I look forward to giving back by improving my leadership skills and taking that "newfound wisdom" and utilizing it to help promote the organization which has given me this opportunity which I am so grateful. Whew, can you tell it's been a long day?

Yesterday was a wonderful day as both my husband & I won our divisions in the Mass. State Championship Cowboy Mounted Shoot. My husband has been waiting a few years for this win because it now bumps him up to the next division. It is well deserved!!

Well, gotta finish the scramble. 3am will come quick and I still want some time to spend with the hubby - My Champ!!!!

2008-09-11T18:07:00.000-04:00

Where Were You?

2008-09-11T10:38:00.000-04:00

September 11. The question I always hear on this day is "Where were you when the Towers Fell"? In fact, there is even a song with that name. On this day every year, I don't think about the business I sit in daily, I think about the business my husband sits in daily, our flag store, Flag-Works over America. In 2001, we were newlyweds and both worked at Flag-Works. Many ask how can we be married and work together and that is surely a story for another day. For now I can say that we both have a great respect for each other no matter where we are, home or work.
On my way into work that day I heard on the radio that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. My husband had already left to run errands on the way in to work so we weren't riding together (See, we don't do everything together!) When I got in to the store Patrick was already there and I mentioned the incident. When I went up front into the retail section and turned on the radio I heard that another plane had crashed into the WTC and yet another into the Pentagon. Something was surely going on. The radio announcer had a slight tone of panic, not quite sure how to explain the events as they unfolded to his listening audience. I also had a slight tone of panic as I scurried back to my new husband to try and relay to him what I had heard. We new this was big as Patrick left to get us a TV to keep at the shop to stay abreast of what was going on. We did the best we could with the little TV, which had no cable hooked up, and tuned in to a fuzzy news program. All was quiet at our flagshop. We watched and as the word "terrorist attack" started being tossed around, we knew the quiet would soon end at our little store. You see, we'd had the flag store long enough to know how Americans would react and we needed to be ready to help. After placing a few phone calls to our flag manufacturers, we settled in and waited while the Country was still figuring out how to deal with this.
Then it started....at about 11:30am, a woman came into the store sobbing. She had to have a flag. I'll never forget her face. She was going to head right home and fly her new flag as a show of support and strength. It was only a few minutes after that people, Americans, started streaming through our front doors looking for a flag to fly. Within 1 hour we had a line and within 2 hours we had a line that went out our front door. By the evening the line went around the block. We normally closed at 5pm but not today. We had a responsibility to our fellow Americans, as the only Flag store in town, to stay open late, real late. I think it was 9pm before we finally closed, having to get home and let out our dogs. Of course, we came right back after feeding and letting our companions out, with them in tow. The flag store was a mess from all the people, and we had to prepare for the next day. When we finally got home at about midnight, we watched the news to catch up on the latest as our little TV in the shop went unwatched once we got busy. We heard President Bush ask everyone to "fly the flag" as a sign of unity. Finally we fell asleep for the night.
Up we were at 6am the next day to be in the store for 7am and get ready to open early at 8am. When we turned the corner to park at our usual spot across from the store, we couldn't believe our eyes, there was already a line of people waiting to get in. When we found a parking space and walked to the door, from the reaction of the line of people, you would have thought we were rock stars. "They're here"! Yeah! Patrick & I looked at each other, obviously the honeymoon was over, we had an important job to do.
For the next 2 days were were straight out with lines winding through the store and out the door. Our phone was ringing off the hook but we felt it was more important to help the customer in front of us, in Concord, NH, then the one on the phone. We could only do so much. For that reason, we hired temporary help for crowd control. Patrick would occasionally jump up on a ladder in the store to get above the crowd so everyone could see him and he'd explain where everything was and how to proceed through the line. I was at the register and never sat down or took a break. I don't think I could have even if I wanted to! We had to get flags out to everyone. We felt it was us doing our part. It was an incredible few days. We stayed open late, headed home to get our dogs and bring them back in with us to prepare for the next day. We'd open early and so on. After 3 days we ran out of flags and had to wait for shipments from our manufacturers. That's what the phone call was that Patrick made right after we heard "terrorist attack" for the first time on TV Sept. 11th. We knew we had to get in more flags and fast. So did many of the other flag stores and the manufacturers couldn't keep up, so we went days without flags.
What I saw during those first few days and weeks to follow I'll never forget. Americans would come into the store to choose their flag, pole, bracket, bunting or whatever they needed and head out the door to get into line. We have pictures of the line outside the store with everyone holding their items to purchase. We really didn't worry about anyone walking off, there was an aura of patriotism and honor and I don't think any of the people in line would have allowed it anyway. The line got so long that people had to wait 1 1/2 hours to make their purchase. I received not 1 complaint. What I saw were Americans who all had something in common, no matter who they were or where they came from. When they finally made it to the register and completed their purchase, you'd think the person in line next to them had been their friend forever! There were handshakes, hugs and tears. These people had shared their feelings when they needed someone to share with who understood, and everyone understood. Unfortunately, we all had a shared sadness that day, week, month, year..... We'll never forget.......

Getting Ready for the Fair Shoot

2008-09-05T10:51:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is my absolute, most favorite shoot of the year! It takes place during the Hillsboro County Fair in New Boston and we get quite a crowd. It is tons of fun to shoot with lots of spectators. All the Mounted Shooters dress in their best attire to wow the crowd. One year we even had young kids coming up to us for our autographs! With all that goes on around the arena, it can get tough to concentrate and remember that it's not all about the clothes (although some may differ on that), but we actually want to win! Regardless of how we place, it's always a good time.
This past weekend, my husband & I had a young couple over who just started shooting last year. We have a large arena in our backyard (225' X 90') and not many people in NH have access to that size arena let alone one they can shoot in! Rob B. had stopped in my store last year because he knew I was a Cowboy Mounted Shooter and wanted to get involved. I don't think I've ever met anyone with such a desire to get into the sport. He made it very clear that he was not one of those people who say they want to do something and then don't do it. In fact, he was so determined to get involved that he stopped in the following day and then brought in his wife two days later. The next clinic was being held about 2 1/2 hrs. away the following weekend and I didn't think they'd go that far just to give it a try but they did! They're such a nice, friendly couple. They've fit right in and have many mentors to help them. Mounted Shooters like helping each other out because that's what helps grow the sport and stir the excitement. It's great to start someone and watch them grow as a competitor.
This season we hadn't seen much of Rob & Dina. They were at the first shoot of the season but then seemed to disappear. We'll last week, Rob stopped by the store still sporting the enthuasiam I always love. (I found out later he was sick as a dog and should have been home in bed. Once his wife was out of the house he snuck out, unable to stay away any longer!) He explained that his horse has been recovering from a leg injury but Dina was going to come to the fair shoot and they were excited. (See, I told you everyone likes shooting at the fair, no matter what!) Realizing that she hadn't shot off her horse for a few months and both Dina and the horse were new to the sport, I mentioned that they should come over to our house to get in some practice before the shoot. So they did, the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. We had a blast (pardon the pun) and I felt really good about being able to help out. Our babysitter wasn't available so I stayed with the kids and watched, occasionally stepping in to give my two cents. It didn't matter that I wasn't riding, my husband, Rob and Dina were and to me that's what the day was about. Besides, sometimes I get more out of watching than participating. After the practice we all sat down for some burgers and cowboy chat. What a great time, what a great couple. To me, it's the Rob & Dina's in this world that make this sport what it is.

Chat with a Champ

2008-08-29T19:50:00.000-04:00

Today at the shop I received a phone call from one of my favorite Cowboy Mounted Shooters, Andra Olsen. Andra is one of the top Mounted Shooters in the world (currently ranked #2) and she actually "gives me the time of day", which isn't all too uncommon in this industry as there aren't too many of us. The difference with Andra is she doesn't come across at all as being above others, and believe me, she can out ride most with one arm tied behind her back. I believe she actually likes talking to me just as much as I enjoy talking to her. She is approachable which is very important to any professional who promotes themselves and has a business based on who they are. My store carries the Cowboy Mounted Shooting training DVD's that Andra & her business partner, Mounted Shooter Jim Hanson made. There is a series of 4 tapes available and I sell quite a few of them. We had a wonderful conversation and I can't wait to meet her someday soon, I hope. For now, I'll continue to enjoy chatting with her.

I really enjoy promoting my sport. Mounted Shooting is the fastest growing equestrian sport in the country and BOY IS IT FUN!!! My husband, who hadn't really ridden a horse until we purchased our small family farm 4 years ago, took a liking to it when he watched it on TV right after we got his horse. You see, my husband is quite competitive and there's nothing he won't try. I'll never forget the night he called me into our living room to see Mounted Shooting on TV for the first time. He pointed to the TV and said "honey, that's what I want to do". I chuckled. "Yeah, right, "Learn how to ride first, then we'll talk" as I strutted out of the room, the experienced horse person that I am. Well, as with everything my husband does, he threw himself into it 200% and the following Spring he was a Cowboy Mounted Shooter. The following year he won the Massachusetts State Championship in his division and I couldn't have been prouder. Next thing I knew my husband was strutting around the house wearing his big belt buckle. The year after that, well, he put me in my place and won the Page Family point race, beating me in most shoots that year. Now don't get me wrong, I still did well in the ladies division and I did warm up his horse for him and I did...... actually, he was doing great!

This year I've made my comeback, kickin butt in the arena and savin face in the Page Family point race. We'll see what the end of the year brings, but I don't see how he'll ever catch up with me!!! So I'll try to be an approachable champ. I don't want the kids to feel they can't come to me just because I'm beating daddy. I want to have the grace of Andra Olsen, and her riding/shooting skills wouldn't be too bad either!

My husband, Patrick at the Massachusetts State Championship, winning his division!

The Cowboy Way

2008-08-26T16:29:00.001-04:00

Last weekend, I went to a stock horse show at a farm right down the road from my home. I've started to dabble in sports other than mounted shooting to add some variety to life, as they say! This seems to be right down my alley. Everyone is laid back and there were competitors from experienced to newbees. I, of course, will fit right into the newbee section the first time I bring Kitt to a stock horse show, but that's ok. Everyone is accepted in this community of cowboys.
One of the things I like so much about cowboys, true cowboys, is they don't often judge others, they never (or very rarely) lie, and they always enjoy the simple things in life. Cowboys take the time to stop and smell the wildflowers along the trail and take a deep breath of the fresh air. They truly enjoy life while they're on their horse. I'm trying very hard to slow down and enjoy the gifts we have surrounding us everyday. It's hard with a 4 & 5 yr. old running around, 2 businesses to run, numerous boards and committees to take part in, and many animals (too many according to my husband) to take care of. Today I'll take the time to enjoy life. I'll enjoy what I have while I have it. A dear woman I have had the honor of knowing for a few short years I just heard passed away yesterday afternoon. She lived life to the fullest, even when it wasn't kind to her. So for the rest of today, I'll slow down a bit because BAB would want me to. I'm going to smell the wildflowers and try my best to live the cowboy way.

Beautiful Weather !!

2008-08-13T15:21:00.000-04:00

For those of you from New England, you know what I'm talking about. For those of you from elsewhere, well, it's been quite a wet summer here in New England. Almost everyday since I've returned from vacation in July it's rained at least part of the day. No kidding, no exaggeration. There was even a tornado recently just a few towns away which killed a woman when her house collapsed. We just don't have tornadoes way up here, until recently. So to say this has been an unusual year for the weather is an understatement.
I guess this is my best excuse for not riding like I should and want to. I'm what you'd call a fair weather rider. No need to get out there in the rain or when it's too slippery. I'm competitive to a point. At the ripe ole age of 43 I tend to not push it too much because if I happen to break something, like any part of my body, the kids just seem to need more attention than ever and of course I'm in no position to keep up. Been there, done that. When I broke my collarbone a few years back I realized how much an injury affects my family. Time to be careful in life, at least until the kids are in college!
For today, however, the sun has been shining all day and I'm on my way home to ride not just one horse but both horses AND the pony! Until tomorrow......hopefully.....

I'm Back

2008-08-12T21:42:00.000-04:00

We went from so much snow right to Summer here in NH, so I guess I've been caught up in riding season. Time to get back to blogging. So much going on, so much to write about. My Martin Shooting saddle came in right before I left for a 2 week vacation in July but I had time to jump in the day before we left. I LOVE IT!!! It fits my horse so well and the color is awesome. I've only competed on it once so far but I'm ready for the next competition the beginning of September. Right now I'm working both our shooting horses and still trying to get out pony ready for the kids. My son wants to rope so badly off the pony I really need to get on it. He's gotten pretty good. So good the cats run when they see him coming because he can get them pretty quick!!

So if you're into roping, check out my store, American Cowboy Supply. we've got lots of fun stuff for kids of all ages!

http://www.americancowboysupply.com

Much Needed Rest!

2008-03-25T16:30:00.000-04:00

Finally feeling better. The kids have been sick, I've been sick, it's been a long week or so. Maybe it has something to do with all of the snow we still have here in New Hampshire. At my house, the snow is still up over the top of the picnic table in our backyard!! This past weekend my husband tried to remove some snow from our top arena so we could work the horses at least a little, but the good ole John Deere met it's match! Another week or two off for them. We'll just have to really "kick it in gear" with training this year to get ready for our first shoot in May. I see some early mornings coming my way!
I finally ordered my Martin Shooting Saddle! I can't wait to try it out. I went with Chestnut/Roughout leather, Full Padded Seat (although you'd think Mother Nature already gave me "full padding"!), the new Desert Flower tooling with camouflage border, 2" bell bottom stirrups and Wyoming Flower Conchos. It will seem like a long 12 weeks while I'm waiting for my saddle to be made, however it will give me more time to anticipate and get even more excited for it's arrival. I have the order form hanging over my desk with "My Saddle" written in dark black letters. Visitors can't help but ask, one of the reasons it's hanging there. I love telling people about my saddle. So I'll be sure to post a picture when it arrives and give feedback on my first ride in my Martin Custom Shooting Saddle! I hope the snow's gone by then!!!

Sunny Monday!

2008-03-10T13:14:00.000-04:00

Sunny today, but still cold. The snow on the ground is 3 1/2 ft. high and so hard you can walk on it without falling through. I'm glad our horses enjoy home or else they could probably step right over the fence!
I'm at my desk excited to add the new Martin Custom Cowboy Mounted Shooting Saddle on my website. The latest edition of Western Shooting Horse Magazine featured and article with Annie Bianco-Ellett using her new Custom Martin Saddle. It is beautiful and I'm very happy that Martin Saddlery has designed a saddle specific for my favorite sport! And yes, I'll be ordering one for myself as soon as I'm done uploading the information for my customers. I've never been able to choose my leather color, conchos, seat style, and all the other fun stuff before. I'm sure I'll have fun with this and will surely upload a picture when it arrives! I remember when my husband put his first Martin Saddle on his horse, the spectacular difference it made in not only his riding position but the horses comfort. I think that's about the same time he started kickin my butt on a few stages. I really saw them come together as a team in a way I had not seen previously. The bars are set just right so the contact is perfect. My husband rides in a Martin Working Cowhorse Saddle. Just wait till I get my Mounted Shooting Saddle and we'll see how the "friendly family competition" pans out!

Here we go!!

2008-03-09T00:08:00.000-05:00

I love writing. I love sharing thoughts. A few people have mentioned to me that I should add a blog to my website, not only to help share information, but spread the many laughs that occur quite often in my life. Tonight my husband was talking on the phone to his brother, Kenny, in Tennessee, who has a fun blog we read often. The next thing I knew I was entering information into my own and enjoying every minute (it takes quite a few minutes actually). Tonight's first entry will be short and sweet. The kids are asleep and with the hectic lives my husband & I lead we don't get much alone time. Hopefully there is a good movie on tonight and we can stay up for at least the first hour before falling asleep on the couch! I don't know about the rest of the world, but right now it is raining so hard, add that to the 4 feet of snow currently on the ground and the result tomorrow will be one wet barn with 2 unhappy horses and a white pony who is currently in disguise as a brown pony. And to top that off guess who gets Sunday morning barn duty!!! Oh well, time to check the movie schedule for the night and make sure the hubby didn't already fall asleep!