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SWAP
FEED FUND
MAKE CREDIT CARD DONATIONS TO THE SWAP FEED FUND... CALL
FOSTER FEEDS AT 304-269-1333, TALK TO CHARLIE TO GIVE A DONATION TO THE SECOND
WIND ADOPTION PROGRAM FEED FUND, WE GO THROUGH 6 TONS OF FEED A MONTH. YOU CAN
ALSO PAY FOR ADOPTIONS AND PURCHASES THIS WAY!!
monthly counters started on February 13, 2010 for the website, because this is a
free counter, it will only show about a 1/4 of our total numbers, so its
not an accurate depiction of all of our visitors, just gives an idea about all
the people that visit our site. We do love our international visitors. Welcome!
Visitors By Country
Top 100 Visitors
Last 100 Visitors
Visitors Map
Daily Stats
Congrats to our President for the nomination and eventual induction to the
ROTC Hall of Fame at West Virginia State University, nominated by the former VP
of the University, the induction will take place at the Embassy Suites in
Charleston, WV October 14, 2010. A former military school, rich in a history of
national defense has only inducted just over 100 military retirees to its Hall
of Fame, many of them general officers. Congratulations on this huge honor.
Stay up with our President/Executive Director, all the
directors, volunteers and riders. All the CSS/SWAP supporters and adopters are
having a big time sharing stories, pictures, lots of good stuff about their
horses. Our President is at her max friends so she is full but we are going to
set up a fan based page so everyone can be added. So sorry to the 200 + people
who have asked for a friendship.... we'll get our fan page up soon.
Benefit Wines is a unique online retail wine shop that partners with
non-profit organizations to raise funds. Every charity partner has their
own unique wine label. Supporters enjoy fine, organic wines while
supporting their favorite cause. Cheers!
Raise $1000. for Second Wind
Adoption Program and have a 1 in 70 chance at a 15 carat Ruby/Diamond
Ring! ... mail donations to Rt. 2 Box 24A Jockey Camp Road, West Union,
WV 26456
The Wish List of Our Needs:
More than anything we need a large donation to help us pay off our farm, we just
owe 70k. With a farm paid for, we will never worry about the program and schools
closing.
We are looking for 2 to 3 people to do work in exchange for a place to live.
1. New or lightly
used truck and 3 to 6 horse trailer, our equipment has seen its better
days, we've been using both for nearly 14 years to pick up horses and move them
to their new homes.
2. A Farm in any
location for low cost long term lease or donation to expand our program
to develop a retirement farm for our now aging horses returned to us from
adopters who could not retire our horses. Our highest priority locations
initially are Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland,
or Delaware.
3. New or Lightly
Used Farm utility vehicle (like a john deere gator), farm tractor,
& manure spreader
4. Tack and large
horse items donated... like carts/buggies, racing bikes, jog carts,
harnesses, saddles, horse trailers, blankets/rugs to use or sell on SWAP
Shopping. Supplies to use around the barn or office.
5. A bulk feed bin
that will hold anywhere from 6 tons to 9 tons of grain donated or at low cost or
even a break on the cost of purchase and instillation.
6. A volunteer or low cost
employee who can help us fix our
database that lists all adopters, donors, supporters and horses/dogs/cats
in the program.
7. Some sort of a cloth
facility like Cover-all or Farm-Tek
building to increase our abilities to be able to take more horses and
have an indoor area to work and train horses in winter, donated, grant or
partially donated. anywhere from 50 x 200 to 72 x 300.
8.
Monthly Sponsors for our light
use, elderly or retirement/sanctuary horses/dogs who's possibilities for
adoption are very low, ie. Orphy, Jelly Bean, Dixie, Allie, Kochese, Darlin, Mr.
Darcey, JoJo, Freckles, Lucy, Bandit, Max, etc.
9. Volunteers
to commit to doing one fund raiser for SWAP horses at your location during 2010,
it can be a golf tournament, a bake sale, book sale, lemonade stand, car wash,
setting up an information stand at a horse show. This is a great way to kids to
get involved in helping horses.
10 Anyone interested in
free high quality top soil
(manure already composted) and manure for gardens, you can pick up for free by
the truck load at our WV location (bring a loader). If you are a gardener and
only need a small amount, pick up in a truck or we'll be selling it by the feed
bag full at $2.00 a bag (in a bag that is usually used for 100 lbs of feed).
This is beautiful clean top soil. This offer will only last so long because we
will be leveling the manure pile this August when its dry enough to get a dozer
in there.
11. Someone to do
dozer work on the farm, level arena/round pen, do terracing on the hill
sides to keep water out of the barns and level the top soil and manure pile to
increase the level of that land in that bottom so we can put our methane
digester in and indoor arena. Volunteer or at a reduced cost.
Reporting Neglect:
Please, if you see neglect (ribs and hip bones showing or no
food available), its critical to call the sheriff of the county where the
horse/animal is located. Have the address where the horse is located or
directions to the farm, pictures and the owners name (if possible). If the
sheriff does nothing email our cruelty case workers Tom and Ruby Fleming at
tomfleming64@cebridge.net or email
PETA's cruelty case workers Stephanie or Tori at
sbell@peta.org,
or
ToriP@peta.org Remember horses can not speak for themselves so
we must speak for them!! All reports are kept anonymous.
Getting Help for Your Horses/animals if you can not care for
them:
If you can not feed your animals, whether they are horses or
other animals, if you are adopters, call SWAP HQ immediately, if not, call your
local horse rescue and plead for help, if they are full then call your animal
control officer or sheriff to release ownership of your animals so they can get
them help Before they are starved to death, do not wait until they are starved,
its critical to get help early. Contact us if you do not know what to do. call
304-873-3532 or email
secondwindadopt@aol.com. Many counties have pet
pantries so you can get feed when times are tough.
If things are getting tight with costs, go to a less expensive
grain like a simple stock pellet supplemented with corn, according to Ohio State
Corn is the leading horse feed in the US according to their research, many large
equine schools and large farms feed these all natural feeds because of what they
get for the price, a lot of negative stuff has been written about corn but no
one can support it with actual proof and research. We feed a simple all stock
pellet from southern states and we supplement with cracked corn for those who
need more calories, here is the link:
- http://ohioline.osu.edu/b
- 762/b762_7.htm
TOP TEN WAYS YOU CAN HELP PROTECT HORSES
(ASPCA and SWAP Suggestions)
1. BE THEIR VOICE - your vote is your
greatest weapon against injustice, so register and actively support horse
protection and preservation legislation.
2. LEAD BY EXAMPLE - Walk the talk. Don't support or attend cruel
horse activities such as Tennessee Walker events using "soring" techniques -
painful techniques to make the horse walk a certain way, or events that use
drugs to make horses achieve results. High-diving horse acts are cruel, as are
rodeo events that don't promote respect for animals and their health.
3. BE AN INFORMED CONSUMER - products made from horses like Premarin
(pregnant mare urine pills for estrogen replacement), are created through
horses' suffering. Your spending dollar is a weapon.
4. SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE - inform people what happens to horses after
their short careers are over (slaughter plant bound), or where Premarin comes
from, talk to them about over breeding, the hazards of over using young horses
or not training a horse. Engage them in discussion.
5. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL HORSE RESCUE OR SANCTUARY - these organizations
make life better for horses.
6. VOLUNTEER - your gift of time is valuable to horse groups and if
you have special talents, so much the better.
7. REPORT CRUELTY - if you witness abuse or neglect, report it to
local animal control or your county sheriff. Someone cruel to animals is cruel
to humans, too.
8. PROTECT THE AMERICAN WILD HORSE - mustangs have a special place in
our history and you can support federal and local legislation by writing emails
and letters to your government reps.
9. KEEP YOUR HORSE SAFE AND HEALTHY - if you own a horse, maintain
its health with regular hoof, medical and dental check-ups. Make sure they are
companioned as horses suffer living alone - even a goat makes a good companion.
Feed what the horse needs, if you are seeing ribs and hip bones, the horse is
not getting enough, if you can't afford to buy more feed, then give the horse to
someone who can, just be sure to check the person out and make sure they are not
selling the horse to slaughter or just going to turn out and sell the horse to
anyone that has the money. .
10. PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR HORSE'S CARE - your health and finances
change so what happens to your horse of you can't care for it anymore? Research
your options, including a pet trust. Horses live into their mid 20s and early
30s now - that's a lifetime of commitment.
Crossed Sabers Stable:
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As many as 60
million visitors per year |
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As many as 530,000 hits in one day |
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Visitors from 113 different
countries |
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Website Visitors from every
continent of the world |
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Thousands of adoptions (of 68
different breeds) in homes today with SWAP |
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Horses adopted in 46 states and
Canada |
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14 Year History |
Preparing for a Cold Winter:
HAY: Get
your hay now before the prices become outrageous, get enough for the winter
(good planning is 2 bales for every 3 days for one horse or 10 bales per month
per horse, so to make it until the middle of June (first cutting), you're
looking at 90 bales per horse at the very least (from September to June). If you
have good thick grass that has been mowed and fertilized then depending on where
you live in the US you might just need 60 to 70 bales. For good grazing its
recommended that you have 3 to 5 acres of mowed, seeded, fertilized grass per
horse. Remember Grass is dead in WV from Oct/Nov until about April and every
state has some months where the grass does not give the horses their calories or
nutrients it needs to sustain life (USDA has details of that for each state).
They may be grazing in the winter but they are not getting anything from the
grass to survive. I know most know that but I say it because we had an adopter
last year in WV that thought if they were eating grass that was all they needed
and she nearly killed 2 horses.
GRAIN:
Remember on average horses need 1 lb of concentrated feed (grain) for every 100
lbs of body weight, so on average horses need about 10 lbs of grain a day, more
when its very cold or if they are living outside in a run because much of their
calories go to keeping them warm. Some horses need more so its critical to
watch to make sure their ribs and hip bones are staying meaty and covered. If
you see ribs, the horse is too thin and needs more calories, not supplements
but more calories.. Easy keepers may be round but it does not mean they are
healthy, most easy keepers need a multi vitamin to stay healthy.
WATER:
One of the most critical things needed in winter is clean fresh water all the
time, anywhere from 5 to 20 gallons per day per horse and everyone knows what a
pain that is when there is ice and snow on the ground but its critical to
preventing colic. Get your electric heaters, defrosters now, heated buckets,
what ever it takes to make sure they have good water in front of them all the
time and at least 10 gallons (2 flat backed buckets at the very least). Here we
keep 100 gallons troughs in the stalls since we have big stalls, its much easier
than frozen buckets in winter, all we do is break the ice and remove it most
days and put a heater in them on really cold days. We use a sump pump to empty
water and scrub troughs each week which keeps water fresh and clean.
SHELTER:
Domestic horses need shelter, they are not wild and can not survive outside
without shelter or some kind of heavy waterproof rug to keep them warm during
snow/ice and freezing temperatures but the best is a closed in shelter that is
free from drafts (meaning its closed on all 4 sides with some sort of
ventilation). Wild horses first of all don't live very long, living outside in
the elements is very hard on them, secondly wild horses move in cold
temperatures to keepselves warm and they often times move over thousands of
acres to keep warm or to find cover or water. No domestic horse can not do that
on 5, 20 or even 100 acres. Just because your horse has learned to survive in
bad weather does not mean its good for them, they need shelter in bad weather.
CARE:
Its important to make kids take care of their horses but they must have adult
supervision on a daily basis to make sure horses are getting what they need.
Trust me, I usually have 30 year olds working in our barn and I still have to be
there daily to make sure things are done, that they have clean water, especially
when its cold because our young helpers want to get out of the weather and then
the horses are left at risk for colic. Every day check your child's work, do not
leave your horses care to a child (completely).
The Woman I will Be
- I shall wear diamonds and a wide brimmed
straw hat with ribbons and flowers on it
- And I shall spend my social security on
white wine and carrots
- And sit in the alley of my barn and listen
to my horses breathe.
- I will sneak out in the middle of a
summer's night And ride the dappled mare across the moonstruck meadow, if
my old bones will allow. and when people come to call, I will smile and
nod, As I walk them past the gardens to the barn And show, instead, the
flowers growing there
- In stalls fresh-lined with straw. I will
shovel and sweat and wear hay in my hair as if it were a jewel. And I will
be an embarrassment of all who look down on me Who have not yet found the
peace in being free To love a horse as a friend, a friend who waits at
midnight hour
- With muzzle and nicker and patient eyes For
the Woman I will be when I am old.
The perfect analogies for why we
have the life school tied into SWAP and animal welfare work:
"Everyone thought we took this
broken down horse and saved him but really he saved us"
Jockey Red Pollard from the
movie Seabiscuit
I rescued a
human today
Her eyes met mine as she
walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her
need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too
exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.
As she stopped at my kennel
I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't
want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers
get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.
As she read my kennel card
I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look
forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.
She got down on her knees
and made little kissy sounds at me.
I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her.
Gentle fingertips caressed
my neck; she was desperate for companionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I
raised my paw to assure her that all would be well.
Soon my kennel door opened
and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would
promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would
promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her
eyes.
I was so fortunate that she
came down my corridor.
So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors.
So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.
I rescued a human today.
Baggage
by Evelyn Colbath
Now that I'm
home, bathed, settled and fed,
All nicely tucked into my warm new bed,
I would like to open my baggage,
Lest I forget
There is so much to carry -
So much to forget.
Hmm, Yes, here
it is, right on the top
Let's unpack Loneliness, Heartache and Loss,
And there by my halter hides Fear & Shame
As I look on these things I have tried so hard to leave-
I still have to unpack my baggage called Pain.
I loved them,
the others, the ones who left me,
But I wasn't good enough - for they didn't want me.
Will you add to my baggage?
Will you help me unpack?
Or will you just look at my things
And take me right back?
Do you have the
time to help me unpack?
To put away my baggage,
To never re-pack?
I pray that you do - I'm so tired you see,
But I do come with baggage -
Will you still want me?
A young boy was walking along the beach
- as high tide came in.
- With every crash of the waves
- he noticed that dozens of seahorses were
being cast onto the beach,
- where they lay gasping and squirming.
- Hurriedly, he ran to each seahorse he could
find
- and gently tossed them back into the surf.
- A man watching all this approached the boy
and said;
- "Son, what you are doing won't make a
difference",
- to which the boy replied,
"To
that seahorse .
. . it will".
Some folks said they missed my great goals
list for 2010, so here it is back again
1. Spend an hour a day with your horses, not just
feeding, training and turning out, but real quality time doing something that is
enjoyable for the both of you. Grooming or hand walking is a great way to bond
with your horse and good for both you and the horse.
2. Get your loved ones more involved in your
horses. Divorce is the biggest reason we see horses coming back to us. Don't
just share the work, share the fun too and find something they really enjoy
doing with horses.
3. Learn a new discipline, go to a clinic, a
horse show, or equine affaire. Come to one of our clinics or watch a training
video. If you are an adopter you can check out books and video's from SWAP's
Library for just shipping costs. Take a lesson at least once a month or Bring
your adoption horse here and we will help you. The better you are, the more fun
you will have.
4. Make a plan for your horse after you are gone
or if you have a major injury, let your Will Executor know your plans. Make a
plan for emergencies or financial bumps along the way for your horse. Have a
plan if you or your horse gets injured, even for the tough times of year like
winter (or summer down south and for a drought winter when hay prices
skyrocket). Ask friends, family and neighbors to be part of your plan, most
people that don't have horses or a farm love the idea of getting away and
helping. And people can not resist someone when they are asking for help for the
welfare of an innocent animal.
5. Get yourself healthy and in better shape to
prevent injury, to live a long life and to more enjoy your horses. Eat 1-1-1
(one ounce of dark chocolate, one ounce of fresh walnuts, one glass of red wine
daily) and 2-2-2 (2 servings of fresh vegis, 2 of fresh fruit and get 2 sources
of fat free calcium). Drink 100 ounces of spring water a day, get a whole house
water filter. Change over to Sea-salt. Take one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
every morning to keep your body alkaline (cancer and disease can not grow in an
alkaline body). Eat more fish and chicken and less red meat. Get a good air
cleaner and do daily deep breathing exercises, get outside in the fresh air and
sunshine for at least 1/2 hour every day. Get away from high fat food, processed
foods, fast food, can or boxed food, sugar or artificial sweeteners, soda and
don't eat anything if you can't read all the ingredients and know exactly what
is in it. Clean all vegis and fruits thoroughly, buy organic, buy ocean caught
fish, not farm raised, buy fresh meat and raw milk, not packed or processed. Eat
only natural carbs (potatoes, rice, oats) bake/broil or steam everything. Get 8
hours of sleep, reduce stress/risk (reduce commuting by car pooling, tight
schedules, cell phone use in the car, watch or read the news only once a day or
better yet once a week. Do one hour of walking, yoga or weight training every
day and it will make you strong, lean, you'll look great and get wonderful
complements from friends, coworkers and loved ones and the horse work will be
easier and more enjoyable.
6. Stay clear of negative people and those very
negative chat rooms and bulletin boards, they seem innocent but every time you
go to them you lose a bit of your positive self, they are truly emotional
vampires that will leave only a shell of a person. They are not based on the
truth, they are based on harassment, complaining, whining and dishonesty. We all
become tomorrow what we are around today, every person we come in contact with
defines who we are tomorrow so be careful who you choose for friends, even the
websites you go to as each of them affect who you are tomorrow. Do you want to
be a bitter, miserable, complaining person or do you want to be happy, inspired
and honorable, all that is affected by the decisions you make today. Stay away
from Toxic people and Toxic websites/forums that are negative or that spend all
their time talking bad about people and their horses. What you are around today
and what you are doing today is what you will be tomorrow. Stop Complaining and
be Thankful for what you have. If you become a target of harassment or anyone
saying anything negative about you, if you are doing only good, positive things
and not hurting anyone then ignore them, its all based on jealousy and a sick
sort of wish to be like you. They have the problem, not you.
7. Read at least one book on training your horse
and one on care each year, if for nothing else but just inspiration. SWAP has a
great library of books/videos that adopters can check out for just the cost of
mailing it.
Click
here to see our Library
8. Get carrots/apples every time you go to the
store, your horses will love you for it and always come running when you call.
Don't feed candy or anything sweeter. Carrots are sweet enough. Get rid of the
sweet feeds and you'll get rid of the hot horse once and for all.
9. Realize that if you are having a problem with
your horse, more likely than not, the problem is you. Learn more, practice more,
ask in a different way, be patient, change their environment or daily schedule
to better suit them. Taking better care of a horse always brings out the best in
that horse. Good feed/hay, time to rest in a quiet stall out of the elements,
lots of fresh water, time to be with you and time to just be a horse, time with
their buddies, farrier and vet care always done is a good start. The biggest
part of this relationship puzzle is you, not the horse. If you are struggling,
then you need to learn more and get better.
10. Ride at least once a week, regardless of
weather. Use this time as your down time for healing, your therapy, your time to
relieve stress and the pressures of daily life. Even if you don't ride, go sit
and read a book in the pasture with the horses or sit in the barn and listen to
them munch on dinner, away from the crowd and noise of your day. Enjoy the peace
and quiet, enjoy hearing happy horses eating dinner or grass in the pasture.
11. Spend time leisurely grooming your horse once
a week. Rubber curries are shine makers. You will have a beautiful horse and a
very loyal friend who will do anything for you.
12. Come and spend a week at SWAP HQ,
volunteering and focusing on helping a horse and giving will change your life
plus it will be the best vacation you ever had. Help an animal in need, whether
fostering, being one of our state reps that goes out to check on our horses in
their homes or helps us approve adopters in their area. Find horses in need and
help us find them homes. Buy a horse at a slaughter auction, get it fat and
trained and we'll help you place it into a good home. Foster and volunteer for
your local small animal adoption program. I promise, the good things you do will
come back to you a hundred times over. Every person has a talent they can offer
and if you help one horse or one dog or cat find a good home, you have changed
their life forever.
13. Know that every goal is obtainable and it
starts with a single step. Take that first step today!! No matter what it is or
how big, YOU CAN DO IT!! Every goal that is written down will come true
(really!). Every famous person, every great or notable scientist, author,
trainer/rider, parent or friend started out as just a thought, just a goal.
Remember to take one step today to reach your goals.
14. Start every day with thinking about, what is
the most important thing I can do today to change my life and make it better. Do
that one thing and in 30 days your life will be totally different. Can you
imagine what your life would be like if you did that for 60, 90 or even 365 days
a year. The opportunities are endless.
15. Want to keep your horse sound for life? (That
should be every horse owners number one goal) do a long slow warm up (cold
muscle is easy to injure, a warm one is nearly impossible to injure). The very
best cool down is hand walking your horse for 1 hour after every work out. Yes,
get off the horse and walk with it. Its great exercise for you and a good time
for you to bond. Stop riding your horse during cool downs and stop using a hot
walker, do something good for you and the horse, hand walking. Its also the best
rehab for over work and injuries, the only thing better is hydro therapy and
swimming your horse. Allow soft tissue and hard tissue to become more
conditioned before going into any training program... that means 3 months of at
least 3 days a week for soft tissues and 10 months of work for bones to become
strong enough to jump or do any strenuous training program. Don't start any
upper level work, jumping or extensive training until the horse is fit and at
least between age 4 and 6 and has been conditioned for at least 10 months
(especially if the horse has never been jumped/worked or not been jumped or
worked in the last year).
16. Appreciate what you have and be thankful.
Instead of looking at what you don't have, look at what you do. Thank those
people who have helped you and supported you. The more you give, the more that
will come back to you. When you give something away or give something to
someone/something in need, you make space in your life for something good to
come to you. We are all very blessed, if we just take a moment to look around
and enjoy those things.
17. Get used to using favorite mantra's and
visualizations every day, simple ones that are easy to remember, like 'I can do
this, I will do this', 'this isn't going to get the best of me' or even, 'I
deserve the best' or 'the gift of love, caring, and support always comes back'
and take two minutes every morning as you wake and at night as you go to sleep
to visualize the life you want, the you you want to be, Our thoughts become
things, what you see is what you get, if you expect the best, the best will
happen, change your self-talk from negative to positive and I promise your life
will change for the better..
18. Each person is put on this earth for a
reason, each of us has a mission. What is yours? Seek and you shall find,
finding is a journey ... in the journey and the search you'll find your life
purpose. If you died in your sleep tonight is there something you haven't done
that you need to do or want to do? Someone you need to mend fences with, burnt
bridges to fix? People you need to tell them how much you love them? Have you
fulfilled your purpose in your life? Ask yourself, Why am I here? How can I make
this better? Who do I want to be? Who am I suppose to be? What reason was I put
on this earth? What is my purpose?
19. Be an inspiration to your family, co workers
and friends. We all fall on our face, we all make mistakes, we all get
discouraged, most times we all get up and try again.... sometimes we need a
nudge. Instead of being negative or doing negative things, be their inspiration.
You do believe they can do it, so why not tell them. If their self talk is
negative, then you be their positive self talk.... eventually they will start to
say it and believe it too. Life is self fulfilling, failure feeds on itself or
causes more failure, achieving does as well. So if you or your love ones are in
a negative cycle, break the cycle by changing your thoughts, your self talk,
achieve something small to get yourself and your family back into the cycle of
achievement.
20. We all file a flight plan every single day
for our life. Where is your flight going today? Just like a pilot flying, the
winds, the gravitational pull will change your flight and take you off course,
so you must make small corrections along the way to make sure you make your
destination. Have you selected your destination? Have you picked the steps in
your flight plan to get there? Every goal is really that easy, pick the goal and
figure out how to get there. The easiest way to pick your flight path/plan is
find someone who has done it before you, then do what they did. Its all baby
steps you know. Just keep an eye on that destination and keep saying...."here is
my destination, this is where I'm going, this is where I am now, this is how I'm
going to get there.... I will arrive at this time on this day. You can do
it..... its just like getting in your car to go to the store, its just deciding
where you want to go and how to get there, then take that first step. You can do
it!! No matter how big or how outlandish you may think your dream to be... it
is obtainable.
21. Laugh every day and try (as hard as it is
sometimes) to find the positive and the humor in each situation (and have at
least one bite of a truly decadent desert once a week). Life is just too short
to not enjoy it thoroughly.
22. We learn the most and do our best work when
we have fallen on our face, when we are struggling, when we are worried, scared
or frustrated, when we are anguishing over something or troubled by it. It is
then that you have true motivation, when you think clearer. The most brilliant
ideas come to people when they feel lost, frustrated, or at the bottom, helpless
or hopeless. Cherish these times because its when you can come up with your best
ideas to your biggest problems and challenges. You see, there is a reason for
the rainy days.
23. You can't make everyone happy, its useless to
try and wasted energy to think you can. 50% of all people will not agree with
you at any given time, don't worry about it and don't let it stop you. 50%
becomes a lot of people when you are in the public eye. As long as you are not
hurting anyone and you are doing the right thing, then go ahead and do it. If
you are wondering what is the right thing to do, its usually the harder thing to
do, the toughest path to take. The easy way out is rarely the right thing to
do. Instead of worrying over what someone thinks of you or says about you, do
something amazing and outstanding to inspire them or at least have them sitting
on the side lines being jealous, secretly saying, "wow, she has guts". One
person with purpose becomes the majority, one way or another.
1. There are at least two people in this world
That you would die for.
2. At least 15 people in this world Love you in some way.
3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you Is because they want to Be just
like you.
4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, Even if they don't Like you.
5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you Before they go to sleep.
6. You mean the world to someone.
7. You are special and unique.
8. Someone that you don't even know exists, loves you.
9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, Something good comes from it.
10. When you think the world has
Turned its back on you, take another look.
11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.
Always in hope and admiration, Celeita
YOUR BANK ACCOUNT
A 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud man, who is fully
dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with his hair fashionably combed and
shaved perfectly, even though he is legally blind, moved to a nursing home
today. His wife of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary.
After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, he
smiled sweetly when told his room was ready.
As he maneuvered his walker to the elevator, I provided a
visual description of his tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been
hung on his window.
'I love it,' he stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just
been presented with a new puppy.
'Mr. Jones, you haven't seen the room; just wait.'
'That doesn't have anything to do with it,' he replied.
'Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or
not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged .. it's how I arrange my
mind. I already decided to love it. 'It's a decision I make every morning when
I wake up. I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the
difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of
bed and be thankful for the ones that do.
Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open, I'll focus on the new day and
all the happy memories I've stored away. Just for this time in my life.
Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw from what you've put in.
So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank
account of memories!
Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank.
I am still depositing.' Remember the five simple rules to be happy:
1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less.
Our
lives with horses...
Our lives with horses are rich with feeling. You know this if you've
ever.... choked back tears watching a new foal wobble to his feet for the
First time ...or watched your good horse wobble to his feet after surgery....
or seen the ends of the reins float straight out as a reining horse spins
beneath them . . or chuckled to yourself as you watched a tiny tot on a
patient pony trot through a barrel pattern at a saddle club payday ... or felt
the building tremble as an eight-up hitch of feather-legged giants towed a
hand-carved beer wagon into the arena ... or had your heart stop when you saw
your horse lying motionless in the pasture on a sunny day and waited
breathlessly for an ear to flick ... or cheered at the screen when 'The Man
From Snowy River' slid Dennie down the mountainside, .. or when Seabiscuit
made his final surge to beat War Admiral ... or cruised along the highway and
seen a horse in a pasture and wondered what he's like to ride or pictured him
as a prospect ... or sucked in your breath as a horse and rider approached a
six-foot wall ... or sworn a solemn oath to your horse that together you would
triumph ... or flipped through the TV channels and stopped when you saw a
horse even when it was a commercial ... or laughed aloud when you rubbed your
horse's face and he rubbed back ... or gotten chills hearing Dave Johnson's
'and DOWN THE STRETCH THEY COME!' (or 'Run for the Roses' circa 1980 ish?)
... or stood in awe at your horse in morning play as he sprinted around the
pasture, then stopped, head erect, and snorted defiance at the rest of the
world
... or been thankful to see wild horses grazing casually at the foot of a hill
... or felt calmed by the sleekness of a silky
haircoat beneath your hand ... or felt your jaw drop as you watched a Lipazzan
perform a capriole ... or if you've ever seen someone in the grocery store
wearing a certain kind of hat, or boots, or buckle, or have a certain cut and
length to their jeans, and felt some remote kind of connection ... or felt
warmed by a soft nicker greeting as you entered the barn ... or slid your hand
under your horse's blanket to straighten it out, only to pause in the glowing
feeling that you get when you touch the
warmth of his coat... or riding on a trail with your horse, thinking how that
trail over there looks nice and almost without asking, your horse has sensed
your slightest movement in the saddle and he's now taking you there. ... or
pulled up to your barn where you board and only your horse greets you with a
welcoming hello from the sound of your car or your voice.
HEROES AND HORSES
SOME NOTABLE HEROES AND THEIR HORSES ARE MENTIONED AND WE KNOW YOUR HORSE IS
YOUR HERO AND VICE VERSA.
1. Kanthaka - Buddha's horse, the one he used when he was still Siddhartha
the prince, to escape from his father's palace and begin his journey toward
enlightenment. Kanthaka's hooves made no sounds as they fled together and he
is often depicted being lifted on his four feet by benign spirits.
2. Pegasus - the mythical winged horse parented by Neptune and Medusa and
ridden by Bellerophon to rid the world of Chimera, the monster. Athena, the
Greek goddess of wisdom, was able to capture and train Pegasus when he allowed
her to place her golden bit in his mouth.
3. Phosphorus (Light Bearer) - the great Roman racehorse immortalized by the
4th century Roman poet Ausonius (at the emperor's request) in a beautiful
eulogy: Fly with haste to join the wing-footed horses of Elysium; may
Pegasus gallop on your right and Arion as your left-wheeler, and let Castor
find a fourth horse for the team.
4. Babieca - famed white gelding of El Cid, Rodrigo Diaz of Bivar, the
Spanish hero who united Christians and Muslims against a Moorish onslaught
from Africa. Babieca lived to be 30 years old and carried El Cid into all his
battles. Babieca means "crazy" as Rodrigo made a crazy choice since the colt
was the runt of the herd.
5. Bucephalus (Ox-head) - beloved horse of Alexander the Great who bore the
Macedonian hero on his back from Greece to India. Odds against a horse living
past 20 in that era were great, but Bucephalus, in his 20s, endured until he
fell in battle in India.
6. Sleipnir - the eight-legged war horse of Odin, the Norse god, was able to
fly without wings and shape-shift.
7. Balios and Xanthos - a grey and bay, both sired by Zephyros, the West
Wind, who together pulled Achilles' chariot.
8. Vivasat - a Hindu sun-god who often took the form of a stallion.
9. Al Burak - Mohammed's horse, on whose back he ascended to heaven, was
brought to him by the archangel Gabriel
10. Chiron - the centaur who taught Achilles, Jason and the first physician,
Ascelpius, all he knew.
11. Rakhsh - blue-eyed and dappled red horse of the legendary Persian
warrior, Rustam. Rakhsh was highly intelligent and saved his sleeping master
from a lion's attack, killing the predator.
There are many more famous mythical and real horses and we will be adding to
our list. Can you help us add to this list?. thank you Harmony Horse Works.
The question is not: "do you support horse
slaughter."
The question is: "do you support the cruel, terrifying
transport for days without food and water in their journey to death?"
The question is: "do you support the torture and abuse of
the killer chutes, even for crippled horses, pregnant mares, wild horses,
protective mares with foals by their sides?"
The question is: “Do you support the horse slaughter
factories that lie to their consumers about the many chemicals that taint the
horse meat, and call it Organic?
The question is: do you support the breeder who breeds
hundreds of horses just to pick out the good ones and cash in the rest to the
killer buyer?
The question is: Do you support the person who uses the
horse its whole life and when it gets to an old age sends it to slaughter as a
thank you?
The question is: “do you support the slaughter workers who
cheer a horse on that struggles extra hard for its life?
The question is: Do you support the killer buyer who not
only buys up the strong, fat and healthy horses and leaves the meek weak and
unhealthy for society, but also bids against the good homes and horse rescues?
The question is: “Can you see though the lies of the ones
who stand to loose a buck with the end of horse slaughter?
The question is: Do you support ripping the last of our wild
horses away from their families and peaceful lives to be slaughtered?
The question is: As a nation, can we allow this to continue
and still call ourselves a civilized country?
The question is: "Can you look at the footage of innocent
horses with their eyes gouged out, hooves ripped off, legs broken, beaten by
the workers, faces smashed in from being on the transport trucks, horses
stabbed in their spines, horses conscious for the entire killing process and
do nothing?
That is the question, so what is YOUR answer?
Resolve to make the world a better place for animals
(credit: PETA)
| If you haven't already done so,
have the companion animals who depend on you spayed or neutered. These
simple procedures help protect your furry friends from many types of
cancer and prevent thousands of animals from being born only to end up
abandoned on the streets or dumped at severely crowded animal shelters.
|
| If you live with a dog,
pledge to walk him or her every day, even when it's cold outside and you'd
rather hide under a blanket. If you share your home with cats, set
aside some "kitty (or horsey) quality time" every day to play
with, brush, and bond with them. It's sometimes too easy to overlook our
feline friends, but they can get bored and lonely too. |
| If there is a lonely "backyard dog" in your
neighborhood, try befriending his or her
guardian. Start by politely talking to him or her about the dog's needs,
such as companionship, daily portions of fresh food and water, and a
weatherproof doghouse filled with straw. Many lucky dogs have had their
lives changed because someone like you cared enough to intervene.
|
| If you're shopping for yourself or buying
holidays gifts for your loved ones, stay
away from fur, wool, leather, and companies that make or sell products
made from the skins of animals. |
NOTE: Crossed Sabers can not fully guarantee the accuracy of every page
on this website which is huge (38,000 files and over 300 pages). We do not
have the personnel or time to keep it up to date and accurate for every
situation as this Stable and all its programs have always been a dynamic
entity, ever changing and improving itself to meet the needs of horses and
horse people. We do try to make sure each page is up to date and accurate but
the best thing to do If you have a question, is email or call us. Additionally
Crossed Sabers can not guarantee anything that anyone says about us on line,
we have no control over other people and their websites, forums or ads, all we
can tell people is if you do not know the person, their name, address and
their experience, age or history/background/education and location do not
trust what they say. That is true for everything on the internet. Some things
said about us have been grossly inaccurate and did not come from CSS, some
come from past employees we fired for cause (for hurting horses or stealing
from us), people that are pro-slaughter and hate our mission and what we do
for horses enjoy trying to make us look bad, some are horse traders that we've
helped put out of business and some are people we helped put in jail on
neglect cases. Again, if you have questions about us, our services, our
company structure, how we are licensed, how we pay taxes, how we do things or
anything at all, please feel free to contact us, just don't assume that all
you read on another website is accurate because 99% of it is not true,
especially if you read it on a forum, blog or chat room and don't assume that
it came from us, just call 304-873-3532 or email us at
secondwindadopt@aol.com,
or better yet, come and see our operation and you will see how we do things. I
can guarantee it's 1000 times better than what the liars and frauds say who
are jealous of our work.
All programs and services listed on this website, including
SWAP is a part of Crossed Sabers Stable which has been licensed in WV for the
last 13 years. The Mountain State Horse School and Second Wind Adoption
Program, Inc. and Crossed Sabers International Horse School, Inc. was
incorporated on 4 Sep 08 to address the education needs and life challenges of
people and horses.
Buyer and Seller Beware!! Update on the
Robin Hollingsworth of Blacksburg, SC
(she has several alias's and about 10 fake names) fraud case for those
of you who have been asking. The SC prosecutor accepted a plea bargain from
her and dropped the case if she paid the people she ripped off (the people she
took money under false pretenses from when she sold them horses she did not
own), she did that so she was let go but the 3 arrests will stay on her record
and the record of what she did to all those people is still on the books and
will stay there. If she is caught again I'm certain she will go to jail but
people who are cheated by her must stand up and testify.. If more people that
she ripped off would have not chickened out and backed out because of fear
(Quote from them was we are scared of her, she is crazy) she would be in jail
right now but beware, she is still loose and still taking free horses or
companion horses that have things like ringbone and navicular and drugging
them and then selling them as high level jumpers and competition horses on the
internet. Her daughter works with her, Amanda or Mandy, she helps her rip
people off. Beware, I'm getting calls almost every month where Robin has
committed more crimes against people, taking horses, not paying for them,
bouncing checks, buying vehicles and horse trailers and not paying for them.
BEWARE OF THIS WOMAN!! If you want her history or to check a person's name
against our black list (our do not adopt to, do not sell to, do not buy from,
do not hire or even rent to list), then contact us.
BEWARE: Do not buy a horse from anyone you
do not know, ESPECIALLY ON THE INTERNET, unless they have websites like ours,
their names and addresses listed and they show they have a long long history
on their website and do not buy unless you go to see the horse and have it vet
checked and you have contact with the vet, not the seller or even trainer
telling you what the vet said. DO NOT GIVE YOUR HORSE OR SELL YOUR HORSE
WITHOUT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT AS TO WHAT IS TO HAPPEN WITH THE HORSE, RESELLING,
USE/LIMITATIONS, FACILITIES NEEDED, ETC. It you sell or give away a horse with
no agreement, they could go to slaughter the same day you release them or they
could be sold and misrepresented, living a life of neglect, abuse, over use
and miss use the rest of their lives. We hear stories all the time where a
best friend or neighbor, the nice lady you gave the horse to sent the horse to
slaughter or is neglecting it and there is not a thing the owner can do now
because they no longer own the horse and they made no written agreements
signed by both parties. If you need help doing written agreements, back ground
checks on buyers and sellers, just contact us, that is part of our 'SAFE
SELLING' SERVICES. Your horse's life depends on you being safe and thorough!
BEWARE: People are selling horses on the
internet that don't even exist so beware, the horse industry is full is liars,
cheaters, and thieves, even we have had to deal with them from potential
adopters who were in jail applying to adopt, to employees and former trainers
who totally ripped us off by stealing tack and tools, asking for huge advances
and then leaving after they get them, people who don't even know us or had any
experience with us slandering us on forums, harassing us and our supporters,
interfering with company operations and even adopters who don't think twice
about breaching their contract or forging their vets signature on applications
& annual updates or even selling their adoption horse to programs like ours
and even 501c3's public charities selling horses to slaughter auctions or
being put in jail for neglect and animal cruelty. We are bringing each person
that has wronged our horses to justice one at a time and winning all our cases
but that does not protect the general public from these liars, thieves,
con-artist and cheaters. Your horses life can easily be ruined forever, they
could end up in a fate worse than death so buyer and seller beware, your
horses life depends on you keeping them safe and you being thorough with doing
things like getting references and making sure the people have stable
employment, that they really own the farm they say they do, doing background
checks to check for criminal records. The horse world is full of dishonesty
which ruins it for honest people that really care and always try to do the
right thing, such a shame. Just be very careful and get proof that your horse
is going to a good home, get more than a feeling because we promise you about
50% of the time when it comes to horses, your feeling that its a 'nice' person
or a 'good' person' is wrong. And even when you pick a good home, they can
turn around and sell or give away to a bad home.
HOW TO STAY YOUNG
1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and
height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay 'them'
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches and negative people pull
you down. People who like to cause trouble will shorten your life and make you
just like them... miserable.
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening,
whatever. Never let the brain idle. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop.'
4. Enjoy the simple things.
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
6. The tears happen.. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who
is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love , whether it's family, pets,
keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable,
improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next
county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER :
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the
moments that take our breath away
| | 
TESTIMONIALS
Saint
Theresa's Prayer
May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has
been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to
sing,
Dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
Hey Girl, Just wanted to stop by and wish you personally a Happy Vets Day.
Paul and I are very grateful for your service to this great country we are
fortunate enough to live in. I can't even imagine having the guts to
accomplish what you have in your life. We are very proud to have spent time
with you in school. I have looked at your pics in amazement at all the places
you have been and the things that you have done. Your place is beautiful, you
deserve it. You deserve to have anything your little heart desires! Anyway,
thanks again. Hugs Sheila and Paul Hawthorne
I've spent several years watching you do good
works at Crossed Sabers. Hopefully, I'll be in a position to adopt someday...I
keep wishing.
Shelley Mund
A very special thank
you to you, Celeita for all you have done in your service. You continue to set
an example of honor and commitment. Your generosity of time and the sacrifices
you have made have continued beyond the military and all of your effort and
accomplishments are appreciated! Linda Wright
I would like to take a
moment to thank you for your service and for protecting freedom. I do not know
you that well Celetia, only through the horse rescue circle of friends. And the
more you share with us the more amazing person I find that you are. You ARE a
hero in more ways than one. You are an encouragement to women like myself. When
times here are getting tough I think what would someone like you do? Thank you
for your courage, your wisdom, and your bravery. You are a true Warrior Woman in
spirit and flesh, and I thank you. (Now don't go gettin' a big head or anything
lol ;P)
Take care, Michelle Kincaid
Michelle, you're going to have me crying if you keep
talking like that. that is so nice of you to say. I've been pretty lucky and
very blessed. My military duty changed my life so it seems unfair to be thanked
for something that I wanted to do and that helped me so much. Honestly my best
asset has been that I've never been smart enough to know that I can't do
something. Really smart people would not do some of the things I've done but you
know how it is when you don't know you can't do it, you just do it. I would give
my right arm to go back and do it all again. I had a blast and worked for and
with some of the best people. Its hard to see some of these youngsters dying and
wish I could be there instead of them. I've lived most of my life and it was a
good one but some of these kids don't look to be old enough to be out of their
mommas back yard but yet they are fighting and some are dying. I'm sure they
were cold last night and were burning up today and most of them lay on the
desert floor at night and think of their family and maybe about christmas coming
up and its painful to think of those kids that way but they are devoted to our
country and our freedom so for them I will thank you.
There is nothing that I have done that you can't not do and so much more. Trust
me, I've fallen on my face more than I've succeeded but the important thing is
getting up and trying again. Believing will make it so and I promise every goal
you write down will come true. Dream Big, life is short, it will fly by so
quickly, you have a life's mission and a purpose, a reason you were put on this
earth, just look for it as its there and waiting for you, like an apple hanging
in a tree just waiting to be picked. Do it and do it in a big way so when you
come to the end of your life you can look back and know in your heart that you
made a difference.
And don't worry, the last thing I will get is big headed. I know I have a long
and distinguished list of limitations and faults but I can only hope my life
will not be defined by those things. :)) Now that you've inspired me I'm going
to have to do something worthy of such praise. Bless you for giving me my own
second wind today. Celeita
i have the best horse
in the whole wide world. i really don't know what i would have done if i'd never
come out to your place to volunteer. a life of loneliness. that's what it would
have been. haha :) he's my best friend. :) and mannn. there would be no
sharita without me and my volunteering days. hahahaha you're the best!
H. Heaster
You are one of those special people who make a
difference, one horse at a time. You do such great work
Becky Richards
Hello! I am with the West
Virginia University Equestrian Club and we are interested
in volunteering at Cross Sabers for a Saturday or a
weekend. I think your program is amazing
and I have been speaking with Donna Moore and she has
nothing but great things to say about you and Cross
Sabers. I also just wanted to know if you could send me
any information about what the club would need to bring
and what weekend would be better for you.
Thanks,
Caitlin Bailey
|
Celeita,
I read this as I do all of the newsletters you send out; this horse's condition
really made me very upset and sad. I am so relieved that someone has offered to
care for this animal and I hope he makes a full recovery.
When we rescued Belle, the TB mare we then turned over to you, her entire hind
leg was swollen to the point that she could not bend her leg to walk. Her
lymphpogitis was totally untreated. But, as you know, she recovered and lived in
a great home loved until she passed on.
I think what you all do is wonderful and without this organization thousands of
horses would most likely be in slaughter houses or dead. I wanted to know if you
knew how Dunanor was doing, and to let you know that Oliver, our friesian is
doing wonderful. My parents were able to work out their finances and all four
horses are boarded at a stable 5 minutes from their home. I get to visit every
weekend.
I just wanted to say thank you for your work.
Octavia Schramm
Celeita --
I have been just tickled to receive the almost weekly updates from
Pony Pastures about Pippi. I hope the lady who got Janie is equally
pleased.
Thank you again for all you have done. I have just come from a family
meeting with my brother and father, and it has been decided that we
are going to have to put my mother into a nursing home. Her
Alzheimer's has progressed to a point where I just cannot cope any
more, and it is becoming more and more a strain on my husband, and
especially my teenaged daughters. So sad. However, I certainly may
take you up on your offer to get my application in so that I can adopt
one or more of your horses in the future. To tell you the truth, with
my mom leaving my home, it does feel very strange to stare at my empty
barn and pastures. I have owned a horse all my life, and I still
identify as a horse owner, even though no horses currently are in my
barn.
Thank you for being such a lifesaver for me when I really needed one.
Your organization is such a blessing.
Jann
"Celeita, you are truly an amazing woman...I've
enjoyed reading all about your military past...quite a switch to what you are
doing now."
Allison
"Hi Celeita, thank you so much for the message about
BB he was a very special boy and when I told Armand and Mark they were
remembering showing him and that brought smiles to their faces. RIP BB. Please
send my love to his family. So Glad to hear Aztec is well and is taking care
of little kids, I love it. I couldn't imagine kids riding him in his younger
days!!!! I love to look at your facebook and web site I wish we lived closer
to each other. xxxx Jane"
"God bless Omnibus, cant believe I've known you
at least 9 years and some
Celeita!! Your amazing... Jane"
Subject: Bonnie's Boy :(
Hi Celeita
Jane told me about BB this morning, we were very sad to hear that but so happy
that thanks to you guys he had a great life after us.... what a lovely horse he
was. You do a wonderful job with these animals... xxxx
Alison
--------------------
Re: Bonnie's Boy :(
Celeita
Thank you so much for the update.... I had wondered about Heaven as I had not
heard from Rhonda - she usually sent me a card each Christmas. I could not have
been happier with her placement - it gave me such joy to know that she was
helping someone else and being cared for beautifully in return. I must
send her
a note....
Don't worry , you are the first call on our list when we are looking for a place
for a horse and/or our friends' horses. It is a great system that you
have...
I hope that you are well and I enjoy reading your updates on facebook
Thanks again,
Love
Alison xx
"We've been getting the emails
from Cross Sabers Stables for a while. We have
two horses and my daughter is interested in training horses when she gets out of
college. We are really impressed with the work Cross Sabers does."
Shawn Walker
"Great Photo's!
SWAP is a WONDERFUL foundation!"
Penny Michaels
"Thank you so much for friending me on here. I adopted a QH mare from SWAP about
4 years ago and her and I have become inseparable :) She has turned out to be an
amazing girl! (Skip April 15- "April' was her name) there are some photos on her
under my photos."
Meredith Gilmore
i love SWAP...my friend got 2
horses from there...they were amazing
Amanda Shotts
Candace:
"I admire what you do and want to thank you."
from Rebecca:
"You are awesome keep up the good work!"
from Merryl:
"Let me know you got the first part of this. SJ has lots of rails and time
faults. I had a clean round. 10 efforts and I only had two
not-so-great fences
but Disney bailed me out and we were clean and clealr! Open Divisions with
Professionals and Amateurs. My Trainer was 1st (on another client's horse) with
a 19! Another Professional was 2nd with a 25. Disney and I were 3rd
with a 26!
I was/am in Heaven. I got a 26 on dressage test and had good SJ.
Next weekend
I will do a XC Schooling at a local farm and the following is my first full
Event! You do realize that you were instrumental in this. If I
couldn't find a
good home for Zephyr, I would not have gotten Disney.
from Joyce M. Kuhlman
"Amen to that. Bless you Celeita for all you do. It's people like you that
make
life worth while. Bless those who can't help themselves like the (4 legged
kind)!!!"
to Celeita and all at SWAP...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0c3gA76uPQ
This is a gem. Clinton Hammond on the fiddle and Garnet Rogers tells the story
of his song "small Victories" and then sings it ...
trust me it is awesome and spot on all
for all of us Horse rescuers
with Love
Peace and Blessings,
Aminah
some of you know i lost my farm livestock and breeeding stock last year.
Ziva is our new seed of peace and prosperity and HOPE
I just had to put in my time on the soap box when I read these two wonderful
posts. Although it has not been horses that have been a problem in my life (at
least not for me as yet,) there are still too many people in the world who fit
into one of two rather despicable categories: 1. Breeders too greedy or too
lazy to consider the welfare of the animals they are sending into the world; and
2. People who grow tired of the animals they own and decide to just "forget the
whole thing" and make those animals the problem of some other person.
I live on a lovely farm in a rural part of West Virginia. I am surrounded by
lovely farms and people in well-kept country homes. Not a week goes by that
someone doesn't drop a dog or cat, puppy or kitten (and these are usually
multiples -- litters) in the ditches and fields of my county. I know that
this is a huge headache for residents of rural counties throughout the
country. The headache (and the heartache) is increased exponentially when you
are a pet owner yourself, and a responsible, caring animal lover. I guess
these awful people just travel out from some urban area, see a farm, and
decide that the animals will be okay here since they can see that we already
own animals. Maybe they don't even have the humanity to think that much --
they just toss the animals out of the car and drive away.
Just this past week I was returning from picking up my daughters at play
practice and we came upon a litter of kittens playing in the road just about a
mile from our farm. Of course we stopped the car and picked them up. The
three little guys were obviously from a home where they were used to humans
(not just a feral litter that had a mama out hunting somewhere) because they
mewed piteously when they saw us, came to us readily, and knew how to use a
litter box. We caught them, took them to my house and fed them kitten chow
(they were starving) and gave them fresh water. They stayed the night in my
home office, shut away from my other house pets.
This story has a happy ending for the kittens because I took them to my vet
the next day and offered to pay for spays or neuters and first shots if the
vet could find them homes. Luckily he did. However, I am out at least $275
in vet costs which could have gone for winter rations for my own horses, dogs
and cats. This has happened to me with depressing regularity. I have kept as
many of these animals as I could afford, but for the others I have had to
scramble to find homes for them, and to make sure that they were "fixed" as a
pre-condition of adoption so that they could not bring other unwanted animals
into the world. I have paid for almost a dozen spays and neuters on animals
which I did not keep.
I own a dog and five cats, as well as two horses. ALL of my animals, with the
exception of my horses, were "drops." Since I have owned animals all my life,
I have also dealt with the wrenching decision to have beloved horses, dogs and
cats put down who are too sick to keep going. But as a responsible pet owner,
I accept that my life span is longer than these wonderful creatures who enrich
my life so much, and that I am responsible for their well-being for their
ENTIRE lives, not just when it is useful or convenient for me.
I guess what I am saying is that while I applaud equine, canine and feline
rescue efforts, it does anger me that irresponsible people seem to think that
they can rely on the consciences of animal lovers to solve their mistakes and
thoughtlessness when it comes to the care of these beautiful animals. Bravo
to those who care. And may a special greeting be waiting in the Hereafter for
those people who look at their litter of unwanted kittens from that cat they
didn't bother to have spayed, their annoying half-grown dog that the kids are
just not feeding or walking, or their aging unrideable horse and think "Heck,
I'll just let someone else handle this problem -- I've got better things to do
with my time and money." May they rot in Hell.
Jann Hoke
thank you .. it was a pleasure to view your site..
and read all your positive energy about animals who find loving homes they
deserve..thank you for caring so much.. sincerely Jacqueline Dravetz
Burlington Ontario Canada..
Celeita, I just wanted to say that I like your website and also to thank you
for what you doing. I've seen the most horrible abuse against horses. It's
beyond comprehension. Bless your heart for doing what you do. I pray that God
will continue to bless your efforts. ida
Ida Hägg,
AdoptaPlatoon
Executive Director
ida@adoptaplatoon.org /
adoptaplatoon@hotmail.com
www.adoptaplatoon.org
God
Bless our Peace Makers
Hi Celeita
Just visiting again and found the Saying Goodbye page. How
beautiful. Brought memories of the passing of my horse in 1965 in
Massachusetts.
The song lyrics by Garth Brooks really hit home with me. My
late husband of 26 years died after surviving 8 years of severe stroke.
Prior to the stroke, we researched and published books and music on 18th
century social dance - information that had been buried and resurfaced
during the bi-centennial in 1775. Ours was a true love story. I'm feeling
soft and squishy this morning just having learned I have Lyme Disease.
It's curable at this early detection and I'm extremely lucky to have
friends on the Lyme Education force to guide me along. This being the
first health emergency I've had to face without my husband.
So I am uplifted again by things I've read on your web
site. I can remember, again, how incredibly fortunate I was to have shared
my dance with Chip. You are doing more good to more people than you can
possible know, in more ways than just with horses.
With affection and prayers
Fran Hendrickson
Danbury, CT
Oh Fran, that is one of the sweetest letters we have ever received. How lucky
that you found the love of your life and you got to spend several years with
him, Many people can't even say that. I can't even say that and I honestly
think its too late for me now so I can't tell you how truly lucky you were to
have him for the time you had him but I can't imagine how hard it was for
you to loose him. Just so very sad but it really says a lot of good things
about you. That you were smart enough to know he was special and you did the
work to keep him and help him and be there for him at a terrible time. That
takes a really big person. The only good part about losing someone you love is
that they are always with you, all you have to do is think of them and they
will be there, guiding you and helping you along in your day, in your own
trials and even better, we will see the people and animals we have loved here
after we are gone too. What a wonderful prize after all the struggling and
pain, don't you think? Over the last year I've lost 3 of my dogs that I've had
between 12 to 15 years and that is nothing like losing a husband but I still
hurt and miss them but I know I will see them again and I really look forward
to that day.
I was feeling a little low today feeling a bit lonely so I'm sure your email
has come to me for a reason, so that I can understand that many other people
have it better and worse than me, worse than you even during this terrible
time, as I know there are parents today probably burying their sick kids or
their young son or daughter that has been killed in Iraq. I can't imagine much
to be worse than that. So you see, we help you and you help us and we both
pass it along to others and they pass it along to someone else that needs it.
How wonderful to live a life that when I am struggling that you help pull
me up and when you need a lift, there is someone who says something that
reminds you of a really special person and a wonderful time in your life or
something that helps you stay strong through your health challenges.
I have to tell you that Garth Brooks the Dance ended up on there after an
adopter lost her adoption horse and her unfoaled baby. She was so very excited
about the mare getting close to foaling, she pulled her in to get her off
fescue and she ended up getting cast in the stall at night, when they found
her she had broken her leg in 3 places, so they called the vet and had her put
down and they took the baby after she was gone and ran to Virginia Tech to try
to save the baby and after a day or so, she died as well. Of course, the
adopter was calling me all through the trauma, I'm like a grandma to a couple
thousand horses so we cried together and fretted together over what had
happened. She had a wonderful barn and super stalls, a wonderful horsey momma
and it was just one of those terrible things that just happens. Afterwards she
sent me a copy of that song saying she would go through all the pain again
just to have her back so that song has meant a lot to the both of us too. That
horse is on that page, her name was Magic Minnie, a lovely young TB mare. That
adopter still has other adoption horses of ours and every time we talk, we
can't help but talk about Minnie, she was such a special girl. That song is
amazing as it hits all of us at one time or another, its better to have loved
and lost and to not have loved at all, its a sad lesson and part of being
human.
I don't want to get metaphysical with you but I have been studying the power
of the mind and I know if you see yourself healthy and better, see this behind
you and you licking it, then you will. Get that picture in your mind of what
that looks like and how that feels and think of it often and I promise your
mind is strong enough to make it happen, the mind body connection is more
powerful than anything else, aside from say prayer. Write it down as all goals
that are written down come true, really it is so. I use that all the time and
it works. Well, I'm so glad you wrote today, your email has been a blessing
for me, more than you know. Celeita
Dear Celeita
No wonder so many people love you. I see it in their
words. You may have missed having that one true love in your life - one
never knows if it's really too late - but you have hundreds of others
who care so much about you. I admire how fiercely you fight for what you
love and are equally as tough on those who do you or the horses wrong.
That you can share this love and devotion so expansively as you travel
along your chosen path, with so many two-legged and four-legged in need,
is a tribute to your solid character. I don't mean to get mooshy but I,
as you, write from my heart.
I re-read our letters and cried openly - needing that
cleansing. Thank you. You have come into my life for a reason and I am
grateful!
The other thing I like - is exactly that metaphysical
stuff you talked about. Some powerful things have happened over the
years, but I have to trust and use it more. Actually, I live in
gratitude being so thankful for what I have, my kids and grandkidlettes,
where I live, the loves in my life, my real friends, my little dog, my
job...on and on. Rather than asking for things, I thank God, or the
Creator, of the Grandmothers, for already providing whatever it is that
I need. And I've learned to be very careful how I phrase things, or you
get what you asked for, which may or may not be what you wanted!
I'm glad we can write this way - it's a gift. Enjoy the
day tomorrow. I'm stronger for this visit!
Blessings
Fran Hendrickson
Danbury, CT
Fran, sorry I didn't get back to you immediately. The weekends I'm up to
bat in the barn so I had to do my duties and chores, we had our donkey and a
horse going to a new home and then another coming in. Its like a revolving
door here, the needs are always more than we have money or people but we are
still kicking and helping horses so magically we are surviving the economy
somehow.
Just remember you have a long list of guardian angels that are looking out for
you, helping you. Its sounds like you have been blessed in so many ways and
I'm certain there is more coming your way. Believing it makes it so. Allow
your brain to define your future and your body will follow, no matter how sick
you are right now. Pick up a book called The Magic of Believing, it was a good
reminder for me how powerful our brains and our wishes really are and what you
see is truly what you get. See yourself healthy and past this. I know you can
do it. Come back and see us sometime, we would like to hear from you when you
have beaten this as we know you will. Many Blessings to you, Celeita
I was disgusted this am to open such garbage. I thought all morning about
what I had to say. Frankly Celeita, I don't know how you could possibly work
outside the farm. I have 3 horses and would be up the creek without jaynah
and my husband. It is no small task trying to get it all done and work,
besides, what business is it of anyone elses? people are amazing, judging
others when they are on the outside looking in. It's so irritating. So
instead of opening a can of worms with people I cannot change let me just
tell you this instead. I admire you and what you do. Your animals were all
so well cared for. Your place meticulous! Your hospitality impeccable. your
heart is huge. You are a professional, and you are passionate about your
cause. You make the world a better place. And who the hell doesn't get
overwhelmed from time to time and say things that they don't truly
mean????? I have heard enough about the letting the horses go loose crap.
Let it go people, or better yet, do something to help! Oh, and maybe your
not a bad speller, just a crappy typist like me. LOL. I have no complaints.
I just wish I had your guts. Lisa Ross (and I'd really like an office with
10 different dogs by my side too!) You are so cool!
Thank you Lisa, I do appreciate knowing that the people who have actually
worked with us, either adopting, donating or volunteering do actually know us,
unlike the people on this forum. There are some bad people out there but we try
to just stay focused on the horses and what we can do for them and not worry
about the rest, though its hard when many of your closest friends are getting
emails like this and from a pro slaughter person to boot. I knew it was never
going to be a popularity contest but more a position of responsibility to the
horses and if they could talk I know they would be singing our praises. That is
the only thing that concerns me and that our friends, adopters, donors and
volunteers understand who we really are. After 23 years in the military and
another 10 in the defense industry and as a pilot for PanAm, I personally think
its time that I should be able to work for myself and choose my own boss (the
horses). I know our success has made many people mad and now they are happy we
are struggling so I'm hopeful we can be successful again just to prove them
wrong. LOL and to keep being able to help these horses that so badly need us.
The people that are complaining need to start their own programs and do this
work and then they would realize what a task it is to keep 30 to 50 horses cared
for with no regular consistent money coming in but I have a feeling they don't
have the guts to try. Our place is not perfect and certainly I have never
considered myself perfect but our heart is in the right place and we work like
crazy to do the right thing for the horses and for our clients
(adopters/donors/volunteers and supporters). Awe, I'm not going to let it bother
me, if people who know us, know us then those people do not affect us at all,
they only make us smarter and more motivated to fight through the tough times.
Its nice to know we have people that do know us and appreciate what we do. Thank
you. I'm very sorry you were subject to such antics. Celeita
You know Celeita, I'm sure I speak for All of your
adopters, but since I've had two of your horses, I have nothing but praises for
your program and the care that your horses are given. The two that I have are
well-mannered and very healthy and the best boys. I couldn't have bought them
from someone with any more assurance. Heck, if I had the room, I'd definitely
take two more!
I always tell my husband this, but the state park that is located beside our
property (Watters Smith State Park) used to have a riding stable until it was
closed some time before we moved in. It has an old barn and LOTS of pasture. I
would love to start a riding program there, but my reservations are people
interacting with the horses. I think folks would not give the horses the
respect they deserve, especially in those situations. I could imagine a lot of
your horses being very content there. But, its only a dream, but a thought.
Good luck. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your program.
Penny
celeita
what can i say...
im still in saratoga, my dad is racing at
plainridge, we only have 1 horse left. but if you want to talk or whatever let
me know....dont settle for less than you deserve...it was you that gave me the
confidence to get into this business, i had great success. i saw how you
really cared for the horses, and thats how i always treated them...
i wish you all the best...if i can be of any
help just ask
chris hogan, harness racing trainer and owner
To: Celeita
From: Rick
It was a sincere please to hear about the latest
success of your wonderful programs. Over the last year or so I lost contact
with both you and your organization. Yet..... only about sixty days or so ago
I overheard a conversation at an event in the Chicago area about your
Organization. Rest assured nothing but good things were said! I am again so
delighted for you.
Drop me a line or two and let me continue to know how
things are going.
Best of everything to you and yours.
Rick
I would like to commend you on helping abused and neglected horses. I
would also like to give you a thumbs up on your tough stand on the people
who not only lie about helping adoptive by abusing themselves and/or
letting the horses die.
I have been rescuing animals for years only I called it a simple love
of unwanted or abused animals. Even a RAT once!! I also have a story to
share. I have a friend (about to be an ex) who has PLENTY of money...
seriously.. and has a very nice 20 acre farm, lots of grass, yada yada...
When I first went to her place she had a pitiful black mut dog who's hair
was coming out.. stunk... itched and scratched terribly. Well, we were
camping there and doing a trailride and this stinky dog decided he wanted
to stay up under my horse trailer while I was there. He was just
pitiful. Another friend asked me to take the dog, I was like no way she
can afford him more than me. THEN I found out it was not just some dog,
the dog had belonged to "Angie's" Grandmother who had died. The
Grandfather brought to dog to Angie because he didn't want it. Needless
to say the dog went home with me. I did some research and started feeding
him a good dog food and keeping him washed and he got so much better. Not
sure what happened, but one day he just disappeared. At least I made his
last days good ones.
Then I rescued two horses from a girl. A friend gave the girl my name
so she called me about taking them or buying them because she couldn't
afford them anymore. I had a friend dying of pancreatic problems but
wanted another horse badly, I arranged for her to get the horse and make
payments to the owner. My friend lived a couple of years and that horse
made her so happy. It felt good to pair them up. The other little mare
was absolutely pitiful.. starved.. old... I honestly didn't know if she
would live or die. I kept her up close to the house and fed her... got
some weight on her when ANGIE asked if she could take her because she was
going to use her farm for "rescue" horses... she would keep the mare for
her nieces and nephews to ride. I let her take her, the little mare did
great on the pasture was very pretty. Well, without my knowledge Angie
gave (or sold) the mare to someone. I had told her to give the mare back
to me if she decided not to keep it. From my understanding this friend
"Angie" is getting a tax break for claiming to have a rescue farm. Is
that possible? If so... how would I find out if she is and how would I
report her? I don't even have much money and I pick up strays... I won't
even tell you about the dogs I've picked up and found homes for. Of
course "bobby" my cocker spaniel is still at my house after I picked her
up in the middle of a busy highway coming home from GA. I'm alway asking
people if they want her, last weekend I had a trailride and campout at my
house and people teased me about trying to give her away for over 2
years!! I guess she's staying.
Didn't mean to write you a book, but I do want to know how I can find
out if she really is lying about being a rescue farm when she's not.
After reading all you wrote about people on your black list it made me
even madder about how Angie does. I'm thinking about getting into
rescuing on a more serious level. I'm not rich by any means I just love
animals.
Thanks for all your help with the unloved horses, they need all they
can get. It takes a special person to be so loving to creatures of all
kinds when they don't have to be. I have a friend who is looking for a
trailhorse and I think I'm going to talk to her about adopting one. She's
cheap (as far as buying a horse) but... she takes excellent care of her
horses. She has an old gelding but she can't ride him very long anymore
and we all love to trailride for hours sometimes. Take care horseygirl,
and bless you for all you do.
Sincerely,
Debbie McReynolds
Snafu Farm
Thank you Debbie for the very kind words and Kudos to you. If we had more
people in the world like you, programs like ours would not be needed and that
is really our dream for horses and all animals. There is a place in heaven for
you, I'm certain of it. And just a note, everyone can do 'a little' rescue
work, like take in one dog or cat a year and find it a home or even every
other year. It's true it may not change the world (it would if everyone did
this) but it will certainly change the lives of those animals you saved. All
the best and thank you again for all you have done. Celeita
Hello, I am looking to adopt a horse in Wisconsin and came across your
website surfing the net.
I just wanted to let you know that your tips and the knowledge you make
available on your site are invaluable. I have bookmarked your site and I
am now looking at your library/book recommendations and will educate
myself further using these books.
You obviously put a lot of care and love into your site and I am sure
many people, even the ones who do not adopt from you, benefit from this.
Thank you and kind regards,
Stefani Harper
Great Stefani, thank you for the vote of confidence. That is certainly our
goal but its always nice to know someone agrees with us and its working. Thank
you!! All the best, Celeita
I read your bio and was extremely impressed. You lived quite the
military dream. I've only been in 3 years, about to make CPT, but I'm
ready to pursue other avenues of life. Not to sound cheesy, even though
it will despite me saying that, you are an inspiration. You are not
only living your dream, but mine as well. I could on wish one day to be
doing what you are. Helping horse lovers obtain their dreams of owning
a horse of their own at an affordable price, and giving those who donate
their animals to the program that security of knowing their animal will
get what they have earned. A good life. You may not think it, but even
to strangers, you are a role model.
Thanks for you service then and now! Will hopefully see you all next
summer.
Wow, Erin, that is the best complement I think I have ever had. I never
think about it much, there is always another horse to save or worry about but
I'm glad we are appreciated. That keeps our hearts in the right place and our
hopes that we are making a difference. I'm sure as a CPT or as a civilian
you'll do the same. Much success and do come see us when you're settled. Stay
Safe. Celeita
I just wanted to tell you I follow your site
pretty religiously. I had horses for during all of my teenage years and miss it
tremendously. I'm now pregnant and hope to give my daughter what my mom gave me,
the special partnership and friendship only offered with horses.
I'm in Argentina till next spring and only wish there was a program like this
here. It's a country full of horses but sadly many are not well taken care of
and I've not been able to find any adoption programs, the concept just doesn't
exist here.
I will be checking you out once we get settled back in the States (hopefully NC)
and in the meantime I've put a link to your site in my website even though I'm
in Argentina and will put one in my horse blog as well.
Keep up the wonderful work!
To anyone looking to give a horse a second home, or looking to find an
animal for any discipline (or just looking for a friend); look no further
than the Second Wind Adoption Program. I first met Celeita Kramer in
1998 when I adopted "Expensive Jag" from the Second Wind Adoption Program
(SWAP). He was a two year old Standardbred Stallion. And man was
he gorgeous. I adopted "Jag," had him gelded at SWAP's stable and put
under saddle there. I can not say enough about the excellent training
Jag received there - he has gone onto to fox hunting and local hunter shows
- his trainer at the Chagrin Valley Hunt Club praises his original training
he received at SWAP. Jag has always been happy and ready to learn new
things. Shortly after I adopted Jag,
I became the assistant barn manager at the Chagrin Valley Hunt Club along
side the famed head manager Mr. Howard Lewis. Mr. Lewis and myself
placed many retired show horses and hunt horses through SWAP. We also
adopted a few school horses. Our huntsman even adopted one of his
craftiest mounts from SWAP. Every horse I have seen come from SWAP's
farm has been well cared for with a shine in their eyes and coat.
Celeita Kramer sees to the care of the horses herself. This is a
tiring job, as I learned at the
Hunt Club,.. however, the animals
in the program are Celeita's passion. She, like
myself, will not lay her head in
bed until all the horses are in a clean stall with all the water and hay
they could ever want. I have stopped in to visit The Second Wind
Adoption Program on my trips south to visit family and have always, always
found clean, happy, healthy horses.
Over the years I have observed Celeita in a number of circumstances.
One year, when Celeita had an influx of
horses, rather than rationing hay, she was out scouring the country to find
quality hay for the horses. My brother actually had extra hay that
year and off he went to West Virginia with a load. Upon his arrival,
who was there to off load the bales? None other than the executor
herself, Celeita Kramer and some friends. She does it all.
Celeita was in Cleveland one year at the Merrill Lynch Hunter Jumper
Classic Grand Prix where she had a booth to promote The Second Wind Adoption
Program. Many A-Circuit trainers were there and were impressed that
a person would take such interest in finding homes for their retirees.
Not to mention the people who had been looking for new mounts found a place
they could go and hear information HONESTLY about every available horse.
One trainer commented to me, she could spend tens of thousands of dollars on
an animal with a vet check and all and not know as much about the horse as
Celeita was honestly telling people about each horse's history.
And then, there was a case I remember in TN, where an adopter did not
hold up her end of the contract. And Celeita "swooped in" and brought
the horses the woman had adopted back to SWAP's stable. We all know
she "says" she will enforce the contracts on the program's horses,.... but I
am here to say she DOES enforce them. Celeita has more than once been
forced to take such people to court. She will stop at nothing when it
comes to the horses' well being.
In closing, after "Expensive
Jag" I have adopted "Kyber Hanover" another Standardbred gelding that is a
sweet trail horse for anyone to ride. I have gone back again and again
to SWAP and I will continue to support the program's cause. And when I
am looking for another horse, I know where I will go first- The Second Wind
Adoption Program.
I look to Celeita like Super woman. And that is something I said to
my husband (a military officer) this past week. Had Major Celeita
Kramer retired from the Army and gone out and started her own business and
poured herself into that business as she has The Second Wind Adoption
Agency, we would be talking now about a millionaire. Instead, we are
talking about a woman who REALLY is a millionaire of her soul. How
many of us do what makes us happy, regardless of how much of our own time
and money it takes?! What made Celeita a success in the military has
made her a success in life. She has passion and the discipline to do
what is right.
If I can ever answer anyone's questions regarding the Second Wind
Adoption Agency or Major Celeita Kramer, please email me:
Bethdombo@aol.com
Thanks,
Beth A. Large-Dombrowsky
Thanks, Celeita
I hope your LA horses are safe. I
have two stalls open here in case they need to evacuate, though it’s a long
ride. I don’t know what their aftermath situation will be. I suspect they
got hit hard. Damn.
Your “executor” page is amazing.
You’re an amazing woman. I hope you produce videos of some sort, horse or
other related. Or, a web page for your training ideas. You have more worldly
experience by your young age than most folks by the time they pass onto more
heavenly pastures. I believe you have a tremendous wealth of knowledge and
earthly wisdom to impart and it’d be a shame not to share it. You’re a
wonderful leading example for women that anything can be accomplished with
courage and determination.
When you’re ready for a vacation
I’d love to have you come visit here. I have enough bedrooms that you will
have a room of your own and the “herd” can double up. Attached is a picture
of the kitchen I designed for the apartment attached to the house. I have a
guest room in it with your name on it
J.
You’re a special woman, Celeita. What you’re doing for horses is amazing. I
forward your auction info to the horse group I’ve started here “Collier Trail
and Saddle Club” and to members on the East Coast of Florida who are members
of larger groups. I wish I had more money now to spend on Zahara. I’ve had
to invest in the kids and their Dad. They were falling through the cracks and
bordering on being split up and sent to foster care and adoption because of
lack of support and finances. Now they’re getting close to being reunited…I
hope.
Take care,
Elizabeth
Elizabeth, Your such a
sweetheart. You always give me my own second wind, right when I need it.
Its a great thing you are doing
for kids..... they do often get lost in the shuffle, much like horses.
I would love to
come to visit. I'd just about give my right arm to go sailing again. I keep
thinking about it and continue to find it hard to get off the farm. :( The
down side of doing this work. If you adopted it would be great to be able to
bring the horse down myself though.... I'll think about that for sure.
Well, just think
about it. Bandit is also a wonderful horse that anyone can enjoy and he can
jump too. He needs a good home too. Celeita
Celita,
Your
message brings tears of joy to my eyes. I’ve had a difficult day and knowing
my heart touched yours touched mine and now my night is wonderful. Thank you.
Somewhere in all of our hearts I believe there’s a tear for all the horses
that are unloved, mistreated and unwanted. You allow all of us to rest well
knowing someone with a huge heart is saving many of them. You’ve inspired me
and I am proud to spread the word about you and your adoption farm. I really
hope you can stay afloat. I think what you do is so important that I couldn’t
feel good about it if you had to give it all up.
When I
read your resume I was stunned at how much background you have for this. It’s
like you were born and raised to teach others about horses and their spirit,
to add kindness to the horses’ lives and to the horse world. You’re so young
to be turning around and giving back. Usually people’s lives are used up and
spent by the time they turn around and do some good in the world. You’re a
living example of making it a life fulfilling work of love, while you still
have plenty to give. You may not hear from many about how you touch them,
just by doing what you’re doing. Most folks just get a good feeling, smile,
and keep going on their own path. I believe most of us want and need to be
inspired. We aren’t fed by most of what life in America is about now. I
believe touching a life like the one you’re leading changes people subtly into
being more generous themselves. I really hope you can keep going. If for any
reason you choose a different path I’m sure it will be another turn on the
road that is about an extraordinary woman living an extraordinary life and
being a guiding light for others just by living your life well.
I’ve
wanted to say this to you for a while. Sometimes the words flow better than
other times. I really believe the right things and the right people and
experiences find you and come to you when everything lines up right. If the
timing is right for Zahara to be here with me it’ll happen, if it’s win-win
for you, for her, for me and the kids. If it isn’t right nothing I’ve said is
diminished. I really do trust that I’m on the right path doing the right
thing with the right people and for the right reasons. I haven’t always been
so calm and sure. If it isn’t right for you for the money I have now I know
it’ll work out differently and be perfect when the right horse comes for me.
Either way I hope you do visit. You’re welcome here any time.
Elizabeth
Dear Celeita Kramer,
Thank you for the tours of your facility. I am very
impressed with your program. As you know my first
visit was mid summer just after you had received a
ship of rescues horses. Those poor animals were so
skinny and miss treated that it was amazing that any
of them would survive. The next trip was late summer
then early winter, at that time the "rescues horses"
looked fat and shiny. These horses are a walking
testament to your program. Only with great care and
love can animals in such horrific condition turn
around so quickly.
I was also impressed with the cleanliness of the barn
and quality of your feeding program.
As you know I have ridden and competed in dressage for
a number of years. And due to the fact that I was a
career Naval Officer I have seen many barns and
stabling situations, and I can assure you that yours
is near the top.
Sincerely yours
Captain B.E.Jones, Ret. USNR
To Celeita Kramer, Executor:
I am truly blessed and humbled to know you! Keep up the great work!
Semper fi & God bless...
Major General Randy West, USMC (Ret)
Celeita,
If anyone hasn't told you lately (and if
they haven't, maybe too busy), you are one super young lady.
My sister doesn't surf much and cries when
I tell her what you have devoted your life to.
Thanks for the Humane Society info and
link. I regret not sending you a donation up to this point-you are so
sincere and hard working to care for our friends. I routinely give to the
Humane Society (and to be honest-by mail-have not been to their
site), Legal Defense Fund, ASPCA, and recently Red Cross and Feed the
Children. New Orleans-how sad and devastating. Anyway, thanks for the
Humane Society info-I will earmark money to them (but only in your
name-again-you do so much).
I would still like to sneak down once in a
while on the weekends to volunteer-will help clean, nail (borderline
handy), groom and learn.
Thanks for the inspiration.
Michael
Michael, Thank you so much. Its always nice to be appreciated. We would
accept your donations or volunteering with open arms. Just let us know when
you want to come. We will always find something for you to help us with as
we rarely have volunteers come in to help us but they are always needed. So
very sweet to think of us, thank you.
Glad to hear you are involved in helping from Katrina. Such devastation
and so many animals dieing just horrible deaths. I hope many were saved and
their owners were able to find them. Its just so sad.
Take care and thank you again, Celeita
Dear Celeita,
I hope this email reaches you. I happened to call you
today not knowing
anything about you, your farm or adoption program. I happened to be
viewing
the Petfinder website. Upon discovering your phone number at that point, I
picked up the phone and called before doing my homework.
After having more time this evening to explore your wonderful
website, I
must admit how embarrassed I now feel not knowing at the time I was speaking
to "THE CELEITA KRAMER". I was intrigued reading your bio. What an
astounding person you are and in all that you have accomplished! How
amazing! You are to be commended for all your hard work not only with your
love of animals but with your civilian and military career as well.
I can appreciate your love of animals. I too love them
dearly. My
favorites are dogs and horses. I have had dogs all my life and currently
have three. Even though I have never owned a horse, I have always admired
them and would ride every chance I got.
I appreciate your time in reading this email and would very
much love hearing from you any suggestions.
Sincerely,
Susanne Wills
I have never in my life seen such a fantastic and
comprehensive equine site. It is just absolutely full of information,
detail, easy to follow and your wonderful poems are an inspiration.
This is the most beautiful website I have ever seen.
Pamela J. Garron
Well, that is the sweetest thing I think we've ever heard. Thank you. We
love our work but its always nice to be appreciated. Thank you again, Let us
know if we can help you at all.
Celeita
realname: Eileen Gray
url: www.horsetown.org/eileen
city: O neals
state: CA
country: USA
comments:
Good things come to those who wait :-)
I am sending a $ donation today. God bless your rescue efforts!!!
Bravo, Thank you Eileen. I guess you noticed... we really need
donations now. Thank you!
I loved
your web site. I hope to own a horse one day. Horses are
my passion. For me it's the month to month bill. When I'm
ready financially, I will be calling you. I fell in love with so
many of the horses on your web site.
I do
beginning level Dressage and would love to go out on the trails more.
I'm also studying natural horsemanship.
I will
recommend you to all caring people.
Cynthia
D'Aquino
Thank you Cynthia, Good luck with all your endeavors and
definitely call us when you are ready to adopt. Its always nice to be
appreciated.
Below is the result of your feedback form. It was submitted by
tia greca (tiagreca@comcast.net) on Sunday, February 05, 2006 at 20:24:49
Message: I stumbled across your website and I must say that I am over come
by emotions. The best and worst page of 2005, especially the worst brought
me to tears. Seems that everything beautiful humans touch.. we ruin, destroy
and hurt. Thank you for such a wonderful page. Your 2006 resolutions were so
heartfelt.. if I can live by one of those.. I shall be a much happier
person. No matter what.. keep up your good works, you shall be rewarded.
Sincerely, Tia Greca
Dear Second Wind -
It is amazing to me that there are still people in this world that
treat horses so poorly. However, equally as amazing are people such as
yourselves who dedicate their lives to rescue and rehabilitation of these
animals. Every horse, no matter their breeding or confirmation or past, is
good for something. Every horse deserves to really live.
I wanted to let you know how great it feels to see that someone is
openly speaking out against these horrible people.
- Jinn Schroeder
Grande amoureuse des chevaux, je ne peux que vous féliciter de ce que vous
faites. Grace a vous, des centaines de chevaux retrouvent un foyer et de
l'amour. Bravo!!
J'espčre que vous continuerez pendant encore longtemps.
Avec tout mon respect,
Camille Marcon, Nîmes, France
Here is the translation:
"Being a true horse lover, I would like to congratulate you for what you do.
Because of you, hundreds of horses find a home and love. Congratulations !!
I hope you'll keep on going for a long time.
With all my respect,
Camille Marcon, Nimes, France"
Thank you for all you do for these horses! I would love to have a fundraiser
for you soon. Keep up the great work, you are awesome!
Susan Grause
Loveland, OH USA - Monday, January 23, 2006 at 08:24:46 (EST)
Outstanding work you all do! Keep it up. I've been checking in on your site
about every evening for quite sometime. Looking for a pair of beginners for the
girls.
Jim Moore
Sistersville, WV USA - Sunday, January 22, 2006 at 22:49:18 (EST)
i think this work is wonderful i love to see how you have transformed the
horses through time keep up the good work!!!!
hayley Ironsidde
aberdeen, scotland - Tuesday, January 03, 2006 at 12:09:09 (EST)
Great site! Your work is wonderful with trying to help find homes for the
horses, and the educational resources. Keep up the great work! Sharon
www.coolfitwear.com
Sharon
Sewickley, PA USA - Sunday, December 11, 2005 at 03:29:34 (EST)
THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I AM READING YOUR WEB-SITE I THINKS ITS GREAT LOVE TO
SEE HOW THE HORSES WERE BEFORE AND THEN THE AFTER PICTURES. THOSE HORSES ARE
LUCKY TO HAVE PEOPLE LIKE YOU. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
gracie girl
fresh meadows, ny USA - Friday, December 09, 2005 at 18:41:37 (EST)
Wonderful site. I've been visiting this site sense I was about 12. I'm only
16 now, but I've been coming here for four years. It's a daily check in for me.
You're doing a wonderful job with these horses. It's very impressive! You really
do change the lives these horses might face if they had never come to you. It's
a gift, from God. Never give up, he will provide as it is needed. I hope your
winter hay comes in without any problems. Kaitlin Nova Scotia ,Canada.
Kaitlin
NS Canada - Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at 15:31:42 (EDT)
What ya'll are doing is amazing, your program is truly God sent! Thank you! I
hope to be in a position to adopt in the coming months. I learned of your
organization from the article in the Ladies Home Journal. I have been around
horses my entire life, I don't remember not having horses in my life. My dad is
a retired farrier and I grew up barrel racing, competing in HS Rodeo and then
onto College Rodeo. Keep up the good work and again God Bless you!
Misty Bishop
Lakeland, Fl USA - Sunday, October 16, 2005 at 11:24:44 (EDT)
Wow- so much to look at that I've been here for several hours and still have
marked it to come back!!! You've really peaked my interest in adopting. I have
just "rescued" two horses from someone who did not properly care for them and am
too busy right now figuring out how to be a horse owner to adopt at this present
time, but will definitely consider it in the future. I am a first time owner so
I am not very knowledgeable about horses-YET!- but "Po" & "Chili" are great
teachers. I loved your information on the clinics and would like to attend your
beginners class! Also, I especially loved the clear, concise descriptions of the
horses with the beautiful pictures- it would really help anyone narrow it down
who was thinking of adopting. It is so wonderful to know there are people in
this world with a heart for animals like all of you! Thanks!!!
Pamela Garnica
Blythewood, SC USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 23:40:48 (EDT)
Reach over, pat yourself on the
back...you never know what paths in the past reach to the future....
Some day when you have nothing to
do for a few hours (lol) check out her website. It is the most extensive
website I have ever attempted to navigate. HOURS... we have hauled only
one horse from them and the new horse owners were raving about her.
Cyndy Salek
Miller Farms Equine Transport
WOW spent an hour
on her site last night. I'm impressed. She sure has come a long way since
she opened back in 96. My how time does fly. Her mission has changed from
what she started out to do, the adoptions were just a small part of her
original program but my how she has focused. A gold star for Celeita
Dear Crossed Sabers-
“Saving the life of one horse may not change the world, but the world will
surely change for that one
horse.” How true. A beautiful website! It brought back many
wonderful memories from long ago.
My question- I have been looking for a movie I saw several years ago about
Eastern European or central Asian horses. In looking thru the many websites
today it may be about Przewalski's Horses. I also vaguely
remember something about it being associated with a 20th century
war and the countrymens efforts to protect the horses. It was in the vein of
“In Pursuit of
Honor”
which stared Don Johnson and about that time frame (1995). While this
question is not directly related to the thrust of your website, it was a GREAT
movie with incredible riding sequences. I am in hopes I am not the only one
who saw this movie.
Thank you once again for the effort and anything you can do on the question.
Respectfully,
Donald K Morris
Arlington, TX
Great Web site, Keep up the great work!!
bluett jones
Cuba, NY USA - Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at 21:30:31 (EDT)
Yeah, but
you know, you are in the power position, so you will always be under
attack. Same here. I am the boss and the owner and the one taking checks
from the boarders. We do a lot of talking and discussing at the farm and
still stuff goes on. With your business, no one really gets to know you
or talk to you on a regular basis, and they forget what your goals are.
They just want what they want. some with integrity and some without. It
is hard to know even with a face to face. don't lower your standards --
raise them and they will follow. Really!
Janet
Bravo.... Good point. I'll remember this when someone is attacking me again
for my high standards in order to protect the horse for life. Thank you for
reminding me. Celeita
|
Good afternoon,
I'm sorry to hear about your uncertain future with the farm. I hope it is
not too late to have done so, but I've started a little email campaign for
donations for you. I've heard a bit of favorable responses, so far - so if
it's not too late, hang on and let's see what happens. You are not alone.
|
| Thank you!,
From serving our
country to serving our horses, you deserve a big thank you! Have a
great weekend with family and friends.
May God Bless
you - Diana |
|
|
 |
|
|
I just wanted to drop you a note to let you
know you are doing a great job and touch more lives than the horses you take
care of and adopt out...I was out with my husband looking for a place to board
and trail ride (before finding the horse) and we stumbled upon a place with
lots of working cowhorses. The lady that owned it mentioned that she had a
horse for sale if we wanted to look. My husband saw this gorgeous bay gelding
in a field and fell in love--I saw a clumsy looking bigheaded horse (I've
always favored Arabians). She said he was a 17H Standardbred. As everything
unraveled, she needed to get rid of him quickly to pay vet bills and was about
to send him to auction! He had not been ridden in months, and we quickly
noticed how "rough" they dealt with all of their horses. I have no doubt she
was sending him to auction or worse. That was a month ago, and we now own
Todaysmyluckyday, my own 6 year old rescue story. Your site and the
information on it opened up my mind to Standardbreds! Thank you very much,
and keep up the good work! He is now at a wonderful stable that appreciates
animals for the friends they are, and we are retraining him for english
pleasure and hunter/jumper!
Thank You!!
Kim
Bravo Kim for doing what you are doing.
Standardbreds are the "new warmblood", laid back, sensible but yet very
athletic and can do anything with training. If every horse owner would do what
you're doing, we wouldn't need programs like ours. Even taking one home in
need, getting it better, rehabbed and trained and selling it is even better
than leaving a horse in a bad situation, at least your giving the horse a
chance. Thank you Kim for your kind words about SWAP. It is a labor of
love and I can't say we are experts but we have learned so much, learning
something new every day. Much luck with your new boy and thank you for
what you have done for this boy. It doesn't change to world when saving the
life of one horse but it changes the world for that one horse!! Celeita
Hi,
I am in LOVE
with Harry. I have been watching him for months now. I truly believe
STBs are the most versatile horses in existence today. Although, growing
up on a Standardbred farm, I may be biased. Sadly, at this time with a
new baby, I know adopting him would be an injustice to him. Can you
please give me some idea on how much it costs per year for y'all to house
& feed one horse. I do understand that he is not with you, but maybe my
family could help one horse. Rocket's a beauty too, although not a STB;-)!!
Thanks, and good luck with everything. Y'all do such wonderful work, and
we'd like to give back to you.
Sincerely,
Val Ouillette
Val, How sweet. We
have sponsorships for $50. and $75. a month, $75. covers everything. Thank you
so much for thinking about us. Harry is the cutest isn't he? Did you see the
drawing by the little girl that is in love with him in Virginia. She wants him
too and can't have him but we love her drawings,.... we think her drawings
give us good luck for finding the horse a home so we are hoping it helps with
Harry. I keep waiting for his foster mom to adopt him. She has fell in love
with him too. It happens to the best of us. :) Celeita
Celeita, I
wish I could help but I'm on social security now and it is all I can do to
feed us and our three horses. I wish you all the luck in the world on your
effort to hold on to the farm. I know how hard you have worked on it and
the love you have for the horses and other animals. People like you only
come around once in a while so I hope you make it. I'm almost completely
disabled now so my wife now takes care of my beloved horses and me.
God bless
you,
Joe S. Price
Crosby,
Texas
Home of the
Tornado
I totally understand Joe and always
appreciate your kind words and support. Thank you for always being there as
our friend and for giving Tornado such a wonderful home. Celeita
Hello,
I
was forwarded your email from a friend about your maybe having to sell your
farm. While I am not able at this time to donate a lot of financial Aid I
would certainly like to help in some way. Could you please send me the phone
number again of the Southern States near you so that I may buy some feed for
the horses? What type of grain do you prefer?
Please keep up the good work!!! My heart and soul goes out to you! I once
adopted a App - had to pay for her and she was in worst shape than the one on
your website. I got her back to good health and she lived to be over 25yrs old
what a great horse she was!! I sure hope you all can keep your farm going.
Please add me to your "email list" of newsletters you send out.
Paige McGhee
Swift Knoll Farm
- Isabella and Jerry
Restani
- 8903 Voula Lane
- Wilton, CA 95693
Re:
Second Wind Adoption Program and our Horse Turnberry Scott “Turner”
As you
can see from our address we live in California, a long way from West
Virginia. I first learned about the Second Wind Adoption Program thru our
Cleveland Bay Horse Chat Group. Many of the CB owners have used this program to
adopt horses for both riding and breeding purposes. It was said that this
program gives honest descriptions and evaluations of listed horses and that
there were not hidden surprises but that the application process scarred some of
the CB members because of its length and detail.
I went on
line, looked at the listings of horses and then went to the application part.
Initially it seemed overwhelming until you really looked at it and realized that
no you did not have to be an artist to draw your facility and to explain the
questions asked about horse care. I think that this is a good application
because only those sincere will take the time to go through the entire process.
The cost of adopting the horses is very reasonable. Of course if you live close
by it is down right cheap! We found the horse perfectly suited for our needs.
Celeita and staff kept in constant communication and did not misrepresent any
detail about this horse. Our goal for this horse was to have our 10 year old
granddaughter show and jump him. We were able to call the barn and speak
directly with the staff that had hands on riding and working with our boy
Turner, and we were able to get a feel for him and for his attitude. Even after
the first transport that we booked canceled, we were able to have their staff
provide exercise for our horse until the next transport could be arranged. I
paid all fees using Pay Pal which was very convenient for me. Because we live
in California and adopted a large 17h TB which required a stall and a half the
cost was $1500. to transport so combined with the adoption fee of $900.00 the
total cost of our horse was $2,400.00. A cheap cost for what we got!! The
program provided our horse with all necessary paper work and even included a
halter for transport, things couldn’t have been easier.
Turnberry
Scott “Turner” arrived at midnight with his complete file and documentation of
owner history, staff evaluations, medical records etc. We were happy to find
out that his previous owner wanted communication with us. We have been chatting
over the Internet on a weekly basis. It was also nice to see that this horse
had a value placed on him by the owner because of his extensive training much
greater than we ever expected. His training background proved true as stated.
He knew dressage but went of an actual foxhunt as well as competed in
hunter/jumper events. We have truly found a horse that not only shows but also
is sweet and gentle and can be trail ridden for pleasure. My friends were non
supportive of this adoption and were of the opinion that anything up for
adoption must be trouble and can’t be trusted. They are now eating their
words and we are smiling from ear to ear. Thank you Second Wind for providing
the facility for adoptee and adaptors to unite.
Sincerely,
Jerry and
Isabella Restani
Hi Guys,
I've enjoyed your website...I have been involved with Standardbreds for around
13+ years now and supporting rescue/rehoming retired Standardbreds for the past
several years. As I read through your website I noticed Evelyn's name. I though
you might enjoy knowing the whereabouts of 2 of Evelyn's 'adoptees'.
Over 10 years ago we adopted 2 horses from her. One became my beloved and
cherished partner in all things - a little on the snarky side when we got her
(to put it nicely <G>) this horse eventually became my everything. It was with
incredible pain that we buried her last year when she died a natural death in
her late 20's. It still doesn't seem right that she is gone - we jumped event
courses, drove in harness, even won placements in large western pleasure
classes. I cried on her mane and laid on her back just thinking sometimes. She
was my conspirator one Halloween as we dressed up and reenacted the Headless
Horseman. Everyone still remembers the Christmas parade where a giggling
cheerleader stuffed a pompom in her face - she never broke stride, just grabbed
it, chewed on it a bit then spit it out with an audible "PPPTHEW!" much too the
hysterical laughter of everyone along the sidelines....that probably best fits
her personality! I can't even begin to count the miles we covered just
meandering along trails.
The second horse became the family favorite and my husband's trusted trail
horse. He is still with us today, a dappled bay who is enormously spoiled and
unbelievably trusting and willing to do anything you ask him. He too is a bonded
part of our family and will remain with us for the rest of his life. He has
carried young children on trails, jumped courses with my then teenage sister,
and competed in barrel races with my husband. He didn't even object to the big
red bow and Santa hat he was outfitted with for several area Christmas parades
one year. A friend of ours in 'farrier school' asked to practice on him and was
astounded when he picked up his own hoof and stretched it out in mid-air, then
looked back as if to say "Well? Are you going to shoe it or gawk?". Today he
mostly enjoys a periodic trail ride and badgering guests for handouts. He can
hear a carrot being snapped in half all the way inside and WILL be waiting at
the gate for it when you get out there! And he is teaching a 2nd generation
about horses with my God-daughter.
Anyway - I will cheerfully babble on forever and plague you with photos about
our beloved horses. *LOL* But knowing how much I LOVE knowing how a rescued
adoptee has fared, I thought you might especially enjoy knowing these two were
wonderfully placed and still very much loved. If it hadn't been for Evelyn we
would never had had these two and I can't imagine life without them now.
Take care and best wishes for the continuing wonderful work you are doing!!
Kady
Hi,
My name is Melissa Beckwith and my father trains Standardbred harness
horses. We have a web site for our farm now and I'm just writing to let
you know that I made a link to your web site from our Standardbred
adoption page. I also wanted to let you know that I admire what you are
doing, saving and placing these horses with good homes. We have had so
many horses that have really had too much of the racing world and just
needed a loving home, some of these have been fortunate enough to have
owners that could be talked into retiring them and placing them into homes
for life, instead of continuing with them and seriously breaking them
down. Some day I hope to be able to run an adoption program like you have
and help to make a difference in more lives of horses and the lives
of people who adopt them. We need more adoption programs like yours.
Thank You,
Melissa Beckwith
Thank you Melissa, we love emails
like this... it keeps us all going. We love standardbreds and love getting
them into the program. What a wonderful breed. Most of them get placed into
homes with people that have no horse experience and they are so kind they
teach their families about horses. At first I was really nervous about placing
any horses into beginner homes, but they are beginners that want to learn,
which helps. The standardbreds want to please so much, they do well in this
environment. I find it amazing but most of the family members are out riding
trails in no time with them. I rarely turn away a standardbred because they
can do so many jobs so easily. We do love them. Thank you again, we work hard
to do the right thing. We aren't perfect but we do always have the horse in
mind. Let me know when you are ready to get started with your
retirement/adoption program just let me know, I've helped several programs get
trained and get started and on their feet. Celeita
Your program is a very
worthwhile cause and very highly regarded by many people who aren’t even
affiliated with it. Thank you for finding Country a good home.
Jen
Hello, just
wanted to type a quick thank you note for your reply to my inquiry. Also, I
wanted to say that I printed your application and while my eyes got a bit
wide at the number of pages printing (smile), I was very favorably impressed
with your application. I have not yet had time to sit down and really fill
it out but...Very nice job. If everyone took the time to think through
those points prior to adopting any animal, we'd have a lot more long-term
homes.
Keep up the
good work and I will try to get that application done in short order.
Shirley
Thank you Shirley, I wish everyone
thought like you. We are as unhappy about reading all those applications as
you all are filling them out but we do feel that its necessary to find the
best homes. I promise you can do it in one afternoon if you have horse
experience. Let me know if we can be of help at all. Celeita
I was interested in some of your
horses, but after reading your app. I think you adoption center is
discriminating against people, because of money and past credit. it
doesn't matter what your earn a year if you know how take care of the
animal. I myself earn 60000.00+ a year not that its any of your
business. and have worked with horses all my life, from racehorses to
tenn. walking horse, I also shoe and float my horses teeth, I do allot
of my own vet. work. my credit is bad, does that make me a bad horseman,
I think not. I think you should consider being a little less concerned
with peoples fiancés, and focus on the horses and getting them adopted
by people that know how to raise and train them.
thank you,
Chris
Chris, we've had people adopt
that have filed bankruptcy and who have had bad credit so I don't know what
you are looking at but the only requirement we have is that the adopter must
make 25k and provide a stable home and we even look at less when they have
their farm paid for and stuff like that.
Don't you think that people
should be financially stable to have horses? I can promise you as a person
who cares for 30 horses around the clock, you can do all you can do yourself
but you must still be able to manage money and be financially stable to
provide a good home for a horse. You know how much it costs to have a
horse when you can't do all those things yourself and depending on
where you live, do you want someone taking your beloved horse that you have
raised and toiled over all its life to someone who have 5 kids and made 4k
last year??? Well, we get those kinds of applications. We are looking for
responsible people. We realize that 50% of all people get divorced and a bad
credit report is part of many divorces but your bank and car dealers look at
those things. Do you think a mortgage or car is more important than a living
breathing animal who totally depends on the person we send the horse to? We
had two people adopt last year who had filed bankruptcy last year and had terrible
credit but everything else was good, good job, good stability, stable home,
good facilities, good knowledge and signs of good management of their life
so we accepted them as an adopter, but if they have bad credit have no
stability in their home or job, have terrible facilities and no knowledge,
then if you were the original owner of the horse would you want your horse
to go to someone totally unstable? What we are doing is so much more
important than giving someone a vehicle or a mortgage and we really need
people to understand that. If they can't then there are hundreds of ways to
help horses, not just with our program. We see and I know you see people all
the time that don't care for their horses or their dogs and cats... and they
may make a lot of money, that is not a sign of care but a sign that they
have the money coming in, not necessarily that they will spend the money on
the horse even when they do have it so there is even more question and trust
me, we've seen people who have millions who don't feed their horses and care
for their animals so money is not the whole story, it is only part but if a
person doesn't manage money well, do you want to give them an expensive
hobby?
I'm sorry that you feel that way
you do but we want to be able to sleep at night and not have to think about
the adopter that didn't feed our horse or abused them, or neglected them
because they are basically irresponsible people, because they have always
mismanaged money, because they make 60 and spend 100k every year. We don't
want to have to think about the horse that died with an adopter we selected. When
you have that on your shoulders with regards to the thousands of horses
we've put into homes you might think differently. Celeita
Second Wind Adoption Program
"See the Vision, Live the Dream"
I had a chance to go through your site at length
Celeita.
My ignorance astounds me; I never knew.
It makes me feel better to be a member of a human race that includes people
like you and the other members of SWAP.
My hat is off to you and my heart goes out to you. I wish you all the best
of luck.
I loved your poetry on your front page and I've seen the pictures of the
facility on your gallery page. I can see and feel your happiness.
God bless,
Pat Turner
Patrick Turner
PT Digital Studios
Celeita - When I look at the horses on your "Rescue Page," I'm just amazed
at how beautiful these poor neglected critters can be with a little TLC and
some good nutrition. It is good to know that dreadful neglect can be
reversed. Pat Pape
Hey Pat, I know isn't it amazing. Of course, that is only a hand
full of our rescues, we've had close to 90 now but many of those were from two
large ones. One with 42 horses and one with 31 horses all at once. The rest have
been horses that prosecuting attorneys have taken from people and some even went
to jail (yea). I wish I would have taken pictures of all of them when they
arrived at our barn but some were so bad I couldn't stand looking at them, just
was thinking about getting them fed and cleaned up as most are covered in lice.
Its all very sad but its wonderful to be able to turn them around and see them
go to a great home like Meg did. Some of our adopters and fosters have been big
parts of helping us do that. Its the most expensive work and it will break your
heart daily but its also the most rewarding. I'm glad to know people are going
to that page so they understand what a change can take place with good care and
some of those "after" pictures were just taken 6 months after the "before" so it
doesn't take long. In about a year, they can be back to 100%. Celeita
Dear Second Wind,
I just want to let you know that I am always still looking at your site. I
wish that I could afford more than the one horse that I have, but having
her in a boarding situation is extremely expensive.
My reason for this e......that poem "Baggage" is wonderful. It brought
tears to my eyes, and I couldn't help but equate it with my mare. 17yrs
old and sold and resold..etc...etc..sold, because as she has grown older,
her capabilities have also grown older. Well, I'm here to tell anyone that
will listen...I have grown older too. My capabilities are not what they
were at 20, 30, or even 40! I have been through a divorce, support myself
(on not a lot of money). But, my animals, NO MATTER WHAT will NOT go
anywhere. And it burns me to see horses adopted from your site and in months
or maybe a year returned. Oh what a throw a way society we have become.
Divorce...baloney....your animals are the ones that can get you through the
tough times....find a way. Fancy clothes, I have none, fancy truck, I
have none, fancy food, I eat none. Find a way!
Name withheld
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Every Dream Starts with a Single Step, Take Your Step Today!
Women from History Who Dared To Change the World (credit: O Magazine)
600 B.C. TO 200 B.C.: Tribes of statuesque women (and men) roam
the Eurasian steppes. The fearsome Amazons of myth? Not exactly. But
archeological evidence suggests that among these nomads, the women were the
warriors.
Circa 39: Dynamic sister duo Trung Trac and Trung Nhi amass a
Vietnamese army in a revolt against Chinese rule. For four years, they lead
the rebellion.
Circa 395: Fabiola, a Roman aristocrat whose divorce and subsequent
remarriage were condemned by Christian society, founds a hospital for the
poor and other outcasts of her city. It's likely one of the first hospitals
in the Western world.
Circa 1001: Murasaki Shikibu begins writing The Tale of Genji,
an epic portrait of court life (twice as long as War and Peace),
considered by many to be the greatest masterpiece of Japanese literature and
possibly the world's first novel.
1429: Peasant girl Joan of Arc commands the French army in a series
of victorious battles to liberate her homeland from the English; she is
burned at the stake for her trouble.
Circa 1579: Grace O'Malley, a swashbuckling Irish pirate known for
raiding ships, fights off an English government expedition sent to stop her.
Circa 1613: In her graphically violent painting Judith Slaying
Holofernes, Italian artist Artemisia Gentileschi slays the ideal of
submissive womanhood: Her heroine is fierce, powerful, and ruthless.
1777: Teenager Sybil Ludington rides all night long through a storm
to alert the 400 men in her father's militia that the redcoats are coming.
She's called the female Paul Revere—but Paul rode with two of his buddies.
And he was captured by the British.
1805: Sacagawea joins Lewis and Clark as their expedition's
interpreter, traveling thousands of miles across the Rockies with her
newborn babe strapped to her back. Who says life ends when you have kids?
1814: As the British torch Washington, D.C., First Lady Dolley
Madison remains in the White House long enough to rescue historic
valuables—running out moments before the soldiers charge in.
1862: Sarah Rosetta Wakeman, just 19 and dressed as a man, enlists in
the Union Army. In a letter home, she assures: "I don't fear the rebel
bullets nor I don't fear the cannon."
1867: Ida Lewis rescues three drowning men from wind-whipped swells
in Newport Harbor. Then she rows back to save their sheep. Ida later
becomes the country's first female lighthouse keeper.
1872: Victoria Claflin Woodhull becomes the first woman to run for
president. A colorful candidate, she advocates for free love.
1906: Madam C.J. Walker hawks shampoos and serums door-to-door. The
orphaned daughter of former slaves, she becomes one of America's
wealthiest businesswomen.
1912: Astronomer Henrietta Swan Leavitt discovers the
period-luminosity relationship (later used to calculate the distances
between Earth and the stars).
1914: Barnstorming adrenaline junkie Georgia "Tiny" Broadwick makes
the first-ever free fall from a plane.
1916: In a tenement neighborhood in Brooklyn, Margaret Sanger opens
the doors of the country's first birth control clinic. Outside at least
150 women are waiting.
1916: Movie star Mary Pickford insists on becoming her own
producer. America's Sweetheart is no sucker.
1937: Amelia Earhart disappears on the ultimate adventure—her
attempt to fly around the globe. In a note to her husband, she explains:
"I want to do it because I want to do it."
1938: Anna Mary Robertson Moses sells her first paintings, at age
78. Known as "Grandma" Moses, she continues to paint for 23 years,
becoming one of the century's most renowned folk artists.
1941: Protofeminist superhero Wonder Woman first appears in a comic
book, fighting off Fascists in star-spangled hot pants.
1946: Super-geekette Dorothy Hodgkin cracks penicillin's chemical
makeup with an X-ray crystallographer. (Eighteen years later she'll earn
the Nobel Prize.)
1953: Jackie Cochran flies an F-86 Sabre jet through the sound
barrier. She learned to fly so she could travel around selling cosmetics,
but it turns out trashing speed records is a lot more fun.
1959: On the edge of the Serengeti Plain, Mary Leakey digs up and
pieces together a 1.7-million-year-old hominid skull, one of the most
important finds in the history of archeology.
1960: At the Rome Olympics, Wilma Rudolph (left)—once partially
paralyzed by polio—earns three gold medals in track-and-field, the first
American woman to do so.
1963: Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova becomes the first female
to fly a spacecraft around the globe.
1967: Kathrine Switzer dares to run the all-male Boston Marathon,
while an irate race official chases her.
1981: Alexa Canady becomes the first black female neurosurgeon in the
United States.
1985: Just 175 miles from the Iditarod finish line, Libby Riddles
heads into a blizzard when other mushers opt to stay in camp; this gives her
a six-hour lead and, ultimately, the win.
1989: Performance artist Karen Finley smears her body with chocolate
to illustrate that women are treated like, you know, dirt. The National
Endowment for the Arts rescinds her funding, but she ultimately gets it
back.
2005: Roz Savage quits her corporate job, leaves her unraveling
marriage, and rows across the Atlantic by herself. Midlife crisis averted.
2008: Sandra Andersen, a barista at a Starbucks in Tacoma,
Washington, learns that one of her customers needs a kidney to live. So she
gives the woman hers.
2009: Navigator Ann Daniels leads the Catlin Arctic Survey, a 74-day
journey from the Arctic Ocean to the North Pole to measure the thickness of
sea ice.
******************* The Warmth of A Horse
When your day seems out balance...
and so many things go wrong ...
When people fight around you
and the clock drags on so long ...
When some folks act like children
and fill you with remorse ...
Go out into your pasture and wrap
your arms around your horse.
His gentle breath enfolds you as he
watches with those eyes ...
He may not have a PhD but he
is, oh so wise!
His head rests on your shoulder
you hug him good and tight ...
He puts your world in balance
and makes it seem all right.
Your tears will soon stop flowing,
the tension will be eased ...
The nonsense has been lifted.
You are quiet and at peace.
So when you need some balance
from the stresses in your day ...
The therapy you really need
Is out there eating hay!
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