There are several places in Missouri that allow trail riding on a daily use only term.
You can go there and ride for all day if you want but you can not stay over night and camp out there.
The state parks have some day use only places and the conservation areas have some. There are a few listed here and you can go to the website to find out more about each of them.
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, Columbia MO 5 miles of trails
Castlewood State Park, Ballwin, MO 15 miles of trails
St Francois State Park, Bonne Terre, MO 10 miles of trails
Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Kaiser, MO about 13 miles of trail
Watkins Mill State Park, Lawson, MO 3 miles of trail
Dr. Edmond Babler State Park, Chesterfield, MO between 7 and 8 miles of trail.
This is just a few of the state parks. The conservation areas usually have basic camping with no amenities of any kind. But there are a few that have trails and no place to camp.
You can call ahead to any of the state park offices and get information on each park. The same with the conservation areas, call and ask about the camping and trails in any area.
When I get all of the places done I will put it together to make another book for sale.
Stay in the saddle and God Bless.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
The winter is coming and we need to get ready for the cold
I don't particularly like the cold weather. I used to love to ice skate but I have not been on a pair of skates in over forty years. I would probably fall and break my posterior now. With the coming of winter it is necessary to get the entire out door things ready for freezing.
The water fountains or barrels need to be insulated good so horses can drink all day. We have good electric heaters in one of ours and it is kept away form the horses by a board over it to protect it and them. This month in my Mother Earth News magazine there is a nice solar stock tank heater. I am a big fan of solar heat and electric. This stock tank uses polycarbonate glazing, which would have to be kept on the outside of the fence for our horses. They would kick it and break it. I can see how this is a good heater though and it would work for us. I will most likely build one and put it under the fence so the glazing is to the south, where it needs to be, and the horses can not get at it.
The horse trailer needs to be drained of the water and then put in anti-freeze to keep it healthy. Same with the camper trailer, all the water lines have to be drained and the stool has to have anti-freeze put in it.
I take all the clothing out of mine too. Mice like to make havoc in there so I take everything out. I usually put some Bar bait in the cabinets and under the sink to take care of the mice, but they still manage to get into other things.
The water fountains or barrels need to be insulated good so horses can drink all day. We have good electric heaters in one of ours and it is kept away form the horses by a board over it to protect it and them. This month in my Mother Earth News magazine there is a nice solar stock tank heater. I am a big fan of solar heat and electric. This stock tank uses polycarbonate glazing, which would have to be kept on the outside of the fence for our horses. They would kick it and break it. I can see how this is a good heater though and it would work for us. I will most likely build one and put it under the fence so the glazing is to the south, where it needs to be, and the horses can not get at it.
The horse trailer needs to be drained of the water and then put in anti-freeze to keep it healthy. Same with the camper trailer, all the water lines have to be drained and the stool has to have anti-freeze put in it.
I take all the clothing out of mine too. Mice like to make havoc in there so I take everything out. I usually put some Bar bait in the cabinets and under the sink to take care of the mice, but they still manage to get into other things.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Horse riders and training for the trail
Most riders fall into two groups, one that rides in the ring or arena and the one that rides in the open trails. I prefer the open trails. There are different challenges in the woods and on the trails and you and your horse have to watch for them. I ride a 18 year old Tennessee Walker and she has been on the trails for over ten years but every time I take her out on the trail it is a new ride and some times she will jump, get startled, and I have to be ready for it.
I read once that it takes more training for a trail horse than a horse that works in the arena. I did not realize this until I thought about it. It is true though. A horse that is worked in the arena is used to seeing the same thing every time he goes out there. No matter what arena it is. A few times around and he has it down to the post.
The trail horse on the other hand has to deal with a fox jumping out or a deer running past. It is totally a different game to your horse. You as the rider have to be ready to expect the unexpected.
Control of your horse is the key here. If you can not control him in the arena do not even think about the trail.
Eating on the trail - your horse is going to want to snack while on the trail. Some people will never let their horse eat while wearing the bit, others will let them snack. IF your horse is not well controlled or inexperienced on the trail you had better not let him eat. Keep his mind on other little jobs and on you.
When he goes to grab a bite ask him to tuck his head or to side step or some other little job. That will keep his mind on the job not on eating.
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| Lucy |
I read once that it takes more training for a trail horse than a horse that works in the arena. I did not realize this until I thought about it. It is true though. A horse that is worked in the arena is used to seeing the same thing every time he goes out there. No matter what arena it is. A few times around and he has it down to the post.
The trail horse on the other hand has to deal with a fox jumping out or a deer running past. It is totally a different game to your horse. You as the rider have to be ready to expect the unexpected.
Control of your horse is the key here. If you can not control him in the arena do not even think about the trail.
Eating on the trail - your horse is going to want to snack while on the trail. Some people will never let their horse eat while wearing the bit, others will let them snack. IF your horse is not well controlled or inexperienced on the trail you had better not let him eat. Keep his mind on other little jobs and on you.
When he goes to grab a bite ask him to tuck his head or to side step or some other little job. That will keep his mind on the job not on eating.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Stockton Lake 15 mile ride
The Stockton Lake ride is a Corp of Engineer project. There are eight parks around the lake managed and maintained by the Corp of Engineers. There is available a full range of marina services, restaurants and camping, made available by leases to the public. They also have beaches, boat ramps picnic areas and playgrounds.
The Orleans trail and Hawker point campgrounds in Cedar county has two trailheads. Orleans trail campground on RB road from Hwy 39 south of Stockton. The Orleans trailhead has five non-electric sites, it does have showers and restrooms. Sites have hitching rails lots of shade and parking for truck and trailer. There is a fee for camping each night. The sites are not reservable, it is first come first serve.
The Hawker point campground is south of Stockton off Hwy 36 on Hwy H. There is a total of fifteen miles of trail from the Orleans to Hawker campgrounds.
Hawker Point has six sites non-electric, water at central areas and a rest room and showers.
All around the lake there is lots of places to eat and enjoy all lake activities.
This is a good ride and you will see lots of wild life and birds along the way.
The Orleans trail and Hawker point campgrounds in Cedar county has two trailheads. Orleans trail campground on RB road from Hwy 39 south of Stockton. The Orleans trailhead has five non-electric sites, it does have showers and restrooms. Sites have hitching rails lots of shade and parking for truck and trailer. There is a fee for camping each night. The sites are not reservable, it is first come first serve.
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| picture from internet of COE |
Hawker Point has six sites non-electric, water at central areas and a rest room and showers.
All around the lake there is lots of places to eat and enjoy all lake activities.
This is a good ride and you will see lots of wild life and birds along the way.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Joanna Trail and Lick Creek Trail in Missouri
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| Ramp for disabled persons |
Horse camping is at the Frank Russell Recreation area. They have 65 sites all have 30-amp electric. Each site has a picnic table, fire grill, and electric hookup. The sites are all paved parking. Shaded horse stalls are available for Frank Russell's registered campers only. Water is available and vault toilets. There is a dump station and trash dumpster, shower house and a play ground. The horses can not be kept at the campsite. There is a shaded horse stall just a short distance from the campground.
If you drive to the Joanna Trail parking lot for day use you will go through the Mark Twain Landing resort. It is a big resort and playground for the lake area. Three water slides and miniature golf and much more.
Lick Creek Trail is another trail for horses in Missouri. The entrance is across from the Ray Behrens Campground. There is a short loop near the campground. The campground is for travel trailer and tents but no horses. They have 165 campsites with electric. There are restrooms, showers, a playground, and boat ramp and picnic area and picnic shelters.
There are two parking lots along the trail. Primitive camping is allowed along the trial in designated areas with a permit.
I personally have not been on this trail, reviews tell me that it is not marked well and you can get off the trail very easily. Horses also do not use it much. (Probably because no camping is allowed with horses).
Well have a good ride and stay in the saddle.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Fulton MO, Westminster College and Winston Churchill Memorial
Our trip this weekend started in Fulton MO. Traveling east on Hwy 54, north of Jefferson City. When we are traveling when I see a sign that states historic site I usually stop to see it. This was the case today.
We stopped to see the old store fronts and brick roads. It is a very old city. It is home to the Winston Churchill Memorial, and Westminster College. Westminster College is opening new campus living quarters the fall of 2010, it is called Westminster Grove. The Winston Churchill museum is located on the college campus and is in the Church of St Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury. a 12th century church from the middle of London, redesigned by Sir Christopher Wren in 1677, that was relocated to Fulton.
The city has brick streets and the buildings are old and very articulate. They have the First Christian Church that has a unique structure to it. It has a eight sided round top on it. Some of the old homes have older style constructions as well we took some pictures a house that has a round corner to it. The roof looks like a castle turret.
The Camping was great this past weekend. We stayed the first night at Macon MO. Private campgrounds just west of Macon on Hwy 36. It is a very nice place with showers, laundry and restrooms, very clean and quiet. We got there about seven p.m. and the camp host got there about twenty minutes later. He is very friendly and told us what was in the area and where everything was in the campground.
We stopped to see the old store fronts and brick roads. It is a very old city. It is home to the Winston Churchill Memorial, and Westminster College. Westminster College is opening new campus living quarters the fall of 2010, it is called Westminster Grove. The Winston Churchill museum is located on the college campus and is in the Church of St Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury. a 12th century church from the middle of London, redesigned by Sir Christopher Wren in 1677, that was relocated to Fulton.
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| Winston Churchill Memorial |
The city has brick streets and the buildings are old and very articulate. They have the First Christian Church that has a unique structure to it. It has a eight sided round top on it. Some of the old homes have older style constructions as well we took some pictures a house that has a round corner to it. The roof looks like a castle turret.
The Camping was great this past weekend. We stayed the first night at Macon MO. Private campgrounds just west of Macon on Hwy 36. It is a very nice place with showers, laundry and restrooms, very clean and quiet. We got there about seven p.m. and the camp host got there about twenty minutes later. He is very friendly and told us what was in the area and where everything was in the campground.
Friday, September 3, 2010
St Francois State Park & BonneTerre, MO
St Francois is located on Hwy 67 in eastern Missouri, the town of BonneTerre.
The park has a very nice campground but no horse camping is allowed. There is basic and electric camping with a regular camper, tent or RV. They have a dump station, water available but not at every campsite. There is a laundry room, a camp store, vault toilets, and showers with restrooms.
The park has an interpretation program, picnic tables, shelters and fishing, swimming and boating.
Bonne Terre has a mine that is listed as the world’s largest man–made caverns. You can walk down an 80-foot decline to the first of five levels. It is a constant 62’ temperature. There are many formations to see, and there is a boat tour available under ground. The mine has 17 miles of shoreline and scuba divers use it year round. The mine is actually larger than the city of BonneTerre.
The mine was made with man and mule power, they carved a five level cavern mining. The mines were closed and the pumps were shut off that kept the water out of the caverns. They filled up and now there are five levels of underwater places that scuba divers explore.
Try one of these items for your outdoor cooking.
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The park has a very nice campground but no horse camping is allowed. There is basic and electric camping with a regular camper, tent or RV. They have a dump station, water available but not at every campsite. There is a laundry room, a camp store, vault toilets, and showers with restrooms.
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| St Fracois trail entrance |
The Pike Run horse trail is eleven miles long and is a multi use trail.
The park has an interpretation program, picnic tables, shelters and fishing, swimming and boating.
Bonne Terre has a mine that is listed as the world’s largest man–made caverns. You can walk down an 80-foot decline to the first of five levels. It is a constant 62’ temperature. There are many formations to see, and there is a boat tour available under ground. The mine has 17 miles of shoreline and scuba divers use it year round. The mine is actually larger than the city of BonneTerre.
The mine was made with man and mule power, they carved a five level cavern mining. The mines were closed and the pumps were shut off that kept the water out of the caverns. They filled up and now there are five levels of underwater places that scuba divers explore.
Try one of these items for your outdoor cooking.
if you like my articles use the follow me button
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Riding in St Joe State Park Missouri
St Joe State Park is located 3 miles West of Hwy 67 on Hwy 32. It is an 8,242-acre park, in the “lead belt” of Missouri. It is Missouri’s third largest park. There are four lakes with a boat ramp. They have 6 open shelters.
Activities in the park include Camping Fishing, Swimming, Hiking, Horse back riding and Mountain biking, and all terrain vehicles.
The park has firewood available, a laundry, showers, and a dump station. There are a few reservable campsites.
The park has two campgrounds, one of which is to accommodate campers with horses and ORV”S (off road vehicles).
The horse and biking trails are designated as multipurpose trails and you may encounter cyclists on your ride through the park. There are also separate paved or hard surfaced trails for hikers and bicycles only.
The Pine Ridge Trail is a ten-mile loop. There is a trailhead at the horse trailer staging area- it is a day use only paved parking lot. The other trailhead is at the campground.
There are vault toilets, water, and picnic tables, BBQ grills and hitching posts at the day use area.
The campground for horses has very nice large lots. They are gravel with a large table and fire ring area. They all have hitching posts in the back. There are 12 basic and 13 electric campsites, just in the horse area. Water is available near the roadside.
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| horse campground entrance |
Activities in the park include Camping Fishing, Swimming, Hiking, Horse back riding and Mountain biking, and all terrain vehicles.
The park has firewood available, a laundry, showers, and a dump station. There are a few reservable campsites.
The park has two campgrounds, one of which is to accommodate campers with horses and ORV”S (off road vehicles).
The horse and biking trails are designated as multipurpose trails and you may encounter cyclists on your ride through the park. There are also separate paved or hard surfaced trails for hikers and bicycles only.
The Pine Ridge Trail is a ten-mile loop. There is a trailhead at the horse trailer staging area- it is a day use only paved parking lot. The other trailhead is at the campground.
There are vault toilets, water, and picnic tables, BBQ grills and hitching posts at the day use area.
The campground for horses has very nice large lots. They are gravel with a large table and fire ring area. They all have hitching posts in the back. There are 12 basic and 13 electric campsites, just in the horse area. Water is available near the roadside.
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| campsite at St Joe Park |
Monday, August 23, 2010
Lake of the Ozarks State Park
Located off Highway 54 in Osage Beach, and from Highway 42. Another entrance is from Highway A.
This park has 17,600 plus acres of natural forestry to explore. The Lake of the Ozarks is one of Missouri’s largest lakes.
There are 12 trails for hiking and of those three are for horses and biking. To get to the horse trails you have to go through the Highway 42 and then Highway 134 entrance. The longest trail is 16 miles, Trail of 4 Winds. Hidden Springs trail is 2 ½ miles and White Oak Trail is 0.7 miles.
You can rent a horse at the Ozark Homestead riding stables and ride with a trail guide.
They have 230 camping sites all shaded and range from primitive to electric hook ups. There are restroom and a laundry, and eight camping cabins to rent.
The Lake of the Ozark State Park has fishing and all sorts of water sports, boating, they have a boat rental and boat launch area. The park is open year around for camping.
There are two swimming beaches, with rest rooms and picnic areas.
There are cave tours at Ozark Caverns, a guide will take you through the beautiful cave. The cave is a one hour tour.
Our State Park systems are great for getting out to enjoy the natural beauty and the wild life that you can see. The walks are easy to extreme so you need to be prepared and wear good walking shoes. Take bug repellent with you.
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This park has 17,600 plus acres of natural forestry to explore. The Lake of the Ozarks is one of Missouri’s largest lakes.
There are 12 trails for hiking and of those three are for horses and biking. To get to the horse trails you have to go through the Highway 42 and then Highway 134 entrance. The longest trail is 16 miles, Trail of 4 Winds. Hidden Springs trail is 2 ½ miles and White Oak Trail is 0.7 miles.
You can rent a horse at the Ozark Homestead riding stables and ride with a trail guide.
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| Trail information cabin |
The trailhead for the Trail of Four Winds is on Highway 134 about 1 mile south of the trail information center a log cabin with info inside. Equestrian parking is on one side of the highway and hikers and bicycle parking is on the other. Access to the trail is also found across from the Ozark Homestead riding stables.
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| Homestead Riding Stables |
They have 230 camping sites all shaded and range from primitive to electric hook ups. There are restroom and a laundry, and eight camping cabins to rent.
The Lake of the Ozark State Park has fishing and all sorts of water sports, boating, they have a boat rental and boat launch area. The park is open year around for camping.
There are two swimming beaches, with rest rooms and picnic areas.
There are cave tours at Ozark Caverns, a guide will take you through the beautiful cave. The cave is a one hour tour.
Our State Park systems are great for getting out to enjoy the natural beauty and the wild life that you can see. The walks are easy to extreme so you need to be prepared and wear good walking shoes. Take bug repellent with you.
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Friday, August 20, 2010
Hannibal Missouri, America's hometown
This trip is not for the horses again, it’s just for the camper trailer.
Hannibal Missouri located on Highway 61 and Highway 36,100 miles north of St Louis, on the Mississippi River is the home of Mark Twain.
Hannibal has so many things to see. There are two different cave tours at Mark Twain cave campground. Cameron cave is 1 hour and 20 minutes long and the Mark Twain cave is 55 minutes long. The caves are in original condition except for safety items needed for protection.
Hannibal Missouri located on Highway 61 and Highway 36,100 miles north of St Louis, on the Mississippi River is the home of Mark Twain.
Hannibal has so many things to see. There are two different cave tours at Mark Twain cave campground. Cameron cave is 1 hour and 20 minutes long and the Mark Twain cave is 55 minutes long. The caves are in original condition except for safety items needed for protection. Another campground is the Injun Joe Campground. It has a game room, restaurant, and laundry room, batting cages and hillbilly golf. They have tent sites to full hook ups.
Places to visit are the Rockcliffe Mansion, Mark Twain’s boyhood home, Planters Barn Theater, Mark Twain Clopper, and the Hannibal Trolley sightseeing tour. Mark Twain Mississippi Riverboat is a must for dinning on the river afternoon has a lunch and evening has a full dinner.
There is a charge for all the items listed above.
There are many shops and gift stores, many restaurants, lots of specialty shops. You can get everything from kitchen gadgets to fun and game items to quilt and gift items.
There are wineries to visit in nearby towns, Collver Family Winery and the Crown Valley Port House.
There are many other theaters that portray the life of Mark Twain, they have 11 hotels and motels, 9 bed and breakfasts, 16 restaurants from McDonalds to pizza and everything in between.
Take some games with you for relaxing at the campsite. check out some of these displayed.
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If you like my articles, subscribe to get them when they are published.
It is a very memorable day to experience.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Camping at Whispering Pines Trail Ride
This is one time that we went camping in our horse trailer and our neighbor took their camper trailer on a weekend trip with us. The campground did not want to let the camper trailer in but when we told them they were with us they allowed it. This was the first time we had a problem with a regular camper in a horse campground. Today the new owner will welcome horseless campers.
We went to Jadwin, MO to Whispering Pines Trail Ride and Campground. This campground has over 100 miles of trails for horses. They have stalls for the horses, there are electric and basic sites and water is available.
They have bedding, hay and feed and firewood for sale and a few snacks and ice cream.
When you have had enough horse riding you can go search the area for other place to see. There are six major springs in the
area to visit.
We went to Jadwin, MO to Whispering Pines Trail Ride and Campground. This campground has over 100 miles of trails for horses. They have stalls for the horses, there are electric and basic sites and water is available.
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| Camp at Whispering Pines Trail Ride |
They have bedding, hay and feed and firewood for sale and a few snacks and ice cream.
When you have had enough horse riding you can go search the area for other place to see. There are six major springs in the
area to visit.
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| Going down Devils Well stair way |
We visited the Devils well while we were there it is a well dug by nature. It is called a sinkhole. It is 100 feet below the surface of the ground. You walk down several sets of stairs to get into the cave where the explorers put an iron gate. You look through this gate to see the lake below. To get to the well you go down a very steep gravel road. Years ago people went down the well and there is a big lake 100 feet or more below the deck of the cave. It is a very interesting place to visit and read the information on it. The explorers went down and put a canoe in the lake to see it all. They installed an electric light down in the lake area so you can see it from the cave.
We also rode across Akers Ferry that crosses the Current River below Whispering Pines campgrounds, and north of Eminence MO.
I have more camping and other information on Macdonaldsroundup.com
There is a lot to see and do around this area. It would take several days to see it all.
Grab your gear and lets go see it all. Stay in the saddle and God Bless.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Fun with our fixer upper camper Part III
We made it to Show Low AZ. With no more major problems. Bruce got it parked and jacked up and we enjoyed a week of visiting with his son. He had not seen his son in fifteen years so it was a precious time. He son was graduating from high school and then going on to the Marines.
When we got everything settled Bruce and his son went to buy two more tires. We needed one for a spare and one to replace the flat one on the camper again. He found a couple of used ones that may work for a while. Headed home on the weekend of Memorial Day. We left on Friday and we took a different route home to see some more of the country.
When we got off the interstate in Tucumcari, NM I heard a noise and asked Bruce what it was. We stopped on the side of the road and guess what??? Another flat tire in Tucumcari. I was not going to call a wrecker again here.
We went up through town and could not find a tire shop, we did pass a campground so we were turning around to go back there so spend the next two days, we thought. In turning around we passed a transmission shop that was just closing.
Bruce pulled over and flagged the man down that was leaving. He asked him if there was a place that we could get tires changed now and the man said he would do that for us. It took almost two hours but we got two more tires that were good and he put them on the trailer. That still left us with the spare that was pretty good. Now it was near eight p.m. and I was ready to quit for the night, but Bruce wanted to go farther.
So he was driving and it began to rain. It started to rain so hard that Bruce could not see the road and he had to pull over. There was no traffic on the road at all. The wind started to come up and I thought we might be blown over at any time. But we started up again in a couple of minutes when the rain slowed up. The wind stayed with us though. We got near the Kansas border and found a truckstop and pulled in there for the night.
We parked next to a big truck to block the wind and it was better. Then another camper pulled in beside us and it blocked the wind for both of us. I went into the camper to get our bed ready and it was soaked. I mean we had a pool of water in the bed. The rain blew so hard it blew the rain under the vent that is over the bed.
Now I had to make the table into a bed. It is one that folds down into a spare bed. Naturally in the rain and as late as it was we did not level the trailer and when I lay down on the bed I almost rolled out on to the floor. I turned a little so that I would be sideways and slept soundly the rest of the night.
We woke up early the next morning and went inside to eat breakfast. We heard that there was a tornado in the area. We were lucky that we were on the edge of it and protected in God’s arms.
We got under way again and as we drove through the area we could see the wind damage that the tornado did. The entire town of Greensburg, KS was gone. We had to go around it, the highway patrol had all roads blocked.
We took lots of pictures, I always do. We took a very scenic route home and arrived home about ten p.m. on Sunday. We had a very nice time and were relaxed when we got home.
Now, let me tell you, this could have been a very bad experience for some people. It could be very stressful. You need to learn to let each day be what God intended it to be and live your life for God. Have fun and enjoy each day. We do and no matter what happens we figure a way to enjoy and fix it.
I hope this true story will inspire some one and that you get out and enjoy this world. Enjoy our country.
Stay in the saddle and God Bless you
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Part two of Fun with a fixer upper camper
We left Oklahoma City and had good nights sleep behind us and felt good about the camper. We expected to make some repairs, so what we found was not catastrophic. The structure was sound and the floor was solid.
We made it to Amarillo TX for lunch the next day. We again stopped at a truck stop to get fuel and eat. We checked out the outside of the camper and it seemed to be holding together pretty well. Bruce started to drive a little faster and we were making good time.
We got as far as Tucumcari, NM when we had a blow out. One tire on the passenger side blew out. I mean it nearly blew the camper over. We had just passed the first exit to the city and it was too far to the next one to try and drive on it. We had the spare tire, but Bruce could not break the lug nuts loose to change the tire. I called AAA and they sent out a highway patrol man to see if we were ok. He then called a wrecker to help us. The wrecker came and changed the tire for us and then charges us $230.00 for it. I was out raged with this.
I told them I was going to call everyone I could to get a better deal. Of course they did not pay attention to me. So, we got all packed up and on our way again. Now Bruce had to drive slowly again because we did not have a spare tire.
We made it into Morarity, NM. The stations were all closed and it was hard to find any one that had a tire for sale. We stayed again in a truck stop parking lot, and I cooked supper in the camper. The next morning Bruce went out hunting for a spare tire. He found a tire shop that had two of them and we bought them. The spare we had put on was chipping off tread and so he changed that one again and put another tire on the spare rim. So, we are off again.
We were going down the road minding our own business and a big fancy camper went by waving and pointing to our camper. I told Bruce something must be wrong so he pulled over to the side and we looked at every thing and could not see what was wrong. So Bruce started to drive again and I was watching out the mirror on my side to see if I could see what the people were pointing at. Bruce was driving slowly again. I could not see a thing wrong.
Well, he decided to drive a little faster and I kept watching. When Bruce got up to about 60 MPH the awning would unwind. When he slowed down it would wind back up. It was funny- he would speed up and the awning would unwind, slow down and it would wind back up. So it began to rain and I told him we had better stop and tape it or tie it so that it would not come undone. So he pulled over again and we got out to repair it, it was freezing out. I mean it was cold. I could not believe it. He got the awning tied up and we thought it would be ok until we got to our destination.
He picked up speed again and we pulled off the interstate onto the two-lane road going to ShowLow AZ.
The awning was still coming out and so we stopped to tape it good. It was not going to come out again for awhile when I got done with it. It was like a mummy.
We got to ShowLow and got our camper parked. Bruce got out and he had another tire coming apart so he and his son went looking for more tires. He got a deal on two more tires, changed them and we enjoyed the rest of the week and the graduation.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Fun with a fixer-upper camper
I would like to tell you about a trailer that we purchased a few years ago. This is funny to us but to some it may not be. I have told you that we try to have fun and make living a joy. We had just been asked to come to Arizona for a graduation. We did not have a camper and no money to buy a really good one. So we searched for one that we could buy and fix up.
Well we found one. I liked the layout of it and it had lots of room in it. It was a 26-foot bumper pull. When we talked to the man that had it he told us that everything worked and as far as he knew it was ready to go. Bruce backed up to it and hooked it up- we did not have any lights on it. So he took it home and worked on the lights, we ended up putting on a new set of trailer lights. The wires to the lights were all rotted and brittle. Bruce and a friend worked on it all day trying to get the lights working.
While they were doing the wiring, I decided to turn on the water and see how that was. I had water spraying out the back end of the trailer. After looking at the plumbing it was only a matter of replacing a section that had frozen and broke. So I took care of that.
With the wiring all done and the water seemingly ok we decided to just go with it. We bought the trailer on a Friday and needed to leave on Monday to get to Arizona on time for the graduation. I started to load all our clothing and dishes and what we needed into the camper.
We started out on our venture Monday around noon. Before we drove 15 miles a piece of chrome came off the side of the camper. Then we stopped in Lebanon to see Bruce’s mother and let her know we were leaving. We lost a hob cap somewhere along the way. She wished us well and we left.
We drove on I 44 almost to Joplin MO when another piece of chrome came loose. Bruce stopped on the interstate to see what it was. I took my trusty duct tape and taped it up until we could nail it. I have learned
to never go any where with out duct tape.
Bruce drove to Oklahoma City OK, we stopped at a truck stop for the night. I did not cook yet, we ate inside because we did not have lights inside the camper. When we had it parked at home it was plugged into the electric. We did not even think to try it on the battery. We had a very peaceful night and slept well.
I got up the next morning about six am and made breakfast for us. It turned out very good. The appliances worked fine and the refrigerator was cold.
This is going to be a two-part story at least. More later.
Keep camping and stay in the saddle.
If you like my articles click the follow me and you will get the update.
While they were doing the wiring, I decided to turn on the water and see how that was. I had water spraying out the back end of the trailer. After looking at the plumbing it was only a matter of replacing a section that had frozen and broke. So I took care of that.
With the wiring all done and the water seemingly ok we decided to just go with it. We bought the trailer on a Friday and needed to leave on Monday to get to Arizona on time for the graduation. I started to load all our clothing and dishes and what we needed into the camper.
We started out on our venture Monday around noon. Before we drove 15 miles a piece of chrome came off the side of the camper. Then we stopped in Lebanon to see Bruce’s mother and let her know we were leaving. We lost a hob cap somewhere along the way. She wished us well and we left.
We drove on I 44 almost to Joplin MO when another piece of chrome came loose. Bruce stopped on the interstate to see what it was. I took my trusty duct tape and taped it up until we could nail it. I have learned
to never go any where with out duct tape.
Bruce drove to Oklahoma City OK, we stopped at a truck stop for the night. I did not cook yet, we ate inside because we did not have lights inside the camper. When we had it parked at home it was plugged into the electric. We did not even think to try it on the battery. We had a very peaceful night and slept well.
I got up the next morning about six am and made breakfast for us. It turned out very good. The appliances worked fine and the refrigerator was cold.
This is going to be a two-part story at least. More later.
Keep camping and stay in the saddle.
If you like my articles click the follow me and you will get the update.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Do you know when a saddle fits your horse?
Do you know when a saddle fits your horse?
That may sound funny but it is not for your horse. The key is to find the right saddle, one that offers room between his back and the solid parts of the saddle. You want a saddle that allows a horse to move naturally while bearing weight.
Horses are expressive animals and can tell us if they are having a problem with the saddle. We jut have to learn how to read them. Here are a few signs that he may be trying to tell you that he is uncomfortable.
Objects to saddling, Difficult to shoe, slow to warm up, difficulty in changing leads, swishes tail, pins ears, grinds his teeth, or tosses his head. He may drop or hollow out his back, reluctant to bend, shortened stride, dry spot on hair coat, abnormal breathing, and nervousness.
The front or pommel of the saddle should not be too wide or too narrow. It will hug the horse’s withers closely if it is too wide. If it is too narrow it will sit too high. The back of the saddle should not extend beyond the last rib or reach the loin area.
A comfortable saddle for your horse will give both you and him a better ride. The horse will be willing to ride and enjoy the time spent with his favorite partner. (you)
If you have to take your horse to a professional and ask if you have a proper fit.
Until next time, stay in the saddle and keep riding. God Bless.
If you like my articles please subscribe for the updates. Thank you
That may sound funny but it is not for your horse. The key is to find the right saddle, one that offers room between his back and the solid parts of the saddle. You want a saddle that allows a horse to move naturally while bearing weight.
Horses are expressive animals and can tell us if they are having a problem with the saddle. We jut have to learn how to read them. Here are a few signs that he may be trying to tell you that he is uncomfortable.
Objects to saddling, Difficult to shoe, slow to warm up, difficulty in changing leads, swishes tail, pins ears, grinds his teeth, or tosses his head. He may drop or hollow out his back, reluctant to bend, shortened stride, dry spot on hair coat, abnormal breathing, and nervousness.
The front or pommel of the saddle should not be too wide or too narrow. It will hug the horse’s withers closely if it is too wide. If it is too narrow it will sit too high. The back of the saddle should not extend beyond the last rib or reach the loin area.
A comfortable saddle for your horse will give both you and him a better ride. The horse will be willing to ride and enjoy the time spent with his favorite partner. (you)
If you have to take your horse to a professional and ask if you have a proper fit.
Until next time, stay in the saddle and keep riding. God Bless.
If you like my articles please subscribe for the updates. Thank you
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Paddy Creek campground, Roby MO
The Paddy Creek Campground and picnic area is six miles off of Highway 17 and six miles from Highway 32 on Paddy Creek Road, north of Roby, MO.
They have 23 camping pads with a lamppost and table with a fire pit. There are three toilet units through the area. It is located on the creek, wet weather may do a little flooding. It is wooded and partly shaded.
The Paddy Creek Trail is a short 1-mile hiking trail that begins and ends at the picnic area. It has a variety of Ozark Mountain terrain.
This campground is closed from Dec 1 to Mar 15 but you can camp at the picnic area during this time.
Paddy Creek Wilderness area is in the Houston Ranger District.
The SlabtownTrailRides is located on Slabtown road that connects with Paddy Creek and with both places you have over 50 miles of horse trails to ride on. The Slabtown Bluff Trail is a two-mile loop that is on the east bank of the Big Piney River. It has a picnic area, tent camping and a toilet.
Roby Lake is another area close to this trail and it is one of the trailheads for the Big Piney Trail, a ten-mile trail. They have a big parking lot for horse trailers and boat trailers. It is a five-acre lake and drinking water is available here. This is a day use only area.
They have 23 camping pads with a lamppost and table with a fire pit. There are three toilet units through the area. It is located on the creek, wet weather may do a little flooding. It is wooded and partly shaded.
The Paddy Creek Trail is a short 1-mile hiking trail that begins and ends at the picnic area. It has a variety of Ozark Mountain terrain.
This campground is closed from Dec 1 to Mar 15 but you can camp at the picnic area during this time.
Paddy Creek Wilderness area is in the Houston Ranger District.
The SlabtownTrailRides is located on Slabtown road that connects with Paddy Creek and with both places you have over 50 miles of horse trails to ride on. The Slabtown Bluff Trail is a two-mile loop that is on the east bank of the Big Piney River. It has a picnic area, tent camping and a toilet.
Roby Lake is another area close to this trail and it is one of the trailheads for the Big Piney Trail, a ten-mile trail. They have a big parking lot for horse trailers and boat trailers. It is a five-acre lake and drinking water is available here. This is a day use only area.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Riding your horse in the National Forests
Riding your horse in the National Forests
The Mark Twain National Forest has hundreds of miles of trails for horseback riders and hikers.
They are sometimes very rugged, hilly, and rivers to cross. They have nine different units to visit.
Depending on the time of year that you choose to go they have all kinds of things to see and you can pick wild fruit and berries along the way. There is always some wild life to see.
The only rules you have are to stay on the marked trails and the wood roads, do not take short cuts.
There is a fourteen-day limit to camping. You can make campsites in the National Forest if you get at least 200 feet from any water supply.
You are not allowed to build a fire ring. You can use a portable grill if you have one, but be very careful with the fire.
Please keep your campsite clean and leave it cleaner than you found it.
To get more information on the trails and the National Forests visit your closest forest service.
They have maps of the trails and information about weather and any updates. During wet weather some trails are not passable.
One particular trail is the Chadwick motorcycle trail. Getting there- take Hwy 125 south of Chadwick turn west on Hwy H to the Camp Ridge area.
Camp Ridge and Cobb Ridge campgrounds. These two campgrounds have 8 camping spurs with picnic table and in-ground grill. There is a restroom but no water or electric is available.
There is also a picnic ground and day use area parking area at both campgrounds.
These are motorcycle trails, but hiking and horses are allowed if you don’t mind the occasional biker. Your horse must not be afraid of the motorcycles. If you can ride with your horse there is 125 miles of trails. The maps show some trails where the horse can be watered.
So get up and ride. Enjoy the day.
The Mark Twain National Forest has hundreds of miles of trails for horseback riders and hikers.
They are sometimes very rugged, hilly, and rivers to cross. They have nine different units to visit.
Depending on the time of year that you choose to go they have all kinds of things to see and you can pick wild fruit and berries along the way. There is always some wild life to see.
The only rules you have are to stay on the marked trails and the wood roads, do not take short cuts.
There is a fourteen-day limit to camping. You can make campsites in the National Forest if you get at least 200 feet from any water supply.
You are not allowed to build a fire ring. You can use a portable grill if you have one, but be very careful with the fire.
Please keep your campsite clean and leave it cleaner than you found it.
To get more information on the trails and the National Forests visit your closest forest service.
They have maps of the trails and information about weather and any updates. During wet weather some trails are not passable.
One particular trail is the Chadwick motorcycle trail. Getting there- take Hwy 125 south of Chadwick turn west on Hwy H to the Camp Ridge area.
Camp Ridge and Cobb Ridge campgrounds. These two campgrounds have 8 camping spurs with picnic table and in-ground grill. There is a restroom but no water or electric is available.
There is also a picnic ground and day use area parking area at both campgrounds.
These are motorcycle trails, but hiking and horses are allowed if you don’t mind the occasional biker. Your horse must not be afraid of the motorcycles. If you can ride with your horse there is 125 miles of trails. The maps show some trails where the horse can be watered.
So get up and ride. Enjoy the day.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Pot Luck for dinner - Chili
Some times we go on trail rides with a group and we usually have a pot luck dinner one night. Here is a favorite recipe of mine. It usually is all gone at the end of the day.
What you will need:
Hamburger, onion, chopped
Green pepper, chopped, garlic, minced
Chili powder, two big cans of tomatoes
Two big cans of Red Kidney Beans 8 oz. can tomato sauce
Brown the hamburger and break it in very small pieces. Add the onion and green pepper and garlic, let it all brown together.
You can drain the kidney beans but you don't have too. Add the beans and tomatoes and the tomato sauce to the meat. Add chili powder to taste- I usualluy use about 1 1/2 tablespoons. Cover it and let it simmer all day.
This is nice when you use the solar cooker mentioned in an earlier post. Set it in the cooker and it will be nice and hot when dinner is ready.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Slabtown Trail Rides
Slabtown Trail Rides
This is a fairly new campground, only opened in 2008. It is a nicely shaded area.
Gregg Cook is the owner and would like you to come out and enjoy the scenic trails through the National Forest. Gregg’s property joins the Mark Twain National Forest and the Paddy Creek Wilderness area and the Big Piney Trail. There is a total of 50 miles plus trails to ride.
It is recommended to call for a reservation.
They have 20 campsites all with well water and electric, each has a 30-amp service. There are picnic tables and fire pits at each campsite.
They have one cabin for rent and it is in a shaded private area. More cabins are in the future.
There is a centrally located shower house and restrooms. The shower house has a private dressing room, there are mirrors and electric outlets.
campsite
There are 50 stalls each is 10’ X 71/2’ and lighted. Your horses must be kept in the stalls. Bring your own water bucket for your horse. No stallions are allowed. Kicking horses must be marked.
Stalls
Wood for your fire pit and sawdust for your stall is available for a small charge.
Dogs are allowed, they must be kept on a leash and are not allowed on the trails.
I have not included prices here because the book may outlast the prices. But he is very reasonable and you will enjoy the time there. Visit their website www.slabtowntrails.com or
email them at slabtowntrails@gmail.com
This is a fairly new campground, only opened in 2008. It is a nicely shaded area.
Gregg Cook is the owner and would like you to come out and enjoy the scenic trails through the National Forest. Gregg’s property joins the Mark Twain National Forest and the Paddy Creek Wilderness area and the Big Piney Trail. There is a total of 50 miles plus trails to ride.
It is recommended to call for a reservation.
They have 20 campsites all with well water and electric, each has a 30-amp service. There are picnic tables and fire pits at each campsite.
They have one cabin for rent and it is in a shaded private area. More cabins are in the future.There is a centrally located shower house and restrooms. The shower house has a private dressing room, there are mirrors and electric outlets.
campsiteThere are 50 stalls each is 10’ X 71/2’ and lighted. Your horses must be kept in the stalls. Bring your own water bucket for your horse. No stallions are allowed. Kicking horses must be marked.
Stalls Wood for your fire pit and sawdust for your stall is available for a small charge.
Dogs are allowed, they must be kept on a leash and are not allowed on the trails.
I have not included prices here because the book may outlast the prices. But he is very reasonable and you will enjoy the time there. Visit their website www.slabtowntrails.com or
email them at slabtowntrails@gmail.com
Monday, July 12, 2010
The new camper and its problems
The first trip is always the most memorable.
The first trip is always the best one in a new camper. We always end up with some problems.
We got up to Kirksville, MO and it started to rain so bad that Bruce could not see the road. So we tried to find the first place to stop at a campground. The State Park was full and they told us that our rig was too big to stay there anyway. So we found a campground just up the road from the State Park.
When we pulled into the campground no one was around so we just took the first open spot we could find. It was a very nice place except that it was raining so badly. We hurried to get into the camper we did not even level it out. The rain was coming in one window- it was raining inside as bad as it was outside. So I put down a pot to catch the water and towels to dry the floor.
We managed to get into bed with no further problem. Not being level we were sleeping a little up hill but it was fine.
The next morning we got up and on our way with no new problems. Still, no one was around so we had to pay the “box” for our night of camping. They had an honor system if you come in late and leave early.
We did not cook in the camper until we stopped Saturday night at the campground in Iowa. The stove and everything works just fine. The water has a leak near the water tank and we will have to have it fixed.
The air conditioner and all other things work good. So we did not make to bad a deal. It is worth fixing up.
This is the kitchen table, it has a booth type setting. It is really cute.
The first trip is always the best one in a new camper. We always end up with some problems.
This time we left on Friday night and headed for Scranton Iowa for a school reunion- as told before.
We stopped at a rest area on our way and we found that the door was not hooked tight enough, some of my things went out the door. I had some potholders and dishcloths on the table and they were not in sight. The food that I had in the refrigerator fell out and on the floor. Nothing broke though.
We got up to Kirksville, MO and it started to rain so bad that Bruce could not see the road. So we tried to find the first place to stop at a campground. The State Park was full and they told us that our rig was too big to stay there anyway. So we found a campground just up the road from the State Park.
When we pulled into the campground no one was around so we just took the first open spot we could find. It was a very nice place except that it was raining so badly. We hurried to get into the camper we did not even level it out. The rain was coming in one window- it was raining inside as bad as it was outside. So I put down a pot to catch the water and towels to dry the floor.
We managed to get into bed with no further problem. Not being level we were sleeping a little up hill but it was fine.
The next morning we got up and on our way with no new problems. Still, no one was around so we had to pay the “box” for our night of camping. They had an honor system if you come in late and leave early.
We did not cook in the camper until we stopped Saturday night at the campground in Iowa. The stove and everything works just fine. The water has a leak near the water tank and we will have to have it fixed.
The air conditioner and all other things work good. So we did not make to bad a deal. It is worth fixing up.
This is the kitchen table, it has a booth type setting. It is really cute.
Visiting the fair
Visiting the fair
The week of the fourth we attended the Laclede County Fair on three different nights. The fair is always an interesting place to visit. I went into the Mills center to see the displays and entries for judging. It is always nice to see the amount of time and effort children and people spend in making different items. It is also interesting to see the different ways to make use of some items. The quilts were beautiful this year.
Then we went to the cattle-judging event. One boy talks to his steer to keep it quiet and they all scratch the belly of the animals.
On another night the truck and tractor pull is a big event. Some small and some huge tractors pull the weight wagon to see who can pull the most the farthest.
And one new event this year was a cannonlady being shot out of a cannon mounted on a truck. This was fun and interesting to watch. The woman is Jennifer, she is 34 years old and has been doing this since she was 14. She has been flying for 19 years.
Her father holds the Guinness World record for distance in the same event. Her father built the cannon for her and one for her sister. The cannon is 28 feet long and she flies about 45 feet high and about 65 feet out into a net.
She moved here from Salem Oregon to be more centrally located to travel the US to do her shows.
It was nice to watch but I don’t think I would like to even try it. The noise of the cannon is loud. Here are some pictures of her and the truck and net.
Jennifer going to get inside the cannon.
after the flight.
The week of the fourth we attended the Laclede County Fair on three different nights. The fair is always an interesting place to visit. I went into the Mills center to see the displays and entries for judging. It is always nice to see the amount of time and effort children and people spend in making different items. It is also interesting to see the different ways to make use of some items. The quilts were beautiful this year.
Then we went to the cattle-judging event. One boy talks to his steer to keep it quiet and they all scratch the belly of the animals.
On another night the truck and tractor pull is a big event. Some small and some huge tractors pull the weight wagon to see who can pull the most the farthest.
And one new event this year was a cannonlady being shot out of a cannon mounted on a truck. This was fun and interesting to watch. The woman is Jennifer, she is 34 years old and has been doing this since she was 14. She has been flying for 19 years.
Her father holds the Guinness World record for distance in the same event. Her father built the cannon for her and one for her sister. The cannon is 28 feet long and she flies about 45 feet high and about 65 feet out into a net.
She moved here from Salem Oregon to be more centrally located to travel the US to do her shows.
It was nice to watch but I don’t think I would like to even try it. The noise of the cannon is loud. Here are some pictures of her and the truck and net.
the truck
Jennifer going to get inside the cannon.
after the flight.Friday, July 9, 2010
Going camping with your horse
Getting ready to go camping with your horse can be quite a chore.
We have a camping quarters trailer and so it is usually already loaded with the basic needs of the camp. It can hold the water for the horses and for our use. We have a port a potty not a regular toilet in the trailer and we have a cowboy shower in the back of the horse trailer. We have a chuck wagon style kitchen for our cooking and it makes it a lot of fun except when it’s raining.
You have to know how long you may be gone and plan from there. You will need feed and hay for the horses, and most places don’t want you to bring in weeds in your hay. Either make sure it is clean hay or that it is all cleaned up when you leave. The hay and grain take up more room than all of our gear.
We always make sure we have vet wrap and fly spray in the tack room along with a variety of cut and heal products for any wounds that might occur. We carry the new rubber shoes for a lost steel shoe. The saddles and saddle blankets, saddle pads and all the reins and bits and bridles are all checked before we leave on a trip, and we usually take an extra one in case one gets broken.
Now, when you get all the horse items done check for your weekend clothes and food for yourselves.
It may rain so you must plan on extra clothes and shoes or boots in case you get wet. Also you might take a sweater or light jacket for cool nights. If you are taking children check for toys and games to help them enjoy the time.
One more thing that we carry is fuel for our generator. We do not always use the generator but if we are gone for a week or so we will use it.
Whew! Now you can go and hopefully enjoy the weekend or the week’s vacation ahead of you.
God Bless and stay in the saddle.
We have a camping quarters trailer and so it is usually already loaded with the basic needs of the camp. It can hold the water for the horses and for our use. We have a port a potty not a regular toilet in the trailer and we have a cowboy shower in the back of the horse trailer. We have a chuck wagon style kitchen for our cooking and it makes it a lot of fun except when it’s raining.
You have to know how long you may be gone and plan from there. You will need feed and hay for the horses, and most places don’t want you to bring in weeds in your hay. Either make sure it is clean hay or that it is all cleaned up when you leave. The hay and grain take up more room than all of our gear.
We always make sure we have vet wrap and fly spray in the tack room along with a variety of cut and heal products for any wounds that might occur. We carry the new rubber shoes for a lost steel shoe. The saddles and saddle blankets, saddle pads and all the reins and bits and bridles are all checked before we leave on a trip, and we usually take an extra one in case one gets broken.
Now, when you get all the horse items done check for your weekend clothes and food for yourselves.
It may rain so you must plan on extra clothes and shoes or boots in case you get wet. Also you might take a sweater or light jacket for cool nights. If you are taking children check for toys and games to help them enjoy the time.
One more thing that we carry is fuel for our generator. We do not always use the generator but if we are gone for a week or so we will use it.
Whew! Now you can go and hopefully enjoy the weekend or the week’s vacation ahead of you.
God Bless and stay in the saddle.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Roaring River State Park
Roaring River State Park
Roaring River does not have horse trails. It has hiking and biking trails only. There are seven trails with about 10 miles in length. There are 184 campsites. The campsites are from basic to electric. Some of the campsites can be reserved in advance. For more information call 417-847-2539.
There is a park store, ten cabins to rent, and a restaurant and gift shop.
This is another trout raising hatchery. They have several pools of different size trout. The spring behind the hatchery supplies the water.
This park is down in the southwest part of Missouri near Cassville. It is just off Hwy 76 that goes into Branson. It is rugged, hilly country.
Roaring River does not have horse trails. It has hiking and biking trails only. There are seven trails with about 10 miles in length. There are 184 campsites. The campsites are from basic to electric. Some of the campsites can be reserved in advance. For more information call 417-847-2539.
There is also the very nice Emery Melton Inn and Conference Center with 26 guestrooms and meeting rooms. There are duplex and fourplex units also available.
There are covered picnic shelters, shower rooms and a swimming pool. You can enjoy the nature center and programs that they offer.
As with most of Missouri’s state parks this is a very nice and clean park. There are fishermen in the streams and people on the trails and just walking around the fish pools. It is spread out along the stream. This is another trout raising hatchery. They have several pools of different size trout. The spring behind the hatchery supplies the water.
This park is down in the southwest part of Missouri near Cassville. It is just off Hwy 76 that goes into Branson. It is rugged, hilly country.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
New Shoes and Boots that don't fit
We are getting ready to start riding more for the summer and it requires more care for the horses. More expense too.
We have had the farrier here and three of our horses have new shoes now. I bought a pair of the new rubber boots for my horse but they are the wrong kind. I thought I could save some money by using the rubber boot and not steel shoes. The rubber boots will last about four years so I am told.
It costs $60.00 for each horse to put steel shoes on (here where we live) and it has to be done about every 8 weeks so it can get pretty expensive. Horses are not a cheap hobby.
Anybody that has horses knows this but those of you who are thinking about getting horses just know that it takes a lot of care and time with them. They need to be cleaned, brushed every day.
The shoes need to be checked all the time and replaced when they get loose or if they "throw" a shoe. We ride a lot so we have to put shoes on and keep the feet in good shape.
We are taking the horses to the vet next week to get the vaccinations and Coggins test done. This is something that must be done yearly. Bruce gets the supplies from the vet and does the vaccinations himself but the Coggins has to be done by the vet. Any time you want to ride on any public property you must have a current Coggins paper with you.
So now that we have new shoes we can ride around here. We went riding Sunday for about three hours and I am sore already. I need to be in the saddle more. That is another story – you know that horse riding is great exercise.
It tones muscles that you did not know you had, or haven’t used in a while, anyway.
God Bless and stay in the saddle
We have had the farrier here and three of our horses have new shoes now. I bought a pair of the new rubber boots for my horse but they are the wrong kind. I thought I could save some money by using the rubber boot and not steel shoes. The rubber boots will last about four years so I am told.
It costs $60.00 for each horse to put steel shoes on (here where we live) and it has to be done about every 8 weeks so it can get pretty expensive. Horses are not a cheap hobby.
Anybody that has horses knows this but those of you who are thinking about getting horses just know that it takes a lot of care and time with them. They need to be cleaned, brushed every day.
The shoes need to be checked all the time and replaced when they get loose or if they "throw" a shoe. We ride a lot so we have to put shoes on and keep the feet in good shape.
We are taking the horses to the vet next week to get the vaccinations and Coggins test done. This is something that must be done yearly. Bruce gets the supplies from the vet and does the vaccinations himself but the Coggins has to be done by the vet. Any time you want to ride on any public property you must have a current Coggins paper with you.
So now that we have new shoes we can ride around here. We went riding Sunday for about three hours and I am sore already. I need to be in the saddle more. That is another story – you know that horse riding is great exercise.
It tones muscles that you did not know you had, or haven’t used in a while, anyway.
God Bless and stay in the saddle
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
camp cooking with a solar cooker
Back again to my horses, camping and trails. Today I have something different for you.
Do you head out on the trail and expect to come back to cook a meal? Well here is a great alternative.
Let the sun cook for you. Make your self a solar oven and just go for the day and when you get back your meal is already and waiting for you.
Plan ahead a little and this can be a great treasure. If you make this before you get to your campsite it would work a lot better. It should be painted black inside the cooking chamber.
It is easy to make. Take two cardboard boxes. One must fit inside the other with a little room in between.
I use 2” foam insulation but you can use newspaper or straw or hay- what ever you want to use for insulating between the two boxes.
Then you need a roll of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Line the inside box with the foil and wrap the flaps with it. Use some duct tape to hold it in place. You will be using the foil as a reflector to put the sun’s rays into the center of the box. Place this is the best sunny place you can find. I set a glass window in front of mine to help keep the heat in, but having a window is not practical in a campground.
Put your pot of stew or roast pan inside a baking bag and set in the center of the baking chamber. Make sure the bag is not wrinkled on top. Let the sun do its work for you. When you get back or about six hours later you will have a nice dinner just waiting to be eaten.
For a better solar cooker you can go to www.motherearthnews.com and search for a solar cooker or solar oven and they will have directions and drawing for you to follow.
I have used this cooker several times and it is neat. It takes several hours to cook a meal.
I hope you enjoyed this and remember
God Bless and stay in the saddle.
Do you head out on the trail and expect to come back to cook a meal? Well here is a great alternative.
Let the sun cook for you. Make your self a solar oven and just go for the day and when you get back your meal is already and waiting for you.
Plan ahead a little and this can be a great treasure. If you make this before you get to your campsite it would work a lot better. It should be painted black inside the cooking chamber.
It is easy to make. Take two cardboard boxes. One must fit inside the other with a little room in between.
I use 2” foam insulation but you can use newspaper or straw or hay- what ever you want to use for insulating between the two boxes.
Then you need a roll of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Line the inside box with the foil and wrap the flaps with it. Use some duct tape to hold it in place. You will be using the foil as a reflector to put the sun’s rays into the center of the box. Place this is the best sunny place you can find. I set a glass window in front of mine to help keep the heat in, but having a window is not practical in a campground.
Put your pot of stew or roast pan inside a baking bag and set in the center of the baking chamber. Make sure the bag is not wrinkled on top. Let the sun do its work for you. When you get back or about six hours later you will have a nice dinner just waiting to be eaten.
For a better solar cooker you can go to www.motherearthnews.com and search for a solar cooker or solar oven and they will have directions and drawing for you to follow.
I have used this cooker several times and it is neat. It takes several hours to cook a meal.
I hope you enjoyed this and remember
God Bless and stay in the saddle.
Friday, June 11, 2010
buying a used camper
Today we bought a new to us camper. It is a twenty three foot fifth wheel and we had to get a gooseneck ball converter for it.
When buying a used camper you need to check out everything you can at the dealers lot.
We checked the water heater, refrigerator,furnace and all the lights. It need to have one bulb replaced. We did not put water in it yet.
The walls roof and floor are all good and solid. We got it cheap enough that we can afford to make some small repairs, but it does not seem to need any yet.
Bringing it home the door started swing open, so we will need to buy a latch to keep it locked while on the road.
We will be making our first trip in it next week end. Bruce has his fifty year class reunion and it is about three hundred mile up there.
I will keep you posted on any thing that we encounter. We seem to always have something happen.
Well see you later, God Bless and stay in the saddle.
When buying a used camper you need to check out everything you can at the dealers lot.
We checked the water heater, refrigerator,furnace and all the lights. It need to have one bulb replaced. We did not put water in it yet.
The walls roof and floor are all good and solid. We got it cheap enough that we can afford to make some small repairs, but it does not seem to need any yet.
Bringing it home the door started swing open, so we will need to buy a latch to keep it locked while on the road.
We will be making our first trip in it next week end. Bruce has his fifty year class reunion and it is about three hundred mile up there.
I will keep you posted on any thing that we encounter. We seem to always have something happen.
Well see you later, God Bless and stay in the saddle.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Monday, June 7, 2010
Camper equipment
Now here is a list of things that I make sure is in the camper at all times.
1. paper plates 2. some knives, forks and spoons
3. toilet paper 4. Paper towels
5. extra shoes 6. First Aid Kit with extra band aids
7. Vet wrap for the horses 8. Absorbine Jr
9. Peroxide and table sugar 10. chairs
11. cooking pots 12. fire started
13. Toilet paper 14. Water containers
15. paper napkins 16. wash cloths
17. blankets 18. Pillows
19. bucket to water horses 20. Hay for horses
21. rope to tie the horses with 22. extra halter
23. leather punch (for repairs) 24. Ice
In addition to list above I keep certain foods is the camper year around. We use our camper all year for traveling as well as going with the horses.
1. Coffee 2. Creamer
3. Pork n Beans 3. Sugar
4. Flour 5. Salt & Pepper
6. Dry milk 7. canned Tomatoes
8. Crackers 9. Canned fruit
10. kool ade and pop 11. tea bags
Now if you are primitive camping you will need something for a shelter.
A tent or canvas to make a A frame. You can of course sleep in your horse trailer if you really need to.
So, now that you have all this stuff put together you can go camping. Is there any room for Fido? God Bless and stay in the saddle
1. paper plates 2. some knives, forks and spoons
3. toilet paper 4. Paper towels
5. extra shoes 6. First Aid Kit with extra band aids
7. Vet wrap for the horses 8. Absorbine Jr
9. Peroxide and table sugar 10. chairs
11. cooking pots 12. fire started
13. Toilet paper 14. Water containers
15. paper napkins 16. wash cloths
17. blankets 18. Pillows
19. bucket to water horses 20. Hay for horses
21. rope to tie the horses with 22. extra halter
23. leather punch (for repairs) 24. Ice
In addition to list above I keep certain foods is the camper year around. We use our camper all year for traveling as well as going with the horses.
1. Coffee 2. Creamer
3. Pork n Beans 3. Sugar
4. Flour 5. Salt & Pepper
6. Dry milk 7. canned Tomatoes
8. Crackers 9. Canned fruit
10. kool ade and pop 11. tea bags
Now if you are primitive camping you will need something for a shelter.
A tent or canvas to make a A frame. You can of course sleep in your horse trailer if you really need to.
So, now that you have all this stuff put together you can go camping. Is there any room for Fido? God Bless and stay in the saddle
Sunday, June 6, 2010
buying and selling horses
When you go to buy a horse make sure you are on the ground looking at it. I bought one last fall thinking I had a good Fox Trotter to ride the rest of my days. Well, Think again Deanna. I was sitting up in the bleachers when I bought this horse, when I got on the ground next to her I thought "How is the world am I ever going to get on her". Her back is higher than I am tall. I need to have a bucket or ladder to stand on.
She is a palomino four year old Fox Trotter. Beautiful horse. I can not get up on her. So she is for sale again. I want to make sure she gets a good home. She is as quite and calm as can be.
Seriously, look at the horse really good. Check its feet- you can tell if it has been foundered. You can tell if it has had a problem in the last few weeks because the feet will have rings in the hoof if there is a problem. Cracks are a little concern, you can fix some of them. Shoes are always good to look at. If it does not have shoes find out why not. It may be that the horse will not let you put shoes on it. Try to pick up its feet, but be careful not to get kicked.
Look at its teeth. You can tell its age by the teeth but I look for color and any biting problem.
Watch it walk if you can. Does it limp or drag one of its feet?
Check its eyes. Are they clear and bright. Does it have white eyes showing..I don't like a horse that shows white. They are usually hard to control.
Going through an auction is a stressful thing for the horse to go through. It is scary for anyone.
If there is a way to do, ride the horse before you buy it.
She is a palomino four year old Fox Trotter. Beautiful horse. I can not get up on her. So she is for sale again. I want to make sure she gets a good home. She is as quite and calm as can be.
Seriously, look at the horse really good. Check its feet- you can tell if it has been foundered. You can tell if it has had a problem in the last few weeks because the feet will have rings in the hoof if there is a problem. Cracks are a little concern, you can fix some of them. Shoes are always good to look at. If it does not have shoes find out why not. It may be that the horse will not let you put shoes on it. Try to pick up its feet, but be careful not to get kicked.
Look at its teeth. You can tell its age by the teeth but I look for color and any biting problem.
Watch it walk if you can. Does it limp or drag one of its feet?
Check its eyes. Are they clear and bright. Does it have white eyes showing..I don't like a horse that shows white. They are usually hard to control.
Going through an auction is a stressful thing for the horse to go through. It is scary for anyone.
If there is a way to do, ride the horse before you buy it.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Where to go from start
That sounds like a funny begining but it is true. Where do I start to tell you about our adventures on horse back and camping. My husband, Bruce, and I have traveled all over Missouri riding trails and looking at campgrounds. I wrote a book on camping because we would go to a campground and find out that either it did not have water or camping was not with the horses or some other thing that we did not like. So, we traveled to fing the ones that we did like.
Bruce is a true horseman- he worked on horse back all his life in feed yards. He started when he got out of highschool. He got hurt in 1996 that would not allow him to keep working but he can still ride now that he has healed up. It took him four years to get back in the saddle.
The very first time we went anywhere we went to a place called Lead Mine, MO. It is a conservation area that now has camping stalls and water nearby. It used to be down under a hill and was all primitave camping near the river. It was and still is a nice place to camp. You can tie the horses in your camping area, on a line between trees. We carry portable panels with us to make a stall. The trails are easy and you can ride as long or as short a trail as you want. There are some hills, and a lot of gravel roads to ride on.
In addition to the campinmg area, the Conservation area has a day use only area in several places. So you can just go and ride through the day and return home.
I have a camping list that I used to make sure that I have all I need to stay a day or two. I will put it on here later.
Bruce is a true horseman- he worked on horse back all his life in feed yards. He started when he got out of highschool. He got hurt in 1996 that would not allow him to keep working but he can still ride now that he has healed up. It took him four years to get back in the saddle.
The very first time we went anywhere we went to a place called Lead Mine, MO. It is a conservation area that now has camping stalls and water nearby. It used to be down under a hill and was all primitave camping near the river. It was and still is a nice place to camp. You can tie the horses in your camping area, on a line between trees. We carry portable panels with us to make a stall. The trails are easy and you can ride as long or as short a trail as you want. There are some hills, and a lot of gravel roads to ride on.
In addition to the campinmg area, the Conservation area has a day use only area in several places. So you can just go and ride through the day and return home.
I have a camping list that I used to make sure that I have all I need to stay a day or two. I will put it on here later.
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