Holiday Shopping Bulletin

By popular demand, we at last are able to offer to you the first ever MHR Wall Calendar. It's available at Cafe Press. All proceeds from the sale of this calendar will go to the feeding of the MHR equine rescues.

We hope you enjoy it. Thank you so much for your support!

Stephanie and Rob

Charity pictures, 10/28/09

Photos taken of Charity 10/28/09

Wednesday morning, 10/28/09

Good Morning Everyone

All is well here, and Charity is doing very well. She has settled quite nicely and is an eating machine appreciating everything she gets.

Hagan and Justice are doing great. Very peaceful here this morning which we like.

In regards to CJ's bench, we would like to be able to provide a plaque with individuals name on the plaque that will be mounted on the bench in her honor.

We appreciate any and all support for the horses at MHR. CJ, I miss you my friend, and as we were here for each other here on earth, I know you are watching over us and loving on Blackie and all of our horses who were waiting for you.



Stephanie

October 26, 2009 - Charity is here!!!

Sunday evening, October 25 - Charity begins at home

Good Evening Everyone,

One door closes and another opens! Our dream, the dream of all the horses, mules, donkeys and animals who have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge of living in a loving, safe home continues to live in our hearts and always will. At the end of the month, one of the local clergy will be visiting the ranch to bestow a very special blessing upon all that live here, four legged and two legged. We seek comfort and guidance from our Creator as we move forward. We will let you know when this happens.

Charity will be arriving tomorrow, our transporters who are the very best have taken her to their ranch for a few days to rest so that she can make her last leg of her journey to MHR. They have said she is a sweet gentle mare, in dire need of good feed and care. We want to be able to give her and of course all the horses at MHR the best we can. So if you are able please call Shadow Mtn Feed on Tuesday and place a special order for CHARITY. (775-727-5527)

Charity is 15 years old, and we have been informed that you can see ribs and when asked to score her, they figured her to be a 2. Dr. Hadland will be called out to give her a complete exam.

I hope that you will all help me in welcoming CHARITY another PMU MARE IN FOAL who needs all of us!! Thank you so very much to all her rescuers and supporters!

Rob and Stephanie

Caroline Jaffe, in Memoriam

Caroline (CJ) Jaffe was a major presence on ABR and very active in the anti-slaughter movement. We learned with deep sadness today that CJ has passed after a long and brave struggle with cancer.

Our deepest condolences to everyone. CJ was the person who convinced me in 2006 to join the TWR site and move forward to ABR. We became very good friends through the years and spoke often. Her music always brought a smile to my face and now she is singing to the heavenly herd.

CJ always told me that we had the most beautiful sunsets here and she had always wanted to see one. In HONOR of CJ we will be placing a bench under one of our pine trees facing west and next to this bench will be a post with a horse head and hitching ring for Blackie to stand next to her.

CJ I will miss you my friend, but I know you are at peace now, never to feel pain, and you will be singing with the Angels!

All our Love to You

Stephanie, Robert and the entire MHR Herd

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Good Sunday Morning to All

I have a couple of announcements to make.

Due to the untimely passing of our beautiful Faith this thread on ABR will close for posting at approximately 6pm Pacific time this evening. If you have anything that you would like to add to the thread or any photos please do not hesitate to do so.

Faith was a remarkable horse who as most PMUs had to undergo a terrible life. She came to us in poor condition, and she blossomed once here. She began her road to recovery both physically and emotionally. Then she presented us with a beautiful healthy colt.

I do oh so wish she was still with us so she could have lived out the remainder of her life with us, receiving the love, care and tenderness she so deserved...but it was not meant to be.

Faith I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOUR SOFT WUFFLES

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

"CHARITY BEGINS AT HOME"

will be our new thread on ABR as she will be arriving on Monday the 26th of October. She is also in poor condition and will also need special feed as well. She needs to gain her strength and trust as well so she has a chance at a good life. Her thread will open at approximately 7pm Pacific time this evening.



THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!!!!



Stephanie and Rob

Nellie's on her way!

Nellie has started her journey to Nevada. The transporter picked her up this afternoon and they expect to arrive back at their own ranch by tomorrow evening. Nellie will then be allowed to rest for a few days before coming to MHR.

The transporter described Nellie as being a 'skeleton.' Evidently Nellie and a few other mares were in a pasture with very short grass. She will be treated for parasites when she arrives.

To say the least, I am not happy to hear of her condition whatsoever, in fact I AM TRULY SICKENED BY IT!

We have so many things to be prepared for, but by gosh WE AS A WHOLE will accomplish it.

We will do everything humanly possible, and FAITH AND HOPE MOVES MOUNTAINS!!!!!

Stephanie

Bulletin (a good one!)

email just received from Nellie's limo:

"Weather is clear and we are looking at a 1 pm arrival!
I will let you know when she is on the trailer and headed home!"

woo hooooo!!!!!

Sunday morning, October 18, 2009

Good Sunday Morning,

It is the beginning of a new day, and a beautiful day here!

It is time to pull ourselves up but our boot straps, dust ourselves and move forward. This is how our girls would want it to be.

So in honor of our girls we need to start a good old fashion "Barn Raising!" We needed assistance in helping pay the guys for pulling it down, and now we are asking if you are able to assist in contributing to raise the barn it would be greatly appreciated. We must get everything ready for our elders for the winter. Pulling down was was the easy part, but raising it once again is a bit more time consuming but I know with all of working we can get it done.

We do have to hire the guys, as Rob's work schedule makes it difficult for him to be here always and I am limited as well. But can we do it YES WE CAN!!!!!!

Anything will help and is appreciated....lets makes this a wonderful mission for healing as we all need diversion at this point, and what a better way than to give add protection to our horses.

Thank you all for your wonderful words, flowers and conversation. It's time now to Rock and Roll and the cam is going back up either today or tomorrow!

Love to all

Stephanie and Rob

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Your thoughts and sentiments have compelled me to write of the deep gratitude and comfort you have conveyed to us here at MHR.

Our job, which we feel we were chosen for, is not easy...emotionally, physically and financially, but it is one that we gladly take on.

We have taken in some pretty down trodden horses that some thought would never survive, but they did. It makes no difference how long they are with us, they receive good quality care and plenty of love...which we have so much to give.

I have been blessed with a family who has been so supportive, friends who know and understand. The last three weeks have been horrible, losing Buttercup, Faith and now Marigold.

Buttercup came as quite a shock, as all was well the days and nights before. But she did go peacefully as there were NO signs of struggle whatsoever. She had a remarkable personality, ears, no ears....what a joy she was!

Faith, oh our dear sweet Faith, who gave so much of herself in such a short time. I felt like I had been hit with a sledge hammer. Coming across the property I did not see anything unusual as Faith every morning would lie puppy dog style enjoying the sunshine as it rose over the mountains. As I came closer, I knew, as she did not raise her head and wuffle at me, nor made her moves to stand up. I could not get the gate open fast enough so I just climbed over. I knelt down, and touched her soft face and knew. Her eyes were closed. Very peaceful, very serene. She did bestow a beautiful gift to us all...JUSTICE. who grows daily and becomes more beautiful each day. He is and always will be loved by many! In Faith we met a remarkable horse, one who will be engraved in my heart forever.

Marigold, oh what a mule she was. She made me laugh, she made me cry as I dressed her old wounds. She arrived with many many issues, but we did everything we possibly could to make her last days her best. She had whatever she wanted, but I began to notice the tired look in her eyes, the lack of vigor in her eyes at feeding time. Hence the reason for Dr. Hadland to come in. I value his professional and compassionate nature. When he believes we have exhausted every effort then I must take him for his professional opinion. Marigold left her earthly body peacefully and quickly...she was ready. I will miss her big long ears twitching, listening and you strokes her with a soft brush and Hagan goosing you for the same treatment. Hagan is doing well; I know she misses Marigold but she is given a great deal of attention just being loved on.

No matter what their state if disabilities, their need for food, and especially their need for love...they will receive it here. We do what works for us and it has been successful thus far..everyone has their own way, but if it is done for the love of the horse, then IT IS THE RIGHT WAY!

Stephanie and Rob

Saturday morning, October 17, 2009

What a week. It has been a lesson of love and heartbreak all rolled into strength.

I remember Marigold and Destiny, stepping off the trailer. We were willing to take on the challenges and we did! We cleaned her up, removed parasites, cleaned wounds daily, and made her comfortable. Soft bed of straw and plenty of warm sunshine, cool clean water daily.

During her short period she had everything she could have wanted. She was the grand dame of MHR and always will be running in tall grass, now adopted by our Maker, and He will send us another in need when the time is right.

We are grateful to Him for taking them quickly...He has His hands full with these two.

Stephanie and Rob

Marigold

Lady Marigold, the Grand Dame of MHR has joined Faith in the Heavenly Herd. She was welcomed to the herd at 12:30 pm Pahrump time. Her passing was very quick and peaceful. Dr Hadland said it was time and she was surrounded by love and dignity. Run free Lady Marigold.

Thursday evening, October 15, 2009

Hi All,

This has been a very very rough day. Our hearts ache beyond belief.

Faith, my heart was so torn when I saw you standing in the snow in ND. My heart ached as you stepped off the trailer, thin and looking so worn out. I saw a light in your eyes, and by God I knew we had a chance to bring you back. We did, but it was not only the feed, it was the trust you gave to me...I will cherish every memory and every milestone we achieved together.

You were and will always be magnificent in my eyes. You presented all of us with a beautiful colt "Justice". You taught him well to trust and to accept...thank you!

As Rob stated today "We strive to adopt these beautiful creatures to the best home, well.....Heaven Adopted Faith" What better home could she have?

We will miss you my dear dear friend and confidant, you listened well. I will love and care for your son to the best of my ability; if I need guidance I know I will hear your wuffles in my ear.

I love you Faith!!!

Stephanie and Rob

Further sad news

I have to inform you that I have placed a call into Dr. Hadland for Marigold. She is slowly slipping from us. I do not make these decisions, I seek the advice a professional Equine Vet. But I do see it in her eyes, she is tired, but I will keep you posted.

Love to all

Stephanie and Rob

For Faith

To My Forever Friends

I know that it will be different,
now that I am no longer here.

I also realize how much I was loved
and how all of you did care.

I know it will be hard at first
when you look around for me.

Expecting to find me in my pen,
or beside my favorite rubbing post.

Someday you will begin to see
although it'll take some time,
the happy times you shared with me,
the memories are yours and mine.

I'll remember you, my friends,
and how much you meant to me.

So please don't grieve and don't be sad,
it was just my time to leave.

Thank you to MaryLOhio for posting this poem.

Tragic news from MHR

Photo by Cathy Potter

Faith, our beloved Faith, has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. She was found this morning all curled up like a puppy dog. No signs of any struggle. She died in her sleep. Last night she was fine, eating, drinking, pooping.

Tears are flowing for our sweet Faith. God, the tears are flowing.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Good Morning to Everyone,

All is well here at MHR! Amy is an excellent worker, has picked up on the horses and their quirks and a very fast learner. I am hoping during the xmas holidays to give her something special as she is a single mom w/ two daughters. Her poor truck was giving her such problems and so unsafe that Rob and I took it to a friend of ours that gave us a good price to repair the safety issues. Paying it forward! It is about giving and she does give to the MHR horses 1000%...and safety is first!!!

The loss of Buttercup hit us all so hard, but I can tell you that Amy was devastated. Truly a caring soul.

Everyone is doing well, and we are starting to save the funds in order to pay the guys to put the shades back up. Rob's schedule makes it tough to have it consistently worked on. I do have the cam here and we will be working on that as well..no time for production yet but it's a coming!

All of the horses are well! We would like to thank everyone who has called into Shadow Mtn Feed 775-727-5527 for the excellent hay we are getting 9.99 per bale for Premium Hay...they love it!

Well, must get ready for the day but it is all coming together!



Stephanie and Rob....and from the bottom our hearts thank you!!

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Good Morning to Everyone!

It has been very hectic around here. The big things can get moved easily; it is the small things that seem to catch up.

One of the biggest issues we are having is our feed. With the economy as it is, we understand and the changes that have been made through Paypal are effecting fund raising somewhat also.

Shadow Mtn Feed is offering Premium Hay at the cost of 9.99 per bale, and if you are so inclined Patti is willing to take your order. We will provide you with a receipt for your donation. She can be reached at 775-727-5527. The move took a great deal of our personal funds, but it's okay because it has provided so much more for the horses. We also had a couple of emergency vet calls, but we got that covered as well. But if any help can be provided to Shadow Mtn for the hay costs it would be appreciated.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING! Oh yeah, and the cam is on site now; we just have not hooked it up as of yet but very soon.

Stephanie and Rob

Hay Price Bulletin

Winter is coming very soon and the price of hay is expected to increase. Shadow Mountain Feed has an excellent quality hay being offered right now at $10 per bale.

This is a fantastic price for hay in this area, and we need to take advantage of this price while it lasts. The hay ride donations have dropped off, I believe due to the economy in the country. But this price for a bale of hay can't be overlooked and the horses need their hay.

The goal is to get as many bales as possible--$10 per bale. Please call in or mail checks to Shadow Mountain Feed (775) 727-5527, they will keep a running credit and keep us in stock with the bales of hay and also they will provide the name of the donor to MHR so that Stephanie can provide a receipt for end of year. Ask for Ron or Patti.

Shadow Mountain Feed
2031 W. Bell Vista
Pahrump, Nevada 89060

Remember Shadow Mountain is closed Sunday and Monday.

If you prefer, paypal may be used to purchase bales of hay. Since Shadow Mountain does not have paypal, please use MHR website.

one bale of excellent quality hay for $10

Wednesday evening, October 7, 2009

Good Wednesday Evening to All,

First of all....THANK YOU ALL FOR THE WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY WISHES!!!!!

The loss of sweet Buttercup came as a shock to everyone here. There were zero indications of anything wrong whatsoever. But I guess the heavenly herd needed her more...but a shock none the less.

Faith is doing GREAT!!!!!! I think she is part elephant at this point, especially at the "SOUTHEND" All I can say right now is OY!!! I know she is doing better cause she gave me the stink eye...sigh, but she got over that quickly, cause my stink eye is worse.

Justice is doing great and loves his human companions, really loves them. There is no mournful mommy cries, that lasted only a few hours, especially when he realized ahhhhh the food is ALL MINE!

Every, and I do mean every, horse is doing beautifully, dusty and dirty but that is to be expected considering the ranch's soil and so much of the work that we must get accomplished. Remember, this will be a work in progress through the winter and spring months and things are always subject to change.

Thank you to everyone for participating in fundraising for the horses, it is so so appreciated and is a much need help during this time.

Nellie is scheduled to be picked up on the 16th of October and I will let you know right away, as I will no longer take excuses. Always give the benefit of the doubt, till shown otherwise.

Thank you all again for your patience and understanding, and thank you all once again for the B-day wishes.

Stephanie and Rob

Faith update, October 7, 2009

Hi everybody,

Faith update from the ranch: She's doing super well! pooping like an elephant (if you'll pardon the expression). She will go back with the bbgs soon, but will be monitored. If she exhibits signs of stress, she will return to a solo pen. Very very good news. She's on hay, which she likes, and she's also getting senior and rice bran. She's acting very normal. Faith and Stephanie have bonded during this in a big way.

Stephanie and Justice had a play period yesterday, which she really enjoyed. He is HUGE and it makes Rob nervous. 8-) Justice is very well muscled and graceful on his feet. Quite different from AJ at the same age, who was quite the little klutz (and I still miss him terribly!).

All the chickens have been rounded up from the old property and are living at Stephanie's parents for now.

Things are finally settling down and Stephanie will be back on the blog very soon.

thanks everybody!

Sheila

Buttercup

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Buttercup, our 28 year old palomino mare, peacefully crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. She was fine in the morning and in the afternoon, and at evening feeding, she was gone. We'll always remember those pinned back ears and her feistiness. Rest in peace, dear Buttercup.

Buttercup video

This was posted by our good friend, Jonna Grey, on ABR:

Buttercup.
Damn damn damn.
Two years In Heaven with S&R and her frens....
Not enough.
But horses I think do not count the days
behind them--or before them.

Just today:
Steph and Rob.
The hounds.
The chickums.
Horsie frens and---um--other.
Good food.
Treats.
Visitors.
Fly mask!
New halters!
Sweet bed.
Good water.
New Shoes!
Buttercup got many Very Good Todays.
And her silent, swift passing...
in her quiet departure
for The Real Thing.
Something sweet in that too.

I am so sorry for her absence
for all who knew her, know her.

xxoo:j
COURAGE

Thank you so much, Jonna, for the beautiful and comforting words.

Stephanie

Friday, October 2, 2009

Faith update

Unfortunately, Faith seems a little under the weather again today. Stephanie isn't comfortable with how she's acting, so she's given her a dose of banamine and called Dr. Adam.

Help with the vet bill would be appreciated!

A tour of the new property

Yet ANOTHER delay

So very sorry to say that Nellie's departure date has been delayed once again. The rancher has failed to respond to the transporter's request to confirm that Nellie is ready for her trip. The transport date is now October 16.

Very sorry for the disappointment you all feel. We do too. The rancher will now receive daily calls to ensure that this trip happens as planned.

Stephanie and Rob

Thursday morning, October 1, 2009

Hi All,

Were baaaaaaaaaaaaaacccccccckkkkkkkkk! We were not really gone - just a full plate with the move and such. It has been accomplished. There is still a lot of work that has to been done at the new place, but Rome was not built in a day. I think we tried at one point but realized we could not do it. :)

Faith is doing very well. She is back in the Ladies Parlour and seems more settled. She kinda had I believe empty nest syndrome. Been there, done that have the badge. She is quiet today, and eating and drinking well. Thank you to each person who contributed to her emergency vet care night before last. Very very much appreciated.

Each horse has settled into the new place, the Football Field, the Parlour and the long run. As soon as we are able, the back group (shed row) we will be constructing them their own turnout area. This will give them the opportunity to hang out for a few hours a day, outside of their environment.

We will be working on getting the cam back up over this next week. I am sure it will be off and on until we can make it just right. So I am asking for just a little more time from you.

Once again, thank you ever so very much for ALL your support in every aspect of the word.



Stephanie and Rob