I know you haven't heard from me in a long, long time. A lot has happened - including a fall while jumping that resulted in a broken hip. But after six months recovering, I was finally able to SIT on a horse again - I rescued a pretty little OTTB last year, named him IRA, and he's a happy Parelli jumper. But enough about me.
Two quick reasons for writing -
1) this will be the last time you hear from me. I'm going to close up shop, shut down the blog and focus on my next project - a diversified family farm in Maine. If you're interested in hearing about THAT, you can shoot me an e-mail and I'll add you to that list.
If you like any of the blog posts here and want to refer to them again in future, you might want to save them as .pdf files or print them out.
2) I want to share a FABULOUS horseman - Trevor Carter. Trevor worked directly with Pat Parelli for over six years - he is a Four-Star Parelli Instructor and Pat's first choice whenever he has a challenge, such as Road to the Horse. You can read all about Trevor Here. Trevor and his wife Tara have two great projects that you NEED to know more about. First, check out Trevor's Facebook page - Click Here - where he'll be sharing his journey to become a Wild Card Competitor for the 2014 Road to the Horse. Trevor will be sharing so much of what he knows about colt starting, horse training, riding tips and so much more. Please check it out and "like" the page!
Thank you so much for traveling along with me these last few years - yes, it's been years! It was a joy to write to you and a joy to give my imagination and experience a good work-out to try to produce the best work I could for you. Remember, if you're interested in Homesteading, farming, livestock, fiber arts and more - that's my next journey, with my son and his wife in Maine. Give me a shout! You can also just comment that you want to hear about the new blog and website and I'll add you there.
Happy happy trails!
Norma Vela
Laura - I pay a monthly fee for TypePad to maintain the blog. That's the reason it's coming down. I LOVE TypePad and recommend it enthusiastically. But am cutting costs wherever i can for the new farm.
Debbie and Martha - Gotcha!
Beth - not sure if you want to come along but thank you for your good wishes.
Posted by: Norma V. | December 29, 2012 at 09:45 AM
I wish you the best for your new project!
Is there any reason why you will be taking down the blog instead of leaving it up so that we can access old articles? I suppose I'll have to save them if you don't, and that's okay, I was just wondering. :)
Posted by: Laura O | December 29, 2012 at 07:23 AM
You add me too, I would love to follow your next chapter.
Posted by: Debbie | December 28, 2012 at 07:21 AM
Norma, I would love to follow your journey in Maine. My family originates there, and I love going to visit when I can.
Much joy and happiness for the new year, and your upcoming ventures. I'm into the fiber arts now myself, and having a blast - you should really learn to spin, get some sheep and go for it. LOVE spinning! Very zen.
Ira is a doll.
Have fun in Maine!
Martha (past Parelli person myself)
Posted by: Martha Manigross | December 28, 2012 at 05:53 AM
Thank you Norma for your blog, for sharing your thoughts, your experiences and your life with us. All the VERY best for your new project. Much happiness to you!
Posted by: Beth B. | December 28, 2012 at 12:47 AM