under-sharing

Ok, so it HAS totally been forever since I shared my thoughts with the viewing public.
It's not as if I haven't had any. I am not sure what has kept me silent. It's really not like me.
Since I last posted personally a lot has happened!
I attended my high school reunion -
I rode my horse again after a two year "I'm skeert" phase -
I FINALLY got a new sofa! Actually I got TWO new sofas (isn't that lucky!)
I've been to TN, KY Florida and Illinois -
My kids have out grown nearly all their clothes again -
I've made some huge personal changes so that I can have more peace of mind and inner bliss.

This is very big stuff! Oh, and just tonight ... I registered to run / walk in my first 5K ever!

I've tried for years to hide under the delusion that I didn't like to run. Truth is I just suck at it. I am short and in school everyone just blurred past me. I don't like to do things I suck at, especially public things!
It wasn't that I was completely nonathletic. I rode horses, I was a gymnast, I rode my 10 speed everywhere and I can roller skate backwards!
But to be real here - I'm a brat. Seriously ... I'm the kid that quit playing Monopoly when I wasn't winning. Apparently, I have control issues. Running, I never worked at hard enough to be any good at it.
My Uncle Don is a runner! I tried to run with him a time or two, like for lessons. I think I thought it'd rub off on me. I was waiting for an instant transition in which my lungs wouldn't feel as if they'd descended into the pits of hell. Never happened and I just got out run by a dude that was more than twice my age. My uncle is now in his 70's, he's still in awesome shape. I think he walks more than he runs. My guess is, he can still kick my ass running any day of the week and all day on Sunday!
So I've had this secret desire to be a runner. I was perfectly willing to take it to my grave, honest! I'm sure I am at least 45 lbs over weight and walking around on battered knees and I am slightly asthmatic ... seems like I may have missed my peak time to excel at this activity. I have, however, paid my $20 for a 5K that is in exactly 2 weeks.
I am not sure whether to thank profusely or drop kick my good friend Jeanne for encouraging this bizarre behavior. I'll let you know around noon on Nov. 14th. Interestingly, this date is my childhood best friend's (also named Jeanne)birthday. This friend is an EMT, I don't think this is a coincidence. I need one Jeanne to encourage and inspire me and the other to administer CPR. It's all good!
I have two friends from high school that have recently completed half marathons. Megan and Rhonda are my heroes - my secret desire to run was first fueled by their facebook posts about their training runs and then of course their triumph over 13.1 miles! I will think of them as I waddle through this first 5K. I may curse them too, but I will not mean it, scouts honor! They are completely awesome!
I have some level of embarrassment in getting to this 5K. Because of my battered knees (insert gymnastics here) I have to go get uber good running shoes that correct my "over pronation" (check me out with my cool running terms!)this just means that I literally "run funny". So in order to have my gait evaluated I get to go to the running store, you know where the elite marathon types hang out. Those that have read my past columns know that I am a positive person. So, I will not crinkle my determination by worrying about the looks I might get in this mecca for runners. I am sure that pudgy women go there everyday embarking upon their own realization of secret dreams of athleticism.
I am listening to my cowgirl sister Templeton's song "I can do this" for more inspiration because it's late and Inspiration Jeanne has gone to bed. Paramedic Jeanne is likely awake, but I feel sure she'd discourage me from probable cardiac infractions.
Seriously, its not the 5K ... it's a run/walk and I walk 4 to 5 miles pretty often. A 5K is only 3.1 miles. I can't run it yet. But I will - that realization is somewhat scary.
Inspiration Jeanne says that if you are uncomfortable then you are growing, unless of course you have a sunburn or a hemorrhoid or something, then it just is what it is. I wont be uncomfortable walking this first 5K, but I will be uncomfortable because I won't be running. I am learning thou, a little at time that I don't have to and I can't control everything. I can't get in good enough shape to run a 5K in two weeks. I could wait, I bet that's what you are thinking. I could train and then do one in the spring. I could ... but I wouldn't.
I just need to go be uncomfortable. So I will ... remember, I paid my $20 already and Kent (my hubby) won't let me back out. That's a good thing.
So, wish me luck folks. I'm gonna get up stupid early in two weeks, drive 50 miles and likely be really cold. I'll walk 5 kilometers but most importantly, I am going to let go of my need to control everything in my life. Oh, don't get too excited ... I'll still need to control most everything else. But this I can do.
AND party bonus ... I get a t-shirt!

hunt down your bliss and nail it to the wall,
Tess

Exclusive Couture ‘Derby Hats’ to be Offered in One-of-a-Kind Online Charity Auction Benefiting Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Facility

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cynthia Grisolia, Old Friends

MEDIA CONTACT: Cynthia Grisolia, (347) 423-7322, cagrisolia@yahoo.com, or Maggie Mae Designs® (508-430-1626), info@maggiemae.com

Note: additional images available

Exclusive Couture ‘Derby Hats’ to be Offered in One-of-a-Kind Online Charity Auction Benefiting Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Facility

GEORGETOWN, KY—OCTOBER 22, 2009—Custom Millinery Maggie Mae Designs® has joined forces with Old Friends, the Thoroughbred Retirement Facility in Central Kentucky, to create an unparalleled online shopping experience: “Hats Off to Horses: The Road to the Derby.”

On November 1, 2009 Old Friends will auction the first of six elegant Kentucky Derby Hats handcrafted by acclaimed milliner Sally Faith Steinmann of the Massachusetts-based Maggie Mae Designs®. Each of the six Steinmann pieces will be inspired by one of the 70 retired racehorses pensioned at Old Friends’s Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, KY.

“Hats off to Horses: The Road to the Derby” will offer a new, one-of-a-kind millinery creation for bid each month, with all of the high-fashion action leading up to the most exciting two minutes in sports.

The first day of bidding on the “Black Tie Affair” will be November 1, 2009 and the auction will be available for 10 days only. Interested bidders can view the hat and learn more about Steinmann by visiting www.maggiemaedesigns.com and following the auction link.

Ms Steinmann is donating each of the hats, and 100 percent of the online proceeds will go to Old Friends, the 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization (recently featured in the Aug. 24th edition of the New York Times) founded by former Boston Globe film critic Michael Blowen.

Steinmann has been making hats for Derby and many other racing events since 1998. Her designs were seen in the winner’s circle in 2008 when Big Brown captured the Run for the Roses. Her life-long love affair with horses has inspired her to create this matchless collection of Derby Hats to benefit Old Friends.

“Making hats is a passion,” said Steinmann, “but the horses are too, and with this project they are intertwined for me.

I have been wanting to do an exclusive fundraiser with just one equine-welfare organization for a long time,” adds Steinmann. “I had been corresponding with Alex Brown, who runs ‘ABR’ a horseracing website, and he suggested Old Friends–he couldn't possibly have known that they were my dream choice,” she laughs. “I was thrilled that Michael Blowen was excited about the idea, too.”

“It’s an honor to be working with Sally on this project,” said Blowen, who launched the facility in 2003. “Her work is exceptionally beautiful, and the hats will be fitting tributes to the great athletes we have retired here. We are so grateful for her generosity.”

The first hat on the block will celebrate Old Friends retiree Black Tie Affair. The now 23-year-old stallion won the Breeders’ Cup Classic in 1991 and subsequently the Eclipse Award for “Horse of the Year”. His earnings on the racetrack exceed $3 million.

For this superlative athlete Steinmann has crafted an extraordinary chapeau. A foundation of luscious silver dupioni silk and silver silk organza has been layered with waves of pale silk organza brims.

The hat is, naturally, highlighted by…a black tie. Created in bold silk, the bowtie trim is adorned with red roses that recall the horse’s stable colors and a swirling black-dot veil that “reminds us of the lovely dapple gray coat he had during his of racing days,” said Steinmann.

The chic finish: a single red rose curl on the backside. “This final touch,” adds Steinmann, “makes the hat a stunning statement from every angle.”

Similar designs by Steinmann have sold for $700-900.

One doesn’t have to be a racing fan to know that wearing a sensational hat to the Kentucky Derby is a long-standing tradition. From the owners, trainers, and Hollywood celebrities sitting on Churchill Downs’s famed Millionaire Row, to the madcap toppers seen in the infield, the “Derby Hat” parade is as fundamental as the post parade on the First Saturday in May.

Even if you’re not Derby-bound, the Black Tie Affair hat would make an elegant addition to any formal ensemble.

“I’m so excited about Hats Off to Horses”, said Steinmann. “I can't think of a better way to celebrate the Derby and raise money for Old Friends all at the same time!”

To bid on November 1st go to the Old Friends website at www.oldfriendsequine.org and click on the appropriate link. Each new hat will be made available on the first day of the month through April 2010.

For additional information contact Cynthia Grisolia at cagrisolia@yahoo.com or Maggie Mae Designs® at info@maggiemae.com.

For more information about Old Friends see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org or call (502) 863-1775.

Maggie Mae Designs® Custom Millinery offers magnificent hats for all occasions – from glamorous racing events such as the Kentucky Derby and the Royal Ascot to stunning and unique bridal wear and handsome cocktail fashions. Every hat is carefully handcrafted by milliner Sally Faith Steinmann from her home base in South Harwich, MA. Salons of her fashions can been seen on her website at www.maggiemaedesigns.com

Old Friends is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that is home to over 70 retired racehorses. It’s Dream Chase Farm, located in Georgetown, KY, is open to tourists daily by appointment. For more information on tours, reservations at the Old Friends B&B, or to make a donation, contact the farm at (502) 863-1775 or see their website at www.oldfriendsequine.org.

ADEQUAN JOINS FORCES WITH THE ARABIAN HORSE ASSOCIATION AS THE “OFFICIAL JOINT THERAPY SPONSOR”

ADEQUAN JOINS FORCES WITH THE ARABIAN HORSE ASSOCIATION

AS THE “OFFICIAL JOINT THERAPY SPONSOR”

The Arabian Horse Association announced that one of the nation’s leaders in the fight against degenerative joint disease in horses, the veterinarian-trusted name of Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is now a corporate sponsor and the “Official Joint Therapy Sponsor of AHA.”

Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer of the flagship equine health product, Adequan®, will be represented at national shows and at the AHA convention in Reno in November during the general session. “Adequan is certainly an excellent fit for AHA,” said Cory H. Soltau, DVM. “Adequan has a long and safe track record for strong efficacy in the treatment of equine joints.”

Lance Walters, AHA president said, “We’re proud to have this new partnership with Luitpold Pharmaceuticals. The Adequan brand has a tremendously positive reputation – a terrific match for our 100-year-old breed association. From distance and racing to reining and the show ring, Arabian horse owners have long understood the usefulness of this fine product. We welcome Luitpold to the AHA family.”

Allyn Mann, Senior Manager of the Animal Health Division at Luitpold, said, “We continue to share the vision of Arabian Horse Association to promote excellence in their breed and the welfare of the horses. With Adequan® i.m., the only FDA-approved disease modifying joint disease treatment, Arabian horse owners can help keep their horses performing at the top of their game,” Mann continued. “We appreciate that AHA members have shown confidence in our brand, our product and our results. They know from experience that we understand the needs of performance horses and that we support the devoted equestrians and horses throughout the industry.”

Due to the rigors of competition, many performance horses suffer from joint disease. Adequan® is designed to help treat the underlying cause of the problem and break the cycle of damage, while reducing pain and inflammation.

To learn more about the causes, effects and treatments for equine degenerative joint disease, Adequan® offers a free educational CD or on-line video. To request this free educational video, call 1-800-974-9247, or visit www.adequan.com.

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There are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular polysulfated glycosaminoglycan or PSGAG in horses. Studies have not been conducted to establish safety in breeding horses. Go to www.adequan.com or call 800-974-9247 for full prescribing information. Adequan® i.m. is a registered trademark of Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

AHA is a major equine association serving 37,000 members across North America. It registers and maintains a database of more than one million Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses and administers approximately $3 million in annual prize money. AHA produces championship events, recognizes close to 600 Arabian horse shows and distance rides and provides activities and programs that promote breeding and ownership. For information about Arabian, Half-Arabian and Anglo-Arabian horses, call 303-696-4500, e-mail info@ArabianHorses.org or visit ArabianHorses.org

American Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse Registry National Convention to Be Hosted in Orlando, FL November 5th-7th

American Shetland Pony and Miniature Horse Registry National Convention to Be Hosted
in Orlando, FL November 5th-7th


Orlando, FL (October 21, 2009) – Members of the American Shetland Pony Club, the American Miniature Horse Registry and the American Show Pony Registry (ASPC/AMHR/ASPR) will reap the rewards for a successful year and plan for 2010 at the small equine organization’s upcoming annual convention. Supporters of the versatile and popular small equine breeds will meet in Orlando, Florida, November 5-7.

The ASPC/AMHR/ASPR are non-profit organizations established to preserve and refine the bloodlines of small equines and promote the enjoyment of small equines. “Despite a shaky economy, small equines have continued to grow in numbers throughout the country. Due to their small size and affordable price, both children and adults own and show these remarkable breeds,” said Johnny Robb, Director of Marketing for the ASPC/AMHR. “Our annual convention helps us stay focused and continue to grow and promote the greatest little equines in America.”

Thanks to M & D Printing all convention attendee will be treated to a VIP evening at the Arabian Nights Dinner Theatre, home to Tap Dance Kidd (Dancer) a three-time Grand National Champion American Shetland Pony. In an effort to keep Shetlands and Miniatures in the spotlight, the ASPC/AMHR donated Dancer to Arabian Nights as the first-ever ambassador of the breed to appear at the popular attraction.

“Arabian Nights is also home to a black Shetland Pony that plays the role of ‘Little Black’ in the Black Stallion Literacy Program. Formerly named Brush Creek’s Success, the new Little Black was donated by Bruce Becker of Brush Creek Stables in Arlington, Illinois,” Robb said, adding that in the last decade the Club and its members have taken a proactive role in keeping their small equines in the public eye.
The American Shetland Pony Club and the American Miniature Horse Registry recently held their national championship shows, with thousands of the finest Shetland Ponies and Miniature Horses from around the country competing for top money and big prizes. During the annual convention, the club will recognize top breeders, competitors and national All Star and Hall of Fame winners.

Started in 1888, the American Shetland Pony Club is one of the oldest equine registries in the United States. Incorporated in 1972, the American Miniature Horse Registry was first the registry for Miniature Horses in the United States and continues to be one of the foremost organizations committed to the preservation and promotion of these small equines. For more information on the annual convention, or small equines, visit their website at www.shetlandminiature.com or call (309) 263-4044.



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Top 10 things to remember about equine parasite resistance

Top 10 things to remember about equine parasite resistance

By Hoyt Cheramie, DVM, MS, manager, Merial Veterinary Services
Dr. Cheramie's picture is available for download

Parasite control is an important part of every equine health care program. Today, it’s no longer enough just to know what worms are bugging your horse. Now, you need to understand the basics of parasite resistance to ensure your program is effective.

If you already have enough to keep track of, don’t worry — veterinarians are your ally in keeping all the information straight. They also will help with developing and monitoring your parasite control program to ensure effectiveness and to keep resistance at bay.

When considering your parasite control program, there are 10 key things to keep in mind:

1. Resistance is a real threat. With no new parasite control products on the horizon, it’s important to start protecting our ability to control parasites by keeping current products effective.
2. Know the product class. Nearly all equine parasite control products belong to one of three different classes: benzimidazoles, macrocyclic lactones and pyrantel pamoates.
3. Use what works. It’s important to know what class you’re using because many experts believe macrocyclic lactones is the only class of medications that is capable of controlling key parasites in adult horses.1,2 For example, ivermectin, one of the two main active ingredients in ZIMECTERIN® Gold (ivermectin/praziquantel), is part of the macrocyclic lactones class.
4. Don’t rotate without reason. Many experts believe rotating through a series of different drugs will mask the effects of using products with resistance problems.3 In fact, information shows rotating through different parasite control products does not appear to slow the development of resistance.4
5. A few worms are OK. In the past, the goal of parasite control programs was to completely eliminate all parasites. However, today’s programs should be focused on reducing transmission of parasites, keeping worm burdens below harmful levels and treating clinically affected horses. Maintaining a population of parasites that can be killed by dewormers is an important factor in delaying the development of resistant parasites.2
6. Get the information. By performing a fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), your veterinarian can help identify the key parasite threats on your premises, if the products you are using are working and what products should be included in your parasite control program.5
7. Know what’s on your farm. The species and amount of parasites attacking horses can vary by geographic area. For instance, tapeworms may be found more frequently in the upper Midwest or southeastern parts of the United States, rather than the West Coast.6
8. Get it done right. FECRTs can easily be misinterpreted if samples are collected, handled or analyzed improperly. Be sure these tests are properly conducted by veterinarians or by independent, reputable laboratories.
9. Treat the “problem” horses. It’s estimated that 20 percent to 30 percent of the horses on a farm put out about 80 percent of the parasite eggs, while other horses tend to shed fewer worm eggs whether treated or not.2 By focusing treatments on horses shedding most of the worm eggs, you can help maintain a population of susceptible parasites, reduce the risk of resistance and help keep horses healthy.2
10. Guarantee success. We are all concerned about keeping our horses healthy, and the best way to make certain your product works is to look for products with a 100 percent product satisfaction guarantee.

With several different kinds of parasites waiting to attack horses and confusion surrounding the resistance problems of some parasite control products, it is harder than ever to be sure all key parasite threats are controlled. Keep these 10 tips in mind and your veterinarian’s number handy, and you’ll be set for the new era of parasite control.

Dr. Cheramie specializes in equine surgery and performance horse medicine and has a special interest in colic and performance-limiting problems, including gastric ulceration and lameness. He holds a doctorate of veterinary medicine from Louisiana State University and is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Warning: Not for use in humans. Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children. In horses, there have been rare reports of swelling and irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue following administration of ZIMECTERIN Gold. These reactions have been transitory in nature. Do not use in other animal species as severe adverse reactions, including fatalities in dogs, may result.

®ZIMECTERIN is a registered trademark of Merial Limited. ©2009 Merial Limited. Duluth, GA. All rights reserved. EQUIZIM934 (08/09).

For more information, contact:
Rachel Torbert
Bader Rutter
(402) 434-5307
rtorbert@bader-rutter.com

1Lyons ET, Tolliver SC, Ionita M, Collins SS. Evaluation of parasiticidal activity of fenbendazole, ivermectin, oxibendazle and pyrantel pamoate in horse foals with emphasis on ascarids (Parascaris equorum) in field studies on five farms in central Kentucky in 2007. Parasitol Res 2008;103:287-291.

2Kaplan RM. These ain’t your father’s parasites: An evidence-based medical approach to equine parasite control. The Practitioner October 2008.

3Kaplan RM, et al. Prevalence of anthelmintic resistance cyathostomes on horse farms. Parasitology Today 1999;15(4):156-159.

4Uhlinger CA, Kristula M. Effects of alteration of drug classes on the development of oxibendazole resistance in a herd of horses. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1992;201:51-55.

5Reinemeyer CR. Rational approaches to equine parasite control. In: Proceedings for the 2004 Equine Nutrition Conference for Feed Manufacturers. 2004:64-72.

6Reinemeyer C. Updates on the biology, diagnosis and control of cestodes in horses. Proc WAAVP 2003:16.