Gizmo

So today, I once again became the proud owner of Special Device, aka Gizmo.

Many of you who know me, know Gizmo. I bought him as a 7 year old in 1999, did my first preliminary level event on him, completed 2 CCI* long formats and generally had a fabulous time with him. He went on from me to Vero St. Maurice, who ended up finishing 4th at the CCI* long format in Virginia and then he was Lexi Rappaport's Hannukah present 4 years ago. They have been eventing at training level (since Lexi isn't old enough for prelim) and doing some of the jumpers. Lexi is getting a new horse http://www.branniganeventing.com/Pages/SalesHorses.html, a lovely WB mare to go on with in the jumpers and with Blondie still in the mix, Gizmo needed a new challenge. He is getting a new girl to teach the eventing ropes, Kenzie Baker in Florida, the student of my friend and colleague, Cyndi Kurth (whom many of you know as "super announcer" at events in Florida and beyond).

I'm excited to hear about his new adventures and hope he enjoys being back in the warm lands.

Vegas baby!

Henry and I are spending the weekend in Las Vegas. I ran the half marathon this morning which was fun as always. Best costume was a costume of Sponge Bob in an Elvis costume. Best sign "your feet hurt because you are kicking so much ass". As always, dining opportunities. Twist by Pierre Gagnaire was trying a bit too hard. Atelier Roubchon was very good, including my salad which went beyond food presentation into a work of art. Sadly, Michael had to spend the weekend back in the zoo, so we've missed seeing him. On the upside, Jon is here from Michigan and ran the full marathon. We will be meeting him for dinner at Bradley Ogden this evening. I need to make some running goals for 2011. I am focused on Tag's eventing debut in Aiken so haven't really thought about yhe running. Debi is pleased with Tag and says he is a good boy with only slight ADD tendencies. He has destroyed a turnout sheet already which I have replaced with one of the Bit of Britain 1680D high neck sheets. Tag will be getting a new jumping girth and breastplate formthe holidays. I got myself a new saddle. Total score of a buffalo leather Ryde saddlery Vantage at a great price. Now the Devoucoux I have consigned with Malvern needs to sell and I need to get the 5 extra dressage saddles over to Skylands for their consignment. Yes, I have 6 dressage saddles, but have picked the one I am keeping, althouggh am liking e County I am riding Feivel in enoughnthat I will be keeping an eye out once something sells. The holidays are good as I can focus my shopping on non-horsey gifts for everyone.