Horse Crazy!

Some of my best thoughts and ideas come to me while I'm out "mucking" around the barn. A somewhat mindless, yet necessary daily activity, like doing dishes, once I get into it, I find myself musing, relaxing, and enjoying myself. I call it "manure meditation". It is part and parcel of my horse crazy obsession. 

My thoughts this morning were about what makes some of us "horse crazy". Horse crazy people out there will know what I'm referring to. Where does that term even come from? Googling "horse crazy" I naturally found lots of information about the famous Crazy Horse, who, according to Wikipedia was a Native American war leader of the Oglala Lakota. He took up arms against the U.S. Federal government to fight against encroachments on the territories and way of life of the Lakota people, including leading a war party to victory at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in June 1876. According to PBS, Crazy Horse was recognized among his own people as a visionary leader committed to preserving the traditions and values of the Lakota way of life.

I enjoyed reading about Crazy Horse and his "fierce determination to preserve his people's traditional way of life" (from the PBS documentary you can find at the link here;
 http://www.pbs.org/weta/thewest/people/a_c/crazyhorse.htm). I admire his courage and fortitude.

I feel that without something in our lives that we feel passionate about, enthusiastic, or engaged with, we are more apt to feel lost and empty. During my darker moments I am aware and deeply grateful for my horses who depend on me for their daily care and attention and always move me into a lighter, happier place. As per Google's definition of enthusiasm, "an intense and eager enjoyment and interest."

I couldn't find any reference to where the term "horse crazy" came from. It is an interesting term to me. Where else is a similar term used? I don't hear people referring to someone as being "boat crazy","golf crazy", or car crazy, yet we know there are people out there that fit these descriptions and more.

As a lifetime "horse crazy" person, I can tell you that it can be an obsession, hopefully a healthy one!  "Obsess: preoccupy or fill the mind of (someone) continually, intrusively, and to a troubling extent". (source: Google). And those last few words "to a troubling extent", lol! What horse crazy person hasn't been known to spend their last dime on horse feed or equipment, read every book about horse care, neglect loved ones, spend all of their "free" time with their horses, and talk non-stop about horses to their horsey friends, or anyone who feigns interest?

I prefer the Google definition of crazy as "extremely enthusiastic". And, like Crazy Horse who was dedicated and bravely passionate about standing strong for his people and way of life, crazy, in my mind, is really about caring deeply about something or someone. 

I'm keenly interested in why we develop interests and what inspires the range of interests, hobbies, career choices, lifestyle, and sports to name a few. I've always loved animals, horses and dogs in particular, as long as I can remember. I distinctly remember being called "horse crazy". A drive in the country with my grandfather would suddenly prompt a "stop Grandpa, there's a horse!" And he would stop of course, and out we'd get to say hello. 

I believe that this kind of obsession is mostly a good thing. I think about friends and family who love gardening, quilting,art, cooking, writing, photography, hiking, sustainable living and many other activities. I am fascinated by the resources and economic creation inspired by our personal interests such as products, equipment, magazines, blogs, and clubs. Come to think of it, our world's economy thrives on much of what we purchase or contribute to our passions, interests, or crazy obsessions.

For everyone I know who would never consider shoveling horse manure as a fun and meaningful activity, I know there are that many more out there who totally get the many benefits of a "manure meditation".

Our lives are enriched by our hobbies & interests. They help keep us active, busy, engaged, connected, and productive. They can provide relief from our darkest moments, sadness, and pain. Whether you find peace in your garden, a hike in the forest, a round of golf, or with the stroke of your paint brush, may you know that a little bit of crazy is a good thing!

Satisfaction!

Photo by Saskia Dockrill

In one end and out the other! Endless!

The Gift of Change

I recently reviewed a book called Brainstorm, Harnessing the Power of Productive Obsessions by Eric Maisel, PhD and Ann Maisel. Chapter 5 is titled Making the Ordinary Extraordinary, and Chapter 12 is called Early Daze. I deeply resonated with this book as it relates to what I will call my "Sacred Obsession" with the creation of Ravenheart Farms.

I would describe this Sacred Obsession as an inspired journey of the heart. Following is the first paragraph of Brainstorm. "In this book I'm going to describe a wonderful habit of mind that's available to you right now. When you get into the habit of biting more fully into your own ideas, stirring up brainstorms, and productively obsessing, you feel more alive and become more creative".

I can fully relate to this description when I think about my journey with Ravenheart. And I call it a "sacred obsession" because of the love, friendship and healing that Ravenheart has inpsired, for myself, the land, the circle of friends and family that have supported the vision with love and encouragement, the Wwoofers/helpers/volunteers whose dedication, hard work and friendship have helped to create and maintain the vision, and the many guests and workshop participants who have found their hearts here.

As the pelicans fly overhead with their grace and beauty, I think about the decision to move on and let this place go, knowing that it is waiting to inspire the dreams and vision of another.

We are being called to another place, another dream. It is time for Melva and I to create a place together. Although we have talked for many hours about how we might continue to develop and expand on this land, we have come to realize that it is important to purchase something together, that fills us both with new dreams and visions, and meets each of our needs for our businesses and way of life.

The community that has been created around Ravenheart Farms will have a deep and lasting memory, and although the connections will change somewhat, they will never be lost. I am so grateful for a chance to live this dream of passionate obsession, for the community of beautiful friendships and connections, and for the ability to let it this all go with love, and embrace the new.

I was joking tonight with a long-time friend about how I must have the most "strike-throughs" in her address book of all her friends. Really, if I think about how many times I have moved in my life, I wonder how "stable" I really am. And yet, here I am in the midst of another major life change, and I am feeling really grounded and settled. I am grateful for my ability "gift of change", also the title of a book I recently read by a favourite author, Marianne Williamson.

It is so peaceful here in the country. With trees surrounding the land, a small forest on each side of the yard, and no major roadways, traffic, or lights, it is truly a sanctuary of nature. Well, until Polly and the new dog (Laci, the dog that stayed with the farm) dog start fighting with each other, and I start yelling for them to stop!

In Service to the Horses

In Service to the Horses

Normally, as I haul heavy bags of feed from the vehicle to the barn in a plastic sleigh, especially in winter when I can’t get my vehicle as close to the barn as I’d like due to the snow, I laugh at the idea of me pulling the heavy load while the horses look on over the fence. I find myself saying to them, “hey, why don’t you gals get over here and help me”, or “what’s wrong with this picture?” Today I had 3 heavy bags of horse feed, along with a large bag of cat food. I took the sleigh to the garage and hefted the bags out of the trunk of the car. That went pretty well. I then tried to haul the very heavy sleigh up and over a small step from the garage to the driveway. As I heaved on the rope, it broke, and I flew backwards, landing softly in a big snow bank, thankfully, and laughing as the dogs came running back to check on me after hearing the scuffle. After repairing the rope I began the haul up the long driveway to the barn yard. Yes, in hind sight it would have made much more sense to make a couple of trips! Nevertheless, as I was pulling the heavy load, I found myself feeling much appreciation for how the horses have been in service to us for thousands and thousands of years. I thought about the many ways they made life easier for us and for all the things we could never have done without them; the heavy loads they have pulled, the many miles they travelled with riders, or pulling wagons and carriages, the harsh weather conditions they have endured, and for many, the unkind treatment, neglect, indifference, and pain they have experienced at the hands of humans. I felt my heart open, and I began to thank the horses as I pulled my load. I thanked them for all they have done to make our lives easier, for the fun and adventure they provide for us, for the joy they bring, for all they have endured, for their hard work, patience, determination, for their losses, and their willingness. The horses watched me as I pulled the load, and began to jump and play in obvious anticipation of the treat bowls they knew were coming shortly. I told them that I felt blessed to be in service to them now, and that I would always do my best to provide for them, in a way that is as natural and comfortable for them as I can. I thanked them for being patient and gentle with me over the years as I’ve learned to care and provide for them, for the many mistakes I’ve made along the way, and for the lessons they have taught me. I honoured them for their service and the service of their ancestors. I apologized for all we have taken from them; their wild spaces, their freedom, their babies, their family members, their herd mates. I apologized for the ways we have trained them, using pain, fear, power, control, intimidation, and harsh equipment. Then I thanked them again for helping us “wake up” to a new way of being with horses, for the many ways they continue to be in service, in coaching and therapy, sport, pleasure, work, and as our beloved companions. I promised them that I would continue to learn, to be better at caring for them, to treat them with respect and appreciation, to ask permission, to pay attention, to honour their needs, to offer them choices, to share what I learn with others, and to support in any way I can, the many courageous people out there who are caring for horses in desperate situations, nurturing and rehabilitating these beautiful animals, while discovering their own hearts are healing too. I got close to the barn but wasn’t able to pull the sleigh up over a snowbank, and didn’t want to risk breaking the rope again, so I brought the feed bins, which thankfully are on wheels, out to the sleigh. Then, the hardest part for me is always lifting the bags out of the sleigh on the ground and hoisting them into the bins. I asked the horses for their service once again and said “please help me find the strength to lift these bags up and into the bins”. Sure enough I managed each bag with relative ease! I truly appreciate horse power! Carol Marriott www.ravenheartfarms.com Jan.-29-14

Ravenheart Horses At Play

"My name is Sandra, I’m from Germany and I like ice cream… :-)

I spent 5 weeks at Ravenheart and would like to give you a short description about this place. Ravenheart is more than just a farm. Those who get the chance to spend a few weeks at Ravenheart understand what I mean. It takes only a few days and you feel as a part of the “big farm family”.
Ravenheart is for me like a little cosmos – discovered from Carol is it a place who is changing and developing every day by Carol, her friends and the visitors from all over the world.
In addition to daily chores you have the possibility to co-create Ravenheart with your ideas, creativity and vision and be a part of this little cosmos. So you find at Ravenheart tracks from all over the world which illustrate the openness and hospitality you will get from Carol and her friends.
My time at Ravenheart has shown me not only that I really love “dirt-playing” farm work or playing with power tools, I learned more about myself and above all I’ve met great people.

Not that someone may come to the idea that staying at Ravenheart is more like a nice holiday trip…it’s hard work of course, but for the work you don’t get only accommodation and meals…you get the opportunity to spend time on a magic place with special people! And I heard stories from people they have seen little leprechauns… ;-)

The decision to work at Ravenheart is a life changing experience - at least this was it for me."

Reise Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Kanada: Farmalltag in der kanadischen Prärie…. globalzoo.de

Reise Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Kanada: Farmalltag in der kanadischen Prärie…. globalzoo.de

'Two World Class Events this June that you don't want to miss...'

'Two World Class Events this June that you don't want to miss...'

Only Kindness Matters - Jewel

“Only Kindness Matters” Jewel
(article written for Wholife Journal "Angels In Action" feature March/April issue 2010 )

A neatly bearded, gentle, soft-spoken, humble, yet undeniably powerful, James Folster, our featured Angel In Action, is a true example of the nature of humanitarians, or a Mystic without a Monestary as author Caroline Myss would say, that are quietly and faithfully bringing positive change and love to our world.

Growing up on a farm in central Saskatchewan, James describes his personality as a child, as painfully shy, timid, anxious and very withdrawn. His father was (still is) a musician and from the time he can remember, everyone around him drank and partied. His circle was deeply entrenched in this lifestyle – siblings, neighbours, cousins, friends, except for his Mother who didn’t drink at all.

By his early teens this was James path as well. Drugs and alcohol became an everyday habit. Loss of precious relationships, broken homes, friends and family members in jail, suicide, fatal injuries, law breaking, all ingredients in the mix.

Life for James for the next 20 or so years was one big soul-defeating, relationship destroying, body poisoning, mind numbing, life-force crushing party.

By now he was married and had two young daughters. One day, upon returning home to his family after a 3-day binge, something inside cried out for James to stop. And he stopped cold turkey.

Shortly after making the decision to give up the alcohol and drugs, James explains that he found a path to God, the Supreme Creator, and describes his spirituality as trusting his own sense of God, like a surrendering, where he asks for strength, and continues to seek answers by listening quietly, turning things over in prayer, and following this guidance.

In 2002, while sharing a meal with his dear friend Marilyn in a local diner a few days before Christmas, they observed an older gentlemen who regularly ate alone. Marilyn commented “somebody should do something for people like that at Christmas”, and then exclaimed, “hey wait a minute, we’re somebody!”

Upon that sudden inspiration, they decided to organize a Christmas dinner at the local senior citizens hall for people alone at Christmas. A church donated food, volunteers showed up, musicians came to play, and for the next 4 years it was a popular seasonal event with 15 or more people sharing Christmas dinner together, who would otherwise be alone.

A few years ago James was diagnosed with a chronic illness, Essential Tremors, which threw him into a tail spin. Unable to work, he spent the next 6 months in a deep depression, anxious and unsure of what the future held, until he choose to accept the situation and make the best of it.

The “best of it” is an understatement. This was the catalyst for a new direction on James’ path. A path now filled with inspiration, compassion and kindness. Knowing intimately what it is like to be alone, hungry and cold, he holds no judgment of where people are in life. He say’s “if you need help, you need help”. “Blaming people for their choices and situation does nothing to help them, so just help them!”

Living with a disability gave James a new perspective on life. It has opened many doors for him that he could never have imagined. He accepted an opportunity to be trained as a facilitator for a Living Well with Chronic Illness support group, a task that previously, due to low self-esteem, anxiety and shyness, would have terrified him.

Following his divine guidance, he was inspired to create a place where people living on their own, new to the area, or wanting to engage in new friendships, he organized a monthly gathering called the Adult Friendship Group in Humboldt, Saskatchewan. He is clear that this is not a dating or singles club. The Adult Friendship Group will celebrate its second year in February with a core group “regulars” from all walks of life, enjoying these casual gatherings with potluck meals, card games, movies and companionship.

A year ago, while watching a documentary on television, he learned of a woman in Nova Scotia who started dances for people with disabilities. Inspiration of the heart took hold once again and James shared this idea with a local not for profit organization. The program coordinator enthusiastically embraced his ideas, and with her support, along with the help of volunteers, local businesses, and a DJ, themed dances are now held monthly with attendance now topping 80 people per dance.

More recently, a dedicated group of community members and organizations have formed, in response to James newest calling and mission of service, a Collective Kitchen planning team. His idea is driven by his desire to see that “everyone” has access to a warm meal, in the companionship of others, and an opportunity to learn how to prepare, with assistance if required, their own nutritious meals.

A lover of animals, James shares a small acreage with 7 beloved miniature goats and 20 chickens. Caring for them ensures that he gets out of bed each day with a purpose. His generous nature is once again evident by the dozens of eggs he gives to family and friends, and the local food bank. He says if the Collective Kitchen project gets underway, he’ll raise chickens to contribute too!

On January 20, 2010, during the Humboldt & Area Community Inclusion Support Centre monthly dance, James was awarded the Partners for Rural Family Support Peace Award for 2010. The Peace Award, sponsored by SaskEnergy, is given to an individual who has shown exceptional dedication to helping the community.

Asked what brings him peace of mind, he leans back in his chair, puts his hand over his heart, and shares that when he sees people at the dances or the Friendship Group laughing, dancing, connecting and enjoying the company of others, he breathes a deep sigh of satisfaction and his heart fills with joy. “It does the heart good.”


Carol Marriott is a Certified Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) Specialist and the “Lead Mare” at Ravenheart Farms near Humboldt, SK. For more information, workshop dates, and/or private or group sessions call (306) 682-4641, email: ravenheart@yourlink.ca, or visit: www.ravenheartfarms.com and see the colour display in Wholife Journal: www.wholife.com

Calling all "handypersons"!

If you love the quiet, country life, wide open spaces, big sky, gentle horses, friendly dogs, playful barn cats and endless creative project opportunties, like renovating an old barn, creating a writers or artists cabin in the woods, building a new home for the pigeons/horse shelter/feeding troughs, gardening, composting, scooping poop, clearing trails, and many other creative opportunities, then come to Ravenheart! If you are mature, fun, adaptable, energetic, easy-going, self-sufficient, a great cook, love people and animals, and enjoy quiet, reflective down-time too, can fix, repair, create, maintain, and are looking for time away from your everyday life, time to contemplate, explore, meditate, write, paint, create, heal, grieve, dance, sing, read, relax - then we can provide that opportunity too. Room and board provided in exchange for 30 hours/week. This is a building year at Ravenheart...and as they say "if you build it, they will come". Well I say, "come and build it, and you'll have fun!" You never know what awaits you here. So if you, or someone you know, would benefit from a change and an adventure, pass this on!

If I should die today...

This is what I'd say. Thank you dear God for this journey. Thank you for Your whispers to my soul, and for Your shouts as well.

Thank you for the lessons and the gifts. Thank you for filling my heart to the brim with a love for all creatures, and the sweet appreciation of a prairie sunrise.

If I should die today, I would leave this physical body deeply fulfilled and grateful. As I write I feel a richness fill me up, thick and sweet like caramel and chocolate, flowing up and out of my heart like those chocolate fountains you see at fine buffets.

Greeted this morning by 6 gentle equines eager for their morning hay, I watched with contentment as Rosie, the newest sweet mare in the herd (and heart horse for Susan), ate side by side with Raven and Sugar and I reflected on the nature of horses to sort their "order" out quickly and return to grazing. As they all munched quietly in the soft morning air, I moved around the paddocks removing their "deposits" from the day prior. The sound of gunshots in the distance broke my reverie for a moment, as I silently said a little blessing for the winged-ones who won't make the journey south.

The act of "scooping" provides much time for reflection. A perfect meditation and exercise combined. I listen carefully to my thoughts. My mind is open and relaxed this morning and the insights come quickly and gently, unlike the defeating thoughts of the evening before.

Now, this present moment, right here, on a farm, surrounded by horses and dogs, cats and the wild creatures, grass and trees and open skies, an abundance of fresh and healthy food, exquisite coffee, organic cream, and an abundance of creature comforts...I am filled with deep gratitude. And...I hear myself say...if I should die today...that is ok.

And yet...there is so much more to say...so until the day that I am called...I'll just say...I love you...all of you...who walk this path on mother earth...my beloveds...I extend this Peace to you.

"May you be at Peace. May your Hearts remain open. May you discover the spirit of your true nature. May you be healed. May you be a source of healing for all beings".

Namaste

Living Consciously - by Rev. Carol Carnes

Living Consciously May 1, 2009

Dear friends,

In Hawaii they call it the coconut wireless. In small towns it is barber shop news. For most of us it is the internet or CNN. Called by any name, the spread of a story is fast, and like rumors of all kinds, takes on enormous proportions. Group Think is my new name for it. It is the phenomenon of sharing a belief with many others, whether or not it is actually true. Soon there is panic or a mob or simply a wave of fear that distracts us from the real issues we need to be creatively solving.

Personally, we can live our whole lives believing something that is not true. The problem is, we act on our beliefs, which are inner promptings that cause behaviours. We also tend to want to enrol as many other people as possible in them! We want buy in and agreement and we will go to great lengths to get it. Defending beliefs is the great pastime of humanity.

Some of our erroneous beliefs are simply unexamined impressions we brought with us from childhood. It is like a juicy piece of gossip that becomes our ticket to center stage as we tell it again and again. We develop a story about ourselves and unintentionally, we live it out and prove it to be so. A good exercise is to identify those limiting beliefs we have carried with us for years; such as I am unworthy of love, or I am damaged or There is not enough of anything for everybody. Then ask ourself, Is that true? Our first response might be YES but after some honest reflection we will have to admit it is nothing but gossip and childish thinking.

Today start a new rumor about yourself. Say I am happy, healthy, wealthy and wise. It is a good start to a new belief that happens to be true. Let it spread throughout your body and mind. Soon you will be telling a new story.

Peace and Blessings,

Rev Carol Carnes www.positiveliving.org

For the love of Saskatchewan...

To My Knees

I step out into the October night
leaving the sweet, sensual fragrance
of a rural Saskatchewan coffee house,
I breathe in the crisp fall air
fresh, still and clean
My heart thankful for poets,
kindred spirits,
Bearing their souls on tender tongues
Feeling, as I might,
the desire to capture the essence
of this "Heavenly" land.
Like a diamond in the rough,
the beauty lies deep,
uncovered only by eyes
willing to look deeper,
beyond perceptions
of prairie nakedness,
beholding the beauty
of crimson skies.
Lost in the reverie
as I navigate the winding road,
I am called abruptly to awareness,
hearing the rattle of cd’s
sliding to the floor,
as I brake suddenly,
in split second timing,
allowing the graceful deer,
to bound across in safety.
The warm lights
of a country farm home,
guide me along,
and up a dark and lengthy driveway.
My arrival is greeted
with furry exuberance,
canines and felines,
and
the soft, welcoming nicker
of equines,
red, white, black and gold,
nuzzling, their sweet breath on my cheek,
anticipating their evening hay.
Looking up,
I spot the Harvest moon,
Softly encircled by downy clouds,
shimmering in the moonlight,
a sight,
that takes me to my knees
in gratitude.

- Carol Marriott -

Spring and love and all good things...

Love’s Magnificent Flower


Love, like a seed that lies snugly beneath the earth,
healthy, whole, sustained and independent
waiting
content and peacefully held in this rich
and nurturing place,
surrounded by earthly nutrients,
an inner knowing of the
magnificence that its soft shell gently covers.
As season’s change…
the long winter chill gradually retreats,
the warm spring sun begins to softly caress
the earth,
a recognition stirs deep within,
a remembering of past seasons in the sun.
Awakened and sprouting beneath the earth, its sturdy stem slowly rising,
moving steadily upwards towards the warmth and light gently calling it forth,
concurrently sprouting and planting strong and healthy roots
beneath it,
spreading and stretching,
grounding and anchoring
held securely in the fertile “Mother Earth” soil,
resembling the friends and family that support our dreams,
offering their love, care and encouragement,
recognizing in us what we may not be able to see for ourselves,
and nurturing us as we bloom and grow,
celebrating as we find our place in the beauty of life’s splendid garden…
this garden of divine and magnificent love.

- Carol Marriott -

Snowflakes

When is the last time you really looked at a Snowflake? For me it was today. I had just returned to my Jeep after picking up my mail at the post office in Humboldt, and was about to open the door when I was suddenly drawn to tiny white snowflakes on the black door handle. Maybe my unconscious mind kicked in, knowing that Melva, Editor of WHOLifE Journal is including an article in the upcoming issue about snowflakes and she had mentioned this to me, and sent some pictures from her photographer friend, Richard Walters. Maybe I experienced a true "in the moment" moment. Maybe I was blessed. I stood there captivated and gazing at my doorhandle, until I thought that people might really wonder what was up with me. What I saw in that moment was breathtaking and magical. Tiny, exquisite, perfectly beautiful, sparkling little miracles. Each one unique and different. Can you imagine? I have always heard that every snowflake that falls is different, but I have never stopped to contemplate this until today.

Wilson Bentley once wrote, "The farm folks up in this North Country dread the winter, but I was always supremely happy, from the day of the first snowfall--which usually came in November--until the last one, which sometimes came as late as May." For the "Snowflake Man," snow was a lifelong lesson in the way nature's beauty arises from a delicate balance of law and chaos, fixity and change.--Chet RaymoThe Old Farmer's Almanac-Guide to Watching the Weather.

See more about Wilson Bentley at: http://www.linda-goodman.com/ubb/Forum2/HTML/002678.html

I invite you to take a few moments, in the sparkling light of a winter's afternoon, to venture outside and wonder at the beauty of snowflakes, just like Wilson Bentley did, take some photos, and share them with friends, and enjoy the article and photos about snowflakes in the January/February issue of WHOLifE Journal.

Happy winter!

Finding love at Ravenheart

I look up from my computer as a flash of white and black run by along the lilac hedge on the far side of the front lawn. It is the Ravenheart dogs, Polly and Charlie, joyfully playing a game of tug with a stick, followed closely behind by Bianca and Chris walking arm in arm. I watch for a few moments as they stop to tend to the beautiful trough of flowers they surprised me with for my birthday a few weeks ago. Watching this scene unfold fills me with love and much gratitude for all of my blessings.

Chris and Bianca arrived here in April, Bianca, a "Wwoofer" from Wwoof Canada (Willing Workers on Organic Farms http://www.wwoof.ca/canada/homecanada.html , and Chris from Good Work Canada (http://www.goodworkcanada.ca/). Bianca had come to Canada from Japan where she had spent the past 6 months teaching English and learning about Japanese culture and language and Chris arrived from his home in Germany. Both are from Germany but have travelled extensively. Chris and I had already arranged for his arrival in April when I received a call from Bianca who was staying with a friend in Saskatoon while looking for a Canadian Wwoofing experience. I had room for two people and could certainly use the help. The timing was perfect! I arranged to pick her up at the airport the same day that Chris was arriving from Germany.

It is now July and we have become like family (yes, with the sometimes challenging dynamics of community living) and beyond that, Bianca and Chris, total strangers on that evening in April, have found love at Ravenheart!

I am grateful to be a link in their journey to each other. I am grateful and so appreciative of the care, respect and loving attention they extend to the Ravenheart companion animals, and to all the wild creatures...even the owls (still not sure what kind) that screech late into the night. I am grateful for all that they contribute to Ravenheart and my vision, and for the joy that I am filled with when I see them enjoying a walk in the evening after a full days work, surrounded by a prairie sky in brilliant colours of pink, red and orange. They will stay until September and then return to Germany to build their lives together, which I am most certain will involve much more travelling adventures!

May their Highest visions be fulfilled!

In love and gratitude,
Carol

Abundance, generosity and the wonders of spring!

I sit at my desk in front of a large picture window looking out into the expanse of prairie landscape and open sky. Out of the corner of my eye I catch a glimpse of a small sparrow landing on a young reddish tree (I think it's an ornamental crab???) and suddenly I am fully in the moment, savouring the beauty of the vibrant spring colours. And oh, the many colours of green at this time of year! After a bit of rain and lots of sun, the lawn is lush and green. The trees are wearing their fresh new leaves, a colour of green that is almost irridescent. The lilac hedge a deeper green, and I could go on and on to describe every possible shade of green imaginable. The bird varieties are plentiful and I wish I could identify all of them, but just in the last few minutes I have seen Starlings, Barn Swallows (making their nests on the house and ignoring the HUGE barn!!!), Chickadees, American Goldfinch, crows, sparrows and of course, pigeons. Butterflies flit back and forth and the drone of a large bumblebee comes and goes.



Thanks to Bianca and Chris from Germany, our Wwoofers (Worldwide Opportunities On Organic Farms), many important projects have been and are being completed, much to my deep appreciation. The furry and hairy ones here at Ravenheart love all the extra attention too! Thanks also to Elizabeth, a friend who is staying here for a while. We all love that her favourite pastime is cooking! Here is a list of just a few things that they have contributed to Ravenheart.

• Beautifully groomed horses


• Clean paddocks and shelter


• Clean barn


• Beautiful garden space hand dug and planted with a variety of fruit and vegetables


• Ravenheart sign painted and installed on roadway


• Rock gardens freshly tilled and weeded


• Stairs and entrance built to barn loft


• Many, many, many repairs to this and that


• Rock fire circle completed


• Firewood stack created


• A variety of new shrubs and perennials planted


• Did I mention the abundance of delicious, nutritious, and "slow food" meals? Chris and Elizabeth are both fabulous cooks (Blessed are Bianca, Wes, Melva and I :}!)


• Round pen completed


• Large north pasture fence completed


• Piles and piles of rocks picked and stacked


• Paths and trails groomed and maintained


• the list goes on and on...the tasks too numerous to capture all here

Thank you Chris, Bianca and Elizabeth. You bring love, spirit, energy, creativity, dedication and hardwork to Ravenheart. I appreciate your willingness, encouragement, the spirit of cooperation you demonstrate to everyone who visits here, and especially the love, care and respect you give to our companion animals, the wildlife and natural environment.

I admit I have fallen in love with Saskatchewan. The vast and varied landscape beholds many exquisite gems. The open spaces provide such a sense of freedom. The people are friendly, honest, hard-working and loyal. The air is fresh and clean. Nature abounds. Lakes, trees, rolling hills, lush marshes brimming with an abundance of water fowl and other wildlife, fresh, locally grown and organic food (a 100 mile diet is easy here), arts, culture, music, holistic health and recreation are found in the smallest of villages like St. Brieux, Meacham, St. Louis, Quill Lake and many others. Melva and I just discovered a most exceptional natural retreat called Torch Valley Country Retreats (http://www.torchvalleycountryretreats.com/). Our intent was to stay two nights and move on to discover other wonders of Saskatchewan, but we couldn't leave! We stayed in Cabin #3, the newest of three custom designed, authentic and original log cabins, this one constructed from logs salvaged after a forest fire blazed through part of the 2000 acres of land a few years ago. Cozy and comfortable with many natural features and a focus on sustainable living, yet fully furnished with all the amenities for a luxurious stay. Miles of inviting moss coverered trails, gazebos along the river bank, wildflowers, fiddleheads, mushrooms, birds, wild life, deep forest, marshes, ponds, and so much more still to discover. And for wintery or rainy days, there are bookshelves lined with classic novels, local poetry, naturalists, and artists, classic videos and DVD's. We will be back Jean and George! Thank you for your hospitality and the incredible effort you are making in the conservation of Saskatchewan's natural habitat.

At 6:15pm the horses and dogs are fed. Polly and Charlie are laying in the cool of the evening shade, tired from a full day of bone chewing and roaming the land, along with keeping up to Chris and Bianca as they move from chore to chore. (They really do get to relax here as well - kinda of a working vacation).

May you be at Peace. May your Hearts remain open. May you discover the Spirit of your True Nature. May you be Healed. May you be a Source of Healing for all Beings.

Wake up...and smell the horses...

Twas a lovely spring morning
the 12th day of April
We responded to the call
of the Ravenheart stable.

I jumped in my car
a bit after seven
to head north on Highway 20
a wee bit of heaven.

The marsh at Port Hyman
was well worth a stop
to see geese and gulls
and the golden eye duck.

Also worth mention
as I was cruising along
was the beautiful sound
of the meadowlark song.

He ignored the "Danger,
High Pressure" sign
he used as a perch
along the fence line.

His golden breast
reflected such beauty
that my soul said a prayer
out of love and duty.

Thousands of snow geese,
the Canada too,
filled up the sky or rested
on field or by slough.

I arrived at the farm a little bit late
but, with open arms, Carol met me at the gate.

I was greeted inside
by Holly, Catlin and Terry;
beautiful souls
no need to be wary.

Out in the corral
the horses were grazing
ready to greet us:
Sugar, Lacey, Brownie, Raven

Sugar's charming and sweet,
Lacey and Brownie a bit shy,
Raven stood a long way off
avoiding our eye.

Back in the house
we poured out our souls;
shared with each other
some of our goals.

We were joined by an author
through the pages of her book
comparing horse and human energy
was well worth a look.

In our high-top rubber boots
we went back to the corral.
We schmucked through the muck
to rejoin our new pals.

And I would be remiss
if I didn't mention
the smell of horse manure;
but is caused us no tension.

It was part of the experience;
a natural fragrance.
Nature's way of neutralizing
our human arrogance.

It opened the way
for communication
with one of God's great beasts
we would feel deep-down elation.

I don't know about the others
but Brownie said to me
through Carol's interpretation,
Let it go and let it be.

Brownie sensed in me
a great tension in my body.
perhaps, my dear, she said
You need to stop being so haughty.

You're not fooling anyone
certainly not me.
Just be yourself - let go, let God
and then you will see...

That life can be quite easy
we've all got one purpose:
to love and revere life
in our wordly circus.

Not just people and their cultures
but meadowlarks and horses,
mosquitoes, wasps and turtles,
dandelions and marshes.

Embrace them all with love and joy
and when you're feeling pain
seek the opportunity
the Universe knows you can gain.

For it's in your darkest hour
or when you've hit abysmal bottom
that the true love seed is planted
to see you through from spring to autumn.

The seed of love like all seeds we know
patiently awaits the right time to grow.

So have patience my friends,
myself included,
though at times our life seems
so dark and excluded.

As we learn to accept
fear and doubt as fodder
for growth of our spirit
firmly joined to mother/father.

We can rise above
what came before
and thank Mom and Dad
for their love, and more.

And always remember
pain and sorrow are a boost-up
from those wasteland spaces
Aussies call the whup-whup!

Don't fear the pain
embrace it with love
know the Universe supports you
as firmly as a glove.

Phew - that was heavy -
but now my load feels lighter.
Thanks Carol for offering space & time
my way seems so much brighter!

By M. Hunter
(Horses, Spirit and Play April 2008)

"The frog does not drink up the pond in which he lives." Native American saying

Water. A precious gift and so often taken for granted. We are so blessed in this part of the world. We turn on a tap and water flows. Prior to living in the country, I rarely gave much thought to water. Yes, I did my best to conserve it, shorter showers, not leaving it running when brushing my teeth and doing dishes etc. I respected, appreciated, and was grateful for water when I lived in the city. Yet, I am much more aware of the sweet gift of water these days. Pure, clean, fresh and abundant water! Ravenheart is blessed with a wonderful well. Testing the water resulted in clean, safe drinking water, both from the kitchen tap and the horse hydrant. A front-load washer and reminding guests that "if it's yellow, let it mellow, and if it's brown, flush it down" are some ways we conserve. Protecting the ground water is a priority. No chemicals are used on the garden or lawn. Care is taken in maintaing the well and septic system. Softeners, iron removers, reverse osmosis, all new to me but now part of daily living as I perform my daily visit to the "basement" to check on the "systems".

So, yesterday when I went to the horse hydrant to fill a bucket for Spirit and no water flowed, I was shocked. What could be wrong. Panic set in quickly, as this is the main hydrant I use to fill the horse trough. With some research on the web I learn that a "frost-free hydrant" can freeze if the handle is left open slightly, no allowing all the water to drain down below frost level, or that filling small buckets instead of the large trough, can also cause it to freeze up. Since Spirit arrived (see earlier post), I have been hauling buckets to him, as he is in a separate paddock where there is no heated horse trough. I learn that filling one or two buckets, 3 or 4 times daily, can cause a problem. I learn that I could have just scooped buckets of water from the main horse trough and then filled it up, using way more water, which I guess is better. Oh, how I yearn for Spring!

The plumber will arrive this evening to check it out. I trust it will be an easy fix. In the meantime, I will be hauling buckets from the house. It is snowing today, so shovels full of white, fluffy snow is finding its way into the heated trough. Today I even appreciate the snow!

As I write this, I am listening to CBC Radio Saskatchewan on water. "Should it be a human right?" "Should everyone be on a water meter?" These are important things to ponder. All humans have the right to water. I am willing to share the water at Ravenheart. Maybe someday it won't be my choice to make. In the meantime, I will honour and appreciate the precious gift of water. A neighbour just up the road has drilled for water and found none, so they haul it in. This is a reality for many farmers and rural residents.

I offer this prayer...

We return thanks to our mother, the earth,
which sustains us.
We return thanks to the rivers and streams,
which supply us with water.
We return thanks to all herbs,
which furnish medicines for the cure of our diseases.
We return thanks to the corn, and to her sisters,
the beans and squashes,
which give us life.
We return thanks to the wind,
which, moving the air
has banished diseases.
We return thanks to the moon and stars,
which have given to us their light when the sun was gone.
We return thanks to the sun,
that he has looked upon the earth with a beneficent eye.
Lastly, we return thanks to the Great Spirit,
in whom is embodied all goodness,
and who directs all things for the good of his children.
Source: Earth Prayers from Around the World - IROQUOIS PRAYER (adapted)

Welcome to Spirit!

Small in size but big in attitude! Spirit is the newest herd member at Ravenheart. This story reminds me of visiting a country market in the Laurentians (Quebec) on a field trip when I was in grade school. You could buy anything at this market, including baby goats for a dollar! If not for the bus driver who stopped me from boarding the bus, I would have arrived home (in town) with a baby goat in my arms. Not only did we live in the city, but my Dad had a definite aversion to goats...due to being chased by one as a youngster. Now that I live on a "farm", the billboard at the local mall is a risky place for me. In January I saw an ad for a sleigh...and a few days later it arrived in my yard, delivered by the artisan who I called "just to check it out." A couple of weeks ago I just happened to notice an ad that said "miniature horse for sale." No pictures or description, just those little pull-off tabs with the phone numbers...and one found it's way into my pocket. It couldn't hurt to call could it??? "Oh, he's a stallion. And he's the only horse we have, so he's all alone! And the kids aren't really interested anymore? We're asking $299, but we're open to offers"!!! Ok, I thought, we'll just go and see him. Melva came along. "Oh, she say's, I can help buy him." "He's so cute!" "And so fat!" (something to do with a hay bale bigger than him). So, the research started immediately with questions such as: What are the risks/benefits in gelding a 10 year old stallion? How can we safely and successfully introduce him to the herd and will they accept him, be afraid of him, bully him? Where will we keep him until he is gelded and fully recovered? Will he willingly load in the horse trailer? How will he react to the mares and how will they react to him? Will it be mayhem? What in the world are we thinking???

Well, I'm glad to report that overall things are going smoothly so far. A young neighbour and experienced horse woman, Amanda (Equine Massage and Chiropractic) offered to pick him up with her horse trailer. She calmly lead him around the yard, taking him back and forth to the trailer so he could check it out in a relaxed way. Amanda then laid out a handful of oats, and he stepped right on. Doors were closed and all was quiet on the trip home, thankfully just a short 1/2 hour drive. Upon arriving at Ravenheart, he stepped off the trailer calmly and all was well till he got sight of the horses. Then it was all Amanda could do to hold on to him. Thank goodness he's a mini. Once in the paddock there was plenty of snorting and whinnying and chaos, but thanks to a good electric fence, all took place without harm to anyone. He spent the first few days running back and forth along the fence if Raven and the mares got out of sight of his paddock. The vet is coming soon to geld him. After much research, I trust that things will go smoothly and he will recover easily and quickly, and in a few weeks be able to join the herd and enjoy the gentle company of Raven, Sugar, Lacey and Brownie, along with his new role in the Equine-Assisted Learning team at Ravenheart Farms.

For the Love of Horses

For the Love of Horses

“You took me to adventure and to love. We two have shared great joy and great sorrow. And now I stand at the gate of the paddock watching you run in an ecstasy of freedom, knowing you will return to stand quietly, loyally, beside me.” Pam Brown, Author

The horses are calling. A powerful transformation is taking place all over the globe. Our way of being with horses is evolving to higher ground and the horses are leading the way. This is profoundly evident by a Google of phrases such as equine assisted learning (EAL/EAP), spirit of horses, healing with horses, way of the horse, One with the Herd, the Tao of Equus, and Path of the Horse, which is just a few examples resulting in a vast array of websites and articles linking to this powerful and emerging way of being with horses. Amongst these sites are thousands of heart-felt testimonials from people who have been deeply moved and inspired through experiencing horses in this way.

Horses symbolize a magical balance of peace, power, beauty, and grace. Merely the sight of a horse galloping playfully across an open field or grazing peacefully in a pasture is enthralling. We are captivated by their power and elegance, and respectful or downright intimidated by their immense size. As long as we have inhabited the earth, humans have treasured horses for their exquisite beauty and have profited from their generosity of spirit, strength, versatility and power.

A reawakened “horse whisperer” approach to training and relating to horses is rapidly gaining ground. For people with a love and passion for horses, this movement is deeply welcome. It is no longer acceptable to “break” a horse. Words commonly heard these days are “relationship, natural horsemanship, trust, understanding, harmony, communication, lead, allow, partnership”. The “old” ways of training horses through dominance, fear, control, and force are falling away and being replaced all over the world with relationship, respect, and understanding.

In addition, horses are enriching our lives through their ability to bring us joyfully into the present moment and provide us with opportunities for clarity, understanding and reflection through activities such as Equine Assisted Learning/Therapy (EAL & EAP), therapeutic riding and Hippotherapy. Therapists, counselors, healers, life coaches, corporate leaders and spiritual communities around the globe are enthusiastically embracing this magnificent and inspiring movement.

Horses evoke a myriad of emotions within us. Play, lightness of spirit, love, calmness, and reverence. They present us with opportunities to connect to the deepest part of our spirit and reconnect to our true selves. If you want to pause, open your heart, uncover incongruent or buried emotions, and recognize your inner gifts, spend time in the presence of a most magnificent spiritual teacher and healer – the horse.