Good Morning All,
It is such a fun time! I’m hearing the weather in California is a bit cooler than it is here. I am so enjoying all of my time outside…snacking on this very tasty Kentucky Blue Grass.
Many of you asked in the responses about our contest winner, MISS # 19…Dawn Conrad. Well, it is TOO CUTE! Dawn actually went to California on a bit of a holiday and asked Dottie if she and her friend could visit BARN 55. Here she is with STEVE…..standing right in MY STALL! She looks fabulous!
Dawn spent her time at the barn visiting with the horses and all of MY TEAM. She truly enjoyed herself and sent Dottie a wonderful message yesterday. Since so many of you asked how she is doing, I’d like to share parts of her email with you! (Dawn is fine with this.)
“Once I introduced myself as the lucky owner of #19, congrats were offered and we all went to Zenyatta’s stall for some pictures. What fun and how special I felt!!!”
“Then there were the beautiful horses!! Ebby was so gorgeous and such a sweetheart. You can certainly see some of Zenny in her as well as Bernardini, especially in her coloring and lovely top line. Received a kiss from Nereid and Mr. Commons was a perfect gentleman. Then it was on to see Makoma and meet Winston. I could have spent days talking with everyone and going from one stall to the next. I agree with the sentiment of John’s you voiced in today’s diary. After the time I spent at the ‘Clinic’, it was great for my soul to hug the horses. (I did get good news from the clinic. Yippee!!)
“The only thing that could have made it better was seeing Zenyatta, herself. I could picture her standing in her stall or grazing under her trees. It was a bit bittersweet for me having never met her while she was there. I had tried making it to California and the Breeder’s Cup, but the timing did not work out. To lay my hand on her neck as I did Ebby’s will be a hope I will hold in my heart forever.”
“Everyone speaks of her with great pride and just a touch of sadness. You can tell John misses her a great deal.”
How special of Dawn to share her thoughts with Dottie after the visit. I must add that Dottie did agree with her that John really does MISS ME…as does all of MY TEAM. In reality, I was at Barn 55 for over 4 1/2 years. I never left their sight for one moment. We spent countless hours together and have so many cherished memories.
In life, it is such a GREAT FEELING to know that you are missed, you are loved, and you can touch someone’s soul to such a degree!
I am truly SO FORTUNATE!
With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z
DJ
Calling to mind “A Life Without Horses”
St. Teresa of Avila said, “The only thing better than God is God and chocolate!” I always loved that quote, so I will tweak it a bit to “The only thing better than God is God and horses!”
………………………………….
Pam Zacek,
That is great, that Dawn got to visit, your stall there in Cal, and it looks, so empty, needs a little filly or a colt in there, for sure, oh boy, Belmont sat, that is great, and to Dawn, Im so happy for you, that you won, and then got to see all the great horses in Cal. oh, and don’t worry, Im sure, soon, you will go see Zen, girl, I will pray for that one for you, have a great, day all around Barn 55 and Kentucky blue grass girl, LOL, love ya Zen girl, keep that baby, healthy, and you happy, hope you still get the snacks, but not the Beer
Kimberly Potter
My Beautiful Zenyatta~ You light up my life everyday. Thank you for all that you are.
@Dawn~So glad to hear that you are back and things went well for you. Also, thanks for sharing your visit to Barn 55 with us…what an awesome treat to celebrate your good news.
@Misty~ What a sweet, sweet story…thank you for sharing.
@Cynthia H.~ I loved your story…the tears are flowing.
@All my Z friends~ Thanks for all the great and interesting links and stories that you all share. What a family we have become. I love you all!
Zenyatta’s #1 fan in Montana!! (where we are drowning in floods!)
Ginny
Dottie – a friend and I started a rescue operation for thoroughbreds from Fairmount Park (Collinsville, IL – close to downtown St. Louis). We started this in 2007 when it was still legal to send horses to the killers. We will be in KY at a horse show July 6 – 9. We would really like to see Zenyatta but have been told by the farm that she is not part of the public tour. Could you help us out please and possible arrange it so we could visit her? Our rescue operation is Renaissance Rescue. We have 62 horses, most from Fairmount Park, but we have taken one from Team Valor and one from Margaux Farms in KY. We are awaiting the paperwork from the feds for our not for profit status. My email is bettylou76w@aol.com. Thanks!
Shannon From Cool
YOU are still spinning your magic. Thanks Z.
Karen Gogue
@Cynthia H. – Just beautiful! I experienced that many, many years ago with Native Diver. (Zenny, Secretariat, and the “Diver” are my heros of the racing world) I was just a kid – but he was California’s own – the Zenyatta of his day – and he was “mine”. Everything you said could be describing what I felt seeing the “Diver” – thank you for bringing that memory and feeling back to me once again. But, Zenyatta! She even eclipses the “Diver”, and you are right “you can not manufacture words to describe” that day, Breeders’ Cup 2009. I was there, too, I know. Thank you for a lovely post – what I wouldn’t give to express myself like that! Kari, you, Dawn Conrad, among others here do that so elegantly. Beautiful!
jeanie langford
Not much more to say about this post. It was kind of your family to let Dawn visit. Miss you Z. Do you think we can get some new video? Pictures are great but to see you moving is the best. Take care of yourself and don’t overdo in the heat. Hugs and Kiss and a little peck for the foal.
Karen Gogue
BTW – I, too, remember that day with “Big Red”. I wasn’t there, but was so ecstatic that he did it! WOW! and another WOW! Was so happy to meet Penny @ Santa Anita – have my Racing Royalty poster – yes, the Queen and King of racing! Will never be others like them. One of my treasured possessions.
judy berube
Dear Z,
Sounds like Dawn had a wonderful time at Barn 55. Can only imagine how bittersweet it must be for Team Z not to have you there. But we can all look forward together to welcoming the new little Prince or Princess next year. Love and Hugs. Love to all of you, Judy and Russ
sandra gomez
Dawn is one lucky lady; just to have stood in your old stall, would be amazing! Everyone wants to meet you, Zenyatta.. if you really knew what you did to people.. you would be amazed. You have left such an impact on the entire planet! I have given up on the fact that I will ever meet you. As long as I can see a photo, read your diary and know you are doing well, is good enough for me.. it will have to be.Take care of your bundle of joy, as I know you will; don’t get too hot! When your pregnant,the heat hits you like a ton of bricks! Take care, sweet girl.. and God Bless you and your unborn foal!
sandra gomez
Dawn is one lucky lady; just to have stood in your old stall, would be amazing! Everyone wants to meet you, Zenyatta.. if you really knew what you did to people.. you would be amazed. You have left such an impact on the entire planet! I have given up on the fact that I will ever meet you. As long as I can see a photo, read your diary and know you are doing well, is good enough for me.. it will have to be.Take care of your bundle of joy, as I know you will; don’t get too hot! When your pregnant,the heat hits you like a ton of bricks! Take care, sweet girl.. and God Bless you and your unborn foal!
Brenda
How could you not be missed? You were there, with them every day, and for the Barn 55 team it must feel like they’ve lost a family member even tho they can visit you in Kentucky. It must be really tough on your John, he probably saw more of you than he did Dottie!!! Seeing your stall has been a awesome experience for Dawn and her description of her visit is wonderful. It’s great to hear from her again, and with good news too. In six weeks I’ll be visiting Kentucky, going to Claiborne, Three Chimneys and Old Friends as well as Lane’s End. I’m hoping to be able to visit Adena Springs to see Giacomo but I haven’t made the appointment yet, hopefully it will work out OK. Keep eating that healthy Blue Grass Zenny.
judy berube
To Misty:
Thanks for sharing that wonderful story. Z is unforgettable, amazing, beautiful, awesome; I could go on and on. Hugs, J.B.
Louise Castello
It is absolutely unbelievable how many hearts and souls you have touched. I am in awe. After Secretariat and the beautiful and tragic Ruffian, never thought I would see it again. Never expected to feel it again. God bless you and that precious foal.
Arlene
Hi Zenny, Another beautiful day! How wonderful Dawn Conrad could visit the horses and everyone at Barn 55 – and get her picture taken and have some of her comments shared on your Diary Post today!
By the way, when is wonderful Dottie’s birthday?
Re: The eagles – The other night when I looked in on them it was windy – one of the parent eagles was sitting on a branch looking towards the nest. The 3 young ones were looking back at it! CUTE!
It’s going to be great to see you and your young one running together!!!
Does John have any pictures of himself on you?
Have a great, blessed day! Love, Arlene
Valerie Chase
Thanks for sharing. Sending my love. xxoo
Sheri
That is so sweet! She really knows how to put her feelings into words! It is also my dream to meet you Zenyatta, just like almost every other horse racing fans. You are so close to where I live, only a state south, and yet I’m so far away from seeing you. Maybe some day! Love you Zenny! :D
Terry Crow
@Karen Gogue–Native Diver has been a topic of conversation lately and I share your sentiments. Unfortunately for us, the racing fans, he was taken from us shortly after his greatest triumph, third straight victory in the Hollywood Gold Cup. He did run one other race and won it, the Del Mar Handicap. I was reminded of him this past weekend at Hollywood park when the track had the renewal of the Californian. The Diver’s sire, Imbros, won the first edition of that race. I did not see Secretariat live but there is no doubt of his greatness. However, none come close to Zenyatta. I have said this before, but is truer today. Sometime in the future, old horse players will gather and discuss the times of Zenyatta. If I am fortunate alive to be alive, I will be able to say that I saw the Queen race. If not, I will be discussing her with the Saints.
Kari Bussell
Dawn C- What a thrill that must have been for you to get to spend the day at Barn-55 and meet all the people and horses. I am so happy for you! It is a day to remember & cherish the rest of your life you need to only close your eyes and remember to feel better. I wrote this in a post in the last diary , but it bears mentioning again your health report is a answer to all our prayers…
Thank you Zenyatta (Dottie) for sharing Dawn’s beautiful words and day…It was a true blessing to read.
@Cynthia Holt- I am still attempting to dry my eyes control myself (only you know what I mean by that)….You go making me all emotional….my heart want to sing praises!! and more!! I will post to you again when I am less emotional…Beautiful…thank you!
Barb France
Cynthia H-What a wonderful post…thank you for sharing…here come the tears.
Misty- thank you for sharing your post..Zenyatta has her “love” in all our hearts.
Leslie R.
Hi Zenny, unfortunately, I also never got to meet you in person but you have touched my heart and soul none the less. You are a gift that keeps on giving. I’m happy for Dawn! What a thrill!
Love to all,
Leslie
judy berube
To Doreen:
Thanks for the link on Uncle Mo. Sounds like Mr. Rapole will do whatever is best for him. If he is retired, I guess we’ll always wonder what might have been if he hadn’t contracted this liver ailment. His two year old record is flawless. Hugs, J.B.
#1NewEnglandFan
Today’s blog is so full of love and appreciation, it’s just TOO TOO. My kleenex box is empty! This has truly become an amazing community of fans and friends of Queen Z and all connected with her, and I look forward to being part of it every day!
I’m so happy that Secretariat continues to be remembered and appropriately exhaulted. He will always be the horse of the century for me. But Zenyatta has galloped right up next to him.
I cannot count how many times I have watched Secretariat’s triple crown and Zenyatta’s races, especially her 3 Breeders Cup races. Thank goodness for You Tube!
Dawn, I’m so happy to learn about your visit to Barn 55. I hope to go some day.
New idea for foal name: “Barn 55”
What do you think?
Annie B in MA
judy berube
To Cynthia H.:
I too will never forget the feelings and emotions of Secretariat’s Belmont win. Only Z’s thrilling from last to first wins can compare. The King and Queen of racing, indeed. Hugs, J.B.
judy berube
To Susan in Tn.:
How are all the Sweeties doing? Hugs, J.B.
Susan in TN
I just got caught up on all the posts and enjoyed each and every one!
@Kari Bussell: Thank you! How wonderful it would be if you could come see Rootbeer, Rusty, Chester, Cheyenne and her colt and all the other residents of River Edge! I would love to meet you and show you around! Just let me know :) We live about 6 miles from I-40 (about 45 miles WSW of Nashville) and the rescue is another 14 miles from our house. <3
@Brenda: Your trip to Kentucky sounds wonderful-have fun!
@Sue M: I hope you get to lease that horse! Fingers crosed for you :)
@Cindy Moore: Loved that quote.
@Karen Gogue: I laughed when I read all your posts yesterday-your happiness was bouncing off the screen! I would be the same way. This is such a happy place, isn't it?
@Karen Gogue: Forgot to say "thank you" for giving John his card and cake from all of us, too! Very considerate- I think a lot of us would like to do something nice for him and Dottie to express how we feel and you stepped in for us! Not to mention Ann and Jerry and ALL of Barn 55!!
@J Smith: Thank you for your comments <3
@Kim S: I am so excited for you and your impending volunteer work at the horse rescue! I know you will enjoy it! Even in this heat, I come home with more energy and a lightness that I can't really explain. I would go out even more except there was mention of a "restraining order" (kidding) :)
@Ginny: How wonderful that you have a rescue for thoroughbreds! I wish I could pick your brain as far as fundraising, adopting out, etc. Well, I know there is a lot of info on-line but it would be nice from a fellow Z lover!
@Amanda G in Alabama: I've been praying for you and Kathy and Ele and Charles and hope things are going well. <3 I love your idea for a small horse and pet rescue for children facing health issues and other losses. It's a wonderful idea and that's the first step- having the idea! There is a place near Franklin, TN and I'll have to find the name for you, but it is for children who are dealing with serious health issues and they come out and ride or if they are too tired, they groom or just commune with their favorite horse. It started very small-I'm not sure if it's grown much. I think she just had one horse- I'll find it for you. <3
@Gary M: Loved your limerick!
@judy B and Terry Crow: What is that DVD you are talking about? I think you said it has Richard Dreyfuss in it and he is one of my favorite actors.Add in horses and count me in!
I went to River Edge this a.m.-will post later.
Susan in TN
@Judy B: Just saw your post! Thank you for asking- I have to go now but I will post later. Hugs to you <3
judy berube
To Gloria Jeanne:
Thanks for the link to the great photos of Z. Hugs, J.B.
Trina Nagele
@MISTY and @CYNTHIA H—THANK YOU both for your moving posts that share with us the magic of those moments.
@KIMBERLY POTTER—I hope the floods spare you and yours.
@GINNY—Bless you for your rescue work—62 horses in residence! WOW! I hope that charitable status gets confirmed for you lickety-split, and that Team Z can help you get to meet Z. Keep us in the loop about your rescue. Blessings to all the horses at Renaissance Rescue.
@BARBARA WOOD—I was happy to read your comment on Frankie the Foal’s June 8 update page. What a spirited little creature she is, but not even close to being out of the woods yet. We’ll continue to follow her recovery and pray for her. http://carolinaregion.com/2011/06/08/frankies-continuing-improvement/
suew
Dawn is one lucky lady. I am so glad she had the opportunity to visit your old stall, Zenny, and talk with your team. You are one special horse and of course you are missed by all of them. Hooves crossed that your foal will have the opportunity to experience their kindness and love just as you did.