Good Morning to my DEAR FRIENDS,
I hope all of you are having a wonderful Saturday. I am doing GREAT! Yesterday I asked Sarah to bring some TREATS for my guys, Charles, Todd, Andy and all of the others, here at my KY Barn. She and her family have lived in KY for quite some time, thus, she knows all of the FABULOUS GOODIE places. Well, she stopped by Magee’s Pastries (she says it is the best in town) for some special breakfast goodies for them. They looked yummy and were a big hit!
Also, the people who work here at Lane’s End are now trickling in to see me. I am beginning to meet everyone who works here at the farm. It is really fun! They also told me they are reading the Diary each day so I am really working hard to keep everyone up-to-date.
I am continuing to go outside and become more and more acclimated to my new environment. I have to be honest…it is so much fun! Each day, I am becoming so much more comfortable and relaxed in this gorgeous setting. So many of the things are just like CA…I have a barn cat (same color as one at Shirreff’s Barn) named Kitty. They tell me he has been here for quite some time…and he really likes me. I have gorgeous trees to look at and beautiful geese by a pond close to my new paddocks. It is splendid! I just stand and stare at this beautiful setting for hours!
As you know, each day is baby steps to help me to feel more and more relaxed and comfortable. I know several of you have asked why I am wearing a lip chain now and then in some of the photos. I consulted with Dottie and John so I could properly explain this to you. Bottom-line, it is just for my safety and well-being.
Since farm life is new to me and I am really excited and want to explore all of the areas of my new environment, I need a bit of structure at first to be sure I do not do too much too soon. In truth, if left to my own thoughts…I’d probably rush around and skip too many steps…which would not be in my best interest. So, it is applied just to remind me to settle down. Per John, “the way we are using it with me is just a mild way of reminding me to be careful and relax…not to jump around where I could step on or hurt myself.” Since I was 2…this would be done every so often when a new setting was being explored by me…not often but when needed to PROTECT ME. Once I was comfy and everyone knew I was fine, it was immediately removed. The same thing is happening here now.
I respect the fact that my handlers want me safe and this mild little reminder makes ME focus on my safety. Like I said, it is only used briefly and then when I have my focus and am really paying careful attention to what I am doing…it is removed.
John said to tell you it is like a gymnast learning to do a balance beam activity etc. They use the ropes at first to be sure the person does not fall and get hurt. It is simply for safety.
Each day, I really making great progress…if I say so myself. I must be really, really honest…I know girls do not like to talk about their weight…but I am one really big girl (Dottie said we can say 1200 pounds ‘ish’). Thus, I am very, very, very strong and I am feeling great. So, all of the things are being done for my complete safety. I understand this and deeply appreciate the fact that my handlers want me safe and happy. I am so fortunate people care so much about ME! Thank you for also wanting me safe!
I wish all of you a wonderful weekend. There are some great races and games going on the next few days. I do love SPORTS! (Oh, maybe that is because I am one terrific athlete.)
Enjoy you day!
With love,
HUGS TO ALL~
Z
Lisa
I completely understand the use of a chain. It’s not easy bringing a primed, racing-fit horse like yourself down to a settled farm life. I’m sure you’re raring to go, so if it keeps your feet on the ground, I would recommend it, too. We sometimes have to do that to our own horses, too. Glad you’re doing well, soon you’ll be able to get out and play on your own.
Edie Dickenson
Happy Saturday, Zenny! You sound safe and happy which is what all of your thousands of fans want!
Nancy
Glad you say you are doing fine, but we want you back in Cali. So many people want you to come home. Hey they have nice farms out here. I just can’t believe you where sent in the dead of winter too. Where is your groom now? Take care of our girl, we miss you so much.
Samantha
So glad you are doing well, Z <3
Anna
Those baby steps will be completed soon, and you can run and play to your heart’s content! Just don’t overdo it. We know that your CA team and your Land’s End team want only the best for you, and I’d be upset if they weren’t taking every precaution to keep you safe. They’re doing a great job. I love you, Zenny!
Theresa
Good morning Zenyatta! Things sound like they are going just perfect. Still miss you!
Lisa T - California
Happy Saturday to you too Queen Z, LOVE hearing from you. So happy to hear the staff at Lane’s End is treating you so well. You deserve nothing but the best!! XXOOXX
Julie Ann
Good Morning Lady Z, Well, I’m happy John is still there with you to help you get used to your new surroundings! I know he knows what is best and is looking out for your best interests. You sound confident and happy too. And, a barn kitty? Now that’s really super! Thanks for your daily posts! Stay warm, and tell everyone Thanks for taking such great care of you. Big nuzzle hugs! Andale! Julie Ann
Katherine
I know that nobody out there wants any harm to come to you. You are remarkable (all 1200 pounds “ish” of you. I love you. You have meant so much much to me these past few years. You paraded right in front of me at Del Mar. It is a moment I will never forget. Thank you for the updates and for keeping Zenyatta happy and healthy.
Maggie
Great explanation! I explained your lip chain to someone just yesterday and I’m glad we said pretty much the same thing.
Anne H
Hi Z,
Have your racing plates been taken off yet?
Might feel good to walk around feeling the ground on bare hooves someday.
Cathie Hicks
THANKS SO MUCH Z… ESPECIALLY TO DOTTIE AND WHOEVER ELSE MAY BE DOING THE POST FROM LANES END… ITS SO NEAT IT REALLY IS LIKE YOU ARE TALKING…. IT MUST BE FABULOUS TO HAVE SO SO MANY PEOPLE ESPECIALLY YOUR “FAMILY” THAT LOVE’S YOU AND CARES FOR YOU MAKING EVER SO SURE TO KEEP YOU SAFE… I WISH MORE OWNERS, TRAINERS, GROOMS, EXERCISE RIDERS, HOT WALKERS, COOL WALKERS… EVERY PERSON THAT INTERACTS WITH THE RACE HORSE…OR ANY HORSE FOR THAT MATTER..
Cheryl Heath
So good to hear from you today. Yes, Saturday in Kentucky…maybe you will become a basketball fan soon…cheering for big Blue! Love all the pictures I am seeing of you. You look wonderful, Zenyatta. Thank you for your posts.
Toi
Hi Zenny. We know that they would not do anything to harm you. It is interesting to learn about such things, though. Thank you for the good description of what and why you need the lip chain. It sounds like you’re settling in just fine and once you get to roam in the pasture, things will be even better! Say hi to all the gals in the barn from all your fans. I will come visit you as soon as Lane’s End makes the announcement.
Gail
They are doing what is best for you sweetie! You haven’t been off the track long, but once you realize that this is your new life and you have nothing to get excited about, there will be no more chains. The people at Lanes End are wonderful people and will take the best care of you. Keep your blankie on. You’ll need it the next couple days.
Kim Noble
Well, I guess if Dottie says the lip chain thing is okay I’ll go with it. I guess alot of us wish someone we knew was taking care of you and that you were still surrounded by people who love you!
Bailey G.
Tell your new friends at Lane’s End that we really appreciate the photos and videos they have been sharing on your Facebook page, it is amazing to see you in a new environment :) We love you Z you are such a positive girl and I know any negativity just slips right off that slick coat of yours, hopefully it is the same for your friends at Lane’s End and they don’t let any negative comments get to them, they are doing a wonderful job and we love the updates, it is SO VERY SPECIAL to be able to see you happy in Kentucky :)
jane
Hi Zenny!!
I know you’re a sensible, intelligent, mature girl, and I know you dont like it sometimes, but I’m glad they use the lipchain. I know I speak for many when I say we’d just hate it if something spooked you, you got loose and hurt yourself.
Be patient, Big Mama, you’ll be out running free soon, I’m sure.
BTW, I love the pics of you in the snow! Your dapples are magnificent!
Jennifer Adelman
Dear Zenyatta, So glad your enjoying your room with view and your new friends. They will take the best care of you!
Thank You Very Much for the updates!!
Hugs! Best to you all!
Roxanne Cook
Happy Saturday! What a wonderful photo on Facebook. So glad you’re settling in just fine .. I knew you would. Your happiest days are ahead of you. Everyone loves you so
Barbara Wood
Dearest Z–
Thank you SO much for keeping us informed and letting us know that you are fine with everything. I’m so glad you have Kitty for companionship. I’m beginning to feel more relaxed with “letting you go”. It REALLY halps us to have these daily updates. If you didn’t have such a wonderful human family, they just wouldn’t get it. We’re thankful they do!
Debbi Martin
Great to hear from you, Z, and thanks to your humans for keeping you safe. I don’t know much about lip chains and such, but I know that anyone that has worked with you, been patient with you, and showered you with such obvious love would never, ever do anything that WASN’T good for YOU, so I never worried for you. Fabulous you have a cat!! I got my special Zenyatta issue of Blood Horse this week, and you were superspectacular as always. This will be one treasured magazine! Enjoy the winter—aren’t you due for some more snow?
Tami
Why anyone would question the use of the chain is beyond me. Seems like they’ve always made good decisions, why scrutinize this one? My horses had them before, too. Like you said, it’s for safety purposes.
Racing will not be the same without you. Glad you’re in a place where you’re appreciated and loved. Thank you for all of the amazing memories.
Ingrid in MA
Oh Z,we just want what’s best for you. We’re worse than a bunch of mother hens,eh? But can you blame us? You’re OUR girl (and to be quite honest,I think you’re rather svelte-looking! Must be all that dancing you do!),and we just want to take care of you in the style to which you are accustomed. It’s ALL about YOU,sweet Zenny. Love you!
Jennifer
Good morning, Queen. Glad to read that you’re relaxing and starting to acclimate. Also happy to learn that you have a barn kitty the same color as the one who was your friend in California. I had read that Lanes End “got rid of” all the barn cats because there were too many. I guess that was in the stallion complex. Too sad. After all, a house is not a home without a least one cat! :)
Z4ever
Dear passionate Z fans,
Thanks so much for the updates.I’m curious how Mario is doing and if he will stay in contact with Z? Same for Carmen and all of Z’s many other special people. I now live where I can’t have a horse. Z’s spirit and that of her whole team have me pay special attention to interact with my other furry family. Thanks to Z and her caregivers!
Donna
Thanks for explaining about the lip chain. I’m one of the people who was upset about it. As long as it doesn’t hurt. Thanks for being so patient with all of us rookies who don’t know the little details of handling a horse. And I love all 1200(ish) pounds, Queen Z.
Dawn Deems
Happy Saturday to you!
You look fabulous, I must say, and we so appreciate these updates.
Dress warm tomorrow, Zenny, it’s supposed to get COLD again!
Hugs and kisses from Ohio
Gloria
Thanks for another update (and so quickly!) and explanation of everything going on. We Zen fans want to make sure our girl is safe. We L-O-V-E her!!
Kitei
Zenny, you have so much self-control. It’s hard to believe you could go from the intense activity and “rough and tumble” of racing to this “walking on eggshells” business and make it actually look easy. I know it just can’t be! When I see this, I wish there was an indoor arena where you could play a bit more actively, without the unfamiliar ice and snow. As to your only being treated like fragile glass, and then becoming a broodmare, I just can’t help thinking of this quote:
“A ship in harbor is safe – but that is not what ships are for.” (~John A. Shedd, Salt from My Attic)