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
Teresa Drennen
Thanks for the wonderful posting. I know your family wants the best for you that is why they retired you when you could have still raced. They wanted to make sure you were in good shape to start your new life. I trust they know what’s best for you and respect them all so much for the way they have taken such good care of you. Racing can be very dangerous, and I am thrilled you are so strong and healthy to begin your life in KY.
Irene Caty
Oh Zenyatta you are the best at what you do. Being a terrific athlete is putting it mildly. You are the Greatest at what you do that is why you are Queen Zenyatta. We here in California will never forget all you have done and will never stop thinking about you and loving you. I feel goog to know that you are doing well with your adjustment to your new life at the farm. I am still not happy at the thought that you are not here where your fans love and miss you. The tears at you being gone are still rolling out. I just cant stop them. I do wish you every happeness in the world no matter where you are my dear loving Zenny. My prayers are for you to stay safe and healthy as you are today. I also pray for God to bless you every day and for him to know that you are the one and only Zenyatta with a big heart with so much love in it for everyone. You are so amaging and such a sweet, sweet girl. We all love you for that, Zenny. Have a gret week-end and keep us posted.
Lisa g
Ms Zenyatta, Your weight, I think we talked about this before. We tall girls can carry weight well. You are perfect, perfect, perfect, perfect, and girl, I know you love to eat, seen you stop for a bite, and you are perfect. Your hair, eye, body, legs, and your cute rear end. Have you had your beer lately? I love you, I hope to see you next summer. Until tomorrow…Sleep well, pleasant dreams. Lisa g
Dana Kohlman
Thank you so much Dottie for writing these diary post! It means so much to all of us. Having been a horse owner I know how much they miss there “companions” and I have been so worried about her missing all of you. So, thank you again for doing what you are doing!!
Linda / NJ
Hi Zennie! Greetings from NJ! Happy Saturday! Hey that is really great to hear that you have a new barn friend, Kitty! I am also glad to hear that you are taking things slow. When you move to fast that’s when accidents happen. And we don’t want anything to happen to you. Yes, I am really going to miss you, but look forward to seeing you at LE. Well it’s late. Hope you read my note tomorrow morning. Goodnight Z. Love you!!!
Maria
I love you Queen Z. Thanks for the update.
Donna
Shame on them for retiring her after one loss. She is a very smart horse and probably feels like she is being punished. They absolutely should have let her go out a winner for her psyche’s sake. I was afraid they would do this to her – and they did it. I am heartsick about it. I am sorry Zenyatta.
Jackie
Queen “Z” so glad you are becoming acclaimated to your surroundings. Dottie, thanks for the info on the ring. I have to admit when I saw her in her stall she did not look too happy. I am sure she is being well cared for at Lane’s End. However, know one can ever do as good a job as her California Connections! She is a California Girl and we just love her!
Stay warm.
Hugs and kisses
Lanie Johnson
Hi sweet girl!!I am sooo glad you have Kitty..perhaps I can meet her when I come to visit? We are indeed in for some snow here in Owensboro so even though I haven’t checked Lex weather I’ll bet you all get some too! Hopefully we will have a white Christmas this year!!
So happy for you that you are meeting new people and finding out that we love you here very very much! Lane’s End is doing a great job and so glad your safety comes first! Please thank those who are doing the updates..it is such a blessing to all of us! They are terrific people there..just wait til you see Ky in the Spring time!! No place like it!
Tell the team “hello” and let us know what you want for Christmas!! We fans just love to send you thngs!! I’ve been wondering what it good to send and safe,etc.
It’s been raining here most of the day! I’m just glad that you can see the trees and landscape..how are the other girls in the barn doing? Any gossip??
Have to check in with you daily..love you so..miss the thrill of the race..so very happy that you are content.
You sleep tight and dream about all those you love…til tom…you and I…under the moon over Ky. Love you.
Judy Gadwood Loves Zenny/California
It’s late evening in California. We had warm temps today.
I love the photos of your walks in the snow. Hugs and peppermint kisses! XO
Michele B
Oh Lady Z, you and your owners, trainer, etc. are one of a kind. I love your updates and feel like I’m there with you. It was especially fun to hear today of the barn cat, Kitty, as we have a house cat named Kitty who loves being around all the action. Those KY winters are a bit chillier than here in CA, but I’m sure those boys and girls at Lane’s End will keep you comfortable. I’ll be out to visit you in April when I’m there to visit my daughter. Be safe and happy.
Heather Scott
I’m glad Zenyatta came over here to Kentucky! I would like to meet her someday! :-)Have fun Zenny!
Gerrie P.
Zenyatta, I am so grateful you are writing this diary. It helps ease my anxiety about your future in Kentucky.
You have such a soulful gaze in almost all of your new photos, just like when you would look at the grandstand at Hollywood Park.
You are God’s special gift to us.
Shirley Nolan Al-mlaiti
Beauitful ZENYATTA I Love reading your daily Posts, the person doing it does a great job, it almost sounds real …I do not like the chain on you , I have 6 horses that I care for and they are all mine and I never use a chain under or over a nose..It is not called for but still used , one could use a soft lead rope and get the same effect or just a sharp jurk on a lead rope with a good soild Halter would also work…at least it does for me and I have been working with hoses for 30 years..Just an opinion Anyway LOVE YOU ,LOVE YOU,LOVE YOU Zenyatta
Marilyn
Thank you for the detailed updates. It’s reassuring to hear about your daily routine and your steps in adjusting to life in Kentucky. It’s wonderful to hear how careful and loving they’re being with you. Has Mario come home to California or is he still spending time with you?
Love hearing about your new barn cat.
Snoprinz
Thanks Z for educating us on the use of the lip chain. You’re a smart girl and a quick learner so you probably won’t need to use this device for too long.
Gloria Jeanne
DONNA- Shame on you! The Moss’s did not retire Zenyatta because she lost – it was the plan from a year ago. And if they had raced her again in 2011 and she got hurt what would you say then? Lame!!
Jeanne
QUEEN Z WHEN ARE THEY GOING TO LINE THE BOYS UP FOR YOU TO CHOOSE ONE? HAVE THEY BROUGHT THAT CUTE BOY AROUND THAT YOU LET WIN? YOU ARE GOING TO BE THE BEST MOM
Patricia
To DOnna & those that would have rather seen Zenyatta race again…who is to say that she would have won her next race? It is highly probable that she would have, but know one could have predicted that for sure.
I have heard Jerry Moss & John Shireff say multiple times, that they were very delighted she was retiring at 100% & many racehorses retire at less than par. I used to run marathons & it is extremely stressful on your body to stay at your optimum & not have ANY injury. Zenyatta, trained hard to achieve what she accomplished & I think the Moosses exhibited rational thinking as to her retirement.
How would we all feel if this ending was like another Barbaro & others that were not as fortunate?
I wanted Zen to win this year’s BC like any of her other fans, but over time I have found it humbling in her loss. I think she has taught all of us a valuable life lesson, however you want to interpret it!
Zen will always be a “winner in our hearts,” & I am glad she is well.
Deborah Lawson
Zen glad you explained the chain, in your recent photos. Was wondering when you are surveying your new surroundings do you ask yourself where is the track?
Kathy Kimber
Lady Z so good to hear from you I wasn’t worried about the guard its fine. I’m glad you are adjusting to the cold. Take care Love you
Jenna
Good morning Z!! Thank you, Dottie, so much for all that you do. :>
Jenna
Oh, and I just read that John and Mario were back at Backside on Thursday…so more thoughts and wishes to Z!
Mary
Goodmorning Zenyatta:)
I used a stud chain on my horses because I weigh 100 lbs. and they weighed 1000 lbs. so I understand, and I know they help keep you safe…I went on facebook yesterday to order a callender for 2011 and every page is you:) just before I placed my order, my James came in and stopped me, he has already ordered the same calander for me because he knows how much you mean to me. The thought of never watching you race again breakes my heart…but hearing from you everyday is a beautiful thing…my friends all know I write you everyday, they think its cute, some of them think I’m silly, but they like football…so what do they know…lol…until tomorrow Zenyatta. I love you…
Alene
Hey, Gorgeous girl. Hi Dottie. Thanks for all the explaining. Everything is done for the safety of our girl!! Zenny, as for you: As soon as I get up in the morning I`m on your diary site. You and your daily news light up my day. I`m soo happy things are falling into place fpr you and everyone at Lanes End. I miss not seeing you and love you very much!!!! By the way, I had a custom made bumper sticker made for my car. JUST FOR YOU….Hugs and Kisses ALWAYS,Alene
Mary
P.S. I loved the picture yesterday of you with John and Mr. and Mrs. Moss…you look beautiful in the snow:)
OraJean Stevenson
Dearest Queen-Z and, the greatly exspanded, Team-Z, many thanks for all the news about your new life, at Lane’s End Farm…sounds like “heaven” except for those temperatures !! Be good and start having fun. I’ll send you some “CA Sunshine”, for Christmas !! Love ya, OraJean
Deneen
Z – I am glad to hear that you are continuing to acclimate well and that you are being kept safe. Growing up on a small acreage in Nebraska, we had show ponies and registered Quarter Horses that we took care of and showed in the local horse shows. When we would bring a new horse into our family, we, too, had to slowly integrate them into their new surroundings. One story I remember my mother telling me about had to do with her quarter horse, J.R. He hadn’t been on our acreage long but one day something must have spooked him and J.R. came running out of his barn at full speed towards my Mom in the pasture near the fence she was standing by. As fast as he was running, she knew he was going to try and jump the fence. She also knew that the fence was too high and that he would never make it over the fence safely. A split second decision was made and my Mom began waving her arms back and forth gesturing him to stop running. And, just like that . . . J.R. put the brakes on and stopped. Thank goodness nothing bad happened that day. J.R. eventually settled down and became comfortable with his surroundings. A scary incident like that never occurred again. I am glad that your caretakers are being patient as that is key. I also like that you have a barn kitty friend. They are fun to have around! Your winter photos are absolutely beautiful Zennie!! I think about you every day and I am glad everything is going great for you!! Hugs and Love to you sweet girl!!!
Linda / NJ
Good Morning Zenny:
I hope you had a restful night’s sleep! What a great family photo! I hope it’s not raining in KY today. Terrible rainy day here in NJ. Enjoy your day. Take care. Love and Hugs, Linda
Ella
Hey Zen! It’s Ella…it is sleeting in New England & my mom just played some of your vidoes….I love the one of you eating the carrots out of the box! Stay warm & love that you have a new barn “kitty!”
Talk again soon