Good Morning,
I know at times I’m very casual, having fun, enjoying the moment, and using terms like TOO CUTE and IT’S ME! So much of this is meant to be playful and simply offer all of us another way to enjoy the people and things around us! I try to lighten things up a bit from the regular routines we all experience each day. However, in the Diary, I also acknowledge and respectfully honor the serious things that go on in all
of our lives. On this particular day, I would like to be very serious.
The Racing Community is like one HUGE FAMILY. You can travel around the country and often see many of the same people at the different events and venues. My John, years ago, became very friendly with Larry Jones. When they both shipped into Churchill Downs for various stakes races, they would be stabled together and got to know each other very well. This represents one of the FUN parts that goes along with racing…cultivating the friendships one is able to develop along the way!
Obviously, we are all participating in a sport. The primary objective for everyone is WIN! Thus, you are constantly competing against one another. That is the nature of all sports in general. However, it does not mean that you are not sharing a friendship and a bond with your fellow racing competitors. You are…and the basis for all of this in our sport is the ‘LOVE’ of HORSES. So many people work very hard…and always strive to do their best! I know MY TEAM sincerely wishes others success in all that they do!
On this particular day, there are 2 people MY TEAM and I would love to send our best wishes to for a SPEEDY RECOVERY.
In California, we have a very hands-on trainer named Barry Abrams. Barry came to visit ME when I was at BARN 55…and he is a very dear man. Last Tuesday, he had a very serious surgery. I want to send him a HIGH HOOF and wish him ALL OF THE VERY BEST as he recovers. This is the 2nd time he has had this type of surgery…the last one took place 6 years ago. So, our thoughts are with Barry and his family as he recovers during the upcoming summer months.
Additionally, MY TEAM read that Rosie Napravnik is having surgery this morning on her arm / wrist. Rosie has had a tremendous year winning many races and riding titles. The anticipated time for her recovery is yet unknown. They will have to see how things go, according to the DRF, before they know when she can return to riding. We would like to wish her ALL THE BEST as well!
On a very serious side, I’d like to send all of our friends who may need a HUG a big one. It never ceases to amaze ME how quickly in life things can change…in a moment! To ME, that’s why it is so important to truly enjoy and appreciate the healthy and happy times….as well as being respectful of the challenges that may develop….not only for yourself…but others.
With Love,
Hugs to All~(Rosie and Barry…especially thinking of YOU today!)
Z
Elizabeth
Zenyatta, you and your connections continue to “touch” the Heavenly Spirit that is present in all creations…thank you!
Leslie R.
Hi Zenny, I’ll keep Barry and Rosie in my thoughts too. Every moment truly is special.
Love to all,
Leslie
Leslie R.
To Stephanie, a big hug to you and anyone else here who needs one.
Hugs to all,
Leslie
Edie Dickenson
Zenyatta and Dottie, that was very well written and expressed the sentiments of all of us fans. We ARE one big family united by our love of horses and horse racing. It is refreshing to read your journal, Zenny, and to get your positive take on every day. In my opinion, that is why you and your team have been so successful. As Emerson said, “Write it on your heart that each day is the best day in the year.” And one more added comment, when I ski behind my boat named Zenyatta, I sing Liza’s song about you! TOO CUTE!
judy berube
Dear Z Fans:
Da Hoss, one of the Champions at the Kentucky Horse Park. Hugs, J.B. http://kyhorsepark.com/hall-of-champions/da-hoss
Christine B.
@ Stephanie
I don’t post very often but I have been where you are & wanted to send you an internet hug too.
Joan Walls
Dear Zenny, Dottie and Team Zenyatta,
You are definitely a team act. I love the fact that you care so much about others. I appreciate that you let us know what is going on in your world. Most of us would not know about these happenings if it weren’t for your telling us. You make us truly aware of the two sides of life. I wish and pray and show “high hooves” for their fast recovery. Love and kisses. Joan
Judy (Maass) Gadwood ~ CA
Harness trainer Jimmy Takter’s success, patriotism growing:
“She is the Zenyatta of the pacing world,” said Takter, 50, referring to the 2010 Thoroughbred Horse of the Year. “Like all the great ones, she’s got tremendous heart and desire and just won’t let another horse finish in front of her.” TO CUTE!!
http://www.kentucky.com/2011/07/06/1801362/harness-trainer-jimmy-takters.html
Margie
Zenny, I am adding your special friends to my prayer list, as well as Stephanie and anyone else out there who needs comfort. Life can be so fragile, can’t it? I guess we have to take it as it comes because, after all, life is a gift. On our darkest days if we just look a little deeper into the distance, we will see that brilliant ray of hope. Hope will revive and restore you, and open the door to receiving the gift of a happy heart once again.
@DJ – beautiful prayer; vey special.
@All – yikes! Didn’t mean to preach! :-)
judy berube
Dear Z Fans:
Update on Animal Kingdom. Hugs, J.B. http://www.drf.com/news/animal-kingdom-back-home-after-surgery
judy berube
Dear Z Fans:
Article from TB Times on Twirling Candy and HGC. Hugs, J.B. http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/racing-news/2011/07/06/hollywood-gold-cup-preview.aspx
Abigail from Montreal
Well Zenny & Dottie, your message to all of us today was extremely wise. Not only are we a family here on zenyatta.com, but I’m reflecting on all the lives here that have changed and been changed since we all started to meet here every day. And for each hurdle that one of us had to climb there were words of love & encouragement, candles lit and stories shared. This is the experience I honour as I wish only the best to Shari V., trainer Barry Abrams and jockey Rosie Napravnick. The loss of Naseeb is heart-wrenching.
Here in Canada, Kate & Will took time out of what was to be their “private time” or time-off to visit the devastated community of Slave Lake. 400 homes there were destroyed by fire recently and people lost everything. I was proud of our young couple for their genuine caring about others, but was overwhelmed to see the people of Slave Lake greeting them yesterday. People who had lost everything pressing flowers and books and gifts into their hands….
So, wise Zenny and her “ghost writer,” I appreciate the wisdom and love in your thoughts today. It makes me proud to be part of our zenyatta.com family.
Abigail from Montreal
I decided to post this separately. The concluding article on Rachel, Rags and Zenyatta was just posted about 10 minutes or so ago on THE VAULT. For some reason, it took forever to edit and proofread. Sometimes that happens to writers and it can be a frustrating experience, unless you focus on the joy of the “almost-perfect” text!!!!!! I hope everyone enjoys it.
http://thevaulthorseracing.wordpress.com/2011/07/07/rachel-rags-and-zenyatta-the-power-of-x-part-three/
Christine B.
@Kari Bussell & all who posted links to Ruffian, Thank you.
For me she was much like she was to Kari. I was just eight & I too will never forget. I went so far as to name one of my beloved Rottweilers after her. In an ironic twist of fate, bone cancer attacked her right front leg which ended up taking her from me much too soon. Thankfully we all have Zenyatta now and she retired safe and sound for all of us to enjoy for years to come!
Judy (Maass) Gadwood ~ CA
@ Sharon Call
Yes, that video was posted a day or so ago on Z’s diary (by me) ;-); but worth sharing with those who didn’t see it – BEAUTIFUL, GLORIOUS ENDING!! :-D
Especially Horses
Stephanie,
If you have never turned your life over to the Lord today is the day! I don’t want you to think I am minimizing your troubles, but when you put your faith in the Lord you can count all things for joy (hard for us sinners to understand that concept at times, but it is true). “As for God, His way is perfect; The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in Him. (PS 18:30). Stephanie here is a favorite promise of mine from the Lord “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). The hope and future is not wealth or fame and maybe not even good health, but it is the hope and future of forgiveness and an eternity with the Lord. Believers can take comfort in knowing that He knows of our struggles and is working to help us prosper, even when we can’t see it.
I love Zenyatta like you do, and she is an inspiration, but turn your eyes to her Creator for strength and salvation. Stephanie I just finished praying for you.
Dianna
judy berube
Dear Abigail in Montreal:
Thank you. Hugs, J.B.
ALENE
Yes Zenny you`re right. We must be very thankful of all of the good times. Take nothing for granted. Circumstances can change in the blink of an eye. We can only take one moment at a time. You are very wise and realize it. Lets all hope Barry and Rosie do well! I can always use a hug from you!. When I feel down and out,which I`ve mentioned to you before. I go to your diary and for that moment I smile… Lovbe you!! Thanks Dottie…Lots of Big Hugs and Kisses, Alene :-)
Deb Batchelder
I love these postings by Z. I love the horse and I love these messages. Inspiring most days. Thanks for giving me something to look forward to. I always have to read them and they put a smile on my face. Get well wishes for everyone in need :)
Sharyn
Thanks for the up to date information – wishing them both a speedy recovery. I think I’ve seen Rosie race on Pants on Fire, or was it someone else?
signofthetimes
Dear Zenny,
Your eyes tell of the seriousness of your concern for Barry and Rosie. Speedy recovery to both.
@Katherine Cogswell
Thanks for posting that video of Barry and Zenny. He knows all the secret places. Massaging the upper lip releases endorphins;
did you see her eyes closing.
@ judy B
Love the story of Da Hoss and all his leg issues and the trainer who worked so hard to keep him sound enought to win
his last Breeders Cup race. It is a heart felt story and a
wonderful win by a champion that leg issues all his life.
judy berube
Dear Signofthetimes:
He was an amazing horse especially with all the setbacks. Hugs, J.B.
judy berube
Dear Abigail from Montreal:
Just finished reading your article. Makes the anticipation of Z’s and Rachael’s first foals even more keen. Hugs, J.B.
Ingrid in MA
Just want to say “Thanks!” for the Hug,Zenny! I’m recovering from hip replacement surgery that I had last week, and there were some complications – severe anemia – needed 2 transfusions and they didn’t help much – and a low-grade fever that lasted over a week. A nurse came to the house every day to take blood for testing,with physical therapy on top of that. Thankfully,my blood level is just about where it should be,finally,so no more blood draws. But I’m in a bit of pain,and none of the meds they gave me for pain have worked (they tried 5 different ones in the hospital).
Anyway, I’m home and on the mend slowly but surely. The first thing I did when I could walk somewhat comfortably (even if I couldn’t sit for long) was come check your Diary,Zenny,to see what I’d missed! It never fails to put a smile on my face. So if it’s been a rough day,I look forward to your Diary,knowing that love and laughter are but a click away. Thanks for being such an inspiration,and a shoulder to lean on!
You’re the BEST Zenny! Love you!
Celeste
Thank you!! Having read earlier about both of these people and the medical ordeals they are facing, I really do appreciate your mentioning it here as it provides us a place to be able to send our best wishes for speedy recoveries also. Zenyatta and Dottie and all of Team Z – you are all just the Best!! Thank you!! Best wishes to Mr. Abrams and Ms. Napravnik!! I hope they both feel better soon!
judy berube
Dear Ingrid in MA.:
Wishing you well. Hugs, J.B.
Sharon Call
@Judy Gadwood. Yikes! I didn’t realize you had already posted the whale link. I don’t always have time to view all of the links. Working cuts into my “Z” time.
@DJ. Loved the joke. He deserved it!
@Judy Gerube. That’s what I get for running a boarding barn. It takes a while to learn about someone else’s horse. It was worth it, though.
Arnita Strutz
I think you do an outstanding job of writing regardless of whether it is on the light side or of serious bend. I look forward everyday to your Diary. It is my FAVORITE!!! Best of luck to Rosie and Barry’s speedy recovery even though I don’t know them.
judy berube
Dear Z Fans:
Photos by one of the photographers mentioned in Abigail’s great article about Z, RA and RTR. Hugs, J.B. http://www.downthestretchphotos.com/fab-fillies–marvelous-mares.html
Sharon Call
@Ingrid in MA. Oh, my gosh. What a time you’ve had. It’s good that your blood levels are back to normal. A good friend of mine’s Mother had hip replacement last year and it took her a while to be pain free and to move easily but once she reached that mark, that was one happy woman! She had to wait 2 years until she went on Medicare before she could have the surgery and by that time, I don’t think she really cared what the doctors did or how they did it as long as it helped her.
I hope you have a much easier time of it from this point on. Good wishes!