Zenyatta

Queen of Racing

Z's Diary

Diary Post #447

Here we are! Photo by Sarah Campion

Hello,

Yesterday, we had a very comfortable afternoon in Lexington and the temperatures were rather pleasant. Then last night at about 3 in the morning, a very heavy rain began. Fortunately, at that time, TASTY and I were nice and safe snuggled comfortably in our stalls in the foaling barn.

My ‘foaling status’ is progressing in a very nice and relaxed manner since the latest report. As of this morning, per Matt, TASTY, is at the ‘one marshmallow size bag’ stage. This is where I was last week. It will be fascinating to monitor the progression we each make during the next several days.

Many of you have asked if we would be together with our foals once they are born. From what we are hearing, that is the plan.

On another note, I would like to send a HIGH HOOF to a dear friend who used to visit ME all of the time when I was at BARN 55. His name is Ed Lauter. Ed would arrive at around noon, bring MY JOHN his favorite ham and cheese sandwiches, and just hang out with us for a bit in the afternoons. Ed is an actor and called MY JOHN this morning to share GREAT NEWS! He played the role of Peppy’s Butler in the movie, THE ARTIST, which recently won THE BEST PICTURE Award at the Academy Awards. (I gather this is like being named HORSE OF THE YEAR…in our industry.) Ed is now off to do another movie, this time with Clint Eastwood, and has 2 other movie offers to consider as well. He is so excited and wanted to share all of this with MY JOHN and thank him for the opportunity to spend so much time with ME and BARN 55. He said it meant a great deal to him!

Ed commented to MY JOHN about how MOMENTUM is so important in life. One thing happens and another builds upon that success helping people to achieve their goals. I appreciate and understand this concept….and am so happy for my pal, ED.

As a matter of fact, I am always so proud to share in the ‘good fortune’ of all of my friends!

With Love,
Hugs to All~
Z

Reader Interactions

430 Comments

  2. / Reply

    Great news, Z. I am assuming that you might foal before Tasty, since you are a week “ahead”. I’m thinking that since mares uaually foal at night, the East Coast Dumplings might be at an advantage, since they get to their computers in the morning sooner than some of us. (Or it might just appear as a new diary post?)
    HIGH HOOF to Mr. Lauter. Haven’t seen “The Artist” yet, but I’ll look for him when I do.
    Going to check the weather now. Prayers for safety for all in the path of the storm.

    • / Reply

      Hmmm – maybe I’ve missed something. Is there some other way we would get the “big news” other than a new diary post?????

        • How early do you want me to call you if I see it? :-) Actually, you’re just an hour behind me. It’s the Mountain and Pacific time people who may be a bit behind (or ahead – I’ve noticed that some of them must on here in the wee hours).
          S

    • / Reply

      I was kind of wondering if the invitation to sign up here and leave our email addresses for email notices may be being done to let US, the Zsters, know FIRST when Z has her foal. Was just a guess. Would not be surprised if that were the intent.

      • / Reply

        Ann Maree,

        I always wondered what that sign up was for and I’ll bet you’re right. I’ll be doing it right after I finish reading the current comments. Good thinking.

        • Where do you sign up at? At work, we can’t access facebook and I am worried I won’t know when the news hits! :)

        • Debbie M
          If you go to http://www.Zenyatta.com (Zenny’s home page), there is is place to “join Zenny’s club” where you can put in your email address. I doubt that this will really do any good as far as a birth announcement is concerned. I put mine in when the new web site first came up, and have never heard anything from anyone. Unless they have created a master email list, I’m not hopeful that this will speed the news up any (but hey, I’d be really glad to be wrong). On the other hand, I wouldn’t see an email any sooner than I would see a new Diary post, but it might help people with “smart phones.”

  3. / Reply

    hi Z! Happy Wednesday to YOU and Tasty! I hope the weather doesn’t get worse there, the weather news didn’t look good in KY, stay safe and enjoy YOUR day with Tasty! The time is approaching quickly now, I’m just sooo excited hearing all of the changes, and I’m praying for YOU and Tasty and babies! Love YOU gorgeous mama xoxoxo (March 5!)

  4. / Reply

    I am so happy for Ed. It seems everyone you touch, Z, receives some “magic”! I was also grateful to get an update on Tasty’s status. Please keep us informed, I know that you well. Take care of yourself and Tasty, we are all praying for safe deliveries and healthy foals for the both of you. You are the best!

    NOTE: Thanks Z fans for your support. Remember we need people who have not yet pressed “LIKE” on Z’s FB page in order to gain 100,000 “likes” before her champion foal is born. We need 700 more “likes” from new sources to make our goal. Please share the magic of Zenyatta with all you know!

    • / Reply

      I shared her fb page on my wall last night and asked for more “likes”. Hopefully, the news will spread…
      Judy G

  5. / Reply

    PACE PACE PACE even more that you our getting closer. I’m getting so that its hard to wait for the daily posts to see if your baby has come yet. Zenyatta you and Tasty take care and get plenty of rest because when that baby comes rest time is over.
    love ya

      • / Reply

        yes, indeed – high hoof to Ed Lauter. I assume he was the fellow in the auction scene. The Artist is such a good movie and the lead actor, Dujardin (sp?) is amazing.

        glad to hear more good news from Zenyatta! May that nasty weather front steer clear of all humans and animals.

        Darn – I was looking forward to seeing Game On Dude at the Big Cap! well, good luck to him in Dubai.

      • / Reply

        I heard that, too, and am so disappointed to know that ANY of our American horses will be going to Dubai. It’s WAY too close to the Straits of Hormuz. I know the money is obscenely huge, but does it really matter in the bigger picture? That whole part of the world is about to explode and I’d rather our horses were “home”.

    • / Reply

      Well, I’m confused, Who makes the decision…the trainer, owners or both. I think I’ve read the trip there as well as the climate can be tough on the horse. On top of those things are the political atmosphere in that part of the world. Unsettling, to say the least.

  7. / Reply

    HI Zenny!
    I hope you and TASTY and the rest of the crew at Lane’s End are safe today with the possible tornado threat going on. Bunker down and stay SAFE!!!

  10. / Reply

    Dottie
    Your interview on TVG was so upbeat and you are just TOO CUTE! Thank you for the personal update on ‘our’ Queen and her tummy bump status!

      • / Reply

        Hi! I heard yesterday that Christina Olivares (spelling?) was to have interview later today – don’t know what time, or if this may be a replay of this morning. Also TVG replays some interviews, if you click onto TVG site, go to:https://www.tvg.com/tvg-shows…. Click on “MORNING LINE” Greg Wolf and Matt Carothers interviewed Dottie this morning. Sometimes it will be shown later here. If I run across a link, I’ll post it.

        • oops! If after you click onto this link, it acts weird, just scroll down and click on “RETURN HOME” – it should take you to the site. OR if that doesn’t work go to TVG.com

        • Hi, Karen. I am not finding it on TVG. I really wanted to see our Dottie, hopefully Zenny will post it here!!

  11. / Reply

    March 9th is the anniversary of the day my father went to heaven years ago. It would be SO NICE to have a joyous event like the arrival of your foal to associate with that date! Have a wonderful day sweet Zenny, Tasty and all Z-sters!

    • / Reply

      March 9th works for JOHN HENRY! Good luck to you and JH (wink wink)
      Judy G
      ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥♥

    • / Reply

      I’m with you, Kathy. March 10th is the anniversary of my father’s death, so it would be nice to have something so joyous happen on that day, but as long as she has a healthy foal and she comes through it all OK, I’ll be happy no matter what day it is.

  12. / Reply

    Zenyatta,

    Waiting to exhale…. Sending you love and prayers for a safe, healthy and easy delivery..
    Keep staying cool and calm Big Mama. xoxo
    Ed Lauter is a great character actor. I loved him in the Longest Yard, and Purple Heart, amoung others.

  13. / Reply

    Hi Zenny, I’m happy for John’s pal Ed and his recent success. It seems like your John always attracks people of high quality. I’m sue he misses seeing you at Barn 55. Afterall, you kept the place buzzing and made each day exciting for everyone.
    I’m also glad to read your BFF, TT, will be with you after your foals are born. Oh, how I hope we get some great pictures and videos of the two of you and your little ones.

    Please give your Matt an extra nuzzle from me for all he does for you every day. You seem to be one very relaxed and happy horse!

  14. / Reply

    Zenny, Hoof, Hoof Horray to Ed and best wishes to him as he continues moving forward in his movie career.

    We love knowing you and TT will remain together after your foals are born…it seems as if the two of you will be forever friends. Life is good!

  15. / Reply

    And we rejoice in your wonderful life and are so gracious to share in it. So glad you were nice and cozy when the rains came……XOXO

  16. / Reply

    Hi Zenny, glad that you and Tasty are both safe from the big storm that came by during the nite. Keep safe and I send you and Tasty Love and Kisses. I have a feeling that you will have your foal first, this is all very exciting.

  17. / Reply

    Thank you Dottie for keeping us all posted – it is VERY appreciated. My friends and I are waiting with bated breath! This baby will be the biggest news out of KY in 2012, RA’s foaling notwithstanding.

  18. / Reply

    So happy to hear about Tasty too, thanks for the update on her!! You are looking so radiant Z!!! Very excited for the both of you!!

  19. / Reply

    love what you shared about momentum Zen, you have such great friends! well, any day now, wishing you all the best! you and Tasty!

  20. / Reply

    Dear Zennny – I check your postings every day with so much anticipation. I can’t wait to see the first pictures of the prince or princess. This is going to be the best event ever!!!! Much love to you and Tasty.

    By the way, does anyone know if there are any pictures of Pirate Queen’s foal?

    Hugs and kisses beautiful girl.

  22. / Reply

    Hi Zenny I’m glad that you and Tasty stayed comfortable and warm in your stalls during the rain you had last night. And a HIGH HOOF to Ed.!

  24. / Reply

    Love ya zenyatta!!!
    i think it would be sooo cool if there was one of those live web cams in your foaling barn!!!! That would be soooo cool!! So we could all watch!!! Love you sooo much!!

  25. / Reply

    If we ask SUPER NICELY Could we PLEASE have a current comformation pic of Zenny? I love looking at her currently and back in her racing days, and as you know a Conformation pic is the best way to do it! SUPER PRETTY PLEASE????

  26. / Reply

    So happy to hear that you and Tasty along with your foals once they are born, will likely be together. You two moms will be able to share motherhood and the day to day upbringing of your babies-now how cool is that?
    And gosh almighty, how neat that a good friend of yours, has won an Academy Award-congratulations to Ed Lauter! Thanks so much for sharing that with us all, always enjoy hearing the goings on and stories of the events in others lives-always so interesting.
    Won’t be long and your little one will be showing up and changing the world! Love you more than ever Zenyatta! Sending my Love & Blessings with loads of kisses

  28. / Reply

    Dearest Zenyatta,

    I did wonder about the storms sweeping toward the East–so glad they hit while You and Tasty were safe and snug in your barn. Thank you so much for sending us an update on her progression, too. It sounds as though she’s right behind you–so you two girls should be sharing baby news together! I can’t imagine anything more exciting! :)

    Please send a High Hoof to your friend Ed. I’m sure being in your presence gave him tons of inspiration to do his best and reach for the stars. That’s how You affect all of us, dear Queen, and I’m certain You will pass that wonderful quality on to your little one. Along with fast legs and beautiful ears! :)

    Have a lovely day! Kisses and hugs to You and Tasty both!
    Stel

  29. / Reply

    PACE…PACE…PACE…
    Good morning Z….and T too
    Please stay safe…nasty weather out there
    PACE…PACE…PACE…
    on another front…to those from Wisconsin planning the invasion of lanes end..I was born in Fond du Lac …my dad lived last 20yrs up in Lac du Flambeau…can I join!
    How about a frontal assault….I am willing to have a heart attack in their driveway so we would have to be taken inside to await treatment…while they are busy with me..a diversion…the rest can escape out of hay bales hauled in large trailer by truck I was driving….
    PACE…PACE…PACE…
    Z…just kidding …you know none of us would disturb your peace at a time like this…much as we would love to see you…your welfare is highest priority
    AS ALWAYS …lots of kisses on your soft nose….gentle rubs for that expanding belly..and some for Tasty too

    • / Reply

      Carol in Utah, LOL that sounds like the best plan yet, I’ll help carry you into the FOALING BARN while we wait for the ambulance(peek, peek). And “hello” to another fellow (ex) Wisconsinite. I know Fond du Lac very well, a real nice little city. Gee that must make about 10 or 12 of us now maybe we can just overwhelm them by numbers!

      I want everyone to know I have cut back on my caffeine after yesterday, I only have had 6 cups today I was feeling much calmer until I heard the WEATHER REPORT for Kentucky! Yikes, prayers for all man and beast in the path of this demon. I hope all horses are safely inside.

      I’d also like to send my congratulations to Matt Kenseth on his Daytona win even though I don’t follow Nascar, he is a very nice Wisconsin boy! Also my Packer honey Donald Driver is going to be on dancing with the stars! He is a great guy with humble beginnings, he and his mother lived in a van while he tried to get on the Packers, they were so poor, He has made it big but has not forgot his humble beginning and does so much for kids and charity…..God Bless him. I’m going to be using all my votes for him on “Dancing”.

      Well Zenny I guess I’m going to make it thru today and so are you and TT love and kisses on your two noses Auntie Sue

    • / Reply

      This just gets better and better! We’re getting into some intensive planning and it does prove that great minds think alike. Like the diversion and hay bales. Now all we have to do is meet and implement the plans.

  30. / Reply

    Ed Lauter has always been one of my favorite actors, usually plays a heavy. Interesting that he is a fan of Barn 55. Reminds me a lot of Vic Tayback, much the same type of actor and a horse racing fan. Ed played Robert Strub in Seabiscuit, one of his “lighter” roles.

      • / Reply

        Vic Tayback played the cafe owner in the “Flo” TV series in the ?80s

        Seems to me I recall my ex saying he lived in the Phoenix area and had some TBs running @ Turf Paradise in the ?80s?

        Patricia

        • Yes, he owned Mel’s Diner in both the Alice and Flo TV shows. I mentioned him because, other than those shows, he usually played a heavy as did Ed Lauter. I used to see him in the box seat area at Hollywood Park all the time.

      • / Reply

        If you saw The Longest yard with Burt Reynolds, Ed was the head guard and bad guy when the football game was played. When Burt looked like he was walking off the field, Ed stopped the warden (Eddie Albert) from shooting him.

    • / Reply

      Terry Crow, did I miss something or are you not doing the “Redneck Show” anymore?
      I really miss them! Hugs

      • / Reply

        The rednecks are on hold for awhile. I would say that it is in deference to Kari’s memory but she was one who enjoyed them the most. It is a difficult decision, but the jokes will be back.

        • Terry, I felt much the same way, that’s why i didn’t ask. Kari really liked them, every day. She remains an Emeritus member.

        • Terry I must admit I miss the redneck reader, as I referred to it :) but I also have thought of Kari everyday and even more last night when reading all the news as we get closer and closer to the big day. I had so prayed she would get to see the little prince or princess. I had a thought last night….would anyone be interested in joining me, in sending a donation to Barn 55 (attention John, Dottie, Jerry and Ann) to be used for whatever cause they want, in celebration of the new arrival and in honor of one of her (Z’s) biggest fans Kari B?
          If anyone would like to join me please chime in :)
          To all our friends in the path of the terrible storms… Prayer for all of you and your loved ones.

      • / Reply

        When the idea was first pitched for a $100,000 race, unheard of in those times, the meeting was held in Strub’s office to try to convince him to put up the purse. Also, when Charles Howard went to Mexico, Strub was one of the individuals who commiserated with him on the divorce and helped him look for a trainer. He called Tom Smith a crackpot. Finally, when Charles Howard went to a box to watch the SA Handicap, Seabiscuit’s final race, Strub jokingly asked him who he was betting on. There were probably more scenes, but I can’t recall them at the moment. The real Strub, of course, founded Santa Anita. As a personal note, my mother was actually at Seabiscuit’s final race, the 1940 Santa Anita Handicap. She used to regale me with stories about it and I never got tired of hearing them. I wish I could hear the stories from her lips one more time.

      • / Reply

        @Julie DuVall-How exciting that you were a “face in the crowd” or a fedora in the crowd during the filming of the climatic scene in Seabiscuit. When I saw the film in a theater for the first time, I sat there a long time as the credits were rolling listening to my mother’s stories in my head. The staged race was unlike the real one, however, as I can recall her telling me how the race was run. There was no real reason to depict it in the film the way they did. The real race was much more exciting. When you can do it right, why do fiction? Can you or someone else tell me what it means when the word permalink is all that appears and not reply?

        • Terry, usually “Reply” appears on blogs down to the 3rd level of replies, but blog settings prevent replies further down the chain. I know this because I changed a friend’s blog settings awhile back, so “Replies” could go down 6 levels, instead of the default 3 – at least on WordPress blogs, which this may be, but I’m not certain.

    • / Reply

      I too have watched and watched and watched the Seabiscuit movie — remind us about the character Robert Strub – I don’t remember him

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