Boston Globe - January 2,2009
by Jonah Lehrer
The city has always been an engine of intellectual life, from the 18th-century coffeehouses of London, where citizens gathered to discuss chemistry and radical politics, to the Left Bank bars of modern Paris, where Pablo Picasso held forth on modern art. Without the metropolis, we might not have had the great art of Shakespeare or James Joyce; even Einstein was inspired by commuter trains.
And yet, city life isn't easy. The same London cafes that stimulated Ben Franklin also helped spread cholera; Picasso eventually bought an estate in quiet Provence. While the modern city might be a haven for playwrights, poets, and physicists, it's also a deeply unnatural and overwhelming place.
Now scientists have begun to examine how the city affects the brain, and the results are chastening. Just being in an urban environment, they have found, impairs our basic mental processes. After spending a few minutes on a crowded city street, the brain is less able to hold things in memory, and suffers from reduced self-control. While it's long been recognized that city life is exhausting -- that's why Picasso left Paris -- this new research suggests that cities actually dull our thinking, sometimes dramatically so.
"The mind is a limited machine,"says Marc Berman, a psychologist at the University of Michigan and lead author of a new study that measured the cognitive deficits caused by a short urban walk. "And we're beginning to understand the different ways that a city can exceed those limitations."
One of the main forces at work is a stark lack of nature, which is surprisingly beneficial for the brain. Studies have demonstrated, for instance, that hospital patients recover more quickly when they can see trees from their windows, and that women living in public housing are better able to focus when their apartment overlooks a grassy courtyard. Even these fleeting glimpses of nature improve brain performance, it seems, because they provide a mental break from the urban roil.
This research arrives just as humans cross an important milestone: For the first time in history, the majority of people reside in cities. For a species that evolved to live in small, primate tribes on the African savannah, such a migration marks a dramatic shift. Instead of inhabiting wide-open spaces, we're crowded into concrete jungles, surrounded by taxis, traffic, and millions of strangers. In recent years, it's become clear that such unnatural surroundings have important implications for our mental and physical health, and can powerfully alter how we think.
This research is also leading some scientists to dabble in urban design, as they look for ways to make the metropolis less damaging to the brain. The good news is that even slight alterations, such as planting more trees in the inner city or creating urban parks with a greater variety of plants, can significantly reduce the negative side effects of city life. The mind needs nature, and even a little bit can be a big help.
Consider everything your brain has to keep track of as you walk down a busy thoroughfare like Newbury Street. There are the crowded sidewalks full of distracted pedestrians who have to be avoided; the hazardous crosswalks that require the brain to monitor the flow of traffic. (The brain is a wary machine, always looking out for potential threats.) There's the confusing urban grid, which forces people to think continually about where they're going and how to get there.
The reason such seemingly trivial mental tasks leave us depleted is that they exploit one of the crucial weak spots of the brain. A city is so overstuffed with stimuli that we need to constantly redirect our attention so that we aren't distracted by irrelevant things, like a flashing neon sign or the cellphone conversation of a nearby passenger on the bus. This sort of controlled perception -- we are telling the mind what to pay attention to -- takes energy and effort. The mind is like a powerful supercomputer, but the act of paying attention consumes much of its processing power.
Natural settings, in contrast, don't require the same amount of cognitive effort. This idea is known as attention restoration theory, or ART, and it was first developed by Stephen Kaplan, a psychologist at the University of Michigan. While it's long been known that human attention is a scarce resource -- focusing in the morning makes it harder to focus in the afternoon -- Kaplan hypothesized that immersion in nature might have a restorative effect.
Imagine a walk around Walden Pond, in Concord. The woods surrounding the pond are filled with pitch pine and hickory trees. Chickadees and red-tailed hawks nest in the branches; squirrels and rabbits skirmish in the berry bushes. Natural settings are full of objects that automatically capture our attention, yet without triggering a negative emotional response -- unlike, say, a backfiring car. The mental machinery that directs attention can relax deeply, replenishing itself.
"It's not an accident that Central Park is in the middle of Manhattan," says Berman. "They needed to put a park there."
In a study published last month, Berman outfitted undergraduates at the University of Michigan with GPS receivers. Some of the students took a stroll in an arboretum, while others walked around the busy streets of downtown Ann Arbor.
The subjects were then run through a battery of psychological tests. People who had walked through the city were in a worse mood and scored significantly lower on a test of attention and working memory, which involved repeating a series of numbers backwards. In fact, just glancing at a photograph of urban scenes led to measurable impairments, at least when compared with pictures of nature.
"We see the picture of the busy street, and we automatically imagine what it's like to be there," says Berman. "And that's when your ability to pay attention starts to suffer."
This also helps explain why, according to several studies, children with attention-deficit disorder have fewer symptoms in natural settings. When surrounded by trees and animals, they are less likely to have behavioral problems and are better able to focus on a particular task.
Studies have found that even a relatively paltry patch of nature can confer benefits. In the late 1990s, Frances Kuo, director of the Landscape and Human Health Laboratory at the University of Illinois, began interviewing female residents in the Robert Taylor Homes, a massive housing project on the South Side of Chicago.
Kuo and her colleagues compared women randomly assigned to various apartments. Some had a view of nothing but concrete sprawl, the blacktop of parking lots and basketball courts. Others looked out on grassy courtyards filled with trees and flowerbeds. Kuo then measured the two groups on a variety of tasks, from basic tests of attention to surveys that looked at how the women were handling major life challenges. She found that living in an apartment with a view of greenery led to significant improvements in every category.
"We've constructed a world that's always drawing down from the same mental account," Kuo says. "And then we're surprised when [after spending time in the city] we can't focus at home."
But the density of city life doesn't just make it harder to focus: It also interferes with our self-control. In that stroll down Newbury, the brain is also assaulted with temptations -- caramel lattes, iPods, discounted cashmere sweaters, and high-heeled shoes. Resisting these temptations requires us to flex the prefrontal cortex, a nub of brain just behind the eyes. Unfortunately, this is the same brain area that's responsible for directed attention, which means that it's already been depleted from walking around the city. As a result, it's less able to exert self-control, which means we're more likely to splurge on the latte and those shoes we don't really need. While the human brain possesses incredible computational powers, it's surprisingly easy to short-circuit: all it takes is a hectic city street.
"I think cities reveal how fragile some of our 'higher' mental functions actually are," Kuo says. "We take these talents for granted, but they really need to be protected."
Related research has demonstrated that increased "cognitive load" -- like the mental demands of being in a city -- makes people more likely to choose chocolate cake instead of fruit salad, or indulge in a unhealthy snack. This is the one-two punch of city life: It subverts our ability to resist temptation even as it surrounds us with it, from fast-food outlets to fancy clothing stores. The end result is too many calories and too much credit card debt.
City life can also lead to loss of emotional control. Kuo and her colleagues found less domestic violence in the apartments with views of greenery. These data build on earlier work that demonstrated how aspects of the urban environment, such as crowding and unpredictable noise, can also lead to increased levels of aggression. A tired brain, run down by the stimuli of city life, is more likely to lose its temper.
Long before scientists warned about depleted prefrontal cortices, philosophers and landscape architects were warning about the effects of the undiluted city, and looking for ways to integrate nature into modern life. Ralph Waldo Emerson advised people to "adopt the pace of nature," while the landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted sought to create vibrant urban parks, such as Central Park in New York and the Emerald Necklace in Boston, that allowed the masses to escape the maelstrom of urban life.
Although Olmsted took pains to design parks with a variety of habitats and botanical settings, most urban greenspaces are much less diverse. This is due in part to the "savannah hypothesis," which argues that people prefer wide-open landscapes that resemble the African landscape in which we evolved. Over time, this hypothesis has led to a proliferation of expansive civic lawns, punctuated by a few trees and playing fields.
However, these savannah-like parks are actually the least beneficial for the brain. In a recent paper, Richard Fuller, an ecologist at the University of Queensland, demonstrated that the psychological benefits of green space are closely linked to the diversity of its plant life. When a city park has a larger variety of trees, subjects that spend time in the park score higher on various measures of psychological well-being, at least when compared with less biodiverse parks.
"We worry a lot about the effects of urbanization on other species," Fuller says. "But we're also affected by it. That's why it's so important to invest in the spaces that provide us with some relief."
When a park is properly designed, it can improve the function of the brain within minutes. As the Berman study demonstrates, just looking at a natural scene can lead to higher scores on tests of attention and memory. While people have searched high and low for ways to improve cognitive performance, from doping themselves with Red Bull to redesigning the layout of offices, it appears that few of these treatments are as effective as simply taking a walk in a natural place.
Given the myriad mental problems that are exacerbated by city life, from an inability to pay attention to a lack of self-control, the question remains: Why do cities continue to grow? And why, even in the electronic age, do they endure as wellsprings of intellectual life?
Recent research by scientists at the Santa Fe Institute used a set of complex mathematical algorithms to demonstrate that the very same urban features that trigger lapses in attention and memory -- the crowded streets, the crushing density of people -- also correlate with measures of innovation, as strangers interact with one another in unpredictable ways. It is the "concentration of social interactions" that is largely responsible for urban creativity, according to the scientists. The density of 18th-century London may have triggered outbreaks of disease, but it also led to intellectual breakthroughs, just as the density of Cambridge -- one of the densest cities in America -- contributes to its success as a creative center. One corollary of this research is that less dense urban areas, like Phoenix, may, over time, generate less innovation.
The key, then, is to find ways to mitigate the psychological damage of the metropolis while still preserving its unique benefits. Kuo, for instance, describes herself as "not a nature person," but has learned to seek out more natural settings: The woods have become a kind of medicine. As a result, she's better able to cope with the stresses of city life, while still enjoying its many pleasures and benefits. Because there always comes a time, as Lou Reed once sang, when a person wants to say: "I'm sick of the trees/take me to the city."
Monday, October 19, 2009
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Friday, October 02, 2009
Thursday, October 01, 2009
Keeping Horse Manes and Tails Beautiful
It’s a popular notion that the hair is a person’s crowning glory. If you spot someone in a crowd that may not be considered pretty by normal standards, a great hair cut and lustrous tresses can almost always sway a judgment. Gorgeous hair is a priceless asset, and the dozens of hair salons in every city are a testament to this.
Keeping your horse’s mane and tail beautiful is one of the most important steps in having a gorgeous horse. The difference between a beautiful mane and tail and a scraggly, thin mane and tail can make as much difference in a horse’s beauty as a person’s attractiveness.
The first step is to untangle the mess that often happens over winter. Start by untangling the hair and getting out all the dreadlocks. Don’t rush this process, as you don’t want to pull the hair out.
Work your way through the matted mane and forelock first. Start at one end of the mane and work your way slowly down the mane untangling one section at a time. Saturate sections of the hair with any over the counter detangler. Choose a large tangle, and slowly apply the product and separate the tangles with your fingers.
Start at the bottom of the tangle and work your way up to the roots. Work the product into the hair by using your fingers, and gently pull the hairs, a few strands at a time. Keep doing this until the knots and tangles get smaller and then are gone.
Repeat the same process with the tail once you have the mane and forelock untangled. You should stand to one side while detangling their tails, so you avoid being kicked by the horse. Help them maintain a calm and relaxed attitude by patting them gently, and then slowly move your hands down their necks and sides until you get to the tail.
Once their hair is free from tangles, it is now safe to brush their hair by using a stiff bristle hair brush. Never use a comb, which does nothing but pull hair out. Start brushing the bottom of the hair and then work your way up to the roots. Don’t use too much force, and make sure that you don’t stretch the hair while brushing.
Try to brush as gentle and slowly as you can. Patience is the key to leaving the most amount of mane and tail possible. It takes a long time to grow, so you don’t want to pull out what you have already grown by rushing this important step.
Beth Moore has been a leading authority on horse grooming and especially on growing long, thick manes and tails on horses for over 20 years. You can learn more about her methods and claim a free report on the benefits of owning gorgeous horses at FairyTale Horses
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Tuesday, September 29, 2009
The Fall Lineup
Here at The Natural Gait we are very fortunate to live alongside the Mississippi River Bird Migration Corridor. It is just a wonderful site to see Trumpeter Swans and Canadian Geese passing through in mass numbers and there are many more species of birds to see.
Here is an article that just appeared in http://www.enature.com
The best natural migration corridors occur in mountain ridges, river valleys, and along coastlines. Yet it's possible to see migrating animals just about anywhere. Here are some tips for enjoying the passing hordes.
Birds — Early morning often provides great looks at birds just finished with all-night flights. As the sun starts to rise, some birds that find themselves out over ocean waters or above the Great Lakes will suddenly head for the nearest land. Hundreds of birds can come pouring inland at these times, among them thrushes, warblers, vireos, and tanagers.
During daylight hours, the skies can be filled with everything from White Pelicans to Bobolinks. Expect lots of shorebirds, cormorants, terns, and gulls at the seaside and hawks, swifts, flickers, jays, swallows, and robins overhead almost everywhere.
Butterflies — Most people have heard about Monarchs and their fall migrations to the mountains of southern Mexico, but lots of other butterflies travel in autumn. Some even head north!
Watch in the same places that bird migrants concentrate for American Ladies, Question Marks, Red Admirals, and the more abundant Monarchs — all moving southward. By contrast, Cloudless Sulphurs may be headed north in fall, as their southern populations expand, and Painted Ladies and Common Buckeyes can be watched for flying north or south.
Dragonflies — Dragonfly watching is fast coming into its own on the North American nature scene. Partly that's because several excellent books have appeared to help folks tell these handsome creatures apart.
A small number of dragonfly species migrate in substantial numbers during the fall. Look for the monster Green Darner in particular and the world's most cosmopolitan dragonfly, the Wandering Glider. Others include the Black Saddlebag and the Carolina Saddlebag.
Mammals — Mammal watching is not nearly as easy as bird or insect watching. After all, the mammals first must be found, which usually involves some trekking, and they're not terribly cooperative subjects. Still, the rewards can be considerable.
Among the migratory mammals worth watching are some species of bats (Hoary, Silver-haired, and Red) that can occasionally be seen flying south during daylight hours along shorelines or even over bodies of water. Marine mammals, of course, can be observed from boats or coastal promontories. The large baleen whales occur in good numbers on their southward migrations and delight people even from a distance.
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Here is an article that just appeared in http://www.enature.com
The best natural migration corridors occur in mountain ridges, river valleys, and along coastlines. Yet it's possible to see migrating animals just about anywhere. Here are some tips for enjoying the passing hordes.
Birds — Early morning often provides great looks at birds just finished with all-night flights. As the sun starts to rise, some birds that find themselves out over ocean waters or above the Great Lakes will suddenly head for the nearest land. Hundreds of birds can come pouring inland at these times, among them thrushes, warblers, vireos, and tanagers.
During daylight hours, the skies can be filled with everything from White Pelicans to Bobolinks. Expect lots of shorebirds, cormorants, terns, and gulls at the seaside and hawks, swifts, flickers, jays, swallows, and robins overhead almost everywhere.
Butterflies — Most people have heard about Monarchs and their fall migrations to the mountains of southern Mexico, but lots of other butterflies travel in autumn. Some even head north!
Watch in the same places that bird migrants concentrate for American Ladies, Question Marks, Red Admirals, and the more abundant Monarchs — all moving southward. By contrast, Cloudless Sulphurs may be headed north in fall, as their southern populations expand, and Painted Ladies and Common Buckeyes can be watched for flying north or south.
Dragonflies — Dragonfly watching is fast coming into its own on the North American nature scene. Partly that's because several excellent books have appeared to help folks tell these handsome creatures apart.
A small number of dragonfly species migrate in substantial numbers during the fall. Look for the monster Green Darner in particular and the world's most cosmopolitan dragonfly, the Wandering Glider. Others include the Black Saddlebag and the Carolina Saddlebag.
Mammals — Mammal watching is not nearly as easy as bird or insect watching. After all, the mammals first must be found, which usually involves some trekking, and they're not terribly cooperative subjects. Still, the rewards can be considerable.
Among the migratory mammals worth watching are some species of bats (Hoary, Silver-haired, and Red) that can occasionally be seen flying south during daylight hours along shorelines or even over bodies of water. Marine mammals, of course, can be observed from boats or coastal promontories. The large baleen whales occur in good numbers on their southward migrations and delight people even from a distance.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Eavesdrop on Richard Branson and Dr. Stephen Covey
My friends, Alex Mandossian and Greg Habstritt, are holding an incredible series of training calls starting Wednesday. They will be featuring interviews with not just Richard Branson and Dr. Stephen Covey, but 10 other world experts and authorities!
You’ll hear directly from people like Tony Hsieh, the CEO of Zappos.com, who just sold for over $900 million to Amazon .. it’s obvious that there ARE people doing well even when the media is reporting gloom and doom!
And if you can’t make the live call each time, you’ll ALSO be able to access the replays of the calls – all at no cost!
You’ll get access to this exclusive program, both the live calls and it won’t cost you anything.
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Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Cant We All Just Get Along?
"These very words have gone through my head since I was a little girl.
Hopefully the shift that is taking place is leading us all in that
direction. Thanks for the article." Earthywoman
Can't we all just get along?
August 28, Chicago Infidelity Examiner
Julie Troob
How breathtaking is this sky? And its gorgeous sunset? Look at the perfect simplicity of this humble road! And the beautiful mountains... Why isn't society as peaceful as the rest of nature? What is wrong with our society? What is wrong with our relationships? Why can't we all just get along? What is wrong with us? Here is my basic theory about relationship issues and what we can do about it.
We are all full of fear. We are all trying to survive. We think that the next person is going to pull the rug from under us, or we always perceive that others are treating us wrongly. How can this be? It is true that there are many harsh critics, and much injustice. We all have basic instincts and most of us do not know how to regulate them without reacting from fear.
How do we get rid of the fear? Soul searching, therapy, meditation, experience, eventually, I believe we will rid ourselves of fear, after many more generations. I think we are on an evolutionary path toward morality. It is a slow one, but happening, if we do not kill ourselves before we can reach that place.
We need to forgive and forget. We are going to be wronged. We need to forgive, let it go, and then get close to people who will not do this to us, or give second and third chances when warranted. Letting it go, however, does not mean being walked on, it just means not hurting the other person back. Two wrongs do not make a right. We can more easily forgive by remembering who the enemy is....
IGNORANCE is the enemy, the enemy is IGNORANCE. So, in this case we try to lower ignorance, which creates fear, by teaching morality and things like the Law of Attraction to others. However, many people do not want to listen, or do not care at all. In fact, many people, including me, must reap the effects of our actions karmically in order to learn. In my book, with respect to all beliefs, I feel strongly about the nature of Karma and reincarnation. This makes everything equal.
So, why can't we all get along? Ha. One day we will, my friends. In the meantime, look at your part, work on yourself, as I do as well, and try to remember, it takes ignorance and fear to hurt another. Like so many great heroes have said in so many words, Love your neighbor and live a life of Charity.
Peace,
Julie![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_tRzb1zOJxnPVMsz4M18UggVKCNkLeGmFE9_qjM_ZHBAdKP_xIYj_kqktZfwTGqoUymgIIcVwxIrolHAEhqqZMExRSlwa-luBMuBZ-Me24WMfaDEMzYfFuAMSka4IsCj6B5_pY6ndbzdwUajl-5WHE=s0-d)
Hopefully the shift that is taking place is leading us all in that
direction. Thanks for the article." Earthywoman
Can't we all just get along?
August 28, Chicago Infidelity Examiner
Julie Troob
How breathtaking is this sky? And its gorgeous sunset? Look at the perfect simplicity of this humble road! And the beautiful mountains... Why isn't society as peaceful as the rest of nature? What is wrong with our society? What is wrong with our relationships? Why can't we all just get along? What is wrong with us? Here is my basic theory about relationship issues and what we can do about it.
We are all full of fear. We are all trying to survive. We think that the next person is going to pull the rug from under us, or we always perceive that others are treating us wrongly. How can this be? It is true that there are many harsh critics, and much injustice. We all have basic instincts and most of us do not know how to regulate them without reacting from fear.
How do we get rid of the fear? Soul searching, therapy, meditation, experience, eventually, I believe we will rid ourselves of fear, after many more generations. I think we are on an evolutionary path toward morality. It is a slow one, but happening, if we do not kill ourselves before we can reach that place.
We need to forgive and forget. We are going to be wronged. We need to forgive, let it go, and then get close to people who will not do this to us, or give second and third chances when warranted. Letting it go, however, does not mean being walked on, it just means not hurting the other person back. Two wrongs do not make a right. We can more easily forgive by remembering who the enemy is....
IGNORANCE is the enemy, the enemy is IGNORANCE. So, in this case we try to lower ignorance, which creates fear, by teaching morality and things like the Law of Attraction to others. However, many people do not want to listen, or do not care at all. In fact, many people, including me, must reap the effects of our actions karmically in order to learn. In my book, with respect to all beliefs, I feel strongly about the nature of Karma and reincarnation. This makes everything equal.
So, why can't we all get along? Ha. One day we will, my friends. In the meantime, look at your part, work on yourself, as I do as well, and try to remember, it takes ignorance and fear to hurt another. Like so many great heroes have said in so many words, Love your neighbor and live a life of Charity.
Peace,
Julie
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Concert in a Cave
The Natural Gait was a place of music, laughter and great story telling at the "Seventh Annual Haybarn Rendezvous" held last week-end. There was something a little different this year as Switchback held a "Concert in a Cave" on Friday. Everyone had so much fun and wanted more. Nobody wants to wait till next year so The Natural Gait is holding another "Concert in a Cave" on Saturday October 17th.
Get your tickets early as the seating is limited. Call Call 877-776-2208 for more information and tickets.
Visit The Natural Gait or TNG Happenings to find out more about our upcoming Events
Get your tickets early as the seating is limited. Call Call 877-776-2208 for more information and tickets.
Visit The Natural Gait or TNG Happenings to find out more about our upcoming Events
Monday, August 10, 2009
Free T.J. Casey Concert at The Natural Gait
Spending two thirds of his life so far in a saddle, working with cattle and horses on ranches across the West, gives T. J. Casey and his words and music an authenticity impossible to manufacture . . . they are truly “of the land. “
Being onstage as an entertainer nationwide across the last three decades gives T. J. Casey and his words, music, and presentation a polish and presence impossible to manufacture . . . they are truly “for the audience.”
Read what others have to say.
The commitment of TJ to the preservation of the root of music was evidenced both in his conversation and in his performance.
He is a traditionalist who feels and projects his obligation to pass on the essence of music to those who come after him.To him the music is not solely about the performance but more importantly about carrying the messages of life from generation to generation.
I would recommend T.J. Casey and any of his musical endeavors to all of you who may be seeking a pure talent, filled with a genuine desire to contribute to the preservation of music in its purest forms.
Willis C. Pracht - Tumbleweed Festival - Garden City, Kansas
Enjoy our indoor arena, cabins, bunkhouse rooms and our lodge at The Natural Gait. The best nature resort in the midwest!
Call The Natural Gait 877-776-2208 for more information
Thursday, August 06, 2009
How Self-Aware Are You?
By Alice Landry
August 4, 2:10 PM
Self-awareness is the capability to look deeply into your own mind, body, heart, and soul and discover the underlying beliefs, values, and moral standards that influence the way you think, feel, and behave.
The only constant in life is change, and being able to adapt to the dynamic waves of life is an attribute of self-aware people. Those who resist may continue self-destructive patterns and fail to realize blessings in disguise, lessons they should have learned, or windows to new adventures.
With the desire and intention to increase self-awareness, you present yourself with the opportunity to consciously evolve and improve as an individual.
Review the following ways to become more self-aware:
• Actively listen to those who support and love you
• Develop a conscience
• Forgive yourself and others for past mistakes
• Release the need to control outcomes
• Intend for the highest and best path to unfold before you
• Keep your focus in the here and now
• Live your life from a love/Spirit-centered approach
• Look ahead to understand the potential consequences of your actions
• See the best in everyone, including yourself
• Learn to be more conscious of your thoughts and choose positive ones
• Keep your feelings in check and determine the source of negative emotions
• Avoid thinking in extremes (i.e. all or nothing)
• Release drama and choose peace
• Be responsible and empower yourself by owning your mistakes and achievements
• Be teachable and allow yourself to receive insights and epiphanies
• Know that there is always room for improvement and change is a necessary part of life
Gaining insight into yourself and why you make the choices you make can be scary - like looking in a pool of water and seeing the reflection but knowing there are secrets, fears, and murkiness that lie below.
The benefits of enhanced self-awareness include the ability to make healthier and purposeful choices, to improve the relationships with yourself and loved ones, and to reduce the negative effect of life stressors.
Affirmations: I increase self-awareness every day as I consciously monitor my thoughts, feelings, and actions. I live life from a place of love. I gain insight, learn from my mistakes, and move on. I am teachable and willing to see all sides of a situation. I am responsible for me.
August 4, 2:10 PM
Self-awareness is the capability to look deeply into your own mind, body, heart, and soul and discover the underlying beliefs, values, and moral standards that influence the way you think, feel, and behave.
The only constant in life is change, and being able to adapt to the dynamic waves of life is an attribute of self-aware people. Those who resist may continue self-destructive patterns and fail to realize blessings in disguise, lessons they should have learned, or windows to new adventures.
With the desire and intention to increase self-awareness, you present yourself with the opportunity to consciously evolve and improve as an individual.
Review the following ways to become more self-aware:
• Actively listen to those who support and love you
• Develop a conscience
• Forgive yourself and others for past mistakes
• Release the need to control outcomes
• Intend for the highest and best path to unfold before you
• Keep your focus in the here and now
• Live your life from a love/Spirit-centered approach
• Look ahead to understand the potential consequences of your actions
• See the best in everyone, including yourself
• Learn to be more conscious of your thoughts and choose positive ones
• Keep your feelings in check and determine the source of negative emotions
• Avoid thinking in extremes (i.e. all or nothing)
• Release drama and choose peace
• Be responsible and empower yourself by owning your mistakes and achievements
• Be teachable and allow yourself to receive insights and epiphanies
• Know that there is always room for improvement and change is a necessary part of life
Gaining insight into yourself and why you make the choices you make can be scary - like looking in a pool of water and seeing the reflection but knowing there are secrets, fears, and murkiness that lie below.
The benefits of enhanced self-awareness include the ability to make healthier and purposeful choices, to improve the relationships with yourself and loved ones, and to reduce the negative effect of life stressors.
Affirmations: I increase self-awareness every day as I consciously monitor my thoughts, feelings, and actions. I live life from a place of love. I gain insight, learn from my mistakes, and move on. I am teachable and willing to see all sides of a situation. I am responsible for me.
Monday, August 03, 2009
Haybarn Rendezvous at The Natural Gait with Switchback
August 22nd and 23rd from noon to noon. Get your tickets now this is going to sell out fast! Switchback, Dave Moore, Sawtooth Bluegrass Band and many more.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Invasion of the Badlands
On vacation in the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota, I witnessed another invasion of beautiful ecosystems. Angry for several days and feeling helpless to do anything about the Yellow Sweet Clover marching over the landscape, I told my wife, Donna that I had to do something to alert people to this takeover of these beautiful landscapes. After several nights, I thought about how over the past 60 years I have been aware of invasive species and have seen the list grow and grow and grow.
What is our place on this planet? Does our labeling of plants as negative aliens and as invaders invite more negative thoughts? What good has become of our waging war on these alien species? Shouting and preaching that this just isn’t right nor nature’s way and getting all fired up and angry at one of God’s creations just didn’t seem to fit well with me anymore. I’m tired of generating negative feelings inside of me. This thought made me start to question the overall picture of man and nature and our relationship to plants, each other and our interaction with all species of our world.
Here are some of my questions that I ponder often:
· Were any species created out of negative thoughts?
· Were any plants or animals meant to remain in one area? If so, why do they do so well when introduced into different areas?
· What is the long-term succession of these so-called invasives or alien species? I mean over thousands of years?
· Can we live with these aliens and make peace or will we always wage war on them?
· Does the attack on the “invasive species” ultimately do any good?
· Are we supposed to sit back and do nothing?
· Can we make any peace with this rapidly changing world of the intermingling of species?
· Is this really a natural event and man truly is a part of nature but thinks that he isn’t because of his ability to choose and reason?
· Is it logical to think that man isn’t a part of nature or is this just another arrogant thought that puts us as the ultimate animal separated from all nature and we stand alone still fighting and compartmentalizing all species.
· Is there a kinder, more positive and cooperative way of dealing with what we perceive as invasive species?
· Does prejudice produce more prejudice?
·
If we are just holographic pieces of the “Great Spirit”, then we are included in this great magnificent process that created the universe and all within it. Are we not programmed to keep creating something different?
·
Does any one thing deserve to be eradicated or is that part of the plan?
·
Are the invasives just signals to us that we need to change our ways and they are just messengers sacrificing their lives for a cause yet unknown to us?
Some of the species that I have come into contact with and waged war over the years are:
· Japanese Honey Suckle
· Kudzu
· Multi-flora Rose
· Crown Vetch
· Yellow Sweet Clover
· Garlic Mustard
These are just a minute number of species that I have allowed to cause stress and negative energy in me. I think that now after decades of fighting, I am ready to accept that these aliens are just part of the cosmic progression to a different place on earth and the universe that is neither good nor bad.
What do you think?
Tired of struggling over this issue,
Howard Bright President Ion Exchange, Inc.
www.ionXchange.com
What is our place on this planet? Does our labeling of plants as negative aliens and as invaders invite more negative thoughts? What good has become of our waging war on these alien species? Shouting and preaching that this just isn’t right nor nature’s way and getting all fired up and angry at one of God’s creations just didn’t seem to fit well with me anymore. I’m tired of generating negative feelings inside of me. This thought made me start to question the overall picture of man and nature and our relationship to plants, each other and our interaction with all species of our world.Here are some of my questions that I ponder often:
· Were any species created out of negative thoughts?
· Were any plants or animals meant to remain in one area? If so, why do they do so well when introduced into different areas?
· What is the long-term succession of these so-called invasives or alien species? I mean over thousands of years?
· Can we live with these aliens and make peace or will we always wage war on them?
· Does the attack on the “invasive species” ultimately do any good?
· Are we supposed to sit back and do nothing?
· Can we make any peace with this rapidly changing world of the intermingling of species?
· Is this really a natural event and man truly is a part of nature but thinks that he isn’t because of his ability to choose and reason?
· Is it logical to think that man isn’t a part of nature or is this just another arrogant thought that puts us as the ultimate animal separated from all nature and we stand alone still fighting and compartmentalizing all species.
· Is there a kinder, more positive and cooperative way of dealing with what we perceive as invasive species?
· Does prejudice produce more prejudice?
·
If we are just holographic pieces of the “Great Spirit”, then we are included in this great magnificent process that created the universe and all within it. Are we not programmed to keep creating something different?
·
Does any one thing deserve to be eradicated or is that part of the plan?
·
Are the invasives just signals to us that we need to change our ways and they are just messengers sacrificing their lives for a cause yet unknown to us?
Some of the species that I have come into contact with and waged war over the years are:
· Japanese Honey Suckle
· Kudzu
· Multi-flora Rose
· Crown Vetch
· Yellow Sweet Clover
· Garlic Mustard
These are just a minute number of species that I have allowed to cause stress and negative energy in me. I think that now after decades of fighting, I am ready to accept that these aliens are just part of the cosmic progression to a different place on earth and the universe that is neither good nor bad.
What do you think?
Tired of struggling over this issue,
Howard Bright President Ion Exchange, Inc.
www.ionXchange.com
Sunday, July 19, 2009
TNG Visit to Hay Creek Ranch
Donna and I are on vacation now to take a break from The Natural Gait and Ion Exchange, our two businesses. We drove to the Black Hills in South Dakota.
After spending the night in Mitchell SD, where we narrowly escaped baseball size hail and 70 mph winds, we drove through the Badlands, now covered with Sweet Clover, a terrible invasive plant. The Badlands are still beautiful and hopefully they will find a way to eradicate the Sweet Clover. We headed west out of Wall Drug and into Rapid City where we stocked up on supplies. Donna, who loves to cook, pretty much bought out the grocery store.
Our destination was in a remote location between Deadwood and Nemo in the Black Hills. Following directions, we finally arrived at Hay Creek Ranch, a facility very similar to The Natural Gait. Doug met us immediately and greeted us. Helping us with his tractor to clean out our horse trailer and show us our cabin, he is a very nice and friendly person. We decided to stay here at Hay Creek Ranch primarily because of the positive and vibrant conversation with his friendly wife, Jody, via phone several weeks before we left home. We had made several other contacts and we knew by intuition that this would be the best place to stay. We were right!
Doug has bent over backwards to help us and make us feel comfortable. After starting the Hay Creek Ranch four years ago, Doug and Jody are able to measure their success by a very unique method as illustrated on youtube….
You will find the cabins clean, comfortable, well furnished and cozy. There are five cabins with varying occupancies. Many choices of horse stalls are available. With miles of horse trails and Doug’s willingness and pleasure to show you many of the hidden ones, it is a real treat to be with real people away from home.
Visit Hay Creek Ranch and let Doug and Jody take care of the rest.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Live Blog - Doc Hammill's Driving Workshop at TNG
Hey , this is so neat there is a "live blog" going on at The Natural Gait. Doc Hammill is at The Natural Gait doing a horse driving clinic/workshop. Check it out here http://dochammill.blogspot.com .
Monday, June 08, 2009
Omelets Anyone?
We ran across this article on a fun way to make omelets. I have actually done this before with my grandkids when we camp. All ages enjoy this treat. The Natural Gait
By Angela Carson (Bookerc1)June 08, 2009
This summer, my husband's Aunt Marlene and Uncle Jim introduced us to an entirely new way of making omelets! It is perfect for a camp-out or a quick meal at home, and best of all, each person gets to customize their own omelet to include all their favorite fillings. This is a great way to use some of that summer garden bounty!
Each summer, our family vacations at a little cottage at Lake Okoboji in northwestern Iowa. The fun part is that we never know what other family members will be there at the same time! Staying at the cottage is a step back in time: no television, no computers, and no alarm clocks allowed on the shared outdoor sleeping porch. This year, we shared the cottage with my husband's aunt and uncle, so we took turns planning meals together. One night, they taught us this simple and fun method of making omelets, which they learned while camping. They told us that they watched, intrigued, as several families gathered for a meal at a nearby campsite. Each family brought a few omelet ingredients to contribute. As our own omelet-making adventure was not planned in advance, we just used whatever we had in the refrigerator at the cottage!
First, assemble all your favorite omelet fillings. Summer is the perfect time for omelets, as the garden offers an ever-changing selection of fresh fillings! You can include anything you like, but here is a brief list of some of our favorites:
Potential Ingredients
1 to 3 eggs for each person
1 to 2 tablespoons milk per person
spinach
onion, chopped (either raw or sautéed in butter; I enjoy yellow, red, or green onions in mine!)
garlic
sausage (browned)
ham
bacon (cooked)
mushrooms (I love button mushrooms sautéed with butter and garlic)
broccoli (steamed or microwaved until crisp-tender)
cauliflower (steamed or microwaved until crisp-tender)
chopped tomatoes
salsa
shredded cheese
peppers, either sweet or hot, diced
fresh herbs: thyme, basil, or chives are great
any leftover cooked meat or vegetable in the fridge! Be creative!
Equipment Needed:
Large pot of boiling water, plus heat source
4 to 6 wooden clothespins (one for each bag)
Heavy plastic zipper-type freezer bags, one per person
Bowls or plates to hold ingredients
Here are the basic instructions:
Put a tall pot of water on the stove (or campfire) and bring it to a boil.
Label a heavy zippered freezer bag for each person in your group, somewhere near the top. We used a permanent marker for this. Fold the top of the freezer bag down, forming a cuff on the outside.
Crack 2-3 eggs into your bag, depending on how big an omelet you want. If your kids are rookie egg crackers, you might prefer to let them crack each one into a bowl first, so you can pick out the shell pieces. (Alternately, for easy packing for a camping trip, combine your eggs and milk at home, and pour however much each person wants into their bag. You may also substitute cholesterol-free egg substitute, or reduce the number of egg yolks, for a low-fat alternative.)
Add about 1 tablespoon of milk for every 2 eggs, slightly more for 3 eggs. We just kind of "sloshed" some in from the jug, but you can measure if you are a perfectionist!
Add as much or as little of each filling ingredient as you wish! We set each filling out in a bowl, and just went down the line buffet-style.
Squeeze out as much excess air as possible, and zip the bag shut.
Use wooden clothespins to clip several bags around the inside perimeter of the pan. You can fit 4-6 bags at one time inside most big pots. Make sure that there is enough water to keep the omelet mostly submerged. If you have too much air in your bag, it will float above the surface!
Boil them for 7 to 9 minutes, until the omelet looks firmly set. A three-egg omelet, or one with lots of cheese and fillings, will take longer to cook through than a small omelet, or one with few fillings.
Carefully remove the bags from the boiling water. Unzip the bag, and let the omelet slide gently out onto your plate.
Salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!
At the end of the week, as we wrote in the cottage journal about our vacation, our boys both mentioned making Omelets-in-a-Bag as a big highlight of their trip! And there weren't even any messy egg-encrusted pans to deal with later!
By Angela Carson (Bookerc1)June 08, 2009
This summer, my husband's Aunt Marlene and Uncle Jim introduced us to an entirely new way of making omelets! It is perfect for a camp-out or a quick meal at home, and best of all, each person gets to customize their own omelet to include all their favorite fillings. This is a great way to use some of that summer garden bounty!
Each summer, our family vacations at a little cottage at Lake Okoboji in northwestern Iowa. The fun part is that we never know what other family members will be there at the same time! Staying at the cottage is a step back in time: no television, no computers, and no alarm clocks allowed on the shared outdoor sleeping porch. This year, we shared the cottage with my husband's aunt and uncle, so we took turns planning meals together. One night, they taught us this simple and fun method of making omelets, which they learned while camping. They told us that they watched, intrigued, as several families gathered for a meal at a nearby campsite. Each family brought a few omelet ingredients to contribute. As our own omelet-making adventure was not planned in advance, we just used whatever we had in the refrigerator at the cottage!
First, assemble all your favorite omelet fillings. Summer is the perfect time for omelets, as the garden offers an ever-changing selection of fresh fillings! You can include anything you like, but here is a brief list of some of our favorites:
Potential Ingredients
1 to 3 eggs for each person
1 to 2 tablespoons milk per person
spinach
onion, chopped (either raw or sautéed in butter; I enjoy yellow, red, or green onions in mine!)
garlic
sausage (browned)
ham
bacon (cooked)
mushrooms (I love button mushrooms sautéed with butter and garlic)
broccoli (steamed or microwaved until crisp-tender)
cauliflower (steamed or microwaved until crisp-tender)
chopped tomatoes
salsa
shredded cheese
peppers, either sweet or hot, diced
fresh herbs: thyme, basil, or chives are great
any leftover cooked meat or vegetable in the fridge! Be creative!
Equipment Needed:
Large pot of boiling water, plus heat source
4 to 6 wooden clothespins (one for each bag)
Heavy plastic zipper-type freezer bags, one per person
Bowls or plates to hold ingredients
Here are the basic instructions:
Put a tall pot of water on the stove (or campfire) and bring it to a boil.
Label a heavy zippered freezer bag for each person in your group, somewhere near the top. We used a permanent marker for this. Fold the top of the freezer bag down, forming a cuff on the outside.
Crack 2-3 eggs into your bag, depending on how big an omelet you want. If your kids are rookie egg crackers, you might prefer to let them crack each one into a bowl first, so you can pick out the shell pieces. (Alternately, for easy packing for a camping trip, combine your eggs and milk at home, and pour however much each person wants into their bag. You may also substitute cholesterol-free egg substitute, or reduce the number of egg yolks, for a low-fat alternative.)
Add about 1 tablespoon of milk for every 2 eggs, slightly more for 3 eggs. We just kind of "sloshed" some in from the jug, but you can measure if you are a perfectionist!
Add as much or as little of each filling ingredient as you wish! We set each filling out in a bowl, and just went down the line buffet-style.
Squeeze out as much excess air as possible, and zip the bag shut.
Use wooden clothespins to clip several bags around the inside perimeter of the pan. You can fit 4-6 bags at one time inside most big pots. Make sure that there is enough water to keep the omelet mostly submerged. If you have too much air in your bag, it will float above the surface!
Boil them for 7 to 9 minutes, until the omelet looks firmly set. A three-egg omelet, or one with lots of cheese and fillings, will take longer to cook through than a small omelet, or one with few fillings.
Carefully remove the bags from the boiling water. Unzip the bag, and let the omelet slide gently out onto your plate.
Salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!
At the end of the week, as we wrote in the cottage journal about our vacation, our boys both mentioned making Omelets-in-a-Bag as a big highlight of their trip! And there weren't even any messy egg-encrusted pans to deal with later!
Monday, June 01, 2009
Trout Fishing Tips, Tricks & Techniques
The trout are really hitting right here on our farm in NE Iowa on the Yellow River. Some gentlemen just this week filled their limit each day while staying at the Ion Inn. We’ve just made some improvements to our little secluded campsites right on the river. Here’s an article that I found on trout fishing techniques. Come on over to The Natural Gait and give it a try.
Trout Fishing Tips, Tricks, & Techniques to Help You Catch More Trout
By Trevor Kugler
Over the past 25 years, spent trout fishing from coast to coast, I've learned some valuable tips, tricks, and techniques that have resulted in many trout being caught. In this article I will reveal some of these tips, tricks, and techniques so that you can implement them into your trout fishing repertoire. I know that you will find them every bit as valuable as I do.
The first thing to keep in mind when it comes to trout fishing is that the more time that you can spend on the water, the better. Nothing will help your trout catching abilities like practicing your craft. Everyone says that patience is integral to fishing (and they're right), but practice is every bit as valuable as patience to being a successful fisherman. The bottom line is that the more time you can spend on the water, the better your angling skills will become, and the more fish you will catch.
Let's start with your fishing line. When fishing for trout a great trick is to use fishing line that's as light as possible. I personally prefer four pound test monofilament, and six pound test is passable in most trout fishing situations. I like to spool my reel with Stren clear blue monofilament so that the line is visible to me, yet undetectable to the trout. The bottom line is that trout live in cool, clear water and spook easily, so the lighter your line, the more bites you will get.
The next trout fishing trick is to use small fishing hooks. A great technique is to use gang hooks, which are two small hooks tied in tandem. These hooks allow you to present bait (especially worms) in a totally natural manner. This makes a HUGE difference in the number of bites that you receive. The "gang hook" trout fishing technique is deadly once mastered.
If you truly want to catch more trout one of the best tips I have is to make sure that you're on the water at the most opportune times. What do I mean by this? There are certain times of the day, week, and month that trout are more active than others. You can figure out when the best times for trout fishing are by paying attention to the weather and moon, and planning your fishing trips accordingly. This is easily one of the easiest trout fishing tips to implement into your fishing repertoire. Once you know the simple rules, you can start making sure that you are on the water fishing when the trout are the most active.
These trout fishing tips, tricks, and techniques will help you catch more trout as soon as they are learned and practiced, so I suggest you get out there and start putting one or all of them into action. You won't be disappointed, I promise you. Remember, the more time that you can spend on the water fishing for trout the better.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and Internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.....Montana!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Kugler
Trout Fishing Tips, Tricks, & Techniques to Help You Catch More Trout
By Trevor Kugler
Over the past 25 years, spent trout fishing from coast to coast, I've learned some valuable tips, tricks, and techniques that have resulted in many trout being caught. In this article I will reveal some of these tips, tricks, and techniques so that you can implement them into your trout fishing repertoire. I know that you will find them every bit as valuable as I do.
The first thing to keep in mind when it comes to trout fishing is that the more time that you can spend on the water, the better. Nothing will help your trout catching abilities like practicing your craft. Everyone says that patience is integral to fishing (and they're right), but practice is every bit as valuable as patience to being a successful fisherman. The bottom line is that the more time you can spend on the water, the better your angling skills will become, and the more fish you will catch.
Let's start with your fishing line. When fishing for trout a great trick is to use fishing line that's as light as possible. I personally prefer four pound test monofilament, and six pound test is passable in most trout fishing situations. I like to spool my reel with Stren clear blue monofilament so that the line is visible to me, yet undetectable to the trout. The bottom line is that trout live in cool, clear water and spook easily, so the lighter your line, the more bites you will get.
The next trout fishing trick is to use small fishing hooks. A great technique is to use gang hooks, which are two small hooks tied in tandem. These hooks allow you to present bait (especially worms) in a totally natural manner. This makes a HUGE difference in the number of bites that you receive. The "gang hook" trout fishing technique is deadly once mastered.
If you truly want to catch more trout one of the best tips I have is to make sure that you're on the water at the most opportune times. What do I mean by this? There are certain times of the day, week, and month that trout are more active than others. You can figure out when the best times for trout fishing are by paying attention to the weather and moon, and planning your fishing trips accordingly. This is easily one of the easiest trout fishing tips to implement into your fishing repertoire. Once you know the simple rules, you can start making sure that you are on the water fishing when the trout are the most active.
These trout fishing tips, tricks, and techniques will help you catch more trout as soon as they are learned and practiced, so I suggest you get out there and start putting one or all of them into action. You won't be disappointed, I promise you. Remember, the more time that you can spend on the water fishing for trout the better.
Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and Internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country.....Montana!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Kugler
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Recreational Trails Program Up For Reauthorization
America’s Horse, May 11, 2009 – The American Horse Council, of which the American Quarter Horse Association is a member organization, is working to preserve the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program. If Congress does not take action this year, this program could no longer be available to recreational riders.
The Recreational Trails Program provides funding directly to the states for recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both nonmotorized and motorized recreational trail uses. It was created in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and was last reauthorized in 2005 as part of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users; however, this law is about to expire. The RTP will have to be reauthorized in the next national surface transportation program bill if it is to continue.
Since its inception, the RTP has provided approximately $677 million for thousands of state and local trail projects across the country, including many that benefit equestrians. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail-related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails.
Although each state manages its own program, 30 percent of RTP funds must be spent on nonmotorized projects like equestrian trails, 30 percent on motorized and 40 percent on multiuse projects.
In the coming months, Congress is expected to begin work on the next five-year highway bill. The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users, is requesting that Congress not only reauthorize the RTP but also increase funding for the program to $555 million to be spent during the five years of the bill.
“AQHA has been successful in grassroots lobbying, and we once again need the help of our members to ensure that our trails stay funded and functional for equestrian activities,” said Don Treadway Jr., AQHA Executive Vice President.
The AHC urges recreational riders to contact their members of Congress to voice support for this program.
Join The Natural Gait in our Three Day Benefit June 12th thru 14th for Restoration and Reconstruction of the Native American Prairie and Equestrian Trails. Click HERE to learn more.
Contact information for your representatives and senators can be found at http://www.house.gov/ and http://www.senate.gov/.
The Recreational Trails Program provides funding directly to the states for recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both nonmotorized and motorized recreational trail uses. It was created in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and was last reauthorized in 2005 as part of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users; however, this law is about to expire. The RTP will have to be reauthorized in the next national surface transportation program bill if it is to continue.
Since its inception, the RTP has provided approximately $677 million for thousands of state and local trail projects across the country, including many that benefit equestrians. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail-related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails.
Although each state manages its own program, 30 percent of RTP funds must be spent on nonmotorized projects like equestrian trails, 30 percent on motorized and 40 percent on multiuse projects.
In the coming months, Congress is expected to begin work on the next five-year highway bill. The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users, is requesting that Congress not only reauthorize the RTP but also increase funding for the program to $555 million to be spent during the five years of the bill.
“AQHA has been successful in grassroots lobbying, and we once again need the help of our members to ensure that our trails stay funded and functional for equestrian activities,” said Don Treadway Jr., AQHA Executive Vice President.
The AHC urges recreational riders to contact their members of Congress to voice support for this program.
Join The Natural Gait in our Three Day Benefit June 12th thru 14th for Restoration and Reconstruction of the Native American Prairie and Equestrian Trails. Click HERE to learn more.
Contact information for your representatives and senators can be found at http://www.house.gov/ and http://www.senate.gov/.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Mother Nature Doesn't Ask For Much
Just like any other mom, she wants safe, healthy places for her young to survive and thrive.You can lend a hand to Mother Nature this weekend by making your backyard wildlife-friendly Just provide the things that animals need most - food, water, shelter and places to raisetheir families.http://www.nwf.org/gardenforwildlife/certify.cfm?campaignid=WH09FMDX
Join over 115,000 folks who have already created havens for wildlife in their yards through National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Wildlife Habitat™ program . You’ll not only be helping Mother Nature, you’ll also receive great benefits (see right)!Plus, when you certify your backyard , your $20 application fee allows NWF to continue its important conservation andeducation work on behalf of imperiled wildlife and wild places across the country.Please certify today!Sincerely,David MizejewskiNWF Naturalist, Media Spokesperson, AuthorP.S. Need one more reason to certify? Your certification also makes you eligible to purchase the “wildly” popular Certified Wildlife Habitat™ yard sign that shows your commitment to safeguarding America's wildlife. Get started now!
Join over 115,000 folks who have already created havens for wildlife in their yards through National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Wildlife Habitat™ program . You’ll not only be helping Mother Nature, you’ll also receive great benefits (see right)!Plus, when you certify your backyard , your $20 application fee allows NWF to continue its important conservation andeducation work on behalf of imperiled wildlife and wild places across the country.Please certify today!Sincerely,David MizejewskiNWF Naturalist, Media Spokesperson, AuthorP.S. Need one more reason to certify? Your certification also makes you eligible to purchase the “wildly” popular Certified Wildlife Habitat™ yard sign that shows your commitment to safeguarding America's wildlife. Get started now!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Madison Midwest Horse Fair and The Natural Gait
A toe tapping experience at the Madison Midwest Horse Fair with Pat Meade singing was enjoyed by the huge crowd gathering around The Natural Gait booth. Check out on YouTube: http://www.mail2web.com/cgi-bin/redir.asp?lid=0&newsite=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_CZskkSAfA
DB
DB
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Come Stay at The Natural Gait
Just got back from a busy weekend at the annual Midwest Horse Fair in Madison, Wisconsin. What a show – lots of people, beautiful horses, new products, learning opportunities. The energy always really flows at that show. It’s always great to see old friends and make new ones at that event. Here’s a little short video clip of our good friend Pat Meade who performs at our booth and brings back that old western nostalgia with his songs. This is a one with a little different twist that the little kids love (and us big kids too). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6Kg67ENO5M&feature=channel_pageThanks everyone for stopping by and supporting us. Many of you have already taken advantage of the raffle discounts – but if you haven’t yet, remember to call in by May 1 to make your reservation – dates are filling up fast. Don’t forget our trails are now open and we look forward to your stay with us.
Donna & Howard Bright
Donna & Howard Bright
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