Good Morning to my DEAR FRIENDS,
I hope all of you are having a wonderful Saturday. I am doing GREAT! Yesterday I asked Sarah to bring some TREATS for my guys, Charles, Todd, Andy and all of the others, here at my KY Barn. She and her family have lived in KY for quite some time, thus, she knows all of the FABULOUS GOODIE places. Well, she stopped by Magee’s Pastries (she says it is the best in town) for some special breakfast goodies for them. They looked yummy and were a big hit!
Also, the people who work here at Lane’s End are now trickling in to see me. I am beginning to meet everyone who works here at the farm. It is really fun! They also told me they are reading the Diary each day so I am really working hard to keep everyone up-to-date.
I am continuing to go outside and become more and more acclimated to my new environment. I have to be honest…it is so much fun! Each day, I am becoming so much more comfortable and relaxed in this gorgeous setting. So many of the things are just like CA…I have a barn cat (same color as one at Shirreff’s Barn) named Kitty. They tell me he has been here for quite some time…and he really likes me. I have gorgeous trees to look at and beautiful geese by a pond close to my new paddocks. It is splendid! I just stand and stare at this beautiful setting for hours!
As you know, each day is baby steps to help me to feel more and more relaxed and comfortable. I know several of you have asked why I am wearing a lip chain now and then in some of the photos. I consulted with Dottie and John so I could properly explain this to you. Bottom-line, it is just for my safety and well-being.
Since farm life is new to me and I am really excited and want to explore all of the areas of my new environment, I need a bit of structure at first to be sure I do not do too much too soon. In truth, if left to my own thoughts…I’d probably rush around and skip too many steps…which would not be in my best interest. So, it is applied just to remind me to settle down. Per John, “the way we are using it with me is just a mild way of reminding me to be careful and relax…not to jump around where I could step on or hurt myself.” Since I was 2…this would be done every so often when a new setting was being explored by me…not often but when needed to PROTECT ME. Once I was comfy and everyone knew I was fine, it was immediately removed. The same thing is happening here now.
I respect the fact that my handlers want me safe and this mild little reminder makes ME focus on my safety. Like I said, it is only used briefly and then when I have my focus and am really paying careful attention to what I am doing…it is removed.
John said to tell you it is like a gymnast learning to do a balance beam activity etc. They use the ropes at first to be sure the person does not fall and get hurt. It is simply for safety.
Each day, I really making great progress…if I say so myself. I must be really, really honest…I know girls do not like to talk about their weight…but I am one really big girl (Dottie said we can say 1200 pounds ‘ish’). Thus, I am very, very, very strong and I am feeling great. So, all of the things are being done for my complete safety. I understand this and deeply appreciate the fact that my handlers want me safe and happy. I am so fortunate people care so much about ME! Thank you for also wanting me safe!
I wish all of you a wonderful weekend. There are some great races and games going on the next few days. I do love SPORTS! (Oh, maybe that is because I am one terrific athlete.)
Enjoy you day!
With love,
HUGS TO ALL~
Z
Nancy
One thing is for sure (and I hope all your fans know this). Lane’s End is one of the top thoroughbred farms in the world. Yes, it is big but it is run in a very hands-on manner. The owner knows and loves horses and this is reflected by the grounds and all those who work there.
Helen
I was worried we wouldn’t see any more posts…THANK YOU for each update. I am glad you are starting to settle in some. Stay warm and safe!
lisa
Dear Zenanyatta,
I read the posts and watch your videos. I hope John, Dottie, Mike, Mario and the Moses are doing well too. We all feel that a part of our family left- WE MISS YOU
Jane in Seattle
Hello beautiful!
I have to say, having looked at some of Anne Eberhardt’s beautiful photos of some of the older mares at Lane’s End, they know how to keep a girl all dappled out for many many years. And in spite of you weighing 1200 pounds, you are so gorgeous, those tiny saddles never once made your butt look big!
I had hoped your friend Life Is Sweet would be in your barn, but it doesn’t sound like she is. You’re such a sweetie though, you’ll have new BFF girlfriends in not time. And I’m so happy they have good barn cats there, too.
Stay well, Z. Love you!
Sue
The LOVE that surrounds you, & this website, bring constant tears to my eyes & cheeks!! We ALL NEED so much love lately, & EVERYTHING that even ‘relates’ to you is FILLED with LOVE.
Jennifer Adelman
Dear Zenyatta, I am so happy your adjusting to KY. You have a beautiful room with a view. Glad that they know what their doing regarding your paddock ventures. Caution to you running off and landing on one of those gorgeous dapples.
Hope your enjoying all your new friends and beautiful farm!! They love you!!
Sheri
Thanks for clearing that up wth everyone Z. I completely understand, as I have to use it on horses sometimes. I’m so glad you’re still doing great! Love you Zenyatta! :D
Kitty Kladstrup
Hello to the Queen!! Everything sounds good and quite correct as per your handling and safety. And, I am pleased you have a cat–named after ME! Haha–and I am one of your biggest fans. xoxoxo
Lynette Lucas
Hey Queen Z – I competely understand the lip chain after working for a trainer of a short time. We don’t want you to get hurt!!!!
Have a great weekend and I look forward to seeing your posts next wk!!
Tricia Clemmensen
Thanks so much for keeping in touch with us and I am thrilled to hear that you are doing so well and being taken such good care of . . . . not that I would have expected anything less seeing that it’s the one and only – YOU! Keep taking your baby steps and keeping us up to date with your new life. Hugs and kisses to you, dear Zenyatta.
Debbie
Z and Dottie, thank you so much for these posts! I laugh, I chuckle, I cry. I would also like to thank all the fans who write in. Boo and Zebby, it’s really great to hear from you too! And I would also like to add that there have been times in my life that I wish I had had someone who cared enough to put a lip chain on me! Things would have been so much easier! Much love to you Z.
Mary Stanford
I knew some people were upset about the lip chain….and not knowing a whole lot about horses…but I knew it was for safety. I love horses ..have never had the opportunity much to be around them until three years ago when I turned 60. My son graduated from college …time for me..and I took horseback riding lessons. Now I am not the best but it sure was fun. I discovered just how awesome horses are but I know there is and never will be a more wonderful, smart, full of personality horse like you Z. I look forward every day to reading the post. I hope to visit you one day in Kentucky…I mapquest it from Virginia to there and you are 415 miles away. I think I will make it by spring. Hugs to you Z….
jim
i pray for you every day. i love you like you were my own. god bless you Z and be healthy.
jo
Thank you Zenny for writing. You do very well talking your fans about things they dont understand. I tried to post earlier that even Mario needed to do this for your safety and for his while he was washing your legs one morning before the BC. You were ready to go for the grass and to see your friends and yes you are a very strong girl wanting to do what you want when you want. Racetrackers like I was understand that. I am sorry some of your fans have been so cruel with their words. They will have to understand that they dont own you and your connections dont even have to share your life with us. Things do take time and a year from now you will probably have a rope lead under your halter. I hope so much to see you soon and I will be dropping off some treats myself. Love you, Bye
Judy Sims
Thanks for the update and explanations. Glad all is going well for you. “One day at a time” and “baby steps” sure make sense to me. Stay happy, healthy, warm and patient. Love you Zennie.
Sophie
Glad you got a companion – Kitty the cat!! It is so funny because I got my cat from a horse barn and I named him Kitty too. He is an orange tabby.
george
Hey Fine Lady I know your trying hard to convince us that your really happy BUT I really believe Youd be happier in California Hope they move you back Your a California Girl
Jo Ray
I miss you so much Zen, can’t wait to take my family to visit you in Kentucky. You inspire us all
Stephanie Lambert
You are such a good girl , eat right up and get grass fat :) , I always love you xoxoxo
Ann Maree
Thanks so much for being patient with all of us, Z…so many new things for you to learn, but also for the rest of us, too. We are all taking baby steps right along with you. I’m looking forward to when they turn you out into the paddock area all by yourself, and watch you run around free, to stand and watch a bird or whatever catches your eye, or race a squirrel. Hope we get to see some pictures when that happens! Hug! Ann Maree
Sally Blank
Z,Thank God for John and the rest of the team, for you are so special and you need to ease into things. The last thing any of us fans would want to hear, is that you became too excited and hurt yourself; after all, there is only one Zenyatta!! God broke the mold after you. What kitten would not like you!! Your gentle & loveable. I know you will be happy in Kentucky with it’s blue grass. You are also at a great horse farm which has 3000 acres to look over. Ann & Jerry did chose the best place for you to enjoy your retirement and become a mama. I would volunteer to just be with you & keep you company as I am a retired senior, but I know not all my wishes can come true. Happy Days Z– love
Donna
I am so glad you are getting used to your new home. I’m sure you’ll get the same loving care and know how much we all care and love you. Be happy always.
Anita Carville
Thank you so much Z, John & Dottie for explaining about the lip chain to us in such a patient and understanding way. It makes perfect sense! I knew there must be a good explanation, because you have always taken such good care of our Big Girl. We love her so much, as do you. Z, i’m so glad you are adjusting so well and have a wonderful environment, and are enjoying meeting all your new friends. So wonderful for all of us. I miss you, though. I may have to take a trip to Kentucky from So Calif. to see you someday. Love you, Anita
jeanie langford
Thanks for the explanation. Just do not want anything to hurt you. Love you so much and want the best. Can not wait for more pictures. This diary is one of the best things going. We don’t have to worry so much. Will try to get to Kentucky to see you when they let us.
Sue
THANK YOU, GOD..FOR SUCH A BEAUTIFUL, WONDERFUL CREATION
NorCalFan#1
Hello, Queen Z! It’s so thoughtful of you to explain the lip chain. I know it was routinely used in CA when needed to keep you focused while something was going on around you, like for your baths. Poor Charles and Todd would be no match for you if you wanted to take a closer look at something for yourself! Once you get acclimated to your new home, you’ll be leading us around. No one would do anything to harm you, not with all of us keeping watch. Take care, sweet girl, and thank you for staying in touch!
Cathleen
Dear Z,
Thanks so much for explaining what Lane’s End is doing to keep you safe. You would not believe the commotion the lip chain has generated on facebook. But I know everything your new caretakers are doing is for your safety. Jerry, Ann, Dottie and John would never leave you in a place that wasn’t giving you the royal treatment, which every Queen Z derserves. Glad you are settling in nicely. Hope you’ve been able to see Life is Sweet. Hope we can visit you soon. Luv you bunches!
Carmela Bozulich
Lady Z–I so enjoy reading about what’s going on in your new life adventure. I’m sure it’s pretty overwhelming for you…and I do believe that your “people” are looking our for your safety and comfort, to the nines. People who aren’t around horses forget that a 1200-lb. “queen” such as yourself can do alot of damage, not just to herself but to those around her…and a lip chain is a small and necessary way to keep things low and slow. Love you lots, hun!
Katie Claswon
Happy Saturday Zenny! We are very happy to hear what is going on at Lane’s End. I am going to be a jockey when I am old enough (I am almost 14) and hope to someday be able to ride a horse as great as you. Love you sweetheart!
Stephanie Quilichini
Dottie-I’m amazed about how you really listen to Zenyatta’s fans! There will never be a Team that comes close to Team Zenyatta!!!! You guys are really the best!!