Equine & Pet Photos for Equestrians & Dog Moms in Atlanta, GA and world-wide

Against All Odds | Megan & Connor | Milton, Georgia

*“Connor” CBS Good to Go+ ¾ Arabian, ¼ Appendix QH. Baskafix II (Baskafix) x Top Kat, from mostly Polish and Crabbet bloodlines is a 16hh+ Chestnut gelding with LOTS of fun chrome!*

She giggled a little as Connor, fidgeting around on the the lawn and overpowered her tiny frame. Connor was big boy, powerful and muscular but with a sweet and slightly goofy ‘gelding’ attitude. At first glance you may have mistakenly believed that Megan, in a delicate lace sleeved dress, was not much of a horse girl but that could not be further from the truth!

Megan grew up riding her parent’s Arabian mares with her twin sister, spending every moment they could around their horses. Pony Club, cross country schooling, hunters, dressage, Country English Pleasure, halter, riding around bareback and cantering through the pastures – Megan is a true all rounder hen it comes to riding and showing. She has competed at Arabian Shows, Pony Club rallies, USDF shows, GHJA shows, GDCTA shows, etc. She had ridden on the Berry College Equestrian Team and competed at Nationals in Western Horsemanship.

Megan says that Connor (CBS Good to Go+), has been “Literally the most challenging and rewarding experience I have ever had with a horse. My mother purchased him as an extremely unhappy horse, a far cry from the successful, talented and gorgeous hunter horse with a wonderful upbringing and pedigree that we knew him as years prior”

Unfortunately by the time he came to Megan’s mother’s boutique breeding farm in Milton, GA. Connor bit, cow kicked, spooked, spun, bolted, and reared under saddle. Between Megan’s connection with him, her mother’s 40 years of experience at her and their vet’s expertise they figured out that his bad behavior stemmed from pain. Megan could not even groom him due to his attempts to bite and kick. For several long months, love and patience was all she could give him; they had treated him for everything they could think of.

Connor is known for taking naps at horse shows ON people. Unfortunately the pair been caught in some serious waiting scenarios at hunter shows and been waiting longer than we anticipated. He’s fallen asleep on Megan’s shoulder, in her arms and on her husband too!

“I feel like he was just a few sales away from the auction house or seriously injuring someone. I would say the majority of horses in this situation would have been euthanized or ended up in a very bad place because most people would not have taken out the time to treat and care for his needs. We understood that he was communicating this way because it’s literally his ONLY way of communicating his pain or memory of the pain.” Megan recalls.

After two grueling years of careful re-habilitation, re-schooling, listening to what Connor was telling them and learning how to make things right for this gorgeous, willing boy, Connor made Megan’s dreams come true in the hunter ring. In 2017, Conor and Megan came home with multiple National Top Tens, a Regional Championship title GHJA Award.

Despite having three National Titles in Dressage and multiple National Top Tens in Dressage, Hunters, Equitation, plus a USDF Bronze Medal; Megan is quick to credit her supportive family for her success in the showing world. “While a lot of people on the outside just see these pretty horse photos. They don’t realize the time it takes to be successful with horses – It takes time, energy, missing meals, late nights or early mornings, no social life, a supportive team/family, and a dash of good luck. At shows, the chores are all done by mom, Kathy, my sister and I – cleaning stalls, bathing, feeding, cleaning tack, hand walking, etc. People think I get to ride SO much but had a time in my life I didn’t ride for almost two years. Though during that time I was actually incredibly blessed and got to build a house AND get married to my incredible husband, Bradley, who is an absolute SAINT for putting up with my horse obsession. He is incredibly helpful, hands on, and supportive…the same goes for my mother, Kathy, and my sister, Jessica. I think many people would give up horses at this point, but the time with horses is MY therapy and MY sport…even if that means I’m just going to the barn to groom or feed or do basic ground work.”

Now, Connor enjoys his new life at JAG Arabians with the rest of his Arabian and Half-Arabian pals. The bond that Connor and Megan have is unmistakable. “He’s one of the most inquisitive and curious horses I have met. We have SO much fun on the ground. He will lunge with no lunge line. He will chase me around the arena if I run. He truly has a blast with me now and I’m glad he enjoys time with “humans” again! He is such fun to ride with a big canter stride (about 13-14 feet) and the hunter and dressage judges love him!”

So what’s next for Connor, who clearly still has so much more to give? “He is 19 this year, but if time, budget and the stars align and allow, I would like to show him at an A/AA USHJA show, a USDF show and/or one rated USEA event as bucket list item(s) to complete my showing with him.” Says Megan.

*Connor and Megan’s fun doesn’t stop at the arena gate, Megan loves to canter across the pastures bareback on Connor and has jumped him bareback too*

“If ever a horse beat all odds, I would say Connor is the one! I could write a book about everything this poor horse had to overcome and all the money, time (and tears) that my mother, Kathy, and I put into this horse to get him to where he is today – healthy and happy.”

‘The Against All Odds Project” is a passion project that sets out to tell the fascinating stories of equestrians and equines who have overcome difficulties or setbacks such as injury, illness, loss, tragedy and neglect and have overcome the challenges that life threw at them. Celebrating their unique bonds and determination to succeed, against all odds… If you have a story to tell about you and/or your horse overcoming the odds, we would love to hear from you! Click here to complete the online application form.

Featured Stallion | “Leaguer” – Son of AQHA Congress Champion “Leaguers Last” | Madison, Georgia

At the end of the barn aisle stands “Leaguers Gold Asset” his shimmering palomino coat and blond flowing mane would make any woman jealous. His year round muscular “beach body”, well, that would make most men jealous too. He is the perfect picture of elegance and grace…until you reach his stall where he will make farty noises at you with his tongue and dunk his hay in his water bucket before eating it (smart boy).

Leaguers sire is AQHA Congress Champion “Leaguers Last”. At 15 years young, he stands at 16 1” hands tall and is a terrific mover and great sire for AQHA or Palomino, his size and color make him a real head turner.

Leaguer now stands at stud at Valhalla farms in Madison, Georgia where he has produced some beautiful foals. LFG (Standing & Nursing). 6 panel N/N. If you would like to breed your mare to this hunk of a stud, contact Lance or Wes at Southern Cross Guest Ranch or via the Valhalla Farms and Southern Cross Guest Ranch Facebook page.

Charlotte Detienne is a British born equine photographer located in Madison, Georgia. Charlotte creates timeless portraits of you and/or your children with your special horses, dogs, and other animals. Serving equestrians, breeders, trainers, couples, families, children and fur-babies locally in Madison, Athens, Covington, Conyers, Atlanta, Monroe, Macon, Milton, Alpharetta, Marietta and surrounding areas.

In memory of Jean Hopkins |Aug 3rd 1934 – Oct 21st 2019

We both knew something wasn’t quite right. As I hugged her goodbye she was just a little bit thinner than normal, a little bit frailer, more like the little great granny you might imagine her to be if you didn’t know her. Though at that time we didn’t know the extent of her illness, these were signs that we might not have long with the Nan that I knew. The Nan that I knew was the mother-in-law who chased my dad around the garden just to get her goodbye kiss; an independent, strong willed woman who refused to let her age define her. The Nan that I knew was physically strong, green thumbed and still tended to a beautiful and plentiful garden with just a little help. The Nan that I knew was still very much a tomboy at heart, she enjoyed fishing and watching sports on TV and even at 85 could navigate Facebook just as well as any Millennial could. The Nan that I knew proudly signed my birthday cards as “Nanny dragon”, the nickname she had acquired when my brother and I were kids; an explanation given to us by our parents when we were struggling to grasp how it was possible for one to breathe smoke out of their nose; without obviously being, a Dragon.

Jean was born on August 3rd 1934 in Wooburn Green; the year of Flash Gordon, Bonnie & Clyde and the start of Hitler’s dictatorship. She was the only daughter of Ernest and Dorothy Aldridge. Jean was not a fan of school and so she took the opportunity to move schools and attended the convent school in High Wycombe with her friend.

When she left school, she worked for The Imperial War Graves Commission at their offices in Wooburn Green as a private secretary. Her job required her to visit various war graves, some overseas to help organize memorial events for the fallen.

Aged 21, she married childhood sweetheart, David Hopkins in October 1955. They had known each other since they were just 5 years old. He was a sergeant in the Kings Dragoon Guards. True to their military lifestyle, they relocated several times over the years. First to Germany for some time, then to Carlisle where they had their first child, Terry. Less than a year later – by then based in Wool, they welcomed their second child, Andy into the world. Finally settling into post-Military life together in Bourne End where Tina was born 5 years later. Despite having moved around a lot during this time, it was Wooburn Green that she always called home.

At this time, Jean & David worked together for Bourne End Service Station. Jean worked as secretary and David as Manager. During these years; she and Dave enjoyed the Bourne End Community Centre functions, On Target Quizzes, and fancy dress balls. Tina recalls her dressing up as Nell Gwyn, looking rather grand in her green velvet dress and tightly curled locks.

She was a very good darts player, playing for many years for the Walnut Tree pub in Bourne End where she also worked behind the bar.

Alongside raising their children, Jean later worked bookkeeping at JW Smith, the family ironmongers in Wooburn Green; later taking over its operation when Jean’s mother passed. Thirteen years after Tina was born. Lisa made an early entrance into the world, on Christmas Day. Despite being caught off guard, Jean still managed to have her Christmas dinner in hospital. “Lisa!”, “Terry!”, “Andy!”, “Tina”… She would say, getting more and more frustrated at herself with each name. By the time she arrived at the correct name she was practically yelling at you. This was something that continued until her very last day with us and the torch of mixed up names has now been passed onto Tina.

In the 1970’s, she started Wooburn Saddle Club with Tina and other founding members. Jean was Secretary for the club, organizing shows and catering for their judges for many years. She played a pivotal role in the expansion of the club, taking it from from a tiny riding club with one yearly show, to holding several shows a year and hosting qualifiers to many of the major championships. She also helped out at the dressage competitions run by Snowball Farm. Upon stepping down from her role as Secretary of Wooburn Saddle Club, Jean joined Lea Barn Stables Equestrian Club, where she ran dressage events and their yearly show. In true Jean fashion, she didn’t let her age get in the way of getting to grips with designing the show schedule on her computer. There was of course, a lot of huffing, puffing and swearing at the poor computer and every year was “the last time she was doing the show”. This continued each year until, only about five years ago when she finally hung up her apron and gave the computer a well earned break!

When JW Smith closed its doors for good in 1981; Jean continued with her already established engraving business, serving local sports organizations and saddle clubs. She also worked for Bourne End Garden Centre, making hanging baskets. She continued both of these jobs well into her 80s.

Lisa fondly remembers competing in The Pub Petanque league for The Steps with her Mum during her teenage years. Jean was Lisa’s number one biggest fan and enjoyed watching Lisa train, compete and teach throughout her successful career as an International Dressage Rider and trainer. She was extremely fond of Lisa’s horses, often referring to herself as their Nan. In Jeans words, watching Lisa achieve her dreams at horse shows across the country was better than any holiday she could imagine.

Naturally, the loss of her husband in 1998, temporarily slowed her down; but over time, Jean fell back into her busy schedule with the many side jobs and volunteer positions that she had acquired over the years.

Jean lived a life full to the brim with many, many, passions. She loved cooking, crafts, flower arranging and her morning Suduku, coffee and a cigarette. She lived for her garden, always point blank refusing to wear gardening gloves as not to lose touch with the soil and plants she so skillfully worked with.

…as I embraced Nan for what was to be the last time back in August of this year (2019), she tearfully started to say “Just in case I’m not here on your next visit…” I cut her off, “What, are you going on holiday?” I teased. Of course, I knew what she really meant. During the split second that followed, as she stared at me blankly and I thought that I might have to explain my bad joke. But I was mistaken, her body may have been failing her, but her sense of humor was not. She let out a huge snorting laugh and hugged me tighter. Now that was the Nan that I knew and will forever remember as my Nanny Dragon!

Today we say goodbye to a woman who was a loving ‘Nan’ (never ‘Gran’) to her five grandchildren Wesley, Jodi, Charlotte, Stuart and Mitch and great-grandmother to Raven, Tyler and Arlo. She was ‘Mum’ to some, and a great friend to many more. After a mercifully short illness, Jean left this earth with a legacy of hard work and an all round love for her life, her passing will surely leave a Jean shaped hole in our hearts. Throughout her life it has become clear that Jean had many, many friends. From her days flipping burgers for the late Dennis Day at hundreds of horse shows all over the county, to her many hours ringside watching Lisa compete at dressage events; we all have a story of Jean to tell. As we celebrate her life together today we ask that you do one thing, and that is honor her memory by sharing your stories of her with us. Thank you to all her friends who made her life full; and special thanks to her wonderful neighbors, Tracy, Tim, Georgia and Miles. In her own words, Tracy was like another daughter to her. We are forever grateful for the love and compassion you showed her, particularly in the last few years when she needed it most. Jean’s illness was brief and she was aware of her friends and family gathered around her during her last hours. She was even able to enjoy a little whiskey and lemonade (her favorite tipple) the day before she passed. She slipped away peacefully in the early hours of Monday Oct 21st, with Tina at her side.

Thank you to Ros Curtis, Celebrant Member, Humanists UK for delivering the service.

Click here to make a donation to the Horse Trust in Jean’s memory

Featured Stallion |APHA “At Long Last” – Son of AQHA Congress Champion “Leaguers Last” | Madison, Georgia

flashy APHA paint stallion in madison georgia

APHA “Playboy” is a beautiful paint son of “Leaguers Last” by “Im A Big Leaguer”. Standing at 16.1 tall he has tremendous color and super confirmation. Although Playboy prefers to rock his flashy paint coloring and he does not tout the same “surfer dude” appearance, 15 year old Playboy is actually Leaguer’s half brother!

bay APHA paint stallion in madison georgia son of congress champion

sweet natured bay APHA son of AQHA congress champion "Leaguers Last"

Despite being the son AQHA Congress Champion “Leaguers Last” this local pretty boy, born and raised at the great Burchett Training Center here in Georgia, in Social Circle did not have much of a showing career. As a 2 year old, Playboy broke his left shoulder which ruined any chance he had of competing in the ring. Despite this, Playboy has lived a happy, pain free life at the ranch since 2015 and is for sure a barn favorite among the staff and visitors!

gorgeous Bay APHA paint stallion in madison georgia

great producer- APHA paint stallion in madison georgia — g

Like most studs, he gets a little excited around the ladies but contrary to the nature of many other stallions, he is sweet and gentle in his nature and his all time favorite thing is to play! He adores having a friendly gelding (or sometimes stallion – the late AQHA stallion, “Hottest Coolest” was his best buddy!) as a neighbor and can often be caught gently nipping and nuzzling them though the stall bars or around the door when his stall is being cleaned.

Since he cannot show, Playboy has only ever had one job, and boy does he do it well! He has been an exceptionally good color producer, siring just ONE (very pretty) solid foal in the past 5 years. If you are looking to breed for WP or an all around horse for the APHA or open shows, he’s a good choice. LFG (Standing & Nursing). 5 Panel N/N. Contact Lance or Wes at Southern Cross Guest Ranch or via the Valhalla Farms and Southern Cross Guest Ranch Facebook page.

Flashy bay paint APHA stallion standing at stud in madison georgia

Connor & Sasha | Horse & Rider Session – What to Expect | Conyers, Georgia

As Connor paced up and down the wash rack with Sasha, trying to calm her nerves. I’d be lying if I said that I wasn’t a little apprehensive about this session. Though sweet at heart, Sasha can he a huge diva when she wants to be. She loves to play “catch me if you can” and it’s not uncommon to see poor a red-faced Connor coming in from the pasture, dragging a sweaty Sasha behind him after 30 minutes of her “games”. I once spotted Sasha giving Connor the run around from our porch and went out to help. We had to play a little bit of reverse psychology with a handful of grain and some other horses, but we soon caught her pretty easily. I remember thinking right then that I hoped he had the maturity and patience to persevere with her; as somewhere, under that big muscular body was a sweet soul just wanting a chance . He did not disappoint, It’s been a pleasure to watch young Connor’s relationship with Sasha blossom over the past year since he got her, all the while eager to learn from others and help out around the barn whenever he can. Sasha is a fantastic trail horse and , though I’m sure roping is pretty high on the list, Connor is uncertain as to what else they might like to try their hand at. These two are going from strength to strength and I have no doubt that they will be partners for years to come.

Anyway, back to the wash rack – After having attempted to cow kick Weston (my poor husband) who was dutifully “painting her toenails”. I felt sure that the session would be a tough one. On top of Sasha’s nerves came her strong, large frame. In hand, she stood a decent chance of overpowering her 15 year old owner, if she wanted to. It’s not that Connor can’t handler her; it’s just that Sasha, a percheron-paint cross, is a BIG girl! With both Weston and Connor’s grandfather, Bruce, on hand to assist; we began the session in the barn, where she would feel more comfortable and Connor would have more control and help close by if he needed it.

Both Sasha and Connor, though still a tad nervous were exemplary. Wow, OK…let’s move on to the pasture.

Bruce is a prominent figure is Connor’s life and has spent many hours with him, guiding him in his choice of horse to purchase and subsequently enjoying and amazing bond with his grandson over their common passion, horses. As we navigated our way around the back pasture, I caught a few glimpses of Bruce, proudly studying his grandson enjoying himself with his #1 girl. They had spent months shopping for horses, after Connor’s dream horse was sold out from under his nose, a huge disappointment. Then, along came Sasha at Southern Cross Guest Ranch.

We switched between thoughtful quiet moments with Connor seated on logs and against trees to mounted shots of the pair loping across the pasture and observing their imaginary heard of cattle. Contrary to what he probably expected from a portrait session, Connor looked like he was having a blast and Sasha had dissolved all of my prior concerns about her behaving herself. In fact, it’s was probably one of the fastest flowing sessions I have done, both horse and rider were killing it! Once we were sure that we had enough variety to satisfy both Connor’s more serious taste and that of his Grandmother, who obviously wants shots of her Grandson smiling, we headed over to the other pasture.

Connor has specifically requested to end the session with some silhouettes, definitely something that I will be offering more of at the end of my sessions going forward!

I can safely say that the hardest part about this session was narrowing down all of the gorgeous images for their slideshow! Connor got some amazing portraits for his wall and his grandparents now have a nice album winging it’s way over from Europe in the next couple of weeks!

Featured Stallion | “Kids Finest Clebrite” – Son of AQHA The Finest Kid | Madison, Georgia

“Kids Finest Clebrite” is an American Quarter Horse who goes by the name if “Grizley” or “Griz” at home in Georgia. Grizley is an own son of Multiple World Champion “The Finest Kid” and out of a Te N Te bred mare.

At 20 years young, this Indiana boy has had an impressive career in the show pen. He stood 4th & 5th back to back years at the AQHA World as a two and three year old in halter. He has 49 grands and reserves with the AQHA. He was also the Grand Champion at the North American Livestock Expo and was the Indiana Stallion of the Year for the years 2005 & 2007.

Though his showing days are now over since coming to Georgia in 2014, Griz excels at his new “job” and has produced some gorgeous foals for his owner, Inge Wendling of Valhalla Farms and Southern Cross Guest Ranch in Madison, Georgia.

He is HYPP N/N, Herda: N/N, GBED: N/N, MH: N/N, PSSM1 N/H, OWLS N/N. LFG (Standing/Nursing). If you would like to breed your mare to this handsome boy, contact Lance or Wes at Southern Cross Guest Ranch or via the Valhalla Farms and Southern Cross Guest Ranch Facebook page.

Charlotte Detienne is a British born equine photographer located in Madison, Georgia. Charlotte creates timeless portraits of you and/or your children, your special horses, dogs, and other animals. Serving equestrians, breeders, trainers, couples, families, children and fur-babies locally in Madison, Athens, Covington, Conyers, Atlanta, Monroe, Macon, Milton, Alpharetta, Marietta and surrounding areas.

Featured Stallion | “Zipoff” – Son of AQHA Zippo Pine Bar | Madison, Georgia

Palomino stallion Zipoff son of the great AQHA Zippo Pine Bar

Sire

2005 AQHA “Zipoff”, affectionately known as “Zip” Stands at Valhalla Farms in Madison, Georgia. He is one of the last remaining sons of the great 1969 “Zippo Pine Bar”, son of Zippo Pat Bars out of Dollie Pine, a daughter of Poco Pine. ‘Zippo Pine Bar’, an AQHA Hall of Fame Inductee, was one of the most prolific pleasure horse sires in history, sitting atop the leading sires list for more than a decade. He sired 1648 AQHA foals, 68 Appaloosas, & 72 Paints which collectively earned over 50,000 show points.

The great Zippo Pine Bar – Source: AQHA Hall of Fame

Georgia Palomino PHBA champion stallion Zipoff son of the great AQHA Zippo Pine Bar

Career & Offspring

“Zip” was born in Florida in 1995 and later lived in both Tennessee and Kentucky; before coming to Georgia, to his forever home in 2013.

He came 3rd in the PHBA World Open Sr Western Pleasure and has 61 open palomino western pleasure points to his name.

During his career, he has sired multiple point earners and a 2013 Palomino World Champion pleasure mare.

More recently, he has been a great producer for his owner, Inge Wendling of Valhalla Farms and Southern Cross Guest Ranch in Madison, Georgia.

If you want to breed to the best bloodlines for western pleasure you can’t pass him up. He has a gorgeous head and that classic Zippo body. Great attitude and manners for a stallion and he passes that down to his foals. LFG(Standing/Nursing). 5 Panel: Herda: N/N, HYPP: N/N, GBED: N/G, MH: N/N PSSM1: N/N, OWLS N/N

A few recent palomino paint APHA AQHA offspring of AQHA/PHBA "Zipoff" — A few recent offspring of AQHA/PHBA “Zipoff”

What to wear horseback riding at a Dude Ranch | Southern Cross Guest Ranch, Madison. Ga.

In my experience, the # 1 regret that Ranch Guests have when selecting their horseback riding photos is a poor choice of clothing! This guide is intended to help you select the appropriate outfit(s) for horseback riding at Southern Cross Guest Ranch without sacrificing safety, comfort or style! For outfit ideas and inspiration, download my complimentary 9 page PDF style guide!

what to wear horseback riding at a dude ranch style guide

WHERE TO SHOP

There’s no need to spend a fortune on your riding clothes! Stores like Tractor Supply carry basic western boots, jeans and some shirts and websites such as Countryoutfitter and Sheplers carry a wide range of brands at all price points. Personally, I find Wrangler to be the most comfortable jeans and most affordable quality clothing. My preferred boot brand is Ariat. It’s probably best to do your shopping before you arrive so that you can maximize your time on-property and get the chance to break in those new boots and jeans before riding in them. Shopping for this kind of apparel in Madison isn’t great, though we do have a few nearby choices:

Tractor Supply – Located less than 10 minutes from the ranch. They carry a limited supply of boots, jeans and shirt. Plus essentials such as socks, ball caps and horse treats! At a pinch, you could order online to collect from store.
Equine Consign – Local consignment store that carries a large inventory of clothing and tack. They have now moved from Madison Downtown and are located on Athens Highway about 20 minutes from Southern Cross Guest Ranch. The owners are Frank and Shirley – Give them a call before you set off to check their opening times.
Horsetown – These stores are worth a visit even if you have not intention of buying anything! They are chock full of Western and English apparel and tack. Horsetown South in Locust Grove is a little over an hours drive from the ranch. Horsetown East is located the same distance, in Snelville. The one a Locust Grove has a very nice lady who works in the hat department where she can fit and shape hats to order! They also has a nice selection of Western homeware and gifts. Both stores have many, many great examples of taxidermy on display. Personally, I find the store at Locus Grove a little more welcoming and a more scenic drive.
Marys Tack (Athens) – Mary’s tack & Feed Store is a bit closer, just a 45 min drive in Athens. They carry a selection of western apparel and a limited supply of English tack. This is the place to go if you are feeling guilty about leaving your dog at home! They have a great selection of dog food and treats to take home for your pooch!

Weston with Emma-Lou, sporting his American Hat Company cowboy hat

GENERAL ADVICE

It is generally recommended in all seasons to dress in thinner layers as to avoid overheating. In summer, the trails tend to be much cooler than the barn/mounting areas and pastures. So they can provide a welcome relief from the heat. In summer, lighter, long sleeved layers are a good idea to help prevent overheating and sunburn. Even in the winter, physical exertion from horseback riding can cause your body temperature to increase, so keep this in mind when selecting an outfit.

In colder weather, typically we find that most of our riders arrive at the barn wearing all of their layers but may have removed some by the time they leave for the ride. We suggest that, before you leave for your ride, you make a judgement call as to what you will be comfortable wearing for the duration of the ride. Avoid having items of clothing or tied around the waist when riding. Also avoid having excessively loose items of clothing that may get hung up on the saddle horn, flap about or fly away during your ride. Besides the inconvenience of losing your clothing, items such as fly away rain jackets, shawls or scarves may present a safety risk.

Ponchos are not permitted at the Ranch when riding as they can can pose a safety issue, but you can wear them around the barn area, prior to mounting your horse.

HEADWARE

As per Georgia Law, anyone under 18 years old must wear a safety helmet! It is optional for anyone 18 and older, but always recommended. The ranch can supply helmets or you can bring your own. Even if you wear a riding helmet during trail riding, you will still have plenty of opportunity to rock your new cowboy hat during your stay! We can still take photos in your western hat before you get on your horse. Generally, straw hats are worn in the summer, whereas felt hats are reserved for the colder weather.

SHIRTS & TOPS

Of course if you want to rock the Western style then a Western button down shirt is the answer for men, women and kids alike. When selecting a shirt, make sure that it is long enough to tuck into your jeans and not restrict movement. Check that the buttons across the chest are not gaping. Polo shirts are also a good choice for anyone, but lend to a more ‘English’ style.

For your horseback riding photos I strongly suggest staying away from neon colors and T-shirts and huge logos/graphics/text on them, so guys (and girls) best leave your orange hunting T-shirts at home!

Ladies, if you are on the bustier side of the spectrum – wear a sports bra. I promise, you will thank me for it!

There are many other options for tops such as sleeveless tanks coupled with a lighter jacket or shirt, a cute (but practical) top or an all out Cowgirl shirt with sequins and fringe – Have fun with it!

GLOVES

Although generally the reins used at the ranch are kind to the hands and the guest horses are quite ‘soft in the mouth’; you may wish to wear gloves during your ride to protect your hands from the elements. Remember, your hands will be exposed for the entire ride. Regular wool knit winter gloves are totally fine, you may loose some dexterity with thicker gloves so these are not recommended. Thin riding gloves with grips can be purchased relatively inexpensively, and lined leather gloves are great for the colder months on the trails.

PANTS

Wear long pants to protect your legs from chaffing or rubbing against trees if you get too close. Since we do Western riding here, if you want to be comfortable and look the part, we recommend jeans. Most people own at least one pair of jeans that will suffice; but if you need help in selecting the right jeans, CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MY FREE STYLE GUIDE where we have some recommendations for the brands and types of jeans that are best suited to horseback riding. Be sure that they are a good fit, but are not so fitted that they restrict the movement of your legs. Avoid low rise jeans, not only are they uncomfortable for riding but the rider behind you may end up seeing more of you than they wish to! English riding pants are also fine if that’s more your style.

ACCESSORIES

I strongly encourage the use of accessories to finish your look. However, use your judgement and stick to those that are functional (such as a nice belt) and will not present a safety or comfort issue to you.

SOCKS

You may want to invest in a good pair of warmer hiking socks for the colder months, just make sure that they are not so thick that the constrict blood flow when you have your boots on! For the rest of the year, regular cotton socks are fine to wear under your jeans – the longer the better as to help with chaffing.

Though her outfit is not completely suitable for riding, isn’t she adorable?!

FOOTWARE

Footwear must always be closed toed and closed heeled. For better fit and protection, we suggest boots over sneakers. Steer clear of shoes that may fall off or ones that don’t cover your entire foot properly, such as pumps and slipper type shoes. When looking for boots, you may already have something in your closet: The most suitable boots for horseback riding are have a low heel (1-1.5 in) to help keep your foot from slipping through the stirrup. Anything much higher than this would probably be considered a fashion boot and not really suitable for riding in. Some work boots and hiking boots are ok, but they tend to be wider with a lot of grip which will make it harder to slide your foot in and out of the stirrup. Western riding boots come in many variations, check out our free style guide here

I hope this guide helps with your preparation for your ranch visit! What are your favorite riding brands? Leave a comment below and share this blog with your friends!

Note: Information in this article is based solely on my personal opinion, the brand/product links found on this page are provided for my readers’ convenience only – I have not been compensated in any way. With the exception of Southern Cross Guest Ranch, I have no affiliation with any of these brands/companies.

The Dog Chronicles – Part 1 | Jake’s First Week

My first head shot

Boy I’ve had a busy week! First of all I got a new name…my humans call me “Jake” but sometimes they say “Jakey”, I like that too. Sometimes they laugh and call me “Jake from State Farm”, whoever that is. My first human mom started calling me by my new name before I left, I like it better than “Blue”, that was my before name.

Me with my brother when I was small and chubby

The people who came to see me last week came back again. I guess they liked me, the man had a big weird boot thing on his foot, me and my brother played with the velcro and it made him laugh. My new Mum kept saying something about searching, I’m not sure what we will be searching for but I hope it’s cookies, I think I would be good at it. Yesterday in the truck, she showed me a sticker with an orange logo on it. She told me “Boy, you will live and die by this team…and you are gonna be the best dog they have ever seen!”. I’m not so sure about the dying part but I’m excited to find out what that’s all bout!

Anyway, back to Tuesday (I think that’s what they call it)…I had one last play with my doggy mom ‘Hanna’ in the yard before we left, she played nice with us, I liked it when she flipped us over! Then, away we went. At first I was a little scared, I didn’t know these people. But they smelled like nice people and they kept telling me I was a good boy so I wasn’t too worried. I tried to look out of the window to see where we were going but I was soooo sleepy I couldn’t stand up anymore. On the way home my new mum held me on her lap, she laughed at everything I did and I snuggled into her all the way home. When we got to new home we went all the way up some big stairs. That first time they carried me up but now I can run up and down them all on my self. We went inside and I met my new sister, her name is Bekkie. At first she was excited to see mum & dad but then when she saw me she got grumpy. I don’t know why, I tried to say hi and show her what a god boy I am but she snapped at me and got me on my nose, that first time I was frightened but now I know that she won’t hurt me, she’s just a “Grumperton” as mummy says. That evening we played a lot, mum and dad kept taking photos on their phones and we played ball inside. I wasn’t very good at ball then, but now I’m a pro. I slept so well that night, only getting up for pee-pee once. I called for new Mummy in the night and she came all bundled up in a sweater and took me downstairs. When I did my pee-pee she got all excited and squealed a bit like me. I wasn’t sure why I had to sleep in my crate, at first I didn’t like it but now it’s my cosy den. Except for when I want food, or playtime or a cuddle, then I just yell at them to let me out…it works most of the time.

Puppy at Main Street Vets Madison Georgia — Snoozing at the vets office

The next morning we went to the doctors at Main Street Vets. The lady there made a big fuss of me while I sat with mum & dad on the chair. They clipped my toenails and stuck something up my butt, I didn’t like that much. Then Dr.Williams gave me some funny medicine and some gummy treats for being a good boy and I took a nap on the table. I think we have to go back soon but it wasn’t so bad…

puppy with laptop office assistant — Me hard at work

The next few days mum says she didn’t get much work done. I’m not sure why, cos she seemed very busy throwing the ball for me and snuggling on the bean bag that I now own. That’s what she means by work isn’t it? She sometimes stares at this screen thingy she calls a “get off my laptop”, sometimes it makes noises but most of the time it’s just boring so I try to press the buttons myself to make it do something more exciting.

After a couple of days I got really good at everything, playing ball, climbing the stairs, eating my breakfast and dinner from a big boys bowl…sometimes even my sister approved! She still doesn’t like me very much but I think she’s just a jealous pants, she’ll get over it. I got to go for a walk with her too but Mum carried me in a back pack, she said the pasture is too germy for me but soon I can walk by myself, which is good cos my legs are getting long!

We went to visit a nice lady called Mimi who had a fun doggy who played all evening with me. His name is Tuff. Everybody squealed when they saw me and they passed me around a lot. I learned to play cards too!

The best day though was when I went to “Work”. There were people wearing orange T-Shirts and they talked a lot about “Search & rescue” and “laying trails”. It seems like a lot of fun and I saw that orange logo again. I think this is what I will be doing when I’m a big boy. Bekkie was very excited and jumped about in her big crate. I don’t think Mummy understands dog but she was yelling “It’s my turn! Let me at it!”. Then she came back all puffed out and slept all the way home.

The next night, Mum and Dad went somewhere and I stayed with this girl called Sissy. I’m not sure who she is but I like her. We played all evening and then feel asleep in front of the TV.

I think I’m getting quite good at driving, I think that’s what they call it. Basically you just have to go to sleep in your crate, it wobbles around a bit and when you wake up you are somewhere different. I though driving would be harder. I did some driving all the way to this place called Blue Ridge where we met some more people, it rained a lot so we just did a lot of napping and playing inside. Bekkie finally decided that she wanted to play with me, but she barked too loud behind the couch and I wasn’t sure if she was playing or not, mums eyes were leaking when Bekkie did that, but she wasn’t sad cos she was laughing. I don’t get it.

I’ve been at this new place a week now and I quite like it. Sometimes I’m not sure what’s going on, like when I got the wrong way to the outside and pooped in Mummy’s bedroom. My teddy bear feels nice though, it kind of reminds me of snuggling with my brothers and sister so I snuggle that when I feel homesick. Mum says that when Dr. Williams gives me more medicine I will be able to play outside with the other doggies, that will be fun.

Meet Mr. Puffers! | Miniature appaloosa horse and unicorn in the making!

“Soooooo…I think I found my unicorn”. I said sheepishly to my husband. Weston rolled his eyes as I pleaded my case. He wasn’t exactly planned but I had been somewhat looking out for another miniature horse to join us at the ranch! It was primarily looking for a miniature white/grey mare to use for princess unicorn sessions and possibly breed to the Ranch’s aptly named, Miniature paint stallion, Thunder-Pants. It wasn’t until I saw another equine photographer’s stunning work, using a very light colored palomino pony for a unicorn session that my criteria changed! I thought, why be like everyone else?

By chance, a friend tagged me in a Facebook post showing this cute little grey dappled miniature with a white mane and tail, who was looking for a new home. He had the cutest little blond eyelashes and crazy fuzzy forelock. He was even adorable in his thick blond winter coat that made him look like some kind of wild mountain pony. How could I say no?

mini grey appaloosa horse running with another mini horse

Aged just two, Mr. Puffers had been purchased by a good samaritan at a horse sale two years ago as they felt sorry for the poor little guy. After keeping him for a while they decided to re-home him somewhere where he could have other horses for company. For over a year, Sara gave Mr. Puffers a loving home with her retired show pony. Unfortunately Sara, a hunter-jumper horse trainer is now re-locating and can’t take him with her, so Mr. Puffers was again in need of a new home…

mini grey appaloosa horse playing with another mini horse

Though a little skittish and hard to catch, he hopped right on the trailer. We brought him back to the ranch and yesterday he spent all day running and playing with our two other miniatures, Thunder-Pants and Wee-Man. After less than a week, he has a firm place in our mini-trio. Mr. Puffers has found his forever home with us at Southern Cross Guest Ranch where we will spend the coming months gaining his trust enough to be put to work as our very own magical unicorn, making little girls horsey dreams come true!

I can’t wait for you to meet him!