Mill Creekers' Equestrian Vacation Recommendations

Hi all,
I've always thought it interesting to hear about equestrian vacations that our fellow Mill Creek riders have taken. In case others share this interest, here are two places that we have visited, and which we recommend ever so highly, for two very different experiences. If you'd like to see photos or hear more about either place, don't hesitate to email me (traciconsidine@yahoo.com).

Mexico: RANCHO LAS CASCADAS
http://www.ranchomex.com/
Here you ride 'Mexican saddle' out across beautiful rural Mexican farmland, riding as many hours as you like each day on the most sure-footed, bomb-proof, well-behaved horses imaginable. They will go anywhere you ask them -- up and down rocky terrain, through water, around farm animals, and through towns -- no problem. I actually galloped (and I mean *galloped*) for the first time, and wow, was it fun, so we did a lot of galloping across fields during our stay. The owner is a Swiss woman who pays attention to every detail, and who tailors each guest's experience to his or her preferences -- from the (amazing) food, to the riding, to the activities. The ranch has been built in a gorgeous rustic style -- perfect for a riding vacation, and geared to give you a truly authentic Mexican experience. The rooms are spotlessly clean, and supplied with every amenity you could need (shampoo/conditioner/bottled water, etc). As it is just a 3 1/2 hour flight from LAX to Mexico City -- and a one-hour drive (with her driver) to the ranch, this is a place you could go even for a three-day weekend. We stayed for a week, and literally didn't want to come home. We will go back, as soon and as often as possible. Join us next time!

Italy: IL PARETAIO
http://www.ilparetaio.it/ (click on the Britain flag on the left, to read in English)
The owners are classically trained dresssage riders, and here you receive the most amazing dressage education, in one of the worlds most beautiful places. We absolutely fell in love with their horses, who are schooled after each visitor, so as to keep them well trained and well-behaved. We did one of the combination packages such that we took a dressage lesson in the morning, spent mid-day exploring the many close-by Tuscan walled cities, and 'rode out' during the early evening -- through vineyards and olive groves, through Tuscan towns and across farms. Each evening, all of the guests dine together in the most rustic and beautiful Tuscan dining room, being served course after course of classic Tuscan specialties. By the end of the week, we felt like family, and a year-and-a-half later, Frank and I still remain in touch with many of the friends we met at Il Paretaio.

Tack & Clothing Sale at Mill Creek Show, 10/29

If you have any tack, riding apparel, horse blankets or anything you wish to sell, the Mill Creek horse show offers an opportunity to clean out your closets and tack rooms (and make little cash)!

In the market for a good deal on some pre-owned items? Be sure to stop by and check out the sale.

The sale will take place all day at the show on the wood patio near the restrooms.

Volunteers are needed and welcome to help with the sale!!

Look for Lorie Fee at the barn if you have any questions.

Phillip Dutton Clinic Auditing Information

The clinic is already booked, but interested riders should call the office for waiting list information (310-455-1116). Anyone interested in auditing the clinic can do so for $30 for one day or $50 for both days. The schedule for both days of the clinic is as follows:

Intermediate/Preliminary: 8 - 10 am

Training: 10 - 12 am

Lunch: 12 - 1 pm

Novice: 1 - 3 pm

Beg. Novice: 3 - 5 pm

Photos from the Mill Creek Party are now posted!

Visit the Photo Gallery from the party and look for photos of you and your friends!

The party was a great success! Delicious food from C&O Trattoria was served and entertainment highlights included CJ's soulful acapella singing performance and Abbie Mahler playing her bass clarinet. Chuck Binder was finally taken down as the "Egg toss" champion and the team of Lisa, Lucy, Gary & Ben won the Swedish Ski race.

Most of all, we said a tearful farewell to Eva Maria. Her advice to all of her students was to "keep riding." Eva Maria--thank you for all you've taught us! We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!

In case you missed it look for photos of Mette with, Sinbad, her "secret Olympic prospect foal" in Photo Gallery 2.

Welcome to the Mill Creek Blog

Welcome to our new blog. We hope you will visit often. You can sign up to receive e-mails when this blog is updated (See bottom right of screen). If you are interested in becoming a Mill Creek blogger, simply e-mail us and if you are a member of the Mill Creek community, you will receive an invitation.

Announcing the launch of Eliquus, an upscale equestrian gift company

Eliquus announces the launch of its online store with an upscale stationery line. Catering to the equestrian and horse enthusiast, Eliquus.com is a fine gift company that brings equestrian themes into the every day lives of horse lovers in a modern and sophisticated way. Stationery is the beginning because it is personal, used every day and reflects the writer’s passion. All products designs are unique to Eliquus and are found at http://www.eliquus.com/. Stationery prices $5.99-$24.99.

Eliquus is the creation of Candace Correa, a 10 year Mill Creek veteran. Feel free to approach Candace to view the product line or stop by and shop at the vendor booth at the Mill Creek Horse Show.