Category Archives: Uncategorized

Kelpies – Shapeshifting Horses of Scotland

Posted on March 19, 2025 by Pat Miran

The Scottish legend of the kelpies is very old, possibly dating back to the 6th century, but first appearing in written form in an ode by William Collins (1721-1759). Other folktales and poems refer to kelpies, perhaps the most notable … Continue reading →

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Shadow’s Melanoma

Posted on July 30, 2024 by Pat Miran

A few weeks ago, I rode up with Anne to Rising Hope Stables just south of Nicholas, NY. We were on our way to visit Anne’s horse, Shadow. When we arrived, it was early morning, the sun was full in … Continue reading →

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Anne’s “War Horse” Shadow

Posted on April 28, 2024 by Pat Miran

Shadow is 24 years old—for a horse that’s getting on in years. In human years, he would be 70 years old. So, Shadow is no youngster. Yet, he is a very lucky horse. From the age of 6 months, he … Continue reading →

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Pepper’s Sudden Death

Posted on March 4, 2024 by Pat Miran

On Tuesday night, February 27, 2024,

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Quilting at Horse Heaven

Posted on July 7, 2023 by Pat Miran

Whenever I visit Connie at Horse Heaven for a chat—I always notice the beautiful quilts which hang on her walls. The quilted wall hangings brighten up each room with imaginative motifs. Connie Ballentine has been quilting for over thirty years. … Continue reading →

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Housesitting at Horse Heaven

Posted on February 1, 2023 by Pat Miran

Last weekend I found myself housesitting at Horse Heaven. As with any small stable or farm taking time off even for a day can prove difficult. After all, the daily routine of chores that must be done doesn’t allow much … Continue reading →

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Farewell to Johnn Newton Ballentine

Posted on November 6, 2022 by Pat Miran

For the last few years, Johnn experienced declining health issues. He passed away suddenly on the eve of October 5, 2022, at 79 years old. He left behind his wife of 45 years, Connie Kulsicavage Ballentine. Connie and Johnn were … Continue reading →

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Mares of Diomedes

Posted on December 29, 2019 by Pat Miran

The story of the Mares of Diomedes is part of a much larger Greek myth; the legend of Hercules. As with many myths there are different versions; so if this version isn’t the one you know and you would like … Continue reading →

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Sam Gives Up the Ghost

Posted on July 27, 2019 by Pat Miran

Sam, a Belgium, the oldest member of the herd came to Horse Heaven in December 2011 from a horse dealer in Monroeton, PA. Although upon his arrival, Sam experience bullying from the herd; within a few months he bonded with … Continue reading →

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Myrtle’s Final Hour

Posted on June 30, 2019 by Pat Miran

Rain, rain, rain and more rain..someone said to me the other day we’ve had rain constantly since February 2017. Of course there have been the sunny days with no rain, but not enough days without rain to dry out the … Continue reading →

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